Here is a fun shot I took of Nico doing a one-crutch cartwheel. 

Today, family night took the form of making the holiday card photo. This year what is normally a challenge akin to herding cats was further exacerbated by the desire to include Nala in the photo. After many failed attempts involving the use of cheese to coax her into the frame (invariable with butt to camera) I took matters into my own hands. Within 10 seconds of initiating the camera’s timer, I had to remove my hat (it was freezing cold outside), run down from the deck, catch the dog, get into the frame, and smile. Although Nala still refused to face camera, the rest of the family found these antics so hysterical that we decided to use this version for our holiday card. 

I have more than a dozen cover photo shot candidates for Nicolai but this is probably my favorite. 

This weekend, I need to shoot a cover photo of Nico for a magazine called Choices. He will be featured in the February or March issue of this scholastic publication. The book was prepared to send a professional photographer up from New York City to take the photograph. Jeanine convinced them that I could do it and I will be spending a good part of Sunday attempting to make a compelling image. I shot this one in the Quinn’s backyard while Nico was resting from his soccer exploits. It is just a warm up but I am starting to get excited about the possibilities. 

I pulled Rachel away for a quick portrait. 

The kids played this card game which involved slapping the deck to win the cards below. Amazingly, no dislocated fingers or contusions resulted. 

Today we spent most of the day at the Quinn’s house and were introduced to their new puppy, Harpo. Nala did not take as quickly to her new cousin and required a slow introduction to prevent confusing the little Daschund for a bite size snack. 

Mother and daughter, two beauties. 

Nico was kind enough to get a photo of me with my dad. I do not have many of these and cherish each one. 

Rachel and Alissa pose for me. Although I have a version of them both smiling nicely, I like this one the best. 

Nephew John William is now taller than both Kyle and I. 

Nicolai giving me the eye. 

Brother-in-law John, mid story. 

Niece Rachel and Maya goofing around at the table.