a perfect family weekend

We never really know what each day has in store... and some days pass by faster than others (something Isabel reminded me of the other day when she was reflecting on how some days at school seem so much shorter than others). And as we were talking before bed on Thursday she excitedly said: "Tomorrow is Friday, and then we have two days of rest." She paused for a moment to say: "Let's not do anything this weekend... just be together and relax." A sentiment I think we all shared as we had just come off a string of a full month of back to back birthdays with at least two or three celebrations each weekend. As fun as they all were, there really was no time to just 'do nothing' and refuel the batteries.

Anaïs & Isabel taking a little 'reading break' from their morning yoga instruction.

On Saturday morning Isabel & Anaïs led a yoga class with mama - pausing for a 'reading break' every once in a while. They were excited to teach the class and insisted on me following their poses; as they each took turns leading us in a posture or series.

Isabel dancing with her reflection in the fireplace glass wearing her new faery outfit.

In the afternoon we took the girls for a swim (one of their favourite activities). Isabel is now jumping in fearlessly (even without her wings), and we tried the wings on Anaïs who promptly swam off in a doggie paddle (one of the benefits of being the second child... she learns so much just by watching her big sister)!!
Of course, this being Bogotá in October, as we left the house the sun was shining so we decided to walk... and within minutes got caught in a huge rainfall walking to the pool (thank goodness we have learned to always be prepared with umbrellas and extra clothes)!!
As the swim, we went out for an early dinner at one of our favourite little restaurants: Wok. Then for ice-cream (vanilla for Isabel, chocolate for Anaïs) at Crepes & Waffles. And rounded it off with some playtime at a little indoor amusement park at the local mall. We walked home all feeling tired and happy. Once home, Isabel insisted on a night-time drive (something her papa had promised her the night before)... so we did a bath, changed the girls into pyjamas, packed up some snacks and off for a drive around the city. A deliciously relaxing day.

Trying to ride in a straight line at Ciclovia.
Check out all the bikes in the background.

The next day we took Isabel for her first bike ride on ciclovia - a Bogotá tradition whereby some of the main roads close (or partially close) on Sundays and holidays (7am-2pm) to create a space for people to take walks, ride bikes and enjoy the fresh air. Isabel was all smiles riding her bike next to papa.  Isabel was so happy to just get to ride along... and we had to keep reminding her to ride in a straight line. She was just to excited to even concentrate riding freely. Oh the magic of childhood... no rules, no fears, just the freedom to be in the moment with her experience!!!

Isabel with a permanent smile on her face.

Anaïs enjoying a yummy watermelon
as we took a quick picnic break.

On the way home I went to pick up some groceries to make pumpkin cupcakes, and the girls went with papa to pick up some local flowers!

Five sunflowers in a row...

... hiding Isabel, what a show!!

We finished the day with a visit from two dear friends, football (after all, it is Sunday!!) and yummy pizza. Delightful. I share all this to offer you a little glimpse into our lives... and really, a way for me to celebrate the things that bring us the most joy: time with each other, enjoying whatever the day has in store. It truly is a blessing to recognize just how much we love just to be together!!

Wow... these sunflowers are taller than me!!!