Our First Mother’s Day - SC Botanical Garden in Clemson
As the sun kissed the horizon on a chill Sunday morning, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This was Alicia's first Mother's Day, and it was going to be a day filled with love, appreciation, and those laid-back moments we cherish as a family.
From our sentimental stroll at the SC Botanical Garden to a delicious lunch at Alicia's parents' house, every step of the day was all about soaking up those delicious spring feels and making memories.
(A photo session with a baby isn’t complete until you’ve had a little hair pulling.)
Our day kicked off with a trip to the SC Botanical Garden, a total sanctuary of natural beauty. It was the perfect spot to start our Mother's Day celebration, surrounded by the love that Alicia and I had scattered all over the gardens. Camera in hand, we strolled through the gardens, capturing epic photos of the Alicia and Luca along the way. Luca stayed stoked the whole time! If you have a little one, then you know how rare this can be!
After our botanical adventure, we cruised over to Alicia's parents' house, where we decided to fire up the grill and create a spread that would blow our Mommas taste buds away. The aroma of sizzling chicken and grilled pineapple permeated the air, while laughter and good times filled the back deck as we reminisced about our journey as new parents.
As lunch came to a close, it was time for the Mother’s Day surprises! I handed my wife the envelope with cards from Luca and myself. I even took Luca’s little hand and “wrote” one to Alicia from our 6 month old. But the ultimate surprise was about to drop. Are you ready?
As Alicia unwrapped the gift, a look of awe washed over her face. It was a custom piece of art that captured our tight-knit crew of three. On the back, there were tiny imprints of Luca's hands and feet, a symbol of his presence in our lives and at this age and the love he brought us. The front of the artwork rocked the phrase, "Mom, you are the piece that holds us all together," with three puzzle pieces completing the picture.
In the center puzzle piece, "Mom" shone bright on the walnut, representing Alicia's crucial role in our tribe. The outer pieces had "Luca" and "Dad", symbolizing the unbreakable connection we all shared. It was a heartfelt tribute to remind Alicia of the love, support, and unity that flows through our home.
It was a day to celebrate not only Alicia but also the indescribable bond we shared as a family, our little Partyof3. As Luca and I gazed at her, feeling admiration, we knew she was the heart and soul of our tribe—the piece that held us all together. What a day!
Written by Nicholas