Grace, Idaho | Family Portraits | Mikenna Atkinson Photography | Southeastern Idaho Photographer
It’s been one of those years. Time seems like it’s gone by faster; there’s more to look back and reflect on. Memories, sounds, places, people, faces, I have difficulty keeping the passing time straight. As I sat and talked with TaNesha, we realized this was the third year in a row that I’d been able to take their family pictures. Three years doesn’t seem like much until I start thumbing through the old files. The girls are growing, Levi is getting older ;), and TaNesha just gets sweeter. I get to watch the girls change; their baby faces turn to little girl faces, and I can’t help but love them. I love their chatty conversations; I love their facial expressions; I love their personalities and independence. Even Gus, the family dog, seems to have put a few years on!
But this week, especially, brought a reality check. The Spencer family and I met up for family pictures. I spent just a moment with them, chatting and enjoying their company. I learned how to put a cowgirl hat on and discovered Miss Berkeley does not like Trident Original gum (it’s too hot). The girls were bubbly as always, just like everything was normal, but three days later, it couldn’t be further from normal.
On Sunday, I learned Miss Berkeley had been taken into surgery at Primary Children’s Hospital due to a brain tumor. Since then, her sweet mama has posted updates on her condition. I’m having a hard time wrapping my mind around the whole situation. I’m devastated that this little spunk has to go through something so difficult this early. I’ve known people who have gone through different health-related challenges, and my heart goes out to them, but for some reason, this feels extra personal. My little curly, blonde-haired, blue-eyed buddy needs a few extra prayers. She’s a tough little cookie, but a little more heavenly help is always appreciated!
Berkeley, I sure love your smile; I love watching you grow and take on this world. I love watching you help Aunt Jackie pull weeds and make yummy treats. I love YOU! To the rest of the family, Levi, TaNesha, and AuBree, I love each of you; thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives, and sorry about all the dirt this year ;)!
-Mikenna
XOXOXOXO
P.S. If you’d like to get updates on Miss Berkeley, there is a Facebook group you can join, and a fundraiser going on to help meet the needs of this cute family.
