She loves dirt and earthworms, swimming naked in the lake, and the feel of a freshly caught fish as it wiggles in her hands.  She loves all the Disney princesses, My Little Pony, and juicy watermelon.  She loves blueberry picking, french fries, and her little sister.  She loves naming the flowers in her Swedish grandmother’s enormous garden, and the fur of dairy goats and baby cows.  She loves going to camp, reading books, and singing along with Lady Gaga.

Anna loves just about everything life has to offer – with one big exception.  She doesn’t like having her picture taken.  How can that be?  I mean, she’s my granddaughter!  To know me is to know (and love) my camera – right?   So I had always hoped.  Anna has other ideas about photography – like it’s for other people, other siblings, other cousins. 

While visiting family in Vermont last week I had visions of finally getting Anna to look my way, grant me my most fervent wish, and smile.  I stalked her, I bribed her, I begged her, and what did I get?  A chance to really use the delete button on my camera.  But, I perservered.  Each day I  would capture an image or two worth keeping – something that showed her personality if not the perfect soulful gaze I longed for.

Finally, late one evening as I was taking pictures of others, I saw Anna from the corner of my eye.  She was posing – not for me you understand – just striking a perfectly wonderful pose as she watched the other children playing in the garden.  Click – I got her!  And there was my soulful, innocent, expressive Anna. 

Enjoy the beauty of Vermont, the sweetness of a granddaughter, and the reward of patience….Robin