Give More.

This season is a Christmas season like no other - and I'm glad. Like many of you, our income has been greatly affected by the sluggish economy. But our inability to purchase lavish gifts has now turned into an opportunity to really focus on the meaning of Christmas.

Spend less. Give more.

This week our family has been having a fun time thinking up coupons that we can give relatives for Christmas. The goal is to trade our usual store bought gift for some quality-time engagement or hand made gift that is both more meaningful and affordable. One of my sons used oil pastels and drew a nature scene with a walking trail. He filled the trail with the words,"this coupon good for one nature walk with T." He plans on giving it to his Grandma who loves to go on walks. My other son made certificates on the computer. My favorite was the one that said, "Homemade pancake breakfast cooked by me for you with my special cinnamon apples." He plans on giving it to his sister who is going to be delighted with any amount of attention he might give her. There were more and I'm just as excited as they are to watch the recipient open their gift and know it truly comes from the heart.

So, now it's back to me. I want to give something too but I need your help. I've joined a great group of photogs who want to give a little something back this season. Here's the deal -

You know someone. You know someone who's experienced a tragedy, is struggling to stay afloat, is raising kids while holding down more than one job, or is volunteering selflessly despite extenuating personal circumstances. You know someone who can't afford custom photography, but who would cherish it this holiday season. You know someone who deserves a year-round reminder of their family's spirit, love, and beauty.

You know someone. I guarantee it.

I want to know who they are, and I want to give them the chance to experience complimentary custom photography -- $200 worth, to be exact. Whether it's canvas or albums, prints for Grandma, or a slideshow to watch over and over, it's in your power to give them the artwork they deserve this holiday season.


The rules:

* You cannot nominate yourself, and the person nominated must sincerely be incapable of purchasing my services. (Being unable to make mortgage payments for a two-million-dollar-vacation-home in Paris does not qualify as sincere financial need.)

* The nominee must reside in Portland/Vancouver area. Tell me who you know, what they're experiencing, and why they deserve my artwork. Please include a way to contact both your nominee and yourself as well.

* Forward this on to any friends you have that might know someone who would qualify.

* You must e-mail me the full story : NiccoleW@comcast.net.

The winner will be announced on Christmas Eve -- get nominating! I can't wait to read all of your entries!

Open your heart to someone this holiday season -- and thanks for giving me the opportunity to open mine.

With love,

Nicci