I used to live by this crew, and my kids grew up with Rebecca’s family. They are one of the most genuine families I’ve ever crossed paths with. Rebecca has to be one of the most selfless people I’ve ever met. The entire block became friends, and we all used to gather on Rebecca’s front porch to watch the kids play and enjoy the sunshine and each other’s company. It’s really remarkable how this front porch crew never seems to fade. Even after not being in the neighborhood for 8 years, I always feel welcome to just pop by unannounced. I am always greeted with open arms and warm smiles. Needless to say, when Rebecca approached me about taking senior portraits of Alita and Cristina, I was honored.
You may recognize Alita from a post we shared on social media as the IHSA state football playoffs began. How exciting that Alita got to cheer her team on all the way to the quarterfinals her senior year! Go Panthers! Lita Bean, as she is affectionately referred to by her family, loves country music and Cheez-Its. She doesn't care what anyone else thinks about her, and it makes her the life of the party! Though she'll miss the friendships, teachers, and atmosphere of WCHS, she's excited for her next chapter as she looks ahead to college where she plans to study to become a special education teacher. Rebecca shared with me her advice for Alita: "Always follow your dreams, don't worry about what others think of you, and always be nice!!"
Cristina "Beana", who loves 2000s music and refrigerated or frozen Reese's Thins, will also miss the friendships she's made at WCHS. She's been through a lot in her life, and she just keeps moving forward. Her perseverance will undoubtedly serve her quite well as she embarks on her next chapter of her journey in nursing school. Rebecca's advice for Cristina is as follows: "Just keep swimming, because you've got this!! Know your worth and how strong you really are!"
As I wrapped up editing these photos, an overwhelming sense of nostalgia washed over me. I got to watch Rebecca's kids grow up, and now we have big kids that are in high school and going off to college. I feel so fortunate that I got to be a part of their (little kid) lives. My front door was always open; the neighborhood kids came and went...no barriers. It was a rotation of lunches, backyards and fun. To me, Elm Street was a little slice of mama heaven, and I certainly wish nothing but good things and wonderful adventures for these two beautiful souls as they close in on their final days of high school! May you find your place in the world and create your own porch crews wherever you land.
