It’s funny how the old grapevine works isn’t it? I received a text one morning from a girlfriend to say that an old school friend of hers was in New Zealand for a fleeting family visit. Theresa and her kids were back for the first time in three years, leaving dad (a former All Black) to his demanding rugby schedule in the UK. The timing was rushed, but she’d love some photos, especially if it meant the opportunity to capture her parents together with the grandchildren they love so dearly and miss so much.
Luckily the fates aligned. We got a perfect weather day, a relatively wind free evening and a tide low enough to give us plenty of room to just explore. I watched as Mateo studiously investigated every piece of driftwood and oyster covered rock. Art-loving Chloe drew pictures in the sand while Violet searched for shells and flitted between the people she loves. Grandad was there to help with the shell collection and Nana provided the hugs when their young feet got tired.
It’s been a hard year for Joe and Edith, making this time with the daughter and grandkids they miss so much even more special. A few tears were shed amongst the laughter and smiles, and while it might have gone un-noticed by the busy little explorers I saw a real example of what happens when the love you have for your family gets the breathing room to bubble over.
John, I hope you love these pictures of your gorgeous crew. Theresa, Edith and Joe, I know you were feeling a little camera shy, so thank you for being brave enough to step in front of the lens and trusting me to capture your family together. There may be a lot of distance between you ordinarily, but there’s plenty of love there to bridge the gap.
