Due to a lack of RSVPs, there will be no art journaling group tonight.

Macey will be taking the end of June (17-30) as the last of her time off for the 23-24 church year. Please reach out to her this week if you have any questions or concerns that you’d like addressed before the beginning of July. Thanks!

“Listen, are you breathing just a little, and calling it a life?” – Mary Oliver

With tomorrow marking the second birthday of my child, I find myself reflecting on how while I may not be defined by the role of mother, I have certainly been moving through the transformation that matrescence induces. While it constantly humbles me and stretches me in uncomfortable ways, I am truly grateful for the widened perspective, the deep, instinctual love, and rapid growth.

As I plan for the coming year, I am excited to begin my search for additional support for my sweet, little one, as I expand and grow our programming. I am coming to terms with how needed it is for me to do my best. There are many mixed emotions that come with this chapter in our journey, but overall, the renewal of a sense of self that comes with him growing and the opportunity to let others care for him is a relief.

Having experienced these multiple roles first-hand and being stretched thin at times has also made me realize just how essential both childcare and community care are, how beneficial more affordable options would be, and that none of us can fill too many roles at once, as much as we would like to.

May you be gentle with yourself during the long days, tough seasons, and growing pains, knowing none of it lasts forever, and some sense of renewal will inevitably come again. Let our storms be weathered together and let abundant joy find you through the brightness and energy of summer solstice.