Just SMILE!

I like to take pictures. I usually really enjoy the photography and editing process. But I don't know why - WHY my family has to make it so difficult. Why are my kids the only ones who just won't ever cooperate?

Take yesterday for example. I've been meaning to get some photos ready for a Christmas card of some sort for awhile now. Yesterday I decided that as soon as the kids got home from school- we'd get it finished and out of the way.

Literally as soon as they walked in the door - I pounced. Comb, washcloth and a quick snack in hand I begged BEGGED them to just give me Ten minutes and then they could go play. I had seen on a different blog some cute photos a mom had done with candy canes, and I was anxious to try to copy it. (Yes copy. After all - imitation IS the sincerest form of flattery.)

I started with Abby. It's simple. I knew that Abby would not require as much coaching. I just needed her to look AT the camera. That's all. She only had to look at me.




This is what I got out of her.

With Jessica I tried to be a little more specific. I simply ask that she smile her "prettiest smile" for me. We practiced a bit. Her smile was perfect.




As soon as I go to CLICK she pulls out this.

This is NOT her prettiest smile. Trust me.



By the time it was Sam's turn I was losing faith in the whole thing. I said, "Sam- Please Please sit up straight like a good boy and try not to be silly."





Viola.

I'd had it. I was sweaty, frustrated and had totally neglected any dinner prep- and for WHAT!

After all of that though, I still managed to find a tiny morsel of enthusiasm, or at least determination, to try to get a decent family photo. I knew it wouldn't be much-but I just needed one nice shot of all of us. So as soon as John walked through the door, I rallied everyone together- one last time.

I asked Nicely.

I begged.

I PLEADED with them all.

I finally resorted to blackmail. I said, "KIDS. I know that you don't like this. But it will be quick if you ALL just obey. If you are not ALL smiling, sitting up straight, looking at the camera and being good little kids- then ...well...I just don't think Santa will come to our house this year. (I know- maybe a little bit of a cheap one- but I had to try something.)

And it did work. The kids got my drift.

They were willing.

They were ready.

And what do you think I got?

Nice one John.


I think my family Hates me.