And The Winner Is...

Back in April, I posted a contest for a free photo shoot. My readers had to send me a letter telling me why they or someone they know deserves a free photo shoot. Several of you sent me your letters, and I must say, did not make it very easy for me. Each letter was heart felt and special to read. However, there can only be one winner, and that person is Chelsea McConnell. I hope she doesn't mind me re posting portions of her letter, but it was too nice to keep to myself.

Hey Elizabeth!
After getting the invite for this free photo session, I sat here and tried to think of someone I knew that should have the chance to have some of your beautiful photos, and it didn't take long to realize that those two people were right in front of my face. My mom and dad will be celebrating 27 years of marriage on the 7th of March. My dad is currently in Washington D.C. for six months, working for the Coast Guard. He lost his civilian job over a year ago and has been working on and off for the military in different places ever since... I can see it has been hard on both of them. Like I said, my dad is now in D.C. for 6 months. He came back to visit us this past weekend, and it was hard on all of us to see him leave. Recently, my dad switched from being a reservist in the Coast Guard to being active duty, and is now part of a unit that is going to start training in August. He will be stationed down there until his unit ships out in December. This is just a few months after he comes back from D.C. for good.
I think it would be great for my parents to have pictures made for their anniversary, but the most important reason is because Dad will be leaving for about a year to be in the Middle East at the end of this year, and having pictures with his wife and kids would be great for him. The last family portrait we had taken... was not that great.
I just think this would a great present to give to Dad before he leaves for his tour of duty, and it would be a great reminder for Mom that she has a loving man who is going away in order to provide for his family.

Thank you,
Chelsea

Yesterday was the date of our shoot, and it couldn't have fallen on a better weekend. The square was full of American flags; a great background for a military family. Here are few of my favorites from the afternoon.

6 Month Old Patrick

This is my second time photographing little Patrick, and he is too cute for words. As you can see, he has the biggest blue eyes, and the most adorable smile. The last time I saw him, he was small and immobile. This time, he has learned to crawl. I am enjoying this small movement now, because I know in three months, I might possibly be chasing this little guy to get a photo. Here are few of my favorites from the day.

9 Month Old Wesley

Baby Wesley is my nephew, and I have to confess that I am in love with his cheeks. They are so chubby and kissable. Here are a few of my favorites.

The Mershon Family

There is a unique story that goes along with this shoot, because Amy Mershon happens to be my fourth cousin. We have been living in the same area for eighteen years, and today we are meeting for the first time. About two years ago, I met Amy's father at a family reunion, we connected on facebook later, and then Amy and I met this weekend. I think it is really fun to find a distant family member and than be able to be apart of capturing their intimate family moments. The Mershon kids are absolutely adorable with their bright blue eyes; and young Sarah is a model in the making. She was far from shy, and was striking a pose the whole time. I look forward to spending more time with my new found family in the future.

The Elie Family

This weekend I had the pleasure of meeting the Elie Family. The Elies are the sweetest couple, and they have four great kids. They also brought both sets of grandparents as well. We were quite the crowd walking around the Square on Saturday. If you happened to be there at the same time, you would not have noticed us, because there were thousands of other people there already for an open market and a charity walk. It was amazing we were even able to take pictures with such a large crowd, but luckily all the alley ways and small streets were people free. Note to self, check out public events before picking a location.

Anyways, here are a few from the day...

The LaQuaglia Family

This will be my third time photographing the LaQuaglia boys, and I must say they get more fun the older they get. In the past, I have only photographed the boys, but I was able to convince mom and dad to join in on some shots. I am glad they agreed, because some of my favorite ones are of the whole family. A little time in Piedmont park made for a great afternoon. Afterwards, our families extended the evening at The Flying Bisquit. Yum!