I’ve gotta brag, y’all: I think I hit the friend jackpot. Really! How common is it for one gal to have so many creative buddies in her life? I have designers, photographers, letterpressers, writers, and bakers all in my near and dear circle. My cup certainly overflows.

Nearly eight years ago, I met one of those such friends when I moved to Birmingham for an internship at Southern Living. I didn’t know a soul in Sweet Home Alabama — but God had big plans for me. 

Shea Halliburton Wright and I became fast friends (and eventually housemates too!) during our time in Birmingham. And although we now only see each other two or three times a year, we’ve gotten to experience some of life’s biggest moments side by side.

I mentioned last week that we took maternity photos with Shea on my birthday. On Tuesday, she sent this slideshow: (It may take just a minute to download — worth it!)

And here are a few of the highlights from the shoot…

As I said, Shea is more than a photographer — she’s a true artist. There are no words for friends like this. What a gift.