There are some people who you know are meant to be a part of your life, who are placed in it at just at the right moment and who make such a huge impact on your world.  As Christmas is only a week away, and I find myself once again missing my family in Utah, I am so grateful for the “Chicago” family who have adopted us as their own. I never wonder what we are going to do for the holidays, because we are ALWAYS included as a part of the family. We are never singled out, we are never forgotten, we are never made to feel “less than” or not included as just “one of the sisters.” My heart is full of thanksgiving and love for the Saatkamp family and their love for Tanner and I.

I had the privilege of capturing Gary and Suzanne, along with Christine, Andy and their kids this fall and we had such a great time. I love working with their families because the kids all know me and treat me like I’m just one of the family, they are used to my craziness and “most of the time” they listen to me and respond pretty well to my requests.  {they are still teenagers after all!}

I love watching them grow and mature. I love seeing them interact with each other and capturing their different personalities. I know that this year has been a challenge blending their two families. I know there has been a lot of change for ALL of them, new schedules, new living arrangements, new family and friends….but capturing them all together makes my heart SO happy for these two families.

Thank you all for always accepting us, for loving us like your own and for including us in every holiday celebration and thank you Gary and Suzanne for this beautiful gift. I am so grateful that you are all a part of my life. I am so grateful that I have so many to call family, whether we are related by blood or by choice, it’s all the same to me!!