Jeff and Susan are having a baby

Maybe it was the crisp November day. Or the dramatic tall grass and late afternoon golden glow. I'm pretty sure, though, it was getting to share in the excitement of two friends who have never been happier. Whatever the reason, Mike and I had a great time this past weekend hanging out with Jeff and Susan at the Half-Day Forest Preserve in Vernon Hills. A beautiful place for a beautiful time in their life together. Guys, we couldn't be happier for you and can't wait to meet the littlest Langner in March!

Kramer

Our friends Payal and Ankur recently relocated to Chicago from Michigan. Mike and I are thrilled to have them close-by again...we always have such a good time when we're all together. Yesterday was no exception. Payal wanted a few new shots of their dog, Kramer, so what better time to spend an afternoon at the dog park than Halloween weekend. The weather was crisp, the leaves were all beautiful shades of reds and oranges and yellows...and the dog park was hosting their annual Halloween costume party. Kramer was very cooperative during our shoot and was well-rewarded with treats later at the party. We had a blast, you guys! Hope you like the photos.

Charlie and Oz

At the risk of this blog becoming over-run with pet photos (more to come shortly!), I can't resist posting a few favorites of our cats, Charlie and Oz. Mike and I adopted both guys (first Charlie and then Oz a year later, once we discovered how needy Charlie was!) from a shelter when we lived in Michigan. They've since become a constant source of comfort and laughter. While always behaving as brothers, their distinct personalities crack us up, and everyone who has ever met them has fallen instantly in love. I can guarantee this won't be the last you see of "the boys," as they're my easiest targets...er...subjects!

Medge and Parpo in Chicago

I have incredibly cool parents. When they visit Chicago, Mike and I always have the best time. Lots of good food, shopping, late nights catching up, movies and tons of laughing. Everything is suddenly right with the world and comfortable and cozy and manageable for the two days they're in town. I took their recent visit as an opportunity to capture them in pictures the way Becky, Mike and I always see them: young and happy and loving. Mom was a great model and very willing to pose (the camera loves you, Medge!). Dad on the other hand...let's just say he likes candids! Hope you like the pictures, Mom and Dad, and can't WAIT until you're ready to join us permanently in the Windy City.

Birthday Wishes (AKA: "Baby Bird" turns 24)

It's hard to believe, but my little sister Becky just turned the big 2-4. She recently made the trek from Madison to Chicago so Mike and I could celebrate with her out on the town. The weekend she and Haley were in town was unseasonably warm and offered us the perfect chance to spend some time by the lake. Congrats on the big birthday, Beck! May your 24th year be filled with zen thoughts, exciting opportunities and much love. Can't wait to share it with you. This post also gives me the opportunity to showcase my husband Mike's awesome photographic talent. Framing up interesting shots while also manning Haley's leash (and getting quite wrapped up!) is no small feat! Thanks for being a good sport, Mike.

A visit with Mia and Snickers

I have a family of animal lovers. We have always embraced our pets as family members. That inherent value is something I have always genuinely respected about my family. Recently, our family dog, Mia, fell seriously ill very suddenly. The situation was heartbreaking and consumed us all for several weeks. I'm pleased to report, though, that with the help of a few diligent veterinarians, my parents' sacrifice and round-the-clock care, sympathetic thoughts from friends and a lot of prayers, Mia is expected to make a somewhat miraculous full-recovery. Mike and I recently had the chance to spend a day at home with my parents, Mia and our extremely old (and somewhat frightening) family cat, Snickers. And, of course, I thought there's no better time for some updated portraits. I was surprised Nick allowed me to take as many as I did, but Mia's a real ham and is used to posing for the camera!