The Ekenseairs

Flashback......

2009-10-19T16:23:00.002-05:00

Summer In Motion....

2009-06-09T14:41:00.003-05:00

Well, I'm BAAAACKK!!! For my friends and family who thought I'd left blogger world for good, I apologize!
The Ekenseairs have had a WONDERFUL summer so far!! We went on vacation the third week in May to Destin, FL, and had a blast (as usual). The Fulghams went again this year, as well as the Fosters, and about 9 other families we know!! What a week!! The kids had so much fun this year- it's so fun to see how much they grow and change from year to year. It seems like Sophie F. should still be Ella's age, which is how old she was the first time we traveled with the Fulghams 5 years ago!
Ella enjoyed spending time with her friend Allie Foster and her brother Noah, too. Ella danced to live music with the gang at restaurants, went crab hunting with her buddy Bradon one night, and played hard on the beach and at the pool as much as we could. It was not the most perfect weather trip we've ever had, but we soaked up some sun nonetheless! It was also neat to watch Kris Allen win American Idol while we were there! Conway was definitely represented from Florida that night! =)
Michael and I were so ready for a break from work (the month before our trip was CRAZY)and Destin is truly one of our favorite places to be with friends. Ella loved the beach again this year, and we were so thankful! She also got to play in the fountains at Destin Commons SEVERAL days, rode go-carts for the first time (she LOVED them), and went on her first crab hunt!
Life is great in Conway. Michael is really enjoying spending time with Ella on his day off with her during the week. They go to storytime at the library, the park, and many other places together. BUSY!! She certainly loves her Daddy right now, and it's easy to see why! =) He says his day with her is the best thing about working at UAMS.
My job is still going well. We made it through a rainy Toad Suck Daze weekend and several other events in May, and are now renovating the front of the Chamber- which means 12+ people are squeezed into my usual-4-person office right now! It's crowded, but fun!
Connie and Emily were here for a week in May, and Ella enjoyed getting some time with them! She's headed to Mommy Tot and Daddy Bob's this weekend and she's been asking every day if we're going yet. For some reason she doesn't really understand what Thursday means yet. =)

SO- I am going to try to be a better blogger this summer! Life is just going by too fast, isn't it? Here are some of the photos from our trip that I took (a few are ones that Karin took- mine pale in comparison). I'll post more when I'm able to go through the CD she gave me. Love to all today!

EASTER 2009

2009-04-16T22:06:00.008-05:00

We had an awesome holiday weekend! Ella went to several egg hunts on Saturday because we knew the weather on Sunday would be less than ideal. She had a blast opening all of the plastic eggs- especially the ones filled with CANDY!!! We enjoyed a great Easter service at church on Sunday followed by lunch with Mimi, Papa, Chris and Mica!
What is Ella into these days? Books and Music. Still. She has quite a song list going!! She talks NONSTOP these days- some new phrases I love are:
Oh My Word!, What the world? (What in the World), Awesome!, That's for MEEEE?, It's so CUTE!, Thank you SO MUCH!, etc., etc.
Her favorite books right now are Goin' on a Bear Hunt, Don't Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus, and Panda Bear Panda Bear What Do You See? (She can read this one for memory by herself)
She is taken with SOUND!! This girl can hear a train, airplane, helicopter, garbage or fire truck from miles away before the motor has started- she'll say, "you hear dat?"
Papa and Mimi gave her The Sound Of Music (my favorite childhood movie of all time)for Easter, so I'm sure we'll be adding many performances to our repertoire!

THE THINKER (plus egg)

Easter Morning!! He came!!!

Before Church

Recent trip to the ZOO

Ella's Monkey Face

Foodie.....

2009-02-21T10:46:00.006-06:00

I only have a few minutes to post before we catch the ferry to Sausalito, but I wanted to share a few pics from my "foodie" day yesterday! I took a culinary tour of North Beach/Little Italy on Friday afternoon. I drank the most delicous cappucino, tasted fresh-baked breads, pastries, truffles, olive oils, meats, and cheeses, and learned so much! What a beautiful area! I visited the very spot where Frances Ford Coppolla wrote the Godfather and where Bill Cosby got his start, saw the most beautiful cathedral, and ended up at a beatnik museum(random, i know). Connie and I dined at a French restaurant last night near our hotel and had one of the best meals I've ever had- and the most delicious wine and dessert. A foodie's perfect day!

Clang Clang Clang Went The Trolley....

2009-02-18T23:03:00.003-06:00

We had a blast in the city today We walked down the steep slope to Fisherman's Warf this morning without anyone rolling down! Success! We saw Hyde Pier and had a delicious meal at a street side cafe. The clam chowder was awesome! There are flowers blooming everywhere, and it's amazing how clean this city is- as large as it is! I think I'm in love with CA! The weather was sunny and a perfect- 55-60 degrees. We visited Ghiradelli Square (lots of chocolate) and could see Alcatraz from the Pier. We rode the cable cars all day- too fun- and Connie did not get motion sickness, thank goodness! Afterwards, we went to Union Square- SHOPPING CENTRAL! We're talking Neimans, Saks, Barney's, Macy's, etc., etc., TIMES SEVENTY! I've NEVER seen so many stores in all my life!! I loved just walking in and touching some of the designer fabrics. I did find a Michael Kohrs dress I loved at Saks, but I assumed Michael might blink at the $1300 price tag. gasp!
Last night we dined at the Nob Hill Cafe, just a block from our hotel. It was the MOST declicious pasta I have ever eaten. I will never forget the music that was playing when we wialked into the candelit venue. What an atmosphere! I love all of the quaint little bistros that line the sidewalks.
I cannot say enough about this awesome hotel! It's the most comfortable feather bed I've ever slept in, and probably the highest thread-count sheets! Bliss!
I have a San Francisco culinary tour planned for Friday while Connie is in meetings, and we plan to go see the musical Wicked Saturday evening. Here are a few unedited pics from our Wednesday. Love to all!

We Made It.....

2009-02-17T19:10:00.002-06:00

Well, we are actually in our hotel room in San Francisco!!! We made it safely!!! Thank you, Lord! Our hotel is absolutely awesome! I cn hear trolley cars out our window as I'm typing this!!! We're about to go eat at the Nob Hill Cafe. I'll share more later!

Prep....

2009-02-15T22:58:00.003-06:00

Okay, it's Sunday night and I leave for SF in 33 hours or something. I just had to share this. Am I packed? Not in the least. Do I have everything I need to go? Probably not. Is Ella's bag packed for Mimi's house? Not a chance. Do I have to work a full day tomorrow? yep.
HOWEVER- the GROCERY trip has been made. Michael just went and bought all the stuff he and Ella will be "needing" while I'm out of town. Any time I'm not at this house for a day or so, he uses valuable alone time to eat all of the horrible, I mean neat, stuff he misses out on when I'm the one cooking. Usually he high-tails it to Subway for a Meatball Sub (don't even get me started. I'm getting sick just thinking of the smell). Anyway, he just returned from the store, and I just wanted to share a few of the grocery sack items that I helped him unpack: (mind you, I'm only going to be gone for 1 (one) week:
1) Polish sausage (seriously, vomit.) He says they will be making hot dogs with these.
2) Manwich Sloppy Joe mix (used to love this, but for some reason, the last time I made these I decided my life was not enriched or fulfilled in any way by consuming it)
3) Stuff for tacos (with taco seasoning- at least he won't have to separate my meat without the seasoning this week. whew.)
4) Little Smokies (yes, I like these, but for some reason this is a staple when Jamie's gone- I like to tell myself that pigs-in-a-blanket are the much-needed comfort food when he's too upset to talk about me being gone. sniff. yeah, right)
5) Items to make spinach dip (seriously, what husband makes spinach dip on his own, for himself? mine.) To clear up any "man-points" issues, I would like to add that he did purchase the already-chopped frozen unions, so at least there won't be any "dicing" involved.
6) Chocolate covered mini doughnuts, pop-tarts, and popcorn. (in case they get hungry)
7) Ella has two bunches of bananas, 3 packs of fruit cups, apple sauce, two gallons of apple juice, another box of oatmeal, and a lunchables that "he thought he'd see if she liked" to consume during this week. I hope Michael's in for some late nights. =)

I also noticed items for philly steak, which brings the current bread total to four: hamburger buns, hot dog buns, HOAGIE rolls, and regular bread.

You'd think I never feed the boy.
SO- if you're hungry this week, stop by the Ekenseair's. There's lots of meat, I mean food, to be eaten. I would not be at all surprised if there's a bisque or souffle involved! I do hope he remembers that our daughter just got over the stomach virus. polish sausage. enough said.

A side note- I remember a couple of years ago leaving for a trip with a girlfriend- had not made it out of the neighborhood and remembered I had forgotten something at the house. I came back in the house and noticed the oven was on. Michael had mixed up a cake and it was baking in the time it took me to get to the edge of the subdivision. I'm talking greased the pan, mixed, poured, preheated, the whole thing. I swear he must have had it in the works for days- all the little mini-pinch bowls and spatulas and pyrexes laid in the most convenient spot to grab and go to work as soon as the door shut behind me. Flour on the forehead.... I digress....I've laughed about that one for years. I'm not the only foodie in this house, for certain! =)
P.S. He will KILL me for sharing the cake thing. And all my friends thought he bought the Kitchen Aid mixer for me. hmmm.......

Dirty Thirty.....

2009-02-15T12:48:00.002-06:00

Well, I know it's been a WHILE since I blogged, but I've misplaced my camera cord/adapter, and have lots of pics waiting to be seen!! Ugh!!! I have no idea why I lose things so often! =)
We have also been really sick around the Ekenseair household. Ella had a stomach virus for over a week, and Michael and his Mom both got it (theirs was short-lived, thank goodness!). She has been a very sick little girl, and even had to have IV fluids mid-illness for dehydration. Scary. We are SO glad she is feeling better! Everyone in Conway has had it I think! She is so skinny and is still getting an appetite back, but NO MORE vomiting. whew.
Yes, I turned DIRTY THIRTY on Friday (the 13th, might I add)!! Although I dreaded it, I had a wonderful day/weekend!!! My friends at work took me to lunch followed by a surprise dessert and gifts! Then, I arrived home to my sister and niece who came to visit, and a SPECIAL delivery had been made!!!!!! Michael surprised me with a NEW DINING ROOM TABLE and a new lamp for my living room!!!! Yes, you read that correctly!! He purchased it over a month ago, and had it delivered as a surprise for my birthday!! WOW!! Many of you know that I've been trying to decide on what to fill our skating rink (aka dining room) with for over 5 years now! So indecisive! The funny part is, I saw this table about two weeks ago and decided it was the one! My husband had already purchased the exact table!!! Does he know me or what? He's awesome.
BUT WAIT- it gets better!! On Saturday, I opened the other gift from Ella and Michael, and in it was an itenerary. That is, FOR MY SURPRISE SAN FRANCISCO TRIP THAT I LEAVE FOR ON TUESDAY!!!!! OMG!!!!! Biggest surprise ever!!!! Most spontaneous thing I've ever done, for sure. I am going with my sister Connie (she has a conference) and we will be gone for a WEEK!!!! I am SO excited I don't know what to do! We are staying in the neatest hotel! I went to SF years ago (probably 13) and loved it, but my memory is horrible, so I can't wait to have the experience all over again. OMG!!!! I have the best husband in all the world (who's love language is obviously gifts)=)!!!
I'm a little apprehensive about leaving Ella after she's been so sick, but Michael assures me that between he and his Mom, she will survive. =) I know I've not been away from her this long - and this far - ever. Pray that she'll feel great and that I won't worry.
THEN- Michael had a fun dinner on Saturday night planned with some of our best friends- my Kim and Matt even came up from Hope! Love you guys! I got to spend Valentines with some of the people I love the most!!! And, my family stayed the weekend with me! (connie, kirk, emily)
Anyway, I'll be blogging about our adventures through the week, so stay tuned!! =)
Thanks to everyone for all the cards and phone calls on my birthday, and while Ella was sick! I have the best friends and family to share milestones (and a little 30s dread) with!! Blessed beyond measure!
Hope you ALL had a wonderful Valentines Day with the people you love!!!

"tail"

2009-01-20T16:56:00.004-06:00

Ella wore a pony tail for the first time today! She looks too grown up! She calls it a "tail". The photo was taken with my phone, so excuse!

Ella's Big Music Show!!!

2009-01-17T12:35:00.003-06:00

We had a blast at Ella's Birthday Party!! Thank you to all our family and friends that joined us for her special day! We are blessed more than we ever deserve! A special thank you to Karin for the PRECIOUS photos! What a treasure!

Better Late Than Never?

2009-01-15T18:57:00.005-06:00

Christmas 2008.......the best ever!! My sister and her family surprised us for the celebration! We had so much fun- especially Ella this year! Here's a few pics from our holiday! Besides, we need to celebrate Jesus' birth EVERY day of the year, right? Roll your mouse over the pics to see captions!

every party has a pooper....

2009-01-09T14:32:00.003-06:00

Just one more tidbit for the day! My two-year-and-four-day-old daughter has done #1 and #2 in the potty SEVERAL times in the last few days!!! She is so proud of herself! Yay! It's a start? Dora panties here we come! =)

going green.......

2009-01-09T10:22:00.004-06:00

Yippee-Hooray! My home computer is back up and running!! I'm not on it right now, but the point is that I could be! We are having a great week so far! Very anxious for the big party tomorrow. Ella's going to have a blast! Aunt Kim got here last night-such a big help, and Connie & fam will be here tonight.
Because I have yet to post Christmas pictures, noone has seen my beautiful REAL tree from this year. I thought I'd give you a little preview before the slide was posted! Until this year, I had never had a live tree at Christmas, and this year Michael and I decided we wanted a BIG FAT TREE that said nothing but Christmas!!! He found the PERFECT tree (he was hugging it and singing the hallelujah chorus when he showed up with it on the front porch- I'm not kidding- pics to prove), and we had such a great experience that we will have one from now on! It was awesome. However, I went from a 7ft. whimpy skinny tree to this giant 9 ft.+ thing, so ornaments were few, but we are all set for next year! I was tempted to leave it with just lights (all 100,000 of them) on it because it was that pretty! Anyway, if anyone is considering for next year- do it! The needles are not bad at all (we bought frasier fir), and our house did not catch fire. It stayed green because we watered it every day and it lasted beyond Christmas Day. Success in our holiday book!

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-07T15:00:00.004-06:00

2009..........wow!!! I cannot believe another year has flown by!!! My little girl turned 2 YEARS OLD on Monday, and it seems like yesterday she was no bigger than a sack of sugar in my arms!!! (wow, did that sound southern?) Oh, it's just going too fast!
God certainly blessed the Ekenseairs in 2008; 2 new jobs, a healthy, very happy little girl, new fun with family and friends, vacations, etc. etc. We are so thankful that he is our Father and that he is in control! Isn't it awesome that he makes all things new?!
We had a wonderful Christmas! Connie, Kirk and Emily surprised me on Christmas Eve at our Communion Service and came to spend the night with us and let Emily and Ella open Santa together the next morning!! It was the best surprise! What fun!!! Mimi was sick over the holiday and couldn't make it to our house, but Papa came and brought Ella some new wheels and a Dora tent!
Ella was expecially fun this Christmas! She will tell you that "Ho-Ho" brought her a kitchen!! (I hear it took Santa much longer to put together than expected- does four hours sound long to you?)=) She sang jingle bells and rum-pa-pum-pum (little drummer boy) during the entire holiday. Santa included a tube of "lip-it" on all of the gifts he left, which she especially loved!
We got to spend her birthday night with Sophie, Eli, brownies and ice cream! Yum! She got flowers, balloons, cards, etc. all day long! It was a very special day!
We celebrate her birthday this Saturday and are looking forward to a Jack's Big Music Show party. She's still not convinced she's "2" yet! We are very busy with preparations this week, to say the least!
By the way- I'm thinking of a new title for our blog. "The Ekenseairs" seems kind of ho-hum! Let me know if anyone has any suggestions. Fun. Catchy. Memorable. I'm open to anything!
I must give a 'shout-out' to new bloggers Niki and Kelley M. (at least new to me)!! I love to hear what others say about the every day lives we all live!! Thank you for sharing a piece of yours!! Niki- you make me feel very tired and lazy, but most certainly entertained! Kelley- you have the cutest family on the blog block, and we share a passion for grocery game and wreaths! =) (see blog roll for these new additions) =)
I hope to be better at blogging during this new year. That probably would include getting my home computer back in business so that I don't have to blog at work! =)
Hope everyone is having a wonderful new year so far, and has already lost lots of weight and are looking forward to putting a swimsuit on next week, memorized the entire Bible, become a millionaire, and have perfectly cleaned and organized their entire home in Martha-Stewartesque fashion!

I promise to post Christmas photos soon! Love to all!!

Christmas Trip to Tyler

2008-12-30T16:21:00.003-06:00

Here are a few pics from our trip to see Steve (my brother), Leann, Rachel, Tyler (Ty), and Brock earlier this month in Tyler. We had a blast!!!

just hear those sleigh bells ringalin'.... and elves on shelves....

2008-12-22T09:31:00.007-06:00

Hello to all!! I'm sorry it's been so long since I've posted!! We have been SUPER busy (like everyone who celebrates Christmas at all), and we've had computer troubles at home, so I've been behind, to say the least!!
We've had a really wonderful season so far! Lots of parties and get-togethers, caroling, a wedding, a trip to Tyler, TX, and so much more! We are anxious for baby girl to see what Santa will bring- it's gonna be a FUN Christmas! (I hear Santa has LOTS of construction projects to complete in the next few days- he's somewhat of a procrastinator, that Santa!) We plan to be at our house on Christmas Eve/ Christmas Day, and then to Nashville for the weekend. Shelley- we're coming to see that baby girl!!
Ella calls Santa "Ho-Ho", and we haven't made it to his lap yet this year! She yells "no-way" every time. =) She is talking and singing ALL the time right now! Her favorites are Jingle Bells and Twinkle, Twinkle. I will post videos as soon as I can- she is such a ball of fun!
She can now count into the teens and is recognizing several letters and most colors- it's amazing how much their little minds soak up right now!! She loves jewelry right now and informed us on many occasions this week that she is a "printhcess" (princess). This girl has to get her own pair of high-heeled shoes- she loves mine. =)

On a Christmas note, I've been meaning to post for a while about the ever-so-popular ELF ON THE SHELF. It's an age-old tradition that seems to have made such a comeback this season- they're everywhere. Something about an Elf that you take home and name, and find random places throughout your home for him to "perch" where your child can see him watching (i.e. shelf, refridgerator, closet, bed post) . This particular elf reports to Santa whether the child has been naughty or nice on his nightly trip to the north pole, and finds a new place to rest in the morning when he's returned.
With that said, let me state for the record that I AM quite a fan of Christmas traditions and celebrations, and making my child behave whether Santa is on his way or not. However, I am NOT a fan of ANY creepy-eyed creature in my home PEERING over my child. (see previous post around Halloween) I have no idea on earth why THE ELF ON THE SHELF company could not have made this particular doll, while nostalgic and vintage, less creepy with a sweeter, jolly face and especially EYES!!! I seriously would not have been able to sleep as a child if I knew this thing was WATCHING me!!!!!!!! I think it's appropriate to share a photo at this time:

Creeped out yet?

SO, if we choose to make the ELF ON THE SHELF a tradition in the Ekenseair home any time soon, we will be finding a DIFFERENT elf!!! *****NOTE: if you are a friend reading this entry who has one of these in your home (sorry, Ashley, etc.), please take NO offense! This is another personal matter that I probably need therapy for in the first place. I am excited that you have chosen to carry on this tradition! AND- In case of emergency, I personally volunteer to hold/comfort/console any child that has been traumatized by said Elf. After all, it's Christmas.

Love to all! I'll post new pics soon!!! Enjoy your last-minute shopping and baking

Oh how a year has flown!

2008-11-30T01:52:00.003-06:00

Okay, so mommy decided to take a little trip down memory lane when she realized that she had Christmas photos from 2007 that never got posted to the blog.... oh the shame! Enjoy!

Give Thanks With A Greatful Heart!

2008-11-27T23:53:00.004-06:00

Has our little turkey grown a little since last year? =)

One for the future Senior Yearbook...

2008-11-26T11:00:00.001-06:00

Yes, she is sitting on her potty chair. Yes, she has her diaper on. Yes, those are her favorite rain boots. Yes, they are on the wrong feet.

Giddy Up!

2008-11-25T00:15:00.000-06:00

Ella went on her first ride on a REAL horse at Landon's birthday party! It was FREEZING cold that day, but she had a blast! She screamed when it was time to get off!

Congrats!!!

2008-11-03T11:44:00.004-06:00

Congratulations Shelley and Brad!!! Baby Anna Kate is Beautiful!

Awesome MySpace Comments & Myspace Layouts

A Night In The Life Of An Ellaphant.......

2008-10-31T22:36:00.008-05:00

Ella had a blast trick-or-treating tonight!! She got so excited she was hopping down the street yelling "yeah, yeah, yeah"! She enjoyed getting to play with Madelyn, Sophie, and Eli. (aka Cinderella, Annie and Boxer) She put on a dance show for everyone. She had PLENTY of sugar for sure tonight, followed by some broccoli and cheese (her favorite).

Jeepers, Creepers........

2008-10-31T22:35:00.000-05:00

Okay, Okay, so we've been a little busy lately for blogging, but were are still here and will have a better blogging month- promise! Ella is a HUGE ball of fun (and energy) right now! She can most recently say "I love you" (I've been waiting for that one) =), and pretty much anything else she wants to. She talks CONSTANTLY!!! (she gets that from her dad)=) She is LOVING music these days and requests her favorite CDs all day long. She knows LOTS of the words to songs! Too fun! Her favorite things right now are her new rain boots, lip-it (chap stick- thanks aunt connie for buying the organic version), giving Pacey treats out of the pantry, and marching.
We have been so busy the last few weeks with work, church projects, a garage sale, family visitors, traveling, birthdays, etc., etc. It has been such a crazy month! I feel like life should slow down (yeah, right)!
I cannot believe it is Halloween again! Seems like 2 weeks ago we dressed our 9 month old in ruby slippers! Oh, how time flies!! Ella is very into all of the "halloween" stuff this year. We've been to two pumpkin patches, and every time she sees a pumpkin, she yells "pup-kie!" - too cute. She will be dressed-up as an ELLAphant tonight. Can't wait.
She and Mimi are having a blast @ The School of Mimi. That's one thing I've not blogged yet- Ella finished four full days of school at Central Christian Academy when her Mimi decided she had worked for First Security Bank long enough. =). School was great, but we decided for now that Mimi was better. =) And, I think I'm safe in saying that Ella is not the only one excited about the whole arrangement. I think Mimi described it the other day as "living her dream". Wow. Ella is blessed to have such wonderful grandparents- and what better teacher? Michael's Mom retired from 27+ years of teaching- BONUS! Anyway, it's wonderful and we are so thankful that Ella has this opportunity.
There, I said it. My child is a pre-pre-school dropout. whew.....feels better. =)

I got back last night from Trade Days at Canton, TX with friends, while Ella stayed the night at aunt "Ca-Ca's" (Aunt Connie's) house! She got to trick-or-treat in Nashville for the first time! Thank you Ca-Ca for loads of fun (and Elmo balloons, pizza, coke, suckers, etc.)! Ca-Ca drug (and carried) her all over town to trick-or-treat, and I'm not sure who had the better time! I think everything went exceptionally well (Ella even WORE the elephant head for two hours) right up until they passed a CLOWN during the festivities. uh oh. At which point, Ella jumps into Ca-Ca's arms yelling "no way, no way, no way". WHICH BRINGS ME to my Halloween Day current "Biggest Things Creep Me Out" list: (I've been discussing this with co-workers the last few days and felt the need to share) =)

MY CURRENT BIGGEST JEEPERS CREEPERS

Along with the cliche of bugs, snake-in-my-toilet, the dark, and exorcist eyes;

1. You guessed it: CLOWNS. Any shape, form, fashion, happy, sad, goofy, big shoes and all. It's just not right.
2. Dolls with roley, googley, or any such type of freakish eyes. I'm not particularly fond of the ones that you can buy that look just like your child. It's just not right. The word "lurking" comes to mind.
3. Chicken Fried Steak. (yes, I have lived in the south all my life) There's just something not right about breaded beef (if that's what you THINK it is) coated in white gravy (even worse). I don't want to look at it or smell it. Meatball sub sandwiches are second on the scariest foods list. My husband happens to LOVE both of these. Poor Michael has to eat these when I'm out of town. In fact, I don't think I know of one single guy, at least, that doesn't love this food. hmmm....
4. Overalls for women (even in the 80s/90s). THE SINGLE MOST unflattering fashion faux-pas that I hope is available NEVER again. Yes, I had them when I was 15. Big mistake. Extra scary-boo points for the colored cotton type. Just don't do it.
5. Ryan's Steakhouse. It's been 5 years (and a grand total of two visits) and that's still too recent. vomit. Hepatitus waiting to happen. And that's just from stepping onto the commercial carpet.
6. Shoe Carnival. (see #1) If you've ever had the loudest "some-clown-on-the-microphone-come-on-down-and-spin-the-big-clicky-wheel-for-a-deal" experience, you know what I'm talking about. Ruins a perfectly good shoe shop. Creepy on so many levels.
7. Children of the Corn.
8. Caves.
9. Prepping a WHOLE chicken or any other fowl, and then having all of that underneath your fingernails. Bones, skin, and cartilage, oh my! However, I have BIG plans to confront this soon. It just has to be done. And blogged about. (more on this later) I LOVE to cook. This is the only one of the fears listed that I feel hinders my foodie existence. It just so happens that I'm currently feeling up to a life-changing experience. =) Baby steps....

What are your biggest fears? TAG-you're it! I'll list the best in my next post along with some new photos of the sweet girl, I mean ELLAphant! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Can you believe it's been a year?

Pumpkin Patch 2008

2008-10-31T22:24:00.001-05:00

Ella and I went to the pumpkin patch earlier this month with Karin and Eli. She got to ride on a hayride and pick her own pumpkin right out of the patch! It was a beautiful day!

First Football Game

2008-10-31T22:23:00.000-05:00

Michael and I took Ella to her first UCA Bears football game recently!! She loved all the excitement!

Just Fun....

2008-10-31T22:22:00.001-05:00

Waving at the fair parade!

My Buddy Seth!

I love my new boots!

Daddy's Girl

2008-10-31T22:20:00.000-05:00

The Beach Gallery

2008-09-11T14:08:00.004-05:00

Fun In The Sun

2008-09-11T13:40:00.002-05:00

A Day At Rosemary Beach

2008-09-11T13:35:00.005-05:00

Naps on the beach are the best!!

Beach Baby

Splish Splash I Was Takin' A Bath (with a dog)

2008-09-10T14:26:00.001-05:00

After our puddling, Ella and Pacey soaped up in the tub!!

Singin' In The Rain

2008-09-10T14:14:00.001-05:00

Recently, we all got to play outside in the rain and puddles. Ella, complete with her pajama top, diaper, and jewelry, had a blast!! Pacey too!

We're BAAAACK!!

2008-09-08T10:58:00.002-05:00

We're HOME!!! We had the most WONDERFUL vacation, with the BEST weather!!! Can you believe it? In the midst of a hurricane, we had 1/2 day of rain the entire week- which is a rare thing ANY week at the beach! Probably the best weather we've ever had. The day the hurricane came in, the waves at Destin were 17 feet! Michael got some good boogie boarding in on the following days. Our friends Katie and John went as well - we had such a fun time with them. John and Michael avid jelly fish hunters. =)
Ella LOVED the beach! She wanted to stay in the water the whole time! She thought it was too funny when a big wave would come up and splash her! She DID NOT want to leave every day when it was time to go in. She got to play in the fountains at Destin Commons and we met our friends the Sketoes one night to let the girls play together. They had a big time!
Ella also got to ride a carousel for the first time, and a mini- train, which she loved. She is still too short for the bumper boats (Daddy was sad), but there's always next year! =)
Ella is TALKING ALL THE TIME these days!! She finally learned to use the word "please" in context this week, prompted by a Krispy Kreme doughnut- imagine that! It was hilarious- her Daddy opened the box and she saw what he was eating, and she looked up at him and said "pleeez?" (with the cutest, sweetest voice). Motivation at best. =)
We visited Rosemary Beach (gorgeous) one day and did lots of shopping throughout the week. We ate some really great food- tried some new restaurants that were awesome, and caught lots of rays!! Can't wait to go back. It's a struggle for me every year to keep Michael from moving down there. I'm not kidding. He LOVES that area.

I'll post new pics soon! Our little sweetie is tan and blonde from all that good sun!

Go Away Gustav!!

2008-08-28T10:22:00.004-05:00

We leave tomorrow for vacation in Destin, FL. Every time we decide to go in September, we know there's a big hurricane risk- yuck. We are praying that this tropical storm Gustav decides to #1, not become a hurricane, and #2, does not hit ANY land!!! However, we will just be excited to get out of Conway!!! And, Ella has been so sick this week (lots of fever, etc.). Please pray for wellness! Can't wait to see our sweet baby's toes in the sand again- she's gonna love it this year! =)

First Day of School

2008-08-19T18:50:00.002-05:00

Well, the first day of school is OVER!!! We made it!!! It went okay- there's going to be a lot of adjusting, to say the least. So many changes at once! Her teachers are sweet and there are THREE Ellas in her class!! She got to finger paint and her favorite time was recess!! (imagine that) Please continue to pray for all of us- it's been a hard week, for sure.
Ella's newest words are: AMEN, Bible, Mimi (finally), and she loves to say "no-way", and "Oooh-WOW", and "cheese"! She has new dance moves that I promise to share soon. She loves to play with her babies, and she has an obsession with stickers and the mail this week. She won't put the mail down (see below), and has to have ALL of it in her hand at one time. Also, the dreaded but inevitable Dora obsession has begun, but her favorite is still Jack's Big Music Show by far. She thought she was a big girl getting to carry her Bible purse into church this weekend! It's amazing how much she's learning every day!! She's certainly a little sponge these days!

Just Ella....

2008-08-19T16:19:00.001-05:00

Em...

2008-08-19T16:12:00.004-05:00

My niece Emily came to visit a couple of weeks ago! WOW!! She is growing up too fast!! She'll start HIGH SCHOOL this year- scary! While she was here, we suprised my sister and had some gorgeous portraits made of her. What a BEAUTIFUL girl she is! I can hardly believe she's 15. Thank you, Karin, for capturing this time for us!!

It's a good thing......

2008-08-10T19:04:00.005-05:00

Well, the new job is going great!! I finished up my first week and am loving it so far! I get to work with a great group of people, and am learning so much! I'll have to post some pics of my new surroundings- it's a beautiful office!
My last day at Dr. Fox's was sad but wonderful. We celebrated all day, and I think I didn't actually cry until about 2:15 that day, which was pretty good for me! My friends had a special cake, and I received the most beautiful bouquet of flowers- very special! I will miss all of them so much, but I'm planning to squeeze in a work day there maybe once a month or something- I do still love it. Plus, they won't ever be TOTALLY rid of me!

Ella has been visiting my family in Nashville since THURSDAY!! My parents are bringing her home on Tuesday!! Michael has had a great birthday weekend. We ate out and went to see the new Batman movie with friends last night, and his parents came to take the birthday boy out for lunch today! We're ready to see our baby girl, though! =) She's having a blast, though, and has even stopped long enough to talk to us on the phone a few times (that is, until Mommy Tot coaxes her with some chocolate milk and a Twinkie).
Congrats to our friend, Shelley!! She completed her Masters Degree as of last week!! And, her baby girl Anna Kate is due in just a couple of months! It's awesome to see how God blesses your friends!

Change.....

2008-07-28T22:25:00.008-05:00

We have had such a wonderful summer so far. It has certainly been a season of change. Ella is changing so much every day-- I think she learns ten new words a day! She is so very BUSY these days- never slows. She and Nicki have been best buddies since I've been helping out a friend this month who's a dentist here in Conway on two days that I'm not working in NLR. They go everywhere imaginable while I'm at work. I've been a little jealous here lately because they get to spend OUR time together! =) What would we do without our Nicki?
One of the biggest changes around our house these days is that I have accepted a new job in Conway, effective August 4th. I will be the new executive assistant to the Economic Development Director of Conway. He (and one of the others I'll be working for) are very good friends of ours from church, and I'm really excited about the opportunity. It could not have come at a better time, with commute to NLR every day becoming increasingly difficult and expensive. I have not worked so close to home in a very long time (college). I will be working three days a week (MWF), and Ella will be attending Central Christian Academy this fall. Whew! I don't know if we were quite prepared for so many changes this year, but God certainly continues to open doors!
On a very sad note, though, I am leaving a boss, friends, and a job that I TRULY, TRULY love. Dr. Fox has been the most wonderful Christian mentor and friend a girl could ask for, and I will miss him every day. I have no doubt that God placed him in my life for a very specific purpose, and for this I am eternally grateful. There are few people in the world who can honestly say they enjoy going to work EVERY day- but it's true! I have also made other lifelong friends (Katie, Mary Ann, Pam) that have blessed my life in more ways than they will ever know. It is an amazing feeling to finally feel that God has you RIGHT where he wants you to be- and that's right where I've been the last 6 years. We are in every sense (almost), a family. I cry most every day thinking about it, but I know in my heart God has other plans right now.
SO- it you're needing something to add to your already mile-long prayer list, squeeze us in somewhere!! =) Pray that all of these "changes" will be good ones, and if not, that God will show us.
Did you also know that I have a dream of someday starting a children's clothing line? No, I'm not kidding. Wonder where that fits into the Conway Chamber of Commerce? Designing Toad Suck T-Shirts? Ha! More on that much, much later.
Back to the sweet girl-- here's Ella's Top Ten List for Summer 2008:

1) As always, Silkie and passy (spelled this way so as not to be confused with Pacey, the dog, who is on the list but not quite so highly ranked)
2) Nicki and her funfabulous outings to Playworld, Jumpzone, storytime at the library, etc., etc (she ranks over Mom lots of days =) )
3) Daddy's new 4- ten hour shift work weeks so he can spend one day at home taking Ella to JumpZone, Chick-fil-a, Playworld, etc. (are you seeing the pattern?)
4) Crocs. Hot pink ones. Daddy bought them for her. Ella loves them, Mom dislikes them. (okay, so they're cute on kids. For out in the yard, at least. For some reason ours end up going with every outfit?) However, we are currently missing the left one. No, I am not in the least bit responsible. Promise. =) Seriously, the Croc people really know what they're doing.
5) Outside. Even though it is 150 degrees out there. She loves to play in her playhouse, on her new trike, blow bubbles, find flowers, etc. Fall, come quickly.
6) Jack's Big Music Show. It's the best. If you've never seen it, see it. Noggin. She lights up a room when it appears. I feel a birthday theme coming on.
7) Eskimo kisses. She thinks it's the funniest idea ever.
8) Popcicles. Any color.
9) Baby dolls who like to make several trips around the house in a stroller, interrupted only by frequent stops because baby needs to be covered up, strapped in again, a shoe replaced, or kissed.
9) Marching. Look up the song "We are the Dinosaurs" by Laurie Berkner- not John Phillip Sousa, but it still makes a great march.
10) Music, in general. If you feel the beat, you just stop right where you are and break it down. No questions asked. Don't miss another chance.

Here are a few pics from our visit to Wonderplace with Mimi and Papa last weekend.

Papa's heart goes "thump, thump"!

Our Yankee Doodle Sweetheart

2008-07-04T16:00:00.001-05:00

We celebrated the 4th this year with Michael's parents, then enjoyed fireworks with friends on Nobb Hill- the view was spectacular!

Hasn't our Yankee Doodle Joy grown since last year???

Pretty in Pink...

2008-07-02T00:46:00.000-05:00

If you know me at all, you know I LOVE pictures!!! This was just an evening out in the yard while we were at my Mom and Dad's in June.

Home Away From Home...

2008-07-01T23:55:00.001-05:00

Ella and I got to spend a week in June in Nashville at my parent's house. We enjoyed getting to see my sister Kristi, niece Staci and brother-in-law Walt for dinner to celebrate Dad's 73rd Birthday on Sunday. We were spoiled with Mommy Tot's homemade biscuits, Aunt Su-Su's buttermilk pancakes and our favorite- a fish fry! Aunt Connie took off work a couple of days to be with us! We went swimming in Aunt Nikki's pool, and Aunt Kim came to see us! I finally got my arms around Miss Ava! I enjoyed getting to see many old friends! We had such a wonderful week!

Baby Ava-- Isn't she the CUTEST??? What a precious little miracle, Kacey and Blake!

Once a fashionista, always a fashionista.......

2008-06-13T17:57:00.003-05:00

Miss Ella is certainly enjoying playing dress-up these days!!! She loves any type of necklace or bracelet, and lots of them!!! She came back from her visit in Nashville earlier this week talking our ears off!!! She now says caa(car), tuk (truck), deat-iz (there-it-is), fofi(sophie, aunt connie's dog), Bah (Bob), Tah (Tot), Su-su, and this morning she said "hey cee" (hey pacey the dog)!! She loves cherry tomatoes and corn-on-the-cob this week.

Summer Is Here!

2008-06-04T14:43:00.002-05:00

Happenings.....

2008-05-29T12:28:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm a blog slacker these past couple of weeks, but the Ekenseairs have certainly been busy living!!! Michael and I enjoyed a weekend away in Dallas over Memorial Day weekend, and Ella was spoiled past rotten at her Mimi and Papa's in Searcy while we were gone. We had the best time- we shopped 'til we dropped, enjoyed our favorite restaurants, and caught a movie. We even made a stop at my family's in Nashville on the way down. It was so nice to just get away!

Ella is something else right now!! Her little personality is really blooming, and she is running everywhere- she loves for us to chase her. I had to take her to the doctor yesterday with a nasty sinus infection- thank God for medicine!!! She weighed in at a whopping 22lbs, 15 1/2 oz. We are still lingering around the 25th-30th percentile, which is just fine. Good things come in small packages, right? =) She loves shoes right now (uh-oh, get ready daddy!)- anyone's- she loves to put on our shoes and walk around the house in them, or bring you your shoes and put them on your feet and then clap. She is such a picky eater right now! She would be a chubby baby if I would fix poppyseed chicken every night- I'll have to think on that one! =) She would spend all day outside if she could. Oh, and she still has dance fever, of course. It really is quite hilarious.

On a little bit of a sad note, today is Nichole's last day (at least on a regular basis =) ) with Ella while I'm at work. We are so sad, but Nichole starts clinicals next week (she's in her last year in the speech therapy program at UCA), and since we haven't talked her into quitting school and keeping Ella full time =), we just won't fit into her "schedule" anymore!! (just kidding, Cole) I can't say enough wonderful things about Nichole. We met her a few years ago, and have loved her ever since. Who knew that someday she would keep our baby girl? She has been an absolute answer to our prayers. How many Moms can honestly say they have never left for work even one day and been worried about their child? It's true! We knew before Ella even came that Cole certainly knew more about this "baby" thing than we did!!! We never knew someone else could love our child so much and not be part of our "biological" family!! She is the most caring, compassionate, sincere, fun-loving person who has a heart for Christ and for just people in general. Could I ask for more from the person who gets to spend time with my child? She has a zest for life that is completely contageous, and Ella certainly loves her to death (almost a little too much- I get jealous in the mornings when she doesn't even want to tell me bye because "cole's here now"! =) ). And all of these things don't even begin to describe what a wonderful person she is, and just how blessed we are to know her. We're so thankful she's part of our (especially Ella's) life, and she has certainly made a lasting impression on all of us! She'll ALWAYS be part of our family!! We love you, and are so proud of you, Cole!

And, because God is so good, he already had someone else in mind for Nichole's "replacement"- Niki, who happens to be Cole's best friend. She's out of PT school for the summer, and is such a sweetheart! She has some big shoes to fill, though. =) Just kidding. God really takes care of us, doesn't he?

Well, I'm rambling now. The Ekenseairs are looking forward to a great summer! I'll post new pics soon! I promise to be a better blogger this month!

One more thing-- our friends Shelley and Brad found out they're having a baby GIRL!!! Congrats to them!!!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!

2008-05-12T15:55:00.003-05:00

Ella, cousin Emily, and Michael had a blast playing in the sprinklers Friday night!!! The girls got soaking wet- even though you can't tell from this picture!!!

Just Us Girls....

2008-05-12T15:50:00.006-05:00

My Mom, Mother-In-Law, Aunt, Sister, and Niece came to spend Mother's Day weekend with us. We had a girly luncheon on Saturday -- No Boys Allowed!! It was so much fun! It's never a dull moment with my family! =) Thanks, girls, for making a special day even better!

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-08T15:34:00.007-05:00

"I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD."
I Samuel 1:27-28

For those of you who might not know, I found out on Mother's Day two years ago that I was expecting Ella. So, this day holds an even greater significance in my life! As much joy as I felt anticipating her birth, nothing on earth could compare to the joy I felt as I held my baby girl in my arms for the first time. Lord, thank you, thank you, for the precious gift of being a Mom! Thank you for enstrusting your child to me!

I received the following from a friend (who is a WONDERFUL Mom) this week and had to share.....

For all the moms with young children, enjoy these days for they will pass very quickly!

*Just for this morning, I am going to step over the laundry, and pick you up and take you to the park to play.

*Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes in the
sink, and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.

*Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone and keep the computer off, and sit with you in the backyard and blow bubbles.

*Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once, not even a tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck and I will buy you one if he comes by.

*Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about what you are going to be when you grow up, or second guess every decision I have made where you are concerned.

*Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me bake
cookies, and I won't stand over you trying to fix them.

*Just for this afternoon, I will take us to McDonald's and buy us both a Happy Meal so you can have both toys.

*Just for this evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you a story about how you were born and how much I love you.

*Just for this evening, I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry.

*Just for this evening, I will let you stay up late while we sit on the porch and count all the stars.

*Just for this evening, I will snuggle beside you for hours, and miss my favorite TV shows.

*Just for this evening when I run my fingers through your hair as you pray, I will simply be grateful that God has given me the greatest gift ever given.

*I will think about the mothers And fathers who are searching for their missing children, the mothers and fathers who are visiting their children's graves instead of their bedrooms, and mothers and fathers who are in hospital rooms watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming inside that they
can't handle it anymore.

*And when I kiss you good night I will hold you
a little tighter, a ittle longer. It is then, that I will thank God for you, and ask Him for nothing, except one more day............

Latest Photo Session....

2008-05-08T14:25:00.004-05:00

Here are a few previews from Ella's photo session last month!! Our little girl is growing up!

Quote Of The Day......

2008-05-06T11:51:00.002-05:00

While driving to work this morning, I read these words on a bumper sticker....

"Don't believe everything you think"

hmmmm.....

Toad Suck 2008!

2008-05-05T13:42:00.003-05:00

We made our annual trip to the Toad Suck festival here in Conway on Saturday!!! What a beautiful day! Ella had a blast- especially with the "fair food", which is why we ALL go in the first place!! Can you believe our little girl is 16 months old today?

Best Buddies

2008-05-04T14:29:00.001-05:00

Our two silly girls...

She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy......

2008-05-03T14:33:00.001-05:00

Daddy got his Father's Day gift a little early this year (just in time for mowing season)!!! I can't tell who has more fun on the thing!! Boys and their toys.....

She's Walkin' On Sunshine!!!

2008-04-22T22:34:00.001-05:00

She is SO proud of herself!! She always wants us to clap for her!

Tiny Dancer???

2008-04-14T15:42:00.006-05:00

I'm not sure that real ballerinas shake it like this???

She's "snapping" her fingers!!!

Congrats!!!

2008-04-09T13:09:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to our friends Shelley and Brad who are expecting their first baby in November!!! We are so excited for you!! We'll be praying for a healthy baby and mom!!!

GREAT BIG NEWS!!!!

2008-04-07T18:53:00.002-05:00

MISS ELLA IS FINALLY WALKING!!!!! She just took off today!!! She went for her 15 month check-up today, and everything looks great! She's lost a little weight because she's been sick the last few days, but I'm sure we'll catch back up! She's 21 lbs, 7 oz., and 30 in. long. Isn't it ironic that we were discussing her not walking yet with Dr. Lucas this morning (who was not concerned in the least), and this afternoon she just gets moving!!! What a great day!!!! I'll post pictures/ video clip soon!!!

Easter 2008

2008-03-23T20:40:00.004-05:00

We spent the weekend with the fam in Nashville. We dyed eggs, played guitar hero and American Idol with Emily, and ate Mommmy Tot's good dressing! Aunt Kim even came to see us! The weather was absolutely beautiful for Easter Day!

Shannon and Little Claire

2008-03-22T21:44:00.003-05:00

Just had to share these new photos that our friends Todd and Shannon had taken with their little girl, Claire, who is 6 months old. They are absolutely amazing! What a precious little gift from God Miss Claire is!!! (okay, so we love Todd and Shannon, too.) =)

SNOW DAY!!! (Ella, Nichole and Pacey)

2008-03-04T22:12:00.005-06:00

Surprise!

2008-03-04T21:21:00.007-06:00

For those of you who haven't seen the hair progress lately, we decided to show you where we're experiencing the most growth!! AND- as an added bonus- look at those CURLS! Think we're gonna have pigtails by summer? HA! Ella loves to brush hair any chance she gets- hers AND yours!

For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me were written in
your book before one of them came to be.

Psalms 139:13-16

These are a few of my favorite things..... by Ella G. Ekenseair

2008-03-04T21:07:00.011-06:00

Girl Scout Cookies!
Playing in the fridge
BOOKS!
Mommy Tot's Chap-It!(chap stick)
Hugs from Sophie!
"Talking" on the phone!
My Silkie =)

.....Just A Swain-gan.....

2008-03-03T22:19:00.002-06:00

Since it was so warm this weekend, Ella had blast playing outside! Here are a few pics from the great outdoors! By the way, this week, Miss Ella will walk with you while holding one hand! Maybe we'll get to hunt easter eggs by foot in a few weeks! =)

She can say bye-bye, papa, daddy, mmmmm(moo), "sh-sh" (shoo-wee while waving her hand back and forth in front of her face), hi (on the phone), nnn-nnn (no no), and all other sorts of squeals and screams, giggles and laughs! She loves to dance to music in the car (she has great shoulder action and we're working on the beat thing =) ). She loves to dig in any drawer, cabinet, closet, or purse she can get to, and loves to stir with any type of spoon and a bowl- she'll also let you taste her creation! My little sous chef! She will sit and let you read or sing to her as long as you will, and she loves giving hugs and pats! Her daddy taught her this week to give kisses on the mouth! (only to a select few, of course) =) She loves to be chased, tickled, and play peek-a-boo with her silkie. She loves to take her shoes and socks off as soon as we get in the car. She absolutely demands an audience- she will let you know very quickly if you do not applaud immediately after she completes a task. She laughs at herself a lot. Such the entertainer (just like her DAD) =).
Her most recent favorite things to eat are dried blueberries, cake, and chicken nuggets. She still LOVES a bottle! Whew! We've got to get to work on that one!
She weighed 21 lbs. and 7 oz. when Daddy took her to the doctor a couple of weeks ago. We've had an ear infection and a runny nose- nothing major! We've been so blessed to have such a healthy baby girl thus far!

Best Buddies!

2008-03-03T21:18:00.001-06:00

Miss Ella and Pacey are quickly becoming best buds- especially since Ella has learned how to "share" her food! Pacey thinks this baby sister thing is FINALLY paying off!

Hey Pacey- CHEESE!

CHEESE!!!

2008-03-02T21:13:00.001-06:00

Ella has learned recently how to "say cheese"- I'm not sure this is quite what we had in mind!!! =) She also anticipates the horrible flash!

celebrations......

2008-03-01T22:44:00.004-06:00

On the 13th of Febuary, I celebrated another wonderful year! It's also a very special time for Michael and me. Besides celebrating Valentine's Day, the 12th marked 8 years since the day Michael asked me to marry him. (I think he defintely planned these dates the same week so they'd be easier to remember) =)
Each year at this time, I'm reminded again of how much God has truly blessed me with such a special, wonderful husband- the one he designed especially for me. The one person on earth who knows me inside and out, gifts and flaws, and still chooses to love me unconditionally. He is thoughtful, caring, and the very best guy there is. For what better gift could a birthday girl ask? I'm so thankful he's mine......

Eli and Dax's Third Birthday!

2008-02-10T13:11:00.001-06:00

Saturdays Are For Fun!!!

2008-02-10T12:57:00.001-06:00

What a busy Saturday we had this weekend! First, we went to visit Mimi and Papa in Searcy, then headed to Little Rock for Eli and Dax's birthday party at The Wonderplace! All this fun wears a gal out!!

Splish Splash We Were Taking A Bath....

2008-02-10T12:53:00.001-06:00

Eli recently came for a visit and he and Ella went for a dip! They had a blast!

BIG GIRL CAR SEAT!

2008-02-10T12:08:00.000-06:00

Ella finally made the transition to the big girl car seat! She thinks it's so COOL that she can see out AND watch mommy and daddy in the front seat!

All By Ourselves...................

2008-01-27T21:55:00.000-06:00

Ella's in Nashville visiting the family for a few days, and Michael and I don't know what to do with ourselves! We're having a great time, but she's rarely away from us when we don't have a jam-packed schedule of events! Life has been so busy here lately- it's been nice not to have such an agenda for once! We found ourselves at Pizza Hut last night at 5pm with the other two elderly couples in Conway. Ha! Michael said he really got worried when I suggested we go to Lowe's and walk around for awhile! ha! So, it's been nice to relax by ourselves for a few days, but we sure miss our sweet girl! We keep thinking we hear her on the baby monitor! We're so thankful to have family she can spend time with! We know she's being spoiled rotten! (at least we'll be able to blame it on someone else this week) =)

.....All..by...ourselves,......don't-wanna-live.....all...by...ourselves, ANY-MORE!!!...
(insert dramatic music here) =)

Ella's One-Year Check-Up!

2008-01-21T10:07:00.000-06:00

"I know you did not just say shot!"

"Dear God, please don't let the shots hurt, Amen."

Ella's one-year check up went very well (besides those yucky shots)! Here are her latest stats:

Weight: 20lbs., 9oz
Height: 29 in.

Dr. Lucas pointed out immediately that Ella loves her orange veggies!! Daddy and I just thought her skin was getting darker!! =) No problem, our little girl's just rich in beta-carotene, lycopene, and has a nice tan for January! =)
She is changing so fast every day! She's not walking yet, but I know it's just right around the corner! She just won't let go! Why would a gal need to walk when she can get anywhere she wants, and very fast at that???!! She LOVES to take things in and out of drawers, cabinets, pacey's food bowl =(, etc. She loves an audience!! We are instructed to clap after every task is complete!! She loves to talk on the phone! She smiles at every person who passes us in the grocery store, whether they smile back or not! She's definitely a little social bug!!
Her favorite new foods are blueberry muffins, teddy grahams, and WW bread, but she still loves her baby veggies and of course, that good milk!
Her favorite toys right now are her new shopping cart (complete with groceries she can strow) and her shapes stacker. She loves anything that plays music- she's becoming quite the dancer!
We are anxious for the weather to warm up so we can go for more wagon rides! It's gonna be a fun spring!

Hi Mrs. Emily Mc. !!

2008-01-20T16:07:00.000-06:00

Mrs. Emily Mc,
We found out recently that you frequently visit our blog, so we just wanted to say "hi", and tell you how much we're praying for you right now!! We hope that you find healing and comfort today and in the coming days!!
"And the God of all grace....after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you..."- I Peter 5:10

Happy First Birthday Ella!!

2008-01-05T15:37:00.000-06:00

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-01-01T18:24:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas.......

2007-12-21T18:20:00.000-06:00

.......in all of the chaos of gifts to be bought, cards to be sent, presents to buy, gifts to wrap, food to make, travels to make, we can all feel overwhelmed this time of year. I'm sitting at my kitchen table right now watching my little girl in her Christmas dress playing with the only ornament she's picked from the tree all season. It's one I pointed out to her to hold for a moment just to take her picture, finally - for Christmas cards. She is so peaceful, so innocent, so precious, so full of light. I just read the following story with tears in my eyes at how easily caught-up we can get this time of year in such trivial aspects of the season. Thank you, God, for reminding me through a friend just what really matters.

A BABY'S HUG

We were the only family with children in the restaurant. I sat Erik in a high chair and noticed everyone was quietly eating and talking. Suddenly, Erik squealed with glee and said, "Hi there." He pounded his fat baby hands on the high chair tray. His eyes we crinkled in laughter and his mouth was bared in a toothless grin, as he wriggled and giggled with merriment.

I looked around and saw the source of his merriment. It was a man whose pants were baggy with a zipper at half-mast and his toes poked out of would-be shoes. His shirt was dirty and his hair was uncombed and unwashed.

His whiskers were too short to be called a beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map. We were too far from him to smell, but I was sure he smelled. His hands waved and flapped on loose wrists. "Hi there, baby; Hi there, big boy. I see ya, buster," the man said to Erik.

My husband and I exchanged looks, "What do we do?" Erik continued to laugh and answer, "Hi, hi there." Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us and then at the man. The old geezer was creating a nuisance with my beautiful baby. Our meal came and the man began shouting from across the room, "Do ya patty cake? Do you know peek-a- boo? Hey, look, he knows peek-a-boo."

Nobody thought the old man was cute. He was obviously drunk. My husband and I were embarrassed. We ate in silence; all except for Erik, who was running through his repertoire for the admiring skid row bum, who in turn, reciprocated with his cute comments.

We finally got through the meal and headed for the door. My husband went to pay the check and told me to meet him in the parking lot. The old man sat poised between me and the door. "Lord, just let me out of here before he speaks to me or Erik," I prayed.

As I drew closer to the man, I turned my back trying to sidestep him and avoid any air he might be breathing. As I did, Erik leaned over my arm, reaching with both arms in a baby's "pick-me-up" position. Before I could stop him, Erik had propelled himself from my arms to the man's.

Suddenly a very old, smelly man and a very young baby consummated their love relationship. Erik in an act of total trust, love, and submission laid his tiny head upon the man's ragged shoulder. The man's eyes closed, and I saw tears hover beneath his lashes. His aged hands full of grime, pain, and hard labor, cradled my baby's bottom and stroked his back. No two beings have ever loved so deeply for so short a time.

I stood awestruck. The old man rocked and cradled Erik in his arms and his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice, "You take care of this baby." Somehow I managed, "I will," from a throat that contained a stone. He pried Erik from his chest unwillingly, longingly, as though he were in pain. I received my baby, and the man said, "God bless you, ma'am, you've given me my Christmas gift." I said nothing more than a muttered thanks.

With Erik in my arms, I ran for the car. My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying, "My God, my God, forgive me." I had just witnessed Christ's love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, and a mother who saw a suit of clothes.

I was a Christian who was blind, holding a child who was not. I felt it was God asking, "Are you willing to share your son for a moment?" when He shared His for all eternity. The ragged old man, unwittingly, had reminded me, "To enter the Kingdom of God, we must become as little children."

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree......

2007-11-28T21:52:00.000-06:00

Thought you might like to see a Ella's Christmas Tree!

Our little girl is growing too fast.....

2007-11-26T14:53:00.000-06:00

Miss Ella is certainly into everything these days! She is cruising all over the house! She loves to look out the window and her favorite finds are the TV remote and anyone's cell phone! Anytime she hears the music from Jack's Big Music Show, you can rest assured she will be watching intently! She loves to "fake cough" and play peek-a-boo. Her favorite toys are her little piano (and our big one), and anything else she can clang together to make noise! She enjoys her own cup of cheerios or puffs and shares with Pacey quite often! However, Pacey is not as willing to share and has to run and eat her food out of her bowl anytime Ella gets anywhere near-- hungry or not!! I know that walking is just around the corner!

Best Buddies

2007-11-26T14:45:00.000-06:00

Ella starts grinning the moment Sophie and her brother Eli walk in the room! It's giggles galore every time they come to visit!

Make New Friends But Keep The Old....

2007-11-20T14:32:00.000-06:00

.....one is silver and the other gold! Aunt Kim came to see us recently and we had a great time! Who knew 25+ years ago that we'd still be best friends! We love her and thank God every day for her! HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIM!!!

Five Little Pumpkins.........

2007-11-02T13:22:00.000-05:00

HALLOWEEN 2007: Better late than never! We had such a great time with family and friends! Dorothy, Belle, The Boxer, The Biker Baby and The Anne Geddes Model (aka Ella, Sophie, Eli, Dax and little Claire) were the cutest we've seen! We had lots of friends trick-or-treat at our house! We were so glad that Aunt Connie got to be with us! Ella is certainly blessed to have such sweet friends, and so are we! We can't wait until next year!

Somewhere Over The Rainbow......

2007-11-01T15:27:00.000-05:00

Here's our little Dorothy! Her favorite part was the red sequined "ruby slippers" she wore! She couldn't keep her eyes off of them! Mommy Tot made her precious Dorothy dress. We had a blast celebrating with friends. Ella had a wonderful first Halloween! We'll post more pics soon.

Bows..............

2007-11-01T11:16:00.000-05:00

Papa took this picture a couple of weeks ago, and we just had to share! Our little girl is growing up fast! Maybe we do go a little overboard on the bow size... oh well. =)

Ella Brown and The Great Pumpkin......

2007-10-31T07:57:00.000-05:00

Ella's first pumkin carving! We decided on a silly face with eyelashes! Ella enjoyed taking the lid off.

4 little pumpkins.....

2007-10-30T21:33:00.000-05:00

Ella made her first trip to the pumpkin patch earlier this month! Sophie, Eli and Dax went with us! Mom and Dad made the mistake of going during her nap time, so we didn't get many smiles for pictures, but we still had a ball! We can't wait to go on the hayride next year!

If you're happy and you know it clap your hands!

2007-10-11T20:45:00.000-05:00

You turned 9 months old last week, and I can hardly believe how fast you are changing before my eyes! You are the most animated little thing!! You are always smiling, laughing, or talking! You love to clap your hands, you're crawling faster than I can chase you, and you are finally growing the hair you are due! You love Pacey, and she is finally trying to play with you! You absolutely LOVE to be sung to. My heart melts every time you pat me on the back when I'm holding you or when you do that little head tilt to the side and grin. Needless to say, your Daddy and I have been wrapped since the first moment we saw you! We are constantly happy, and we know it! (insert applause)