rich in love, laughter, and family

As a mother, there are days when I feel like I’m barely holding it all together. But when I take a step back, I’m overwhelmed not by the chaos, but by the gratitude I feel for the village that surrounds me.

I am incredibly fortunate to have an amazing support system—one that spans multiple generations. My parents are a daily lifeline. They’re not just grandparents; they’re second parents, cheerleaders, teachers, and givers of unconditional love. Whether it’s picking up the Odin last minute, showing up with a helping hand, or just offering a warm hug and a hot cup of coffee, they show up, over and over again. Their presence reminds me that we’re never raising these boys alone.

And then there’s the sweetest gift of all: watching our sons build a relationship with both sets of my grandparents, Smith & Tallman— Odin’s great-grandparents. It’s something I never take for granted. There’s something deeply grounding about seeing four generations in one room. The way they light up when the boys run into the room, how they hold their tiny hands with their strong weathered ones, the way they tell stories that they may not fully understand now but will carry with them for a lifetime—these are the moments that stitch our family tree together. They offer them quiet wisdom, simple joys, and a sense of belonging that is deep and rich.

My twin brothers, too, have stepped into their role as uncles so naturally from the very beginning. They’re the kind of uncles who get down on the floor for wrestling matches, who bring the snacks, sneak candy, and who make even the most ordinary afternoons feel like a true adventure. Their bond with my boys is playful, strong, and full of love. And with me, they remain a constant source of support—the kind of siblings who I know will always have my back, no matter what.

My brothers are also bringing two incredible women into our family—strong, kind, and loving soon-to-be wives who already feel like sisters to me, and the coolest aunties to our boys. Our family just keeps growing in the most beautiful ways.

I’m also marrying into a family that is equally rich in love, laughter, and true connection. With this big Alaskan family comes tradition that is grounded in respect, community, and heartfelt connection to each other. Odin is embraced not just by new relatives, but by a legacy—one filled with Gawgiis (uncles) who teach through funny mischief, laughter, strength, Naani (grandma) whose heart and warmth feel like home, and a Poppy who carries stories for them that they’ll pass on to their own kids. It’s a family where identity is cherished, heritage is honored, and love overflows. Watching Odin be claimed and loved by Adam’s side of the family fills me with so much pride and peace. They are not only surrounded by support—they are deeply rooted.

It’s easy to underestimate the power of family support when we’re in the thick of motherhood. But when I look around, I see it clearly every day: I am surrounded by love. Not perfect, polished love—but the real kind. The kind that shows up in sweatpants, holds crying babies, never misses a tball game, and never asks for anything in return.

I know not everyone has this. I know some mamas are doing this all on their own or with very little help. I see you. I honor you. And I don’t take my village for granted. It’s big, it’s messy, it’s beautiful—and it’s my everything.

So today, I just want to say: thank you. To my parents, my grandparents, my brothers, and my beautiful new family who makes me feel like one of their own—you are the roots that keep us grounded. I don’t say it enough, but I see you. I am grateful beyond words. And I know just how lucky we all are.