I knew I would like her the minute I met her.

I met Shannon, and her husband Kyler, at our first Bradley Birthing Class last year.  We both had first babies due that fall, and were there to learn more about natural childbirth.  Shannon made a few comments during the class about different books and studies she had read, and my eyes brightened…I think this girl may be a fellow “Research Hound” like me!  I probably spent 5 hours per day, every day, for the entirety of my pregnancy reading, learning, asking-about, and researching every possible aspect of pregnancy, childbirth, and raising and baby.  Just picking out a proper car seat was a month-long affair for me, so the thought of another Mommy being even half as *crazy* as I am made me believe we were somehow kindred spirits.  Sure enough, Chris and I got to know them throughout the 12 weeks of the class, and once our babies were born (about 5 weeks apart), we provided a little moral support for one another during those rough months.  They are absolutely *amazing* parents and little Makenzie is seriously (SERIOUSLY) one of the most beautiful little girls I have ever seen.  That’s why I was beyond thrilled to have the opportunity of shooting their family in order to celebrate Makenzie turning 1.

This is Makenzie showing us how old she is…

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We started out our session at their house, so I could capture a bit of their day-to-day life.  Makenzie and her daddy have a favorite book for story time.  How cute are they?

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We headed out to Maymont. It is so beautiful there.  It was a great place to spend a fall day.

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Shannon and Kyler are expecting their second baby (another little girl!) in January.  They are *such* amazing parents.  This next baby has no idea how much lovin’ she is in for.

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I love this next one.  Seriously, how beautiful is this…

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Makenzie just started walking.  Mommy and Daddy are obviously VERY proud…

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Makenzie and her daddy have this very special bond, and since she was very small, whenever he carries her she holds onto his hair.  It’s their ‘thing’, and it’s precious…

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Thank you, Shannon and Kyler for allowing me to document just a little of your lives, and the love you all have for each other.

Hugs,

~Jewels