Soleil at Babytime

Some of the crew: Michaela, Brody, Ricky and Soleil enjoying Babytime at the library. We have so enjoyed this program of stories and songs.

Wait, everyone avoid eye contact! Now!

This is Ricky, practicing his non-confrontational face. He has become allergic to me lately and this is his reaction to me taking his photo. He and Soleil still love each other, and will be in the same class beginning on Aug. 18th.

Granny reading nursery rhymes to David and Soleil. David has the broom just in case there are any messes he needs to clean up!

Raindrops are falling on my head!

It has been raining here A LOT! I mean A LOT. Today we decided to take advantage and play in it! Soleil loved it!

Thank you, God, for the rain!

Whoa, that is wet and cold!

Bahamians everywhere are shuddering at the fact that we let Soleil play in the rain. Contrary to popular belief, she did not catch a head cold! She did catch a case of the giggles,though.

One day in July

The two readers sharing a common love!

Sharing a smile together-precious moment!

A cupcake extravaganza!

Soleil goes to the zoo!

It was the hottest day I can remember and Soleil was well aware. She thoroughly enjoyed the zoo's water play area. It was her favorite attraction, for sure. You practically had to hold us back from jumping in, too!

Playing in the water area.

Checking out Soleil's favorite animal, the giraffe.

We were here to check out the elephants. Soleil? Checking out the mulch!

This beautiful llama was on display in the kid's area. Do you think Soleil was interested? Not so much. She did like studying the leaf in her hand, though.

Soleil got stuck in the slide and couldn't get out! Luckily, Daddy squeezed in and pulled her out!

Okay, so here is my disclaimer. I have never been one for zoos. I don't believe in them! I do not like the idea of animals being confined and away from their natural habitats/families. However, the things you are willing to do for your children may just outweigh my zoo principles. I am not jumping with joy at the thought of ever going again, but I think it may be inevitable.

Look-alike or not?

This portrait is of Darrin as a toddler. We were interested to see if Soleil and her father looked alike. I think the photo speaks for itself.

It's the same hair!

Abaco Experiences

Soleil worked in Papi's office for a few seconds!

Taking a moment to smell the oleanders.

Do you see the rainbow?

Abaco Beach Girl

Soleil, Papa and Daddy enjoying a day in paradise.

Priceless facial expressions

Supermodel pose!

Aunt Irene, one of Soleil's favorites, in a game of peek-a-boo.

Can you tell who is NOT impressed?

Papa trying to coax Soleil into the water!

Soleil spent just as much time playing in the fresh water as she did in the ocean!

Soleil and Friends

Soleil and beloved Phoenix, a stray that we rescued some 9 years ago.

Soleil loved shelling-except, she would frequently drop her prized shell as soon as she found another one!

Soleil and the starfish

Naked Soleil and the crab !

Soleil, island style

Sun girl, cracking up in her Cuban sundress.

Snuggling Mr. Lamb, one of her favorites.

Singing on Papa's knee

Daredevil Soleil!

Papa's motorbike provided much entertainment during our trip. Soleil willingly throws her hands above her head and makes bike noises!

The Gates men are well known for their love of motorbikes! It seems as if the tradition might continue-

Soleil on da beach in Abaco

In awe of Mother Nature.

Look what I found! A sand dollar- it was crushed moments after this photo was taken!

Shelling with Papa at Casaurina Sand Bar

On her way...

Trying to get a coconut down, with Papa's help.

Soleil in Nassau

While we were in Nassau, we took Soleil to The Dig at Atlantis. It was so much fun to see her reaction to the stingrays, eels, jellyfish, and more!

Look, Soleil! Dinner!

Soleil and Granny were mesmerized!

Don't look now, but....The biggest Jewfish we have ever seen!

Soleil and Aunty Karen enjoyed a laugh at Green Parrot.

Soleil LOVES shoes and she spent most of her time playing with Uncle Jon's many shoes!

Soleil and Granny heading out for a swim!

Soleil and Mummy flew down to Nassau for a few days to spend some quality time with Granny, Uncle Jon and our friends. We really enjoyed ourselves....but, oh! The heat!!