ashley chavez: senior.

Six years ago I started my teaching career with a bunch of crazy 6th and 7th graders in Aurora, Colorado. Those were some interesting days to say the least. I definitely shed my fair share of tears and worked way too hard during that year, but I also met some very special kids who will have my heart forever.

One of those middle schoolers was none other than Ashley Chavez. Since the first day I met her in my 6th grade Language Arts class, she has never ceased to amaze me. Her kind spirit, positive outlook, willingness to try new things, and deep care and concern for the people around her has been such a source of encouragement and joy to me. Teaching is a hard job, but it is students like Ashley who make it all worth it.

I feel so honored to have kept in touch with her for these last six years and watch her become the beautiful young woman she is today. I can't even believe she is going to graduate high school this year, but you better believe I will be there with the biggest smile on my face as I watch her walk across that stage.

Ashley, you are gorgeous, inside and out. The world is wide open for you, and I have no doubt that you will be successful no matter what you pursue. And if you ever need anything, remember that Miss DeVries always has your back.

octavia: senior.

I'm pretty sure I lost count of how many times I told Octavia she was gorgeous during our session last Sunday. I couldn't help myself. She is just so, so beautiful. And if I think of how I looked when I got my senior photos taken, well, then it just becomes completely unfair.

 Now Octavia isn't only beautiful, but she is athletic and dreams of one day becoming a doctor! Watch out world. This girl has it all.

I've worked with Octavia's mom, Serena, for the past three years, and I love her dearly. She's one of those coworkers who just gets it, and I know I couldn't do the crazy job of teaching middle schoolers without her! 

It was so fun to spend the evening with both of these amazing women. From spiders and tall grass, to stepping stones and waterfalls, to the track and bleachers, I hope you both enjoyed our time together as much as I did.

I must say, Octavia, your future looks very bright.

morgan: senior.

morgan was so much fun to photograph. not only is she completely adorable, but she is only 16 and graduating from columbine high school this year! she's worked really hard to graduate with her friends, but when i asked her if she was planning to go to college, she said, "i don't even know what i'm going to have for dinner." i love it. no one said you had to have it all figured out when you're just 16! 

we spent the afternoon together at lair o' the bear park, which was absolutely beautiful, and combine that with how gorgeous morgan is, i had a very difficult time narrowing down which photos to share. 

thank you for spending time behind my lens morgan. i know wherever your path may lead will always be full of adventure.