NY, Take Two

Although we were just there in May to celebrate my dad's birthday, we headed back to NY in June to visit with family starting with Lauren's preschool graduation.

Watching the ceremony

The happy graduate!

Trying to get a photo of 4 girls...not so easy!

especially with one squirrely two-year-old!

Blowing bubbles at Grandpa's house

Great-grandma Mary & Rachael

Later we got to hang out and celebrate with cousins.

My dad showing off his birthday gift from my brother, Will--a guitar signed by The Eagles!

The house was full of a bunch of young girls.  Consequently, an Irish dance party ensued!

They took a break long enough for some cake...

The graduate:

and the birthday girl...

There were cupcakes, too!

Our family acrobat:

After dessert, the dance party continued!

Our little rock star...

Jaclyn managed to spellbind the girls with her storytelling:

And finally, sleep!

Happy 2nd birthday, baby girl!

The day started with a little birthday gift

from Mommy & Daddy...

my very own "fancy" pool!

Guinness tried to get in on the action. 

Ellen was't too thrilled about that!

Until it gave her the idea that maybe she, too, should try this tasty water...

Distracted by dressing up like daddy!

Bad family photo but there's so few I had to include it :)

Opening presents at Grandma Nancy's houe

 Check out my new ride!

It even comes with it's own chauffeur!

 Then we headed to our favorite party location, Pizza Perfect, for some fun.

Peggy & Emma Claire checking out her goody bag.

There were cupcakes...

and candles...

and "Happy Birthday" singing!

Happy Birthday, sweet girl!

Outtakes...

from her second birthday party invitaton shoot. 

Enjoy the many faces of an-almost-two-year-old Ellen!