This is the beautiful Simmons family: Craig, Kristin, Riley and their new sweet baby girl to come, Reese.

This is part 1, because I hope to meet them at the delivery room and capture sweet Reese as she takes her first breath in this world, safe in the arms of her mommy and daddy.

Kristin is very special to me. She joined the dance ministry I lead several years ago, and God has knitted her to my heart. She and I have walked similar paths, although she is so much younger than I am. She is a dancer, like I am, and is married to a worship leader, like I am. But she also got pregnant right away after getting married, like I did!  We were married in July of 87′, and found out in August that we were to have our first child. We were young and frightened, and didn’t know what to expect. I had not finished college and Chris did not have a job that had insurance.  We were both far from our families. We felt lost. Our pastor’s wife heard about our dilemma and told me something I have never forgotten and it brought me immediate peace. She told me that God never orders something He can’t pay for. I knew somehow we would be okay. We were not just okay, but truly blessed.

The same has been true for Craig and Kristin. Riley is the sunshine in their lives, and now they are welcoming their next blessing with a little more ease, knowing the faithfulness of God in their lives.

Enjoy a glimpse into the beauty and love in the life of this little family.

Okay, for Valentine’s Day this year, I would love to have a contest where the winner gets a free engagement or couple’s shoot. This is a 295.00 value and includes a disc of the best shots! Here are the rules: 

1. Couples may nominate themselves and tell why they believe their love will last forever.
2. Anyone can nominate another couple and tell why they believe their love will last forever.
3. There is no age limit
4. Email me your story at maryannemorgan@mac.com  or just send it to the contact info on my home page here

Deadline is February 14th 2009.  I will read over your stories and contact the winners to schedule their shoot at the location of their choice! Yay! Let’s have some fun!

Here are some sweet couples I have shot in the past…