Entirely Elise & her Zoo Party

This post is dedicated to our sweet Elise. Her Hawaiian middle name, Mahealani, means the fullest, most beautiful moon. We like to interpret that as: one who reflects the light of the sun (or Son). She does in that she is embodies unconditional love. She is so expressive in her affection, despite my imperfections. (Or she just doesn't see them yet!) She exclaims often that she's "so glad you home now." She loves to nuzzle and say, "I love you." We feel blessed to be her parents! This morning, after we had our family prayer, she looked up at me and said, "Mommy, look." She held up her teddy bear while folding his little brown arms. She is so sweet.

Here is a slideshow of her life thus far... Be warned, there are heaps and heaps of pictures. We love you Elise, "too much" ! (Her way of saying so much.)

To celebrate her birthday, we got together with Elise's best friends and cousins at the National Zoo. We also made a cake for Kiara because her birthday was the day before.

My BF (haha ; ) Michelle lent me her camera so that I could take all these pictures. Thanks so much!

Without our cousin Sarah Auna, we wouldn't have even had a party - she seriously rescued it. I realized an hour before that Aaron had my keys, so Sarah loaded up her car with all the food and Elise while Elijah and I metro-ed & jogged as fast as we could. She's the best! We are so grateful to that their family lives so close by!

Thank you so much!! I realized I didn't take pictures of either of them. : (

Afterward, we got to go to go to the petting zoo and the Amazonia. Elise had so much fun! We so grateful for everyone that celebrated with us! We love you.