“Welcome to the World, Augustine Jude”

In the charming town of Doylestown, Pennsylvania, the Novick family celebrated the arrival of their precious son, Augustine Jude, on a serene September morning. Born at 9:35 AM on September 15, 2024, Augustine weighed 7 lbs 14 oz and measured 21 inches of pure perfection. His name, chosen with love, honors St. Augustine of Hippo and St. Jude, whose relics the family visited—a poignant connection to faith and hope.

For Joanna and Joel, discovering they were expecting Augustine was a moment filled with a blend of emotions. They were overjoyed but also cautious, having recently experienced the heartbreak of losing their angel baby, Micah. Joanna described the experience as deeply humbling:

“After losing the sibling right before you, we realized our naivety. We are not indestructible. We are vulnerable, and in that vulnerability, we do our best to hope and look toward what is good. Sweet boy, you were worthy of being fearfully and wonderfully made, a thought in God’s mind. However the rest of the years progress, this will remain true.”

When the moment finally arrived and Joanna and Joel held Augustine for the first time, it was nothing short of magical. Joanna recalled the calm and joy that replaced the anxiousness they felt as new parents with Josiah:

“There was so much more confidence, peace, and joy this time around. When Joey was born, we were such an anxious wreck, not knowing what to do. But this time, we were able to just enjoy the moment. We want nothing more than to rub our faces all over yours.”

That moment of connection cemented Augustine’s place in their hearts as a cherished blessing.

The family’s newborn session, held in late September, was a celebration of life, love, and connection. Big brother Josiah stole the spotlight with his excitement, showcasing the playful energy of a toddler and the tender love of a big sibling.

The Novicks also brought special mementos to the session, including a bunny and necklace in remembrance of Micah and their beloved firstborn pup, Waffles.

Reflecting on the session, Joanna described it as an experience of grace and joy. Having had a less positive experience with a previous photographer, she admitted feeling nervous about logistics, timing, and toddler energy. However, Kim’s warmth and patience created a safe, welcoming environment where even the goofiest toddler moments became cherished memories.

“It was much more sweet this time around knowing your character of kindness was what led this photography session,” Joanna said.

Preparing for the session was a family effort, complete with a fresh haircut for Josiah and careful wardrobe planning. Feeding Augustine and ensuring he was content proved to be a winning strategy, resulting in a relaxed and joyful session that truly captured the family’s love and bond.

Joanna’s advice for other parents considering newborn photography? “Find someone who makes you feel comfortable. It’s an intimate experience, and having someone kind and patient makes all the difference.”

The Novicks also drew on their faith, offering a special blessing for their son during the session: “May the blessing of Numbers 6:24-26 follow you all the days of your life.” It was a moment filled with hope, love, and gratitude.

As they hold Augustine close and cherish these early days, the Novicks are reminded of the beauty of family, the strength found in vulnerability, and the gift of capturing these fleeting moments through photography.

In the heart of Bucks County, the Novicks’ story is one of resilience, faith, and joy—woven together by the love they share and the memories they create.