we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.
- winston churchill

Moving to Fayetteville has really opened my eyes to the sacrifices and realities of being a military spouse looks like. You would think that I would have absorbed this a little more since I've watched my brother and his incredible wife over the past 12 years, but I feel like I stand more and more in awe each day that I am here... living it, experiencing it myself. These families are incredible for what they give.

The last time I met Stacy was back in May. (Click here and find the gorgeous b/w baby!) She was on her own with a newborn and an energetic toddler... since her husband was deployed. So this session was different, it had such a joyful feeling, despite the somewhat dreary weather...because they are all back together again. One big beautiful family. Together.

The boy's name Ethan \e-

than\ is pronounced EE-than. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "firmness, long-lived, strong and optimistic, solid and enduring, or permanent". From Eitan. Biblical: a man of Israel well known for his wisdom.

Lots of thought and prayer went into this little man's name, so I thought that it was appropriate to share the meaning. Ethan was welcomed into the world by an adoring (and perfectly adorable) set of parents and an older brother and sister which you saw here just a few short months ago. We didn't have very long, but I love these shots that we snagged of him because even though he is only a couple weeks old in these photos, he is showing off his full range of emotions/expressions. How could you not fall head over heels in love with a face like this?

 She is a beauty in every sense of the word. From her golden curls to her perfectly crinkled nose... yes this little girl embodies all things lovely and good. This session was full of playing, exploring, and laughter. It was exactly how I love for my time with a family to be... FUN. I had a blast shooting these images and almost even more fun editing putting together these selections to show off my time with the fabulous Rosenwood family.



These are the sweet moments that I can't resist.

Does it ever catch your eye
Beauty divine
In an old man's tears
A little girl's smile
If it feels like a song
One that belongs to you
Stop making sense
Your weakest defense
Just quiet your mind
Let the world unwind
Beauty divine.
- Brandon Heath

There is something beautiful and unique about every family that I photograph and the Bell Family was certainly no exception. It was one of those perfectly delicious fall evenings and I think that their relaxed, fun playfulness with each other really shines through... which I thought was pretty incredible with an 8 week old tiny baby! Mandi and Keith so clearly delight in their beautiful kiddos and I have to say that I delighted in taking it all in.

Seriously? Precious.
 

and above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. those who don't believe in magic will never find it.
- roald dahl


More of this little guy to come....