Happy Birthday, Jules!
There is never a dull moment when you’re in the space of a tiny person navigating social interactions and emotions. Some specific milestones even get their own moniker: terrible twos, threenagers. Enter the precious four year old. No nickname that I’m aware of, perhaps because we’re all just catching our breath after coming off the heels of years two and three. Four is so good. Mid-August, I had the pleasure of spending some time with a newly four year old, lovely birthday girl Julianna just ahead of her special day.
A month ago central Virginia was stuck in a pattern of daily rain or storms. I’m SO grateful that mom Annmarie was patient with the forecast (and me!), and together we waited and watched, adjusted our session by just an hour, and miraculously were able to walk one loop around a beautiful lake before the heavy rain made its way in again. Jules arrived in all pink accompanied by her big sisters, who made her cute little sign. The girls shared with me that it’s a family tradition to have special photos taken every birthday until you turn ten. How awesome is that? It’s no wonder why big sister Isabelle was an absolute pro at helping pose everyone and scope out the best photo spots that caught her eye.
The park provided new scenery for Jules. After taking about three minutes to warm up to me, she was bright-eyed and full of wonder. The variety of park features along our walk kept her moving forward: tunnels, bridges, and the possibility of ducks or geese. Magic. Just one short-ish loop for tweens and grownups. Magic.
On the last stretch of the walk, Julianna, armed with her magic stick wand, was finally willing to run ahead of us to check out the bridge. I caught this shot as she took off and knew it would be a special treasure. Parenting is such a balance of hand holding and letting go on repeat. I hope this photo with this specific perspective captures just how great you’re doing right now, family!
And can we talk about raising THREE sisters? Nope, I sure can’t. I have my hands full with just two. But Annmarie and her hubby? They were able to coordinate these girls for Friday evening photos. Once more - three color coordinated gals for photos on a humid Friday evening in August. They MUST have all the secrets. :) Well done, family! And many kudos to you for keeping your tradition alive!
Happy 4th year, Julianna! I very much hope to see you again!