tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41223392635102286362024-03-13T16:00:13.269-05:00the garrettsEmilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.comBlogger426125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-85596772604554123392013-03-08T06:30:00.000-06:002013-03-08T06:30:04.047-06:00Caroline: SevenHappy birthday, sweetest Caroline! Seven years ago, you were born and we became parents. We had no idea what we were doing. I remember the first moment the nurses left and we were alone with you. I looked at your Daddy and said, "What are we supposed to do now?" And, honestly, some days we still look at each other and ask the exact same question.<br />
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Luckily, you are easy. You always have been. You are kind and obedient and sweet and generous. You strive to honor us as your parents.<br />
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You have my personality (we butt heads a lot), but you are a daddy's girl. I love that about you. Your daddy is amazing and I pray you find someone just like him when you are grown. He is showing you daily what a good husband and father is.<br />
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You love Helen and Peter. You take pride in being their big sister. Even though I have to sometimes remind you that you do not have to parent them, I am so grateful for your helpful spirit. You are dependable and responsible. I can always count on you to be an extra set of hands.<br />
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You are good at school. I never have to worry about your homework - you do it happily and immediately and expertly. I'm glad because soon your homework will be hard and you will be so much smarter than I am!<br />
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You love, love, love to read. I can relate. If you are quiet for a while, I know what you are doing. I am really enjoying reading aloud to you. It is so fun to read some of my favorite childhood novels together.<br />
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You are my introvert. I can also relate to that. You need quiet and personal space. It's okay. Embrace those feelings and needs. I know many awesome introverts.<br />
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You are talented. I'm not really sure what your "thing" is yet because you want to try everything and you love everything. You like soccer, swimming, choir, piano, musical theater, ballet, tap, jazz dance, art... Whew! I definitely see tendencies toward more artistic pursuits instead of athletic ones. Your enthusiasm and joy for your activities is inspiring.<br />
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Darling, beautiful, special girl, I look at you and am humbled by God's goodness in my life. He has entrusted your father and me to be your parents. We thank him for you every day. He is molding you into the most amazing young lady. We love you. To the moon and back.<br />
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<i>The LORD your God is with you,<br />he is mighty to save.<br />He will take great delight in you,<br />he will quiet you with his love,<br />he will rejoice over you with singing. -Zephaniah 3:17</i></blockquote>
Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-91008559550577315442013-01-06T16:55:00.000-06:002013-01-06T16:55:01.801-06:00Recent sewingIn an unprecedented occurrence, the kids' Christmas outfits were completed <i>before Thanksgiving</i>. This will probably never happen again. My only stipulation in picking out the patterns and fabric was "must be easy". I chose a lime green corduroy embroidered with reindeer. Caroline got a very big-girl <a href="http://childrenscornerinc.com/wp/shop/267-katies-skirt/" target="_blank">skirt</a> (can't wait to make some of these for spring/summer). Helen got a jumper. And Peter got a <a href="http://childrenscornerinc.com/wp/shop/260-johnny/" target="_blank">Johnny</a>. I was really enthusiastic about these projects because they were each unique. I'm fairly certain the girls will be able to wear theirs again next Christmas. Peter, however, will not and that makes me a little sad. <br />
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In non-Christmas sewing, I finished 3 easy daygowns for my dear friend <a href="http://bestlaidplans-nellywo.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Nell</a>, who recently delivered her first babies - triplets! She is awesome. The girls are identical twins and I thought two unique gowns would make telling them apart a little bit easier. I did some shadow embroidery (my favorite part!) to coordinate with the trim. This is my favorite style of infant daygown - poly-cotton blend for no ironing, buttons in the front for easy on and off, no fussy collar or itchy trim. I hope Mom, Dad, Camille, Ann Fisher, and Rob love them, too.<br />
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<br />Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-28373627531505079412013-01-04T10:01:00.000-06:002013-01-04T13:16:16.710-06:00Merry ChristmasWe had a lovely Christmas.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Santa came!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter is ready for duck hunting with Daddy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">American Girl dolls were at the top of the girls' lists. Caroline got the newest historical girl "Caroline" and Helen got a Bitty Baby, which she named "Helen".</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Santa remembered to leave a treat for Tigger.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was one of the only things Helen asked for - a "blow flute" just like her music teacher's at school.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter got lots of wheeled things. And balls. Hooray for boy things!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Princess karaoke</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our gift to each other was a new piece of artwork for our family room.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was unintentionally a merry "Grizz-mas", due to all the gifted Grizzlies items. It just kind of happened. Peter got a mini Grizz from his sisters. Helen wanted to get Daddy a flag (no idea where that came from), so I ran with it and got him a flag pole set up and the official NBA Grizzlies flag. Not pictured is Kevin's new Grizzlies polo shirt Caroline picked out for him. Helen's favorite player is Mike Conley. Kevin found this jersey on sale several weeks before Christmas. She is really proud of it and has hopes of meeting Mike to show it to him. And I love scarves, so of course I love my Grizzlies arena scarf! I'd say we're all fixed up for game days!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evidence of Christmas good times</td></tr>
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It was just the 5 of us here at our house for Christmas eve and Christmas day. Kevin worked through Christmas day, so we celebrated with our families both before and after the actual holiday. Honestly, I kind of like stretching the holiday out for as long as possible. I think the kids do, too. Who doesn't love 4 different celebrations with loved ones?<br />
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As for all of the musical happenings, they all went well. I closed out Christmas Eve services with a midnight postlude that, although quiet, was so fitting. This tune appeared again and again in my musical involvements throughout the month. I took that as God giving me a not-so-subtle reminder. I don't know that I did the best job, but I tried throughout the month to reflect on the words of this hymn and remember that my ultimate goal here on earth not only at Christmas but every day is to rejoice in Him!<br />
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<i>In dulci jubilo:</i><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Good Christian men, rejoice</i><br />
<i>With heart and soul and voice;</i><br />
<i>Give ye heed to what we say:</i><br />
<i>Jesus Christ is born today!</i><br />
<i>Earth and heaven before him bow</i><br />
<i>And he is in the manger now.</i><br />
<i>Christ is born today! Christ is born today! </i></blockquote>
And because I'm a good music nerd, I looked up the English translation of the original Latin. I love the line about our hearts' joy lying in the manger.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>In sweet rejoicing,<br />
now sing and be glad!<br />
Our hearts' joy<br />
lies in the manger;<br />
And it shines like the sun<br />
in the mother's lap.<br />
You are the alpha and omega!</i></blockquote>
May He be our hearts' joy not just at Christmastime, but every day! (And I'm counting that as my happy 2013 to all of you!)Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-59379147164870465042012-12-12T12:55:00.000-06:002012-12-12T12:55:16.604-06:00Concerts #2, #3, and #4Concert number 2 was our <a href="http://www.indepres.org/templates/cusindpres/default.asp?id=30618" target="_blank">church's</a> adult choir Lessons and Carols program. If I had to pick a favorite night of the year, this would be it. Every year this program becomes more and more meaningful and emotional to me. I pray the music was just as illuminating to listen to as it was to sing.<br />
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I wish I could highlight every piece we sang. I've been doing much thinking about these lyrics the past couple of weeks:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>As the dark awaits the dawn, so we await Your light.</i><br />
<i>O Star of promise, scatter night, loving bright, loving bright, </i><br />
<i>Till shades of fear are gone.</i><br />
<br />
<i>As the blue expectant hour before the silv'ring skies,</i><br />
<i>We long to see Your day arise, whole and wise, whole and wise,</i><br />
<i>O lucent Morning Star. </i><br />
<br />
<br />
<i>As the moon reflects the sun until the night's decrease, </i><br />
<i>May we Your healing light release, living peace, living peace, </i><br />
<i>Unto Your holy dawn.</i><br />
<br />
<i>Shine Your future on this place, enlighten ev'ry guest,</i><br />
<i>That through us stream Your holiness, bright and blest, bright and blest;</i><br />
<i>Come dawn, O Sun of grace.</i><br />
<i>We await Your light.</i><br />
</blockquote>
So beautiful. It expresses perfectly this "now, but not yet" time of waiting. Someday...<br />
<br />
Concert #3 was Caroline's choir program at church. The first grade choir sang 2 pieces and did a fantastic job. I accompany this choir. They are such a good, sweet, big group! I can't wait for the spring concert! I have to say that the most fun part of helping out with children's choir is getting to work with my own and my friends' children!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She looks so grown up! Can she really be old enough for a choir robe?</td></tr>
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Concert #4 was a program at Caroline's school. The girls have been studying Mexican Christmas traditions and made a special <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Las_Posadas" target="_blank">Las Posadas</a> procession at chapel. They made "lanterns" and got to dress up as a nativity character of their choice. I think out of 60 girls, 50 were angels. Here's ours:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wings and halo <a href="http://emileegarrett.blogspot.com/2012/12/choir-concert-1.html" target="_blank">look familiar</a>? </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XYrGHrrX3oU/UMjRIy6-x-I/AAAAAAAAQ4M/INAjmuM82yI/s1600/20121211_090534%25280%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XYrGHrrX3oU/UMjRIy6-x-I/AAAAAAAAQ4M/INAjmuM82yI/s640/20121211_090534%25280%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caroline's first grade class - the Ladybugs</td></tr>
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(I'm going to sum up a few concerts/performances. They include gigs as a handbell ringer, accompanist to a high school choir, pianist for a nursing home program, and organist. 'Tis the season to make LOTS of music!)Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-52294796457097519212012-12-05T08:05:00.001-06:002012-12-12T12:55:31.275-06:00Choir concert #1Helen had her preschool choir concert at church last week. It was so sweet. She did a great job, but was a little distracted by all the costumes and excitement. She told me she really wanted to be a "fairy princess ballerina", but I convinced her to be an angel. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z2YKzPuHecU/UL1x4y4eLqI/AAAAAAAAQrs/34cML5zKWsw/s1600/DSC08451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z2YKzPuHecU/UL1x4y4eLqI/AAAAAAAAQrs/34cML5zKWsw/s640/DSC08451.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She was so excited to <i>finally</i> get to put on the wings and halo.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With her sweet friends Coleman and Caleb</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2-pogGVZ1k/UL1yght-SiI/AAAAAAAAQr8/q_PCvUru5BE/s1600/DSC08487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2-pogGVZ1k/UL1yght-SiI/AAAAAAAAQr8/q_PCvUru5BE/s640/DSC08487.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She did do a little bit of singing (in between a whole lot of wiggling)!</td></tr>
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Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-84462011451914494002012-11-27T20:42:00.001-06:002012-11-27T20:42:28.280-06:00ThanksgivingWe had a really quiet Thanksgiving. With the busyness of the Advent and Christmas season right around the corner, I was very thankful for the restful and relaxed atmosphere!<br />
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We are incredibly, awesomely, unfathomably blessed!<br />
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My menu included <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/bourbon-cranberry-turkey-tenderloin-10000001673154/" target="_blank">cranberry bourbon turkey tenderloin</a>, dressing, mashed potatoes, candied carrots, and <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/12/brussels-sprouts-with-balsamic-and-cranberries/" target="_blank">brussels sprouts</a>. It was all a hit, except for the brussels sprouts, which no one but me cared for. Oh well. It was worth a try. For dessert, I made <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/pumpkin-bread-pudding-with-spicy-caramel-apple-sauce-and-vanilla-bean-creme-anglaise-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">pumpkin bread pudding</a>. Yum.<br />
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We took the kids down to the <a href="http://www.peabodymemphis.com/peabody-ducks/" target="_blank">Peabody to see the ducks march</a>. It's kind of crazy - you wait and wait and wait and the actual march takes all of 5 seconds. But the kids thought it was the cutest, most exciting thing ever and spent a long time watching the ducks swim in the fountain. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fail</td></tr>
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I'll close with a little Thanksgiving entertainment from turkeys numbers 1 and 2. (It's kind of long - you'll get the idea after the first or second verse.)<br />
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<br />Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-78480909149060447102012-11-11T19:36:00.000-06:002012-11-11T19:39:45.451-06:00A birthday, a trip to the farm, and a revivalOur weekend could not have been packed with three more diverse activities!<br />
<br />
First was Elizabeth's birthday party. These two have been friends since they were born. I love that they are growing up together. Elizabeth's party was packed with all the things little girls love - princess costumes, tiaras, jewelry, glittery cookies, manicures, pink punch, and giggles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JMF-CjZIxhI/UKBDDsD7VSI/AAAAAAAAPqM/RFF9ilBPM0c/s1600/20121110_103739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JMF-CjZIxhI/UKBDDsD7VSI/AAAAAAAAPqM/RFF9ilBPM0c/s640/20121110_103739.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elizabeth was feeling particularly silly!</td></tr>
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Saturday afternoon we headed out to the Halford's farm for a fall festival. I think everyone's favorite activity was riding the horses, even though for Caroline cooking her own hotdog over a campfire was probably a close second.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LWoEfe_hvyY/UKBEKF4HUbI/AAAAAAAAPqU/HDCvSc_3CVo/s1600/20121110_164211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LWoEfe_hvyY/UKBEKF4HUbI/AAAAAAAAPqU/HDCvSc_3CVo/s640/20121110_164211.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caroline was in heaven! She listened intently to everything Dr. Halford said and did a great job! She was so proud of herself!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Helen loved it, too. She said, "I was so brave riding the horse!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Halford is so great with all the kids.</td></tr>
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Then Sunday afternoon, I joined my fellow church choir members at the <a href="http://www.victorianvillageinc.org/" target="_blank">Victorian Village Tent Revival</a>. We sang a few pieces and then walked over to <a href="http://www.jamesleehouse.com/" target="_blank">The James Lee House</a> for a special reception and tour. My sweet friend and organ mentor Jennifer and her husband are in the middle of planning a huge renovation to the house. Hopefully, the B&B will be up and running by late next summer! It's going to be so beautiful and I can't wait to see it!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original part of the house (now the back) was built in 1848. This front facade was added in 1878.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The girls are standing in front of one of the two magnificent marble fireplaces in the parlor.</td></tr>
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It was a busy and fun weekend! Now I need a nap...<br />
<br />Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-25531147531745293742012-11-07T07:00:00.000-06:002012-11-07T07:00:13.179-06:00New OrleansKevin had the opportunity to go to a convention in New Orleans at the end of October. I joined him mid-week without the kids. We had a wonderful time together. It was a really relaxing, laid-back vacation. I loved having my husband all to myself.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In front of St. Louis Cathedral</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couldn't resist getting a picture of the gorgeous exposed organ pipes</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting outside Preservation Hall</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying a Sazerac in the Sazerac Bar (New Orleans's signature cocktail)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garden District streetcar ride</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We are foodies. We love really great food. This was one of our courses at <i>Le Foret</i> - also known as the best scallop either one of us has ever eaten. It was served on a pumpkin puree with a pecan apple chutney. I'm so sad it's gone. Amazing.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More eating - beignets and cafe au lait at Cafe du Monde</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One more date night together before heading home</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The girls loved their special New Orleans souvenirs!</td></tr>
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<br />Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-73931525610268894062012-11-06T07:00:00.000-06:002012-11-06T07:00:10.152-06:00Tooth fairy and random candidsCaroline <i>finally</i> lost her first tooth a few weeks ago! It's been loose for a long time and after some encouragement from our dentist, the wiggling began in earnest. It came out and the tooth fairy left $1 that night. She lost another one about a week later. (Is anyone else really weirded-out by wiggly, loose teeth? Yikes. Can't believe we have 18 more of these to go...)<br />
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And here are just some various cute pictures of the kids.<br />
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<span id="goog_1073482140"></span><span id="goog_1073482141"></span><br />Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-35782387747177627562012-11-05T10:12:00.003-06:002012-11-05T10:13:31.184-06:00Fall sewingI saw a smocking plate in a Sew Beautiful magazine last year that I knew would be perfect for Peter. I asked for Daddy's approval to smock something for our boy and received it. It took me a while, but I finally finished three little mallards - perfect for our future duck hunter.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aren't they adorable?</td></tr>
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Once the smocking was done, the outfit went together very quickly (like during two nap times). I used the Children's Corner "Johnny" pattern.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just in time for duck season</td></tr>
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Helen is wearing a dress I made <a href="http://www.emileegarrett.blogspot.com/2008/10/lazy-daisy-crazy.html" target="_blank">four years ago for Caroline</a>. Peter's Johnny has the same brown tattersall as the sunflower dress. I wanted something coordinating for Caroline's dress, but without all the smocking. I'll have to get a picture of just Caroline in it. I used the Children's Corner "Ruthie" in a purple floral cotton print and a butterscotch gingham for the collar and trim. This is a great pattern. The sleeves and yoke are fully lined, which means very little hand sewing! I say this about every project, but this is one of my favorite dresses. Plus, it suits Caroline's sweet personality so well. And she loves purple. Win all around.<br />
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Now I need some ideas for Christmas sewing? Any suggestions? Another Johnny for Peter? Ruthies for both girls?Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-78428520405692988962012-11-04T20:39:00.000-06:002012-11-04T20:51:38.531-06:00HalloweenI have to admit that Halloween is not my favorite holiday. But watching the kids enjoy it makes it worth it.<br />
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I got to make some special jack-o-lantern cookies for Helen's class party. These are special cookies. My mom's babysitter used to make them for her and her siblings when she was a little girl. My mom in turn used to make them for us when we were little. Now I get to make them for my little ones. <br />
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We went to the pumpkin patch to pick out some pumpkins. Everyone was still for about 3 seconds.<br />
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The girls decided they wanted to be fairies - Caroline was a snow fairy and Helen was a Tinkerbell-ballerina-princess. I didn't really have anything planned for Peter, but remembered that I still had the <a href="http://www.emileegarrett.blogspot.com/2009/11/halloween-2009.html" target="_blank">duck</a> <a href="http://www.emileegarrett.blogspot.com/2006/10/our-little-duckling.html" target="_blank">costume</a> both girls wore. The girls were not very happy in it, but Peter loved it. He started giggling and grinning the second we put it on him. He was happy, happy all night long. So cute.<br />
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Happy Halloween!Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-88787177830447548072012-10-11T20:15:00.000-05:002012-10-11T20:16:36.137-05:00Fall breakThe girls had fall break over this past weekend. We didn't go out of town, but stayed in and enjoyed some Memphis activities.<br />
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Peter had school on Thursday, so I took the girls to do something we wouldn't attempt with him in tow: painting pottery. They had so much fun. Caroline painted a cross treasure box and Helen picked a piggy bank. Helen was very worried about leaving Piggy behind to go in the fire, but I'm happy to report we picked him up and he was just fine. I treated them to lunch at Cheffie's afterward.<br />
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Friday, we got up and headed to the <a href="http://www.memphismuseums.org/lichterman-overview" target="_blank">Licterman Nature Center</a>. We had such a good time exploring and strolling around the lake there. It was a beautiful morning. Caroline participated in a 1st and 2nd grader group project at school several weeks ago. They designed and built a scarecrow. She was so proud to see their hard work on display.<br />
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Monday was the last day of fall break. I was grateful for an email from my friend <a href="http://brittanyspence.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Brittany</a> inviting us to join her and her boys and some other friends at the zoo. My usual Monday morning activities are the grocery store and laundry. I'm so glad I neglected those tasks for a fun time with friends at the zoo!<br />
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It was a good fall break. I'm already looking forward to the next day off of school so we can have another Memphis adventure!Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-70826227791138201042012-09-23T20:26:00.000-05:002012-09-23T20:26:22.518-05:00Summer outfits<br />
I needed some fun sewing after spending so much time on the <a href="http://www.emileegarrett.blogspot.com/2012/05/details.html" target="_blank">flower girl dress</a>. I picked out a blue floral print that coordinated with a blue linen gingham. For Peter's, I used Creations by Michie's <a href="http://www.creationsbymichie.com/sunsuitdress.htm" target="_blank">romper pattern</a>, made in the linen. And the girls got Michie's <a href="http://www.creationsbymichie.com/sundress.htm" target="_blank">suntop with shorts</a>. I used the white yoke to display some embroidery. After using so many bullion flowers on the white dress, I decided to go ahead and use more bullions. I think it's safe to say that I am proficient at the bullion stitch. The girls got bullion violets and Peter got a bullion dragonfly. Peter's outfit is big for him, which makes me hopeful that it might still fit next spring and summer.<br />
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<br />Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-27264232077277505032012-09-14T07:00:00.000-05:002012-09-14T07:00:13.136-05:00The fairWe went to the <a href="http://deltafest.com/" target="_blank">fair</a> for two reasons: to check out my <a href="http://www.emileegarrett.blogspot.com/2012/05/details.html" target="_blank">dress</a> and to have some fun!<br />
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Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-82340736517700303042012-09-13T14:08:00.001-05:002012-09-13T14:08:57.375-05:00THE dressAfter some encouragement from my biggest fans (Kevin and Caroline), I decided to enter my white heirloom dress in the <a href="http://deltafest.com/" target="_blank">Delta Fair</a>. To my surprise, it won first in its section (adult or child heirloom item). It also won Best in Show for its category (French heirloom sewing). I had no idea whether it had won or not, so it was a lot of fun to find it in the Best of Show display case. I was already so pleased with the dress. This is just icing on the already-frilly cake!<br />
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<br />Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-40489662340113591692012-09-10T14:25:00.000-05:002012-09-10T14:25:04.904-05:00Best family photo everWe went to an artist reception for our friend <a href="http://watercolorwithlemon.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">David Butler</a> and a lady at the gallery offered to take our picture. I have no hopes of ever replicating the success of this picture! You may be seeing it in your mailbox December 2012. And December 2013. <br />
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We love David and his sweet wife <a href="http://hillarybutler.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Hillary</a>, who is also an artist. Our families' lives are interconnected in some pretty neat ways and we are blessed to call them friends.Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-38805386978551162462012-09-09T20:20:00.000-05:002012-09-09T20:20:38.210-05:00School daysDoes it take y'all a while to get back into school mode? I enjoy the laid-back days of summer, but it is so good for everyone to have a routine. It just takes me a while to get used to the routine!<br />
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Caroline started first grade. She's in the lower school now. While it's still a nurturing and caring environment, I can definitely tell that this year is a little more focused on getting down to business. She's loving every minute of it.<br />
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Caroline's first day was a day before Helen's. <br />
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The night after Caroline's first day, we celebrated with a special back-to-school menu. We had "I'm-a-turkey-too Turkey Meatloaf," "Good Grade Green Beans," "First Grade Fruit Salad," and "Pre-K Parfaits." I've done this a couple of years now and it is always humbling to see how a regular meal with silly titles makes the girls so giddy and happy. <br />
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Helen started Pre-K this year. She is tickled to get to do all the things she's seen Caroline do for the last two years - carry a blue bag, walk into school, carpool on the porch, etc. She loves going to school. We're already amazed at the things she is learning. <br />
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The girls got hugs from Dr. Wilson on their first full day of school. <br />
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Helen knew exactly where to go. My not-so-little-anymore girl... <br />
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She is having a great first year of school!<br />
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<br />Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-77989333016240029312012-07-27T07:00:00.000-05:002012-07-27T07:00:03.550-05:00Peter: 1Peter, you are <i>one</i>! How can 365 days have passed so quickly? Weren't we meeting you for the first time a few moments ago?<br />
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We all love teaching you new things. You can do a few signs - more, milk, dog. You point to everything, wanting to know what it is. You say "dog" with some regularity and I'm waiting to hear "Mama" in your little boy voice. You are days away from taking your first steps. It's going to get really crazy in our house when you can run with your sisters! And those sisters, by the way, take such good care of you. The "new" never wore off - you are still just as special to them today as you were a year ago. I'm thankful. <br />
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We're seeing more and more of your unique personality. Every day holds something new for you and we learn more about you. I love that. There are some things we've known about you from your first weeks of life and these things are still part of your makeup today. Like how your lovey (woobie) has to be smooshed into your face for you to fall asleep. Or how you love being close to someone, touching them or cuddling with them. Or how attached you are to your Mommy. (Had to throw that one in there. :-) ) You are sweet, happy, fun, loving. You are beautiful. I'm a lucky, lucky Mommy. I'm very happy that you're my baby boy.<br />
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We love you so much, Peter! Happy first birthday!Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-32306278559840207872012-07-25T12:50:00.001-05:002012-07-25T12:50:58.040-05:00Beach week 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We had so much fun at the beach this year! Our week started out a little iffy because of tropical storm Debby. Luckily, she turned in a different direction. We had one nasty, rainy day and one cloudy day. The rest of the week was sunny and beautiful.</div>
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We spent as much time on the beach as possible. Bryn and I had a shopping day and the guys had a fishing day. We were all sad to leave and I'm counting down the days until my toes hit the sand again!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter needed a little nap on the beach.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter <i>loved</i> the beach. He crawled around in the sand and splashed in the surf. He ate a lot of sand.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our last day at the beach Caroline got stung by a jellyfish. It was pretty traumatic at the time, which is why I was glad she made this light-hearted drawing of the jellyfish when we got home. She talks about it now with a little pride in her voice. I'm hopeful that one bad experience hasn't ruined swimming in the ocean for her.</td></tr>
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</div>Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-30557572427000210552012-07-05T20:00:00.000-05:002012-07-05T20:01:46.808-05:00June 2012I've let so much time elapse between posts that I honestly don't know if I need to go backward or move forward? I think this quote from an excellent recent read is somewhat applicable:<br />
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"Life, too, is like that. You live it forward, but understand it backward." -<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cutting-Stone-Abraham-Verghese/dp/0375714367/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1341523771&sr=8-1&keywords=cutting+for+stone" target="_blank">Cutting for Stone</a> by Abraham Verghese</blockquote>
Thanks, <a href="http://legosandgoldfish.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Laura</a>! I've already started your next recommendation! :-)<br />
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Looking back at the month of June...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zZzU6-Jy9sc/T_YR832CWiI/AAAAAAAAKFc/gnTTL85NTC0/s1600/May+-+June+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zZzU6-Jy9sc/T_YR832CWiI/AAAAAAAAKFc/gnTTL85NTC0/s640/May+-+June+2012.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A certain little boy keeps growing.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caroline had a Senior K class program and graduation, shared moments with sweet friends, and had an awesome 2 weeks of swimming lessons.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The girls had a blast at gymnastics camp (especially Helen).</td></tr>
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That's a lot of fun to pack in to one month. And it doesn't even include our week at the beach. It's hard to believe summer is half over. I'm certainly going to do my best to ensure we enjoy every last, hot minute of it!Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-22019662121002945632012-05-25T22:29:00.000-05:002012-05-25T22:29:57.863-05:00The details<br />
I had so much fun making Caroline's flower girl dress. I loved every bit of the process - planning the design, selecting the lace and fabric, picking out the embroidery pattern, constructing the dress and lace bands, drafting the slip. I took my time with this project and it was well worth the time and effort. I documented some of the process it took to get to the finished dress.<br />
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I had been thinking about what kind of dress I wanted to make for almost a year before I made my final decisions. The "problem" with heirloom sewing is that the choices are endless! I bought all of my fabric and laces in January of this year and began work almost immediately. I chose to borrow an out-of-print (vintage, I suppose?) Children's Corner pattern called "Grace". I wanted a pattern that would showcase a lot of embroidery because I love to embroider. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cR5vD-HdUok/T8A-T8ujYgI/AAAAAAAAJks/sKTOncMt_UE/s1600/2012-02-03_11-15-29_510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cR5vD-HdUok/T8A-T8ujYgI/AAAAAAAAJks/sKTOncMt_UE/s640/2012-02-03_11-15-29_510.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking at the lace and experimenting with embroidery design options</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XgzbVYhPWUw/T8A-chjdWfI/AAAAAAAAJk0/gN7LCmDgaZg/s1600/2012-02-04_16-36-00_68.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XgzbVYhPWUw/T8A-chjdWfI/AAAAAAAAJk0/gN7LCmDgaZg/s640/2012-02-04_16-36-00_68.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Go big or go home. I opted for a more intricate design. I was glad I did.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QIogqwgQpbs/T8A-iN16ajI/AAAAAAAAJk8/j_9nkRZ1ODY/s1600/2012-02-08_10-37-29_736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QIogqwgQpbs/T8A-iN16ajI/AAAAAAAAJk8/j_9nkRZ1ODY/s640/2012-02-08_10-37-29_736.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used tape, a window, and a water-soluble pen to mark the design on the dress back, front, and sleeves.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-myjbBmsNbpk/T8A-sn-GOmI/AAAAAAAAJlM/xg0tL0MlN4M/s1600/2012-02-09_12-07-51_299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-myjbBmsNbpk/T8A-sn-GOmI/AAAAAAAAJlM/xg0tL0MlN4M/s640/2012-02-09_12-07-51_299.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Practice equals consistency with embroidery. Here I'm working on my bullion stitches (in green).</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dn7sexbrI7E/T8A-3Pj4y1I/AAAAAAAAJlU/8we8kr1n2pY/s1600/2012-03-10_13-39-57_683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dn7sexbrI7E/T8A-3Pj4y1I/AAAAAAAAJlU/8we8kr1n2pY/s640/2012-03-10_13-39-57_683.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slowly but surely, it's getting done. Sometimes I was sure I was crazy for choosing something with so. much. embroidery. But if I had 5 minutes, I'd sit down and make a few stitches. I brought it with me in carpool line. Most of it got done while watching TV with Kevin. I couldn't believe it when I took my last stitch. There might have been cheering and a happy dance.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PtmfJerwnbo/T8A_ZfctsXI/AAAAAAAAJlk/UUb7-w-cSTA/s1600/2012-04-23_10-27-29_608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PtmfJerwnbo/T8A_ZfctsXI/AAAAAAAAJlk/UUb7-w-cSTA/s640/2012-04-23_10-27-29_608.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marking how much to cut (yikes) off the top of the lace edging</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nkvzu295Byg/T8A_jM6t_UI/AAAAAAAAJl0/0kyCIrMMWY8/s1600/2012-04-23_11-00-22_417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nkvzu295Byg/T8A_jM6t_UI/AAAAAAAAJl0/0kyCIrMMWY8/s640/2012-04-23_11-00-22_417.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slow and steady is the key to joining lace. I couldn't believe how smoothly this part went. I kept thinking, "I'm doing it! It's working!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A8uTLfuWHh4/T8A_eWcTJhI/AAAAAAAAJls/JmmBL6cBbBY/s1600/2012-04-23_10-40-56_974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A8uTLfuWHh4/T8A_eWcTJhI/AAAAAAAAJls/JmmBL6cBbBY/s640/2012-04-23_10-40-56_974.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This day I had a little helper who wanted a project of her own. A yarn needle, some thread, and a pack of wooden beads kept her occupied for a very long time.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EugS_rqF7cU/T8BFLCUeQ6I/AAAAAAAAJmQ/jBB9rjMvCFQ/s1600/2012-04-30_14-25-49_380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EugS_rqF7cU/T8BFLCUeQ6I/AAAAAAAAJmQ/jBB9rjMvCFQ/s640/2012-04-30_14-25-49_380.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I also had to make some significant cuts (yikes again) into the sleeves for a strip of embroidered insertion. This sleeve is ready for the gathered lace edging.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R2s6cnWO7mQ/T8BFftIdHwI/AAAAAAAAJmY/FlVXl8IphqU/s1600/2012-05-03_16-35-56_451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R2s6cnWO7mQ/T8BFftIdHwI/AAAAAAAAJmY/FlVXl8IphqU/s640/2012-05-03_16-35-56_451.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Speaking of gathered lace edging, I prefer to attach it by hand.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tPcSofR2ocA/T8BFpEx_gsI/AAAAAAAAJmg/a0WNVa_bIQ8/s1600/2012-05-02_15-46-26_23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tPcSofR2ocA/T8BFpEx_gsI/AAAAAAAAJmg/a0WNVa_bIQ8/s640/2012-05-02_15-46-26_23.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is one of the last steps - attaching the lace border to the bottom of the dress. I measured Caroline and marked the dress in January. I mistakenly did not have Caroline try on the dress in May before sewing this band on and cutting the fabric. Caroline had grown almost an inch! Luckily, it didn't look too short. I had some bad dreams about it being too short. Lesson learned.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfqLN72cU5g/T8BGmazO6bI/AAAAAAAAJmw/hnNdI83CtsE/s1600/2012-05-04_12-29-59_431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfqLN72cU5g/T8BGmazO6bI/AAAAAAAAJmw/hnNdI83CtsE/s640/2012-05-04_12-29-59_431.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost done! I couldn't wait to soak that blue marker off!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rzuf0VGUzzQ/T8BG0-JvqvI/AAAAAAAAJm4/SQ0GqPyh4vU/s1600/2012-05-11_11-22-15_739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rzuf0VGUzzQ/T8BG0-JvqvI/AAAAAAAAJm4/SQ0GqPyh4vU/s640/2012-05-11_11-22-15_739.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used the dress pattern to customize a slip for this dress specifically. I finished the arm and neck edges with a tiny hand-sewn French rolled seam.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7KygYZzbx7Q/T7r2LzfQDUI/AAAAAAAAJiw/ULdy9Frzb6A/s1600/DSC00763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7KygYZzbx7Q/T7r2LzfQDUI/AAAAAAAAJiw/ULdy9Frzb6A/s640/DSC00763.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I chose not to do buttons and buttonholes on the back placket. Instead, I used a vintage Victorian bar pin. It got lost in the graduation craziness. I didn't feel too sad about it because it wasn't expensive, nor was it a family heirloom. I need to get some little beauty pins.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I starched and ironed this thing 4 times before graduation! Kevin said the whole house smelled like starch. That fabric was stiff!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> I couldn't be happier with the finished dress. It was a really special moment for me when Caroline put on her dress for the first time. It fit her perfectly (except for the tiny length issue) and I felt like the delicate details of the dress reflected her sweet personality. Caroline was so pleased with it and said she felt like a princess wearing it. I thought she looked absolutely beautiful!</td></tr>
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So that's the diary of my first big heirloom sewing project. It sounds crazy, but I'm already looking forward to the next one!<br />
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</div>Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-43124865296202304102012-05-22T11:22:00.000-05:002012-05-22T11:23:17.276-05:00GraduationCaroline got to participate in graduation this year. St. Mary's pairs graduating high school seniors with a senior kindergarten flower girl. It's a really sweet tradition. Several times throughout this spring semester Caroline got to have little dates with her senior, Hannah. They had picnic lunches and a special chapel together and frozen yogurt outings. Caroline became quite enamored with Hannah. I think they were a good match!<br />
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Both of them looked so beautiful.<br />
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I made Caroline's dress. It was so much fun! I'll show you some of the "behind the scenes" details in another post. <br />
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I spent some time doing Caroline's hair. She was thrilled to have curly hair for a day. When she said her prayers that night, she thanked God for letting her have curly hair that day! It's the little things in life...<br />
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Caroline and Shelby have been friends from day one of JK. I look at this picture and see them taking a similar one 12 years from now (sniff, sniff). They have a really special friendship and I pray they will be friends for life.<br />
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Caroline has had the most incredible teachers this year. I am so thankful she has had these two women to guide and challenge her not only academically, but spiritually as well. It is a huge blessing to know that the Godly virtues we are striving to instill in her at home are also being reinforced at school. God has been so good to put faithful, beautiful, strong, grace-filled believers into her life outside of our home.<br />
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We are very proud of Caroline!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GqsrRPYb-Ew/T7r2KOFZnCI/AAAAAAAAJig/gNrOUPulhHo/s1600/DSC00759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GqsrRPYb-Ew/T7r2KOFZnCI/AAAAAAAAJig/gNrOUPulhHo/s640/DSC00759.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-41880174052074569612012-05-17T11:40:00.001-05:002012-05-18T21:37:50.755-05:00Field dayCaroline had field day last week at school. Peter and I were able to go and watch all the silly races. I was really impressed with Caroline's agility and coordination, especially at the tossing game. I guess taking her to all those <a href="http://emileegarrett.blogspot.com/search/label/Grizzlies" target="_blank">Grizzlies games</a> has paid off. She was channeling her inner Marc Gasol! Seems like she's just full of surprising abilities lately!<br />
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<br /></div>Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-24482303824500708542012-05-15T22:21:00.000-05:002012-05-15T22:21:25.418-05:00SoccerCaroline decided she wanted to give soccer a try this spring. We were impressed with how well she did. She was assertive and fast and intuitive. The biggest surprise? Her favorite position and the one where she performed the best was <i>goalie</i>. My quiet, introverted, book-loving homebody had such a great time playing that she wants to play again in the fall. <br />
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Kevin got to be the substitute coach for one game.<br />
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She got a trophy at the end of the season. She is so proud of her "golden" trophy. And we are really proud of her!<br />
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(Helen is cracking me up in this picture. She's plotting how she's going to get her hands on that shiny trophy. She did.)<br />
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It excites me to be a part of the process in which my children are discovering what their unique talents and abilities are. Of course, I'm not-so-secretly wanting for all three (too much?) to be musicians. Regardless, I hope and pray they embrace their talents, never take them for granted, and always use them to God's glory.Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4122339263510228636.post-75606632997263429832012-05-06T21:52:00.000-05:002012-05-06T21:52:55.401-05:00Easter outfitsI know! It's been almost a month since Easter. I just today took pictures of the girls in their dresses.<br />
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For the girls' dresses, I used a Bonnie Blue pattern called "Jenna Leigh". It's a wrap dress that buttons in the back. I've made this dress a <a href="http://emileegarrett.blogspot.com/2010/03/birthday-dresses.html" target="_blank">couple of times before</a> (my goodness - Helen was little!), but hadn't done the smocked yoke version. I'm hoping this floral print will make a good transition into the fall and winter months.<br />
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<br />For my sweet baby boy's outfit, I made a bubble (Maja's Heirlooms). The pattern has 2 inches of smocking, which takes no time at all. I decided to mix some embroidery with my smocking and created a little bullion stitch bunny. I'm completely obsessed with how cute the bunny is. It's a Peter Rabbit for my Peter!<br />
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I had so much fun putting this <i>boy</i> outfit together. Isn't it adorable? I love it. I'm so happy there are more little boy outfits in my future!<br />
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And it just wouldn't be a photo shoot at our house without some drama and silliness.<br />
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<br />Emilee Odette Garretthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13716573870364789135noreply@blogger.com3