I wanted to take some time and remember a sweet little boy who made a big difference in the lives of so many.
Sam Sparks passed away one month ago today from complications of seizures and respiratory illness. Sam had cerebral palsy along with many other conditions. At just a few months shy of five years old Sam gave up his fight and returned home be with his twin sister Sydney, who passed away after just six weeks of life.
Sam's life, although not typical of a young child, was a full one! His amazing parents never let Sam's condition hold him back from anything! He was able to experience all the great things that little kids should experience - and then some!
I have been fortunate enough to photograph Sam since just hours after he was born premature - and even before that when his mommy was expecting he and his sister! I suppose I didn't realize it at the time, but he was making a big difference in my life all along. As I photographed Sam's funeral service a few weeks ago I was reminded of the time I've spent with Sam through a beautiful video tribute of his life. There on the screen were photo after photo that I had taken of Sam for his parents to have and cherish forever. I sat alone in the balcony of the church sobbing and feeling an overwhelming thankfulness for the gift I have been able to give this family .... and the gift they gave me in return. Being a part of Sam's life has changed me forever and I cannot thank him enough for that gift.
So today I remember Sam's life .........and I hug my babies just a little tighter.
If you are interested (and have a box of tissues on hand) in watching the video tribute of Sam's life, here is the link:
Also, if you would like to learn more about cerebral palsy or Sam's journey, you can visit his website. Sam's parents have started an organization called "Sparks of Hope" that will continue to bless the lives of those touched by cerebral palsy.
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Fall is definitely in the air .... and that means it's time for family photos! Just in time for those holiday cards and gifts!
Ever get tired of those boring school photos? This is also a great opportunity to get fresh photos of the kids!
Fall mini sessions are perfect for anyone who would like a less expensive option to freshening up the family portrait collection. October 2nd is already booked and I'm only offering 8-10 sessions at these prices - so get in on the deal while you can!
I will be adding more dates so if you're not available on the 8th, don't worry about it, just send me an email or give me a call and we'll get you scheduled!
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Next up (and the reason I've been so delinquent in blogging) is the sweet and cuddly Miss Josie! WE GOT A PUPPY!
Getting your first puppy is very similar to bringing home your firstborn child from the hospital. At first you can't believe someone LET you take this helpless little creature home with you, then you realize how UNPREPARED you are so you rush out and buy all sorts of things you never knew you needed (and probably don't), you find yourself OBSESSING over every noise, movement and bowl movement, you realize how much you took sleeping through the night for granted, you read stacks of books on the proper care and feeding of your new little bundle of joy, at some point you wonder WHAT you got yourself into (admit it, you asked yourself that question at least once) and STILL you fall hopelessly in love regardless of it all!
That's our story so far. I look forward to sharing more of Josie with you all as she grows, disobeys (oh no, not MY dog), destroys things (yes, I know it will happen) and wraps me around her cute little paws .....
Until then, here are a few pics of Josie's first official mini (because puppies have very short attention spans) photo shoot! I took her to a favorite spot and simulated one of my favorite child images of all time. The goal: a photo for the wall .... because every new mommy needs a portrait of her baby on the wall :-)
And for anyone who is curious .... Josie is an 8 week old brittany spaniel :-)
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One of my most recent projects has been very different from my usual type of work....NO PEOPLE! Gasp!
I never thought I would do it ... but I actually kinda liked it!
This home was beautifully constructed by Stone Custom Homes and decorated by Design Interiors for the 2010 Salem Oregon Tour of Homes.
Enjoy the view!
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Something a little different .....
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What a tribute to such a sweet soul~
(10.06.11 @ 05:10 PM)