Friday, May 20, 2011

Paparazzi and Paranoia

From time to time, strangers ask permission to take pictures of Baylie. Sometimes they don't ask, they just take them. Should this bother me? These people have ranged from high schoolers using cell phones at football games, to a Chinese tourist on the coast of Italy, to a mom at the zoo today. When people ask, I usually say it's okay, but then later I wonder if I should say no. It kind of creeps me out when people do it without asking. On the other hand, I remember one time at the Alamo I saw an adorable little boy in a big black cowboy hat and I took his picture - without permission. David thinks it's okay as long as Baylie isn't in a swimming suit or less and the person seems normal. What do you think? Would you let a stranger take a picture of your child?

On a completely different note, tonight is going to be David and Jalen's first father/son campout. I am really excited for them to have this "manly" time together and I have a fun evening planned with Baylie. However, I have to confess to being a little freaked out about letting my baby spend the night in the wild outdoors without me. Long time readers will know that I tend to think of the worst case scenario on a regular basis. For example, will David roll over and smother Jalen? Will Jalen get caught in the bottom of a sleeping bag and suffocate? Will he wander into the lake and drown? Will he get run over in the parking lot? Will he be attacked by bears or alligators? Will he wander off or get kidnapped? How will I keep myself from going crazy until they get back tomorrow morning?

I know it's horrible to even think these things, but I have a sick mind when it comes to this. It drives my dad crazy.

5 comments:

Jen said...

Seriously, I've had people ask to take Liam's picture too. It's so strange to me. Not so much anymore, but when he was a baby it happened all the time. I felt the same as you and usually said yes, but then wondered why I didn't say no.

As for the Father sons campout I think you are awesome to let him go so young! I have friends with 5 and 6 year olds that don't let them go on those. He will be fine and you just concentrate on having fun with Bailie and they will be home before you know it.

Ginger said...

I can understand the worst case scenario thing. I do it too, so I can go into panic attack mode. Lately I have just started reminding myself that if something bad happens, I will deal with it when it happens. Until then I have to focus all my energy on what is happening today. It mostly works:) Have fun with your girl time!

Kellie Knapp said...

I'm almost positive we are sisters from different misters.
#1. about 14 people asked to take Macy and Luke's picture at Yellowstone this last week, 99% of them being chinese. Rich said it was because red heads are so uncommon in China. I think David is spot on with his way of thinking. As long as they are dressed modestly and it's not some creeper.
#2. When Rich took Macy camping with some guys and their kids from our ward I swore she was going to fall into the fire.

Chari said...

Will Jalen get caught in the sleeping bag and suffocate? You just made me laugh out loud :) Thanks!

Anya Wilson said...

I think David is right. Just go with your gut. If they seem normal, they probably took the picture went home and showed their families and friends "the most adorable girl I saw at the ZOO today!" then erase it and get on with their lives. You have to face it, you have beautiful children. I love reading your blog. Jalen in that wig looked like Tarzan to me!