I always knew little boys wanted to be like their dads, but who knew little girls did too. Since Ella can't and hopefully never will be able to grow facial hair, she figured the next best thing was an ice cream goatee. This special treat capped off the very beautiful weekend that was largely spent outside. It actually felt like a bona-fide weekend. (I posted quite a few pictures of our weekend adventures to our flickr account.)
Ella loves to play outside. Her favorite activity is riding around in her new buggy or playing in the park. We're fortunate that the closest park is right behind our neighbor's house, and Ella is keenly aware of its location. We were standing in our neighbor's driveway tonight when she grabbed my hand, pulled my forward and pointed to the park. Unfortunately, it was right as the rain started to drop. We distracted her by bring Aaron and Carter over to the house, while Jen and Mike showed their old house to whom is likely to become our new neighbors.
Cuteness Alert: I am constantly reminded how aware Ella is of her environment and how much she is soaking in and mimicking our behavior. Mike and I were cleaning up from dinner when we stopped for a hug and a kiss. Ella promptly walked over and wrapped an arm around each of our legs. Her way of saying, "don't leave me out."
Monday, March 26, 2007
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Ella Interactive
What joy this girl brings to Mike's and my world. She is a riot and such a pleasure. She continually surprises us and amazes us. Today, while I was cooking dinner, we were singing "Old McDonald" and when it got to the "E-I-E-I-O" part, Ella attempted to join in. While it wasn't completely clear, you definitely could tell what she was singing. She also loves to "roll the dough" during "Pat-A-Cake." With her Leap Frog magnets on the fridge, she has always enjoyed starting the banjo music, but now she'll stand here and stomp her feet to the music. She always has a huge smile on her face.
She has been talking up a storm lately and every day I realize more and more how much she truly understands us. Her favorite word right now is "bye bye." She loves saying it at any opportunity. She also knows when we tell her it's time to go "bye bye" that she darts straight for the coat closet, reaches for the door knob, and once the door is open, she points straight to her jacket. At bed time, if Mike or I say "Ella it's time for night night," she practically zooms straight up the stairs and into her bedroom. I think that has more to do with getting her pacifier than with going to bed.
Back to the coat, I worry it's becoming her security blanket. I have no qualms against Ella having a security blanket, but I'm not sure how I'll explain my child carrying around a winter coat during the steamy July weather. It's odd though, she hates taking her coat off and loves putting it on. If you try to take it off her, she grips her fingers around the cuff until there's no blood left in her hand. If you are able to pry the fingers free, it's major meltdown city. This girl gives you serious attitude. It's the oddest thing, this fascination with the coat. We also have learned that you don't open the coat closet door unless you absolutely have to or at least make sure Ella's not in the room.
Lastly, and the best thing, is Ella knows how to give kisses! It's the sweetest thing. You ask for a kiss and Ella instantly pushes her bottom lip out and hums. It's so adorable. I've tried to capture a picture of her kissing face, but I haven't had much luck yet. We did take a ton of photos this weekend just playing outside. I've posted a few.
She has been talking up a storm lately and every day I realize more and more how much she truly understands us. Her favorite word right now is "bye bye." She loves saying it at any opportunity. She also knows when we tell her it's time to go "bye bye" that she darts straight for the coat closet, reaches for the door knob, and once the door is open, she points straight to her jacket. At bed time, if Mike or I say "Ella it's time for night night," she practically zooms straight up the stairs and into her bedroom. I think that has more to do with getting her pacifier than with going to bed.
Back to the coat, I worry it's becoming her security blanket. I have no qualms against Ella having a security blanket, but I'm not sure how I'll explain my child carrying around a winter coat during the steamy July weather. It's odd though, she hates taking her coat off and loves putting it on. If you try to take it off her, she grips her fingers around the cuff until there's no blood left in her hand. If you are able to pry the fingers free, it's major meltdown city. This girl gives you serious attitude. It's the oddest thing, this fascination with the coat. We also have learned that you don't open the coat closet door unless you absolutely have to or at least make sure Ella's not in the room.
Lastly, and the best thing, is Ella knows how to give kisses! It's the sweetest thing. You ask for a kiss and Ella instantly pushes her bottom lip out and hums. It's so adorable. I've tried to capture a picture of her kissing face, but I haven't had much luck yet. We did take a ton of photos this weekend just playing outside. I've posted a few.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Eating Out, No More
Mike and I came to quick realization Saturday night. We can no longer eat out at a sit-down restaurant. It's tough convincing Ms. "I need to explore my world" that it's fun to sit at the table waiting for the food to arrive, much less wanting to actually eat the food when it comes. I now understand why the dining options for families with young children center around fast food and play lands.
After a long day -- for Mike, it was helping to move the Comers and for me, it was a work retreat that started Friday, I announced to Mike I didn't want to cook and we were going out to eat. We ventured to Red Robin to use a Christmas gift certificate. Silly us, we thought the noise, atmosphere and balloons would be enough to entertain Ella so Mike and I could relax and enjoy our dinner. Man, were we ever wrong!! Ella refused to be contained, refused to sit still and even refused to sit on our laps. Instead of the laid back evening Mike and I intended to have, we spent the night as the sidekick to the social butterfly as every table was either a long lost friend or a new friend waiting to be made. So while one of us slammed down a burger, the other walked around the restaurant with the little one. It so wasn't any fun, and not quite the meal we wanted, but I did enjoy watching her bring smiles and laughter to the restaurant.
In other news, Ella is no longer a Lamb but a Koala. She made the move last Monday. It was a tough week for mommy and her. Each day did get a bit easier on her, not yet on me. The director and the teacher said she probably would have two tough weeks. In the new classroom, Ella is sleeping on a cot, has a structured nap time and no longer has access to a pacifier. I know this kid is adaptable, but dang she's been through a lot of change lately. We hope Faith will join Ella shortly to help ease the transition and get her back with her good friend.
After a long day -- for Mike, it was helping to move the Comers and for me, it was a work retreat that started Friday, I announced to Mike I didn't want to cook and we were going out to eat. We ventured to Red Robin to use a Christmas gift certificate. Silly us, we thought the noise, atmosphere and balloons would be enough to entertain Ella so Mike and I could relax and enjoy our dinner. Man, were we ever wrong!! Ella refused to be contained, refused to sit still and even refused to sit on our laps. Instead of the laid back evening Mike and I intended to have, we spent the night as the sidekick to the social butterfly as every table was either a long lost friend or a new friend waiting to be made. So while one of us slammed down a burger, the other walked around the restaurant with the little one. It so wasn't any fun, and not quite the meal we wanted, but I did enjoy watching her bring smiles and laughter to the restaurant.
In other news, Ella is no longer a Lamb but a Koala. She made the move last Monday. It was a tough week for mommy and her. Each day did get a bit easier on her, not yet on me. The director and the teacher said she probably would have two tough weeks. In the new classroom, Ella is sleeping on a cot, has a structured nap time and no longer has access to a pacifier. I know this kid is adaptable, but dang she's been through a lot of change lately. We hope Faith will join Ella shortly to help ease the transition and get her back with her good friend.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Frosting tastes best when smeared on the face
It's official. Miss Ella is one years old. With her not feeling well on her actual birthday, I decided she wasn't one until the day of her party. For her heart-themed party, we had quite the gathering of family and friends. Some how, we managed to squeeze 25 people, including 5 kids, into our house.
Ella had a ball at her first birthday. She adored the big kids in attendance and watched their every move. She showed absolutely no interest in opening gifts, although she wanted the toys out of the box the minute they were opened. She was mightly confused when such a large group of people began to sing "Happy Birthday" in unison. She surely thought we were all crazy and a touch tone deaf. She enjoyed the cake by digging into the frosting. Surprisingly, she makes a bigger mess during a standard dinner.
I questioned the decision to let her consume so much sugar in one sitting as she cried out several times Saturday night with what I suspect was a tummy ache. I then reminded myself that no permanent damage was done and when celebrating a major milestone like a first birthday, my standard parenting rules and worries need not apply. Overall, I believe a good time was had by all. We're are so appreciative of everyone who helped us celebrate this significant milestone, even if it was in spirit. I'll try to avoid ending another post on how it's impossible that she's already one and this definitely was the fastest year of my life. I said I'll try!
Ella had her one-year appointment Monday. Mike accompanied her to the doctor where we learned our kid's head is huge -- in the 97 percentile, explains why getting shirts over her head is such a huge battle. She weighed 23 lbs. 1 oz (80%) and her height was 30 1/2 (90ish%). The doc said she continues to make great strides in the development arena.
Overall, we are enjoying this amazing creature that we are so blessed to call our daughter.
Ella had a ball at her first birthday. She adored the big kids in attendance and watched their every move. She showed absolutely no interest in opening gifts, although she wanted the toys out of the box the minute they were opened. She was mightly confused when such a large group of people began to sing "Happy Birthday" in unison. She surely thought we were all crazy and a touch tone deaf. She enjoyed the cake by digging into the frosting. Surprisingly, she makes a bigger mess during a standard dinner.
I questioned the decision to let her consume so much sugar in one sitting as she cried out several times Saturday night with what I suspect was a tummy ache. I then reminded myself that no permanent damage was done and when celebrating a major milestone like a first birthday, my standard parenting rules and worries need not apply. Overall, I believe a good time was had by all. We're are so appreciative of everyone who helped us celebrate this significant milestone, even if it was in spirit. I'll try to avoid ending another post on how it's impossible that she's already one and this definitely was the fastest year of my life. I said I'll try!
Ella had her one-year appointment Monday. Mike accompanied her to the doctor where we learned our kid's head is huge -- in the 97 percentile, explains why getting shirts over her head is such a huge battle. She weighed 23 lbs. 1 oz (80%) and her height was 30 1/2 (90ish%). The doc said she continues to make great strides in the development arena.
Overall, we are enjoying this amazing creature that we are so blessed to call our daughter.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Happy V-Day from Cupid Ella
My sweet little cupid hopes everyone had a very Happy Valentine's Day. This gift was waiting for me when I dropped her off this morning. It is so precious! I love that day care does these little gifts for the parents. It's so incredibly sweet and reassures me about how much they care for her and for us.
Ella is feeling a touch better, although milk products don't agree with her system quite yet. She was so excited to see Faith this morning as Ella broke out into a huge smile and started gabbering away when I sat her next to Faith.
We are gearing up for her big bash this Saturday. I was worried that we might have to cancel it, but as long as she continues to improve, the party is still on.
Ella is feeling a touch better, although milk products don't agree with her system quite yet. She was so excited to see Faith this morning as Ella broke out into a huge smile and started gabbering away when I sat her next to Faith.
We are gearing up for her big bash this Saturday. I was worried that we might have to cancel it, but as long as she continues to improve, the party is still on.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Happy Birthday to you, happy birthday to...*PUKE*
Okay, first things first. Amanda and I are FLOORED that it has been an entire year since the most earth-shattering event in our lives happened. Its been an amazing whirl-wind year and it went SO fast. Its been incredible and Amanda and I have learned so much--lost plenty of sleep, but we are so happy that she is in our lives and she just makes it all just that much better.
So guess what--our little miss Ella was on TV today! Thanks to Grandma Glenda, she sent in a picture to Channel 41 for their "Kansas City Live" show. Roll the clip! (Its in QuickTime format. If you can't see it, click on "QuickTime" and follow the instructions on how to download)
Click here to view Ella's Birthday announcement!
That's all the good news!
The bad news: She's sick!
We were at Wal-Mart shopping on Sunday and she just leans over and *puke*! All of her lunch, and plenty of milk and stomach acid all hit the floor. We had no idea she was even feeling bad! So from that point forward, NOTHING stayed down and Mommy was home with her on Monday, and daddy has been home with her on Tuesday and Wednesday. But we are starting to feel like she is starting to come around and hopefully will be back at daycare on Thursday. Its too bad because she wasn't able to spend her special birthday today with her friends! But hey, she's with one of her parents so its not all that bad!
She's been pretty clingy the last few days, and been a few long nights, but we're thinking it will all be over soon, thankfully.
So Happy Birthday to my little girl. You are a such a blessing to our family! Mommy and Daddy love you so very much. You make us smile so big and you teach us new things everyday about life. Thank you so much. We love you!
Proud Papa.
So guess what--our little miss Ella was on TV today! Thanks to Grandma Glenda, she sent in a picture to Channel 41 for their "Kansas City Live" show. Roll the clip! (Its in QuickTime format. If you can't see it, click on "QuickTime" and follow the instructions on how to download)
Click here to view Ella's Birthday announcement!
That's all the good news!
The bad news: She's sick!
We were at Wal-Mart shopping on Sunday and she just leans over and *puke*! All of her lunch, and plenty of milk and stomach acid all hit the floor. We had no idea she was even feeling bad! So from that point forward, NOTHING stayed down and Mommy was home with her on Monday, and daddy has been home with her on Tuesday and Wednesday. But we are starting to feel like she is starting to come around and hopefully will be back at daycare on Thursday. Its too bad because she wasn't able to spend her special birthday today with her friends! But hey, she's with one of her parents so its not all that bad!
She's been pretty clingy the last few days, and been a few long nights, but we're thinking it will all be over soon, thankfully.
So Happy Birthday to my little girl. You are a such a blessing to our family! Mommy and Daddy love you so very much. You make us smile so big and you teach us new things everyday about life. Thank you so much. We love you!
Proud Papa.
Stay Tuned!
Yep! Today is Ella's FIRST birthday, and she had a special surprise for it. So be sure to check back here around 3 for what it was!
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Busy with Change
Aaron and Carter came over for a visit last Saturday. The Comers had someone coming over to look at their house, since it's on the market. Yes, that's right they are leaving me, well us. I feel so abandoned! I truly am excited for them and this new beautiful home of theirs, but it will be strange not having them in the neighborhood. It's not that we see each other every day (we may talk every day and I hope that continues), but it's a comfort knowing they were so close. I don't think I'll realize how much I'll miss them until warmer weather hits and we are spending large chunks of time outside. Yet, it's not like they are moving to Missouri. I mean the drive to their house is maybe something like 5 minutes away, if that. Somehow, I think I'll survive.
There is just change all around us. As Mike and Jen prepare to leave the cozy comforts of our cul-de-sac, a new couple has moved in to the house just south of us. It previously was occupied by a divorced man who had never picked up a cleaning product. We are so excited to have another couple in the neighborhood. We went over and introduced ourselves tonight, and they seem like they will fit quite nicely in our neighborhood. Meeting them allowed us to extend an invite to the informal neighborhood gathering we are hosting Saturday night. It's a "sorry you're leaving the neighborhood" and a "welcome to the neighborhood kind of party." Liz and I just arranged it today. It will be good to get everyone together for one last hurrah.
There is just change all around us. As Mike and Jen prepare to leave the cozy comforts of our cul-de-sac, a new couple has moved in to the house just south of us. It previously was occupied by a divorced man who had never picked up a cleaning product. We are so excited to have another couple in the neighborhood. We went over and introduced ourselves tonight, and they seem like they will fit quite nicely in our neighborhood. Meeting them allowed us to extend an invite to the informal neighborhood gathering we are hosting Saturday night. It's a "sorry you're leaving the neighborhood" and a "welcome to the neighborhood kind of party." Liz and I just arranged it today. It will be good to get everyone together for one last hurrah.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
One Week
In a week, my sweetheart turns one. I can't believe it. How did we get here so quickly? It's just absolutely insane how fast this year has gone. It definitely has been the fastest year of my life. We're gearing up for her party. I'm excited for it. Now if I only could decide what to serve. I'm most certainly open to suggestions.
When dropping off Ella today, I learned she will be graduating from the Lambs room shortly after her birthday, unfortunately her best bud Faith will not be going with her, at least not at this point. At her parent teacher conference last week, I had lobbied for them to move together. Miss Jenny said she knew it was a wish of both Faith's mom and mine, but Faith isn't consistently walking. Until she is, she will stay in the Lambs room. I know Ella is ready to move from a developmental standpoint, and Miss Jenny and Bonnie reassured me that this is a positive move for her. I just worry how well she will handle the transition. She is quite attached to her teachers as well as Faith.
Ella is keeping us busy. She is such a mover and so full of personality, and is so much fun! This kid has the best belly laugh I've ever heard. I brought back a soft ball from M&M World in Vegas and she loves to play her version of catch. The other night she stood at the top of the stairs and would "throw" the ball down the stairs to me and I would gently toss the ball back. She would just giggle with excitement as she watched the ball roll down the stairs.
We have weaned her from the bottle. Overall, the transition has gone well. We have a few fits periodically but overall she's handled the switch fairly well. Next is to introduce milk. We'll do that after her one-year appointment. Again, in one week, my little baby will be one. She may be ready for this, but her mom certainly is not!
When dropping off Ella today, I learned she will be graduating from the Lambs room shortly after her birthday, unfortunately her best bud Faith will not be going with her, at least not at this point. At her parent teacher conference last week, I had lobbied for them to move together. Miss Jenny said she knew it was a wish of both Faith's mom and mine, but Faith isn't consistently walking. Until she is, she will stay in the Lambs room. I know Ella is ready to move from a developmental standpoint, and Miss Jenny and Bonnie reassured me that this is a positive move for her. I just worry how well she will handle the transition. She is quite attached to her teachers as well as Faith.
Ella is keeping us busy. She is such a mover and so full of personality, and is so much fun! This kid has the best belly laugh I've ever heard. I brought back a soft ball from M&M World in Vegas and she loves to play her version of catch. The other night she stood at the top of the stairs and would "throw" the ball down the stairs to me and I would gently toss the ball back. She would just giggle with excitement as she watched the ball roll down the stairs.
We have weaned her from the bottle. Overall, the transition has gone well. We have a few fits periodically but overall she's handled the switch fairly well. Next is to introduce milk. We'll do that after her one-year appointment. Again, in one week, my little baby will be one. She may be ready for this, but her mom certainly is not!
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Ella and Daddy. Home Alone 5!
I'm sure the minute Amanda left she thought, "what the heck am I thinking leaving her with him??".
But the truth of the matter is, we had fun. It was some great Ella/Daddy time. We really needed it. Not that I felt on the outside, but Amanda and Ella really have that great Mommy/Daughter bond, and it was time Daddy got his solidified.
Saturday morning we trekked off to Wonderscope. It's really a wonderful place that lets kids of all ages (under 10, I thnk) learn about the world. Check out the link for more. She had a good time, and we spent the majority of it in the "Small Wonders" room, which was just for 6 mos. to 2 year olds. There was a lot of ramps and other places for her to walk, run, play and just generally have a good time. It took Ella a bit of time to warm up, but once she did, she enjoyed walking all over the room and climbing on everything. She even had her first experience on a slide! Accidently. oh, and backwards. Thankfully it was just on her belly. There's plenty of stuff she just couldn't get enough off there. Of course, she enjoyed just being in open areas and being able to walk to her heart's content. She really does great walking, but even better if she has something to push. In this old gym, in the former school that Wonderscope is now, she had PLENTY of room to push this chair all around the gym.
She really enjoyed the whole experience overall, and Daddy was very happy to see that she took a great nap that afternoon. Which means Daddy did too. :)
But the truth of the matter is, we had fun. It was some great Ella/Daddy time. We really needed it. Not that I felt on the outside, but Amanda and Ella really have that great Mommy/Daughter bond, and it was time Daddy got his solidified.
Saturday morning we trekked off to Wonderscope. It's really a wonderful place that lets kids of all ages (under 10, I thnk) learn about the world. Check out the link for more. She had a good time, and we spent the majority of it in the "Small Wonders" room, which was just for 6 mos. to 2 year olds. There was a lot of ramps and other places for her to walk, run, play and just generally have a good time. It took Ella a bit of time to warm up, but once she did, she enjoyed walking all over the room and climbing on everything. She even had her first experience on a slide! Accidently. oh, and backwards. Thankfully it was just on her belly. There's plenty of stuff she just couldn't get enough off there. Of course, she enjoyed just being in open areas and being able to walk to her heart's content. She really does great walking, but even better if she has something to push. In this old gym, in the former school that Wonderscope is now, she had PLENTY of room to push this chair all around the gym.
She really enjoyed the whole experience overall, and Daddy was very happy to see that she took a great nap that afternoon. Which means Daddy did too. :)
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Vegas Baby
I'm off to Vegas Saturday morning, make that very early Saturday morning. We're aiming to be at the airport at 5:15, which means I'll be leaving my house around 4 am. I think I'll be sleeping on the plane! I'm actually traveling for fun this time and I'm getting quite excited. Two of my good college friends and I are headed there for a quick three-day weekend of fun, which includes a Go-Gos concert. Can't wait to relive the 80s! As Mike says, this is my time to just be Amanda, not wife, not mom -- just me. It will be fun rediscovering who that person is.
I know I'll have a great time while I'm there. Yet, I'm still be missing my beautiful child and wonderful husband. Mike is so great and so supportive of me taking this trip. Although I feel guilty because I'm leaving him for an entire weekend, I know Ella and Mike will get some precious bonding time.
Ella is doing much better. She started returning to normal around Sunday. We weren't seeing too many smiles or happy jabbering until then. She had a follow up appointment on Tuesday with her regular doctor, and she said the lungs were clear, but she still had some fluid in the ears. She's on the antibiotics for two more days.
I uploaded a few more pictures of Miss Ella. She loves to dig my cell phone out of my work bag and play with it, so we snapped a few shots of the modern baby using the cell phone. Mike teased that she was checking her Babies R Us stocks. Man, I love those baby blues.
I know I'll have a great time while I'm there. Yet, I'm still be missing my beautiful child and wonderful husband. Mike is so great and so supportive of me taking this trip. Although I feel guilty because I'm leaving him for an entire weekend, I know Ella and Mike will get some precious bonding time.
Ella is doing much better. She started returning to normal around Sunday. We weren't seeing too many smiles or happy jabbering until then. She had a follow up appointment on Tuesday with her regular doctor, and she said the lungs were clear, but she still had some fluid in the ears. She's on the antibiotics for two more days.
I uploaded a few more pictures of Miss Ella. She loves to dig my cell phone out of my work bag and play with it, so we snapped a few shots of the modern baby using the cell phone. Mike teased that she was checking her Babies R Us stocks. Man, I love those baby blues.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Oh, the trials of an Ida Country Sheriff...
Posting this morning from Dakota City...
So, yesterday Amanda and I took a half day off to come up and see Amanda's brother Matt coach his varsity basketball team. We had to travel from KC to Holstein, Iowa. So we took a little detour from our usual route, which was a great change of pace. It was nice to see things like hills, 2 lane highways(which can get a little frustrating) and traveling through small towns which is great.
Made it up to Holstein just in time for tip off. Ella LOVED seeing all the people walking everywhere. Ella was more than happy to do her share of walking as well. In fact she kept wanting to walk out on to the court! So she kept Mommy and Daddy on their toes. Sadly, Kingsley-Pierson lost, but it was the best team in the conference, and Matt's team did some good things to help keep their opponents in check and not blowing K-P out.
So, on the way home after being in the car all afternoon and chasing Ella all evening in the game Mommy and Daddy were pretty wiped out, but still had a 40-mile drive back to Sioux City. 10-minutes into the drive, flashing red and blue lights appear out of nowhere behind the VUE. BUSTED. I pull over, and the very nice sheriff tells me we were doing 71 in a 55! Whoa!! I was so zoned out and the highway was empty and after being in the car all day, I wasn't even paying attention. So guilty as charged. The sheriff took our info and went back to the car to fill out the ticket. ZOOM, there goes Matt.....ZOOM.....there goes Pam and Brian past. Oh, they have to be laughing it up. I'm getting disapproving remarks from Amanda. Mikey's feeling pretty bad. The sheriff comes back after about 5 minutes in his squad car. Comes back with the ticket. (which is in triplicate form) Reads over all the pertinent info, he was nice enough to knock it down from at 71 to a 65 in a 55. Its an $81 ticket. Shows me the court date and time. He has me sign it. So there it is, what a bummer. The sheriff goes to rip off my piece of the ticket that I keep and *rriiiippp*. He accidently tore my part about halfway up the ticket! He stops, looks at it and goes, "shit." After taking a breath, he says, "Well, I guess you are free to go, the ticket is ruined. I'm really embarrassed, I've never had this happen before...just watch your speed." I can't believe it. That's only the 3rd time I've been pulled over, the last one being 5 years ago. So now I've gotten out of a ticket without even trying.
I can't believe it.
We thanked our lucky stars and headed home.
Just because I kinda feel bad for the guy, here's his pict:
Thanks!
So, yesterday Amanda and I took a half day off to come up and see Amanda's brother Matt coach his varsity basketball team. We had to travel from KC to Holstein, Iowa. So we took a little detour from our usual route, which was a great change of pace. It was nice to see things like hills, 2 lane highways(which can get a little frustrating) and traveling through small towns which is great.
Made it up to Holstein just in time for tip off. Ella LOVED seeing all the people walking everywhere. Ella was more than happy to do her share of walking as well. In fact she kept wanting to walk out on to the court! So she kept Mommy and Daddy on their toes. Sadly, Kingsley-Pierson lost, but it was the best team in the conference, and Matt's team did some good things to help keep their opponents in check and not blowing K-P out.
So, on the way home after being in the car all afternoon and chasing Ella all evening in the game Mommy and Daddy were pretty wiped out, but still had a 40-mile drive back to Sioux City. 10-minutes into the drive, flashing red and blue lights appear out of nowhere behind the VUE. BUSTED. I pull over, and the very nice sheriff tells me we were doing 71 in a 55! Whoa!! I was so zoned out and the highway was empty and after being in the car all day, I wasn't even paying attention. So guilty as charged. The sheriff took our info and went back to the car to fill out the ticket. ZOOM, there goes Matt.....ZOOM.....there goes Pam and Brian past. Oh, they have to be laughing it up. I'm getting disapproving remarks from Amanda. Mikey's feeling pretty bad. The sheriff comes back after about 5 minutes in his squad car. Comes back with the ticket. (which is in triplicate form) Reads over all the pertinent info, he was nice enough to knock it down from at 71 to a 65 in a 55. Its an $81 ticket. Shows me the court date and time. He has me sign it. So there it is, what a bummer. The sheriff goes to rip off my piece of the ticket that I keep and *rriiiippp*. He accidently tore my part about halfway up the ticket! He stops, looks at it and goes, "shit." After taking a breath, he says, "Well, I guess you are free to go, the ticket is ruined. I'm really embarrassed, I've never had this happen before...just watch your speed." I can't believe it. That's only the 3rd time I've been pulled over, the last one being 5 years ago. So now I've gotten out of a ticket without even trying.
I can't believe it.
We thanked our lucky stars and headed home.
Just because I kinda feel bad for the guy, here's his pict:
Thanks!
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Attemping to make a post
Amanda says I need to post more, so here's another attempt. Thanks in advance for your patience.
First off, here's to Tricia and her long road back to be coming an adult.
Just kidding.
Secondly, Ella tonight seems to be feeling a touch better. When Daddy got home she decided that it was time to shape up. We decided to smile a little more and maybe even let somebody other than Mommy hold her. She ate better, which was great. We were worried that parents association was going to come after us for having a malnourished kiddo. Thankfully she was looking out for us and decided to eat some more. So call off your dogs!
Next, I found out a bit of interesting news today. The house the Scott and I grew up in (for a little while anyway) is up on the market. It sounds like its not in very good shape on the inside. Don't quite know the whole story, but it sounds like it was a "lets get the hell out of dodge" type move out of the house situation. As you see the house is being sold "AS IS".
While its sad to see a piece of your history up on the market, there's always that little bit in the back of your mind that goes "boy, it would be neat to bring your own child up in the house where you grew up in." But, then you get serious about it and think, "meh, I don't think so." Especially in this situation. Either way, I think Mom and Dad are going to try to see if a realtor friend of the family could give us a tour of the joint. It would be neat to see. Bring back a little nostalgia and a few stories. I mean, I was Ella's age when we lived there. Crazy.
There are a lot of topics that I want to hit on--so here's a quick rundown:
The iPhone: Want it, badly. But don't NEED it. Quite yet.
Chiefs: Seriously? That was a a PLAYOFF team? Uh, no. Not really.
Royals: I will expand on this a little more, but it must be my age, but I'm getting more and more into baseball than I am football. Now, don't get me wrong, I still love football, but with the addition of Dayton Moore, I really actually have some long term hope for this team to finally get headed in the right direction! The Gil Meche signing still blows me away, its either an incredible signing, or its a total waste of a contract. Its the exact same contract that "Sween-dog" has and we all know how well THAT is turning out, don't we?
Its bedtime folks. Now going to bed.
First off, here's to Tricia and her long road back to be coming an adult.
Just kidding.
Secondly, Ella tonight seems to be feeling a touch better. When Daddy got home she decided that it was time to shape up. We decided to smile a little more and maybe even let somebody other than Mommy hold her. She ate better, which was great. We were worried that parents association was going to come after us for having a malnourished kiddo. Thankfully she was looking out for us and decided to eat some more. So call off your dogs!
Next, I found out a bit of interesting news today. The house the Scott and I grew up in (for a little while anyway) is up on the market. It sounds like its not in very good shape on the inside. Don't quite know the whole story, but it sounds like it was a "lets get the hell out of dodge" type move out of the house situation. As you see the house is being sold "AS IS".
While its sad to see a piece of your history up on the market, there's always that little bit in the back of your mind that goes "boy, it would be neat to bring your own child up in the house where you grew up in." But, then you get serious about it and think, "meh, I don't think so." Especially in this situation. Either way, I think Mom and Dad are going to try to see if a realtor friend of the family could give us a tour of the joint. It would be neat to see. Bring back a little nostalgia and a few stories. I mean, I was Ella's age when we lived there. Crazy.
There are a lot of topics that I want to hit on--so here's a quick rundown:
The iPhone: Want it, badly. But don't NEED it. Quite yet.
Chiefs: Seriously? That was a a PLAYOFF team? Uh, no. Not really.
Royals: I will expand on this a little more, but it must be my age, but I'm getting more and more into baseball than I am football. Now, don't get me wrong, I still love football, but with the addition of Dayton Moore, I really actually have some long term hope for this team to finally get headed in the right direction! The Gil Meche signing still blows me away, its either an incredible signing, or its a total waste of a contract. Its the exact same contract that "Sween-dog" has and we all know how well THAT is turning out, don't we?
Its bedtime folks. Now going to bed.
Just Miserable
My poor baby, she has a double ear infection, tonsillitis and was wheezing enough that she needed a breathing treatment at the doctor's office. She was hysterical during those 10 minutes. Thank goodness Mike was there, as there was no way I alone could have contained her and kept the mask on her face. I feel like a bad mom for not realizing how sick she was.
I appreciate the doctor being so thorough in her assessment of Ella, what I certianly didn't appreciate was her commentary on that daycare is bad for her health. I get it that kids in day care settings do get sick more often, it's a given. What irks me is judgemental people, who only believe they way they live is the right way. I love being a mom -- best thing I've ever done. I enjoy my job. I choose how to live my life so it works for Mike, Ella and I -- no one else. Right now, it's working as Ella is a very happy and thriving child who is more than meeting all of her developmental milestones. If the situation changes, then I'm more than happy to reassess and make any necessary changes.
Ugh, I needed to get that off my chest. I just have heard a lot of silly comments in the past week about how hard it must be to be a working parent. It's like they feel sorry for me and especially for Ella. All I can say to that is we're a very happy family, so please be happy for us. I wish we all would stop thinking that we know how others could live their lives better, rather focus your energy on living a better life for yourself.
That's my rant for the day, didn't mean to hijack the post of Ella's illness, but back to her. She's sitting in my lap, half-asleep, just miserable. Hopefully plenty of cuddle time with mom will speed the recovery process.
I appreciate the doctor being so thorough in her assessment of Ella, what I certianly didn't appreciate was her commentary on that daycare is bad for her health. I get it that kids in day care settings do get sick more often, it's a given. What irks me is judgemental people, who only believe they way they live is the right way. I love being a mom -- best thing I've ever done. I enjoy my job. I choose how to live my life so it works for Mike, Ella and I -- no one else. Right now, it's working as Ella is a very happy and thriving child who is more than meeting all of her developmental milestones. If the situation changes, then I'm more than happy to reassess and make any necessary changes.
Ugh, I needed to get that off my chest. I just have heard a lot of silly comments in the past week about how hard it must be to be a working parent. It's like they feel sorry for me and especially for Ella. All I can say to that is we're a very happy family, so please be happy for us. I wish we all would stop thinking that we know how others could live their lives better, rather focus your energy on living a better life for yourself.
That's my rant for the day, didn't mean to hijack the post of Ella's illness, but back to her. She's sitting in my lap, half-asleep, just miserable. Hopefully plenty of cuddle time with mom will speed the recovery process.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
So 2 parts flour in this bowl
Ella's sensory play time this weekend was playing with flour. I figured that I needed to clean the floor anyway that I might as well let her make a mess before I scrubbed it. She enjoyed feeling the flour between her fingers. She even tasted a few sprinkles, but it didn't impress her. It certainly didn't qualify as Good Eats. Maybe our next lesson can actually include mixing two ingredients.
Daddy's stuck at work.
This is not fun. I hate this.
What happens when you have tried everything you can think of? Usually the simplest thing remains.
This HAS to change.
What happens when you have tried everything you can think of? Usually the simplest thing remains.
This HAS to change.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Cabin Fever
I haven't left the house for three complete days. It's a pretty impressive feat for me. I actually haven't minded it until today. I had today off and I had such high hopes for a special day for Ella and I -- it was suppose to include a trip to Wonderscope and a play date with Jen and the boys -- but the weather didn't cooperate and Ella is yet again fighting another nasty cold. We've gotten nothing but ice, sleet, freezing rain and snow for the last three days, so Mike took the Vue and both of us thought it best that Ella and I not venture out unless necessary. I know I can't complain. We have power and being forced to stay home isn't a bad thing. It actually was good for us to slow down and just enjoy the mundane moments of life. I do appreciate that so much as Ella is so close to becoming an official toddler. If I'm to be honest with myself, she hasn't been a baby for awhile. I do miss her as a baby, but I love that she's defining her independence lately. Why is it once you have one stage almost figured out, your child decides to move into a new stage? I have no clue how to parent a toddler. Mike reassures me that we had no clue how to parent a baby and we've managed to survive so far.
I promise to post a few pictures of our recent adventures at home. Ella had her first baking lesson. It was quite the experience and quite the mess, but I do love exposing her to new things. I love encouraging her to explore her world.
I promise to post a few pictures of our recent adventures at home. Ella had her first baking lesson. It was quite the experience and quite the mess, but I do love exposing her to new things. I love encouraging her to explore her world.
Monday, January 08, 2007
Bath time with clothes on
Ella learned a valuable lesson tonight: it's hard to achieve the objective of a bath when you climb in with your clothes on. I'm so out of the running for parent of the year! Seriously, how does this happen, especially when I am in the bathroom kneeling next to Ella, running the water and arranging the bath toys. Some how she manages to climb into the tub without me noticing. I only turned away from her for a brief second. Luckily, no headers involved with this adventure. I found myself shocked and mortified that she managed to accomplish this so quickly, and then I couldn't stop laughing. When this girl wants something, there is no stopping her.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Someone should check this diaper
I had to post this for Tricia. Poor Brodie just doesn't know what to think of Ella sometimes. She sure wants to be his friend.
Not inspired
Sorry for the lack of posts lately. I just haven't been inspired to write anything. We've been coming out of the holiday fog and getting back into our normal routine. We've actually had a few quiet nights at home this week, which were greatly needed. The holidays were so wonderful and enjoyable. Mike did forget to mention one big thing: WE HAVE A WALKER! Ella took her first official steps the Friday before Xmas. We were luckily enough to actually get them on tape as well. We decided to let Ella open our gifts to her rather than transport them to Sioux City. Mike set up the video camera to capture the moment. Before we opened any gifts, Mike held out a book to her and asked to step away from the couch. She turned around, reached her little hands, took two slow steps and six quick quick steps before collapsing on her knees. It was so adorable. Naturally, we both freaked. She's continuing to make great strides. Her walk still mimics Frankenstein's but each day it seems she takes one more step in the series before falling to her knees. I must admit when she stops crawling and favors walking that I will miss her little crawl -- the way her little hips and bottom sway back and forth. It's so precious.
The other big news is she is a forward-facing car-ridding kid. Don't fret. I realize she's not one, but we got permission from the doctor's office. She was so miserable all cramped up with the seat facing backward and would cry the instant she was placed in her seat. We tried many adjustments to no avail. The doctor said considering her height, weight and her excellent head and neck control that we had her blessing. So, this morning's commute to day care was our first adventure facing forward and she completely digged it. She sat in amazement at all the lights and occasionally would kick her legs with excitement. It truly has changed her world.
One final milestone to mention: Ella had her first kiss with a boy and she was the pursuer. I can't imagine it any other way. I guess she crawled over to Tylan and just planted one on him. I can completely see it in my head and it just cracks me up. All I can say, is that's my girl!
The other big news is she is a forward-facing car-ridding kid. Don't fret. I realize she's not one, but we got permission from the doctor's office. She was so miserable all cramped up with the seat facing backward and would cry the instant she was placed in her seat. We tried many adjustments to no avail. The doctor said considering her height, weight and her excellent head and neck control that we had her blessing. So, this morning's commute to day care was our first adventure facing forward and she completely digged it. She sat in amazement at all the lights and occasionally would kick her legs with excitement. It truly has changed her world.
One final milestone to mention: Ella had her first kiss with a boy and she was the pursuer. I can't imagine it any other way. I guess she crawled over to Tylan and just planted one on him. I can completely see it in my head and it just cracks me up. All I can say, is that's my girl!
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