Happy Purim!

Tonight (well, right about now actually) begins the Jewish holiday of Purim.

I've always been a BIG fan of Purim. Take candy + costumes + a good story + great food + jam-filled cookies + lots of rocking parties and you have a great holiday, in my opinion.

If you ask my friends, they'll attest to the fact that I like to go all out for my costumes whenever possible. One year (in high school no less) I showed up as a cluster of grapes. Annoying to get around, but entertaining. This year's costume is a bit more slapped together--life's been a tad hectic to say the least. But I can't wait to show it off to y'all very soon!

If you need a refresher, this was us last year:

As much as we're smiling in this photo, when I think of last year's Purim, I can't help but remember how hard it was. We had just had some big disappointments in our infertility journey, and being surrounded by families on such a kid holiday was difficult. I remember praying so hard that this year would be different.

And this year? I can barely find time to hear the megillah because I'm busy nursing and cuddling my little girl. I wouldn't even attempt my cake balls of last year--I'm not crazy! My life is still stressful and hard sometimes, but that empty hole that was prominent last year is gone. I'm grateful.

One of the themes of Purim is hiddeness. G-d's name does not appear at all in the megillah (which, btw, is a scroll telling the story of Esther--find out more here) just like G-d's actions and purposes are hidden in the world. Last year, I didn't know how my story would play out, but He did. And just like in the Purim story, all will work for the best, even if I can't see it at the time.

Wishing you a happy, happy Purim if you celebrate it. And a happy, happy Thursday if you don't. Make it a good one!