2014
The daughter I had been waiting for
I cut the umbilical cord. There she was: my Bella, at the beginning of the life we would share.
2014 — 2025
Ten Years of Bella
From her first days to February 2025, these photographs hold moments from Bella’s ten years—and the memories I carry of growing alongside her as her father.
The photographs follow Bella through the years. The accompanying reflections draw on memories from across her childhood.
2015
A little girl, a whole world
Her face, her voice, her little ways. I was learning how much love one child could bring into an ordinary day.
2016
Growing into herself
I remember how much she wanted to understand and how much she already had to say.
2017
So much joy in knowing her
Bella was curious and full of energy. She was not in a hurry to choose just one version of herself.
2018
Our own little routines
Stories, music, laughter, and the ordinary moments I wish I could return to.
2019
Adventures together
I remember our family trips and the moments when being together was all that mattered.
2020
The smile I remember
She could make me laugh. She could challenge me. She could remind me how much joy there was in a simple day.
2021
Made her own way
Bella loved drawing, singing, making things, and discovering what she could do.
2022
A world to explore
Her ideas and wishes were entirely her own. She still had so many things she wanted to try.
2023
The life between photographs
Our memories include bedtime stories, shared chocolate, music, and little arguments that became our favorite routines.
Photo year confirmed by her father.
2024
Ten years old
She wanted to go to Paris. She loved Stuffuls. She wanted to keep playing, learning, and growing.
2025
Always my little girl
She was still making plans, still finding things to try, and still calling me Babe. I carry her laughter, her love, and the memories of our ordinary days with me.
Bella gets the last word
“It’s easy, Babe. Let me show you.”
Her voice. Her spirit. Always remembered.