joanne

• Lila, you were invited to a classmate's birthday party today.  You were full of anxiety.  You really really really wanted me to stay with you.  Last night you had a good cry about it and asked me a million questions.  We talked about feeling scared AND brave at the same time.  It's ok to be scared, but just because you're scared, it doesn't mean you can't still be brave and face the thing you're scared about.  You seemed to buy it.  This morning you told me you were "newvous and bwave, but mostly newvous."  You wrapped your friend's gift, got dressed in all pink, and headed out.  There were a few tears when we got to their house, but you decided to make a solution instead of thinking about the problem (whoa...nice work!!)  You asked Meia's mom if you could ask her if you needed anything.  She was more than happy to help and you were super pleased with that plan.  When I came to get you a couple hours later, you were having the time of your life.  Phew.  I'm so relieved.  It's hard as your mom to know when to push you and when to be there and supportive.  
• Auntie Joanne came for a visit this afternoon.  I offered to do some portraits for her.  It was really fun!  Jane, you did her makeup, then we got down to business.  We did a few different outfits and poses.  I really love taking photos of one person.  There's always a brief time of awkwardness, then by some sort of magic, they let me into their soul.  It's really amazing.  
• After I photographed Joanne, Auntie Claire came over so I could do some headshots for her.  Again, it was such a pleasure to spend some time with her.  
• Soon after, Uncle Luke and the boys arrived.  We ate pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw and corn on the cob.  Wow.  It was a very satisfying meal.
• Jane and Katie, you love the Matsuda boys so much.  I'm glad you got to hang out with them tonight.  Hopefully we can do that a little more this summer!