There were sparkly lights, shiny ornaments, glistening snowflakes and, of course, Thomas the Train.

There's nothing quite so heartwarming during the holidays as seeing the look of wonder on a child's face as decorations are unpacked, traditions are explained and stories of past celebrations are told.

Carla asked me to be there while they unpacked their Christmas things and decorated heir tree this year with their two little guys.

Liz and Tyler call it Owl Hill. It just might be the prettiest location I've ever seen for a house. As you can imagine from its name, it is a very quiet and peaceful place.

Tyler designed their house based on eco principles and together with family and friends they’ve seen their dream rise from the ground piece-by-piece over the last year and half. Not to be cliché, but it has definitely been a labour of love for the two of them.


Liz asked me to come out to do a session at the home they've put so much hard work into together. It was a treat to trek out through the fields and be amongst the trees.


Tyler is originally from British Columbia. A few months ago his grandmother passed away and unfortunately he and Liz weren't able to make the journey back for her funeral. He said she always used to make these duck rocks so they constructed some of their own in her memory on their front step.


The inside of their home is just as peaceful as the outside. They've designed it to let in lots of natural light and wonderful views of the great outdoors.


Liz and Tyler recently started dance lessons.


I’d say their doing pretty good. Trevor, their sweet cuddly cat, agreed.


One of the first things Liz wanted Tyler to build for her in the new house was bookshelves in their den. Tyler was happy to oblige. They are both avid readers. I asked them to pick out books that identified them as people. Liz had a hard time picking just one. I told her I wouldn’t hold her to her choice. ;)


When they started building, Liz made it a goal to master at least one of the tools. She is now Queen of the Chop Saw. She was happy to give me a demonstration of her mad skills.


I had a great afternoon at Owl Hill. I think Trevor liked me too. :)

This one was my absolute favourite from the afternoon.


Is he not gorgeous! He has the softest, wavy baby hair and startling blue eyes. He was mesmerized by the light coming into the windows. He certainly made my job easy.



I see you!


Oh there were lots of kisses going on!



Baby Isaac is taking after his big brother in the good looks department. Watch out Mom, all the ladies are going to be after these two! But we both know what girl is always going to be #1 in their books. :)


Pit stop for a diaper change. Dad had him fixed up in no time. I guess he's had a bit of practise. And yes, no session is complete without a visit from Cohen the Cow.


I love the fun and laughter in this house. You just know walking in the door that these are good people. You got yourself a good family Isaac.

You can just see the love overflowing with this family -- the smiles, the laughter, the way Courtney looks at Jenn when he tucks a strand of hair behind her ear or Cohen goes running into their arms.

I think it's fitting that they met when Jenn was working at the Beer Store and Courtney kept stopping by, to the point of just returning a six pack with one empty in it. Thank goodness Jenn finally gave him her number because they are definitely drunk on love now.