Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor those who have fallen for our country.  As I read articles and watch stories on the news, I am eternally grateful to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice so that I can live a life without fear, violence, or persecution. 
I was reflecting on this as Eric, Penny and I went for a hike on Squak Mountain in Issaquah.  Being in nature with the ones I love brings a certain peace and stillness to me.  Without distractions, I am free to focus on the little things like the beautiful scenery and a lonesome snail. 

I hope that everyone can find stillness...today and every day (even if it's just for 5 minutes).

Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife.
~Franz Schubert
I've known Kyle and Bethany for a little over a year now, as I've had the pleasure of becoming their family photographer.  I was ecstatic to hear the news that they had gotten married!  Best wishes for a happy marriage and life for these two lovebirds.

“I think she is growing up, and so begins to dream dreams, and have hopes and fears and fidgets, without knowing why or being able to explain them.”
― Louisa May Alcott, Little Women
It's hard to believe it's been a whole year that I've known Kaia and seen her grow!  She is no longer a little baby, but a running, talking toddler!  Kaia enjoyed being chased by her dad, the bubbles her mom was blowing, and hugs from her grandma!   

As a photographer, it's fun to reconnect with old friends to see how their lives have changed.  I got the opportunity to do this when Brynn contacted me about taking newborn photos for her daughter.  Kendall came into the world in August 2013 to the proud parents of Brynn and Jeremy.  Kendall is such a precious newborn, falling in and out of sleep, as big brother Cameron played nearby.  It's so wonderful to see great people thrive in their new roles as parents!  Congratulations Brynn and Jeremy!

On a cloudy, summer morning, I met Chase, his parents, and his buddy Eddie at Lake Meridian Park.  Chase was about to start his senior year of high school - what an exciting time!  Chase loves to swim, be a lifeguard, and hang out with his friends - what every 18 year old loves to do!  As a senior, he has a big year ahead of him - choosing a college that's right for him.  Based on what I observed in Chase in a short period of time - he's going to make a great decision and has a very bright future!  Have a great senior year, Chase!

On May 5th, baby Kaia turned one!  She celebrated with her parents, Kyle and Bethany, and both their families!  It was a gorgeous, warm, almost summer day.  Kaia was still learning to stand and walk with assistance.  She loved her pretty party dress and head-band, she even made up a new game chasing it!  Kaia tasted some birthday cake, although she wasn't sure she liked getting dirty.  Kaia was as sweet as ever, dancing and clapping to her mom's singing, making faces, and smiling with her gorgeous baby blues!  Happy Birthday Kaia!

My, my, how quickly time flies!  It seems like not that long ago that Joshua's mother was pregnant with this little tyke and now he's a standing, communicating 9-month old baby!  On this cold day, before the rain started, Joshua, his parents and I met at Lake Meridian Park.  Since the ground was wet, he wasn't too keen on being by himself on a blanket!  He did enjoy being held by his mom and dad, seeing the birds, and the lake! 

Lisa is going on a brand-new, exciting adventure!  With big changes in front of her, she needed some photographs to capture her new smile.  We met on a gorgeous day in Seattle (a rarity in May, indeed!) at Betty Bower Viewpoint in Queen Anne.  The concrete, brick, and greenery were perfect for showcasing the Seattle-Lisa, confident and beautiful, before she embarks on her lifelong dream.  I wish Lisa well and cheers to the many happy experiences ahead of her!

"He enjoys true leisure who has time to improve his soul's estate." by Henry David Thoreau
Life is busy and stressful, but taking the time for breaks and mini vacations is invigorating and important.  We took advantage of my spring break to get-away to Long Beach, WA for a few days.  My family visited Long Beach almost every summer during my childhood, so it was important for me to show my husband this important part of my history.  We enjoyed hiking, taking long bike rides, eating delicious food, and listening to the rhythm of the ocean waves.  Oh yeah, we liked spending time together too!

Baby Kaia is growing up so fast!  At 9 months old, Kaia is crawling, playing with her toys, and loving time with her mom and dad!  Although she was a little skeptical at first about having her photos taken, after a few songs and books by mom, Kaia was a smiling, happy baby, full of energy!  Here are a few quick glimpses of her milestone.