Just look at this girl, y'all. It seems like just a few years ago I was sitting on my best friend's couch holding her for the very first time. And now she's 14 years old and about to begin her high school years.

I've known my best friend Laura for going on 23 years, so her kids are basically an extension of my own. Many photos have been taken over the years of her sweet kiddos, and when she asked me to shoot Clara's freshman photos I jumped at the chance. How could I not? My sweet bonus kid was beginning her HIGH SCHOOL years (insert ugly crying face here) and it definitely needed to be documented. Also I'll be flat out lucky to get my daughter to do the same next year, so this might be my only opportunity ;) I should really start thinking of bribes ahead of time.

(If y'all have any ideas, drop them in the comments. My kid seriously hates being in front of the camera, which is basically the hardest thing ever when you're a mom and a photographer!)

Doesn't she look SO grown up? UGH. Clara has grown into a beautiful, empathetic young lady with a great sense of humor. Her inquisitive nature and happy go lucky attitude are just a small number of my favorite things about this girl. Its hard to believe that in four short years I'll be taking her graduation photos as well. Scroll down to see a few more of my favorite pics of this sweet c̶h̶i̶l̶d̶ young woman.