Our son was married on June 8th...

Our son was married on June 8th... he is a serious+++ blessing to me and always has been. His father would have been so proud to see him marry his beautiful new wife, and new caretaker of his heart, Cheri Bateman. He has married into a legacy of Faith and love, which does my spirit good. 

We flew in a photographer friend from Orlando Florida, because I knew my hands would shake to much, and I probably wouldn't be able to see through the tears of happiness. I am so glad we did this, these images are such treasures to have and will forever bring me joy! Nicole Katz from Nicole Katz Photography did an amazing job ...she was such a wonderful and supportive photographer and friend, to have here on her first visit to Canada! 

She went above and beyond for this outdoor-planned-turned-rainy-day and worked so hard. She left her home and her beautiful daughter with her loving mother in Orlando. She showed up bearing 2 suitcases of equipment specifically chosen and packed for the event.....She then started 3 days of prep; setting up of lighting, attending rehearsals, and scoping out possible locations. Then she was up at 5 am and worked until midnight on the wedding night, not to mention what she's done since shes been home, prepping and posting images. 

'Tis the life of a photographer, and trust me, I know is as such...most people think we just, well, party, do what we love, and plug in a cord and go to bed.... and voila! ... magical memories. 
Watching Nicole tirelessly, and with laughter and a smile, participate in so many more functions than a photographer, (she was a load bearer, a cake builders assistant, an assistant decorator, and a back-rubbing, hug bearing, kind word therapist, who smoothed out bumps and made schedules work..... to mention only a few.) ....

This allowed me to again realize how thankful I was that she was there, that she cared, and that we had carefully chosen and yes, invested in her for this, the most special day of our son, grandson, nephew and friend. I believe that God prepares all of us to use the talents we are given, and finding someone who was anointed for the gift you need to hire for, is so important. A teacher can be ordained to teach, a builder ordained to create with his hands, or a chef ordained to create culinary masterpieces..... and so too, a photographer to know what it takes to encourage and see the inner spirit shine through and know what to do to capture it creatively in print.

My sons day will be ever remembered by the memories that were documented and lovingly prepared, and I thank Nicole for all she did. 

And because photographers really can't do all of it alone, and often pay extra for quality staff to make those weddings and events go smoothly, I also want to acknowledge Evan Sandham for being her (and our) tireless grip/assistant /driver and happy cohort/friend throughout the trip to Fort Qu'appelle, all while in the middle of his seriously huge undertaking as Production Designer and Technical Director (Prepare-er of sets designs/planning and lighting and lots more!) for the huge undertaking that is Les Miserable at the Esplanade. We love you tons Evan!

I really wanted to take the time to acknowledge the great feeling of comfort that was provided to me, knowing I had made important one of the only things that will last from the day.... Images captured of it all, and of course, of what I see as my MOST important of roles in life: MOTHER of the Groom... 
(and someday of the bride  ....)
and again,
Congratulations Josh and Cheri!!!