World o' Ellie

Nanny Daycare...

2012-01-18T19:58:00.002-05:00

...is now open for business. Actually, it opened Tuesday but you know how lax we are with updates these days. Anyhow, EM is back at work and Colby is all hers (Ellie too, after preschool). Day one, as I understand it, went fairly well (perhaps thanks to Pa being able to help a bit?). Day two (today), on the other hand, not so much. Primarily, because Ellie decided to be difficult. End result? The dollhouse (you know, the one from Christmas) is ours (for the time being).

-ED

Recap and resolution

2011-12-31T18:12:00.009-05:00

Anyone paying attention to this blog knows that we've done an awful job of updating this blog for some time now. Moreover, we've been especially bad about capturing and posting photos of Colby.

On that note, Colby is doing well for the most part. The smiles, in particular, are becoming more frequent. He could still stand to sleep better. In fact, what you'll see in these photos is that he has no problem sleeping on others. The problem is at night. In his crib. Alone. He's eating all the time, too. This kid is a chunker. By our best guess, he is weighing in at approximately 15lbs - and he's just two months! We'll get more specifics on that after a regular check up with Dr. Betsy next week.

Anyhow, this recap, with photos, captures our holiday season. But with this recap comes this New Year resolution: we will try to do better with photos of our baby boy.

Nanny, Ellie and Colby at my office prior to taking in the Christmas parade.

Colby with Aunt Brandi. We exchanged gifts with my side of the family at her house.

Grammy and Poppy got Ellie a really cute froggy hat.

Christmas at our house. Santa brought an awesome dollhouse.

Nanny and Pa got Ellie a cool scooter.

Ellie got to hang out with her favorite cousin, "Jakey-boy."

Aaaawww....

-ED

Merry... oops!

2011-12-26T16:47:00.002-05:00

For the first time since Ellie's birth, there is no family Christmas card/photo to post. How sad (slack) is that? Oh well. Colby's first Christmas went well. Nothing much to report, really. Ellie's fifth, on the other hand, was a smashing success... topped off with a huge dollhouse. She loves it. The evidence being we've hardly seen her/heard from her since.

-ED

Lazy day

2011-12-11T17:55:00.002-05:00

EM's exhausted. I'm dealing with lingering cold symptoms. Colby is sleeping. And Ellie is sick. As such, we've not done a darn thing today but lay around. Not much fun to report from the Addison home.

-ED

Sparse updates

2011-11-27T20:41:00.002-05:00

The frequency of posts have been considerably less over the last two years or so, and I didn't expect Colby's birth to change that. That said, I do feel I owe an apology to our fans (and him) for not having more content (photos) posted. Obviously, a great deal of this has to do with second baby syndrome, but I believe there's more to it than that.

For example, when Ellie was born I had six weeks off from work - this time two. I also worked a different schedule that allowed me more free time. Another difference would be... Ellie. It's hard to do all that has to be done and care for a toddler and a baby and update this blog. Of course, Colby is different too.

I don't know how to say this without it coming across badly, and that certainly is not the intent. But, it strikes me that he is a needier/fussier baby than Ellie was and that comes with a whole other set of challenges/stresses.

Oh, and then there's fall yard work, Thanksgiving/Christmas and illnesses that have been passed around by the three of us (how he has remained healthy is beyond me).

Put it all together, and it makes sense. I don't feel any better about it... the sparse updates, that is... but, I wanted to note, for the record, why it is what it is.

Looking back at posts for her around this same time frame, I wrote about her being a blob (Colby is too, of course) and I shared this special moment (one of my personal favorites). So, it would seem that our little guy is right on track with his big sister. That means the fun should be right around the corner.

-ED

My kids: 5, Bad guys: 0

2011-11-05T15:29:00.002-05:00

I was worried this time around. I figured with Colby in the fold, there'd be enough of a change in the air to jeopardize Ellie's perfect record versus the lowly tarholes. But my kids continue to work their good-luck-magic as the Wolfpack won today 13-0 (the first shutout in the series in about fifty years).

We're the red and white from State,
and we know we are the best.
Hands behind our back,
we can take on all the rest.
GO TO HELL Carolina!
Devils and Deacs stand in line.
The red and white from NC State.
Go State!

-ED

Delivery recap

2011-11-01T19:05:00.005-05:00

After Ellie's birth, I did my best to recall that day in this post. So here I am four years later attempting to do the same as it relates to Colby. Spoiler alert: it's not nearly as dramatic.

Back then I worked odd hours. Now I work a pretty normal day. On the day of Colby's birth, it started like any other work day: got up, let Ellie watch a show, showered/dressed, fed her, let the dogs out, left for school. Well, while all of this was going on my phone was ringing and ringing, but I was oblivious to it... it was in a far off room and I was "in the zone." Turns out it was EM. See, she had a regularly scheduled doctor's appointment that morning.

At the appointment she was informed they found a small tear in her water. She was ordered to check into labor and delivery immediately. They were going to induce her. So EM had been calling me to give me the latest info. When I realized she had been calling, I figured something was up. But I wanted to get Ellie to school first. Once that was accomplished, I spoke to EM and she updated me. (Actually, I think the delay in talking was helpful because a. it helped me finish my morning without panic, and b. it enabled her to think thru and line up plans for when Ellie was done with school.)

I was to meet her at the hospital asap. So I cleared my calendar, went home, changed clothes and let the dogs out. By the time I got to EM, she was in the delivery room and well taken care of by our nurse, Celeste (she, by the way, informed EM she was a recent grad and was excited to be working her dream job). It was close to 10am. EM was fine, and so we began the wait. By noon the epidural was in and Nanny had arrived. Aunt Katie got there probably around 1pm with lunch for us. Team Baby was reunited, and ready to go at a moments notice. Good thing, too, because by 3pm EM was fully dilated and the pushing began.

There were a few pushes, just the nurse and the rest of us, before Dr. Lipscomb came in (he delivered Ellie too). A few more pushes and Colby was born. It was 4pm. I don't mean to understate this, and I certainly don't mean to speak for EM, but it was that quick and easy (especially compared to Ellie). And that is a good thing.

-ED

Memories

2011-10-28T19:50:00.002-05:00

There are a good many things about Ellie, the early years, that I can't remember; things that seemed important back then don't register now. For instance, EM will ask me if I remember how long it took for Ellie to sleep soundly and I can't recall. Or, she'll ask if I remember how often she fed initially and, again, I draw blanks. So I've been reviewing this blog to get some clues to these and other question. And while I can't specifically remember the time surrounding this post, I suspect we were living an existence very similar to the one we are living now: little sleep paired with much fussiness. It's not fun. But, as this blog reminds me, better times will follow. Soon.

-ED

PS - First visit to the pediatrician went well. Colby is right on track.

Happy Birthday, bro!

2011-10-25T21:32:00.001-05:00

Ellie (and the rest of us) welcomed her brother into the world today! Colby Brent is 8lbs, 10oz. Mommy and baby are healthy and happy. More to follow....

-ED

Me too

2011-10-15T18:35:00.002-05:00

Overheard from a fussy, little girl this evening: "I want everything to go my way."

-ED

Any day now...

2011-10-11T18:43:00.003-05:00

...we'll officially be a family of four. Our little boy had an original due date of November 2. At EM's last ultrasound (three weeks ago?), she was told that if she has not delivered by October 26 they will induce her (the tech, to EM's dismay, said repeatedly in her Asian accent "he's a very big boy"). This past Thursday she unexpectedly visited the doctor due to a great deal of discomfort. At that visit she learned that she'd dilated 2cm and the doctor predicted it'll be a week to a week and a half at a maximum before the boy is born. So here we are, nearly a week later and we're still waiting. As I said, any day now....

-ED

Getting her kicks

2011-09-30T02:35:00.001-05:00

This fall, we have introduced Ellie to soccer. Of course, at this age it's just a primer... no real skill or competition is taking place. The coach has described it as trying to herd cats. That said, she seems to enjoy it.

-ED

Back to school

2011-09-12T19:23:00.003-05:00

OK. I'm a week late with this one... but, Ellie is back in school and loving it. She's in the same preschool as last year. However, this year she is one of the "big" kids and she goes four days per week as opposed to three days (like last year). Next year: kindergarten.

-ED

Awwww!

2011-08-24T18:45:00.003-05:00

This morning, Ellie said about the sweetest thing I can remember.

I had just laid her breakfast out in front of her. She had a cartoon on, and I said "Is there anything else you need before I get in the shower?"

She looked at the tv, then at me, then at her breakfast, and replied "Just a little kiss from you."

She got what she wanted, and melted my heart in the process. Such a sweet girl.

-ED

She's mine

2011-08-11T05:02:00.002-05:00

For as long as I can remember, I've laughed in my sleep. Not all the time. Not even regularly. However, I can remember occasionally waking myself up due to laughing so much/hard. It's weird, I'm sure. But it's the truth. Even EM has caught me doing it.

This morning, Ellie was sleeping while I was getting ready for work... and then I heard it over the monitor. A chuckle. Then a little more. Then silence. It was clear, at least to me, she was laughing in her sleep.

It is simply one more characteristic we share. Facial features, expressions, temperment, laughing in our sleep. One more bit of proof she's mine.

-ED

Mountains

2011-07-29T05:32:00.000-05:00

Party

2011-07-28T17:28:00.000-05:00

Museum

2011-07-28T04:25:00.000-05:00

Beach

2011-07-27T17:23:00.001-05:00

Too quiet, too long

2011-07-27T05:21:00.002-05:00

Sorry. No real excuse. But we haven't been sitting around ignoring the blog, either. I'll present, over the next few days, a photo summary of the last month.

-ED

By the way...

2011-06-19T07:55:00.000-05:00

...we went, as a family, for the sonogram this past week. Ellie's gonna have a baby brother. She's very excited. Now for a name....

-ED

Happy Birthday!!!

2011-06-18T19:41:00.002-05:00

I'm disappointed in myself... for the first time, I failed to make this post on the appropriate day. In all fairness though, yesterday was jammed busy.

The day started with a special birthday breakfast treat for me and my girl. Then she got to enjoy breakfast with Nanny and Pa. I can't recall how Ellie and Nans spent the morning, but they joined me for lunch. After doing who knows what during the afternoon, EM and I took Ellie out to dinner at her favorite restaurant. This was followed by ice cream and shopping.

Today, we spent the morning preparing for her birthday party. Her party featured Aunt Katie, Kinsey and Jack, among others. Nanny and Pa got Ellie her first big girl bike. Ellie was well-behaved and did her best to show affection and appreciation to all.

As if this weren't enough, we've also been prepping for our annual trip to the beach... we leave tomorrow. So, again, while I'm disappointed, I'm gonna try and cut myself some slack.

Happy Birthday, Ellie Rose! Mommy and I love you so much!!!

-ED

Little reader

2011-06-07T19:58:00.003-05:00

Ellie is trying her best to read. Obviously, she's got a way to go but the effort is clearly there. Today, she was trying to read Nanny's mug. The mug reads "Life is a bitch." She spelled b-i-t-c-h and asked Nanny what word that is. Try as she might, Nanny could not fool her with alternate words (I'm envisioning Nanny saying "witch" and Ellie responding "that doesn't start with a B" and so on). Anyhow, Nanny broke down and told her it's a bad word and she need not worry about it (or she need not know what it is). Suffice it to say, Nanny will be drinking from a new mug tomorrow.

-ED

Summertime!

2011-06-01T20:56:00.002-05:00

I meant to post this sooner than I did, but life got in the way.... Anyhow, this year of preschool came to an end last week for Ellie. The director hosted a pool party. EM and Nans were in attendance. By all accounts Ellie had fun, and did well. I know she's looking forward to returning in the fall, but for now I'm sure her and Nans will keep each other entertained.

-ED

Jealous

2011-05-11T19:58:00.000-05:00

Last night Ellie nearly cried herself to sleep. She insisted she was excited about the new baby, but she was very, very sad that EM might not be able to hold her and the new baby. We did our best to explain how perhaps I could hold the baby while EM holds her (or vice versa); and, we did our best to emphasize how much we love her and how that won't change. I think we might need to spend more time reinforcing that concept.

-ED

Breaking the news....

2011-05-11T19:52:00.000-05:00

So as you know, we are expecting baby #2. Ellie did not know this, not til Easter anyhow. We took a trip, with Nanny, to meet EM's first nephew (Ellie's first cousin on that side of the family), Jacob. Jacob is about three months old.

After Ellie spent some time with him, and started to grasp the concept of what a little baby is all about, we told her. Her response, "that's awesome!" So we spent the rest of that visit trying to reinforce the concept.

Ever since we delivered the news, she's been very upbeat about it. She is constantly touching EM's belly and talking to the baby. Our little one has a great deal of love to offer, and we are confident she'll make a great big sister.

-ED

#2

2011-04-18T19:26:00.005-05:00

As was hinted at last month, we are expecting baby number two! EM had a doctor visit today and heard the heartbeat; she's twelve weeks along, with a due date of November 2. We've made no mention to Ellie, yet. That's coming soon enough.

As of now, I think there are three big questions: 1. How can we manage another child? We're beat at the end of each day as it is; 2. Boy or girl? We should find out in June; and, 3. What becomes of this blog? I imagine second baby syndrome is bad enough as it is; I don't know that baby two would stand a chance if he/she was just another "character" at World o' Ellie.

-ED

"I'm awake"

2011-04-09T19:46:00.004-05:00

For as long as she has been able to utter those words, that is how EM and I have started our days. That is, for nearly four years, one of us has always gotten up, gone to Ellie's room, and picked her up from her crib/bed. A week ago that began to change.

Monday morning, she uttered those words. But by the time I was able to get to her, we were meeting in the hall. The following day, EM had left for work (as she normally does) long before the little one and I awoke; and, I was greeted, in my room, by the newly brave and independent Ellie. This happened once or twice more during the week and then again today.

As such, EM and I might have to start discussing whether to lock the door or not....

-ED

A prayer wrapped in a riddle (or is it the other way around?)

2011-03-29T19:30:00.006-05:00

EM's not been feeling well of late. We've got a handle on it, so no worries. But today, while playing outside at Nanny's, Ellie apparently looked up to the sky and said "Dear God, please make my mommy feel better. And, dear God, please give me a baby brother or sister." Care to figure out the rest? -ED

Smart

2011-03-27T15:13:00.004-05:00

For those keeping score at home, you know we've not been shy about declaring how impressed we are with Ellie's mental prowess. Don't look for that to change anytime soon; she continues to impress. Ellie is reading a wide assortment of "sight" words, spelling many of those same words, and doing well with some basic addition (and, to a lesser extent, subtraction). My only worry is, as she advances, how do we maintain her interest in learning? Suggestions are welcome.

-ED

Nightmare

2011-03-26T09:56:00.002-05:00

At approximately 3:30 this morning, Ellie could be heard over the baby monitor: "I'm scared." EM checked on her. She was having a nightmare about skunks. EM stayed with her a while, and suggested she think of pleasant thoughts. Ellie's response: "I'm thinking of yellow playdoh."

Over the years we've been awakened for any number of reasons. But to my recollection, this was the first time she clearly articulated a nightmarish scenario. We pressed her for details later. She said the skunks were spraying people. Yuck. I might have been disturbed by that dream, too.

I'm debating introducing her to PePe LePew via YouTube.

-ED

PS - We've discussed when do we stop using the baby monitor. The jury is still out on that one. But 18 doesn't sound too unreasonable.

Pinkie promise

2011-02-17T17:42:00.003-05:00

I normally drop Ellie off in the morning for preschool, but due to work I never get to pick her up. Today, I was home sick (again) but I felt relatively well enough that I figured, "what the heck? I should pick up my daughter for once." Driving home, Ellie asks me to make a pinkie promise.

Me: What's the promise?
Ellie: That I'll be good tonight for Mommy.
Me: That sounds nice, dear.
Ellie: And if I'm not I lose a star.

The night isn't over yet but so far, so good.

-ED

Thank you

2011-02-16T09:50:00.002-05:00

Just when I needed it most, Ellie has been at her best. The little stinker knows what's she's doing. Sometimes, of course, that's a bad thing; but for now, all I can do is praise her.

-ED

Friends

2011-01-17T08:59:00.001-05:00

She said what?

2011-01-13T21:28:00.003-05:00

Ellie played a game with me this morning as we prepared to leave the house. The game is "guess the animal":

Ellie: I'm pink with long legs, what am I?
Me: A flamingo! Next...
Ellie: I'm found by paleontologists....

I'm blown away by this, only to have EM remind me that one of Ellie's favorite computer games features this word/occupation significantly. But still....

-ED

P.S. The Christmas play rescheduled to January has now been rescheduled for February. Can anyone say "Christmas in July"?

Santa brought what I wanted. . .

2010-12-25T15:55:00.001-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

Coal

2010-12-19T21:04:00.002-05:00

Pretty sure if Santa stopped by the house today, she'd get nothing but coal... and deservedly so. It's really hard to describe just how frustrated and mad she has had EM and I at different times this weekend. It's also hard to believe that for all we do to make her life better she at times seems hell bent on making ours worse. I know it can't be intentional at her age, but there are times when I can't be so sure. And for all the yelling and threatening and disciplining that goes on during a weekend like this, I'm sure when she's a head-strong, hormonal teen I'll look back on all of this as being a cakewalk. But for now, if I could get away with it, I would like to return all her gifts and cancel Christmas.

-ED

PS - As if all this weren't bad enough, EM's birthday was this weekend. Happy-freaking-birthday, baby.

Drat

2010-12-16T20:45:00.002-05:00

I was planning on making a post today, complete with video, recapping Ellie's performance in her first school play. Sadly, a dose of winter weather changed those plans. The play will now take place in January. In the meantime, the Christmas celebrations are about to get underway... first stop: Grammy's this weekend.

-ED

Three things...

2010-11-30T20:49:00.002-05:00

...I forgot to mention. Ellie can count to 30-something on her own. She can also do some simple addition/subtraction. Finally, she can spell/read several simple words... in/out, stop/go, on/off are some that come to mind as well as her colors. I don't have anyone to compare her to, but I think she's pretty darn smart.

-ED

Long-overdue-update

2010-11-28T10:19:00.006-05:00

I guess this entry should begin with an apology - sorry for being slack with the updates. There's really no excuse for going this long without posting something (other than my football post last week which I hope morphs into a long, long tradition). That said, there hasn't been a whole lot going on; and, in my efforts to provide this update I'm sure I'll forget something/someone. Perhaps EM can cover for me in case I do suffer such a lapse....

Ellie is enjoying preschool. She's made several friends (Emma, Colt, Isis (her best friend) are just some of the names that come to mind), and enjoyed "trunk or treating" with them while dressed as a witch. And, as I lay in bed sick (special thanks I'm sure is owed to one of her little preschool friends), she went "trick-or-treating" with EM, Nanny and Pa.

Ellie has really been intrigued this year by the change of seasons. However, more than the change of seasons she especially enjoys the varied celebrations... Halloween... Thanksgiving... Christmas. Of course, I think this comes mostly from preschool and the different crafts they work on that are seasonally appropriate. (By the way, if you're looking for gift ideas - mind you, I'm not soliciting - anything in the arts/crafts genre will be a big hit with our little one.)

In closing, I'll note that Ellie will participate in a Christmas play at preschool next month. She has a spoken part, one that she memorized in the span of an hour. We are now working with her on speaking slowly and clearly so that everyone can understand her (the way she recites it now, she says it so fast it sounds like a jumbled mess). Hopefully, we'll have video to share following her acting debut.

-ED

The Streak

2010-11-20T21:44:00.005-05:00

I know an update is long overdue. But before I get to that, I just wanted to point out that Ellie is 4-0 vs. the Tar Heels following today's victory. Could there be a better good luck charm?

We're the red and white from State,

and we know we are the best.

Hands behind our back,

we can take on all the rest.

GO TO HELL CAROLINA!

Devils and Deacs stand in line.

The red and white from NC STATE.

Go State!

-ED

Our first parent teacher conference

2010-10-12T15:47:00.005-05:00

While Ellie stayed home with Nans tuesday am ED and myself went to Ellie's first preschool conference.

We are very fortunate to have a great local preschool that has similar learning goals as we do.

The head teacher, Ms. B, brings the children into her room one on one in the week leading up to the conference. Each child is given a set of tasks to complete. The results are reviewed with us.

The tasks that were given to Ellie are all similar to things we have done and do with her on a daily basis. Ellie is able to do all of these things (cut a line with scissors, count to 10, recognize letters not in ABC order, follow three step directions, match similar objects, etc.). The amazing thing is that she didn't do all these things for Ms. B. She would show her some things and then just become silly.

I walked away having to remind myself that she is 3. As Ms. B said "she is intelligent, but she has the maturity of a three year old."

Ellie is our little smarty pants and she makes us proud.

BTW- Her fever finally broke and she is starting to feel better. We have a little ways to go but the end of this virus is in site.

-EM

Our little sickie

2010-10-12T15:39:00.002-05:00

We have been so lucky to have made it 3 plus years without too many illnesses. Ellie started with cold symptoms this past friday and since then has been the sickest we have seen her. Two visits to the doctor and a few calls to the nurse line and it is just a virus that needs to run its' course.

Our little one LOVES to drink, especially soy milk. If she had her way she would drink it all day with no limits. All signs pointed to really sick when she started turning her milk away.

This morning the fever broke for a while and Ellie at more at lunch then she had in days, but still no real desire for soy milk. I'll know we are in the clear when this returns.

Fingers crossed that this is the worst we pick up at preschool for the time being and that she wakes up feverless from her 4 plus hour nap.

Visit to the Fall Festival

2010-10-09T16:12:00.002-05:00

Treasure Land

2010-10-07T06:12:00.002-05:00

The teachers at Ellie's preschool are using a reward system for good behavior. After about two weeks of helping the kids learn the system the teachers rewarded those who have been behaving well. Ellie was one of them. She was rewarded with a trip to treasure land. Ellie picked an item for nans and one for pa. I love that this was a reward for her, but she wanted to get something for someone else. She is the sweetest.

We have been spending quite a bit of time trying to curb Ellie's drive to be first at everything. I appreciate her motivation and hope that she continues to have some of this drive as she gets older, but at this point always being first doesn't fly in preschool. After her visit to treasure land a note came home from one of her teachers that after her treasure trip she was heard saying, "I'll always be second so that I can go to treasure land again."

Papa Smurf?

2010-09-27T18:52:00.002-05:00

Ellie is enjoying preschool, and seems to be doing well. She's only been in timeout once! One of the things she most looks forward to is show-and-tell. Tonight, in asking what she'll bring this week, she said she wanted to bring silly bands.

EM: Have any of the other kids brought in silly bands?
Ellie: The blue kid.

You see, she's made one friend thus far (and I apologize for not remembering her name). Ellie talks about that friend by name; however, all the other kids are apparently nameless.

-ED

Mommy and Ellie Weekend

2010-09-14T13:33:00.002-05:00

This past weekend ED headed to Las Vegas for a trip with some long time friends. Nans and Pa headed to the beach for a work/fun trip. That left Ellie and myself alone with 2 doggies. We had fun together. We missed everyone ALOT, but we enjoyed the time together.

On Friday we went to the library for story time. We brought home a bunch of books. She loves to read so much. We have read them all a gagillion times.

On Saturday Ellie gave me two Dora stickers for "being so good to her."

On Sunday Ellie told me that "she belongs to me."

On Monday Ellie asked "when will I get my own doctor's office?" She wants to grow up and be a doctor "since she has so many doctor toys."

We had fun, but we missed everyone!
-EM

First Day of School

2010-09-08T04:20:00.002-05:00

The first day of preschool seemed to go great! Ellie barely looked back when Daddy dropped her off. She seemed to enjoy her day. The only comment from the teachers was about Ellie always wanting to be first. This is no surprise to us. We have been working on this ALL summer.

It is amazing the drive this girl has to be first at everything, first up the stairs, first out the door, first on the potty. It is deep inside of her. It seems that preschool is the only answer to reigning this in. In fact, I think in one day and she has made progress . . . .

Later in the evening we were letting the dogs out as a family.

ED opened the door.

I said "Let Daddy and the doggies go out first."

Ellie said "It is good to go second."

Preschool is good!

Another first

2010-09-06T17:37:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow, September 7th, begins a new first for our baby girl... preschool. Should be interesting, and full of bloggable material. Stay tuned....

-ED

My name

2010-08-23T17:51:00.001-05:00

from right to left l, l, e, e, i

Ellie has known how to spell her name for a long time. Tonight I asked her to write her name. We have not been practicing. Occasionally when drawing I may ask her to draw a letter, but never her name.

So I was floored with the above attempt.

The letters may be written randomly on the page, but she got them all
right BY HERSELF!

In the interests of...

2010-08-13T19:03:00.002-05:00

...being "fair and balanced," I must report that Ellie has been better behaved today. Included in this "about face" was a surprise visit for lunch at my office (thanks Nans).

-ED

Happy Bday?

2010-08-12T20:22:00.003-05:00

Today is my bday. No big deal, really. But, it would be nice to have a little girl who isn't whining, crying and fussing all day long. Alas, that is not what we got at all. In fact, from the moment she woke up she's pretty much been a terror. Really. I can't think of the last time I saw/heard EM this mad. Maybe next year will be better.

-ED

Punchline

2010-07-28T11:49:00.001-05:00

Can't say more at this time... but, the punchline is "Boofameyer."

-ED

Our solar system and... jewelry

2010-07-20T19:27:00.004-05:00

On the ride home, following a tremendously awful day, the little one and I had the following exchange (after discussing what planet everyone lives on):

Ellie: Daddy, what are the names of the other planets?
Me: Mercury, Venus... etc.
Ellie: Which one has the rings?
Me: Saturn. Why?
Ellie: It's my favorite. The rings around it are like bracelets.

-ED

Trying to stay cool

2010-07-10T10:41:00.002-05:00

It's July. It's hot. Consequently, we're not doing much other than playing inside. That said, we will attend Kinsey's birthday party today - our little bit of excitement for the month.

Of course, the concept of staying cool also applies to us as it relates to our little one's temperament. She has been a bit prone, I guess as all toddlers are, to little fits/outbursts. It's a trying task to manage. We can only hope she shows some improvement before preschool starts in the fall.

-ED

Stinky?

2010-06-21T21:23:00.002-05:00

Tonight while posing for pictures with Aunt Katie, we instructed Kinsey and Ellie to kiss Jack on the cheek. Ellie promptly refused, protesting "he smells like a boy." It got a good laugh out of all the adults.

-ED

3!!! (It's the magic number)

2010-06-17T18:47:00.006-05:00

Happy birthday to the sweetest girl I know! What a wonderful three years it's been! I love you!

This "magic number" also represents the number of parties she's had - Grammy's the 5th, ours the 12th, and Nanny and the quilting ladies today. As per usual, Ellie came home from quilting with painted nails (thanks to Ms. Diane). However, today she also came home with her own make-up/glam kit. She is so excited about this gift! I've already had more glittery lotions and balms applied to me than I ever thought possible - she is such a girly, girl.

After dinner tonight, EM and I sang her happy birthday and let her blow out a "3" candle on some leftover ice cream cake. It was a nice, quiet recognition of this very special day.

-ED

Party

2010-06-12T11:57:00.002-05:00

Last week we gathered at Grammy's to celebrate the birthdays of her three June grand babies (including Ellie). It was a nice, albeit hot, gathering and Ellie played nice and had fun.

Today we're having people over to celebrate Ellie's third birthday. Once again, it'll be hot. And aside from the standard birthday fare and the standard cast of characters, this gathering will be special because it will be the first one shared with my dad and step-mom (Lisa).

They arrived last night from Florida. Ellie had never met them prior to yesterday, and while she is still trying to warm up to "grand dad," Ellie has taken to Lisa quickly - it's pretty funny how fast they hit it off.

Anyhow, I'm sure there will be more to write about following the party... we'll see.

-ED

Flying, new bed and classic retort

2010-05-22T14:00:00.000-05:00

NOTE: This entry was originally posted Thursday night, May 20, 2010. However, I was quickly alerted that such a posting would possibly give away a surprise party that was in the works. As such, I've delayed the posting until now. Hope this helps.

Sorry the posting is as sparse as it is. That's what happens when real life and a three (nearly) year old wear you down. Oh well.

In the morning, Ellie and EM join Nanny and Pa for a weekend trip to Philly. Once again, I'll be all by my lonesome (sort of). Ellie seems to be looking forward to the experience (Phil-E-delphia) and flying. I'll certainly miss her.

As EM was packing for the trip, it dawned on us that this is Ellie's last night in her crib. She has never once asked to not sleep in her crib. She's never tried to get out of her crib. We're pretty lucky, I guess. But with her third birthday fast approaching, we've been talking to her about getting "big girl" bedroom furniture. Well, we learned today that the furniture we selected for her arrives Monday. So tonight she's in her crib. Friday and Saturday she's with EM in a hotel bed. Sunday we have to have her old furniture out, so she'll probably sleep on a twin mattress on the floor. Yet another milestone. As much as we're all looking forward to this and we've tried to "talk it up", I feel certain it will ultimately be met with some resistance and tears.

Finally, overheard while packing...
EM (to Ellie): How many times must I repeat myself?!
Ellie (without skipping a beat): Three times.

-ED

Neigh Neigh

2010-04-26T04:45:00.003-05:00

Ellie took to Neigh Neigh sometime in the fall I believe. She loves to sleep with him and pretend to ride on him. His poor neck is getting so floppy from how she holds him.

She really has an affinity for animals. She loves girlie things like princess and jewelry, but animals tend to be at the top.

Her other love is music. She sings and plays her pretend instruments. Over the weekend her and ED came to visit me at a local 5k that I organize. Ellie was insistent for days that she bring her plastic drum with her to play for the runners as they cross the finish. She brought it and played that drum with pride.

Dinner conversation

2010-04-18T17:42:00.002-05:00

Tonight at dinner, and seemingly out of nowhere, Ellie said "damn." Here's what followed:

Me: What?
Ellie: Damn.
EM: Why did you say that?
Ellie: My Mickey phone is broken.
(EM and I struggle to contain our laughter.)
EM (to Ellie): That's not a nice word. Don't say that again.
EM (to me): I blame you.

-ED

Eater Egg Hunts

2010-04-12T04:34:00.002-05:00

These pics are a little late. They are from Easter weekend. Ellie had a great time with two Easter egg hunts. Her favorite part was eating the jelly beans.

Spring Update

2010-03-22T10:07:00.002-05:00

Sorry we have been so behind in posting lately. The days go by so fast. We try to make the most of our time with Ellie and now that spring has arrived we have been trying to spend as much time as possible outside.

So what has Ellie been up to?

-She has been daytime potty trained since last summer, but her recently she is staying dry when sleeping.

-She is SO ready to start preschool. She will be starting in the fall.

-Ellie has memorized just about every book we read to her. I love it. She knows almost every word and can "read" her books to us.

-She LOVES music. It is amazing how music quiets her. She talks so much that it is hard for ED and myself to hold conversations most times, but turn that music on and we can talk all we want.

I will post some pics tomorrow of an outing we took yesterday.
-EM

Two noteworthy moments from a two yr old

2010-03-01T08:02:00.002-05:00

One
Saturday Nans and Pa came to visit for dinner just before Pa was leaving for a business trip to Tenn.

ED whispers to Ellie "Ask Pa to bring you back a souvenir."

Ellie says to Pa "Bring me a super deer."

Pa is going to the yearly Tractor Supply meeting so who knows he might find a "super deer".

Two
Sunday Ellie and I were working on getting her dressed.
Ellie starts whining. I ask her to stop.

She replies "But Mommy I am two."

-EM

Names

2010-02-26T15:05:00.001-05:00

If you read Nans comment on the last post you will see that Ellie's new name is

Ellie Rose Doggie Princess Pirate Queen

or some version of that. I felt this name was worthy of its own post. Ellie gave herself this name. She lives life to the fullest to stand up to this name. At any given time she is all of these people and things. She has quite the imagination.
-EM

Not yet!

2010-02-23T14:42:00.005-05:00

Ellie's tirade of terrible twos has calmed down. She is still two, but she is much more pleasant these days. My theory is that her cranks show their ugly face right after she is sick. Since she is now better health wise, her attitude is improved.

With that said, her favorite phrase right now is "NOT YET". We have been fighting the fight of Mommy, Daddy, and Nans standing our ground versus Ellie trying to get more out of us. It's a tiring and stressful fight at times.

-EM

OMG!

2010-02-15T20:28:00.002-05:00

I can't remember the substance of our last significant bout with the terrible twos. But even if I could remember it, I know it would pale in comparison with this. It's so bad I've had to resort to swatting her butt. It's so bad we're apologizing to friends. It's so bad EM was driven to tears last night. Hell, I think if she were a pet we'd be at the "free to a good home" stage.

-ED

My sickies

2010-02-08T08:58:00.003-05:00

Well ED and Ellie are both sick with a cold. ED came down with it late last week and Ellie started yesterday. Last night Ellie didn't sleep well. She was up around 11pm and again around 3am.

What made her feel better? Sleeping on my cheek. In fact her exact request was "Mommy I want to cuddle with your squishy cheeks." Oh what we will do to keep the little ones happy.

It will be a miracle if I don't have a cold in a few days!

Get better my sickies!
Love-
Mommy

UPDATE: No miracles around here. Sadly.
-ED

She's a girly girl and a Daddy's girl

2010-02-02T16:14:00.005-05:00

Ellie loves jewelry. She adorned herself with every necklace she could find. I thought it was cute so I took some pictures.

Well as I was taking pictures I was telling her to smile, standup, and all those other directives you have to give to a squirmy 2 yr old. Ellie took a few pictures and then she said "I want to do a Daddy face" (for the camera)

This is what she did.

Now to be fair to ED I need to explain. For those of you who know ED well you know that he has a scowl. We have made mention a few times in front of Ellie that she has inherited her Daddy's scowl. Well we didn't realize until yesterday how she had taken note of that.

-EM

The next big step

2010-01-27T20:01:00.002-05:00

EM and I have decided where to send our little one for preschool starting in the fall. Tomorrow I will drop off the application with registration fee. I'll also allow Ellie a little sneak-peak. We've been chatting it up with Ellie as of late, and she is anxious to start. Heck, once we met the director of this particular program, EM and I were excited. I really do think she'll flourish here. I can't wait!

-ED

Under her spell

2010-01-09T21:38:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure if this qualifies... but, today I believe she read/spelled-out her first word all on her own. We were finishing breakfast when out of nowhere she started reading out loud the letters on her plate: "E-L-M-O... Elmo!" I was so proud, and surprised.

-ED

A big thanks...

2010-01-03T12:22:00.002-05:00

...to AK for bringing Kinsey and Jack, her neice and nephew, to the house yesterday for a playdate! I missed (or hid from) a great deal of the activities. However, based on all the laughs and squeals I heard, I think everyone enjoyed themselves. Ellie says she is looking forward to the next playdate so she can share her playground.

-ED

AK

2009-12-30T18:04:00.001-05:00

Minutes ago

Me: "Do you know what kind of work AK does?"

Ellie:"No, what?"

Me:"She is a policewomen. She helps protect us."

Ellie: "Protect us? From what. . . . Poop?"

-EM

Christmas Photos

2009-12-30T12:18:00.005-05:00

Thanks to Nans for the beautiful Christmas dress.

A belated Merry Christmas...

2009-12-28T18:58:00.002-05:00

...to you all! We're doing well. Just busy, I guess. Ellie had a great time opening gifts. That said, I don't know that any gift in particular stands out. She seems to go through cycles of appreciating one gift over another. I guess that's a good thing. Thanks to all who contributed. I would list names, but I don't want to chance leaving someone out by accident. So, again, thanks to all and I hope everyone enjoyed themselves as much as we did. Best wishes!

-ED

Antlers

2009-12-20T20:37:00.005-05:00

Last month I made mention of some reindeer antlers Ellie received. The backstory is as follows. Shortly before the Christmas parade, we started reading "Olive, the Other Reindeer" to Ellie. As a result, she decided she wanted her own set of antlers for Christmas. Nanny, being the awesome Nanny she is, obliged but couldn't resist giving them to her any later than the day of the parade. The photos that follow, taken from that day, also reveal that Nanny couldn't stop at just one set of antlers.

-ED

Not that I needed the reminder...

2009-12-14T21:19:00.001-05:00

...but as I was preparing our departure from nanny daycare today, the little one could be heard saying "Daddy, don't forget me!"

-ED

Queen Contrary

2009-12-05T21:05:00.003-05:00

Ellie is in a phase, or at least I hope it is a phase, where she likes to disagree with us. It's not so bad except it usually manifests itself when she is cranky, and so it comes across as whining or fussing or something like that. Anyhow, the other morning she was doing this as we were headed out the door to "nanny daycare." In the midst of this particular episode, I said "You are so argumentative, aren't you?" Her response: "No, I'm not." All I could do was laugh. That's my girl.

-ED

For the record...

2009-11-29T21:01:00.002-05:00

...Ellie is 3-0 against the Tarheels in football. She napped this year unlike 2008, and there is no "hostage-style" photo like 2007 due to the holiday frenzy of this weekend.

We're the red and white from State,

and we know we are the best.

Hands behind our back,

we can take on all the rest.

GO TO HELL Carolina!

Devils and Deacs stand in line.

The red and white from NC State.

Go State!

-ED

Parade

2009-11-29T09:30:00.003-05:00

Ellie attended her first parade this past week - a Christmas parade.

The town I work in closes down at noon, the day before Thanksgiving, so that everyone can prepare for the parade that begins at 3pm; and, my office was no different. We prepared snacks, etc., for friends and family to munch on while viewing the parade since the route went right past our front door.

Of course, the parade concluded with Santa. Ellie was heard saying, "thanks, Santa, for my set of reindeer antlers" as he rode by. The antlers is a post unto itself. That said, I think she enjoyed the sights and sounds and I'm sure we'll do this again.

The blocks spell "Holiday Caravan" but my pic doesn't convey that. Oops.

Mustard and Christmas go great together, right?!

My girls love a parade!

-ED

The gingerbread girl

2009-11-22T08:43:00.011-05:00

For years now, Aunt Katie has helped an old family friend with a nice, holiday-themed fundraiser. Don't ask me why, because I don't have a good answer, but we never participated until this year. The event: Gingerbread house decorating. The place: Mrs. Pumpkin's Bakery. The cause: The Special Children's School and Family Support Network of Greater Forsyth.

We were greeted by the ever cheerful, Aunt Katie. She led us to our station, complete with gingerbread house with tons of candy on the side. Ellie knew exactly what to do. No, she didn't start eating the candy (EM and I did that). She started putting candy on the house. It was only following the brilliant example of her parents that she started eating the candy.

We were there only a short time. But it was fun. It was for a good cause. And now we have a customized decoration for the home to help us kick start the holidays. Good deal. Thanks, Aunt Katie.

-ED

P.S. - Santa was there, but Ellie wanted nothing to do with him. Surprise.

Lines

2009-11-06T16:28:00.004-05:00

Ellie has a quirk. She has a thing for lining her toys up.

We call ourselves neat and organized. Others call ED and myself anal.

Anyone to guess where Ellie got this affinity for lines?

-EM

*all lines where created exclusively by Ellie

It was a beautiful fall day!

2009-11-03T20:16:00.003-05:00

I got off work a little early today. Ellie and I did a little shopping. We spent most of our time at Borders reading. Then we went home to enjoy the evening outside.

-EM

PS- The picture taking has been lacking in the past few months. Mostly due to the move. We are getting more settled. There should be more pics in the near future.

"Can we go to one more house?"

2009-10-31T18:56:00.004-05:00

Our fairly, little princess did a great job with halloween, and had a great time in the process. But, as was mentioned in the prior post, we'd been working with her in preparation of the festivities and I think that's where the credit lies. Also, props to Nans for the costume - I think if we had let her, Ellie would have slept in her wings and tutu.

Things kicked off Friday at the church with a halloween party. There was food and games and trunk-or-treating. Ellie enjoyed the food; the cupcakes, in particular. She didn't give two cents about the games. Then we wrapped things up with trunk-or-treating. Ellie didn't shy away (as is her tendency around people she isn't overly familiar with) and, in fact, went up to many trunks and said "trick-or-treat" and "thank you" with little to no prompting from us.

As for halloween night, Nans and Pa came over to "help." So after dinner and taking care of a few premature visitors, the five of us headed out around our new neighborhood. Ellie's timing was a bit off in that she said "trick-or-treat" many times before the door opened, but she did a great job nonetheless. And there were several times when we were ready to end it, only to have her ask "can we go to one more house?" All in all, a huge improvement from last year.

-ED

Practice

2009-10-28T19:22:00.002-05:00

We have been practicing our trick-or-treating. Each night this week we have taken Ellie outside, let her knock on the door, one of us opens it from the inside, she then holds out her bag and utters the magic words. The best part is when her and I split the candy afterwards - surprise, surprise. Anyhow, this is all done in the hope that we will avoid any similar problems to those experienced last year.

-ED

Quote of the year?

2009-10-24T19:09:00.000-05:00

"Daddy, I love you. You make my heart feel super happy."

Oink

2009-10-15T18:10:00.004-05:00

Tonight at dinner, Ellie was telling each of us which character - from the show Super Why - we are. The characters consist of Super Why ("with the power to read"), Princess Presto ("with spelling power"), Wonder Red ("with word power"), and Alpha Pig ("with alphabet power"). So when she got to Nanny, she said "Nanny, you're the pig!" Needless to say, Pa, EM and I had a good laugh at poor Nanny's expense. Nothing new. Right, Nans?

-ED

ABCDK

2009-10-12T04:09:00.003-05:00

Ellie has gotten pretty good at her ABCs. Most times she skips from D to K. If you pay attention to the video she actually says all the letters this time.

The smartest girl in the world

2009-10-09T06:15:00.002-05:00

Last night-

Me: "How do you spell your name?"

Ellie: "Ellle"

Not to bad for a 2 year old. I was pretty impressed. Shortly after that conversation I spoke with Nans and Papa. Turns out Ellie and Pa had been practicing spelling her name that morning. I may be partial but I think she is incredibly smart.

-EM

Daddy daycare...

2009-10-07T12:38:00.002-05:00

...is back in session! At least for today. For the first time in a long time I didn't have any court cases scheduled so I decided to give Nanny a break. We had a nice morning followed by visiting mommy at work for lunch. Ellie fell asleep in the car on the way home and is still napping as I type. I enjoy time with my little one, but I enjoy work, too. But most of all, I enjoy knowing that Nanny has generously given of herself so that EM and I can work while having the peace of mind that she is well cared for... it's as if daddy daycare never really ended.

-ED

In the garden

2009-10-05T10:15:00.003-05:00

This weekend was spent redoing the landscaping in front of the new house. Ellie had a great time helping us. She spend a good bit of time entertaining herself with my big bucket of soil. She would get a shovel full and put it in various spots throughout the yard. One time I turned around and Ellie had put about 5 shovelfuls of soil on Spunky. He just laid there and let her do it.

Yesterday afternoon Ellie went on a bug hunt. She took a small handheld mirror, held it up to her eye like a magnifying glass, and yelled "If you see a cool bug, yell cool bug." She was on a mission all afternoon.

Quotable

2009-10-03T20:26:00.004-05:00

Ellie's favorite TV show is Wonder Pets. As it relates to the show, her favorite thing to do by far is sing the theme song. However, she also quotes some lines and tells some stories that are derived from the show. Today, out of nowhere, she says "I need a hug, big guy." It was pretty darn cute and pretty darn funny. I know the "I need a hug" language comes from the show's character Tuck, the turtle. I don't know where the "big guy" comes from. Not that it matters.

-ED

Pull up head

2009-09-30T06:34:00.002-05:00

At times in the past Ellie has worn a clean, dry pull up on her head at home. Last night ED, myself, and Ellie took a trip to Lowes hardware. Ellie rode in the blue car cart. She has a great time pretending to drive as we shopped for landscaping goodies. After a while Ellie got into my purse. Next thing I know she has a pull up on her head. It stayed on her head through the store and all the way home. I couldn't help but smile thinking of what people thought she had on her head.

Turns out its a . . .

2009-09-23T07:05:00.002-05:00

. . .virus.

We saw Dr. Betsy yesterday. Ellie has a virus. Her mouth and tongue are filled with sores. Poor girl isn't eating or drinking much, just what she can to get by. Dr. Betsy said just give pain killers until it runs its course. Maybe a few days this will get better. She is crankier now without the fever. Mouth sores are the worst.

She was quite a trooper at the doctor's office yesterday. She sat patiently in the waiting area. We had to sit on the sick side. I was praying she wouldn't get up and start touching too much stuff or want to play with the other kids there. She sat quietly in her own chair. Once in the exam room the nurse took a rectal temp. Ellie promptly asked "Can we do it again? No, can we do it two more times?" as the nurse finished. Dr. Betsy came in and examined Ellie. She sat so still for her, but didn't care for the mouth exam. Despite the gagging on the tongue depressor Ellie still asked "Can we do it again?" to Dr. Betsy. She just loves the doctor's office.

-EM

Noisy sleeper

2009-09-21T10:44:00.002-05:00

Ellie has always been somewhat of a noisy sleeper. In fact the first night in the hospital her and I were alone sleeping in our room when she started moaning. It scared me to the point that I didn't sleep well. Well I quickly learned that she is a noisy sleeper. Most of the time she moans or sighs when asleep. Her noises are a comfort to us now when heard over the baby monitor.

Well last night was a different story. As ED mentioned Ellie has been feverish all weekend. At times her fever has topped out at 103-104. When it gets high she becomes chatty. Last night she slept without waking, but she was chatty. At different times she was talking in her sleep. Most times I couldn't make out what she was saying, but around 2am a very clear "oink, oink, oink, oink" was heard.

She woke up with a lower fever then the past mornings. Hopefully she is getting better.
-EM

Fever

2009-09-21T06:52:00.003-05:00

This weekend, Ellie's temperature never seemed to dip below 100. However, she's not displaying any other symptoms and, actually, she played quite a bit during this time. I think it's molars. But when you ask Ellie how she feels, she says "I'm a little bit sick." I dunno. EM's gonna call Dr. Betsy today and see if a visit is in order.

-ED

Shadows

2009-09-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

Ellie and Daddy

Trip to the fair

2009-09-14T09:40:00.002-05:00

Ellie, Nans, Papa, Daddy, and myself took a trip to the Cabarrus County Fair last night. Ellie had a great time. She loved the racing pigs, the farm animals, the corn on the cob, and the funnel cake. At the end of the night she took a ride on a horse named Tonto and loved it.

As we were getting ready for bed her and I discussed what we saw:

Ellie: " We saw goats, and neigh neighs, and a big cow. And the little girl got milk from the cow out of his butt."

Me: "Those are utters honey."

-EM

Yeah sure.

2009-09-07T12:21:00.002-05:00

As they like to say, kids say the darnedest things. Ellie, of course, is no exception; we just happen to be doing a poor job of cataloging such statements. And while I'm not sure this qualifies under that heading, it is one of her more common expressions and it always tickles me to hear her say it. Specifically, what I'm referring to is her tendency to respond "yeah sure." I don't know where she got it; but, if you ask her to do something she's inclined to do more often than not you will get that response.

-ED

PS - Poor girl isn't feeling well. EM just finished a cold and as such Ellie is just starting one. I guess I'm next in line. Sigh.

Whew!

2009-09-02T19:27:00.002-05:00

We're in the new house! It took quite some doing, but everyone is relatively ok. Ellie seems to like her new pink room, and little by little we are starting to feel at home. EM swears it's gonna take 'til December for her to feel settled and, as such, vows to never move again. Fine by me. More later....

-ED