A few years ago my mother gave me (and my siblings) some money, just because she wanted to. I told her I didn’t need it, but she really wanted to, so I accepted. I thought I would just leave it in the bank. Then, I decided that I wanted to do something with it. I thought about giving it away, but then I decided that I would start a real photography business with it. That way, every time I take pictures of someone or something, I feel like a part of her is with me and glad that I am doing something I enjoy. Of course, that would still be true even if I didn’t start the business. I just like to think of her as the reason I get to do it.

She is a part of everything I do and am.

My dad is always very generous with us, as well. I come from a long line of people that help others. They would all be very uncomfortable with me saying that, I’m sure, but it is true. Whether it is giving someone a job, giving them money, giving them a place to live, praying for someone, or being someone’s biggest fan, my parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles, great aunts and uncles, nephews and niece, cousins and now in-laws all have made a difference in peoples’ lives and never make a big deal about it. Sometimes this includes “tough” love, but always love. I’m just so blessed to be born into and be a part of these families.

I’m very thankful that I have jobs where I get to do what I love to do.