The Real Gifts In Our Lives | NJ Lifestyle Photography

As a child, you want the coolest toy, the newest gadget, and the biggest, shiniest box sitting under the tree.  As you grow older, you come to realize that the best gifts aren't toys, gadgets, or material objects that could fit in a box.  They don't come with a price tag, and can't be bought in stores.  The real gifts in our lives are our loved ones, the moments we share, and the every day miracles that happen.  They are the conversations where we learn about ourselves and those closest to us.  The times we laugh so hard, our faces and stomachs hurt.  The quiet, warm embraces that calm us & express love without words.    

This holiday season, Maria & Joe took some time to create more memories with their growing family (and baby #2 on board!)  There was lots of laughing, kissing -their dog Gizmo included-, a little crying, and even a shoe that went floating down the creek (which made for a bit of adventure and something to look back on & laugh at).  Here is their Christmas Maternity session, celebrating the gift of marriage, family, and their daughter(s).  

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Season's Greetings, Buon Natale!  And this year when thinking of New Year's resolutions, I encourage you to spend time every day reflecting on the daily gifts you have & receive and being grateful for them.  It is easier to be thankful during the holidays, but when you fill your life with appreciation, it will change in the best way.  :)  xoxo       

To Love & To Cherish... | Corey & Andrew's Vow Renewal

 

Wedding vows are not just words that are recited to our soon-to-be spouses, but promises.  Promises of commitment and of love to one another, in good times and bad.  This special couple was married one year ago and decided to renew the vows they made to each other.  It was heartwarming to witness their ceremony as they reflected on their year and how they have done so far (with a few laughs of course!)  Its easy to see the love that shines from them as they exchange glances, smiles, giggles & kisses.  

Corey & Andrew, thank you for allowing me to capture those intimate moments & congratulations (again)!

 
 

Lilies & Pearls... 30 Years Later, She's Still His Girl

30 years ago, Macintosh revealed their first computer, Bill Murray & friends taught us who to call in Ghostbusters, Transformer toys made their appearance in stores for the first time, and Kevin Bacon danced his way into our hearts in Footloose.

30 years ago, two people madly in love decided to take the next step in their relationship, got married and started a family.  Donna & Frank just celebrated that special 30th Wedding Anniversary together and even 30 years later, we can tell the love you have for each other still shines so bright.  He smirks at her corny jokes, and she occasionally lets him know he's right.  They still laugh and act silly like a couple of teenagers, smitten with each other.  

So here's to you, lovebirds, and the next 30 years.  Congratulations! xo

A little behind the scenes....

When preparing for a photoshoot, especially newborns, it is important to communicate details and expectations about the session before-hand.  This includes everything from keeping the baby warm, happy, tired & full, to being prepared for outfit changes, clean up & accidents. 

Ironically, just before Gianna's newborn session, we had joked around about the image that is circulating the internet currently of the newborn baby that was so relaxed, he relieved himself on Dad (found here).  We thought it was funny and shared stories of babies doing such things.  

Well, about an hour into the session, the same thing happened to us!  While I have been present and shooting while a newborn did this, I haven't captured it quite like this before.

Another bonus shot we got during this session was when the family dog, Gizmo, decided he wanted to be in the photo and give his new sister a few kisses mid shoot.  She is quickly getting used to him doing this ;)

 
 

Totally unexpected, yet the beautifully funny side of life. <3

Sweet Perfection...

7 pounds, 19.5 inches, 10 fingers, 10 toes, 2 eyes & 1 nose.  August 29th at 8:33pm this bundle of joy entered the world with a full head of hair and her hand already tightly gripped around our hearts.

Meet Gianna Elizabeth - the name Gianna is Italian and means God is gracious.  This sweet baby encompasses God's grace perfectly.  If you have seen the post Maria & Joe's Maternity, then you have already seen her loving parents.  

However, it is truly a beautiful sight to see two people who have just become first time parents and the look of wonder, amazement, and love that dances across their faces when they lay eyes on their baby girl.  For me, seeing my strong, determined, outdoorsy older brother turn into mush when his daughter coos or smiles or just simply looks up at him is enough to melt my heart EVERY. time.  And to see my smart, independent, caring sister take on motherhood with full force and make it seem easy (even though I know it is far from it!)  I am so happy and proud of both of you, and could not love the sweet perfection that is my niece, Gianna, any more than I do.  <3

 

 

 
 
 
 

Did I mention that we are all big football fans?  Joe is Greenbay Packers fan, Maria is a New York Giants fan, and Gianna - well, she'll get there...  ;)