While we're on the subject

This is the family photo I was commissioned to do for the MacBarrs' Christmas card. (I got mine in the mail several weeks ago, so I assume they have all gone out and I am not spoiling anyone's surprise. Also, since I own the copyright on the photo, I am allowed to do with it as I please, including posting it here. :) ) I quite liked the concept of the shot, though you can't please everyone and I wasn't surprised to hear some backlash from it; namely that moving a sofa out onto the lawn is hard and pretty unneccessary work (thanks for obliging, Cory) and that it makes the MacBarrs look like they are homeless (I gotta say, I never considered that point of view before). Anyway, while the camera was out, and to save me from going home and asking Chad to move our sofa out onto the lawn to recreate the scene, I asked Megan to take this for me. I must admit that it doesn't work nearly as well for a family of 3 as it does for a family of 4. You really need the bodies to fill up that sofa, so I'm glad the MacBarrs were willing to go along with the idea. This was taken with my kit lens, which I am hoping to replace soon with some better glass; if nothing else, maybe launching a business will help fund an expensive hobby (that is assuming it doesn't bomb and drain our life savings instead).

Today, in addition to the parent-tot swim which Chad has promised to come to (the selling point, I think, being use of the hot tub while Liam and I paddle), the first of the family arrives to celebrate the holidays. I warn you now, things are still pretty dishevelled around here. I have yet to tackle even one of my sewing projects, let alone both; still need the Christmas groceries; and have some cleaning left to do. Yesterday I did manage to get the handmade Christmas gifts finished and wrapped, which allowed me to clear off the dining room table for the first time in weeks: now that is progress.