Family Day In the Poconos

PA Family Day Blog 2011 - Images by Mike Ritter

Back in June, we continued what has become an annual tradition since my Dad ran for state rep in '08. We ran a family day to raise money for the campaign and three families have stuck with it ever since. Two work with my biggest promoter (Mom), and one is an old high school friend. Another high school friend visited with her new daughter as well. I've gotten to see these kids grow over the past couple years and siblings be added. I've seen painful shyness turn into uncontrollable glee.

This year we shot at my family's cabin in the Poconos. There was great greenery, buildings, and a lake to work with. The three blonde sisters remained absolutely cherubic with an occasional crying session. The two brothers weren't as interested in photos this year; but once we gave them things to do like throw rocks in the lake and throw apples at the photographer, they settled in. And my buddy Ben's two daughters remain the most hands on sisters I know. They will run with, chase after, collide into, roll over, and hug each other all day.

As Ben's family packed up to leave, his oldest daughter made me smile when she turned and said, "OK, see you next year."