When five siblings all attend the same school, and five more meet them at home at the end of every day, life is a constant bustle of opportunity. The Surratts, a family of 12, are not in the Lakewood district but take part in the community by choice. A high value on education means no cutting corners, even if that requires early morning drives in the cold of winter. From individual adventures at school, to a community of their own at home, there's an incredible depth to their lives to which words cannot do justice. If you want to understand, you'll have to meet them for yourself.

Documenting this story for a full semester was one of the most challenging but rewarding experiences I've ever had. With a background in photography, and seven siblings of my own, I felt prepared to take on the task. In reflection, I can say--with humility and gratitude--that I was stretched and grown more than I could have known to ask for or expect. Readiness, it turns out, was not based on ability or experience, but openness to learn. And I did learn, even if just in brief snapshots--about the community around me, about the power of telling stories through photography, and most importantly, about a beautiful family and the life they live every day just a few minutes down the road. So, thank you to the Surratt family, for allowing me to tell your story. For inviting me into your home, for letting me ride with you to school, and for every time you brought a smile to my face, simply by existing. Thank you to my classmates for providing a community to grow in, to Dhruv for your insight and investment, and to Susie, for every second you poured into me to help me bring it all together--the experience is something I will cherish for a while.