September Memories

Earlier this month we spent some time with my family in Arkansas.  The kids always have so much fun back there because we can let them run around and play without some of the worries we have here at home.  They can run through the grass, throw rocks, play in the dirt, and see lots of wildlife in a more personal way than our suburban neighborhood allows.  And Gmom has PETS!  I think Moo's favorite part of visiting Arkansas is seeing the dogs and cats, haha!

While we were back there my mom had asked me to take some casual senior pictures of my baby brother--who isn't such a baby anymore, obviously.  We went to the home of some friends of the family and scoped out their beautiful property as a shooting location.  While we were there the kiddos got to meet horses, 2 gigantic draft horses in particular.  What an experience!  My girl is horse-crazy, now.  :o)

Another fun memory we had is spending our last day there on the lake.  WHAT FUN!  I wasn't sure how the kids would do, especially our boy.  Neither have really had swim lessons and Darrin really has a fear of deep water--anything over his chin.  We figured it was something we'd have to wait out, and I think maybe we were right!  I was concerned about being on the lake and whether or not the kids would get into the water at all.  This mommy was so pleasantly surprised how well both kiddos did!  It was definitely baby steps in the beginning, but by the time we left they were both enjoying floating around in their swim rings and relaxing in the water, and Darrin was even jumping off the boat!  I can't tell you what a huge accomplishment this was for our boy, and I can't describe to you the joy we felt as parents at his excitement and confidence.  If he only knew how deep that water really was, lol...

Helping Uncle David drive the boat!

Debating about getting in for the first time...

So proud!

And here are a few shots of those handsome seniors I took pictures of.  In addition to my brother, I also took pictures of his friend whose property we used.  These guys are finishing up their senior year in high school then off to great things!

 What a great time it was being with family.  I can't wait to gather together with them again!!  It's never too soon or long enough when we are together.