This photo probably means more to you then it does to me but I don't think this is your best of 2004. The photo appears to be over sharpened and lacking subject. Good luck and keep up the good work in 2005.
This is a great shot for the scrapbook. :) One of the keys in photography is deciding if you want an artistic image, or a snapshot. For me, a snapshot is something that just documents an event. It doesn't create a sense of connection between the image and the viewer. It tends to require the viewer coming from a specific frame of reference. This is a classic snapshot. Which isn't a bad thing at all. :) The next time you take this kind of shot, think a little about what's going on behind the action. Try and move youself to better optamize use of blank walls, or background that better demonstrate the story you are trying to tell. In this case, the doorway is distracting from the curiosity on the little boys face.
what a moment you have captured here. if this isn't getting the scores or comments you expected, please don't take it personally--just look at it as a starting point for the rest of the year! this site is a great place to learn, and your family will really appreciate what you will be able to do with your camera. but, as i am sure you are seeing, it can be fairly rough starting out. just keep on shooting, keep on submitting, and DO NOT QUIT!!!
Great expression on both these guys faces. Good capture there - but the flash is a little harsh, and it doesn't look like much thought has gone into this.