Iron Hug

Since Vera turned 5 last month, she has been into hugging with a vengeance.

Her grip is tenacious. It's almost a strangle, and we have to pry her hands apart with some force.

To think Vera has lived to this day to give me the longest, tightest hugs I've ever gotten in my life. She won't ever learn to speak, but she sure has learnt to love.

And it is pure and simple every time.