I N I …

Julie and I were “old college buddies” at the University of Illinois. Go Fighting Illini…

When she called and told me she was expecting her 4th and wanted pictures, all I could think of was “how do you manage that chaos?” What I quickly learned is that Julie doesn’t have to manage chaos – she prevents it. I know I’ve written before about my complete awe (and total ignorance) in raising three or more kids. Actually, if I’m going to be honest with myself, I have no idea yet how to manage two, but I’m about to find out. At least with two kids you have “man-to-man defense.” When you get to three you move into “zone defense,” but four? What kind of defense is that classified under? I don’t know that it matters for Julie. She is just a natural – she’s calm, collected and appears completely under control. Wow, I wish I could say that about myself!

As you can only imagine, the scene was set for a totally fun photo shoot. Looking back on this session just makes me smile. Not only did I get an opportunity to catch-up with an old college girlfriend and swap pregnancy stories, but I got to meet and hang-out with her supremely fun kids too. We spent the morning goofing around with the kids, playing dress-up with jewelry, and laughing a lot. It was a beautiful sunny day too, so we even got to play outside too.

Julie and her family had just recently moved into a beautiful, old (Victorian??) house in downtown Wheaton. My knowledge of architectural styles is limited, so forgive me. All I know is that it felt like I had a huge studio all to myself to play in, so it was fun for me to walk around shooting. The kids were a riot and were total hams for the camera, which I always appreciate. They were quick to smile and laugh, and easy to persuade into my different “artistic ideas”. Claire, the youngest, was just the sweetest little thing. She followed around her mom and me trying on different jewelry, smiling and talking away.  I was equally impressed with her two older brothers, Miles and Grant, who seemed to dote on each other and their little sister. I couldn’t believe how sweet and kind that they all were to each other. They truly seemed to enjoy each other’s company.

Since this photo shoot Julie and her family have welcomed their newest, and fourth addition, Charlotte Rose. Congratulations! I can’t wait to meet her and take more pictures this spring!