Last But Not Least

365/365
11:54p.m.

And so it is poetic to end the year with an image recreated from the first.

The project has been bittersweet; I would say mostly rewarding, occasionally annoying, but always worthy. While at times it felt monumental, I'm grateful I made the effort, if anything, to know exactly when we can expect to welcome the first weed of 2010 (March 15, mark your calendars, Wisconsinites).

Surely I got to know my camera, especially after the Elph experienced that horrible Death by Toddler in June and I had to rely only the Rebel the remainder of the year. I saw my children differently; pausing for a good shot forced me to step back and allow them to proceed in play independently. During these moments I became a thoughtful witness instead of a Know-It-All (you know the kind...the adults who believe they do all the teaching, the kids do the learning). I was also surprised by my own patience and dedication, demonstrated at times when my passion waned and I really wanted to throw in the digital towel. Namely, after Tom died in September.

Most importantly, I love that I have a nanosecond (or titch more) of each and every day in 2009. Some are good photographs, some lovingly say family, some will, um spark, a memory, but I own all of them as a fragmented moment of where I stood this year. Absolutely there are many, many, many wonderfully shared memories and points that we created together this year, but these 365 images are mine (ok, minus the 2 that John shot). Mine. My view, my experience, and that's wholly rewarding because, as a parent, the kids and the house and all the incredible and non-trade-worthy things that come with it all are always such a priority that I often never even check in with myself. It's in retrospect that I realize I did this year; I allowed myself to be present while capturing the moment.

It's now January 20 and I haven't touched the camera in 2o whole days. I knew I didn't have it in me for another 365 with a baby on the way this summer, but I know I'll continue to shoot and document and hopefully learn. I'm ever grateful for the encouragement along the way--the messages, the comments, the phone calls, the followers--and I hope you'll stay tuned to see what happens next.

Cheers.

Coasting

364/365
1:42p.m.

Do you remember this shot from just under a year ago? John got Jack out on skates at Hillington Green, and although it's doubtful there's an Olympic experience any time in his future, he did seem to enjoy it. And, like last year, we have Hillington Green dads to thank for such an awesome opportunity!

Here Goes

363/365
12:25p.m.

Oh boy. I wonder if I have been subconsciously avoiding finishing up these last three days of the project because it was a way to hold on to it. Although, if you know me, I don't like to leave things in limbo. All or nothing. And so completing these three days has been on my List for weeks, causing distress for not dutifully putting it to bed.

Dear Charlie came down with a mild, yet not, case of pneumonia after Christmas. His temp soared into numbers for days on end that I only want to see again in seared tuna. He was lethargic. He lost his entire appetite. He slept endlessly. And we were taut with worry over the duration and severity. In the last several months this house has lodged H1N1, Scarlet Fever, and pneumonia. Where, oh where, is the common cold?

Bags? Packed.

362/365
3:58p.m.

This aspiring young soccer star has already told me he plans on bouncing between Italy, France, and England displaying his skill on three different teams.

So much for that promise of "never ever leaving home." {Sigh.}

Anchored

361/365
12:17p.m.

Poor Payton. The dearly loved Golden of the family was a champ for dealing with the boisterous pace of a two- and five-year old for two days. He held his own, retreating to this stock still position, yet his eyes were always on duty. Of course, the look he is giving me appears to be, and bear with me because I don't speak canine, "Come on, people! How long are you people going to be here?!"

One of Jack's many allergies is dog, and so I have to wonder if it's an incredible coincidence that he shows absolutely no symptoms around Payton. He can bury his face into Payton's wonderfully thick, flaxen coat, reposing like a wet noodle, and pop up with pure joy on his face. What a gift!

Decadent

360/365
8:01 p.m.

Two words: Creme.Brulee.

Fight to the Finish

359/365
1:52 p.m.

Dear Saint Nick brought Jack this long-awaited Checkers game on December 6. Here it is, Christmas Day, a mere nineteen day later, and Charlie's dinosaurs are filling in for lost pieces already. Sigh. But he gets points for creativity.

The Wisconsin-Illinois weather thoroughly thwarted our travel plans, and it was necessary to stay put, cozy at home, for another day. We spent these extra hours playing countless Checkers, Uno, and Sorry games. Countless, I tell you! At one point late in the day, Jack exclaimed, "I'm still in my pajamas!" And my reply, "Isn't it wonderful!" If there's ever a list of days to spend in your pajamas, your childhood Christmases should be first and foremost.

Merry Christmas!