When I first reached out to Jessica Empeno at Alzheimer's San Diego I had no idea where this journey would take me, but I am so happy I made that call. Two years later I have built some wonderful relationships, captured some amazing moments and healed some wounds from losing my dad from this terrible disease.
When this newsletter came in my mailbox this past week I was elated. Seeing this image on the cover and reading the story of Tom and Corrie warmed my heart and took me back to when I had my first photo session with them. They were such a lovely couple and I was reminded after reading this article that I wasn't just there to take photos, but more importantly I was there to listen. Listen to their stories, how they met and what they love to do together. When I asked Tom what he enjoyed doing he said playing the guitar. When he brought out the guitar his face immediately lit up and I knew I was at the right place at the right time! This is part of his story and knowing he was a musician gave him another dimension I would never have known unless I asked the question. Building trust between us allowed me to also see the photos they were working on for their "Life Stories" book, I was overcome with joy. They gave me an opportunity to see images from when they were young, when they met and beautiful moments with their children. The only word I had in my head at the time was WOW, I was witnessing their life unfold right before my eyes.
In going through this process with Tom and Corrie, I couldn't help but want to do the same with my husband. Boyd and I are those two photographers that do other people's wedding albums but never made one for ourselves. I am EXCITED to say I am finally locating all our wedding images and CAN'T WAIT to create our book. As I started looking at my wedding day I would catch myself smiling at all the wonderful images captured. All the love I felt that day came rushing back like a tornado!!! Photographs are priceless and mean the absolute world to me. I recommend everyone goes through their photographs again and again because it is such a gift. Seeing your life story unfold in front of you gives you an overwhelming feeling of love and gratitude for your life and all those who are in it.
I never in my wildest dreams thought how this experience with Alzheimer's San Diego would change my life so dramatically. It has added another layer to this life of mine and I am very grateful and forever changed.