Our Summer Family Photos

Summer has always been my absolute favorite time of the year. Between sunshine, traveling, and time off as a teacher, what's not to like? This summer has not disappointed. Even as a family of three, we've still gone on adventures, visited the pool, and made lots of lasting memories. I'd say this first summer as a mama has been sweeter than ever, and watching Eli grow and change and explore the world with us has been a true joy.

It's amazing how quickly Eli has changed since his newborn photos! You may follow along with his monthly updates in my recap posts, but in case you don't he is already four and a half months old and is growing like a weed. I was SO excited to capture this age with some new family photos, and jumped at the chance to work with my amazing friend Sarah of Sarah Longmore Photography. I met Sarah through a mutual friend a few years ago, and had the honor of leading YoungLife with her. I can truly say that she is such a sweet person and friend and I am so in love with these photos that capture cute and silly moments with our little man.

We set out to take some photos at the park near our home. Of course, it was June in Kansas City, so it was pushing ninety and the bugs were out. We weren't sure how Eli would do, but we knew we had about an hour to work with! He was true to baby form, with photos that capture his drool, his smile, and his natural curiosity.

 I'm wondering if our little blue-eyed boy will stay blue-eyed. Sometimes when his pupils are less dilated, I see a little circle of brownish-green in the middle. My eyes are hazel and have the same circle, so I'm curious to see if he will stay blue-eyed with the colored ring in the middle, or if his eyes will change. Any guesses?

 Towards the end of the shoot, Eli was starting to get a little restless, and started staring up at distractions around us. His newfound love for sucking on his hand meant that Mommy and Daddy were having to pull it away from his mouth. And so we ended up with a few photos like this.

 I love these photos because they capture a real glimpse of parenting and being a young family. To me that "real" is messy and beautiful and oh so fun. There are times when Eli cries or makes life more challenging, but overall this season is silly and fun and I love navigating through it with my amazing husband. I love my boys.

If you're in the Kansas City area and are looking for some great photos, be sure to check out Sarah Longmore Photography! Sarah is fabulous to work with. You can also find her on Facebook and Instagram! 

If you'd like to check out more of my posts on Motherhood, including the popular post Nine Reasons I'm Afraid to Have a Baby, click here. You can also follow along with me on Instagram. Thanks for stopping by!

Currently,
Kelsie