Last night I shared my family photos with my partner.

I've always been proud of my collection.

1 because my mum was a little more than obsessed with me.

But 2 because you can see how close we were as an immediate and extended family.

I spent my first 2 Xmas' in the Midlands with my mum's side of the family.

I have so many cousins and they absolutely loved me as much as I loved them.

Over the years things have changed dramatically especially due to some fallings out. Mental health and just a general shift in the way families navigate modern life.

Consequently although my grandparents are now great -great grandparents they only see the new additions infrequently.

My partner was so shocked to see how many photos my mum had. It's a large wicker basket full.

Unfortunately for him he hasn't been so lucky.

His parents home had a fire many years ago and they lost a lot of their sentimental items.
He has very few photos, so the one he treasures the most is the one with his grandfather.

I could see he was getting emotional.

But I have tried to take every and any opportunity to capture as many photos of him as I can.

Do you have a lot of memories captured and saved?

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

Aysel · F

You're a wonderful partner to your SO. We have a tonne of photos, just like you, and I have a range of feelings when I look at them—both joy and sadness, as I've lost a lot of the individuals I see in them. You said that your partner lost a lot of photos in a fire; that must be really upsetting, and the only thing you can do is just comfort him. I think it's great that you're taking so many photos with and of him. It's lovely that you will both have a wealth of joyful memories to reflect on and share with your own child as they grow up.

Mellowgirl · 31-35, F

@Aysel thank you aysel. That's really kind of you to say.
I love him a lot. And in all honesty I'm sad for him that he's not as appreciated as I think he deserves.
It's great he does things for family and they sing his praised but the core of him what he values most is often left unattended.
Hopefully the void will soon be filled.

I completely understand the mix of emotions. I've felt the same. Uncles and aunties that have passed. Family members We've become estranged from.
It's sad.
But I hope despite your sadness you can look back at those photos and accept at that particular time you were all happy.