A FAMILY SESSION IN SHIMMERING TOMALES BAY

This Tomales Bay Family session was such a memorable one! Point Reyes National Seashore holds a very special place in Jess and Brent’s hearts. Needless to say, when they decided to celebrate their family photos here this past Fall, I was absolutely thrilled! It was so touching to see them bring their little ones up the coast to share in this place that has such meaning to them.

This bountiful, beautiful place leaves me in awe every time I visit. We shucked oysters in the sunshine as the sweet smell of eucalyptus trees swirled around us. The tall seagrass at the water’s edge blew in the wind coming off shimmering Tomales Bay. We threw a crisp, white-linen tablecloth over the wooden picnic table sitting against a sea-weathered picket fence. That glistening, watery expanse before us took my breath away. The wildflowers and dry grasses growing at the base of where we sat, begged to be enjoyed at a higher altitude … so we chose a couple for a sweet little bouquet and added them to a glass vase atop our table linens. Popping open a bottle of chilled champagne, we shared some crackers and some of that coveted, local Cowgirl Creamery triple-cream brie. Brent worked hard shucking a large plate of sweet Hog Island oysters (pulled right from the water by which we sat)! The most wonderful company paired with the most delicious local treats. It was heaven!

After some time relaxing, we hopped in the car and wound our way several miles up the windswept coastline to another one of their favorite spots ~ Nicks Cove. I loved listening to their stories about coming here. You could tell their memories were such happy ones.  We walked out to the end of the pier. There was the sweetest little illuminated boat shack (WITH A PIANO). I mean, can you just imagine the nights here? Bundled up, enjoying a martini or glass wine, everyone laughing, exchanging stories and singing at sunset. I mean, this is what movies are made of. (Nancy Meyers, we need you.)

We captured a few final moments together along the pier as the sun slowly slipped below that pastel-ombre horizon. The chill in the air had us soon walking the planks back to the cozy tavern for some comfort food. Clam chowder and crab mac & cheese enjoyed over a glass of Pinot. With full hearts and bellies, we said our goodbyes. I jumped in the car and wound my way back through the golden hillside, over the Golden Gate Bridge and back down into the valley where I lived. It was one of those days that had me really counting my blessings. It truly is such an incredible part of the country and to have shared it with these friends (who have such history here) made it extra special! ~ Kent Avenue Photography