Sweet Sayler

Sayler was born on Easter. It seemed only fitting that we dressed her in a bunny outfit. She wore it well.

A few more photos of Sayler.

Sayler is so lucky to have such a cute family.

Thanks again, Janel. I loved documenting this journey for you!

Adoption

I love my job. One of the best things about it is that people call and ask me to photograph the best things in life. Recently, my friend, whom I was friends with when I was young, called and asked if I would take pictures of them meeting their baby for the first time. They adopted this sweet baby girl and I had the privilege of being there and watching/photographing them meeting her for the very first time.

Meet Sayler

I have witnessed adoption up close. Years ago one of my best friends placed a baby up for adoption. It honestly changed my life. It was the hardest thing I could ever imagine doing. These birth mom's whatever the circumstance are AMAZING! They deserve a special place in heaven for having the strength and courage to let someone else raise their baby. I can't even imagine what they go through.

This time, I was friends with the adoptive parents and got to witness adoption from a whole different view. All the while having a "reverence" for the beautiful woman who had just given birth to their daughter. 

When I arrived at the hospital my friend, Janel was standing outside the delivery room listening to the cries of the brand new babe just on the other side of the door. Johnny, her husband, was every bit the new dad. A little nervous, but smiling from ear to ear. A baby couldn't ask for better parents!

 Janel holding Sayler for the first time.

 Dad taking in every moment.

Dad holding Sayler for the very first time.

My hat goes off to both mom's. Both trying to make a beautiful moment while knowing this was a difficult situation. The birth mom was so sweet and Janel and Johnny were so considerate of her feelings. I was truly amazed at the scene. It was beautiful. 

This was one of my favorite photos. Birth mom holding baby while mom and dad check out her little toes.

I realized how hard this is on adoptive couples. It seems so much harder than pregnancy. They wait. Hoping to be chosen and then wait hoping minds aren't changed. Then they meet their baby and fall in love!!

Have I mentioned that I love my job!!!!!!

I loved taking these bridals. You see, Amy was a regular fixture in my home during high school. She was also one of my young women. She will always have a special place in my heart. When I walked in her bathroom to see if she was ready I almost started to cry. To say she looked stunning doesn't quite do her justice. She literally took my breath away. I have always known Amy was beautiful. I also know that she is even prettier on the inside. I loved working with Amy and wish them all the happiness that life has to offer.

I just love you, Am!

My Baby is 7 Months Old!

My baby is 7 months old. It is crazy to think that she has only been in our family for 7 months. I can't imagine our family without her. She is a happy, healthy baby that is photographed a ton!!!

Elder Chaffetz

Missionaries hold a special place in my heart. Especially right now. I had so much fun taking pics of this handsome young man. He was off to Ghana soon after these pics were taken. 

Happy Easter!

Love, Hazel

Niko

(Let me begin by saying it is quite the disadvantage to be my neighbor. I took these pictures forever ago and I am just now getting them edited. Many apologies, Joy!)

Meet Niko. 

Our cute next door neighbor, Haidyn, got this cute little package on Christmas morning. We had the privilege of babysitting Christmas Eve so Haidyn could be surprised. My girls were more than happy to help and a little sad to let her go. My husband and I tried to explain to them that they got the best of both worlds: a dog to play with and no responsibilities. I am not sure that they agree.

All involved agree that Niko is the cutest puppy ever.

Haidyn and Niko.

Haidyn was so happy to get a Pug. She had been wanting one for a while.

Look at their little faces.

Haidyn might be the closest thing to a sixth daughter that I will ever have. I love her like she is my own. I can't say the same about Niko. Niko is cute and all, I am just not a dog lover. Don't judge me. I like Niko. I like it even more that her permanent residence is next door.