Modes of Transportation

Our little Clara is so sweet, but she definitely has a mind of her own. She has decided to forgo the tradition mode of crawling, too boring, for two alternatives.

First, her Army crawl. It really does look like shes a wounded solider crawling across a beach trying to escape enemy gunfire.

She also scoots. I tell everyone about how she scoots. They think it sounds cute until they see her do it and start to laugh at how funny it is. My family has started calling her "Scooter".

See for yourself.

Ellie's Birthday

We had Ellie's birthday party before the actual day. So for her real birthday we had a whole fun day of events planned.

First, her birthday breakfast of choice, French Toast.

Next she got to open presents from Mom and Dad. She had enough at her party so we saved ours for later.

Happy to show off her new "Mariposa" Barbie.

Some new silky butterfly pajamas to match her butterfly barbie.

Modeling her new birthday outfit. She had requested a new dress.

It was then time for lunch and her restaurant of choice, Chili's.
After lunch we then headed to Build-a-Bear. Ellie picked a pink leopard which she named Elle. McKay picked a brown bear he named Heart Friend.
After stuffing the animals and combing them, we let the kids pick out outfits for them. Ellie picked a pink miniskirt, pink sequins tank top, and pick sequins shoes for Elle. McKay picked a Buzz Lightyear ensemble for Heart Friend.
After Build-a-Bear we went to see Enchanted. It was just as good the second time.

Ellie had a wonderful fun filled day for her birthday.

Ellie's Birthday Party

Ellie's birthday was on a Tuesday but we had her party the Saturday before. She had long before decided upon an Animal party so we did our best. My favorite find for the party decor were the tiger, zebra, and leopard print balloons. The party was a success and a good time was had by all. It was fun to have all our family over to help celebrate. Thanks to everyone that was there.
Mckensie & Aaron
Clara & Whitnie
Dad and the birthday girl.
Barbie fashions courtesy of Grandma Sherrie.

It wouldn't be an animal party without some lions. Thanks Aunt Lindsay.
Her Madagascar cake.
"Make a wish." Enjoying the frosting off the bottom of the animals.

We are so happy to have this wonderful 4 year old in our life. She is a true joy!

First Ski Lesson

Ryan took Ellie up to Sundance for her first ski lesson a few weeks back. She had a great time and did a wonderful job. They have even been back another time since. I guess Ryan's experience as a ski instuctor is coming in handy.
They met up with Whitnie and Jackson up there. Whitnie was our camera person so we have some great video shots of Ellie and her Dad. Occasionaly Ryan would let go of Ellie and have her ski down the mountain to crash into Whit. Here's to a lifetime of skiing, and maybe next time we can even get McKay to go.