Welcome to The Hartland
The Hartland is our family blog. This is where we'll share what is happening in our lives, big and small, with those who care. Enjoy!!
Today Emily attended a Red Cross babysitting course. She was there all day (just like school she said) and learned all types of "tools of the trade". So, all of you with young children or who know anyone with young children, Emily is now considering babysitting for you. We will consider each job based on her comfort level and availability. Exciting huh? My baby is now ready to babysit!
We think that because she did such a wonderful job that there is no expiration to her card (for those of you wondering).
Ella had a wonderful birthday yesturday despite all the rain we had. We went out to The Old Spaghetti Factory (Ella's favorite restaurant) and had dinner with Mamaw, Papaw, Mimi, Boppie, Didi Jennifer and Uncle Joe. On Thursday we got Ella's new pets. Our new family members are two light grey six week old gerbils. Ella has named them Bella and Madeline. Emily actually found a way to tell them apart. Bella has a small crick in the end of her tail and Madeline's is straight. They are now residing in Ella's room and she is thrilled to death to have some little "creatures" of her own!
Bella and Madeline
Ella holding her new gerbils!
This past Saturday, the 21st, Ella had her 6th birthday party. Even though this was not her "real birthday" (which is the 27th), she was thrilled to have friends and family over to celebrate with her. We had her guests bring over their favorite stuffed animals and had a general animal theme to the party. They started off by playing Hot Potato with a stuffed animal (congratulations Carley for being the winner!). Next was a "birthday egg hunt". Everyone hunted after eggs in the backyard with special animal prizes inside. Our last activity was decorating visors. After opening cards and presents came, of course, cake (actually cupcakes) and ice cream. Overall I think everyone had an excellent time and the remainder of the party was spent outside playing on the playset (why do we even bother with games, they entertain themselves anyway?). Here are a few photos from the day.
Ella opening a present and when Emily became impatient with the amount of time Ella was taking, promptly told Emily, "Emily, you're NOT the birthday queen!"
Mouse, dog, and kitty cat cupcakes (made by Emily and Mommy).
Playing Hot Potato.
The Birthday Queen herself!
Climbing Thunder Rocks!
The Three Amigos at the "beach"!
Our family joined our very good friends (including my best friend) the Apthorpes for a few days of camping in New York's Allegany State Park. We had absolutely beautiful weather, sunny and upper 70's for almost the entire time. The only exception was the last night when it rained. We all stayed relatively dry and no one had a problem sleeping.
While at the park we swam in one of the "beaches", climbed "Thunder Rocks" (gigantic rocks that challenge your climbing skills), spelunked the "Bear" caves, caught quite a number of interesting critters, and enjoyed one another's company (especially around the campfire). Our only regret is that we did not have more time to spend with each other. Unfortunately reality called and we returned home. Here are just a few pictures from our trip. If you are interested I can send you an invitation to our online Kodak gallery where you can view more photos of our trip. Just post a comment and let me know!
Just us as a family!
WOOOO HOOOOO!!!! Emily and I just got back from seeing the fifth Harry Potter movie. She and I both agree that is the best one yet! Although not my personal favorite HP book they certainly did a wonderful job conveying the emotions of the book on screen. Everyone was clapping and cheering at the end of the movie. NOW all we have to do is wait 10 more days for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows!!!
Emily has decided she also wants to blog (that word still sounds weird to me). Anyway, check out her new blog at the link provided and see what she has to say!!
Today Emily attended a Red Cross babysitting course. She was there all day (just like school she said) and learned all types of "tools of the trade". So, all of you with young children or who know anyone with young children, Emily is now considering babysitting for you. We will consider each job based on her comfort level and availability. Exciting huh? My baby is now ready to babysit!
