It’s taken me a while to write this one. Cami and her family are very special to ours. Cami and I met in a small group at church about 7 or 8 years ago and became instant friends. For years we got together before sunrise (along with our friend Michelle) to meet and talk about navigating life together.

We’ve seen each other through some of life’s most beautiful moments-I remember when her first son was born, when I brought my then-boyfriend (now husband) on a couples trip to Gatlinburg with her, when she sang at my wedding, and when our little families have had opportunities to vacation together. Cami encouraged me as I began to build my business and did the graphic design for Ashley Conrad Photography.

We’ve also cried tears of hopelessness and hopefulness together and for one another. Cami was with me when I got the call about our home catching on fire. I spent many nights praying for her daughter, Nora, who is now with Jesus and I’ve gotten to witness Cami’s strength and faith through losing Nora.

We’ve also laughed—my goodness–we’ve laughed a lot together! It was especially fun being pregnant alongside this mama and echoing each other’s bloated, uncomfortable woes.

Now this mama is getting ready to welcome her second son into the world and I cannot wait to meet her little man!