One Saturday

As I stretched my arms, I heard a soft whisper. "Shauna," she said with a tinge of excitement that lingered. Was I dreaming? I slowly opened my eyes with a squint. The morning sun was shining through my bedroom window. As my eyes began to focus, I realized my mother was hovered over me. "Good morning, sweetheart," she quietly whispered. By the tone of her voice I suddenly realized it wasn't a school day. It was Saturday, my favorite day of the week. Saturdays consisted of motorcycle rides, mud fields and Barbie dolls. Although most nine year old girls had grown out of playing with Barbies, I decided that I still enjoyed make believe. Especially since Barbie had so many fashionable clothes.

"Shauna," she said again, as she sat on the edge of my twin sized bed. Finally, I rolled over completely on my back and looked at her. With a concerned smile I replied, "Good morning Mom!" Her gleaming smile hinted that she had something important to share, and her body language suggested she was anxious to share her big news- I was just as anxious to hear it.

"I have something exciting to tell you," she said as she leaned down closer to my face. At that instant my mind raced. The smell of coffee on her breath insinuated that she had been up for a while. I wondered if she had been waiting for me to wake up, but out of impatience decided to wake me herself. "Tell me, Mom," I said anxiously. She took a deep breath and exclaimed, "You are going to be a big sister!"

At that moment my entire life changed as the excitement of becoming a sister consumed my whole body. Being the only child for nine years was great, but the thought of being a big sister was even better. From that point on I knew the bond I would develop with my future sibling would be a connection that couldn't be shared with anyone else. 

Watching my little brother, Connor, develop into a young man has been amazing. Over the years Connor and I have had many special memories, ones that only we share. Those moments will forever be embedded in my heart. As he approaches his senior year of high school I am ecstatic for all of the exciting memories it will bring him. I feel honored that I have had the opportunity to photograph him at such a memorable stage of his life.

Connor, thank you for being exactly who you are. I adore you (and look forward to the memories that await us)!

This is just a few photos from our 1st session. I plan to have many  more shoots with Connor this summer. Lucky me ;)