Pool Party, Baby.

Only in Texas can you have a pool party on October 4th. The girls were looking so forward to the party. It was a nice distraction in our week while Loran is in Japan.

We were a little slow to get bathing suits, towels and sandals on (and on the right feet). But once we were in motion, we were excited to get to the neighborhood pool party. There were so many people there – it was fantastic.

Our first stop was the Kona Ice truck. I’ve seen Kona Ice all over Austin, but had no idea what it was or how it was different from a snow cone. Yeah. It’s different. In an amazing way. I may dream about it.

Once we made it in the gates, we settled in and grabbed some pizza. Our neighbor girl, Madison, found Ella and Lily immediately and also set up shop with us. Madison is almost three and the three girls just love playing together. Madison idolizes the girls and I can only hope they will continue to be good role models for their friends. So far, so good!

Going out with Ella has always been like traveling with a local celebrity. Between all of her schools/therapies, etc, a lot of people know and recognize her. We’ve had people stop us while we’re out walking to introduce themselves as someone who works in a building where Ella goes. In fact, that morning, I had gone to Ella’s school for volunteer orientation and the guidance councilor who met with me immediately knew who Ella was and had wonderful things to say about her sweet demeanor and beautiful eyes. A new girl in a school of hundreds of students. I love that she sticks out because of her happy spirit.

The pool party was no different. Turns out, one of the women who works in a model home in our neighborhood is the mother of a girl in Ella’s class. Not only her class, but a girl at her table. Ava saw Ella and was immediately at her side. The two were all smiles and giggles the rest of the night. It was awesome to see her with friends. When we went to the back to school picnic a few weeks prior, Ella found her buddy Hailey and those two were all giggles and smiles, running around. I’d been a little worried about her social skills starting Kindergarten, but after seeing her at the picnic and then the pool party – my fears are put away. Ella is a great little friend, surrounded by great friends. And Lily is happy to get right in the mix with them, and they are happy to have her.

It was so joyous to watch Ella, Lily, Madison, and Ava take off for the pool along with Madison’s grandpa and just have fun. They just splashed and laughed and goofed off. It was awesome!

This move has been a blessing in many ways, but our neighborhood continues to be one of the biggest blessings. There are always people to talk to, activities going on, kids to play with – love it!