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.
6 comments:
I will forever love these pictures. They amaze me how beautiful they are. Your family is amazing and trust me I can understand about the torture over pics. There is a reason we only really have pics of the kids but this year if you look closely at the picture you will get you will see, Melissa's cheek is kinda' red and her lip swollen..that's because everyone got into a fight and Zac had, had enough and he hauled off and punched Melissa lol Now that's bad hahahha
Happy Holidays to you all
Renee
Way to go Dollar Store!
These are great pictures of your family; we just received your dard and gift in the mail a day or two ago! We wish that we were closer and could see you all in person!
What beautiful pictures! The kids are growing so much. We wish we could've seen you over Christmas. Drat the snow! So did you have to buy Mark a dollar store present to get him to behave? Hee hee. Love you all!
-Kim
What a beautiful family, and great idea! We definitely didn't get smiles this year. I'll remember this. :)
Great idea! I don't think we have a family picture without at least one solemn face in it-- So next time I'll try your strategy! We hope Utah is working out well for you!
We LOVE these pictures!! Thanks for sending them on over. We just need to get your bodies on over here, to tickle and enjoy too, we miss you! We really enjoy the family blog. LOVE YOU ALL! Grandpa and Grandma H.
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