Enjoying the Park

Yesterday had to be one of the nicest fall days I have ever experienced, high 60s and lots of sun. So we decided to take advantage of the day and head to the park. Of course as we step out the door Nate grabs his camera and so glad he did because he ended up taking a lot of great pictures of Elyse. I'm hoping for a little more of these days before the cold hits!

#1 Twilight Fan

Nate and I listen to books on tape while we travel, and for the past year we spent much of that time listening to the Twilight Series. We really enjoyed every book and look forward to going to see the movies. Well, for the past few month we tell people that Elyse has got to be the #1 biggest fan, because who else has only vampire teeth? :)

I have tried to capture a picture for months, and today while I was doing her baby book I came across this one her Aunt Kim took in IL and it captures her vampire teeth perfectly.

A week ago she got the bottom side tooth and finally as of yesterday her left top center tooth broke through. YEAH!

Elmo Obsession

Elyse has recently been speaking quite a few words. Most often is the normal, Mama, Dada, hi, bye, book, and ball. However her new word is, Elmo. She absolutely LOVES Elmo. She's never watched Sesame Street, but Nate talks and sounds just like Elmo. He's been talking to her using that voice since she was 6 months old. I believe the reason she loves Elmo so much is because she relates him to Dada. Whether it's Nate or I getting something at a garage sale or Grams bringing something over, as you can see from our collection we have quite a bit of Elmo things and I'm happy to say, I think we are done with Elmo stuff!

More & More Independent

Elyse is seeming to become more independent everyday. She loves to help put lotion on herself after baths, walk by herself, tries to put her socks on, etc, and now, eating with a spoon. It's been exciting to see her learn and do it on her own, plus God willing we may have #2 while she's still young and will have to do it anyways.

Cutest Bunny I've Ever Seen

This past weekend Nate and I scored at quite a few garage sales. We got lots of books, puzzles, shirts and miscellaneous things. Whenever there is a free box you can guarantee we take a peak. We just happened to find Elyse some of the funniest sunglasses we have ever seen. Don't you agree, she makes the cutest bunny ever?

Overdue Video

On Friday, August 28th Elyse took her first steps crossing the living room. Every day after that she would try to walk a little farther. Well last Friday when family all came to visit she was a full time walker. I know this video is a week late but as I mentioned before we wanted family and friends who could see it in person first to do so. I know many people say, "Watch out, everything is going to get interesting now", yet so far I love it! For instance, it's nice to be able to play outside and not have to wash down knees. Plus Elyse has such a big smile on her face every time she's on the move. (Apologizing for the UGLY carpet in the room/video, we really hope to get it changed within a year!)

1 Year Old Stats

Elyse had her 1 year old check up today. It went really smooth besides Elyse started crying and constantly saying "bye" 45 minutes into it. Although who wouldn't when there's nothing to do and you know a needle is going to approach you soon. Doctor again said everything went great and she is physically, emotionally and mentally excellent. Well her were her 1 year old stats:
weight: 20 lbs, 11 oz (44th percentile)
length: 30.5 inches (90th percentile)
head circumference: 44.5 inches (33rd percentile)

Below are a few cute/fun pictures Elyse's Aunt Kim took this past weekend. Thanks Kim!

Happy 1st Birthday Elyse

One year ago this very day we got a phone call that answered many years of prayer and brought so much joy into our lives. Elyse finally arrived (2 weeks late) and she would forever be ours. And now I can't believe it, today our little blessing, Elyse turns 1. Happy Birthday Elyse, we love you so much!!! This entire year has flown by and I can't describe my feelings of Elyse turning one. I'm excited to see how she continues to develop, but at the same time have shed a few tears of sadness knowing she's not my little baby anymore, but my little girl. Words can't describe how perfect she is for Nate and I. We love watching her change daily; whether it's communicating, playing, learning or walking (she started last week, but we wanted family and friends to see it in person first this weekend). Overall, I can't thank God and Elyse's birth mother enough for giving Nate and I such a gift. We both treasure every moment we have had with her these past 365 days and look forward to what's ahead.

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY ELYSE! We love you so much and always will!

This past Sunday, Nate and I threw Elyse her first birthday party. I want to thank everyone who was able to make it as well as family members who helped me get it all ready. Everything was perfect and went just as I had pictured it the last few months. Plus I think Elyse loved it too but who wouldn't with...
family,
friends,
kisses,
presents,
and of course, cake :)

Where's Waldo?

Glasses are on behalf of Uncle Steven :)

Going Through Another Growth Spurt

So I have decided that Elyse's eating habits this morning has confirmed she is going through another growth spurt.

Typical morning breakfast: bowl of oatmeal, entire banana and milk

This morning's breakfast: bowl of oatmeal, entire banana, milk, bowl of cottage cheese, some cheerios and a quarter of a pear. I just hope this eating trend doesn't continue or she will be doubling our grocery bill in no time.