We’ve experienced a lot in 2020. In fact, whenever an unfortunate event occurs, we’d say “2020 strikes again”. But you don’t have to look far to see some semblance of normalcy. I picked up the habit of writing monthly letters to my boys during their infancy. Back in March, I wrote to Khang that despite a global pandemic, I feel calm in his presence. Cradling him brings me peace and a sense of security. Maybe it’s just me, but I’m always inspired by children. They are so resilient and strong. While we were walking to our photo spot, I asked Anna if she likes kindergarten. She loves it! She loves her teacher and thinks school is a lot of fun. That brought a huge smile to my face (although she can’t see it beneath my mask). I love that her description lacks any trace of a turbulent 2020. Kids adapt to new routines so quickly. Kids are so readily capable of seeing the good in everything.

So 2020 isn’t all bad if we practice seeing the good and feeling the gratitude. I find myself very lucky to be able to work from home and spend a lot of time with my boys. Time I otherwise would not have. Last fall, I actually started to “resent” photography because it took so much time away from my family. Now, I’m spending basically all day everyday with the boys, I cannot be happier to be out photographing memories! I am overly booked (my schedule for October looks like 4 months squished into 30 days). But I am so, so happy. I need a creative endeavor to give me a sense of balance and a better appreciation for all the beauty that surrounds us.

I hope that every family will look back on their fall portraits and realize how lucky we are to have and to hug the people we love.

PS: 2020 was supposed to be Abby’s year because she’s an optometrist!

PPS: See more of baby Jameson from his newborn session and 4 months milestone session.