My Little Girl

My final post for now is just one with a few pictures of Ella.  I've said it again and again--I can't believe how quickly she's growing up.  I feel like once she turned one, she took off.  She's this little girl now.  She's funny and charming and opinionated.  She has so much personality.  She never ceases to amaze me.  As she's learning to say more and more words, and finding different ways to express herself, I am just overwhelmed with pride at how she's developing into this person all her own.  I'm sure every mom feels this way, but as much as I dread the tantrum-y toddler years, I am loving this moment in her life.  It's just so unique.  She has learned to say "I love you" and give hugs and kisses.  She is so affectionate and kind and compassionate.  I just can't believe I get to be a part of her journey.  Feeling so truly blessed.

She loves to grab a purse/bag/tote and pretend to leave the house.  She'll come give me a kiss and say "bye!" as she walks to the door...just like her dad does every morning.  Melts my heart every time.

I also love watching her eat her breakfast every morning.  She's just so content sitting at the table and feeding herself while I get things started for the day.

She's also super helpful and very excited that her baby brother will be joining us soon.  Here she is helping Dad put together some drawers for the new nursery. 

My most recent picture of her (from this week).  Ella started going to a class at the Kidspace museum with her Grandma.  I thought it would be a nice time for her to share with Grandma, especially with a new baby brother on the way.  She loves the class and is super excited every time Grandma comes to pick her up.  Here she is insisting on carrying her own lunchbox.