A few weekends ago, I had the pleasure of snuggling the most adorable little baby girl. She’s the newest addition to a family near and dear to our heart. The father in this family and my husband go back many years, having gone to Loyola High School together. Throughout the years, these guys have stood next to each other throughout many of life’s greatest milestones. The best ones being him adding all these fabulous girls to his family – first his wife, then their first daughter and now, baby sis.

This little one’s got the best cheeks (I just want to eat ‘em up!) and cute little rolls, reminding me so much of her older sister when her sis was that age. Just a few I wanted to share of Baby Kaia.

Kaia, in an outfit from her auntie. This should make auntie smile, yes?

Here are the two sisters, side by side, both of them at four months old:

And here’s big sister today:

She’s grown up so much! You can see pics of her at eight weeks, four months and six months. (Looks like I forgot to blog her one year pics.)

M & JJ, enjoy your sweet girls at this precious stage! Erich and I look forward to celebrating the girls’ milestones throughout their lifetimes as well. xoxo

Whenever we get together, there’s typically a glass of wine or a golf club in our hands. But not this weekend. (Well, not on Saturday at least … On Friday? Hmmmm, there may or may not have been some alcoholic drinks and golf clubs in the mix.) But the point is: On Saturday, I got to spend time with this couple in a new setting. With their kiddos. At the beach. And what a great time we had!

As soon as their feet hit the sand, the flip flops few off and this adorable family was off running around, playing tag and silly games, enjoying each other’s company in a gorgeous setting. I was just along for the ride, ready to capture the beauty of it all.

Some of my favorite moments are from afar. When I can’t hear what the family’s saying and when I have no idea what they’re about to do. But from their body language and laughter, I know that they are bonding and having fun. Just being themselves. Those are often the images that speak to me most and feel so special.

I know from experience that mom and dad are a fun loving couple. We always laugh and have a great time when we’re out. Always lots to talk about and so many things to share a laugh over. But what I really enjoyed on Saturday was having the opportunity to witness the adoration and affection these children have for their parents. It’s clear that there is no shortage of love in this family.

Witness a quiet moment shared between father and son:

Behold a lively moment between mother and daughter:

I had a tough time narrowing down my selections for the blog but in the end, I decided to leave you with this family shot. It took us several tries — the water was cold — but I hope you’ll agree the freezing feet were worth it!