The 631st is a National Guard group based out of Camp Blanding. I was asked to come out to the base and take a group photo, sure thing, no problem. Another photographer and myself arrived to find 200 military women and men in full fatigues ready for their photo debut at 10 am. Let’s just say this was my largest group shot to date. Don’t forget that this is Florida, it was hooootttt and the sun was beating down on us.  It was an interesting experience, but good.

I have to mention that my dear husband, Clay was my assistant for the day. He was amazing. This was his first time helping me on an actual shoot.  We can actually work together, my Mom would be so proud…

In all seriousness this was a moving experience for me. No matter what your opinion might be of our government’s choices we all have to agree on how much we appreciate what these men and women do for our country. I had the pleasure of meeting the Doyons, one of many wonderful families. The father is in the National Guard, one of his son’s is in the Army and another in the Marines. What a contribution and a sacrifice they make for each of us. 

I told this sweet little girl that she and her Grandpa were going to be on my blog and I’m not one to break a promise. Please remember our military and their families in your prayers. ~Shannon

Driving to St. Augustine for this adventure, I just kept hoping that the rain would hold off and the wind would subside.  The rain did stay away however the wind did not let up. But with Miss “M” and her mommy, Holly I knew this was going to be fun. I got to the condo, one of the first things I saw was the little princess wearing her patriotic bikini, smiling and having the best time with both her Grandmas.  We had done pictures just a couple of months before and I knew that along with those gorgeous blue eyes  was a smile that would melt your heart.

So off we went to the beach. The moment Miss “M” touched the sand I remembered what a 9 month old was all about… Wonder and exploration! Boy did she ever explore:  the sand, the water even the  grass on the dunes. She might not be crawling but I’m positive she investigated everything that was within her grasp.   With my youngest being 4 and having outgrown that stage it was a lot of fun to share that experience with this mommy and daughter. Holly joked that we would have a ton of pictures of the top of Miss “M”s head, she was right… Each stage of a child’s life is so precious, documenting those times for my children and for others makes it all worthwhile.

Hugs, Shannon

Raye and Casey are such a sweet couple and their baby boy is a doll. After taking their maternity photos they asked me to photograph their baby.  When I got to their house Raye was sipping a cup of coffee (decaf) , it was so quiet and peaceful. A big change from the wild life we have at our house with three rambunctious girls :). It’s hard to believe that they’ve only been parents for 6 weeks,  they are so relaxed and just enjoying their little man.  As for little “A” at 6 weeks old he has a smile that makes everyone around him smile. 

Raye and Casey, I hope you like this little peek. Good luck with your move, can’t wait to see the new place. Hugs, Shannon