About two weeks ago, my brother and his family from Colorado Springs came to visit my parents. Being the best child out of six, I live the closest to my parents, so we certainly benefit from these visits.

This is my brother, Dan with my Mom at one of our favorite restaurants. He’s a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army and was in Iraq (his fifth tour overseas) until this past March. This visit he was also able to meet Eli for the first time.

As some of you know, I have five brothers and sisters and love that I am able to photograph their families when they come to visit. (or I go to visit them.) Dan’s oldest son is entering his senior year in high school. Now, I’ve asked almost all of my nieces and nephews to please, please, please stop growing up and they all say “okay, Aunt Beth” or “okay, Aunt Ba,” as the younger ones call me.

But they never listen.

On our way back from the restaurant, we stopped very quickly at a cute little location to snap of few shots of Grant for his senior portraits. It was a lot of fun. Especially with Dan around. He always makes everything a little bit happier.

He was also good to have around to help Grant with his hair. (which was helpful because obviously Grant has a TON of hair.)

We managed to get a few good shots.

Here’s a pull back of the above shot:

After taking this photo, he said “no one will ever believe I was really batting. I’m not left-handed.“

And occasionally, I’d be taking a shot of Grant and I’d hear “Beth, take a picture!” and I’d turn and find this:

He reminded me how immobile I am, being in the middle of my seventh month of pregnancy. (jumping on box cars is most certainly not an option)

But, in his own way, he reminded me how important it is to lighten up and have fun.

He’s such a wise fellow.