{ Bittersweet }

It's been two years today since I was able to

 hold him. . . kiss him  

and tell him how much I love him.

 My husband and two precious sons helped laid him to rest.

Only God knows the deep ache in my soul of how much I miss 

my dad, my best friend.

It was such an honor to be his daughter,

a privilege to hold him as he passed on.

I am blessed. He is at peace.

~I love you dad ~

{ Easter and Turning 2! )

Jim and I got up early to watch the sunrise...or should I say I convinced Jim he should get up early with me to watch the sunrise and reflect on and celebrate the risen Son of God!

After worshiping at Eastview it was back home for the Collins' Annual Easter photo taken by our lovely Abby who has become the official family photographer!  Jeeze was a little on the jealous side as his dad held sweet Grace. So glad that boy thought to grab her at the last moment!

My handsome son Jimmy and the official family photographer...sweet Abby!

My other handsome son Michael and his lovely girlfriend Kienna

Jimmy and Abby's dog, Bubba, turned two at the end of March and they ordered a birthday cake to celebrate. Yes, someone actually offers this service and no I have never done it ;)

Here is the birthday boy all dressed up in is major league stud jersey (no I have never purchased clothing for my dogs either) waiting the arrival of a very special guest.

Grace!
Look at him giving her kisses...he tried to give her something else
but lets keep this family friendly ;)

Christmas Day with 4 generations

Celebrate!

{ We Are Family. . . Christmas Eve }

{ Connor...3 months... }

His father is my nephew and we go way back...

back to when he was this age.

And then it happened,

he became all grown up, married a beautiful girl

with more importantly a beautiful heart

and blessed his family with

Connor

~Enjoy~

{Fredericks}

My niece graciously asked me to take pictures of her 6 month old son...Bo.

Her husband Mark was patient, her step daughter Sophie was precious, but the real trooper was Bo for he was 2 hours past his bedtime! June 16th was a perfect summer evening, one I'm sure we won't soon forget. Here are some of my favorites...though it was hard to choose.