It’s here. I know this has maybe taken too long to post up. But I’m not too apologetic. I think everyone can understand that things run a little slower in December. Among the hustle and bustle of holiday festivities, business as usual, and taking time to prioritize reflecting on Jesus’ birth….it’s no wonder that I’m just now getting around to putting these precious photos online.
That…and…I don’t like to spoil the surprise of anyone’s Christmas photos. This way {hopefully} everyone has had a chance to post and share and print cards to their heart’s content. And now–I just can’t take another second of delay. This is perhaps my favorite crop of Christmas photos. I’m so happy that so many lovely Practically Canadian friends trusted me with their photos {especially after a very vague announcement about the set}. Like the trust fall in Mean Girls…I totally caught you and didn’t let you smack your head on the gym floor.
Oh–and one more thing. This year the proceeds from Christmas photos was donated to local causes. Because of the gorgeous, smiling faces in these photographs a lot of beautiful things were possible in Practically Canada. A donation was made to the Ward County Historical Society {because they were kind enough to let us use the fire truck}; the YWCA received a new crib mattress {they’d given one of theirs away to a single dad in need}; 11 pairs of winter boots, 10 pairs of insulated in soles, a jumbo pack of paper plates and laundry detergent worth about 300 loads was given to the Minot Men’s Winter Refuge; and gifts were bought for a family in need of some extra holiday cheer.
But I don’t want you giving me even an ounce of credit for even half a second. I’m sharing this list of goodies with you because it was your dollars and business that made it possible. Wealth of all kinds, every dollar I have in my wallet and bank account comes from the Lord–the creator of wealth. I’ve simply spent some time asking Him what to do with the money–and He opened my eyes to some local needs. God gets the glory for this….I give because He has taught me to give. My hands are open towards others’ needs because His hands are always incredibly open to my needs. I hope this testimony glorifies God and encourages you to ask Him how He may be more magnified through your own, unique walk.
Okay. No more delays. Now the photos.
Okay. I’ve gotta say just one thing. I was shocked that more people used the fire truck than this adorable Studebaker. Isn’t it just the cutest thing? Who is your favorite? I know loads of people are having dress envy over Kate’s adorable ModCloth ensemble. It’s so perfect. I’m a huge fan of Carson and Olivia, personally. {Fourth down on the left column.} They dazzled me with their cuteness last year when they came in PJ’s with milk and cookies. This year the whole family was there and they looked so sharp! I love Carson’s tiny vest and tie!!
I was very excited that Mr. Caswell–the legend himself–stopped by for a photo. He is the owner of this adorable car and was kind enough to let me borrow it {and drive it!!!!} for the weekend. He’s an avid local collector who showed me stalls filled with cars of all kinds and let me have the pick of the litter.
But I’ll be totally honest. I can’t pick a favorite. That’s why these collages are so huge! Okay. On to the fire truck. Everyone loved using this cool truck and I don’t blame them. It’s rustic and colorful and looks undoubtedly Christmasy with an evergreen stacked on the back.
Let’s take just a second to recognize all the super cute outdoor wear that came to the fire truck sessions. Hats galore! I’m especially partial to the little reindeer hat worn by the littlest member of the Forehand clan. {Insert excited squeaking here.}
Next I’d like to thank all the precious pups that joined their families on photo day. Everyone behaved so well, and most {except Mr. Taco in the right column} even looked at the camera.
I love these warm and wacky images–from the wreath around Eddie’s neck to the tight squeezes and piles of empty presents. This crop brings a smile to my face and a pitter patter to my heart. We have fun, don’t we?
I hope you are having a happy Christmas season–and that these brought a little smile to your face. I never stop being awed by how unique and beautiful every person and every family is. Thanks to everyone who chose me and trusted me with your Christmas portrait. I’m honored and flattered and hope your Christmas card list is floored by your gorgeous photos!
xo
Amy
