One of my most favorite holiday traditions is sending and receiving Christmas cards. Even though Facebook provides us with regular updates on my friends and family, there is something so quaint and special about receiving a custom card prepared with love.

This year, we enlisted the very talented Ruthie Hauge to take some family photos for our card.  Considering that it was November – and considering that we were standing on a busy bridge in the middle of Chicago! – I knew our photo shoot would be brief.  But, little Vivian decided to give us exactly seven minutes before she called it quits. With all that in mind, I’d say Ruthie took some great pictures we will treasure forever!

I know all the paper used in holiday cards can be a drag for the planet, so this year I ordered cards from Paper Culture.  The cards are made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper, and Paper Culture plants a tree for every order.  Plus, the designs were all so cute!

We have the cards from friends and family hanging on our staircase.  I love that we’ve pretty much run out of room!

Looking for a talented, patient and sweet photographer for your family or special event? Contact Ruthie Hauge – she travels all over the world! http://www.ruthiehauge.com