The Olivia Act

I volunteered at Leo's holiday party this afternoon.  At one point I looked up and saw those tiny Kindergarten faces in various states of holiday cheer.  I could hear Leo giggling at the ornament table, I could see Cameron enjoying himself at the puppet table, and I could feel the excitement in the air as the kids prepared for two whole weeks at home.  It was a wonderful afternoon, and I will cherish that memory as long as I live.

Not only did I leave the school with a much better appreciation for his wonderful teacher, but I also left with a very heavy heart.  I couldn't shake the reality that one week ago so many lives were shattered and twenty little faces were snatched away.  They won't be decorating Christmas cookies this year.  They won't be giving their teacher a gift and a hug before heading home today.

The Olivia Act was started by a photographer who had seen professional images of Oliva Engel, one of the victims of last week's shooting, and her family that were taken not long before Olivia was killed.  The photographer, who wishes to remain anonymous, was moved to give away a 30 minute family photo shoot and has challenged other photographers to do the same. Why a family photo session?  Because so often the years go by and we don't take the time or have the resources to stop and have professional family photos taken - photos that will one day be a cherished memory. 

Please nominate a family who you think would appreciate the gift of a free family photo session with me.  The session will take place in West Dundee after the New Year, and it will be completely free to the family being nominated.  They will also receive free full-res digital images.  Please inbox or e-mail their name, contact information and a brief summary of why you chose them to faye.licari@gmail.com and put "THE OLIVIA ACT NOMINATION" in the subject line. Please do not post their information here. I will take nominations until December 31, 2012. The winner will be chosen and contacted in early January 2013. I'd be grateful if you could please share this status with other families as well.

Peace, Love, & Pictures,
Faye