Monday, March 10, 2008
Friday, February 29, 2008
Just Shy of Two Years: 23 Months
Ava turned 23 months old yesterday. Hard to believe that almost two years have gone by since she's arrived!
She spent her first night in her "big-girl bed" on Wednesday night. We bought a safety side-rail so she won't fall out of bed during the night. She really seemed proud that she slept there. We have a step stool so she can climb up by herself. We timed this so she won't feel too slighted when baby boy arrives later this summer, like he's taking over her crib.
She wanted her nails painted a few days ago, and chose bright pink nail polish. She was ever-so-happy with the way they, and her toenails, turned out. She was a very good customer, sitting completely still while they dried. I was amazed she sat still that long!?! The next day at day care, her teachers said she really enjoyed showing everyone her nails. :-)
During the past few days, she has been saying more complete sentences: "I'm cleaning," "I'm eating," "I'm walking," and other sentences. She absolutely loves the book "Five Little Monkeys Jumping On the Bed," and will say "No more monkeys dabin ah da bed." It's entirely too cute when she says it. She is really enunciating well these days, forcing herself to say "YESSSSS" and "Q,R,ESSSSSSSS". She's using more please and thank you's on her own, too. I continue to be amazed at the open-ended questions she answers, when I ask. You can see the wheels spinning in her head...
Lately everything isn't just an "elbow", it's "Ava's elbow", "Ava's cereal". She loves Strawbery Delight Frosted Mini Wheats for breakfast. She loves to dance, requesting that we "dance, dance, dance", and also likes to do "circles" with Daddy (Doug pulls her up in the air by her arms and spins her around). She wears Daddy out requesting circles...
Ava seems to be more outgoing lately, giving hugs to more people than she has previously. It's cute to see her interact with complete strangers at the grocery store, replying "Hi!" (very socially) to them. She continues to sing at the top of her lungs in any store through which we peruse. People crack up at her loud singing voice, and smile. Ava doesn't even notice.
The other day Doug was getting Ava out of her car seat and said "Okey dokey", to which she replied "arti-chokey!" I guess we use this phrase all-too-often in our household?
She is becoming more particular about what she eats, but still wants to try new things and determine if she will like that food. She is also insisting on her independence more these days. We continue to work on the "first-time obedience" thing, so she will comply when we ask her to "come here" (as this could be a safety issue in a parking lot, etc).
We removed the gate at the bottom of our stairway, and she frequently "practices" going up and down the stairs. We've only had one spill down three stairs at this point, so we're hoping that will make her more careful in the future. The gate still remains on her bedroom door, so she can't get out at night and potentially fall down the stairs.
I think I might be confusing Ava, saying that I am a girl, but there is a baby boy in my tummy. She normally will say that she is a girl, but I think since I've been mentioning the baby boy in my tummy, she's a bit confused. :-)
I think we will be ready to revisit potty-training again soon. She announces now when she is "poopy", and will even crawl up onto the diaper-changing pad after announcing it. So, I think it's about time. :-) She likes to sit on the potty occasionally, but hasn't "gone" lately. Guess we'll have to work on that!
It's interesting how well-mannered she is in stores, etc. She doesn't like to venture too far away from me / us when shopping, and likes to tag-along right next to the cart. She is this way everywhere we go, surprisingly. Other people have commented on how she isn't a "wanderer". When in the store, she does like to get out of the cart by requesting "walking?"
Let the good times roll!
With our love,
Shelly, Doug and Ava
She spent her first night in her "big-girl bed" on Wednesday night. We bought a safety side-rail so she won't fall out of bed during the night. She really seemed proud that she slept there. We have a step stool so she can climb up by herself. We timed this so she won't feel too slighted when baby boy arrives later this summer, like he's taking over her crib.
She wanted her nails painted a few days ago, and chose bright pink nail polish. She was ever-so-happy with the way they, and her toenails, turned out. She was a very good customer, sitting completely still while they dried. I was amazed she sat still that long!?! The next day at day care, her teachers said she really enjoyed showing everyone her nails. :-)
During the past few days, she has been saying more complete sentences: "I'm cleaning," "I'm eating," "I'm walking," and other sentences. She absolutely loves the book "Five Little Monkeys Jumping On the Bed," and will say "No more monkeys dabin ah da bed." It's entirely too cute when she says it. She is really enunciating well these days, forcing herself to say "YESSSSS" and "Q,R,ESSSSSSSS". She's using more please and thank you's on her own, too. I continue to be amazed at the open-ended questions she answers, when I ask. You can see the wheels spinning in her head...
Lately everything isn't just an "elbow", it's "Ava's elbow", "Ava's cereal". She loves Strawbery Delight Frosted Mini Wheats for breakfast. She loves to dance, requesting that we "dance, dance, dance", and also likes to do "circles" with Daddy (Doug pulls her up in the air by her arms and spins her around). She wears Daddy out requesting circles...
Ava seems to be more outgoing lately, giving hugs to more people than she has previously. It's cute to see her interact with complete strangers at the grocery store, replying "Hi!" (very socially) to them. She continues to sing at the top of her lungs in any store through which we peruse. People crack up at her loud singing voice, and smile. Ava doesn't even notice.
The other day Doug was getting Ava out of her car seat and said "Okey dokey", to which she replied "arti-chokey!" I guess we use this phrase all-too-often in our household?
She is becoming more particular about what she eats, but still wants to try new things and determine if she will like that food. She is also insisting on her independence more these days. We continue to work on the "first-time obedience" thing, so she will comply when we ask her to "come here" (as this could be a safety issue in a parking lot, etc).
We removed the gate at the bottom of our stairway, and she frequently "practices" going up and down the stairs. We've only had one spill down three stairs at this point, so we're hoping that will make her more careful in the future. The gate still remains on her bedroom door, so she can't get out at night and potentially fall down the stairs.
I think I might be confusing Ava, saying that I am a girl, but there is a baby boy in my tummy. She normally will say that she is a girl, but I think since I've been mentioning the baby boy in my tummy, she's a bit confused. :-)
I think we will be ready to revisit potty-training again soon. She announces now when she is "poopy", and will even crawl up onto the diaper-changing pad after announcing it. So, I think it's about time. :-) She likes to sit on the potty occasionally, but hasn't "gone" lately. Guess we'll have to work on that!
It's interesting how well-mannered she is in stores, etc. She doesn't like to venture too far away from me / us when shopping, and likes to tag-along right next to the cart. She is this way everywhere we go, surprisingly. Other people have commented on how she isn't a "wanderer". When in the store, she does like to get out of the cart by requesting "walking?"
Let the good times roll!
With our love,
Shelly, Doug and Ava
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Visitors: Grandpa Bill & Grandma Pam
My Mom and Bill came down for a visit on their way down to Georgia, a few weekends ago. They spent a few days in Florida, with Bill’s sister and brother-in-law, and then returned for a visit with us for a few days. We had a great time while they were here!
Ava took her first trip to the circus the first weekend that Mom and Bill were in town. We went to the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus at Philips Arena. I haven’t been to the circus since I was seven, when some of the “Griffith cousins” (minus Benjamin, who lived in TN), went with Uncle Bill (a Shriner) and Aunt Lillian! This go-around, Doug wasn’t too enthused about heading to the circus. The version he remembered from his younger days was half-baked with visions of creepy “carnies” (Carnival folk).
Ava and Grandma Pam waiting in line before attending the circus
The circus has changed since I was seven. There was a huge flat screen (apropos considering we were watching at “Phillips Arena”) that flashed background movement / lights, etc. We got to watch “Bello”, a non-speaking / hair-product junkie / nice clown attempt many of the circus acts successfully. Circus clowns, elephants, tigers, dancing dogs, white and black horses, zebras, tightrope-walkers, teeterboard-acrobats, and two guys who balanced themselves in the equivalent of two flying hamster wheels on an axis. Grandma and Grandpa prepped Ava for the event with a circus-themed book that remains her favorite weeks later. Ava was entirely amazed with the first half of the circus, but by the end she seemed to be satisfied with people-watching the crowd behind our seats. J She was probably on sensory-overload, by that point.
Ringling Brothers Fun
Elephants
Elephants
Notice the "spotters" on the ground...
Craziness at great heights
Tigers
Talented tigers
We ventured to Chuck E. Cheese, where Ava really enjoyed playing in the tunnels / play area. Somehow I got conned into pushing her up the steps so she could get into the tunnels. Another little girl (about four, I’d say?) seemed to be claustrophobic, so I helped her through the tunnels. I found it interesting that my almost-two-year-old daughter was running around the tunnels at lightning speed, without any fear. There I was, 5 ½ months pregnant, crawling around in kiddie-tunnels. J Grandma Pam and Grandpa Bill also took on this responsibility when they took Ava to McDonald’s Play Place one day while I worked. Ava now requests that we go there by name, “Pay-Pace? Pay-Pace?”
Ava is very fond of Chuck...
Ava on a ride at Chuck E. Cheese
I took up residence on the steps... Ava went down the slide so fast, I just decided to stay in one spot!
We also went to the park, took lots of naps (Grandkid and grandparents alike :-)), went to Boneheads, went to the mall and rode the carousel, made heart-shaped cookies on sticks (post-Valentine’s Day festivities), enjoyed people-watching at THE BEST WAFFLE HOUSE in North America (exit 265 in Marietta, GA :-)), danced like crazy people around the living room, and just had a great time being together.
Heart-shaped cookies on sticks - Can you guess which Ava decorated?
Thank you Grandpa Bill and Grandma Pam for making the trek down to see us! We love you, and always enjoy our time together. Since your visit, Ava continues to ask for “Grandpa? Grandpa?”, and has pointed to different seats at our breakfast table and at our guest bedroom, asking for “Grandpa? Grandma?” She misses you!
With love,
Shelly, Doug and Ava
Ava took her first trip to the circus the first weekend that Mom and Bill were in town. We went to the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus at Philips Arena. I haven’t been to the circus since I was seven, when some of the “Griffith cousins” (minus Benjamin, who lived in TN), went with Uncle Bill (a Shriner) and Aunt Lillian! This go-around, Doug wasn’t too enthused about heading to the circus. The version he remembered from his younger days was half-baked with visions of creepy “carnies” (Carnival folk).
Ava and Grandma Pam waiting in line before attending the circus
The circus has changed since I was seven. There was a huge flat screen (apropos considering we were watching at “Phillips Arena”) that flashed background movement / lights, etc. We got to watch “Bello”, a non-speaking / hair-product junkie / nice clown attempt many of the circus acts successfully. Circus clowns, elephants, tigers, dancing dogs, white and black horses, zebras, tightrope-walkers, teeterboard-acrobats, and two guys who balanced themselves in the equivalent of two flying hamster wheels on an axis. Grandma and Grandpa prepped Ava for the event with a circus-themed book that remains her favorite weeks later. Ava was entirely amazed with the first half of the circus, but by the end she seemed to be satisfied with people-watching the crowd behind our seats. J She was probably on sensory-overload, by that point.
Ringling Brothers Fun
Elephants
Elephants
Notice the "spotters" on the ground...
Craziness at great heights
Tigers
Talented tigers
We ventured to Chuck E. Cheese, where Ava really enjoyed playing in the tunnels / play area. Somehow I got conned into pushing her up the steps so she could get into the tunnels. Another little girl (about four, I’d say?) seemed to be claustrophobic, so I helped her through the tunnels. I found it interesting that my almost-two-year-old daughter was running around the tunnels at lightning speed, without any fear. There I was, 5 ½ months pregnant, crawling around in kiddie-tunnels. J Grandma Pam and Grandpa Bill also took on this responsibility when they took Ava to McDonald’s Play Place one day while I worked. Ava now requests that we go there by name, “Pay-Pace? Pay-Pace?”
Ava is very fond of Chuck...
Ava on a ride at Chuck E. Cheese
I took up residence on the steps... Ava went down the slide so fast, I just decided to stay in one spot!
We also went to the park, took lots of naps (Grandkid and grandparents alike :-)), went to Boneheads, went to the mall and rode the carousel, made heart-shaped cookies on sticks (post-Valentine’s Day festivities), enjoyed people-watching at THE BEST WAFFLE HOUSE in North America (exit 265 in Marietta, GA :-)), danced like crazy people around the living room, and just had a great time being together.
Heart-shaped cookies on sticks - Can you guess which Ava decorated?
Thank you Grandpa Bill and Grandma Pam for making the trek down to see us! We love you, and always enjoy our time together. Since your visit, Ava continues to ask for “Grandpa? Grandpa?”, and has pointed to different seats at our breakfast table and at our guest bedroom, asking for “Grandpa? Grandma?” She misses you!
With love,
Shelly, Doug and Ava
Holy Roller
As of late, Ava has really been cranking out the church tunes. Her all-time favorite seems to be "Hallelu, Hallelu, Hallelu, Hallelujah! Praise ye the Lord!" (Sounds like "Pray Ye Loh"). She loves to sing "Deep and wide, deep and wide, there's a fountain flowing deep and wide", too.
The other day we were on a short trip to the grocery store. She LOVES to ride in the "car cart" while we shop. While shopping yesterday, she belted out (at the top of her lungs) "Hallelu, Hallelu, Hallelu!" through the aisles of the grocery store, not giving a care for anyone who might hear her little voice.
We have been going to a (free!) "Tots and Tunes" play date at a local church, before church on Wednesdays (6:00-6:45). Ava has really enjoyed playing the instruments they have while dancing / jumping around to the music. Tonight, when I was carrying her on our way in, I asked if she was excited to sing songs and dance around. She shook her head yes (with twinkly-smile eyes), and then gave me the biggest hug. It was so sweet to see that she seemed to appreciate going, and was so excited about it!
I read a "Mommy Hugs" book to her yesterday, and gave her hugs each time the book prompted it. It became a game, where I asked for a hug, and she ran toward me to give me a hug. Now, even in the middle of meals, she asks for a "huck" and opens her arms wide. Who would deny such an opportunity, even if spaghetti sauce is involved? :-)
On a different note, I have been remiss to include many pictures since we've upgraded to a digital SLR camera... I'm not sure why it seemed easier in the past??? I'll get up to speed one of these days.... Sorry!
Hope you're having a great week!
With love and hucks,
Shelly, Doug and Ava
The other day we were on a short trip to the grocery store. She LOVES to ride in the "car cart" while we shop. While shopping yesterday, she belted out (at the top of her lungs) "Hallelu, Hallelu, Hallelu!" through the aisles of the grocery store, not giving a care for anyone who might hear her little voice.
We have been going to a (free!) "Tots and Tunes" play date at a local church, before church on Wednesdays (6:00-6:45). Ava has really enjoyed playing the instruments they have while dancing / jumping around to the music. Tonight, when I was carrying her on our way in, I asked if she was excited to sing songs and dance around. She shook her head yes (with twinkly-smile eyes), and then gave me the biggest hug. It was so sweet to see that she seemed to appreciate going, and was so excited about it!
I read a "Mommy Hugs" book to her yesterday, and gave her hugs each time the book prompted it. It became a game, where I asked for a hug, and she ran toward me to give me a hug. Now, even in the middle of meals, she asks for a "huck" and opens her arms wide. Who would deny such an opportunity, even if spaghetti sauce is involved? :-)
On a different note, I have been remiss to include many pictures since we've upgraded to a digital SLR camera... I'm not sure why it seemed easier in the past??? I'll get up to speed one of these days.... Sorry!
Hope you're having a great week!
With love and hucks,
Shelly, Doug and Ava
Monday, February 18, 2008
IT'S A....
BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am seriously shocked that we are having a boy! This pregnancy has been EXACTLY the same as far as symptoms go, etc. Daddy Doug and I are both on cloud nine! This will be the first boy to carry on the "Carey" name for this generation.
During the ultrasound, the little guy wasn't the least bit shy about letting us know he is definitely a "he"!
It is still taking some time to sink in, as I was very convinced I was having a girl (as all symptoms seemed to indicate).
We haven't even LOOKED at names yet, but hopefully we'll have 20 weeks or so to finally settle on a good one. The name "Elmo" is not currently in the running, although "big sissy" Ava thinks otherwise...
Please keep this pregnancy in your prayers, and that he is born a strong, healthy, sweet boy! Looking at everything on the ultrasound reassured us that he is currently healthy, and swimming along just fine.
All our love,
Shelly, Doug and Ava
I am seriously shocked that we are having a boy! This pregnancy has been EXACTLY the same as far as symptoms go, etc. Daddy Doug and I are both on cloud nine! This will be the first boy to carry on the "Carey" name for this generation.
During the ultrasound, the little guy wasn't the least bit shy about letting us know he is definitely a "he"!
It is still taking some time to sink in, as I was very convinced I was having a girl (as all symptoms seemed to indicate).
We haven't even LOOKED at names yet, but hopefully we'll have 20 weeks or so to finally settle on a good one. The name "Elmo" is not currently in the running, although "big sissy" Ava thinks otherwise...
Please keep this pregnancy in your prayers, and that he is born a strong, healthy, sweet boy! Looking at everything on the ultrasound reassured us that he is currently healthy, and swimming along just fine.
All our love,
Shelly, Doug and Ava
Friday, February 01, 2008
She Counts to 10!
About a week ago, I spent a day with Ava, not taking her to day care. On days such as this, we end-up going through every possible toy / activity in the house, it seems!
This day, she was particularly interested in the Bible Flash Cards that Grandma Dolly and Grandpa Dean gave to us a while back. There are numbers on the cards that correspond with the number of items on the cards. So, "five loaves", etc. We started counting, and Ava surprised me by counting up to TEN! My mouth dropped to the floor, as I don't think we've ever been past "four".
She has been singing her ABC's all the time lately, too. It's particularly cute to listen to her pause and say "Q, R, SSSSSSSSS". Hearing her try to say "W" is also pretty funny. I know I've GOT to get this on video before she masters the alphabet!
She likes to sing "Jesus wa me" (Jesus Loves Me), "Deep and Wide" and "Where is thumbkin" on a regular basis. What's funny is that I never sing "Where is thumbkin" at home. When I picked Ava up at day care one day, I asked if they sang "Frere Jacques". The teacher said "no". I asked if they sang "Where is Thumbkin", and she said "Well, it is on the CD we listen to all the time." Funny that Ava sings the musical notes close enough for me to know that that's the song that she's singing. She does love to sing!
We had a fun afternoon filled with finger-painting yesterday. She seems to enjoy the feeling of the paint on her hands more than decorating a piece of paper with the paint. :-)
I will be sure to post some pictures as soon as I can remember to take them!
With love,
Shelly
This day, she was particularly interested in the Bible Flash Cards that Grandma Dolly and Grandpa Dean gave to us a while back. There are numbers on the cards that correspond with the number of items on the cards. So, "five loaves", etc. We started counting, and Ava surprised me by counting up to TEN! My mouth dropped to the floor, as I don't think we've ever been past "four".
She has been singing her ABC's all the time lately, too. It's particularly cute to listen to her pause and say "Q, R, SSSSSSSSS". Hearing her try to say "W" is also pretty funny. I know I've GOT to get this on video before she masters the alphabet!
She likes to sing "Jesus wa me" (Jesus Loves Me), "Deep and Wide" and "Where is thumbkin" on a regular basis. What's funny is that I never sing "Where is thumbkin" at home. When I picked Ava up at day care one day, I asked if they sang "Frere Jacques". The teacher said "no". I asked if they sang "Where is Thumbkin", and she said "Well, it is on the CD we listen to all the time." Funny that Ava sings the musical notes close enough for me to know that that's the song that she's singing. She does love to sing!
We had a fun afternoon filled with finger-painting yesterday. She seems to enjoy the feeling of the paint on her hands more than decorating a piece of paper with the paint. :-)
I will be sure to post some pictures as soon as I can remember to take them!
With love,
Shelly
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