This family is one of my very favorites. Their story cannot be told without tears and love and goosebumps. I’ve learned more from these women than I could ever begin to quantify. I’m lucky to be Bri’s honorary godmother and even luckier to bear witness to Tiffany being a mother to these beautiful girls.
The last time I photographed the Johnsons, little Tyanna had yet to make her debut and Bri couldn’t have been more excited to meet her:
She joined us in August of 2014 and has been bringing the cute every day since. Her life has been somewhat chaotic, to say the least. Yet this little one has proved to be nothing less than a FIGHTER. She is one of the most resilient, strong people I know, and she’s only a year old. (Read more of Tiff and Tyanna’s journey here.)
Throughout a season of absolute fear and uncertainty, these three ladies have kept smiles on their faces and hope in their words. They have been humble, strong, brave, and hopeful. They inspired hundreds of people with their faith and I know they will continue to do so for a long time.
This photo shoot was very emotional for me, in a way that I wasn’t expecting. As I went through the photos to edit in the week after we did it, I found myself wiping some tears away. I couldn’t believe how healthy Tyanna looked; how healthy she is.
Seeing the photos of Bri laughing brought me right back to the waiting room of the hospital, where we sat for hours, for days, for months. On days filled with really rough news, Bri would shine that smile and make everyone feel just a little bit lighter.
Seeing Tiff hold both her girls in her arms reminded me of what she is capable of. It reminded me of the strength she has found to push through and raise some seriously amazing girls. Seeing her smile and giggle with them was a gift to me. It was a fulfillment of God’s promises of joy in this life. Undiluted, only-coming-from-above joy.
Tiff, I hope these photos remind you of the same things and more. Never forget what you’ve accomplished in this life and what you are going to do. Tyanna has shown all of us just how precious each day is—she is immeasurably blessed to have you as her example of how to spend her days well. I love you and am deeply grateful for the gift of your friendship!
