What Lights You Up?

2024 has a new mantra…

“When you know what brings you joy in this life,

ACT ON IT NOW.”

I met Latha in 2022 when she reached out to me on LinkedIn inquiring about a new headshot for herself. From the first conversation with her I knew we would be friends and our journey together has been absolutely wonderful thus far. She expressed to me she was putting off the headshot for reasons of not feeling confident in front of the camera, but something told her it was time to do some research for a professional photographer. She shared that it was my LinkedIn profile that gave her the feeling that I could be photographer for her. My main goal was just to listen to her and create the space for kindness and trust. As business professionals, women and mothers we related quite well with one another and shared stories from parenting struggles, to creating an online presence, to just keeping up. We understood each other and it felt very comfortable.

My hope is always for my client to feel good in front of the camera, but that takes time. We walked in the park and talked like old girlfriends that had know each other for years. As we chatted and laughed, I guided her into the most lovely light and background I could see. It was then, without hesitation, her beautiful smile came through my lens. We spent about an hour or so together and during that time our connection was formed and we both couldn’t wait to see what we got. Once she reviewed the photos she was very pleased and her next question was…”Do you photograph families?”

Through my work with Alzheimer’s San Diego I came to appreciate the gift of family and multigeneration more than ever before. I realized that grandmas and grandpas were not being photographed as much as I wanted so when this shoot came to be, I was elated with all the ages and relationships that were present. My most favorite moments were when I asked Latha’s husband to kiss his mother on the cheek and her father to kiss his wife…the LOVE & SMILES were abundant! This is why I do what I do!!! As a mom I kept thinking about how wonderful and meaningful it would be to have Latha and her daughter in my studio for a session, my hope came true:)

As I began to focus on my path for 2024 I kept coming back to one thing, creating a memorable studio experience for my client. I reflected on what I loved most about the studio verses the outside environment and it was easy. I could give so much more personal attention to my client in my space without the uncertainties of weather, crowds, parking, a place for my clients to change clothes and most importantly…privacy. We had a blast together with multiple outfits and backgrounds AND I COULD PLAY 80s MUSIC for everyone to enjoy:)

Once we finished our session together, next was scheduling the reveal. I set the stage for Latha with a slide show and beautiful matted prints to view on my wall. The entire experience was amazing. We spent quality time looking at the photos, deciding what she wanted as her final deliverable and her leaving with excitement and anticipation for the products to come. When she left I remember just sitting in my studio smiling and knowing I had found what brings me true happiness in this life, bringing joy to others with my imagery.

THANK YOU LATHA FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE!!!

Make fear your FRIEND, NEIGHBOR & PAL.

The number 23 has been a significant number in my adult life so it seemed fitting that 2023 would be a transformative year for me. Once January began I declared that I would be open to all possibilities of growth for myself when and wherever they popped up, regardless of the fear that may raise it’s pretty little head. I don’t know how many times fear has kept me from discovering my truest potential, so this year I decided to say “NO MORE BULLSHIT!!!” I think writing this blog post is another way for me to honor my integrity and “Shine!”

It’s funny how the universe has your back when you put the vibe out into the world about what you desire. I kept thinking that this year I was going to do something where I could speak to an audience about my love for photography, but had no idea radio was going to be the platform for my message.

How this story started was I kept thinking of my friend Pam, a lovely soul I had not seen for many years and finally decided to reach out to say hello. It was wonderful to catch up with her after so much time had passed and she told me all about her new job working for 96.1 FM. The conversation continued on and then she asked the BIG DADDY QUESTION, “Would you like to be on the radio Robin?” My heart skipped a beat and immediately my anxiety bubbled up to the surface. I began to hear my typical narrative of “I can’t do this, I am more comfortable behind the camera, I don’t have time, I am not prepared, no one cares about what I have to say and I have no idea what to talk about.” I was such a super freak in my head I couldn’t help but notice the ridiculousness of my dialogue. After I got off the phone with Pam I realized immediately I had to get off the crazy train of self sabotage and try a brand new course of action.

When I made the decision to do the “George Costanza” and go the opposite direction of my current thinking I laughed and a whole new script developed. I thought about how much fun this experience could be with the right mindset. I love being a photographer and serving others with my passion, so why wouldn’t I want to talk about it with other entrepreneurs so they can do the same with their passions? I was excited about sharing my knowledge as a fine artist, graphic designer, photo retoucher and editor and how these skills have enhanced my photography today. I also could not wait to talk about my work with Alzheimer’s San Diego because it is so near and dear to my heart. As the new story took shape I started feeling my joy and confidence bump my nervousness to the side and say, “You got this baby.” As I continued the interview it was like the best parts of me began to shine through and all I had was gratitude for the opportunity that I was given!

As I drove home from the station and reflected on my time with Pam and Mark I was pleased with myself in taking the plunge into uncharted waters. I knew this was a feeling I did not want to wash over me like rain on the hood of my car, I WANTED IT TO STICK. I told myself to NEVER forget what I did and how great it felt to overcome something I thought would be scary. I now remind myself everyday to ask the question, “What amazing opportunity will I have today Robin?” Now that my awareness and openness buttons are on full throttle, my life has no boundaries except the ones I choose to set for myself. I can’t wait to see what is next!

If you are interested in listening to my interview with Mark the Spark click here. My hope is you see something in my story that will help you overcome a fear in your life and “Shine!”

Mrs. Harris went to Paris.

It has been quite some time since my last blog post, but when I am compelled to write, I write. My first sighting of the Eiffel Tower was like seeing a celebrity for the first time, there she is…I was overwhelmed. I had never been to Paris, but it had always been a place I wanted to experience and capture. This image was the beginning of my journey back to the place I loved, the world of art history at its finest. The setting was old, my eyes were fresh and my camera was ready to start documenting my own history as it unfolded before me.

The excitement began with the fast and furious cab ride from the airport to the hotel. The driver was seasoned in maneuvering the narrow cobblestone streets of Paris and I felt like I was part of this crazy video game I had no control over. I starred at every building, every window and every street corner…it was exhilarating. When we sat down at our first cafe this was my view. I watched the city breathe in and out as the clouds passed by and kept saying to myself…I am really here.

Once our bellies were stocked with energy we mapped our course and started our journey through town. It was truly like experiencing the Hollywood walk of fame. The Arc de Triomphe was a sight to behold and with every step closer I became more and more starstruck. The craftsmanship was breathtaking and the most beautiful I had ever seen in my entire life.

As the the adventure continued we headed to the Pantheon, modelled after the one in Rome. Like a moth to a flame I was drawn to the structure and it was the view through the pillars that I found most engaging. I love looking at things with different perspectives and this moment was no exception. Nestled behind the Pantheon was the Church of Saint Etienne du Mont with its infamous purple door…absolutely gorgeous. I have always had a love for unique doors, perhaps it’s the idea of it taking me into an exciting new world that is so attractive.

A new day and a new adventure. As we entered the Luxembourg Gardens, it was like stepping into a Monet painting. I remember the exact moment when all I could see were my children closely walking together and my heart was full. How did I get so lucky to have this frame captured in time forever with such a magnificent backdrop? As soon as we turned the corner it was a wonderland of artistic expression. I gazed at each statue and thought about who they could of been and what stories they could of told. I was truly in awe of every facial feature, every wrinkle in their garment and of course…the position of their hands.

Little did we know we had saved the best for last. The Louvre Museum was the most grand I have ever witnessed . It didn’t matter that it was closed that day, I could of spent hours savoring every nook and cranny of this giant art piece and be completely content. As my eyes tilted upwards there was always a figure looking back at me. I never felt so small, but at the same time my awareness never felt so significant.

I knew this was only a glimpse into a world I had never seen and I wanted to taste more, photograph more and definitely share more. I did not travel as a child and grew up fearful of change and felt safer in my own bubble of comfort and ignorance. I also grew up a creative and someone that imagined herself painting in France and photographing the streets of Rome. This duality weighed heavily on my shoulders for many years. It was not until I entered my mid forties that I began to face those fears head on. This trip definitely ignited something within me that I had not felt since my art history days in college. I find it ironic that some women, like myself, look at aging as a curse when it is actually our time of brilliance. Now in my mid fifties I can confidently say, “My wisdom is my beauty.”

La Fin

How I use photography as a metaphor for life.

Once the pandemic started I knew that celebrations would sadly come to a halt. Now that we have approached a year since the shutdown I began to reminisce a bit about all the events I had captured. I was taken back to the time I walked into this very room and like a moth to a flame I was immediately drawn to the candlelight. As I starred at this image I saw something beyond the surface, the fire that burns within all of us. The flame represented the ideas and beliefs we hold so tightly and with this particular lens we are not able to see all that lies beyond the frame. Just as a lens can give you a limited perspective, so can your mindset.

As I moved back, it was only a handful of steps that would be required to change my outlook completely. I noticed the sleek table, the translucent chairs and the captivating artwork on the wall. It was at this viewpoint I had a broader vision of the space and could appreciate all the colors and textures around me. I was no longer limited by my ideas, but delighted by the prospect of exploring the territory further. As in life, once we let in more information, new thoughts and feelings emerge.

As I turned my head I could see a whole new world across the way. My curiosity moved my feet into the next room and I was excited about what I would find, not an ounce of apprehension or a drop of fear. It is when we hesitate and don’t explore the rooms beyond our own that we don’t evolve our frame of mind. As I reflected on my career as a photographer I realized I’ve had countless opportunities for self discovery and powerful insight and photographing this room was no exception.

As I stood in this amazing space and took my shots I was elated and so grateful for the opportunity to capture the ideas of so many brilliant individuals. I felt a part of a very special community of creatives during this event and it was an absolute privilege to photograph these gifts for all the participants to enjoy. Everything was considered, from how the lights hit the tables, to the color of the couches to the placement of the art pieces. It was a well orchestrated collaboration and truly stunning to witness.

This experience taught me something very significant about how to live my life. Although we may be attracted to the flame at first glance, that one amazing idea we hold close to our hearts, it is when we change our lens to a wider perspective we can see what others can bring to table. If we are open to this thought, a whole new world reveals itself and we can be changed for the better.

A New Year and a New View.

I had never been to Joshua Tree and this year I promised myself to be more purposeful in my choices to have experiences I truly desire in life. As I sat on top of the rock and looked at this stunning landscape I knew we made the right choice to come here. We all have the power to create the lives we want, but are we willing to step out of our cozy little bubbles and venture out onto a path less traveled? I have always been challenged by the notion of “being comfortable with being uncomfortable.” Ironically, it is those very spaces I am most content. It’s the stretch that is always the most satisfying…so why don’t I do it more often?

This place made me feel very tiny and the question that kept swirling in my head was, “How could someone so small make a difference in this giant world?” It is interesting how nature has such a powerful effect when we take the time to be present to it. It brings forth questions that you might not think about in the daily hustle of life. It is an opportunity to STOP AND LISTEN TO YOUR SOUL. It is in this pause we discover what we love most and why we are here. I was meant to be in this very spot, photographing this very image and sharing this very thought with you…I love that:)

As I went deeper into my thoughts I wanted to strip away the color from my eyes and just focus on the shapes and the tones before me. The sky no longer looked like a sky, but just a massive canvas of paint strokes of grays and whites. The trees were no longer trees, but crazy looking creatures with wiry arms and bendy spines. The mountains were not mountains, but all types of human forms lying down taking in the warmth of the late afternoon sun. It was fun to let my imagination run wild and create a scene in my mind that was just for me.

As I heard the faint voices of my family behind me climbing the rocks I had to get the shot of what I hold closest to my heart. This is why I am here… to be the best I can be, share that with them and capture our experiences along the way. I did not grow up taking family road trips and I wish I had. This little window of time with these 3 meant more to me than I could say and all I want to do is create more of these memories with them.

As the sun began to set I grabbed my tripod and set up the last shot of the day. The colors were beautiful and it was the perfect way to end our little adventure in Joshua Tree 2021. This trip was special and it reminded me once again how important it is to just stop and appreciate all that life has to offer us RIGHT NOW. Joshua Tree has always been there, but it took me 53 years to get there. I no longer have regrets about what was missing from my childhood, the trips I didn’t take and the adventures I could of had but didn’t. I was meant to be here now, take this photograph now and share it with you NOW.

“Create memorable experiences, there’s no time like the present.”

What lies beneath the surface of a photograph?

During the last 7 months I have had a lot of time to reflect on my life and my business. There have been days of feeling sad and hopeless due to this pandemic, but what always brings me back to my center is having gratitude. Gratitude for my life, those I care for and my love for photography. I started to really break down why this medium brings me so much joy…it is the power of connection. The connection that exists between me and my subject matter or the connection between those people I am capturing within the frame. When I met Evon I had no idea the profound affect she would have on me and my journey as a photographer.

We met when she was only 2 weeks old and I was captivated from the start. Evon took me back to when I had my babies and becoming a mother for the first time, it was beautiful to witness. Coming from a fine art background I look at these moments as stunning pieces of artwork where every pixel is a stroke of paint. How lucky am I to document this bond and to have the ability to solidify a moment that will never repeat itself again. It was this thought that made me want to look even deeper into the meaning of a photograph.

Evon was now 7 months and changing everyday. I had missed her and could not wait to see her face again. She was crawling and being so much more animated than our first encounter. It was on this day we began to connect for the first time. My mothering side came out and I started speaking to her as if she was my own child. As my pitch went higher her smile widened and our joy was mutual. I looked at her and knew I was at the right place at the right time. I thought about how amazing it was that my dear friend had given me this opportunity to photograph one of the most important people in her life, her baby girl.

Evon was now 1 years old and this time I observed her willingness to be curious without hesitation. Evon reminded me that somewhere along the way I lost my ability to just be okay with questioning the world around me and having fun in the process. I captured her as she threw the block on the ground and immediately looked at her mother for a reaction. She was developing her sense of independence while keeping a watchful eye on mom for approval, it was fun to see her evolution take place from baby to toddler. I could not wait to see what was in store next.

Another year had passed and Evon was 2. She was now familiar with the woman behind the camera and she knew I was not scary, but trustworthy. We had fun this day and being silly was the name of the game. She still kept a curious eye on me, but our connection was getting stronger. I loved seeing how much she had changed over the last year and how her personality was beginning to shine through. She was standing and moving about constantly while observing her surroundings and taking the world in with those inquisitive eyes.

When her father first entered the frame all I thought about was how much I missed my dad and how important these photos would be to Evon later in her life. I also thought about how very few photos there were of me and my dad at this age and having them now would mean EVERYTHING to me. Her father will always play the role of the most important man in her life and knowing that these moments were captured warmed my heart.

October 2020, Evon is now 3 and more lovely than ever. As always I couldn’t wait to see her and take her picture. What I noticed most at this session was her ability to take direction so well. When I asked her to sit somewhere or position herself in a certain way she was wonderful and followed my every lead. She was such a delight and I knew our relationship would continue to grow throughout the years with trust as our bond.

My photographic journey has spanned from photographing babies to the elderly and all the beautifulages in between. Every stage of life has incredible meaning from watching a 1 year old learn to walk to a 99 year old hug his grandchildren. I have seen and heard so much as a photographer, I can’t imagine doing anything else more purposeful. When we take the time to look beyond the photograph we will see the depth that exists in the human experience, but we must be willing to seek.

Creating a Vision and Seeing it Through.

As an entrepreneur I understand the importance of attracting the attention of my audience and building demand for what I have created, this is marketing 101. As a professional photographer I also know that having the right imagery helps me share my messages with the world. If the photographs are done well, I know I will keep potential clients engaged and thus have them want to learn more about me and my business.

When Violet first came to me she shared her vision of what type of photographs she wanted for her online course. After discussing her company’s mission, violetlange.com, we started with creating a Pinterest Board of photographs she loved. Since she was in LA and I was in San Diego we decided to divide and conquer and our collaboration worked like a well oiled machine. While I was scouting out locations and determining the right time of day for our photo shoot, Violet began the process of creating a color palette in Canva that would support her branding efforts. These specific colors were the inspiration for everything from the color of her lips, glamsquad, to all the outfits she chose and in turn became the foundation for the points she wanted to cover with her viewers.

Violet’s business has everything to do with reclaiming a woman’s feminine essence. She teaches women to feel amazing in their bodies, become empowered in love and life and attract the right partner that will bring forth a long lasting relationship. This image was in a series of shots that represented the word enchantment, a feeling of great pleasure and delight. When we combined this green dress with the stunning natural environment this word was conveyed in a beautiful way.

As we explored the second series of shots the color black took on a much different meaning than the green. Black is classic, elegant and we can all see ourselves wearing it. The message Violet wanted to share in this image was the releasing of unhealthy blocks that we all experience. She gently guides women to identify and release the negative patterns of self doubt to achieve greater love and fulfillment.  From the fluidity in the pond and the material of her dress to her light touch of the water with her toe, the words gentle and flow seemed to rise to the surface effortlessly.

What can you say about red, it makes a statement every time. Violet had the desire for a signature piece and I believe she accomplished it with this gorgeous dress from mamabumprentals. The color red can be somewhat intimidating to wear because it is such an attention grabber. A more reserved woman may never see herself in this color, but what if she stepped out of those restraints she created for herself and did? Another important element in making a statement within a photograph is body language. I wanted to have Violet’s back to the camera for 2 reasons. One was to show the impact of this magnificent train, but also to show the power of heading towards something with full surrender. Violet teaches about the  Divine Feminine or Goddess energy and how to authentically bring this into your life in a way that aligns with your personal beliefs and experiences. I intentionally placed her in this wide open space and juxtaposed that with her body language and styling the message of letting go and discovering her true feminine was captured.

This was one of my favorite photos of the day for many reasons. Coming from a fine art background it looked like a beautiful painting to me and if I was to title this piece of art it would be called, “A Moment of Reflection.” As I looked back on my time with Violet, from the first email to the final deliverable I wanted to get her feedback. It was important to me to find out how the experience went for her and how I could improve what I do to serve my clients better in the future. We chatted after everything was completed and we could not have been more pleased with how it all turned out. We knew our efforts had created some very special photographs and taught us about the power of having a vision and creating the actions to achieve it. Everything from her morning meditation to the music she played on her drive down to San Diego, all of it played a role in how these photographs turned out. I love this quote and I think it sums things up quite nicely…

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Peter Drucker

A Wonderful Lesson in Intention.

This blog post began with a phone call. A client of mine wanted an image of the San Diego skyline and I thought what a wonderful opportunity to spend some time taking photos of my beautiful hometown. I gathered my gear, jumped in the car and headed to the harbor, I was on a mission. Once I got there I parked the car and found my shot. It was such a beautiful day I decided to just sit and take in this amazing view. I continued to stare at the structures before me, they looked so small so I decided to venture further to take a closer look.

I wasn’t sure what the next image would be, but I was definitely on a photo adventure. As I entered downtown I just started looking up. It is not like I hadn’t done this many times before, but this time there was an intention behind my quest and it was fun. As I turned a corner I found my next photograph. I loved that I felt so tiny as I gazed up at this building, but the real image was what was included in the frame.

When I turned my attention to the signs I started thinking about what they meant, speeds, limits and detours. My mind always wants to find meaning in the most ordinary of things and this was no exception. I loved the idea of thinking about the momentum of this moment I was experiencing and how today was not about limits, but about pure exploration. I had just posted on my IG stories last week about taking a road less traveled and here was another sign for an alternate path…it was all making sense to me.

As I headed out of the city I thought I would visit one of my favorite spots, Balboa Park. Due to the pandemic there was a deafening silence there and a feeling of isolation. I walked over to the Artist’s Village to see what I could find and it was what I expected, all shops were closed and very few people around. Although there was a feeling of sadness I also saw the character and charm of this space. The colors were alive from the signs and doors to the rooftops and floors…it was eye candy and I ate it up like it was my last meal.

I carried on and as the sun started heading downward things started taking on a dreamlike feeling for me. As I had mentioned earlier, it wasn’t as though I had not seen these buildings a million times before, but everything is different when you add intention to what you are doing. I love photographing people, but this adventure was finding love for something different…the architecture. IT WAS AMAZING. I looked at the building as a whole so I could appreciate all its greatness. This came from someone’s thoughts and with these thoughts produced this tangible object that the world can now see and appreciate, what an incredible gift an idea can be when it is brought to life.

My final image was of getting as close as I could to the work of art. I probably looked a bit strange almost hugging the pillar, but I wanted to see something differently. I walked around another corner and immediately leaned up against the structure and pointed my lens up towards the sky. I saw all the details of the leaves and grapes and loved the angle. I thought about the artist who created it, the time, attention and craftsmanship that was given to this project made me love it even more. It was like I had stepped into a time machine and went back to 1868 when Balboa Park was built. I will never go back to these spots with the same pair of glasses, I like that. Intention is EVERYTHING, enjoy your life and all it has to offer!!

When something ordinary becomes extraordinary.

Meet Min, he is 93 years old and has changed my life forever.

The warm afternoon light illuminated his peaceful spirit.

It was almost a year ago I photographed a very special client on her wedding day and it just so happened to be on my anniversary as well. After her wedding the bride told me about someone very near and dear to her heart, her Great Uncle Min. As our conversation developed I shared with her my love for capturing the older generation and she was intrigued. By the end of our chat she wanted to me to photograph Min, it felt right for both of us. Months had passed and with some friendly reminders we finally chose a date to make this shoot happen and we were both very excited.

A special connection.

Christina told me prior to the photo shoot that Min didn’t really understand the point of these photos, nothing special was going on so why do it? It was at that moment I realized this is how most people would feel. Unless there is a special event or significant “thing” happening why would anyone be interested. I knew the idea of a “day in the life” of someone we love is important and should be captured…so that is what we did.

A moment rarely seen, just walking and holding hands together.

As I started documenting these two my heart filled with joy. Spending time with someone you love IS the special moment, there is nothing more significant than that. I asked them to just walk together in Min’s backyard and the smiles immediately followed. As I looked through my lens I was seeing years of time pass before me from when Christina was a little girl until now and how Min had always been her guiding light. He was not able to attend her wedding, it would of been too much for him so having this intimate time with her Great Uncle was all she wanted.

One of his favorite things to do.

Once we came inside I asked Min what he enjoyed doing at home. He looked at me and said, “I love doing crossword puzzles in my chair.” I could tell by his expression he was surprised I wanted to capture something that seemed so ordinary, but as soon as he sat down with his puzzle in hand his face lit up. As he started to put pencil to paper something happened, Molly entered the scene. His trusted companion felt the familiarity of this moment and came over to the couch and sat across from him, it was magical. The love between a man and his dog filled the living room and I was overcome with emotion. This is Min’s life and I had a ringside seat, what a gift!

The moment of truth.

As our time together was concluding I asked Min to come outside one last time to take a few more shots in front of his home. He was gracious and kind the entire time and was an absolute delight to be around. My hope was that he enjoyed the experience and maybe even saw the value in it. As this last image was taken Min looked at me and said, “You made me feel important.” I will never forget this statement for the rest of my life.

What started off as something very ordinary turned into something extraordinary and this is something worth remembering and sharing. I can’t say enough about how much I love doing this work…it is why I am here. When you discover something that is bigger than yourself you feel it in your bones. I am grateful every time I get to experience this kind of moment with another human being, making someone else feel important is the most beautiful thing there is in this life.

The Day in the Life...

Bob Jackson is the legendary “Corn Star” at the San Diego County Fair. This photo shoot came to life when my dear friend asked me if I would photograph her dad at his famous corn stand. I knew Bob had this business for many years, but I had no idea the impact this photo shoot would have on me as a photographer, a business owner and even a daughter.

“This was the first photo of the day and as soon as I took the shot I knew this was going to be a special time with Bob.”

It was 56 years ago that Bob started working with his parents at the LA County fair operating food stands and in 1974 he came to Del Mar where the legend was born. The first 4 years he sold BBQ, but it wasn’t until 1978 when he made his mark by being the first vendor to sell grilled corn to the masses. It became a huge sensation and still is today.

I asked Bob to show me how he shucks the corn. I had never watched the process with 100% engagement until that day, and once I was in…I was ALL in. His hands told the story of a man who is a master of his craft, his weathered and bruised skin showed his many years of experience and attention to detail that made him the superstar that he is. My camera kept bouncing from his face to his hands and I knew this was someone who was living his passion, it was a wonderful sight to see and capture.

As I spent more time with Bob I learned he is a pioneer in more ways than one. He is someone that wants to produce an exceptional product and to be exceptional he knows he must also be highly efficient. He came across this machine that would quickly strip the kernels right off the cob and it proved to be quite the find. Bob took some serious risks to acquire this gem, but he would soon discover it would be a major part of his well oiled machine and his pride and joy.

Throughout our time together Bob made me laugh and smile, I think this image sums it up quite nicely. He is not only a savvy business man, but also charming, kind and very accommodating. I knew I was in the presence of someone very special and I was incredibly grateful for the opportunity to document this day in the life of Bob Jackson.

Before I said goodbye I asked Bob to take me around the fairgrounds for a bit. I knew this time would not disappoint and Bob showed me that he was well loved with each encounter we had. This is his second home and I had a great time meeting some of his “fair” family. I felt the love that they all had for him and the joy it brought Bob to see all their faces as well. It warmed my heart and made me miss my own dad. I started to wish I had just one more time to laugh and smile with him again.

There were so many lessons learned from my time with Mr. Jackson, the greatest one was the importance of seeing the beauty in those you love DOING what they love. My dear friend will now have these images of her father forever and she will smile every time she looks at them…what could be better than that?