My grandmother, Betty, and her sister, Judy, both married Nash’s but from two different Nash families. After hanging out with Elmer Nash for a few hours, its easy to see that he is not of the same bloodline as my family. Being a lawyer for 27 years, Elmer carries around a different air than the men in our family. He has always reminded me of a tribal elder that is wise and protective but intimidating to be in the presence of. When he comes out of his tee-pee the whole villages changes the way they act. This personality probably makes for a great lawyer, and I was sweating bullets when my light quit working. But beneath the tough shell, he has a great spirit and a love to share. Last weekend, I was privileged to be a part of a typical Sunday afternoon at their house.

Both sides of Elmer’s family have lived in the Lilburn area since the 1830s. He and his wife, Judy, live in the house where he grew up, an 1851 Plantation Plain Style farmhouse, where they reared their 2 daughters. The property now boasts a playground for their 3 grandchildren. (And other great places to pose for portraits.) I’m think I’m going to take all my portrait clients there. Since we are family, you know. ; )