i think it must have been how bob cratchit felt — you know, at the end of “A Christmas Carol,” when scrooge (already having reformed his ways) surprises his apprehensive clerk with a big smile, a bump in salary, and an invitation to dinner. if you’re like most people, you don’t especially look forward to returning to work first thing the morning after Christmas Day festivities. i’ve been there; and i can’t blame you. but things are so much different for us now! it’s why we feel so blessed to do the work we do. when we arrived at the mcrae’s home at 7:30 am, december 26, older brother trai was there waiting, scarf around his neck, hands in pockets, and a warm smile to greet us. after exploring the grounds with him until our fingers froze, we went inside the toasty house where we encountered more cheery voices and warm, welcoming smiles. like cratchit’s unexpected encounter, a hugely gracious and welcoming spirit! it’s the spirit that came to epitomize all our Christmas family shoots: the feeling that we were part of the family, and that everyone was so glad we had arrived to join in the fun. and great fun we had! we were acquainted with the mcrae family through jessica and john’s wedding, at which barbara (in black boots above) was a bridesmaid. so we knew they were an exciting bunch. but their antics together — as a family and in their element at home — were a riot! we were so pleased with the shots we created with them. we hope they bring back equally fond memories to them all for years to come. can’t wait to get together with them again sometime. who knows? maybe a whole new reason to look forward to Christmas. 😉