A little man, and his plan

Let's review something I learned very soon after becoming a mother:

Parenting lesson #1: Though you are holding the map and have the best laid plans, you are NOT the one driving the bus, and must be comfortable with re-routing at any given moment. Your child holds the wheel and you are merely the navigator.

To be clear, it is perfectly acceptable, and frankly preferred, to allow your child to believe you are doing the driving. However, you should be prepared for them to make an errant left turn at any given moment and that turn will always be unpredictable and require creative strategies to redirect. Should you be unable to achieve your final destination, you should find happiness with the unexpected alternative your child has arrived upon. I have the utmost admiration for parents who can execute this redirect with grace and a calm smile. I am still learning to do this stylishly.

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For weeks, Reece has been begging for photos in general, particularly those in his Buzz costume and has memorized all the typical Buzz quotes for the occasion. At the sight of a camera, he immediately requests a photo op either for himself or his toys, ("Mommy, take my pictcha!") complete with a goofy "CHEEEEEESE!"

(disregard that the kid is in his undies...comes with the potty training journey)

Given that two year olds are definitely not lacking in personality, I should not have been surprised at the outcome of the pre-trick-or-treat photo session last night. Clearly, there were two completely different agendas at play here. I went in with the plan to execute a memorable photo, while Reece aimed to impede the process by any means available. Funny. Real Funny. Its not the first time I have been faced with a tough to photograph two year old; big brother gave me a run for my money, but this is ridiculous.

Despite my many attempts to calmly adjust to the situation, there was little hope of capturing that coveted "perfect moment"

So, when all else fails, I try to find pleasure in the unexpected, unplanned outcome.

(hatching a menacing plan....see his tongue?)

I decided to enjoy the photo the way it came out....and snap a few of him zooming away.

(to INFINITY...)

I kinda like it this way. Life wouldn't be near as fun if I always had things in perfect order.

OTHER MISC HALLOWEEN PICS:

(a friend from school)

(knocking on their first door)