GLEN ELLYN PHOTOGRAPHER: MELISSA MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY: LAKE ELLYN FAMILY PHOTOS:

LIGHT FAMILY

I've recently been blown away by the concept that we as parents are often the creators of our kids memories. There's been several times in the past weeks where I'd recollect with my mom something that stood out to me from growing up. Often times, she was surprised by what stood out to me. "Really? That's what you remember?" It's usually fondness and sentimental nostalgia over small things. I remember a lot from when I was little. Perhaps less distractions allowed me to fully soak in experiences. As summer slowly winds down, I find my anxiousness rising up. Did we "do" enough? Did we make an impact? Did we create memories? Was it great? I don't know if I'll ever feel like I fully checked those "boxes" but the one thing I can control is whether or not I'm fully engaged. Not one eye on the choo-choo train riding along our kitchen island, with one eye on the dirty dishes to be done. Honing in on being present in all ways is a hard balance as a working mom. (and I'm sure my husband would feel likewise)

Something I love about when I get to capture the Light family is how they engage with their kids. From being equally reactive to dandelion present number 20 as they were the first, to on the flip side not being so over the top to "get a reaction" smile out of their kids. They let their littles be who they are, and so effortlessly & intentionally engage with them. It's well noted guys. Taking some tips from your parenting handbook.