I first met this lovely young woman a couple of years ago when I photographed what I called her “Quinceañitzvah” – her coming of age celebration blending the traditions of each of her parents. I figured out very quickly that she was somebody special: in lieu of (what usually would be copious) gifts, Lydia requested that her guests bring donations for an animal shelter. Yes, that’s how big her heart is, she is a beauty inside and out. (Quite in character, she literally embraced the mosquitoes swarming around her in the very much *alive* Meadowlark Botanical Gardens). Lydia is quick, engaging, competent, and keenly aware of what’s going on in the world, and at the same time has preserved her sense of unadulterated joy and wonder: such a rare combination in a teenager, and it makes hanging out and working with her an unmitigated joy.

Dear Lydia, what a fun afternoon this was. I wish you all the very best for your Senior year and beyond. Can’t wait to see where life takes you (or where you take life). Keep shining.