Nate and Stephanie are nearby neighbors to me who recently welcomed their first child — a beautiful, happy, much-loved little girl.

Nate inquired about a family photo session to surprise Stephanie with some family memories. I *love* photo sessions and memories as gifts. And, a husband surprising his wife with this gift? — even more amazing!

We met at Lake Merle in New Market for this very special photo session. Although it was an early-morning start and a really cold day, the three of them arrived looking straight out of a catalog and with the most positive, upbeat personalities.

There were snuggles and kisses and little baby fingers wrapped around bigger fingers, with a lovely soft early-morning sunlight poking over the horizon across the lake from us.

Nate and Steph are incredible parents — it may not be an easy job but they make it look so, so easy and they do it with such incredible love and joy. And, their love for one another is so obvious as well — they look out for one another and take such good care of their little trio, together, as a team.

I hope this is the first of many photo sessions with Nate, Steph and their little one.

Enjoy these peeks!