Happy 7th Birthday, JKnight!

Seven years have passed since I laid eyes on a tiny face that would change my world for the better. He has taught me about the depth of a mother's love for her son. He has taught me patience. He has taught me that sometimes, control is not mine to be had. He has taught me that I'm not as tough as I like to think I am. He has taught me how different one child can be from the next, and that that is a part of what makes this life, this family, so beautiful.

Happy birthday to my biggest little guy...the one who can melt me with a smile. Here's to 7 more great ones...and many more after that. Mama loves you, Kid. Live in Love...
}:{ Keda }:{

Prepping for Kinder

This is the year of preparation for Mr. Nikko Amari. It is his final year at home, before he begins Kindergarten. He must know deep down that time is ticking away because my little jokester has found a new thirst for knowledge. He wakes up wondering when he can begin working on his "mumbers," and goes to bed complaining that he didn't get to write all the letters one more time. Well, buddy...I promise you, I will do everything in my power in order to make sure you're ready to rock when next school year rolls around.

Here's to a successful (pre)school year for all of our students. Focus, determination & a positive attitude for all!

Live in Love,
}:{ Keda }:{


Oh, and of course Zion had to get in on the fun. He's learning right along with Nikko (according to him, Nikko's name is spelled K-K-K-K-O...close enough).

Papillon Presents: Back to School Petite Sessions

The beginning of a brand new school year is just around the corner. My two big munchkins have excitedly filled their backpacks with school supplies in anticipation of their first day as 4th and 2nd graders. I look at them with hazy eyes wondering where the time went. The older they become, the more quickly the years seem to pass. The importance of seeing them as they are now...the importance of freezing these fleeting moments is almost tangible.

This year, instead of seeing ketchup stains on your prince's shirt & grass blades intertwined in your princess's braids thinking, "Why do they schedule school pictures after lunch & recess?" Instead of feeling obligated to purchase standard school photos only for the sake of documenting the school year, Papillon offers a different option: Whether your kiddo is a bit nervous to begin Kindergarten or has the confidence that 5th grade experience brings, let's document this year in a way that tells the story of who they are right now. Dress them up in their favorite school outfit, bring their backpack and come take advantage of these Limited Edition Petite Sessions! Tell your kiddo I can't wait to see them!

Live in Love,
}:{ Keda }:{

Two Hearts in Harmony {Karita & Johnnie}

There are only two people in this world who star in the majority of my fondest childhood memories. So when one of those lovely people informed me that she was getting married, there was no way in the world that I would have missed it.

My cousin Kay and I were inseparable whenever we got the chance to see each other. Even our names linked us together ~ Rakeda Rianna & Karita Tiana. When we laughed so hard that our sides ached and when we fought so hard that we cried (ok, maybe it was me who did the crying) the bond between us never weakened. Through distance, misunderstandings and growing pains, she remains one of the most important people on this Earth to me.

Since Kay and Johnnie reside in Columbia, Missouri, I got the chance to revisit my old stomping grounds (Go, Tigers!). I hadn't been there in ages and my Lord, a lot has changed! When I arrived at Kay's home, the ladies were quietly buzzing about making final preparations. Kay was fabulous, as always, and her style, impeccable...I expected no less.

Once we made our way to Urban Empowerment Ministries, a church in Columbia where both Karita & Johnnie serve as Elders and Ministers of Music, the anticipation was almost tangible. Splashes of garnet and cream greeted me as I entered the building, and I found Johnnie, patiently awaiting the moment when he could finally call Kay his wife. As the time continued to tick away, bringing closer the beginning of a new chapter in love, friends and family couldn't help but shed tears of joy. In all of our countless hours together, I can honestly say that I have never, ever seen my cousin so happy. Heartfelt words of wisdom were shared and sincere prayers of unity were offered for both the bride and groom. And then...the time had come... It was quite a task for me to keep it together as Kay & Johnnie shared their vows. To hear of the love they share in their own words was so beautiful. I know my cheeks got a workout from smiling as much as I did that day. The new Mrs. couldn't help but show off her shoes... What a beautiful family. After the ceremony, we took a little detour to Stephens Park where Johnnie proposed to Kay. Cousin, may I say that you are absolutely gorgeous. And you've nabbed yourself quite the handsome gentleman. I'm so happy for you both. Finally, we made our way to the Columbia College campus for a reception filled with family, friends, joy and laughter. To my beautiful cousins...love and marriage is a challenging, rewarding journey. Hold on to each other tightly, and never let go. Live in Love ~ Keda