This week in iPhone photos

While Mommy was at work over the weekend, the girls went with Daddy to a birthday party at Cosley Zoo.  The theme of the party was horses, and they got to pet a real pony, play pin-the-tail on the pony, and act like ponies too!

There were of course presents...

...and birthday cake.

Someone still loves her Halloween costume!

Uh oh, attack of the tickle monster.

Lounging around weekend

 We visited Trader Joe's and found the monkey; the girls were rewarded with suckers.

 They had fun playing with Brie and her toys but had to take a break.

 OK, ready to go again!

 Brie's worn out; she's an old lady now!

Eddie's birthday party

Stephie had a great time at Eddie's birthday party at Jumpin' Jungle.  Daddy enjoyed pitching her into this large bin of foam blocks.

The kids lined up to go to the next room.

Yum, birthday cake!

The big chair was a big hit.

Also, here's a cute picture of Gigi and the girls from last weekend.  So sweet!

Avery Coonley

Guess what, everybody?  Stephie is changing schools!  Mommy and Stephie went to visit her new school, Avery Coonley, today.  This is her class of 21 kids; the lady in the middle is Mrs. Evans, one of three teachers in the Early Childhood program.

The ladies with the lanyards are two parent volunteers that are there every class.

 Here is Mrs. Evans again working with a small group on a project.

 And where was Haley during all this fun?

 Tearin' up the Play Place with Grandpa Allen!

Later, Mommy and the girls walked around the block collecting leaves.

What a great and exciting day!

Music class with Jewie

Apparently this is how Haley chooses to spend most of music class most weeks.  This is particularly ironic as she literally does not stop moving the rest of the week.

Haha, that's funny!

The girls took full advantage of Jewie's attendance (and WHOA! check out those matching profiles!)...

 ...before joining in the musical fun.

19 months old!

 Today we celebrated Haley's 19th month birthday with a trip to get our hair cut.  Big sister Stephie went first.

 Haley observed carefully...

 ...looking great, Stephie! ...

 ...before deciding that she was up for the challenge too.

 "Hey, it wasn't so bad!"

 Complete with hair bows.

It's hard to believe that Haley is 19 months old!  This month has been a bit of a challenge for us as Haley gains more independence and isn't afraid to show it.  She has basically given up eating and sleeping much to Mommy and Daddy's dismay, especially at 3am.  Despite that, she is physically the most capable and coordinated toddler I've ever seen, exhibiting both fine motor dexterity (taking tiny caps on and off) and gross motor skills.  She also has lots of new words including a few colors (everything is purple according to Haley) and some 2-word combos, "Mama, help!"  "Mama, bite!" which is unfortunately usually followed by a chomp on the shoulder.  She continues to call Stephie "YA-ya!" which I think is quite possibly the most endearing thing that she does.  She gives huge open-mouthed kisses and hugs and loves to be held...on her terms.

 Happy 19 months, Haley!  You are loved!

Maybe we should go to your house next time...

 Though the other kids liked playing with Stephie and Haley's art supplies...

...we're not sure how excited they were to have lentil chips for a snack...

 ...or broccoli for lunch.

 At least the toys were fun!

Or not?  Time for a nap.

 Fake tea and cookies too?

  Maybe your place next time, guys.

Hugs for Claire!