I remember before I was a mother and even as a mother of very young children – and I would see people with “older” kids and wonder what it was like. I always thought – wow I wonder how they know what to DO with those big kids?!?? Are they fun? Is it hard? What would it feel like to have big kids?? Well, I think I’ve officially passed into the category of having big kids. My little peanut, Emma, turned 10 yesterday. In so many ways, it’s SO HARD to believe that it’s been TEN full years…the time has flown so fast…Although I admit, in those days when she was a toddler, the days seemed to last forever. She wasn’t the easiest baby on earth…always had her own agenda! But I loved every moment. I wanted to share this photo of her that I found as I was scanning in old photographs of her from her life.
This photo was taken in February 2002 – she was about 13-14 months old, I believe. I was really into black and white film in those days and this is really my absolute favorite picture of her from these days. Forgive the quality as it’s from an “old fashioned” print!! HA HA HA
In those days, it was extremely difficult to shoot her – as soon as I would pull out my camera, she would run for the hills – SCREAMING. I have lots of pictures of her screaming, tears running down…the whole bit. And in THOSE days, it was extra frustrating b/c I was spending $10 per roll of film – I wasted lots of $10 dollar rolls….at least I have this one image to hold on to!! 
Now it’s a different story. Last weekend, Emma asked if we could go out and have a session…WHOAH!!! Are you asking ME??? Of course!! Well, it was close to sunset – and there really WAS no sun to speak of – very overcast and dreary for our area…but we made the best of it and I got some images of her I will always cherish. 10 years….can’t believe it. This girl though is such a precious precious joy and I am incredibly thankful for every second of those ten years….
I have to say, being a mom of “older kids” is better than I could have known. I love having an ever-ready shopping buddy, who has real stories to tell, soccer games, sleepovers…all this stuff is why we all become moms. Sure we all love the baby stage (well, at least most of us do – I DID). But it only gets better….more fun…more enriched. Thank you Emma for all you’ve given me. I love you with all of my heart…
Teresa is a children’s portrait photographer, serving Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater and surrounding areas.
Teresa, you so indeed rock the camera. Your daughter is so sweet and beautiful…….how amazing that they grow up so fast! I will be emailing you about photos…………..
She is lovely! HAppy Birthday!
I love reading your blogs and comments about Emma. She truly is everything you say that she is, and you can tell the love you have for her, through your words and photos. She has such an amazing collection of \memories\ that you have made for her in the video, in these pictures, and even those \old school pictures\ taken with REAL FILM! Hearing what her own Mom has to say about her, makes me feel truly honored to be her aunt, and even more proud to be the SISTER to her Mom who has formed the young lady she has become
Keep up the great work! Love you guys.
She has the prettiest smile! Lovely photography!
She’s beautiful, Teresa. I can’t wait til my kids are older and more willing to have a photo session. Mine are still in the running away screaming phase. LOL
Emma has grown from a darling little baby into a lovely beautiful girl. Happy birthday to her btw!
These are great. What a beautiful girl!
I got teary-eyed as I went through your post. I have a 10 year old daughter as well and completely understand the joys and complexity of it all. Happy Birthday to your sweet Emma. She is a beauty!
adorable images! thanks for giving me hope! I also love the baby stage and despair watching my babies grow up so fast! I know I will enjoy every moment though.
These photos are gorgeous! You have a beautiful daughter!
Oh, she is so beautiful.
What a beautiful girl. Great photos!