This is it. This is what I want my calendar to be filled with next year. Joy and intimacy. Family homes. Your kids all together whether you do it every Sunday, or you haven’t seen them in months, or in this case, years. The essence of a family is something so meaningful to me.

I don’t want to wish my children growing too fast but I cannot wait to have them gathered in my home someday, to see the character I helped build, to see their flourishing relationships knowing I helped set the foundational stones for them, the laughter and simplicity of just being when you are in a home that feels safe. My refrigerator will forever be covered in too many Cards and photos, my walls will forever have too much art on them, my kitchen will most likely, always be a mess.

I felt so inspired being in the Hughes home. It was like I saw everything I want to build for my future in front of my eyes. I saw their effortless bond. I saw their childhoods juxtaposed with their adulthood all wrapped up on one kitchen counter over a tray of freshly baked cookies. They had beautiful gardens and sculptures. Further evidence that their lives are full of intent. This was one of my favorite sessions of the summer. I hope you enjoy viewing it as much as I do. This is the art I love to create.