Disney Mania

While on vacation, I realized it isn't the theme park, the characters or even the food that keeps us coming back to Disney World year after year. It's the SERVICE! The customer service at Walt Disney World and their resorts is addictive and we have come to expect that same level of service on every vacation we take!

Given the HIGH volumes of people, especially children, you would think of litter, smells and burnt out employees. No such thing at Walt Disney World, at least not in our experience the past four years. Sure, maybe an occasional employee's personality doesn't "mesh" with ours, but they still are happy, excited and willing to serve. The parks are immaculate, and employees at all levels go out of their way to make your stay magical and memorable.

Okay, free advertising aside. Just felt a need to explain why we keep going back!

This years trip was super special and unique as it was our first visit to the newly opened Fantasyland with their addition of several new rides, castles and restaurants. We've been home only a few weeks and I'm already ready to go back! Hi, my name is Ashley and I am a vacation junkie!!

A few photo highlights of our trip this year....

Elliana at the character dance party

Riding the boat to the Magic Kingdom

Maya's first hair cut and first Mickey Ears!

We enjoyed characters and rides, food and fun. 7 days flew by and none of us were ready to come home. Overall, I think I made seven homemade skirts, 5 shirts, two dresses, two messenger bags to coordinate our clothes for the week. I ran out of time or we would have all matched all week :) Yes, I know I am a dork, and I'm okay with that! 

Wearing matching homemade outfits ;) 

Love these people!

Using the map to find her way....

Maya has never seen this movie but RAN to these furry critters

Couldn't get enough of the characters!

Our family at our resort

Completed homemade signature bag

First Day of School - 4 Year Old Preschool

LOVE this confidence! May it last a lifetime!

The first day of school has come and gone and we are now about a month into the school routine. Elliana has made the transition beautifully from all Mommy, all the time, to school four days a week for four hours a day. That's a big adjustment for a little girl! I miss my little girl and helper during the school week, but LOVE the excitement we all have when we pick up Elliana and watch the girls reunite. Somehow they have more patience and love toward each other when they have been apart for a few hours.

 This year we marked the first day of school with a little chalkboard that advertised what she wants to be when she grows up. I couldn't help but feel happiness and pride as Elliana frequently tells me she wants to be a Mommy when she grows up. Given I constantly feel like I'm winging this motherhood thing, I'm hoping this is a sign that I'm doing something right. :)

I love when Elliana comes home from school and talks about the bible verses and stories she's learned and the friends she's made. The year ahead holds lots of new adventures including her first field trip next month!

Maya 18 Month Update

Oh Maya, you constantly surprise me! A few days ago we went to your 18-month doctor appointment. As we drove there, I prepared you that you might need a shot and that it was to help keep you healthy, but that Mommy would be here if it hurt or made you feel sad. From the rearview mirror I could see you shaking your head up and down in a yes, showing that you understood.

I LOVE these running happy hugs you give!

When we visited the doctor, you impressed him with your understanding, your gracious hugs and yelling "happy" repeatedly as we talked about your development. You weighed in at 24.45 pounds (50%) and measured in at 33 inches (83%). You're really beginning to thin out and slow down in growth which is to be expected given how active you are!!

At last the time for vaccinations had come. I talked you through the process as I tried to remain calm but inwardly clammed up. I hate to see my baby get hurt or experience pain, and vaccinations are just one of those things I have a love/hate relationship with. The nurse cleaned your arm and you watched with fascination as she worked. The shot entered your arm and you watched with calm, not shedding a tear or making a noise. As she rolled down your sleeve, finished with the shot, you pointed to your other arm and asked, "Again?" You were ready for more shots!! You are so very brave and strong and had us all laughing. So very proud of you little one!!

In my opinion  you are growing up too fast and already prefer to play with Barbies and Polly Pockets rather than Little People or baby toys. You practice your mothering skills with your baby and love cuddling stuffed animals. At the apple orchard this weekend, you happily munched on a whole apple and was eager to pick apples all on your own!

You've become a good little sleeper at night and typically sleep 12 hours without a noise. Words are becoming plentiful and I think "No" and "Mommy" are your favorite words. You love to dance, sing and listen to music. Practically every day you surprise us with a few new words :)

An interest in potty training has surprised us all and even more surprising is your communication and actually USING the potty!! How are you only 18 months old?!

Maya, we love you so very much and I
am blessed beyond belief to be your momma and to have you in our family!

Vacation Update

With so much excitement the past few days, it's no surprise Maya prefers to nap in the stroller to avoid missing any fun!

Below are a few more favorite pictures of the past few days. Luckily most are self explanatory :)

Off to have more fun!!

'Twas the Week Before Disney

'Twas the week before Disney and all through the house, this momma is BUSY and so is her spouse!
The luggage lay open, clothes laid out with care, in hopes that at Disney, all would be there.
The children are nestled all snug in their beds, while Momma has 10 lists running through her head.

More rapid than eagles, the days have gone bye, when we planned this vacation, the countdown was high! There are projects to finish, grass to cut and snacks to pack too. There is no denying there is much to do!

Movies and shows, to brush up our "mouse" knowledge, for this is the stuff they don't teach you in college. Cookies to bake and goodies to pack, it's important to prepare, to make sure we don't lack.

As I drew in my list, and was fumbling around, down the laundry basket fell and made a loud sound.
The goodies I'd hidden from the kids with such care, had fallen about and spilled everywhere.

A bundle of toys, I threw in my basket, as the girls came running, wondering what is the racket.
I know I can do this, get this all done. And in a few days, we'll have a mountain of fun.

Until we leave, I'll be working away. On projects and sewing, that I'd pushed off 'til today.
I know it is crazy, to make homemade projects. To me it's important, I can't explain my logic.

Again it is silly, to make up this rhyme. But it made me inspired, despite lacking time. And so, I'll exclaim as I turn off the light, "Happy Disney Week to ALL and to all a good night!"

No, not all, but some of the homemade items for our trip