I call this photo "Surfin' USA", because that is what he was singing at the time. It is one of my all time favorite photos of my kids because it captures the true spirit of each of them. She is a bit reserved, cautious, poised. She follows the rules and is full of grace. Notice her feet in perfect ballet 3rd position. He, on the other hand, is carefree and full of life. He is charming, adventurous, and has been known to break the rules. This photo was taken in April 1994, ages 4 and 7, matching Kelly's Kids outfits for Easter. All I asked was for one photo. She instantly assumed this pose and stood there while I tried to convince him to stand next to her. I'm sure it involved begging, and possibly bribing. He finally got in front of her and sang the Beach Boys "Surfin USA" and struck this pose. I took what I could get! He was notorious for hamming it up...
On Saturday, before the wedding ceremony, while guests were arriving at the front door of the church, the photographers took Elizabeth and her bridesmaids into the side courtyard garden for photos. We had been there for a while when Elizabeth said "I want my brother. Can someone please go get him for me?" Christopher was inside the church, because he was one of the groomsmen and was ushering people. He came outside and she said she wanted pictures with just him. They posed and looked beautiful together, she in her wedding gown, and he in a black tuxedo. I stood watching my two, happy as could be. Then she turned to him and said "Now let's do one for mom". He knew just what to do. She stood gracefully, holding her wedding bouquet, and he started singing "Surfin USA" and once again, struck this pose. I jumped up and down and screamed! I loved them for knowing it was my favorite! It was a GREAT photo and the last one she took before walking down the aisle! In a strange twist of fate...the ONLY picture I took of my children (with my mom) the entire weekend was this one, taken at the Rehearsal Dinner...
Who is the clown now? Go figure!
