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Children of Domestic Violence : My Testimony

 I am a product of a dysfunctional family. I am child of domestic violence.

I watched my mother be physically and emotionally abused by my stepfather for almost my entire life. One of the earliest childhood memories is of my mother being abused. It wasn’t the first time she was hit, it’s just the first time I remember with great detail. I remember it like yesterday.

(This is a photo of us in 1989)

I was four years old, it was in 1989. I remember watching my step dad yell at mom. He was in her face, really close. He yelled and he yelled. I couldn’t understand how he could be so upset over nothing. It started with a slap, then a punch. I was afraid, but not for myself, for my mother and siblings. I walked into my bedroom to comfort my siblings. My brother and sister (twins) were two years old at this time. I closed the door and told them to play with some toys, turned on my Fisher Price radio and hoped they would get so distracted they’d ignore the screams from our mother coming from the living room. Once they were situated I walked back to the living room. I peeked around the corner and watched my mother being slapped and punched. I watched blood leave her body as she tried to run from my step-dad. He was getting more and more upset because she wouldn’t be quiet. He keeping saying, “Shut up! Shut up before someone calls the police!”

It's all in the details... | Portrait Photography

I love to surround myself with positive, creative people who love art. 

I capture legacies.
Creating one of a kind heirlooms that will be shared with generations to come. 

When my son was born my love of portrait photography grew.

He grew so fast. 

Month to month. And year to year.

That taught me to notice the little things.

I remember when my son was a newborn I was busy. I was so tired. 

I took newborn pictures of him while we were in the hospital, then again when he was one month. 

I didn't plan to wait an entire month but the time slipped by so fast.

That taught me the importance of photographing newborns between 7-14 days old.

Take pictures in a place where everyone is comfortable. 

In your home, surrounded by your things. That way you will never forget.

You will never forget the little things.

Remember to take pictures of your children. Now a days there are so many way to capture a moment. Take pictures, smile, and be present. 

Thanks for stopping by, until next time...

Stay Positive and Stay Inspired

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