Celebrating My Girl: Angelina's Senior Session

Somehow I blinked, and she grew up.

Angelina is officially a high school graduate, and as I scroll through her senior photos, I see a beautiful, confident, kind young woman staring back at me. But I also see the silly toddler who used to climb up to the bar in my closet just to swing, the elementary schooler with a love for fashion, and the teenager who still sings at the top of her lungs during driveway sing-alongs with me.

She is, in many ways, my mini-me, and yet she’s entirely her own person. We share the same passion for travel, the same stubborn streak, the same love for oversized sweatpants and spontaneous adventures. She's my ride-or-die, my number one kitchen dance partner, and the one person who always (jokingly) reminds me to bring snacks and wear capris when I go out hiking.

A few weeks ago, she wrote in a card that I taught her how to “do life.” But the truth is, she’s taught me just as much. She’s shown me how to find joy in the simplest things, how to take a breath and laugh when life feels heavy, and how to be fully present.

Watching Angelina grow up has been like watching my heart live outside my body. And now she’s graduating high school and heading off to college in the fall. I’m not sure either of us is ready for it, but somehow I know we’ll find our way.

Here are a few highlights from her senior photo session. These photos capture her light, her energy, and the incredible young adult she’s become.

Angelina, I am endlessly proud of you. Always. Congratulations on your graduation. I love you more than you’ll ever know.

Love forever,

Mum