Emily and I went on a fall hike on Sunday rather than watch the Bengals game as we normally would. It was nice to be out on a beautiful day exploring the change of seasons. I gave everyone the choice to watch the game (or stay home) or hike. Only Emily joined me, which is nice...Emily is the one who seems to need special time the most (and seems to get the least).
As we were hiking along a main trail, Em found another little obscure footpath to the side (one that I probably wouldn't have taken without her prompting). But we were glad we did because we discovered this beautiful, serene, secluded stream...away from the crowds of the rest of the park. There were LOTS of fall peepers out walking.
It was nice to have my girl with me. What rather broke my heart, though, was her annoyance with my camera. She said stuff like: It's like the camera is another person with us. Mom, would you rather be with the camera or me?
I wanted both. I wanted to capture autumn and wanted to be with my girl. Why is it so hard to do both?
Life...it's hard. Really it is. But it's also worth it!
Beautiful shot, I'm sure my daughter would say the same thing to me if she could speak. I just want to capture every moment so that I can keep hold of it forever.
Without that "other person" you would not have captured this very special moment with this little person. A fabulous image of her as she explores her world and a solid memory of how special this day was with just her as your companion.
Em lead you to a beautiful place on your fall hike together. There's such a pensive feel to this image with her there dabbling in the water. I can imagine that in a way you're touched that she craves your undivided attention. That sure beats a child who could care less what you're doing. But I feel for you, feeling you have to make choices...
Now that you recognize her need she might not feel that way toward the camera. I bet you try to spend more time with her...can always watch a replay of a football game if you really want toš
"being with you alone is so special i want to capture it forever. every time i look at any of the pictures i took today, it will remind me of this special time we spent together, the more picture i take, the more i will remember this special time, especially that you discovered this little secret stream. when i look at my photos and you see me smile, you know why." is all you say to her. not defensively, but lovingly. i love your clara but emily has such sensitivity she's loveable in her own way.
Lovely photo, composition...I actually gave my great nephew and niece a couple of old point and shoots that they take along when they are with Aunt Gloria :).
As always, what a lovely narrative, and I do understand where Emily is coming from. This is a beautiful image and one you'll treasure - so will she, one day!
Tell Em that without the camera, you wouldn't be looking for the best moment or the best scene and that you are creating memories. The ones with her will be the best! Fun exploring a nice clear stream!
Oh, my boys say the exact same thing. I love some of the responses above though. A lovely shot, and always special to spend time with our children one-on-one.
("This is the one who would jump in.")