"How are you doing today?"

This morning Zoa was holding the cutest pretend phone conversations with Grandma and Grandpa and Tom (Brian's friend and carpool buddy). She would say, "Hello Grandpa Grandpa. How are you doing today? I'm just sitting here with Mama and Dada. See you next time. Bye-bye Grandpa Grandpa and Grandma." She held almost the exact same conversation with Tom. She is really getting into using politeness markers and is getting good at using them in the correct contexts. Like when Brian handed her a napkin today and she said, "Oh yes, thank you Dada."

So besides turning on the charm, in the last month Zoa (and Brian and I) have been quite busy. Mid-August we had a visit from my parents which was a life saver. Brian and my Dad worked on our ailing bathroom while my Mom, Zoa and I worked on odd projects and relaxed as well. The end of August brought our return to school and work, which has been a difficult transition for Zoa to make. She cried everyday the first week back in daycare, but this week she did a little better. She definitely has fun playing with her friends and doing the preschool program. She is starting to bring home artwork just about every day.

Speaking of art, Zoa has gotten very into painting lately. She loves using watercolors and will go through about 4-5 pieces of paper (front and back) during a painting session. She also often turns the paintbrush on herself and becomes a walking piece of art. Usually, a bath is the only way to remove all of the paint.

Here are some recent photos, some of the second annual Daddy-Daughter day at the zoo, Zoa the walking canvas, and Zoa showing off her new hairstyle.

Until next time...