It's Almost Here...

I can not believe we're getting set for Ava's 1st birthday. This year has been terrific, yet quick. Working on our basement has made it difficult to spend a ton of time with her, but we've done our best to juggle it all. And now it's almost done (sort of) and we're ready to enjoy the spring. Of course, right now that means morning frost on the car windows and rain in the afternoon. But, that's how it goes in the Great Lake State! Anyway, life has been good. Ava's growing and getting ever smarter. Let's see, changes... she's talking quite a bit now, saying lots of words and half words. Coat, car, dog, mama, dada, nana, more, done. The other day she saw some girls running and said girl. Plus the signing is going very well. I'll put up some of those soon. She's not walking yet, but she does let go of the furniture and stand. She'll also stand up from sitting sometimes. And she can get down off the bed and couches. She negotiates stairs well. "Feet first!" As far as food goes, she loves fruit and fresh veggies. She seems to like spices, too. Chili, garlic, hot sauce even. In small doses, of course. She loves avocado (it's the California influence!). It's just a joy to see her enjoying all the good stuff. One of her favorite things is to be outside.

Wow, I guess that was pretty all over the place and rambling. I suppose you didn't come here to hear me prattle on. On with the show!

Yep, that's raw onion!


"Scorned Woman" hot sauce on chicken taco salad. She wouldn't eat the mild stuff that night!


And it made her happy.


Helping with the dishes. (The book on the counter is Green for Life. It's a great book, and we use the green smoothie recipes. Ava LOVES them. Check it out when you get time.)


What she'll look like in a few years, if she has my, or mama's eyes.


Such a happy kid!