Father-Daughter Dance

Sometimes time seems to stand still for just the tiniest bit,

allowing you to realize how special the moment is - 

even while it's occurring.

You realize that it's a memory in the making.

It doesn't have to be a big, dramatic, life changing event…

sometimes it's as simple as a proud daddy picking up his 

daughter for their very first dance.

These pictures tell a sweet story.
Because of how candid they are,
and how happy they are,
because all at once it makes Alexis seem both very grown up,
and also very much still our little girl.
These are the moments that life's all about.
A dad ringing the doorbell to pick up his date.
One last glance in the mirror.
The smile that stretched from ear to ear
(on both of their faces).
The sheer excitement that a very first corsage brought.
The sweet kiss by her Valentine before the Valentine's Dance.

And before they could make their way to the Indian Princess event,
you better believe that little sister wanted in on the action.
She had to have her turn with the flowers
and her moment taking a picture with her dad
(mismatched socks, barbie clothes stuck on her skirt, and all).
She begged and pleaded to go also,
even though she's not old enough yet.
No way will she allow herself to be left out -
which I absolutely love about her.

And, just like that,
a simple, sweet, special moment for our little family,
gave way to poses and pictures with dear friends.
Then, they were off.
And the dance was every bit as awesome as you would hope.
Filled with father-daughter pictures,
and girls twirling and giggling and whispering with their friends.
Complete with a slow dance to "You Are So Beautiful",
followed by ice cream sundaes and photo booth fun.
I asked how it was when they arrived home later that evening.
They just smiled and said, "even better than we expected."