Baby Alinea's In-Home Newborn Session
Rachel is my friend from book club. And by "book club", I mean we literally read books. We also, however, enjoy exploring Columbus' best and new restaurants and watering holes during our meetings, so I am no stranger to Rachel and her husband's vast knowledge of culinary masters and techniques.
Alinea means "a new train of thought; the start of something new." And the birth of this little girl is indeed the beginning of a new chapter in life for this Upper Arlington couple. Her name is indicative of this change, but it is also inspired by the name of one of their favorite Chicago-based restaurants. Rachel and Mike base their travels around culinary experiences, and they bring what they learn back to their own kitchen. In fact, Rachel, while on maternity leave, was able to request a variety of unique dishes that she had to avoid while pregnant, and Mike whipped them up for her without missing a beat. I, for one, think that would be pretty nice!
Rachel and Mike decided that they were going to incorporate some of their favorite at-home spaces, pastimes, and books, including cookbooks, into their newborn session. We spent time in the nursery, kitchen, backyard, and front balcony. Bailey, their sweet pup, stayed close by and made sure she was included in the action. I'm pretty sure she was posing for the camera! Mike prepared a summer beet salad using herbs and greens from their backyard garden. I learned that nasturtium keeps rabbits away from the garden, tastes a bit spicy or peppery, and has edible flowers. The nasturtium looked familiar, and when I got home I realized my neighbor had helped my daughter plant some in our own wild area of plants, herbs, and vegetables. So, I've been able to share my new nasturtium knowledge with my children, and they have tasted the leaves and flowers and have even shared some with friends. Mike has also been experimenting with using a variety of tasty greens and letting those different flavors shine by keeping any other ingredients and dressing light. And I must say, the salad, which they shared with me at the end of the session, was delicious.
And, most importantly, I'm sure you will agree that Alinea is as precious as can be. She's a perfect addition to this loving family. Rachel created the nursery around the idea of exploration and travel with a map of the world painted on the wall as the spotlight. Seems quite fitting, as I'd wager that the adventures for this family will continue. Their travels may look a little different with a little one in tow, but I'm sure they will be equally special. I can't wait to see where life takes them next!
