It was a typical evening for us during our first months of dating. We’d spend hours at Borders playing cards and laughing. Laughing because I kept beating him at his own game. Today I couldn’t win a game if my life depended on it. I’m beginning to be suspicious that he used to let me win. We finished up another game. The night was dark, but the city lights shined brightly through the windows as we peered out onto Michigan Avenue. He looked over at me, “Let’s sit here until they kick us out.” I laughed at him and blew him off, “No way! Come on, let’s go.” He refused to get up and somehow convinced me to stay sitting there with him.
The employees at Borders started coming around picking up books that were left behind. The announcement rang through the intercom that the store would be closing in five minutes. As every minute ticked by, I became more and more uncomfortable. I almost gave up when the friendly employee came to remind us that the store was now closed. But Vitaliy didn’t budge. He made us sit there and wait until they literally asked us to leave.
That should have been the red flag for me. A big loud warning sign of what my future would hold. Could this have been some kind of initiation with him? I’d think it was except for the fact that I’m still being tested all the time and we’re four years into our marriage.
As often as this leaves me with knots in my stomach, it’s actually one of the things that I admire most about Vitaliy. He is completely free. Some days I’m like a little kid — wishing I could grow up and be like him. I’ve never experienced life the way I have with him.
This past weekend in Tahoe it was about 59 degrees outside. I had three layers of clothing, a hood over my head, and a scarf wrapped around my neck. And this was Vitaliy.
Babes, I’m so thankful that you refuse to allow me to stay wrapped up in all my rules and regulations. You’ve peeled layer after layer off of me the past few years as you challenge me to live each day freely. I’m thankful that today we get to celebrate your birthday because it means I have another year ahead to finally grow up to be like you.
Happy Birthday, Vitaliy. I love you so much.
Legion Of Honor Portrait Photography
The closer we got to San Francisco, the more the temperature began to drop. The air was cold and the fog was thick as we pulled into the parking lot of Legion of Honor museum. Naturally, I came prepared with layers. That is one thing I’ve learned about living in the Bay Area. But I was so worried about Natalie and Emily. I knew they had pretty dresses they were going to wear and I didn’t know how they were going to feel about being out in the cold. But that worry only came because I hadn’t yet met them. After being with them for only five minutes, I knew they’d have no problem. They showed up ready to have fun, be adventurous, and take beautiful pictures. I’m pretty sure we accomplished all of those during this photo session.
Natalie and Emily, thank you for being you. Vitaliy and I had a total blast taking your pictures! I was amazed at how comfortable and confident you were in front of the camera. In a day where most girls are constantly feeling either too fat or too ugly, it was so refreshing to see two young women happy with themselves. You are both even more beautiful because of it. I want you both to know that your pictures are very special to us. You allowed us to use our creativity in new ways and we are better photographers because of it. So thank you very much! You guys are the best! Keep being you — the world needs it. Sending lots of love your way! xoxo…Candace
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Loving that Vitaliy captured the bird flying through this shot.
Natalie and Emily are best friends. What a great idea to get professional pictures taken with your best friend. Another reason why these two are so fabulous!
This location couldn’t have been a better fit for these pictures.
Emily, check you out! Stunning!
Natalie with the moves! Just lovin’ these!
Natalie and Emily wore these fabulous Jessica McClintock dresses for the session. I loved the dresses and the details.