Yesterday was disagreeably cloudy and rainy.  Not at all nice holiday weather.  But after the rain the garden is glowing again, washed clean of its annual dusting of yellow pollen.  The azaleas are blooming with effortless glory: white, pink, purple and coral.

This year the proportions of this dress are just what I imagined.  In comparison to my first version, this neckline is slightly higher and the contrast skirt fabric band is considerably wider.  I'm pleased too with the Nicey Jane fabrics.  Thanks to Lark Cottons for getting them to us just as soon as they became available!  It was a struggle this year to find fabrics that felt right to both Aria and me.  But we did it!

I reduced the typical row of buttons to just two.  Aria can fasten these large, covered buttons with stretchy elastic band closure all herself.  Of course I don't mind closing her dresses for her, but she's too independent to ask.  And these are so pretty.

We are expecting baby goats again soon, very soon.  Here's Joshua who was born April of last year from Aria's milk goat, Sully.  So big now!  As is Cinder dog, who came to our family as a little puppy February of last year. 

The photo shoot is done, and they're off!

Happy Monday.