Remember that one particular “everyone’s favorite” Bible verse — the one so comforting when things don’t seem to be working out very well? Romans 8:28: “ALL things work together for good for those who love God….” Ok… so that would include me… and, I had a very sweet opportunity for God to make good on that promise while photographing little 3-month old Elliana. She is so CUTE! And when she 
arrived at my home studio for her photoshoot, ohmygosh, she lit up the dark gray overcast day with her radiant smile and sparkly eyes. She was still so very tiny for 3 months (still in the 9-lb range), and it didn’t take long before she decided that she would rather NOT pose for pictures, thank you. I mean…. she “pleaded” with us to quit messing with her, and she quite plainly told us in no uncertain terms that she was not having fun, so “STOP IT”. My heart went out to her! 
I never ever EVER want to make a child’s experience with me horrible. It’s why I never schedule anything else on a baby shoot day. It takes so much time and patience to NOT make them uncomfortable and aggravated. But, it seemed the only thing that could calm her down was when her daddy took her into another room, just the two of them, for a few minutes. Hmmmm….. you see the challenge?
Sooooo, what did I do? I kept calm (believe it or not)… and I prayed :). I prayed for Ellie. I prayed for calmness. And I prayed, “Okay, God… what should I do?????”. And I snapped pictures every moment I even thought I could do so without upsetting her. In the end, I have to admit, I was afraid to even download the pictures. I was afraid there might not be any that would bless Elliana’s mom and dad and make them feel like we captured their precious, heart-stopping baby girl!
But then… the moment of truth. I couldn’t believe it! Somehow, amidst the tears and cries, we got some beautiful photos. Photos that you would never know were snapped in sporadic instances when she wasn’t sad. Photos that caused me to think, “When did I take THAT one?” “Really???”. It was such a beautiful moment to see that 🙂 And I didn’t forget to thank God for making all things work out for good! He DID!!!! 🙂
sandy powers 
Sandy, love this shoot, as it is such a testament to your faith, and a glowing tribute to a beautiful child! What a powerful reminder that we’re all in the palm of His hand! I’m sure these photos will be cherished for a life time!
I can’t believe I just now saw this! I am so thankful that we chose you to take these pictures. 🙂 They, and you, will be treasured forever and ever.