In the past few weeks I've been struggling physically with some major abdominal and back pain as well as some severe side effects of a high dose of morphine, making looking after a three year old difficult to say the least, however,the support system I have is nothing short of heaven sent. My friends deserve a better title than friends because they are indescribably helpful, they swoop in, they cook us meals,, they clean my house, they arrange doctor appointments for me, they attend the appointments with me, they drop by with treats, hugs, flowers, books, laughter and love in the most abundant amounts. They offer me the best of themselves and the best of their talents. Karen for instance, one of my most treasured friends, with a heart of gold and generosity that knows no limits made time in her crazy schedule to capture beautiful portraits of me with my fantastic siblings, each of whom I am so incredibly proud of because they are so unique and talented in their own way. The first shot is me and my little sister ,Julie-lynn, a talented artist who made the trip across the country from nova scotia to illustrate a very special childrens story that we are going to publish together, for more info about this exciting project please visit my blog at www.babywillyoulovemewhenimbald.blogspot.com. JulieLynn is a sweet soul, she's quiet and gentle and this portrait is a beautiful reflection of her. The next sibling is shiny and new and I ADORE her. Ashley is my soon to be sister in law. She"s going to marry my lucky brother next summer and I could not have designed a more perfect match for him. Besides being beautiful, she has a pure heart, she is nurturing, full of integrity, soft, gentle and dependable. I loved Ashley the moment I met her and I think that together, her and my brother will be unstoppable, these two are going to bring about positive change in this world, they ooze potential. I can't wait until next summer when I get to officially call Ashley my sister, I think this image reflects our immediate connection, thanks Karen. The next shot is a pic of my best friend and I. Melissa is Dave's sister but I consider her mine. I am so proud of this beautiful girl. Melissa is currently working her tail off, she is a single mom, going to school full time at NIC to become a nurse. I would be lost these days without Mel. She has totally taken me on as her real life patient. She comes with me to most of my doctor appointments, she keeps track of my medicines, my appointments, she asks my doctors the hard questions, she offers me her guidance and her opinions which I value and trust. Last year, Melissa received an award for the highest grade average in the entire nursing program, she's currently in her second year, did I mention she's a single mom? I love and respect this girl so much. I've watched her grow up over the past ten years and our relationship has evolved and changed. Our sons are five months apart in age and are more like brothers than cousins and I'm so overjoyed that they will have each other to lean on and while dealing with two three year old boys together all the time is challenging there is no one in the world I'd rather be working with so closely with as a parent. I'm so proud of Melissa and I love her so much, I think this picture shows our mutual love and respect for each other and also the way we lean on each other, just the right amount, thanks again Karen for your accurate eye. And finally, my little brother who has grown into a strong, dependable, handsome man. This picture could not be more accurate in the way it captures our relationship. My brother is my rock, he is totally the one I lean on. He is simply the best. This guy just steps up when I need him, no questions asked. I can talk to him about anything, he walked me down the aisle on my wedding day, he's the first one I call if I need anything. A couple of weeks ago, when my health wavered a bit and I knew I was going to need some in home care, I dialed Jeff's number. When he heard my voice the first thing he said " how soon should I book a ticket? all of my siblings, except Melissa, live on the East Coast. He was out here within days. I've never been so happy to see someone. The best part about having my brother as a house guest is that he just does stuff, he doesn't need any direction or assistance he just does for instance, the first morning he stayed with me he got Coady up out of bed, dressed him, he made him breakfast, he packed Coady's lunch, he brushed Coady 's teeth, got him dressed and out the door on time to drop me off at my doctor appointment, he just did it, I loved watching my brother with my son, he just worked with him so naturally, it filled my heart with pride. I know my brother is going to be a fantastic husband and even better I know he's going to be an incredible dad. It really is an amazing thing to watch a human grow from infantcy into a fully capabel and beautiful person. I'm so proud of my little brother, if Coady grows into a man like Jeff I will be bursting at the seams with pride. Dependable, capable, a true safety net, that is what I see and love in this picture Karen, thank you once again.

Wow Karen, I'm speechless, I love these photos, I love my sisters and brother and I love you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, you are such a treasured friend during the moments when I find myself counting my blessings you and my siblings are always near the top of the list. I love you with my whole heart.
Jenn,
xoxo

Lovely pics of my neices and nephew. Thank you so much!

OMG these are breathtaking. Absolutely Beautiful. I'm trying to write as tears are streaming down my face. Love you all!

Beautiful Karen. Jenn, you are one lucky Lady. xo

Very beautiful Jenn and family!

Your spirit and generosity of love are an inspiration to us all!

It comes as absolutely no surprise that you captured something so beautiful and emotional, Karen. Jenn, you are and always will be an inspiration to me and everyone around you. We are all sending you so much love. xoxoxo

You are a gift karen, a beautiful beautiful gift to the comox valley! Thank you for being YOU!