growing up

We've only been in Santa Barbara a few short weeks but long enough to welcome a new year for now three year old Ruby and to see an almost 10 month old Eleanor learn to stand up (with help) and be like the big kids.

surf's up

There's something about the water. It's soul filling and energizes you. 
I'm always surprised (and perhaps a bit happy...) that the Santa Barbara beaches are not packed with people enjoying the light, the sand, and the sounds of the ocean. 
Things may change when school is out and the surf is up but for now we'll delight in the quiet but joy-filled sounds of the water and waves.

nap time

Do you take naps? Ruby knows when she needs one, states it as a fact,and all I need to do is give a kiss and tuck a tired 3 year old under the sheets; thumbs up in my book.
Lola believes Ruby and Eleanor are her children and although annoying at times (alarm barking when the girls cry; and we are 2 feet away from them) it's quite endearing when you see her watching over her charge.
Ruby says she's giving up her pacifier on her third birthday. in three days. We'll see how that goes.

exploring

I run with Lola across the street from where our cottage is...it's gorgeous light and the trails are easy on the feet. 
The most difficult part of a new place to live is not knowing the who, what, and where which can be a bonus. For instance; I'm interviewing a hairdresser on Tuesday who specializes in curly hair and it will be fun to get a new opinion that might make me rethink my natural waves and curls. When you see your hairdresser as often as I do finding a potential candidate is in the top 10 list of things to do.
Ruby and Eleanor are a delight; Ruby can be silly but also is a thinker as well and Eleanor's smile fills your heart with joy. Such a blessing to be able to be a part of these two girl's lives.

around here

we're pretty happy in these parts. packing up and getting ready to hit the road.
had one last photo shoot with one of my models in town; now I'll get to be "creepy lady" in Santa Barbara asking "you want me to take your picture?" just kidding. I wouldn't do that. I might. 
can't wait to hang my vintage dog paintings that have been in storage for the last year in the new place. 
I'm totally going to run on the beach. but not in a red one piece. but maybe in a red cupcake.

leap of faith

This is it. This is my last week at work. The school district was part of my life for 12 years and it's been a swell ride; lots of friends and a few faces that I'll be happy not to run into. ever. again. Being at the high school this year has allowed me to see some first graders I met while teaching in elementary school turn into amazing sophomores. almost juniors. and that has been a joy. 
I'm packing up the home front and getting ready for next weeks move. Santa Barbara here we come. So many more pictures and stories to come.

mellow yellow

This was actually a pile of clothes on my dresser and adding the Miss Albright (from Anthro) shoes on top kind of sang "photo op!" On my ebay page and the bidding has started--you can click on the "my shop" page to check it out. I'll be selling more clothing and shoes that I feel like I won't be needing in the next couple of weeks; cleaning out before the move to Santa Barbara!