A year ago today Lauren’s love went out hunting like he did a million times before.  It was an especially cold day, and Lauren was reluctant to let him go, but Adam loved duck hunting so much even a nasty winter day couldn’t keep him from the lake.  They kissed goodbye, and Adam gave his two young boys a goodbye hug.  Lauren told me she remembers those last moments together as a family, she remembers how they felt perfect, and full of love.

photography, mother son

Adam didn’t make it home that night, he left behind his loves, but his legacy will live on in these three remarkable people.

mother son photography

Lauren was my first nurse in the hospital after having Kellen.  We hit if off immediately, and stayed in touch after I left the hospital,  so when she posted on facebook that her husband was missing of course I wanted to help in any way I could.

 

family photography
Over the course of a year I have watched Lauren suffer with every emotion imaginable.  I can’t understand what she’s gone through, what it must be like to lose your husband, your best friend, and the father of your children, but I have watched Lauren go through it, and I’ve watched her come out on the other side. Lauren’s strength, her vulnerability, her willingness to now reach out and help other women suffering the same hell she went through is nothing short of a miracle.  I adore this woman, and consider her an inspiration.  This shoot was a thank you gift.  We need more Lauren’s in the world.  Her boys Miles and James suffered a tragic loss as well, but they are going to be just fine because their mom is one bad ass lady!

mother and son picture

I love you Lauren, and I’m lucky to know you.  My heart aches for you today.

I send you and the boys all my love.

Al