I grew up in a family with five kids. As the youngest, this was normal, everyday life - even if it was sometimes loud and a tad chaotic. There was always someone to talk to, someone to play with, and best friends came built in. I think that's why I've always wanted a large family of my own, and why I'm drawn to photograph families with lots of little ones. Life is never boring!

I've been photographing the Kemmling family for several years now, and each time I photograph them there's a brand new baby to snuggle! 

This session was no exception, and we loved on Baby Hannah the entire time! (And how amazing does mom look already??)

She is already adored by her older sisters, who insist on holding her every chance they get. 

She is, of course, already a daddy's girl. :) 

Pink, fluffy skirts and soft, sweet hands are some of the best details there are! 

It's been so fun to watch this little family grow, and I've been so honored to photograph them through all of their transitions! 

Mike and Chris, you two are some of my absolute favorites to photograph! Thanks for allowing me to catch glimpses into your (crazy) beautiful life together, and for raising such adorable children!! :) 

With my dad's health declining, my visits to Minnesota have increased over the summer to spend time with him. While it's convenient at times to be a photographer, it has been unbelievably helpful to capture these times together as a family so we can remember them for years to come. 

About a month ago (I'm so behind with these photos!), my Uncle Mark and Aunt Lu made the trip from Maryland to spend time with my parents in Minnesota. I was thrilled to get a flight up there the same week, because I've met my Aunt and Uncle only about 5-6 times in my life and I'm always looking for more excuses to hang out with my family! 

Mark is my dad's older brother and although they've spent the majority of their adult lives living in separate states, the similarities in mannerisms, speech, and thought processes between the two of them are mesmerizing! 

At this point in early September, dad was in good enough health to be able to spend hours reconnecting with Mark and Lu. There were so many laughs shared and tears shed together.  

My family is no small party (23 total with another one on the way!), so when we gather together to visit we sort of take over the house. Mom has never complained though, and the kids don't seem to mind... :) 

Always thinking like a photographer, I convinced Mark and Lu to allow me to take five minutes before one of our adventures and capture their love for each other. 

After pastoring a church for over 20 years, and spending their lives caring for people, they're entering into a new season of retirement together as a couple. 

I was so thankful to be able not only catch up with them, but to see my dad and his brother catch up on many years of life. Family is such a beautiful gift. 

If you want to stay up to date with my dad's seven-year journey with cancer, you can visit his CaringBridge by clicking here. We're so thankful for all of your thoughts and prayers!