“A portrait of my children once a week, every week, in 2014.”

Lillia: It’s school vacation week and you’ve spent most of your time drawing. Yesterday, on the way home from dance class, we talked about college art programs. You really want to go to Keene State (I think so you’re close to home, which is endearing), but I think you’ll change your mind when the time comes.

Zane: You’re up, you’re down, you’re all around — undeterred, as your father says. When we went to the store last night, you saw a little boy about your age in the art supplies aisle. You asked me, “Can I hug him?” I told you that some kids (and grown-ups, too) are a little scared of people they don’t know, and you seemed to understand. You just gave him a friendly wave, instead.

“A portrait of my children once a week, every week, in 2014.”

Lillia: It was Spirit Week at school this week. For “Superhero Day” you decided to be “The Sylph.” Now everyone in your class knows what a sylph is (it’s an air spirit, just in case you didn’t know). Always stay true to your quirky self, Lillia. You enrich the lives of those around you just by being who you are.

Zane: You caught your sister’s cold, but it didn’t slow you down a bit. I love this not-a-baby yet not-quite-a-boy stage of your life. You can hold up your end of a conversation, but you can still snuggle up with me at night like you did when you were a tiny baby. I know how fast the time goes, and I wish I could keep you this small for just a little while longer…

“A portrait of my children once a week, every week, in 2014.”

Lillia: Oh, poor Lillia! You have been sick all week. Your little nose is rose-red from all those sneezes.

Zane: You got a fabulous and adorable haircut this week. I do miss your shaggy mane, but it’s nice for you to be able to see again. You look so much like your daddy with your short hair.

“A portrait of my children once a week, every week, in 2014.”

Lillia: It’s so good to see such a big smile on your face! This week you attended your first funeral. Though you didn’t say much, I know that you were taking it all in. It’s very hard to lose someone you love.

Zane: You’ve been having a bit of a hard time falling asleep at night. I think maybe you are growing, which would explain how you managed to fit half a dozen (yes, six!) eggs into your little tummy a couple of mornings ago.