woodsjesse

The title says it all - this folder is all about a very special gal that has become a gift that keeps on blessing - While I've been married a long time (we recently celebrated our 33rd anniversary) we have been parents only the last 7 years or so. This occurred when our Mary came to live with us as our "foster" child. Her mother literally said one day - Would you like to have Mary as your own - long story short - Mary was a high maintenance child, mother could not provide adequate care, social systems did not help, father left to do another family elsewhere. Mary came to us at age 5 1/2 she is now 13.
Backgrond - Mary has Down Syndrone, is austistic, non-verbal and has some developmental issues. Many within her social/school circles will not recognize she is smart, loves a challenge, wants to please and is very much a loving and giving child - IF only given a chance to exceed on her own merit.
Although considered special needs - we do not consider her to be "handicapped" but faced with challenges as we all are. She uses sign language, a Dynavox and gestures to communicate.

Within the following images - I've have made an effort to capture her spirit, moods, playfulness, and her personality. I have also tried to do so with application of accepted photo style and composition principles. Enjoy the insight into this very special young lady. comments are welcome and suggestions to acheive better imaging as well

Autumn Contemplation - 2010


Bright eyed baby girl


Mary's world


My name is Mary & I am Loved


Mary with her balloons


Smilely faced girl


Mary on canvas - 2008


I am a happy girl


Girl with attitude (from video)


Mary on couch with blocks


This requires some thought


Christmas with Mommy - 2004

Laurie Loc: Los Angeles, Ca.

:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

cosmo54 Loc: Easton, PA but will travel for photos

What a beautiful girl! And what wonderful parents she has now!!!!! I especially like the 'attitude' picture. :-)

mullumby Loc: Australia

YOU, are a wonderful person.

Hoosier in GA Loc: Milledgeville, GA

Thank you for using photography to allow us to share your blessing. She is obviously a very loving & loved person.

vickilaney Loc: Eastern Kentucky

Beautiful....

Jim Carter Loc: Momence, Il.

Very touching. My hat is off to you.

rpavich Loc: West Virginia

Nice shots but that first one is a real keeper.

megbend Loc: Australia

Love the story and the photos. Your a real diamond.

jolefont Loc: Brooksville, FL

God has so many blessings for those who taket he time to love His Special Children. I have a daughter 34, she is the size of a 6 year old and has been the love of my life. She was in ICU for six weeks in Feb and March, and is now home and doing well. Needs lots of extra and new care but with each task (tube feeding) come an abundance of more blessings. Keep up the good and rewarding work.

Natalie

jolefont Loc: Brooksville, FL

Mary is a beautiful child who exudes the love she has been given. You can see it in this photos. Great job

ddkrueger Loc: Wisconsin

I love all the photos. My favorite is Mary looking in the mirror. God Bless you and your wife. Mary is truly blessed to be in your lives as you in hers. What a heart warming story.