Chase's 9th Birthday Session- Newberg, Oregon Photographer

"Some legends are told
Some turn to dust or to gold
But you will remember me
Remember me for centuries"

-Fall Out Boy- "Centuries"

I have known Chase since he was in utero.  Oh geez, I am at the age now where I say things like, "Sonny boy, I have known you since you were a little squash". Ok, I don't know if anyone really says things like this. I just can't believe how fast time seems to be moving since having kids. 

Chase and my eldest son, Noah, have been playing together since they were old enough to. They have known each other since Chase was born; they are only 3 months apart in age. I used to babysit Chase every week and the boys would sometimes be little mischievous angels together. Climbing fences big at age three (well Chase did while Noah egged him on) and something having to do with primary green paint all over the carpet, sofa, walls, the ceiling and on an approximately $250 large toy bus. Ahhhh, good memories, right Jessica?  So many more memories to be made! 

On this day, my son Noah and my youngest son were with us. My plan was to use my boys as entertainment. You know, have them tell all the fart jokes and pretend to fart on me, etc. I thought this was going to be a piece of cake, 10 minutes of photos and then the boys can run around like wild animals and then we will get some dinner. Right away, before I even had the camera up,  Chase pulled out the fake smile. You know the one, the, 'I despise this, you and your camera but I will humor you with my school photo smile'. To be expected with this age group but I thought for sure he would be hysterically laughing at Noah (as he usually does) but his fake smile was unfailing.  I think he thought he was not allowed to laugh. Finally though, I told him not to smile and just look at me. That's it. Just look at me and be. And there it was. Relaxed, natural smiles. This one is my favorite.

And then they ran around like animals and it was great. =) Here he is with my youngest. 

I look forward to seeing what your 9th year brings you Mr. Chase and we are so blessed to be apart of your world. Go forth Mr. Chase and rock on!