Monday, September 28, 2009

Loving on Estella

Wondering, "Where did the time go?"
Our little girl is now 3 years old, full of questions, determination, and just living one day at a time.  

I question whether we have done a good job raising her so far, and come to the conclusion that we have certainly tried, and that we are learning each day, as she is, and know she's a happy, bright, healthy, and kind little girl, with such a sense of humor.

We were reminiscing over her baby-thru-recent pictures, and these are some of the pictures, and short clips we always get a crack-up, among some of her favorites.   

It's especially sweet to see Estella taking such interest in certain pictures; she gets a big smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye, and confirms "That's me".


From the beginning she has known what she likes and doesn't like--
Yes, she's giving me the bird, not liking the fact that I put her in that cute little dress, when she was so comfortable in her onesie.




We're so proud she loves her vegetables, she loves yellow beans or green.




but not to sure about dried apricots, although loves fresh ones



She always has a great time with cousin Isabella a.k.a "My friend" as she would say.  
Doesn't she laugh like Ernie from Sesame Street?

this post is to be continued... 
As I have a request to play hide-n-seek with Estella, Daddy-O and Wally

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Birthday Girl

Dear Estella,

Three sweet years ago, today, you came into this world, your Daddy-O and I were the happiest parents alive, and still are.  I want to Thank you for being the best daughter any parent could ever have.  I love you to the moon & back!
Love,
Mommy-O


By Martina McBride

In my daughter's eyes I am a hero
I am strong and wise and I know no fear
But the truth is plain to see
She was sent to rescue me
I see who I wanna be
In my daughter's eyes

In my daughter's eyes everyone is equal
Darkness turns to light and the
world is at peace
This miracle God gave to me gives me
strength when I am weak
I find reason to believe 
In my daughter's eyes

And when she wraps her hand
around my finger
Oh, it puts a smile in my heart
Everything becomes a little clearer
I realize what life is all about

It's hangin' on when your heart
has had enough
It's giving more when you feel like giving up
I've seen the light
It's in my daughter's eyes

In my daughter's eyes I can see the future
A reflection of who I am and what will be
Though she'll grow and someday leave
Maybe raise a family
When I'm gone I hope you see how happy
she made me
For I'll be there
In my daughter's eyes

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Combo Dance

It was her first day of dance, and I had butterflies in my tummy. 


 

Estella practiced ballet with her little ballerina until it was time to go.  



My heart melted when My little ballerina lined up with all the other Ballerina's to warm up.

They started off with tap

tap, heel, toe
tap, heel, toe


After tap, they prepared for ballet---
But of course, that's when my camera died!!!  I was bummed... no worries, our next dance session is on Saturday, and my camera will be fully charged.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

"Want some corn Reifer?!"

Back in the day, during corn season (August- September), in Houtzdale; there used to be a lady who sold fresh corn around the neighborhood.  When she would arrive at the Reifer's compound, she'd peek her head in the door-way, and shriek-out "Want some corn Reifer?!"  

It's funny to hear that story, but it's even funnier to see my darling husband eat corn.  He tells stories of how he and his brothers & sisters used to have contests, to see who ate corn the fastest.  

 

Estella eating corn on the cob the way Daddy-O taught her.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Happy be-lated Labor day!

I'm a little late posting about Labor day, but I hope you all had a lovely holiday.  
We laid low, labored a little, but definitely enjoyed our beautiful San Diego weather.

Labor Day at Mission Bay

making mud cakes



Isn't he CUTE!

Belly silhouette


fully belly pose

& now that our Holiday is over and we've relaxed, we're back on the grin.  Projects are going hay-wire (is that how you say it?).  I'm busy planning an "Estella in Wonderland" Birthday Party.  A full execution plan is in order, invites need to be mailed out, party supplies ordered, and all the bells & whistles to go with it.

Have a great day!

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Hermit crab

For the last several days I've stayed indoors, in our nice air-conditioned home, due to the 90-something degree weather we've been having.  I'm starting to get cabin fever which is accompanied by the grouch syndrome.

So, because the weather remains the same, I remain indoors; cooking, baking, and eating.  Last Thursday I had an appointment with my Nutritionist, she recommend I "curve my diet"; I've laughed at myself almost every day after that appointment, for really (NOT!) following her advise.  These are some of the yummy foods I've been preparing, my palate has never been happier.

Cauliflower Soup -- Excellent!

Potato Bundles -- These potatos are so tasty, and easy clean up

Coq au Vin   DAlicious!

Disasterpiece  when I saw this cake, I wanted it right there on the spot.


I also plan on baking this lovely soon, I got all the ingredients yesterday, so excited!

Bon Appetit!