I asked her for interior design ideas, she asked me some photography tips.  I emailed her lens recommendations and quinoa recipes, she emailed me some amazing interior designers and ideas for what to do with my rooms. It reminded me of how the days of bartering must of been…a perfect exchange…both people happy to share their wisdom…and both people excited to receive new knowledge….both people incredibly happy at the end of the exchange (well, at least I was!)

Of course, I get so much more out of being with this family than a happy bartering exchange.  When I drive away from their sessions, their home, and their warmth, I always feeling like I am saying goodbye to good friends.

Like good friends, I had the beautiful opportunity to see them just two months ago!  It was in early September you saw the blog post where Nolan stole your heart with his amazingly cute newborn self in his daddy’s fire fighter’s helmet.  Just a week ago I got to come back, see how much he has grown in just such a short time, and see the newest addition to the family: THE CHAIR.

When I saw their new chair, my knees went weak.  I grabbed onto the countertop and held the high-pitched squeal to the back of my throat (so not to appear like a crazy person or scare the baby).  You have to remember, Lexi loves design, clothing AND interior, and I LOVE her style!  So this was a really really fun moment.

Minutes later I pulled my camera up to my eyes, remembering how I was at their house just a short two months ago doing this same thing, only Nolan was fresh from the womb. Again my knees went weak and I stifiled something to the back of my throat, but this time it was a happy tear.  I can’t think of a better moment. It is a dream come true for me.  Being able to see their family grow, capturing each family stage for them, capturing all the love, capturing all that is truly precious….[And on the most beautiful chair I have ever seen.]

I am so thankful.

Siblings snuggles

Siblings laughter

Then we went out for a little walk with the fire truck at a nearby park. The family, the light, the love, all perfectly beautiful!

Then I started seeing it all in black and white….and I swooned….

We ended the morning reading a book. Lexi said that snuggle and “slow” time in their house is a rare event, so it felt that much more special that I got to capture it. I love this little book that Lexi is reading! It is PERFECT, as Adella calls her mama “Mimi” and Lexi LOVES fashion! No better way to end a shoot….