halloween

How do you get Genna to smile in a picture?  Ask her to say, "Papa!"

School Pics

Phoenix Visit

Phoenix is known for fabulous spas.  Maya expected no less than the royal treatment here at the Oo La La Salon.  The house specialty is every other nail a different color.

 A short hike to the "Waterfall" in the White Tanks.  With several stops for rock climbing en route.

 Running away from our 4th unsuccessful geocache near Butler Park.

 Naps were few & far between 

(Unless there was a long drive strategically placed after lunch).

Or a long, hot hike.  Then Genna may just plop down face first, mid-trail.

 Hat shopping in Jerome.

 The Verde Valey Railway Excursion.  Thanks Grandpa!

 Maya had just told Aunt Courtney that she sleeps with her eyes open.  Actually, she does!?!?!?

 Oo La La!  A fancy luncheon at the tea house.  Thanks Grandma!

MVP - "Mini Van Plan"

Maya plans her birthday cake all year round.  One of her favorite bedtime stories is a cake design book.  Her birthday request is always centered around her favorite theme of the moment.  She generally plans on having a princess cake, doll cake (again) or sometimes a Dora cake.  But now she wants a Minivan cake.  You know when the item hits the birthday-cake-design request that it holds a very special place in her heart.

The MV obsession began in August when she had several occasions to ride in Aunt Joy's.  (Ok, I acknowledge, this is a pretty sweet ride, from the passenger's perspective). Then in September we stumbled upon the minivan mecca, A.K.A. "Preschool Pick-up/Drop-off".

Poor Maya is so conflicted.  I've explained to her that having a car that is larger than you need is not good for the earth.  She IS catching on and earnestly does not appreciate producers of "stinky smoke".  However she remains attached to the dream of owning a minivan.  At least she's decided that hers will run on wind-power batteries.  Hopefully in 13 years, those will be available.