Around two months ago, on a sunny autumn day, I sat outdoors across from this beautiful soul, and listened to her story.  We were meeting to chat through the details of the session that she and her husband had booked to celebrate their decision to start the adoption process.  I am nothing if not story-obsessed so I asked her about their journey to adoption.  She told me about the last few years and her unexpected battle with health difficulties.  I'd share more, but stories are infinitely more lovely coming from the lips of those who've lived them.  

You can read their story here.    

As I heard more of her and Nathan's journey and after photographing their session and seeing the strong love they share, I found myself wishing there was something I could do to make this next step a bit smoother for them.   They're both incredibly hardworking individuals, but last I checked, adoption is an expensive endeavor, and they are facing a bit of a financial hurdle.   I felt a bit helpless until an idea came to me one morning.  After running it by the hubs (he's a great filter for my crazy) and not meeting the usual raised eyebrows or kind cautions, I contacted Chris and Nathan and ran the idea by them.  The rest is history and over the next few weeks, we worked with some amazing vendors to put together the CUTEST little product.  And yes.  I am intentionally being coy, because you should click over to their website to ready their story and FIND OUT WHAT THEY'RE SELLING.

It's adorable. And practical.  And the perfect Christmas gift for all of your hard-to-buy-for people.  And as you buy that gift for your people you will simultaneously be working to bring a family together.  This is winning at life.

Just saying.  Okay.  Sales pitch over.  Seriously though, check it out. ;)

Nathan and Chris, thank you so much for allowing me into your story.  I am beyond excited about what God is working out in and through your lives, and it's been an honor to have a front row seat to this chapter.  Can not wait to meet your little one!

Thank you to all of Chris & Nathan's sweet friends who jumped in to offer their creative gifts for this session!  Your touches did not go unnoticed!

MAKEUP: Janelle Yoder

WAITING FOR YOU SIGN: Monica Gingerich

HAIR: The Spa At River Ridge