One new littlest sister with sleepy eyes. One new big sister finds a binky hidden beneath a stuffed elephant. One oldest sister sings softly, ‘you make us feel so alive…’ Cuddles and snuggles. Giggles and tickles. Twirling dresses. Endless hair bows. Soft lavender. Sweet blush. The Harrigans celebrated their newest addition, Mallory Lea, with an in-home lifestyle session!

To be honest, this post has been one of the hardest posts I have written. I am thinking about all the excitement of ‘we’re having another baby!’ I am thinking about the strength Leah + Ray poured into each other throughout this pregnancy. I am thinking about the surprise announcement that it IS A GIRL!! I am thinking about the blessing of unexpected, miraculous news. I am thinking about ‘silly things your husband says’ while in labor. I am thinking about Leah’s smiling face right before my parents and I left the delivery room. I am thinking about jumping up and down in the hospital hallway just moments after hearing her first breathtaking cry. I am thinking about the prayers we said. I am thinking about the roller coaster that is life. I am thinking about ten fingers and ten toes.

To Mallory. Welcome to this wide open world my sweet baby girl. I am so looking forward to discovering your own, unique personality.

To Emma and Lauren. Take care of your newest, littlest sister. You will both influence her and help her grow into the woman she is meant to be.

To Ray. I am so blessed to witness your strength and vulnerability. By being a Dad to three tiny humans. By being the man and husband my sister needs. I am so, so blessed to call you brother.

To Leah. I cannot even put words to the awe and amazement I have for you, darling. Your calmness in the face of chaos. The love for your little ones. The respect for your husband. The outpouring of love and wholeness that you give to all the people in your life. Being an aunt has been such a blessing in my life, but being your sister has been the biggest honor.

Emma, Lauren, and Mallory, you have parents who love you fiercely. You three beautiful, smart, funny, charming, adventurous little ladies don’t know it yet, but you won the lottery with these two. And I cannot wait to watch all three of your futures unfold.

RaRa