Family Christmas Picture

I wish that I could say that we did this every year, but we just don't. Since we had a new addition this year, (2 if you count the dog) it was a must. Thinking that I could remove some of the stress, I decided to take the picture at home, myself. With a tripod and a self timer on the camera, how hard could it be?

After this years experience I now believe that it is impossible to get a good family photo with out breaking a sweat. Here's how it went this year: I know that my dear husband hates having his picture taken, (first little bit of stress kicks in, because I feel I need to hurry and get it done) and my son is at that age where he has the silliest smile, eyes closed, mouth all misconstrued, the whole deal. (now we have another little bit of stress, we have started a small 'stress pile') The baby really needs a nap, she is getting cranky but everyone is dressed and ready so we have to proceed. (More stress on the pile, whew! is it getting hot in here?) My daughters have decided that the dog needs to be in the picture as she is part of the family. (What? I have to worry about the DOG looking at the camera now? More stress.) In the first few photos everyone but my son looks great, it is actually laughable up until the 3rd picture. Finally on the forth I get what I think is a perfect picture until I realize, IT IS OUT OF FOCUS! Are you kidding me? The baby is really getting cranky now so I call in the backup. (yes, I had backup) I ended up having two different neighbors come over and shoot the picture for us before I got the 'almost perfect' one. I was stressed and sweaty and getting poked in the back by the Christmas tree but it was worth it. I hope you all enjoy, I feel very blessed to have such a beautiful family.