It was definitely a year of firsts. Our first camping trip came in July, up to the Dunes on Lake Michigan. Heidi got to see big water for the first time, which inspired a desire for swimming lessons in the fall.

And as autumn approached Heidi also signed up for Park League soccer. She really enjoyed playing with her friends, even if she'd inherited my lack of athleticism.

October brought Heidi's first friend-laden birthday party as she turned five, and Sarah brought it together perfectly. It was on a Saturday afternoon. I'd had to work a little past twelve, since it was our busy season, coming into the holidays. When...