We had this portrait made this summer. We had to cancel our travel plans because of major changes in the kids’ surgery schedules, so we enjoyed a week of local fun instead of a road trip. Looking back, I’m so thankful that we deliberately choose simple and family activities this summer, rather than filling up our schedule with lessons and teams and things that would fragment the family.
This portrait done of our family in November makes me both smile and cry. I think it is beautiful, and as one friend said, it is a graphic image of the truth we believe — that Elli is the only one of our family who now sees color as God intended it. But it is the last one of all six of us. And that hurts.
I highly recommend this photographer, but since I’m trying to maintain some semblance of anonymity here, I won’t link to them here. They take at least 100 shots, include at ten effects (playing with colors), and then give you a DVD with all the photos at high resolution so you can get as many prints in whatever sizes you want! If you are interested, please email me at grammar dot punctuation at yahoo dot com (use the real punctuation where I used the spelled-out words — writing it this way reduces the spam email I get!) and I would be delighted to send you their contact information.
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That’s a great idea for future family potraits. And I love how you let one of the kids hold the picture.
What a blessing your blog has been to me. I have followed it since ever since your daughter passed into glory and a friend asked prayer for you. I have prayed and gained so much from your strength and faith. I cannot wait to one day meet Elli in heaven. Thank you for sharing the journey and struggles you have faced but most of all thank you for sharing the “peace that passeth understanding”.
Emailing you for the photographer. LOVE LOVE LOVE the pictures of you all, and especially LOVE the idea of Ellie seeing in True Color right now. Oh to be with her.
Hi, Joy. I’ve just spent the last half hour or so reading about Elli and “cryling.” I’m so sorry for your loss. I had no idea.
What a precious little girl she was. I loved the tributes you wrote for her memorial service. Wow. My heart aches for you as you miss your sweet girl. My oldest is 8, and I can’t even imagine.
Love and hugs to you! Prayed just now that God will wrap His arms around the four of you and squeeze super tight!
Beautiful portrait, indeed. My prayers are with you.
“only one of our family who now sees color as God intended it.” Indeed
With tears in my eyes, I share that I think that this is absolutely precious…
We lost our young nephew in November and I will be sharing this idea.
Thank you for posting this.
In color indeed…
Blessings
I love the picture. I always look back at the last family portrait, wishing I had done more, now it's too late. That is such a great idea.
I've just discovered your blog and don't know your whole story, but I am very sorry for your loss, your family's ongoing journey through health challenges, and want to thank you for sharing these beautiful pictures. Love your blog title as well!
{{{hug}}}