Happy Babies Need Not Apply

With the July 4th weekend on my mind, I just wanted to take a moment to share one of my all-time favorite pictures of the boys.  A few years back,  I carefully donned them all in patriotic-colored clothes, bought American flags, and loaded up the camera to capture a happy summer moment for use on the Christmas card. 

The best laid plains...

Daniel is pouting because he hates having his picture taken and I just screamed at him to smile.  In retaliation, Danny tried taking Joey's Matchbox cars.  Joey, being slightly obsessive-compulsive, went ape-shit.   Jack, per his usual, just smiled and tried to smooth everything over.   

So I took the picture anyway thinking I'd just end up deleting it.  Now it is in the most-cherished category.

I have a large collection of crying baby photos that I also hold dear.  I've given up trying to pretend that these years are stress-free and idyllic.  When I'm a very old lady in my rocker trying to recall my youth, a bunch of smiling, perfectly coiffed kids will do nothing to trigger my memory.  But the unplanned, imperfect glimpse into our lives will surely open the floodgates:

Anyone remember the lizard baby from the 1980's miniseries "V?"

So keep those cameras ready for any meltdowns, messy kids, or mayhem this weekend.  I will be happy to post on this blog if you're willing to share.