let's go, dad...

  Definitely one of those mornings I'd rather stay home and hear the sweet laughter of my little girl than venture out into the early morning cold on my way to work!  She woke up oh-so-happy today!  Since I commute, I had to wake her up to catch even a few minutes with her!  Dad does the drop-off and pick-up with the sitter, so he kindly sent me this pic just before their departure. 
  At nearly 5 months, she is laughing, squealing with delight, and interacting with people--she truly is a ham, and loves being the center of attention!  I'm gonna have my hands full, I do believe! But I wouldn't have it any other way! :)

beautiful things...

  Yesterday, as I was driving to an appointment, Gungor's song "Beautiful Things" came on the radio (listen here).  The words are simple, yet profound..."You make beautiful things out of dust" and "You are making me new."  There are so many beautiful things that God has made for us to see in His creation, yet there is nothing more beautiful to me than a life transformed by His extravagant love & grace.  I've seen it, and I've experienced it for myself.  Words can't really do justice, but glimmering hope and purpose replace lostness, peace overcomes fear and doubt, and suddenly days are brighter and smiles are warmer.  Something changes, and it is beautiful.  Somehow, God resurrects something beautiful out of the dust and mire of our lives.  
  Just as words don't do justice, neither do pictures....but here are some pics of things I'm finding beautiful these days...

sweet baby Elli

   I guess I am a little behind in starting a blog, but the newness of mommyhood, coupled with going back to work, has taken up much of my "extra" time.  So, even though this picture dates back 4 months ago, that is where my blog shall begin.  The first week of September, Justin and I welcomed (with open arms and the biggest smiles, I might add) the beautiful life of Elliott Tate Cashion.  She has been the most precious addition to our life, turning our marriage of 5 years into a little family of three...no four--I mustn't forget our dog Reece!  
  The past 4 months have been a whirlwind of joy, laughter, sleeplessness, and awe-inspired wonder, as we  have watched this little, God-given bundle transform before our eyes.  I can hardly believe our little girl, starting out at only 5 lbs 9 oz, now weighs in at over 15!  
  Several of our friends are expecting in the coming 6 months, and I am so excited for what God has in store for them!  Being a mother has brought me more fulfillment than I could have ever imagined, so it warms my heart to know that dear friends of mine (all expecting BOYS!)  get to experience the same, oh-so-soon!  So, more pics of Elli, along with her "boyfriends," will be posted soon!