Going for the poker face

A little over a week ago we had family pictures taken. We've made this a holiday tradition. Last year the experience was less than stellar. Mainly because Zoe was 11 months and the photographer thought saying "smile for the camera" was enough to enduce hysterical laughter from the baby crowd.

It's safe to say I was a little worried about this year's experience. Namely because Zoe is a toddler now and likes to showcase her opinions whenever she feels. Plus we had D & E with us. If you've ever tried to coordinate three genuine smiles on film, you'll know how difficult this can be.

These little holiday moments have really taught me a lesson in patience (and perhaps a reason to self-medicate pre-shoot). If Zoe wants to cry and get all hysterical during the shoot, then that's the picture we'll get to remember the experience. When she's 23 and looking at these photos, I can tell her where the gray hair around my temples came from.

It's part of the circle of life.

This year the shoot was more comical than anything. Zoe wouldn't sit on the toddler sized couch to save her life. She thought it was so cool she could get off it so easily. When she was forced to stay seated, she let us know this wasn't part of her plan.

Then when it seems she would be cooperative, N & I were not what you call camera ready. Quite frankly we look like we're trying to ruin the pictures with our unprepared looks and double chins. I only like to hang flattering pictures of us on our walls. The girls look cute with their attitudes or crooked bangs that they cut themselves. People pass that kind of thing off as "part of childhood memories." Adult double chins is more along the lines of "that's too bad."

Without further ado, some of our shots from our newest holiday tradition. Apparently the under 2 crowd was less than pleased with the gold ornament and Santa bear. She had her eye on a basketball she found off to the side.