:: Created for You

I am often asked these questions, "How long have you been a photographer?" or "Did you major in photography?"  And every time I answered and thought "Oh, no!  They are not going to take me seriously!"  To my surprise they just accepted my words and we went on with the shoots. 

So, to answer some questions...I had no ideas I was going to be a photographer!  I've always wanted a nice camera to take pictures of our family, flowers, and grass, etc.  We had some money saved up to get me a camera and then I found out we were expecting.  I knew I wanted a homebirth so Superman asked me which would I rather have.  A nice camera or a homebirth?  It was a tough choice but I picked the homebirth.  It was the best choice I made too!   So after the Little Captain was born my super, compassionate husband got me a camera!!   He said he wanted to get me the one I wanted but it was no longer in our budget so this is the best he could do and I loved it!!  We couldn't get home fast enough for me to play with it and I fell in love right away.  The next few months I spent taking photos of my precious kids and had no idea I was entering an amazing adventure!! 

A friend posted on Facebook asking for recommendations on a local photographer for her new baby girl.  I thought to myself, "Hey, I could do it!"  So I commented thinking there are plenty for her to pick from so I went on with my day.  Later she contacted me and asked if I would do it and of course I took it!  I began reading up on how photograph newborns and oh my head hurt!  I did my best making her feel calmed about the upcoming session and brought my camera and whatever props I could think of.  And there we began!  It was hard work and took a lot of patience from everyone involved.  I was so grateful to be given a great opportunity to learn and our friends were so sweet!! 

For those who don't know me, I don't like to settle for good enough so I went on learning more about techniques, lighting, focus, etc.  I am also grateful for Pinterest!!  I wanted to be good at it!  From the wonderful words of mouth that more friends graciously asked me to photograph their families.  I gave away certificates to a local crisis pregnancy ministry and adoption fundraisers to get practiced.  I loved every minute of the hard work I had to learn.  I spent many sleepless night studying and waited for naptimes so I could run outside and practice.  

The reason I share about my journey of becoming a photographer is not because it's about me.  But it is because it is all about God.  He taught me to wait...wait...wait...go...wait, and wait some more.  I didn't want to get ahead of myself so I did a lot of praying and listening to His whisper.  I became a photographer mostly through waiting.  And I am not a very patience person!  Can you see the trend of the story here?  It's about waiting on Him to unveil His plans to me.  

Many nights I would dream of being in studios watching professional photographers do their work.  It was like they were showing me the step by step techniques and I would try them and they worked!  It was a beautiful journey the Lord had allowed me in.  I also found myself a mentor in Dallas, TX.  She and Superman graduated high school together and she graciously accepted my request and walked me through major process of becoming a photographer.

I kept my work under the radar for quite a while because there are many incredible photographers in our small community.  One afternoon our family took a walk downtown and unbeknownst to us it was our high school homecoming parade.  I was excited to be there with my camera.  Then I caught sight of a professional photographer with his expense camera and I began to put mine back in the bag.  Then I heard the Lord said, "You are not the grasshopper and he is not your giant."  I was so convicted and from that moment on I said to Him, "Lord, show me what You want me to do and how to do it."  I began to pray for a name for my work.  It wasn't easy at all and I even asked friends on Facebook to help but no one could help me with it. 

I had just left serving a crisis pregnancy ministry and my heart was still broken about it but it was the best decision Superman and I made together for me to be at home with our children.  The ministry work was so fresh on my mind and I was reminded of all those babies our ministry had saved and how we were all created in His image and for Him.  Then the words came to mind:  Created for You.  I thought was super cheesy and didn't think it would stick, but it grew on me!  It has double meaning to what I do and the purpose I have!!  I custom create beautiful images for my clients but the most important thing is that I was created to bring Him glory and so are those in my images!! 

I love how His words are so evidence in our lives:
^"For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him."  Colossians 1:16 (NKJV)

"You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power;  For You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created."  Revelation 4:11 (NKJV)

So...that's how I began.  :-)   

I try my best to not measure my work to incredible photographers who I truly admire in our community.  I learned quickly it would not glorify Him at all if I do that so I try focusing only on my work and use others for inspirations to drive me further in my passion.  I compare each of my new session to the previous ones so that I don't stay stuck, become bored, or envious of others' hard work. 

August 2012 with Miss Tirzah

August 2013 with Miss Maycee (11 days new)

I hope my story helps you see a journey of transformation through God and paying close attention to His instruction.  I never regretted those long, sleepless nights learning and praying.  I feel this is setting me up for the beautiful things to come!  I couldn't have done it without the help of my Superman and my patience children, and along beautiful friends who let me photograph them.  So grateful for all who believed in me, and encouraged me every step of the way!  Your words of affirmation had helped me become who I am destined to be in this season of my life as a stay-at-home Mom.  

Blessings,

Trang

:: There and Back Again

After taking a very long break I've decided to start up my blog again.  Mainly because I've changed a lot over the course of the year spiritually and physically.  Our family survived another move, job change, decision to homeschool our Fantastic Girl and returning to college for Superman and of course raising up the Boy Wonder.  In the next post I will share about leaving a ministry after serving 3.5 years to becoming a stay-at-home Mom, stepping away from my weekly prayer set, started a photography business, and pretty much became a recluse. 

Mean while...I'll leave you with these images of from early spring this year.  It makes me smile how much our children had grown and developing such a great personalities. 


Showing off his agility

Photo by Megan Eidson Photography

:: Isaac's Birth...Retold of a Supernatural Birth

 

After the birth of our daughter the thought of more children was far from my mind. It was a traumatic hospital birth that involved many unnecessary interventions and loss of control. I was offered an induction at 39 weeks because the doctor said it would be a good day to have a baby. The nurses reminded me every centimeter of my dilation that that I could just ask for an epidural while my birth plans plainly stated I wanted to labor naturally. I had to demand them to let me get out of the bed to use the bathroom like a healthy person. I suppose the induction decision tossed the written plans out of the window. After eleven and half hours of induced labor I managed to deliver a healthy baby girl without a drop of epidural thanks to the help of my husband Danner who prayed loudly in my ear at every peak of contractions. It was a growing experience though and I am stronger because of it.

Fast forward three years. After lots of prayer and support we decided to try for another baby. We became pregnant very quickly to my surprise. The feeling was excitement and dreadfulness. I was no doubt traumatized by my first experience with child birth. Remembering that my body did not respond to the local anesthesia while I was being repaired for the episiotomy because baby was in distressed brought me chills. I felt every stitch that broke through my skin and the pain more intense than the birth itself.  This time I was determined to achieve the most natural birth experience possible.  After speaking with a friend about her childbirth experiences, I knew that a midwife was going to be the route we took this time. With lots of prayer and support of my husband we contacted a local midwife.

Once I spoke with our midwife I knew this time would be different. She was compassionate and encouraging. Danner and I soon decided on a home water birth. Believing in the power of prayers I spent the next 9 months preparing myself by staying fit, attending natural childbirth class, praying and healing myself from the inside out. Not to mention the insane number of Kegel I had to do to avoid having stitches again. Yes, do your Kegel exercises and your body will thank you later.

As my 40th week neared I was ready. I had LOTS of support and confidence in my body. My friends had arranged to have meals brought to our family once the labor signs kick in. We had all the birth kits ready, from crock pot, herbs, to birthing tub in place and all we needed was a baby. I scrubbed every inch of the baseboard, rearranged the kitchen, and bed rooms. I slept, walked, and prayed and repeated the cycle. My 40th week appointment arrived and my body still hadn’t made new progress. My midwife reassured me that a due date isn’t always accurate and I shouldn’t worry. While my contractions went from all over the place to nothing, I tried not to fret as people were curious about how I was doing and showing concerns. Some questions why I was allowed to go pass 40 weeks.

A day before my 41 weeks I felt a gush of fluid and thought surely that was my waters so our midwife conducted the non-stress test. Because we weren’t sure if that was the amniotic fluid she didn’t want to check how far I was dilated for fear of infection. She wasn’t concerned since the baby showed no sign of distress. Each day passed I was more than ready to meet our son and praying that day was the day. Still the contractions just weren’t regular. I began to get weary that this baby would never come. I stayed in my room and had a few good cries, went on walks with Danner to keep my mind off the things I couldn’t control. Friends began bringing us meals throughout the week while we waited for labor to progress. Our midwife checked in on me several times a day. Then that dreadful 42 weeks appointment approached and there was still no sign of baby. Finally I got the green light on alternating Black and Blue Cohosh. Within the first hour of taking those nasty doses my contractions became more intense and then nothing! I resulted to Caster Oil because I was done being pregnant. I walked miles with Danner and even walked in the misty December rain one evening with our friend Stacy who was going to assist him while I’m in labor. I don’t know what I’d do without these two great people who were extremely patience with me through it all. Honestly, I felt the pressure because no one should have to go after being 42 weeks pregnant. I actually felt guilty that my body wouldn't cooperate. The unproductive contraction continued and my patience wore thin. I knew he would come in his own time, but when would that be?

The evening after two weeks being past due Danner and I hurried home from our long walk to meet our midwife to conduct another non-stress test. The baby was doing fine and hanging in there comfortably. She knew I was overwhelmed and suggested we "hit the reset button” and just let my body rest without natural induction and stop thinking about having this baby for a little while. It was a great relief for me. I went to bed early that night with dull contractions. At 4:45 am I was woken up with an intense contraction. I knew something was finally happening. I woke Danner up to get ready and to call our midwife and our friend Stacy. I got in the shower and had to concentrate on the breathing as the contractions were getting more painful and closer together. I put on my laboring clothes and both the women arrived after 5:00. We put on some soft music and lit the candles while the tub was being filled, our midwife checked me and I was already 5 centimeter dilated. That was the best news I heard in weeks! Stacy sat with me on the bed and prayed. Our midwife massaged my shoulders and applied hot towels on my lower back to give me some relief. The room was warm, dimmed and intimate. I alternated from sitting on the birthing ball to leaning against Danner swaying and focused on breathing and moaning through each contraction, the way that so many women before me had labored. Sometime after 7:00, our midwife suggested sitting on the birthing ball again and as I did I felt extremely uncomfortable so I stood up, heard a loud pop and my waters broke. At once I felt the baby’s head fully engaged and yelled the baby was coming. Everyone was so calmed, except for me; I was shaking and couldn’t move. I asked to get in the tub. Danner and our midwife helped me get comfortable and the water felt amazing! Within minutes I asked if I could push and was told whenever I felt ready. Stacy woke up our daughter Allison who had begged to stay up the night before so she could help catch her baby brother. She stood by my shoulder with Danner who was explaining everything mommy was doing. Stacy continued to pray, and our midwife sat holding a mirror and flash light encouraging me while I took some deep breath and began pushing. After two good push the baby’s head crowned. I checked to see how far I had progressed and I felt the wrinkles on his little head. It gave me all the courage that the end was near and within seconds I could hold my baby. So one more push at 7:20 am his entire body was out. The midwife reached in and pulled the baby up to my chest. Right away Isaac Tien Joshua took his first breath and began to cry while he and I locked eyes. Sheer joy filled the room while I took time holding my newborn son as he suckled at my breast. At 7:30 a shofar was blown to announce his birth. Danner cut the cord once it stopped pulsating. It was amazing watching a cord full of life became just a thin vein. We checked out every detail of his perfect body as we waited for my herbal bath to be ready and I delivered the placenta.

Family members were notified of our son’s arrival while I soaked in the herbal bath nursing our baby. I was never rushed to have Isaac assessed until both he and I were ready. From the evaluation, Isaac looked like he was born right on time and was not overdue. A couple of hours after his birth, Danner and our midwife got everything cleaned up while I rested with Isaac and Allison on the bed. Family members came to meet new baby. The transition was so calmed and relaxing all in the comfort of our home. Right away Isaac had his night and day figured out and nursed like a champ. I felt great and bounced back with less than half the time I did with Allison.

Looking back my home birth experience was truly a supernatural birth and full of healing. I felt empowered when I recognized my strength. I felt like a lioness roaring as I ushered my son into the world on my own without being told what to do or how and when to do it. Not only did I experience a quick and very little pain childbirth I got to see how God weaved friends into our lives to lift us up through prayers and support. Our entire family anticipated in the process. Our daughter will never have to wonder when it is her turn to bring her own children into the world. Even the midst of excitement I took time to reminisce the peace that God had instilled in me and knowing that I did everything right for me and my family. I am thankful I was allowed to wait on my son’s perfect timing. Moreover, we received many miracles throughout my pregnancy and two of which were having my delivery and birthing tub paid for through generous gifts.

:: September 11th

On this day, many people are reflecting on where they were and what they were doing 11 years ago when the planes hit the World Trade Centers.  I remember that day clearly.  However, this post isn't about my reflection on that tragic day, it is about how the Lord had brought Super Man and I through some tests and trials since the day I miscarried our baby. 

Our Baby "Jacob" was due on September 11, 2011.  I thought the coincidence of the date was very strange, but then again, it was just an estimate so I didn't give it much thought.  Then I miscarried him in late January.  How do we know it was a "he"?  Well, I believe the Lord speaks to all of us even when we don't have to time to slow down and listen, but that day I listened.  I was crying and hurting so I asked Him what He named our baby.  Immediately I heard a gentle response "Jacob".  I even thought to me myself, "Jacob?  A name that had never crossed my mind before."  I told Super Man and we prayed together and thanked the Lord for his short time with us.  And life went on and quickly I found myself expecting again to our now son Isaac - "The Boy Wonder" who was born December 22, 2011. 

September 11, 2011 my Super Man began an intensive training in the California deserts for almost 10 weeks.  It was a birth of a new season in our lives involving Crisis Response International.  Though we never had the opportunity to celebrate the birth of "Jacob" the Lord birthed through us a new calling and we haven't stopped seeking and walking in it.  It was the beginning of how we chose the name "A Shade on the Grid".  We are learning about living prepared for time of crisis so that we can be witnesses and a solution in the midst of despair and disaster.  We've committed ourselves into doing whatever it takes to be used by the Lord.  Though it's a long and painful process, we continue to fix our eyes on Him and allow Him to shape and mold us into working and living vessels. 

:: Trang's Chicken Soup

Okay, Ladies. Here's my best description of the recipe for you since we never had a recipe for it before...

Medium size chicken or Cornish hen
2 Cups of Rice
Cilantro
Green Onion
Red Onion
Bean Sprout
1 Lime
2 Cubes of Knorr Chicken Flavor Bouillon (optional)
Salt
Pepper

In a large pot, fill it with water till the chicken is completely submerged. Cook the chicken on medium high and you may need to take the stuff that floats to the top out to give you clear broth. When the meat is cooked and cleave the meat off the chicken leaving the bones behind, add 1 or 2 cups of water and continue to cook for another 15-20 minutes to make sure you get all the nutrient all of it.

In the mean time, stir your rice continuously in a separate pan on medium high to make sure the grains don’t get burned. At first the rice will look clear and when all grains turn white then pour into the chicken broth that is boiling. You may choose to skip stirring the rice over the heat before adding to the broth and just add rice in. I like doing this step because it makes the grain opens wide and according to my own opinion, more appealing.

Add the Chicken Flavor cubes if you would like the extra flavor and season to taste. Cook rice for another 15 minutes or until all the grains opened wide. Stir rice occasional to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom and burn. Reduce heat once you think it’s ready!!

Wash cilantro, green onion and bean sprouts and let drain all water. Mince cilantro and green onion together. Cut the white chicken meat that you set aside earlier in bite size. Cut red onion in thin strips. Cut lime into wedges. Now you’re ready to prep your bowls of deliciously healthy chicken rice soup!

In bowl, place bean sprout on the bottom, ladle in your chicken rice soup, add chicken slices and garnish with minced cilantro, green and red onion. Sprinkle in some black pepper, squeeze some lime to enhance the flavor and enjoy!!

At our house, we top our soup with fried dehydrated shallots that you can purchase in a jar at the Asian markets. But you don’t have to do that if you don’t want to. For seasoning, I don’t always use Knorr Chicken Flavor Bouillon because I use fish sauce which is also available at any Asian markets. And we love adding in some chilly pepper sauce to kick our taste buds. If your soup is thicken, just add a little water and make it soupy as desired.




Chicken soup with shell noodles.  So hearthy and simple. 
(Sorry, I can't seem to find my Chicken Rice Soup picture). 

 

:: The First Eight Months



First Eight Months



:: Month Eight

Dear Isaac,

You are eight months old today. I can proudly say I've never missed a single day in your life. The Lord allowed me to work and be with you at the same time and it was wonderful. Now I'm in a new season I'm thankful that I can truly devote my time and energy into you and Big Sister. I pray that we get to know each other better and that I could lead you both with great examples and character. You're such an awesome baby. You're quiet and joyful at the same time just like your Daddy. You can now reach over the counter top so I need to make sure our bathrooms are always cleaned. There's not a space in our home that you haven't discovered. You've mastered your stair climbing skills. I've caught you letting go a few times and stood on your own! And you love to eat with only 2 teeth.  You're always staying by my side! I looked at you today and saw a little boy instead of a baby. It makes me sad that you're not slowing down, but I'm so proud of all you've achieved. I'm pretty sure I heard you say "Hi" and "Momma." So, I look forward to this new season to learn about you and help you develop your gifts and talents, even at this early age. I love you so much, my Boy Wonder!

Your Mama

The Boy Wonder...Eight Months Old!