Hello, and happy holidays! I'm working on my "food gifts" this morning, and dreading the inevitble snootful of flour and cocoa from the floating powders that I mix and mash. By the end of the day I'll be covered in it, my kitchen will be covered in it, and I'll have several fresh and happy bags of homemade cocoa, shortbread, spice mixes, cappuccino, and banana bread mixes. It's always worth the effort, and so much fun to have as a treat, as well as give as gifts. In between celebrating this year, or if you aren't into the festivities at all, check out my latest article on Photography and Pop Culture: Photography and Pop Culture - Movies Pop culture is endlessly fascinating; it differs depending on what area of the world you live in and the era you were born in. Here are several prominent shows, actors and other easily recognizable elements where picture people and their profession are portrayed. http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art37227.asp/zzz This is the second in a series of three articles. My next article will appear shortly after Christmas and will show you how to short-circuit any whines from the kids saying "There's nothing to DOOOOOO" by getting them involved in special photography projects. If you want some great tips on Christmas photography, getting great group photos, or quick and easy gifts using pictures, check out the articles currently featured in the Photography column. The previous article was: Christmas Morning Photography My ultimate tips for getting the best photographs of what are sure to be your favourite memories. http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art38365.asp/zzz You can find more Photography articles at http://photography.bellaonline.com I've featured many of the holiday-related articles right on the front page for easier, quick access. Our forum has been thrown for a loop, so getting to it has been hit and miss lately. I have received an update that it will be available regularly (as it was before) very soon. Drop by for a visit and leave your comments, share an article idea, or ask questions: http://forums.bellaonline.com/postlist.php?Cat=0&Board=228 Thanks so much for being a part of the BellaOnline Photography newsletter, and checking out my articles. Please enjoy your visit, and have a safe and happy holiday season! Michelle Southern, Photography Editor http://photography.bellaonline.com