I noticed yesterday that someone had added this photo of Nol's hands holding crayon hearts to a Valentines gallery. I remember the making of those DIY crayon hearts for his kindergarten class. He put such care into this project.
I haven't seen that photo in a very long time. Two years to be exact. And when I clicked on the enlarged version, time stopped as I stared at those those tiny, gentle hands that belong to the little boy whose heart is always filled with such love, such joy. Even in moments of anger or frustration.
I went into Nol's bedroom as he was reading his bedtime stories and I stopped him so I could hold those same hands, bigger now, but still smooth but covered with little chips and scars from baseball and basketball and all those games that eight-year-old boys play.
And then I went into Q's bedroom as he lay peacefully sleeping in his bed, surrounded by his stuffed animals and Hot Wheels cars. I looked at his tiny hands, the same size as Nol's two years ago. The hands that sometimes hold my face as he gives me a kiss on my nose. So small, so sweet.
Today we will begin the creation of Valentine's Day treats for both Nol and Q's classes. Two different projects specifically chosen by each boy. I will, of course, post photos and tips for those of you needing last-minute ideas.
But really? Those photos and stories that I post will be for me. So when I go back and look at them, time will stop -- if only for a second -- while my mind floods with images and memories of their tiny hands and big hearts.
