Personal Photo Book of Childhood Growth — “Arata Life (Age 1)”

Following the previous volume of Arata Holiday, I finally completed this photo book documenting Arata at age one — though, as always, it took me much longer than planned. Unlike during infancy, you can clearly see in these photos how his personality begins to emerge: the desire to think for himself and act on his own.

When he entered daycare, I quickly wrote my hopes for him in the “Parents’ Thoughts” section: “May he grow up to be bright, energetic, and kind.” I didn’t think too deeply about those words at the time, but even now, that wish remains unchanged at the core of my heart.