Most of the time, my writing doesn’t really reflect my pictures.  And that’s okay.  You get a glimpse into my life through my images, and you get a glimpse into my heart through the writing. It’s a win, win, right?

Yesterday, my mind wandered into my past. I thought a lot about specific memories that I hold tight to–from high school, middle school and then going back to elementary school.  I remember such specific things going back to Kindergarten. I have to keep in mind that Carter isn’t quite at an age where he’s going to remember things now in many years, but Brayden is already there.  And in one or two more years, he’s definitely going to be at the age where he is able to carry some of his memories with him through adulthood.  Does that make any sense?

I remember so many wonderful things from 4th and 5th grade.  And pretty vividly too.  And I found my thoughts wandering to chorus yesterday. I used to sing after school once a week in chorus. I learned so many things.  I learned that if you are whispering, it’s best to try to use the letter “s” as little as possible if you don’t want to get caught.  I learned that you shouldn’t lock your knees when you sing.  I learned every single lyric to We Didn’t Start the Fire (quite a feat. . . look them up online!) and The Little Mermaid’s Under the Sea.  I remember the names of some other songs we sang.  Hats off to sunny Saturdays.  Fish and chips and vinegar. Dona nobis pacem. And my all time favorite, You are my friend.  I remember during one of our concerts, my best friend Julie reached her hand down the step and grabbed mine with a squeeze while we sang. She was moving, and the lyrics couldn’t have been more perfect for ten year old best friends who would no longer be going to the same school. I don’t even know if I am remembering the lyrics correctly, but in my head, I can still remember singing . . . You are my friend. Though we’re miles apart. I am still with you, you’re always in my heart. It’s amazing how little moments like these, when you’re ten, could nestle their way into your heart and make a permanent home.

Small moments matter to little kids. It’s the stuff we’re made of. Our childhood shapes us.

Hats off to sunny Saturdays!