And the Winners Are..........

A tie? That's right, we had two winners for the Children's Contest this year. The donations were rolling in for Operation Backpack right up until the final cutoff at 5:00 pm on May 18. But, we had a problem. There were two contestants that were neck in neck. The difference in the amount raised was very small and we wanted to reward both families in their efforts to raise money for school supplies for needy school children. So, the decision was made to have two winners. Both famlies will receive a 24" wall portrait valued at over $700.

The blond bombshell is Riley. She is 17 months old and full of spice and personality. Her favorite activities involve "reading" books and sucking her fingers. This is her at just a few days old:

Lindzee is a familiar face to Haugen's followers because she has been a part of the contest every year since she was a baby. Now, at age 7, she is turning into a young lady. Her favorite activities are ballet and playing with her best friend, Audrey. It is safe to say that going to Disneyland also rates high on the list.

Here is a portrait we did of Lindz when she was two that I call, "Rain, Rain Go Away."

How much money did the contest raise for Operation Backpack this year? Drum roll, please....

$2,257 !!!!!    

Thank you, thank you, thank you to the families who entered their amazing children in the contest and all who donated. We couldn't have done it without you!