Hey Lena,
I like the shots you have taken...!
I agree on the shots taken from the low angle, they are really nice. Others could maybe to taken a a bit closer to the subjects (your family) at maybe a more dynamic angle than straight on.
As for some of the B&W's, adding a little contract would be nice also.
Take all of this with a grain of salt, I am just trying to get into learning portrait-type shots myself. Just a casual observation.
They are all nice shots...good work!
I'm right next door to ya in Minnesota...its getting cold already!!!
Take care. -Jared