During the holidays, I participated in a portrait giveaway with Giving is Awesome. Though I had planned on choosing only one family to win a custom portrait session, I was so touched by the nominations, that I ended up choosing two.

Before I share the images, I wanted to share their nomination.

“Jonathan and his beautiful wife Jazmin have two wonderful girls, and a little baby boy on the way. They have always inspired those around them with their perseverance, determination, and most of all, their kindness.

Shortly after September 11th 2001, Jonathan was called into active duty with the Army for a tour in Iraq. At that time, Jazmin was about to finish her degree in Education and had just found out she was expecting her second child.

Although Jonathan was gone for over a year, she persevered in her studies, finished her degree, and purchased a home all the while with a toddler in tow and another one on the way. During this time although she was bombarded with emotion, she was always there with a smile, a kind word and a helping hand. Jonathan finally returned home to meet his daughter when she was about 6 months old.

All the years since, they have always worked hard together to provide a better life for their family. Recently, Jonathan has been out of work and their car was stolen. Jazmin was in the process of completing her Principal Certification.

I know things have been really tough for them but I don’t think they quite realize that through their diligence, they inspire others to keep going towards their goals no matter what the circumstances are. I just feel that anything that would brighten their Christmas is worth taking the time for. A gift of a family portrait will last a lifetime, a beautiful memory they can cherish forever. Thank you for your consideration and God bless.”

Just sharing one image that I love since every post needs an image!  I’ll be sharing images from their session tomorrow…