Roosters and Balloons

A weekend wrap-up of Houston's Theater District OH with Inés and Rio.
The Pep has some fun playing with theater masks from Alley Theater's dress up trunk.
Perhaps Inés is gearing up for the "rooster" part in La Fille Mal Gardée ballet? Perhaps.

Rio on the other hand, enjoys simpler things in life, like a shiny red balloon on Papa's lap.
Surprising moment, when the Houston Ballet II performed to Beatles songs in the style of Vivaldi & Bach.

Memories of Disney

A quick review of Inés and Rio's best moments at Disney's Magic Kingdom. The Pep catches a glimpse of all the princesses performing at the Dream Along stage show in front of Cinderella's Castle.

She graciously waves to all her favorite characters during the Disney parade.

Enjoys story time and a hug with Belle.

Rio excitedly enjoys the lights, while Inés rides, on Dumbo The Flying Elephant.
We warmly thank Grandpa Johnny, Granny Lynda and Tío John for making our trip to MK possible. XOXOXO.

*Can't get enough? More photos can be viewed here: MK à la Inés & Rio album.

Young Americans

Inspiring words from the DNC gather momentum for little Rio. He continues to practice his standing with the goal of looking at himself.

His inspiring moment: E. Kennedy's speech.
Inés continues to regard and relish every moment with her Papa.
Inés' inspiring moment: M. Obama's speech.

Inés and her Papa enjoy time together and appreciate a Miró sculpture (Personage and Birds) on their way to see the Houston Ballet ballerinas.

Inés was very excited to see a true life Sugar Plum Fairy and wondered if she happened to be friends with Tinker Bell.

*Political Fun! Try your luck at captioning a political cartoon here.

Pep's 1st Day of (pre)School

A super excited Pep prepares to go into her classroom.
Facts about her new school: Woodrow Wilson Montessori School, known as the Wildcats.

Facts about her classroom: Member of the Lotus community; teacher, Ms. Jolene Tollett. Breaking news of the Pep will be posted after her school session.
The verdict is in! Pep had a fun day in school. In the image above, she was very busy saying her goodbyes to her new friend and classmates. Later, Inés emphatically declared that she was tired and asked if she could go back to school tomorrow.

Golden Records

Inés and Rio, active watchers of the Olympics, were thrilled to see the US girl's soccer team clinch the gold! All aglow with gold, Inés attempted to sing the US anthem as she watched the medal ceremony. This moment was not documented yet I post a picture of Inés singing with her Uncle Mike as a visual.The Pep sings her little heart out on Rock Band with her Uncle Mike on drums and Granny Lynda on guitar.

She also tried her hand on the drums for a while...perhaps the next Sheila E?

Bal des Cluecos

The Pep celebrates with Titi Joann at her rehearsal dinner in La Carreta. The festivity included an assortment of costumes and masks as a preview to the next day's activities. The Pep and Rio took to the mask play immediately.

Inés attempts to hoodwink her family under the guise of 'la pollita clueca' (petulant chick) persona. Meanwhile, l'il Rio fell asleep amidst all the disguises and Papa picked up his slack with some costuming of his own.

We thank Titi Joann for a great time in Miami and for hosting a fun wedding and...wish her a great big Happy Birthday! XOXOXOXO.

The Galloping Alfaro-Rodriguezes!

During their vacation Rio and Inés had their fair share of carousel rides. "Yippee-Ki-Yay" squeals Rio as he rides, with Grandpa Johnny, Downtown Disney's Classic Carousel.
As any aspiring princess should do, Inés practices regal equestrian form on Cinderella's Golden Carousel.

Shades in the Concourse

While still on vacation, Inés and Rio sport their shades one last time,- before boarding, in a defiant stance, declaring that they'll be back for more next year! Rio reiterates...

Thank you to all of our family, who graciously hosted our visits and tantrums...and accidents. We love you all, XOXOXOXOXOX.