My mom is a shy, self-deprecating woman who totally bought into the 'be seen not heard' philosophy. Actually, she took that a step further and was invisible if at all possible when in large groups. So last evening, when she came in the studio to see what I was doing, I had no real hope that she would sit in the hot seat and let me photograph her; but she did!

Mom hates her wrinkles; I told her I could soften them up so they aren't so prominent, but then I just couldn't bring myself to take them away! They are part of her; they show her character and venerable age. So, with her permission, the wrinkles stay.

Now, looking at them again, I'm reminded of the mad scramble we had, four years ago when Dad died, trying to find an appropriate photograph to frame and place on his coffin. Please don't think I'm morbid, but having these photographs of Mom, showing her just as she in now, gives me some peace. I hope we won't need to use one of them for so long that I'll have to photograph her again, but...