I felt like I had burned as many calories as the men I was watching. Play soccer, that is. The day was…exhausting. No nap and constantly on the go. Same for Evelyn. Meltdowns every now and then. Stressing over Evelyn’s fascination with the waterfront and ducks, I couldn’t take my eyes off her for a second. Scarfing down my hawaiian burger, I remember it had pineapple. Taking in the city as the little ones sat still, pushed, we walked realizing, again, how much I’d love to live in the city, any city, one day. It was a busy day, and I loved it.
So often I say no to activities or events because I know it will be such a hassle with Evelyn. But, what is the point of that? Why would I rather sit at home twiddling my thumbs when I can be out, living my life with the people that are important to me? It’s so much more rewarding. Sure, traveling with a toddler is always going to be more work than flying solo, but it is so worth it. Last Sunday I spent all afternoon and evening with almost my whole family as we walked around downtown Baltimore, ate lunch in Federal Hill, and watched Matt play in his pink jersey in honor of breast cancer awareness. Evelyn never sits still at games, I actually got a cramp running around after her, that kid is fast. But it was fun. I loved watching her dance and jump in the seat aisles, plaster her face with cotton candy, play with her cousins, her delight at exploring the Inner Harbor, and the opportunity to have an afternoon out with my family.
Sunday reminded me that I need to get out of my comfort zone more often. Not that hanging out with my family is out of my comfort zone, but that particular day was out of the ordinary. It was outside my normal routine. And change is something that stresses me out, even if it’s the smallest thing as Evelyn missing her nap. I know, that sounds so silly. But if I’m honest, it’s true. Everyone has varying degrees of comfort, and mine stops outside of what is familiar and habitual. Which, to no surprise, can get quite boring. But even more than that, I think I’ve been missing out on relationships and experiences that may be more work, but are so, so worth it in the end.
I’m so happy to have had the opportunity to say “yes!” to something that would tickle my creative bone and get us moving. Below is a sneak peak from today’s session debuting Evelyn, Gwen, and Evie’s modeling careers as they showcased my friend Melanie’s children’s clothing line, Lark. We shot at the Botanical Gardens in DC, a perfect location to further Melanie’s inspiration for her Spring line, “secret garden.” Such beautiful, spirited clothing! Definitely check her out if you have a little girl. More images to come soon!
