School shopping done!

One person in this family is WAY more ready for kindergarten to begin than the others.  Can't believe it is almost here.  She had a ball picking out her supplies.  It was bittersweet for mama.

Gosh, this is too funny not to share.

Em being silly & hamming it up.

Keith doing his best impression of Emerson.

I nearly snorted my chicken out my nose. 

Duke Gardens Outing...

Found a new spot at the gardens...they've been doing lots of construction of new little secluded spots.  Fun to explore them.

Wildlife galore today...mama duck, baby duck, ugly duck-thing, and big turtles.  It's always an adventure to see what will swim up to you.

Nose to nose on the grass...followed quickly by tackle on the grass.

Love that big smile.  He's so close to walking, but still hesitant to let go of something.  Soon, very soon.

Major renovations to the koi pond...big fish in there, and they follow you as you walk by.  Cool or creepy?

I think we've snapped a photo of her doing this every year of her life in the exact same spot.  

We do love the gardens!