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.