May 13, 2009

Photo Session in PA Giveaway!!!

When Camber lost her first tooth a month ago and the boys starting tugging and pulling at all of theirs, it hit me like a ton of bricks: we are fast approaching the age when I will ask my children to please NOT smile for pictures. Before the era of buck teeth and braces is fully upon us, I decided (against my entire family's wishes) to get our picture taken. Not counting the experienced teenagers employed by the J.C. Penney Portrait Studio in the mall, we've never worked with a professional photographer. Needless to say, we were all were a little anxious.

"I'm not wearing the shirt you picked out for me," announced my husband as we got into the car to leave.

That would have been nice to know, say, a day earlier, but I held my tongue. For even the most minimal of requests, there is always a price to pay.

"I'm getting hot and sweaty already," Cortlen warned, yanking at his collar.
"I'm not going to smile in any of the pictures," promised Kellen.
"I'm going to rip this disgusting flower out of my hair!" screamed Camber.

Cameron just sat peacefully in his car seat, smiling at all the crying babies around him. Then he choked up a handful of curdled milk onto his shirt.

When we arrived at the location of our photo session, half of my family members refused to get out of the car. The other half asked if they could inspect Bonnie's (the photographer) huge and expensive camera. Bonnie ignored my crazy dance and furious head shakes and agreed. She sat on the ground and let the kids take several pictures of her (and a colony of ants) before turning the camera on them. Click. Click. Click. For the next two hours, Bonnie played (and I mean this quite literally) with my kids, snapping pictures the whole time. At the end of our ridiculously painless "playdate," I said something to the effect of "There's no way you got anything good out of that." With a wry smile, Bonnie replied, "I'll bet you I did."

As you can see for yourself, I would do poorly in Vegas.



I am beyond thrilled with the results and am kicking myself for not doing this earlier in my kids' lives. Even my good-natured husband, who was so supportive over getting our family's picture taken in the first place, has been humbled into complete and total adoration for Bonnie and her camera. The pictures here represent only a small sampling of what we received. To see more of pictures of my family, check out Bonnie's photography website and her accompanying blog.

Ask and Ye Shall Receive
Me: "Bonnie, will you please please do a giveaway on my blog? It's called the Meanest Mom."
Bonnie: "That sounds kind of scary."

Fortunately for all, Bonnie walks on the wild side!

Here's what Bonnie from Bonnie Loves Pictures Photography is offering to one lucky family:

* 1-3 hour photo session in York, PA
* Online gallery with all the enhanced images from the session
* CD with copies of ALL of the enhanced images from the session, including copyright release for personal use (printing for home, family, or using images for blog).



Normally Bonnie would travel to you, but for this giveaway, you have to come to HER. She lives in central Pennsylvania (1 hour from Baltimore; 2 hours from Philadelphia & Washington D.C.) in a gorgeous little town called York. Sadly, there is nothing cool to do or see anywhere close to where she lives.




In other words, if you don't live in central Pennsylvania, there is no way that you could work this photo session into a fun family vacation. It would just be impossible.

All you have to do in order to get yourself entered in this awesome (and very last giveaway) of the season is to post a comment! Contest ends THIS SUNDAY, May 17 at midnight. The lucky winner will be announced shortly thereafter.

Good Luck!

204 comments

1 – 200 of 204   Newer›   Newest»
Janee said...

Those pictures turned out so great, Jana. Your boys are so cute and growing up so fast. I can't wait to see all of you this summer. Wish I lived closer to PA. I want some family photos like that.

Unknown said...

I am in! At least maybe this way if I win I can talk my husband into a vacation! (Who can say no to free?!) The pictures are gorgeous, and I am an aspiring photographer myself, I'd love to pick her brain!

Laura said...

I'd love to have a PA vacation with a photo shoot!

Laura

Cristie said...

The pictures are great! Your family is too cute!

RitzFamilyHappenings said...

Wish we were closer, because the pictures turned out great!

Carrie said...

The pictures are adorable. Your family is beautiful and the photographer did a fantastic job!

Adelina said...

Those are beautiful pics! I love the fact that she let the kids look and use her camera.

The last time we had our family portrait done was a few years ago. I would love to see pics of me kids without them rolling their eyes or sticking out their tongues. I would love to go to PA please pick me!!

Marci said...

Pics look great! Loving your pink shoes, btw~

Anonymous said...

Your Pictures are wonderful! I want a photo session from Bonnie, even if I don't win (pick me pick me pick me) I am going to try to talk my husband into this!

Andi said...

SO close to my house! I can do this I can do this!! I am in the same boat as you, been a long while since we have had family pics taken and it is time. I however do not care for all those posed stiff pictures....love this style! HAVE to win this!

Andi said...

PS if I tell you how thin you look in those jeans does it get me an extra vote? :::grin:::

Shosh said...

i was just going to comment on how skinny your thighs looked....

j and s (but mainly s) said...

I love how the pictures came out!! Please count me in for the giveaway- I'll be traveling with my family RIGHT THROUGH PA this summer. Thanks Jana!!

Amanda said...

oooh. oooh! Me, please! (We live in Harleysvile, PA) Your pictures look great. We had the one year photo fiasco with the twins at Target (high class, I know) They broke the prop-cake, chewed on the ragged fake candle and beat each other with the wooden number one. All while Hannah Montana chewed her gum and asked me if I wanted to get a them to "chill out a little".

Jennifer said...

YAY!! My favorite giveaway so far! We live in NJ.. and have NEVER had a professional family portrait ( my kids are 5 and 20 months)... because.. the Sears employees cannot get my kids to sit still and smile at the same time. Add that to the fact that my 5-year-old suffers from what I call " the Chandler" from a Friends episode where Chandler can't conjure a natural smile for a photo... well.. you have kids.. you get the idea

Ethington Family said...

Those are such cute pictures! You are quiet the hottie! Take care and have a great day!

The Woman Formerly Known as Jenn said...

Count me in! We are 3.5 hours away, which is close enough for me :-)

The Woman Formerly Known as Jenn said...

P.S. Your pics are gorgeous and I love the coordinating pink between you and Camber. Too cute!

Christa said...

It's such a long drive, but I'm sure I could talk my hubby into it. I would have to wait several months though I'm pregnant (7 weeks), and I want to be able to tell that I'm pregnant in the pictures....if I win...Maybe just maybe, when we go to be sealed...hmmm now there's a thought.

Kelly said...

Beautiful pics!!
Pick me!! Pick me!!
I live north of Baltimore and have a 2 week old baby we need a family portrait!!
Love your blog!!

Hope said...

Oooh Love the photos....please add me to the list of hopefuls!

Melisa said...

Oooo! I want it! We need to get our family pictures done this summer and I'll be moving there soon. :o)

Unknown said...

I live in Canada, so I guess I'm out for the giveaway...Unless you find an airport to give me tickets and a hotel to give me a free room. I guess I would need tickets and a room for my husband and child too...Or maybe not...Hmm...
ANYWAY! I love the picture of you with your children hugging you. It's so sweet.

Lisa said...

I wish I could be in.....But I think we are done with family pictures for awhile (although it would be super fun to pay you a visit!) Your pictures turned out FABULOUS!! What a relief huh? Now you are good for awhile! Gotta love that. Your family is so super cute!

Jamie said...

the pictures are awesome, Jana. I love when photographers take awesome candid shots. I wish I knew how to do that!

Karen said...

I can't get to PA for a photo shoot, so don't put me in the giveaway. But I had to comment on how cool it is that she took all those pictures in such a natural way. I remember bringing my kids in to the mall and trying to get them all to smile while NOT falling off the table!

ElizabethEK said...

I love the pics. They are awesome. Please please please pick ME ME ME ME ME ME ME. PLEEEEEEASE.

Sheans said...

I want it! but only if she can photoshop in Miss America's body with my head. I'd travel anywhere for that.

PS: those pictures are beautiful.

Katy said...

Oh my goodness I love these pictures! Maybe if I win she can photoshop my "not really pregnant" belly out of my pics... I have a 3 month old. :)

katygrace814@hotmail.com

Jennifer said...

ok.. so here's my second entry.. a link to my blog http://chaoswrappedinchocolate-coveredgrins.blogspot.com/2009/05/pick-me-pick-me-pick-meeeee.html which includes a link back to your blog as well as Bonnie's. Thanks!!

Terry said...

Great pictures! My kids are 11 and 13 and we've never had a family portrait taken! And a trip to Pennsyvlania would be wonderful! Thanks so much! :0)

Beth said...

I would love to win a session with Bonnie! I am from PA!

Unknown said...

Those pictures are great! We do a family photo every 2 years and my kids and hubby echo the same sentiments about attire.

sarahandmatt said...

I LOVE those pictures! I am an amateur photographer who takes tons of free family portraits, wedding portraits,etc. When it comes to my own family getting our pictures done, it's usually a tripod and a remote control. I would be thrilled to have our pictures taken. And we'll be in PA this summer! PLease PLEASE pick me! Love, Sarah (mean mom of 4)

Elise said...

How fun! What a cute family! LOVE your shoes! I don't live far from PA, so I could make a day trip for some fun pictures!

Unknown said...

Oh wonderful! My parents live not too far from York so I could certainly swing a trip down there for a photo shoot!

Kait said...

Such amazing pictures! I'm already fantasising about how they would look on our adoption announcements with our daughters

Babs said...

Don't Pick Me, I live several states away. Wow, she did a great job. I love your coordinating shoes. that was a great idea.

Laura said...

I love the pictures! She really did a great job.

Laura

Our family said...

We live in DC but would drive 3 hours for a free photo session!

Nici said...

Awww such lovely photos! You have a beautiful family.

Tiona said...

Wow...those are cool pictures. I love how they're candid. Much better than the ones I always got growing up of us smiling like idiots.

Unknown said...

Okay, I do not yet have children, but I am certain that after having four, especially if I have two at the same time, that I will not look like you. Therefore, I am angry and bitter (I like to plan ahead) and wish I were in PA to be able to be a part of this giveaway. I am not, and therefore, am angry and bitter... sigh, whats a single girl gotta do to win a giveaway?

Helen said...

Such great pictures! Oh how I wish I lived closer! We actually went to college near York, so I've passed your blog on to some friends who still live in that area. :)

Laura said...

Stunning pictures!!! Can I win this (like I would win, but just in case...) and use it next summer? We travel to Philly every time we have a child w/ a first birthday,& I'm due Aug. 1 with baby #5, so we'll be there next summer, or close enough to take advantage of such a great prize?

Thanks!!

Katrina said...

wow your pictures are awesome! I love the one with the LO's surrounding you. You give me hope that I will have priceless shots us. I would love to have a photo shoot with then we can go stalk J&K

Christine said...

Okay, with a photoshop option, I might just get family pictures with me in them. I would love an entry into the contest. Thanks!

Jeff & Liberty said...

Just shoot me! We spent last weekend enduring a painful shoot with my 2 and 6 year old and have nothing to show for our efforts... except a smaller bank account and a few mental scars.
I'd love a miracle session from Bonnie! A trip to York? Sign me up!

Donna said...

Wow! Those pics are awesome and I love your shoes!

Oh! I would love a photoshoot, even though we are outside of DC. I would travel! And my husband is a teacher and I'm a SAHM so we have all summer off! The last time we had a family pic was when our son was 7 months old (he'll be 4 next month) and the photographer was so bad, he made us all wear black (and hubby a beatnik, faded black turtleneck) against a dark backdrop and we couldn't even see our dog in the pic (also black)! We spent all this money and didn't even put the picture up on the mantle. :( Please pick us!!!

Donna in VA

beth said...

your pictures turned out beautiful! i love them! i think they are worth the two hour ride from philly for them! ps - we have the same hot pink sandals that camber is wearing here. and i LOVE her dress and the (disgusting) flower in her hair!

Julie said...

i love the attractions you included for central pa: Gettysburg and Jon and Kate!!!!
Even though i live in AZ, my sister lives nearer to york and her kids would be really cute in those pictures. maybe we could even do a shoot together when i come to visit.

Nanette said...

Oh PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE pick me?!!! We just moved to NEPA and this is one giveaway that I could actually collect on!!!! Everytime I see someone give a photo session away it is on the West Coast-I would LOVEY LOVE LOVE to win!!!!

Gina @ MoneywiseMoms said...

Your pictures are beautiful! We actually have two mini-vacations thi summer to that part of PA, so it's no problem for us to do the drive from DC. Thanks for the chance to win!

Erica Kain said...

Count me in! thanks for doing these giveaways, and you DO look skinny!!

I'm just me... said...

Love, love, love the pics! I am in! We are looking for a minivacation destination this summer, this would be perfect!

Heather said...

I would love to give this to my future brother-in-law and his wife who live in the area. Here's hoping!

Kirsty said...

I used to think you were cool and real and then I saw your supermodel legs and changed my mind. The gig is up.

I'm in Ohio-let's do this thing!

PS: the pictures are awesome.

PookaB said...

Can I enter on behalf of a friend? She lives in PA and is having a baby in the next few weeks, so it would be perfect! Hope we win!!!

Martha said...

I live in PA, so my hubby and I would love a photo shoot! Especially near Gettysburg. That would be wonderful!

The pictures are lovely. I love photographers that work to capture the natural family in a natural setting. Love them!

koreen (aka: winn) said...

Really great pics! Wish I could come down from Canada and use her services. :(

April said...

You make me sick with your perfect little family. JUST KIDDING!...but your pictures scream "perfect little family." Well, maybe not little... Anyway....don't enter me in no sticking PA contest. I'm not bitter at all about Sesame Land or whatever it is called being in PA. I live in the 4th largest city in the US and we can't get a stinking theme park?

Unknown said...

I was going to comment even before I saw the giveaway.

Wow. Doesn't this just make you so proud that these people are your family. Sooooo cute.

The Lancaster Crew said...

I'd love a photo shoot! We've never had prof pics taken of our family and our boys are almost 4 and 2! sad! Hope i win!!

Aimee Confer said...

I would love this! I live in Carlisle and my in-laws live in York! We have never had professional photos taken and she does beautiful work! Choose us!

Aimee Confer

Angie said...

Of course I would love a photo session with Bonnie, we just adopted a baby not long ago and I would love a trip to PA...I've never been, cool stuff in York or not, it's got be cooler than AZ right now.

pan x 8 said...

Those are awesome shots! Even if the behind the scenes come from Scream and Bad news bears! ;p

Your children are so beautiful! You are a beautiful family!

Chalen said...

My clan could totally use new pictures. Ours are so outdated. We would love to win!

lifewithquads said...

The pictures turned out great! Some of my favorite pictures have been from when we thought the photographer wasn't taking any. One when my husband was kissing one of our daughters in an effort to get her to stop crying so we could get the pictures taken and another when a different daughter (a year old at the time) was in the middle of a cute yawn. Those are the best. :0)

Shannon said...

Those pictures turned out great!! I think it's hilarious that you added in Jon and Kate plus 8 for something nearby, haha! Too bad we live all the way in California!

Tiffany said...

Darn, darn, I can't view her blog... I am on a MAC and sometimes when blogs have music it shuts me down!

Someone tell me how great the photos are!

losing my needles said...

My friend referred me to your website since I live close and she doesn't. That is exactly what I need for my 2 monkey boys. Our last family photo was while I was pregnant with my 18 month old baby!

Kristin Roberts said...

I could totally make it to York from Upstate NY - with even a few free places to stay since I have several family members who live in that area...Please random number generator, pick me! Kristin Roberts

Anonymous said...

Yes--We live in northwestern PA and could travel to York in a heartbeat! My almost 2-year-old son needs a good photo op! Thanks for the chance!
Jody at "Green Acres"

Folsomom said...

I love your blog and your family photos turned out great...I'm too far away to benefit from your giveaway, but I have a cousin with two adorable little boys in Philadelphia...

Amanda said...

The pictures are great. I would love to get some professional photos of my family!

midnight hysteria said...

i have to call you up short here, jana: there ain't no way those darling, cute, precious kidletts could be as bad as you say ... LOL ... especially even trying to imagine adorable, cooperative camber: *I'm going to rip this disgusting flower out of my hair,* screamed camber -- that little darling .... LOL LOL LOL ... i'm sorry but this just cracks me up ... one time my family -- that's NINE *grandchildren from **ll* -- descended upon walmart in twin falls, idaho ... trust me we never even got the prints they were *that* bad ... thanks for all your postings ... your blog rocks ....

kimert said...

Your pics turned out lovely. I too have or now it is HAD the dream of doing a family portrait before I, myself get braces (um, tomorrow!) but it seems that won't happen. I DO wish I lived closer to PA though because that is one sweet giveaway!

MamaBug said...

I am in! I have always wanted to have that done but can't afford it. Gorgeous pics of your family, what an awesome photog! My birthday was yesterday so winning would be amazing!

Lynn said...

they turned out great!

Alison said...

Oh, if I never won another thing in my life, I would be THRILLED to win this! My kids are in dire need of a photo session that feels more like a playdate...I see no other way they would cooperate! (Also, I'm in driving distance, so no problem for us to go to her).

p.s. LOVE Camber's and your shoes!

LKV said...

Woohoo a PA photo giveaway! I love the pics of your family!

Anonymous said...

Ok, how could I not want this? It's awesome!! Plus, great excuse to take a vacation!
Stacey
smernst@Hotmail.com

Mindee Graver said...

82 comments already! WOW! Well I am actually not leaving a comment for the contest, I am a friend of Bonnies and we are in the same ward at church.
I just wanted to say I LOVE your blog. I've never read it before and found it off of Bonnies. She did an awesome job with your family, the pictures look beautiful! She is a great Photog! I'm also a mom of 4 little ones, like you a girl first and 3 boys that follow =) Nice to know I'm not the only one pulling my hair out sometimes! lol! Can't wait to read what you post next!..... and I'm gonna have to use your 2nd seating idea! Love it!

Elizabeth Haynes said...

Ahh... My daughter, Madeline, is about to lose her first tooth. It's my last chance for a "normal" toothy-smiley family picture! I estimate we have a little bit of time, as the tooth is just starting to loosen. They are beautiful pics of your family!

Skubaliscious said...

Does Bonnie have any talented photographer friends in the Houston area?? She's awesome!

Mrs. Ordinary said...

Oh, I would love an excuse to go out to Pennsylvania! I sure hope I win.

Makayla Steiner said...

Those pictures are really awesome! And your baby's EYES. Wow.

Anonymous said...

Jana, those pics are absolutely wonderful. You have a lovely family!

I've been reading your blog for a while now (found it by "accident") and though I have no kids on my own, I get a kick out of it. I used to be a teacher and must say that kids are the same no matter where you are - whether in Philly or in the Czech Republic (where I am). I especially enjoyed your entry about 8th graders. They'd be 7th graders here and boy, did I use to dread teaching that level!

Keep up the good work!

Jana

PS: Though we share the same first name, mine's pronounced Yannah :o)

Kris said...

WOW! We haven't had our family's photo taken in a few years...Luckily, I only live about 2 or so hours from York! Your pics are beautiful!

Cheryl said...

OMG...I live 20 minutes from York...lol. This would be so cool. :-)

This Is The Day said...

Wow, those pictures are amazing! Your family looks great!!

Anonymous said...

your pictures turned out amazing! my kids always do funny things with their eyes...closed...wide open...crossed...I think they plan it so no single picture is normal. I hope we win...its only 2 hours from me!

pobox2233@hotmail.com

The Tall Girl Cooks said...

I love, love, love your pink peep-toe pumps! Where do I find them?

Bonnie is AWESOME!

J. A. Busfield said...

Love this!
Great pics!
She did well, and so did you guys- just being yourselves!

Linda said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Carr Family said...

I live in York!!!!! Pick me, pick me!!!!! -Tara

Kat said...

Unfortunately I live too far to enter your (amazingly generous, as usual) giveaway, but what gorgeous pictures of your family! You must be so thrilled!

Jackie said...

I am visiting my in-laws in Philly in July, so I need things to do AWAY from Philly. Count me in.

Kim said...

Oh, I want to win! Our 28th wedding anniversary is the 17th of May and our son's 4th birthday is the 21st of May! Wouldn't this package make a cooool present?

Jennifer said...

Please, pick me!! Your pictures are wonderful!!

Rebecca said...

Very cute! I'd love to win! :)

Unknown said...

Ooo, me, me, me? Until he stopped coming to church with us permanently due to what I was told was "back to back ward conferences," my husband's favorite Sunday afternoon activity was trying to convince me to go downstairs with him and ask our doorman to take a picture of the three of us while still in our wilted Sunday best, seeing as how we have no family pictures. At all.

Anonymous said...

Enter me, please!!
I would love to win!
Amy in WI

Anonymous said...

Those pictures are awesome. She sounds like a miracle worker, and I would love to give her the shot to try and work her magic on my husband and 5 kids. And my thighs. Count me in.

jcwaters2002@yahoo.com

Kasey said...

Don't think I could make it there, but I have very close friends who live not too far from York. I'd love to win and give them the photo session!

Allison said...

Oh! Pick me! I don't live far from there at all (90-ish minutes tops) and even went to college in the town that John and Kate live in! We're heading to Hershey Park soon anyway so I'm SURE I could squeeze in a photo session while we're there. :)

Unknown said...

Count me in, please. We're thinking of a trip to Hershey for vacation this summer, so hey, we'll stop in York, too! Absolutely amazing pictures.....Bonnie has found her calling.

Christa said...

I'd love a photo shoot with Bonnie! Your pictures turned out great! Central PA isn't that far from Ohio - we can make the drive!

Anonymous said...

by the way... i LOVE your shoes!

Gibb Family said...

LOVE your family pics! Pictures outdoors are always easier than a studio for kids.

Anonymous said...

Love the photos! My sister, Julie, from AZ suggested I post for a chance to win since she and her 3 beautiful kids are coming east this summer and we'd love to have a family portrait with all our kids together!!

Don't have anything witty to say, except, please pick us!!

twinzmama said...

Great pictures!! Wish I still lived in PA so I could enter this great contest!

Jenny said...

I live in PA (superclose to York) and I would love it!

Unknown said...

Don't forget the Harley Factory! We lived in Harrisburg for a year, and absolutely loved it. You could get away with a Hershey family vacation if your kids are under 10. We are hoping to go back for a visit this summer.

Stef said...

I have two foster daughters that would love to add Pennsylvania to their list of visited states.

JJthe1st said...

I've got to try! We live in Texas but I love history so.....

Yvette said...

Beautiful pictures of your family! I especially love the picture of your baby! What gorgeous eyes! The best photographers are the ones that can act like a monkey, stand on their head and make it a real play date. Don't ya think?

Marcia said...

Great pictures! Such a cute family!!

Vanessa said...

I would love to win this but am living out of the country so can I enter and try to win this for my brother in law and his family? They already live close by...

Faithful said...

I would love to win this prize for several reasons:
1- I am expecting our first child this July, and would love to have gorgeous shots of him/her such as these
2- My thighs really need the photoshop help
3- I would have an excuse to visit one of my best girlfriends, who happens to live in York

Pick me!

Unknown said...

Fantastic pictures! Thanks for your great blog.

Gina said...

Those are amazing! And you are sooo skinny! What's your secret??

Kelly said...

Those are great photos. I asked for professional pictures for mothers day. Now I just need to book a date. This will be the first professional pictures we'll be taking too.

Lynn said...

Wow, my parents live in Hanover, PA, and we go out to visit once a year. How cool would that be to do that while there?

Rachel E. said...

I live in central Pa and there is a fair amount to do, especially if you're the outdoor type or love chocolate. Oh, and if you have kids over the age of 7... My son's 1.5 yrs old and so we can't go do the fun HersheyPark stuff. But we do go to the Hershey Gardens, Yellow Breeches Creek, etc.
I really like Bonnie's pics and would love to have a photo shoot with her.

Jan Russell said...

GORGEOUS family photos! We are having ours done this Saturday in Doylestown, but I'm always up for another opportunity to torture my clan - so please enter me in the drawing!

Charissa & Don Bishop said...

I would love a reason for a short vacation, we live abt an 1 1/2 from Gettysburg.

Thanks for the chance!

Mary said...

Love the pictures (and your blog!)You have a beautiful family!

kelli said...

I found your blog a few weeks ago, and am a committed reader. And I want these pictures for my family (does living in central PA help?)

April said...

wow, those pictures are fantastic! they make me (almost) wish we still lived up there!!!

April said...

Ooooooooooooh, wait! I have a friend I can give the photo shoot to!!! Can I enter on behalf of her??? Puh-lease?

Matt, Calli, & Dixon said...

Love, love, love the photos! I live close to York and would love to have Bonnie take some great family photos!

Christine Nunez said...

What an unbelivable opportunity!! We live in Elkton, MD.(About an hour away.) I have a four year old and a 14 month old. We haven't had professional pictures taken yet. Much to my dismay!! It's been one of those things on my to do list that doesn't get done. My Husband just got laid off and now pictures are on the back burner. I am new to the blog scene but the thought of winning is to much to hope for. Thank you for sharing your beautiful pictures. Finally, a little begging....PICK ME!!

Tara said...

These pictures are amazing! I would love a photo shoot like this!!

Stacey said...

Those pictures are BeAuTiFuL!! We live somewhat near York PA - and even though it would be a little bit of a drive we would do it for pictures like that!! Love them!

grumpy chicken's mommy said...

Love the pictures!
:)J

jenn said...

jenn randolph--We live near Pa--would be a little bit of a drive, but in dire need of new family pics--would love to win!! Even the hubby is game!!

Catherine said...

I have just discovered it, and I love your blog. We have the same as you (3 boys and one girl). I am sure you also get lots of "Boy, you sure have your hands full." We live in DC and I would love the shoot.

Mitchell4 said...

The pictures turned out freakin amazing. Great job all around. Pretty pinks and nice shades of blue. I like it.

BRADAMANT said...

What a fabulous giveaway idea! This is so generous of you guys. I am delighted that I found your blog. But I'm not sure that you're the meanest mummy. I just told my two year old that I'll put him in the basement if he gets out of his bed one . more . time... , Yes a relaxing photoshoot would be just the thing.
thanks for all the wonderful entries!

Becca said...

Photoshopping my thighs is included???

I'll be praying that the Randomizer gods smile down on me...

And yes. I will drive from North Carolina. I'm a portrait fiend.

leroberson said...

Love your blog and the pictures. She did a great job. You are a hysterical mother. I can't wait to use some of your ideas on my unexpecting 5 and 2 year olds.....(insert evil laughter here.....)

Jen said...

What fantastic pictures! I always wonder how people keep their kids looking clean in professional pictures. Mine seem to be dirt and schmutz magnets, not to mention the slime that finds its way to my clothing every day.

That said, I have been whining about family pictures since my daughter was born. I've been quite direct before my birthday and Mothers' Day - no dice though I received much goodness on both days.

Last but not least, what really got me to leave a comment besides your great pictures and my selfish desire to have some of my own was the Chocolate World museum. To say I am a chocoholic is an understatement. Chocolate World? Sign me up!

ps. ashiralynn.livejournal.com

Becky said...

Beautiful pictures! I would love this opportunity!

Boquinha said...

Wow, what a giveaway! Does it include fashion advice and coordination, too?

We live in beautiful Central PA, too! We'd LOVE this. We haven't ever done it and she does beautiful work. Count us in, please! And thank you!

Lindsey said...

I can't come for the photo shoot, so don't count my comment for the giveaway.

But I HAD to comment because I couldn't ignore your great pink shoes. Oh my gosh, so fabulous! And great family pictures too. :)

Amy said...

Ok Miss Skinny! You and your family are so gorgeous! Thanks for sharing with us! Wished I lived on the east coast still, I'd be all over a trip to Pennsylvania!

Debbie said...

And how is that you have such biting humor AND you're gorgeous. Sigh. You should buy a lottery ticket.

I've been dying to visit York, since I get so many press releases from them - factory capital of the U.S., or something like that. I"m game for a photo shoot since we're moving across the country to NJ this summer. And I have a friend who grew up in York!

{Nicole Benitez Photography} said...

Jana, She did a gorgeous job with your family!! The kids even look.. ahem..happy! Love it! Gorgeous Job Bonnie!

Rhiannon said...

Only one comment from that whole post! You had how many kids? Really? Cause, ummmm what thighs? And belly for that matter... Sick, just sick! :)

Colleen O said...

My last trip to the photographer yielded gorgeous shots of my daughter. My son, not so much. He sobbed throughout the session. His expression ranges from desolation to heartbroken. I would love to challenge Bonnie to get a good shot of the boy!!!

jls said...

I would love to win this photo shoot because in addition to my husband being opposed to professional photo shoots, he would love a Jon and Kate Plus 8 vacation even more.
Do it for him!! :)

Lindy said...

The pictures are awesome!

My sister gifted me a professional photographers photo session when my daughter turned one and I'll never go back to a store.

Anonymous said...

That's so cute!!!! Please make sure you keep these priceless pictures backed up. I use Safecopy online backup, www.safecopybackup.com, to backup all my pictures. I also share them with my families around the world. I'm very happy with it. You should check it out and make sure you keep these pictures safe.

Anonymous said...

It's been so long since I've had professional photos made of my daughters... I wanna win!

Pick me! Pick me!

Amy said...

Well, unfortunately, I live halfway across the country, so don't enter me in the giveaway :(

I just wanted to tell you that your shoes are FAB!!!!!!

Jessica B said...

I love your photo shoot! I think Bonnie did an amazing job with your family!! (and if she could make me look as great as you did in your shoot, I'd give her just about ANYTHING)
This is my first time ever trying for a giveaway, I'm always a little bit of a pessimist, and I figure I won't win, so I don't try. But I am trying now -- I LOVE THIS GIVEAWAY!!!
I have never had a professional picture taken of my family - we have four kids with a wide range in age of 3-19. Now that my oldest is in college, it just seems like the opportunities are few and far between, and time just keeps slipping through my fingers...
We live in NY, so we could definitely make this happen! Please consider us - we would be very grateful!!!

Unknown said...

I'm from near York but in SC now. I would love to enter on behalf of a friend who still lives in Lancaster, PA (close to York) - and there IS tons of cool stuff to do THERE. Anyway. She is going through a very rough divorce and has 5 children ages 10yrs-16mos and I would LOVE to bless her with this prize!

Jamie said...

I want a chance to win!!! Please, please!!

Rebecca said...

The pictures are beautiful! I would love a photo shoot for our family!

Donna said...

What beautiful family pictures! Wow!

Ilyssa said...

Please count me in! I would love to win this.

My e-mail is: imuelle1@atlas.valenciacc.edu

April Feagley said...

I would love a chance at a family photo and we actually live close enough that this is feasible. I'm crossing my fingers!

Cindy said...

You make me laugh, Jana. The only way the pictures would be better would be if they were at the NC beach!

robyn said...

It amazes me that photographers get these awesome pictures while we are frazzled as our family "plays"
(or destroys) everything that is in close proximity to them and each other! Great pics!!

tulipdjc said...

I loved the pics!! But my favorite by far is the one of Camber sticking out her tongue!!! I sincerely hope that you enlarge and frame that one in the front entrance of your home!! Priceless!

Jo-el said...

I would love to have a PA vacation w/photo shoot. my email is italiangal0628 at yahoo dot com

Brooke said...

I would love to nominate my beautiful little sister, Calli and her family who live in Philly while her husband finishes up dental school at Temple. She is a stay-at-home mom with 1 little boy and another one the way. They both are adventerous and love to visit small towns near-by where they live. She is the most amazing sister and incredible friend and I know she would LOVE to have a proffesional photographer take her family pictures(it would be something she would never dream of affording right now and I know she would appreciate)! Thanks! I love your blog!!!!

Muthering Heights said...

Oh my, what a wonderful giveaway! Thank you very much for the opportunity to win! :)

Marylynn said...

My husband works for an airline, and we are always looking for a new place to visit! Also, a photographer that can make me look good... The Impossible Dream? Marylynn

Brittan said...

Bonnie is my FAVORITE photographer! She did such a great job capturing your beautiful family! :)

Melanie said...

Hey, I might have a chance at this one! Suckers that live to far away take that!!! Enter Melanie for this one!!

mary said...

Well, let's just say we haven't had our family photo taken since 2004 - 1 kid and one on-the-way ago. York is only 1.67 hours form here, so I can def make the trip with three whiney boys. no problem!

Momma-of-5 said...

I'd love to enter and depending on her availability, could even partake in the shoot (don't let N. NJ fool you!) We have TONS of friends and family down in PA and are headed down there this summer. (3 hour ride for us)

Kathy said...

What a great give-a-way count me in! Kathy

cjsjaksmom said...

Wow, Jana,
Your blog has been making me laugh for months and I never even guessed that we lived in the same town! I was excited when I discovered that. Just a silly thing, I guess. I have 3 kids, ages 7, 5 and 4, so lots of days I feel like 'the Meanest Mom'.
We'd loved to be entered in the contest. Your pictures turned out fabulous!
Thanks,
Tammy

Unknown said...

Comment, comment, comment, comment, comment, (you get the idea)....

PULN7GS said...

We're coming! Sgn us up- if she can do your 4- My 5 shouldn't be too overwhelming!

Mary Grace said...

those photos all turned out wonderfully! free photos of the family would be awesome, and much needed!

edith said...

Can I enter on behalf of my little sister who recently moved to Pittsburgh? She and her family are so photogenic.

rachelle said...

love your family, love your thighs, love your face... (no i'm not a stocker, i just love your blog)... my sisters live in gettysburg so i am commenting in their behalf for some pics..

CurlyQuinn said...

I'll be up that way in July!! PICK ME PICK ME!!!!

We've never had a family photo taken. Well, not a professional....not even at Sears!! So I would LOVE to get some family pictures taken!! I have a 4 yr old and 18 month old. I don't know why we haven't. Yours turned out so great and those would be the kind I would want!! I also want your shoes!! LOVE THEM!!

Brooke said...

I am in desperate need of family pics - and a vacation!! I'm in Utah, but if I win, I am so there!!!

Oh, and ridiculously adorable pictures. How cute is your family?!?

Matthew said...

Bonnie's pictures turned out great. I really like photos that aren't posed, they feel so much more authentic. Your cute kids make great subject matter as well. My wife got me reading your blog. I guess I'm one of the few guys that does ... but secretly so do several my male co-workers since I showed it to them. The four of us each just had our first kids in the past few months. My wife and I are only 17 days into parenthood. Why do I feel like we just crested the top of the roller coaster?

Streuselmama said...

What a great giveaway! We need a good set of family photos something fierce. We're going to be in Gettysburg this summer to visit family and would LOVE to check out the beautiful hamlet that is York. Can Bonnie make my thighs look that good too?

kate said...

i happen to live in pa, pick me!!!

Carrie said...

I would love a photo session! I am so cheap that my daughter only gets the JC Penney sessions in which I am loaded with coupons! Okay, so she has only had 1 session yet... My in laws live in Lancaster, so York isn't that far away.

the mishlers said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
the mishlers said...

Love your family pics!! I was born and raised in York, and agree there is not much to see and do. However, my parents and best friends all still live there (we live in Charlotte, NC), so not only would we enjoy seeing our loved ones, but would love to capture memories of our 2 1/2 yr old and 5 month old in their mom's old stomping grounds!

The Millers said...

Your family pics are beautiful! My son is almost a year old and it's time for our family to have a photo together. I would love to win this! Thanks for your website. I love enjoying my daily laugh at the antics of your family. You are a fabulous writer. Thanks!

Mrs.MD said...

Hey, I am in driving distance of philaelphia and have never had family shots done (terrible I know) I would love to be chosen as the winner!!!

DorkyMom said...

I always miss entering for the other giveaways, but this one I had to make sure to try for. My son is going to be 13 this summer, past the age of school portraits being cool or even pleasant. Think mug shot expression. While wearing his gym shirt. Something like this, shots of just being "us" would work out great and should tide me over until he starts liking the camera again in 12th grade for the overpriced senior pics. We live two hours from Baltimore (in VA) so travel to PA is no problem at all!

Thank you for your consideration. If additional information is needed, I will be happy to provide the "(fairly) newly divorced mom wanting some updated family pics" card for consideration.

Piedmont College Nursing Students said...

I want in!!! My sister is moving to York at the end of the summer! Those pictures are awesome! Love, love, love your blog!
Lindsay

Jamie said...

I'm totally jealous of how good those pictures turned out! I might just contact Bonnie anyway, but you can still pick me :)

Edwards Fam said...

I love the family pictures! My husband is graduating law school (in Philadelphia) in a little over a week and we would LOVE to win a photo shoot with an awesome photographer!!

Lani said...

Wow, such awesome pictures!! Great photographer. I wish I didn't live so far away so I could enter the giveaway, but it's a little out of my range:)

Amy E said...

Such awesome pictures...I'd love to be in the drawing. We live in Indiana, but would be happy to travel for some great pics and fun times!!

Anonymous said...

These photos are awesome. As a single mom I really should get photos of the girls and I done more. For some reason I haven't gotten professional family pictures taken since the divorce. Besides my parents ARE wanting to take us on a small summer vacation....... ;)Anyhow, if I am chosen... please know I would be grateful.

Ariana said...

What a cute family and great pictures! We could definitely make the trip for pictures like that!

Kelly P said...

Totally cute pictures!!! Bonnie is great!

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