Elsie's First Halloween...

Though Elsie didn't get to do any trick or treating, she did don an Anne-Geddes-esque lady bug constume, which won her several smiles from those who saw her. One woman outside the frozen yogurt shop near our apartment remarked, "Such a beautiful child!" Can't say we disagree :) We did our own little photo shoot at home on the big day...today!

Our little pumpkin holds her first pumpkin.

April and Elsie making eachother laugh...

Geeze, Mom, not in front of everyone...

Again!

Elsie, unsure of this new getup.

Ok, now that is just insanely cute.

Eat your heart out Ms. Geddes.

Ok, this one wasn't from Halloween, but Elsie is wearing a Pooh hat and plugging David McKee's book. Hard to believe she isn't yet seven months of age.

6 Months Old..TODAY!

Here are some recent shots of "Young Miss Elsie Rose," as Dr. Frates has dubbed her. Our bundle of joy is now able to sit without any assistance and has two little teeth coming in as you read this. Growing chattier with every passing day, we have an inkling that words are not far off. It is both exciting and staggering that half of Elsie's first year is behind us. Having children does really make one stop and savor the time that is given to us.

New Video with Daddy

Listen close to hear Elsie's laugh...Click HERE

Elsie's First Formal Photos

On Labor Day, Elsie had her first formal photos taken. Elegantly dressed in her Parisian christening gown, she was a sight to behold, giving the photographer some of her signature looks and sparkling personality. FYI, the photos are high resolution, so if you click on an individual photo you will be able to see her in a lot more detail.

Elsie's Baptism

On Sunday, August 30th, 2009, Elsie's was baptized, with family and friends surrounding her and the Lord's goodness abounding in her. Her beautiful gown came all the way from France, thanks to her generous Auntie Carolyn (Elliott).

Grandpa Dave and Grandma Carolyn

Grandpa Jon and Besta T

Pastor Kirk applies a healthy dose of the holy stuff

Ian and April make a covenant with God.

Visit from Uncle Trevor

At the beginning of August, Elsie received a visit from her Uncle Trevor, during his break between Years 1 and 2 of Medical School. The budding sawbones was an instant hit with his niece (see picture below). Also, as one of Trevor's hobbies is photography, he got some great shots of Elsie during his stay, some of which are included in this post. Time is flying now!

Milestones...

So, in addition to rolling from her stomach onto her back, Elsie is now able to sit (with some help) in the baby chair. The neck is such a wonderful compilation of muscles isn't it?

Reading about Elmer's Colors with Daddy.

No, really, she's turning the pages on her own. No doubt she's on her way to being a voracious reader. Ian...stunned by the progress.