Simply put: I adore these humans.

Family shoots make me feel totally different than my other work. It’s a heart dance unlike any other, watching the most adorable family interact, love on each other and giggle. The Greener family in particular always tugs on my warm and fuzzies, and I often wonder how they all came to be so dang perfect. In order of age, there is: Ava, Teagen, Rory and newest addition baby boy and girl twins Camden and Cohen. This family of five is held together by two loving parents – Joe and Kellie Greener. To get a better understanding of her mama magic, I sat down with Kellie (who is also a twin!) to talk about her life as the matriarch of the Greener clan. Looking at these images already makes you weak in the knees, but read this interview and then look at them again…it’s almost too much to handle!

Read on below, and don’t forget to follow Juniper James Photography on social media. I have some amazing things in store for you!

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Q:  Whats is it like being a mother?

Being a mother is the most incredible journey.  I’ve learned so much about myself and everyday I learn more about each of my kids. It’s a multitasking, juggling act and it isn’t always the most glamorous role I have, but it’s definitely the most fulfilling and rewarding.

Q: What about your mom? Tell me about her influence on you?

My mom has got to be one of the most amazing people on this Earth. I look up to her in every way and I constantly lean on her for guidance and support.  She tells me how it is and always speaks the truth. If I can be half the woman she is, I’ll be happy.

Q: What is your parenting approach?

As for parenting, I try and take it each day at a time.  As for my approach to parenting, I always remind the kids of consequences (good and bad).  You work hard, you get rewarded. You are kind and treat people with respect, you get treated kindly and respectfully, too. You don’t brush your teeth, you get cavities *laughs*! But, honestly, I always am reminding myself that I’m parenting for the future.  My kids are going to grow up and be adults and I want to raise them so that they become contributing members of society, but are also not afraid to stand up for themselves and what they believe in. My husband and I are a team when it comes to parenting showing our kids what it means to work together and support each other.

Q: What are some tips/tricks you would share with a new (or pregnant) mom of twins?

As a mother of twins, and a twin myself, the best little bit of advice I have is to prepare for chaos! Honestly, it’s hard work and never ending between growing two, feeding two, changing, two, etc.  But, when you look at them, you are in awe – of yourself and of them. It’s absolutely wonderful.

Q: Which myth about twins would you like to squash?

Boy and girl twins cannot and will not ever be identical. One has outdoor plumbing and the other has indoor.  

Q. What’s your favorite part of being a twin yourself?

My favorite part about being a twin is the special bond that I share with my twin brother. He is my person. My heart feels full when we are together.

Q.  How do you respond to people who say things about the size of your family?

I could have a lot of responses because I hear it so often. Most times, it’s just people pointing out that my hands are full and while they may not mean it harmfully, it usually hurts my feelings. My standard response is, “but my heart is fuller.”  It seems like big families aren’t as prevalent now as they were in the past, so it’s a bit of a shock to see us walking through a store with 5 children in tow. But, I chose this life and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Yes, it’s hectic and crazy, but it’s also filled with so much laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.  

Q. What advice do you have for other mothers?

My advice for other mothers is to mother and parent the way that is right for you. There are tons of advice books, blogs, articles, etc., but at the end of the day, you have to do things that are right for you and your family.  Everyone has opinions. No matter what choices you make for your children or yourself as a mother, will be the right choices for your family. Be confident and proud. Moms rock!

Q. What’s your favorite part of being a mom?

My favorite part about being a mom is watching my children grow and prosper.  I’m in awe of every single one of them every single day. Ava is a sensitive soul and so smart. She is such a helper and the best tidy-upper in the land. Teagen is eclectic and a free spirit. She’s soft-spoken and goes with the flow. Rorie is strong-willed and fierce. She is demanding, yet shows so much love and compassion. I’m looking forward to watching Camden and Cohen grow and to see their personalities shine. So far, Cohen is pretty chill. He doesn’t mind spending time on his own, while Camden is more vocal and loves to be held. Being a mother is not easy and I’m constantly wondering if I’m doing the right thing for the kids. Have I spent enough time with them? Have I showed them enough attention? Oh shoot, I didn’t feed them a balanced lunch. The list goes on and on. But, being a mother is what I was meant to be. I look at them and my heart could burst out of my chest. They are my tiny humans who will grow up in this world and make a huge difference. …and I’m so lucky to be a part of that.

 

  Fun with Grandad! “I got a pickle, I got a pickle, I got a pickle…HEY HEY HEY HEYYYYY!”