crooms corner

And that's just what they'll do. Although at first we weren't quite sure. Since Ella started walking a few weeks ago I figured it was a fine time to get her some shoes. I can't believe she made it almost a year without shoes. I guess it is because I am not a fan of shoes on babies. I like either bare feet or socks. But, since she is going to be hitting the pavement she needed some protection on those tootsies. I bought her some in Mobile on Saturday and it wasn't until this morning that she actually walked in them on her own accord. She walks all over the place barefooted. When the saleslady put the shoes on her she immediately sat down and grabbed her feet. Once in the van, she kicked her feet repeatedly trying to get them off. I put them on her this morning to get her used to them. I think it is working. She is actually walking some. They are so cute I wanted you to see them.

We visited Rob, Nick and Baby Taylor this weekend while Chip went to a wedding in Arkansas. It was really fun but tiring. Tiring watching Robyn deal with a newborn and knowing that will be me again in a few months. Tiring chasing Ella around their house and trying to keep her contained. It was really great to get to be with her, hold her and love her.

Streed's favorite pastime lately is playing with his daddy's old cars. We no longer allow him to play on this particular rug because shortly after the picture was taken a wheel got caught and Streed pulled about a 2 inch bare spot in the rug (that we had had for about 4 days).

I know some of you think I have my hands full. Not so. I have helpers. All day long I have helpers. Aren't I blessed!

Ella started walking yesterday. She took 3 steps before church and then up to 7 after her nap. She wore herself out apparently because she was super sleepy today. She was a little more timid today and wanted to hold my hands and walk mostly. I am so excited that she is taking steps because I am ready for her to walk. This picture was taken a few days ago. She is such a big girl.

I saw this picture today on the computer and it made me laugh. Ella and Annie both chewing on the same type of plate is funny to me. I am sure it had cat food on it at some point.

Streed is well on his way. He is even sleeping in underwear for his naps. I am not brave enough to try nights yet. He wore underwear to church yesterday and did great! It has been a few month process, basically because I have been lazy. He is so cute in his underwear.

My sister had a baby almost two weeks ago. Her name is Taylor Elyse. She is adorable. I haven't seen her since she was a day old but I have seen some cute pictures. Robyn calls me "Sissy" so we laugh that I am going to be Aunt Sissy.

We are finally home. Chip and I figured out last night that we are away from home between 3 & 4 months a year. So, the motto we adopted for our family this summer is "Home is where you lay your head."
Below are some family photos from the summer. One at Chip's sisters wedding and the others are from the beach when our friend Wendy Jones came and took some pictures.