Being an aunt is an awesome thing - I get to snuggle, play, spoil and then leave them at home for their mother to sort out! :) These kids know me best with a big, black, "clicky" thing in front of my face and when I was visiting back in May we were able to venture outside for some birthday photos. Seriously, you guys... birthday photos are the best. :)

It's a big tradition in their family. Get dressed up, get your hair 'did, then wander around with Aunt Amanda while she tries to think of ways to make them giggle. 

But serious faces work just as well. :)

And crazy faces... 

Then we drag mom into the yard (make up or no make up!) and make her snuggle too! 

It makes for wonderful birthdays. :)

On my MN trip a few weeks, I got to catch up with my friend Emily! Emily and I met when I did her senior photos back in 2011, and it was SO fun to see her again and see what she's been up to. 

Love her laugh!! 

She wanted to update her most recent photos, and I was only too happy to do a shoot with her!!

We got up pretty early to make this shoot happen, but when we found this little section of trees and purple flowers - IT WAS ALL WORTH IT! :)

Emily, you are so beautiful! 

Emily is in the National Guard, and she brought along her uniform so we could document this stage of her life. Doesn't she look SO intense? 

Thanks so much for contacting me about photos, Emily! It was so great to see you! :)