Ella 'B'

We couldn't be more impressed with Ella's school and everything that she is learning...It really is quite remarkable. I also am so very impressed with how special her teacher makes each day in the classroom...I LOVE volunteering and LOVED volunteering in December and hearing Christmas carols playing as the kids crafted their reindeer...
On the last day before break, Ella came home with this letter in her backpack. She had written a letter to Donner at the beginning of the month and this is what she received in reply...Hers was the only letter on blue paper and I just think it's so cute...

A Christmas Tail...

Time for our annual visit to the Valley Youth Theater for their holiday production of this great show! The kids were so excited and LOVED every minute of it!

Go Lopes' Basketball

Last week Friday was GCU's employee family Christmas party, so after picking up Ella from her last day of school before holiday break, we headed down to meet Paul. After a yummy BBQ dinner, we headed over to the new arena.....

Look who we saw on the way...

The Dunns joined us for the game...
Ella has been to other games this season, so she was quite familiar with 'what' to do

Jack had a great time and this was my view everytime the Lopes were on the free throw line

Happy Birthday Nannie!

Happy Birthday (last Friday) to Nannie!!!

We wish we could have celebrated with you!

Miss you and love you!

The BBQ buddies

World's cutest bbq-ers!!!

Happy Birthday Aunt Suzie!

I am just 'a little' behind on posting.....oops!

Obviously the preparation for Auntie Suz's birthday had gotten to Ella so she needed to relax and fan herself...

Running gifts for the running superstar...

Happy Birthday Suz!

Cupcakes...season ends...

This year, the soccer season is a little different and so instead of taking a break over the holidays, the season actually ended and a new one will start in the spring...

Although the Cupcakes didn't have the best record in their division, they really showed improvement and gained confidence.

Look at the size difference in the photo below of Ela and the 'giant' on the other team

#3...Ella working hard
Cupcake cutie

Proudly examining her trophy...

What a great group of girls...