I spent a lovely morning with baby Amelia and her mom Sarah back in November. It was a chilly day so we stayed inside for most of the session and put their lovely Victorian windows to use. Amelia's grandparents came by for a visit and it was so sweet to see how smitten they were – and it was wonderful to capture three generations together.
When I first heard from Sarah while she was pregnant with Amelia, her email seemed like a typical inquiry from any other parent... until I scrolled down and read the words "I've chosen to have this baby on my own. Therefore, there won't be a dad at the shoot". As I wrote back to her with the typical details regarding a newborn session, I searched for the right words to say to a woman who I had never met, yet had so much respect and admiration for. So I literally wrote exactly that; I admitted I was a bit choked up, and offered her the same words of encouragement that I would to any expecting parent, "You are making a good decision – although it has its challenges, being a parent is the most amazing experience. It's worth all the work, stress and lack of sleep."
Most parents I know would admit that they have moments where they really question what they got themselves in to, and I can imagine that it is that much greater when you are parenting on your own. But I have a hunch that those same single parents must feel even more joy and pride watching their little ones grow, learn and achieve. They really do have so much to be proud of.
Congratulations Sarah :-) Amelia is the sweetest little thing and I'm so thrilled for you. xx