Celebrating Shayema {Plano, TX Phtographer}

Today's post is dedicated to one of my very dear friends - the very beautiful Shayema. Her son Arbaaz and my son Stephen were in preschool together and she and I developed a lovely friendship. She's one of the most giving people I know with a remarkable gift for hospitality. I thank God for her friendship.

Recently Shayema entered a new stage in her life. One that took courage and bravery beyond comprehension. My mother took this same journey when I was just a child. What a special gift it has been for me to be able to witness the way Shayema has handled herself throughout these past few months. It has provided great insight into what my mother must have gone through so many years ago - something I could not understand at the time.

Not only has my respect and love for my mother grown these past few months, but I can't tell you enough how proud I am of Shayema. She is a woman of deep integrity, grace, and inner beauty. I can't wait to see what God has in store for her!

Today needed to be something more than just a portrait session. Today it was all about celebrating Shayema. I felt a deep need to celebrate her freedom. To celebrate new joy that is on the horizon. To celebrate independence. To celebrate hope. It was an honor to give her this gift!

We started out with her traditional dress from Bangladesh. Then it was on to the fun: a little ice cream, window shopping (or trespassing - whatever you decide to call it), and a few "just-for-the-fun-of-it" poses. Today's session will be one I hold dear to my heart for a very long time - just as I will Shayema.

I love you very much, Shayema. You are stunning - inside and out!