My first job in high school was as a waitress at a local all-you-can-eat cafe. I was in charge of filling (and refilling) drinks, bussing tables and running the cash register. It was a lot of work, but I loved it. I’d end the day exhausted and my feet would be killing me, but there was something about serving people, making relationships and a good hard day’s work that made it all worth it.

It was at that restaurant that I first met Casey. I helped train her, and soon we became good friends. I loved it when we were scheduled to work the same days, and we always had a good time together. Her name in my phone was Casey BFFFF, and I know we had a slew of inside jokes we’d laugh about every time we saw each other. We often talked about our boy trouble, and I still remember the day the famous Ryan came into the restaurant for lunch. I could tell he really liked Casey (I mean… They had been together so long already!), and I knew they’d get married someday.

And now here we are. Nine years later. They are happily married and anxiously awaiting the arrival of their sweet baby girl, Brinlee. My how time flies! And I am such a sucker for high school sweetheart relationships (not that I’m biased or anything…), especially when the couple is even more in love today than when they first started dating. What a special thing to witness!

The time we spent together capturing this special time in their lives was so much fun! I loved catching up with Casey and Ryan, and I could already tell they are going to be amazing parents. The love they have for Brinlee is so evident, and I know they can’t wait to meet her in just a few short months. Becoming parents is life changing in the best way possible, and I know they are SO ready.

Congratulations on your precious little miracle, Casey and Ryan! Soak in these last few months before your world is turned upside down, and look forward to those sweet newborn snuggles. The best is yet to come.