Sweet, sweet baby

I have been meaning to introduce folks to little Christa, who was born with a medical condition incompatible with life in mid-March. She was a wee little peanut, about a pound or so, and so lovely and dear. I was fortunate to be able to memorialize her through the organization I volunteer with, Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep.

Though I am incredibly saddened by the babies who are losing their lives, the parents surprise and move me too. They are so stalwart, so brave, and I am always incredibly humbled by how they face their ordeals. It is an honour to be with them at so poignant a moment, and I hope that the photographs we create together comfort them in the hard days ahead.

I never realized, until I began to work with Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, just how many of our local families endure the loss of a baby.

To all of them, I send a wish for peace and healing.

Absolutely Arthur

This second one is a photograph of little Arthur done as a pencil sketch. I just love it, don't you?



Sweet Arthur stole my heart when he came to see me in the studio. He was at a great age--7 months and a bit--where, from my grown-up perspective, being alive is delicious. Seven monthers are full of joie de vivre. They can sit up by themselves and tummy time is a lot of fun.

I just roll on the floor laughing when I see these little tykes catch their reflections. They are captivated. It is like watching a spark put to their hearts. Who is that gorgeous guy? Arthur seems to be saying. I remember my littlest daughter when she was somewhat older--about seven years--standing in front of a mirror repeating, "I'm so beautiful, I'm so beautiful," in an awed voice. Little Arthur reminded me of that sweet moment.