baby annelise | sneak peek

This sweet little gem is such a treat.

And spending this time with her, while she was so fresh and new to this life, was a blessing to me.

I had the chance to take some photos of her on two days - thanks to some unfavorable weather and light. And ... I’ve never thanked my curse or Mother Nature more.

I guess you could say that it made my seeing this bundle of pink again so soon ...  easy.

The first day was lovely. It was such a thrill for me to see Annelise again. Even though I had seen her in the hospital - wee babes change so fast. She was such a tiny little thing without being swaddled up in that hospital blanket. I got to really appreciate her full head of flaming red hair. I got to see just what good parents Tamra and Chris are. And it was so nice to see Tamra’s family again.

But that second day had a whole different atmosphere. It was calm and quiet and peaceful. The sweet spirit I felt while cuddling Annelise, palpable. Not to mention the time I had to talk with my dear friend. Just she and I. Like old times.

Yes. A blessing.

As a mother, my dear friend Tamra glows. And I glow because I know her.

Congratulations, Hatcher’s. So very pleased for you. You’re in for the ride of your life - and you have the best ticket. Welcome, sweet Annelise. The world is yours.

Oh, for the love. Enjoy.

the c family | teaser

Some of our dearest family,

and one of our favorite places,

makes for one simply perfect afternoon.

Enjoy ... and stay tuned for more.

the mitchell family | sneak peek

My friends.

How can I thank you for all of the milestones? How can I thank you for all of the memories? How can I thank you for all of the laughs, and for all of the smiles?

I can simply be grateful and honored to be a part of them.

And that, I certainly am.

Thank you for this December afternoon - and for the chance to add it to such a lengthy, treasured list.

L. Brian: Can I tell you how proud I am of you? I was so very impressed by how you helped me this day. Such a good big brother you are. What a smile you have.

My main squeeze, Lucas: Oh, you know I love you. I love your charm, and your bottomless pit. I am so thankful for every bear hug and kiss you send my way. How it melts my heart to hear you say when we meet, “My best friends.” I couldn’t agree more.

Jacob: The cheer in your eyes is infectious, darling boy. Your sweet demeanor, a treat. And even though this day saw you take a tumble out of the van - I think we’ll always be bonded by my making it better. I’m glad you agree that plain Christmas m&ms can cure just about any ailment. I hope we can always share a handful on the sly. 

Brian: Thanks for being such a good sport. Always. Thank you for your willingness to have my family be a part of yours - and yours a part of mine.

My dear friend, Becky: You are as beautiful as my days are long. And yet, you are still infinitely more precious to me. I hope to one day learn the secret to your sweetness and your goodness - and to learn to be more like you. Until that day - I will settle for simply having you in my life. A blessing I don’t deserve - and thank my lucky stars every day for.

What a joy it was to capture these fresh moments for you. Thank you, as always, for allowing me to do this special act of service for your family. Thank you for the honor of sharing your wonderful news - it was just that. An honor. How I can’t wait to meet this new little Mitchell Miss. In my opinion - she is quite the lucky lady.

My friends. My best friends.

How I love you.

the whole christl family | sneak peek

The whole Christl family ... and a lovely one, at that.

Enjoy.