The Homefront Battle

Dawn Crane • May 03, 2019

Deployments are hard for everyone, especially for the ones suffering in silence.

As a professional, I’m not sure putting feelings out there is the best idea but I feel it represents a part of who I am and you should know about it. My husband has been deployed for the last eleven months and I get goosebumps every time I think about how our homecoming hug is upon the horizon! BUT- a deployment sucks for everyone involved. Every once in a while, I tend to feel sorry for myself. Through these hazy moments, I spot the sobering reality, he has it worse. Much worse. The men and women defending this great country of ours are expected to visit hell and then come back unscathed?

He has watched his little boy learn something new everyday, they sure are sponges at two. His "little" girl turned into a teenager, grew two shoe sizes and almost four inches in height. His wife has begged and pleaded for him to just be safe and come home, like it's totally in his control or something. He has watched her stress, overwhelm and get frustrated while completely helpless. Sand is always readily available in his living quarters whereas waters almost always in a shortage. Squeezing little naps in between the noise, chaos and possible emergency rescue has become his favorite pastime followed by visiting the gym. Twice a day. Because there is literally nothing else to do while they wait for the next emergency. He has been pushed to the limits emotionally and physically on a regular basis since he left. Eleven months ago. The option to decline a specific job or duty is nonexistent. It's no wonder the ones defending us, need some defending of their own.

Truth is, I could go on forever. I know there are men and woman out there fighting the "good fight" that have it much worse than my husband. My point is that we need to be kinder to people, their battle just may still be in there. They are no longer on enemy grounds but enemy grounds has come home in them. Veteran suicide rate is astronomical. The VA released a study in 2013 that found that approximately 22 veterans take their life a day. That is one life lost to the shady character riding shotgun every 65 minutes. Read that statistic again. Staggering and heart wrenching at the same time, isn't it? Mental health gets the blind eye far to often and there needs to be more awareness. Awareness creates change. Or at least I hope.

If you are struggling anywhere in your life, please don't let a moment turn into an eternity. It's not worth it because there IS love everywhere, you just have to be open to it. Here are some options if you or someone you know needs help!

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Veterans Crisis Line

Other ways to get involved

Lastly,

Call me . Seriously, I don't care if we've never met; I care about you, your life and your future.

The military life is a hard one and can really take a toll on a family but I'm here to tell you that you can do it. If you are somewhere out there struggling, just know that you are a rock star. It's okay to take a moment to yourself and ugly cry(and eat all the ice cream in the closet to hide from the kids,) so long as you catch your breath and keep trucking on. Show kindness every chance you get because it damn sure does a lot more for the soul than hate. Also, if you are snuggled up in a warm, clean bed next to someone you love, suck ALL that love in. Also, please take a moment to remember the ones who are struggling and believe they are alone. They are out there, suffering in silence.

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Trace Elements Photography Blog

Promoting A Greener World With a Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Wedding Commitment

By Dawn Crane • 02 Nov, 2021

It is said that if we don't start making sacrifices to live our lives in a more sustainable manor, that we are dooming the future generations to the effects of global warming. We are already seeing the dangerous foot prints that our convenient lives are leaving in our wake. Larger storms, flooding, droughts, earth quakes, tsunamis and so many other powerful environmental catastrophes... all in an attempt for mother nature to warn us that we are tipping scales and change NEEDS to happen before it's too late. It really is a lot to take in and it's incredibly scary but change starts with compromises and influences that begin in the home and grows into a worldwide strive to do better. If you haven't been able to tell as of now, this is something that weighs heavily on me and I plan on making a difference. Starting with my business, I hope to simply encourage my clients to consider using options for their wedding day that carry a positive impact on this beautiful world we live in. There are so many different aspects to a wedding that even going eco-friendly in one area will make a difference. There are so many different ways you can help lessen your impact and I'm sure I'll add to this list as I learn more and as the years go on, but here are some things you can consider to "green-up" your wedding. Consider finding a second hand dress and/or tux rentals. Alterations are far cheaper and we are avoiding importing/creating new materials. Rent plates, silverware, glasses, etc.. There are several local companies that rent tables and all. Consider more plant based or vegetarian options for your food options. Livestock is one of the number one contributors to global warming not only through the methane released, but also because valuable forests and woodlands are cleared to make room for our domestic animals. Instead of having any florals imported, consider locally grown and sourced floral arrangements. Party favors can be used to encourage spreading eco friendly AND outdoor ideas. I've seen small trees in biodegradable containers, packages of flower seeds, bird seed, locally sourced products, etc.. When considering things like bridal robes, bags, gifts, etc., finding products made in the USA will lessen our importing weight and support our economy and growth. Instead of using graffiti, drying out flower petals or leaves and hole punching or shredding provides a great alternative with no impact or garbage to pick up. Center pieces and arbors can be bought second hand at a great rate, search around before investing in "one-time-use" products. I'm sure there are so many ideas that can be added to this list and if you have any, PLEASE let me know and I'll include it. It's so important that we start making life changes to protect this beautiful world we call home. Anything you are willing to contribute will be so appreciated by not only me, but by the earth itself. Thank you.

We Can Photograph All of Your Wedding Details With Proper Planning

By Dawn Crane • 30 Sep, 2021

Things can get really chaotic while planning your wedding day and simple things can get overlooked or missed. This wedding details checklist will help you gather your wedding details in advance so you have one less thing to worry about on the big day.

No Worries, I'm a Professional Wedding Photographer

By Dawn Crane • 02 Mar, 2020

When a wedding photographer arrives at a location or venue, they should be confident in where they choose to take your pictures and understand why they chose that location. Capturing consistent and beautiful wedding photography is possible with a perfect understanding of NATURAL light.

Advantages of a Secondary Wedding Photographer

By Dawn Crane • 19 Feb, 2020

Having a second photographer at your wedding has many advantages that not everyone realizes. Here are some of the top benefits I've concluded while having a secondary wedding photographer by my side.

Family Formal List Assistance

By Dawn Crane • 28 Jan, 2020

Family formals are not the most exciting aspect of a wedding day but they are important. This is Trace Elements Photography's approach to creating these lists to ensure a fast and smooth transition of family and friends during your wedding day formals.