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.

Bellies, Babies, and Belts--oh my!

The past couple of months have been a blur of excitement and events!  I lead a pretty sedate pace of life, but sometimes things kick into overdrive--I'm sure you know exactly what I mean!  Back in April we were pleased to welcome our sweet nephew to the family.  As newbie Auntie and Uncle we were so excited to meet him...and we all got really sick...for 2 weeks...and missed the birth and the eagerly-awaited hospital visit.  Boo germs!  But on Easter Sunday we were well enough to gather with the family and meet this precious boy.  I only got a few pics--I didn't want to be overbearing and, frankly, I wanted to snuggle him more than take his picture!  I'm sure you can see why!

It seems like only yesterday that I was snuggling my own firstborn, and now he's a full 5 years old and such a joy to watch!  We signed him up for tae kwon do shortly after his birthday and he is THRIVING in the art.  I can't even begin to describe how cute it is to watch this little group of 4-6 year olds learning their commands and moves.  I knew it would be good for Dman, but I don't think I expected him to enjoy it so much.  I'm thrilled that he does!  In May he experienced his first round of belt testing and earned his Minnow (what the little guys are called in his studio) yellow belt.  We were so excited for him, and I think he was pretty proud of himself, too!  Now we have to wait and see if Moo wants to join him once she turns 4, or if she will continue with dance.  It's a tough decision!

May also brought another chance to play with a baby--this time with Miss K.  She is the niece of one of my oldest and best friends, Megan.  I had the pleasure of snapping some shots of Miss K when she was only 3 weeks old, and her family requested that I return to "play" again now that she's reached her 6 month mark.  We had a blast!  She is such a sweet girl and so easy-going.  It was rather cool and windy, but Miss K didn't seem to mind at all.  I think we captured her sweetness and her spunk--and her displeasure with doggie slobber.  Can't say I blame her much, considering little Dyno is almost as big as she is (though neither are very imposing, haha).  I'm very happy to say that I've already been chosen to photograph her at her one-year mark as well--and hopefully watch her grow and grow indefinitely!

 This past month has been rounded out--pun intended--by a special visit up north to see another special friend.  Megan and I ventured up I-5 to help host a baby shower for our best friend, Andrea.  Andrea is not a fussy person--she is simple and organic, environmentally-conscious, down-to-earth with just enough humor and quirkiness that makes her touchable rather than haughty.  We wanted to spoil her rotten and fuss over her--mission accomplished!!  We gave her a girly-but-not-too-feminine shower to make sure she and her hubby are prepared to welcome their twin girls. 

While there I was able to pin her down for some belly shots--she's on bedrest so she had no choice, muahahaha!  Talk about lovely--she looks amazing at 31 weeks with twins.  She looks amazing for 31 weeks of anything!  I've known her since 4th grade, and when I was editing her captures I was in awe of the "glow" and the quiet joy that radiates from her.  Never quite seen anything like it.  No photographer (and I'm definitely no professional by any means) can add that to an image.  I sure hope she enjoys the moments I captured for her!

Life appears to be slowing down for a bit in our household, at least for a little while!  I'm excited for summer and the moments that are sure to come with it.  How about you?