Downtown Phoenix, Roosevelt Row Family Photo Shoot

"525,600 minutes, 525,000 moments so dear.

525,600 minutes - how do you measure, measure a year?

In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights, in cups of coffee.

In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.

In 525,600 minutes - how do you measure a year in the life?

How about love? How about love? How about love? Measure in love.

Seasons of love.”

-Seasons of Love, Rent

Man, this song always fills my soul. 

It’s funny how our worlds really do work in seasons.  Seasons that we may have expected and seasons that we didn’t see coming.  Seasons that we don’t see with definitive beginnings and ends until the time has already shifted.  Seasons that are insanely challenging, and seasons where the world falls into a peaceful and glorious lull around us.  

I’ve learned in parenting that as much as I want to control the ever-shifting world around me, the reality is that all I can do is respond to it.  I can’t take away my child’s tears, but I can be present for them during their struggle.  I can’t prevent the milk from spilling all over the floor, but I can take a breath and help clean it up. 

I can ask for help.  I can take time away.  I can embrace the chaos and mess.  I can cry and laugh.  I can look at the photos on the wall of my family and remember that in each wonderful and crazy season I am in, I am part of one incredible love story.

Whatever the season you are experiencing right now, I want you to use the time during your family photo shoot to slow down; to connect; to laugh; to snuggle; to say hi to your partner again. 

I know that life is chaotic and that you are busting your butts as parents.  I see the incredible job you’re doing and it’s my job to show you the incredible love story you are creating.

Are you ready to embrace this time and preserve it forever?