As I photographed the baptism of Hanna Ryan Cramer, I thought of that song. Karen and Ryan created a beautiful ceremony in their home designed to bring their close friends and family together for Hanna’s baptism.  Ryan’s Uncle David spoke of the love that brought this life into the world and asked all present to pledge to support this new family as he baptized Hanna. Each word spoken was with the thought of raising a child in a community and with intent. For Karen and Ryan the amazing journey of parenthood has begun – and they have given Hanna a great start on growing wings to fly!

Staying at my brother and sister in laws home is always magical this time of year.  Fran loves Christmas even more than I do and it shows throughout their home – new and old decorations creating a warm, contented feel.    If ever there was a place that Santa will visit, it is their home.    Their library invites you to sit by the fire and read the afternoon away.  Their lane reminds me of Robert Frost poems.  Their Christmas table is always set just right – mixing greens and reds with delightful results.  They love creative people and surround themselves with many who share their love of music, conversation and sitting by a warm fire to end each day.

I share these pictures with you as I start my countdown to next year’s Christmas.  Wishing you wonder as you start your new year.   I trust you will fill it with good people and good times.  May we all come to the end being thankful, as I am, for the many – many people who stuff each year to the brim!

So I choose to make hot chocolate, curl up with a good book, go out to meet friends for dinner – and pretend it is snowing! Very soon, I will have my wish granted as I visit family up north and share their snow. The anticipation of joy to come!

Today, I thought I would offer some of the pictures that are coming from this year’s Norcross Tour of Homes. This was a great tour year – with so many remarkable homes to photograph. As Christmas draws closer, I will offer you, my Internet friends, more of the festive decorations that made this year’s homes unique. Stay tuned! I trust you will have a peaceful Sunday today!

Have a great weekend! ~ Beth

The first day I was there I walked Layla’s neighborhood with her and we talked about all the funny & interesting things she saw from her stroller. There were times she tried to stand up a la Kate Winslet in the bow of the Titanic and she smiled as she enjoyed the ever changing views.

Layla and I decided that I would take pictures of everything that we thought was interesting. I promised her I would continue to do so on my side trip to the Keys. So, Layla, this blog is dedicated to you. Here are our pictures. Thank you for the pat hugs, for blowing me kisses, for laughing when I danced to Sesame Street, and for so much joy. I miss you already – can’t wait to plan my next trip to see you again.

~ Beth (aka Moe)

Halloween costumes …  where do we come up with the ideas for  what our children will wear for Halloween ?  When the doorbell rings and “trick or treaters” pop up, the best surprises are those costumes that aren’t “canned.”  They may not be store bought perfect – heck, they may not even be on straight but you can see the creativity in them.

You know, those of you who read our blog regularly, that my three grandchildren are a constant source of delight.   This was the first Halloween where they were big enough to be dressed in costume.   In Florida, Layla was a peacock.   After getting the hang of people offering treats, Layla apparently began to be delighted each time she could put her hand in a basket and take more of the shiny stuff people were offering to her.  The pictures of her are from my son and his wife – still labeled “Seitz Photography” because technically they were photographed by a Seitz! 

Back in Georgia, Thomas and Iris were dressed as 2 of the Marx brothers – Groucho and Harpo.   The Marx Brother’s movies were played often in our house when the kids were young so it came as no surprise that my daughter thought to dress her children as 2 of the zany brothers.  A hat with golden locks like Harpo was made for Iris – along with a horn found at Target in the bike aisle.  She was complete!   Thomas had a Groucho sweater and then was ready for makeup.  Putting hair gel and then face makeup on a 12 month old is an interesting site to watch.  Jaime and Matt tag teamed and- voila’ – Thomas was transformed into Groucho!    The result was hilarious.   Thomas may not have appreciated it but he looked good!

I trust everyone had a Happy Halloween.  Here are a few pictures from those 3 little people who bring such joy!

                     Phew!  Halloween is over – Iris can be wrapped in her swaddler and get some rest!!!

If you live in Atlanta you may well have heard of Rainbow Village. They are a growing organization with a mission to “ provide families in domestic or economic crisis a healing environment to rebuild their lives through a community based traditional housing program that promotes self-sufficiency.”  A mouthful which, simply interpreted, says they help families get back on their feet by teaching them their self worth, giving them safety, community and joy.

Stories were shared during the evening about how these women rose out of their struggles with abusive relationships  and are building new lives.  They have learned how to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness for themselves and their children.

It was our privilege to offer each family there family portraits.  It is our joy to share a few of those portraits with you.   As I see their faces, I remember I have been blessed with so much.  “To whom much has been given, much will be required” rings in my mind and know at this time of so many people struggling it is good to give back.

Look up Rainbow Village – they can use support in so many ways.  If you cannot support them yourself – pass this note on and spread the word.

Fast forward many years and Beatle’s music still goes strong. Imagine my delight when I walked into Mojito’s in Norcross recently to photograph the reception of a bride and groom. A band – named The Mystery Trip – was there and each song took me right back to hearing Beatle’s songs over and over throughout my life. Great music and great sound!

They book in the Atlanta area so if you are looking for live music for a reception or an event, please check them out! http://www.themysterytrip.net/ A few pictures of the band in action – and on break!