Warren and Carol, married since 1972. Two children, 6 grandchildren, and humans to our border collie, Shep. Warren’s background was computers in the early ’70’s and Carol worked for an accounting firm. In 1974 we became interested in photography and started a part time photography business.
In 1979 we opened our full time studio and have enjoyed a career that has been a joy. Over the years our photography and lifestyle has allowed us many experiences of travel, meeting interesting people and making friends throughout the world.
In 2000 we purchased our first vacation rental property, a log house in Maggie Valley, NC. Followed in 2003 with a condo in Myrtle Beach, SC. We will share stories and hints on vacation rental that will help you navigate your future vacations.
As we shared stories of our experiences, friends encouraged us to write a book or start a blog so others may benefit from what we learned along the way. So as we enjoy our semi-retirement from the photography business, we decided to share our stories and suggestions that others may enjoy.
As with many who reach the honored status of Grandparent, our grandchildren are the center of our world. We are fortunate that our children and their families live only two hours away in beautiful Charleston, SC. Close enough for us to be available to help when needed, but far enough to not be in each other’s hair.
We love doing things collectively with all the grandchildren as well as special things with each individually. Many years ago, Warren developed the concept of the Papa Trip which has become a much anticipated event for all. Check out our blog about how this developed and the fun stories and memories created from these adventures.
Our blog will be filled with stories and hints that have enriched our lives. We have some fantastic cooks in our family and will share recipes. How we have met and visited people from other countries. Photography hints. Shep will share his stories on how to keep your pet happy and healthy.
We look forward to our readers sharing their lifestyle and travel stories and hearing your questions and suggestions that can be added to our blog.
Meet Warren
The youngest of three children, my sisters were 16 and 13 when I made my appearance. I’ve always said I was an only child raised by three mothers! My sisters married wonderful guys who have been great friends and roll models throughout my life. Both sister’s families lived out of state, so many summers of my youth were spent enjoying time with them. I feel this opened my eyes to many things unavailable in my beloved but small southern town. It also gave me a sense of independence at an early age.
After college I went to work for a bank in the computer department. I soon met my future wife and after awhile she said we should get married, have a daughter and son and six grandchildren (this is my story so I get to tell it my way!).
Starting our photography business was truly life changing. It opened doors we never dreamed of. We enjoyed meeting the most interesting people including many famous persons and having great adventures with our profession.
Now as we scale back on our day to day studio operations, we can enjoy making special memories with our grandchildren and enjoy life at a time known as the Golden Years.
Meet Carol
Another product of a small southern town but a major difference I was the second of five children so I wasn’t spoiled rotten like Warren. Growing up with my grandparents as a big part of my life as well as great grandmothers gave me a strong sense of what an impact they have on children’s lives. Church, gardening, fishing, camping and outdoor activities were the backbone of my youth. My passion for reading lead to my yearn to travel far and wide.
The photography business has fulfilled and grown my creative artistic side and enabled us to travel on many trips. Whether traveling with elderly parents, small children, teens or just with Warren have taught me many ways to make the journey easier and more enjoyable.
Meet Shep
I have yet to figure out if Warren and Carol are two legged dogs or I’m a four legged human. I was born about the same time as their first granddaughter, Bella. So her and I have always been best buds.
As a regular visitor to our photography studio, many people’s first question is if I’m in the office. I think it makes my humans jealous. Some of their clients even ask if I can be included in their portrait sessions.
As with most dogs, my hearing is very sharp. I am on high alert if I hear the words car, go, any of the grandchildren’s names and of course food and treat. I love to ride in the car. Going to see the grandchildren is always fun because some of them are messy and I get to clean up lots of dropped food. Of course going to the mountain house and beach condo are lots of fun. I just wish they would take me on these cruise trips, but at least I get to stay with the grandchildren.
I think you will enjoy my perspective on our adventures.