The glowing light, warm colors and surrounding Christmas trees made this one of my favorite family sessions of this holiday season! This photo session happened soon after Thanksgiving and it was the perfect way to get into a festive spirit.

Unlike most people I know, I can't say that Christmas is my favorite holiday. Perhaps it's the stress of shopping, colder weather, or high expectations I put on myself that have reduced the joy for me over the years. I would rather be watching fireworks on the 4th with my friend Kathleen (our tradition since elementary school) or sitting by candle light around my Aunt Anne's dinning table for Thanksgiving. But over the the years, I have changed my perspective of Christmas. Having kids has really helped this! All of a sudden the little things about the holiday that my kids enjoy - lights, songs, matching pjs, cookies for Santa, church on Christmas Eve - add up to special family memories that I cherish. These are the things I focus on and look forward to each year.

Merry Christmas and I hope you have a memorable holiday with your family and friends!