The sky was dark, and the sun was already tucked behind the clouds.

And somebody’s shirt was definitely on inside out. (But I’m sworn to secrecy.)

And not everybody “looked” when they were supposed to.

And we took a few minutes to be sad when we needed it.

But everyone was there. In the flesh. Present. And (mostly) thrilled to be together.

And with your family… that’s really all that matters.

Stacey - you know I get super nervous before every session of ours… but then I end up loving them all SO MUCH. Thanks for trusting your family with me again and again. It’s an honor to see you all grow and change… together. Love you guys!

When the whole world fits inside your arms…

It feels easy to keep it safe and protected.

But when your whole world starts to grow up and become a lovely person all on her own…

It feels harder and harder to know how to keep her safe.

So you give affection and humility and grace and love. And pray that each day…

She’ll always know where she belongs.

Melissa and Joel - if we weren’t related, I would still call you part of my family! :) Thanks for allowing me to see your whole little world year after year. Love you guys so much!