Bittersweet – a day we dread but also a day we celebrate is the one when our oldest child leaves home for college (or work, or to see the world!). Whenever my friends have this separation impending, I gently (but passionately!) suggest they have a professional photographer capture this milestone in their life. In those last days you wish would stretch on, there is a flurry of to-do’s and to-buy’s and yet, what is most needed is a time to just BE. I had the honor of photographing a friend who took my advice to heart. I could tell how hard it was going to be to let her daughter go, even though she put on a brave game face and made a point to stay cheerful and positive so her daughter’s heart would not be overly torn at the thought of leaving home.

Here are the images from that afternoon in the sun, taken near their home in beautiful South Salem, NY. This is a family that works hard, plays hard and loves MUCH. Thank you for letting me capture a little bit of your heaven…your sweet family.

Every slideshow I create has its unique spirit and feel – this one was graced by the song, “I Wish You Well”, from the latest CD by Renee & Jeremy, two amazingly generous and creative musicians, Renee Stahl & Jeremy Toback. Their CD is titled ‘C’mon’ and it’s infectiously fun and sweet. Check it out here.

Here’s the slideshow “I Wish You Well” – you can watch it fullscreen by clicking the box with little arrows on the slideshow control bar. Enjoy!