Dear Ella . . .

You're such a cute little love-bug! Everywhere we go people can't help but stop and tell be what a beautiful baby you are. More often than not, you'll give them a big toothless grin and totally win them over!

You had a couple more firsts this past weekend (it was a BIG weekend for you!). We took you to your first birthday party. We celebrated Piper Grace Baker's 3rd birthday at Ms. Emily's aunt's house in Dallas. You squawked and giggled at Keller and at Ilana (Ms. Emily's niece). We gave Piper a gift bag full of some of her favorite things - princess puzzles, coloring books, and crayons.

At the party you got to go swimming for the very first time! You weren't quite sure about it at first, but then we put you in Keller's fun little float and you were as happy as a clam! You kicked and smiled and relaxed. I think you loved it. Daddy and I decided we need to take you to our neighborhood pool a few times before they close for the summer.

Here you are in your cute little swimsuit (that's a 6-month size!).

Dear Ella . . .

You just rolled over!! You did it!! I knew it wouldn't be much longer and I've been so hoping you would do it before I go back to works full-time (I start on Monday! You were cutting it close, chica!)

So today, Saturday, August 11, 2011 at 2:35 pm you rolled from your tummy to your back on your right side! We were FaceTiming with Grandmommy and I had just sat you down in your tummy to show her how cute you are when you're turtling. I reached over to grab my phone do she could see and there you went! She just missed seeing it herself. You rolled right off your little mat onto the floor! I'm so proud of you, my little roly-poly baby bug!

Love, Mommy

Dear Ella . . .

I just love nursing you. You make the cutest little happy panting sounds right before you latch on. It's precious.

I love that I'm able to give you what you need. I love that you just snuggle right in and that you sometimes fall asleep because you're so comfy. I love how groggy you get when you finish eating and how sweet and snuggly you are when I put you on my shoulder to burp.

Nursing you is such a sweet and special time that's just between the two of us. I'm oh so thankful for these times. :)

I love you, my sweet baby!
Love always,
Mommy

Dear Ella . . .

Today you giggled! I mean a lengthy, full belly giggle! It's the most precious sound I've ever heard! I love you!