First Grade Picture

The infamous 1st Grade pic

     Even though I was only in first grade, the sixth grade teacher, who was a man, had a reputation, even to six year olds, for being a scary guy. He was known to be strict with all the kids, not just the ones in his class. He made his students work very hard. I was someone who did not want to attract his attention in any way.
     Ever.

     But it turned out that this sixth grade teacher was also the person taking the school pictures that year. And he would be taking my first grade picture. Our paths were about to cross!
     I remember I was wearing a white cardigan sweater on picture day. I was so terrified of that teacher. I tried to sit calmly in the spot where I was told. Mr. Friar took a few shots, and then he barked at me to take the sour look off my face and smile! My terror was soon mixed with stubbornness and anger – there was no way I was going to smile for that man, even if I could! 

     He got nothing but sour!

     A few years ago I asked Mom if I could have my first grade picture. It had been damaged – right where the sour should have been! I sent it to a restoration place, and although the results were clearly not me, I had several copies made and gave them away as Christmas presents that year.

     My brothers thought it to be an odd gesture.

     Now even the restored picture is quite dear to me!
     But of course, I could not find a copy of the restored pic in time for this post - instead I came across the original, damaged first grade picture that the restoration people were glad to return to me!

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