"Grandma's Special Love"

What could be more precious
Than Grandma's special love?
She always seems to know the things
That we are fondest of.
She's always ready with a smile
Or a loving word of praise,
Her laughter always brightens up
The cloudiest of days...
She has an understanding heart
That encourages and cheers.
The love she gives so freely
Grows deeper with the years.
Her wisdom and devotion
Are blessings from above-
Nothing could be more precious
Than Grandma's special love.

"It's A Small World After All"

It's amazing how small the world really is. When I was in highschool getting ready to graduate (which feels like yesterday) I went with my future college roommates to one of their friend's house, I think we were trying to ditch a class, but shh don't tell. At the time I met this super sweet girl, named Olivia, that had two adorable little toddlers running around. I remember back then thinking how adorable these little kids were and also thinking I don't know how she does it. I definitely saw the love she had for kids though, even back as a teenager.

Fast forward about 10 years, oh my gosh I can't believe I am already that old, anyways....I received a call from this very girl....she wanted me to take her family's pictures.  Her family no longer consisted of these two adorable toddlers, it consisted of 5 kids ranging from toddler to teenagers. I was in complete shock. She truly did have a passion for kids and quickly made me realize what an amazing job she did taking care of all of these kids. I immediately fell in love with every single one of them. They all had such different personalities and were seriously the sweetest most well behaved kids I had ever been around.

For the last 3 years I have had the opportunity to watch not only all the kids blossom into older more sophisticated kids, but also watched their family grow in numbers. Every year I look forward to the one day I will get to spend with their family, and see how much each child has changed. This is truly one of the most unique loving families. The patience and love Ryan and Olivia show really shines through each child and it is my honor to showcase this year after year.

This session was incredibly special because we met at Ryan's grandpa's farm and were even persuasive enough to talk grandpa into jumping into a few of the photos. Nothing beats something that is sentimental to the family, and I personlly loved every second of it!



















Chris not only has grown up to be a really tall 16 year old teenage boy he also has met this absolutely adorable girl he is dating. Seriously they have to be the cutest couple ever and she has a dear spot in this family's heart!









As much as Olivia was dying for a picture of the girls all standing with their backs turned, Carmella wasn't having it . . . and honestly I think it made this picture, gotta give attitude where attitude belongs!

"Only Child Expiring"

It feels like just yesterday I was watching Jaden smile from ear to ear as her mom and Chris vowed to love each other for the rest of their lives. Almost a year ago wedding bells rang while Jaden was given the best stepfather she could ask for. Life could not be better for her...or could it?

In less than a month this only child's life as an only child, WILL BE EXPIRING! After 8 years she is finally getting that little brother she always wanted. When I asked her how she felt about being a big sister she got the biggest smile on her face and said she was sooooo excited and couldn't wait. I personally would have to say it doesn't get much better than this. Jaden has an amazing mom who has dedicated her life to giving Jaden the best life she could possibly give her. She put aside all of her own wants and needs to make sure Jaden would live a happy life, and when Chris walked into her life she knew that he was an amazing man and would only benefit her and Jaden's life that much more.

Every time I am around this family I watch Chris with Jaden; it literally could bring tears to my eyes seeing the love this man has and shows this little girl. To see this gives me no doubt in my mind why Niki fell in love with Chris, and how amazing he will be when his new son enters the world.

Niki, Chris, and Jaden you guys all have such a special place in my heart! I feel so fortunate that you have allowed me to take part in these gigantic milestones in your life and can't wait to meet Caden in a few short weeks.

"I'm Grace"

Hi my name is Grace and I am turning one years old. I can't believe how big I am getting!



My mom made me all kinds of cool accessories for my birthday pictures and I love all of them, especially my adorable headband. Don't you think my mommy is so creative?



This is my big brother Clayton. He has a smile worth a million dollars.



He takes such good care of me and shows me lots of love. My mom told him if he gave me lots of kisses today she would let him eat his lollipop. I hope he listens to mommy because I love his kisses.





Even when I get upset my big brother always finds a way to cheer me up.



Like making all his silly faces! My favorite face is his scary monster face. It always makes me feel much better.



And those faces always make me laugh and brighten my day!



I hope one day I am as good as he is at smiling for the camera. He knows exactly what to do every single time.



And he loves to share with me. I don't know very many big brothers that will let me have licks on their lollipops.



Mmm.....that was really yummy!



Look at my new boots I got to wear for pictures. They are a little big on me so I prefer to just carry them around, but I sure do love them!



Isn't my brother's smile the best?



Well, I better get going. I need to get ready for my big birthday party. I hoped you enjoyed meeting me and my awesome big brother.