The day the form came home to purchase tickets, I screamed. Usually my sons folder is filled with his seat work or updates on hot lunch for the week. But on this day, that pink permission form was JUST EVERYTHING.

My first born child, Nicholas, is currently in Kindergarten at Crest Memorial School. His school announced that they were having a sweetheart dance where the kids could bring their parents. Boys could bring their moms, older sisters, grandmothers or aunts. Little girls were invited to share the night with their fathers, brothers, uncles and grandfathers. I circled “MOM” for my relation to the student and never have I ever, been more excited to circle that parental role on a school form. A week later, two card stock tickets were sent home. One for me, and one for my little boy. It was official, we were going to our first dance together. Our first date.

I, in true Kaitlin fashion, dove head first into the planning. I knew I wanted to get my hair done, nails done, a new dress, and shoes. This date was as important to me as my first date with my husband. Hours in front of the mirror. Trying to pick out the best outfit. I owed that to my son. I owed that to myself. I knew I WOULD NEVER get this moment…this date…this time…back. It hadddd to be perfect. Even if I am the only one that remembers it!

After a day at the salon getting primped head to toe, I swung by my local florist, Petals, and purchased him a boutonnière and a corsage for him to have to give me in return. I arrived home, laid out my details and knew that my memories alone were just NOT enough. After a swift call to the BEST second shooter in the entire world (though he is HARDLY a second to anyone, let alone me), Chris appeared on my doorstep dressed JUST as nicely as he is when we shoot weddings together.

I had shot the details before he arrived. I wanted to remember the perfume I wore on this day. The clutch I brought, the shoes I wore. I shot the same for Nicholas. From his Avenger body spray to a size 9 toddler dress shoes, my little Iron Man was SET!

Chris captured our getting ready process and EVEN accompanied us to the dance to capture our first dance, our time in the photobooth, and our course our ice cream sundaes we made each other. Before the dance, we even had a mini portrait session in his schools hallway.

Once his friends arrived I barely saw him again. I took my place beside the sea of parents that had been casted to the wings of the dance floor as the kids ran about with their friends. I saw a little boy with the biggest smile, dancing the night away. And he was all mine. I NEVER KNEW that HE KNEW the cupid shuffle! I was floored!

Its no secret, I am a busy mom. I work hard. I work often. But on days off….during my time with him…with Ryan (my second little one) I soak up every second. They are both my WHY in all that I do. They are the ones that breathe life into my heart and soul and allow me to share so much passion and love with others. Parents, life is busy….but don’t let it pass you by. STOP and enjoy your WHY. They are only this little for so long and moments are precious. I knew at 9pm on this February evening, I would NEVER have another FIRST date/dance with my son. So, yes, this ‘MOMOGRAPHER’ went above and beyond. And I only regret that the night didn’t last forever.

Without further ado, an inside look on my FIRST date with my FIRST born, Nicholas Matthew!