Traveling...

By titling this post "traveling" I wish I could tell you about numerous family vacations, but instead, I am referring to all the traveling Dan is doing for work. He has been crazy busy and has spent most of July and August out of town. The girls and I are trying to make the time go by faster by planning play dates, going to the park (when weather permits) and visiting with family. A few weeks ago while Dan was here for a few days we made it to an ice cream party where there was a "balloon maker". Ava was very excited that she asked for a mermaid and that was exactly what she got! "Just like Ariel" she said. Ella could care less about the balloons, but Ava requested a flower for her...

When Dan left again we were paid another visit from Linzy, Brian and Ashton! The weather was a little cooler this time so we were able to play outside for a bit, which always helps break up the day!! Here is Ashton enjoying the clubhouse...
Believe it or not, we are still trying to get Ava to smile normal. She now keeps here eyes open, which is a plus, but now she always tucks her lips in tight?! I can't wait till saying "smile" results in just a plain simple smile!
Ella, on the other hand, is a ham! Our challenge with her is catching a smile before she is moving onto something else. I got lucky here!

Here is a quick shot of Ava showing off her strength....notice the intense concentration!

Ella is still into everything! She recently said a few words..."puppy" and "please" however, I have been unable to get her to repeat them again. She loves to sing, although humming is probably a more appropriate word. You just say " can you sing me a song Ella?" and she hums away! She loves music, food, dancing, and chasing Ava. She hates being restrained in any seat, especially her highchair! Her laugh is contagious and her size is perfect. She's grown so much but is still small enough to cuddle with and rock(when she lets me).

While the weather was cooler we made it to the park a few times...both girls LOVE the park! Probably can't tell by Ella's face, but I missed the smile that time!

Ava's favorite part of the park is usually the swings, while Ella's favorite part is anywhere that I am not! I spend the whole time chasing her and of course she doesn't want any help.

Just last week Ella was trying to put on her own shoes only knowing they go on her feet. And she got a pair of Ava's underware out of a clean laundry basket and tried to put them on, only knowing to put her legs through a hole. Needless to say she was unsuccessful in both of these tasks, but if this is any sign as to how independent she is, then we are in trouble! However, if she is this eager to be wearing underware, maybe it's a good thing?

We have also enjoyed a few Saturdays out at G-ma and G-pa F's house. Ava loves to go for rides on what she believes to be the lawn mower. She doesn't look too thrilled here because she did not want to hold onto Ella....gotta love the sisterly love!

Hopefully I will have more to report soon. Once the weather stays cool we plan to be outside much more and those make for the best pictures!