The last image of Alicia-Rae is such a typical one of her. We used to have a yard full of Hydrangea plants. Well, we still do, but most of them are missing their leaves and petals by now. Our little ‘botanist’ has a fixation with all things floral and loves nothing better than to pluck a handful of flowers from where ever she can and carry them around for as long as is practical. Sometimes it’s not so practical, but she makes it work anyway. 
These were today’s companions. As with most days I’d find them in random places throughout the day as she’d put them down in favour of another activity, only to collect them later and carry them around till the next one. Who needs dolls, or any other toys for that matter.
You may have noticed that I switched the photos around today. Normally I’ve been putting Jaedon’s up first, but today it seemed fitting to end with his.
Nanna and Papa popped in today, and whisked Jaedon away for a couple of hours. They all got to spend some time together, and I got a bit of time to myself while Alicia-Rae napped, so it worked out well for everyone.
Because he doesn’t see them that often the last time he got in the car with them he howled all the way up the road. I could see his sad little face pressed against the window as he disappeared from view. I can still see it. But today he was such a big boy, looking almost wistfully out the window as if trying to remember where home was before he left, then cheerfully waving me goodbye.
As soon as I dowloaded this photograph I knew it was the one to end the project on. I’d had so many grand ideas of what I could do for the last day, but when it came to the day it was just like any other really, so that’s what I decided to capture. So in saying that I just love how this one turned out. It says just what I want it to, without me knowing exactly how to put that into words. So I’ll let you decipher it yourself. That’s what photography’s all about anyway, isn’t it.
Wow. We’re done. 366 days of harassing my poor children and following their every move with my camera in hand. One day they’ll thank me for it.
I can’t believe we’ve finally finished. There were days where I felt like I’d be doing this forever. But there were also days where I wished I could. I’ve captured a lot of stages in their lives this last year, especially with Alicia-Rae (being the age she is), and I know this time in life passes far too quickly. Though I’d like to do it again at some stage, I don’t think there’ll be another time as opportune as this one. Nor can I imagine the kids as innocent and complying as they’ve (mostly) been.
Below is a little slideshow I put together using all the photographs from this year. Every single day’s worth. As I watched it play back it was hard not to cry. From relief. From being proud of myself for seeing this through. From being immensley proud of my children, and incredibly grateful for them and for the moments they give me, day by day.
I’m sure I’ll be forever glad I did this. And I really do hope that one day they do thank me for it.
If you made it this far – well done! But before I sign off I wanted to wish all my friends, family, clients and other folk who follow my blog, a very happy, healthy and blessed year ahead. Your love and support this year has been very much appreciated.
Happy New Year to you all.
Narrelle x
