Tuesday, April 22, 2014

This Amazing Life


Recently I photographed a beautiful baby girl. Her mother is so sweet and we had such fun creating these images together. We laughed at her baby's expressions and her cute little reindeer hat. We talked about how adorable she is and how fast she is growing. She fit perfectly in the tiny little sleigh, but it won't be long before she outgrows it.


I truly valued the time I got to spend with this new mom because I felt so connected to her. She truly gets how important this time is. Yes, there are a lot of things to do. But once time has slipped away, we don't get those moments back to spend with our little ones. They will soon grow up and be too big to cuddle any more.


I know that moms have a lot going on. Many are sleep deprived and tired. Many are scared. There are so many decisions to make about diapers and feedings and pacifiers. The list goes on and on. Many moms are trying to find balance between work and home life.

But my hope is that we don't forget to truly enjoy the time and the opportunities that we have. A newborn fits securely in mother's arms for a little while, but she will not be tiny forever. So if you have a newborn, be sure to snuggle up with her and cherish this grand occasion. These are such fleeting moments. Soak them up as much as you can before they pass you by. Take in those moments when it's just you and your baby. When the two of you get to be the main event. When you can kiss those tiny toes.


Yes, you still have to make decisions about schedules, and diapers, and bottles. And you'll get to that soon enough. But don't forget to really be fully present in the moment with your child. You are the most important person in her world. And she is the most important person in your world. Make sure she knows that. She needs you to be fully engaged. The dirty dishes can sit for a while. Occasionally, paper plates will do just fine. It isn't about perfection. It's about a beautiful life, a beautiful story.

I sensed that Becca really gets that, too. She just exudes delight for her newborn baby. I want to call out to new mothers everywhere and say don't ever let go of that feeling. It will be what carries you through the challenges. Enjoy those moments and be thankful for the time you have together.

I am thrilled to know this proud momma and her sweet, little bundle of joy. And I know that she is already an amazing mother. If you met her, I believe that she would tell you that this is an amazing journey. That her life will never be the same. That she has received a precious gift. That her child will teach her things that no one else can. That even with it's ups and downs, she will be forever grateful for this amazing life.


This little angel's name is Decker and she has Down Syndrome. It doesn't matter what she can and can't do. What matters is that she is loved and that she melts the heart of her mother and father. Her presence brings them delight and joy. And they cherish this precious gift.


I love the message in this video for expecting moms:
Dear future mom, don't be afraid. Your child will be able to do many things.

Yes, you may be scared. But you can do this. What you don't know, you will learn. It may be difficult. But it's so worth it. And there will be challenges. But there will also be unspeakable joy.

Welcome to motherhood!

Cherish this moment, this adventure, this amazing life!