Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Blessings...

They say that it takes a village to raise a child, that the community around a child plays a large role in their growth and development. We are so blessed to have such a great group of family and friends that work so hard and do so many things for our little girl. As I watch her grow and learn to recognize faces and voices I realize how many people have touched her already in so many ways I have to think that its a miracle that Ava is constantly with family! Thank you to everyone who has helped us so far along this journey of parenthood!

Ava spends most of her days with our very good friend and family member Dianne. Dianne is a childcare/child development professional who has just had her own son (Lakota, boy number 3) and has decided to stay home to care for him. This is the perfect setting for Ava. She gets to be around her brothers of varying ages and she gets the best care a parent can ask for. We always get updates about Ava's day through a journal which Dianne keeps to tell us about everything from her nature walk to the bus stop, her discovery of leaves, her love of cars (thanks Kostas!), and her eating and sleeping habits. Thank you Dianne for loving Ava so much!



Grandmothers are indispensable because of their knowledge of raising babies (Michelle and I turned out great!!) and their excitement of having babies around again! My mom came to stay with us and was more than excited about spending time and making memories with Ava. She would shoo us off in the morning so that she could have her special time and welcome us home in the evenings with dinner and laughs. Jo (my other Mom) always saves kisses and hugs for Ava. She's a grandmom for the second time and she is very good at spreading the love around. We get some much needed exercise when she watches Ava while we bike and hike the surrounding countryside. Thank you ladies for being such loving and patient (Grand)parents!




Looking back over the pictures and the memories, there are so many people who have shared in Ava's growth and helped us in some way to raise her. We are so blessed to have all of you in our lives. Thank you so much!










Friday, September 18, 2009

My Buddy and Me



“My Buddy, My Buddy,
Wherever I go, he goes.
My Buddy, My Buddy,
I’ll teach him everything that I know…
My Buddy and Meeeee!"

Dutch is Ava's Buddy!!!

4 Month Check Up



Ava had her 4 month check up and she couldn't be healthier.
She is, well was (2 Sep)
15'11oz and in the 95% for weight
25 1/2 inches long and also in the 95% for length
And much to her Dad's disbelief her head was only in the 65%
It is amazing that she has grown 8 lbs and 4 1/2 inches long in just 4 short months! She has mastered rolling over and has begun eating solids (well watered down cereal). As you can tell she is a great eater!

Friday, September 4, 2009

Huh? What? The Gambler?

What can I say? Its her favorite song from Dad. She loves when Mom sings "You are my Sunshine". We can knock her out in one or two songs. ENJO!