Love, Loss and New Life | 2023 Recap and more | Phoenix, AZ
This year, 2023, has been a rollercoaster ride, to say the least. It brought my family moments of incredible loss and heartache, as we bid farewell to special friends who left an indelible mark in our lives. However, amidst the darkness, love and resilience prevailed, reminding us that love, friendships and some sunshine can help push us through. As we reflect upon the past twelve months, we can only say that it has been incredibly challenging. Nonetheless, it is through these very challenges that we grow, learn, and evolve, emerging on the other side as stronger individuals, ready to face whatever the future may bring.
January was a month that brought an exhilarating sense of adventure in the PNW and beyond. With friends by our side, every step taken was infused with laughter, camaraderie, and shared memories that will forever be cherished. From Chicago, IL, Portland, OR to Hamma Hamma, WA. Together, we immersed ourselves in the things we love, about new places and familiar places.
In February, we received exciting news that would mark a new chapter in our lives! Because LJ got his official start date for the United Aviate Academy! We learned that we would be moving to Arizona. Which then initiated our drive to get some things done in Seattle and beyond. Enjoying (the most expensive) delicious Omakase sushi to having gut shot burgers in Joshua tree with the girls. Goodbye hang outs started, and yet, behind the scenes, there is dedication and determination.
In March, RCF had our highly-anticipated mock meet, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. pushed myself, breaking my previous personal records, and the feeling of accomplishment was indescribable. It was made even more special by the presence of my incredible friends, who stood by my side and supported me throughout the entire event. Together, we fueled each other's strength, celebrating our successes as a team. It was a day that made me feel unstoppable and reminded me of the power that lies within when you have the support of cherished friends. March was also spend continuing that seattle bucket list, including mariners games, and visits to great margarita spots.
April was certainly a whirlwind of emotions and excitement in our household. It seemed like every day brought a new challenge and adventure. I was busy with tons of bittersweet farewell photoshoots and cleints wanting to get their shot to work with me, pun intended. Amidst the chaos, we managed to squeeze in our own engagement photoshoot, capturing the love and joy between my partner and me with an airplane as our backdrop, symbolizing the beginning of our lifelong journey together. And as if that wasn't enough, we also had the daunting task of packing up our house, preparing for a new chapter in a different state. April truly tested our resilience, but it also allowed us to create lasting memories and treasure the beauty of each fleeting moment. April 29th early in the morning, we set off for Arizona.
May 1st, 2023, was the first over 100 degree day in Arizona, and what a “warm” welcome it was. May held SO MUCH. Moving to AZ, another visit to Joshua tree, and a trip back to Washington. We adjusted and LJ got to school pretty quickly. One of the most memorable experiences was a solo trip to Joshua Tree National Park for an engagement photoshoot with my dear friends Erika and David, you can find that shoot here "Erica and David". I had to make a quick trip back to Washington for a wedding, which helped with the suddenness of the move. Overall, the move to Arizona brought about exciting adventures and opportunities for LJ, fostering their growth and adaptability.
In June, I had the pleasure of taking another trip to Washington, but this time it was purely for leisure. Pullapalooza, a much-awaited event, filled my days with joy and excitement. This even landed me a feature in MENS HEALTH MAGAZINE! take a look at the blog here “Pride Pull-a-Palooza”.
However, upon my return, I noticed that Henry was not the same.
Henry, my soul dog, had become an inseparable part of our family, was diagnosed with cancer. A hermangiosarcoma to be exact. Even writing this today tears stream down my face. Cause I still hurt. I knew we had a tough road ahead, filled with difficult decisions and emotional challenges. But we were determined to give Henry the love and support he needed during this difficult time. Henry only had a week.
We did a photoshoot with our friend Kelcee to mark the smiles and love Henry provided LJ and I. And got to spend the last week with him snuggling up on the floor. Making him as happy as possible. This was the hardest goodbye I will ever have to make.
July 2nd, 2023, We said goodbye.
July was extremely difficult from here. I needed to push myself into the wilderness, into my art to distract from the pain. But I couldn’t have done it without my family and my chosen family sending me so much love and support during this hard time. I won’t sit on this long because it hurts still to talk about.
Than not long after. In August, I found out I have a rare brain condition. Idiopathic Intercranial Hypertension (IIH). Meaning, my brain has lots of pressure in it from my cerebral spinal fluid. Which we are still trying to figure out today. But a painful spinal tap and some high altitude med management later I’m still here doing what I love, but still trying to figure out how to seek remission.
Good things then started to happen, after a healing trip to North Carolina for a Rufus Du Sol Concert with my love. I got to spend some time in a new state, Virginia! I got to see one of my closest friends Kat and make art, and just be present with her. It was just what my soul needed in that moment. Then upon my return Michele made a trip to see me as well. Healing with chosen family is the way to go.
As I continued to heal I made more trips to Washington to finish out my wedding season, spend time with my family and friends, and heal.
Then one day, I saw the cutest photo. Of the cutest little girl dog, Tasha. And something in my just started crying. I tried to keep it down cause I wasn’t sure if I was ready but something was telling me that Henry was telling me to go meet her. She was the same breed mix, in the same city, and same size as Henry when I found him and saw his silly little photo as a puppy. So I met her, applied for her, and took her home in a matter of 24 hours. So thats when Tasha entered our life.
Tasha has been hard, healing and a handful. But ultimately I know that Henry is looking down on me and sent her. Shes just what I needed to come home to after a photoshoot or when I am having a migraine from this silly thing called IIH.
I would also like to note that at this point LJ had achieved his private pilots license, his instrument rating and is now headed towards commercial, and more! We are so excited and proud of him to keep flying through. (Yes again pun intended).
Since then, it’s been slow, but picking up. Moving a business to Arizona has been a challenge but it’s been interesting getting to meet people and expand my style.
In November, we made a big step. We booked our wedding venue!! So finally things were looking up even if we were still healing and discovering things about my health.
2023 was a year that held a great deal of loss, not only for us but for many in our lives and around the world. In addition, natural disasters, social unrest, and personal hardships seemed to be at an all-time high, casting a dark shadow over our collective spirit. However, amidst the overwhelming darkness, there were moment that shine full of hope. Communities rallied together, showing resilience and compassion in the face of adversity. People discovered the strength within themselves to adapt and find new ways of connection and support. Whether it was reaching out to loved ones, supporting local businesses, or finding solace in nature, there were moments of light that reminded us of our ability to heal and find positivity even in the midst of darkness.
As we wrap up the year 2023, I can already feel the excitement building up within me for what lies ahead in 2024. The first thing I am looking forward to…OUR WEDDING.
From a photography perspective, I am eager to meet new clients and head to new places, capturing unique moments along the way. But beyond photography, I'm also looking forward to personal healing and self-discovery, as each year offers a chance for new experiences, personal achievements, and meaningful connections. With enthusiasm in my heart and a camera in my hand, I eagerly await what 2024 will bring, ready to embrace the surprises, challenges, and joys that lie ahead.
OKAY. END OF THE NOVEL I PROMISE
Thanks for sticking with us from our family to yours
