#73 — Photograph a family for Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep

This item was originally on my 101 in 1001 list, but it was transferred to my bucket list. I actually have done several over the last several years, but I heard from one of my clients from this year who was willing to share her family's story.


You may read what mom shared with me HERE.

This session was very special because baby was living at birth, and lived for a short while. The priest came in to baptize, and at the same time gave last rights. As a Catholic, it was a beautiful circle of life for this baby, to be welcomed into God's family, and then into his kingdom.

After each and every single one of these sessions, I cry. Usually on the way home. Sometimes while talking with my mother.

As having kids hasn't been the easiest path for us, it has been easy to think "well, at least you can get pregnant and carry a baby for a significant portion of the pregnancy." --- and this session hit me like a ton of bricks. This is not easier. In some ways, I think it is harder for these families. Each situation is its own cross, with a differing set of pains.

Yes, these sessions are difficult to photograph. They're even more difficult for me to edit later. I don't look forward to it/them. Ever. But I know the immense value this has to the families, and that is worth more than any discomfort I might feel.

In Atwood

A long-time friend of mine, Fr. Nick, lives far, far away in a hamlet named Atwood. I keep meaning to go visit, but it's a 4-ish hour drive from us, and have never had a good excuse.

When our church youth needed "adult sponsors" for Prayer in Action, I decided "what the heck?" So I went. The week was full of scraping and painting houses. Believe it or not, this is NOT something I have experience doing, so it was a good lesson.


This is the motel in town; it made me giggle. We stayed in the church's school. It was smokin' hot in Aug. :(


Everyone at work.


Many hand make light work.


I was able to pass on some of my power tool knowledge. :)

First Holy Communion

In 12 hours, our 2nd grade CCD class will begin Mass for First Holy Communion.

Miss Allison and I have taught CCD in Ellis for 3 years now. The first year, we taught 1st grade. The last two years, we've taught 2nd grade.

I LOVE it! These kids are bright, have loads of perspective and grasp so much more theology than some give them credit for.

Anyhow, here's our group photo from last week:


And of course, something silly (c'mon! We're talking about SECOND GRADERS here!)