Like many of you, I am still looking through the many pictures taken from the holidays. Not sure if this is you; but I zero in on myself first. All the things I start noticing, I need a haircut, the angle isn’t great, I need to remember to sit up straight, I need to hold back a bit on the smile, and the infamous…maybe I need to take off a few pounds. And then, in a flash my attention goes to Ross and Harper. From that moment on, I don’t care about me.
As I begin flipping through all of the outtake photos, I am simply captivated. I study their eyes and expressions as they look at each other; Uncle Ross, our gentle giant and his sweet niece Harper. Ross leaning over tenderly to touch his head with hers, an action he does often. She doesn’t notice him at first, and then her eyes gradually focus in on him. No smiles, no fear, just a tender and honest moment. Of course, this whole time we were trying to get Ross to look at us and smile! Thank goodness I just kept snapping pictures or these moments would be forgotten.
I begin to recall all the sweet interactions between the two. Our 8 month old granddaughter did not show any signs of being afraid of her Uncle Ross, even when he got a bit loud. She eagerly tried to get Ross’ attention, batting at his shoulder as if she was trying to get him to smile at her. Her inquisitive, big eyes seemed to say, “Hey, why don’t you make silly faces at me like everyone else?” Ross would simply look at her, give a ‘click’ sound and then his version of a wink. Many times a lighthearted grunt and tender poke at her tummy and then he turned his attention to something else.
I continue to reminisce on the past few weeks and find myself wondering how their relationship will unfold. Will he let her play with his toys? Will he let her sit on his lap? Will she want to? Will he let her color with him? Will he show her the secret handshake he and Clint have had since they were young?
Of course, only time will tell. For now, there is an explosion of love in my heart and I am grateful for all of these precious and short-lived family outtakes.
Marla, these are fantastic photos. I am looking forward to the relationship that Harper and Ross will develop. These pictures indicate that they will have a special bond. How wonderful that they are able to spend time together now.
I thoroughly enjoy your blog! It is written out of love & devotion to your beautiful son & all your loving family. I look forward to the next one, dear friend.
Thank you, Penny. It’s been a long road as you know. We have been blessed with wonderful friends and family.
Such sweet pictures! I thinking that Harper and Toss will be close buddies in years to come and he will love visiting them often. Beautiful memories made at these special times will grow and become so genuine and touching for all of you. Thanks for sharing and Happy New Year Marla and family!! (The candy was a hit!!)
Thank you, Janet!! We are so fortunate living closer to Clint and his family and are looking forward to their relationship blossom!
Glad to hear the candy was well received! Blessings in the coming year to you, Ernie and the entire family!!
These are fantastic photos. I am so excited for Harper to be getting to know and love Ross. I can’t wait to see their relationship bloom.
We have been fortunate to have watched your children grow up with Ross and have been blessed by those relationships.
Marla thank you for sharing your beautiful family story.
Through a child’s eyes…. beautiful
Thank you, Rhonda.
What a beautiful family. Thank you for sharing with us. Harper and Ross will share a special (hand shake) one day.
Thank you for your kind words, Barb. I’m pretty sure they will also!