hazelnut & ginger sue

This is Hazel.



She's in my nursery class, and never hesitates to answer questions and share personal experiences during our lessons. She also comes to the weekly playgroup where she likes to romp around the playground equipment with her little friend, Bruce.

Hazel is full of sparkling energy and dazzling personality. Every time I see her, she runs up to me, happily yells, "Lindsay!" and gives me the most delicious hug. Not only is she my good friend, but she loves Garrett. It gives her no end of pleasure to plant herself two inches away from his face and say, "Hello, Baby Garrett. How are you? Do you like me, Baby Garrett?"

A few days ago I was at Hazel's house. She fell asleep on the couch during my visit, and consequently missed saying goodbye to me before I had to go. After I'd been home for about a half an hour, the phone rang. It was Hazel's mom. Hazel was in tears, distraught that I'd left without saying goodbye. It was thought that maybe a phone call to her friend Lindsay would help cheer her up. We had a lovely conversation, despite the heavy, sad sniffles coming from her end. I assured her that she was still my good friend, and that Baby Garrett still liked her. I like to think that our phone call sort of made up for our missed goodbye.


This is Hazel's little sister, Ginger.



She's still too young for nursery, but not for playgroups at the park!

Ginger is quieter than her exuberant sister, but she likes to sit on my lap, tell me the new words she's learned, and show me her toys.


Hazel and Ginger are moving away to Virginia in a few days. I can't even begin to tell you how much I'll miss them! In my wildest dreams, I never imagined that a pair of toddlers would grow so attached to me -- or that I would grow just as attached to them in return.

It's a good thing I've got some inexpensive bus options so I can go visit them. Temporary goodbyes are much more manageable than permanent ones.