I had a blast catching up with my pals Gavin and Maggie last week. We explored the charming Graue Mill and the surrounding Fullersburg Woods. After we had been sufficiently eaten alive by mosquitoes, we headed back to the house for a few more fun snaps. Gavin and Maggie were both top models and gave me some of their best smiles. Can’t believe how big these two are getting! It was great seeing you again, Heather and Kevin! Thanks for a great time.
After weeks of rain and unseasonably chilly weather, Jenn and Rashad had a picture-perfect day for their wedding. The sun was shining, everyone was smiling, and the day went off without a hitch. Jenn, Rashad, and their beautiful daughter, Jaelyn, are already a wonderful family, and their love for each other filled the day. After a relaxed morning at Jenn’s brother and sister-in-law’s home getting ready, we all moved to downtown Oak Park for a sweet ceremony and fun (absolutely delicious!) lunch at Maya Del Sol. So many adorable family moments. (Jaelyn and her cousins, Lila and Andrew, all rose to the occasion and were so good!) So much love and happiness. Mike and I loved being part of this family for the day. Congratulations again, Jenn and Rashad!
There is a beautiful glass wall, delicately etched with flowers, on the Family Services floor of Lurie Children’s Hospital. It hangs peacefully in front of a large window…light constantly streaming through it…next to the hospital chapel. The inscription on the wall reads, “To honor the memory of those who have touched and inspired our lives.” Our Hannah was recently added to the Gifts of Love wall, thanks to the multitude of generous donations that were made in her name by our dear family and friends. Mike and I were invited to the dedication ceremony several months ago, but couldn’t find the strength to attend at the time. We wanted to visit another day, just the two of us, to view her name…to honor her. We wanted to choose a day separate from her upcoming September 4 anniversary. That day will be marked, but it is a dark day. One for grieving. We wanted to start a tradition of honoring her through service, though giving, by creating hope, separate from the sadness each year. One such day came this week when we viewed her name through proud tears on this powerful tribute wall.
Even after 10 months, it was incredibly hard going back to the hospital again. A place where we spent so much time during my pregnancy running tests, viewing ultrasounds, and talking with doctors about the care Hannah might need once she was born. I was up half the night beforehand, and was so nervous that I nearly changed my mind and canceled our appointment. But I am so glad we went. Seeing our baby’s name on that wall gave us some amount of peace. It made it possible for us to once again frequent the Streeterville neighborhood without being overwhelmed by fear and dread. Haunted by the most devastating memories of our lives. As Mike so eloquently said, “Now this isn’t just where we lost her. It’s where we can find her.”
Thank you again to everyone who made charitable donations in Hannah’s name, whether to Lurie, or the children’s section of a public library, to Make a Wish, or March of Dimes, or your local animal shelter to save a furry life. These incredible gestures make her name stand for something beautiful. They keep her spirit alive. They give me and Mike more comfort than you will ever know. Our Hannah is doing something great. We always knew she would.
Hannah Felicity, your strength will continue to inspire me every day of my life. You are my brightest Gold Star this week. I’ll love you forever.
Linden! Hadley! Holden! Sunshine! I had the perfect combination last Sunday. I had a blast exploring Olive Park with one of my favorite families. I can’t get over how much these three have changed over the years. Thanks for another great time, Lynsey and Peter! It has been such a pleasure capturing your family moments for you.
Jenn and Rashad’s big day this past Saturday was filled with family and friends, sunshine and laughter. There are so many images I am excited to share with all of you! I’m preparing a special sneak peek…but in the meantime, these made my heart skip a beat. Congratulations again, Jenn and Rashad! Mike and I were honored to be part of the fun.
Thanks so much Jen for all you and Mike did on Saturday. I felt like you were my own kids. You made our day so wonderful for Jenn and Rashad and the entire wedding! Thanks so much! Cheryl
Cheryl, that is such a wonderful compliment! Mike and I definitely enjoyed being part of your family for the day. We had an absolute blast. Stay tuned for more photos soon…and thanks for including us in your daughter’s special day!
Jen, these shots at Jenn and Rashad’s wedding are breathtaking! Thanks so much for capturing precious moments. Thank Mike as well. We so enjoyed working with you!