Elaine Baca, Documentary Photographer

Back in May, I had the privilege of photographing the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Boulder Crest Foundation's new Texas location in Italy, TX.

My roots run deep in the military community. My dad proudly served 30 years in the Air Force, and my childhood was a whirlwind of new bases and experiences across the country. This upbringing instilled in me a profound respect and admiration for all who serve, and their families.

That's why being able to capture this pivotal moment for Boulder Crest Foundation was so incredibly special. Their dedication to supporting combat veterans and first responders through innovative posttraumatic growth programs is truly making a difference. It was an honor to document the beginning of what I know will be an impactful journey for countless individuals. Thank you, Boulder Crest, for the incredible work you do, and for allowing me to be a small part of your story.

There is so much beauty in the routines of normal life. Though it may become mundane at times, take a minute to breathe in the miracle of life and family.

What a special weekend celebrating the latest book release of local children's book author, Daniela Coats, founder of With Siblings, at Paper Leaves Shop in Waxahachie! Everyone enjoyed the yummy treats, getting their books signed, and doing themed crafts and coloring pages.

You can support this local author and purchase your very own copy of "The Day Lily Turned (un)Invisible" on Amazon:

https://a.co/d/egkfwSW

The beautiful Deylinn on her 30th Birthday.

Labor.

Spending a day in labor is tough work. It’s physically and emotionally draining, questioning whether or not it’s real, wondering when you will meet your baby, feeling exhausted and ready to quit.

This mom listened to her body, had wonderful support from her family and midwife, and changed positions often to help her baby move down.

Midwife: BundleBorn Midwifery

This year I've worked on a number of commercial projects, and Mercy Preparatory Academy is one of my favorites! It's been fun to capture this school's story through photos and so exciting to hear how the images have made such a big difference in their marketing.

Meet Erica Phillips of Mercy Preparatory Academy - Voyage Dallas Magazine | Dallas City Guide Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Phillips. She and her team shared their story with us below: In 2018, Cary and Erica Phillips felt a strong sense of purpose to create a new educational opportunity in Ellis County. After meeting with National Association of University-Model® Schools, Inc...

#1 Why is he touching me?
#2 Does it look like I want to share my cake?

Friends during pregnancy:

“I can’t wait to meet your baby! You are going to be such a good mom! Her nursery is ADORABLE! I bought her these precious little shoes! She’s going to be so cute! If you need anything let me know! I can’t wait to babysit!”

6 Weeks in as a parent:

Feeding, bathing, soothing, feeding, changing, walking, feeding. Not much sleeping.

Let’s have more conversations about the realities of parenthood and how it’s not 100% “love it” at all times. How lonely it feels, how your body is not your own, how desperately you need sleep. You are not alone in these big feelings of love and frustration and sadness and even longing for your old life at times.

Reach out to a parent with a baby today, let them know they aren’t alone.

Fundal massage.

There is one part of birth and postpartum that often goes undiscussed: the fundal massage. Once the baby and placenta have been born (vaginally or through a cesarean) your doctor, midwife or nurse will firmly press in the center of your belly to check your uterus. In order to prevent excessive bleeding or hemorrhaging the uterus needs to contract and be firm. Unfortunately, this part really sucks and is generally very uncomfortable. I personally found it more uncomfortable than contractions.

Father and son.

In this moment he was grieving the loss of his father while celebrating the birth of his son. The beauty of a new life and sorrow for what was lost are woven together.

The war on bubbles.

“Catching”

This little one knew how and when to be born, all he needed was someone to catch him.