The Christmas card picture

I had an idea for a Christmas card picture this year that I thought was fitting for the season. I would dress the kids up like the nativity scene and it would be a magical experience for all. Well, three photo shoots later in our family room and I got a cute picture, it wasn't exactly what I had in mind, but I still love it. Here is the final product:

But let's review the outtake pictures of the fun. I took close to 300 pictures trying to get a good picture. I also tried several different poses. In case you were wondering, the Joseph costume is from last year's Christmas play at church and my mom helped me make a quick Mary costume. Grant is just wrapped in a white sheet.

Andrew was having a wardrobe malfunction in this picture. The hat (I don't think it is called a hat, but I don't know what else to call it) is on wrong and his robe is all tweaked on the side. Not to mention Claire's lovely smile - this will be a recurring theme.

I asked them to look at Grant in the picture, but Claire is laying on the manger. Plus the flash went off when it shouldn't have and Grant is glowing white.

I asked them to lean down and kiss Grant, and now he is missing. Danny said that my directions were too complicated.

I tried a different background and it didn't work out. Plus what is Claire doing???? A baby head lock and what is with the crazy smile?

So I told her to move her hand and to smile correctly and this is what I got - hurt feelings.

This is the "I didn't know we were taking pictures" shocked expression.

Biting the fingers and wiping the face aren't good nativity looks. Also, Claire has a tattoo on her hand from a birthday party. I don't think that Mary had a tattoo on her hand.

But I did get a few other cute pictures.


Our sweet little baby Jesus - although much more hay was needed in this picture.

Andrew was by far the most patient during all of the pictures.

Claire looking in on her little baby brother. Next year Andrew told me that he wants us all to be in the picture. I told him we could do that - better get back to the gym.