Christmas Card Outtakes

Here are the ones which made it and the ones which didn't... for somewhat obvious reasons.

First of all, when you decide spur of the moment to photograph your children, you should COMB THEIR HAIR. But I didn't. Hey- au naturale, baby.

A little cropping takes care of the problem most of the time. :)

Speaking of cropping. Why didn't I notice this band of light on Sam's face? This pic is oh so cute if it weren't for that distracting light band.

So, crop away. (My current solution to just about everything)

Zack is not the best subject to photograph. Too wiggly perhaps. Here are a few good ones that showcase his funny personality and are hopefully cropped in enough to hide his rats nest hair. Just pretend you don't notice.

Sam thought the light from the windows was WAY too bright.

Especially when combined with my flash. :)

But that doesn't stop me.

These boys were being so adorable, when their hugging didn't turn into a wrestling match that almost knocked over our Christmas tree.

But don't worry. It didn't fall over. Only ALMOST.

Their bad guy faces. A staple these days.

Sweet moments.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Great Grandpa

2008

2010

We love this man and his legacy. Sadly, he passed away this past week. I have always felt tangibly loved by Matt's grandfather even though I married into the family. When we named Sam, we named him after Matt's distant ancestor, William Bradford, since we lived in Boston at that time. We also named him for this man. He and Sam shared their middle name. Hopefully Sam will take after his great grandfather and grow up to be a kind-hearted, witty, smart, loving, and charismatic man as well.

Until we meet again, Grandpa, we will miss you dearly.

Santa's Elves and Sick Days

Overheard today...

Sam: Dad, do Santa and his elves MAKE all the toys or BUY all the toys for Christmas?

Matt: Santa has a very complicated supply chain network.

This is one five-year-old boy who is VERY excited for Christmas this year!

(Sorry for the horrid picture quality... that's the best I can do with what I have)

On another note, Matt took a sick day last week (unheard of). Sam and Zack found him reading a book on our bed and just had to join him.

Matching Clothes, Baubles and That Smile...

Cute somewhat matching boys this morning wanted to pose for a photo shoot. This is their "excited" face. Note Zack's NORMAL face...

Then, when I tell them to smile... I get THIS.

Did you want to see that closer up? I thought so. Check out Zack's maniacal smile.

But, how could you not love these cute faces? Ignore their red chapped lips. That's what you get in Utah in December...

On another note, I love wearing baubles. (And for Leese - here's a not-so-great pic of my not-so-recent-anymore haircut)

And this? No words...

None at all...