Alivia Says Good-Bye to St. Michaels and Hello to SHS!

I met Alivia a few years ago through our neighbors.  I believe she was in 6th or 7th grade at that time and I remember thinking how sweet she was.

We once went to dinner with our neighbors, and they brought Jenny and Brian along (Alivia's parents).  We had a great time and I loved to hear about their kids and their interests.  I knew that Alivia was into volleyball and as I continued to see her over the next couple of years, she definitely looked like a volleyball player to me (if I can stereotype that is).

This year I had the opportunity to see Alivia when St. Michaels put on their  production of Annie.  Alivia played Grace Farrell and did a great job.  She was comfortable on stage and she truly shined in that role.  While I've known Alivia as an athlete all the years before, I truly think that she could successfully play any role that was offered to her.

During this photo shoot I got to realize that Alivia is still the sweet girl that I met a few years back.  She plans to attend Streator High School next year and she has hopes of playing volleyball and softball.  Right now, she's keeping herself busy with club volleyball.

I think it's a concern for any mother when their little girl enters high school.  After all, high school is a huge transition.  I told Jenny that I have no doubts Alivia will do just fine.  Personally, I know she will do more than just fine.  My advice to parents is this - if you encourage your child to make the right decisions, make the right friends, and make good choices, there will be nothing for the parent to worry about.  While the child may stumble a time or two, those who have a strong foundation, as Alivia does, will always be able to get right back up.

Good luck at SHS Alivia!

Until next time...

Fallyn Beau Albert - Welcome to the World!

Welcome little Miss Fallyn Beau!  I had the pleasure of getting to meet this little cutie.  I always forget just how little newborns are!

Everything about her was precious.  From her little coos to her perfect little features.  

I've always loved the idea of doing a picture like this.  I love how Beau's ring can fit around her four little piggies.  

There is nothing more calming than the thought of a sleeping baby.  How absolutely peaceful does she look here? 

I feel as though this pose just proves that Fallyn is going to be full of sass!  I love it!

Big brother Riley!  It was awesome to see him so calm around Fallyn.  

Big sister Natali.  She was so proud to hold Fallyn.  

Big brother Jack!  He wasn't quite sure what he thought.  He was clearly in love, but afraid to be holding something so delicate!  

Why not?  I promised Jack we would take some individuals of him too!  We don't want him thinking it's all about Fallyn do we?  

I'm sure daddy is proud of this one!  His little football sideline star in the making!  While she may not be on the field with him, I have no doubts she'll be right by his side as he's coaching, cheering him on!

I'm absolutely in love with the picture of Fallyn in her mother's wedding dress.  Absolutely precious and a great keepsake!  

Congratulations Beau and Mandi!  She is absolutely BEAUTIFUL!  

Until next time...

Ellie Fitzgerald - Pure Beauty

This photo session is probably one that I am most proud of.  True beauty.  Those are the words that come to mind when I think of Ellie.  She is going to be four soon, and her natural ability to shine in front of the camera is absolutely stunning.  

From her blue eyes, to her sweet innocence - this girl is going to be trouble as she gets older.  Other than telling her where we were going, I didn’t have to say anything else.  I literally let her do her thing and this is what I was able to get.  She is gorgeous!  

Ellie’s personality is nothing short of sweet and hilarious all at the same time.  While she wants to run around and be a 4-year-old, she’s also willing to sit and take in all that is going on around her.  She has a sense of calm about her that is amazing for such a young girl.  I’m sure her parents would argue otherwise - but I saw nothing but sweetness during this shoot.  

What’s even better than this beautiful 4-year-old…she has a sister that is just as beautiful!  I was fortunate enough to be able to have Maggie along for the shoot as well.  She clearly finds her sister to be entertaining.  I love how affectionate Ellie is towards Maggie.  Sometimes Maggie loves it…and sometimes she doesn’t.  It’s just the usual love between siblings!  

I’ve been doing this for a year now.  This is one of my prouder moments as a photographer.  Not only was it nice to be able to get back outside, but it was even greater to have a subject that possesses such natural beauty and requires the camera/photographer to do very little work.  

I’ll throw one in of some of the cousins!  My little ones came along for the ride and they had a blast.  Vacation in July is going to be a blast as we all head to the Mountains!  

Until next time…