‘Not flesh of my flesh,

Or bone of my bone,

But heart of my heart,

And soul of my soul.’

-David McNeely

It’s been a while since a client has kept me on my toes as well as big sister did! You could find her picture next to the word ‘Independent’ in the dictionary. I loved her energy, huge smile, and uncontrollable laugh! She will no doubt be a fun big sister to their newest family member, Emma Grace. I’m told these beautiful girls are the first girls in a couple generations on dad’s side, so you can imagine grandma is having a field day with the girly shopping! 🙂

I love watching the little ones grow up. I met Benton last year when he turned one. He brought his red ball with him that time, and had so much fun throwing it and chasing it! I just fell in love with his smile and spunk. 🙂

This is him at his one year session…

And this is him now. Simply adorable!

At just 8 days old little James made the long trip from Springfield, MO down to my studio in Rogers, AR. Mom said he travelled great! We did a little bit more classic newborn session, pretty laid back. I really loved this. And just like most dad’s that come in for newborn sessions, this dad headed next door to The Rail Pizza and brought back some lunch. 🙂

I remember the day mom contacted me. She was early in her pregnancy, but frantically trying to find a birth photographer. She told me she just wasn’t able to find anyone in her area, which surprised me since she’s in a larger area than I am. Springfield is 2 hours from me, which was a big concern for us both. We talked a lot about her pregnancy, the real possibility that I wouldn’t get there in time, and above all her deep desire to have me there. Since this will most likely be their only child she had told me that it was as important to her that I get there as it was for her husband to be there. They had driven down so we could meet and chat this past summer, making sure we were all compatible together. I instantly liked her! She is honest, straight to the point and funny! We decided to go ahead and take on this baby boy’s birth. I’ve never been so nervous before as I was when the due date approached. I had been sleeping with my phone underneath my pillow at night when I got a text just before 4am. She thought she was in labor and headed to the hospital. Turns out she was in the early stages of labor, but still only at a 1cm so they sent her home. I got everything ready and took a shower, then a long nap…just in case. I got another text that afternoon at about 3pm. She was definitely in labor and I headed out. When I arrived 2 hours later she was just past a 5cm! Mom did so great and little James was born on August 2nd, 2013 at 11:04pm. He was just 6lbs & 14oz, 20.25 inches long. He had a full, and I mean FULL head of gorgeous hair!

Welcome to the world James Campbell! Your mommy and daddy are over the moon with you!

The last time I got to photograph this family their youngest was just starting school. These girls have grown up to be the loveliest young ladies. Mom and dad should be so proud. 🙂