Summer Is:

We're building a set of our favorite photos depicting summer to this Flickr Set. They are also inspired by and part of the Summer Is: Flickr Group .

Secret Messages

I've found a new way to buy some moments of peace & Kenzie enjoys it too. I write "secret messages" on a paper, Kenzie matches each letter with another letter found within a magazine and pastes them all down. When she's completed the collage, we decipher the message. Sometimes, she also adds pictures that go along with the message after we decipher it.

She knows all her letters and appropriate sounds now. And, this also is aiding in beginning reading skills.

Keeping dry

A short, hard rain inspired the building of a fort. After collecting every umbrella they could find (they ended up with 12!), the kids sat beneath them for hours.

Accessorizing....

Kenzie is teaching Rylan the art of accessories. And, he doesn't seem to mind it one little bit.

She flies

Kenzie's mastered pumping and swinging on her own. It's sweet how something so little brings her so much pleasure. She's convinced she can teach Rylan how to do it SOON. She's also providing him with "swim lessons" at the pool, now that she's an accomplished swimmer. who. can. swim. all. by. herself!

on inspiring little girls

The days of summer are rolling by in a blur and creativity is stifled in between baby cries and "must do's." However, I was instantly enamored with the new project by some of my favorite girls and wanted to join in..

Kenzie gave me the inspiration this morning...




We're also contributing this to The Place Where Big and Little Art Meet. We did just as Kenzie suggested - using the flowers and bits of nature to paint & collage the art. Thank you Kenzie & the Echoes creators. This Mama needed that.

**My piece is on top. Kenzie's outcome follows.**

Patriotic Princess

It was a busy 4th of July Holiday this year - with activities spanning throughout the weekend. Kenzie had a close call with a firecracker and I believe it cemented for her that she.does.not.like.them. She likes watching the big shows, but certainly doesn't wish to partake in any of the shooting.

That's my girl...