The Mila ABCs

We've recently been working on learning the alphabet, saying and identifying the letters as well as learning the signs in American Sign Language. Mila really enjoys watching a video series called "Signing Time", which teaches ASL to children. Mila has her own version of the alphabet, which goes something like "e, i, i, e, a, P! ... i, a, e, i, P!" (See attached video for evidence of this new linguistic innovation.)

And of course P is for Potty Training, which is our other great adventure these days. Woohoo!

Traffic Jam Saviours

Stuck in a traffic jam for 9 hours while waiting to get over the Bay Bridge due to a major accident last week, I was humbled by my daughter's amazing patience and good spirits through the whole ordeal. Not one complaint the entire time. My dear wife was also somehow able to keep laughter a part of our day, with truly unshakable spirit. Marie and Mila helped me see our thwarted vacation plans as another opportunity for family fun, even if our vacation had to be downgraded from camping amid wild horses on Assateague Island to lounging in a motel just over the bridge, eating Pizza Hut pizza and watching the Olympics. I guess that otherwise we never would have seen a live broadcast of the Men's 4×100 metre freestyle relay, Michael Phelps' vein-popping celebration and all. That was pretty cool (especially as someting to catch randomly when you don't own a TV at home). Almost a week later, this anti-vacation experience still amazes me at how lucky I am with my family. They are my Zen teachers.

Mila's Second Symphony

In honor of her daddy's birthday, Mila presents her Second Symphony. (Note the octave relationships in her opening theme built on major seconds!)

Mila's First Symphony

We have here our first multi-instrumental composition by Mila Spangler, performed on harmonica, theremin, Korg KP3, toy piano and digital piano (with seed packet and plastic phone). Watch out!