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I am always honored to be asked to do a littlest hero's photo session.
This one was particularly fun, I got to photograph two little ones. Oliver and his big cousin Mila.
Oliver's parents found out that he had Down Syndrome when Mari was just four months pregnant. "We felt very anxious throughout the rest of the pregnancy but as soon as he arrived we fell in love and the fears dissipated. Oliver had to spend a few weeks in the NICU because he had pulmonary hypertension and wasn't able to keep his oxygen levels high enough. He has a heart defect that will hopefully resolve on its own without surgery. He is a delightful baby. He just started smiling and cooing and we are enjoying every moment with him."
This is about the time that I was paid one of the best compliments EVER. I am not sure where it came from, maybe her mom was trying to bribe her into the kitchen so I could get some images of Oliver by himself. But Mila said that I was better than Pancakes. That's right, Pancakes are no match for me. I am better than Pancakes. It was nice to hear, I have a new mantra.
I can't get enough of those freckles. Mila is such a cute little munchkin!
Sweet little Oliver. He was such a good sport. He seemed to be perfectly happy to let me photograph him. No fussing, a totally happy baby. It is no wonder his parents fell in love.
Oliver and family, thank you for an amazing session! Mila and Oliver, you two are just beautiful. A delight to be around and of course, I think you are better than pancakes too!
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Just before I left on my trip to Italy I was contacted by Dandelion Magazine, a local magazine for parents with children that have special needs. I was asked to do a photo session for the cover story on a very special family. It was basically the last session that I shot before leaving, and the magazine was going to come out while I was away. The editor promised to send me a copy and when I finally got home I rushed to my pile of mail to find it. The images came out great, but it is the story behind the images that really touched my heart. You can read their story HERE.
We met in Golden Gate Park, it was a beautiful afternoon. We walked and chatted, I got to know them and enjoyed capturing the love that they felt as a family. It is amazing the mountains that they have had to climb together, and that is just it. They did it together and they seemed to be pretty strong because of it. You see, when Lily as just two years old she was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. This is a chronic disease that causes joint swelling, stiffness and bouts of severe pain. The family overcame the heartache and devastation of this painful disease, they learned how to cope. When Lily was four years old Miriam and Ronan welcomed a second child into their family, Frankie. By the time Frankie was born Ronan and Miriam had learned how to cope through writing and letting themselves accept help. Something they struggled with in the beginning. Miriam even became a life coach to teach other parents how to manage when dealing with crisis. She has a website called Cope and Thrive and has taken everything she has learned to try to help others in similar situations.
The family was strong. They each played an important role and while life was still difficult, they were happy. In May of 2009 any resemblance of normalcy faded. Frankie was diagnosed with Lymphoma. The family was tested once again and had to be strong and help their little boy through painful treatments while continuing to give their little girl all of the help she needed to deal with her disease.
Frankie did well in his treatments, he was in the 'maintenance phase' which had him taking several pills everyday. But his hair had grown back and he was in school and thriving. Frankie was supposed to complete his last round of treatment in June. I was in Italy at the time and although he wasn't quite in remission yet, he seemed like a healthy, normal boy. I was pretty sure that he was going to be just fine. I couldn't imagine anything but good things for this family. They had been through enough. It was time for them to breathe.
When I got back from Italy I contacted Ronan to set up their viewing session. It had been a few days since I had heard from them but I assumed that life had just gotten busy. When Ronan finally contacted me my heart about sank with the words that I read in his email. Frankie had relapsed. This poor family had been through so much and now, after everything they were back in the hospital. It is hard to make sense of it, it just does not seem fare.
Nothing in this life is more important than the people around you. Love them as hard as you can. Don't let life pass you by without showing your family and friends how much you care about them. Be present in your life. Do not let the mundane business of everyday let you get lazy. Be thankful for what you have been blessed with. These are the words I said to myself as I fell asleep that evening. These are the words that I hope to never forget.
Nothing in this life is more important than the people around you. Love them as hard as you can. Don't let life pass you by without showing your family and friends how much you care about them. Be present in your life. Do not let the mundane business of everyday let you get lazy. Be thankful for what you have been blessed with. These are the words I said to myself as I fell asleep that evening. These are the words that I hope to never forget.
Anonymous:
FABULOUS!
(08.17.10)
Autumn:
Positively amazing and touching story. Thank you (and the family) SO much for sharing!
(08.25.10)
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Have you met Jess? If you have, you have been blessed. She is a gem. Jess walked into my life at about the same time that Charlie did and I have loved every moment I have spent with her since. Jess also has a green heart. She works at The Sustainability Institute in Stellenbosch in South Africa (the PERFECT job for her) and she brought me with her to photograph one of the events on the site. It was the kickoff for a new program called Changes Youth - Sustainability Institute aftercare.
Words from the Institute:
2 ½ years ago saw the beginning, with 18 boys, of the Changes youth group. Only 5 of those had present fathers, 3 being alcoholics. After visiting the local Stellenbosch prison, the boys chose the youth club name - from the famous Tupak song - and to symbolize the changes they would like make in their own lives.
12th April saw the beginning of Changes 4.0 - i.e. 83 mainly farm worker children between the ages of 6 and 16 arriving after school for lunch.Great vegetarian Farm to Fork food, grown by Eric, our organic farmer, or here in the Lynedoch gardens. (Not one child has asked where the meat is, and some have gone for seconds and thirds!) Then on to homework, karate, drama, soccer, gardening, drumming, games and remedial work if necessary.
This is purely voluntary - and there were bitter complaints yesterday when the bus arrived too early to take some children home. They wanted to stay later. There are more children arriving each day to ask to join - the Institute is bursting. Everywhere we look there is a child, just the way it should be.
The end of the day meant cake! The kids loved it and there were smiles all around. If you are interested in making a donation feel free to contact me Sara@SaraAtkinsPhotography.com and I can get contact information for you. We have thought of a few activities that would be great to fund, maybe a beach day for the kids. Many of them have never seen the ocean despite being just about half an hour away from it! Something like this would not cost much and would be wonderful for the kids. No pressure, just something to think about.
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People drift in and out of our lives, sometimes they touch our hearts even if they are only close to us for a very short time.
In South Africa it is fairly common to have a domestic worker. At first, it seemed strange to have someone doing my dishes and laundry, but in South Africa, with roughly 25% unemployed, it just makes sense. It frees up time to focus on work and other things while providing someone with a job.
On the first day at our place in Johannesburg I awoke to a little knock on our bedroom door. Charlie sleepily said, 'come in'. In walked Salome with a huge smile on her face. This was the first time I met Salome. She brought in a tray of hot tea with a warm hello. I knew we would be friends, and not just because she was feeding my tea habit. I slurped down my tea and walked down to the kitchen where Salome was busy making breakfast. The table was all set with fresh flowers from the garden. Charlie and I sat down to breakfast, enjoying every bite. Then Charlie scampered off to work and I got started working on admin from home. And this is how just about every morning started while in Johannesburg.
Salome and I became very close in a very short time. We went to the shops together and shared stories along the way. She told me all about her family, her house (which is almost finished, it just needs a roof), and life in general. I used my time in South Africa to work on improving my business processes which meant a lot of computer time. When I was not out on an adventure I was working pretty hard, having Salome with me was a joy. Salome would try to distract me, 'Your eyes must be so tired. Stop looking at the computer. Here, look at this tea.' She would regularly tell me that I needed to move to Johannesburg and buy this house. 'You should live here.' she would tell me. Almost every day.
Salome. She is strong, kind and funny. She stood up for herself and her family when it mattered most. She has courage. She has built a life for herself and she is proud of what she has accomplished. She has a big family including a grandson on his way to becoming a doctor. The highlight of her month is when she gets to go home and see her family. Salome has been working for the same lady (the owner of the house we were staying) for almost 30 years. When Salome was just 23 she moved to Johannesburg and taught herself to speak Zulu, the fourth in her repertoire of languages.
When it came time to say goodbye to Salome I told her that I was leaving for Cape Town and I probably would not see her again before I leave for the United States. She said 'No! I will not eat all week. Do not tell me this.' The very last thing I remember her saying to me was, 'Oh no, my Baby is leaving.' It was true. I was leaving and she had touched my heart.
I don't know if I will ever see Salome again, but I will never forget what she has taught me. No matter what life throws at you it is important to give it everything you have. Be strong. Enjoy life and greet every day with a smile (and a cup of tea). Sing while you work. Don't forget to take breaks. And most importantly, always show the people around you how much you care for them.
Thank you Salome.
In South Africa it is fairly common to have a domestic worker. At first, it seemed strange to have someone doing my dishes and laundry, but in South Africa, with roughly 25% unemployed, it just makes sense. It frees up time to focus on work and other things while providing someone with a job.
On the first day at our place in Johannesburg I awoke to a little knock on our bedroom door. Charlie sleepily said, 'come in'. In walked Salome with a huge smile on her face. This was the first time I met Salome. She brought in a tray of hot tea with a warm hello. I knew we would be friends, and not just because she was feeding my tea habit. I slurped down my tea and walked down to the kitchen where Salome was busy making breakfast. The table was all set with fresh flowers from the garden. Charlie and I sat down to breakfast, enjoying every bite. Then Charlie scampered off to work and I got started working on admin from home. And this is how just about every morning started while in Johannesburg.
Salome and I became very close in a very short time. We went to the shops together and shared stories along the way. She told me all about her family, her house (which is almost finished, it just needs a roof), and life in general. I used my time in South Africa to work on improving my business processes which meant a lot of computer time. When I was not out on an adventure I was working pretty hard, having Salome with me was a joy. Salome would try to distract me, 'Your eyes must be so tired. Stop looking at the computer. Here, look at this tea.' She would regularly tell me that I needed to move to Johannesburg and buy this house. 'You should live here.' she would tell me. Almost every day.
Salome. She is strong, kind and funny. She stood up for herself and her family when it mattered most. She has courage. She has built a life for herself and she is proud of what she has accomplished. She has a big family including a grandson on his way to becoming a doctor. The highlight of her month is when she gets to go home and see her family. Salome has been working for the same lady (the owner of the house we were staying) for almost 30 years. When Salome was just 23 she moved to Johannesburg and taught herself to speak Zulu, the fourth in her repertoire of languages.
When it came time to say goodbye to Salome I told her that I was leaving for Cape Town and I probably would not see her again before I leave for the United States. She said 'No! I will not eat all week. Do not tell me this.' The very last thing I remember her saying to me was, 'Oh no, my Baby is leaving.' It was true. I was leaving and she had touched my heart.
I don't know if I will ever see Salome again, but I will never forget what she has taught me. No matter what life throws at you it is important to give it everything you have. Be strong. Enjoy life and greet every day with a smile (and a cup of tea). Sing while you work. Don't forget to take breaks. And most importantly, always show the people around you how much you care for them.
Thank you Salome.
Lewis Heinrichs:
Hi Sara
beautiful pic's I'm proud of you. Enjoy life it passes quickly.....
Lots of love
Uncle Lew
Lisa Mason:
Sara what a beautiful story and photos...thank you for sharing... it touched my heart.
(04.28.10)
Sara Atkins:
Thank you Lisa. Salomie is an amazing lady, I am lucky to know where and so happy to share her story.
(04.28.10)
Linda:
Lisa told me to stop by and read your heartwarming story. Great job, Sara!
(04.30.10)
Sally:
Hi Sara - This is Sally. Salome works for me and I stopped by at the house yesterday and she showed me the beautiful photographs you took. She told me what wonderful people you and Charlie are and how she loved looking after you! Yes Salome is a one of a kind true gem. We are all fortunate to have had her care and influence in our lives. Thanks so much for the pics - please could you mail them to me so I can have them printed for Salome. Your photos are wonderful. I hope you had a great visit in SA...looks like it! Come back and stay soon! ps I don't know what she does to the roses but they grow grow grow for her! So the pic of her by her roses is truly special - very Salome! I did laugh at her nagging you to take breaks :-)
(05.05.10)
Sara Atkins:
Sally it is so great to hear from you! Salome spoke very kindly of you while we stayed in Johannesburg. It sounds like you are lucky to have each other! I have actually already printed out the pictures for Salome, but if you would like a digital copy as well just let me know. By the way, your house is lovely. I especially like the room with the pink shag carpet!
(05.05.10)
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179
Note: I am feeling rather verbose today. I am just going to take today to say thank you to life.
I still blush when people compliment my work. I put so much of myself into every image, it is as if each finished photograph is a little piece of my heart. When someone connects with my images in the same way that I do, it makes all of my effort worth it. I love my work and I am amazed that I have been able to make a career out of something that provides me with so much joy. I get to tell stories with my images. I get to show people how beautiful they are.
I am blessed, I know that I am and I am so thankful. I have an amazing life, a wonderful husband and a supportive and loving family. My life as I know it now is filled with love, adventure and opportunity. I am so eager to continue my work that I jump out of bed each morning excited to start my day. So Life, thank you.
Because I am so fortunate, I feel like I have an obligation to give back. While donating to charity is probably greatly appreciated, and going out and picking up garbage or handing out food is a great way to donate ones time, what I really wanted to do is use my photography in a way that can help. If I can put as much passion into my volunteer work as I put into work for my clients I figure I can do a lot more good.
I have always been a lover of furry critters. I have been bringing home stray and injured animals for as long as I can remember. My poor parents have become accustomed to my arriving at their house with a menagerie of animals of all sizes and shapes. I do not discriminate. But, as I have become an adult I have realized that my apartment is just not big enough to bring EVERY animal home with me. What I can do though is to help find other homes that do have space for these critters. And, I think have done that. If you are reading this, chances are you have seen at least one of the blog post's that I have published on the pups from Oakland Animal Services. Well, that last pup has been adopted and not only that, but the director of the shelter took the opportunity to do a write up on little widget...and me. The write up describes the importance of photography in getting their animals adopted. I wanted to help and, I as it turns out... I have.
You can read the article here: http://oaklandanimalservices.org/2010/02/a-photograph-can-change-an-animals-life/
Now, suppose everyone used their passion in a way that gave back to the world around them. How much better would the world be? How do you give back?
I still blush when people compliment my work. I put so much of myself into every image, it is as if each finished photograph is a little piece of my heart. When someone connects with my images in the same way that I do, it makes all of my effort worth it. I love my work and I am amazed that I have been able to make a career out of something that provides me with so much joy. I get to tell stories with my images. I get to show people how beautiful they are.
I am blessed, I know that I am and I am so thankful. I have an amazing life, a wonderful husband and a supportive and loving family. My life as I know it now is filled with love, adventure and opportunity. I am so eager to continue my work that I jump out of bed each morning excited to start my day. So Life, thank you.
Because I am so fortunate, I feel like I have an obligation to give back. While donating to charity is probably greatly appreciated, and going out and picking up garbage or handing out food is a great way to donate ones time, what I really wanted to do is use my photography in a way that can help. If I can put as much passion into my volunteer work as I put into work for my clients I figure I can do a lot more good.
I have always been a lover of furry critters. I have been bringing home stray and injured animals for as long as I can remember. My poor parents have become accustomed to my arriving at their house with a menagerie of animals of all sizes and shapes. I do not discriminate. But, as I have become an adult I have realized that my apartment is just not big enough to bring EVERY animal home with me. What I can do though is to help find other homes that do have space for these critters. And, I think have done that. If you are reading this, chances are you have seen at least one of the blog post's that I have published on the pups from Oakland Animal Services. Well, that last pup has been adopted and not only that, but the director of the shelter took the opportunity to do a write up on little widget...and me. The write up describes the importance of photography in getting their animals adopted. I wanted to help and, I as it turns out... I have.
You can read the article here: http://oaklandanimalservices.org/2010/02/a-photograph-can-change-an-animals-life/
Now, suppose everyone used their passion in a way that gave back to the world around them. How much better would the world be? How do you give back?
Scott:
That's awesome Sara. It's great you are making a difference. My small way of giving back is cleaning all the bugs out of peoples computers. Small, but 1 less spam message in everyone's inbox is a good thing. :)
(02.05.10)
Sara Atkins:
Scott, we can all use a few less pieces of spam. Yes, that does indeed make the world a better, more productive place!
Carol, Thank you.
(02.05.10)
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Thank you so much Sara! We love them!
(08.26.10)This series with Oliver, Mila and Mari is so well done. You've captured some amazing expressions. Beautiful!
(08.26.10)Of course you do, that darling boy of yours makes my job so easy!
(08.26.10)As the proud grandpa of the two beautiful kids, I have to say your art is itself a wonderful addition to the world. Thank you much. Rick
(08.26.10)Mari's friend Lauren passed this link on to me -- I love love loved seeing this set! Sara, your photos are beautiful. Ollie and Mila, you are gorgeous!!!! Mari, I think you are so cool :) xoxoxox--Kh
(08.27.10)Thank you Lana!
(08.27.10)Wow, Rich that is so nice to hear. Thank you for your kind words and thank you for having such a wonderful family!
(08.27.10)Thank you Karyn, it is so nice to get feedback. I love what I do and when other people appreciate it, it makes it that much better. And I agree, Mari is pretty cool.
(08.27.10)What wonderful pictures. I'm sure they will be treasured for years to come.
(08.27.10)Thank you Elizabeth, I hope so!
(08.27.10)Hi Sara, I'm Ollie's dad. These photos are better than we could have imagined, but of course we don't possess your considerable talent! Thank you so much for being involved with Littlest Heroes, we wouldn't have found you otherwise. - Phokham
(08.27.10)Hello Phokham, you have a darling little boy. I am so happy to have had the chance to spend time with him and your sweet wife too. Congratulations on your beautiful family!
(08.27.10)I love your work and Oliver and his cousin are just absolutely precious in your shots! You have captured the love of all and the beauty of simplicity in your works. God Bless!
(09.02.10)Thank you Jenny!
(09.02.10)