I've grown really close to this little lady and her mama. From the first time we ever spoke on the phone (more than 3 years ago and I was *very* pregnant w/ baby number 3), her mom and I just clicked. We get excited over the same things and I love that we can just start chatting and one idea leads to the next until we've created a totally unique theme for each one of her little girl's birthday sessions. I love that I can say, "I wonder if we could..." and she finds some way to make it happen. I love to watch the two of them together because they are as close as I hope my own daughter and I are. I love the thought that I could one day be taking pictures when she turns 10...or even sweet sixteen. It feels amazing to be part of a tradition like this and I treasure that honor.
I've been working with them since the littlest one was born two years ago (scroll down to "Emmeline's Birth"). They do everything together as a family and they embody the new word I just made up for the title of this post..."familiness." It was such a treat to explore their home and see all of the projects the kids had been working on over the year. And as the sun was setting, we went out for a walk in the woods behind their home...oh the weather was perfection and it was obvious that the children are completely comfortable there. Such an enjoyable evening--my hubby even came out to play and take some pics!
Since this little guy could walk, I'm pretty sure that's how he's been. He has unending exuberance and energy and he flies through his life in a state of pure joy, living every moment to its fullest. I think we could all take a page out of his little book! Kara...it was wonderful to see you again and I hope you enjoy these images!
See that beautiful woman up there in the purple blouse/grey sweater? Yeah. She and her husband are celebrating 30 years of marriage this year and I think that is definitely something to brag about! To commemorate the occasion and to mark the new engagement of her daughter and future son-in-law, she wanted all of her kids to get together for a long overdue family photo session.
I was the teensiest bit nervous the day of because I'm used to working with little kids and not larger groups of adults. My burp jokes aimed at two-year-olds probably wouldn't have the same impact on a more mature crowd. However, the minute I arrived, I was instantly at ease: what a fun and down-to-earth group of people! I seriously don't think I've laughed so much at a session...ever. And check out the blue truck--completely restored by her youngest son. Such personality in this family and I'm so glad she decided to capture this on "film" (digitally speaking) forever!
