I haven’t shared many of my dogs lately and as I was backing up files today and making some calendars, I came across these shots of Tahoe that I haven’t shared. Thought I’d post these today.
Click down below to leave your thoughts.
One year ago today, I saw the importance of photos. And one year ago today, my eyes were opened to view life differently. And one year ago today, God blessed me. And one year ago today, I was introduced to a new friend.
October 24, 2008, I met and photographed the McDonald family, Stan, Wendy, Zack, Clayton, and Samantha.
I have been thinking about this post for the past couple months, what I was going to type, how much I was going to let my heart speak and let my blog readers in. Everyday of my life, I think of Clayton McDonald. There was so many things that transpired that God had a hand in. I mean, AMAZING things…. …like it being holiday rush time at the labs and receiving a coffee table book in 2 weeks when it normally would take 6+ weeks. …like my canvas supplier calling me and donating a canvas to the McDonalds and putting their order to the front of the line, and them arriving on my doorstep 2 days later. Just so many wonderful things. I stare at a canvas on my wall in my dining room of the famous “feet” shot - from a photographer whom I have never met face to face (only know through a photography forum). She contacted our canvas supplier and purchased an extra copy of the feet canvas and said “Please hang it where you can see it every day and remember what a gift you gave to each other and to all of us.” I was touched, so, so touched. Thank you.
Clayton has touched so many people. He has become a household name in many families. His story on my blog and through various other sites has spread his name around the world and his testimony lives on and continues to inspire daily. What I didn’t realize is how touched I would be by this photo session. At first I didn’t want to accept the session because I am such a softy and cry too easily. But God knew better, that is why Lynette was calling me to ask if I would photograph them. A session like this is very personal - very personal. And when you have a family that lets you in on such a personal level, it really is amazing. What I didn’t know is that I would find a friend in this. Wendy is a gem. (my eyes just brimmed with tears.) I think through the past year and it started with emails, at first just about the photographs I had produced, about giving the family a homework assignment to provide verses and sayings for the coffee table book, asking her favorites so I could get canvases ordered and prints ordered. Then it was Monday emails, as those were the days Clayton had to go have blood work done, so I was always praying a lot on Mondays and sending her emails to let her know they was in my prayers. And this friendship developed. We still email all the time and have coffee visits. My most favorite is when I visit her home and see all the images scattered throughout their house. She is always rearranging and redecorating and so the images move around so you always feel like you’re seeing something new. Wendy, thank you. You know how much I adore you, how I love you even more than my morning coffee. 
“There are so many things in this life that distract us from understanding what is truly important. Clayton McDonald’s unique perspective has forced an understanding of life that most of us cannot comprehend.” If you have never watched Clayton’s Story - go do it. Here is a 7-minute film Clayton’s Story - take 7 minutes right now and go watch it. Want more inspiration, watch his talk to the youth group. Share it with your youth groups. It inspires. It is amazing.
As Clayton said: “If you walk with God and you’re in His will, there might be pain, you might feel alone, it might get scary, but through all of it, you will not be disappointed.” - Clayton Stanton McDonald, April 26, 1990 - March 19, 2009.
Here is the slideshow of images from their photo session.
and my most favorite images, each one says so much.
~forever touched, your friend, Monyeen
Click down below to leave your thoughts.
holly: You are amazing. They are amazing.
courtney Miller: Mo - I am always touched by the beautiful relationship you formed with this family. I truly believe you all found each other for a reason. You have each given each other immeasurable gifts. Hugs to you and the McDonalds. This session always speaks to my heart. I know the beautiful images have given them great comfort.
Kristina Provinsal: Mo, I thought I had seen it all! Thanks for posting the 7 minute video. Our family will always remember Clayton's story and the wonderful person he was and the beautiful images that captures an amazingly loving family!
Melissa: Such a beautiful post, Mo. I can't believe it has been a year since you met them and shared them all with us.
Christie: What a beautiful post, and family. I remember watching Clayton's video a few months back and being so very inspired by him and his faith. Mo, thanks for sharing this; and McDonald family, thank you for sharing your son and his story - your story - with us.
Cyndee Wanyonyi: I just read your signature w/this post, and I must tell you. I, too, am forever touched by the McDonald Family. Praise GOD for the amazing impact this young life has had, and will continue to have, on the world. Bless you, McDonald Family.
Mindy: What an amazing family. I will never forget their story. I cannot imagine how much this gorgeous photos mean to them.
Ingrid: This was very touching. What an amazing family! Very glad that they have all these precious images.
April: Wow. I'm literally speechless. All I can muster up is that I just know those images are so cherished!
Tracy: Such a powerful story...infinite blessings to the McDonald family.....you captured the LOVE in this family with the images you displayed! Thank you for sharing!
On Thursday when we went out on Nacimiento Lake, I brought along the camera in case we came upon any Bald Eagles. We did, a young one (no white head) but he was far down The Narrows. :-\ Next time maybe.
I am so happy summer is starting, although, today it’s cool and breezy again. Just one from our day.
Desiree Hayes: LOVE LOVE LOVE