A Monster Birthday!

This past Sunday I had the privilege of photographing the third birthday of a sweet little boy who is very dear to me.  Let me brief you on his history in his mommy's words.
 
"Sam was born 8 weeks premature while I was on a business trip in Texas.  We were very fortunate on multiple levels and our 3 pound and 13 ounce baby came home a strong, healthy boy.  As in Sam's story, in 40% of premature births the cause is unknown.  Unfortunately, many babies do not share Sam's happy outcome, which is why we support the research and mission of The March of Dimes. 
The other organizations that supported us throughout our 6 week NICU adventure was The Ronald McDonald House.  We were able to stay in one of the two available rooms to non-Texas residents and the room was located on the hospital grounds.  We were a short walk away from Sam at all times and not burdened by the stresses of lodging and living expenses.  The Ronald McDonald House's focus is to support families with sick children, and they went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable." 

Sam's parents are so grateful to the Ronald McDonald House and March of Dimes that in lieu of gifts for their son they had two boxes out for donations for the charities so close to their hearts. 
To look at Sam now you would never know that he had gone through so much at the beginning of his life.  He does everything all other 3-year-old boys do, and is a pure joy to be around.  Let me share with you a bit of his big day

Sam's 3rd birthday by LifeArtPhotos from Suzie Bauman on Vimeo.