Today would have been my mother-in-law's 75th birthday. Here she is in one of my favorite images. This photograph captures the love and protection and 53-year-long romance between her and my father-in-law. She was a strong, prayerful, vigorous and determined soul to the end; she never quit, never let life's punches sit her down, never stopped fighting for those she drew under the umbrella of her care. But I am most taken by the gentleness in her eyes in this picture and the steadiness and contentment in his. You can still see the girl and the boy who fell deeply in love.
My husband and his siblings have been blessed to call this generous and loving woman mother and my children to call her Nana. I miss her so much.
As well as the gentleness in her eyes, you can clearly see the strength and determination in his.... qualities that will always describe him. What a great couple they were.
ReplyDeleteDeborah, they have truly been an example for us all. Thanks for this.
ReplyDeletebeautiful portrait I love how you put this: "never stopped fighting for those she drew under the umbrella of her care' - what a wonderful tribute!
ReplyDeleteI was thinking of you this weekend when we were in your neck of the woods! one day it would be wonderful to make a point of crossing paths!
mouse, I would enjoy sipping coffee or tea or hot cider with you in some sidewalk cafe. let me know when next you'll be in this part of the country!
ReplyDeleteThis photo caught my eye in the margins of your blog and touched my heart. Love passed on from generation to generation.
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