Is Mongi from Brooklyn?

We've always thought that Monica sounds like she's from Brooklyn. Now she's singing Beastie Boys!

Keeping Each Other Accountable

This is what Owen and Ayva do during quiet time. They are each given an appropriate reading level book, go to the top of Owen's loft bed and read to each other.

They aren't the only ones benefiting from this!

Little Tumbler and Ballerina

Monica has been so excited to start tumbling and ballet. But as the big day came she was a little apprehensive. After a few tears and about 20 minutes she got into the swing of it. And when asked if she wanted to go to ballet, she grabbed the teacher's hand with no hesitation (and without saying goodbye to daddy or mommy) and went off to class. I guess the anxiety is gone.

Sista-Sista!

We're sistas and we have each other!

PS We love our brother too!

Our Family Vacation

Falls Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Three little indians looking at Crazy Horse.

Too close for comfort - right after this shot a mama buffalo chased Owen.

Three little angels at Hell's Dome.

Three smart little Americans at Mount Rushmore!

ALL ABOARD an 1880 train!

In the back of our cabin.. 3 professional travelers...

happy traveler...

helpful and crazy traveler...

sweet and sick traveler.

Three good kids in the Badlands.

Looking out at Storm Lake.

Almost looked like the ocean...

... made us excited for our upcoming trip to CA!!

Lucero Family Visits

Owen, Ayva, and Monica were so happy that their family could come to visit. They went fishing, to parks, to the Historical museum, to Winterset's city park, to Copper Creek, and to the zoo. They loved being with their family and showing them all the fun things there are to do in Iowa! here are just some highlights.

Cousin Time!

We were very happy that the Daniels could stop by to see us and rest after their trip from SoCal. Ayva was in heaven. She always wants girls to come over and play. She got THREE girls (and one on the way)!! They had a lot of fun playing dress up, with moon sand, and different games and puzzles.