The Best Christmas Memories Are Never the Ones You Plan

Some of the best Christmas memories aren’t the ones you planned. They aren’t the perfect photos or the polished events. They sneak in when you're not looking.

This morning, my family let me sleep in. (truly the best gift…am I right???) I woke up to the sound of laughter coming from the kitchen.

When I finally wandered in, I found them deep in icing decorating a gingerbread house. Candy everywhere. And the kind of joy that doesn’t come from a schedule, but from being completely present.

There was no big plan for this morning. No checklist. No expectations. And maybe that’s what made it so good.

In all the hustle of December, it’s easy to feel like you need to create something big to make the season count. But honestly, the best part is when everyone is relaxed and together. When something simple turns into something lasting.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the season, here’s your reminder:

• Let go of the pressure to do it all

• Say yes to quiet mornings

• Laugh when the frosting ends up everywhere

• Remember that joy often shows up when no one is trying

This is where it’s at. These are the moments they’ll remember. And so will I.

And in full honesty, what you don't see here is the battle that followed when I asked them to clean up the kitchen. Frosting on the floor, sprinkles in places I didn’t know sprinkles could go, and some serious whining about who made which mess. We are far from a perfect family, but the mess and the memories come as a package deal.

Girls Day at the Gaylord ICE! Exhibit in Maryland

What was meant to be a full family outing didn’t quite go as planned. With Noah and Kelly both home sick, it quickly turned into a girls day instead. Thankfully, Taylor's mom Nicole stepped in, and off we went to the Gaylord ICE! exhibit at National Harbor. And despite the change in plans (and a few long lines), we had a great time. And after going, not bringing an inpatient 5 year old was the right move!

The event was themed around The Polar Express, and the ice sculptures were impressive. Everything was made out of ice. Characters, scenes, buildings. We had no idea it was going to be that cold though. Pro tip: the big blue parkas they give you help, but definitely bring gloves, hats, and layers underneath. We lasted longer than expected, but we were popsicles by the end.

There were long lines (expect to wait at several points), but the flow was as organized as could be expected and honestly you could only stay in the frigid temps for so long!

The Gaylord itself was beautifully decorated, with twinkling lights, garlands, and a full gingerbread city display that was next-level. That alone was worth walking through the lobby for. After ICE!, we stayed for gingerbread house decorating which was festive, messy, and fun.

If you go:

• Wear layers, bring gloves, and expect to be cold

• Leave extra time for lines - pack your patience and set expectations accordingly

• Don’t skip the gingerbread house decorating! (you only need to purchase 1 for everyone to participate together)

• Go early if you can, weekends are packed

Definitely a new holiday memory for the books. Will we return? Not so sure as crowds as not my fav, but glad to have finally seen it!

Home for the Holidays: Wrapped for the Year and Soaking Up the Cozy

The camera is packed away. Galleries are delivered. And this family photographer is officially signing off for the year.

After a full season of meeting new and familiar families, capturing milestones, chasing toddlers, and soaking up all the love, I’m taking a deep breath and settling in at home for the holidays.

The lights are twinkling. There are probably too many blankets and not enough hours in the day to enjoy them all, but that’s exactly how I like it.

This time of year always reminds me why I do what I do. It’s not about the perfect photo. It’s about the little things- the way your child hugs your leg, the glance between siblings, the laughter that happens when nobody is looking. That’s the magic. And that’s what I look forward to capturing again in 2026.

To everyone who trusted me with your memories this year; thank you. Whether we met in a park in Silver Spring, a garden in DC, or your own living room in Northern Virginia, every session was a joy.

As I wrap up the year, I’m sharing a few peeks of our own holiday home. Nothing fancy, but full of warmth, joy, and a little chaos—just how we like it.

Wishing you a peaceful season full of all the best stuff: naps, cookies, twinkle lights, and time with your people.

I’ll see you in 2026. I already can’t wait.