Busy Little Bees

Aloha my cyber-ohana.

We're staying quite busy at home. Besides trying to keep up with Ava, we've been in and out of the state, and we've welcomed guests to our home. Plus I try to catch a z or two where I can and tend to our garden. But hey...that's life, yeah? Trust everyone is doing well. I must apologize: I've meant to get some pictures mailed out from Ava's 2 year old session, but it's just not happening. I can't seem to find the time. But I can tell you a little about how our summer is going so far...in pictures!

Putting Ava's little pool to good use. This day, Uncle Nick and Samantha came over for a dad/daughter day.


Samantha was loving it, but it takes Ava a little while to warm up to the action.


"Daddy, just let me go down the slide. I got this!"


Say cheese! (You'll notice, Ava has not moved from that spot)


Playing "ball" with Grampa. Look at the glee in those eyes.


"Again!"


Time with the grandparents.


We always seem to where her out.


Well that's the latest on the "Ava front." There's a lot going on at work, as my friend and colleague, our morning anchor of 6+ years has been replaced. I wish Mike, Kenna and Michael all the best in the future. We know who's getting the better end of that deal. Thanks for all you've taught me Mike. I write good because of you.

Still to come: how to turn 30 with a loving wife.

Cheers.

Home Again, Home Again

Aloha.

Well, we made it back from Oklahoma. And St. Louis. For an active 2 year old, Ava traveled remarkably well. I wouldn't want to be strapped into a car seat like that for 8 hours. Two days in a row. But she did great. Becky and I (and Ava) had a terrific time in St. Louis with David and Connie on either end of the week. Plus a wonderful time in Oklahoma for the week. Can't wait for the upcoming 2nd half!! Anyway, back to the pictures. I'll finish up this last era, and move onto more photos. Though I'm not sure where they will fall chronologically. It's a surprise. For you. And me. Uh...Enjoy!

As promised, the day after Ava's birthday. You'll notice the cup in her arms. That's from Nick and Rachel and Samantha. It's a sippy cup with a spill proof straw. They're Ava's cups of choice most days. It helps that Dora graces the decor.


Aunt Kimmy sent a box full of great gifts. Bubble wrap. Oh, and some toys or something. We ran up and down these paths of bubbles for a long time, chasing Ava as she giggled and ran. Very fun.


Sylin' baby! These fancy dress (play) gloves came in Ava's Easter basket from Gramma and Gampa. Very nice.


This towel/blanket bar used to be Mama's. She used to swing on it like Ava.


Our little Anna Pavlova.


Our little Fido. :^) This is how we eat pasta at home.


She just looks so grown up here. I'm in trouble, wouldn't you say?!


Oh what a look.


I love this outfit. Our friends have such classic taste. This is at my recent graduation.


See? Gown, cap and everything! Kidding aside, it was amazing to have my wife and daughter there as I received my degree. What an amazing moment to share with Becky and Ava. Without their love and support, it wouldn't have been possible. I cried a little when I looked up and saw them. Then I threw the "shaka" up, and Ava threw it right back at me. Amazing. Plus, my folks and Becky's came. What a great support system. I love you all. (Even those who weren't there. I know you're there for me in love, thoughts and prayers.)


Alright, enough sap. Ya'll get out there and enjoy the day. It's a Wonderful World.

Cheers.