In the failing light the backyard that was the backdrop for this wedding reception was dreamy. I couldn’t tell from the front of the house what was in store for me within. The perfect example of don’t judge a book by its cover.

The house itself was a bi level ranch style house with a sprawling backyard that dropped off in a steep slope, off into the distance and into the woods. As we walked into the back of the house it felt as if i had walked into another world. The usual chitter chatter and mingling at events like this was in full swing. As size goes this was not an unusually large gathering and yet i realize in my past wading into even a shallow pool of people as this would have been terrifying. As it was i remember feeling very much at peace.

After introducing ourselves, or being introduced, to key individuals on both sides of the wedding party Lys and i migrated to the edges of the group proper. A smattering of bar stools and tables decorated the lawn where we paused and that is where this lovely sunflower lived; on a table at the farthest edge of tables.

Lys has a remarkable eye. There are plenty of times i wish i could see a shot as quickly or as artistically as she does. Where i will be overwhelmed by my surroundings Lys can frame life to exhibit a special moment, person or thing. So out came the camera, down on one knee she goes. As the camera clicked i saw the flower come into focus before i ever saw this, or any, of the shots Lys has taken. This wouldn’t have happened without Lys there; I would have missed the flower as just a flower.

The rest of the evening played out with dinner and music and conversation, with speeches and humor and family dynamics. We met people who we would probably never see again and showed up for people in need. Lys and i were sad at moments, laughed with others and with ourselves, and talked about life and our time together. All in all we breathed in the moment and let it go with love. Looking at this portrait, and back at that time, the sunflower, with poise, tenderness, secrets and beauty, was the beginning of the evening.

(photograph: Lys  writing: J)

i know i basically abandoned everything that exists here, but i have decided with much guidance that the blog is going to take on a slightly new turn.  from this point forward, both J and i will be posting together.  sometimes we may write similar things, other times only one of us will write, but there will always be a visual in the form of a photograph taken by me…and occasionally J.  for now, this is just an experiment, but we hope it turns into something more involved. 

sincerely

Lys & J