mia + june save the day

Now that Mia is two, I don't have monthly milestones to title my posts. 
Nonetheless, here is what has occupied this busy girl in the past month!

Although our summer weather has been AWOL (and it's July!), Mia spends her happiest moments outside.  She is particularly helpful with plant maintenance.

Her bounces get more daring every day:

At the lake, she was fascinated by the parasailer ("balloon"),

and learned the art of the sandcastle from Aunt Arianna.

We've been able to watch the entire life of two little robins, from Mrs. Robin's skillful nest building under the deck, to the laying of perfect blue eggs, to flight lessons.  Mia found the best spectator spot:


During cousin Talan's birthday, we got to hike up a miniature (but steep) hill.  Mia cruised right up it, and demanded her independence the entire way.  Her dad was beaming with pride over his emerging trail runner.

It is a rare occasion that Mia will let me swing with her, so this is a valuable photo. 

She is learning to pump her legs, and doesn't need me anymore : (

In fact, at Great Gma R's house, Mia and Dad took turns pushing each other on this very teetery swing. Sitting on it alone results in a core muscle workout.

Our weekly visit to future building site, which is currently green with wheat,

usually draws big smiles from Mia. 

Beware the tickle monster!  Gma & Gpa R's chihuahuas love this game (not really).