This is a big day my baby girl.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Walking!!!
Ava. You did it. You walked. 6 whole independent steps. It was so amazing it made your mama and grandma cry. I wish your daddy could have been there. We were at Grandpa's and you walked from Mommy to Grandma.
This is a big day my baby girl.
This is a big day my baby girl.
Friday, August 12, 2011
The art of learning.
Ava and I have been practicing the skill of "taking things out and putting them back"
It has been maybe two days of working on this with her. We only "practice/play" for a couple of minutes before she gets bored and moves onto something else but it seems that something has stuck with her.
I say this with such pride in my heart. I witnessed the fruits of my "labor" tonight.
Let me set the scene. Our living room, post bath time, pre-bottle. It's her nightly play time. Ava was by her "desk", as usual, where all her books are. Next to her desk is her box of blocks. Tonight I sat and watched her quietly pick up a block from her box and place it on her desk. She looks at it. Looks at the box and picks up another one in which she places it on her desk.
(...Now, I guess placing is a very gentle term. It was more of a throwing action and she would jerk her hand away after she put it on the desk.)
After she had about 7 or 8 on the desk she would either throw them off over her shoulder or pick them up and put them back in the block box. For 30 minutes she sat there. 'Taking out and putting back'
I cried. I didn't sob, but I did cry. I was so proud.
It was profound moment in my life as a new mom. I taught someone how to do something. She took the skills that I lovingly taught her and put them to use.
For someone who constantly questions herself. Am I teaching her all the things she needs? Am I giving her the right amount of mental stimulation? This moment of action made all those worries disappear.
I'm a mom.
Let me say it again.
I'm a mom. Tonight,I think it really sunk in.
My eyes are swollen with tears and my heart is swollen with love, pride and honor to be your mom Ava.
It has been maybe two days of working on this with her. We only "practice/play" for a couple of minutes before she gets bored and moves onto something else but it seems that something has stuck with her.
I say this with such pride in my heart. I witnessed the fruits of my "labor" tonight.
Let me set the scene. Our living room, post bath time, pre-bottle. It's her nightly play time. Ava was by her "desk", as usual, where all her books are. Next to her desk is her box of blocks. Tonight I sat and watched her quietly pick up a block from her box and place it on her desk. She looks at it. Looks at the box and picks up another one in which she places it on her desk.
(...Now, I guess placing is a very gentle term. It was more of a throwing action and she would jerk her hand away after she put it on the desk.)
After she had about 7 or 8 on the desk she would either throw them off over her shoulder or pick them up and put them back in the block box. For 30 minutes she sat there. 'Taking out and putting back'
I cried. I didn't sob, but I did cry. I was so proud.
It was profound moment in my life as a new mom. I taught someone how to do something. She took the skills that I lovingly taught her and put them to use.
For someone who constantly questions herself. Am I teaching her all the things she needs? Am I giving her the right amount of mental stimulation? This moment of action made all those worries disappear.
I'm a mom.
Let me say it again.
I'm a mom. Tonight,I think it really sunk in.
My eyes are swollen with tears and my heart is swollen with love, pride and honor to be your mom Ava.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Busy Days
man oh man....Have we been busy.
Ava, You are 10 months and 1 day old.
You wear mostly size 12 months clothes but there are some 9 month pants thrown in the mix.
You HATE when I wipe your hands and face after you are done eating. And I mean HATE. It gives me a good chuckle.
You went on your FIRST ROAD TRIP!!!! Whoo Hoo!!!
Destination = Gatlinburg, TN.
I have to say that you were amazing. (for the most part) Our first day we drove 13 hours. That is a heck of a long time for a baby to be in a car. Needless to say you were VERY excited to be out of the car.
On this trip you experienced :
Your first bath in a jacuzzi tub. It was interesting. I had to sit in it with you and I was at eye level with the top of the tub. It was a VERY deep jacuzzi tub.
your first hotel room
Your first Continental Breakfast (such a world traveler)
Your first Mountain
Your first air vent (they were your favorite thing to play with at the cabin)
You saw your first bear, horse, chipmunk, otter and hedgehog
You saw and dipped your feet in your first river (super cold water)
Your first lightning bug
Your first Cracker Barrel
(you really did enjoy it....you were just tired, we all were)
Your first rocking chair...L.O.V.E.D. it
So many things Ava. You had a great time on your trip. I think you loved having your sister there everyday when you woke up.
It was such a great vacation. It was a big deal for you and for your mama.
On a less enthusiastic note, you have gotten your very first cold. It's a sad sad thing to see you cry like that.
I don't really know if it is a cold or maybe you are getting some teeth, but you have slept ALL day and had a temperature of 103.1 at it's highest.
I can hear you whimpering in the bedroom. I've got you only in a pair of shorts. It breaks my heart, little Ava.
I hope tomorrow brings with it good spirits and a healthy happy baby.
I love you Ava!
Ava, You are 10 months and 1 day old.
You wear mostly size 12 months clothes but there are some 9 month pants thrown in the mix.
You HATE when I wipe your hands and face after you are done eating. And I mean HATE. It gives me a good chuckle.
You went on your FIRST ROAD TRIP!!!! Whoo Hoo!!!
Destination = Gatlinburg, TN.
I have to say that you were amazing. (for the most part) Our first day we drove 13 hours. That is a heck of a long time for a baby to be in a car. Needless to say you were VERY excited to be out of the car.
On this trip you experienced :
Your first bath in a jacuzzi tub. It was interesting. I had to sit in it with you and I was at eye level with the top of the tub. It was a VERY deep jacuzzi tub.
your first hotel room
Your first Continental Breakfast (such a world traveler)
Your first Mountain
Your first air vent (they were your favorite thing to play with at the cabin)
You saw your first bear, horse, chipmunk, otter and hedgehog
You saw and dipped your feet in your first river (super cold water)
Your first lightning bug
Your first Cracker Barrel
(you really did enjoy it....you were just tired, we all were)
Your first rocking chair...L.O.V.E.D. it
So many things Ava. You had a great time on your trip. I think you loved having your sister there everyday when you woke up.
It was such a great vacation. It was a big deal for you and for your mama.
On a less enthusiastic note, you have gotten your very first cold. It's a sad sad thing to see you cry like that.
I don't really know if it is a cold or maybe you are getting some teeth, but you have slept ALL day and had a temperature of 103.1 at it's highest.
I can hear you whimpering in the bedroom. I've got you only in a pair of shorts. It breaks my heart, little Ava.
I hope tomorrow brings with it good spirits and a healthy happy baby.
I love you Ava!
Friday, July 08, 2011
I am Ava, hear me ROAR!
Hello,
My name is Ava and I like to scream.
At all times.
It's what I do.
And I dare ya to try and make me sit in my tub for more than 3 seconds.
My name is Ava and I like to scream.
At all times.
It's what I do.
And I dare ya to try and make me sit in my tub for more than 3 seconds.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Tuesday
It's Tuesday.
It's raining outside. I like overcast days like this but I don't like the fact that with all this rain more and more mosquitoes are being born.
It's a freaking epidemic.
It's unnatural.
There is a daily killing spree inside our house. Typical death toll...7.
Poor Ava wakes up with a welt on her skin almost everyday from some flying bloodsucking mosquito.
It's also really really warm and humid. We went swimming in dad's pool last week and it was like swimming in a bath tub.
The opposite of refreshing.
I wish I could find it in me to not be grumpy during the summer but so far I haven't found that inner calm yet.
Regardless of the weather Ava, you still LOVE to be outside. We went for a walk around the lake at the Botanical Gardens this morning. At 9a.m. it was hot.
Hot. Sweaty, humid hot but you loved every single second of it. When i took you out of the carrier your face was all red and your head was sweating but you were smiling.
Let's talk about Ava some more.
You are becoming more and more adventurous. You go everywhere in the house and investigate everything. It's fun to watch you discover new things.
You have been so happy these past few days. It has been so cute. You smile so much.
We still have only heard you laugh those two times. We are still waiting to hear more.
No teeth yet.
You won't hold your bottle. Period. Why should you do it when I can? :)
You love taking baths in the "big girl" tub but all you want to do is stand up so it's not as much fun for mommy as it is for you. Sometimes we have very short baths.
But you smile so big and splash the water. You are having a jolly good time.
And today, this rainy Tuesday, you are 9 months.
It's still so hard to believe. It's true what they say.
It goes by so fast......
It's raining outside. I like overcast days like this but I don't like the fact that with all this rain more and more mosquitoes are being born.
It's a freaking epidemic.
It's unnatural.
There is a daily killing spree inside our house. Typical death toll...7.
Poor Ava wakes up with a welt on her skin almost everyday from some flying bloodsucking mosquito.
It's also really really warm and humid. We went swimming in dad's pool last week and it was like swimming in a bath tub.
The opposite of refreshing.
I wish I could find it in me to not be grumpy during the summer but so far I haven't found that inner calm yet.
Regardless of the weather Ava, you still LOVE to be outside. We went for a walk around the lake at the Botanical Gardens this morning. At 9a.m. it was hot.
Hot. Sweaty, humid hot but you loved every single second of it. When i took you out of the carrier your face was all red and your head was sweating but you were smiling.
Let's talk about Ava some more.
You are becoming more and more adventurous. You go everywhere in the house and investigate everything. It's fun to watch you discover new things.
You have been so happy these past few days. It has been so cute. You smile so much.
We still have only heard you laugh those two times. We are still waiting to hear more.
No teeth yet.
You won't hold your bottle. Period. Why should you do it when I can? :)
You love taking baths in the "big girl" tub but all you want to do is stand up so it's not as much fun for mommy as it is for you. Sometimes we have very short baths.
But you smile so big and splash the water. You are having a jolly good time.
And today, this rainy Tuesday, you are 9 months.
It's still so hard to believe. It's true what they say.
It goes by so fast......
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
8 months and growing fast
8 beautiful months of life have gone by.
You are getting so big and becoming more and more independent. You will stand all on your own for seconds at a time. It's such a thrill to actually witness those small moments of independence. You are starting to venture out into different parts of the house now. It's so fun to see the surprise and excitement on your face when you turn a corner and see us standing there waiting for you.
One VERY exciting milestone happened this month. YOU LAUGHED!!!! An ACTUAL laugh. It was so stinking cute I cried. Tears actually formed in my eyes. Daddy was making funny faces and then blowing raspberries on your belly and you just started giggling. My heart almost busted out of my chest. It's a sound we have been WAITING to hear...And I always new it would be your daddy who would make you laugh. You two have the sweetest bond.
You cry when he leaves the room.
When he comes home from lunch you can't contain your excitement and will cry if he doesn't pick you up for a hug right away.
If I bring you outside to see him when he comes home you can't get out of my arms fast enough.
Your WHOLE face smiles when you see him.
You are clapping.
You will do a make-shift sign for 'more'. (super cute)
You have started to say ba-ba-ba. But for the most part you stick to your usual grunting, screaming and squealing.
Some days while we are driving in the car I will hear you in the back making very soft and sweet noises. It's like you are trying to figure out what noise will come out when you make different shapes with your mouth.
You have also started sucking on your toes while in you car seat.
I wish I could record every single second with you Ava.
Oh...Yea! We took you to the beach for the first time where you actually played and got in the water. You weren't too sure about it at first. You were a little clingy when I got close to the water but eventually you figured out that it wasn't as scary as you thought.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Let's not forget!
So for Mother's Day Katie, my sister and your Aunt got a really cool gift. It was her blog put into a book! I mean HONESTLY!!!! How fun is that?! So when Hazel is older she will be able to read all about her delivery into this world and what happened afterwards. I thought blogging to Hazel was a great idea and that is how I started blogging to you. When I read the blog last week I realized that over a month had gone by before I wrote anything down. A MONTH?!
Do you know how much you change in a day let alone a month. Man! So, I just wanted to make sure that I remember to write all the big milestones and all the little accomplishments and even all the little funny things you do. Like pucker up your lips and stick out your tongue when you eat fruit.
Or the fact that regardless of when you fall asleep you wake up at 7am.
You are totally into Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Jake and the Neverland Pirates. When Mickey sings the Hot Dog song at the end of the show you squeal. I know you want to clap but you still haven't figured that out yet.
I swear you have said mom and your daddy swears that you have said dada.
Anyways Ava, I love you so much it hurts. I mean just look at how cute you are!!!
Do you know how much you change in a day let alone a month. Man! So, I just wanted to make sure that I remember to write all the big milestones and all the little accomplishments and even all the little funny things you do. Like pucker up your lips and stick out your tongue when you eat fruit.
Or the fact that regardless of when you fall asleep you wake up at 7am.
You are totally into Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Jake and the Neverland Pirates. When Mickey sings the Hot Dog song at the end of the show you squeal. I know you want to clap but you still haven't figured that out yet.
I swear you have said mom and your daddy swears that you have said dada.
Anyways Ava, I love you so much it hurts. I mean just look at how cute you are!!!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Hot Summer Days
It's May. The middle of May and it's in the 90's. Yeesh.
Although last night was a BEAUTIFUL night it is safe to say that summer is here.
Ava, you are 7 1/2 months old. You are crawling all OVER the place and pulling yourself up onto anything and everything. You want to stand up at all times.
You love, love, love the park and going on the swings. My heart melts watching you get that huge grin on your face. It's as if you can't smile big enough.
We go to a place called My-Gym and you are in the Tiny Tykes class. It's a great thing to do in the summer months. We have only been a couple of times but so far you LOVE it. The second I set you down on the floor you crawl right over to the baby sitting closest to you. You smile so big and then crawl up onto their mommy. At least I can say that there is NO issue with separation anxiety. It's so fun to watch you. You are always so intense and aware of what is going on around you. I think going to MyGym will be good for you and for me. It's good for both of us to socialize.
Let's see, You love to go swimming. We went swimming today with Aunt Katie and you are so comfortable in the water which makes me happy. You automatically start kicking your legs and you constantly smile. I wish you would wear a hat though. It doesn't take long to get sunburned, even with sunscreen on. You will learn this the older you get but I hope that you will be smart and ALWAYS put sunscreen on and wear a hat and sit under an umbrella. Your mama just wants to protect that beautiful skin of yours.
You are still a GREAT eater. You will eat pretty much anything aside from bananas. You simply don't like them. We have tried you on a few "big people" food like bread...you seem to do ok and know that you need to "chew" it quite a bit before you swallow. It is so cute to watch you eat. We are working on getting you used to the sippy cup. Some days you get the hang of it...others, well, let's just say I have had to clean up quite a bit of apple water up off the floor.
We have yet to hear you laugh or do much baby talk. For the most part you are a squealer and a grunter. You can hit some pretty high octaves for a baby.
Daisy and your Daddy always make things better. They make you smile so much. I love to watch your face when you hear your daddy come in the house. You know he is there and your eyes get really big and you start looking for him. When he finally comes around the your whole face smiles and you let out this long squeal followed but a grunt. Every time. It is the SWEETEST thing ever! Daisy is very patient with you. You will crawl right up to her and "pet" her on the face or eyeball and then tug at her ear. Daisy just lays there and doesn't move a muscle. I hope you two become best buds.
I love each phase of your life Ava and at the same time look forward to the next milestone. I am beyond thankful that I am able to spend every day with you Ava.
You bring so much joy to your Mommy and Daddy.
Although last night was a BEAUTIFUL night it is safe to say that summer is here.
Ava, you are 7 1/2 months old. You are crawling all OVER the place and pulling yourself up onto anything and everything. You want to stand up at all times.
You love, love, love the park and going on the swings. My heart melts watching you get that huge grin on your face. It's as if you can't smile big enough.
We go to a place called My-Gym and you are in the Tiny Tykes class. It's a great thing to do in the summer months. We have only been a couple of times but so far you LOVE it. The second I set you down on the floor you crawl right over to the baby sitting closest to you. You smile so big and then crawl up onto their mommy. At least I can say that there is NO issue with separation anxiety. It's so fun to watch you. You are always so intense and aware of what is going on around you. I think going to MyGym will be good for you and for me. It's good for both of us to socialize.
Let's see, You love to go swimming. We went swimming today with Aunt Katie and you are so comfortable in the water which makes me happy. You automatically start kicking your legs and you constantly smile. I wish you would wear a hat though. It doesn't take long to get sunburned, even with sunscreen on. You will learn this the older you get but I hope that you will be smart and ALWAYS put sunscreen on and wear a hat and sit under an umbrella. Your mama just wants to protect that beautiful skin of yours.
You are still a GREAT eater. You will eat pretty much anything aside from bananas. You simply don't like them. We have tried you on a few "big people" food like bread...you seem to do ok and know that you need to "chew" it quite a bit before you swallow. It is so cute to watch you eat. We are working on getting you used to the sippy cup. Some days you get the hang of it...others, well, let's just say I have had to clean up quite a bit of apple water up off the floor.
We have yet to hear you laugh or do much baby talk. For the most part you are a squealer and a grunter. You can hit some pretty high octaves for a baby.
Daisy and your Daddy always make things better. They make you smile so much. I love to watch your face when you hear your daddy come in the house. You know he is there and your eyes get really big and you start looking for him. When he finally comes around the your whole face smiles and you let out this long squeal followed but a grunt. Every time. It is the SWEETEST thing ever! Daisy is very patient with you. You will crawl right up to her and "pet" her on the face or eyeball and then tug at her ear. Daisy just lays there and doesn't move a muscle. I hope you two become best buds.
I love each phase of your life Ava and at the same time look forward to the next milestone. I am beyond thankful that I am able to spend every day with you Ava.
You bring so much joy to your Mommy and Daddy.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Life in motion
Ava, In two days you will be 7 months.
Your mama can't even believe it. This is all just moving too fast.
You are crawling, sitting up on your own and pulling yourself up into a standing position. This has become your new favorite thing to do.
It is so cute. You are so proud of yourself each and every time you stand up.
You use the tops of your feet to push yourself up though. It looks like it hurts.
You are a big squealer. No laughing yet and no words just squeals. Your daddy is DETERMINED to make you laugh. It makes my heart swell just watching you two. You give your daddy the BIGGEST smiles. I have to admit that sometimes I get a little jealous. :) You adore him and he totally adores you. It's so fun to watch.
As far as eating goes....there are no problems there. You are a great little chow hound. The only things that you don't really like are bananas. You will eat pretty much anything else. Oh yeah, except for mashed potatoes. You tried those about a week ago and made it very clear that you did NOT like them.
You are almost ready to take a bath in the big tub. You try and crawl out of your whale tub now. I want to wait until you are a little more sturdy when you are sitting before I try that out.
The outside is still your favorite place. When ever you are upset or bonk your head we just open up the door and the sadness stops immediately.
You are always looking out the window while we are driving.
Your daddy bought you a little pool so we can splash in it during the hot summer days. We discovered that you love being in the water. When ever Grandma watches you she takes you swimming. She will put you on your back and you just put those arms up behind your head, get a big smile on your face and enjoy the water.
It's really stinking cute.
Let's see. You are in #3 diapers. You can fit into some 9 month clothes. Crazy. Really crazy.
You are a sweet happy little girl. We are all waiting to hear your laugh. And to see what you will sound like when you decide to start baby talk.
Your mama can't even believe it. This is all just moving too fast.
You are crawling, sitting up on your own and pulling yourself up into a standing position. This has become your new favorite thing to do.
It is so cute. You are so proud of yourself each and every time you stand up.
You use the tops of your feet to push yourself up though. It looks like it hurts.
You are a big squealer. No laughing yet and no words just squeals. Your daddy is DETERMINED to make you laugh. It makes my heart swell just watching you two. You give your daddy the BIGGEST smiles. I have to admit that sometimes I get a little jealous. :) You adore him and he totally adores you. It's so fun to watch.
As far as eating goes....there are no problems there. You are a great little chow hound. The only things that you don't really like are bananas. You will eat pretty much anything else. Oh yeah, except for mashed potatoes. You tried those about a week ago and made it very clear that you did NOT like them.
You are almost ready to take a bath in the big tub. You try and crawl out of your whale tub now. I want to wait until you are a little more sturdy when you are sitting before I try that out.
The outside is still your favorite place. When ever you are upset or bonk your head we just open up the door and the sadness stops immediately.
You are always looking out the window while we are driving.
Your daddy bought you a little pool so we can splash in it during the hot summer days. We discovered that you love being in the water. When ever Grandma watches you she takes you swimming. She will put you on your back and you just put those arms up behind your head, get a big smile on your face and enjoy the water.
It's really stinking cute.
Let's see. You are in #3 diapers. You can fit into some 9 month clothes. Crazy. Really crazy.
You are a sweet happy little girl. We are all waiting to hear your laugh. And to see what you will sound like when you decide to start baby talk.
Thursday, April 07, 2011
You're crawling.
Sniff. Sniff. My baby girl is growing up so fast. (sigh)
You are also climbing up your crib. We had to lower it today. (Finally)
I tried not to laugh too hard at you but you were ever so proud of yourself for getting up all on your own. You would squeal in delight. It was so so stinking adorable.
You love Daisy. When you are on the floor Daisy is SERIOUS motivation for you to crawl. Right when you get close enough to grab a handful of hair Daisy high tails it outta there! But you just keep on following her until she lets you "pet" her.
I am thankful everyday for you Ava. Every single second of every single day.
Sniff. Sniff. My baby girl is growing up so fast. (sigh)
You are also climbing up your crib. We had to lower it today. (Finally)
I tried not to laugh too hard at you but you were ever so proud of yourself for getting up all on your own. You would squeal in delight. It was so so stinking adorable.
You love Daisy. When you are on the floor Daisy is SERIOUS motivation for you to crawl. Right when you get close enough to grab a handful of hair Daisy high tails it outta there! But you just keep on following her until she lets you "pet" her.
I am thankful everyday for you Ava. Every single second of every single day.
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Just a snuggly day
Yesterday was a great day.
I decided that the laundry and sweeping could wait till you went to bed. That is was ok if the dishes sat another day cause all I wanted to do was snuggle and play with you.
You seemed to be ok with this idea. You told me so by giving me a big slobbery open mouth 'kiss' on my cheek. I have to admit that my heart melted. M-e-l-t-e-d.
Maybe you liked the idea that I was hanging out on the bed with you and all your toys instead of being in your crib while I fold laundry. Or playing with you on the couch instead of you sitting in your highchair while I do the dishes.
I gotta say....I liked it too.
My mom today told me that I need to savor every second now...that there is no past and no future, only NOW. I understand what she means. Ava, you change so much and so fast. You are only moments away from crawling.
CRAWLING.
you prop yourself up onto your elbow now and can catch yourself from falling over (for the most part)
It is so fun to watch you but at the same time it is a glaring reminder at how quickly time slips away. A reminder to take the time to play with you on the floor. To get out a few books or go for a walk and let the sweeping wait. I mean that's what socks are for right? That way I don't even know that the floor needs sweeping.
We went to the doctor today for your 6 month check up.
15.5 lbs.
27 inches.
You LOVED the very loud and highly entertaining paper that is on the doctor's 'lounge chair'. (I don't really know what to call that, It looks like a chaise lounge, only higher up and uncomfortable) That was all you wanted to touch. You kept banging your hands on it to make noise. It was really cute.
Yesterday when you woke up from your nap I walked into the room to find you LEANING over your crib trying to grab a bottle of lotion! YIKES!!!! I guess it is time to lower your crib. It is still so mind shattering how fast you grow.
You stick your tongue out now when you are happy or excited. You still are not laughing but your whole face smiles, just no sound comes out. You are "chatting' more and more. I'm looking forward to hearing that laugh of yours.
I want to savor every moment with you, every change, every milestone. I am so magically in love with you Ava. You make me laugh every day!
I decided that the laundry and sweeping could wait till you went to bed. That is was ok if the dishes sat another day cause all I wanted to do was snuggle and play with you.
You seemed to be ok with this idea. You told me so by giving me a big slobbery open mouth 'kiss' on my cheek. I have to admit that my heart melted. M-e-l-t-e-d.
Maybe you liked the idea that I was hanging out on the bed with you and all your toys instead of being in your crib while I fold laundry. Or playing with you on the couch instead of you sitting in your highchair while I do the dishes.
I gotta say....I liked it too.
My mom today told me that I need to savor every second now...that there is no past and no future, only NOW. I understand what she means. Ava, you change so much and so fast. You are only moments away from crawling.
CRAWLING.
you prop yourself up onto your elbow now and can catch yourself from falling over (for the most part)
It is so fun to watch you but at the same time it is a glaring reminder at how quickly time slips away. A reminder to take the time to play with you on the floor. To get out a few books or go for a walk and let the sweeping wait. I mean that's what socks are for right? That way I don't even know that the floor needs sweeping.
We went to the doctor today for your 6 month check up.
15.5 lbs.
27 inches.
You LOVED the very loud and highly entertaining paper that is on the doctor's 'lounge chair'. (I don't really know what to call that, It looks like a chaise lounge, only higher up and uncomfortable) That was all you wanted to touch. You kept banging your hands on it to make noise. It was really cute.
Yesterday when you woke up from your nap I walked into the room to find you LEANING over your crib trying to grab a bottle of lotion! YIKES!!!! I guess it is time to lower your crib. It is still so mind shattering how fast you grow.
You stick your tongue out now when you are happy or excited. You still are not laughing but your whole face smiles, just no sound comes out. You are "chatting' more and more. I'm looking forward to hearing that laugh of yours.
I want to savor every moment with you, every change, every milestone. I am so magically in love with you Ava. You make me laugh every day!
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Another month already?!
Ava, you are now 6 months and two days. I don't EVEN believe it. It astounds me how fast time flies by.
You are wearing #3 diapers.(The same as your cousin Hazel, who just happens to be twice your age)
You are eating solid foods now. You seem to favor squash, sweet potatoes and peaches. You hold the spoon and manage to get the right end of the spoon into your mouth. Some days you gobble down the solid food, other days it just sort of oozes out of your mouth becoming a liquid art media.
You are still eating 6 oz of formula every 2-3 hours.
You still don't nap very often or for very long during the day. You seem to be a power napper. I'm not going to complain because you are sleeping through the night. I'm very lucky and thankful for that!
A couple of weeks ago you had your first major Boo-Boo. You fell off the couch and got hit your lip on the floor. And YES I was sitting right there! Gaads! Talk about a heart attack. One of your toys fell over your boppy and away you went- right over the boppy and onto the floor. Your poor little lip swelled to about 5 times it's size. If I wasn't feeling so guilty and panic stricken, I would have taken a picture. I did take you to the doctor since I was CERTAIN that something had happened. Fortunately Dr. Shultz did not laugh at me, she politely told me that "yes the first fall is always scary but she is fine and it certainly isn't going to be the last of her falls" Thanks. Your lip looked perfectly normal by the end of the night.
What else? When we are in the car you sit up in your car seat so you can look out the window. It is the cutest thing I have ever seen.
You have the sweetest little mouth and heart shaped lips.
You are going "bald" on the sides of your head. You are giving yourself a Mohawk. It's pretty funny looking.
You are DAYS away from crawling. You get right up on your hands and knees and rock back and forth with a look of serious concentration on your face. It's so crazy. I'm not ready for you to be mobile yet. I like the fact that you are still reliant on me.
You are getting more and more vocal. You like to sing opera ...or at least that is what Grandma calls it. It is at such a high octave it's hysterical.
I can't believe how much you change every day. I am SO thankful that I am able to be with you every day to watch you grow and learn. I love you Ava Virginia.
You are wearing #3 diapers.(The same as your cousin Hazel, who just happens to be twice your age)
You are eating solid foods now. You seem to favor squash, sweet potatoes and peaches. You hold the spoon and manage to get the right end of the spoon into your mouth. Some days you gobble down the solid food, other days it just sort of oozes out of your mouth becoming a liquid art media.
You are still eating 6 oz of formula every 2-3 hours.
You still don't nap very often or for very long during the day. You seem to be a power napper. I'm not going to complain because you are sleeping through the night. I'm very lucky and thankful for that!
A couple of weeks ago you had your first major Boo-Boo. You fell off the couch and got hit your lip on the floor. And YES I was sitting right there! Gaads! Talk about a heart attack. One of your toys fell over your boppy and away you went- right over the boppy and onto the floor. Your poor little lip swelled to about 5 times it's size. If I wasn't feeling so guilty and panic stricken, I would have taken a picture. I did take you to the doctor since I was CERTAIN that something had happened. Fortunately Dr. Shultz did not laugh at me, she politely told me that "yes the first fall is always scary but she is fine and it certainly isn't going to be the last of her falls" Thanks. Your lip looked perfectly normal by the end of the night.
What else? When we are in the car you sit up in your car seat so you can look out the window. It is the cutest thing I have ever seen.
You have the sweetest little mouth and heart shaped lips.
You are going "bald" on the sides of your head. You are giving yourself a Mohawk. It's pretty funny looking.
You are DAYS away from crawling. You get right up on your hands and knees and rock back and forth with a look of serious concentration on your face. It's so crazy. I'm not ready for you to be mobile yet. I like the fact that you are still reliant on me.
You are getting more and more vocal. You like to sing opera ...or at least that is what Grandma calls it. It is at such a high octave it's hysterical.
I can't believe how much you change every day. I am SO thankful that I am able to be with you every day to watch you grow and learn. I love you Ava Virginia.
Sunday, March 06, 2011
5 months
Oh Ava, I can't even believe it but you are 5 months. You are getting so big and changing so much. I am having the best time watching you grow.
You weigh 13 lbs 12oz and are 26 inches tall.
You are wearing #2 diapers and some of your 6 month p.j.'s are too short.
You rode in the "big girl" part of your stroller the other day, meaning no car seat. It was a big moment for your mamma, and a happy day for you. You loved your new found freedom. You could stretch your legs out and could see the world coming at you instead of trying to peer around at it in your car seat.
We are trying you on baby food everyday. You are kind of getting the hang of it. You do open your mouth for the spoon but only really "eat" every other bite or so, otherwise you just push it out. You don't crinkle up your nose anymore though so that is a good thing.
You are starting to roll over onto your belly when you are sleeping. Since you are able to roll over on your own "they" say that it is ok that you do this. I just need to keep an eye on you and make sure you haven't scooted your face into the bumpers.
You don't talk much but when you do it is loud. You still don't make any noise when you laugh....well I guess it isn't laughing yet, just a HUGE smile that looks like it should have sound to it.
You have VERY little patience with books. I hope this changes as you get older. If it has lights and noise on it then you are all over it. Otherwise....don't even bother.
You are putting anything and everything in your mouth. Everyone says "oh she's teething" but how do they really know. Did you tell them? Did you whisper it to them when I wasn't looking. "Psst, hey, don't tell my mom but I can feel my teeth coming in. That's why I'm drooling all over myself."
I don't feel anything on your gums and don't see anything.
Speaking of teeth, your cousin now has 4!!!! on the top and 2 on the bottom. It is soooooooo crazy. Ava, your mouth is so teeny tiny I can't picture it full of teeth.
Your mamma's hair is still falling out at a ridiculous amount. How I even have any hair left on my head is a mystery to me. I hope my hair follicles get back into their regular routine. The novelty of it wore off weeks ago, now it is just down right annoying.
You smile so big at everyone. I love it. Your whole face smiles. you get this little wrinkle on the right side of your nose when ever you smile.
You love love your jumperoo.....THANK THE LORD!!!! That is life saver....I can shower, do dishes, laundry.... it's fabulous. You are as happy as you can be in that thing and chat up a storm! You want your mamma to know all the cool things you are playing with.
I'm having so much fun with you Ava. Everyday is amazing. An absolute gift!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sidenotes
I sleep more soundly and peacefully now than I ever have in my life. Maybe my brain understands that a nights sleep now does not guarantee a full 8 hours so it limits the chatter and allows my body to shut down for the night. It's wonderful...and maybe I am still enjoying the comforts of the bed after being so UNCOMFORTABLE while I was pregnant. What ever it is, it's fabulous.
Ava, you "ate" peaches today. Yay! You make your mama so proud. You reach for the spoon to put in your mouth and usually wind up gagging yourself. But you keep right on gumming that baby food. Once you get the hang of this eating thing I will start making our own baby food.
You wake up every morning between 5:30 and 6:00 to let out some serious gas. It's so funny. You don't cry or anything, you just toot. And then you are up for the morning or at least 2 hours. Then it's nap time again.
You LOVE your baths. You get this very serious look on your face when you splash the water and then you smile so big. It is so adorable.
That's all for today. I try to keep track of all your changes and milestones so that when you are older you will be able to look back at all these entries and maybe know yourself a little bit better.
You are so loved Ava. So dearly loved. I can't wait to hear what your laugh sounds like....we all are wondering.
Ava, you "ate" peaches today. Yay! You make your mama so proud. You reach for the spoon to put in your mouth and usually wind up gagging yourself. But you keep right on gumming that baby food. Once you get the hang of this eating thing I will start making our own baby food.
You wake up every morning between 5:30 and 6:00 to let out some serious gas. It's so funny. You don't cry or anything, you just toot. And then you are up for the morning or at least 2 hours. Then it's nap time again.
You LOVE your baths. You get this very serious look on your face when you splash the water and then you smile so big. It is so adorable.
That's all for today. I try to keep track of all your changes and milestones so that when you are older you will be able to look back at all these entries and maybe know yourself a little bit better.
You are so loved Ava. So dearly loved. I can't wait to hear what your laugh sounds like....we all are wondering.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
It's Sunday
It's Sunday, February 27th. Tomorrow you will be 5 months old Ava.
Woa.
It's crazy. Crazy. Where does the time go and how can I get it all back? Seriously. I wanna go back to the day we brought you home. When I was tired, scared and in pain but so incredibly happy and proud to have you.
Oh Ava...it's so wonderful to have you in my life.
Let's see, you are a hungry girl. You eat every two hours (give or take a few) and you eat a minimum of 5 ounces.
You still aren't much of a regular napper but you are pretty regular about bedtime.
You are getting pretty animated and are starting to chat more. You still don't make noise when you "laugh". It's really cute.
I try to get most of my things done after you go to sleep at night, with the exception of dishes. It's too loud and I don't want to take the chance of waking you up.
Tonight, however, I watched the Academy Awards. Ann Hathaway and somebody Franco were down right awful. Uugh. She was, well, annoying. There is no other way to put it and he was a snoozer. That was 3 hours of my life that I can't get back. 180 minutes of wasted time. Oh well.
Okay. I'm tired. I'm going to bed. I'll just post some pictures of you to capture what's been going on with you these days.
P.S. I love you
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Hi Ava....
Hello sweet baby.
How are you?
Getting bigger, you say? I know. You can wear some 6 month clothes and certainly cannot fit into NB anymore.
What's that...you're hungry? I know that too. Today you ate 6.5 ounces at one feeding. Although, you still don't like the solid food yet. You gag, crinkle your nose and push the food right out. We tried Oatmeal and applesauce yesterday but that didn't seem to tickle your fancy either. We'll keep trying.
OH...sweet pea, I know. I know you love to be outside. It's your most favorite place to be. You could be screaming your head off but the minute I step outside....all is right in the world. You open up those eyes, quite your crying and take in all that nature has to offer. Your Grandpa Bill says your daddy was the same way....Guess you take after him in more ways than one. When ever Grandma babysits she plops you in the stroller and away you to go. YOu love it and it's good exercise for Grandma.
What else is new? Your practicing your rolling over? Oh, I know.....You almost steamrolled right off the bed today. Almost gave your mama a heart attack. You prop your head up when on your belly and you finally realized that your elbows are a big help when on your belly. You want to sit up SOOOO bad. It looks like you are constantly doing crunches. It's totally adorable.
Oh Ava, I love you too. Your daddy loves you too. He loves how your whole face smiles when you look at him. You are such an amazing gift to us. I cherish and treasure EVERY SINGLE second with you.
How are you?
Getting bigger, you say? I know. You can wear some 6 month clothes and certainly cannot fit into NB anymore.
What's that...you're hungry? I know that too. Today you ate 6.5 ounces at one feeding. Although, you still don't like the solid food yet. You gag, crinkle your nose and push the food right out. We tried Oatmeal and applesauce yesterday but that didn't seem to tickle your fancy either. We'll keep trying.
OH...sweet pea, I know. I know you love to be outside. It's your most favorite place to be. You could be screaming your head off but the minute I step outside....all is right in the world. You open up those eyes, quite your crying and take in all that nature has to offer. Your Grandpa Bill says your daddy was the same way....Guess you take after him in more ways than one. When ever Grandma babysits she plops you in the stroller and away you to go. YOu love it and it's good exercise for Grandma.
What else is new? Your practicing your rolling over? Oh, I know.....You almost steamrolled right off the bed today. Almost gave your mama a heart attack. You prop your head up when on your belly and you finally realized that your elbows are a big help when on your belly. You want to sit up SOOOO bad. It looks like you are constantly doing crunches. It's totally adorable.
Oh Ava, I love you too. Your daddy loves you too. He loves how your whole face smiles when you look at him. You are such an amazing gift to us. I cherish and treasure EVERY SINGLE second with you.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Zip it Ma....
Sometimes I should just keep my big mouth shut.
Stop jinxing myself. Just when I thought I had it made with Ava and her night time schedule she goes and changes it on me.
Kids.
Now she has started waking up at 10pm again for a late night snack only this time around she is M.A.D. And I mean mad. It is exhau....sting.
I don't get it. I guess I'm not meant to "get it".
It's what everyone says.."just when you think you have it figured out, they go and change it on ya."
Great.
Now my neighbor, my certifiable crazy neighbor, is having a "moment" outside. I swear, if he wakes her up I will have a fit myself. Then we'll all be screaming.
Stop jinxing myself. Just when I thought I had it made with Ava and her night time schedule she goes and changes it on me.
Kids.
Now she has started waking up at 10pm again for a late night snack only this time around she is M.A.D. And I mean mad. It is exhau....sting.
I don't get it. I guess I'm not meant to "get it".
It's what everyone says.."just when you think you have it figured out, they go and change it on ya."
Great.
Now my neighbor, my certifiable crazy neighbor, is having a "moment" outside. I swear, if he wakes her up I will have a fit myself. Then we'll all be screaming.
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
It's February!
I can't EVEN believe how fast time goes by now.
Hazel,sweet little baby Hazel is now 1. She is ONE. Wha? Really? Already? My goodness. She blows kisses, waves goodbye and hello, eats avocado, steak and mashed potato's. Formula is no longer needed. She takes baths in the big girl "real" tub. She knows sign language and has taken her first unassisted steps. (granted it was only about 3 or 4 but hey! she did them all on her own!!!) She has teeth!!! Teeth for crying out loud! She takes actual bites of food. Her two top teeth are huge and so stinking adorable. She is the cutest and happiest baby I have ever seen. (aside from mine of course)
And speaking of you Ava, you are changing and growing every second! I love it so much. You still scream for half of the time when ever Grandma watches you. I feel AWFUL for Grandma cause I know how exhausting it is when you are screeching and can't be soothed. Grandma says it's because you miss your mommy and daddy since you stop crying instantly whenever Daddy comes to pick you up. :) You just miss us huh? I can live with that just maybe some days you could give Grandma a break.
We try the rice cereal pretty much everyday but you still aren't too interested in it. It just sort of sits on your lips and you give me this look like "ummm...could you please get this stuff off my lips"
I set up your jumperoo...you last about 10 minutes TOPS. It's super cute though. Your feet don't come close to touching the floor. hee hee.
You are not much of a napper. You will take about 3 30 minute naps a day. This sometimes makes it hard for your mamma to get anything done. But that is ok...I like spending time with you WAY better than doing laundry and dishes. You do however, sleep straight through the night. Going to bed at about 8pm and sleeping till about 6:30. This makes your mom and dad SUPER happy.
You like lots of action and activity going on. The busier the better for you. Outside is still the most interesting and entertaining place for you.
You are putting EVERYTHING in your mouth. Including your new favorite thing...your hands.
You grab onto your feet all the time now and can roll over like a champ. You tend to favor your right side when rolling over.
You like to watch Mikey Mouse Club House but you are only good for about 30 minutes then after that the T.V. just isn't that exciting to you anymore. Which I guess that is a good thing. (but I have to admit that sometimes I wish you would be content to watch it for a little longer than you do)
I totally adore you Ava.
I mean, come on, how could you not adore this face. This adorable little face. With your hazel/blue eyes and little button nose that crinkles up when you smile.
.....sigh....
You make my heart swell Ava!
Hazel,sweet little baby Hazel is now 1. She is ONE. Wha? Really? Already? My goodness. She blows kisses, waves goodbye and hello, eats avocado, steak and mashed potato's. Formula is no longer needed. She takes baths in the big girl "real" tub. She knows sign language and has taken her first unassisted steps. (granted it was only about 3 or 4 but hey! she did them all on her own!!!) She has teeth!!! Teeth for crying out loud! She takes actual bites of food. Her two top teeth are huge and so stinking adorable. She is the cutest and happiest baby I have ever seen. (aside from mine of course)
And speaking of you Ava, you are changing and growing every second! I love it so much. You still scream for half of the time when ever Grandma watches you. I feel AWFUL for Grandma cause I know how exhausting it is when you are screeching and can't be soothed. Grandma says it's because you miss your mommy and daddy since you stop crying instantly whenever Daddy comes to pick you up. :) You just miss us huh? I can live with that just maybe some days you could give Grandma a break.
We try the rice cereal pretty much everyday but you still aren't too interested in it. It just sort of sits on your lips and you give me this look like "ummm...could you please get this stuff off my lips"
I set up your jumperoo...you last about 10 minutes TOPS. It's super cute though. Your feet don't come close to touching the floor. hee hee.
You are not much of a napper. You will take about 3 30 minute naps a day. This sometimes makes it hard for your mamma to get anything done. But that is ok...I like spending time with you WAY better than doing laundry and dishes. You do however, sleep straight through the night. Going to bed at about 8pm and sleeping till about 6:30. This makes your mom and dad SUPER happy.
You like lots of action and activity going on. The busier the better for you. Outside is still the most interesting and entertaining place for you.
You are putting EVERYTHING in your mouth. Including your new favorite thing...your hands.
You grab onto your feet all the time now and can roll over like a champ. You tend to favor your right side when rolling over.
You like to watch Mikey Mouse Club House but you are only good for about 30 minutes then after that the T.V. just isn't that exciting to you anymore. Which I guess that is a good thing. (but I have to admit that sometimes I wish you would be content to watch it for a little longer than you do)
I totally adore you Ava.
I mean, come on, how could you not adore this face. This adorable little face. With your hazel/blue eyes and little button nose that crinkles up when you smile.
.....sigh....
You make my heart swell Ava!
Thursday, February 03, 2011
So....What else is new?
I have come to terms with the fact that I am one of those moms. You know the kind, the ones whose topics of conversations consist of her new baby and only her new baby.
Yep. That's me.
Ava is my world. She is so amazing to me and I love her so much it hurts. My heart actually aches when I look at her cute little face as she sleeps. A-mazing.
But as much as I am involved with her and the joy that I feel when I am with her I have to remember that there are other things going on in the world. There are other people in my life who deserve my attention as well. Time doesn't stop...it actually goes by faster than I ever thought possible. It seems that I wake up, blink once and find myself wondering what we are going to do for dinner because somehow the ENTIRE day has gone by and I haven't even thought about dinner. Today I actually planned ahead. I was at the store at 3pm with a specific meal planned. I felt pretty dang good about that.
So....what else is new?
Hazel, sweet adorable Hazel is now One. I CANNOT believe an entire year has gone by already. HOLY MACARONI! She weighs 17 lbs....she is now in the 3rd% for weight. She such a shrimpy. It's so adorable. We all went out to dinner at Outback for her birthday. I think I sat down for a total of 25 minutes. Ava was having one of her "don't even THINK about sitting down" moments. uugh. It was a hectic whirlwind of a dinner. It was fun but crazy. Hazel doesn't want to sit still and neither does Ava.
Oh yea.
I now have bangs. Not too sure how I feel about that decision.
Anyway...back to Ava.
She went to the doctor the other day. She is 25 inches tall and weighs 12.13 lbs. I think 8 lbs of that 12 are in her legs and the other is in her cute little double chin. You wouldn't think she was only in the 25th percentile for weight.
Thank you Ava for coming into my life.
Yep. That's me.
Ava is my world. She is so amazing to me and I love her so much it hurts. My heart actually aches when I look at her cute little face as she sleeps. A-mazing.
But as much as I am involved with her and the joy that I feel when I am with her I have to remember that there are other things going on in the world. There are other people in my life who deserve my attention as well. Time doesn't stop...it actually goes by faster than I ever thought possible. It seems that I wake up, blink once and find myself wondering what we are going to do for dinner because somehow the ENTIRE day has gone by and I haven't even thought about dinner. Today I actually planned ahead. I was at the store at 3pm with a specific meal planned. I felt pretty dang good about that.
So....what else is new?
Hazel, sweet adorable Hazel is now One. I CANNOT believe an entire year has gone by already. HOLY MACARONI! She weighs 17 lbs....she is now in the 3rd% for weight. She such a shrimpy. It's so adorable. We all went out to dinner at Outback for her birthday. I think I sat down for a total of 25 minutes. Ava was having one of her "don't even THINK about sitting down" moments. uugh. It was a hectic whirlwind of a dinner. It was fun but crazy. Hazel doesn't want to sit still and neither does Ava.
Oh yea.
I now have bangs. Not too sure how I feel about that decision.
Anyway...back to Ava.
She went to the doctor the other day. She is 25 inches tall and weighs 12.13 lbs. I think 8 lbs of that 12 are in her legs and the other is in her cute little double chin. You wouldn't think she was only in the 25th percentile for weight.
Thank you Ava for coming into my life.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Growing so fast!
My baby girl, my Ava, is growing too fast.
Ava, you are 4 months already.
You have gotten the hang of rolling over from your back to your belly but sometimes you seem to get stuck on your arm and are not sure how to get it out from underneath your belly. :)
You had your first major poopy diaper blow out the other day. Mommy's friend Danielle was here to witness the major flow of poop running down your leg. I have to say it was pretty nasty.
I LOVE how you sleep with your hands behind your head.
I still can't get over how amazing it is to be your mom. Everyday you change. You reach for EVERYTHING now and you are getting pretty good at grabbing things. Your control is still a little off but you are getting the hang of it.
You sit up (with support) so good now. You are going to be a scootin machine once you figure out you can support yourself of your arms. You already "climb" over your boppy but don't know what to do once you finally get over.
You LOVE to listen to music.
Outside is your absolute favorite place to be. Today we sat outside and watched daddy give Daisy a bath. You were as happy as a clam. Speaking of Daisy, your are starting to smile and giggle when you see Daisy and reach for her. I still don't think Daisy is too sure about you yet. She is very patient with you though and sits still so you can pet her.
You are as cute as you can be Ava Virginia Dolwick.
Mommy and Daddy love you to pieces.
Ava, you are 4 months already.
You have gotten the hang of rolling over from your back to your belly but sometimes you seem to get stuck on your arm and are not sure how to get it out from underneath your belly. :)
You had your first major poopy diaper blow out the other day. Mommy's friend Danielle was here to witness the major flow of poop running down your leg. I have to say it was pretty nasty.
I LOVE how you sleep with your hands behind your head.
I still can't get over how amazing it is to be your mom. Everyday you change. You reach for EVERYTHING now and you are getting pretty good at grabbing things. Your control is still a little off but you are getting the hang of it.
You sit up (with support) so good now. You are going to be a scootin machine once you figure out you can support yourself of your arms. You already "climb" over your boppy but don't know what to do once you finally get over.
You LOVE to listen to music.
Outside is your absolute favorite place to be. Today we sat outside and watched daddy give Daisy a bath. You were as happy as a clam. Speaking of Daisy, your are starting to smile and giggle when you see Daisy and reach for her. I still don't think Daisy is too sure about you yet. She is very patient with you though and sits still so you can pet her.
You are as cute as you can be Ava Virginia Dolwick.
Mommy and Daddy love you to pieces.
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