First day of summer and 17 months old

Our darling Ella turned 17 months old on the first day of summer.  Here are some recent pictures my parents took of her when she stayed with them a few weeks ago.  These 17 months have flown by!

family trip to Lake Superior!

Last week, we all traveled north to Lake Superior.  My parents rented a large cabin around Grand Marais and we were able to have the whole family up there--including my brother and sister, their spouses and niece.  It was a lot of fun to relax, spend time together and sight see.  We haven't traveled very far with all three girls, so this was our first big vacation.  Miriam couldn't believe how big the lake was--but was very bummed that she couldn't swim in it.  I think she enjoyed all the sight seeing the most, but the other two traveled really well, too.  All in all, I do hope this becomes an annual vacation!

On two feet {& playing at the park}

Ella is finally walking!  She has been for a few weeks now...but this comes after taking her first steps three months ago.  She definitely took her time with it.  It's been much easier to be outside, too.  I think she has realized walking is better than scooting!

So here we were last weekend at a park...only one shows her up and walking, but the others are fun too.