The glow in these photos is outshined only by the happiness on Alli and Mason’s faces. They’ve smiled at each other for five years, and next May, Mason will put a ring on his blue-eyed beauty’s wedding finger. He caught her attention first, but he is definitely equally interested now. When a guy is willing to get up early on a Saturday to get engagement photos made, you know that he’s smitten.
Ya’ll!! I talk often of how gorgeous late afternoon golden light is, but this session is in early morning light. Like 7:30 AM!! Our world just takes on a different glow as the day wakes in the east, and then a deeper golden light shines when the she prepares for sleep in the western sky. I’ve never taken advantage of that beautiful morning glow before. But Alli and Mason were game for waking with the sun, for more than one reason. First, we scheduled a while ago, and assumed it would be typical July heat and humidity later in the day. So it made sense to schedule an early session. We met at my house and when I stepped out to greet them, the air was almost cool, a welcome relief from the early summer slam of oppression we’ve had this year. It was just beautiful. Wet grass was our only downfall, but we worked around that, and I smile every time I look at the glow of these photos. You want an early morning session – I’m always gonna be game.
Alli – you’ve been beautiful inside and out since I’ve known you. Your heart shows through your blue eyes between every blink, and anyone who knows you sees your sweet nature. There’s no doubt that you are the perfect nurse. Who wouldn’t feel better by just being around you??? When we are feeling down or physically not well, all of us are lifted by those who spread joy and kindness. In fact, there is scripture that points out that a merry heart is good medicine. Your kindness and love for others is no doubt what drew you to the nursing profession, but it’s our blessing that you have chosen to follow that path. I know that you are just starting on this journey, but I know I can speak for all who know you in saying that our world needs even more nurses with a heart like yours.
When I think of how our middle schoolers mature into amazing people, Mason is a perfect example. One of the first things he mentioned when we started out Saturday morning was the many conversations we had when he was in 7th grade. I smiled in remembering that some of them began with, “Now Mason, I know you can do better than this. You are a leader…..” We all saw it then, but he didn’t necessarily see it. Watching him now, as a young man who went back to tech school because he wanted a different future, with a beautiful lady by his side, both of them with dreams and goals…. Listen – that’s the heart of a teacher. We love to watch students learn, but to see them grow into the person we saw inside them – that’s the ultimate joy. A parent’s too – right?? Mason mentioned how much he appreciated his mother’s prayers during his younger years. He may wring my neck for writing this, but my heart is just full thinking about how proud I am.
Alli and Mason, I’m beyond excited for you individually and as a team!! You are a perfect couple!! I can’t wait to see the life you build together, and to watch your dreams unfold. Your love for each other is encouragement and such a joy to witness. Enjoy every second of the next year. It will be filled with fly by and before you know it, you will be promising forever. I will be cheering you on every step of the way. Love and blessings, Pat
Mason gave Allie his grandmother’s beautiful engagement ring. It’s just gorgeous and speaks to the value this couple places on family and passing on traditions.
