My grandpa Larry was a dear and mighty influence on my life. He taught me how to walk the fine line between manners and silliness. This was the man who never let me slurp my soup, or get too sassy, but was not above pirouetting should the moment call for it. His stories captivated me, his humor warmed me, and his firm hand provided much needed structure. When in need of a peaceful state of mind, I can travel back to the days of strolling by the stream on his property (and chasing his poor fat cats). I remember being in awe of this man who would tuck me in, then take out the adults & out dance everyone on the floor. As I grew older, our visits were less frequent, but they opened up a world of stories saved for a more mature age. I still remember him briefly sharing about his days in Los Angeles, when my mother was just a little girl. He spent much of his time with Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, & Tony Curtis; they made home movies, took their ladies all about town, and (simply put), they lived. After he passed, I was given what is now one of my greatest treasures: photos from that cherished time in his life. They were one of my earliest inspirations when it came to photography. They hang on my walls (along with a collection of the generations of family since) as a constant reminder of the importance that photographs hold, and encouragement to live my life to the fullest. I remember he described those days as feeling larger than life. I never will have the chance to tell him this, but that is what he will always be to me.
(my mother and her dog)
(Grandpa and his dear friends)
(A few shots of my family)
(Mine and James’ addition to the family wall)
It won’t be anytime soon (so don’t get too excited moms & dads), but, I look forward to passing these down to my own children, and adding their adorable faces to the wall.
Cheers,
Briana
