As a physician and a devoted parent, I find myself often capturing countless images of my daughter, Sarah. I freely admit to having a bit of a “Momarazzi” obsession with photography. This habit isn’t simply about preserving fleeting moments; it’s about creating a tangible record of her childhood that we can hold onto together.
While I bask in these memories, they also serve a greater purpose for her. I’ll carry these stories in my heart, but as time passes, my recollection may fade. You know how it is—Mommy brain can be quite the challenge!
It might appear as though I’m missing out on the present while focusing on documentation, but I consider it an extension of our shared experiences. It allows us to relive joyful moments long after we’ve posed for a picture. So, why do I take so many photos of Sarah, both candidly and in a more staged manner? These images are a precious gift for her.
I want her to see the delight on her face when she cuddles a puppy, her wide-eyed wonder as she kisses her grandparents, the adorable pout when things don’t go her way, and the messy hair she sports after a morning nap. I aim to document her milestones, like the first time she learned to grasp a tiny Cheerio or the mischievous joy she felt when she disassembled her mobile without anyone noticing.
I want her to remember the warmth in my heart the moment she was placed on my chest for the very first time, or the sweetness of those early weeks swaddled tightly like a little burrito. I hope she laughs at the memory of drawing on herself with my lipstick and walking in my wedding heels, and I want us both to marvel at her growth through the years—seeing how she transformed from a tiny newborn to a spirited toddler.
As she matures, I wish for her to recall the simple joys: being content with a box of crayons, the excitement of picking pumpkins, or the proud moment when she first used the potty and earned her M&M’s reward. When she towers over me, I want to remind her of the days when she stood on tiptoes to reach the doorknob, and when she first learned to ride a bike.
Through our family adventures, summer outings, and all the little moments, I want Sarah to have a visual narrative of her childhood. I want her to reflect on her early years, the home she came to after leaving the hospital, and the room where she played with toys that will one day be vintage. This collection will provide her with a way to look back on her upbringing, and perhaps inspire her when she has kids of her own.
Ultimately, I want her to feel the immense pride and joy I experience watching her grow. One day, these captured moments will transform into “remember when” stories, and with a photo in hand, I hope to say, “Yes, I remember that vividly.”
While I know I can’t freeze time, I can certainly frame it. For more insights into family planning and the journey of parenthood, check out this post on home insemination options, as well as fertility supplements that can aid in your journey. Additionally, if you’re seeking an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination, explore this fertility center.
In summary, capturing moments of my daughter’s life not only preserves memories for us both but also creates a legacy of joy and love that she can cherish forever.