A special birthday for a special friend

Last summer, I was asked to take the pictures at a memorial service for a very special friend (see "The Hardest Shoot"). He left behind so many people who are still trying to live without his smile, laughter, fun. His wife, Theresa, is one of the strongest women I know. What she has had to endure these past months and holding her head high is a true testament what influence Allen had on her and she on him. Their two boys are going to grow up without their father, but will live with his memory. Last weekend, Theresa threw a special memorial birthday for Allen and invited all their friends to celebrate with her. Family, friends, co-workers, and more showed up. When "T" asked if I could photograph again, I said of course! The weather started out nice, but chilly and then got cold! Once I left for another event it was sunny again. Yup, that would be Allen. As the party progressed, Theresa asked that we all meet out in the yard for one special event. Allen's favorite color was pink so as a tribute to him, she had 100 pink balloons and Sharpies for the party-goers to write a special message to Allen or others. It really was a beautiful sight to see all those balloons in the cloudy springtime air. A perfect tribute to a very special man. He might not be here in body, but he did live his legacy behind.