Fall Fun

This past weekend, we were blessed with extraordinary weather for mid November. Sunny, crisp blue skies with temperatures in the 70's. Although we were quickly approaching nap time, we went outside to play anyway.

With the high winds lately, our leaf pile was smaller this year than years past, but we made the most of it. Per Elliana's request, I raked up some leaves into a pile beneath her slide. With the gusto of a child much older than 2.5 years, Elliana quickly climbed up her rock wall and slid down into the pile.

And when that got old, just jumping in was just as much fun.

Our afternoon quickly morphed into a photo chasing session, where Elliana posed cute until I raised the camera and then she turned away and ran. This pregnant momma chased her as best I could, and I actually was able to snap a few up close and focused pictures.

Sometimes it is the most ordinary, unexpected moments that truly can take my breath away with gratitude and humbleness.

Elliana's First Dance Class

Yesterday, I took Elliana to her first dance class. It was really an introductory course to see if we should sign up for the actual classes before committing to pay that much first. And so, here is a 3-minute glimpse into her first dance class. I think she did amazing and see more dance classes in her future!

Beautiful Butterfly

Our little girl chose to be a beautiful butterfly this year for Halloween. And, a beautiful butterfly she was! Her costume sparkled, shined and lit the way as we went trick-or-treating this year. Yes, her little butterfly literally lit up the night each time she pushed the magic light up button.

It didn't take long for Elliana to strut her stuff and walk with confidence up to each house and proudly announce "trick or treat!" as she eagerly chose the candy of her choice.

We were grateful to have both my parents and T.J.'s parents down to watch our butterfly spread her wings and fly! It truly was a terrific evening, full of laughter, candy and lots of smiles.

Beauty & the Beast

Earlier this month, we were blessed with tickets to see the broadway performance of Disney's Beauty & the Beast. Given Elliana had been singing the lyrics to the entire soundtrack for months, we knew that even at 2.5 years old, she would appreciate the performance.

To show Elliana the importance of going "to the theater" we all went on a family date first to the Montgomery Inn Boathouse. We all ate well and even enjoyed a basket or three of popcorn.

We took photos to celebrate the "special vacation" or occasion as we call it. Elliana even managed to snag a photo of Daddy & I though it kind of turned out to be mostly of my pregnant belly.

At the theater, Elliana was amazing. She sang along to the songs, pointed out the decorations, and clapped eagerly after each performance. I can tell already that Elliana will have a fine appreciation for the arts.

Horsing Around

Last week we had the privilege to have a private tour of a local horse stable. It would be an understatement to say that Elliana had a good time. She had no fear of the horses and even rode bare back on the bigger horse.

I couldn't help but laugh out loud at that cheesy grin Elliana developed the more the horse walked.