Surrounded

One of the ways of dealing with an unknown time of waiting is staying busy by being around others. The alternative is to hide myself in a dark room and be a sad hermit, but I have found spending time with loved ones much more encouraging. Even for people who do not have close families, finding positive people to be around helps out much more than remaining isolated. Two Saturdays ago, January 28th, my immediate family had the opportunity to come see me for my birthday! It has been around ten years since I have spent my actual birthday with my family (living out of state and then having weekday birthdays), so it was truly a gift enough in itself to celebrate with them! My mom, dad, brother, sister-in-law, nieces, and nephew came in person on Saturday, and my grandparents joined in the party via skype. Eric's parents came and celebrated with us the following day. In addition to birthday celebrations, Eric and I have been blessed with supportive family, siblings, and parents. Here are some pictures from our fun day together!

My nieces and nephew gave me a picture collage that says, "We love Aunt Erin!" Uncle Eric had fun feeding his baby niece. I think he looks amazing with a baby, don't you? :) It's coming one day! Dad was loving every minute of having all his children in one place at the same time! My sister made me the black hat I'm wearing! She is so talented and thoughtful!

My grandparents joined in the fun by talking to us on skype. If you look close enough you can see my granddad on the computer screen! That was fun!

Cake is important for a birthday! Thanks, Grandma, for the delicious chocolate cake! Yum! Yum!

We had so much fun eating together and just relaxing together. There was no special agenda - just quality time. Mom made some yummy vegetable soup and cornbread.

Eric and I have really been blessed with a great familial support system! We had a blast just being together!

We had a good time with Eric's parents, too! They drove up early to attend church with us, and then they took me out to lunch. Delicious! Of course, it wouldn't be a second birthday celebration without another cake! Eric and I enjoyed the cakes for a good week! Someone had to eat them! :) Another relaxing family visit! 

Thanks, family, for your love, support, and birthday visits!!!!!!!!! You're a constant encouragement to us along this journey in our lives!