The day I met Jamie was relatively uneventful. 

It was a gorgeous fall day with just the right amount of sunshine and breeze. I had rented a camera and was on my way to return it. I decided to stop by the Lace House Gardens on my way to drop it off. The Lace House is just breathtaking in the fall, and one of my favorite places to shoot! I had Ezra in tow, hoping to do about 20 more minutes of testing on this bad boy before I decided if it was the right camera for my business. 

Ezra was prancing around doing everything in her power to do the opposite of what I asked her for this mini-photoshoot. Those of you who think my kiddos are always camera-ready and wiling--just follow along one day to see the real life of a photographer's child. You will feel much better about your own kiddos!

Anyway, on our way out I noticed Jamie. She has three beautiful daughters, including one little squish that I was instantly drawn to. They were all dressed up and seemed so happy to be there. We exchanged greetings and she told me she was there for a photoshoot. I wished her luck and started on my way out!

As I was leaving I noticed she had her phone out taking pictures. I don't know what it was, but something prompted me to go back and speak to her again. I asked her if she had a photographer coming. She shyly responded that she was just going to take the pictures herself. 

I saw how much effort she had put into dressing her girls. I knew how much chaos probably ensued just getting out the door and to that point. And I realized at that moment I had a gift for Jamie. I told her I was testing out this new camera and would love a little more practice on it. She lit up and we began. 

The photoshoot lasted maybe 20 minutes. It wasn't big or fancy, but it was hers. It captured some sweet moments between her and her girls. 

There are times I forget that this lens, and the way I see things behind it, is a gift. 

In a way it gets to be my little ministry. It allows me to show people the beauty God has created in their family. In the small things that may not seem important to others, but to them are the threads of who they are. 

Yes, it's a business. But, because it's a business, I am able to use my art and talent to bless others in unexpected ways. This little encounter has prompted me to really think about how I can use this gift more consistently and effectively for those around me. 

So what about you?

What are the gifts you have been given? Is it art, music, organization, hospitality, caring for children, being a good listener? The list goes on and on. I encourage you to do a couple of things this week:

1. Ask those closest to you what they see your gifts being.

2. Find one new way this week to bless someone with one of those gifts.