This is an image I thought I would never get again of my sweet Annabelle's. She was always my best napper. She took a two to three hour nap every day up until the days before she went to kindergarten. If you have seen my personal Facebook page there are many "sleeping" pictures of my girls, especially Anna. There is something soft, delicate, and innocent watching a child sleep. It is something I enjoy photographing, but difficult to get of other children besides my own.
The softness of this image reflects the softness of Anna. Yes, she has her snotty 5 year old moments but the essence of Anna is a kind and nurturing soul. She is one in which the the world can look up to. Ernest Hemingway once wrote, "The best people possess a feeling for beauty, the courage to take risks, the discipline to tell the truth, the capacity for sacrifice. Ironically, their virtues make them vulnerable." I think this summarizes every mother's fear. A perfect angel ready to explore and experience the world and all it has to offer while facing it's challenges. Anna often helps remind me to slow down, to let go of the little things, and to laugh at the silly things. It's through her that I have become a better person. And now it's my turn. To my Anna, Gracie, and Emmalynn, for the rest of my existence I will my spend time trying to teach you to stay soft and not let the world make you hard. To not let the bitterness steal your sweetness or the pain make you hate. "If ever there is a tomorrow when we're not together...there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think."