To Nate, at One

Before you, I felt sorry for those born in December - their birthdays tossed in with Christmas celebrations, their presents all wrapped in red and green. But as you grow, unwrapping yourself to us a piece at a time, I realize that you could not have been born at any other time. You are like the Christmas tree, signaling that I am no ordinary creation, something special is about to happen here. Be patient. Wait. See. You beckon us with your light, warming us with the joy you naturally exude. We are captivated, caught up in your spirit, the spark of your laughter, the energy of your hands. It is our gift to watch you grow. Our ordinary days, our Decembers, and our lives are brighter simply because you joined us one winter day, not that long ago. Happy Birthday, baby.

Remember Me?

When Audrey made this shirt for her little brother, I could not imagine the days when he would be close to outgrowing it, or just how fitting this shirt would be. Bright like his eyes. Made sweeter by its imperfections. Too soft not to touch. Too cute to stop staring at. And, ironically, were his sister to put a target on his back, it would be a heart-shaped, and quickly attacked by sisterly love.

Before the Rains

Life in a Snapshot

Yes, those would be the linings of her jeans pockets and the tag that you see. Audrey insisted on putting her pants on by herself. Then she decided to go smush her brother with love. Oh, that girl. I'd clobber her with squeezes if she were awake right now. Not that that's where she gets her ideas. ;)