A perfect little model, one that I would have loved to take out to the fenced area and play ball with. It is obvious that she is at least part Australian Shepherd and or Border Collie, and to be honest - I have a love to herding breeds.
THEN Twinkie Two came in the next week and I told the Animal Care Assistant that was helping me that I had already photographed this dog last week. She just smiled big and said "well actually there are TWO of them". TT was just as sweet as her sister, TO. In some ways, I hope they get adopted together so they have each other....BUT if they go to separate homes, they will bless TWO families a great deal!
Have you ever watched your baby sleeping and become so overwhelmed with love that you cried? At that point it is impossible to think of ever abusing your child. But that is not the life every child lives. And THOSE children need help. I have hugged the little girls in this story, never knowing their story. As I read this, I was overwhelmed that anyone could have treated these loving, intelligent, sassy, little girls like this. How do children come from such abuse to the trusting, loving little humans they are now and the women they will become. Break the cycle of abuse - here, there, and everywhere.
The post below is a reblog from Shadow of His Wings Orphanage - Escaping the Abuse. I encourage you to visit their site and learn more about the work going on in Monjas, Guatemala.
No six year old should be a hero. At least not in normal circumstances. But when placed in dangerous situations, it may be the difference between life and death. When a six year old takes actions to save her life, it’s heroic. When she also saves her baby sister in the process, it’s miraculous.
They were cast outside for the night. This was not unusual. They spent many nights outside braving the cold. Huddled up together to stay warm. Their little bodies shivering. Their only cover and protection were the bare thin clothes on their backs. And the hand of God. But they were ok with the cold. They were ok with the outside. Inside was what they feared. Inside was mamá.
She drank often. Probably to ease the pain. To deal with the past. It didn’t matter where it came from or what she needed to do to get it. There were always ways. It also didn’t matter that what little she could earn wasn’t spent on food or the girls. They could fend for themselves. What was more important was the numbness that came with the drink. Yes, she beat them when she was drunk. Yes, she punished them with the burning end of her cigarettes. But so long as she couldn’t feel, it didn’t matter.
After watching her sister receive the full fury of her mamá’s wrath she made a decision. She had seen enough. No longer would she allow her sister to be kicked as she crawled along the ground. No longer would she allow her sister to be flung across the room like a thing. No longer would she allow her sister to eat dirt and garbage. No longer would she allow herself to cry over her unconscious sister. No long would she allow crying themselves to sleep in the cold and rain of that mountain. At six years old, she made the decision to not be a hero, but to save their lives.
While mamá was sleeping inside the house, she picked up her sister and started the journey down the mountain. At 4 years old, her sister should have been walking alongside her. But her legs hadn’t formed properly. Lack of nutrition will do this. Instead, she put her sister on her back and carried her down. She didn’t know what exactly was at the bottom, but it didn’t matter. She was determined and she was brave. A hero and a miracle. They are safe now and very happy. They are fed well and loved even more. As for the little one, the abuse, the neglect, and the malnutrition, took its toll on her little body. It wasn’t allowed to develop properly and it’s obvious when you see her. But she has made great gains, since coming to SOHWO and is now walking to kindergarten everyday. Her smile so large, it appears to push her eyes closed.
As for the big sister, she still looks out for the well being of the younger. You might notice her glancing in her sister’s direction when she’s not within reach. That fear for her may always be there. She doesn’t like it when her sister is far from her. Because she remembers. It may always be a part of their relationship. And that’s ok. Heroes are created when they respond to life’s situations. Miracles are created when God responds to situations in our life. Both are true in this story and both are true of these girls.
Another favorite from Jordan Daniel's beautiful voice. Sometimes, you just want to appreciate the beauty of other artists, and this is truly beautiful.
A dog is not "almost human" and I know of no greater insult to the canine race than to describe it as such. ~John Holmes
The grace this young German Shepherd from Needy Paws Animal Shelter in Clarksville, Arkansas was amazing. She will make some family the best dog they could ever hope for.
Eighteen months ago, little Claire Elise entered this world completely loved by her whole family, including her dogs. I wanted to create a birth announcement for her from her newborn session, featuring her mommy and daddy and the sweet expressions she was giving us. Claire has a ton of family in both Clarksville and Russellville, and I knew they would love her precious photos.
Let us design your baby a birth announcement from the newborn session, that will be kept and prized for years to come by the family and friends that you send them too.
Most of my Blog is usually business/studio related. I love my clients and my job.
But sometimes, I just need to share a bit of my personal loves too. Parts of my heart are in Guatemala. Parts in Monjas, where Shadow of His Wings is located. Parts of it are scattered throughout the country with kids that I have met that have left the home. Some have graduated and are adults now, working, going to school, making a living and I still get to communicate with those. Some returned to their families, and I pray for them and their families. That the cycle of abuse that existed in their lives before I met them has been broken.
Abuser, abused, abuser, abused. Lets not write these kids off as broken victims that are destined to be come abusers. Instead, lets provide a way they can learn different, be different, treat others differently. Lets change their "norm" of a life in this cycle. Here, there, and everywhere.
Tiffany Applegate, the director of SOHWO writes about the kids, the life there, and the transformations there. Some topics are heart breaking, gut wrenching, and some are down right uncomfortable. BUT this is the life these children live in. This is the life they seek to change.
The link below is to the original post from Shadow of His Wings Orphanage in Monjas Guatemala. http://www.shadowofhiswingsorphanage.org/blog/2015/6/4/from-victim-to-victor
Tears filled his eyes, while shame filled his heart. As he sat listening to the conversation, he knew he was guilty. He knew he was a victim as well. But the behavior was so common. It had almost become normal. He was never taught that it was wrong, though inside he knew it. The turmoil inside was unbearable. If he confessed he would be punished. If he didn’t, it would kill him. He didn’t want to be that person anymore. But everyone would know. They would know what he did. They would know what he was still doing. They would know what was done to him. They would know who he was.
These women were saying things that he no one had said to him before. Touching was wrong. Victim or perpetrator, it was wrong. Just because someone did to you doesn’t make it right. It doesn’t give you permission to do it to others. Something inside told him they were right. He needed to stop. He needed to confess. He needed to change.
This was the moment. Had he kept silent, he would still be the same. Had he kept silent, he would continue to be his step-father. He would continue the behavior. His secrets would still be his. But something about these women was different. They seemed to care. They promised a different way, a different future. What they said actually made sense. It is wrong to continue. It is wrong to keep it all in. So he let it out.
As he poured out his heart, tears poured out his eyes. He revealed the past, and the present. As he did, the arms came around him. He begged for help. He begged for forgiveness. The arms became tighter. As the truth spilled out, the love spilled in. His confession was answered with encouragement, not punishment. This was a moment of change, of repentance, of freedom. He no longer had to carry the burden. But he did have to change. And change is what he did.
He was given a mentor. Someone to counsel him through this difficult time. And over time, he became a new person. From perpetrator to protector. From victim to victor. He now lives free of the shame and guilt. He now lives as example and leader. No longer a hinderer, he is a helper. He broke the cycle that is common and became the uncommon. Leader, role model, friend, brother. The real man inside has been revealed. Now everyone knows who he really is. Defender, warrior, forgiven, Son of God.
Do you ever wonder how you could be so blessed by simple little things?
Every week, I have the opportunity to photograph pets from Needy Paws Animal Shelter in Clarksville, Arkansas. Now, for some, this would be a burden, and to be honest, some days it is not easy. BUT to get the beautiful face of this Girl Chow Chow out to the public so she can find her forever family - that is a blessing for me! Chows are very loyal to their families. They are thought to be one of the oldest recognizable breeds. Originating from northern China, their fur is particularly thick in the neck area, giving it a distinctive ruff or mane appearance.
When I was a pet stylist, I encountered several Chows. Some were very sweet to me, but most were leary of strangers and wanted to stay with their beloved families.
I hope this girl gets a beloved family soon.
Happy number TWO to baby number THREE! Wesson was the third baby of Ryan and Lindsay's that I was honored to photograph. Wesson was not camera shy in his newborn session, but right now is going through that shyness. I have loved seeing him grow and change, and become a big brother!
When was the last time you went walking in Memphis?
It has been a while for me, but I always love visiting Memphis. Sixteen years ago when my daughter was little, my niece was a young teenager, and I was in the process of selling my other business to do photography full time - there was a memorable trip to Memphis!
I wanted to take the girls for a short trip, but was on a tight budget. I looked on the internet for a good rate on a hotel - not knowing what parts of the city had which reputations. We arrived at our hotel according to MapQuest, and there was a restaurant right next door. Huhummmm - It said GIRLS GIRLS GIRLS, and my precious innocent ones thought it was cool to have a restaurant just for girls. I told them we would probably not eat there, because it was completely crowded, but the food must be good...
By the way, the hotel was fine, and even though my niece was concerned that the Popeye's we ate at had it's own armed guard. I told her it just meant we were even safer because he was there to protect us.
Maybe this was the start of mine, and my daughters laid back attitude to traveling in Central and South America!
Wow, Laura Claire, or better known as LC came for newborn photos just 3 short years ago. She was absolutely beautiful!... And still is. She has grown into such a smart, sassy. charismatic little girl, and is going to be a wonderful big sister!
The wildflowers that grow in the field at Hardgrave Photography made the perfect setting for Lily Grace's 10 month Baby Steps Session.
Below is a little bit about our BABY STEPS PROGRAM at Hardgrave Photography.
Your baby's first year is so precious. Our Baby Steps plan is a portrait plan which includes a series of photographs showing your baby's rapid development through their first year. This plan includes 5 sessions designed around the developing stages of your baby. Timing for these appointments is important. We take photos at newborn, 4 months, 7 months, 10 months and 12-14 months. After each session you will receive one gift print. The Maternity session is included - complimentary - for any moms to be that are wanting those special images from a time that is soon to be over.
Newborn These sessions are taken when your baby is less than a month old. If it is possible, bring mom, dad and any siblings. This will allow us to get some truly unforgettable photos. For any of your sessions, you may bring a special blanket, silver cup or rattle, anything that is personal to your family.
4 months Old For this session the baby will lay on their tummy with their head held nice and strong. You can practice with them at home. Lay the baby on his/her stomach and place their arms in front of chest. Once you have done this place your hand on their hands and the head should pop up. If your baby is not holding its head up well, call us. We will probably need to delay the session. All babies progress at their own pace, just because the calendar says it's time doesn't mean it is. Two outfits are enough, but you may want to bring several and let us advise you on which one will photograph best.
7 Months Old Your baby must be sitting up without assistance for this session. The tripod position, where the baby is sitting but leaning forward will not work. We don't want him/her to fall over and get hurt. The baby needs to have a nice straight back and be able to sit on his/her own. We have the Duckie and Tub set available for this session at your request.
10 Months Old At this stage your baby will be going through major growth steps. For example they may be experiencing teething or have stranger anxiety. For this stage we want the child to be standing and holding on to things, and hopefully not running'). The week before your appointment watch your baby to see how well he is standing. If your baby's knees buckle and she falls back to the ground -reschedule. Remember we are looking for stages, not ages. We have a Cowboy/Girl set or a John Deere set available on request at this session if you want something themed. If you would like, bring a small cake for the birthday cake photos that can be used for custom designed birthday invitations.
14 months In this stage your baby should be standing with no help. If your baby takes their first steps early call and we will schedule your appointment a little sooner. For this session we recommend that you bring both casual and formal clothes.
Happy Birthday Maddox! Just two short years ago, I could hold your sweet little sleeping body. What a perfect little model you were for your newborn session. Now you are a big boy, active, keeping mom and dad on their toes. But is suspect when you are sleepy, I mean REALLY sleepy, you are just as cuddly as you were two years ago!
We designed this sweet birth announcement for Ellie Grace a while back. Using images from her newborn session, that usually include pictures with mom and dad, we came up with the perfect way to tell all her family in Clarksville and Russellville areas that she was here and absolutely perfect.
Let us design your baby a birth announcement from the newborn session, that will be kept and prized for years to come by the family and friends that you send them too.
Happy Fourth Birthday Jude!! Wow four years flies by fast, and you are just as cute now as you were at your newborn Baby Steps session. Have an awesome day!
I first photographed Matt with his son Asher when Asher was just a few days old. Matt held him so gently, watched over him, made sure I was taking good care of him during the session. He adored this child from the start.
I was so excited when Matt called to get and entire session of just him and Asher. At the wonderful age of 3, Asher was full of energy, questions, and stories that I love about 3 year olds. And Matt was just a full of patience, answers and acknowledgements for his son.
DADDY Portrait Day is only Wednesday June 10. Get a FREE 5x7 of Dad and his kid/kids. Bring Grandpa and get an extra 5x7 of 3 Generations. Quick, in studio sessions all day long from 10-6. NO APPOINTMENTS, just drop in, have the photos taken, and schedule a time to come back and choose your Father'sDay gift from Hardgrave Photography. Additional packages are available, but not purchase is required.
Do you ever feel that you just can't handle any more? Me too, and this is one of my favorite songs when I am feeling like that. Hope it brightens your day!
¿Jamas se siente que no pueda aguantar más? Yo también, y esta canción es una de me favoritas cuando me siento asi. Espero que la brilla su día.
A little over a year ago, sweet little Kenney Monroe came in for her newborn session. She is one of my "Welcome Back Babies" that got a free Baby Steps Program because her brother had been one of "my babies". I designed this announcement as a sample to show her sweet mom and dad. I know she has relatives all over Clarksville that love her.
Let us design your baby a birth announcement from the newborn session, that will be kept and prized for years to come by the family and friends that you send them too.
I was so lucky to have my Daddy. My daddy spoiled me. I have a January birthday, and always wanted an "ice cream" birthday party - but it was always cold and usually snowed on my birthday. I usually shared my birthday party with my niece that had a birthday the day after mine. I was jealous because she also got to have her own party. My mom always tried to be inclusive - but one year, the selfish brat in me broke down and cried over having to share my party. My dad decided to take me for ice cream at this very popular place that all the other kids had their parties at. He was determined to get me there, but the snow storm came in and we had to turn around. I didn't get my party, but the fact that Daddy tried to make it special for me was enough.
Unfortunately, I have very few photos of me with my dad. This is the only one I have of just the two of us.
Don't miss an opportunity to have photos with that special man you call Daddy, Pop, Papá, Dad, or what ever you call him. Same goes for you guys that have kids - these photos will mean so much to you now, but are priceless to your children it the future.
DADDY Portrait Day is only Wednesday June 10. Get a FREE 5x7 of Dad and his kid/kids. Bring Grandpa and get an extra 5x7 of 3 Generations. Quick, in studio sessions all day long from 10-6. NO APPOINTMENTS, just drop in, have the photos taken, and schedule a time to come back and choose your Father'sDay gift from Hardgrave Photography. Additional packages are available, but not purchase is required.
Today is Jane's Birthday.
In the lottery of Mother in Laws, I hit the jackpot. Not don't get me wrong, I give her a hard time, and joke with her, but I do love her so much.
When I first met Jane, she told me that I could call her "mom", but I told her I already had a mom. I was not looking for another mother, so she became my JANE.
Jane worked in the nursery at the hospital in Clarksville for over 30 years. She loves babies. I remember worrying that she would try to tell me how to take care of "my" baby, but she was never that way. She was so kind to me, so patient, so willing to let me make my own mistakes of parenthood. I cannot tell you how appreciative I am of that. But in the same sense, when I was smart enough to swallow my pride, she was there to help me. My daughter is truly blessed to have Grandma Jane in her life. Looking back now, I wish I would have shared my daughter more with Jane. The insecurities of being a new parent took over, but Jane never chastised me for them.
I can't say enough how much I love this woman like a mother.
