Joe

It's been exactly a week now since you left this earth and I whispered my final goodbyes in your ear. While I'm working on accepting your absence it doesn't make the empty feeling in my chest any easier to bear. Some days there are happy memories, smiles and laughter. Other days there's only an aching, hollow feeling and concern for all those dear to you that were left behind.

Yesterday at your funeral we came together as a family and shared those memories with all the people that loved you. I'm going to post the words I spoke for you here. Not because I think you can read them, but because I know I'll need the reminder in the days to come that beyond the sadness I need to remember to be thankful for the days and years we did have together.

Today as I look back on the events of the past week I feel awash with emotion… anger, sorrow, confusion and heartbreak. But as I look inside for the right words to put on this piece of paper I also find beneath it all, stronger then all the other emotions a sense of thankfulness.

I am so very thankful to have had Joe in my life. To have known him personally is a gift that I will forever treasure. I was blessed to have in-laws that welcomed me with unconditional love right from the start. And I’m sure that was no easy feet considering I was a headstrong high schooler at that point.

I am thankful to have shared a love for many of the same interests as Joe.. music, photography and graphic design. This brought the opportunity for one on one conversations that enriched my world.

I am thankful that Joe was the kind of father that modeled love, support and compassion through his own actions. I value those characteristics and know that as a member of the Andersen family those will always be the foundation we build upon.

I am thankful to Webster for writing the oh so important Spanish – to English dictionary. He gave a shy Midwestern boy the words he needed to charm a beautiful Mexican girl into falling in love with him. So much of who Joe was, was the result of who Joe was when he was with Luz. I am so very thankful that they found each other.

I am thankful that Joe has left behind pieces of himself that I’m still able to enjoy every day. I see all the wonderful aspects of his personality in his children and grandchildren. In Reyna I see his passion for family. She is the loving and supportive parent that everyone around her strives to emulate. In Aaron I see so much of Joe, his natural musical aptitude and his deep devotion to the art of creating and celebrating music. I also experience daily the commitment to our marriage and families that is a direct reflection of his father’s modeling. Lia carries with her Joe’s silent strength. She’s never one to put her baggage on anyone’s shoulders but her own… yet if you need support, she’ll be the first in line to offer it. Jesse is all that was good and beautiful about Joe. His lust for life and his deep sincerity are inspiring and I thank Joe for allowing me to see that even more clearly these past few days. Julia has her Grandpa’s rhythm and sense of timing. I hear his encouragement every time her hands grace the piano. Jaden was Grandpa Joes’ most vital medicine these past few years. They share the same optimistic attitude to get right back up when someone knocks you down… No time wasted on tears. In Tristan I see Joe’s electrifying smile.

I am thankful that Joe no longer has to suffer through treatments, tests and hospital visits. I would take back those days in a heartbeat but I know that’s a selfish wish.

I am thankful for all the many songs that Joe wrote and recorded. He left us all so many gifts which we can listen to and enjoy over and over again.

But most of all I am thankful simply for Joe. I love you and miss you so very much.

** If you have been following my blog for a while now you already know a good deal about my father-in-law Joe and his battle these past three years with cancer. Joe's stem cell transplant was very successful and he was doing well until an infection took hold a few weeks ago. His death was very sudden and unexpected as he was in remission from the cancer. If you called or emailed me recently my apologies if I have not yet responded. I appreciate your understanding and patience as Aaron, his family and I work through these difficult times. My assistants are working hard in the studio to keep all of your work on time for delivery. I hope to be back on track before long.

This next photo was taken at Cadillac Joe's benefit we put together last Christmas '08... Aaron playing with his dad.

Lindsey & Brad

As I unloaded my equipment in the church parking lot I looked up at the gray skies rolling in and shook my head. There was definitely a serious storm heading our direction and with Lindsey & Brad's wedding about to get underway I wondered how the family was handling the news of the weather. I made my way cautiously inside, unsure of the scene that would be unfolding. As I approached the bride's room I could hear the faint sounds of laughter hanging in the air. I tapped on the door and swung it open. The room was filled with electricity and color. Lindsey was floating from person to person with a smile that enveloped her whole face. She was soaking it in.. the sights, the sounds, the pure excitement of her wedding day.

There wasn't a soul that didn't know.. not a family member, friend, not even the catering staff. It was as obvious as if it were lit up like a flashing Vegas sign. Lindsey & Brad are happy... so very happy to be together. And on their wedding day, the day they'd been planning for.. there wasn't a soul who didn't know it. I'm so blessed to have been able to capture their excitement!

Gorgeous! Really Lindsey.. I don't hate you because your so beautiful :)

Brad was just a little bit excited....

Lindsey's dad sung a song a for the new couple...

The rain storms didn't stop us from capturing some uber fun wedding party photos... and let me tell you.. it was doing some serious raining! But you'd never know it. Thanks again to this incredible group for being such good sports!

When Lindsey first described her wedding colors to me I knew I was going to love her concept!

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We found a little shelter from the rain under a beautiful tree

This photo pretty much sums it up.. how could you not know these two are head over heels in love??? favorite

By the time we got to the reception hall the rain had finally come to an end... I love everything about this photo!

New Studio Open House

*** Limit of one gift certificate per family. Gift certificates may be gifted though if the "TO" field is completed at the time of purchase. Certficates are not good toward payments owed on wedding packages or for album designs.

Katie & Josh

As the sun poured in the beautiful stained glass windows of St. Mary's church Josh held tight to Katie's hands and vowed to love, honor and protect her until the end of time. From his unwavering gaze on Katie's glowing face, to the twinkle of laughter that danced in his eyes there was no doubt in my mind that Josh meant every word. Those vows were etched into the very fibers of his being. What was a beautiful ceremony to all on lookers was really just a formal declaration of the love and commitment Josh & Katie had made to each other long ago.

Shortly after Katie and Josh first started dating Katie's mother became very ill. It's been said that in difficult times we learn who our true friends are... and so it was when Josh stood up to support, protect, love and care for Katie through her mother's difficult illness and eventual passing. Beautiful sun beams warmed the inside of St. Mary's church that Saturday afternoon... warm rays of love, support and pride for a daughter who had found her happy ending.

Katie and Josh I am so, so very excited for the two of you! If ever two people were meant to be together forever it's the two of you. Seeing the love you both hold so deeply for the other is truly inspiring. Congratulations again.. and thanks for allowing me to be a small part of your big day.

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Katie.. really and truly I don't hate you because your so beautiful!

Bring on the men..... :)

Such an infectious smile!

I love photographing weddings at Father Pat Heppe's church in Fond du Lac because there is always a point in the service where everyone holds hands and says a prayer for the newly married couple.. it's really beautiful.

I adore this capture Karen took... favorite!

Love the vibrant colors we had to work with!

Lakeside Park has so many fun areas to photograph in...

Katie... seriously? You should be on a magazine cover.

Heidi & Andrew

There's a period of time in college when your circle of friends becomes more then just a group of good friends... you become almost like family. Away from home these are the people you rely on for support, advice and a helping hand. This is the kind of support system Andrew had with his circle of college friends and in particular his fellow athletes on the UW-Whitewater football team. So when he met the breathtaking cousin of one of his teammates in passing he turned to his friend for support, a helping hand and maybe a much coveted first introduction. Unfortunately it seems family is stronger then even the bonds of college friendship for Andrew's request was denied.

As their paths crossed sporadically again and again Andrew found himself unable to shake the thought of Heidi. He tried in vane to acquire an introduction from his teammate but to no success. What Andrew couldn't yet know was that Heidi was not only beautiful on the outside but equally so on the inside. Heidi's charisma, bubbly personality and genuineness caused her to be surrounded by a group of friends and family that wanted nothing but the very best for her. It wasn't long before Andrew found his luck was changing as he had the serendipity of running into Heidi at a university party. I can't say first hand but I'm pretty confident Andrew made a wonderful first impression. :)

Heidi & Andrew thank you so much for inviting me into your circle of friends and family. I had such a wonderful time. I wish you both nothing but health and happiness for your future together.

Are these beautiful or what???

Heidi is not afraid of color... and I love that about her!





Heidi's father sang a song for the new couple.. so wonderfully moving. favorite









These two are so stinking cute together! favorite



Andrew's only request for photos.... a jumping shot. Done and done! oh yeah.. and a favorite :)

Angel's Wish Auction

I have loads of beautiful weddings to share with you all... behind on blog posts again.. must be wedding season;) But quickly I first have to tell all of you about a wonderful organization I was just made aware of last year. Angel's Wish is an all volunteer organization that is "dedicated to reducing animal overpopulation, rehoming companion animals, and raising awareness of animal welfare issues in South Central Wisconsin." The animals of Angel's Wish are only euthanized for severe medical reasons and the organization helps to divert animals from ever arriving in local shelters where euthanizing is common practice. Both of our cats were adopted from local non-euthanizing shelters, so the mission statement of Angel's Wish is one that is close to my own heart. Last year I took part in their fundraising efforts and I'm proud to do it again this year. Angel's Wish is holding an online auction to raise much needed funds for their organization. You can bid on gift certificates to local restaurants, hotel stays as well as lots of pet related necessities. This year you can also bid on a $150 gift certificate for Angelic Angles Photography... so if you were planning to schedule a portrait session here's your chance to save some money and help support a great cause all at the same time. Click here to check out all the auction goodies. The auction ends Tuesday June 30th at 5:00 pm.

Elizabeth & David

From the moment I first met Elizabeth I knew I was going to love her. She is the most genuine person you'll ever meet. By the end of that first meeting it was as though Elizabeth had welcomed me in to her own special world where life was beautiful and you left her presence with a warm and happy heart. She is truly one of a kind.. or so I thought, until I met David. Who also happens to be the most genuine, dynamic and utterly fabulous person you'll ever meet. Really these two are incredible and together they are simply put... perfect.

On a gorgeous sunny day in May Elizabeth & David shared their vows in front of family and friends. It was a formal affirmation of what their hearts and souls already knew... this was a love that would stand the test of forever.

Elizabeth & David thank you so much for including Karen and I in your wedding day plans. It was truly a pleasure getting to know the two of you and your close knit group of family and friends. We hope you had a safe trip east and wish you both the best of luck with your medical careers at John Hopkins!

Elizabeth... you are one hot mama!

When I told David he was looking sharp his reply was, "I am looking good.. I won't lie." Love it!

Elizabeth was rocking the purple heels

Elizabeth & David may have had a small wedding party but their personalities were through the roof!

Ummm, yeah.. favorite.

One detail of Elizabeth's personality I failed to mention earlier is that she is organized. When we had our final meeting before the wedding, she told me she had taken a 'test' walk from the Capital to the Overture Center just to check how much time they would need! We are talking.. seriously organized. :) So when she told me she wanted to do a photo booth at her reception there was no doubt in mind that she of all people could make the concept work. In a side room at the reception hall Karen and I set up a studio where Elizabeth & David's guests could stop in to have a photo taken for their guestbook entry. To say that the photo booth was a hit would be just a slight understatement! It was so much fun. If your a 2009 or 2010 bride who's interested in offering something similiar at your reception give us a call. We'd be happy to explain the logistics.

Grandma & Grandpa ;)