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!