I Got to Play a Wedding Photographer For a Day and I Have The Scars On My Feet to Prove It

In 2009, my aunt Heidi passed away unexpectedly.

She was the age that I am as I type this. Forty two.

She had many health problems, but no one expected her to pass away the day that she did. It was a horribly sad day for everyone who loved her.

I loved her so very much and her death devastated me.

She was one of the strongest women I’ve ever known. I know that sounds cliche, but how many women do you know who got SHOT IN THE HEAD and survived? My aunt did.

I knew she loved me dearly. I also knew that if I screwed up in school or got out of line, she would kick my ass. And I LOVED her for it. She made me feel special, she made me feel loved, she made me feel valuable. And, OH how she made me laugh.

I miss her so much.

My aunt had one child. A beautiful daughter named Mallory. That little girl was everything to my aunt.

That little girl is now 27 years old. She has grown into a beautiful, intelligent young woman who has chosen to spend her life teaching children. I have no doubts my aunt would be incredibly proud of her baby girl. I know our entire family is.

On March 10th, my cousin got married. My mom, my sister and I flew out to Texas to be there for the wedding. I was honored to not only be invited to the wedding, but to be asked to photograph it.

Photographing a wedding is hard work. But I feel truly blessed to have been able to do this for my cousin.

(Here are just a few of my favorites.)