One of the first weddings I photographed here in Maine was for Carol Yereance and Rick Heaberlin. It was a great family gathering for a couple who might have met at the then local hot spot, Village Cash and Carry. Carol's mother and father both worked there, as did Carol's sister, brother Ken and wife Deb, and Louis Burnham. The rolls they made for sandwiches and subs, and for just plain eating, were the best around. Reminded me a lot of New Jersey deli food I'd eaten during my teaching days.

My camera only malfunctioned twice during their wedding event. Then, a used Mamiya Universal Press film camera, was somewhat of a contraption to operate. Fully mechanical and heavy. But when it worked, it provided marvelous images using medium format films. The families were patient with me as I was having multiple cardiac events troubleshooting. All in all, it was a great day with many fond memories. I still see family members often.

Over the years I have photographed many wonderful family gatherings. It has been an exceptional experience. Almost more for social reasons than photographic ones. I've met so many fascinating people from all over the world. And this past weekend was no exception.

In my accompanying photo, Jenny Chen awaits the arrival of her parents, and her new family, the Ronans, for a tradional Chinese wedding ceremony. The groom, Ian Ronan, a well-known local friend of many, and new co-owner of WAVES (previously Ebb Tide) restaurant, had to pass many challenges as he and his groomsmen approached the bridal suite. Ian, by the way, was completely dressed in traditional Chinese attire. It was an intimate ceremony, attended only by family, lead by Jenny's parents. Afterwards, family and guests gathered for an American wedding ceremony on the lawn of Newagen Inn.

Just after cocktails and socializing with Jenny and Ian, during dinner, I slipped out to photograph with Tom Myette's gathering in honor of his parent's 60th wedding anniversary. Family arrived from far and wide. It was another joyous event, filled with stories, laughter and a few tears as families reminisced. Sixty years together made for lots of material.

I returned to Newagen just in time to sneak the bride and groom out for a stroll to the shore and a perfectly timed sunset over Sheepscot Bay.

What a lucky person I am to be shared with so many wonderful people. I am grateful.