This little boy was such a treat to photograph. After an initial attempt where he wasn’t really keen on sleeping, we decided to try and have at it another day when he would be a little more drowsy. Well, the next day he was not merely drowsy, he was plain knocked out. He let us strip him down to his birthday suit, move him, pose him, poke him and prod him…and stayed perfectly and peacefully asleep the entire time I say it every time, but I quickly forget how tiny and fresh newborns are. I’m so glad we were able to capture him at this precious stage. Congrats Low family, enjoy your little man!

You’re guaranteed to see at least one old person wearing khakis and a leather belt while running (as in, exercising) if you were to ever visit this beach town. You may encounter a local talent show, where 8-year-old girls sing Katy Perry’s “California Girl,” which yes, does mention sex on the beach. And no, the parents decided not to sensor. You’ll find old, run down beach houses in between two monstrous million-dollar renovations. A strip of local shops which includes 7 different options for ice cream, commonly referred to simply as Town. The best doughnuts in the world, fluffy, giant, and impossible to eat just half. Adults clustered on screened in porches late at night as the kids (hopefully) are tucked away inside. Families of four crammed into a single bedroom, two single beds attached to the wall. Intermittent wireless signals, where it’ll be non-existent in the kitchen but full strength on the porch…

What may be a not so glamorous vacation for some, is what has defined my childhood summers. As a family of nine, we didn’t take planes to five star resorts with room service. And, I don’t think I missed out on anything. Some of my best and fondest memories reside in this little beach town. I used to agonize which prize to redeem my tickets on from the local arcade. Stickers or a yo-yo? Those were tough decisions back then. Numerous trips to Town to get Cotton Candy shaved ice. Daily anticipation that the waves would be huge. Fear that my brothers would throw me in the ocean. A special breakfast date with dad….

This beach town may not be for everyone, but it’s certainly for me; and now, my daughter. Happily, my family feels the same way. So, we once again, for the 24th time, embrace our beach town.

I’m sitting here praying that she will like ear plugs. Or be enthralled with the fold up trays. Anything, really, to keep her attention on  our very short 40 minute flight to Baltimore tomorrow. We are heading up North to join my family for a week at the beach, can’t wait:) Ev and I have made the trip from RDU to BWI before, but this was back when she couldn’t walk and my earring could entertain her for an hour. Stay tuned, I will let you know how it goes…

I can’t wait to blog Lil’ Pono’s session, but in between packing preparing for a family session tonight, this will have to do:) I went back a second time to finish up our session because on day 1 little man just didn’t want to sleep, and oh my I’m SO glad it worked out for me to go back. Got some precious shots of a precious boy. Here’s (another!) little teaser to hold you over…