I'm so smitten with these sweet chipmunk cheeks! Here's a crisp Fall afternoon in Cobble Hill with a family as loving as they come... such a stunning way to while away an afternoon away. And the backdrop of brownstone Brooklyn never disappoints, I must say!
Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
October 2014
SUBTITLE: My sweet nephew Lucian just turned one!
The birthday boy gets a papa snuggle!
With food from childhood friend and accomplished chef Ariel Fox and lots of handmade touches by Lucian's mom, Sashka, this family-style party was full of love and personal touches. And beautiful things to photograph! The party took place in a beautiful converted warehouse loft in Rockland county, where Lucian's parents made their home after leaving Brooklyn. All the city-dwellers were agape at the beauty that is everywhere once you leave the city. We were mesmerized by the fall leaves changing colors, and spent serious time at the farmer's market on the way to the party. (At least I did!)
Tiny photos from Lucian's first year were strung up on one wall, hot air balloons cut from maps were strung up in the entryway. Beautifully colored party hats were passed around with enthusiasm from everyone but the birthday boy, though we tricked him into wearing one for approximately 23 seconds!
Piermont, NY
All the cute tots in attendance played outside in the warm weather with the leaves, and football was played as well with care not to trip over all the little ones.
The couple's world travel is evident from the colorful artifacts all around the apartment! Lucian is learning about the world.
A mask from Cambodia
All of Lucian's friends are gathered around to coo. He is totally fine with this!
And finally, it came time for cake. Lucian's first taste of proper refined sugar! He's skeptical at first, but catches on quickly. Then, just as fast, he ditches the cake to the floor for a chance at dumping out and splashing his water. Smart move, kid. Keep the sugar at bay for as long as possible!
The grown-ups are acting strange. SUSPICIOUS!
It might be Monday, but the weekend lives on in your headspace...
Brooklyn Heights, 2014
Sisters playing on the stoop, summer breeze in the air... today will be a great day. Daddy's girls!
My newest little niece is here! As soon as I got the news I swerved off to the nearest Babies R Us to buy a tiny eyelet white dress. The impulse to do that is STRONG and unwavering.
And then the perfect little face.
Us aunties grudgingly shared holding-the-baby duties, with the new mama as referee.
Simone, 10 hours old
Rain, rain go away! Actually, you can stay. There's a pajama party in the house! LET'S STAY IN BED!
Pajama Party in Manhattan, 2014
(No lamps, picture frames or selves were harmed in the making of this blogpost... YOU'RE IT!)
Freeze!
Don't forget me!
Here's the Varsity PJ party player with the Referee...
Planning strategy...
There are many ways to teach responsibility... chores, allowances, learning to save your money and learning to follow through on what you say you're going to do. In my day (so very very loooong ago...) I got to write out my mother's checks for her to sign, making me feel very moneybags-cool, and very in control. With one wave of a very powerful blue-inked piece of paper, people give you things!
Manhattan, November 2013
Now that checks are basically obsolete, I'd imagine that learning how to be responsible is more focused on learning to be a kind and helpful member of the community. Perhaps that starts with... learning to take care of something! Like, perhaps... a puppy! This family has never embraced a challenge so heartily.
Follow mom Carol Adams and her eponymous kids' clothing store TorlyKid on Instagram at @torlykid, and follow their new puppy Graham by searching hashtag #grahamcam!
<3
Ana
Tribeca, New York City
Tribeca, New York City
12-week old Graham
