rainbow after the storm
maternity. Fresh48. tiny Human.
This family’s story is one that I feel deep down in the pit of my stomach. Almost 3 years ago, they asked me to photograph their maternity session. I was so excited as they are dear friends of mine. The week before our scheduled session, Kendra contacted me saying she had to cancel, not reschedule. They lost their sweet baby Finnley in utero at 35 weeks gestation. My heart completely shattered for them. I can’t even imagine the pain. Our session then turned into a bereavement session and I offered to go to the hospital to photograph the little time they would have with their sweet boy. In a quiet room full of people who loved him, Finnley was held and loved on and blessed. Seeing your friends completely broken is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to witness or photograph. It is a day that I will remember for the rest of my life.
Jimmy and Kendra’s journey into parenthood has not been easy as both of their beautiful babies here beside them are rainbow babies. Finnley wasn’t the only loss they endured. Pregnancy was hard on Kendra and she had 5 other miscarriages. For those who don’t know, a rainbow baby is a baby born after a miscarriage or loss. We celebrate them in this way because they are the “rainbow after the storm”.
When I heard about their most recent pregnancy, I was SO excited for them. I thought about them A LOT! I was honored that they asked me again to photograph their maternity. What an amazing time to freeze for them. During this pregnancy, Kendra finally got some answers that may have been the culprit of her previous losses. She was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder and had to give herself injections throughout this last pregnancy. She wanted to make sure we documented the bruises on her beautiful pregnant belly and I’m so glad she did.
I ANXIOUSLY awaited news of their delivery. When I received her text that everyone was doing well, I burst into tears! I still tear up thinking about it!!!!! Welcome to then world Mr. Graham! Such a little miracle baby and so incredibly loved, especially by his big sister. You could see, she is over the moon to be a big sister again!!
Mr. Graham is the SWEETEST! Born at 37 weeks he is also so itty bitty (he reminds me a lot of my itty bitty babies). His tiny finger and toes. Tiny legs that will quickly start to fill out. Soft peach fuzz all over his body that will soon be gone. I could seriously just stare at him all day long!! Hardly a fuss, but he definitely wanted to hang out. For his Fresh48 and his newborn session, he was bright eyed and aware of my presence. I love how intuitive babies are!!
I couldn’t be happier for my friends and I can’t wait to see this little “grumpy old man Graham” (as Mama calls him :) ) turn into a rambunctious toddler — GOOD LUCK FRIENDS! LOL
SO much love to you Watkins Family XOXO.
