I found it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay:
Small acts of kindness and love.
-Gandolf
My Little Darlin', Little Pumpkin, Little Babushka, Little Sweetie Pie, Little Angel, Little Giraffe, Little Saint, Little Love. hahaha, Never....EVER....have I uttered the word 'little' so freely without restraint! I guess a 16lb ball of cuteness will do that to you. Oh our LITTLE Anabelle! Your loving, smallness has become the vibrant center of our lives. Once again have you reminded us of the importance in offering thanks for the little moments that compose the grand masterpieces of our lives!
Being the first to wake up so that in Karim's peaceful slumber I could take a moment to truly cherish him and our marriage. The delicious smells upon coming into the homes of family and friends as they lovingly prepare a meal. Slowdancing at the end of the pier as the sun sets. Waddling around Santa Monica throughout my pregnancy with friends. Karim wiping my forehead and holding my hand during labor. The first time Anabelle rested her sweet face on my chest. The crack in my Mom's voice as she told me a close friend had passed away, and the flooding of images and memories that came attached to those simple words. Anabelle's first laugh. Receiving the Eucharist!!! Helping my sister put on her wedding dress. Writing letters. Fighting back tears as I watched my brother in pure bliss as he saw Olivia walk through the doors of the church. The piercing 'goodbye' and 'see you later' exchanged with my Abuela as she holds my hand. All of the I love you's, spoken over the phone, yelled across the airport terminal, mouthed from the car at the dropoff, whispered in an embrace.
This is my greatest desire: that these small,beautiful moments in my life gain momentum so that they will be all that is left to see. This portrait of love, turns my heart towards God in the jubilant expression of Thanksgiving for these little moments, my little Anabelle, my little everything!
Thank you for your presence this year!!!
Sending you a 'little' love, and wishing you a beautiful Thanksgiving ;)
-Teresita y Anabelle
Now brace yourself for cuteness overload.... ;-) Some photos from fall this year:
