Christmas Card Photo

If it were up to my boys, there would be no Christmas card photo. There probably wouldn't be any Christmas cards. Except for those on the store shelves waiting for someone else to buy them. Why do I feel like I am going into battle to get them to pose for a few snapshots? Smile. Be sweet to your brother. Just for a minute. OK, pretend to be sweet. Look here. No, not down there...or over there...don't poke him...or strangle him...AAAAAAH!

I think Nick is a double agent, secretly working for the enemy. He isn't all fired up over the process either. They sense his "excitement."

I remember, back in the day, when I could gently place Nathan under the Christmas tree. His eyes filled with wonder seeing all the lights and ornaments. He sat there while I snapped probably a hundred photos. He never complained, never fidgeted. We'd take some more on the brick hearth, and even more outside in the yard. He so patiently put up with this obsession.

Now, fast forward. I'm lucky to get 5 shots to choose from. "Lean together" translates into "who can leeeeean enough to knock the other off the step stool." "Hold this candy cane" becomes "wouldn't it be a jolly good time to WHACK my brother with this candy cane?"

Just when I was about to tear my hair out, they both smiled, AND looked at the camera, AND didn't do anything for one split second to annoy each other, ANNNND I caught it all on film...well, digital film, or digital whatever that captures those magical moments. They do love each other, and there are many moments when they are sweet as pie with each other. Until I want to take Christmas pictures. But now, I have one to smile about. But, ohhhh, the anguish that it took to get it! :)