Preparing for a Test

Today we ran with Daddy. He has been running everyday in preparation for the NCSHP physical fitness test. Syri had to catch a ride in Mom's basket and I fell asleep, but I think Dad got a good workout.

Good luck on Thursday! Love, Charlie

A Few of the Firsts

First Lunch Date


First Hike


First Shopping Trip


First Stroll

We are treasuring each of Charlie's first. It seems like she is growing and changing so quickly ... and she is! You have to have the camera handy at all times to capture the changes that take place in the course of one day.

New Year's Eve Party

Although we were in bed by 9pm, the little one was dressed and ready for a night on the town! Happy New Year!

Christmas Day

Her sleeper says "Baby's First Christmas"

I got a hippopotamus for Christmas!

Wrong Charlie

Not for you either

Charlie in HER very own sunglasses

PBR mittens and hat

Jeff in Dave's PBR mitten and hat

Momma Jill with her birdhouse

Joy in her new hat and Thatcher in Justin's

On Christmas morning we opened gifts with GGma and GGpa before heading to Oma and Opa's house to celebrate with Dave's side of the family. Charlie's first Christmas was very special. Thank you to everyone for making it so memorable.

Christmas Eve

We celebrated Christmas Eve with Nana, GGma and GGpa. We attended the candlelight service at church, once again Charlie slept through the entire service. I cried nearly the entire service ... there is something very magical about having a baby at Christmas. Every picture of Mary with baby Jesus is emotionally moving. You can see the love on her face and know exactly what she is feeling. I was overwhelmed by the beauty and the magic of the season. I am so fortunate and blessed ...we all are.

After the service we enjoyed dinner and gift exchange.

Christmas at Aunt Joy's

Our first Christmas gathering at Aunt Joy's house. Talk about delicious food! Aunt Joy is a sensational host, cook and Aunt. Thanks to Momma Jill for the cute outfit to wear to the party. We played LRC after dinner, that Halle sure can roll some dice! So good to see all the family. Many thanks to everyone for the generous gifts for Charlie. We love you and appreciate your kindness and support.

A Fitting Gift

Auntie Joy, Uncle Justin and cousin Thatcher have arrived from Florida. Auntie Joy brought a ton of stuff for Charlie, packed an extra suitcase to get it all here :) She is so awesome. She brought the perfect size owl hat, too! It fits Charlie's head right now . So she has one for now (photo 1), one from Creeper and Cheeks for next month or the following month (photo 2) and one from Great Aunt Paula for when she is about 3 (photo 3). They are all adorable! Thanks everyone :)