Ella is One!

Today, Ella Grace turned one. She celebrated by spending a full two hours in the church nursery this morning (an extra special treat now that she is walking and can get to the toys with great quickness). Next she came over the grandparents' house to enjoy a special meal of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, okra, and green bean casserole. ("comfort food") She loved them all. I've never seen her inhale a meal so quickly. She was ready for round 2 of the same later in the evening. In the meantime, she opened presents, hoovered her (green) Dora the Explorer birthday cake, and took a walk around the neighborhood with Mum, Auntie Katie and Auntie Sarah (she is watching her figure, of course).

Watching Ella get older is a fun job to have for lots of reasons. For starters, we can all see that she will be a great big sister come next May. She is so affectionate with her soft toys (even her clothes) and all of us! We wait with anticipation for her toddle in our general direction and throw her arms around our knees (accompanied by her trademark squeal). I'm sure that Mom or Katrina will have pics up soon on their sites.

Hard to believe that in six weeks we will be leaving for London, and in 8 weeks we'll almost be back in Australia. But despite the busyness, we are enjoying our time in Louisville. We will miss our family, friends, church, and even my job at Starbucks. I can't say I'll miss study deadlines, at least for a little while. Hopefully, I'll get back to blogging more regularly in a few weeks so you can keep up with our comings and goings.

Peace,
t shedd