memorial.
I have all the respect for the military. I served almost nine years myself and today I offer my love, thoughts and prayers for all those who have served this nation. All gave some. Some gave all. With that being said, I ask everyone to remember why and how we can make the future a bigger, brighter and more loving place.
Day 148 of 365+1: a picture a day for a year.
While packing up a bookcase, I found this picture. I always had an attitude but my family was in a good place during this time. I debated writing about this subject because it is a touchy one to many. But this is my blog and my truth. Today I am posting a picture of a picture that I post-processed in Lightroom. It’s my family circa pre-divorce. Today, I also mourn this time in my life. When we were a unit. When I didn’t have to take separate trips to see each parent. The drama of what transpired. I put this picture under glass, but today we are four separate shards, trying to let time sand our edges from the pain that anyone from a divorced family inevitably feels.
Jamie Christoffersen Photography 
Thank you so much for your service to our country! My 18-year-old sister is currently going through her 3rd week of boot camp for the US Army. I’m very proud of her, yet nervous for her at the same time. So, being that you are a soldier yourself, I was wondering if you can give this overprotective and much-older sister some advice…words of wisdom…anything to calm my nerves a bit? THanks! 🙂
Hey Jessica! Your sister is lucky to have you in her life!!! Know this: at any given time, your sister is exactly where she needs to be so there is no need to worry. Somehow this was in her destiny and she has lessons to learn (as we all do) as she goes through the ups and downs of life. Let her learn them and live in peace as you learn yours. The rest is out of your hands. All you can do is listen and love and live life with a loving and accepting heart. ❤
Thank you so much, Jamie! Your words of wisdom really mean a lot! I was 14 years old when my sister was born, so I guess the nerves are partly stemmed from the fact that she is grown-up…period! Irregardless of her chosen profession, it’s just weird to see her out of the home and fending for herself, since my memories are still so vivid of her when she was young and couldn’t fend for herself.
By the way, did the military help you become so centered, or was it something else? 😉
Thanks again! 🙂
I completely understand how you can feel that way! You love her and are used to nurturing her. Just remember, she may not be what you want her to be, but she is who she needs to be at this given moment to learn so she can evolve into wisdom. If you interfere in this process, you hinder her growth. I hope that makes sense. All you can do is love and listen. The rest is out of your control but it was never yours to begin with. And to answer your question, I joined the military to save my life from an abusive relationship. I got out of the military with much gained discipline and skills but I had neglected myself. I couldn’t find balance in the military. It was like I buried my spirituality and pretended it wasn’t there to be accepted. There are many experiences that help me become centered, to include all the ones that threw me off center.
And trust me, I still have moments that throw me off center!!! lol.
Thank you, Jamie, for your insight!
Hope you can stop by California soon! There in an immense amount of beauty here that your camera would love…including my dog, Taylor! 😉