Family Pictures

Saturday we got family pictures taken. In my searching for a photographer I found an ad and recognized the family in the portfolio.  A friend from the ward is starting up a photography business.  I couldn't be more pleased.  We were able to be comfortable at home with a friend behind the camera.  Jed did a great job and I"m jealous of his photoshop skills. Thanks Jed!  You can check out his site here and the rest of our family pictures here.

Celebrate the Everyday: The Park

A while back, when making that online photobook, I came across an idea that I love. There were tons of sample books to browse for inspiration, but this one, by an author (no wonder it looked so amazing) had simple stories and snapshots of everyday moments. I carry my camera pretty much everywhere, but usually whip it out for special occasions, the children's "firsts," and when other out-of-the-ordinary things happen.

I imagine, when the kids get independent, annoyed with me (and visa versa), and even move on, it will be the quiet, simple days at home with my two sweet babies that I will miss. We may say "remember that trip..." or "the day Eli balanced on his bike..." but those won't be the moments I wish I could be in again. Stories in the bottom bunk, the peace of nap time, lunch at the table, slow walks, answering all the "why mama why"'s, splashing in the tub.

Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe empty-nesters laugh at us 20-somethings with little kids and think. Ahhhh, no more butt-wiping for me... They're cute to visit, but luckily I can hand them back when they start to whine...

But I'm so attached and sentimental. I can see myself wanting them to live at home forever. I guess that's why the teenage years happen, it won't be as hard to say good-bye.

Anyway. Here's the record of an average visit to the playground. Recently I learned that Eli considers a picnic mandatory on outings to the park. Esme didn't care, she was happy eating leaves. Just the ones she could reach from the blanket. The prickly grass was the perfect thing to keep her from crawling off the blanket and into trouble.

My Kind of Scrapbooking

I just finished my first online photo book and can't wait for it to come in the mail. I'd been wanting to make Eli a felt alphabet book, but this is better. Faster, much, much faster and has pictures. Thanks Anna for the idea and coupon code to make it free. Next I want to do one with family members, since everyone lives so far away.

Click here to check it out.

5 Months

Man, I had a hard time putting her to bed tonight. How could I walk away from such sweetness looking up at me and holding my finger? But I had to post today's photoshoot on her 5 month birthday. She's getting more fun with all the blabbering with her raspy little voice and kicking. Sometimes she's downright hyper. And opinions. At dinner she must always drink from my glass of water if I want any peace. And the fee for anyone to hold her holding her... your finger to suck on. She's also crazy about her brother. All he has to do is stand in front of her, not even smile, and she smiles. I, on the other hand, have to figure out a new comedy act every day.

Why don't I throw in a couple from Eli's 5 month birthday. Exciting day, he got to taste his first pickle (very slobbery situation) and dip his feet in the water under Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon. I was also in mourning because his first tooth came through that day. For some reason it hit me hard that he was growing up. And a baby growing up is always sad.

I can't believe people were always telling us he had lots of hair. Esme makes him look like Mr. Clean.