Home Sweet Home | Dallas Irving Newborn Photographer

This is the same little man from the birth I posted not long ago.  And yes, I am a bit behind on my blogging!  It was so nice to see him again.  I loved how attentive his big sister was and how his big brother was still trying to figure out why another baby was there.  LOL!  They were all so cute!  It is so much fun watching a family grow.  It seems like yesterday I was taking SJ's newborn pictures and now the house is full of love and laughter (and diapers and crying...but that part of life will change all too soon).

The Carbajal Family | Mckinney TX Family Photographer

I love this family.  Their oldest daughter was in my kinder class at church and she was the sweetest thing.  I couldn't believe how much they had all grown since our last session over a year ago.  I'm sure their oldest son felt the same way.  It was his first time back home since I last saw them.  He has been off serving our country and I have no doubt that they were glad to have him home.  Maybe the next time he is on leave I can get some shots of him in uniform.  Thank you for braving the heat with me! 

See the look of adoration?.... I saw it on each one of their faces during our session.

A Gorgeous Mother & Son Session | McKinney TX Family Photography

This was such a fun session.  I couldn't believe it when she told me her son was four the last time they had family pictures taken.  As parents we all know how fast those days turn into weeks and years.  I'm sure it seems like only yesterday when her High School Senior walked into his first day of Kindergarten...

And one of just mom...

We all want pictures of our kids, but it is important to remember that they want pictures of us, too.  Step out of your comfort zone.  You WILL be glad you did!

William Jakes' Birth Day | North Dallas Birth Photographer

After many weeks of bed rest, it was finally time for Baby Jakes to make an appearance.  He was early, but thankfully it wasn't too early.  No NICU for this little guy!  This was my first time to see a baby, other than my own, being born and it was an amazing experience.  Memories of my three girls' births flashed through my mind and I was once again reminded of the awesome power of our Creator. 

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Jer. 1:5

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. Psalm 139:13

Elyssa's Night Owl Party

Speaking of birthdays, I never shared any details from my oldest daughter's birthday party last Spring. She wanted something fun, but not too girly. I had already picked up a ton of cute owl stuff from the dollar section at Target. The camping part kept it from being to frilly. I couldn't help but laugh!

I found ideas for cupcakes (http://www.duncanhines.com/recipes/cupcakes/dh/owl-cupcakes) and treat bags with owl smores (http://www.livinglocurto.com/2010/09/owl-smores/) on-line.  Both of the recipes are easy to follow and Elyssa really enjoyed helping.  Since we had owl cupcakes, I went with a campfire cake.  I ended up putting a few different ideas together.  The "cake" was really Betty Crocker® Mississippi Mud Supreme Bars.  The pit was made using chocolate rocks, the logs were twix bars, and then I just added some small touches like toasted marshmallows for coals.  Then I made sure there were plenty of worms, bugs, and trail mix to snack on!  We also roasted marshmallows for smores and cooked our hot dogs in a fire pit.

The highlight of the night for most girls was dissecting owl pellets.  I ended up ordering them from Amazon and each girl had a partner.  This worked out well, because not everyone wanted to participate!  The girls also set up their tent, painted rocks, made bracelets and enjoyed playing games in the tent with flashlights.  I am anything but a camper, but sleeping in the backyard (in my own little tent with Miss B and her friend Ella) was certainly worth it.  I know this will always be one of her favorite themes!

Birthday Party Sessions!!! | Dallas Area Birthday Party Photography

I do believe that I am starting to love photographing birthday parties as much as planning them.  Each one is so unique.  I look forward to seeing the different themes, locations, and activities...maybe gleaning some new ideas for myself!  The best part, though, has to be all of the spontaneous smiles.  Of course, I am a sucker for the quiet thoughtful moments, too, when you catch a child deep in play or thought.  The change in job description is nice, too.  No directions to give, just capturing life as it happens.

I hope you enjoy sharing in these parties as much as I did!

Ashton and Tory | McKinney Tx Engagement Photographer

I decided to finally blog this session, since I am on my way to Amarillo for Tory's bridal session today.  I can not wait to see her dress!  It is such a treat getting to be a part of this special time in her life.