My whimsical move to California (to help drive a friend cross country in a U-haul) was meant as a fun filled transition stop. I am still here. The Peace Corps fell through as they felt my lungs were not up to the adventure, and I had massive debt from school…that is, I needed to find real work.
As I toiled over my next move (I was still trying to save the world), my mate crossed my path late 2000. Recoiling from the thought of being strapped down by a relationship, I told him not to get attached. We will be married 10 years in September. I guess he got me with the comment, “You can do whatever you want…just don’t leave me”.
Our story is interesting because we almost didn’t meet. His friend Mike stepped in front of my mate’s car to make sure he attended an art show (to help add culture to my mate’s life). I was working for the art show trying to make some commission (while pouring wine), and in walks the man who becomes my best friend and family. Along with Mike, Susy and Steve, I made a little family niche here in California as my siblings are spread out along the east coast.
For the past ten years, I did what I wanted: I earned a graduate degree, found a profession I love, traveled to a few countries, developed a photography business, and met some amazing people.
Now it’s 2011. I am in transition again as I learn to be a mother; but it seems so surreal. Everything seems to be going so fast, and I don’t feel like I am savoring the moments. I cling to my photographs for those memories. I walked by the place I met my mate but it was torn down last year.
And our dear friend Mike, carefree and joyful, passed away January 3rd, 2011, after his long battle with cancer. We are all in disbelief, and my heart breaks for his wife and two young children. He didn’t make his 50th birthday, and his kids are under the age of 10…how is this fair? He will be a bright angel, though, watching us from heaven, helping us cherish the tiny moments that really make life wonderful.
PHOTOS OF MIKE THROUGH THESE YEARS
Ted & Mike wandering Chinatown, 2000
Susi, Mike & Teddy at the Baldwin House, 2000
Mike's Wedding Gift--Taking us to IKEA for furniture, 2001
Mike, Susi, Coco joining in on a visit from Chesca and the girls
Despedida for Mike & Family, 2006
Last Picture of the Azcueta Family before they drove to Milwaukee, WI, 2006
Azcueta 50th Anniversary Celebration in Manila, Philippines, 2007
Mike & Ted, 2007
Mike, Steve and Ted reunite in 2000 after 20+ years
Mike, Steve and Ted in 2006 before Mike leaves for Wisconsin
3 comments:
In all aspects of your life whether it be as a teacher, a photographer, a wife and now a mother...you always do an amazing job!
Keep up the excellent work, you hot momma!
You're right, though - cherish every moment...especially with Ted and Julan...where there is LOVE there is life; They are your life!
Beautiful photos of the guys! Theirs was/ is a beautiful friendship :)
Thank for your words. I remeber these days en California, every weekend in your house talking about everything, just enjoying your company. Thanks.
Inspiring stuff..keep on distilling the right words. There's always someone out there thirsty for that sacred waterdrop of knowledge and experience.
Cheers
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