A few weeks ago, Grace Porter Borowick turned 8, and by one of those wonderful twists of fate, I happened to be in Washington, D.C. on her birthday.

I got to celebrate with my chosen family—my two best friends, Anne and David, and their incredible girls, Grace and Maisey. Some people become family simply because life keeps proving they’re meant to be.

My gift to Grace was photographing her pool party. Watching eight-year-olds completely lost in laughter, sunshine, cannonballs, and cake is a pretty great reminder of what joy looks like.

As soon as the party wrapped up, Eric Dominijanni swooped in to pick me up, and we hit the road for Maine to continue our adventure. One unforgettable day, two completely different stories.

Happy 8th birthday, Grace. You are so deeply loved.