Childhood and Being Your Own Best Friend First

Some personal musings tonight. I am fortunate to have some inner reflection while watching my kids grow. I’m no longer a child, but many of my school-aged experiences stick with me to this day.

I shared the below message with personal friends/family on Facebook, and it resonated so well with fellow former-children that I thought I’d share a public version here on my blog. After all, I work with many families. I don’t have all the answers, but I do understand the struggles.

Image of my son, used with his permission.

I just sat down with my 8 and 5 year olds at the coffee shop this morning and had a candid conversation about being your own best friend first.

It's really hard for introverted (and extroverted) children to find "safe people" who are peers, and I thought back to little Stephie in 5th grade and 11th grade specifically, when it was easier to hide in the bathroom stall (or computer lab) than it was to be social.

Starting over every year with new classmates, changing schools, and moving on to new jobs, new cities, etc isn't easy. But we gather, retain and use tools every single time... and that part does get easier. And look at me now, ma… I’m doing OK.

Kids can and will have a crap year, and aren't aware that mayyyybe just around the corner will be the day they find their chosen people/person.

Love yourself first as you are, and anyone who matters will follow, my kids. It may not seem so now, but alone time will become precious instead of being scary. Be OK with eating that burrito you love near a sunny window all on your own. Treat yourself to a warm drink at a coffee shop with only the company of a good book. See the movie you want to see, even if you have tickets for one.

Finally, brush off peers who actively reject you, because they won't be around for long anyway.

We also enjoyed this conversation while eating macarons and croissants, so that was helpful.

A Super Groovy Round One of Mid Modern Holiday Photos at the Studio

OOOOOKAY, that was fun. If you’ve never been to the studio before, every season, a group of creatives come together to create a set that photographers and models/families can use. This time, Malena of BSPK Creative really knocked it out of the park with her Mid-Mod Holiday Set, and I was honored to photograph several families who wanted something a bit different this year. Take a look!

This specific set design has never been seen before and will likely never be seen again. To have your photo taken with this scene, book me anytime up until December 15, which is when the tear down happens. I have mini sessions available on Wednesday 11/23, and classic sessions are available at a time of your choice.

Weather-Proof Creative Photoshoot Ideas at the Studio: Tea Party!

With weather cooling down, you may be wondering how to jump into having your photos taken (with or without the kids) if it’s raining, chilly, snowing, or severely windy. Light and airy photos that are full of personality and warmth can be created in the comfort of the studio, with natural light and all the amenities you might need.

Let’s put together a tiny tea party, complete with picnic snacks!

Bring your favorite dry snacks, some of your favorite tea, and I’ll put together the rest of the scene. If we can make this sort of magic with 7 kids under the age of 5, I feel like can take on almost anything. :) Classic Sessions can work for any occasion. Why not a tea party?

The Lake, The Trees, The Flowers, The Mountains - Oh My! Wheat Ridge Family Photo Session

Golden Hour was very giving on this particular day out in Wheat Ridge. If you’re looking to me to recommend a location, Crown Hill really checked off all the requirements. Easy and paved walking paths, parking, mountain, trees, grasses, flowers, the lake! Pair that with a family who wants to play, and magic happens. :)

Thank you to this beautiful family who joined me for a Classic Session — we really jumped into all the little nooks that are my absolute favorite. Take a look at our evening session below!

If you’re looking for an abbreviated session to grab a portion of these scenes, I am hosting Mini Sessions at this location on 11/12 during the AM and PM. Available slots happen every half hour and my calendar has live availability. If you’d like me to give you a relaxed tour and grab SO MANY MEMORIES, grab a Classic Session any evening. I’d love to meet you!