A Lovely Day for Frances

This past summer was one of those summers...you know the kind that blows by like the seeds from a dandelion pod. It seems as though the school year had just finished last May when suddenly we were picking pumpkins for fall. Midst the sadness of burying Dean's father and losing Izzy pooch to cancer, our family also experienced sheer delight welcoming a beautiful new grand babe to the world.

Frances Anne's arrival has made this little family of five simply perfect.

I am frequently asked if Cassandra is stressed and just how she is able to manage three little people.

She claims it is so much easier than the last time she delivered a baby. Remember Olivia was six months old when Henry was born. 

It doesn't hurt that Frances is just about the best baby I've ever seen. Oh and that hair...we are all in love with that hair!

The family gathered on the first Sunday in September for Frances's special day. 

Even Lucy came along...her first road trip!

Uncle Chet is constantly harassed...jumped on...and asked for piggy back rides from "The Bigs"...the latest term of endearment we use on Olivia and Henry since we can no longer refer to them as "The Babies."

Beautiful Hailey accompanied Dione and obviously fit right in with her polka dots. 

Living in LA, Auntie Didi misses out on a lot of family events. And couldn't wait to be part of this one.

Oh...and Olivia was thrilled to have the extra attention. 

I made Frances's special dress using bridal silk and bridal lace. The pickups on the gown were hand beaded with tiny pearl beads.

She looked heavenly...as did her mamma. 

I also finally finished Frances's baby quilt just in time for the big day. I designed and completely hand pieced this hexie quilt which matches her pink and grey girly girl nursery. I think it's one of my favorite baby quilts ever. The fabric line that Cassandra picked out is called Story Time and I adore it.

Little Miss Frances is pink and new and perfect...and so was her special day.

Hmmm...what's that puppy nose doing in the picture? 

I am just so profoundly grateful for this beautiful child and the joy she brings this Nanny Goat.

I think Auntie Didi is in love with her as well!

Magnificence of Birth

Birth...

that moment in time when life begins anew.

When a family of four...

becomes a family of five.


And the world that revolved around two three year old children

suddenly includes a newborn in the spin.

Introducing...Miss Frances Anne...born July 7th.

7-7-14 what a fun birth date.

Welcome to your magnificent life sweet granddaughter.

I'm your Nanny Goat...

just ask Olivia and Henry how much fun we are going to have together.

You will love being part of this beautiful world...

especially with all the people who love you.

It's alright if you nod off...I"ll still continue!

Looking at your sweet tiny pink face...it's amazing to imagine the impact your presence in this world will make.

While packing up some boxes I discovered this blanket that I used to wrap your Mamma in when she was brand new and I thought you should have it.

And let's talk about that your beautiful black hair...AMAZING!

During your newborn photo shoot we took a short break and your sister Olivia shared with me the birth of her baby that popped right out of her tummy...

And what do you know...Olivia's baby is a Pooh Bear that she named Luke! I'm not sure if your delivery was quite that easy...we'll have to ask your mamma.

It's impossible for your little newborn-ness to understand how much I already adore you,

or what fun plans I have stored up for us.

Being a Nanny Goat is the best thing in the whole world.

Don't you agree? Hello...are you listening?

But I have to warn you there is a price to pay...

I will take endless photos from your soft pink lips...

to your tiny pink toes...and everything in between!

Welcome Miss Frances...I love you to the moon and back.

and thanks Mamma Cassandra...for making me a Nanny Goat three times over!