Thanks for commenting Skyman. That modo device looks appealing. I'll consider it if it supports the weight of my other gear. In the mean time, I should just leave a tripod in the car so I never am without one

I sold a couple camera bodies to get this 7D. I'm glad I did.

Oh and thanks for the story development advice. The only thing I staged was the scene of all the kids running out of the door. I look forward to my next opportunity to do this.....with a tripod next time of course.