Success in the Surprise

It was a borderline white lie. Although each carefully selected word in the text was true, it did not convey our true intentions. The message? An invite to a breakfast the morning I was supposed to be leaving for Virginia to go get my hubby from the airport. The reality? We had spent the last few days changing his return flight from Washington to get him to New York. The fun part? My brother and sister-in-law were completely in the dark. Why? It's just fun that way!

They arrived early Friday morning prepared to say goodbye to me after a light breakfast. Although in my heart I was bursting at the seams (because for one, my husband who had been gone for an entire month was not only finally home with me, he was hiding out downstairs!!) I still had to act like this was it. That after a month, I was leaving. This really was too much fun!

We all gathered around the table and prayed over the food. While no one was looking, I sent Strom his cue via text: "Come on up!" 


As everyone started reaching for strawberries and bacon, this cheerful voice came bounding up the steps! "I've got muffins!!!" Strom said as he appeared on the scene, with of course a basket of blueberry muffins! Jack and Jen just stood there in stunned silence. It was like the wind was knocked out of them! The rest of us broke into uncontrollable laughter as we watched the hilarious scene unfold.

It was in all actuality, freaking epic! We actually pulled off an insane surprise. And it was worth those borderline white lies.... :)

Our 4th on the 5th

Ah, sweet independence. Yesterday was a wonderful 4th of July celebration at my family's home. It was chill  from start to finish (with the exception of the enormous clean up from a dinner for eleven people!) and enjoyable every step of the way. 

We had with us friends from both Scotland and Mexico, which added to the pleasure of celebrating our own nation's birthday. There were hot dogs and burgers, watermelon and potato salad, silly little boys and amazing fireworks to complete a wonderful day.

I hope you enjoyed your own celebrations! 

Baby Liam Patrick

It was first announced during a BBQ last August. "And God, watch over Jen and the baby in her belly. Amen," My entire family looked up from bowed heads in stunned unison. The feeling of elation cannot even be put into words at the realization of a new addition to the family. Hugs and squeals were exchanged immediately... and then the wait began! 

Nearly eight months later, this little man arrived into the world, making my precious 2-year-old nephew, Evan, a big brother. And of course, melting all our hearts more than we could have imagined!! 

I was beyond honored to be behind the camera with little Liam Patrick. It was pure joy to capture his handsome self! Just eight days old at the time, he was a trooper! And hardly a sleeper - he wanted to be awake for the event! ;) I hope you enjoy the cuteness overload! 

 Sweet heavens, are you posing for me, my dear??

 That's a heart-melter right there!!

 I could not love this one more!! 

 Since Daddy (my big brother!) is a web app developer, graphic designer, coding extraordinaire, I thought it only fitting to bring a little of that into our session! 

 Why yes, we are a New York Yankees loving family!! Yankee Pride, my friends. Yankee Pride.

 The image on the right just might be my favorite. I'm officially in love with the little prince!

 Just precious.

 You are just killing me, Evan!! Your cuteness has no limits!

 A little Toy Story to keep things fun!

Liam, welcome to the world and to our family! I think you're going to like it here!