Daily Archives: December 21, 2015

 

 

Almost two years ago I got a great Christmas Gift, in March!  I was speaking at the Florida Birding Festival and was introduced to John Oakley and his grand daughter, Ralphi (Raphaella) Oakley.  She was a very sweet young lady and had won the Youth contest at the festival.  The more I talked with her and John it was obvious what an exceptional young lady she was, and how talented.  I offered her a His Light Scholarship.  Later she attended a workshop with John, and her sister Nina.  It went so well that I extended the scholarship for another event.  Long story short, I’ve had the opportunity to meet and come to love a great family!  Tami, her mother is a terrific lady, classy and sweet, and her other sister Carlie has become a great friend too!   She has an assortment of brothers, all great guys, and a new baby sister Mia.  It  has been a real pleasure for Sherlene and I to get to know them.

 

Back to photography, Ralphi has developed into a terrific shooter and gets better by the minute!  The most impressive thing about her work is the diversity of her subject matter!  Ralphi has been willing to try any new subject category and excels at everything!  Here are some of her wonderful photographs!

 

 

 

 

I am constantly amazed at how she adapts to such diverse subjects, and has a great feel for each! When I visited the store the family owns, Original Pieces, I got to see some of the fashion posters she has created and was once again I so impressed with her diversity. Here were  few of my favorites,

 

 

 

 

So almost two years later I keep getting a great Christmas gift over and over, thanks John, and Nina, and Carlie, Tami, and the boys, and most of all, thanks for turning my gift into a great gift to myself! Thanks Ralphi, and Merry Christmas!

 

 

 

Nina, John and Ralphi!  I want to nominate John for Grandfather of the Year, he has brought Ralphi to 9 workshops!

 

Blessings,

 

the pilgrim