It's time to Picture the Holidays

It's time to Picture the Holidays

 

Thanksgiving has officially come and gone and now we begin the countdown to the many other holidays and festivities that will take us through the end of 2010. If you’re like me, you’re in full denial (my head is totally spinning from the time flying past) but I will continue to try to center myself, knowing that only I can decide how the next few weeks are going to go.

Right here, right now, I am setting my intention; I choose more contentment than craze, more fun than freak-out, more peace than pressure, and more wonder than worry.

Would you like to join me?

This week, my latest Picture class begins; Picture the Holidays. If you think that an email-a-day from me,  for the whole of December will help keep you in the right ‘frame of mind’ (pun totally intended) then I encourage you to register for the class and join me and a slew of amazingly creative women (a little bird told me that Ali Edwards and Kelly Rae Roberts are joining in this month) as we keep a focus on the things that matter most.  Consider Picture the Holidays a small gift of perspective you give yourself during a month where the extra inspiration can completely transform your season! Today, I’m giving away a complimentary registration for the class in honor of all the beauty we are sure to capture together.

Because I know I have to take this season a day at a time to keep myself mindful of what’s important, I keep my camera close at hand as my creative companion (hence the whole reason I created the photo-centric classes). How do you keep your wits about you this time of year? Photography? Brisk walks? Meditation? I’d love to hear your secrets and your photos!

Leave your comment here between now and Monday at midnight EST. Winners will be announced on Tuesday. Picture the Holidays begins on Wed, Dec 1st.

103 Comments
  • Lori P.
    Posted at 01:28h, 29 November Reply

    My camera is also what keeps me mindful during the holiday season. It offers another perspective on the preparations and festivities and allows me the opportunity to seek out the quiet moments that make the holidays truly magical.

  • Liz Nelson
    Posted at 01:34h, 29 November Reply

    I try to stay as organized as possible. I keep a running list of what I need to do and try to keep it updated. Now to maintain my sanity, utilizing creative outlets such as scrapbooking and photography help keep me grounded.

  • Marie Rush
    Posted at 01:35h, 29 November Reply

    With money tight, the gifts I give are my photos and photo gifts–that way I give a gift of myself and don't feel so guilty!

  • Pam
    Posted at 02:01h, 29 November Reply

    I try to keep the holiday hustle and bustle from beginning too early in the month. I also try not to make too much work out of it all. I love to cook for the holidays, but in turn, the decorating falls short. I guess , I choose to do what makes me happiest.

  • Denise
    Posted at 02:03h, 29 November Reply

    Picture the holidays sounds like a delightful way to stay grounded. In years past, I've turned to baking to keep my wits about me during the holidays.There's just something relaxing about mixing, measuring, pouring, scooping. I have to admit this year, I will be nesting. We close on our new home tomorrow and apartment living with half our stuff in storage has gotten the best of me. I can't wait to decorate our new space and make it feel like home.

  • Shelly
    Posted at 02:06h, 29 November Reply

    My camera helps me unwind during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Capturing memories helps me escape the stresses of everyday life and brings me instant euphoria!

  • Tara
    Posted at 02:07h, 29 November Reply

    Organization and working ahead are the only things that keep me sane during the holidays. I try to finish my shopping as early as possible, bake as much ahead as I can, and make homemade gifts (scrapbooks, cards, etc.) throughout the year. That way, I can kick back & relax once the season really gets underway!

  • Becky
    Posted at 02:18h, 29 November Reply

    When I get stressed during the holidays I try to take time to remember all of those less fortunate than I am at this time of the year, and throughout the year and that helps me keep perspective. Our children are still really small (3 yrs and 9 months) but we want our children to know the true meaning of Christmas and will plan to purchase gifts for the less fortunate and volunteer to keep our materialistic expectations in check.

    I'm eager to photograph the traditions that we are forming and look forward to looking back on this stage in our life in the future.

  • Alison
    Posted at 02:29h, 29 November Reply

    Would love to join in on Picture the Holidays – a busy time of year, but having this would help to maintain a focus on the smaller things.

  • Jess
    Posted at 02:29h, 29 November Reply

    I'm trying to use photography to help me slow down and savor the present moment. When looking through the lens I am only concentrating on that one thing.

  • KellyW
    Posted at 03:37h, 29 November Reply

    Music. Holiday music keeps me sane and centered.

  • Siobhan Wolf
    Posted at 03:50h, 29 November Reply

    Lists! Crossing items off the daily lists keeps me feeling like I am moving forward and the lists themselves keep me from leaving out important details. I have a hard time in the colder weather getting out and shooting enough, so most of what I do shoot is focused on celebrations or preparations for making holiday cards and gifts. I am looking forward to the class to help keep my creative focus during what is a very hectic month for me – in addition to the holidays, my birthday and my oldest daughter's birthday are in December. Lots of celebrating going on!

  • Kacky
    Posted at 03:50h, 29 November Reply

    I keep reminding myself that it all doesn't have to be perfect. I also try to incorporate my photography into the gifts I give as it is truly a way of giving something very personal and uniquely me.

  • Kelly Dollard
    Posted at 03:52h, 29 November Reply

    When I am behind my camera, the world seems so peaceful and serene. This will be my first holiday season where I am really taking my photography more seriously. I would feel incredibly blessed to have a professional's guidance.

  • Ellen Kauffman
    Posted at 03:53h, 29 November Reply

    Lists, music, my camera, and bubble baths! 🙂 I would LOVE to win this!

  • Rachelle
    Posted at 03:55h, 29 November Reply

    The holidays seem overwhelming sometimes… but I remind myself that it's not really about the gifts under the tree or the amount of money spent… it's about the times spent with those I love and the memories we make together. I'd love to be a part of the class, as right now with finances so uncertain, my camera is my constant companion that keeps me focused on the people and things I cherish.

  • Jessica
    Posted at 03:56h, 29 November Reply

    I wasn't quite feeling the Christmas spirit until, after putting up my nativity set the other night, I took out my camera and started taking pictures of it. As I recreated the story with my camera, I truly started feeling the joy and peace that this time of year should bring. I like that photography helps me keep my perspective. 🙂 I loved your Picture Fall class and hope to take Picture the Holidays, as well!

  • Marina D-K
    Posted at 03:57h, 29 November Reply

    With a full-time job and a long commute I really only have the weekends. So we make a list early get a few gifts each weekend and STICK TO THE LIST. Without the list we risk going over budget and spending too much time in the malls (whcih neither of us are a fan of.) There are a couple events with my girlfriends I really look forward to this time of year (one is a sleepover, the other is a cookie baking event at my house =) This time with friends and no-kiddos really help keep me refreshed and ready to finish the season.

  • Fran
    Posted at 03:58h, 29 November Reply

    On my "end of the year" resolutions list, making my camera a constant companion is at the top. I will be getting a new "big girl" camera for christmas so this class is gonna keep me going until Christmas morning. Thank you for sharing your talents with us. Can't wait until we start!

  • Beth Bevelhymer
    Posted at 03:58h, 29 November Reply

    I love to give personal gifts, so giving pictures is so much fun and it helps take off the pressure of finding a gift. I like to take photos of my friends kids and frame them as gifts! It is always the perfect gift!

  • TracyBzz
    Posted at 03:59h, 29 November Reply

    I don't have unreal expectations. Just enjoy my daughters and all my family in a relaxed Christmas-y way. I'm not a perfectionist, nor do I buy gifts for everyone. Stress free.

  • Laura
    Posted at 04:01h, 29 November Reply

    Just got my camera in late summer and need a lot of help figuring things out.

  • Jeanne boyle
    Posted at 04:03h, 29 November Reply

    The holidays make everything I look at that much more exciting, that much more sparkley, and in my eyes that much more photo worthy. Even if it's a plate of cookies or a stack of presents… And then, if we're lucky enough to get snow… Oh my! I need this class to spark my creativity… Please??

  • Myrian Ruiz
    Posted at 04:04h, 29 November Reply

    I love the Holidays. I love decorating for the season, but it's very changeling with two kitties. They can pull ornaments right off the tree…so my camera is my proof to show that I'm not going crazy…when I say…"Yup, my cat eat the jingle bell right off the tree!"…Haha…Tis the Season!

  • rachel
    Posted at 04:05h, 29 November Reply

    Lists! And amazon.com. : )

  • April Barfknecht
    Posted at 04:14h, 29 November Reply

    I try to stay as organized as I can all year but I love to keep a list of scrapbook pages I want to do and pictures I want to take. I would love to take the class and give me new skills to keep the holidays in perspective.

  • DanaN
    Posted at 04:14h, 29 November Reply

    I have to constantly remind myself to slow down and enjoy this special time. It's hard when there is so much to do. I can't wait for your class to start. It sounds like so much fun!

  • Michelle
    Posted at 04:15h, 29 November Reply

    I use lots of lists too, and try to remember to make time for talks with friends.

  • Kristin
    Posted at 04:15h, 29 November Reply

    Holiday music- keeps me motivated and moving!!

  • Caroline
    Posted at 04:16h, 29 November Reply

    Shop online! Simplify. The lists can get out of control.
    I love the idea of capturing the details of the holiday. It will all come to life!

  • Christina Tryon
    Posted at 04:25h, 29 November Reply

    I follow along with Ali Edwards' December Daily each December. I LOVE how it makes me more mindful of our traditions and to take the time to remember the details during the hustle and bustle. Plus-as I look at my albums from year to year I have a visual record of just how much my photography improves and changes. Happy Holidays and thanks for the chance!

  • Lindsey (aka modchik)
    Posted at 04:30h, 29 November Reply

    How exciting to hear about the guest joining this group I'm reading Kelly Rae's book as we speak. I don't handle the holidays very well, but I'm trying. One thing that will be different is I have my photography and a new printer and I plan on gifting many prints, this will ease the load on my wallet. I am downsizing and really trying to stay focused on spending QUALITY time with my kids I know even with their lists what they really want is my time this holiday.

  • Sylvia
    Posted at 04:31h, 29 November Reply

    I'm a brand spankin' new blogger. I'm excited about capturing special moments and sharing through my blog this holiday season. My entire family and life-long friends are thousands of miles away and I hope, that through the magic of blogging, to stay close touch with my loved ones and also make new friends along the way.

  • Michele H.
    Posted at 04:35h, 29 November Reply

    I try to keep my expectations to a minimum, which can be pretty tough for a worry-wart like myself:) So organization and keeping a positive attitude are my two main goals I try to keep.

  • Lindsey
    Posted at 04:41h, 29 November Reply

    This time last year I was caught up in the heady excitement of expecting a very special visitor from overseas, what we didn't know then is that it would be our last Christmas with her. This year I am focused on the gifts she gave me ( the importance of family, cherishing each moment and being generous with my time, money and heart) and passing them on to my family so they know how much each and everyone of them means to me .
    My key words are Cherish and Handmade. I am making gifts for every member of my family so they have a tangible gift that shows them how much they mean to me, not just at Christmas but every single day of their precious lives. Its keeping me busy ,but it has changed the tone of my Christmas preparations , I am thorughly enjoying every minute of pouring my heart into it and it is a pleasure.

    Lindsey

  • Melissa B
    Posted at 04:43h, 29 November Reply

    I try to stay organized and try to make sure that each weekend we have one afternoon/night that we can be together just relaxing – no objectives.

  • Teresa
    Posted at 04:53h, 29 November Reply

    I love the holidays and the togetherness of the season. I really dislike the shopping frenzy and do my best to not get sucked into the
    commercial craziness. Being with family and friends, creating and capturing memories..that is what keeps me grounded.

  • Tavia
    Posted at 04:54h, 29 November Reply

    Say a prayer before I even get out of bed. Make lists, finish before I need to, I love the sirius "Holly" channel its a great mood adjuster. I just try to enjoy the everyday ordinary things. Thank you for this opportunity to win!!

  • Nancy K
    Posted at 04:55h, 29 November Reply

    Apparently I am keeping my wits by entering some sort of winter hibernation… the last few days, I've fallen asleep with the kiddos and not woken until the next morning… 12 hrs sleep each night (and a ton of dirty dishes)! Lovely giveaway, thx so much 🙂

  • Erin
    Posted at 05:03h, 29 November Reply

    I did a December Daily two years ago and missed it last year. I found that when I did it, slowing down to take a photos and taking time to write some journaling about that day really helped me to slow down, relax and enjoy the holiday season more!

  • Katrina from Southern California
    Posted at 05:05h, 29 November Reply

    Can't wait for class to start! My new lens is on it's way (50 mm Macro Lens). This is my second class and since my 50mm just was not getting the same look I purchased an early Christmas Gift for the Holiday Class. I truly do love these classes thank you Tracey for all your hard work 🙂

  • Jamie Solorio
    Posted at 05:05h, 29 November Reply

    For me, I try not to stress over the little things and to tell you the truth…and the big things. I go through life in my "little bubble" and I love it. I block out the negativity and try to just enjoy the little gifts given to me each day. Like today, my 3 year old was watching tv singling along to Jingle Bells in her cute little high pitched voice. I just sat back and enjoyed the moment and didn't think about anything else other than my daughter and her adorable voice.

    I would love to participate in your class Tracey! I took Picture Spring and found that my photography really started to blossom from your terrific prompts each day. Some nights I would even stay up until midnight when you sent your emails out…why…so I could go to bed thinking about your inspirational message and how I could capture it on film.

    Thanks for the chance!!!! 🙂

  • jo marks
    Posted at 05:21h, 29 November Reply

    this year i am committing to the december daily project (mainly with photography), and giving myself time to do something i love. like others, i have many lists to keep me on track (but am mindful of what i add to the list and it's importance.) I have also enlisted the help of my two teens, and they are relishing the opportunity to help me make this christmas extra special for our little soon-to-be 5 year old – as she also celebrates her birthday on Christmas Eve! Besides that,having Christmas CD's on rotation keeps my spirits up! 😀

  • sarai
    Posted at 05:31h, 29 November Reply

    My camera really does help me stayed centered during the holidays. It slows me down and helps me to remember to take in each moment and to look around me with a fresh, new perspective.

  • Lynn M
    Posted at 05:36h, 29 November Reply

    This is my favorite time of year. To help keep my wits about me, I make lists in a small spiral notebook I keep in my purse. Anything that pops in my head I jot in the notebook. Once I have a few minutes, I go through the list to prioritize and pull similar items together on specific lists. Sounds complicated, but really isn't. Things get crossed off and other things get added as I go through my day. I'd love to win a spot in Picture the Holidays. I've enjoyed all of your "Picture" classes this year.

  • Suzanne/manchesterlass
    Posted at 05:44h, 29 November Reply

    I used to go crazy trying to mail out all my Christmas cards before the big day. Now I mail out Happy New Year cards instead, it saves a lot of the extra stress of trying to get in touch with everyone by the 25th, and I know all my friends and family look forward to receiving our news every January instead. So during December, I write down little memories of the year just past, and seek out new ways to remember them in photographs for our family newsletter. Thanks to the three Picture Classes I took this year, I have a wealth of photographs to choose from this time!

  • Donna
    Posted at 06:12h, 29 November Reply

    I love the holiday season for the time of family gatherings and the reminder of what we are really celebrating. It saddens me that we get so caught up in "black friday", stressing and rushing to find gifts for family and friends. Whatever happened to traditional gifts…such as the cherished stories and memories captured in a simple photograph. That is my desire for this Christmas – to share with my family and friends those captured moments – so they will last in the minds of loved ones…forever.

  • Christina Gurr
    Posted at 08:13h, 29 November Reply

    We never wanted Christmas to be about each of us (that's what our own birthdays are for), but rather celebrating our Savior's birth.
    With that as our goal, it lets us off the hook for all the extra pressures that the holidays bring, and we can just spend quality time with each other and celebrate, decorate and just enjoy the wonderful Christmas atmosphere!

  • Jen
    Posted at 08:31h, 29 November Reply

    I live in Germany and I've found there is a completely different pace of life at Christmas here. Germany lights up for Christmas, and every city, town, and tiny village sets up a Christmas market in their town squares – little wooden cabins packed with delights and delicious-smelling food. Here, the season is more about being out collectively as a community, standing around talking and laughing while sipping mugs of warm, spiced wine. I like to use my camera to collect those special daily moments here that are so different from my home. It helps center me about what's really important in this season. I'd really love to learn how to capture those emotive moments here.

  • Joan F
    Posted at 08:42h, 29 November Reply

    Would love to be in Picture the Holidays and all the amazing photographers. Be a nice present for me during this time of giving for everyone else.

  • Katrina
    Posted at 10:55h, 29 November Reply

    This year, I'm trying to approach the holidays with extra mindfulness towards self-care. Meditation, a regular date with the gym, and exercising the right to say "no." cheers!

  • KimA
    Posted at 11:25h, 29 November Reply

    I try to keep it simple. This year I'm limiting gift buying. I'm making a few things. I am going to try to get my camera out stay focused on the moment and what's important.

    Thank you! 🙂

  • sherry mescher
    Posted at 11:40h, 29 November Reply

    keeping it simple. focus on creating memories.

  • yvonne
    Posted at 12:00h, 29 November Reply

    it is a challenge for sure.
    i try to stay a little more organized with my piles of papers.
    thanks for the opportunity to win and if my name is chosen i will be giving it away on my blog, as i already purchased the class for myself.

  • Cait
    Posted at 12:45h, 29 November Reply

    With a four year old and an almost-two-year-old, the holidays are a whirlwind of activity. I always tell myself I'm going to slow down and enjoy (or snap a photo or two) but it never seems to happen. Maybe I should take a picture of my evening cup of mulled cider? 🙂

  • Cheri
    Posted at 13:04h, 29 November Reply

    Seriously can't wait to get started! My camera will be my guide for this season!

  • chris
    Posted at 14:28h, 29 November Reply

    Remember the "reason for the season", pay with cash and put the tree and decorations away on December 26.

  • AnnGeeDee
    Posted at 14:51h, 29 November Reply

    I keep my wits about me by stopping and taking a deep breathe and forgiving myself for not being able to do everything at once. (And a coffee treat from Starbucks always helps.) I've already registered, but I'd love to invite another friend to join in the merriment.

  • sylvia
    Posted at 14:54h, 29 November Reply

    Photography is my form of meditation. The act of considering my subject, my settings, my intention is an act of meditation for me. And when I drive, I think. I compose. I ponder. I’ve written the best letters, stories and, yes, blog entries, while on the open road, only to lose them like dreams when I reach my destination.

  • isaida
    Posted at 14:56h, 29 November Reply

    I keep my camera handy at all times and try to capture all the precious memories. Every year I bake cookies with my boys and sister and her little boy. Time is fleeting, soon they will be too big for Santa, reindeer and the magic of the season. I hate for it to end.

  • AudreyV
    Posted at 15:36h, 29 November Reply

    I try to keep my sanity by doing less and actively trying to enjoy the simple things of the season. I would love to take your class, Picture the Holidays ;).

  • Jess
    Posted at 15:41h, 29 November Reply

    I want so badly to enjoy the holidays this year. We lost a very close friend just three months ago and we are working hard to help his wife and three children. After putting up our tree this weekend, we headed right over to help get their tree in the door. Our friend is trying so hard to keep everything just the same for the kids as she eats nothing and struggles for sleep at night. I'm digging for some sparkle this year and hope to capture lots of it. I'm also looking forward to seeing what others bring to the table. Photography is my outlet…my zone…I'm hoping that my friend will feel normal again someday. I'm hoping she can find her zone…

    Can't wait to get started…

  • Nancy
    Posted at 15:48h, 29 November Reply

    A little trick I learned from Jessica Sprague last year – set my expectations, priorities or whatever you want to call them NOW and keep that focus. I concentrated solely on "completing" the five things on my list and I was sane and happy through the whole holiday. It was lovely!

  • Heather M.
    Posted at 16:30h, 29 November Reply

    For me, it's saying no to things – it is SO hard to do but so worth it for my sanity and the sanity of my family. 🙂 I'd love to take this class. I took Picture Spring and absolutely loved it.

  • Michelle Kennedy
    Posted at 16:47h, 29 November Reply

    Keeping my wits about me with photoshoots of cute animals, snuggling with my puppy & hot chocolate too.
    'Tis the season!

  • melissa
    Posted at 17:18h, 29 November Reply

    thank you for this generous and exquisite offering. these days…seeking stillness and silence (not to be had too often), but finding myself living for the dance. it is by moving my body through space that is allowing me to shed some craze.

  • SherryG
    Posted at 18:10h, 29 November Reply

    I have yet in my 51 years found a way to maintain sanity this time of year. It did nto help that I became a college instructor 16 years ago and this time of year with end of term and exams just makes me extra crazy. I give an an exam on the 21st this year. It seems our schedule was made by Scrooge with an assist from The Grinch. I am alreaydy signed up for the class and hope the time it takes daily to get the photo will help me stay grounded.

  • meg
    Posted at 18:54h, 29 November Reply

    More peace than pressure? Count me in, please!! I'm going to try to take an afternoon walk with the girls at least 3 times a week. That should help bring on some peace!

  • Bianca
    Posted at 19:27h, 29 November Reply

    This class sounds like much fun! Would love to win it…

    Greetings from Germany, Bianca

  • Anita
    Posted at 19:27h, 29 November Reply

    I would love to take this class. Thanks for the chance to win a spot. Happy Holidays!

  • Annette Q
    Posted at 19:56h, 29 November Reply

    sounds like a great course! I'm one of those people who leaves everything till the last minute. I've been trying to think what I do to keep sane this time of year and I dont think I organise myself in anyway at all! I just go with the flow, go with the mad rush and craziness of it all and love it! I enjoy it to the fullest and I wouldnt have it any other way;-)

  • janet j
    Posted at 20:03h, 29 November Reply

    I like your intention. Mine is similar…but 365 days a year. 'Take deep breaths. Enjoy THIS moment. Be Authentic.' You can't go wrong with that. Thank you for your reminders! jj

  • melody
    Posted at 20:06h, 29 November Reply

    I want to steal your intention! It's perfect! I definitely find my calm in photography… even just a simple wander around the yard….

  • Sarah
    Posted at 20:12h, 29 November Reply

    Lists, Lists, Lists, comfy clothes and more lists!

  • Robin Troxell
    Posted at 20:15h, 29 November Reply

    My camera and my kids keep me centered – its amazing what little things bring them pure joy – I want to get back to that!

  • justin
    Posted at 20:34h, 29 November Reply

    photography, lists, online shopping, and continually reminding myself of what is truly important! this year, on thanksgiving, i decided to start a 365 project to help myself stay focused on gratitude and the little things that mean so much: http://extraordinarymagic.blogspot.com/
    this class would be perfect to help keep myself on track! happy holidays!

  • prairiegirl
    Posted at 20:41h, 29 November Reply

    i am so ready for the holidays this year, and cannot wait to capture them on film! Christmas tunes are already being played in high rotation as the tree and decorations come out….and oh! the eggnog!

  • Kelli Rootes
    Posted at 21:10h, 29 November Reply

    Being creative over the holidays and cherishing moments with my new little family!! Our first Christmas together before my husband goes overseas for 5 months:(

  • Laura Lee
    Posted at 21:22h, 29 November Reply

    I am certainly ahead of the game this year. The outside lights are up and the trees are up. We have taken our Christmas Card photos and my three precious daughters have already talked to (& taken pictures) with Santa. i would love a new way to breathe, be present and reflect on Christmas this year.

  • jill p
    Posted at 21:27h, 29 November Reply

    Amazon has totally saved my sanity so far this year! 🙂 I also love the lights and music – but I do not love how crazy everything can get. My favorite part of Christmas is always capturing the fun with my camera. I love the idea of using it to center myself for the whole run up to the holiday as well – I'll definitely be doing that this year. Thank you!

  • diane herman
    Posted at 21:42h, 29 November Reply

    I focus on having fun with my kids 🙂

  • Sandie
    Posted at 22:36h, 29 November Reply

    Oh- I would so love to do this course. I carry my camera everywhere. I mean everywhere. Because you never know when that magical moment might happen. Like last year when I drove along a country lane and came to a flooded part of the road. Where cars had passed, water had splashed the hedgerow forming icicles, and creating a spectacular ice sculpture. It brightened my whole day. I'm looking forward to more festive fun this season. This course would just put a REAL sparkle into my Christmas.
    Thank you for this generous offer.

  • Aloha
    Posted at 23:53h, 29 November Reply

    Would love to join you for this class. Love your new book, just got it.

  • claudia
    Posted at 00:41h, 30 November Reply

    This is the first year I've started shopping before December, so it's already less stressful than most years 🙂 Thanks for the chance to win!

  • Lorena Mora
    Posted at 01:11h, 30 November Reply

    Perfect class to get us using our camera daily!

  • Julie Parmer Hosley
    Posted at 01:27h, 30 November Reply

    Taking time to remember those I love with handmade gifts this year…and that just might include a photo or two! Happy Holidays, Tracey!

  • Krista Kruger
    Posted at 01:55h, 30 November Reply

    Dancing with my kids… great upbeat music, and fun spastic dancing together. Nothing beats it!

  • Kim Padden
    Posted at 02:21h, 30 November Reply

    I keep my focus on the magical beauty that is the Christmas season. I love looking at all the Christmas lights and this year have gone all out with putting up lights in my living room to bring some more of that magic right into my own home. I am loving how beautiful and magical it looks in my cozy little apartment and I keep the lights on whenever I'm at home.

  • Susan
    Posted at 02:53h, 30 November Reply

    I try to maintain my patience by keeping lists and not trying to worry about getting each detail right. Most importantly I pray that I remember that we celebrate Christmas as birth of Christ our Savior. I know HE would not want me running around like this. I took my first photography class at a community college one spring semester. My first day out it was -10! I loved it but never really learned the secrets of taking good inside Christmas shots. I would love to be entered for the giveaway.

  • lizzie w
    Posted at 03:00h, 30 November Reply

    i just try to take each day as it comes. this year i have started shopping waaayyy earlier than usual and have started making gifts now rather than waiting until xmas eve. i wish i could say that i workout to help stay in the moment, but i've been delinquent in that department. i am on a 'media diet' so that i have more face time with my daughter.

  • mira
    Posted at 03:04h, 30 November Reply

    what really matters is what keeps me centered this time of year. that and a whole lot of self compassion.

    thanksgiving was a fantastic moving practice of "I am Enough." In each moment, through the meal, making our home lovely, and dashing to get myself primped a little as our friends arrived, it was all just enough. and that helped me to appreciate and love rather than to beat on myself for a too dry turkey, or for spending the evening in houseshoes instead of snazzy shoes like some of my guests, or for forgetting to put silverware on the table. 😉 and after it all, it was the best thanksgiving ever. Truly wonderful in every way.

    Thanks for offering a place in your class. It sounds like a wonderful way to step up my creativity and compassion.

  • Stacie
    Posted at 03:05h, 30 November Reply

    This is the perfect compliment to my December Daily journey this year! Thanks so much for the invitation!

  • alesa
    Posted at 03:13h, 30 November Reply

    I can barely remember a time when I didn't love to capture the world around me through a viewfinder. Would love it!!

  • jacqueline
    Posted at 03:19h, 30 November Reply

    I really enjoy this time of the year so much so that i love buying things that add props to my holiday photos! Have a lovely merry happy week and love to yoU!

  • Breanne
    Posted at 03:50h, 30 November Reply

    I could definitely use the reminder to enjoy the holiday season.

  • Laura
    Posted at 04:05h, 30 November Reply

    My camera. Lists. Playing outside with my children and my camera. Running in the snow. Inspiring photography.

  • robindianecreates
    Posted at 04:30h, 30 November Reply

    This year I seemed to be more organized. I have already bought and wrapped my daughter's gifts. Yeah me..decorations have been put up. Normally, I am disorganized and just have to sit back and take deep breaths. It helps if I make lists too.

  • Micki
    Posted at 06:46h, 30 November Reply

    Tonight as I write this comment there is a storm raging outside, a good analogy for this past year. We have suffered a few storms; my mum is facing the dreaded C word, cancer, my husband doesn’t have the health or work he once had, and my daughter is disoriented and has lost her true north; her family. She will come back to us, my mum is alive Today, and my husband will sort out what he needs to. I believe that we can never expect anything, but we can hope for everything.

    I Love Christmas but this year with the inclement weather in my life, it feels sad around the edges…except for the bouncing, chewing, loving 11 lb, 10 week old Irish Terrier who’s name is MaCroi pronounced mah cree Irish for my heart, we call him Croi and no and leave the cat alone and ouch my fingers!

    My camera is out and ready to capture the joy and moments of a life, my life, during this holiday season. Inclement weather you say? Nah, just a storm and this too shall pass.

  • Donna Heart
    Posted at 06:57h, 30 November Reply

    How do I keep my wits about me? I try not to book too much in. On the 1st of december when we put up our tree and play Bing Crosby (a family tradition!) I begin to get excited about the month ahead. I try to make the days leading up to Christmas as mindful and important as Christmas Day itself by getting the children to join me in writing letters to loved ones, choosing food from the supermarket to put in to hampers for those in need, having us all find one thing we can give away, and hopefully this year as they are older, to devote some family time to volunteering with a local outreach to those less fortunate. We also try and make gifts for each other, and gift our time to do something nice for each other as well. There's a whole lot of love in December!!!

  • Aimee Confer
    Posted at 15:48h, 30 November Reply

    Organization helps keep me mindful and focused for the holiday. i loved your picture spring class but unfortunately can't afford this class this year. i would love the opportunity for a creative outlet for "me". thanks tracey.

  • Amy Jo
    Posted at 22:44h, 30 November Reply

    D'oh! I missed the deadline, but I'll thrown my comment into the ring anyway. So far these holidays have been festive but not overwhelming. I'm hoping to keep the insanity at bay by knowing when to say ENOUGH! Plus, I just got a new camera (on a super-sweet black friday deal!) so I'm hoping that it'll help keep me cool, calm and collected!

  • Picture the Holidays – Holding onto Gratitude | A Madison Mom
    Posted at 17:02h, 22 October Reply

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  • Picture the Holidays – Holding onto Gratitude
    Posted at 17:55h, 05 November Reply

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