Kylie's baby shower

I met Kylie in college. I don't remember our first meeting, but I enjoyed getting to know her and becoming good friends throughout our years in college. Kylie and I were both teacher ed. majors, and we student taught at the same time. What I remember most about our time student teaching was that we'd get together for meals together - sometimes it was breakfast at IHOP, sometimes dinner at Taco Bell (I know, we were livin' large!). And throughout those meals shared, I recall Kylie's heart, her desire to know how I was doing, and her dedication to encouraging me and truly being a dear friend.

Ky and I have continued to keep in touch since college. One summer while she was nannying, we talked early in the mornings as we drove to work. And while we didn't ever seem to have earth-shattering things to say to each other, I valued those conversations so much. Kylie continues to encourage me with her care for my life. She is an incredible teacher, a caring wife, and is about to become a mom. I was overjoyed when she shared her news with me about becoming a mom.

This past weekend, a number of Kylie's college friends attended a shower for her. It was so great to spend time with Kylie, and hear of her excitement in becoming a new mom!

Kylie, I am so excited for you and Ben. I am so glad I was able to be at your shower and spend even a little bit of time with you.

And belly makes three...

Everything was set. The day, the time, the meeting place. Then came the phone call the night before: "Have you checked the weather? We could get 2-6 inches of snow tomorrow." Ahh! But with a quick change, the maternity shoot with Karen and Mike would happen the day after it was supposed to, and the fresh snowfall would make for a lovely session with some wonderful friends, who are expecting their first baby.

I don't think I will ever forget how they told me they were expecting. I got a text message from Mike at the end of the summer with something like the following: So we're wondering if you do newborn photography, because we'll be needing a photographer around March." I immediately called Mike -- didn't text back -- and whispered, "Are you at work?" to which Mike whispered back, "No".... I don't know why I was whispering. So when I realized I could use my normal voice, instead I screamed... "Karen is PREGNANT!!!???"

Karen is due in a few weeks and has that "glow" about her....I loved the blue sweater she chose, and especially love the shot below with the yellow. We drove to nearby Doylestown, PA and found this beautiful historical museum -- a perfect backdrop for a lot of the pics. They were troopers walking through the snow and especially Karen, removing her jacket each time we found a new spot.

Afterward, we went to Chickie's and Pete's for a delicious dinner and some riveting football on the big screens. Karen and Mike -- thanks for spending the afternoon with me. I will be anxiously awaiting the news of Baby Boy Smiley's arrival in a few weeks.