Lifesong Portraits

This photograph means everything to me. First time in 11 years that my mom and I got to be together, in person, on Mother’s Day. We have a unique and sometimes complicated bond, with a lifetime of vastly different experiences between us. We could not be more different, yet, in some ways, we are very much the same. I am thankful for the ties that bind and the opportunities we’ve had to give each other strength when it was needed the most. To get to share this photo with her and my sweet daughter brings me uncontainable joy.

Hangabers. That’s what she wants for dinner. But just the bun. 🤣. Shouldn’t it be called a hangabun then? Do your kids have funny words for things like hamburgers, too? It’s becoming a frequently used word in our house now. Is that silly or what?! I don’t usually encourage the mispronunciation of words, but this is one that’s kind of stuck with us. And just look at that face. ❤️ Yes, Olivia, you can have a hangaber for dinner...just the bun. 😂

Our little Miss Sunshine is turning into quite the butterfly. Aptly so, since she graduated to the “The Butterflies” class in preschool this year. So thankful for much to share and celebrate with her as we watch her glow and grow more beautiful and strong with each passing year. Wishing all the kiddos out there a great first week of school!

Morning snuggles with my girl. “I love you, Mommy,” as she caresses my face and then draws me in for the tight squeeze. A Momma never tires of getting sweet hugs and love from her children. She has my heart forever. ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

Fish lips. But those eyes, though!

It’s been an interesting week. While running errands here and there, attending church, and visiting the library, I was stopped and greeted by people who recognized me for my 15 minutes of fame. How odd to be recognized for an appearance on the local news regarding advocacy for the rights of those living with physical disability (myself included), and then in the same week being recognized as the mom called out to put an iguana on her head during a children’s program about reptiles! I suppose with all the serious turns my life has taken over the years, God knew I needed some humor!

Pondering these current events and the “notoriety” it gave me, I realized that, if it were totally up to me, I would want to be known for the things that truly matter the most in my heart of hearts. Like living every day with integrity, and being a warrior; an overcomer. That I’d been known for having the courage to do hard things, and be known for walking boldly in faith but with a brave vulnerability.
That I’d be one who could turn my failures and mistakes into learning opportunities for self improvement.
..and oh, to be intentional with spending time with friends and family, speaking words of life and affirmation, erasing self doubts and fears, but rather lifting up and encouraging. That I’d be known as a fierce protector of my girls, and one who taught them that they are enough, to never give up while reaching for their dreams, and to look at the world through the eyes of a person with a glass half full, and that I demonstrated how to love well, forgive more, and serve others more. Yes, it’s a tall order to fill (especially for such a short person!) but these are the things I’d like to be “famous” for. I wish I could say that I “nail it” all now, but it’s something to strive for. So glad that I am His masterpiece and that He’s not finished with me yet!

Hot diggity dog!!! Our sweet, skittish, but adventurous little Ruby girl. I don’t know what we are going to do with her. She has recently taken up digging - particularly digging a hole in an attempt to get to the other side of our fence. No matter how many times we cover it up, she goes right back out and digs again. We even filled her hole with rocks, dirt and bark on top, but she’s digging through that now, too. Nothing seems to be on the other side that would entice her sense of smell, so we wonder if she’s just trying to escape?!

The birds are sweetly singing, and I hear the rooster crow. The warmth of the brilliant sun is shining down on my face. Oh, what a beautiful morning to do some Mommy journaling.

Okay, sorry...not sorry...for posting this photo! As I am going through some drawers and trying to organize my life better, I came across this pic from two years ago. Be still my heart. I cannot believe how quickly she’s grown. Oh, and I simply do not understand why any parent would have to apologize for sharing pics and snippets about their children on social media. I don’t know one mom who isn’t proud of her kids. Some keep shelf upon shelf upon shelf of homemade scrapbooks, or have boxes of all their kids’ things stored in the attic. Others carry “brag books.” In this day and age, we have an overwhelming interest in social media. Sometimes what’s going on in my life is an amazing vacation in the islands, or, perhaps, a birthday or other special event, vanilla chai lattes with a dear friend, or maybe there just aren’t words to share...and why write when a picture itself can paint a thousand words, right?! Having the privilege of devoting my life to my daughter’s growth and development has given me a tremendous purpose in my life.

Since I get to be home with her, more often than not, I’m always experiencing something related to her...a silly new word or dance, a conversation that resonated with me, her singing, her energy, her acceptance and love for me, which, in turn, spills over into a heart that is already overflowing with immeasurable love for her. Documenting those moments, experiences and feelings bring me so much joy! Right now, she’s only 3 weeks from turning 4. I still can’t wrap my head around that! It seems like yesterday she was bouncing around in that fluffy, oversized, white hat. The years will pass quickly and she will continue to evolve and change and I plan to keep documenting and sharing as often as I’m able. You see, there are already days when she rolls her eyes and says, “no more pictures today, Mom,” and I’m okay with that. But in the meantime...this is my life...this is OUR life. ❤️

Offering a package deal of $175 for 50 edited photos on disk or online photo gallery with copyright release for your own enlargements, prints, or photo projects. $195 if you would like me to print your photos in a hardcover album with storyline, captions and/or other personalizations of your choice.

Some of my favorite images captured at a friend's wedding a few years ago.