I’m big on memories. If you know me, you know how I light up every time I recall a special moment from the past. My love for memories is one of the reasons that I became a photographer. I could spend hours pouring over old photographs, thinking about good times in years past…

I’m also big on family. Frankly, I think my family is amazing. I’m really close to my parents and all of my siblings and my memories with those 6 people have shaped who I am as an adult.

I’ve always had a soft spot for the moments that I shared with my mom as a little girl. We spent over 5 years together – just us – before my twin sisters were born. That time is something I will treasure forever. I love that my mom made sugar cookies with me for every holiday. I love that she took me to the pool in the summer. I love that she taught me to color, dress up, dream, count, play, tie my shoes, pretend, grow… The list goes on and on.

Now that I have my own kids, I appreciate those moments even more. There are times when I do something that I remember my mom doing… Then I realize it and I know just how much of her I have in me.

Today was one of those days.

When I was a really little, there were mornings that my mom gave me oatmeal for breakfast while I had my bath. It was such a simple thing, but it always made me feel like the day would be extra special.

Emma had her first “Oatmeal Bath” today. She enjoyed it so much… almost as much as I did. = ) She sat calmly in the bubbles saying, “Bite please” whenever she wanted some more. We sang “Old McDonald”. We counted her wrinkled fingers and toes. It was wonderful.

I am so blessed.

Mama :: Thanks for the memories, the lessons, and an amazing childhood. If I’m half the mother you are, I’ll do a fantastic job. I love you tons!!!

- Annie

She’ll hate me for these later…

She ate the whole bowl!

We were singing “Old McDonald”…

Emma was showing me her nose…

… and her eyes. = )

I love this one. No idea what she’s doing, but it’s adorable!

I can’t get enough of that smile!

I figured that Emma’s ducky deserved a shot. After all, he is her favorite…

The curls on this girl are too adorable. I love them.

Nose…

Mouth… I LOVE this one!!!

Wrinkled feet are so cute.

I had to do an antique finish on at least one… I love how it turned out.