Special First Christmas

This was a very special Christmas for Brad, Ella, and myself, as well as, for our families. We were fortunate enough to spend Christmas Eve night at our home since Bill and Susie joined ushere. We went to our candlelight service and it was beautiful. Later we came back home and enjoyed all kinds of food and goodies. Christmas morning we got up and helped Ella open her gifts from Santa and soon made our way to Knoxville for dinner with my family. Ella of course racked up there too. The next day we met a few of my friends for lunch and then headed to the Cox's side to have dinner, and again Ella got even more gifts. Ella's wardrope is getting out of control ... I am not sure she will be able to wear everything before she grows out of it! Since Ella has been born she has had at least two brand new outfits for every week. She racked up on the toys as well.

Ella showed everyone all of her tricks. Blowing rapsberries is her flatest avorite thing to do, but she will only do it when she wants to. She knows how to mock people, but you can do certain things a thousand times and she will just look at you and say "I am not doing that now".

Every 6 months at day-care we have a conference with Ella's teacher. Ella is doing great. Ms. Malika says she is right on track for most everything for her age. She always comments on what a good baby Ella is. However, she does say that she has a little bit of an attitude. Ella does what she wants to, when she wants to do it, and if you make her stop she does not cry. Instead, she just looks at you with this look, and then screams. I am still wondering who she gets that from. I think many of you might say "ME".

Mom also taught Ella some new tricks while she was in Knoxville. Mom kept Ella overnight one night while Brad and I went to Asheville and stayed at a Bed & Breakfast. It was so nice. We enjoyed a romantic dinner that evening. After my facial the next morning we headed back to Knoxville. We sure missed our little girl, but it was a trip we both needed and truely enjoyed.

Hope everyone has a Happy New Year!!