Oh, the weather outside was frightful last Saturday. But that didn’t stop Levi and Ryder from having a great time. We had lots of laughs, plenty of smiles, and we even ventured outside into the wet snow to capture a few photos in this family’s neighborhood before they move to a new home soon. It was great to see you again, Jayme and Mark! Happy holidays, and best of luck with the move! Can’t wait to see you next in your new digs.
This week was filled with fun holiday prep and some really fantastic Preschool moments. Including getting our big girl’s first ever school pictures! I have to chuckle at these headshots, as they are so not my style. None-the-less, I enjoyed the tradition of it all…and chose the most bright and colorful backdrop I could find. They give you choices now? My sister and I certainly did not get a choice. (Our headshots were never quite as photogenic as Eloise’s, either…but that’s neither here nor there!) Becky, they unfortunately didn’t have the super cool laser beam backdrop circa the early 1990s that we looked so very awesome mugging in front of.
*That face! Eloise did a great job smiling. She looks so grown-up, I can’t stand it. These photos are just a reminder to keep enjoying every moment.
*Family Day. Yesterday, Mike and I were invited, with all of the other Pre-K parents, to participate in a family day at Eloise’s school. The children wore the turkey hats that they made and sang songs that they have been practicing for weeks. We did a cute art project together, then enjoyed an early Thanksgiving feast of the cornbread and pumpkin pie they made themselves. It was adorable, and Mike and I were so happy to share that moment with Ellie.
*It’s holiday time! Anyone else finding it hard to believe that Thanksgiving is next week? This year is just flying by! (Don’t misread me…I’m not complaining, really. With just over three months of a nerve-wracking pregnancy left to go…I’m OK with a quick pace!) After a very difficult holiday season last year, Mike, Eloise, Dorey, and I are ready to hunker down at home, put up cheerful decorations, get cozy, and feel blessed to have each other.
I was so honored to take this family’s photos last Sunday morning. Marj and I have a strong bond in motherhood…an unfortunate one that is forged in heartbreak and loss. Marj and Josh lost their second baby boy, Mason, several days after his birth in June. Mason and Hannah’s situations were different, but so much about Marj and Josh’s journey was similar to the one Mike and I have found ourselves on. I know firsthand how difficult it can be to take family photos when there is a glaring hole where another child should be. But I also know that taking family photos after a loss like this can be strangely comforting, too. I love that Marj and Josh decided to represent Mason with a sweet blue pinwheel in some of these photos. A physical reminder of someone who will always be with them spiritually. Whenever there is soft, bright sunlight in the background of one of my own family photos, I love to think that is Hannah peeking in. My eyes filled when I saw the soft light that drenches every single one of these images. Mason was definitely smiling down on his family. It was wonderful to catch up with you, Marj and Josh. I hope you find some peace in these photos. And Jack…great job, bud! You totally rocked it! Your smile just lights up the world.
Would you look at how big my buddies Sam and Charlie have gotten since I last saw them? The last time I saw Charlie, he was a newborn peanut. And now, he just turned one! I had a very fun holiday session with these four, and even got to include their Auntie Kate and Grandpa in a few photos, too. It was wonderful to see you again, Lauren and Roy!
This darling family just added the perfect addition…a little brother for Reed! I was so excited to meet Spencer, the 13-week-old wonder, last week. Both brothers did a fantastic job posing for me, and Amber and I were so excited that the rain held off long enough for us to sneak outside and capture some foliage. It was great to see you guys…congratulations again on the arrival of Spencer!