Mini Vaca

Ella and I decided to take a few days to ourselves, so we headed to Chicago. Or "cago" as Ella called it. We left Sunday night and arrived at our hotel long past her bedtime. As she fell asleep in her pack and play, I heard a faint "I love you". So I responded with "I love you too". Then she proceeded to do it again 2 more times. Too cute! Monday we went to the Brookfield Zoo to start the day. She seemed to love it, and I thought it was a fantastic zoo. There were great play areas for kids, plenty of fun animals to see, a children's learning area, and a petting zoo. Our last activity at the zoo was to ride the carousel. She rode an elephant, and didn't want to leave. However, once we were in the car, she was asleep before we were out of the parking lot. After the zoo we went to the Woodfield Mall and Rainforest Cafe for dinner. The restaurant was a hit with all the trees, fish, and fake animals. After dinner we headed back to the hotel and went swimming in the pool. Tuesday was a nice trip back home with a stop at the outlet mall. No good deals but nice for Ella to run around. God blessed our little vacation and we have fantastic memories!!

Wedding!

What a fabulous weekend!! Ella was able to be a flower girl in her babysitters wedding. The bride and groom were also students when I was a youth group leader, so it's been amazing to stay in touch and watch their relationship grow! Rehearsal went great and Ella wore her adorable new strawberry dress from aunt Julie. During rehearsal Ella walked down the isle with her other flower girl friend and they did perfect. But that was when the church was empty. Wedding day came and she was fantastic sitting to get her hair done. Then looked absolutely adorable in her dress. She even had to get mommy's celly to call her peeps and tell them all about it. However, the isle looked much scarier with all those people and cameras going. So after a few tears, she was escorted down the isle (by me) and shed a few more tears. However, the bride and groom were very laid back so Ella's tears were ok. I am very proud of my little girl and thought she was the most beautiful person there, other than the bride of course! God has blessed me with the most amazing daughter. I can't thank HIM enough! I did get to pamper myself too. I got a much needed pedicure for the events with a friend. And I had a fantastic time at the reception while Nana and Papa brought Ella to his work carnival complete with a carousel - her favorite!