Eloise Jane 10.0

Ten years ago today, we released Eloise Jane 1.0. 

Version 10.0 comes with graphic novels by the bed, a new interest in lacrosse, sharper wit, and enough confidence to stand her ground against her big sister.  It also features a dramatic redesign:  the long locks are gone, replaced by a pixie cut and the courage to wear it to school.

After Iyla got her braces, Eloise promptly renamed her Iyla "Brace" Lambert ─ some updates need no revision.

Eloise, you're old enough to read these now, so let me leave you with one thought:  never mistake beauty for something waiting in the mirror. It has always been there, in your laughter, your smile, your courage, and your wonderfully original way of seeing the world.

Happy Birthday, Little Miss Eloise.  I love you dearly.

Iyla Grace 13.0

  Iyla Grace 13.0 is live──a teenager!  

  This release celebrates her journey toward young womanhood.  She is now fully immersed in hair, makeup, music, and fashion.  

  My Papa heart yearns for that baby girl who road the handlebars of my bike through East Austin.  Now she wears lip gloss and takes plane flights solo. 

  Still, there is some comfort in braces──those tiny metal parentheses around her smile are a lingering symbol of childhood.  Her sister promptly rebranded her:  Iyla "Brace" Lambert. 

  This version is packed with new delights, talents, and adventures.  I relish every moment, and I love her with all my heart.

  Happy Birthday, Iyla Grace!

Eloise Jane 9.0

   Eloise Jane v9.0 drops today, fully loaded with curiosity, compassion, and an unwavering affection for animals and insects.  Equipped with her sketchpad and boundless imagination, she captures the animal world's quirks and charms in her signature artistic style.

   This year's upgrade includes an aquatic turtle: a slow-and-steady companion to last year’s brood of neurotic chickens, who, despite the odds, remain alive and enthusiastic egg producers.

   Happy Birthday, Miss Eloise Jane Lambert. Every release is a gift from the gods! I love you so very much!

Iyla Grace 12.0

   Iyla Grace 12.0 is a Tween!  Just look at this young lady:  she wears makeup; she has attitude; she converses endlessly with her friends; is obessessed with Taylor ("Tay Tay") Swift and similiar artists.

   This was the first Halloween I did not take Iyla Trick-or-Treating.  It hurt my Papa heart to hear her say, "I'm sorry, Papa, but I want to go with my friends."  She is growing up, and I must let her.

   For Iyla's birthday, she will receive an iWatch so that we may communicate with her and know her location at all times ... She wanted a phone, but, we are not ready for that.

   Art and Theater remain passions.  Iyla is enrolled in Choir and Musical Theater at Middle School and participates in a private theater conservatory on weekends.

   I love her so much ... Happy Birthday, my Darling Iyla Grace!