It’s Father’s Day.
And, this morning I thought it best to shoot Olan Mills-style “scenic nature background” family photos. You remember those, right?
We all had them in the 80′s. Most of them were shot through a softening filter and boasted a pull-down screen depicting an “authentic” wooded or country landscape. Some of them even had a strategically placed plastic log in the foreground on which we were instructed to “casually rest” our arms.
Family members were placed in the classic pyramid arrangement (Anyone who has worked at a photo studio knows this. I had a short run at 60 Minute Photo in Eastland Mall in 1999.) and were then instructed to “smile naturally” in matching denim button-down shirts or seasonal sweaters. It was all very natural, indeed.
Though absent fancy props, this one turned out well (even though Andrew is missing…sorry Andrew). The beautiful backyard, in which my parents have toiled over many summers, provided a truly authentic wooded scene. Aunt Kathy did a great job pressing the button. Yep. We’re a decent-looking bunch.
Dad has said many times that we will all be ok. We will be ok because of the person that mom is… because her infallible character, unwavering faith and love that transcends even the greatest of obstacles will always live within us. There is no doubt this is true. And, for that, we are all really, truly blessed.
On this day, however, I’d like to point out that the three of us (Andrew, Meredith and myself) are unusually blessed in that we were raised by the best father that anyone could ask for.
In an age where dads are increasingly absent, the three of us were given one whose character not only matches, but also perfectly complements, that of our mother. His steadfast love, faith, strength and commitment to family has not only provided a top-notch model for us, but also an entire community.
For that, we are all very lucky.
Erin
GORGEOUS! Love you guys!
now, that is a beautiful picture!
xoxo
You know, Toby could have stood in for Andrew; they are both so cute. Where was he anyway? Toby I mean, not Andrew. Oh well, maybe next time.
Tell him he was missed. Andrew I mean, not Toby.
Praying———Vicki Newman
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL PICTURE AND TOUCHING STORY!
GOD BLESS YOU ALL YOU ARE ALL ANGELS!
What an awesome picture!!
I agree, what amazing parents you all have. God has definetly blessed you. Beautiful family
and a blessing to all! Love to all! Debbie Haire
Happy Father’s Day Randy–you are blessed to have
such a beautiful, sweet, & caring family! Meredith,
congratulations on your engagement!!! I haven’t met
Matt, but have cleaned some of his family’s teeth at Dr.
Ogle’s office–very nice family. You are both blessed.
And sweet Ann, you’re always on my mind. I’m so
sorry for what you’ve had to go through, but just know
that a multitude of us are still praying for your pain relief
& healing. Thank you for being a mentor in Christ to me.
Love, Gary, Cindy, Ashlee & Grant
Wonderful picture. As always your family is in our prayers.
Great picture! Thinking of you and your family every day. Tell congrats to YOUR Meredith (I always loved how we differentiate between our Meredith’s)
Dear Ann, you don’t know me but I came accross your blog several months ago and have been following your journey. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers every day. Your faith in God has inspired me to connect with God and deepen my own faith through worship and actions. You have raised a beautiful family and influenced so many people. I pray for your healing and peace. God bless you! Deborah, Chicago, IL.
Ann, Randy, Erin, Meredith & Matt, Andrew, Toby,
Cindy and Deborah have reminded me of a key reason why I check your blog everyday.
You inspire me to be a better Christian. You mentor me in Christ.
I praise our God for you and ask His blessings to rain on you.