Amy and her adorable family were just amazing a their beach session! I did ask her to meet me at 8am, which I know is early to have your family ready, but the lighting was so yummy! And in return, I did volunteer to carry my huge yellow wingback chair and chandelier all the way out to pier…it was quite the site It certainly got a lot of attention! As you can see – they just had fun..and many thanks to grandma for coming too – so all children were kept safe during the session! Amy is a photographer who lives in Texas, but grew up in Grand Haven….and as well as I know, it is so fabulous to actually be IN pictures with your children, so I truly hope you cherish the images we captured Amy!!

a little update + thanks….

a bit ago…I presented a story to you about my precious and dear friends Matt + Lindsey DeYoung. Who a less than a year ago, sold everything they had, and moved to Africa to serve full time. Then were forced, months later to return to the US, with nothing but an overnight bag….to seek immediate treatment for their 5yr old daughter Lola, who’s body had been overtaken by Leukemia. She couldn’t even walk on her own. We immediately started a fundraiser for their family, to help get them back on their feet. YOU and hundreds of others who didn’t even know this family…GAVE. Our goal was $10,000 in 2 weeks…you did that in 4 days….and in two weeks time, raised $14,000 total. THIS IS AMAZING! YOU are amazing! Well, now, Lola is officially in her first remission, and cancer free. She still has so far to go. Matt + Lindsey are at the hospital on at least a weekly basis and will definitely be their regularly for the next 3 years. Lindsey’s blog is amazing, and if you’re interested in reading more, please **click here**

But, recently Lola has been feeling more like “herself” -which I might add is THE most polite child I have ever met! I asked Lindsey, “Why don’t we take some new family pics?!” So….I was thrilled to enjoy a visit with Matt, Lindsey, Lola + Kia….and snap some pics as well. They were adorable. Matt + Lindsey have been just amazing through all of this. They have chosen JOY…from day 1…and recently when talking with them heard something profound. While reflecting on the past few months and their journey….Matt says to me, “If it weren’t for the last year, we would not be able to handle what we’re going through right now, the same way. We’re different people today than we were a year ago.” ….seeing God’s plan when most others are wondering what in the world He’s doing with the DeYoung’s. THAT is who the DeYoung’s are. I am SO honored to somehow be apart of their story….and was so glad to capture some of that spirit in these images below…..

*LOLA*

*KIA*

** We even got a few of the two lovebirds **

I adore the Pottenger’s…..and their daughter Lexi has been so much fun to photograph, so I was not surprised that her new brother Max was equally as adorable….and thank you Amy for his adorable outfit, or lack of should I say I LOVE his rolls. *just a few for fun..

This is THE most adorable family!! And the bow tie + hat – really????? I was in love Enjoy your preview!! More weddings coming soon!