The holidays for me have always represented an opportunity to visit with family and friends.  My memories are marked by video cameras, Canon cameras (my Dad and my Uncle had Canon SLRs during my childhood, but for whatever reason, I went with the Nikon suite), food and desserts for everyone, parties, the purple Motown Christmas album (up until 1998, we played the actual vinyl album every Christmas), games, presents hidden in the Christmas tree, and children playing.  Now that I am getting a little older, we do gifts less, but for the past 3 years, I have not missed my annual trip back home to TX to spend the holidays with family and friends.Out there, among other family, I have a great aunt that lives in a nursing home, and last year, we paid her a visit.

Now, I didn’t know too much about her, but she knew exactly who I was… as a matter of fact, she had pictures of me on her wall since my Grandma sent them to her.  Now, in the whole scheme of a year, visiting with her for an hour or two does not seem like much.  But when you think about how many visits she gets in a year, it places a premium on that one visit.  As the viewers of my blog, I want to encourage you all to visit your loved ones, if you can… especially those that lived in assisted living facilities.  Your time will mean the world to them, even if you think they don’t even know you’re there.  You bring a little something special by just being there!

Below is one of my favorite pictures this season from a recent portrait session in Pennsylvania.  What I love about it is her genuine expression and implied wisdom.  Remember to spread the love this holiday season!