Tegan's Free Little Library

A few months ago, Tegan's mom, April contacted me about photographing his birthday party. First and foremost, I want to preface by saying his mama sure knows how to throw an amazing party!!! No seriously, her attention to detail is phenomenal and she has the gift of hospitality. 

As a photographer you get the opportunity to simply sit back and observe. As I was observing and documenting Tegan's big day, I was amazed to see such a selfless kid. There was one moment that truly touched me. A friend of Tegan was not able to participate in laser tag because there were not enough laser guns. Without any hesitation whatsoever, Tegan handed his laser gun right over. The best part was, he didn't need to be prompted by an adult. It was a genuine and kind act. Selflessness is pretty rare these days, especially when it comes to a ten year old!

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A few days later, I met up with Tegan and his brothers to do a photo session with their Nana. Not only are these boys absolutely hilarious and fun to be around, they are well-mannered and kind. During the session, I saw Tegan's gentle approach to his Nana as he walked her up and down the pier ensuring that she made it up and back safely. Chivalry is not dead!

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April contacted me a few weeks ago to let me know that Tegan had been working on a Free Little Library for his community. 

Tegan's Free Little Library launch was a HUGE success! It was beautiful to see the support of Tegan's family, friends and neighbors within the community. Once again, I was able to observe Tegan's selfless actions. Although this was his big day, he was more concerned with making sure everyone was able to grab a book. 

Many attendees brought books to donate to the Little Library. Several passerbys saw all of the excitement and ran home to grab books to contribute to the library as well. There were even adults that walked by that were intrigued by this little blue box filled with books.

It was such a joy to see each child's face light up when they grabbed a book out of the Little Library. One young man saw a need for something in his community and he delivered. Tegan's Free Little Library is giving younger children an opportunity to get excited about early literacy. It's giving older children a chance to find a new genre of books that they may not have tried before... Even adults will be impacted as they grab a book and fall in love with reading again.

Tegan's heart is so big and his passion for helping others is infectious. I know that Tegan will continue to do big things. My hope is that his peers are inspired by his selflessness and that his kindness reminds adults to be humble and put others before themselves. If everyone took one page out of Tegan's book, our world would be an outstanding place.

Congratulations on your Free Little Library Launch, Tegan!