It's been over a year since John and I have had a "professional" family photo (if you call Sears "professional"). I think the last time we had pictures taken was for Manny's first birthday, so it was about time we hauled our butts in, and had updated pictures. I knew it would be a bit difficult to get Manny to cooperate (he's a free spirited child), but I had NO idea how difficult it would really be.

First of all, the photographer we had wasn't fast enough. Manny did really well during the first group photo, but I could see his attitude starting to unravel about 5 minutes in, however the photographer insisted that we try another pose. I wanted to move onto having Manny's solo pictures taken, but we tried a different family pose....bad idea, by the time it was Manny's turn, he was ready to leave.

Halfway through our session, the photographers switched, and I could tell our "new" photographer was much more experienced with kids. She made it a game with him, she gave him props to play with, and wouldn't wait for the "perfect" pose, she just snapped when she saw him looking at the camera and smiling. It was definitely a battle, but we ended up getting some super cute pictures.

Needless to say, it will be a while before we attempt to do that again. Here are some of our faves:



We also went to the Scottish Games in Pleasanton on Saturday. I must say that I miss going to those events on a regular basis. I look back on those games with fond memories.

At the games I found out that one of my former competitors had won second in the world (that same weekend). When I heard the news it made me wonder what type of dancer I would have become had I continued with my lessons. I knew that my mother, and my teacher had high hopes for me, but by the time I had stopped dancing I had been competing for9 years. I was ready to move on and try new things.

I sincerely hope that my children show interest in taking part in the games when they get older. I think it would be awesome if Manny and Christian were in a pipe band. I think it would be a great experience. I saw so much of the state during my competing years, met so many different people, and learned valuable lessons - only time will tell.