Families

Lizzie and Paul were coming into town from Ireland where they live with their little one, Sive, meaning “sweet” in Irish.

And then there were five… This was my third time out to the Monsma home to celebrate their new addition – and by that I mean the adorable Baby Nash (not the master bedroom with the fabulous light that they added on between Elliott and Grady’s births). There is something so lovely about a December baby and the warmth of a Christmastime home. They just go well together. I loved getting to reconnect with Christy, Quinn, and the kids. Without a doubt, these early days are super tiring for mom and dad- not to mention taking care of the needs…

She had a great writing style infused with humor and sarcasm that made them easy to read through. Now, they are a part of my family history outlining some of the milestones of each year when I was growing up. I’m so glad to have them. 

We also worked for 6 years together to Save the Canal- a historic waterway and pathway through the woods that was a community favorite. Onto the next generation… and Natalie’s kids.

Caitlyn, Elijah and Benito added on a session to their one-year baby plan- and I am so glad that they did. Literally, for one hour, it did not rain in Apple Hill and that was the hour we were there. The overcast skies made all of the color so rich. What a cutie he is not to mention his totally adoring parents. It’s so fun to do sessions with a family over the year and get to watch their little one explore the world…a little more each time. Next session is in February for Benito’s first birthday. Where’s Benito? There…

I know the Pooley family is not shy of Uncles that they love but “Tío” joins their crew reminding them just how important family is. After a serious family health scare in September where Bryan’s quick and experienced action was crucial- they decided it was time for some dog energy. And it was. Enter Tio- the therapy dog. Ohmmmm…..

It’s that time of the year when families and their extended families get together and make sure to get their annual photographs of the whole crew and their growing families. I met up recently with the Hinds’ extended family at the Fausel Ranch– Deanna and David Fausel are old friends of Susan and David and their kids all grew up on the Ranch together- a second home if you will. A little of this, a little of that- it’s like a Thanksgiving feast in photos. Many thanks to Deanna for always keeping it real and above all- lively and fun.…

This time of year brings a lot of extended family sessions and fall up here is always spectacular and especially when we’ve had a quiet fire season. Extended family sessions are a great way to give the kids from each of the family groups some time in the spotlight and some time out of it. Kids need time to run around- and I try to capture that too. For me- I just try to stay present and capture the images as they make themselves known while also mentally checking off the list that we have. Little Alex is one year…

I’m enjoying all the fall loveliness with the Newton family in Apple Hill at Larsen Apple Barn/Bake Shop. They moved to the foothills recently from Walnut Creek and a family member got them a gift certificate for a session. Marja was concerned that they would be hard to rally in a photograph. What? They are a beautiful family with great and natural smiles. Not hard at all. And- what a ham that Little Johnny is. We had fun in the park making these images in that gorgeous, golden light. Thank you, Marja and Johnny.