THE STEWART FAMILY || JOY AND LIGHT

It was pretty clear from the moment they stepped out of the car that this little girl brings this family so much light, and has them all wrapped around her little finger. She was the sweetest, most adorable girl the whole time, and she was very cooperative while we were doing this photo shoot. Most of the shots were centered around her, and she was such a good listener. We weren't sure how long she would last - you know how kids can be, especially when you really want them to cooperate, but she did a great job and we got SO many great photos. I had such a hard time choosing my favorites from this photo shoot.

I know that this family has had it's fair share of struggles. I know they have had health issues and pain and just really hard times. But, you wouldn't know it when you meet them, they are so positive, happy and full of light. They make you feel special and important. I loved watching them together, I loved seeing how much they all care about each other and how much they cherish being together as a family.

I know from my own personal experiences that going through hard times, and struggling together makes you stronger and more united. I find this to be true of the Stewart family. Thank you Dawn for letting me capture your family. You should be very proud of each one of your children and in-laws. They bring light and joy to all those they meet. I am blessed to know you and your children, keep doing what you are doing. Keep cheering them on to be their best and know that I am inspired by your love, your strength and your light.

8 IS GREAT!!

Eight is considered the age of accountability and once you are eight, you are able to choose to be baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It is a special day. The ordinance of baptism is performed as you are dressed all in white. It's a day that most children can't wait for and one of the first big celebrations in their life.

After we took some family pictures {see this post} I was so excited that I got to take Brookie's baptism pictures. She changed into this adorable, white dress and her cute pink curls bounced on her shoulders, she even got to wear fancy jewelry for this special occasion. While we were taking the pictures, Heather told me that this is the dress that Brookie's great-grandma wore after her wedding reception, to leave for her honeymoon. - and no, they didn't alter it, she was really that small!! What a special memory for their family. What a treasure to be able to have this dress and to be able to have a connection to her great-grandma. 

Congratulations on your decision to be baptized Brookie. I really wish I could be there with you on your special day - dang living so far away - I am so proud of you and can't wait to see all the amazing things you do!!

Love you lots and lots,

Aunt Libby

THE MCDONALD FAMILY

Today should be a day of celebrating. A day of anticipation and wonder. It is the due date of Brett and Heather's angel baby, Bronson. He was born sleeping on May 30th, during a very difficult time for our family.  And, sometimes I wonder why we have so many trials, why some of us have so much pain and so many burdens to bear?  And as I watch these two with their other 3 children and I see how much they love them and what great parents they are, I wonder why they didn't get the opportunity to raise their other two sons. They have another angel baby, Brayden, who is also in heaven.

I don't have any answers to the questions of life - man, I wish I did sometimes - but, I do know that we are watched over, that we have guardian angels all around us. I know that we were put in families on this earth to love and support each other. I know that we are given the children we are supposed to have for a reason. I know that these two sweet boys are waiting in heaven with Grandma Cindy to be re-united with their family for all eternity. I know that God is good. I know that He is a God of miracles and that we have to trust in Him and His plan, always!!

These pictures were taken on the temple grounds of the Provo City Center Temple, I believe that through the promises and covenants we make inside these holy temples, we are sealed to our families forever. That death only separates us for a time and that we will all be re-united one day and live together for eternity. So today, I celebrate with joy, I know that I will be with my loved ones again. I know that we WILL be Together Forever. The peace this brings me is one of my greatest blessings.

Brett and Heather, I love you both so much, your kids are so dang cute and your family is growing so fast. Enjoy every crazy moment!! - It really does go SO fast!!