So...back in my past life I was a photographer. No seriously, I was a professional photographer for about 9 years, so I guess it’s no surprise; I LOVE PHOTOS! I have ALWAYS loved photos. Even as a young child I loved photos.

My Dad had a “real” camera (as I would call it) and was always taking pictures of us at all of our special events. I think he is the one that introduced me to the camera and my love for photography.

Back in the day, before digital cameras came around, we used film. Instead of taking 1,000 photos at an event, we had to get the job done in 24 or 36. Lol! I will have to say, it was like Christmas morning when your film would be developed and your pictures were finally ready for pickup at Walmart!!!!!

Oh how exciting it was to see what you captured. Most of the time, you maybe had 5 good pics out of 24. It was fun though. I kinda miss those days. Our kids today will never know the anticipation of waiting a week to look at the photos.

Now that you know I love photos, I love old photos as well as new ones! My Grandmother had so many old family photos and heirlooms. She loved to preserve and frame all of her families portraits, old and new. She had a den that was totally covered wall to wall with family portraits. I always loved it as a child.

I would ask her about a photo and then she would take me around the room and explain who the family members were and what year the photo was taken. On the back of every 8x10 frame was written with every detail she knew of the photo. I treasure these so much today. What a gift she has passed on. Many generations to come will have the memories and details of our ancestors.

When my Grandmother passed, my sisters and I split up all of the photos. I have also gathered some from my in-laws and Dad’s family as well. I love for the photos to look old and none of them had frames from the original time period.

Any time I’m out at an antique store or an estate sale, I will buy an old frame or matte if I like it. I then have some old frames as well as new ones I find to use when ready to frame my old photos. Some of my old family photos were such odd sizes or maybe they are extra special to me so I take those to have them framed professionally. Here are a few of the photos I have preserved and have around my home.

Another way I like to display old family heirlooms is with a shadow box or a cloche. I love the story each piece tells and every time I see it I am reminded of where I came from and how each person is knit into my family’s story.

So next time your grandmother or any family member passes down a family heirloom, keep it, preserve it and display it! A stack of photos in a drawer is great, but aren’t they so much more lovely in a frame or on display to enjoy!

Always remember, these things take time to gather. I have a list of things I’m looking for and some crazy idea I have every time I go into an antique store. The hunt is so much fun and even more rewarding when you finally find what you’re looking for. Be patient and enjoy the journey. Your family will thank you.

Keep redeeming!