Years back and shortly after obtaining my certification in photography from UTA Arlington, I had the joy of photographing this high school senior. Her name is Katie. It seems as if only yesterday we were walking through Fort Worth Botanic Gardens taking her senior photos! For years, I watched as she, the oldest of her three siblings, developed knowledge and skill through homeschooling (thanks to their wonderful mom and teacher) and the transformation she and her siblings took into adulthood. I have so many great memories with them — all now adults. One day, I will have to write about the memories of dancing in the cold, crisp night air during the Christmas Festival and playing a violin duet with Maggie at her recital, making funny faces for our "selfies" with the camera Lillie and, together, finding humor in the silliest girl things, making jokes and laughing while folding bulletins with Will and his crew, and talking about books and life dreams with Katie. 

Since then, she has graduated engineering school, has married an engineer — what the brainpower in that household must be! She and her husband moved to the northeast where they landed engineering jobs after their internships. In speaking with her father recently, I was informed she will soon be moving overseas to Asia for a work opportunity. I know her family is proud of her but will miss her greatly.

I think this photo on the left says it all: “Spread your wings and fly, dear one!” And you have, Katie,  and you continue to do so. I am proud of you and all your siblings. You guys made a huge impression on my life, and I hope I did the same for you.