Monumental

Graduation Photos

I now do graduation photographs. If you or your son or daughter are graduating this year please go to jbharrisphotography.com for pricing information.

Nothern Arizona Rains

What do all of these pictures have in common...they were all taken under low light conditions or after dusk in Northern AZ.

Grandfather

We buried my Grandfather on Wednesday this week. Debs Valentine was born in 1923 (yikes that's a long time ago) to Italian immigrants. He wasn't perfect but he was loved and he gave love to so many and influenced many lives for good. He actually looked quite good at the viewing. I commented to Grandmother that it doesn't seem like he's gone. She said she was sure he was there with us. Many of the kids, grand-kids and great grand-kids had a bit of a reunion at the viewing. The service was so touching. A few wonderful pictures of Grandfather and Grandmother along with Debs' horn were on display. Some of the strapping young men (relatively speaking) acted as pal bearers. After the casket was placed safely in the hearse we all chated for quite a while. Finally someone reminded us we needed to head to the cemetery. The grave site was very nice although it was a bit hot. Some Air Force boys that were scheduled to show recognized Debs' service in a B-29 bomber in WWII during the burial service. My brother Jon played taps on my Grandfathers horn which was really special. The Air Force reps gave the folded flag ceremonially to my Grandmother. My Dad dedicated the grave site. Many of the roses from an arrangement on the casket were handed out by the kids to the mothers, aunts, sisters and cousins...and one of the little ones ate a rose. Grandmother was simply beautiful. One of the things that was really inspiring to me was my Grandmothers strength and conviction in her beliefs. I am grateful for my strong belief that I will see my Grandfather again. It was good for me to be taking pictures at the funeral because it was easier than standing around and feeling sad. The funeral has really made me think a lot about life and I've concluded that much like my Grandfather I am not perfect but I'm on the right track.