Nationals

Here we come Las Vegas! Ella's dance team competed this past weekend at their National Competition. Ella was counting down days until we got to leave and she told everyone we saw about it. We were so lucky to have Papa and Grandma Miles fly in from Seattle to make the trip with us!

We stayed at the Orleans Hotel, just off the strip. When we got to our room, Daddy had sent Ella balloons and a teddy bear to wish her luck. She couldn't believe that he was able to do that without being there - so sneaky!

Her first routine was Bollywood. The whole team looked amazing! This routine took 4th place overall.

Her second routine was Bushel and a Peck. This is her individual number and they placed 1st in their age group and were voted the Most Entertaining Routine by the judges for the entire competition! Quite an honor! They were asked to perform again for everyone to see at the awards ceremony. Way to go Mini Stars!

Ella also loves to compete in the Drill Down. She took 2nd place!

It's not all work and no play though. Ella and Payton loved hanging out on the bleachers to watch the other dancers. Mommy and Grandma loved it, too!
Ella was so excited when we had a big enough break that she and daddy could head to the pool! And what would a trip to Vegas be without a quick stroll down the strip. The only bummer was the heat! Poor papa had to carry Ella most of the way.

Ella loved seeing the Belagio Fountains, the Eiffel Tower, the statues at Caesars Palace and M&M World. We even had time to take in Toy Story 3!

What a great trip! It was so fun to have the chance to spend a few days with Ella. Since the boys have arrived she hasn't gotten much one on one attention. And this weekend she got tons of it! We are so proud of you Ella and can't wait to do it again next year!