This wasn’t quite how I pictured your first 4th of July, Alice.

I imagined a big get-together, family all around, way too much food on the table. I thought we’d be surrounded by noise, laughter, and all the usual holiday chaos.

Instead, we took a quiet little drive up to the coin shop and made a spontaneous stop to see your Grandpa and Grandma Hagemann. It was simple, unplanned, and honestly, one of the best parts of the day. They were so happy to see you.

We weren’t able to make it up to Aunt Dawn’s or cousin Shaun’s to celebrate this year. And, imagine that, not a single text from the rest of the family when we got home. No “What are you guys doing tonight?” Not even a check-in. For a second, that stung… but then it didn’t.

Because we ended the night with sparklers in the driveway, just us. We watched fireworks from the backyard and caught glimpses through the window while you babbled at the bursts of color lighting up the sky.

I’m realizing more and more that keeping our circle small might just be the best way. No pressure, no forced plans, just our little family making the kind of memories this mama’s heart truly needs.

And you know what else? I guess I don’t need a big crowd to plan a special meal or decorate for the occasion. Our tiny crew is the one who will actually notice, appreciate, and carry those moments with them.

And that? That’s more than enough.