Monkey Lips

I finally caught her on camera doing her signature "monkey lips".

Play Date at the Zoo

Now that Ella is more aware of her surroundings, she's so fun to take to the zoo. This week we took Sarah along with us. Sarah was such a huge help to me at all the exhibits where we had to leave the stroller behind. This is a picture of them hanging out watching the giraffes.

Here's what our little Ella would look like if she were an otter.

Summer’s in the Air

Ella and I went to the Arboretum a few weeks ago with a few friends of ours. The grounds are stunning this time of year. Everything is in full bloom and just after a soaking rain, the colors seemed even brighter. Here is a photo of us just after splashing in the little brook.

Our little daredevil standing on the table when the sign clearly says: “Please do not stand on the table.”

Our small town has a “Taste” event every year to mimic the much, much, much larger Taste of Chicago. Last year, my dear friends Chip and Crystal were here to experience it with us. This year, our sweet Carmella got to see the sights. We sampled all kinds of yummy foods, filled our bellies and relaxed on the grass to people watch.

The Cheese Stands Alone

And then there was Ella. Showing off her amazing ability to get whatever she wants out of the toy box, Ella can now stand up and bend over the edge to see the objects of her desire. In these photos she is kneeling, but you get the idea.

It literally happened over night. One morning I came into her room and found her standing up in her crib. Good thing I dropped the mattress a few weeks ago. I knew it would happen sooner than later.

Our little drummer girl

Ella surprises us every day with her talent and abilities. Just listen to her play the drums and sing. I think she should try out for a nationally televised talent show… What do you think?

[I am the master of you...]

Independence Day Weekend

Mark had Friday off so we hopped in the car and headed to Lighthouse Beach. Ella absolutely loves water and anything that has to do with it. Although we didn't go all the way in, she sure had fun getting her feet wet.

That afternoon we took a family nap on the beach. It was the most perfect day.

Just like last year we decided to throw a big 4th of July party at our house. We mostly stayed indoors because it was drizzling all day, but by the evening it cleared up and the kids could get out and do some fireworks of their own before the big neighborhood fireworks display began. They had such a great time lighting sparklers, throwing snaps and watching Mark and Todd set off some louder, more grown-up ones. I think Mark and Todd stepped back into their youth a bit too. Everyone had a blast!