Monday, May 03, 2010

Part II - The land of high desert and hot sun...

AKA...Sierra Vista, Arizona!

Perhaps you remember that just a short year ago we moved from Sierra Vista to Germany.  We really enjoyed our time in AZ and John had to return to complete some additional training.  After we arrived in Portland - Bella and I flew to Arizona to be able to spend some 1-1 time with John.  We figured we'd get to see family again in July, but Daddy was leaving shortly for a whole year so we wanted to spend as much time with him as possible.

Bobbi and Bop insisted on hanging out with us at the airport until we had to go through security - Now I know how Bop keeps his youthful figure - he chases his grandkids around...




While waiting for our plane Bella monopolized this toy...she wouldn't let any other child touch it.  Again...time for a lesson in sharing, I think.



Our days in Arizona were so nice and relaxing for us. 



The hotel we stayed in was wonderful.  The staff was like extended family - they doted on Bella and pretty much let her have the run of the lobby.  We spent a lot of time playing in the common areas and riding the elevators.  All you have to say to Bella is "Do you want to push the button" and she's frantically looking for an elevator...



Bella had her first experience in a pool and LOVED it...





We also spent time at one of the local parks that had the very best play structure for toddlers. 



She also practiced her throwing arm quite a bit...



One day, my friend Laura came for a visit with her son and daughter.  We had so much fun just hanging out and playing...



Bella is still a little shy about touching and physical interaction with other children...this series of photos is one of my favorites...








Arizona symbolizes my pregnancy...its where I was on bedrest...where I only knew about 10 people total and where I spent most of my time working or in the pool or in bed because of the pregnancy.  This time around...with Bella as a toddler it was a whole different experience for me. I enjoyed those few days we spent just lounging around Sierra Vista until we left on Friday night and drove to Mesa to visit the Johnson Family...(oh yes..you won't want to miss this next series...)

4 comments:

kajr said...

Hi
Totally enjoyed both posts. So glad to hear that the plane rides were calm. Looks like a wonderful time :) !!!

Tisha said...

Bella is so grown up!! wow! her swimsuit is adorable!! what a fun visit! so when are you coming to the east coast! :) xoxo

Miss Debbie said...

You are so blessed!

Cothran Family said...

I like Bella's swimsuit too! Such a cutie girl. Enjoy that hubby while you have him! Love you guys. It's sad knowing you are in the states and not getting to see you guys. luv ya sis