Owen

Ellie spends her days with Ms. Sara, a wonderful wonderful lady who runs an in home daycare. We are so thankful for her. I didn't really think I could find someone other then the grandmothers I would feel safe and comfortable leaving Ellie with - especially after the Maria issues in 2008. However, I was clearly wrong. I love Ms. Sara's and so does Ellie.

She has fun with all the kids. Having "friends" to play with on a daily basis besides her cousins is a new and exciting thing for Ellie. She is still learning the basics of friendship, but one thing she has mastered is how to pick a favorite.

About 2 weeks after she started at Ms. Sara's, Ellie told me one night, "Mommy, Owen is my favorite." I didn't pay this much attention at first. But, as the weeks progress, it's clear that Ellie has a bit of a first crush on Owen. Owen is 6, with blond hair and brown eyes. He's quiet, but very sweet.

We've been talking about the importance of having everyone be friends, and not announcing favorites. But the way Ellie follows Owen and looks at him is so evident. She always knows where he is. She likes to give him a hug at the end of the day before going home. And, apparently, he will sit for nearly an hour and read book after book to Ellie. She truly loves hanging out with Owen.

The other night Gramma was talking to Ellie on the phone and asked Ellie, "How come Owen is your favorite?"

Ellie replies with a cute slightly embarrassed looking grin on her face, "Becuase he s - m - i - l - e - s at me!"

I told Ms. Sara this story the other day. She says, "Ut oh, you will have you hands full when she's a teenager if that's all it takes." we both laughed!

Ellie's right - Owen does have the best smile!

Updated 4Mar2011:

Below is a picture of one of Ellie's favorite things to do at Miss Sara's, color beside Owen and Erin.