Signing Time with Ella

Ella has become enamored with a kids TV show on PBS called Signing Time. It's all about Rachel teaching sign language to kids with the help of her daughter Leah and nephew Alex. It's an incredible story that began with Rachel realizing her daughter Leah was deaf.

Rachel is also a folk signer, so each episode also has lots of music - including the uber-catchy theme song. Needless to say, Ella goes around most of the day singing the Signing Time theme. So much so, that her parents also catch themselves singing it.

Here is Ella in action.



If you don't mind getting a song stuck in your head, you should see if the show plays in your area. Ella has learned a lot of signs and can't wait to teach her sister.

Fantastic Four (Months)

Dear Sarah,

Each month you just keep getting cuter! You love people -- especially your mama, daddy and big sister. Every time you see us you have the biggest grin on your face. You’re such a happy girl.



You’re so good and patient with all Ella’s loving and hugging and kissing and squeezing. And oh how she does love you! Sometimes she doesn’t like other people to talk to you or look at you, especially other kids. You’re HER sister, not theirs.



You’re now big enough for the “jolly jumper” which is a fun place for you to be -- hanging out right in the doorway between the kitchen and living room, watching all the action. We just have to keep an eye on Ella, because she likes to swing you high and spin you around. Whee!



You seem to have two modes – happy or screaming. Fortunately, the screaming usually only happens when you’re overtired. And then you just need to scream for a few moments before you can settle down and fall sleep. We try not to take it personally. :) I almost forgot. You also scream when we try to give you a bottle.



Much love,
Mama

Christmas in Kleinville

We spent a wonderful holiday in Nipomo with Meg’s mom and Jason’s parents. This was the first year that Ella really “got” Christmas. She loved leaving cookies for Santa and a carrot for the reindeer. And also helping pass the gifts out from under the tree. And of course opening her own presents as well! Her favorite gift was a Legoville house, complete with drawers that open, a potty seat that lifts up and a family of four – combining her two favorite toys (dollhouse and Legos) into one glorious set that fits with her Duplos. Life doesn’t get much better when you’re three.


Sarah enjoyed all the grandparental attention. And her mama enjoyed all the help!


Ella helped Grammy “cook” a Sunshine Salad on Christmas Eve.


Cute little elf


Santa's helper


Rasta baby -- Aunt Maya comes to visit before Christmas and asserts a questionable influence ;)


Now as special bonus, here's a video of Ella singing some Christmas classics.


And a final video of Ella showing Sarah some love.