Those Heartwarming Christmas Photos

Christmas photos are an important way to chronicle family evolution, particularly that of the children. The photos speak volumes about a child's wonderous, innocent belief in Santa and the spirit of giving.
However, the photographers who snap these pictures don't seem to understand what I'm looking for in a Santa photo. Sure, the big eyes and smiles are nice while the critters are perched upon Santa's knees, but I'm looking for something a little more realistic.
I like screaming, crying, sleeping or just good, old-fashioned bewilderment.
Our children have been champions at this. Their emotional range has been captured and chronicled in touching ways that perfectly accent our walls during the holiday season. They also provide an occasionally twisted father with perfect ammunition for those treasured later years, from prom dates to prospective spouses.

Son: But Dad, I don't wanna rake the yard! I got my girlfriend coming over.
Dad: Are you sure about that son?
Son: Come on, dad! She'll be here in a couple of hours!
Dad: That's fine son, but remember that Christmas photo?

Son: Where are the leaf bags?

Precious, ain't it? The photographer at the mall last year tried to get all professional on us, and I stood nearby and hollered, "TAKE THE PICTURE!!! TAKE IT!!! YEEHAH!!! COME ON!! JUST DO IT!!!"

Anyway, the guy on the right, Curt, has come along way since then. This year, as he nears his fourth birthday, he's really into Santa. He apparently grasps the idea that there is a connection between Santa, candy and presents. Here is a recent shot:

Ah, yes, he's full off the Christmas spirit this year. I can't say the same for Sopranos Claus here, who looks like he's part of the federal witness protection program in order to avoid getting whacked.

So it looks like the prospects for hilarity are dimming for Curt, but his brother, Luke, is another story. Check out this little gem:

Ah, yes, I can always count on Luke, the funniest child ever, to keep up the tradition.

Of course, those two boys teamed up for some holiday photographic magic during a recent trip to Houston, where on Thanksgiving we took them down to the evening Uptown Houston lighting near the Galleria. Again, my heart filled with joy as the boys showed their appreciation for their containment in a stroller during the loud, crowded event. See for yourself:

Sadly, we didn't make it until the grand lighting at this glorious holiday-entertainment spectacle. Nevertheless, we carried away some fond memories that we'll delight in sharing with others for years and years and years to come.

If you have similar heartwarming photos, feel free to e-mail them to me at bpearson@hearstnp.com, and I'll post 'em in this blog.

Happy holidays!