"I Remember"
Paul knows that at the end of our weeks at 4-H Camp, we'd read "I Remember" about certain aspects of camp that would stay with us. It was done at the final campfire, so it was a solemn and reverent ceremony.
My baby boy Cooper is very special to Jim & I. That fur carries the tears of infertility, that mischievous spirit got out of every confined space it ever encountered, and that faithful companion rode in a cramped U-Haul Cab from CT to AZ, then again in the front seat of our Honda with us from AZ to CT. He lived in the basement at Jim's parents house with us for 6 months, and moved with us a total of 5 times (so far). He's sunbathed in the desert and frolicked in the snow. It's hard to tell which he loved more.
He joined our family one month after our wedding, and for a long time it was just the three of us. Living in AZ without any family sometimes felt like we were an island. We were very tight, and knew "as long as we have each other .." we could overcome obstacles and be happy.
One more dog and a new baby later, I often wonder if Cooper thinks, "it was fine just the three of us; what the hell happened??". He's my Super-Trooper-Cooper. As the fur on his face grows whiter, I treasure every single day. I sometimes miss our island.
Tonight I took out the camera for a PAD and started to point it at Cassie. I saw Coop laying there and remembered when he was my sole photographic subject. My Cooper pictures could fill a series of photography books by themselves.
Tonight I say, "Don't worry, Coop; I remember, I remember"
This is a truly beautiful picture Lori - in many ways. I love the look of peace that you captured on Cooper's face. I especially appreciate the warmth of the image - it really draws me in and makes me want to know more about your "Super-Trooper-Cooper". Nice work!
ReplyDeleteI second Dennis' comments, and wanted to add that my initial reaction to it was that it is a truly beautiful post...what a testament to your relationship. The picture and the story beautifully complement one another.
ReplyDeleteI also only just realised that both of our babies are 'Coopers'!!! :)
Thanks to you both. Taking this photo (and doing the edits to draw out the look) stirred up the story that came with it. Photos, above anything else for me, are stories. It's often difficult to determine which came first: the photo or the story.
ReplyDeleteIn this case the photo brought out the story, which was always there. Hope that makes sense.
That reminds me of something one of my photography teachers was talking about - that every picture has a story to tell, and your job is to think 'what story am I trying to tell with this one?' So, well done!
ReplyDeleteThis is a fantastic animal portrait, Lori! It looks like a pro studio shot to me. It draws me in. I really want to walk up to him and talk to him and hold his face in my hands and scratch behind his ears. Well done!
ReplyDeleteAnd...Dennis loses his "Paul's Favorite PAD So Far Award!" And so darn quickly too. That wasn't very nice, Lori.
ReplyDeleteSorry, Dennis but congratulations to Lori. I love this shot - but at least now I have two photos to keep reviewing.
Don't be sorry Paul - she is very worthy of the honor - congrats Lori!!
ReplyDelete