A family session on the beaches of Mexico? Yes please!

Upon my arrival into Mexico last week, Ashley’s sister Heather had arranged with me to do a family session with her and her husband George and their 14 month old daughter, Mary Grace.  I loved that they incorporated this family session in with their trip to watch their sister get married!  We all met down by the beach, played in the sand (even though Mary Grace made it very clear that she and the sand were mortal enemies).  Even Mary Grace’s grandma got in on the pictures and we celebrated this beautiful family being all together in such a pretty, tropical location for such a special event.

Daisy, as many of you faithful blog followers may already know, is no stranger to this blog.  Not only were her and her cute hubby Greg originally wedding client’s of mine, but Daisy is also the talented and creative mastermind of Pixel+Hank.  I have been so blessed to cultivate not only a fun working relationship with this dynamic girl, but also a friendship.  Through many dinners and discussions we have plotted shoots, ideas and shared laughs with each other.  The latest plot was her and Greg’s maternity session! They are expecting their first little one late next month and of course we had to celebrate this milestone with a shoot.

When planning, Daisy and Greg wanted something laid-back, fun and totally them.  The entire session was shot at Daisy’s parent’s home upon acres and acres of woods, fields, hills and countryside.  Their pups Pixel and Hank (yep! Her store’s namesake came straight from their furry children!) were along for the ride and we enjoyed soaking up some late day sun.  Daisy - you know how excited I am for both of you! Can’t wait to meet her!

During our shoot, we happened upon a field full of daisies…how perfect! I wish I could say I had planned on shooting just when I knew daisies would be in bloom.  Instead, just a happy accident;).

This week I met Layton, a sweet little one, just shy of two years old, who was adopted by his mama last summer.  Layton has the sweetest smile and the softest brown eyes.  While not yet walking, his determination is strong and I can tell he is ready to take on the world.

Each and every time I get to photograph a ‘Celebrating Adoption‘ session I am reminded of just why I work with this incredible organization.  To give back to families that have helped a little one have the chance for a better life. Full of love and opportunity.  Layton’s mom has the biggest heart and is perfectly in love with her son.

A note to area photogs - I have enjoyed being involved with Celebrating Adoption for the past four years and it’s been an incredibly rewarding experience and a chance to give back to our community.  With that being said, I am overwhelmed with the demand for session requests from local families wanting to participate and would welcome any who feel moved to participate to sign up.  We have such a gift…let’s be a blessing to those who want to welcome their new additions into their families!

Cecelia made her debut into the world early last month and just like when her big brother Charlie was born, I headed over to the King household to photograph a family that is even more complete.  This little one is so tiny! Dark hair and a dislike for hats, she posed prettily in front of the camera.  I greatly enjoyed watching Charlie assume his role of ‘big brother’ and was so gentle with his new little sister! Congratulations King family….you are blessed.

Taking full advantage of the pretty pink blooms I found earlier this week, I met Nyah and her mom and brother earlier this morning for a sweet session where Nyah was the star!  This little girl was just a joy to be around…happy, smiley and laughing the entire session!  I loved her eyes, so happy yet so soulful!  These sessions always touch my heart. I love hearing the story of their homecoming, of the journey that brought them to their new family.  Nyah - you are loved!

The little stool that Nyah is sitting on is from her homeland of Ethiopia. So sweet!