trick-or-treat

Pumpkin Patch

Puddle Jumping

Testing the waters

I think I like this!

Chattanooga Fun

Last weekend E and I journeyed to Chattanooga to surprise J's mom in town from Spain. The suprise was a complete success and much fun was had by all!

Cuddling with cousin Ben & "Beepop" as E calls him.

Playing with cousin Luke

Reading with Uncle Peter

Discovering the joys of ketchup

Chattanooga Birthday Party

Since we were in Chattanooga during E's actual birthday, we had a little party with our Chattanooga family and friends. We had a great day at Coolidge Park celebrating E's special day!

Opening Presents-always a favorite

Cake!

After lunch, cake and presents, E got to ride the carousel 3 times!

After party at Clumpie's, cracking up with Grandma

Good to the very last drop!

Chillin'

grandma's glasses

Happy Birthday Baby!

I really can't believe our precious girl turned 2 yesterday! In so many ways it feels like she joined our family only yesterday, but in others I feel like she's been with us for years. She is the most wonderful blessing to us, I love mothering her more than I could have ever dreamed. While we have many wonderful days, there are many hard days together too, but at the end of the day I'm still struck with the depth of my love for this child. Happy Birthday Baby! I'm looking forward to many more!

Ella & Georgia

E was completely fascinated with baby Georgia- it was so precious to watch! She wanted to be with her constantly, and loved playing with her for a whole week. Although she's been gone a few days, E still asks about her. So precious!

E kept trying to sit in G's lap- so cute!
Sweet Georgia

E loved giving G lots of hugs!

Bathtime!

Strawberry Cuties

The Struyks!

Last weekend marked the joyous union of our dear friend Kevin to a wonderful woman, Jenny. We go way back with Kevin- J roomed with him in college. Congratulations Kevin and Jenny! We are thrilled for you!!

My dearsest friend Brandi

Toasting the couple with Brandi and Karisa

The Husband

2nd Birthday Party

Last Friday we celebrated E's second birthday with her friends. It was such a fun time! Hard to believe she'll be 2 on Saturday!

El and her Poppy

El and her Nonni

Serious talk with friends

Birthday Girl

She blew out the candles all by herself!

El loved cake this year!

Mmmm...Cake!

Party Craziness

E and her buddy Claire (& a good shot of her adorable birthday shirt!)

Miss Mischief Part 2

Here is little E after Daddy caught her eating a whole bag of

Goldfish she had dumped out!

Miss Mischief

Blooming Bows

If you know E (or visit here often) you know she nearly always has a bow in her hair. This has been the case since she was just over 6 months old. Somehow bows just add and extra touch of cuteness. I can't say enough good things about my source for all things Bow related- Blooming Bows. They are such a great company with an even better product and reasonable prices. You should try them for yourself, you won't be disappointed!

E loves her bows!

PS-We started with the Bitty Bow and have moved up to the mini clippies.