Couples | Grace, Idaho

In my mind, it was all laid out perfectly — our dream home. The yard would be clean and kept, everything sparkly and new, nothing to clean, everything organized… you know, new!

We built, and sure enough, we built a beautiful home. But for some reason, the yard didn’t appear overnight. Instead, I gained weeds, weird-looking bugs, and somehow my house is always dusty. Don’t believe me? Come visit — I’ll show you my blinds!

This summer, I had big dreams of planting all our trees and shrubs, picturing them full and lush framing the house perfectly. I thought it’d be easy — buy them, put them in the ground, and that’s it! Instead, I now find myself celebrating the sight of even one green leaf on each plant. My dogwoods look like they’d rather be dropped off at the cemetery, and my columnar trees act like it’s fall year-round. BUT my lilies — bless their little hearts — have been champs and give me hope that I can keep something alive! I’m crossing my fingers that their fall and winter hibernation will be just what they need to bounce back beautifully in the spring.

But don’t you worry — I still have hope! Seeing others who are a few steps ahead in their home-building journey reminds me that it all comes together, just not all at once. Every little bit of effort, every plant, every project adds up to something beautiful over time.

That’s exactly what came to mind when I visited Mark and Terri. Their home is absolutely stunning — the kind of place that instantly makes you want to slow down and stay awhile. They’ve poured their hearts into creating not just a house, but an outdoor space that feels peaceful, intentional, and full of charm. I was in awe the moment I pulled up.

And honestly, what is it about white country homes that just feel like a dream? The porches, flowers spilling over the planters, the gentle hum of summer evenings — it’s everything I imagined when we started building.

Mark and Terri are as warm and genuine as their home. Thoughtful, easy to talk to, and just the kind of people you could spend hours with. I could’ve sat on their porch all afternoon, chatting as they rocked in their chairs — I mean, seriously, it was like a scene straight out of a movie.

And to all you couples out there — take notes! Mark and Terri are living proof that every couple should take the time to have photos together, whether your kids are still running around the yard or you’re enjoying a quiet house. Because love, friendship, and connection deserve to be celebrated — in every season of life.

XOXOXOXO

-Mikenna

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If reading this made you smile and think, “That’s us — that’s our life right now,” maybe it’s time to celebrate it, too. Every season — weeds, dusty blinds, and all — deserves to be remembered.

I’d love to help you preserve the beauty of your right-now moments.
Let’s plan a session that feels like you. Check out all the detail here— I can’t wait to hear your story.