Waterfall and feeling Lost

It is rare on this very crowded island that you can get away from everything and have that feeling of isolation that was pretty easy to come by in rural Missouri or rural Kansas. But every once in a while it happens and it is really nice. Not too far from our house there is a magical little walk (up a very steep hill,) through a dense forest, that leads directly to a waterfall. For a second, you almost do feel like you are on an episode of Lost.....with a seemingly abandoned, creepy military bunker and everything.

Slip and Slide

September is the hottest month of the year here so the neighborhood kids are always looking for creative ways to stay cool. Alma was invited to take part in the most recent slip and slide - as you will see she is spoiled rotten by all of the neighbors.

Hoku and Alma

Alyssa poking fun of Alma.

The ever faithful, Lili.

She never really slid she just wanted to hang out by the water fountain. 

Cutting up with baby Maya. 

Look at that smile ; )

See what I mean, she's got it made. 

September..came and went

Its almost impossible to believe that a month has gone by since we said goodbye to Martin. We have been so overwhelmed with balancing both of us being new assistant professors and being parents we haven't had much time for anything extra, including writing a blog post. I will spare you the gory details.

Alma is growing leaps and bounds. She has a mouth full of teeth and curls to die for. I suppose not having hair for over a year has paid off. Her receptive language amazes us and she is trying so hard to get those words out. She has also picked up some signs but we aren't exactly sure from where. Alma is an extremely sweet, affectionate and loving little girl. I wish you all were closer so I wouldn't have the need to tell you these things, you would just know by being around her...... Here are some pictures of the lovely lady.

Always willing to "help".

Especially when it involves getting messy.

Already getting into my closet. 

The best little momma to all her babies. 

Taking the cushions off the couch is a favorite game of hers...maybe its the food she tucks away in there for later ; )

This little device has brought much joy, and many meltdowns in
our house (we have to limit her access to the iPad). Its amazing how our  1 yr old is a pro at this.