Letters to Our Daughters Circle: May

Dear Anni,

You have a thing for the birds that live in the barn and it is pretty cute, even though the birds are a bit of a pain. Hopefully, this summer we will get all of them moved outside so they can poo beyond the walls of my barn studio, haha!

You are growing like a weed! I can hardly keep you in clothes, but you will always be my baby. Thank you for your help this week getting the house cleaned and ready for company too. I love how you pitch in without complaining (most days). Now maybe we can apply some of that good attitude to your math lessons!

Love you always,

Mommy xoxo

Please continue the circle with my dear friend, Mickie DeVries!

Letters to Our Daughters: April

Dear Anni,

Here you are with "Cat". 

I think her name is technically your middle name, Serena, but no one calls her that. :) I guess we most often call her "Ornery Cuss"!  You have been asking me to take your picture with Ornery Cuss for a few days now, so today was your day! I had to get your ruffle dress in there too. I think you have worn it every day this week. I, for one, am glad you know how to use the washing machine! 

You have a special ability that mesmerizes her though, and she somehow is nice for you. You have the magic, my sweet girl. I just wanted to take the time to get a few shots with you and your feline friend. I know I should have something profound to say, but you are the one who has the deep little observations on a minutely basis. I wish I could be half the cat whisperer that you are. 

Love you! xoxo

                   

                   

                   

Please continue our circle with my sweet friend, Melissa Stottmann!

Letters to Our Daughters, March: Little Red

My Dearest Annika,

You are always a mirror to my mood. Life has been chaotic, changing, and unpredictable. We shot this image when I was feeling uneasy. I had an idea, and as usual, you felt what I wanted before I said anything. I love how you take directions from my body language and how you are fearless. 

Everyday I am a little worried about how fast you are growing up. I have edited pics of you since you were just a tiny thing and every time I edit a new one, your face looks back at me seems wisdom beyond your years. I want to make it slow down, but I realize that it is I who must slow down. 

Thank you for giving me our photography time together and thank you for reading my heart better than even I can. xxoo

Love, 

Mommy

Please continue the circle with my dear friend, Melissa.....

Letters to Our Daughters Blog Circle: January 2014

Little Shadows

Her small topknot twisted on top of her head

Small, freckled nose wrinkled in a smile

Tea parties

Dancing

Snuggling with Belle, the chocolate lab

All little shadows burned on your memory

All little shadows burned on mine

Dear Annika,

Thank you for always being the little ray of sunshine in my life. I know that you feel alone, being the only girl, but you always have me.  You are always my friend and I will try to always be the best friend I can be to you too, sweetie. I pray you always keep the fiery spirit and warm heart that make me smile everyday and that your little beam of joy will continue to shine on all around you. I love you! 

I promise to play games whenever you ask and to make time for us to cook together. You are becoming quite the little chef! 

Love,

Mommy

Please continue the circle with my friend, Sarah!

Letters to Our Daughters: November

Dear Annika,

You are my little muse, my friend, and a prayed-for blessing. 

I cherish each day

Each smile

Each kiss on the cheek

In a world of boys, you are my glitter 

My sparkle

My worrier

My warrior

You are always loving

Always shining

Always loving

Always willing to help me learn more

Thank you for the five years you have helped me learn

and grow

and express my heart in photography

I am, who I am 

because of you. 

Love you always, baby girl

Please continue the circle with my friend, Allison McSorely.