wishing you a holiday full of sparkles: courtesy of laura black photography & mlc designs

If you're anything like me, I agonize over finding just the right holiday card. Coupled with that search is the trek for the perfect (and I do mean -- perrrrfeccttt) photos out of my seemingly endless collection of Bug images.

Laura Black Photography and mlc designs put me out of my self-imposed misery. {Merry Christmas to me!}

You may or may not be aware of the free photo sessions Wee Chic Boutique and Laura Black co-sponsor a few times a year {become a Wee Chic fan on Facebook to be kept in the know}. Each free -- yes, free-- session gets you 20 minutes with the fabulous Laura Black inside Wee Chic's store and/or in the Green Spring Station courtyard, plus one free 8 X 10. The images are always incredible and Laura is a real pro when it comes to capturing cuties.

first haircut: salon 36 kids

Many thanks to Julie at Salon 36 Kids for the Bug's fabulous new 'do.' Not only was Julie incredibly patient with the Bug (who was visibly nervous when we first arrived and wouldn't let go of my leg), she did a GREAT job. The Bug was even able to pick out her own DVD to watch during the haircut {{surprise! It was The Best of Elmo}}. By the time we got to the 'blow out,' the Bug had relinquished her grip on my hand and relaxed. The Pikesville area kid-catering salon is worth a drive for the friendly service, endless patience and fabulous cut. Cuts start at $22.

Need a kid friendly stylist? (cool) progeny reader Melissa Yuknar suggested Drew's Barber Shop on Harford Road, and reader Heather Sands suggested Floyd's 99 Barbershop on Boston Street.

Where do you take your kids?

(cool) tip: Be sure to check out Salon 36 Kids on Facebook!