We have received many comments over the years about our banner photo, such as: Where was it taken? Or, who are those gorgeous babes — they couldn’t possibly be you. Or, when on earth was that taken??!! You’re so old. We are always touched by your interest!
But never so moved as when we received this lovely photo from Helen, taken with beautiful daughter Susanne at her side:
Channeling The Rainey Sisters
Helen found herself at the very spot of our banner photo (on the walk to Piazzale Michelangelo), and tried to explain to husband Steve and Susanne why she wanted this particular photo — because of The Rainey Sister’s blog. Steve accommodated and the rest is history. What a wonderful way to revisit this magical place in Florence Italy. Thank you, Helen and family!!
PS from Susan to Anne, who asked why we were in Italy at such a tender age: Sally was studying in France. Our grandmother wanted me to be able to see Europe as well, so she funded my trip. All she asked in return was that we go to Venice and take some pictures for her, which of course we did. We travelled through France and Italy — on a complete shoestring. I have never gotten back to Italy, though Sally has. I cherish those memories and that is why I was so struck by the kindness of Helen sharing her picture with us!
Have you ever told your readers about why you two were there in Italy at such a young age? Inquiring minds would love to know!
Comment by Anne — January 28, 2012 @ 1:59 pm
Love this! Such a special thing to do.
Comment by Laura — January 28, 2012 @ 6:33 pm
A fabulous place to be sure. I haven’t been to Florence for 6 years though it’s always in my thoughts. Did you find a wool shop there?
Comment by Maggie — January 28, 2012 @ 7:56 pm
What wonderful stories – when were you in Italy? It must have been in the 70’s – I know I had the same bell-bottom jeans and long hair at that time!
Comment by Trudy — January 28, 2012 @ 9:48 pm
Your long hair reminds me of my two older sisters – only they used to wear short, short skirts as well!
Comment by Ellen — January 29, 2012 @ 12:36 am
How very wonderful!! It looks like an amazing place for memory making.
Comment by Kathy — January 29, 2012 @ 1:21 am
I love both photos! How wonderful to have replicated your photo – see how special you Rainey sisters are to your faithful fans??? And what wonderful memories it must remind you of.
thank you so much for sharing this with us!
Comment by Barb — January 29, 2012 @ 5:04 pm
How awesome! And what a great place for pictures.
Comment by Sheri — January 30, 2012 @ 8:41 pm
I should admit that it took me months to realize that it was not a current photo …
I did not clue in at all that it was from the 1970s …
Comment by Lisa in Toronto — January 30, 2012 @ 9:45 pm
Oh, how absolutely charming!
Comment by twinsetellen — January 30, 2012 @ 11:06 pm
Look at how the trees have grown!
Comment by Julie — January 31, 2012 @ 10:03 am
What a lovely thing for your Grandmother to do for you…….sisters travelling in Europe…….no wonder you two are so close. (But I’m guessing you two were always close – that is so lovely….speaking as someone who wonders what planet her sibling came from LOL!)
Comment by Anne — February 1, 2012 @ 9:12 am
I LOVE it! What a wonderful thing.
Comment by Kym — February 1, 2012 @ 9:24 am
I loved hearing the story on the photo. Everytime I see it I think of my sister and I…we had the same fab pants and long hair. Those were the days,
Comment by rebecca — February 1, 2012 @ 9:32 am