The Stomp

It's official. Stella had her first art show.

Here's the proud artist, showing everyone the piece she calls "Stegosaurus and Her Babies."

Little did we know, our little neighborhood has turned into a happening place. Last night, our hood hosted the second annual Sunnyland Stomp, an event that proved to be super cool. There are several prominent artists in our neighborhood, and The Stomp showcases these folks and their work. We heard about it last year and thought, "Cool." And this year, our lovely neighbors and friends hosted several artists and were thoughtful enough to encourage the kids from our block to submit their work. Again, we thought, "Cool." A brief little showing for kids; no big deal.

We had no idea how cool this would be.

Here's Stella chillin' as she watches a constant stream of 'hamsters flow through our neighbors' yard. Several people paid special attention to Stella's drawing, marveling at her accuracy, cleverness and the fact that she's not yet three. She seemed pretty psyched. There was live music from our other beloved neighbor and tasty food and beer from dear friends. It was a total hoot.

And to cap it all off, Stella had her face painted. She was very thoughtful about what she wanted. After taking a long to time to decide, she finally said "Color. I want lots of color. And circles. Fun, spotty circles." And she got it. (I think this is the coolest face painting I've ever seen.)

And Stella was of course over the moon the whole night because she got to hang with her favorite big kid, Sarah. (She's obsessed with Sarah, asking to see her morning, noon and night.)

And while Stella and I made the rounds, Papa and Phoebe relaxed in the shade. Phoebe was totally transfixed by the viola (Bach, thank you very much) and happily charmed everyone in attendance.

For those of you in town, we'll be sure to invite you next year since we've realized this is one of the coolest events in town. And who knows, maybe we'll host next year....

Upright

A whole new era is beginning.

Phoebe is starting to sit up (with help). She's teething with a vengence. She's laughing all the time. She's scooting and turning on her back. And she's getting cuter by the minute.

A Long Lazy Day

Today was dreamy.

The light was perfect. Papa took the day off. The girls were in good spirits. The garden saw progress. We took a leisurely walk through the neighborhood. Our own kale was consumed. Beloved neighbors returned from many months away. Phoebe watched the olive tree sway above her as she laid on the picnic blanket. I was told we need to go to the parasaurolophus store to buy a parasaurolophus. Stella and Papa decided to sleep in the tent. Stella and Papa have yet to come back in to sleep inside.... fingers crossed. And Phoebe laughed uncontrollably at the sight of her sister jumping around in her underwear.

And I got to stare at this gorgeous face all day. Ridiculous, isn't it?

Thrill Seeker

Like most kids, Stella loves the swing. She could literally spend hours chatting, observing, laughing, dreaming - all from a swing.

On a recent outing with our dear friends, the Poulsons, Stella spent most of her time swinging with Anne, Eric and Isaac. (We miss you, Abby!) She even got to decorate her swing with flowers under the artistic direction of the ever fabulous Anne. But then... then the real fun began.

Stella began to twirl...

... and twirl...

... until she became one of those troll dolls.

I Love This Photo

Little Bonham

Ah, the tradition lives on. Just as Stella honed her infant airdrumming skills with Brian, so does Phoebe. Rock on, little one. Rock on.

(We'll have to post a video of this since Phoebe lets out the most hilariously cute squeal and giggle when Brian does this. Coming soon...)

My Babe

What you don't see here is my desire to gobble up this kid. Delicious, I tell you. Delicious.