Jen Amato Photography Blog

Most of us run around everyday trying to make sure we get everything done on our to-do list. Wearing ourselves thin, not remembering to take a step back. That is until you get a wake up call. Whether it be hearing about a sick friend, someone getting into an accident or just a story that reminds you to be thankful for life. Some people may not understand why I chose to start cutting back next year and honestly, I’m okay with that. My faith is what leads me to make certain moves in life. I’ve learned to wait for God’s presence before making life changing decisions. If you pray hard enough and focus, you will hear your answers. There are times in life when you just need to slow down. I’m learning how to do this and trying to reprogram my brain. I spoke of all this a few days ago when I talked about needed some balance in my life. It’s funny the people who texted me, called or emailed just to say hello or check on me after reading my blog. I am fine and I so lucky to have people in my life that care so much about me. I’m just wearing myself out chasing my dreams. But honestly- isn’t that the best way? Things could be way worse.

I wanted to share a story with you guys that touched my heart. I debated talking about it in yesterdays post, but I figured the more prayers the better. Do you remember the session I posted yesterday of The Trouard’s? Scroll down to the post beneath this if you missed it. Since Renee left me such a heartfelt blog comment, I figured it was okay to share their story. I received an email several weeks back from Renee asking for a photo shoot for her family. Her Dad had recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer. My heart was breaking for her when I first read the email. So, without a doubt in my mind- I made time for their session and we drove up to Bay St. Louis, MS last Saturday morning. It was my first Saturday off in 8 weeks from shooting all those Weddings. It didn’t matter. This family and their story mattered way more than having a day off. I photographed their session that morning and Renee’s father smiled the entire time. His whole family was together and he was happy. I was so incredibly honored to be there to document this special time. Here’s Renee’s comment she left on the blog after viewing her pictures.  I read this and had tears in my eyes.

Jen,

They came out AWESOME!  We can’t thank you enough.  I wanted to tell you that the timing was perfect.  On Sunday he began to run a very high fever and has been in the hospital all week.  He is doing much better now though.  He started losing his hair and his beard on Monday and is almost bald with no facial hair now.  It is crazy how fast it happened.  He was teasing telling me that he wanted me to take a picture and send it to you. He said you would really would have had to work some photoshop magic if he had looked like that on Saturday.

You know, when we are doubting and asking God to show his presence to us during our hardships, I believe he often reveals himself to us through certain people.  Just the fact that the photo shoot was possible, everyone was healthy, and you went out of your way to make yourself available, lets me know He is listening.  He is shinning through you!

Thank you for capturing such a special moment for our family.  You will never know what it means!
Renee

Thank you God for blessing us and allowing the shoot to happen on that particular day. Thank you for bringing The Trouard family into my life. For holding my hand and guiding me, for allowing me to feel your Grace. I will forever be thankful for the many gifts you have brought into my life. I will continue to live in your name, follow you and show my appreciation. I will be praying for this family and remembering how precious life can be. Hold your babies tight, tell your family and friends how much you love them and just be thankful to be alive. Lately I’ve really tried to work on being a more positive person, hoping in turn it will make a difference in my life and for those around me.

Be safe this weekend and remember how much God loves us. Sometimes other people are brought in your life so you can feel God’s presence. I will be praying for Mr. Trouard and his entire family. Please keep them in your thoughts as well. Hugs to you all!

Although it’s just a low-res iphone photo… I took this heading home from Bay St. Louis last Saturday. Sunsets remind me of God’s power and presence every single time!