I feel like I have been friends with Sara forever! We started contact back in April. But then Covid-19 happened. However, our conversation went from inquiring about a photography session to chatting like old friends. Checking in on each other and seeing how we were doing. Making sure everyone was happy and healthy. Going into their family session at Tudek Park, I was so excited to finally meet the person behind the email! And the session did not disappoint! Old conversation turned into a new, fun friendship.

Everyone got out of the car with smiles.

Sara welcomed me with an enthusiastic “It’s so nice to finally meet you,” and I knew instantly that the hour was going to be amazing. We talked as we walked around to various locations. It became obvious to me very quickly that Sara has a heart of gold. The way her eyes sparkled when she talked about Nicky and Patty. And the way she held each of them with tenderness and spoke to them with such a pure mom’s love. Or the smile she got on her face when she was standing with her husband Nick. Wow. It makes perfect sense why I felt so comfortable with Sara and her family. They are warm, inviting and loving people!

Sara spoke highly to me of her husband Nick. Nick served in the United States Coast Guard for 20 years. When I asked him about his time, he was quick to answer with smile. It was obvious that he is proud of his work and loves what he does. And he should be proud! Dedicated to his country, the military and his family. Nick may have been quieter during the session, but the way he got his kids to laugh and the way he made Sara smile, spoke volumes of his kindhearted character!

Nicky and Patty were the cutest to photograph!

Nicky is outgoing and loud. And I mean that in the absolute best way possible! He has an adventurous and playful spirit. His smile was perfect. But the way he explored the Butterfly garden was humbling to watch. I loved my conversations with him because everything he spoke about was real and exciting. Brutally honest as kids will be. Nicky was a charmer for sure, and I loved every second of it. Patty wasn’t the biggest fan of my camera, but he was still so photogenic! He smiled at his brother, and just wanted to be held by Sara and Nick. Which honestly was beautiful. When they held him, you could see peace come over him. He knew he was safe in their arms. Their family session was amazing, but Patty’s first birthday session was the icing on the cake. Literally!

Sara and Nick wanted an Irish theme, which I was super excited about! When I learned that Patty was named after Sara’s late father, my heart overflowed with love and compassion for their family. I wanted this session to be perfect. And honestly it was authentically perfect! Sara bought the cutest outfit for Patty and put hard work into making a rainbow cake! The gold and green made Patty look like an Irish King, if such a thing existed. He may not have been the happiest with my camera, but he did amazing! Happy 1^st Birthday, Patty!

Sara, your family is the goal! I am so thankful to have met you and formed a friendship with you. I wish you all nothing but excitement and love here in State College. I can’t wait to see you all again!