Halloween-A Family Affair

This year, we decided to dress-up en familia. And since Lola chose to be a gypsy, Michael (not pictured, though dutifully dressed as a pirate) went along with the theme. Mercifully, this was the only photo that survived of Mom. Though, Lola sure was cute!

The Baby Front Teeth = History

Just three weeks ago, after weeks of working her teeth back and forth as vigorously as her little fingers could, Lola finally lost both her front teeth. She likes the fact that she can make "fangs" out of the remaining teeth. Just in time for Halloween!

Another tooth -- gone!

Belated First Day of First Grade Photos

Lola started first grade this year, an occasion that turned out to be more notable a transition than any of us anticipated. She has a "firm" teacher, that is, firm by progressive school standards. And is expected to do much more than kindergarten. After a few touch-and-go weeks, and many mini-dramas with girlfriends, Lola has settled into first grade life with great aplomb!

The Piercing of the Ears

After months of petitioning her mother, Lola finally got her ears pierced at her doctor's office. There was much hand wringing before hand. And not a few tears during. But the minute Lola got a look at herself in the mirror, the crying ceased. She is now an official girly girl.

The Year of the Flower Girl

For the second time since December, Lola proved to be an exemplary flower girl. This time, it was at her Aunt Elizabeth's wedding in Los Angeles. Not only did she scatter rose petals right on cue, but at the night-time reception, Lola never left the dance floor. Even when that meant she was cutting the rug by herself. At the end of the night, after she had danced non-stop for hours, Lola declared, "Mom, I'm ready to go." She was asleep the minute her head hit the pillow.