Lori Prashker-Thomas, at The Blogs

Jul 2, 2025, 9:27 PM

Photo courtesy of Lois Ann Photography
This design was created on Canva.com on July 2, 2025 It is copyrighted by Lori Prashker-Thomas/ShadowCatcher Photography (Paid Subscription)

Every year, as Jewish communities gather to mark holidays, milestones, and life transitions, we speak about identity, legacy, and memory. But there is one conversation that often remains unspoken in our shul, synagogues, community centers, and even around our...

Jun 7, 2025, 4:48 PM

The Blessing of Being Seen – Reflections on Parshat Naso

This design was created on Canva.com on June 6, 2025 It is copyrighted by Lori Prashker-Thomas/ShadowCatcher Photography (Paid Subscription)

Parshat Naso is the longest Torah portion, filled with details that range from census counts to priestly blessings, from ritual purity to Nazirite vows. On the surface, it can feel technical, even overwhelming. But when I slow down and...

Mar 29, 2025, 12:06 AM

Finding Meaning in the Details: A Reflection on Parshat Pekudei

This design was created on Canva.com on March 28, 2025 It is copyrighted by Lori Prashker-Thomas/ShadowCatcher Photography (Paid Subscription)

As an award-winning author and speaker, I’ve always believed that the most powerful stories aren’t just found in grand events but in the small, intricate details that shape them. This week’s Parsha, Pekudei, reminds us of that truth. At first...

Feb 2, 2025, 1:16 AM

Finding Light in the Darkness: Mental Health and Judaism

Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health - This design was created on Canva.com on November 16, 2024. It is copyrighted by Lori Prashker-Thomas/ShadowCatcher Photography (Paid Subscription)

Mental health is something that affects all of us in one way or another. Whether we’ve personally struggled, supported a loved one, or simply navigated life’s inevitable ups and downs, the weight of our emotions can be overwhelming. As...

Dec 26, 2024, 9:25 PM

When ‘Not Enough’ Meets the Wisdom of Parsha Miketz

The feeling of not being enough is something many of us struggle with—a nagging voice that whispers we don’t measure up to the expectations of others or even our own. This week’s Torah portion, Parsha Miketz, offers profound lessons...

Nov 16, 2024, 9:29 PM

Breaking the Stigma of Mental Illness: Lessons from Parshat Vayera

In my personal journey, I’ve come to understand how vital it is to break the silence around mental illness. The shame, isolation, and misunderstanding that often surround these struggles can make the path to healing feel insurmountable. As I...

May 3, 2024, 6:40 PM

Why Mental Health Awareness Matters Every Day

Let's Talk About Mental Health - This design was created on Canva.com on May 3, 2024. It is copyrighted by Lori Prashker-Thomas/ShadowCatcher Photography (Paid Subscription)

As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds, it's imperative to recognize that these conversations shouldn't be confined to a single month. They're crucial year-round. This May, let's delve into the significance of ongoing dialogue surrounding mental health and how insights...

Feb 17, 2024, 12:29 AM

Faith in Judaism: Religion vs. Spirituality

Parsha Terumah primarily focuses on the instructions given to Moses by G-d for the construction of the Tabernacle (Mishkan), a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. The Parsha provides detailed specifications for various...

Jan 6, 2024, 8:08 PM

Mistakes to Miracles: Lori’s Journey and Ancient Inspiration

In the vast tapestry of history, certain stories stand out as beacons of inspiration, weaving together threads of courage, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a greater purpose. My story resonates with echoes from ancient times, drawing parallels to...

Dec 3, 2023, 7:24 PM

Navigating the Holidays: A Grief-Filled Journey Through Memories

The Prashker family gravesite - Photo courtesy of ShadowCatcher Photography, LLC/Lori Prashker-Thomas

The holiday season is upon us, a time of joy, celebration, and shared moments with loved ones. As I walk down the street, the festive decorations and the echoes of holiday tunes fill the air, creating a magical atmosphere...

About Me

Lori Prashker-Thomas has always been a creative soul and free spirit, never imagining that “author” would one day grace her resume. An award-winning author, Lori released her memoir, From Mistakes to Miracles: A Jewish Birthmother’s Story of Redemption, Hope, and Healing, in October 2022. In addition to her writing, Lori brings over 20 years of experience as a legal secretary and paralegal. She is the Co-Owner and Photographer at ShadowCatcher Photography, LLC, where she works alongside her husband, Michael. Lori is also the Owner and Certified Professional Wedding Officiant at Ceremonies by Lori. A passionate speaker, writer, and advocate, Lori focuses on sharing her personal journey as a Jewish birthmother, while working to challenge the stigma surrounding adoption, domestic violence, and suicide survival. Lori is the Director of her non-profit organization, I Picture Hope, a proud board member of the NEPA Pride Project, and the 2024 recipient of the Ally of the Year award presented by the Rainbow Alliance.

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