Even without a roof, family never lacked for a home
A Northwest couple at the end of their rope learn just how resilient they are — and how big a community’s heart is — in the town of Florence
FLORENCE — Nate and Carol Fuller’s old life whispers from the squat house with the wraparound porch and ocean breeze.
In the couple’s wedding portrait, Nate’s hair is shaggy, Carol’s dress a spray of satiny white. Their daughters’ trophies and tiaras crowd the kitchen table, labeled “most angelic face,” “best personality” and “photogenic winner.” Carol’s diplomas hang in the living room, a reminder of the law office where she worked.
“I still get frustrated that things aren’t the way they used to be,” Carol says. “I just lose it.”
On the floor, 6-year-old Destani puts down her toy. “And then, ‘Waaaaah,’ ” she says, a mock wail to mimic her mom.
“Yeah, I cry a lot,” says Carol, 28, with chocolate eyes and matching hair braided past her waist.
But she tells herself: That was before.
Before Nate lost his business. Before they lost their home in northern Washington. Before they moved to Oregon, pinning the future on an old family retreat. Before they became homeless. Before Carol got sick……..
