The warmest hug

The other day I overheard my boys talking about what they were going to do when growing up. Mr S, my 7 year old, did most of the talking. He couldn’t quite decide whether to become a scientist or professional race car driver. Mr C was sitting on the carpet, playing rather quietly with his toy cars, not saying much.

I walked into the room and sat down beside him. “So, what are you going to be when you grow up”  I asked him, expecting the usual “firefighter” or “policeman” answer.

He hesitated for a second. “It’s a secret” he said, “But I can tell you if you’d really like to know”

“Of course, I’d love to” I replied.

“When I grow up” he whispered in my ear “I’m gonna be rich“

Oh dear, I thought; perhaps it’s time to have a little talk with my 4 year old about the real values in life, those that have little to do with money.

“You know, there are other things in life far more important than being rich -”

He looked at me, somewhat doubtful “But you’re not rich” he said “how do you know?”

Ok, I thought, here we go.

“Actually, I think I am rich because I have good friends, because I live in a peaceful country, with beautiful nature outside; because I have sunshine  on my face during the day and stars shining through my window at night. I am rich when I get the opportunity to help others, or do some of the things I love doing; like taking pictures, and singing. And of course, being with you guys!”

I felt it was a good answer. But clearly, my son wasn’t satisfied.

“Mom, rich is when you have lots of MONEY!“

“I know” I replied “But we do have enough money to put food on the table every day, and to buy clothing when needed, and even a few toys now and then.”

He thought for a moment.

“No, you are not rich.” he insisted “You know why? Because if you were, you wouldn’t have a really old car.”

How do you argue with that?

“I guess you’re right” I sighed. “I do have an old car”

He nodded his head, happy to have made his point. But still, something seemed to be bothering him. Then all of a sudden his facial expression changed:

“That’s ok, mom” he said with a big smile “when I grow up, I’ll be rich for you”

Then I feel his little arms around my neck and his cheek pressed softly against mine. 5 seconds later he is gone, leaving me with the warmest feeling – not only on my cheek but also lingering in my heart.

Like I said; I am rich. How can there be any doubt about it

It’s magic!

Have you ever dreamed of flying? Here’s proof: you CAN fly – if you really believe it!

(And with a little help – I admit – from Photoshop

September

Already the first month of fall is here. How time flies! Well, if for nothing else, it’s a good excuse for taking some more pictures

A mushroom shimmering almost like gold

Mr C insisted on bringing the umbrella outside – on a sunny day. I told him there was only blue sky to be seen, but he wanted to be sure in case of a sudden rainshower

Another mushroom in the grass

You may wonder what this rose is doing among autumn photos. Well, it was just growing there, right next to the mushrooms, blooming in all it’s beauty. As if to remind me that even if fall is here, there are still some warm, sunny days ahead for us to enjoy. Besides, I love roses. And that’s really all the reason I need.

Some more wonderful colors

And a few more.. ah, now I see why he wanted to bring the umbrella. He noticed that the colors were matching!!! Have a nice weekend!

Moments to Remember

There’s a lot of good things to be said about photography. I can make you a list if you like.. But I’m sure most people would agree that the best thing is that it gives us a unique opportunity to capture that special moment in time – and keep it forever. Perhaps we don’t fully understand what a miracle this is. Personally, I often wonder how people even survived before the age of photography

Some moments are so special to us that we would never forget to eternalize them. Simply because we know their importance and how we will wish to keep and treasure them in the years to come.

But as we know; our journey through life is also made up by all those small moments along the way. Like today, when I was headed home from the grocery store and suddenly spotted a hedgehog crossing the road just in front of my car.

In less than a second, and without really thinking – I pulled over, opened the door to the back seat and quickly dragged my 4 year old out of the car. He looked somewhat puzzled, but there was no time to explain to him what was going on. I just put my finger over my lips and pointed at the hedgehog that was now approaching the bushes nearby (amazing how fast those little feet can move). And holding each others hands, we silently tip-toed towards him, afraid we were going to miss our opportunity.

Luck was on our side though: we made it. With a smile on our faces, my son and I sat by the roadside, staring into the bushes for more than a minute. Two pearly black eyes stared back at us. We were hardly breathing. It was a magical moment – until mr hedgehog decided the meeting was over; unceremoniously turned his back on us and simply wandered off.

Mr C was thrilled however, having had his first encounter with a real hedgehog. And honestly, although I have seen one or two before – I felt how the experience really brightened my day as well.

My only regret was that my camera… was at home.

Without a doubt, life brings to us lots of memorable moments. Sometimes we get to capture those moments on camera, a wonderful opportunity for which I am truly thankful. And sometimes we get to keep them only within our hearts – which is also good.

But the best thing is, when every now and then.. we are fortunate enough to get both.

Some hedgehogs have all the time in the world and don’t mind posing for a photo.. those that are made from polyresin, that is

A Special Day

If you think today is just like any other day, then you will have to think again. Just ask my youngest son, and he will tell you it’s the most special day of the whole year.Here he is seen patiently waiting for his guests to arrive. (Who knows; maybe they’ll even bring presents..)

That they did. And here is a photo of the best gift, the one he had really been wishing for.

This blue-eyed fellow was quickly taken to heart as well.

Better not forget that magic wish..

And what’s a birthday without fishing?

It turns out this fish is actually made of candy.. isn’t he the lucky one!

He even caught another treasure. One that (I believe) is made of pure gold.

So you see; there’s nothing ordinary about this day. Quite the opposite; it’s a very special, very happy day.

At last, he’s a real 4 year old

Mr Funny Face

Hey mom (yes, you with the camera) – why don’t you forget about those boring trees over there.. and take a look at me instead!

Ok sure, Mr Funny Face, never mind the trees. I can take those pictures another day. What is this anyway; a little touch of spring fever? Hmm.. probably

Furry Funny Fellows

My youngest is a bit concerned about monsters.. I mean, how can he really be sure there isn’t one inside his closet? So I showed him this video .. to take away his worries. After all, everyone deserves to be happy – even monsters!

Enjoy the weekend

Linda

Oh No!

My 6 year old has been struggling with his first loose tooth lately. Finally, it came out – and soon another one followed.

From the moment he discovered there was something called the Tooth Fairy, there has been a constant focus on finding more loose teeth..

The other day he hit his foot against a chair, and quickly removed his sock to have a look at the injury.

Then, while giving his foot a close examination, he suddenly exclaims:

Oh no! Now I’ve got a loose toe!

Ha ha.. well, dear mr S – I sure hope not! (the Tooth Fairy isn’t really interested in toes anyway, is she?)

Snowy Village

Inspired by the falling wordpress snow, I found these pictures from one of our traditional Christmas activities; designing and building the Snowy Village. The design and size of the village tend to vary some from one year to another, but the kids always have a lot of fun building it. Not to forget – when Christmas is over – getting to play with it until it’s literally unrecognizable!

Guarding the village gate – with a smile!

Mr Snowman keeping the overview

My personal favorite. Can you blame me for having a soft spot for that piglet?

Best Mom in the Universe

Putting my 6 year old to bed the other night, I was able to spend a little more time with him than usual, as his younger brother fell asleep early that evening. As I finished the bedtime story (which was also longer than usual) he leant up to give me a hug. And then, putting his arms around my neck, I heard him exclaim: You are the BEST mom in the entire universe!!!

Now what’s more beautiful than a spontanious, heartfelt compliment from a child?

I opened my mouth to thank him for the very nice compliment and say something nice in return, when I noticed he had a funny expression upon his face. As if he was somehow amazed by his own thoughts.. And then he added, as if to himself; – And that particular mom was given to me..!

What can I say?

Here’s a picture of – from my point of view – the best 6 year old in the entire universe!

And – can you imagine; that particular child was given to me..