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Trees

Isaiah

Tharp

and

Natalie

James

May 17, 2025

Sandy, OR

Dodgeball Destiny

You can dodge a ball, but you can't dodge true love

Natalie and Isaiah's paths first crossed in February 2018 at a Southern Oregon University dodgeball tournament fundraiser. Amidst the chaotic energy of the event, Isaiah, a member of the football team, was immediately captivated by Natalie, a member of the volleyball team. Despite his interest, the constant flurry of activity and her teammates surrounding her prevented him from initiating conversation any further. Undeterred, Isaiah turned to social media. A simple direct message on Instagram sparked a digital connection, which quickly evolved into a real-world relationship. Isaiah and Natalie continued to grow, travel, explore, love and support each other through all of life's ventures. On a picturesque flurrying day in March 2023, Isaiah proposed during a hike along the Deschutes River. Though Natalie had already discovered the ring hidden in his backpack in the parking lot, the moment was filled with love, laughter, and a shared future.

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