The Church Librarian

I usually photograph young families.  Children.  Babies.  People new to the business of living.

I recently had the honor of photographing Nadene, who just happens to be one of my favorite people.  Ever.

Nadene is an adoption pioneer.  Forty-two years ago, after raising six children (the youngest was 10 years old), Nadene was inspired to adopt a little Native American baby who desperately needed a home... back when that sort of thing "just wasn't done."  I never tire of hearing Nadene's story, her longing for this child, the undeniable feeling of love and commitment to bring the baby into their home, the feeling that this was 'meant to be'. 

I know this feeling.  I have been guided to each of my adopted children with similar intensity, commitment, similar conviction that they were meant for me and I for them.

Nadene now has a quiver of 7children, their spouses, 27 grand children and 26 great grand children.  She hand makes them each a personalized birthday card every year.  She tends to her not-so-little flock with great care, much prayer and similar commitment and drive that brought her youngest child home to her arms.

I learn a lot from this spunky church librarian.  I make it a point to stop in there every Sunday to grab a pen or a book or whatever. There is always a kind word to be found when Nadene is around.  And some great vintage jewelry to marvel over.