Every year, our family photos are a last-minute scramble, and this year was no exception. However, I managed to break the cycle of chaos—well, partially. A couple of days before, I finally gave everyone a heads-up about color coordination and decided, “Let’s do it Sunday.” The only thing I forgot? Checking the weather.

At 2 a.m., the sound of heavy rain woke me up. For a split second, I thought, “Oh no, we’re going to have to reschedule.” But by the time 3 p.m. rolled around, the sun came out, surprising us all. I had expected cloudy skies—perfect for photos—but Mother Nature had other plans.

As we waited for the rest of the kids to arrive, the rain came down again. Instead of frustration, we laughed, watching the weather do its thing, hoping it would pass. And it did. Not only did the rain clear up, but we were blessed with something extraordinary: not one, but two rainbows.

At that moment, it felt magical to capture those rainbows in our photos, but the deeper meaning didn’t hit me until later. I now see those rainbows as more than a beautiful backdrop. They’re a sign from God—a reminder of the little ones we’ve lost and His double promise of hope, healing, and blessings.

This year’s family photos weren’t just about the smiles or the perfect lighting. They were about embracing the unexpected, finding joy in the rain, and seeing the beauty in God’s timing. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments aren’t the ones we plan—they’re the ones that surprise us.

Whether your family photos are perfectly planned or beautifully imperfect, don’t forget: every snapshot tells a story, and every story is worth capturing.

                                        Bee Larios