Yesterday was a bad day. A very, very bad day. My Papa passed away. I don’t think I’ve ever been so sad in all my life. He was the most kind-hearted person I’ve ever known and I’ll miss him so much. I’m sad for myself and I’m sad for my children, because they’ll never truly know this wonderful man the way I knew him, but I’m even more sad for my Grandma. They were married almost 65 years and they were always happy. These pictures of them were taken in 1942 and 1943. I love the way those two looked at each other.
I've been going through old pictures today trying to prepare a slideshow. I've come to realize that while professional portraits have their place, some of our most treasured photographs are our ordinary snapshots. As a photographer it's easy to get caught up in having the perfect shot with the best lighting and the highest quality, but when pictures are all you have left of someone none of that even matters. Our daily snapshots hold those special memories we will cherish forever. These are a few of my favorites.
And these were recently snapped at my three year olds birthday party. My friend that took these was worried about them not being good enough. They're the last pictures I'll ever have of her with our Papa. There's no such thing as not good enough. 
You don't have to be a professional photographer to take great photographs. Take them. Take lots of them. And take them often. Someday they'll be all you've got.
Heather please know our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. May all the wonderful memories help you through this difficult time.
Posted by: Sarah Briese | May 30, 2007 at 10:40 AM
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Beautiful photographs...
Posted by: Ann | May 30, 2007 at 09:31 PM
Heather, I am so sorry for you loss! You Papa was very loved and I know he will be missed. Ginny
Posted by: ginny | June 06, 2007 at 11:39 AM
You're in my thoughts Heather...
Posted by: Kathy | June 06, 2007 at 08:53 PM
I found this blog randomly today. I'm sorry for your loss. You're right about the photos. I'm a pro photographer as well and some of my favorite photos are not the technically perfect. I love snapshots and it IS easy to get caught up in that trap of not shooting unless it's perfect. Good reminder. Thank you! My best to your family.
Posted by: Wendy | June 28, 2007 at 10:08 PM
Heather, I just found this, I've gotten behind in keeping up with your blog. I'm so sorry, I remember when I first met Ma and Papa. I asked you what I should call them and you just looked at me, turned your head sideways and said, "Call them Ma and Papa, everyone does."
Posted by: Chumley | September 24, 2007 at 12:41 PM