I met the Safford family a few years ago when we connected for the purposes of youth ministry. Jay and Joan brought their group down to join mine for a retreat in February for the first time in 2021. They brought a large group that also included their kids. That was the first time I met Maddie. She seemed like an incredible young girl, and I was convinced she hated me. I usually connect really easily with students, but for some reason I felt like I couldn't break the ice with Maddie. It took us a few more retreats and weeks at camp, but things began to change. Maddie and I forged a unique connection and I am so grateful for her and her family.

My instinct the first time I met her was spot on; Maddie is truly an incredible young woman. She is so full of life, so vibrant, so excessively "Maddie". To know her is to know the light and love of Jesus. She is goofy and quirky, she is strong and courageous, she is beautiful and vibrant.

When Joan reached out asking me to do Maddie's senior photos, letting me know that Maddie really wanted me to take them, I could've jumped for joy. I was so excited to be a part of this incredible milestone! The Safford's live up in Iowa, so we quickly began talking about dates and travel plans. Maddie decided she wanted to come to Independence for her photos, and I was ecstatic. We have so many beautiful places around here, especially in the fall. (Fall colors are my favorite).

I always love senior sessions. They are such a marker for this stage of life- the transition from youth into adulthood. This one was no different, and it turned out better than I could have dreamed. The perfect combination of beautiful and crazy. Just like Maddie.