Rekindle Your Childhood Memories with Wanderlust Love
At Wanderlust Love, we believe in the magic of childhood. Connecticut brims with enchanting experiences that define those formative years. From the simple joy of climbing trees to the thrill of summer picnics, each moment carries a story. Through our photography, not only do we capture images but also the very essence of nostalgia that warms the heart. Allow us to transport you back to your carefree days, where adventure awaited at every corner and laughter echoed in the air.
Early Childhood
Where I started
I was born in Putnam, Connecticut, during a time of significant instability. My parents faced challenges with addiction, leading to my placement in foster care when I was around six months old. Over the next few years, I lived in seven different foster homes before being adopted at approximately four years old, along with my half-brother. This adoption was closed, meaning our past was not disclosed to us, providing a fresh start but leaving us with many unanswered questions regarding our background. As a child, I exhibited a strong sense of curiosity and energy. I engaged in numerous activities, including soccer, softball, ballet, tap dancing, pom dancing, gymnastics, baton twirling, piano lessons, and horseback riding. Although I did not pursue most of these activities for more than a year or two, I was fully dedicated to each one while I participated. The interests that have endured the longest for me include reading, playing the piano, and horse riding. I enjoyed imaginative play, with a particular fascination for Barbies, horses, and romantic stories. My brother and I often explored the woods, played by the lake, and participated in various neighborhood games like kick the can, capture the flag, and hide-and-seek. My small stature and speed made me competitive in games that required agility.
Grammarschool
innocence lost
By middle school, my world was unraveling at an alarming rate. While I managed to hold my head above water academically—particularly excelling in history and English, where writing felt like second nature—I was drowning in math and science. Organization was not just a challenge; it was a full-blown crisis. At home, instability reigned. My brother, struggling to cope with his own trauma, was spiraling out of control, resorting to violent outbursts. The day he was removed and placed into a group facility was a crushing blow, one I could hardly begin to process. The emotional fallout from that loss sent me into a tailspin. Desperate for connection, I formed an unhealthy attachment to a male teacher, which spiraled into inappropriate behavior and led to my suspension. Meanwhile, isolation consumed me, and I turned to self-harm as a means of coping. I began obsessively fixating on the idea of having bipolar disorder, clinging to the notion like a lifeline, even though it didn't fit—anything to make sense of the chaos raging within. I can’t pinpoint when therapy started—whether it was then or later—but by that point, the emotional turmoil was already embedded deep in my psyche. Take heed: this isn’t just a story; it’s a clarion call for awareness and action. Don’t ignore the signs.
Highschool
innocence lost.. ego gained
High school kicked off with a whirlwind romance and a rush of rebellion that I dove into headfirst. But then, Jessica and I were swept into different classes, Julia and I drifted, and Kristen slipped from my life altogether. I tried to forge new connections with Rose, Jenna, Matt, Josh, and a guy I can’t even fully recall—Ben or Joe. But none of it felt authentic, all shadows and echoes of who I used to be. I desperately began skipping classes, hiding away in the library, avoiding lectures and reality itself. When my mom finally barred me from seeing my boyfriend, I ran away. A week spent living in an abandoned tent meant for the homeless felt like a breath of freedom, but it was an illusion. Eventually, we got discovered and dragged back. That relationship crumbled by the end of freshman year when he cheated on me. Amidst this turmoil, I turned to drinking to feel like I belonged. My friends lit up joints, but that terrified me—I refused to follow in my parents' footsteps. Then I met Sean. We impulsively ran away and moved in together, but just before Valentine’s Day, betrayal struck again when I caught him cheating. That experience shattered me. I shut down completely, withdrawing from school and losing grasp of everything around me. Caught in an endless cycle of friend groups, never fitting in, I opened my arms to fellow outsiders. My new crew became a tight-knit group of misfits: Sara, Collin, Kat, Meg, Jon, Saylee, Danielle, and Gabby. Kat and Meg were my anchors amidst the chaos, and even as we went our separate ways in our mid-20s, I still reach out to their mom, holding on to the flickering connections of my past. This isn’t just a story; it’s a wake-up call. Every moment counts—don’t let time slip away amidst the chaos and heartbreak. Act now, before it’s too late!
Young adulthood
WIll the blows ever stop?
After graduating high school, I briefly attended college but withdrew within six weeks due to issues related to alcohol abuse. At that time, my drinking was escalating. I was taking alcohol from my parents, engaging in risky behaviors such as riding on motorcycles with strangers, and accessing bars that I was not legally allowed to enter. I worked at a deli, where I met Kevin. Our relationship was tumultuous, marked by frequent breakups and reconciliations over the years. When I became pregnant, it forced me to confront the severity of my addiction for the first time. Recognizing that I had a significant problem, I attempted to quit drinking. However, I relapsed a few times during early pregnancy. Following several suicide attempts and the realization that Kevin did not want to be involved with the child, I entered a dual diagnosis treatment program designed for individuals facing both mental health issues and substance use disorders. I gave birth to my son, Aiden, who was later adopted by a couple from South Windsor. This decision was incredibly difficult, but I believed it was in Aiden's best interest at the time. Kevin and I cut off contact shortly thereafter. Shortly after the adoption, I relapsed and began a new relationship with another man I met through the rehab program, which led to another pregnancy. Determined not to lose this child to adoption, I committed to sobriety. I left Connecticut for New York, seeking to escape my past and create a fresh start. At 21 right before i started the process of recovery, I received a message on Facebook from my biological siblings, Ashley and Anthony. This contact provided a link to my birth family after years of wondering about my roots. However, it also brought the heartbreaking news that our mother, Tammy, had passed away. Despite never having known her, I felt a profound sense of grief. I had always hoped for an opportunity to meet her and learn her story. Although that hope was gone, my connection with Ashley and Anthony offered new insights into my background. They shared parts of our family history that I had long sought, helping me to understand my identity in the context of my past experiences.
Growing Up: Capturing the Journey of Youth
Explore the transformative years of grammar and middle school in Connecticut. This period is filled with learning and friendships, all documented through vivid photography that reflects the innocence and excitement of youth. At Wanderlust Love, we believe every moment is a story worth telling, and our aim is to immortalize these fleeting years with stunning images that capture the essence of childhood adventures and milestones. Join us on this journey as we showcase the heartwarming stories that are timeless and relatable.
Friendship: The Heart of Middle School
Captured Moments of Connection
Friendship blossoms in the halls of middle school, creating bonds that often last a lifetime. Through our lens, we capture these precious moments—laughter, shared secrets, and the joy of camaraderie. Each photograph serves as a reminder of those special connections, allowing you to relive the magic of youthful friendships that shaped who you are today.
Learning Experiences That Shape Us
Embracing Knowledge and Growth
Middle school is a pivotal time filled with new challenges and learning experiences. Our photography shines a light on the journey through academic exploration, showcasing students engaged in discovery, creativity, and the joy of intellectual growth. These images preserve the spirit of inquiry that inspires a lifelong love of learning.
The Innocence of Youth
Unfiltered Emotions and Joy
In this critical stage of life, the innocence of youth is beautifully evident in every moment. From spontaneous laughter to deep contemplation, our photography captures the unfiltered emotions that define childhood. We believe each image tells a story of hope and candid joy, celebrating the simplicity of being young.
Milestones: Celebrating Growth
Documenting Every Step Forward
As children transition through middle school, they reach numerous milestones that deserve to be celebrated. Our focus is on documenting these achievements—from first performances to graduation ceremonies—ensuring that each significant moment is captured for posterity. We invite families to cherish these memories as timeless treasures that reflect the journey of growing up.
Capture the Journey: High School Memories
High school is more than just classes and textbooks; it's a vital chapter in the story of our lives. These years are packed with experiences that shape our identity and outlook. At Wanderlust Love, we believe in immortalizing these moments through the art of photography. Each snapshot tells a story—a fleeting glance, a shared laughter, or a big achievement. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of this transformative phase, capturing the essence of youth in every frame.
The Power of Personal Stories
Every teenager carries a unique narrative. Behind every smile, every tear, and every friendship forged in the hallways lies a story waiting to be told. Through the lens of Wanderlust Love, we dive deep into these personal tales, showcasing the joy and heartache that define high school experiences. Our photography reflects these emotions, creating a vivid tapestry that connects us all in shared experiences.
Moments That Matter
High school is filled with moments, both big and small, that leave lasting impressions. From prom nights filled with excitement to casual afternoons spent with friends, each moment is worth capturing. At Wanderlust Love, we focus on the details that make these experiences unforgettable. Whether it's the sparkle of laughter or the solemnity of a decision, our photography aims to encapsulate these times for eternity.
A Journey of Growth and Discovery
As teenagers navigate the challenges of adolescence, they also discover who they are and who they want to become. High school is a time of self-exploration, forging friendships, and pursuing passions. Wanderlust Love is dedicated to capturing these pivotal moments of growth—moments that spring forth from late-night study sessions, sports victories, and artistic endeavors. Each photo is a reminder of the journey taken, inspiring future generations to embrace change and growth.
Embracing Change Through the Lens
Change can be daunting, yet it is often the catalyst for greatness. High school is just the beginning of an exciting journey, filled with new opportunities and challenges. At Wanderlust Love, we embrace these changes, highlighting the beauty in every transition. Our photographs not only celebrate the present but also serve as a reminder of the bright futures awaiting these young spirits.
Capturing the Spirit of Young Adulthood
At Wanderlust Love, we believe that young adulthood is a vibrant canvas painted with the dreams, ambitions, and adventures of the rising generation. It's a remarkable transition into independence, filled with laughter, challenges, and endless possibilities. Our mission is to encapsulate these defining moments and emotions through breathtaking photography that speaks to the heart and soul of each unique journey.
Celebrating Dreams and Aspirations
In Connecticut, young adults are embarking on paths that lead to their futures, pursuing passions that set their hearts ablaze. Each image we create tells a story of hope and inspiration, highlighting their individuality and the beauty of their aspirations. Whether it’s the joy of achieving a long-held goal or the excitement of new experiences, our photography captures the essence of their journeys, reminding everyone that each story deserves to be celebrated.
Stories That Resonate
Every click of the camera at Wanderlust Love captures more than just a moment; it captures the vibrancy of life and the echo of dreams. Our photography resonates with a diverse audience, inviting them to reflect on their own journeys. Through this lens, we connect with people from all walks of life, showcasing the shared human experience of seeking fulfillment and making memories.
Inspiration Through Authentic Photography
Our philosophy is rooted in authenticity. We strive to create images that speak the truth of our subjects' lives, showcasing genuine emotions and real experiences. Our authentic approach helps facilitate a deeper connection with our audience, encouraging them to embrace their personal narratives and seek new beginnings with courage and enthusiasm.
Join Us on This Journey
Wanderlust Love invites you to join us in exploring the transformative stories of young adulthood. Whether you are a young adult forging your path or someone who cherishes the richness of these experiences, we welcome you to witness, celebrate, and document these life-changing moments through our photography. Life’s transitions deserve admiration and capture, and together, let’s create a gallery full of hope, ambition, and love.