You are my sunshine, my only sunshine
You make me happy when skies are gray
You'll never know dear, how much I love you
Please don't take my sunshine away

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine
You make me happy when skies are gray
You'll never know dear, how much I love you
Please don't take my sunshine away

I hear a song, sweet song, singing to my soul
I see a light house in a hurricane and it's leading me back home
When I think about the only things in life that pull me through
I hit my knees and thank the Lord, for Jesus and You
Oh, yes I do
Oh, everyday I do

One is saving me for heaven
When I leave this world behind
And one gives me just a little taste
When she holds me late at night
The both gave grace and it's amazing
They both have healing in their hands
And it ain't easy but they're both making me a better man

And I hear a song, sweet song, singing to my soul
I see a light house in a hurricane and it's leading me back home
When I think about the only things in life that pull me through
I hit my knees and thank the Lord, for Jesus and You
Everyday I do (oh)
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Everyday I do, yeah

Why you've got a ring around your finger
Why he's got scars on his hand
Why you both promised me forever
God, I'll never understand
When I think about the only things in life that pull me through
I hit my knees and thank the Lord, for Jesus and You
I hit my knees and thank the Lord, for Jesus, Jesus and You
Everyday I do, everyday I do, yeah
So when I think about the only things in life that pull me through
I hit my knees and thank the Lord, for Jesus and You
Oh, I hit my knees and thank the Lord, for Jesus and You

Song by Matthew West, Jesus & You

We can't always have great weather but nobody said the rain couldn't be beautiful too.  So, even though we've had an entire week (or more) where rain has loomed, I've still enjoyed the company of families, couples, babies, and graduates for so many laughs and smiles.

And, let me tell you - I honestly wouldn't have traded this day for perfect sun and bright blue skies.  BECAUSE, the puddles were fun, the ducks were so interactive, and this family just soaked up the time they spent together.

I adored meeting Taylor tonight and seeing how kind and free-spirited she is.  Her smile is not only gorgeous but it's contagious.  There were no forced-smiles and she was up for whatever - throwing glitter, climbing bridges, crossing creeks! 

Her parents just raved about her and how proud they were to have her as a daughter.  And her adorable little sister followed her every move.  Such a beautiful night!

Mid-way through our session, the rain began.  But, it tells me a lot about a family when instead of disappointment, frustration, or anger they laugh, ride a skateboard, and celebrate.  It made the night so refreshing.

Davison's, it was truly a pleasure and so much fun.

It's not a surprise that Dakota is graduating...because everyone knew that all along.  But, he thought a close family member was going to quickly snap a few graduation photos for him.  When he showed up, that wasn't the case.  That lovely family member actually hired me (surprise!).  And I'm so glad they did because this young man is such a wonderful person.  He has the love and support of so many that will all help him accomplish all of the big dreams he has.

Congratulations Dakota!

Talk about personality! This was one of the most fun graduation sessions I've ever done.  He was honestly down for whatever, "Oh, I can do a backflip!"  "Hey, can I hang from this bridge?!" And then in two seconds he can turn on that charming smile.  Honestly, Chay is one of those people that you like the instant you meet him because of that warm smile and funny personality.

If you've ever met Sydney, then you've met one of the absolute sweetest and kind-hearted people there have ever been.  I'm not just saying that because she's my little cousin, but because it's true!

Sydney, I know without a doubt that you will be successful at whatever you do.  But, most importantly I know that because of the way you love, the way you give, and the way that you help you will be far more successful than most.  I'm so proud that I get to be part of your life and witness all that you will do.

First my brother...now my sister?!  I'm not sure what is so appealing with the University of SC (JK...JK!)...But, even as a Clemson fan (alumni and former-cheerleader) I'm still just as proud as any big sis would be that Brooke will be heading to Columbia in the Fall. 

I started dating her big brother almost 15 years ago so I've been around Brooke for almost her entire life.  She's beautiful, smart, athletic, energetic, and fun.  She will graduate in 11 days and start this exciting new chapter of her life. 

Brooke, I wish you nothing but the best.  I pray you stay as determined as you are now and that your dreams become reality.

I know she's seen how much hard work and dedication it takes to step into any type of medical field.  So, when she decided to follow the lead of her mother and head in that direction, I know her Mom was incredible proud.  She'll be starting the nursing program this Fall...and that's just the tip of the iceberg for her plans!

I had the privilege to work with this sweet girl's mother for several years (before I transitioned from a steady 9-5 and decided to stay at home and start a photography business)!  When I got a message to schedule this graduation session, I was honestly speechless.  I still remember her as the little girl trying out for Color Guard her very first year.  And now...she's headed to USC and will be part of their Color Guard this Fall! 

I know...I feel old...

But, I'm so happy for her! I'm so happy to see her dreams coming true and to see her hard work pay off.

I love meeting all of these fabulous seniors!  There is such an excitement about graduation - closing one chapter and starting a new one.  I get to hear about their plans, their ambitions, their goals.  It is all very refreshing to hear the victory in their voices as they explain what they have planned and how hard they have worked to get to this point.

Congratulations Molly Catherine!

Love is always such a beautiful thing to witness.  This April wedding honoring Lauren and Chris was full of love.  Their families and friends gathered together to celebrate in an amazing location full of smiles and a beautiful sunset.

Some days it's hard.  As a single mom you juggle finding a balance between time with your daughter, work, and getting your Master's Degree.  Some nights you cry and most days you pray. 

You judge yourself.

You worry.

But, Dear Mama, you are making a big difference.  Not just in your own life but in the life of a little girl who adores you.  She sees how hard you work.  She knows how much you love her.  She sees you on your knees praying.  Your village is strong and ready to help you. 

So, keep your head held high.  Tonight, go to bed with a smile.  Graduation is here and you've accomplished so much in such a short amount of time.

Congratulations!

It's there in a newborn cry
There in the light of every sunrise
There in the shadows of this life
Your great grace

It's there on the mountain top
There in the everyday and the mundane
There in the sorrow and the dancing
Your great grace
Oh, such grace

From the creation to the cross
There from the cross into eternity
Your grace finds me
Yes, Your grace finds me

It's there on the wedding day
There in the weeping by the gravesite
There in the very breath we breathe
Your great grace

It's the same for the rich and poor
The same for the saint and for the sinner
Enough for this whole wide world
Your great grace
Oh, such grace

There in the darkest night of the soul
There in the sweetest songs of victory
Your grace finds me
Yes your grace finds me

Your great grace
Oh such grace
Your great grace
Oh such grace

So I'm breathing in Your grace
And breathing out Your praise
I'm breathing in Your grace
Forever I'll be

Your grace finds me
Yes Your grace finds me

Song: Your Grace Finds Me by Matt Redman

Oh, those precious first birthday celebrations!  The first year brings so many new and exciting experiences for each little one.  First birthday sessions are no exception.  Will they enjoy the cake?  Can we get those precious baby steps on camera? How many teeth can we count? 

We’ll build a household of faith
That together we can make
And when the strong winds blow it won’t fall down
As one in Him we’ll grow and the whole world will know
We are a household of faith

Now to be a family we’ve got to love each other
At any cost unselfishly
And our home must be a place that fully abounds with grace
A reflection of His face

Here we are at the start committing to each other
By His word and from our hearts
We will be a family in a house that will be a home
And with faith we’ll build it strong

Song: Household of Faith by Steve Green

Ashton + Colin,

I pray the Lord blesses you with so many happily, married years.  Your vows brought tears to my eyes and your smiles were contagious to everyone who witnessed your wedding.  The day was light, heartfelt, loving, and showcased two beautiful people.  Thank you for allowing me to capture this very special day.

Love,

Nicole

This is the first session from the studio :)  Of course my own boys tested it out but to have a scheduled session take place for the FIRST time was honestly just awesome!  Sweet Hunter is just two weeks old and loves to be swaddled. 

The second I placed him down to start the session he immediately smiled.  Truly, that melted my heart.