As I was dusting this weekend, I picked up each of my picture frames one by one, admiring them, like I always do. When I got to this particular photo, in its 8x11 frame, I held it for a moment and took in everyone's smiles. We all look so happy - even the puppies and 2.5-year-old Graham are looking at the camera. We used a tripod and a self-timer, so it's amazing, really.
But what stood out to me the most this time was the fact that Mom is right in the middle. Of course she's in the middle - symbolically and literally. It feels so fitting. Mom was the glue for all of us, always holding us together.
This is the only photo we have with all of us in it. And technically, it's not quite complete, since my niece, Alice, was still in my sister-in-law's belly at the time, not yet born. But it's the closest we have to a recent full family photo.
This photo was taken on Thanksgiving weekend in 2020, and I'm so grateful Mom suggested we pull out the camera that day. It was the first - and only - 'full' family photo we ever took together, and the last one before Mom passed away.
So, this weekend, I’m planning to pull out the camera again. It’s Thanksgiving, and while it won't feel the same without Mom, I want to keep capturing these moments.
As a reminder to anyone reading - pull out the camera! Don’t worry if your clothes aren’t perfect, if your makeup isn’t done, or if your hair isn’t just right. One day, photos may be all you have left of someone, and you’ll be grateful for every single one.
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