Julia Margaret Cameron, the noted 19th century British photographer, received her first camera later in life as a gift from her daughter and son-in-law. Criticized by some contemporaries for careless craftsmanship, she purposely avoided perfect resolution and said what she thought,
“What is focus and who has the right to say what focus is the legitimate focus?”
The focus here is to explore images and ideas — family images boxed away for decades now seeing the light of day; and ideas brought forth from exposure to these long-ago images — with the intent to entertain, to amuse and delight, and to appreciate the past anew.
Disclaimer: While Julia Margaret Cameron intentionally blurred her images for art’s sake, that is not the case here. Whenever you see a blurry photograph on this blog, it is what I like to refer to as unintentional art.
Sea Ranch Family Vacation, 1999 
Sea Ranch is a very special place for the Andres and this was a special time — the summer before Jill’s senior year and the last year we would all be living together (except for summers). Jill and Paige are loving the flowers in their hair and Steve is tolerating the silliness. Can’t wait to see more pictures!
You have great recall, Tom. I was drawn to that photo just didn’t know deep down why it was so special to me.
I love that picture , because the year 1999 , that was the very same year when I first met Jan and Tom, and the children , Jill , Stephen and Paige , in this photo they were the ages when I first met everyone !
Ray took me to the beautiful Napa Valley for my first visit that year 1999 and I remember commenting , “I couldn’t believe he has a sister who actually lives there”!
We are looking forward to seeing you soon !
Love ❤️
Nan
What a beautiful memory, Nan! Thank you so much for sharing your remembrance from that special time.
See you soon!
Love,
Jan
I remember taking this pic! In fact Paige gave me a present when I just moved to DC with a bunch of pictures of her and me from this day at Sea Ranch. I still have it! Also, she was SO STINKIN’ CUTE. What happened? I kid…
I also just noticed all three of us have hilarious sock tan lines.
When I think of Sea Ranch, I remember the “Colemeister Unit!” I believe that was well before Paige came into the picture… I forget why we poked fun at the place, but I do remember sleeping in the window box beside incredible coastal beauty. Thanks for sharing your special spot with me.
Ah yes, the Colemeister Unit. Good recollection, Deb!I think it was the only house left to rent for that holiday weekend. While the house had a bit of a spooky vibe, you are so right about it being set in a place of incredible coastal beauty. Walking on the trails and playing on the beach was a fun family time for the five of us. I’m glad we have that memory together, Deb.