not missing It.

simplicity.

icons hung.

The other day I got a Facebook message from a photographer friend of mine from highschool, Lindsay Horn, asking if I could fill her shoes to photograph the homecoming of a couple who has been in Iraq for 9 months away from their 28-month old little girl. I got chills reading Lindsay’s message and was honored that she thought of me to take her place in photographing their homecoming. I instantly messaged her back and said that I would be honored for the opportunity.

Josh and Emily’s flight arrived early Friday morning at DFW Airport, but all the anxious family members were wide awake. I’m sure that it felt like Christmas morning for most of them as they waited. So much suspense filled the waiting area. Little M, Emily and Josh’s precious little 28-month old daughter was dancing all throughout the lobby. Her innocence and excitement made me tear up at times. It was like I had been given the sweetest little gift… the honor of following her around photographing her face, her feet and her little hands as she jitter-ed out her anticipation while she waited to see her momma and daddy.

When the plane arrived, patriotic music played loudly as people waved American flags. Suspense thickened as we continued to wait. And wait. And wait. And then finally…soldiers began to come through the double doors. Loud clapping, couples running to each other for their first kiss in 9 months, and then… M’s turn. Emily’s (the momma) face was priceless. M ran to her and next to her daddy like it was out of a movie or something. And for the first time in 9 months, they were home and all was back to normal. For a moment all things were Right.

As I was photographing, time was frozen. Tears filled my eyes and I could barely see clearly enough to know if my camera was in focus or not, but somehow we got the shots and the moment is forever frozen in time. This was a “good for the soul” moment and being able to photograph it was such a privilege.

Josh and Emily, welcome home. I hope your two weeks back has been and will continue to be just what you need to go and finish your time. My prayers are with you both and your beautiful little girl! Thank you for the privilege to serve you. And thank you for all that you do for us.

Well, today I’m going to start a little photo series of things that I’m thankful for in my life.  I don’t know how many photos it will end up being, or how many days/weeks/or who knows maybe months I’ll post images of things, people, objects, places, etc. that I’m thankful for, but the series will start today. And today, I’m overwhelmed with thanks for Matt and Life. My precious loves.

Thank you Jesus. Thank you, thank you, thank you for this little family of mine.

But please don’t let me be the only one saying or showing what I’m thankful for. What are you thankful for? I want to know what things make your days a little bit better. What makes you wake up in the morning? What gives you reason to keep doing the things that you do? Let this little space be a place for you to share what you’re really thankful for. I really want to know. It will be a good reminder for all of us to carpe diem.