I have watched him eat, sleep, and drink football since he was little. It was his life. I never thought he’d ever love a girl more than football. But I was wrong. He loves three of them. And I don’t mean maybe; it’s written all over his face. The way he smiles at her, the way he loves her little girls. Then on August 11, she shoved cake all over his face, and he just wiped it off and I knew the battle was on. Wrong again. I told Beth that I couldn’t believe he didn’t try to get her back. She just smiled and said, “I knew he wouldn’t. He’s just sweet like that.” What??!! I guess that’s all there is to say about that.
A year ago, Taylor called to plan a proposal session, and it was perfect and he had worked hard to plan it just right. I’m pretty sure my heart was pounding more than his because I was terrified I’d miss the shot. And of course Beth said yes, and cried. Peyton and Kimber cried, and laughed, and cried some more while they hugged Taylor. I knew then that this new love was a blessing to all four sweet souls who had found each other. How else can you describe something for which there’s no explanation except to say that sometimes our paths cross, and it’s not an accident.
The Berry wedding was supposed to be at the creek on the beautiful Rutheford farm; I had all sorts of poses and ideas for photos. There were cool plans for wagons and creative ways to get all the guests down to the water. It was going to be stunning. But the monsoon that week changed everyone’s plans. And that’s how life is. We follow our dreams the best we can, but more often than not, we have to change and adapt. We can either bend with the ebbs and tides or we can break with determination to have our way. This wedding could not have been more beautiful just as it was. It was different than planned, but it was breathtaking and sentimental from beginning to end.
Taylor and Beth, your new family is about the sweetest thing I’ve seen. Every time I see you smile and each other, and even more important, when I see those little girls giggle and dance around with happiness, my heart swells just a little. I’m pretty sure the same thing happens to everyone else who knows and loves you. There will be more monsoons in your life. Some of them will feel insurmountable; but your love and faith will carry you through. Don’t forget to bend and give in as needed, and never ever forget the beauty of the family you’ve been given. Love and blessings, Pat
