Taking Photos for Photos With Santa

I was asked to be the Photos With Santa photographer at Talk About Curing Autism Illinois Chapter’s Holiday Party.

Word of mouth lead me there (thanks, Susie), but a piece of my heart always will be left there.

Talk About Curing Autism Illinois Chapter is a center in McHenry County, Illinois devoted to educating, supporting and informing parents whose children have been diagnosed with autism.  What was clear to me after setting foot in the building was that TACA is much more than that – it is a family.

Written on the wall is a sign that reads: Faith makes all things possible, not easy.

 

How true that is for all families, but in a special way, for these families.

Each of the children I met came with amazing parents. The smiles on the children’s faces mirrored the smiles on their parents’ faces, which tells me that these parents know exactly what they are doing – loving their children and walking the walk with their children, each and every day.

If you are in Illinois or Southern Wisconsin, you can visit the TACA Illinois Chapter here to find out more about their services or how you can volunteer.

Also notable was Santa Mark.  He was enthusiastic and compassionate. Santa, along with his wife, brought kind words, an understanding smile and the wisdom that only the gentlest of Santas can bring. Whether he smiled unnoticed by the child on the stairs in front of him or stepped off the set to kneel beside a wheelchair, Santa made sure each child was comfortable and acknowledged. He knew just what to say and when to say it. It was wonderful just watching him interact with the families.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with the owners and staff at Talk About Curing Autism Illinois Chapter, and I truly feel blessed to have met some of the amazing children who have walked through their doors.

Here are a few of those special moments:

Santa Mark made room for everyone!

Santa Mark was content to stand in the shadows while this young lady took her photo front-and-center on the steps.

Santa Mark graciously indulged the children in some friendly "beard-pulling!"

This little guy visited Santa for the first time ever! Way to go, buddy!

One of the staff members pictured with her daughter.

Another staff member with her husband and daughter ~ enjoying these special moments with Santa.