Ciaran James: 18 days old!

To say that I'm close with my family would be an understatement. We celebrate together, cry together, pray together, share life, share joy, share sorrow, share milestones. We are a family built on faith and love, and that love is what holds us together.

So when my brother got married, I gained a sister, and when they got pregnant with their first baby, we were over the moon with excitement. Then came baby #2, and baby #3, and still the joy and excitement grew with each new life. Each new personality seemed to be the missing piece to our family, each one fitting perfectly into our puzzle.

My life has changed a lot in this last year, with marrying Andrew, and becoming a Mom to two girls myself. I'm not always able to take the time I'd like to travel to see my family, and I've even had to accept that sometimes, I will miss a birthday party with the distance that separates us, and the busy schedules that seem to consume our lives. But even when I'm physically away, my heart is still present, sharing in the joy that is family.

3 weeks ago, my sister in law gave birth to Ciaran James, baby boy #4. Unlike the first 3 births, I was absent from her bedside, and wasn't able to meet my nephew until this past weekend. My heart broke knowing that I was missing this huge milestone, but I gave it over to God, knowing that the place He has me now is the place I need to be.

So this past weekend, work brought me to Rochester, and that meant I was finally able to visit my brother's home, reconnect with my other 3 nephews, and finally, hold baby Ciaran. He is such a sweet baby, and it didn't take me long to fall in love.

Of course, while there, I needed to do a [few] portraits to capture the milestone. I know these images are precious to me, and remembering this baby boy, but I hope they'll also be special to his parents, and my parents, and the family that loves him so much.

Laura & Eric: Poconos Wedding!

A crisp Autumn breeze greeted me on the morning of Laura & Eric's wedding. The soft sunshine & colorful leaves cast a glow on northern Pennsylvania, and I knew it was going to be a beautiful day. 

I met with Laura & her maids at The Settlers Inn, in Hawley PA, at the bridal suite, where she was putting on her finishing touches, preparing to meet her groom. Laughter and calm conversation told me that she was ready to go, and as she looked out her window overlooking the reception tent below, you could feel the anticipation. 

Eric was reserved and collected when I led him to the spot where he'd see his bride for the first time. He may have been nervous, but the first glimpse of Laura seemed to set him at ease. They shared a beautiful, quiet moment together in the back garden, before separating again for their walk down the aisle.

Guests mingled in the Inn and out in the gardens, enjoying the late September afternoon, and before we knew it, the time came for everyone to take their seats and join in the celebration of the holy union that would make Laura & Eric husband and wife.

Under a flowered arbor, surrounded by family and friends, and even Eric's sister over Face Time, the bride & groom said their "I do's." The sun setting behind them created a soft, beautiful glow, and it was a special moment for all those gathered there.

The celebration later was full of dancing, heart felt toasts, and much much laughter. As I left the tent, I knew the party would continue on long into the night, surrounding this couple with joy and blessing as they started their new life together.

Thank you, Mr. & Mrs. Keefe, for hosting such a beautiful celebration, and Laura & Eric, for allowing me to capture your day! It was an honor to witness your love, and I wish you the best in your future!