A Little Fun at the Park...Don't Tell Your Mother....

On a recent sunny afternoon I noticed the sky was bright, blue and perfect for creating a photographic sunburst.  I could shoot just the sun or I could make one of those winter action photos.  I had all the  ingredients with the exception of a model...draaaatttttts, no model.    Oh wait a second,  I am a parent, I have a child,  I have a model.   Even with the confidence of parental authority in my back pocket,  I am aware that negotiating with a 12 year old, glued to X-Box is some serious business.   The analogy that comes to mind is "do I cut the green wire or the red wire?"  Fortunately, I am a believer in the importance of  interpersonal communications and sound human relationships and know that those who are given a choice are much more motivated to participate willingly.   So, true to my beliefs, I gave Noah a choice, do chores for the next 4 hours or go to the park for 30 minutes.  Out the door we went.

"So Dad you want me to slowly swing back and forth?"

"Yes, Noah, but not too fast or too high!"

"Noah, please be careful..."

"Dad, should I let go?",  "No, Noah, do not let go!"

"Hey Dad, how about upside down?"
 "Noah stop that!!!"

"Wow Noah, that is actually pretty cool....but you should stop.."

 "Actually do a few more while I take some pictures"

"Hey Noah?"
  "Yes Dad"
"Please don't tell your mother"