I love my nephews, Ryan (5 y.o.) and Nathan (2 y.o) dearly and saddened that I do not have the opportunity to see them daily. Being 350 miles away from them makes it difficult to make frequent visits. I am my brother’s only sibling and want both his boys to know who I am and how much I love them.
Because my sister-in-law is an avid reader and loves books, the boys have also taken a interest in reading as well (even at such a young age). What a great idea to create a storybook not only to express my love for them, but also to have a personalized book for them to read and share. Besides, what child does not like to see a picture of themselves?
The first storybook was made a year ago in a simple “A-B-C’s” pictorial format to help Ryan use it as a simple tool to teach his baby brother Nathan the alphabet. I used pictures of themselves and their cousins (from their mommy’side of the family). The title page of the book contains a brief letter to Ry and Nate (individually) and pictures of them with me and my husband, Paul. Copies of the book were sent to Ryan and Nathan as well as my parents.
I knew that this small 7 X 5 storybook would be a great personal gift, however, I did not realize that it would make a positive impact on the boys. Ryan loves sharing his book with others, Nathan recognizes who his Auntie Arlyn and Uncle Paul are and my parents love showing off their grandsons pictures! This inspired me to create more storybooks for them.
The second storybook is about my brother before he became their daddy. It has many pictures and “fun facts” of my brother (from baby to present) throughout the many stages in his life. It highlights special and funny moments as remembered by me and my mom. My motivation for the book is to teach my nephews an appreciation for their daddy’s journey through life (before they were born) and to respect and look up to their daddy as their hero.
I hope that that above comments have inspired you. Remember that when you do things from the heart to make others feel important and respected, it can have a huge impact on your life.
