Jade & Colby - 6.17.08

Yesterday morning I met up with Sarah and her two kiddos in the cutting gardens at Masonic Homes. I have been documenting Colby's life since he was in the womb. I did his mommy's pregnancy shots, his newborn, 3 month, 6 month, and now 1-year portraits. It is so much fun to see him growing and turning into a little man. Each time I see him he changes so drastically. He is almost walking and I'm sure the next time I'm holding a camera in front of him, I won't just be standing and squatting...I'll be running around after him trying to keep up!

Jade is a little cutie pie and just hit the "Why?" stage of childhood. "Jade, can you come and sit down by this tree for me?"..."Why?" "Jade, put your legs down for me (she was wearing a dress."..."Why?" Ahhh yes, my day is coming too with Malakai. Sarah, thanks for yet another opportunity to photograph your two beautiful kids. I enjoy catching up with you and discussing how we both juggle motherhood and careers. I know the LORD has given us both so much grace in this season of our lives. You are an incredible mother and it shows in the way you interact with your kids and they with you. Love ya, friend.

Canoe Trip

On Friday afternoon, Eric and I had a little anniversary date. We went canoeing on the Octoraro Lake and oh what fun it was. We borrowed the canoe from some clients of mine (thanks, Clint & Dara!) and off we paddled. Thank goodness, we had a little trolling motor so we didn't have to use our arms the entire time. There were only a few other boats out on the water so we enjoyed the peaceful setting of being alone, without Malakai too. He was with some friends of ours, Nate & Terah, who have three kiddos of their own. Think he had any fun?! Clint and Dara gave us a bottle of sparkling cider with some chocolate and a bucket of ice and I had packed our supper so we could feast on the water. It was a beautiful evening and we talked about how our marriage has grown and changed so much in the past 5 years. We continue to fall more and more in love with each other as each day passes. Old love is in many ways sweeter than young love.

Good Morning, Mommy!

Talk about being shocked! I walked into Malakai's room this morning and he was sitting up in his crib staring at me! I have no idea how he pulled himself up into a sitting position on his own but he thought we was the coolest kid. So, I guess that means we'll have to lower the mattress so he doesn't climb out. I thought we had some time yet, but he is growing like crazy and figuring out all the fun things he can do. Watch out Mom...I'm going to keep you busy!

5 Years Ago...

I wanted to post this a little in advance just because we're shooting a wedding on our actual anniversary (this Saturday) but I wanted to take a little trip down memory lane with all of you. June 14th, 2003 (which also happens to be flag day), Eric and I said our wedding vows to each other. It was a beautiful day filled with so much anticipation and excitement. That morning, we went out for breakfast together and could hardly get any food down because we were so anxious for the rest of the day to unfold. We were married at East Petersburg Mennonite Church, my home church and the reception was held in a nearby meadow under a big white tent.

The day was perfect, at least in our minds, and we have some amazing pictures that capture lots of emotion throughout the day. Our good friend from high school, Sara Lazio, who owns her own photography business in Colorado (Lazio Images) did our wedding photography. We were her first wedding and she's done lots and lots since then over the past 5 years. Sara was a big inspiration to me as I began praying about starting Radiant Images. We still talk on the phone and encourage each other as mothers and business owners. Last summer, Eric and I vacationed in Colorado and were able to spend time with Adam, Sara, and their 2 1/2 year old son, Michael. She is due in a few weeks with their second child. Sara, we can't wait to meet the newest Lazio!

It seems like Eric and I have been through so much in the past 5 years of marriage. We have experienced great joys and great sorrows together. I can't imagine life without him. He has become my best friend and the one I long to grow old with. Eric, I love you more than I ever thought I could love someone. You are a precious gift to me and Malakai. Happy Anniversary! I love you so much!!!

Cooling Off

Last night Malakai was fussy because it was so hot and humid and he wasn't the only family member who felt a little grouchy because of the weather. This humidity is enough to make anyone cranky. So after a few ideas of failed entertainment for him, I decided to grab an old rubbermaid tub and put some water in it so he could sit, play, and cool off. Well, what a marvelous invention those tubs are! He was happy as a lark in his new little "pool". Gideon thought it was convenient to get a drink while Malakai was splashing around too. Sorry, Gid...there may have been some pee in there. Shhhh....don't tell the lifeguard!

Another "Sister"

Yesterday afternoon while most people were trying to stay cooled off and out of the unmercifully hot and humid weather, we were sitting outside at a beautiful wedding at Lauxmont Farms. Eric's brother, Darrel married his life-long sweetheart, Kelly and now I have another sister! It was a great day of celebration for sure. Eric was a groomsman and gave a short meditation during their ceremony. I led worship so Malakai got passed all around and endured the heat with the rest of us. We all sweated like crazy, but there was plenty of water, iced tea, and meadow tea to keep us hydrated. After we managed to eat a hot meal, everyone went outside on the lawn for desserts. Then the dancing began and we even got to dance as a family. What a special day for our Martin family. Darrel and Kelly, enjoy your honeymoon in Greece! We love you guys so much.

Steckbeck Family - 6.5.08

I had such a great time with this family last night. We met at County Park at the Garden of the Five Senses and enjoyed the beautiful waterfalls, shade trees, and even chased a few groundhogs. Everyone was so laid back and willing to try new things...like taking off their shoes, hiking up their pant legs and jumping in the air, all while smiling! Doesn't it feel good to be carefree and not so stiff for family portraits! May your family continue to grow and expand through the coming years. You really love each other...I saw that as you interacted together. That makes my job so much fun! Enjoy a few of my favorites.