There is this feeling you get. You can feel it in your soul. It comes when you’re watching a family play, like really play, with their kids. And if love could be seen, it would be bursting out of every single moment and every single interaction.It is this moment where all the busy is set to the side and forgotten and all that matters is the connection between family.

Last month my beautiful little girl turned the big 1-0.  I can't believe how much time has passed since I held Lily in my arms for the first time. Her photo sessions have always been magical and this session was no exception. You simply must scroll down and see those gorgeous brown eyes, and those freckles!

I get to hang out with new mamas here in the studio all the time. I quickly get a sense of who they are as people, what kind of mother they'll be, and often they share their concerns about being a mom for the first time. Here's what I always want to say but sometimes it doesn't come out right, or at all.Mama, try your hardest not to worry. There will be times where you'll wonder and where you'll hope. Times when you know you don’t have all the answers and you pray that your best will be good enough.

Choosing to use a midwife for all of my pregnancies was easy. They encouraged home births, but also delivered in the hospital if that's what I needed or prefered. They answered all my questions, about epidurals or trying with no meds at all. They met with me, got to know me, and literally helped me every step of the way.I didn't realize how much I needed these kind, gentle and knowledgeable ladies until after my baby arrived. They inspired me, pushed me and cared for me.

I love doing these local business features! It's so great to get a glimpse into the lives of the people in our community, and of course, I also love buying local!This month's featured business is The Happy Baby, owned and operated by the lovely Mary Jo Clements. She super pretty, funny, and never seems to run out of energy. If you haven't been to her store yet, you're seriously missing out! It's amazing, and already a favourite of all my clients with little ones.

I remember what it felt like when I had school photos taken. I hated the fact that I had so little time, but also could not wait to get out of that chair. I had to sit so stiffly, and my hair had to be just right but I was too young to really know what that meant so it wasn't. I remember one year the photographer parted mine right down the middle and I looked ridiculous. It is still in my childhood photo album.

Before I became a mom for the first time, I realized that raising children would involve many emotions - joy and happiness, sadness, confusion even. What I didn't realize is how young they would be when I actually had to let go. In my mind I figured this moment would be like in Gilmore Girls when my 18 year old daughter went off to college but she still came home every weekend for Friday night dinners.

There was a time when everything I did as a photographer was so carefully thought out. I would purchase large paper backdrops and props, ensure children were sitting in JUST the right spot, and once all the conditions were perfectly met, I'd start photographing. Those days are gone.

When it comes to photographing in your home, there are endless possibilities. Every room has it's own unique qualities and unless there are no windows at all, you can utilize the natural light in those spaces.

What I love most about what I do is that I get to do what I love from home. I get the best of both worlds and I'm so grateful for it. I enjoy so much to play, read, and cuddle with my children and also have office time to be creative and interact with my customers during nap time. 
 

I remember the studio was bright and welcoming that Friday afternoon. I prepared the room while listening to my favourite soundtrack from the movie Like Crazy. It was so calm and peaceful, and those feelings continued after this little bundle arrived…

Marianne was comfortable, beautiful and having a great time, but the look on her face when Carter and her boys arrived to join her at her pregnancy session here in the studio was sheer happiness. She is so gentle and kind, and yes, this new baby is going to bring a little more chaos to their lives, but also whole lot more happiness.