This is Where the Teddy Bears Play

On Friday, we went to the greatest little park on earth that makes your cheeks hurt from smiling because of the incredible amount of cuteness - Teddy Bear Park. If you're over five, this park totally sucks. But, if you are a toddler - bliss.

On Friday, we met up with Ella's little friend Sophia. And sadly, I didn't take any photos. But, Ella had such a blast that we decided to go back on Saturday with Loran. I was mostly just on a mommy high from watching Ella play at the park - successfully. When your child is late to develop and receives special services, seeing them finally do something that others take for granted is a huge milestone. This time, it was slides. Ella has practiced slides in physical therapy and with us. She's only been marginally successful. But at Teddy Bear Park, she was able to try it out and it worked! She actually sat down and propelled herself down the slide. It seems so simple right? This was truly the first time Ella had ever done that on her own. I couldn't wait for Loran to see.

I packed us up a nice little picnic lunch and we drove to Stillwater. We completely lucked out that it was overcast because otherwise, Teddy Bear Park is a bit of a scorcher. Ella played for at least an hour and a half. She was in heaven and I don't think she wanted to stop. We had to keep pushing water breaks to try to lessen her flushed cheeks!

 

 I surrender...too much cuteness!

After playing her heart out, the crowd at the park had diminished considerably. Obviously, it was toddler lunch/nap time. We attempted to steer our double stroller down the steep hills of Stillwater towards the river without losing control and dumping our charges. It was a two man process, but we did it!

We set up our blanket near the river and watched the yachts and cruisers. There was great excitement at 1pm when the bridge went up to let the taller boats through. It was so fun to be able to plan a little family day that was seemingly fun for everyone. Okay, maybe not Lily - she just watched kids run around and then slept in he stroller. But, she's flexible like that. It was fun that Ella could participate with the activities; from playing at the playground to eating her picnic lunch - and even being helpful like opening Ziploc bags and throwing away her trash (yes, she may have licked the giant garbage can in the process...but we're getting there!).