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It's been an incredibly heart breaking week for many people in the Melville area with the recent loss of Jason Haas.  Jason grew up on the farm near Killaly and he and my oldest son Dalton played hockey together.  I've known his family for a long time and they truly are such wonderful people.  Jason was involved in a car accident along with 8 other children, many of who are still in the hospital recovering. Just thinking about it brings me to tears again.  I can only imagine how all the friends and family members are doing.  I am posting a few images from the Haas Family photos that I did this past summer.  I just want to say that my heart goes out to Ken, Val, Randy, Danita and Tyler as well as everyone touched by this accident. You are all in my thoughts and my prayers.  It is a constant reminder to tell our family and friends how much we love them and to live each day like it could be our last.  If you care to leave comments for anyone involved, please feel free to do so.  I'm sure your kind words can only be of comfort to everyone.
Rest In Peace Jason.  We will never forget you.
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Shelley Feiffer says:

Sharon, These pictures are beautiful and will be treasured by the Haas family. My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Jason. It's such a sad tragedy and felt by our entire community.

(05.11.10 @ 09:43 PM)
Jessie says:

Jason you were a great friend to everybody and are truly going to be missed, that bright smile of yours will always be with us and we know you are up with the angels watching over us.

RIP Jason

(05.12.10 @ 10:59 AM)
Amber says:

Only the good die young

(06.18.10 @ 12:28 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: In Memory of Jason Haas . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://valleyportraits.ca/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/91
I first met Jeff and Kristin a few years back when I shot their wedding.  So when Kristin contacted me about doing family photos now that they have a little one, I was so excited.  I had good reason.  They were such a fun couple to work with on their wedding and that hasn't changed.  Plus, Chase is the most adorable and well behaved one year old.  He was so easy to work with and he just wraps you around his little finger when he looks up at you with those big brown eyes.  He is such a sweet little monkey.  No wonder that's his nickname.  Anyway, enjoy a few snaps from their session.
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IMG_4845.jpgKristin you are as beautiful as you were on your wedding day and such a loving mom :)

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IMG_4859.jpgA monkey for the monkey :)  He is so adorable!

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LOVE, these next few images!  You are such a great dad Jeff.

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Jeff has a very special tattoo in honor of his dad.

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The Heidt's are definitely huge Rider fans.  We played football for some of their wedding photos so I was not surprised when they arrived with their own Rider jersey's.  Go Riders!!

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melissa says:

Great photos Sharon! I did their wedding invites and I can't believe that was so long ago! He's adorable.

(04.26.10 @ 04:58 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Kristin, Jeff & Chase. A happy family :) - Regina Family Session . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://valleyportraits.ca/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/89
Well I have to tell you this is not going to be an ordinary post for me because this wasn't an ordinary shoot.  I was very fortunate to meet some extremely amazing people this past weekend. We had this baby shoot planned for a little bit now.  Baby Parker is the most adorable, smiley, happy baby and he is now 5 months old.  However, a few things happened when Parker was born to make his first few months on this earth less than ideal.  He had very bad colic and to top it off, his wonderful first time mom Danielle fell into a very deep Postpartum Depression.  Just in case you are wondering, I have Danielle's full approval to publish her story.  In fact, she insisted.  That's just the type of person that she is.  Here's a bit of background information.  Danielle and Bruce thought that they very well may not have children because of her severe Endometriosis, but luckily that was not the case.  They were very excited for the arrival of their first baby.  Danielle is a nurse and deals with Cancer patients every day.  Did I mention how wonderful she is? It seems so unfair that such a giving person would end up carrying this burden of depression, but indeed she did and it has taken 5 months for them to get their wonderful little family back on track. They are still working on that, day by day.  Unfortunately there is a stigma that goes along with depression and help seems hard to find at times. That's why Danielle wanted me to publish her story.  Its funny, when I met them I instantly felt like I had known them forever and I knew I would be walking out of their home with not only new clients but new friends.  Before we knew it we were talking about everything that had happened in their life and in mine for that matter. Everyone has trials and tribulations in their life.  I have been no different and have battled with depression once myself.  Its not easy.  So we are publishing this in the hopes that it changes that stigma that is out there.  People with depression are every day people.  They are doctors, lawyers, clerks, nurses, photographers, moms and dads and there is no reason why people should be afraid to talk about what is going on or to seek out the help that is needed.  No one should have to suffer in silence and put on a "smiling mask".   So if you are someone suffering with Postpartum Depression, don't be afraid to go for help.  You are not alone.  Please go to "The Smiling Mask Blog" based out of Regina for some very useful information.  Also, you may contact Sally Elliot, who is a perinatal nurse at the YWCA in Regina (1-306-757-9622 Ext 242) or feel free to contact Danielle herself.  She is an incredibly wonderful person and after suffering with this herself, she has been motivated to help others.  I wish everyone was like her.  So, as I said, this was not an ordinary post.  I think its Extra-ordinary :)  Thank you Bruce, Danielle and Parker for allowing me in to your home to capture some special, smiley moments between the three of you.
 
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Now after viewing these images, do these look like the faces of "Depression"?  Its such a common illness and we are so afraid to talk about it.  Please use this family's bravery to tell their story as a lesson.  Don't be afraid or ashamed to talk about it if you are going through it and don't be afraid to help others that are the one's suffering.  If this story has touched you, even just a little, please leave your comments in support.  Thank you.
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Elita says:

Dearest Sharon and Danielle,

On behalf of The Smiling Mask Team, we want to thank you both, IMMENSELY, for your heart, spirit and energy by sharing your experiences that ARE much more common and normal than ever. May we all remain honest and caring by living our truths in the most loving way we know in this moment in time. Thank you for sharing your selves because you WILL undoubtedly reach people who need to hear the exact words you wrote. Here's to the hope and healing that surrounds Postpartum Depression!

With heartfelt gratitude and honour,
Elita Paterson, Carla O'Reilly & Tania Bird

(03.30.10 @ 02:57 PM)
Elita says:

p.s. The photos are marvelous in every way! From the beautiful parents who created such blazing blue eyes in Parker, to the home that has been decorated with such love and care.

(03.30.10 @ 03:02 PM)
Paula Dahlman says:

Thank you for capturing my beautiful sister in these photos (and of course, my handsome brother in law and cutest little nephew). They turned out amazing!! :)

(03.30.10 @ 03:02 PM)
Danielle's Mom says:

Thank you for capturing the beauty of Danielle, Bruce and Parker. It has not been an easy road for them....but you have captured all the love!!

(03.30.10 @ 07:39 PM)
Bruce's Mom says:

Danielle is a beautiful person, inside and out. Despite a struggle with Postpartum Depression, Danielle, Bruce and Parker have forged a loving and caring family that is also beautiful inside and out. Thank you for these eloquent pictures!

(03.30.10 @ 09:50 PM)
Denise Burns says:

Sharon's pictures have truly captured a loving family that have and will continue to survive. A tough start, but with the nurturing of loving family members, I only see a beautiful future together. It does not surprise me that Danielle wants to help others who are suffering - that is who she is - generous and caring.

(03.30.10 @ 10:30 PM)
V Trent Brister says:

I know the family from a distance...through Donna, Dani's Mum. I have been praying all works out for them best for them all. I too have been down that road of depression and am so proud of the strength that Dani and Bruce are showing to get through this and the endless support that their family is given means soooo much. GOOD for you Dani for reaching out to others. You have know idea how much that will mean to someone down the road. Trent

(03.31.10 @ 11:19 AM)
Danielle's Aunt Glenda says:

Beautiful pictures of a beautiful family. Thanks for sharing your difficult story and letting others know that they are not alone. May your strength, bravery and the love of your caring family help take care of you as you heal.

(03.31.10 @ 12:11 PM)
One of many other postpartum moms says:

Thank You for sharing! I have had postpartum with both my children. Motherhood is filled with endless hours of cuddles, giggles and love. My postpartum came more in the form of anxiety. I felt overwhelmed with feelings of worry, fear and unneccessary guilt. I am so appreciative that someone so candid has opened the door to a topic that is rarely talked about. Thank You Danielle!

(04.01.10 @ 06:24 PM)
Bob Campbell friend of Donna says:

I too have been down the depression road and try to talk about it to people whenever the opportunity arises. I think its great that you are making more people aware, and the pics are fantastic, what blazing blue eyes.
From my experience depression can hit at any time for a few hours or days and I try to be ever aware of what triggers it and why also realizing that it is my problem and not caused by others.

(04.01.10 @ 08:11 PM)
Danielle says:

THANK YOU so much Sharon for capturing our beautiful family - this was our first family shot since Parker's birth and I was so excited - it felt like a personal celebration - a celebration of hope and life!
I did not expect to experience PPD when Parker was born five months ago (as I don't think anyone does). The emotional and physical pain in my head and heart was unrelentless and often became unbearable. I was hospitalized three times with suicidal thoughts and plans to end my life. The constant sleep deprivation/insomnia, overwhelming anxiety, horrifying shame and embarrassment, and daily emotional meltdowns when I would curl up on the floor and wish to die were terrifying. My husband accurately described PPD as "TORTURE" one night after watching and listening to me describe the disjointed irrational black thoughts spinning circles in my head.
I am no longer ashamed or embarassed to tell my story. I only hope it will encourage other mothers experiencing signs of PPD to come forward for the help and support they need. You are NOT ALONE.
A BIG thank you to my mom, sister, Bruce's parents, great friend Shauna, and extended family for all of their help and support over the last 5 months and to my husband Bruce, who was always there at my side telling me that we will get through this - we did! I love you so much! And to my son Parker - your smile is the shining light during my days and nights so that I may never be alone in the dark again.
Hugs, Danielle

(04.04.10 @ 07:17 AM)
Nikki says:

Thank you for sharing. As a PPD FTM as well - it's been a hard road. Thankfully, I have the love and support of my family and the bundle of mischieviousness, energy and joy that is my son.

(04.12.10 @ 05:19 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: The Face of Depression . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://valleyportraits.ca/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/86
Last night I had so much fun with my niece, her hubby and their first baby, puppy Pebbles.  But very soon, one week to be exact, a new first baby is coming into their family.  A real baby, that up until now has been lovingly called "Eggbert", lol.  Here are a few images from their maternity session and since this special little one is due within a week, you won't have to wait very long for newborn photos.  Hope you enjoy!

IMG_1164b.jpgLook at Pebbles being such a good girl for mom :)

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IMG_1301.jpgI love this shot of Becky!!

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And this one.....

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And of course a little bit of John Deere attire.  What baby's wardrobe would be complete without it :)


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Mom and her two babies.

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And finally a special shot of Pebbles and her friend Pooh!  Thanks to my assistant Terry for all his help getting her attention, lol.  Great job Terry.

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Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Becky & Terry are having a baby! . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://valleyportraits.ca/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/81
This is not a typical blog post.  In all honesty, I don't even know what to write but I know I want to write something.  This past Friday, one of my clients and new friend passed away and needless to say its been a very sad time. As I said I don't know where to begin so I guess I will start at the beginning.  Last winter Todd called me to talk about doing a surprise family session in the spring for his wife and his parents.  He thought it would make a nice Mother's Day Gift for Jodi and also would be a nice surprise to do photos on the farm as his parents were going to be retiring.  So we started our basic plan to do them in the spring.  When the spring rolled around the weather wasn't the best so it got postponed till summer.  It actually got postponed a few times due to various everyday things.  He was so concerned that he was becoming my client from hell, lol.  Of coarse he was no where near that.  Finally in July we got all our ducks in a row and my assistant Niki and I headed to their farm near Melville.  We had the best time with them.  They seriously are the nicest people.  It was obvious that Todd was a great guy, but so was everyone in the family.  I guess the apples never fall far from the tree.  When Niki and I left that day we talked all the way home about what a wonderful family this was and how we were made to feel so welcome.  A few days later I got their blog posted and that night I received an email.  I must say, at first I thought it was coming from Jodi but when I scrolled to the bottom, I saw that it actually came from Todd.  I guess I shouldn't have been surprised.  Its an email that I have never erased and I don't think I ever will.  Todd Miller was a wonderful man.  He was a great father, husband, brother, son and friend to everyone who knew him.  I don't think that there is a person that he didn't touch and I truly hope that in his last moments on this earth he knew that.  Todd, you will be greatly missed.
In closing I am posting a few photos and I am also going to post the email that he sent me that night.  One thing that has stuck in my mind is this line,  "the reason that we did this was to preserve our children for eternity".  If we had only known at the time, we were preserving his memory.

IMG_1200final.jpg IMG_1337final.jpgSharon.   I wish there was a way I could say thank you via email that would come through with as much sincerity as is deserving right now.  A few of us have seen the postings tonight and are extremely happy with what you have done for us.  We are considering remortgaging in order to purchase them all!  The "ooohs" and "aaawwws" have just begun..  The best compliment I can possibly give you is this; our main goal in doing those pictures was preserving our kids for eternity, if you changed one thing about the kids photos, they would be wrong.  They are exactly what we wanted. 
When Amy first recommended you after their engagement pictures, I took a look at your website and decided immediately that this is what we wanted..  Not only have you not disappointed, you have taken things to another level in our books.  Thank you very much (and please thank Nikki as well, its deserving) for all of this.
 
Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you.
 
Todd


In closing I want to extend my heart felt condolences to the entire Miller Family.  Todd was such a wonderful man and I will remember him forever.  You are all in my hearts and my prayers and always will be.  To anyone reading this, please leave your comments about Todd in the comments area below.  I am sure that all of your love and support will be greatly appreciated by the family when they are feeling up to reading this.  Also, please remember that there is a trust account set up at the Horizon Credit Union for Todd's children if you would like to make a donation.  In closing all I can say is this.  Friends and I have been discussing what a horrible loss this is and what could there possibly be to take from it.  I think Todd would agree when I say "hug your family and friends".  Make time for them and love them as life is too short and we truly must treat each day like it could be our last.  Let's use this as a way to remember our friend and honor his memory.
 
Click here to see the rest of the blog posting from their family session.

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Shelley Feiffer says:

Sharon, I saw those photos when you posted them and they are gorgeous..and will indeed be cherished since Todd has now passed. This is a very nice tribute to him and his family! He will be truly missed by so many people.

(11.24.09 @ 11:36 AM)
Raelene Ottenbreit says:

That is beatiful Sharon...It is just amazing, his expression in the family picture is the one image that will stay with me forever! That was his trademark expression!
We will miss Coach Miller ~Melville Novice Blues 2009

(11.24.09 @ 02:07 PM)
Amanda Barr says:

Thank you Auntie Sharon for such a beautiful tribute to Todd. He was one of the nicest people you will probably ever meet. His email to you brought tears to my eyes. Rest in peace Todd!

(11.24.09 @ 03:11 PM)
Sandie Dales says:

Hi Sharon,
I worked with Todd for a number of years at the CU. And he was a terrific guy, he was so much fun to work with, a real prankster, so he totally fit in. I was stunned to hear of his passing. Your pics are such a wonderful tribute and memory to his life.

(11.24.09 @ 07:27 PM)
Denise Krochak says:

I have known Todd for many, many years...probably since he was about the age of his own son...I spent many hours with the Miller's both on horseback and "just hanging out at the ranch"...watching him grow from a young boy into the fantastic young man he was!...from the moment I met them all...they welcomed me to their family like one of their own...kind, genuine and honest people....Truly...you do not find these type of friends but once in a lifetime! Todd was one of the greatest people you could ever meet, and the photo above is so typically "Todd"...beer, pop & sippy cup in hand with that infectious smile he always wore! A very great tribute indeed, capturing is true spirit! Although his being as we know it is gone from this Earth, his life will be preserved for eternity, not only in pictures, but also in all the memories he has created with all those who knew him. Heaven has gained another Angel.

(11.24.09 @ 10:41 PM)
Corla Rokochy says:

Sharon. This is such a sad story. My heart breaks for Todd's Family and for Jodi. I grew up next door to Jodi's cousins in Davidson and was in shock when I heard the news. My sincerest condolences go out to Jodi and the whole family. These images will be so cherished.

(11.24.09 @ 11:03 PM)
Misty Waldbauer says:

Sharon - After I heard of Todd's passing, I immediately thought of the photos you had done for the family. I'm so happy that they will have the beautiful photographs to cherish for the rest of their lives. I lost my father about the same age as Brady is now, and my family has never been really into taking photographs....so to have the great photos that Brady and Brooke have with their Daddy, is priceless! Many thoughts and prayers go to Jodie, Brady, Brooke and family!!!

(11.25.09 @ 07:47 AM)
LIsa Rathgeber says:

A great tribute to a great guy. He was so genuine. He will be missed by many. Many prayers to Jodie, Brady, Brooke and the entire family, as the days ahead will be so hard. What a beautiful way to honor his life and memory.

(11.25.09 @ 08:33 AM)
Lynn Torlen says:

Sharon: I've wanted for years to get family pictures done! Seeing the amazing pictures of Todd's family coming to life, just brought tears to my eyes. I've known the Miller Family all my life and truly, they are definitely the nicest family you can meet. My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to Jodi and the children, Ken, Bonnie and Jackie for the tragic loss of such a wonderful man, TODD. Your excellent work will be the greatest gift for the family. God Bless you and may you continue your excellent work. Perhaps with my family! Love You!

(11.25.09 @ 06:45 PM)
Coralie Schick says:

Great tribute to a wonderful family. Todd will be dearly missed by many !
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all his family...

(11.25.09 @ 07:35 PM)
Sandra Gallinger says:

This is a fantastic thing you did in memory of Todd. He was such a wonderful man that touched everyone's heart that knew him. My deepest sympathy to Jodi and their children, along with his parents and family. He truly will be missed!

(11.26.09 @ 10:27 AM)
Carrie Banerd says:

WOW!! You have TRULY CAPTURED the ESSENCE of an AMAZING MAN and FAMILY!!! FANTASTIC work! Any one who knew Todd will look at these and and say that this was Todd exactly as he was!!

(11.26.09 @ 01:18 PM)
Deanne Arnold says:

What a beautiful memory for the family. I knew Jodi as she was my son's fourth grade teacher and he still talks about how great she was. She is a wonderful person and I can only begin to imagine the pain she must feel. She is a kind and caring person!! Mmy heart goes out to you Jodi. Our sympathy goes out to you and your little ones!!!! You are in our hearts and prayers each day!!

Ryan, Deanne, Hunter and Reid Arnold

(11.26.09 @ 01:19 PM)
Gary Banerd says:

Todd....what can I say? You and I grew up together since we were 5 years old. We did everything together; play hockey, ball, fish, golf, camping.....and the list goes on. There are so many great memories of the time that we had together. We always had a smart remark for each other to make us laugh, and we always had time to listen if one of us needed that helping hand. Like that song said "Hey God I just lost a dear old friend;"...... you were a TRUE FRIEND, you were like a brother to me. I am going to MISS YOU BUD, FRIENDS FOREVER!!!!! Sharon, thanks for posting these photos. You have truly captured my BUDDY at his BEST!!!!!

(11.26.09 @ 03:08 PM)
Denise (Banerd) Steinke says:

Thanks Sharon for posting these photos of Todd and his family. As well, thanks for your wonderful words. I am Gary's older sister and grew up with Jackie (Todd's sister) & with Todd at our house playing hockey, ball, etc. with my 'little bro' and the rest of their crew. Your words describing Todd, Jodi and the Miller clan are very accurate. They are one of the most wonderful families I have had the pleasure of knowing! I am still in shock (as I'm sure we all are) over Todd's death. My heart goes out to Jodi, Brady, Brooke, Ken, Bonny, Jackie, Randy and their family and ALL the extended family and friends that Todd has left behind. Thanks again Sharon for sharing these photos with us! God bless you BIG!

(11.26.09 @ 10:50 PM)
Renee Reccord (Stelmacowich) says:

I had to send a note to say how beautiful the photos of Todd and his family are and how touching it was for you to post his email and your thoughts on what a wonderful man he was and what a wonderful family. I grew up with Todd and your words couldn't be more perfect and true about his character. He will be missed. I also wanted to comment on your work - it is truly unique and beautiful - I only wish you could come to Montreal to photograph my family! Take care, and again thanks for posting your blog.
My thoughts are with Todd's family through this difficult time.

(11.27.09 @ 09:23 AM)
Candace Hill says:

These are absolutely amazing photos, I agree you have truly captured Todd and his family to a Tee. What a great memory to have. Todd was an amazing person and I am truly blessed to have been friends..

(12.03.09 @ 12:31 PM)
Shirley Schlechter says:

Jodi, Brady and Brooke - treasure the photos and the great times you had together. He will be sadly missed. Always a smile or a wave, he was and always will be a great friend who will be missed dearly.
Take care.

(12.03.09 @ 12:35 PM)
Carissa says:

God works in mysterious ways, what a wonderful keepsake for his family.

(02.23.10 @ 08:25 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: In Memory of Todd Miller . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://valleyportraits.ca/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/78
Yesterday I headed over to Balcarres to meet Miss J.  I have worked with this family before for maternity, newborn and family photos.  They are such kind and genuine people.  Hmmm....I seem to say that about a lot of people but it really is true.  I guess I am just fortunate to have such awesome clients.  Anyway, newborn shoots are always a challenge and this one was no different.  Lots of feeding to try and get them to settle.  Somehow they just don't like getting naked, lol.  Anyway, here's a few shots of the family and their newest addition.  I just love all three of these little red heads.  So adorable.  Thanks again guys.  Enjoy.


How adorable are these little ones!?!

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Carissa says:

Love the pictures! That window one is so creative!

(11.06.09 @ 12:46 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Baby J . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://valleyportraits.ca/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/74