“A portrait of my children once a week, every week, in 2014.”

Lillia: Summer vacation is in full swing, and your freckles are in full bloom! This week you played with your best friend, spent some time at the pool, and just generally relaxed. Last night you regaled your dad and I with twenty-five minutes worth of web comic plot synopsis. I’m so amazed at the amount of information you are able to retain, especially if the subject matter interests you. I know that some of the comics you read are a bit mature for you, but you seem to handle it well and I am trying to choose my battles wisely. I know from life experience that there much worse things to fear than a couple of curse words, and I want to save my energy and whatever authority I have for the big stuff.

Zane: This picture makes you look old, and that makes me sad. This week something very exciting happened to you at the pool — you met your preschool teacher! You and “Aawie” (Allie) talked about trains, alligators, and the playground at the preschool. I’m so glad that you had a chance to meet Allie this summer because I think it will help you to feel more comfortable in the fall. Also, you had your first non-family babysitter last night and you did great! And, next month you’re turning three. I’m feeling some serious inertia with all of these milestones just around the corner.