tug and the demateo family: family portrait shoot

It was about a year ago that Tug was introduced to the DeMateos. As a response to God's calling on their home, Sarah and Matt became a "Safe Family". Ready for the call at any point in time, they prepared for God to knock on their door in the form of a little one. It wasn't too long after this process that the call came and there was a beautiful baby boy who needed a short-term place to stay while his mom was getting some things in order. Tug's jovial spirit instantly filled their home with adventure and laughter. After a short time, Tug stayed with another safe family, but their relationship with him and his mother continued. A few weeks ago the call came again and the DeMateos were ready with open arms. Tug has been such a wonderful and well-loved addition to our church family and it has not only been my pleasure to hang out with this little guy on a few different occasions, but also document a bit of his relationship with the DeMateos. Matt and Sarah, you guys are such an encouragement to me and to so many others in our church who have also opened their door as "safe families" throughout the years. Praise God for your obedience, your flexibility and for being conduits of His love to this amazing little guy.
Praying for you all!

crystal and bri: family portrait shoot

This past Monday I had the pleasure of baking cupcakes, reading stories and playing peek-a-boo with Crystal and Brianna at my home in celebration of Crystal's birthday! I was first introduced to Crystal through my dear friend Liz who had gotten to know her through the Urban Life Skills mentoring program. After years of journeying together through highs and lows, Liz and Crystal have developed a deep relationship of nurture and respect. It has been such a blessing for me to pray for these two women and to see how God is using them in each-other's lives to bring them joy and to bring Him glory. It has also been such an encouragement for me to see Crystal press through to finish school, obtain a job, and by the grace of God still have the peace and strength necessary to raise her absolutely precious little girl. Crystal, you are such a strong, brave, and beautiful mother. Please know that you always have a community who loves and supports you through thick and thin. We're praying for you as you courageously raise, serve, and love on Brianna! Many blessings and happy birthday!

the torres family: monday mini-session

This past Monday I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with the Torres family. What an encouragement it was to hang out in this beautiful home- being around girls who love to wrestle and dance to Gangnam Style in tutus, and parents who encourage their children to look for God in their daily lives around the dinner table. You guys are amazing! I am so honored to be a part of your community and to learn from your examples. Manny and Jazmin, it is so clear that your fasting and prayers have been answered in your children and in your marriage as I watch your girls grow up into free women of God who know they are loved in their unique personalities. I pray that your home continues to be filled with laughter and joy and that you may all grow in the knowledge of God's love for each and every one of you as He spreads His mark on your lives like crema on a tostada. Mwa.

jessica and the girls: family portrait shoot

Jessica, what a blast it was to finally be able to hang out with you and your girls! You are such an amazing mother, it is so clear that you have relied on the Lord's help to raise your beautiful twins right! You women are full of so much joy, love, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness and self-control. Praise God for His fruits that are so evident in your lives! I hope you all have a wonderful spring break filled with laughter, joy and adventure, and may God continue to equip you to be the amazing women of God that He has called you to be. Much love!

the buehler family: family portrait shoot

 

It has been over a year and a half since I took pictures with the Buehler family when Zack was four months old! Now, he is going on two years and has a new little brother who is turning four months! It is so amazing to see the boys grow up so fast, as it feels like just yesterday when they were each born! Thank you for allowing me to document your family as you learn and grow together, and may the Lord continue to give you His wisdom as you raise two strong boys for Him! Happy Spring!