The Wilhelm Family : : Family Photography

I recently had the pleasure of spending a BEAUTIFUL Virginia saturday morning with the Wilhelm family. Caron and I went to high school together, and I was fortunate enough to be able to see her again after so many years, and to meet her beautiful children Ava and Ari! We spent the day at Crump Park – a place that immediately transports you back in a time. It makes you slow down and focus on what’s in front of you. No iPhones, iPads, Blackberries. Instead, a 19th century farm house, a little basket weaving, and of course sheep, horses and roosters! What could be better? I am not sure if it’s because I am surrounded by concrete and skyscrapers every day here in New York City, but on this trip to Crump Park, the green grass was exceptionally green, the beautiful trees were exceptionally lush, and the time spent with this adorable family was exceptionally inspiring.

As I typically like to do during sessions, we just PLAYED. This beautiful mom and her two adorable, spunky, full-of-life children were just spending a day at the park, being a family, taking time out to have fun together, and enjoy what matters most in life. I was so blessed to be able to witness and document it, and to pick up a few reminder lessons along the way.

Ava, Ari, and Caron, you three were a blast! Ari – so spunky and sweet, Ava – so full of confidence and playfulness, and Caron – such a loving, kind, and nurturing mother. While I know we were missing dad during this session, the three of you are such a beautiful family, so full of love and joy, and I appreciated every single minute I got to spend with you guys on this day – hanging out and having some good ‘ol fashioned fun!

Here are a few lessons Ava and Ari taught me…

Curiosity is a great thing.

A cute hat is always a good idea.

As are all other hair accessories.

Appreciate and be kind to animals (and all creatures).

Make a wish…you never know!

PLAY. Every. Single. Day.

Stop and pick some flowers.

Or, put them in your hair!