Entering the US Navy directly out of high school forced me to evolve. Face to face with obstacles and cultures I never could have imagined, I began my decade long adventure as an aircrew-man in a sailor’s world. Topics that never tugged at my interest, such as oceanography, RADAR and the P-3 Orion, became vital to my success.
I was pushed well beyond my comfort zones, mentally, physically and socially. Nevertheless, I found myself succeeding at everything I had worked for. The time passed quickly; when my enlistment was over I had traveled the world and though I certainly developed a valuable knowledge base, it meant nothing to me.
At that time, the Navy offered me $40,000, tax free to reenlist. I didn't think twice, and rejected it. Reentering civilian life, I decided I would search for something I really cared about, in a personal way. Even though I knew the Navy was not for me, it was difficult to leave that part of me behind. Relentlessly, I was reminded by my husband and my other Navy friends about the lifestyle and money I’d be giving up.
Over the next couple years I went to college, tried out a variety of desk jobs. I felt defeated and I was broke, I joined the Navy Reserves. Within a few months, my husband and I got pregnant with my daughter, Aria. Cliche' or not, she really is the sunshine in my life. She sparked my creativity and brought me back to life. I wanted to capture every moment and her every expression, even the angry ones! I became obsessed with photography, my little family, and yes, my camera.
My husband remains in the Navy, and I know we will continue to travel from place to place. While my husband continues his career and I look forward to documenting our experiences. I love photographing the love in a family or capturing the feeling of the warm sun peeking through a sleepy Seattle morning. Like so many, I want my passion to be my career.
For my daughter, Aria who is the melody; and for myself, Fiorentina, that I may flourish and create beauty. Welcome to Melody in Bloom.
-Fiorentina
My sunshine, my Melody in Bloom
