One of the best things about my job is that I am able to watch the miraculous growth of the first year of a baby's life. With my own, I don't seem to notice the change that takes place so quickly as I do in those I only see 3-4 times a year. I see my own everyday so the change is more gradual. But, sweet Claire, I only see when it is time to photograph the new phase of her baby life- whether it is at 3 months, 6 months or 1 year. It truly is amazing to see how quickly they change and grow right before your eyes. And, how when it is your own you don't notice it as much. Last night I did have a moment when time stood still and I saw what my eyes many times don't see. My sweet Abram (who just turned ONE!) woke up and I was able to go in his room to rock him back to sleep. As he was lying on me, I realized that he is no longer the little baby but he is growing into a little boy. Tears. Joy. Sadness. Longing. So many emotions went through my very being. Time just stopped and I held him hard trying to keep it still. But, I couldn't. As the old country song goes, "Time marches on... time marches on." And so I let go. Put him back in his crib. And, I knew. I knew that I would miss this someday. I knew that I could never go back. But, I also knew that God makes everything beautiful in His time. And, so I wait and carry on at the same time with a full and expectant heart. So, here are a few photos of beautiful Claire as we celebrate the miracle of life!