“The flower doesn’t dream of the bee. It blooms and the bee comes.” Mark Nepo

Twice blessed, I have lived in homes with Little Gems, a smaller variety of the southern Magnolia Grandiflora. Though not grand in size, her beauty remains so. My Georgia gem slept dormant for two years. Just as I was giving up hope, she awoke by the third year. Gloriously and majestically she bloomed! The beauty of her creamy white blooms and deep green leaves did me in.

Fine Art Photography: Magnolia Grandiflora

The intoxicating fragrance of the blooms fill the air with powerful notes of citrus. Every part of the flower, delicate and sweet, radiates of the tartness. The aroma caught in the wind, does its job and they come.

Partners in dance, the bee and the bloom, give and take. Pollinate and spread her seeds, good honey bee. We need you.

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Frozen in my step, enchanted by your smell, and bewildered…I surrender to your grace and southern charm.

Fine Art Photography: Magnolia Grandiflora

Jean Wines Photography Your Hampton Roads Photographer

Dickinson High School, Dickinson Texas

The early morning hours proved tiresome for a teenager like you. I am sure you were up all night worrying about what to wear and if your clothes would fit just right. Or, more than likely, you were up all night working behind the counter at the local Starbucks, serving others. Together, we enjoyed a good cup of brew and watched the fog lift. We chatted about different poses, gathering ideas on the best places to shoot. Then, throughout the day, you had me smiling, laughing, and at times on the verge of tears. Prideful tears not those sappy kind. You walk with the perfect amount of confidence. Effortlessly, you blend modern style with eclectic vibes. In front of the camera, you are a natural. Behind those blue eyes, I see a young man determined to succeed.

More about Donavan:

Jean: What is one word that describes you? Donavan: Adventurous.

J: But, your friends would say…? D: Caring.

J: You can’t live without____? D: Coffee.

J: What is your favorite school subject? D: Earth and Space Science.

J: What is your favorite place? D: The Beach!

J: Favorite high school memory? D: Cutting class! (Tsk Tsk Tsk.)

J: Favorite food and candy? D: Tacos and Peach Rings.

J: Favorite book and movie? D: We All Looked Up (book) and The Breakfast Club (movie)

J: Favorite band? D: The Front Bottoms.

J: “Is that a real band!?” LOL D: YES.

J: Dream job? D: Owner of a coffee shop.