Friends, Take the Photo

We’ve all seen the articles telling dads to take the photo of moms and their kids. My advice to everyone out there with a friend that has a kid—you take the photo. Your friend will thank you.

No matter what you’re doing when you hang out, just snap a quick photo. You could be simply hanging out in their home or yours. Don’t worry about the mess or what is in the background. The photo will bring a smile to your friend’s face. Maybe even a laugh. Though this reaction may take some time, in the end, they will be grateful.

As moms, we’re all so busy. We’re trying to keep the kids alive, feed them (maybe something healthy—fries are a vegetable, right?), and hopefully, teach them something. We get so wrapped up in what we need to do that we sometimes forget to stop and appreciate the little moments.

Will I remember in twenty years that Owen swings his one arm when he wants to go fast? Or that he loves to throw dandelions into creeks? Hopefully I will remember that he enjoys hitting golf balls with his dad.

As much as we may try to break our “addiction,” we all have our phones on us, so taking photos has never been easier. Take a second and capture the moment. (Also, if you have tips on how to break the phone addiction, feel free to send them my way).

Now for the moms out there—you look beautiful. Yes, even with your greasy hair and leggings. Be more open to the photo. Later you will come to cherish these those captured moments.

I’m fortunate to have an awesome friend who does this for me. Some of my favorite photos of my son and me have been the ones that she has captured. Thank you for that (and so much more), Astrid!

So hear me, dear readers, when I say: Friends of mamas out there, just take the photo.