06/03/2026
A few days before Memorial day, Christa reached out to me hoping to do a family photo session over Memorial Day weekend. It was a little short notice, and we were actually up north camping with friends and enjoying some side-by-side rides. But the moment she told me why, I was 1000% in.
Their son, Ethan, had surprised the family by coming home on a short leave before heading to Okinawa, Japan, where he'll be stationed with the Marines for the next three years. There was no way I was going to miss the opportunity to help them capture these memories together.
At one point, we weren't sure the session was even going to happen because their oldest son had to work. But with a lot of hope, a few prayers, and some flexibility, everything fell perfectly into place.
The family came out to my place, and we were blessed with the most incredible sunset. Ethan's dad, Todd, is also a Marine, making this session even more meaningful. After we finished photographing the family with the American flag, both Marines carefully folded the flag together. It was such a beautiful and powerful moment to witness.
As they finished, Todd stood there quietly with his eyes closed. It looked as though he was praying over the flag with one hand on top of the flag. I can only imagine what was running through his mind....prayers for his son, for the brave men and women who gave everything for our country, and for the United States itself.
In that moment, everything seemed to stand still. I felt incredibly honored to witness something so personal and meaningful, and I couldn't help but pause and take it all in before quietly capturing the moment.
Sometimes photographs become so much more than pictures. They become memories, emotions, and stories that deserve to be remembered.
I'm so thankful everything worked out exactly the way it did.
And Ethan, as you begin this next chapter, please know that so many people are thinking of you. My family thanks both you and your dad for your service and sacrifice. We pray for your safety, your strength, and for the day your family gets to welcome you home again.
Oh, and I can't finish this post without mentioning the amazing surprise Christa brought me! She gifted me the most beautiful homemade sourdough loaf and fresh farm eggs from her chickens.
Honestly, the bread was almost too pretty to eat. Of course, before we cut into it, I had to photograph it because that's just who I am! 😂 But once my husband and I finally gave in and tried it... oh my goodness, we were absolutely in love. It was SO good!
Thank you, Christa, Todd, and your family, not only for trusting me to capture such a special moment, but also for your kindness and generosity. It truly means more than you know. ❤️
