Every year Ashley Gardner tells PEOPLE how she and her husband, Matthew, recreate a photo of themselves eating cake. Over the past 11 years, the photos have documented their growing family.

Recently, I stumbled across pictures of my mom’s final days. I’d been compelled to document that time, creating a visual record I didn’t want but knew I needed while processing grief.

Discover five dramatic ways Miami has changed through vintage photos—exploring classic landmarks, Little Havana, and evolving city culture.