Our memories as mothers can be somewhat selective at times. We try to remember the best of times. The smiles and laughter at the zoo as the monkeys swing and entertain. Or the deep sigh we take while our child peacefully sleeps with his or her head on our lap, as we stroke their soft locks.
Maybe the evening they say “Momma, this is THE best dinner you’ve ever made” or the time when they read their first sentence, even if it is with trepidation.
Sometimes it’s little bitty moments that turn into really huge ones in our hearts. Sort of like the one that this photograph represents for me. It jogs the memory of my soul, giving me pause.
I still remember this day so clearly. The boys did not have pre-school and the weather outside was gorgeous and overcast with perfect temps. We took to the driveway with every color of sidewalk chalk, that ended up all over Little G.
I could have gotten upset at his messiness but it would have been pointless since it just added another layer on top of the remnants of lunch, both on his face and shirt. So instead I chose to smile and laugh and take his picture.
We drew flowers and our names, rainbows and scribbles. My bum was sore by the time we got up from the cement.
I think we finally went in when someone had to go potty or needed a snack. It could have been me.
It was one of those moments that I’ll always remember. It was perfect.

LOVE the moments, it really is all the little things we need to string together.
Lovely small moment, lovely photo, lovely you. xo
Love the chalk streaked face.
I just love his little face!
Good moms would choose to smile and laugh, and you did! Yay!
My first kid had to be clean. All the time. That was 15 years ago. I’ve learned since then! I’d rather play in the dirt than sit and watch the washing machine!
Your story and your photograph are priceless.
I love his chubby cheeks in this photo. He was still holding on to that baby look.
I have a print on my wall that reads: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
Moments like you describe here. Ordinary, but incredible moments!
i love when pictures can do that too. thank you so much for sharing that moment with us!
Couldn’t agree more! Love those special moments!
Mmmmm! Love those days to no end. The simple things that make an impression. Adorable photo and memory!
Love that picture! And yes, messes can be a wonderful part of childhood. Glad you enjoyed the moment.
Great photo! It is easier to let the messes go, isn’t it? Why is that so hard to remember?
That is a gorgeous picture to go with a gorgeous moment.
Love it.
Gotta bottle those moments up! Well done!
Great photo. Perfect post. Love it.
His face is gorgeous!
So innocent and peaceful
*smile* So cute.
One of my favorite quotes from my kids is “Mama, you are the best cooker EVER!”
Love his face!
I agree, it’s those little moments like that that are etched in our brains forever.
Gorgeous. All of it.