How Ella Spent Her Birthday

Ella's 4th week of ballet landed on her birthday! And, it so happens, that a child had to reach 4 years of age by the 4th session. It was clearly meant to be! :)

All of the girls stretching. See Ella?

Ella wasn't too into this exercise. Her instructor playfully kept calling her a chicken!

With each week that passes, Ella proves to grow in her confidence and ability to follow instruction. She really is getting to be so good and I couldn't be more proud!

Checking out her form. Point your toe, Ella!

Look at her hands! It's so cute to see how hard she tries to catch every last detail. :)

Grandma surprised Ella and showed up to watch her dance. It was unexpected (since she had to miss work to be there) and so very sweet!

And...she came with a balloon! Ella was so excited. And even though the balloon was awesome, I think she was most excited to see Grandma there.

After ballet and dinner, we let Ella open up one present (with the rest to be opened at her party, which was tonight). Of course, she chose the biggest one to open!

What is it???

"A skateboard!" (as Ella says).

Of course, we went outside and let Ella take her new toy for a ride, but not for long because Ella and I had to get ready for AWANA.

But, rain or shine, time or no time, we always manage to get some cute shots of our sweetheart. Look at Ella's sandal tan!!! (That is the side of our house in the background).

Zooming back to the front door.

All in all, despite her birthday being very busy with school, ballet and AWANA, I truly don't think Ella would've wanted to spend it any other way. All of her buddies at school, ballet and AWANA kept telling her "Happy Birthday," and from the look on her face, I know she appreciated all the love and soaked in every last drop.

Tonight was her actual party (if you want to call it that seeing as how it was just me, Aaron and my parents!), and I'll likely post some pictures of that at a later time.

Happy Friday, everybody!