Its hard to believe that the 2017 Seniors are upon us.  But much to the chagrin of senior parents, this is it, the first of many "lasts."  Exciting as it is, there is a twinge of pain knowing in a few short months life will begin to look and a feel a little bit different.  (I'm wiping away tears... my oldest is entering kindergarten, and I'm not ready!)

Meet Samantha.... 11 years ago, her mama sent her off to her first day of kindergarten. Over the last couple weeks, Samantha's mom and I have been "meeting" and discussing photoshoot particulars at the coffee drive thru window.   Killing two birds with one stone....or at least providing me with an excuse to feed my caffein addiction!  They couldn't have chosen a better location for her senior pictures.  We had a blast down by the river this week.  We literally dodged a few lightning bolts and I came home with a memory card full of great shots. 

 I love my job!

I don't know if I've ever worked with someone so relaxed right from the start; so fun and easy to work with.  And her mom worked the reflector like a pro!

Over this last year I've observed Samantha grow in some remarkable ways.  Not uncommon to many people, standing and speaking in front of a large group of people has not come easy for her.  It was something that just didn't happen.  This past Christmas, she decided she wanted to make a difference in the lives of kids she'd never met.  She teamed up with a good friend and presented operation Christmas Child to our church and began raising money and awareness.  Over the coarse of two months they were able to send over 75 Christmas shoeboxes and raised over a thousand dollars for postage. If you have never watched a video of a child opening up one of these shoeboxes, quite possibly the first and only "christmas gift" they will ever receive, you need to. I'll make it easy for you.

https://youtu.be/c6VQLYfPDbE

Samantha has inspired so many to continue saving and prepare for this coming Christmas season and is already collecting items to fill up shoeboxes. 

Samantha, you were created beautifully.  You have such a tender heart and are a joy to be around.  I am excited to see where your gifts, talents and that big heart of your take you.  Enjoy your last year as a Wilbur Wildcat, listen to your mama, and get ready to make an impact on the world around you.  

Thank you for allowing me to take part of your senior year in this way.  It was a delightful evening, lighting and all!