Staci and Jenny Thomas

Jenny and Staci are my first cousins. When I started sifting through the 500 applicants that were nominated for this contest, I knew that I had to include them in this shoot. I called them four days before the weekend and they worked hard to find coverage at work to try to come (Jenny works as a nurse at an elderly care home and Staci is a nurse working nights at the VA clinic). These busy moms dropped everything to make it for the weekend, and worked overnight shifts on Thursday so that they could go straight to get on a plane out of Omaha, Nebraska on Friday morning. 

Staci and Jenny are the hardest workers I know. They have had some of the toughest cards dealt to them possible and yet they always overcome. Time and time again. They care for so many people in their lives, starting with their children (they both have three), but extending down to my grandparents. They work tirelessly day after day to keep things together in their world, with positive attitudes and grace. I am so proud to call them my family! Sometimes, when my day is going badly, I think of my cousins' strength and it lifts me up. I dubbed them our "BONUS ROUND" this weekend and it wouldn't have been the same without them there! xo Rachelle

Shop Staci's sweater here. 

Shop Jenny's sweater here.