Dumbarton Oaks

This past weekend we went with some good friends to a truly beautiful place called Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown, DC. 

While the estate was gorgeous, it was not at all stroller friendly, so we ended up carting Mr. Stephen around in our arms the entire time.   He enjoyed all the attention... and so did Dad, apparently.   :) 

While not usually a fan of modern art, I thought this exibit was really neat.  The netting was strung with hundreds of sun-catching crystals.  I would have loved to see it on a sunny day. 

They smelled so good!

Dad and Stephen in a random twisty bunch of vines.   Stephen is highly skeptical of this arrangement.  

SO blessed by good friends and a relaxing weekend!

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

Like most of the East Coast, Maryland has been blessed with amazing weather this March.  I have been taking full advantage of this, since Stephen absolutely loves his stroller.  He sits, munches on whatever blanket I have tucked around his legs, and takes in the sights and sounds.  I am also loving it, because my walks feel less like "baby entertainment time" and more like "fresh air/exercise/mommy time."  Best of both worlds.  


Wonderful husband and I have also started our garden.  AKA he dug up the ground while I watched.  But I am very excited about the whole thing, and I have this idea that I'll even try my hand at canning this year.  I love pickles (my whole life, not just during pregnancy :)  ) and I'd like to try making my own.


I'm realizing how domestic this all sounds.... but really, it's the simple joys of my new life and vocation. I wouldn't trade this for the world--even on the days where Stephen is screaming his fool little head off.  :)  I know society often looks at SAHM (stay-at-home moms) condescendingly for not pursuing the career path.  But this IS a career--and one with quite a learning curve!   While it doesn't feel like every action has incredible value and growing power (for example, the 10th diaper of the day), I know that each small moment is making me a bit more competent as a mom and more selfless as a woman.  Good things to plant in my own personal garden.