baby darryl: newborn shoot

Last Wednesday I had the opportunity to spend the morning with this little stud and his mother. Darryl Johnson Jr. or DJ for short is not only absolutely adorable and a joy to be around, but a gift from God. As I watched this little guy fight the tiredness of his own body, he spoke gospel truth to me. Recently I have been thinking about how so many of us this advent season are fighting just the thing that we need most for our health and well being, peace. As Shavell and I finally got DJ to surrender and shut his eyes, it was so clear that he was at ease with his physical state, resting in the arms of his mother. May DJ be a reminder to us this season that we are most at peace when we allow ourselves to be fully vulnerable in the presence of our heavenly father/mother. Merry Christmas and congratulations Shavell!

baby emma: newborn shoot

This past Monday, six days after her birth, I had the joy of celebrating the addition of Miss Emma Madison to the Buehler family! What a precious little gift who not only is the recipient of two amazing God serving parents, but also two excited, protective, and very gentle big brothers. Emma's first name comes from the word Emmanuel, which means "God with us". It is followed by her middle name Madison, which is the place in Wisconsin where not only Matt and Nicole met, fell in-love and got married, but also where they both felt God become real to them. This little girl is a long awaited answer-to-prayer in this family and I am so excited to see how God moves in and throughout our community in the form of this little one. Praise God for a safe delivery and congratulations Buehlers on your beautiful baby girl! Peace and rest to all, if at all possible :).

liz and epi: first trimester maternity shoot

Liz and Epi are some of my closest friends and so I was totally stoked when I picked up Liz from the airport and she had a sneaking suspicion. We walked into Walgreen's,  purchased a pregnancy test and she told me that she would text me to let me know if it was it was for real this time. Suspicions were confirmed, and indeed the Diaz's are expecting their first child on May 20th, 2014! It feels like just yesterday that Liz was my roommate, let alone they got married! My how time flies and the Lord has continued to bless their relationship through the highs and lows that this past year has brought. I am so excited to see these two beautiful people raise Little D in a Christ-centered-servant-hearted home. Not to mention that I am a little excited to be the primary tia Amy that this child thinks of, ha :). Congratulations Liz and Epi! I am so honored to walk with you guys through this new season of life! Praying for you Little D :).

the miekley family: portrait shoot

Nate and Shauna, what a blast it was to be able to celebrate baby Logan as the newest member of your family and Charlie's third birthday with you all last weekend! It has been such a privilege to watch your family and faith grow as the Lord takes you on a journey of His heart in service on the Westside of Chicago. You guys have blessed so many young people in our neighborhood and I am excited to see the legacy that you are clearly leaving behind for your children. May God continue to strengthen you for the future that only He can see and may you continue to trust in His goodness as you raise your children with the love and strength that only He can give. You guys rock!

the barrios family: family portrait shoot

It's been over three and a half years since Ellen and Bernardo's engagement, followed by their wedding, Mateo's second month of life, and now we are approaching on his second year of life. Man, time flies and this kid is getting huge and adventurous! What a blessing it has been to walk (and sometimes run) along side this family as not only a photographer, but also as a friend. I have learned so much from their vulnerability, wet kisses, counter-tops and cappuccinos, bravery, impromptu trips, generosity and most importantly their understanding of God's grace. Ellen and Bernardo, you guys are such amazing people. It is so encouraging to see you work so hard at choosing to bathe Mateo in mercy as you build and define your family and the way that you will love your kids. Praying for you all even now as you travel last minute to the other side of the world to see God at work and pray about what he may have in store for you all as you listen with obedience and expectancy.