As soon as I pulled into Jamie’s driveway, her oldest son Wyatt peddled out to meet me on his bike. I think we were best friends from that moment on…

As I was getting out of my car, he was already offering to show me his favorite climbing tree and asking if I could take his picture in it. His dad, Peyton, came out to meet me saying that Wyatt would show me around the property. “Just so you know, he never meets a stranger”, he warned me with a wink. But I had already figured that out in our 3 minutes together so far…

Jamie and I had decided to do their family session on their property, because she told me how beautiful it was this time of year. And as I walked around with Wyatt, I saw exactly what she meant. Their 2 acre lot was filled with gorgeous oak trees slowly losing their autumn leaves. The evening light filtered through branches and spilled across the leaf-covered grass. There was a tent hanging from a tree, a bike and some toys strewn about the yard, making it all feel like a happy childhood memory.

Wyatt was off to races, climbing trees and showing me all the good spots, when Peyton brought Hudson out, Wyatt’s little brother… This little guy had the biggest smile on his face that never went away. He politely said “Nice to meet you”, and my heart melted.

I was loving every second it. It was so sweet just watching the boys in their own little world, running around wild and free in their backyard heaven, letting their imagination guide them without a care in the world. Just as little boys should. This place was their kingdom, and I was reminded briefly of the children’s book called Where the Wild Things Are.

Of course, when it was time to sit still and smile for the camera, they did an amazing job. They didn’t just know how to have fun; they also knew how to be kind, be happy, and listen to their parents. I mean, what more could you ask for from two little boys??

Jamie and Peyton, I don’t know how you’re doing it, but whatever you’re doing… WOW. Wyatt and Hudson are the sweetest things. Capturing your beautiful family in your own home was so special to me… I know that these memories are going to mean everything one day, and I’m so honored to be able to freeze this time in your lives, so that you can bring it back to life for years to come. Thank you so much for letting me be a part of your family for a day, and giving me a glimpse into your beautiful life together.