Natalie + William. Engaged.

Natalie decided she didn't want a long distance relationship, so she broke up with Billy. She really needed her boyfriend by her side, accessible. She wanted someone that she didn't have to travel all the way to San Lorenzo from San Francisco to see. It may only be a thirty minute drive, but to a fourteen year old without a car much less a driver's license, the distance is more like an eternity. 

Twenty-seven years later, Billy found his way back to her. And this time he wasn't about to let go. She pushed, she shoved, she revealed her deepest fears and most personal stories. He didn't budge, he just reciprocated the gesture of intimacy and kept it real. It seemed they each had to go through hell before they would reconnect and recognize that they were soul mates destined to be together. 

Over seven years ago, Natalie was given six years to live. Over ten years ago, Billy reclaimed his life. She battled cancer, he a horrible drug addiction, and they're both winning the fight. Only, when your down, it seems like life kicks you in the gut a few more times just for good measure, so she may be in full remission, but now she's also face to face with multiple sclerosis and he's managing a couple health issues of his own. Again, despite the pain and confusion mentally, physically, and spiritually - they have both put their faith in something bigger than themselves. 

They walked through their fears individually, found a place of peace and actually, utter happiness. And just when Natalie was ready to accept that she wouldn't ever marry and have to relish in the company of her animal-house, friends and family, Billy reappeared and reminded her, the way she had reminded herself many times already, that the only limits in life are the ones we place on ourselves.

And isn't it ironic that she lives in Ecuador and he's still in San Lorenzo?! That life lesson can be reapplied in so many ways… and if you ask Natalie, she'll tell you, she's so glad she has changed her point of view.

It was such a pleasure to photograph these two. I can't wait for their weddings. Yes, that's right, when you've been through this much and waited this long, you do it twice - just for good measure. Biggest hugs to these two. I have such a big place in my heart for this couple and thank them for being powers of example in my life. XXXXX