“If I had the opportunity, I wouldn’t change a thing! With each decade, I’ve lived and loved and been the best I could be with the help of God, my family and friends.“ Stephanie’s story: This Bible verse has always brought me peace, letting me know that God truly has gone before me to…
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“If you want anything in this world, YOU have to work hard for it. For most of the world life is not easy, but hard work will pay off in the end.“ Jamie’s story: My parents divorced when I was 4 years old. My father re-married within about 9 months. My mom had custody…
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“To my surprise and shock, I was diagnosed with a meningioma (a brain tumor). The location in my brain was the area that controls the speech and coordination. In March, I underwent a craniotomy to remove it. To describe my recovery process could be said nothing short of miraculous. I was admitted on a Tuesday…
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“I haven’t always extended the same love and care to myself that I give so freely to others. I’ve spent decades nurturing everyone around me—students, children, family—while putting myself last. Eventually, it caught up to me. I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. It was a wake-up call I couldn’t ignore.…
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“I have had awfully dark times and wanted to surrender, but I’ve survived every crashing wave and found strength to get back up and find joy in the next ride. I’ve also learned that in some instances, there’s more strength in surrendering, as it isn’t giving up – it’s releasing the need to control. Once…
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“I am beside myself with appreciation, standing here in a mound of my own flaws and unique perfection. I am free knowing they just love under-dressed, waterlogged, playful, lyric-chasing, awkward-in-a-crowd, over-thinking, over-sharing, touching & hugging-too-much, over-salting everything all the time – me.“ Darlene’s story: Hi there, Gorgeous! I’m so happy you’ve turned up for…
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“As a reminder of life’s impermanence, it urged me to enjoy each moment with renewed gratitude. In losing my parents, I found a new facet of myself – intrepid and vibrantly alive.“ Beth’s story: In the beginning of my 40s, life handed me an unexpected gift wrapped in sorrow. The loss of both my…
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“Life is short, so make it count. Chase your dreams. Try new things. It’s never too late to become who you want to be. Don’t let hardships make you hard—let them make you kind. I believe in being a ripple of kindness, hoping that it spreads outward and touches others.“ Michelle’s story: Where do…
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“Now in my late 60’s, I am the happiest I have ever been in my life. Life is awesome and I am living it to the fullest.“ Cheryl’s story: I was raised being told that I was not pretty, but had a nice personality. I had a lot of insecure issues, but was determined…
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“No matter the season of life, I’ve learned that resilience, determination, and a positive spirit can carry you further than talent or luck ever could.“ Michele’s story: I am a retired teacher and coach with a lifelong dedication to education, mentorship, and personal growth. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree from Mississippi State…
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Brandi Stage is a portrait photographer recognized by the prestigious International Photography Awards and based in Diamondhead, MS. She creates an exceptional magazine-style photo shoot and timeless heirloom portraits for women, men, children and pets in her studio or on location.