The sweetness of Carter...who lived for 9 months in the belly of his mama

There are many reasons I’m grateful this holiday season. One of them is my love of photography, and the enormous blessings that have come from it. This year I’ve had the privilege of working with some amazing people going through hard, hard things. I’ve realized that there are those whose trials are right there in front of our faces, and many many others who are enduring, silently, the enormous burdens life has brought them. Only this year I’ve worked with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation a few times, and 2 families with children who have CF. An amazing family who’s father and husband went through brain surgery. Sweet Jonas Coleman who had SMA….I photographed him and his family then only weeks later he passed away. Mr. Super Spencer, 8 years old, who is undergoing a year long treatment for his cancer. I got to photograph his fundraiser, his Make A Wish, and his family. Another great family who’s mother is undergoing chemo AGAIN, after being cancer free.
And this wonderful girl, her family, and her precious still born baby Carter. Ashley was full term, and due in a few days with her first baby, when she went in for an ultrasound. They couldn’t find a heartbeat. I was going to photograph the birth of Carter. I got the phone call from her Mom telling me what had happened. I cried all the way to the hospital just after she gave birth. I waited on the floor in the hallway with her mom, dad, sister, brother and friend. This family is to say the least, amazing. Her mom is the epitome of strength, endurance, service and love. And her Dad, he’s just one big pillar of strength and then mush inside. So loving and kind. She’s a lucky girl to have so much support.
It was a truly sacred experience. Ash loves him…she kept talking to him, kissing him and snuggling up to him. I have no doubt he felt everyone of those sweet words she whispered and every soft touch to his tiny hands and face. Thank you Ash for letting me meet your sweetness baby. He is watching you from heaven.

Makes me so incredibly thankful. Thankful for all I’ve been given, and for all of you who have made my year so meaningful. Thank you.

Ash, and Carter. And Carter with the hands of both of his parents