Back to Reality

Well, last week - on what I understand was a bitterly cold and nasty week of winter - our family went to Florida to visit my in-laws. Even though it wasn't the scorching hot I love - it was warm and not -30 like here, so it suited me just right!!

I purposefully left my gear at home and brought only a borrowed point and shoot (thanks Carolynn!) and our video camera. This way we could focus more on people and less on pics. At points it was painful not to have my beloved cameras, but I think building the memories with the fam was worth it!

Here's a look at our week away...




Finally there! The girls soaking in the rays!





we went to SeaWorld for 2 days - the girls LOVED it!!












We fed sting rays....





And dolphins...



They loved the rides!




Then Madi decided she wanted to be a dolphin trainer - here's dad being the dolphin as he and the girls enjoy a morning swim!







and that's the end!

Colin & Jes

On Friday I had the honour of shooting Jes and Colin's wedding! I had never shot a winter wedding so I was very excited to see how it would be different compared to shooting in the summer with Krista. Also, Krista was on vacation in Florida so it was my turn to take the lead! With the help of lovely Carolynn, we were able to capture the beautiful wedding. Jes was nervous - but it did not show! She looked absolutely stunning. These photos were taken only minutes before she walked down the aisle!






Before the ceremony started - Jes was asking her son how excited he was to walk down the aisle and he couldnt have been more proud! Jes and her "little peanut" as she called him, walked down the aisle as Colin waited with a loving smile.





Both Colin and Jes exchanged vows that they had written for one another - it was absolutely beautiful!
Here is Jes listening to Colin express his love for her.



Caleb was hilarious - every time he heard the camera click he wanted to pose for the picture. Carolynn was making faces at him and he just loved it!



Here are some more precious moments during the ceremony - they really do capture the love that is this new family!







The newly weds!





They pretended I was not even there - which I LOVE and did different kissing poses a few times throughout the night. I really dont think they minded too much :) I could tell they didn't want to stop!






Jes is not only a newly wed - but a new aunt as well!



Thank you for letting us share in your special day Jes and Colin!

Aiden & Carolyn's Wedding

Today was a perfect day for a winter wedding with the thaw finally lifting and a light snow in the air! Carolyn was a stunning bride and Aiden just beamed when he saw her! It was a fun first wedding of '08 and a great day! Thanks for letting me be a part of your special day!






I find I am naturally drawn to the elderly and the kids at weddings -0 they are who we want to remember the most and change the fastest. Here is a photo of Carolyn with her grandmother...



and with her nephew... (who didn't recognize her as she is usually very casually dressed)


The handsome groom waiting for Carolynn



When Carolyn arrived, her dad brought her in the waiting car a card and gift from Aiden.


Carolyn was too choked up to open it - until we went inside. I peek out the window and saw this intimate window of her opening her gift and card in private.


And in case you're wondering - here is the gorgeous necklace from Aiden!


And a couple of funny ones before the ceremony...

Carolynn as a triplet...


And a true Canadian bride - long johns (with knee highs over top!) and a coat and snow to step over!


Now on to the ceremony...



Mom and dad watch on....


A sweet moment after signing the registry (did I mention Aiden is 6'8"?)


Some candid shots of family and friends...












And some of the happy couple (hard to believe this beauty is in the city - right in Toronto!)