I appreciate the opportunities I have to meet someone new, to be able to take a moment in their lives and record it for current and future reflection. I recently met Heather and her family at this wedding, and at the time, she asked if I would be able to take family photos before her son left for the Marines. We found a beautiful Saturday morning that worked, right before Will left for basic training, and I’m so glad we were able to fit it in.
I’ve thought a lot about this session since; about sacrifice and honor, and service to country, yes. But I’ve thought more about what it must be like to be a mother who bravely says goodbye to her son, knowing that for a time, communication will be limited, that life is changing, that it is a letting go of the known to face a future of the unknown. I’ve thought about how a father or sisters must feel as they wait and hope and watch. As we walked and laughed and enjoyed our conversation, Heather told stories here and there about when the kids were little, reminisced with her children and husband as we walked their property. We all have them, those little quirks and inside jokes, the happy things that only we can understand as a family. Stories and memories that belong only to that solid unit. Heather mentioned some funny little thing William did when he was 12, how time has flown by so quickly. And right there my heart skipped a little beat, because I know that time is moving too fast, and we have a 12 year old who is growing so quickly. For Heather and William, 12 was yesterday. Just a short while ago. It was yesterday, but somehow, now this is their today. Time will do that. Even when we wish it wouldn’t.
To the Matthews family, thank you for a sunny Saturday morning in your home life. Thank you for your desire to serve, for your kindness and ease of being. With thoughts and prayers, we wish you all the very best as you look to a future filled with hope, and linger on all the memories of yesterday.
Heather - Betsy, your gentle words and beautiful photo’s have me teary eyed. We had so much fun at the shoot and I love the results- thanks again for “capturing” my family, and especially my chiildren and of course Digsby!
Mary Hoffman - Beautiful photos, Heather! What a great idea to have this done before Will leaves!
Charlotte - Betsy, these are fantastic! We all appreciate that you came to our house and took pictures of our family. To be able to capture our feelings (and get pictures of Digsby looking in the right direction!) just shows what a talented photographer you really are. I cannot wait to show them to William when he gets back next year! Thank you again!
Sara - Beautiful Pictures! The one on the bridge and the one of Lex and William are my favorites!
Love you guys! <3
Heather - Thank you so much Betsy- you captured the moment beautifully and your words made us shed more tears. We are so proud of our young man and our wonderful daughters.
Pam - These are great. What a nice looking family. Great job Betsy!
Kimberly Gottier - Heather/Charlie and family and to Betsy! These are beautiful pictures – they truly capture who you all are as a family. And Betsy’s sentiments are tear jerking. And more than anything we honor the sacrifice that all of you are making, each in your own way, for our country. May your wonderful family memories get you through the tough times of not being together and the not knowing. Holding you close in heart and prayer as you say your temporary goodbyes………
Jim & Noeline - UK - What great photos couldn’t pick a favourite. We certainly remember William at 12. How time flies.
rebecca wentworth - Betsey you captured so beautifuly the Matthew family in your photos….they are a blessing to our community.