Howe's Life: 2017

Ella celebrated her birthday all week this year. She was excited to open presents for her birthday on Christmas, excited to tell us it was her birthday every minute of the 27th, and then supremely thrilled to have her birthday on the 2nd. Ella wanted a beach themed party and the bounce house to be put up. Luckily the weather cooperated and our friends needed some way to entertain their kids on the last Monday before school started again. In between birthday celebrations, the girls and I spent another (looong) week together. We visited Sea World and the Zoo. We had lunch out and at home. We snuggled a lot and Grandma Sue came down with Gramps to babysit one afternoon so I could get some work done. Most amazingly, the girls entertained themselves while I had a 6 hour meeting at the house on Wednesday. I can't believe how big they are getting!
Eleanor had her 3 year checkup in the first week of January. She is officially 37 inches tall and weighs 34.5 pounds. She has definitely slowed down in the height category. Ella is stubborn, funny, and has a ridiculous amount of personality. She dances everywhere and has begun posing with her hand on her hip. Ella is very clear about what she wants and very loud when she doesn't get what she asks for. She loves candy, cookies, and cake . . . . mom is a bit concerned about that for the future! Eleanor still hates going to bed, but is great once she is down. She is happiest watching tv with a snack or being Elsa and a superhero at the same time. Matt has begun Ella on the best movies of our childhood - so far she likes Ferris Bueller and Willy Wonka. It's amazing how much this kiddo inspires feelings of love and irritation at the same time!