Memorial Day Weekend

We had a fantastic Memorial Day weekend with friends and family.  The Hays' came over for a BBQ, and then Hannah, Brooke and Kendyl went to jump on our neighbor's trampoline. Kendyl got tired and needed to head home for bed, but Brooke wanted to keep jumping so we decided to try an impromptu sleepover. Brooke did great, never once asking for her parents or to go home. She also slept better than both of my kids! I'm sure she was exhuated since Hannah talked until 11pm. Poor Brooke! The Pulis' weren't able to join us, but next time we will have to have a sleepover party with all three girls.

We went to the pool everyday, and on Memorial Day they had a bounce house, games, a day tattoo artist and a ferris wheel.  Hannah did not want to leave, but she was exhausted and needed a nap after her sleepover!  Grandma Joanie made leaving a bit easier when she stole her a special red, white and blue star balloon.

Ella had a great weekend too.  She went in the pool for the first time (not a big fan), ate lots of table foods including raspberries, tuna, chicken, buns and chips - she loved them all.  She unfortunately got a sty, so she looks like a bit of a cyclops in the pool pictures.  Poor little Ella!

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Photo Shoot with Kelly

We had another great shoot with Kelly (makpics.com) at Heritage Park.  It was the perfect venue, and despite the rain, we had a wonderful day.

Here are some of my favorites:

Happy 8 Months, Ella

Ella was 8 months old yesterday -  I'm a day behind with the post because I came down with Tonsillitis on her 8 month birthday.  So sad to not be able to hold, hug and kiss the girls for 24 hours until my antibiotics take effect. 

Ella at 8 months:

• Feeds herself puffs - still 50/50 on getting the food into her mouth
• Loves her baby food solids - sweet potato and banana peach granola are her favorites
• Eats table foods - thought eggs were delicious, just so-so on yogurt
• Sits very well
• Rolls all over - starting to try to crawl
• Says mama, dada and her favorite, Blahhhhh
• Claps her hands
• Gives high fives
• Wears 6-12 month clothes
• Walks if you hold her hands - pretty shakey, but she gets the idea
• Takes two naps a day
 

Ella is still the happiest, most easy going baby.  She belly laughs all day long, especially when Hannah is playing with her.  She also really lights up when she sees her daddy!  Hannah was a daddy's girl at that age too - Jordan always got the best laughs and smiles from Hannah.  Ella has slept through the night the past week, but I'm scared to think it's for good this time...  Even if she is never a great sleeper, she is such a fantastic baby that it's hard to be too upset over it.  Even when she wakes us up in the middle of the night, she is so happy and snuggly that you can't resist her.





Mother's Day 2012

We had a wonderful Mother's Day with all of our family.  Jordan, Hannah and Ella let me sleep in, and by the time I woke up, Grandma Joanie was already here working in the kitchen. We had brunch at our house, and even with 23 people plus two babies, the new space didn't feel tight. I am so glad we decided to do the remodel!

Both girls took naps, and then we walked up to the park for a picnic dinner.  Ella even sat with us on the blanket and ate her puffs and sweet potatoes.  I am so lucky to have two wonderful girls - they make every Mother's Day special (with the help of their daddy).

  

Happy Birthday, Mina!

We went to Lelli's to celebrate Mina's birthday, and Hannah made sure to sit by or on Mina the entire meal.  What a special present for Mina!  Ella got some quality time with Grandma Joanie and loved checking out all of the other diners.

Casey's 2nd Birthday

We went to Casey's 2nd birthday party today at the JCC, and it was the first time I've seen a Jewish star bounce house.  Hannah was on her best behavior (cake is a great incentive!) and Ella enjoyed watching all of the big kids.

Ella Outside

I took Ella outside to sit in the grass, and she thought it tasted delicious.  She also enjoyed chewing on any sticks within reach.  So nice to be outside!

Muffins with Mom

Ella's class had "muffins with mom" this morning to celebrate Mother's Day.  She made me a great card with a handprint flower, and a cute picture from her teachers.  Ella mostly just wanted to eat the ribbon they had on the card.

Soccer Week 2

Hannah had a great time playing soccer with her friends Asher and Brock today.  Thank goodness it finally warmed up!