Why we take photos

I’m convinced we can never have too many photos and videos of the people we love. So click away. Because someday, those photos will comfort you beyond words, reminding you of moments you would have otherwise forgotten.

Ked’s Grandpa had surgery yesterday to put coils in to block the aneurysm. I don’t understand all the details other than it was very risky. We were able to go in and see him before the surgery and he looked so much better than I had anticipated. He was awake and knew who we were and was able to let us know he saw us and heard us. It was amazing considering all he had been through. It was also amazing considering the day before this happened Ked and the kids had spent a few hours at their house visiting and Grandpa had mowed the grass that day. We never know what tomorrow may bring. The surgery went as well as it could, and the next few days are critical for his recovery.

So last night, we sat behind Ked’s computer scrolling through six years’ worth of digital photos, laughing, oohing, ahhing, remembering, and counting our blessings. We compiled all our photos with Grandpa into a folder. Little Miss commented, “These photos make me kind of sad. I miss Grandpa like that.” Then we came to a photo we took of him on his birthday a couple years ago. The kids had given him a ribbon that said “world’s greatest grandpa” on it. He had hung the ribbon on the button of his sweater and was grinning ear to ear. The kids stood next to him hugging his leg and we snapped a photo. Little Miss looked at that photo and said, “That photo makes me so happy!” We all agreed.

If you’re one of those people (like me) who is hesitant to have your picture taken, or are the one who is always behind the lens, get in front of the camera. Someday, someone may need to see your face and remember you happy and silly and goofy, and even need to chuckle at that bad haircut and bizarre outfit (of which Ked and I both have plenty for our kids to laugh at!)