Marrowstone

Oh, how I love the sight of little sandy toes. This is what summer should look like, right? (Okay, a swimsuit is usually more typical, but here in the Northwest we'll take what we can get.) In August, we spent a week on Marrowstone Island (an oh-so-tiny island twenty minutes out from Port Townsend), enjoying the beach, eagle watching and generally chilling as a family. The trip provided a much-needed break for all of us, and it was so wonderful to watch the girls make the best of the gray and chilly weather.

I swear Stella is growing by the minute. While there are still challenges here and there, her maturity and positive perspective is truly lovely these days.

And Phoebe's curiosity is starting to rage - yipee! - as is her attempts to communicate. This wee sprite is gathering a useful little tool box of words for herself and feels pretty darn proud.

And my goodness, she's a goofball.

I love the natural industriousness of kids. But throw them on a beach with rocks, sticks, shells and sand? Watch out, Andy Goldsworthy. My little family loves them some fleeting beach art. The Mama and the Papa love this stuff just as much as the wee ones, and it was one of those moments that just felt like us.

A little glamour is always helpful.

This picture isn't exactly special, but it does capture one of the countless moments where Stella and Phoebe show their true spirits while playing. They are buddies. They are go-getters. They are silly cheese balls. They are sweet friends. They are tiny helpers. So yeah, they are definitely the worst roommates I've ever had. But they are also awesome companions day in and day out.

You said it, Phoebe.