Sitting up!

Our little bear can finally sit up on her own, although she's not steady enough to walk away from. She also hasn't figured out how to get into that position herself, but I'm sure that will be next. She's rolling all over the place.

Surprise Daddy!

Today, we surprised Daddy at work. Elle had a great time hanging out with Daddy and all the girls. Thanks for all the cuddles. Love, Elle

Look at Pat multitasking. . . Leave it to a woman!

Sunday Brunch at Iron Hill!

On Sunday, Shawn and I took Elle to brunch at one of our favorite restaurants. Elle had a great time watching all of the people and playing with some of her favorite toys while we ate lunch. Shawn and I enjoyed the time to catch up and spend a morning out with our little girl. (Now if I could just get her to take that pacifier out of her mouth long enough for a picture)

Happy 6th Month Birthday Elle!

What a happy little 6 month old! Elle celebrated her 1/2 birthday on December 3rd. At 6 months, Elle is 17.5 lbs (75%) and 26 1/2 inches in length (80%). Elle is now sleeping in her crib and putting herself to sleep (no more rocking, yeah!), she is chewing on everything in sight and has even cut her first two teeth. They are both on the bottom. She can roll over in both directions, and sit up, although she can't yet get herself into that position. She is starting to sample some solid foods. So far, she likes brown rice cereal, sweet potatoes, carrots, and bananas. She loves kisses and laughs hysterically when put in front of any mirror. Elle's a mommy AND daddy's girl, although she likes mom to put her to bed. Shawn and I can't get over how much she's grown in the last 6 months. Happy Birthday little bear!

SANTA!!!!

While I spent the day shopping with my mom, Shawn took Elle to the Ivyland train to see Santa and take a ride. Granny, Pop-Pop Dutch, and Great -Granny all had a great time. Thanks to Aunt Christy, who works for the railroad, for providing such a great day.

Elle and Daddy

"Thanks Granny! This is delicious."

Turkey Day!

Elle enjoyed her first Thanksgiving at her Great-Granny's house. Shawn's entire family was there to celebrate and "kick off" the holiday season. Below are some pictures of Elle and her cousin Ryan (they are six days apart in age)

"Where's my beer?"

Gobble . . .gobble!

Elle and Ryan

Who Said Modeling Was Easy?

Getting a five month old to pose for a Christmas picture is no easy task. I was so proud of myself as I dressed Elle in preparation for her Christmas card photo. Little did I know how difficult it would be to capture. Keep checking your mailboxes, as the finished product will be delivered soon. Here are some of our out-takes.

Elle's New Trick!

Way to go Ellie!

Our Favorite Doc!

It took five long months, but we finally got a picture of Elle with the doctor who delivered her. Thanks Dr. Hirshman for the great care you gave my mommy and me. Love, Elle.

. . .and our favorite nurse, Cheryl

5 Month Update!

On November 3, 2008, Elle celebrated her 5 month birthday. We can't get over how much she's changed in such a few short months. Everyday, she surprises us with something new. Here is an update of her likes, dislikes, and major milestones.

Likes:

• Cuddling
• Reading stories
• Hop and Bananas
• Playing Peek-A-Boo
• Tickles
• "Father Abraham"
• Mr. Butterfly (a gift from Uncle Denny John)
• her pacifier
• chewing on anything and everything
• car rides
• the bjorn
• sitting up
• standing up
• bathtime
  
• MY SWADDLE!!!!!!!!
  

Dislikes:

• laying on her tummy
• loud noises
  
• her infant seat
• sleeping unswaddled
• getting out of the bath

Major Milestones:

Elle can-

• smile
• coo
• laugh
• sit supported
• grab and play with a toy
• stand with hands held
• play peek-a-boo
• roll over
• sleep through the night (although she hasn't been doing a lot of that lately)
• Sleep in her crib !!!!! (Yeah, we're finally there!!! Next, we tackle the swaddle!!!!)
  

Here are some pictures of Elle's first experiences with rice cereal. They are priceless.

Trick or Treat!

"Trick or Treat, Daddy!"
Elle and I surprised Shawn at work on this Hallow's Eve. Isn't our little kitty a stitch?!

ROARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR . . .

I mean . . .MEOWWWWWWWW!

Elle enjoyed some cuddles from the fantastic ladies in the office, Deb and Pat.