Gumboots and candy canes

With the feasting complete we have moved on to tree trimming and carolling.

Yesterday, we headed out the country (aka: a farm 1/2 hour north of Bothell) and picked out the perfect tree.

3 generations!

Ellie's favorite part was the candy cane treat.

Christmas Preview

Only 31 days 'till Christmas! Yes, the countdown has begun.

And I can't believe it's Ellie's 3rd Christmas!

This year will certainly be the best one yet though.

Here is a little preview of the excitment that will ensue over opening presents.

Thank you Aunty Michelle, Uncle Paul and cousin Jules for Ellie's birthday baby and a wonderful preview of Christmas!

Fantastic Number Four

Ellie is certainly starting to make her preferences and tastes known.

And her favorite number is definitely

F O U R ! !

Sit and . . .

look like a toddler!

Actually, I feel like Ellie is on her way to first grade in this photo! She looks like such a big kid!

The training wheels Drew put on the bike didn't fit so the back wheel doesn't touch the ground. It actually works out perfectly because Ellie sits on her bike and peddles like crazy but doesn't move. Great for an indoor bike ride on a rainy winter day!

2

Ellie is officially a 2 year old!!

When you asked her how old she is today she says "2 old". Too cute is more like it

First order of business for the birthday girl was preschool. She was very excited when the entire class sung her Happy Birthday! Teach Betsy is one of Ellie's very favorite people!

The day continued with lots of treats and party hats at Ma-Mop's house.

Happy Birthday baby girl . . . I mean BIG girl!

Tall!

It's amazing to me that just 4 months ago we had Ellie evaluated by an early intervention specialist because we were concerned she wasn't talking yet.

The specialist was very unconcerned because she comprehended so much. She said if Ellie didn't have more than 20 words by age 2 to have her re-evaluated.

Well, tomorrow is her second birthday and I'm pretty sure she has 1000 words!!!

Her favorite game is listing the names of everyone we know.

Treat, please!

Happy Halloween!

Ellie had a fabulous time trick-or-treating in Ma-mop's and Ba-pop's neighborhood.

Instead, of saying trick-or-treat Ellie choose to get right to the point by saying

"Treat, please"

As you can see the idea of filling her basket with candy made Ellie VERY happy!

p.s. In case you didn't recognize her, Ellie was dressed up as Abby Cadabby from Sesame Street.