Dearest Ellie...

Four years ago today, God blessed us with you, our firstborn! You came into our lives and changed everything! And we are so thankful that He chose to give us someone so sweet, kind, caring, beautiful, intelligent, imaginative and energetic. It has been amazing to see how you've grown and what you've learned over these four short years. We love seeing you dance, do gymnastics and entertain everyone (even when you think no one is watching!). You are a wonderful big sister who loves Aubrey more than we ever imagined possible. We look forward with great anticipation to what God has planned for you and the young lady you will continue to become - but we're not rushing anything! You can stay a little girl for as long as you want;) HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Quesadillas, It's What's for Dinner

Do y'all love quesadillas? I do! I love that they're simple and super-quick to make. I love that you can put almost anything in them and have a different flavor every day of the week. I love that they're kind of snacky, which takes care of my snack cravings! And tonight, I loved that they were a great way to get the girls to eat the veggies that otherwise looked like, well, leftover veggies. I used leftover roasted veggies from a couple of nights ago and a bag of cheddar/jack cheese that I've had ever since it was on super sale at least two months ago! I hadn't opened it yet and it was still quite good. For those of you that this may make a little squeamish, the use by date is at the end of the month, so I'm okay;) Of course we had to top them with sour cream and Jack's Salsa from Costco. I couldn't find a good picture or it would have gone here. That stuff is sooo good and so fresh! And, it's got a coupon this month, so if you want some, let me know - there's no limit!!! Our dinner was so yummy tonight, I ate what Ellie couldn't! Oops;)

End of Summer:)

Labor Day weekend, my family all met up at Grayton Beach (right there with Seaside, Watercolor and that whole awesome area)! We rented a gorgeous house - thanks, sis - and had a blast. David came from Colorado and it was good to see him and chat some. I'm really trying to move more into conversation with my family and not just let it be surface type lingo. It was good to ask David questions about his life out there and where he's headed. Whether or not he has a girlfriend, etc! Jon, on the other hand, has a wonderful girlfriend, Jaime, who is full of life and enjoys every minute with our family. Ellie just loves her and we all love that! Amy and Chris had a good time; but poor Brayden was completely off his schedule, which made their weekend a little more stressful than planned. We can definitely relate! We ate lots of good food, played games, soaked up the sun, chatted and just had a good time together. Jon and Jaime even picked up the grandparents on Sunday and brought them over for lunch and cake for granddaddy's birthday (his is the day after mine!) I think they really enjoyed it!

Mommy Feel Good Moment

I hope y'all have a bunch of these. I probably have more than I realize; but yesterday was a good one. We were driving home from our day at the beach and Aubrey was crying from exhaustion and not wanting to go to sleep. As we've done many times before, Ellie started singing Jesus Loves Me to her. Then she changed songs and started singing a song we call 'Jesus' that I sing to Ellie many nights - usually when she's scared. Lately I've noticed her really watching my mouth and trying to memorize the words. Well, she did it! And she sang it to Aubrey over and over, even after she was calm. What a sweet spirit and a teachable moment that when we take the time to invest kingdom values in them, they will take root! I learned the song when I was little.

Here are the words:
Jesus, Name above all names,
Beautiful Savior,
Glorious Lord.
Immanuel,
God is with us,
Blessed Redeemer,
Living Word.

And here are some pictures from our day!

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Hope y'all had a great weekend!