the truelove family | raleigh, n.c.

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There is something to be said for a family named Truelove. Never have I seen such a genuine family that truly is full of love. Sarah and Greg have such an authentic love and it clearly radiates down to their two awesome kids (who I will forever want to be best friends and play pals with forever), Audrey + Stevie, who just shared endless amounts of hugs and kisses which makes them the sweetest brother and sister in the history of brothers and sisters!

We met at Pullen Park in Raleigh, which is the first amusement park in North Carolina, established in 1887. This was the most incredible place to go and have a family session, especially with an almost 7-year-old and 4-year-old. We romped around the park, played in the leaves, climbed the caboose, and of course, rode the famous carousel and train. The sheer childlike joy on Audrey + Stevie's faces made me melt inside a yearn for my childhood years! It was a fun and energy-filled day at the park with a family with such an honest love for one another! Thank you for this insanely fun day, Truelove family!

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france, a one-week love affair (pt. 2)

After spending a lovely few days in the South of France, Jerry and I caught a train and headed north back to Paris. We walked...everywhere. Next time, we will definitely learn how to work the public transportation. Advice for the future: just because you can see the Eiffel Tower does NOT mean it's in walking distance. However, it's extraordinarily pleasant to just stroll the neighborhoods, people watch, & eat a hot, fresh baguette along the way. lvallen_franceblog2_16*Jerry & I happened upon the Arc de Triomphe during a parade, so naturally, I had to recreate my Tia Lauri's "spinning in the streets" photograph since all the streets were closed. This is the only time there were not a ton of small euro cars fighting their way around this massive traffic circle.

France 2012 film

France 2012 film

I loved all the biking throughout the city! I especially loved how everyone could bike, text, AND fight traffic!

France 2012 film

France 2012 film

France 2012 film

France 2012 film

France 2012 film

France 2012 film

I love this simple shot of the cream Alfa Romeo on the street corner! I wish this was a daily site here in the States--reminds me of the decades I wish I grew up in!

France 2012 film

Beautiful Brasserie a few street blocks away from the Arc de Triomphe. Ate some escargot, soup, & drank some delicious french wine. Needless to say, I easily gained 15 pounds in France but it was so worth it!

France 2012 film

I love the detail of the Eiffel Tower!

France 2012 filmLooking up...and up, and up.

France 2012 film

France 2012 film

A weary walker stops for a sit on the Pont des Arts.

France 2012 film

Jerry & I couldn't find a lock to purchase, but the love letters were heartfelt & endless.

lvallen_franceblog2_15I loved this grassy park along the Seine, where bikers cycled by, dogs played fetch, & teenagers escaped their parents. Also, the Eiffel Tower at night is such a magical view, & honestly, no picture does it justice!

The last black & white film installment of "France, a one-week love affair" should be up in the next few days! Until then, au revior!