My baby girl

There are many little reminders everyday that tell me my baby girl is becoming less and less of a baby. It is a little bittersweet. It's exciting to hit milestones like buying pretty panties (which she has yet to keep dry, but we're working on it) and having her help me make cookies. We also realized yesterday that she recognizes her name when we spell it or write it. But I still love the times she falls asleep in the car and I have to carry her into the house with her little face buried into my neck. She is so snugly when she is sleeping!

Sometimes I wonder if we are getting anywhere with potty training. Julia continues to do well at day care, but progress at home seems slow. Mom suggested buying her special panties to wear at home, in the hopes that her love of clothes would motivate her to go to the bathroom-no luck with that yet. But yesterday seemed to be a bit of a break through. After cleaning up another puddle, I was ready to start putting her in diapers again and then she went from 11AM to bedtime (8PM) with a dry pull-up. Today hasn't been quite as monumental, but yesterday gives me hope.

I think one of my favorite things to see as Julia grows up is an increased awareness of God. We've been reading through the creation story in the Bible at night. She loves reviewing what was created on each day. And Julia loves praying before meals and at bedtime. I can't wait for the day when she chooses to place her trust in God!

We've also really been enjoying the kisses that don't leave us completely slimed (although I do kind of miss those), the "I love you, too's", and the big hugs. Last weekend Justin got to hear, numerous times, "Happy Birthday my Father's Day!" It's amazing to see how Julia-and everyone else's kids-have been growing so fast! I'm working hard to remember and treasure these special times. I'm sure you all with kids are doing the same. Have a great week!