Kendall's pic

Last Saturday, Stacie and I had the great pleasure of taking the family to Olan Mills studio for some portraits. Since Chaim and Caden were born 2 years ago, all previous attempts at anything called a family photo has ended in utter failure. Sure we ended up with photos, but generally there is a nose-picker, screamer or wiggler. So, when Stacie informed me of our appointment I was cognitively in agreement with the plan (it had been a while since we tried), but really I was dreading the photo shoot. Getting all three of our boys dressed, and actually looking at the camera would take time, patience, and a miracle.
When we arrive, it is apparent that something is amiss. One worker was operating at a frantic pace. The other one was walking around talking on the phone. Apparently, one of the other studios in town was having problems. When she completed her phone call she slowly began to help us. She finally got us set up to take our picture and I’m thinking, “okay, any minute the boys are going crazy!! Please take the picture quickly while everyone is relatively calm.” Finally, everything is set and, thankfully, the other worker takes over. She’s great with kids and less than 5 minutes later, we have our portrait. I’m thoroughly amazed.
Here’s where the funny part starts. We decide to push our luck a little further. We take individual pics of the boys. Chaim and Caden – perfect! They’re so cute. Caleb’s turn. We try everything. Throw the animals at him. Tell jokes. Tickle him. “say, cheese!” Nothing is working, when out of nowhere, Stacie says, “say, Kendall.” Caleb is suddenly seized with joy and his whole countenance says, “I’m happy.” The photographer quickly snaps the picture. Confused, I ask Stacie, “who’s Kendall?” She says, “his little friend at school.” I astutely recognize that this is not a boys name, and this moment is ruined for me. This picture will be a treasure for years to come. It was perfect. Caleb’s angelic little face with his perfect little grin. All I will ever be able to think when I see the picture is, “Wait a minute. Caleb’s way too young for this!!”