I start this challenge with a series of pictures taken 10 months ago now, with the arrival of the latest and last addition to my brood of five wonderful boys. Because one of the most beautiful experiences of my (nearly) forty years on this planet has been the enormous privilege of being able to carry and give life to such innocence; such bursting potential, such utter perfection. Each new day with them brings its ups, its downs; its challenges and causes for celebration. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity.
I know I am waxing lyrical, I know I am entering the realms of the over-sentimental, but if a challenge to explore the ways that I find beauty in life doesn’t excuse it, I don’t know what does! 
So with no further introduction or explanation, Teddy: brother to Humphrey, Arthur, Wilfred and Bertie; son to me and Jem; utterly beloved of all:
Taken by Jem in our kitchen, where he was born, shortly after his arrival.
First family cuddles – tiny huge, wrinkled hands!
Here we are again. This picture, for me, says it all.
Couldn’t be newer. Or more perfect.
And so concludes my first perception of beauty.
June 25th, 2011 at 12:12 pm
So, so beautiful! I love them all, especially the first and last photos. x
June 25th, 2011 at 12:16 pm
I have to thank you for tweeting the link to this challenge, Susannah – what a truly joyful undertaking it is!
(And doesn’t Jem take beautiful photos?) x
June 25th, 2011 at 12:18 pm
I just realised that you are joining in on the 101 things of beauty challenge. (I am up to number 15.) Leave your link on Jennifers page so she can add you to the list.
June 25th, 2011 at 12:19 pm
I’ll go and do that. Thank you!
June 25th, 2011 at 12:32 pm
Yes, it is a wonderful challenge and Jennifer is one of my online friends too. Tell her that Susannah’s link sent you her way.
Jem does take fantastic photos. I have also just listened to his audio broadcast too, I really enjoyed it. I hope he continues.
Hope all is well with you all. x
June 27th, 2011 at 3:15 am
I attended a family wedding this weekend, and boy did we enjoy getting to know my cousin Cheryl’s four month old son. We all seemed to get some sort of ‘re-charge’ from holding this baby. Thing of beauty indeed.
June 27th, 2011 at 5:37 am
There’s nothing quite like it, is there? Especially when they’re asleep and you just ‘have to’ sit still and soak up the peace!
Thank you for visiting, Jennifer.