So, picture this: a warm summer evening, the sun lazily setting in the sky, and this gorgeous family all gathered together on their deck. Yep, you heard that right – all of them. A rare occasion indeed, especially with the older two away at college. I have one away at college and can tell you that I can’t imagine how we schedule anything once I have two or all three there!
Now, what’s a family gathering without some good ol’ BBQ? Burgers and Wisconsin brats sizzling on the grill, corn on the cob roasting away—it’s like a scene straight out of a backyard cookout dream. And let me tell you, this fam knows how to grill up a storm.
As the warm summer breeze swept across the deck, the youngest sat focused, his hands skillfully carving away at a piece of wood. Meanwhile, his family sat around the table, trading jokes and sharing stories. Amidst the laughter and banter, the rhythmic sound of the whittling knife provided a comforting backdrop to their bonding session, creating a moment of simple yet profound connection.
Curds? Yes, please! 
But the fun didn’t stop at the dinner table. Oh no, this crew is all about the activities. Basketball hoops came out, skateboards were dusted off – it was game on. And let me tell you, they invented a new standard of combining both skateboarding AND dropping baskets.
Now, what’s dessert without a little DIY action? Homemade ice cream cookie sandwiches, people. I’m talking scoops of creamy goodness sandwiched between two warm, chewy cookies. It’s enough to make your mouth water just thinking about it. I should know because Mom sent some home for me to share with my family. Seriously.
Lucky me she shared her cookie recipe and it’s now our go-to fav! I digress….
But the fun didn’t end there. With bellies full and spirits high, the family retreated to the rec room for a rousing game of ping pong. Paddles clacked against the table, accompanied by laughter and friendly banter. It was a moment of pure joy, where the worries of the world melted away and only the present moment–and, er….friendly competition mattered.
In the end, it wasn’t just about the burgers or the games or the ice cream. It was about the simple joy of being together – of cherishing each moment and creating memories that would be appreciated for years to come.
xo,
Jen
“With our oldest two kids away at college, their time at home is all the more precious now. Jen did an unbelievable job of capturing the essence of our time together this summer, especially when it came to the older ones interacting with their younger brother who is still at home. She put us all at ease so that we could portray our best, true, candid selves effortlessly. We will cherish the photos from our session for years to come.”
Read all of Jen’s 5 star Google reviews!
Beautifully Ordinary is a trademark of Jen Lucas Photography, LLC.
