Howard told me that he and Liz have “been going steady a long time”.  They got together before the war and have over 60 years where they have held each other’s hands.  They have a big fun bunch of family members that adore them.  And the best part is two grandchildren that carry their names.

I drove down beautiful sunny streets on the day after Thanksgiving, happy I could spend time with this lovely family. As I pulled up to their house, I felt a knot in my stomach.  I felt…heavy memories…I miss my own grandparents terribly.  I have photos of them that I treasure.  I felt the burden of my own memories. I wanted to give this family images that will last another 60 years.  The lifetime of the grandchildren and their grandchildren.

My nerves were immediately calmed when I stepped into their home, the home that this family knows as theirs.  Family photos, memorabilia of a lifetime, and palpable love and energy was in the air. The kids were playing, running, and being kids. Their parents were chasing them around, smoothing dresses and calming hair. Liz and Howard sat comfortable on their sofa, watching their family laugh and talk.

We took a few shots inside in the chaos before we moved outdoors.

This is my favorite shot of the day.

This is real. I love how Liz looks so happy. Meet Howard and Liz.  Still in love, still beautiful.…and their family. Thank you Kira for allowing me to photograph you and yours. Ah, to be young again! I loved watching the kids laugh!! I love his soulful eyes. The piano. The family photos. The family home. It is all beautiful to me.