The Girls Next Door

Aunt A. Came to Florida!

Everybody needs a sister like my sweet A. She one of those that cooks amazingly, organizer extraordinary, a smile to cheer you up and a friend to everyone. My kids just adore her, even though it's been a year or so since we've been home, they picked up right where they left off as if time had stood still. This was her first time to Florida, we went all out, beach style.

Summer's End

I don't seem to notice just how much time has passed until I see a picture of my kids. Here they are, already five, three and one.  More older, more wiser and all walking (it's amazing, I've finally made it to that point). What will be in store for us this year?

Buddies from H.S.

It had been years since C. and J. had seen each other. They were the best of friends in high school, and nearly a decade has passed. The two of them constantly chitter chattered as if time stood still.  They enjoyed every moment of each other's company and I had a blast being behind the lens snapping away.

Cool in the Pool

Keeping Them Busy

Little A. was just full of smiles on most days and was just a sweetheart during this quick photo shoot. It was windy as can be, the sun was setting but we ended up getting some great shots of A. and his parents.

Beach Buddies

Happy 4th of July!

My favorite holiday of all times, the Fourth of July. Apart from the rich history, sacrifice, fireworks and celebration, one of my favorite parts is finding matching dresses for my girls.  It usually works out perfectly, they are only two years apart in age.  The 4th of July is exactly the mid point of their birthday's.  I so prayed for my oldest to come early on the 4th (but she came two weeks later) and my second baby girl came two weeks before.  So the 4th is their mid-birthday.  
S. picked some flowers from our front yard to share with me.  Tonight we are going to the Navarre Beach pier to spend time with family and maybe stay up late to watch the fireworks.  We've never really stayed up for them before since the kids have been born, maybe this year we will make it past bedtime.

Patriotic Duo

Two of my favorite boys, handsome as can be in their matching red, white and blue ties.  Believe it or not I bought this tie set for my nephew and brother-in-law 8 years ago.  Sweet Aunt A. mailed them to me recently.  Makes me smile, this holiday is my absolute favorite....have I mentioned that before?

Happy Day to Miss E.....She's Three!

Three, Miss E. is no longer my baby anymore. When did this happen?

A Little Friend Following Us On Our Walk

I just love butterflies. I can remember the moment I found out at a young age of 5 or 6 that my name (Vanessa) means butterfly in Greek. They have some of the most brilliant colors. We have a Butterfly House in Navarre, we've been here almost two years and have not yet visited. Something on the To-Do list this year: Butterfly House.

Pike Place Market, Seattle

I am a Seattle girl, not born or raised there but that's where I call home. We've had a few generations of family live in that area, and luckily Aunt A. and her family have started roots there. Every time we come in town we head for Pike Place Market. It's the best  market!

Three Summer Birthday's + Bouncy House = FUN!

Happy Birthday Bryce!

the Pacific Northwest, Lake Wilderness

Sunrise at Lake Sawyer Washington

Curled Up With A Good Book

Jump Ginger, Jump!

Long Airplane Ride from Pensacola to Seattle

Navarre Beach: True Love

Got to Love Sticky Rice