SIX

On July 5th, this big girl turned 6.  

We had the BEST day, and she loved all of the celebrations with family and friends she had throughout her birthday week. She sure is one lucky be. 

I feel like I don't brag enough about Jose's family, and how much they do for Ella. Well, her birthday was no exception. They went all out. Who gets 6 pinatas for their birthday? This girl! We had a lovely afternoon eating yummy food, hitting open her pinatas, and enjoying her delicious cake. We sure do love you guys!! Thank you for making her birthday so special. 

Tia UU and Grandma Irene!!

Ell requested this adorable cake from Baskin Robbins. I think it could've fed the entire neighborhood!

Happy 6th Birthday Ella Catherine. You are so loved!! 

Ella is 5!

Ella Catherine is 5.

I can hardly believe it!

Our morning started off with balloons and presents for the birthday girl. The night before she said, "Mama, don't forget to put the streamers up in my room!" I love how she remembers every detail about past birthdays. Must mean we're doing something right. 

We kept things pretty simple, as she already had plenty of Birthday celebrations with family, and we had a fun beach day planned the following weekend to celebrate with friends!

We love you so much sweet girl, and cherish each day spent together. You have the sweetest, kindest heart, and are always so cheerful and helpful. You always kept your Dada and I on our toes, and are up for any challenge thrown your way!

We are so proud of the little gal you are becoming, and know this year is going to be full of exciting and memorable milestones. Happy 5th Birthday Ella Catherine!

Disney

We decided to SURPRISE Ella with a trip to Disney for her 5th birthday. 

She had no idea, mostly because we went in May

(two months before her actual birthday) to avoid the summer crowds. 

I took a video of her coming downstairs, where she had a HUGE 5 balloon, lots of Mickey presents and treats, two new outfits, and this letter!

We arrived early, and were anxious to get to the park before it opened. 

Here we are waiting for our shuttle. 

Ears on and ready to go!

First stop, Matterhorn. 

 I felt awful during the entire Space Mountain ride. She was so scared, but powered through and came out with no tears and a smile. She was so brave!

Autopia time. Let's gooooooo Dad!

We saw Pluto in Toontown, but didn't see any other characters until we left!

Can't do Disney without a  yummy pretzel!

Finally reached 42 inches! I never thought she would, but she finally had a growth spurt. 

Waiting for Thunder Mountain, her favorite ride!!

We had the BEST day, and made it on most rides. Ella loves rides, and was up for anything, which makes any visit to an amusement park fun. 

There were more people than we expected, but we still made it on each ride in less than 30 minutes. We even managed to use several fast passes throughout the day. 

Her favorite rides were Splash Mountain, Thunder Mountain, and The Jungle Cruise. We went on these rides multiple times. 

Her least favorite was Space Mountain and Matterhorn. Too dark and scary!

We decided to skip most of Fantasyland, which Ell didn't mind one bit.

This guy had fun too. So glad he was able to take the day off to spend with us.

On our way out we were greeted by our two favorites, Mickey & Minnie!

And that's a wrap! She didn't even make it out of the parking lot. Until next year!

Kindergarten here I come!

I can't believe our sweet, little girl is off to Kinder. This was two years ago, on her first day of preschool! My how she's changed. 

First day in August 2015 / Last day in June 2016

 We spent the morning trying to get as many pics as possible. I never want to forget this time, spent at the most loving and supportive preschool. 

Ell and Dono started here together two years ago. Although they were never in the same class, I was so happy to see them together every day before school or out on the playground. A bonus was seeing Megs in the parking lot to chat as we were both off to work. 

Ella met two of her dear friends while attending preschool. Kaia and Ell spent two years together in the same class, and have such a tight bond. I know they will remain lifelong friends.

Emily and Ell also met her first year in the Koala class. Their little friendship continues to grow, and we are so grateful to have Emme and her Mom and Dad in our lives.

Ell had to say goodbye to Mrs. Carol and Mr. Mustache

and Mrs. Lupe too.

The week leading up to Ella's last day she had too many parties to count. The theme, Luau!

Then, it was time for graduation! 

They had the cutest performance where they sang songs they learned during the year. Of course Ell had no problem being on stage. We were all cracking up. Such a ham.

Our proud graduate!

Ms. Rachel and Mrs. Louisa

We were so lucky to have the BEST teachers.

We also had many wonderful friends and family to celebrate with. 

Micah and Ell spent two years together. SO sweet to see their little friendship grow.

Gigi came too, of course

Grandpa, Grandma, and Tia UU

And B, Roman, and the boys. 

We even celebrated at Ell's favorite restaurant, Islands!

We were blessed to spend two wonderful years, at the greatest preschool around. 

We'll miss you Mission Hills Church Preschool.