When you photograph the same families for several years, you start to notice trends. 

Cute moments with children turn into actual real-life moments of adults with character and life and personalities.

Marriages grow stronger and deeper and more seasoned with experience and tenderness. 

Little kids grow up to become adults who graduate high school... 

And drive cars... 

And become real people who make real decisions about real life changes....

And take their chances and dive into the big wide world waiting for them. 

And that's exactly what I got to see with this dear family. 

A family all grown up, twins who are ready to be off on their own, and little people who have turned into adults overnight. 

With big smiles and enough confidence to shake the world. 

Jackson family, Davey, and Clay... what can I say? We have the best of times and I get the bestest of photos with you guys! Thanks for allowing me into your lives year after year and for inspiring me with your crazy, real family! Love you guys. :) 

There's something about photographing families in their own spaces that makes their sessions extra special. It feels more like home when you are surrounded by your favorite people. 

Melony really wanted updated photos of her family, so we decided to do what most families do on a typical evening together: stay home and relax. 

Jay and Melony have a lovely backyard, with lots of nooks and crannies for photographing! 

We made up some rules for croquet, and blazed through a lightning round.

Then, in keeping with our "evening at home" theme, we started a fire and toasted some marshmallows. 

While I typically photograph families with small children, I found that the interactions that Jay and Melony had with their kids were similar in nature. Affection, respect, and friendship were overflowing, and I'm so thankful I got to see it. 

I guess the family that plays croquet and makes fires and marshmallows stays together. 

Jay and Melony, I'm SO thankful I got to photograph your family this week! Thank you so much for the generosity you show, not only to me and Sunil, but also to those around you - especially your children. Enjoy your photos! :)