kenia: senior.

Just five years ago, Kenia was a student in my 8th grade language arts class. She loved reading fan fiction and despised reading Animal Farm (I’m fairly certain she’s still mad at me that I made her read it). She was and is one of my favorite students of all time (but shhhh…don’t tell anyone. I’m not supposed to have favorites). Her maturity, thoughfulness, and joy have reminded me over and over again why I chose to be a teacher.

Now, she is a senior, and I can barely believe it. She is bright and hard working, and I secretely love any time she asks for help or lets me look over her high school English papers. She keeps me up to date on all the high school drama, and I feel so grateful that for whatever reason, she has let me be a small part of her story for these last five years.

Whatever this next year brings her way, I have no doubt that she will continue to bring light and joy everywhere she goes. I cannot wait for May 24th when she walks across that stage. I’m convinced there won’t be a prouder teacher in the place.

the powells: family.

I was so happy to have the chance to photography the Powells again, and this time with their extended family. 6 adults and 6 kids and every single one was wonderful. We had a perfect evening, the little ones liked being my assistants, and the geese were happy to stay in the background. I couldn’t ask for much more.

Thank you Powell family for spending your evening with me. I loved the chance to be with all of you, and I really hope you will cherish these photos for years to come.

the ridleys: family.

I've known the Ridleys for a few years now through church and book club, and they are the best. Jennie, Alec, Ham, and little sister (also known as Betty) met me on an especially hot Denver day but the shade was kind to us (and an ice cream truck may have made an appearance at an especially helpful time). 

I love thier Southern charm and clear love for each other. Parenting two small humans is never easy, but Jennie and Alec show patience and grace and an extra side of humor to make it through together. They are such a beautiful family.

Thank you Ridleys for spending your afternoon with me. I hope you will cherish these photos for years to come.

the loyds: family.

The Loyds make you wonder how so many great people ended up in one family. I've known Jenny, Kate, Amy, and Justin for years and was so happy to meet their brother Mark and the rest of the family a couple of weeks ago.

Even though the Denver heat was in full effect and the playground was in sight, we managed to keep all the kids happy (fruit snacks may have played an important role in this). Everyone was so wonderful that I almost forgot there were 16 people who needed to be photograhed. They truly made my job easy.

Thank you Loyds for giving me the opportunity to spend the afternoon with your amazing (and growing) family. I hope your yearly family photo tradition continues for years to come.