Shelia’s Story | Louisville, KY Newborn and Maternity Photographer
Shelia is a beautiful mom, expecting her first little one very soon.
She recently joined me at the studio to select something to wear from our studio’s Motherhood Wardrobe for her upcoming newborn session. After choosing a beautiful gown, we chatted, laughed, and shared a few favorite pregnancy stories. While there, Shelia showed me a necklace she wanted to incorporate with her maternity session, because it carried special meaning to her. It contained a tiny mustard seed, it was a symbol of hope for the little one she is about to have.
Shelia is one of the many women whose pregnancy didn’t come quickly or easily.
There were long days and long years….waiting.
I asked if she would like to share her story here, because I don’t simply photograph people in poses. I photograph real people, with real stories. I photograph natural moments, emotion, connection.
Meet Shelia
TELL ME A BIT ABOUT YOUR STORY:
When we married in 2009, I thought that having a baby (when we were ready) would come easy as it had for close friends and family. Two years passed, and we moved to Kentucky for my husband’s work. We enjoyed our new adventures – new jobs, new home, new friends, and even a new dog.
But, there was still one huge part of our hearts that was missing, a baby. Everyone seemed to be having babies but me.
After several years of trying, a series of tests, and many doctor’s appointments, we were told we had 1-2% chance of conceiving. We might have an increased chance with surgery and IVF. I was devastated. I had spent most of my life caring for other people’s children, and now I likely couldn’t have one of my own.
My husband and I made a plan to go to our infertility specialist in September. Before we could make it to Fall, I needed my gallbladder removed. Soon there after, on a silly hunch, I took a pregnancy test. And there was that pink line, bright and bold. Who knew that my gallbladder was the underlying issue. We are now expecting a baby girl this Spring. When she is born, we will have been waiting for her for almost five long years.
WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY:
Friends and family, big blue skies, the desert, sunny weekend mornings and a cup of coffee, long walks, finding beauty in the ordinary. I also create handcrafted quilts, opening my online store soon at www.littlewhitefawn.com.
FOR THOSE WITH A SIMILAR STORY, WHAT DO YOU WANT THEM TO KNOW:
When you’re struggling with infertility, it’s okay to feel hurt and angry. If going to a baby shower or a party where you will be the only childless couple is going to make you feel miserable, you don’t have to go. Don’t beat yourself up, because you feel some resentment. You will often hear advice from those who have never dealt with infertility to “just relax and it will happen.” Ignore the unsolicited advice, but do remember to be kind to yourself. And always have hope.
Thank you Shelia for sharing your story. Until next time – Julie
If you are expecting and looking for a maternity or newborn photographer, I would love to hear from you and begin planning your session. Enjoy exclusive services with our clients’ favorite – The Membership Collection – a series of three or four session for your baby during their first year. My promise will always be to provide you with the most beautiful photographs of the ones you love the most.
Julie Brock Photography is a leading Louisville, KY newborn photographer, maternity, baby, senior portrait, and family photographer. Her signature photography techniques and natural style are sought-after and celebrated by families throughout Louisville, KY, Southern Indiana, and surrounding areas.
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