I first met Benita at my first local photographer’s networking dinner years ago, though we had mutual friends and my husband had met her before. When Im not teaching or presenting I tend to be a wallflower in large groups, and this was no exception. Not only did I admire her comfortable manner talking with everyone, I love how she didn’t seem intimidated by anyone. When I helped her move out of her Norman home a few weeks (months?) later, I felt I was walking somewhere famous, seeing things in person I had seen her post.

Fast forward…. 4 years? I don’t even know how long it has been, Benita has grown to become one of my favorite people. Her spice for life and flair is a perfect complement to my quieter life. She has taken some amazing images of me that I could not have even dreamed of. She knows how to make a woman feel beautiful– whether you’re 8 3/4 months pregnant (ME!!) or not the weight you want to be. I have loved photographing her family, and been blessed to have my family photographed by her as well– even the birth of my 3rd son!! I love her infectious laugh, and how she tells it how it is. I always feel more courageous to forge ahead in life when I’m with her. She is patient and generous and thoughtful…. and amazing at anything she touches. Seriously– floral arrangement, hair and makeup, crocheting, photography…. and even more she hasn’t attempted that she will just rock at.

I love you B, and so proud of what an amazing photographer you are, as well as friend and wife and momma and daughter of God. You shine in all you do, and Im so blessed to have you as a friend.