An Ice Castle Wonderland

Last Sunday was not only Valentine's Day, but my youngest son's birthday.  We decided a visit to the Ice Castle was finally in order.  What a magical place.  Elliot had a blast walking through all of the tunnels and walkways, and splashing in some puddles along the way, but his favourite part was definitely the ice slide.  He and his friend must have gone down it at least ten times.

Townes wanted to walk and explore on his own, too. He was a bit wobbly, as the ground was quite uneven for such little feet, but he did pretty well. He kept looking up at the ice walls and I wish I knew what he was thinking. 

I'm hoping the castle returns next year. It would be nice to visit it earlier in the season. Were you able to visit? I'd love to know how your experience was!

Snow Day - Edmonton Family Photographer

I woke up to the sight of beautiful, frosty trees.  Since our mornings are usually a bit hectic, I crossed my fingers the frost would stay until the end of the day - and to my surprise it did! I couldn't resist taking the kids out to my secret spot to play in the snow, and I'm so glad I did because the location was beautiful with all of the coated-white trees.  Townes wasn't as into it as I thought he would be, but Elliot had so much fun running, jumping, making snow angels, and throwing snow up into the air for it to fall down on him.  If I loved snow half as much as this kid does, I'd make it through winter a lot easier.

Elliot & Townes - Edmonton Family Lifestyle Photographer

One of my goals for 2016 is to learn more about shooting video. I get wrapped up taking so many photos, but photos can't capture my children's laughter, or tiny voices, or dance moves. I want to save a piece of those things too.  This is my first attempt at a little video. It's rough around the edges, and I have a lot to learn, but when I look back on it I won't care about that. I'll just love the memories it captured. I hope my kids will love it too.

Brothers - Edmonton Family and Children Photographer

It's no secret that I take a lot of photos of my kids. I feel like they are growing up so fast that it's my way to keep a piece of each step of their lives. With how fast-faced life is today, it's easy to forget the little things and I really don't want to do that.  Here are a few from one of Townes' monthly sessions of his first year. Of course big brother had to join in.

Hideaway in the City - Edmonton Family and Children Photographer

I have a "secret" spot. It's one of my favourite places for sessions.  The trees are beautiful, the grass is overgrown just enough, there is an AMAZING tree just right for climbing, and there is ample space for the kids to run around and have fun. The bad news? It's in the heart of North Edmonton in a soon-to-be new development area. Breaks my heart to know that bulldozers will probably be in this space next spring/summer.  I decided to take my kids to check it out, and here are some from our visit.  If you'd like to book a session in this location, now is the time before it's gone!