Playing Hookie

Saturday, June 27th I left work early (if you call a 10 hour day early!?!) to make an appearance at my sister's high school graduation party. David also worked that day, but he brought the kids out before work so they could be a part of the festivities.

Here is my youngest, sweet, eternally optimistic sister Mackenzie. Initially, the thought of Mackenzie graduating didn't mean too much to me, but then I realized how much more time I would get to spend with her. She has helped out immensly with the kids, and I love to call her up and invite her over to eat dinner and just hang out. Growing up I lived with my Mom and two sisters, and although we sometimes fought like wild banshees I have missed the times we used to share together. Those are stories for another time.
So before I arrived these pictures of Charlotte and my Mom were taken by my Aunt Sherri. Charlotte's dress is from Target. I hesitated to buy it because, she didn't necessarily need a new dress, but my gut told me I would regret not buying it. Let me rephrase that, I would regret not dressing her in this sweet little ensemble. Some of you may be rolling your eyes right now.

But when I saw these pictures, my heart swelled, burst, and ached all at the same time. I have never seen such a radiant, glowing baby. I just want to hover over and protect her from all of the hurt in the world. Charlotte's personality is adventurous and innocently mischievous at the same time. Yes, I said innocently mischievous. The girl will pull all of my pots and pans out of the cabinet, or dig into the bathroom trash (just once) and look up at you with big blue eyes and smile while crinkling her little nose. In which I respond, "oh you silly little girl" as I scoop her up in my arms and eat her yummy baby cheeks.

I could ramble on and on and on about the joy I derive from watching Charlotte, but I must save some rambling for future posts. I will post pics of Joe at the Royals later today.