to be personal. This is us. Joe, Kaitlyn and Luna. our family. our bond. marriage and parenthood. God is truly a wonderful maker. So kind and gracious to us in blessing us with one another, and then with Luna. As the first year of Luna's life is approaching, I am completely enthralled in the joy of this life.

To be honest, it has been a rather hard year. The week before Luna was due, my husband lost his job as an organic farmer for a "fancy" restaurant here in town. In this strange way though, it was actually a sweet blessing because it afforded him the ability to be home with us for the first three months of her life, and get a job that has provided way more financial peace and stability to our family.

It also was the first year I decided to do photography full time. Before Luna was born I was working full time as a mental health therapist with a class of high school kids who had severe mental illnesses. The classroom was in an alternative school in a rough area of town. Regularly I would dodge hallway fights, soothe psychotic outbursts, calm emotional tantrums, and address dysfunctional parents. It was a powerful job with a lot of weight, but a weight I didn't feel i was strong enough yet to bare. It was my first job out of grad school and I just wasn't prepared. I prayed so hard that the Lord would provide through my photography job and he did, above and beyond. I'm so incredibly thankful to be able to do what I love, and pursue it confidently. I know without a doubt that I'll do therapy again some day, but for now this is where I feel called. So, a little over a year ago, I quit my full time job and jumped out in faith.

Additionally, when Luna was about 8 months old, Joe and I found out I was pregnant. 8 weeks later, we found out we had lost the baby. It was a really hard experience to go through, and one I wouldn't wish on anyone. Miscarriage is hard, and it's disappointing and sad and just sucks. And, even in the midst of the hard parts of this year, we are daily reminded of all the joy there is to cling to. The hope of heaven before us.

Luna means "moon" in spanish, and whenever people ask if that's why we named her Luna I quickly tell them no. I don't know why, i just don't want people to think i'm obsessed with space and astrology, or something. But, when I truly think about it, Luna has been our sweet and beautiful moon. In the midst of the chaos and uncertainty of this year, Luna has been this shining light on some dark moments. She is one special lady, and I know that God has so many beautiful things set before her. Just you wait.

So, this is us. We are by no means perfect, but we do love each other a whole lot and we love God even more.

photos taken by my sister (and assistant) Ali Beaver and edited by me.