Pick of the Week: Penelope

Besides being an adorable name, Penelope is now in my top 10 favorite movies. The sets are magical, the clothes divine, the James McAvoy gorgeous, and the story line simple, but brilliant. Mostly, it captured my praise because hard as they may try, Hollywood has a difficult job of pulling those of us who understand the technical side of films, out of reality long enough to make us forget we are watching a movie. Well I forgot I was watching a movie. I was entranced, sucked in, completely bought all the beauty and magic of this film. As fantastic of a spectacle as it is, and as basic a moral it tells, I never felt that it was cheesy or pushed. There are family dynamics for everyone and it takes us on a charming adventure, coming of age, love story. (It is also family friendly, which is a plus when recommending a film. Reese Witherspoon produced and acts in the film. She wanted to make something her kids could see.)

I am a huge fan of movies like Big Fish, and Matilda, as well as the TV show Pushing Daisies. Penelope has that same extra reality feel, with vibrant colors, and old Hollywood meats punk wardrobe. If you are a fan of Tim Burton, then you will be pleased with the look and feel of Penelope.

Easter 2009

This year we spent Easter in Chicago.  Airawen has taken a huge liking to the piano.  It kept her busy for long periods of time.  She is so dainty with those little fingers.  Using only one finger on one key at a time.  Although, with the combination of mine and Tim's musical talent, the poor child doesn't stand a chance.

The big kids dying Easter eggs on Easter Eve.

Daddy taking Arie Alex around for the Easter egg hunt!  She loved picking up the eggs and putting them directly in her mouth. 

Eventually she learned to put the eggs in the basket. 

Arie Alex standing up all by herself again!  Doesn't she look so cute in her Easter dress?   Thanks again to the treasure trove of dresses at the Blazer's house.  Of course I went to all this time and energy over the Easter dress and shoes and then Arie Alex ended up sleeping through church and stayed home with Tim.  Go figure.  

Happy Easter!

Spring at Castle Mohr

It is spring here in St. Louis land.  It is one of my favorite times, because despite the neglect that our yard receives all year long, every spring, all these amazing flowers and plants turn green and spring up all over the place.   Here are a few pix from the back yard.  

There are other things coming into bloom during this season.  Our baby angel, who can throw the best fits, (mostly over not being aloud to touch things like, the remote, my camera, our cell phones,)  is learning to stand up without holding on to the furniture for support.  She is the most precious little girl, even when she is crying.  This round of tears was brought on by mama not letting her chew on the camera.

Notice the extremely cute outfit Grandma Bonnie made for Arie Alex?

Ahhhhhhh!  But we found a passie, and it was all better after that!  See how great I am at standing up?