a year of anna...

I could write a book about this sweet baby of mine. This time last year, I was snuggling the three hour old bundle of fresh, teeny, preciousness. A little girl we had not planned for, but she was meant just for us...and a life without her is something I can't even imagine. I was chatting with family on the weekend about this past year, and raising baby number three. I was feeling a little sad, and emotional about her impending birthday, and knowing that she is my last baby. The difference with Anna, is that I finally seemed to get it with her. Not that there wasn't tired days, or small frustrations, but the overall feeling that marks her first year is JOY. All the unknowns and hesitancies as a first and even second time parent seemed to disappear. My schedule was loosened, my mind more relaxed, and my baby...so loved. Instead of worrying about timing, and feedings and all the details, I was free to enjoy...and I SO enjoyed this year. The reason this post wasn't written last night, is because my birthday gal woke up at 9:30pm crying and sick...and I got to snuggle her to sleep. I can count on one hand the number of times I have been able to do that in the last 6 months (little miss likes her bed only), and though I hated that she was sick, I loved being able to snuggle her little sleeping body that is usually non-stop on the move. A little gift for this mama.

 

Here is a peek back at our year getting to know this precious little girl that completes our family so perfectly. Happy Birthday, my sweet Anna Grace....I love you so....

 

{her one year portraits below...party pics to follow sometime soon}

jake + maisie {pitt meadows wedding photography}

 

We met Maisie and Jake for the first time on the morning of their wedding day. The fact that we hadn't spoken face to face, didn't affect my knowledge that this would probably be one of my favourite weddings of the summer. From emails, pictures and texts with the super sweet Maisie, I knew this girl shared an extremely similar vision of what a dream wedding looked like. There was an amazing vintage, yet fresh feel to the day...but trumping style and details there was joy. It oozed from this couple   in an unmistakable way;  joy in their faith, joy in this day, joy in their love.

{i absolutely love maisie's unique opal engagement ring...so perfect for her!}

{beautiful garter, handmade by her sister}

{maisie wore her mother's wedding gown...so special to see this moment between mother and daughter}

{tears and smile filled the room as maisie presented a personal gift to each of her bridesmaids...something that perhaps they had their eye on, something that suited them perfectly, something that showed what a thoughtful bride they were attending that day)

{as the girls were finishing up, steve met with jake and the guys to capture the final moments before the ceremony}

{the ceremony was held at the South Bonson Community Center...so many pretty details here}

{so happy to be husband and wife}

{after a few photos at the venue, we drove into Pitt Meadows for a different location}

{although we weren't covering the reception, jake + maisie invited us as their guests, and I couldn't help taking a few shots of all the loveliness}

Jake + Maisie ~ It was a blessing to be a part of your wedding day. We were encouraged by your kindness, hospitality, your love for the Lord and each other. Thank you for the honour of being your wedding photographers!