Sunrise, Sunset

Nighttime stories are a staple around here, although it's rare that the kids get them together--Riis likes animal books and stories with babies in them, while Cole opts for Scooby Doo or his new favorite, an illustrated guide to the human body. Because he is three and insane, he loves playing with the movable ear drum. He also enjoys solomnly telling us that "if we eat fatty foods, that will damage our heart."

Two nights ago, though, they got to hear the tale of the googly-eyed frog together, and they were rapt.




This was the next morning. I like it because it shows exactly what they're like when they wake up. Cole is all wiggling energy, cheerful and ready to talktalktalktalktalk. Riis is always groggy, reaching out for her bottle with her eyes half-lidded, snuggling grumpily into her designated corner until she's finished a few ounces. With some milk in her belly, she's ready to socialize, and sometimes Cole will sit next to her so they can play while they watch Blues Clues.