A dear friend experienced the devastation and heartbreak of stillbirth late this summer. Sweet little Hadley was born sleeping in the arms of Jesus. My friend is amazing, strong, and courageous. I admire the strength and love she and her husband have. I admire the candid way they talk with their older girls about their “chicky” (Hadley’s nickname during the pregnancy).
Today was Hadley’s due date. This is for Hadley, and all of the family and friends she touched.
Photographs can bring joy, laughter, and healing. The portrait session I had this fall with Hadley’s big sisters (yes, they’re twins) generated photos that do all of that.
We started things off like a typical portrait session – giggles, snuggling under a quilt together, and general silliness!
Then Mom brought out the girls’ chicks for a couple of pictures. The chicks were given to the girls after Hadley’s funeral, for comfort. Why chicks? When they had been asked (during the pregnancy) what the baby should be named, they suggested Chicken, which got shortened to Chicky! So adorable!
Finally, we ended with a balloon release for sweet Hadley.
The girls’ parents and I definitely fought some tears during that moment. The way those girls stood there, arms around each other, just watching until the balloon floated out of view was a whole other level of beauty.
Joy. Laughter. Healing.
Oh my goodness, Helen! This is beautiful and means so much to us! Thank you times a million!
Gorgeous pics and written words. I teared up at the last pics, too!
These are so perfectly beautiful. I am a great aunt to these girls. You captured all their fun and beauty… And honored our sweet Hadley in such a precious way. Thank you for this… At this time it means so much to our entire family. Blessings to you!
Speechless. We love our family! Beautiful pictures.