On a beautiful spring evening, I met the Kehoe family at Explore Park just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Chauncey and Nick arrived with their two little girls, Penelope and Lucille, and Chauncey’s parents as well. They were immediately friendly, upbeat, and ready to do some exploring. I knew we would have a great time.
More than the rest of us, Penelope led the charge as we walked along the myriad trails in the park. As the older sister at five years old, maybe it was the big sibling instinct in her to pave the way. But, it became clear that she also has an intense natural curiosity for all things nature. Penelope couldn’t wait to run ahead to see what was around the next corner or bend down to pick up an interesting rock or specimen. Chauncey would say, “Wait up, P-Rose!” Penelope would hear her nickname and turn, waiting for us with her fists full of findings.
Lucille is three years old and was just as charming as can be. She would run alongside Penelope and make her own discoveries, while also being fascinated by the many items Penelope identified. But, she was also excited to turn and smile fo the camera. Whether it was a snuggle with Grandpa or posing in her cute outfit, Lucille was very comfortable having her photos taken.
Everyone was so wonderfully easygoing that it made for a very comfortable shoot. The river was still too high from the recent flooding, so we stayed on the upper trails in the woods and around the old homestead. I really enjoyed being around Penelope and Lucille, who are both extremely sweet and polite but also adventurous and energetic. The whole family seemed to be so close, and it warmed my heart to watch them all play together and make each other smile.