at the airport

• Today was busy.  We got up early and had another swim (priorities!!).  Then Katie and George and I headed over to the venue to help set things up.  Jane, you stayed at the hotel with Lila and ate breakfast at the bistro and charged it to the room.  You felt so grown up.  Heather and her family were already at the golf course when we arrived, and things were so organized and went really quickly
• I was happy to be able to check out the venue and decided how I would approach things tomorrow
• The manager of the golf course took Dareian and I on a tour and showed us all the best spots.  I was super grateful because I was able to plan out all my photos
• Uncle Danny always rents lenses, so I decided to rent a couple while I was there.  I got the Sigma 24mm ART and the Nikkor 35mm 1.4.  I shouldn't have done that.  Now I NEED these lenses.  I'm going to have to start saving my pennies
• We headed over to the Air BNB house we rented with my whole family.  We got settled, then the Pipers arrived.  I had to head out soon after to pick daddy up from the airport.  Thankfully Dareian volunteered to drive me.  I can get around strange cities just fine, but I much prefer it when someone else drives
• I was happy to see daddy.  We missed each other.  I know it sounds ridiculous since we were only apart for three days, but everything always feels better when we're together
• While I was at the airport, Uncle Luke and the boys and Grandma and Grandpa arrived.  The house was crazy loud and super chaotic.  Uncle Danny came to spend his last night as a single guy with all of us.  It was so nice to sit around and visit and laugh.  I was busy cleaning and organizing all my camera equipment.  I could feel myself getting into the zone.  I could also feel my nerves rising to the surface.  I get very nervous before a shoot.  As soon as I start taking photos though, they disappear completely, so that's good
• I love Uncle Danny.  He's only a year older than me, and I feel like we've always had a special connection.  He's empathetic, kind, interesting, interested, smart and funny.  I love that he always takes the time to connect with you guys individually, and seek out common interests.  He spoils you and makes you feel special.  I like laughing and joking with him.  And taking photos.  It's really nice that we both have that hobby