As I mentioned in the last couple of posts, I had the awesome opportunity to spend some time in Montana & Wyoming late last month. The main reason for my visit, and especially the timing of my visit, was to photograph a newborn session for my friends Mindy and Josh who just welcomed their second child and first daughter, Kaleigh Rae. Mindy and her family will always hold a special place in our hearts as she was Luke’s first official babysitter (outside of family). I worked in Human Resources prior to doing photography full-time and returned to work part-time after our son was born. Mindy’s husband Josh and I worked for the same company and they had their first child, Lane, just six days after we had Luke. Mindy was staying home with Lane so it worked out wonderfully for her to watch Luke the days that I worked.
We were blessed to have Mindy caring for Luke and to have their sweet family living just a few miles down the road from us for just a year, when they decided to return to their home states of Montana and Wyoming. It was a sad day watching them leave, although we knew how wonderful it would be for them to be closer to all of their family again. It’s funny (and wonderful!) how God places people in your life, even for just a short time, and yet you know He has blessed you with a friendship to last a lifetime. I am so thankful that we’ve been able to stay close, even with them so many miles away now, and so thankful that I was able to be there during Kaleigh’s first days to photograph these moments for their family.
Welcome to the world Kaleigh! You are truly a gift from God.
These last few I couldn’t help but share. I had the opportunity to photograph Mindy’s entire family on their farm during my visit. Some of my most favorite images from my trip include the ones of Lane and Kaleigh with their grandfather, Mindy’s dad. Those of you who know me well know that I lost my father when I was 13. One of the things I miss most about not having my dad around now is that he doesn’t get to know my children… and they don’t get to know him. I know he is in a much better place and I know I will see him again one day, but I can’t help but miss having him here to experience all of the big moments of my adult years. I love that I was able to capture some images of Lane & Kaleigh with Mindy’s mom and dad… and I especially loved these of Mindy’s sweet dad in his cowboy hat, in front of their red barn… with his beautiful grandbabies.
