I’ve been MIA for a week or two, and this is why.

Emily and I met, gosh, about 5 years ago now when my husband and I were stationed at Fort Hood. We clicked instantly and after our husbands both deployed, we bonded over wine, long evenings of Friend’s marathons and making huge messes  “crafting” at her kitchen table. Plus, she knew how to cook WELL so that worked out nicely for me.

Fast forward a year or two and Em + Rick became some of my husbands and I’s closest friends. We’ve done Thanksgiving, vacations, Saturday night football, deployments.

I immediately knew Emily was pregnant without her telling me. I’m not going to disclose how but you can probably guess. I told her that no matter what, I would be there when it was baby time.

Last Friday morning, early, I woke up to my phone vibrating. As soon as I saw “Rick” on the caller ID I jumped in the car. Baby time!

Francesca Grace Aldred was born at 8:17pm on Friday September 16th. Mom and dad were amazing. There’s something about watching two become three that you just can’t compare to anything else.

I’ve watched Emily + Rick in their journey to Frankie for years now and they are the most deserving parents. This baby is truly a miracle and so loved already. Ben and I love you both. Here’s her story.