Way back, way way back on Christmas Eve, I took some time away from my family to spend time with another one. My dear friend Nazzie had family in and out visiting all December. I got to meet her Irish Uncle Mike [whose I accent I still had trouble working through even though he's been stateside for years]. And a few days later, I got to meet her older sister, Soraya. I had met the youngest sister, Nikue, while we were still in college (and she was still in high school), so I was kind of excited to meet the third [and final] sister. And I wasn’t disappointed. We shared an Irish coffee and she shared some lovely stories of them growing up together.
Soraya and her family visit during the holidays but this was the first time I had the pleasure to meet her, her husband Hamid, her daughter Naseem and her son Eemon. Throw in Nazzie and I can honestly say I had never felt more confused by light conversation in my life. A little bit of English here, a little bit of Farsi there – I seriously couldn’t tell what was what. But it didn’t matter. Seeing them all together was a treat – a sweet treat covered in hilariousness. But knowing that not long after Christmas Eve everything would go back to the way it was – Soraya and Company back in California and Nazzie chasing after little girls – I felt special to be there with them.
These are the Ghasemiyehs.
Brother and sister. I couldn’t help but laugh at their reactions when I tried to convince them to act like they liked one another.
Soraya and Hasim. She’s beautiful. He’s quite dapper. And very fond of his wife.
Nazzie got her love on with big sis.
Their mother is Irish and their father is Persian. We took a vote and decided Soraya “looks” the “most” Irish of the sisters.
And of course Aunt Nazzie had to love on her niece and nephew.
Naseem has gorgeous hair. I don’t know why these ladies love to pull it back so much. Naseem’s mane is such a warm chocolate color with thick curls. It’s luscious.
I might be jealous. Maybe.
Soraya. Seriously. I love you. And your gentle smile.
Thank you to the Ghasemiyeh and Casebier families for hosting me on Christmas Eve. I had so much fun with you all. And I hope everyone made it safe and sound back to California. I cannot wait for your return!
Just have your people call my people. Or just tell Nazzie.
{ Shutterboo Photography }
