My “Why”…

Finding Peace and Purpose

As we journey through life, we often envision certain milestones shaping our path. The prospect of welcoming my own children shaped much of my ambition from childhood through my 20’s. But my life unfolded in unexpected ways, revealing that my dream of being a mother would never be realized.

In 2017 I was diagnosed with a disorder that heavily affects many aspects of my life, but primarily my reproductive health. I spent many years trying to find a way back to the path I had suddenly lost. When I realized I was instead moving further and further away from what I had envisioned for myself, I had to grieve.

As I healed, I started exploring new roads, and I learned that the space I had earmarked for my own future children had so much room to grow. Over the years it has bloomed in acts of nurturing, guidance, and love offered to those around me - be it family, friends, community or the children I have been lucky enough to nanny. Most importantly, I allowed space for myself. In that space I rediscovered my love of photography, storytelling and art.

Through this process of acceptance and adaptation, I was able to create a new life for myself. In losing one purpose, I accidentally found another. Every photograph I take in the birth space is a testament to the beauty of life's beginnings and is captured with a deep respect for babies, mothers, partners, biology and strength.

I have found incredible love and joy living with my best friend and my two adorable cats in a condo decorated to within an inch of its life in Decatur, GA. It’s not what I had initially envisioned for myself, but it’s pretty dang wonderful. And that’s life. Beautiful, powerful, ever-changing life.