Julianne & Mike came into our lives nearly 16 years ago…it was just before we started this blog. The first time I got to photograph them was for their engagement session and I’ll never forget it. They both claimed they were nervous about being photographed and “didn’t really take good pictures.” Yeah, whatever…I’ve heard that nonsense a million times before and it’s NEVER true.

Even in their nervousness, Julianne and Mike were both so awesome and trusted Andy & me implicitly, particularly when they ran down the beach, hand-in-hand chasing a flock of seagulls. It was amazing!! Their willingness to go with it produced some of my favorite photographs…although that seagull one got Mike some ribbing from his pals, which gave us all something to giggle about on the wedding day.

We’ve kept in touch over the years, through holiday cards and social media. And we talked when heartbreak struck Julianne’s family. Life is hard and without overstating what we do…sometimes, in the wake of unfathomable loss, photographs become our lifeline to the past, to our loved ones and remind us of what’s truly important. I’ve certainly turned to photographs to keep my loved ones close and have always said, photos are what I’d grab first if disaster ever struck (well, after Andy and Faithy, of course). That’s the part of this work humbles me and motivates me to look for those fleeting moments of togetherness that become cherished memories.

I was lucky enough to create a cherished memory for myself a couple of weeks ago, while reuniting with Julianne and Mike at my favorite beach here in Mashpee. It was as if no time had passed and our friendship picked up right where we left it….plus, the happy addition of three awesome kiddos. I hadn’t had the opportunity to meet Julianne & Mike’s lovely kids before and it was such a trip staring at three beautiful faces that so perfectly reflected the merging of these two beautiful people.

Mikaela, Connor and Ryan are such a delight and were such great sports to brave the windy, frigid temps that blasted us the afternoon of their session. I felt terrible too, because just a few days before we could have been in t-shirts. Ahhh, well….life gives us what it gives us, and it’s up to us to make the magic. So….we did. Here’s a look at my time with this wonderful family. I hope you enjoy these wonderful people as much as I did!

Mikaela, Mike, Julianne, Connor and Ryan…are they cute or what?!!!

Like most teens/preteens, having to snuggle up with your siblings is a special form of imagined torture, but they did it for their parents…and their begging photographer…and they did it with the sweetest smiles. Thanks guys!! You’re the best!!

The lovely Mikaela. I see so much of both Julianne and Mike in her lovely face.

Lovely Connor…who wears his momma’s fabulous freckles just as fabulously.

Happy, silly, wonderful Ryan…adorbs.

The Bello couple turned mom and dad…still as fabulous as ever. I swear if there had been seagulls, I would have made them run! lol.

In your arms….it’s where I always want to be…along with these fabulous three….

The kids wanted to do some goofy poses…which I, of course, am a huge fan of! Yes please!!! And then a more classic one with the whole family.

Are they cute or what???!!

As I mentioned, it was pretty chilly the day we did the session..and windy too, which made getting lots of candid photos a bit more challenging, as everyone was all bundled up in coats and hats in between photos. But, we tried to sneak in a few….they’re always my favorite, those moments in between.

Hugging it out…

CMR’s album cover….lol!

Cause this is how every family walks a beach…am I right?!

Come on Connor, give your little brother a kiss.

Ryan…putting on a perfectly (clothed) Bert Reynold’s pose…not that he (or probably most of you) know what that is. (It was all his idea, by the way.)

A perfect sunset ending to a thoroughly enjoyable evening with this wonderful family….

Julianne & Ryan, thank you SOOOO much for reaching out to do these photos! I absolutely LOVED seeing you both again after so much time and I soooo LOVED meeting your awesome kiddos. It’s no surprise they’re as wonderful as they are, knowing how wonderful you both are! Thank you again for choosing to share your family with me! Let’s not let 15 years go by until we hang out again! Till the next time, sending love and hugs and happiest holiday wishes to you all! With love, Christine xoxo