Swimming lessons

In addition to dance class, I enrolled Caroline in swimming lessons. Her first lesson was last week. I hung around just to see what went on. She did great! I was so proud of her! Her instructor told me that she follows directions very well. I can't wait to see how far she progresses by the end of her lessons!

7 months

Please stop growing so quickly, Sweet Pea!

Ballerina

Caroline started dance class this fall. It's a combination of ballet and tap. She has been so excited for them to start. Thankfully, the class didn't disappoint! She had so much fun! She hasn't stopped talking about class and showing me all her new dance "tricks". She says she loves tap the best. I didn't get to see any of the class. I can't wait for the first parent day!

My favorite part of the first day happened when we got home. Kevin came in right behind us and Caroline went right up to him and said, "Daddy. I have a secret for you. I love to dance!"

Destin 2009

We had so much fun at the beach with the Wilsons last year that we decided to make a repeat trip. I didn't think it was possible, but we had even more fun this year! We are really hoping this becomes an annual event. It was a great time of year to visit - we had the beach to ourselves. It made a perfect end to the summer. We unfortunately won't have the luxury of late September beach trips when the girls start school.

Caroline and her friend Elizabeth were so excited to be reunited. We were all really happy to see each other again! We miss our friends!

I'm adding a few of our pictures here. We took a bunch, so if you'd like to see more visit our photo album.

6 months

Helen is 6 months old! We can hardly believe half of year has passed already. I don't know how we lucked out and got 2 really good babies. Helen keeps us entertained with silly faces and noises. Her favorite "game" is putting her forehead to my forehead and staring into my eyes. We both giggle over that one. Helen loves Eskimo kisses and getting her tummy tickled. Caroline is her favorite person. Caroline can always get her to smile. She is busy and hates to sit still. She gets around quite well on the floor by scooting along on her tummy and rolling. And she's making big progress toward crawling.

13 pounds, 6 ounces; 25 inches long

First day of preschool

We've enrolled Caroline in Redeemer Episcopal Preschool, which is right around the corner from our house. She had a great first day. She loves school - just like her mommy and daddy!




Helen and I walk Caroline to and from school most days.

She is so excited to learn!

Sunflowers

Remember this dress? I made sure it was plenty roomy so Caroline could wear it at least one more fall season. This year Helen had to have a dress to match! I decided to make Helen's a coordinating dress instead of an exact match and that's my favorite thing about them. I love how they both turned out.

Diaper change

Caroline loves to help with Helen. Last night she wanted to change Helen's diaper all by herself. She does really well diapering a babydoll, but quickly found out the real thing is a lot more wiggly! I was so tickled (as you can tell from the video). Caroline got a little intense and frustrated toward the end of the video, so I stepped in and gave her a little help.

Diaper change from Emilee Garrett on Vimeo.

New 'dos

Caroline and I got haircuts recently. Caroline will be starting school soon and I thought a little hair update would be an appropriate way to start the new year.

Silly and sweet

Things around here are a little silly...


...and a lot sweet!

5 months

Sweet Pea turned 5 months old on August 25. She's still tiny, but growing up so beautifully.


And the big sister is growing up beautifully as well.


I still have to pinch myself. I have daughters. Incredible.

Lucky Daddy

Daddy gets this sweet greeting from Helen after a long day at work.

Summer sewing

In addition to the bonnet, I've made 2 shirts with diaper covers for Helen. These little outfits are perfect for displaying some shadow embroidery. The first one is sleeveless and collarless, is embroidered with a little beach umbrella and pail, and has a lime green seersucker cover.

Sorry for the sun, but you get the idea.

The second has a collar and puff sleeves, is embroidered with a little pink whale, and has a pink microcheck diaper cover.


This is a very sweet pattern and I love it! (Don't I say that every time?) It sews up quickly - even the embroidery goes quickly. It's the perfect cool outfit for hot summer days. And isn't my model cute?

Sunday morning

Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the LORD is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other. Keep his decrees and commands, which I am giving you today, so that it may go well with you and your children after you and that you may live long in the land the LORD your God gives you for all time. -Deuteronomy 4:39-40