My Big Girl (and her big girl underpants)

One of the biggest steps in toddler-hood is nearly behind us.

I can't believe how big my girl is getting. We had been dabbling in the idea of potty training since last spring. We had a little potty for a while and Mary Ellen had some successes this summer, but over the last two months, we've nearly gotten the job done. She only wears pull-ups now for sleeping and has taken successful trips to the Science Center and to a Magic game in big girl pants! Aren't we brave?

There's not a whole lot to say about this except that I am incredibly proud of how we've all handled this transition, and I think it speaks volumes about Mary Ellen's personality. We didn't have to do any bribing. We didn't do much arguing. I followed her lead, and we got the job done. And I should thank the good people at Target for stocking Minnie Mouse and Hello Kitty underpants. That helped.

Now here are some pics (unrelated to potty training) including some from our Oct trip to St. Louis. I know that's what you all want to see.

 

Mary Ellen shows of a dalmatian that she made at school. Each day after school, we stop and take a picture of her holding whatever project she made. Hopefully at the end of the year we'll have a nice collection of photos, and I don't feel too guilty about not keeping each and every piece of art that she makes.

 Jenson and Mary at the Missouri Botanical Gardens.

 Daddy's little girl.

 Love that Grammy Anne!

 Four generations.

One of my favorite pictures ever, taken in Mom and Dad's backyard.

 

 

Spider Cookies! They were Mary Ellen's idea when it was her turn to bring for snack at school.

 Trick or Treating at Daddy's work.

 One of Mary Ellen's first friends, Elise.

 Trick or Treat!

The Best Ol' Polka Fest

Thanks, Nana!

It's Halloweeeeen Time

Each holiday brings new experiences that I just love sharing with Mary Ellen. This year, Halloween has lead to the discovery of some really fun pretend play. I bought some window clings that have several Halloween characters, a big spooky house, and several pieces of candy. For the last several days, we've played Trick or Treat with these little guys and Mary Ellen is really getting the hang of it. Yesterday, we took turns dressing up in her various hats (where did she get all those hats?!) and knocking on her door to Trick or Treat for pom-poms (pink ones, of course). So much fun!

Well, today she got to try it out for real. We visited the Central Florida Zoo's Zoo Boo Bash. It was a perfect day (mid-60s when we left the house) to spend at the zoo, and we all had a great time. Especially our little Kitty.

Too bad they were still in the parking lot...This is one of the few pics with the kitty ears still in place. Mary Ellen is officially dressed up as Mimi, but it's a little easier just to explain that she's a kitty.

Curious little cat.

Happy Halloween!

I was really impressed with the treats at the zoo. Each of 8 stations had a fun little treat, and not one of them was candy.

The otter put on quite a show for Mary Ellen.

Weird foot massage chair things. Sorry, Bri. This one just had to be shared.

Fall Is Here!

This fall has already been so jam-packed with activity. Where to begin? 

How about Jenson's big day? We were so happy to be able to share in the fun. And all the Friends were there!

Amy's cupcake ball glove turned out great. Perfect for J and pretty darn cute!

Balloon!!

True to form: Jenson's as happy as can be and great for the camera. Mary Ellen has her eye on the prize.

It was a sea of red as we sang for the big guy.

What? Is there something on my face?

Quotable Quotes

My girl is somewhat of an early talker. She speaks so clearly, and lately, she's starting to put together more thoughts of her own. Here are a few of my recent favorites:

[from her crib, which refusing to go down for a nap]
Mommy! Mommy, I'm awake! Mommy, I'm awake and I'm crying! Mommy, I'm awake and I have an idea!

[after bumping her head, she pleaded to Brian for some help]
I bonked. I think I need the penguin (the icy penguin that we keep in the freezer). And I think I need the iPad. The iPad will make me feel better.

[after waking up from a nap]
Mommy, I have a question for you: Can we go play at the park?

[out of the blue comments; I can't get her to do this on command, but it is one of my favorite things she does right now]
(cocking head to the side and gesturing with her palm up)
1. I like pink sometimes.
2. I like kitties sometimes.
3. I like Minnie sometimes.
4. I like Mimi sometimes.

Please feel free add any others that I've forgotten!!

Friday Night Hoedown

I've not laughed this hard in a long, long time.

For It's Root, Root, Root...

She's become quite the sports fan. And singer.