Coming and Going by Norman Rockwell - 1947
Summer vacation season is about to begin!
I know for us, we will be spending time poolside and hopefully a few short day trips.
I used to have a copy of this painting which I purchased at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts hanging in our downstairs bathroom. I just love how Norman Rockwell truthfully portrays a family heading off on a summer vacation in the upper photo - kids are excited, the dog can't wait, the little blonde girl has a big red bow in her hair and a big bubble to match. Grandma is gassing up the back seat so I guess she is excited too! The mom & dad are sitting next to each other and the boat and oars are on top of the car ready for some fun.
On the way back (bottom photo) Grandma has the same expression but the little boy is clearly tired holding on to his fishing pole, the little girl's bow & bubble are smaller and she doesn't look nearly as happy. Same for the dog and the older son. Mom is asleep (because we all know mom's are still on the job during vacation) and there is a child between her and her husband who looks exhausted. The only thing that looks happy is the felt pennant from the lake they visited.
"We do not remember days;
we remember moments."
--Cesare Pavese
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