There are times in our lives when we are presented opportunities to do something for someone else that will stay with them forever.  I think I get more out of these opportunities than the recipients.  I feel blessed just to be able to do it.

In my world of photography, my goal is to capture moments for my clients that will be cherished for a lifetime.  Hopefully, even through generations.  They will be cherished even more so if the unexpected happens.  You can’t always prepare for these unexpected things.  That’s why they are unexpected.  Once they happen, things like photographs, trophies, perfume bottles, etc are cherished even more.

Truthfully, I have a hard time handling the unexpected, especially when it happens to those dear to me.  I just want them to know I’m there for them in any way they need me to be.  If they need me to listen or distract them, give a hug or provide a meal, or whatever it is they need. I try not to push and allow them their space.  When something unexpected happened to one of my new friends (who feels like a little sister to me), I let her know all these things.  This time, I had something else to offer.  I offered her family portraits if she wanted them.  I didn’t think she was going to take me up on it, but she finally decided to do it.  I am so happy she did.  And thank you for encouraging me to share your story.

In her own words:

I am a photographer and always thought I knew the value of a photograph until today. Today I realize that a photograph doesn’t have value. It is beyond priceless and irreplaceable. Six months ago my mom was diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer. None of the chemo treatments are working to fight against her cancer and unless God decides to bless us with a miracle I will be losing my best friend.

A Mother’s love is something that no one can explain, it is made of deep devotion and of sacrifice and pain, it is endless and unselfish and enduring For nothing can destroy it or take that love away . . . It is patient and forgiving when all others are forsaking, And it never fails or falters even though the heart is breaking . . . It believes beyond believing when the world around condemns, And it glows with all the beauty of the rarest, brightest gems . . . It is far beyond defining, it defies all explanation, And it still remains a secret like the mysteries of creation .

I will forever and always cherish this amazing gift Crystal has given myself and my siblings. She has captured my mothers beauty at its best in the darkest times. I ask each and every one of you reading this .. don’t ever take advantage of the value of a photograph because in the end when our loved ones leave us behind and our memories start to fade, what you have caught on film is captured forever.

Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving.
It remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.

Amanda (in the cream dress), I love you and your gorgeous family!  You always have my love, prayers and support! xoxo

No matter what comes their way, they have each other.