Beautiful Sixteen

Have you ever met one of those people and you just CLICK with them? Like, right away? Tonight was a night that reminded me of why I love to take pictures... it's not the pictures, it's the people. Taylor is the cousin of a friend of mine. You might have seen Traci's adorable family growing here, here, or here. I am so grateful to Traci for referring them because I just loved Miss Taylor and her sweet mama and funny boyfriend. Taylor, I hope you enjoy your pictures and keep smiling that beautiful smile as you travel through life! :)

Sweetness times Two

Oh my goodness. I really don't know what else to say except that everyone should spend a Saturday morning taking pictures of twin babies at some point in their life... especially twin babies who are as cuddly and happy as these! Isabelle and Adon made this session soooo easy for me. Isabelle wore the same dress her mother had worn for her Christening. (And speaking of her mother, Lucy and I went to preschool together!) Lucy, I hope you enjoy the pictures and cherish every moment with those darling babies!!!

Plenty 'o Parkers!

When my cousin called and asked if I would photograph her giant family crew, I was excited because I knew it would involve lots of laughter and fun. Why? Because when any Parkers get together, that is the result. This is my dad's maternal side of his family and I don't know if any family contains more gentle, jovial, good-hearted people than this clan. Greta rounded them all up and somehow got them to commit to giving up part of the Friday night before school started, in some pretty hot weather. I am not sure how she did it (since I can't even get my own extended family to commit to that), but we had a good time and got some shots that we will be priceless in the future. Memories fade, generations pass, but pictures will be there to bring it all back. Greta, congratulations on understanding the importance of the present for the future.

My Blessings

The greatest blessing in anyone's life, in my opinion, is the people in it. You can have all the "stuff" in the world, but "stuff" doesn't bring happiness. These guys bring that happiness to my life. Almost ten years ago to the day (next Thursday, to be exact), this man and I started our life story together. Kraig has been my life's companion and closest friend since that day. I often tell my students, there are many important things to look for in a spouse, but you'd better find someone you can laugh with. I can laugh (and laugh and laugh) with Kraig. He is also probably the best dad I have ever witnessed. I have had seven great years of parenting with him and I hope for a lifetime more. And these two snuggle-bugs... wow. Talk about people who make you laugh... now they make me laugh. :) I am so very blessed in this life to have every dream that mattered have come true... already.

That Boy...

This guy... he is one of only three nephews, one of two sons, one of three grandchildren, and one of MY favorite kids. He is also one of Emma's best friends! Andrew turned eight a few weeks ago and we did some birthday pics at the lake. I think I can speak with complete candidness and say that he loved having pictures taken. Really, his favorite part (and mine too!) was the 180 degree heat and the squinting. Even still, he took it like a man and we got some really cute shots. I have to say, though, my favorites are the ones that are just him!

My Sweet Niece, Erika

This beautiful girl held a special place in my heart even before her uncle (now my husband) did! Kraig and I were not really even dating yet when I met Erika. She was almost two years old and something about those gorgeous blue eyes and long blond hair just captured my heart! I had no idea at the time she would become not only my niece, but the girl my two little girls just idolize! Erika, I cannot believe you are 13 and I am so proud of the young lady you are becoming. Happy Birthday!

Something Old, Something New Isn't Just for Weddings

We took some newborn pictures in our family session with this sweet boy several months ago. I was really excited when his mommy called and asked if we could do a special Christening session with sweet baby Luke. He is one of the cutest, sweetest babies I have known and I love to take his pictures! The gown he is wearing is the same one his mom (and grandmother too, I believe) wore. Things like that are PRICELESS!!!

Drive until the Map Turns Blue...

Well, like Brad Paisley says, I love water!!! And I try to spend as much time as possible in the summer IN water. :) Our beach trip this year was a bit fewer number of people, but was just as much fun and, somehow, I think we took just as many pictures.

From this Moment...

You might remember Amy and Matthew's engagement pictures from several months ago. They were such a delightful couple to photograph, and I was understandably excited about shooting their wedding in June. The day (and the couple) did not disappoint. Despite forecasts to the contrary, the wedding day was beautiful, sunny, as hot a day as we have had all year warm, complete with a breathtaking sunset. I had a great time capturing those special moments and I think you will agree that these two are so in love! Thanks, guys! Congratulations!

The Precious One who Made Me a Mother

My sweet, sweet Emma... seven years ago she entered our lives and changed EVERYTHING-- for the better. She has been such a source or pride and joy for us in these seven years. She has a heart for Jesus and cares about those around her, yet still manages to make us laugh with her developing sense of sarcasm. :) (Wonder where on earth she gets that?) Emma has done so well in school and excels in most areas she turns her attention to. 2nd grade is up next! Emma, happy seventh birthday... you are such a blessing to all of us. We love you!!!

She Always Makes Me Smile

Well, another year has passed (in March, but who's counting!) in the life of my baby girl. Kelsey is now five years old, and it kind of hurts my heart to think about how quickly her life is passing before my eyes! I can hardly believe that Kindergarten is almost here. To say that she is a joy is to make a complete understatement. She is so full of life (and WORDS!!!) and has such a heart for others. She is a gentle spirit who loves to laugh and make others laugh. I am so proud to call her mine! (Although I do share her with her daddy and several other family members.) Kelsey, happy 5th! You are the joy of our lives.