Say Cheese

I, just like most people, don’t always like how I look. I want to lose a few pounds, fix my hair (cover the grays), put on some make-up, dress nicer, etc. However, as a parent, there is not always time to make yourself look your best. Don’t use your own appearance as a reason to not be in pictures with your family.

Years from now, your children will look back on the family pictures and relive the wonderful memories that were created. If you are not in any of the pictures, it’s harder for them to remember the role you played. They can’t see the smile on your face as you watched them enjoy life. Or know how your eyes lit up from the love you felt for them. Sure, they will know what you tell them, but if you are not in any pictures, it’s hard for them to see it.

We took a lot of pictures of Casey over the years. And as parents, we were not in all of them. When it was a big event or a really special day, we tried to all be in as many as we could. I avoided the camera for many years. I did it just because I was not happy with my own appearance. I read this article years ago that helped me to realize that my appearance did not matter. My presence did.

After Casey passed away in 2016, the pictures and videos were even more important. I spend a lot of time every day looking at her old photos. And I remember our special moments. I was worried that she would have forgotten that I was there. But now they help me to see the love we shared as a family. I remember that we did the best that we could to give her a full life.

You don’t have to be in every picture, but don’t avoid the camera. You don’t have to share the pictures with anyone else. But you and your loved ones will be glad that you have them.

There are many ways to make and keep memories. In this article, a mom shares her way.