Lala’s Smile

This is Lala smiling.

She didn’t start out like this. At first it was just the faintest hint of a smile—so subtle you weren’t sure it was intentional. But we noticed it. And because it was cute, we encouraged it.

Now she smiles constantly. Bigger. More deliberate. Very aware that this particular facial expression gets a response. If you watch the video in slow motion, it is… alarming. All teeth. Lips fully retracted. Not something you would describe as welcoming if you didn’t know her.

But this is Lala being pleased with herself. This is her version of joy.

My favorite part is that she figured this out on her own—that she identified which version of herself was met with laughter and affection, and doubled down.

So yes. Mildly horrifying in slo-mo. Completely charming in real life. Very, very Lala.