How far we've come

In the middle of this session, I had to stop and ask Kerry (who I've known since junior high), "Can you believe we're this old?" Kerry and Mary (also a friend from high school) have two beautiful little girls, and while they seem like the same people I knew during school, so much has changed. Of course I know that's what happens when you grow up, but it still seems impossible that we have grown up. This might make me sad, feeling so old and all, but we are in such an amazing time of life, I wouldn't wish to be anything else.

Mary, Kerry, Madeline (3+), and Charlotte (6 months) at Gasworks Park.

Not a smiley shot of the girls, but one I keep coming back to.

Here's a smile! Mary was concerned that, while a generally happy baby, Charlotte tends to frown. I think it's just the weight of those yummy cheeks.

And another!

Wally does this same sucking on the lower lip face.

Doesn't she look a like a porcelin doll? Gorgeous creamy skin with hints of pink.Love this of Madeline.

Peekaboo! Madeline came up with all kinds of fun games for us.

Daddy and daughter.

Mama with Madeline.

I love the winding path they are on. Cute boots/leg warmers, too!
My favorite kind of family shot. It looks like Madeline is telling Mom and Dad a story. Charlotte doesn't really care.

And another less traditional family shot. But really, it's all about Madeline, right?

Mary and Kerry, thanks for braving the cold for photos. It makes me so happy to see you two together and beautiful family you've created. Enjoy!

Sisters

My friends and family hear me talk about my desire for Abigail to have a sister all the time. I watched my mom with her two sisters as I was growing up and envied their relationship. How amazing to have girlfriends built right into your family! Of course, I never saw the squabbles of their childhood, so my view of sisterhood may be a bit rosy, but I am still hoping that Abigail will experience life with a sister.

When Heather wrote to me to ask about a session for herself and her two sisters, I jumped at the opportunity. Heather's twin, Meghann, and their 18 months younger sister, Amy, would be coming home for Christmas -- Meghann from back east and Amy from Afghanistan -- and they wanted to present their parents with photos to commemorate being all together. What better gift could there be?

We met up in Pioneer Square on Monday to start our session. I loved how they dressed -- coordinated, but not identical. Beautiful smiles.
We walked around a couple of blocks looking for interesting photo spots. I love the arms in arms.
One of my favorite shots of the day.
Happy orange.

Heather.
Amy.
Meghann.

I like that no one is looking right at the camera here.

Another favorite. We hit Golden Gardens just as the sun was setting and there was lots of flattering evening light.

And finally a shot that makes me think of the power of sisterhood and family. Even though they are spread out over the world and are very different people, they will always have that bond. Heather, Meghann, and Amy, thanks for a fun afternoon of touring Seattle. I love what you are doing for your parents, and I'm sure they are very proud to have such beautiful, smart, caring daughters. Thanks for letting me help you with this gift. Enjoy your time together!

Five Months

My baby, baby Wallyman is growing up. In all the Christmas chaos, we stopped to do a few photos to celebrate. First up, his monthly head shot.

And instead of making you jump around to all the all blog posts, here's a quick look at months one through five. More hair, more definition in his face, same blue eyes. (If you click on the photo you can see it bigger.)
So many new developments this month. Wally is rolling from back to tummy now as he tries to reach toys that have escaped him. Today when I put him on his tummy for this shot, he kept rolling onto his back. My days of having a captive subject are numbered. I love the bum in this shot. We gave him a bath in Grandma French's sink beforehand and man, I love squeezing that bare tush. And see the arm creases?

Rolling isn't Wally's only new trick, and I really wasn't prepared for this one to come so quickly. Guess who's sitting!

He is pretty stable if he holds onto the floor, but he can hold a sit for a few seconds when focused on a toy. Can you believe it? I was expecting him to do this MUCH later. And here's my favorite shot of the day. It just seems very BABY to me. He's so squishy and soft.

Wally has increased his vocalizations to add more consonants, and da-da is a favorite. He also has a bunch of new squeaks and squeals and songs. We've started to put Wally in the ExerSaucer and the jumperoo, and being upright has opened up his world. And mine. I took a shower while both kids were awake yesterday!

Wally continues to be mellow and happy and brings smiles to everyone around him. I'm feeling extremely blessed this holiday season, and I'm wishing all of you that kind of joy. Happy holidays!

Presenting Osa

I'm still stunned at how smoothly little Osa's newborn session went today. I arrived just as she finished nursing, we did some wide-eyed shots while she was alert, and then she calmly drifted off to sleep without any effort at all. We played with sleeping Osa for a bit (ok, I did wake her up once, but she went right back to sleep) and then when she woke up we did some calm shots in her parents' arms. That was it! No nursing, shushing, swaying, bouncing needed. I think I'm spoiled.


In addition to completely surrendering to whatever I had in store, Osa is simply beautiful. Gorgeous round head with a hint of blonde hair, full cheeks, rosy lips, and clear, pink skin. Merry Christmas to me! Oh, and the house was full of friends and Olive the dog, yet it still felt completely mellow. How is all of this possible? Tina and Jens, I think you live a charmed life.


Presenting Osa Meredith, one week old.
Contemplative girl.

Daddy is obviously smitten. Even across the room he looks at Tina and Osa with love.

Mama and babe.

This is the blanket Tina made for her baby.

Off to sleep. The hand under the cheek makes such an adorable pout.
Bum in the air.

A smile!

I keep coming back to this shot. I LOVE it. Is it the hand curled by her face or the full, shiny lips? I don't know, but it's a new favorite.

New parents in love.
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

Tina and Jens, it was a pleasure to meet you and your wonderful daughter. It seems like you've gotten your Christmas wish. Congratulations!

Perfect Peter

Still high from attending Peter's birth, four days later I got to do his newborn photos. He's a handsome little guy, don't you think?

Beautiful mama Kelly.

Sweet feet. These are the little details we don't want to forget.

Kelly knitted these adorable booties. I love the little creases in Peter's leg.

He's already got long lashes to go with his dark hair.

A deep sleep. You know you've got them when their mouths hang open.
Christmas baby. This shot makes me want to have one in December, too! See the pouty lower lip?

Crafty Kelly made this hat, too.

The cheeks!

Big sis, Naomi eyeing "her baby". I loved this little cradle.

Holding her little brother.
Daddy's hand with Peter's. Arm creases!

Father and son. Peter looks pretty cozy there. I love the Christmas lights behind them.

My dear friends, I'm so happy that Peter is here. He's gorgeous, and I can't wait to watch him grow -- but not too fast! We're going to have so much fun with our two girls and two boys. And if Abby and Peter grow up and fall in love, they have my whole-hearted blessing!