“One Evening” is a photo essay series that provides a sneak peek into the everyday lives of the Fairfield County Moms Blog contributors. The evening routine is photographed by Anna-Liisa Nixon Photography and words are written by each mom to tell the story behind the images. It’s a rare and intimate look into each family’s life, one evening at a time.
Every phase and stage of life as a family of five seems hard, but then something shifts and our family dynamic changes once again. Right now, between school, work, play dates, parties, sports, after school activities, and the daily to-dos, every day seems to be a race against the clock. I often feel anxiety creeping in because it’s impossible to get it all done. Most days I feel like I’m just going through the motions.
Our weeknight visit with Anna-Liisa Family Photography put it all into perspective. Her photographs document my family on a typical Thursday evening. Although there is always someone fighting, crying, or ignoring my directions, there is also a lot of laughter and love. She truly has captured the things that make this phase of life one to be cherished.
My Big Boy
He’s rough and tough and is the biggest negotiator. He loves video games and farts, proving to be a typical second grade boy. Avoidance is his game of choice and he knows how to push my buttons….and those of his brother and sister. Although he can be super independent, he often relies on me when anything becomes too difficult. 
My Little Guy
Having a big brother and a twin sister places this guy in the middle child spot (if only by a minute!). He is my sweet boy who is always on the go. He can’t and won’t sit still and moves from room to room leaving destruction behind. He’s my quiet one who is slowly finding his confidence. He always needs a little bit extra – extra explanation, extra time, and extra hugs.
My Daughter
The definition of sass. My girl is just like me in every way possible, but the best parts of me shine through the most. She is kind, determined, compassionate, and is constantly talking (or singing). It amazes me that such a loud voice can come out of such a little body. As the boss of the house, she is the biggest tattletale and rule follower. She wears every emotion on her face for all to see.
My Man
I am so hard on him. I expect a lot and often overlook the many things he does for our family. He works, he cooks, he drops off and picks up the kids, he (sometimes) cleans, and he makes us all laugh. The one thing I value the most about our relationship is that we have shared responsibility. Neither one of us does more than the other; we do it together.
My Fur Baby
My itchy, smelly fur baby still gives the best snuggles and can mop a floor with his tongue in seconds. Although he eats all the toys (LEGOS are his favorite) he really is everyone’s best friend.
Me
During the week I’m tired…like really tired. I suffer from an extreme case of Mommy Brain and as organized as I strive to be, it just doesn’t happen. The house is always a mess, the laundry always needs to be done, and someone always needs me.
This Is Us
Sometimes you need an outside look at yourself. It’s clear from these images that this phase and stage is hard, but it’s so imperfectly perfect. We are all doing the best we can. Loving one another is easy. We just need a reminder every now and then to slow down and enjoy the chaos.
Images for this project are captured by Anna-Liisa Nixon Photography. Anna-Liisa specializes in documentary family photography and loves capturing the real, silly, weird, and tender moments of childhood. She captures that blur of motherhood — the laughter and tears, the real moments and connections, and the unique rhythm of a family. To learn more, visit her website and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
To see all posts in the “One Evening” photo essay series view here.
