Gone Too Soon

Andre Hunter, one of the bucket boys, was shot and killed last week. They were all walking home together when it happened- and when I talked to them, I was struck by the fact that no one ran. It's a sad fact that gun violence is part of their daily life. 

Redmoon Theater wrote this about Andre:

Redmoon is beyond saddened to have lost one of our newest young performers, Andre Hunter, who was shot and killed on Thursday, December 19th.

Andre was a committed and passionate member of The Bucket Boys, and one of Redmoon's core collaborators in our Summer 2013 series of events. Working with Andre daily this summer, at rehearsals and 10 huge public events, we were impressed by his great integrity, his strong belief in the power of community and change, and his amazing, generous spirit. He truly championed our core community mission, and his amazing drumming was powerful and inspiring across the communities we visited this summer. It is tragic to have lost such a valuable human, artist, community member, and friend far before his time. Andre's vision and commitment was deeply felt at Redmoon, and he served as an example for all of us during our work this summer. Redmoon's condolences go out to his family and loved ones, and to all of The Bucket Boys for losing a brother.

Neighbors

Steve and I had just commented that we needed to get a hat for Lucia and lo and behold, John knocked on our door with presents for the kids- this included. She loves it!

Bath Time

Leo and Lucia are both very big fans of bath time (and each other)

Last Weekend

 Eddie the elf went to great lengths to bring some giggles to a very sick Leo 

 These two! 

 I can't stop looking at this picture. Lucia's big blue eyes, and Olivia's button nose profile. These are a few of my favorite things. 

 Oh, Leo. He ended up in the ER on Friday, back to dr on Sat am and straight to hospital. The nurse told me they almost called him an ambulance. He had gotten RSV which triggered a really bad asthma attack. I could not visit him due to my own issues and wanting to keep Lucia germ free. It was heartbreaking. 

 We went to Medinah's Christmas party, which seemed as if they planned it with Leo in mind (or any 3 yr old, for that matter). It was wonderful. Olivia was thrilled to go. 

 Are those Christmas JAMMIES? 

 I just can't. So, so funny. 

While Bea looks a lot like the grinch, she is decidedly un-grinchy. 

Lulu Bird

Dear Santa,

I am a good boy. I sweep, I clean up, and I love my sisters. I would like a turtle house, a choo choo train, a sword, transformers, a turtle car, a "you want a piece of me" catcher, a map, and a big huge toy for Lulu. That's actually the end, I don't need anything else.

Love,

Leo

Boston Love

Nancy Schon is a well known artist local to Boston, and perhaps known best for her bronze sculpture in the public garden "make way for ducklings." When I did our Boston exhibit, Nancy did a globe- and was so wonderful to work with. 86 yrs old, she was effusive in her praise of Cool Globes and emailed me often to check if I had the baby yet. I sent her the good news, and was so touched when I received this book and sweet note. I love her work, the public garden and this wonderful book based on her talented sculpture. Lucia will cherish this. 

Two Weeks

Similarities?

Bricks

Leo's feet and huge (to me). We compared them with Lulu's and she thought it was hilar. 

Smooches

Sneaky Lady

Lucia, I have told anyone who would listen about your wonderful sleeping habits. But, it seems all good things come to an end, sleeping included. Also, you are two weeks today, so I do not think it is a coincidence. 

Snuggle Bug

I think the jury is still out on who Lucia looks like (a lot of Steve, though) but here I see Olivia. Could be that she is looking more plump. Regardless, all Lulu wants is to be snug and warm. Swaddling at night gives me 3+ hours between feedings, and during the day her most favorite spot is to sleep on me. What a sweet girl. 

Super Dad

Olivia has been asking for me to paint her nails for a few days. We had agreed upon last night as the nail painting night, but when the time came I was feeding Lucia. Olivia went up to Steve and said "we were supposed to paint nails but I think Mom is too busy" - Steve offered to paint them himself, and she was so excited. She came down to show me his handiwork - and I must admit - it wasn't too bad! 

These past few days of being home have been made infinitely easier with Steve's help. Healing has been slower than I thought and he has really stepped up. 

Sisters

I asked Olivia to keep an eye on Lucia, and she had put a toy in the pack and play and pulled up a stool to keep watch. 

I swear, this was Lucia's response to Olivia's voice. 

Delight.