“Each second we live is a new and unique moment of the universe, a moment that will never be again. And what do we teach our children? We teach them that two and two make four, and that Paris is the capital of France. When will we also teach them what they are? We should say to each of them: Do you know what you are? You are a marvel. You are unique. In all the years that have passed, there has never been another child like you. Your legs, your arms, your clever fingers, the way you move. You may become a Shakespeare, a Michelangelo, a Beethoven. You have the capacity for anything. Yes, you are a marvel. And when you grow up, can you then harm another who is, like you, a marvel? You must work, we must all work, to make the world worthy of its children.”
-Pablo Picasso
Hannah is the eldest of three amazingly fascinating souls. Hannah is kind, caring, and has a purity to her that is like childlike innocence and gold all in one. You always know where things are at with Hannah, she’s an open book. Her soul seeps out of her pours, in plain view for the world. In Hannah’s eyes it’s easy to see love.
Ella Ireland is the middle child. Full of mischevious wit, boundless humor, and endless creativity. She is quirky, somewhat unpredictable and always true to herself. She is the surprising one. When you least expect it, she will throw her arms around you and say something that melts you into instantly. Like “Auntie Erin… you are sooooo special” She is also the one that will not just shed one or two small tears over something, but will BURST into a flurry of crocodile tears, suddenly, without warning. She doesn’t give up her love to just anyone. But once you have it, you are filled up entirely.
Elijah is highly spirited to say the very, very least. He has an inability to sit still. He is alive. He is full of life, energy and full of all sorts of quirks. His report card names him as one of the most popular little dudes in school. He calls it “famous”. He is charismatic, moody, charming and irresistibly sweet. He has a bad temper, and a sharp mind. My time with him as a baby was spent perfecting the art of the baby dance, as he was terribly hard to calm down. He makes you want to know him forever.
Its no secret that I’ve loved this family from the beginning of time. I’ve been through it all. Witnessed each of them as a brand new baby, been woken up by their little peepers staring at me, grinning… whispering.. “Auntie Erin, are you awake?”. They’ve irritated me, inspired me, lifted me and quite honestly served as a very happy place for me. Time spent with them feels profound. Meaningful. Well spent. I am blessed with their love and friendship. Through good times and hardship, through tragedy, happiness, strength, and many changes… one thing remains the same. I am better with these people in my life.
A mothers love for her children is magnificent.
