Love Near and Far

** This just in! This morning while changing Evie's diaper, I got my first smile! We had seen the "gassy" smiles before, but this one was different. She was still, looking straight at me, and smiled! It's amazing what a smile can do.**

Now back to our originally scheduled programming...

Evie's life is a celebration, to be sure. With her one month birthday this weekend, we realized how many people have already invested in Evie's life in very real and loving ways. This little one has quite a growing family. People have (and will) come far and wide to see-kiss-love-rejoice in Evie's little perfect life. Those that can't travel continuously send messages, cards, gifts, and calls to check on her and us. We have been overwhelmed with the amount and depth of care for us and for Evie. It's amazing.

This weekend, my sister Amy drove all the way from outside New Orleans to come see us. Amy has been such an encourager and sounding board through my pregnancy, losing Caleb, the adoption process, and Evie's arrival. She offers a big sister's guidance and careful direction, but also lots of very practical advice about all things baby: you need a diaper pail, but get the Diaper Champ because it takes a regular trash bag and not expensive refills; you need a car seat, but don't fall for the super expensive ones because really, they are no more safe or protective; don't worry about letting her sleep in the car seat-swing-without a swaddle every now and then-- sleep is important, no matter how you get there. I am so thankful for my relationship with Amy. She and her husband, Brian, and their kids Carly and Will mean so much to us.

Papa, JJ, Amy, Brian, Carly, and Will Nixon

Amy with Evie

Brad's family was enamored with Evie a few weeks ago, and now Amy joins the ranks. But Evie's admirers don't stop there.

Last week, Evie met her OCHS family. That crazy, brilliant, hard working, sensitive, dedicated Warrior family.

 Melissa and Katie- great friends!

Lynne, our fearless leader

A happy mom and dad

The crazy C-hall English teachin' ladies

This weekend, Evie officially met our church youth family. That silly, goofy, loving, accommodating, anticipating family.
(pictures to come)

Evie also met her 3rd set of grandparents, my sister's in-laws, Papa and JJ Nixon. Those sweet, giving, listening, incredible grandparents. How wonderful it was to see them!

With Amy and JJ

As I said, Evie has a huge family. She still has family to meet. We are overwhelmed with kindness and the outpouring of love. She is much to be celebrated, to be sure.

But for now, Evie needs a nap.

For those of you providing love near or far, thank you. We feel it in Athens, Georgia.