December 13

If it is crafty, then it is Kirt. I've never been talented at making things pretty, but my beloved makes an amazing tree topper every year and a special ornament. One of my favorites is the girls in matching coats. When I look at that picture, I remember the day in Michigan at a farm where a professional photographer took our family pictures. I think that was the last time.

The girls looked so adorable in their matching outfits, but I'm pretty sure some yelling was involved that day trying to get them both to leave their coats on and smile at the same time. The ornament makes me smile because like life, it is so many different experiences in one moment. There is the love of my husband creating the ornament, the photographer who managed to coax a simultaneous smile, Hannah willing to smile and Sophie ready to run. I look at that ornament and memories run through me. I don't yearn for those days when they were little, but I'm thankful for them. Thinking about those times brings me joy and a sense of accomplishment. Those sweet little girls are raised and making beautiful lives themselves (Elijah is not far behind). That's the gift of nostalgia - being thankful for what was so we have courage for what will be.