I have shared this photo before, but working through some old photos, it struck me again.

This is the twins, Dena and Dora Donaldson, on the far left. I cannot tell which is which in this photo, they are hard to tell when it is clear. Dena (1920 – 1992) and Dora (1920 – 2001) were beautiful identical twins.

My Grandmother, Gladys Maxine Donaldson (1921 – 2004), stands next to the wheel of the car. Even though he picture is fuzzy, I can tell it is her from the characteristics that show. Her very presence just seems to pull me in as my Grandmother. It probably isn’t the same for other people, but this is my Grandma. With any good Grandmother, they pull your heartstrings in love.

Standing to the right is their mother, Berendena Van Leeuwen Donaldson (“Dena”) (1898-1959).

Maxine was born in 1924, I presume this photo is taken before then. I guess Grandma is about 2 years old, putting this photo somewhere in 1923. Dena and Dora could be 4, Grandma 3, so maybe 1924, but Maxine was born in August 1924 and Dena doesn’t appear to be pregnant. This appears to be a summer or fall photo.

This photo is taken at the home at 629 8th Street in Ogden, Utah. Very, very early days for this part of Ogden.

I wish I had a better copy. I wish the family still owned the car. But I am grateful to have the photo we do have.