Even Highway Robbers have to eat

Today is Picture Day at Claire’s School. Again? They do this twice a year?? Apparently, they do.

In the past, this particular school photo company would allow you to see the photos before making a purchase decision. Well, so many parents were keeping the photos and not paying that they’ve changed their policies for this school. Now, just like in the fall, we have to decide which package we want, pre-pay and then HOPE the photos turn out.

We were really lucky in the fall, and they turned out fabulously.

I have my fingers crossed today.
And, I’m trying not to twitch.

Still, I can’t get over how much they cost. All the little girls were showing each other their little photo slips and their pretty dresses today. I can’t leave her out of that experience. Yes, we take more photos of her than a typical Paparazzi on any given day in Beverly Hills, but “real” photos to share with friends and family is fun, too.

I used to take Claire to a local photo place that would offer entire packages of photos for under $10, if you could stick to one pose. That worked for us. Gone are those days…

At least this time, I’ll get a whole class photo out of the deal. What gets me about this is how much they charge JUST for that. Of course, you can get individual photos, TOO, for “just a little bit more.”

The thought of paying that much for one photo makes me sick to my stomach.  So, I try to find the most economical deal, and I pay. The thought of Claire being left out when everyone else participates in Picture Day makes me sick to my stomach. So, I pay.

They know this, and they gladly take my money.

I wonder if they hum a little tune as they skip to the bank?