A Good Translation

Sometimes I have an idea that doesn't translate well in its final product. But then there are times, when the idea in my head turns out exactly as I had imagined:

This is my Family Tree. I made it for my mom for her birthday. The idea came to me one day while I was driving. It evolved a bit, but not much. I'm still quite amazed that what started as an, "I wonder if..." came to fruition.

My parents are at the center of the tree. Each child (along with their spouse) and grandchild is listed by name and the year of their birth. And yes, I drew the tree and cut it out all by my wee, little self. The frame I can't take credit for. I stole it from my mom's house and dismantled it.

After all my hours of toil were complete, I stood back and realized one thing-- I'm grateful my parents didn't have any more kids, because I'd run out of paper leaves. That seems to sum up my life: only add the leaves that the branch can bear. My branch can hold Todd and I plus three. It's a perfect fit. I like my branch. It feels 'just right'. Graft it in with all the other branches, and a family is born. One that grows, and gives, and loves. And, one that fits perfectly in a frame.