As a parent, I've come to cherish the little things - the objects that hold so much meaning and memory. In a world that often moves at an eye watering pace, there are certain physical reminders of our journey that ground me; reminding me to slow down and savour the moments that matter most.
One such treasure is a small, worn-out little teddy that's been with one of my daughters since she was tiny. It's in quite a sorry state now, its eyes a bit lopsided, but to her, it's a beloved companion - and to me, a tangible link to those early, precious days of early motherhood. She still sleeps with it every night, and it is one of the most loved items in our home.
Then there's the first crown I ever made for my eldest, who is about to turn 13. I keep it on my desk, and it holds so much significance for how my personal and work life changed.
And then there are some really special paintings, drawings and scribblings that I've collected from them over the years. The ones I keep meaning to scan and preserve in a properly printed book, that I never get round to doing. I've written down so many of the funny things they say. Special things we made while homeschooling. All in a box that I fins both a comfort and heartbreaking all at once.
These objects are some of the touchstones of their childhood, and also my motherhood journey. They are physical manifestations of the love, laughter, and cherished moments that make up the fabric of our family, despite how much it has changed. When I look at them or hold them, I'm reminded that the most precious things in life often can't be bought or sold - they're the intangible experiences we collect, the memories we weave together, stitch by stitch. They mean more to me now, than they ever have.
As my girls grow, I have the feeling they will come to understand the value that these things too. I think especially when you've had a childhood that may have involved immense upheaval, these tiny pieces of comfort can serve as a reminder of how much you were always loved. Like a little tapestry of happy memories that bind together your story. And so, I'll continue to carefully tuck away these little bits, these touchstones of our tale, waiting for the day when I can pass them on. Each one is a letter from the heart.
In the end, it's not how much something cost, or the material that matters most - it's the story it holds, the memories it preserves, and the love it represents.
In Letters From The Heart, I delve deeper into this, with a template to write to your future child and self.
Claire x
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