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 buehler family: family portrait shoot

A couple weeks ago I was able to visit once again with the Buehler family. This time we ventured out to the Garfield Park Conservatory with its fountains, rocks, plants and pathways. No longer a newborn, it was exciting to see how much baby Emma had developed into a beautiful little girl that could interact with the world around her. The Buehler Family is now officially in full force with three active and curious little ones! Praise God for moments like these where we are able to quiet ourselves, even for just a moment to create memories and be present with those we love! Matt and Nicole, you guys are truly blessed with a beautiful family. May you continue to find grace, love and joy in your home as you seek God's face, wisdom, and strength to bring your children up in His ways. 

Much  love and encouragement! Praying for you all!

baby ruby: newborn shoot

Last Monday I had the honor of celebrating the birth of baby Ruby with her parents and adorable older brother. I have know Ruby's parents for some time now and it has been such a privilege to celebrate a number of momentous occasions in their relationship including a maternity shoot from their first child! This new season however has brought the life of this beautiful baby girl into their home and man is she stunning. Ruby,  it is so clear that your parents love you  very much and that you are going to have an awesome older brother to teach you how to tie your shoes, read books, jump off of things and most importantly follow after God! Lord, cover this beautiful bundle of joy with your love as she grows and learns Your truth from her physical and spiritual family. 

Many blessings baby Ruby and congratulations Amanda and Jimmy!

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.