Fall 2008I decided it had been a few years since our family had a decent family picture taken. The reason being is that it is so hard to get everyone happy and excited for pictures. Sometimes I wonder who hates getting pictures taken the most, the children or Mark. It has never been a pleasant experience- you would think how hard is it to just smile and sit still but believe me for our family it is torture. So this year I planned to turn this event around.
I've learned from experience how amazing our kids will behave when they know a reward or a prize is at stake. I knew I would hear endless grumbles if I told my family we were going to get family pictures taken. I could just see the agony this would bring, the boredom and pain. So before I announced to them the fun evening I had planned, I carefully placed in the middle of the floor 4 beautifully wrapped packages. I called the children into the room and explained the activity.
At first I saw tears well up into Samuel's eyes as I told him what was on the agenda for that evening and I was never completely sure if the evening events even registered into the little minds of Luke and Marah for their eyes were fixed on the gifts that lay before them. I explained to them how I just knew they were going to be the best children in the world this evening and as a thank you to them I had purchased a few items in appreciation. The only catch to this now exciting evening was if I heard any grumbling whatsoever the surprise was going back into the box.
You wouldn't believe the miracle that took place thereafter. I witnessed children quickly scampering about to get ready. They were eager to please their parents and the photographer, it was wonderful. Best of all, we had a great time at the lake and for a few moments forgot there was someone there snapping photos. Moral of the story never underestimate the value of a dollar store gift.
