imagination gone wild

We're not sure if it's from playing with a bunch of older kids at camp this weekend or what, but tonight Sophie introduced us to Maria (or "ria" as she calls her), who happens to be imaginary.  We spent a few minutes trying to figure out what she was talking about as she is telling the cuckoo birds to stop teasing Maria.  We were introduced to Maria as well and Sophie seemed surprised when we asked her where Maria was.  We tried so hard to not be bursting out laughing but there were times that was nearly impossible.  Swiper (from Dora) also came to visit and met Maria.  We were a little confused on his relation to Maria as sometimes he was her father...but then Maria's dad came and took her home, so as of now we're pretty sure Maria is not around.  Hopefully we don't almost step on her like Mike did tonight and Sophie had to push him out of the way to stop him.  

It's amazing to watch her start pretending and imagining. The things she comes up with are usually hysterical but well thought out.  Her snack tonight were the pretend peanuts that Mike gave her.  She was fully satisfied with it too.  

I have a feeling we are going to have some GREAT stories over the next couple of years!