So Far Away

I am always honored to photograph my clients.  It's an extremely personal interaction, and to know that they entrust me to capture them, their family, and their loved ones is something I take seriously.  This was especially significant during my session last evening.

Francisco Gonzalez is a specialist for the U.S. Army and works in military intelligence.  He had one last visit home before deployment to Afghanistan.  Knowing it would be the last time they saw each other for 400 days, his fiance, Yudith, desperately wanted some deployment photos.

Our original session date was last week, but due to rain, we rescheduled to last evening.  It was a warm overcast evening, perfect for a session.  We have had the honor of photographing for these two before, but only photographed their two boys.  We knew they were a sweet couple, and their boys were always extremely polite, well-mannered and handsome little guys.  However, it was evident as soon as Francisco and Yudith arrived, that their relationship is one founded in mutual respect, and a deep and abiding love.  

We were so touched by how sweetly they held each other, how attentive Francisco was to Yudith, and how much love you could see in their eyes.  

I cannot imagine saying goodbye to my husband, knowing he would be in danger and knowing that it would be over a year until we would be reunited.  Such a sacrifice, not only the men and women of our military make, but also their families.  They told us how excited their boys were when Daddy arrived for the surprise visit.  He was able to celebrate their youngest child's birthday together as a family.  However, preparing to say goodbye to Daddy, with a vague understanding of where and how long Daddy would be gone, has been very sad for the boys.  How difficult that must be for Mommy, to have to deal with not only her own sadness, but to help her boys cope with theirs.  What an amazingly strong woman to do so, with grace that Yudith so evidently displays.  

This session with Francisco and Yudith, will create portraits that they will look upon often over these next 400 days apart, and will help with the loneliness and longing they will have.  What an honor, to provide something that will ease the pain of separation, and the worry that is present for all military spouses.  

Thank you to Francisco for his service, and Yudith and the boys for their sacrifice!  It is indeed an honor to photograph for someone that places himself in danger to protect all of us.  

We pray for your safety Francisco, and for your comfort Yudith.  Thank you for allowing us to create these portrait memories for you! 

Nancy Jo Lee

Nancy Jo Photography
www.nancyjophotography.com
919-570-1009