Sillyness Abounds

Showing Off The Skills

2012-02-03T17:41:00.000-08:00

I wanted to do a post to show some of Avalyns development. It amazes me how much she learns daily! Time is just going by so quickly.

Love that smile!

Ok, here we go rolling back to front

Ta Da

To get back over she pushes her butt high in the air and the flops over

She is starting to interact more with toys. She likes music, colors, and lights.

This looks interesting

I can hold this ball pretty good!

Finally, look at her sitting like a big girl. She still topples over quite a bit but she has gotten better at balancing in just the last week.

Avalyns newest obsession...her FEET!

Party Time

2012-01-29T14:44:00.000-08:00

Avalyn got invited to her first birthday party! She was so good and really enjoyed herself. I hope she keeps her sweet outgoing nature. We have another party in a couple weeks. I'll admit, going to birthday parties has me already planning Ava's!

The theme was "Under The Sea"

Aren't these jellyfish cool?

The birthday girl cruising in her new car

Avalyn met a new friend!

I love birthday parties!

Happy Saturday Morning

2012-01-28T06:43:00.000-08:00

Morning Kitten

I need something to chew on

Mom, are you laughing at my hair again?

Time for some exercise

Weeeee

Jumperoo Pro

I love weekends!

Hairdos

2012-01-24T07:40:00.000-08:00

As I've mentioned before, I have to get creative with Avalyns hair since she has so much of it. Plus, without some styling it will stand straight up in the air! I was so giggly this morning when I did her latest style. PIGTAILS!! So cute how they just wisp out to the sides.

The Favorite Doll

2012-01-20T19:44:00.000-08:00

Avalyn has a doll that wiggles and giggles. She loves it! She just stares at it and smiles, laughs, and gets all excited. I have a feeling this is one of many dolls we'll have in our house!

5 Months

2012-01-14T20:30:00.000-08:00

Sleep: You are still a great night sleeper and are starting to establish a morning and afternoon nap schedule. About 50% of the time you will sleep through the entire night, from 6pm to 6am. The other 50% you get up between 2am-3am for a quick bottle. I have found that by respecting your sleep schedule and naps you are the happiest baby! You seriously hardly ever cry.

Feed: We moved you back to 4oz bottles to try and help with spit up. So this past month it’s been 4oz when you get up and 4oz when you go to sleep. Approximately 8 bottles per day, or 28-32oz. We also introduced you to some foods this month. We’ve been giving you one new taste a week. So far you have had peas, green beans, avocado, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Each week you are getting better and better at eating. Now when I set you down you already open your mouth!

Weight: I would guess 13-14lbs. I believe you had a growth spurt this month. You just seem heavier. But, you are solid as a rock. Just a pot belly and a little pudge on your upper thighs is all the fat you have!

Length: My guess would be 25 ½ to 26 inches.

Diaper Size: Size 2 diaper. I was trying really hard to get through the remaining size 1 diapers but they were just looking too much like a diaper bikini.

Clothes Size: All size 3-6 months. We’ve had to “retire” a few pairs of pants though just because they were getting a little short. All the tops and onesies fit great.

Hair Color: Mostly black but I can see some lighter brown highlights when you are in direct light. I’ve been experimenting with different hair styles and clips. Without them, the hair on top of your head will stand straight up and it’s about 3 inches tall! I can tell your hair has been growing on the sides and back of your head but you still have a little bald spot on the back.

Eye color: Still very dark brown.

Funniest moment: During one of your naps you woke up screaming, which is extremely unusual. I went rushing in to find you on your back! You had turned over and freaked yourself out. Also, you got a Johnny Jumper for Christmas. The first time we put you in it we watched you and laughed for probably an hour! It was so darn cute. You are also getting a little ticklish on your sides.

Milestone: In one word JUMP! You just love to jump all over. Last month you rolled from back to front and this month you learned to go the other direction. You are also starting to get up on your knees. You are moving all over your bed. You are laughing and talking more. You are starting to examine and investigate toys more. You also watch our lips a lot and try to move your mouth to match ours. Since you enjoy chewing on your fingers and hands now we have been able to ditch the binky without you even realizing it. You have still been drooling a lot to. Just a couple days ago I went to get you out of your bouncy chair and you lifted your arms up! Not sure if it’s something you learned or just a coincidence.

Your favorite toy: The Johnny Jumper and Jumperoo are your favorites this month. You will jump in those for long periods. You like the toys on the jumperoo as well and will stare at the colors and lights, spin the toys, and push the buttons. You are still entertained with the kick piano but it doesn’t take long before you’ve flipped over on your tummy. You like when we read to you. Your favorite is “Animal Noises.” When I read it you’ll look at the book and I’ll say, “Daisy the cow!” and then you’ll turn your head and look and me when I say, “goes moo moo moo.” You do the same thing with every animal! You also like to cuddle with a little “taggie lovie.” Not sure if you’ll get attached or if it’s just a phase.

Firsts:

First Christmas

First overnight stay with Grandma (2 nights!)

First time sitting in your high chair

First time eating vegetables

First time rolling from your belly to your back

First time in the Johnny jumper

First time seeing snow

First lunch date with Mommy and her friend

First Tastes

2012-01-09T18:01:00.000-08:00

We have not officially started Avalyn on a solid foods schedule yet (Per Dr. recommendation), but each week we give her a few tastes of a food then wait out the week to make sure there are no reactions. At first I think she spit more out than she actually ate. Over the past 4 weeks I can see she's getting a lot better at using her tongue and opening her mouth. Here are a few fun pics of her first tastes.

Ew, I Don't Like Peas

Sweet Potatoes, Not Bad

More Avocado Please!

Made It Through The Green Beans

MMM Can't Get Enough Of These Carrots!

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T10:34:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a wonderful year this has been and I can not wait to see what 2012 holds. Avalyn is spending the night with Grandma so Jonathan and I are ringing in the new year with some R&R!

Hope everyone has a great night and Happy 2012!

Jumpin & Jivin

2011-12-26T19:50:00.000-08:00

We put Avalyn in her toy from Aunt Kate and we were mesmerized for over a 1/2 hour! It was soo cute, we laughed so hard. She loves this thing! Thank you Aunt Kate.

Christmas

2011-12-26T12:33:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful wonderful Christmas. It was so much more special with Avalyn in our lives. Boy was she spoiled! Everyone seemed to forget there was a 1 gift per person rule! It made for a very stuffed vehicle ride home.

Whats this thing on your head?

Love

Avalyn and Mommy

First Christmas

Avalyn with her Aunt Kate

They had lots of fun together

Christmas Cutie

Merry Christmas!

Pretty in Red

Avalyns Christmas Pile!

Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-23T15:25:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things at Christmas is the tree! I love turning it on and staring at it. This year was extra special because I got to hang the "Baby's First Christmas" ornament up. I had the biggest smile on my face. Thought I'd capture a few pictures before it's time to take it down.

Almost reaches the ceiling

Jons Favorite Ornament

Handmade from St Lucia, where we took our Honeymoon

Maya loves the tree too!

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-19T06:50:00.001-08:00

Those are for ME!?!

4 Month Stats

2011-12-15T06:36:00.000-08:00

Sleep: You continue to be a great night sleeper. We said goodbye to the swaddler this month. Around 3 ½ months you started sleeping all the way through the night on most nights. Usually from 7pm to 5am. I think you look forward to our bedtime routine. We dim the lights, turn on your soother, and rock you while you have your bottle. Usually you are asleep right after I burp you. So many nights I rock you long after you are asleep on my shoulder. It’s one of my favorite times of the day. Also at 3 ½ months we found you one morning on your tummy! You have rolled over every night since then. Your naps are still quite short, about an hour. But, you wake up happy and refreshed. Right now you are taking about 3 naps a day.

Feed: You must be going through a growth spurt because you recently started eating a lot more. Your bottles usually range from 4-8 oz. First thing in the morning, or after a long nap, you’ll have a big bottle and then before naptime you’ll have a smaller bottle. No solid food yet, maybe next month.

Weight: 12lb 11oz (40%)
Length: 25 Inches (80%)
Diaper Size: Size 1 diaper

Clothes Size: Some 0-3 and some 3-6. You are long and skinny so the 0-3 months are getting a little short and the 3-6 months give you more leg room but are big in the waist.

Hair: Still dark and we never know what we are going to get! Sometimes water doesn’t even tame it. I don’t think we ever leave the house without a clip or headband in.

Eye color: Your eyes are still very dark brown. Sometimes we can’t even see your pupil.

Funniest moment: Your belly laughs, smiles, and jibber jabber keep us entertained! You just belt out little squeals and babbles. It’s adorable. I’m trying to teach you to say “HI” and daddy is still determined to teach you to say “DAA DAA.”

Milestone: You are rolling from back to tummy in both directions! You also continue to have a huge fascination with your hands and are always chewing on them. You’ve started sucking your thumb. You can grab and hold toys. Not sure if its early teething, but you have been drooling quite a bit. When you roll onto your tummy and move your arms and legs all at once, like you are swimming! You can also talk continuously for 20 minutes!

Your favorite toy: You’ve started enjoying the jumperoo. You cant quite reach the floor but we put a blanket under you so you can jump a little bit. Now that you like your tummy more we can put toys around you and you like looking at them and touching them. You also like toys that play music, talk, and have lights. We hung a couple toys on your car seat and you like looking and reaching at them.

Firsts:

Talking Talking Talking!
Sucking your thumb
First Thanksgiving
First trip to Nebraska
First real cold
First diaper blowout
First meeting with your extended family (Daddy’s Side)

Playtime!

2011-12-11T10:33:00.000-08:00

Avalyn has really started liking the jumperoo. She can't quite reach the floor so I prop a blanket under there. She just wiggles her legs and laughs when the seat bounces up and down. She's started grabbing toys and of course the first place they go is her mouth! She's been talking and cooing a lot more, sometimes 20 minutes straight! Recently she also found her thumb which has quickly become a favorite of her.

Hmm, what is this?

Let me taste test this

Are you about done with the camera?

Life is great since I found my thumb

Happy Baby!

Found a tag!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-07T12:39:00.000-08:00

Nice Kitty

Our Morning Surprise

2011-12-05T18:02:00.000-08:00

When we went to get Avalyn this morning this is what we found.

Hi Mom, Made It All By Myself

Little stinker rolled over last night! Her first big milestone and we missed it. Now we can't wait to witness it ourselves!

Getting Ready For Christmas

2011-12-04T17:07:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we pulled all the Christmas stuff out of the basement and I finally finished the tree today. Things sure take a little longer with a baby in the house! Well, honestly I was kind of procrastinating because I hate pulling all the pine needles apart on the tree to make it look full. I wish I could skip right to decorating. Here's a few pictures of Santa's Little Helper!

Thanksgiving Highlights

2011-11-30T18:00:00.000-08:00

We made it through our first Thanksgiving and trip to Nebraska! Of course, one thing always has to go wrong. When we first arrived we discovered with forgot something. FORMULA! We hadn't realized it sooner because Avalyn slept the entire trip. The closest grocery store that was open was 20 minutes away. We had to keep Avalyn entertained for about 50 minutes. Good thing Dad made it back when he did because she had just about had it with us!!

At Thanksgiving lunch Avalyn was the center of attention, and as usual didn't mind being passed from one persons arms to another. Even with all the commotion she managed to take a little nap in her stroller. She did really well traveling and being away from her normal environment and routine. It was fun getting to introduce her to everyone and the family even had a little baby shower for us.

Social Butterfly

Thanksgiving Runway Ready

Avalyn Kate With Aunt Kate

Aunt Kate and Cousin Jemma

First Thanksgiving

Peggy

Grandma

John

All The Little Ones

Avalyn 14 Weeks and Lincoln 9 Weeks

The Whole Group - 44 This Year

Adoption Finalization

2011-11-26T17:39:00.000-08:00

We had our Finalization Hearing on November 23rd! It was so nice because our 3 year wedding anniversary was on the 22nd and then of course Thanksgiving on the 24th. So we had lots to celebrate and be thankful for. Our hearing was via conference call so it was nice we didn't have to travel back to Florida. It was really amazing hearing the Judge say the adoption is final and she was signing off on the petition. Baby girl is ours FOREVER!!

Happy Family of 3!

Us with the Executive Director, Assistant Director, and Adoption Family Coordinator at our Agency.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T10:47:00.001-08:00

Anniversary

2011-11-22T11:22:00.000-08:00

It's our 3rd anniversary today! I loved our wedding and enjoy looking back at pictures. It was such a special day. I feel so blessed to have married such a wonderful man!

Bed Head

2011-11-21T12:51:00.000-08:00

Morning Sunshine!

Avalyn The Sports Fan

2011-11-21T06:27:00.000-08:00

Grandma Donna, Auntie Kate, and Cousin J were in town this weekend to babysit Avalyn while Jon and I went out for our 3rd Anniversary! Aunt Kate even took the night shift so Jon and I could get a full nights sleep. So awesome!

Well, with 4 Nebraska fans in the house I'm sure you know Ava had to pull out her Husker Gear.

You may remember this little Husker Cutie at only 2 weeks old!

Look how much she's changed!

Future Nebraska Cheerleader!

Don't I Look Cute In My New Chair?

Yay, Go BIG RED!

Ready For This Game Sock Monkey?

She's added some new bibs, toys, and a sports chair to her collection

Ava's On The Nice List

2011-11-18T19:33:00.000-08:00

3 Month Stats

2011-11-14T13:03:00.000-08:00

Sleep: You sleep awesome at night and still only take little hour cat naps during the day. We are hoping by 4-5 months you’ll have a more established morning and afternoon nap. Now that I’m back to work daddy and I alternate nights. One of us will do the bedtime routine with you and put you to sleep and then the other will get up during the night. Then we’ll switch the next day. At bedtime we have been swaddling you because you like it. But lately you’ve been kicking your feet out of it and sometimes you get your arms out too. I think it’s time to say goodbye to the swaddler.

Feed: You like to drink smaller amounts more often. So you’ll usually have 3-4 ounces when you wake up and then before your nap you’ll have a 2 oz snack. You’ve started playing with your bottle a lot. I think you might start holding it soon.

Weight: Probably between 11 and 12 pounds.

Length: Probably between 23 and 24 inches.

Diaper Size: Still fitting comfortably in size 1.

Clothes Size: You are still in 0-3 month sizes. It’s been so fun dressing you in “big girl clothes” as opposed to just sleepers and onsies. You’ll probably move on to 3-6 month clothes soon since you have long legs.

Hair Color: Still black. You are starting to get a little bald spot on the back of your head, but otherwise you still have quite a bit of hair. I’m having so much fun playing with your hair. You never leave the house without a flower, clip, or bow in it.

Eye color: Still brown

Funniest moment: You laughed at me when I was making a silly face. It was so adorable. It was brief and daddy and I continue to make the face hoping you’ll laugh again! Also, daddy is determined you’ll say “DA DA” first. He’ll stare intently into your eyes and say “DAAA” “ DAAA” over and over again. He cracks me up.

Milestones: You are talking up a storm. I think you might be a singer with your little high pitched “Ahhh.” You rolled onto your side but have not quite rolled over yet. You love to stand and bounce up and down while we support you. You have a strong neck and are mastering tummy time for longer periods. You can also sit in our laps like a big girl. With supervision I have even set you in the bumbo chair. Recently we lifted you up on our feet and hold your arms like you are flying, you love it! You’ve been blowing little bubbles a lot and drooling a little. I hope it’s not teething yet!

Your favorite toys: You still love the piano play gym and swing. I think you miss the piano play gym now that you are in day care. They don’t have one so when you play at night you go CRAZY! You do like sitting in your bouncy seat and watching mommy put her make-up on in the morning. You are getting better at tummy time so you enjoy being on your stomach while watching and listening to us shake rattles and toys. You really like the Baby Einstein mirror we got you that makes animal sounds when the buttons are pushed. You are fascinated with your hands. You chew on them all the time. Sometimes you’ll hold your left hand out and look at it as if you were admiring an engagement ring!! You also like sitting on our knees while we hold your hands. We’ll bounce you up and down like you are on a horse. You think it’s a lot of fun.

Firsts:
Sleeping through the night (6:30pm to 5:30am)
Halloween and Trick-or-Treat
Laugh
Meeting Santa! (Santa Pictures)
First time grandma and grandpa got to babysit you
First time with the day care sitter

Our Little Girl Is..

2011-11-13T14:44:00.000-08:00

The Most Adorable Special Silly Amazing Awesomest Baby Girl Ever!

I think that sums it up quite nicely!

BRRRR

2011-11-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

It's getting cold outside. Time for some cold weather gear!

Hey Whats On My Head?

I Think I Like It!

I Made It!

2011-11-09T06:40:00.000-08:00

I survived Avalyns's first day at daycare and my first day back to work. Ava went to daycare on Monday but I took the day off work for a "pout day." Then, yesterday was my first day back to work.

Everything went fine and very smooth. Avalyn did great at daycare and she was so happy to see me when I picked her up. Soo cute! She started kicking her little legs once she heard my voice. When I picked her up she was so calm.

When we got home she fell asleep on me and I just rocked her for about an hour. The house work can wait until she goes to bed for the night! I want all the snuggle time I can get.

Avalyn The Chatterbox

2011-11-05T14:13:00.000-07:00

Skip to 30 seconds. That's where the real talking begins!

Little Model

2011-11-04T17:11:00.000-07:00

I look pretty good in these skinny jeans don't ya think?

First Date

2011-11-02T20:20:00.000-07:00

Avalyn had her first date today with baby Crosby. Crosby's mom, Jenny, and I joke that they will date someday. Crosby was also brought to his family through the gift of adoption. Jenny and her husband used the same agency we did. It's nice to have a friend who lives nearby who has been through the adoption experience.

Here are some fun pictures of their first meeting. I think it's funny that they seem to have the same expressions in each picture!

Friends

Such Cuties

Crosby 5 weeks. Avalyn 11 weeks

Silly Babies!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T15:33:00.000-07:00

We took Avalyn, Gavin, and Gabe to my employers today for cube Trick-or-Treating! It was quite a workout chasing Gavin and Gabe around. Avalyn snoozed the majority of the time. We picked up lots of candy, Ava is going to be nice and share it all with Daddy.

Gabe the Boxer

Gavin the Ninja Turtle

Avalyn the Candy Corn

This Halloween, Avalyn had 3 outfits! I think she enjoyed all the costume changes!

My daytime outfit

Jonathan's pick. Chipotle Burrito, double princess. She got the nickname "princess burrito" because we swaddled her at bedtime, lol.

Bows, Headbands, Clips OH MY!

2011-10-28T16:22:00.000-07:00

I've gone a little crazy with the girly bows, clips, and headbands.

My absolute favorite Etsy Shop is BabyKDesigns.

Her items are beautiful and the best quality. Her clips are "no slip" clips, not velcro. They stay in the finest baby hair.

Here are some of my favorite pieces I've purchased. This is just a few of the things I've ordered, lol!

The flowers can be used without the hat. Great to mix and match.

Pretty Vintage Rose

I have 4 of these, all different colors

One More Week

2011-10-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

I only have one more week left until I have to go back to work. I know Avalyn will be well taken care of but it makes me sad to know someone else will be spending more time with her than I do. We don't have the option to be a single income family so I know I have to go back. I am going to try to shift my schedule to 7-4 so I can spend more time with Avalyn before she goes to bed each night. My job is also flexible so I know once she is in pre school I can attend any functions they may have (field trips, etc.).

Here are a few pictures from this past week!

Check out my bear ears!

Getting the hang of the bumbo seat

She plays with her tongue!

Loves bath time!

The piano play gym is still her all time favorite

Halloween Sneak Peek

2011-10-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Avalyn is going to be a candy corn for Halloween.

Is this not the cutest thing ever!

Cuteness Overload!

The costume was purchased from the Etsy shop Blissy Couture

Play Date

2011-10-25T21:34:00.000-07:00

Avalyn had her first play date recently. Well, lets face it. At this age play dates are more for the mommies. It was nice to get to hang with a friend and talk about our babies, share experiences, laugh, and catch up.

These were taken near the end of the play date. You can see Avalyn was worn out, lol.

2 Month Stats

2011-10-22T20:41:00.000-07:00

2 Months

Sleep: Once you hit 6 weeks you started consistently sleeping 10-12 hours at night. You usually wake up once around 4 am for a quick bottle and then you are back out. This has been nice because I was sleeping on the couch with you in your Moses basket the first 6 weeks so Dad could sleep since he was working. So it’s nice to be back in my bed! During the day you hardly sleep. We never know what we are going to get, sometimes your nap is 10 minutes, sometimes 1 hour. But, with all the sleep you do at night, you are usually in a good mood even with these little cat naps.

Feed: You usually eat 3 oz but lately it’s increasing to 4 oz. Sometimes during the day after a short nap you like a 2 oz snack.

Weight: 10lb 4oz (35%). Up 3lb since birth!

Length: 23 inches (73^%). Up 3 inches since birth. Head size is 15 inches (35^%).

Diaper Size: We used up the last of the newborns and moved on to size 1. At first they were gigantic but now you are fitting into them better!

Clothes Size: Same as the diapers. We packed up the newborn clothes and moved on to size 0-3 months. At first they swallowed you but you are filling them out better now.

Hair: Your hair is still black and you still have quite a bit. Your head has grown and your hair has not grown as fast so it has thinned out some since birth. It’s still curly when wet. Some days it has a mind of its own and it sticks up in all different directions! You are getting a little dry scalp and you have been enjoying my scalp massages with a little oil. You also LOVE getting your hair washed. I can stick your head right under the faucet and you just lie there and enjoy.

Eyes: Your eyes were gray for a while but they are now brown. They are so pretty.

Funniest moment: I still have to say your farts! At your 2 month appointment the Dr. and I were having a conversation and you farted SO loud. I continued the conversation as if nothing happened. Oh, and it was stinky too. The Dr. managed to remain professional but I could tell by the blank stare on his face that he was really trying not to bust out laughing.

Milestone: Oh boy, so many! You are smiling, cooing, and talking!! You sound like a little owl going “whoo whoo.” Sometimes you just squeal with delight. You are tracking things a lot more now and you can recognize our voices. You are sleeping longer at night. You can hold your neck up for a little bit and you are bearing weight on your legs. When we are burping you we have to watch out so you don’t head-butt us because you jump up and down, and bounce your little butt up in the air. You’ll bat at toys. You love your hands. You are always playing with them and you enjoy touching things. You always touch your bottle and your face and you also grab tightly onto your bib. One of your favorite things to do is look at yourself in the mirror.

Your favorite toys: You still enjoy your swing and this is where you like to take your cat naps. You are starting to like the bouncy seat a little more, especially when I set it next to the back door. You love looking outside. Hands down your favorite is your piano play gym. You will kick the piano for quite a while. It makes you laugh and smile so much. This month we put the peek a boo waterfall soother in your crib and you like looking at the blue glow at bedtime. You like music. At nap time, I’ll turn on Baby Beethoven or Baby Einstein music and you’ll snuggle up while I rock you. You enjoy daddy as well. He sets you on his lap and it’s like instant sleepy time.

Firsts:

Coos

Smiles

Trip to the mall

Shots (BOO!)

Trip to the pumpkin patch
First cold (just the sniffles)

Baptism

Real bath (which you LOVE)

Visit With The Grandparents

2011-10-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

We had a fun time visiting my parents recently. Ava always gets spoiled with attention and hardly gets put down. Everyone cant believe how big she's getting and how much she's changing. Her little personality is starting to show. I think she's going to be outgoing, because shes very social and enjoys meeting people.

Best Cousins

Guess what grandma pulled out of the attic for Ava? An original 1983 Strawberry Shortcake Berry Happy Home! This use to be mine when I was around 5 years old and my mom has been saving it all these years for the first grand daughter. It has the original furniture and 18 dolls! It needs to be cleaned up a bit and it will be good as new.

Source

Attracting The Boys Already

2011-10-20T20:44:00.000-07:00

Meet Gabe

Gabe was very intrigued with Ava today. Or Abba, as he calls her.

He liked to help her with things.

And give her kisses.

And big hugs!

Oh boy, Jonathan is talking guns already. LOL!

A Sweet Gift

2011-10-19T08:51:00.000-07:00

A special thank you to our sweet blog friend Melissa Lester from A Little Loveliness!

Look at this cute bib! Pretty embroidery work, polka dots, and scalloped details.

Almost too pretty to use!

Be sure to check out Melissa's blog. It's adorable and one of our favorites!

Best Toy

2011-10-16T11:25:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, Avalyn LOVES this thing! She will kick it and talk and laugh for 30 minutes. She is definitely learning that when she kicks her legs she makes music. Great exercise too. The toy converts to a tummy time mat and the piano rotates so they can play with it when they learn to sit. This is a must have for all babies.

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-15T13:09:00.000-07:00

Today my employer hosted a company event at the pumpkin patch. Yummy BBQ lunch, apple cider, and apple cider doughnuts! Avalyn was very good, she loves being outside. She drew lots of attention! It was absolutely beautiful out, perfect day to be at the pumpkin patch.

What A Pretty Scarecrow

Almost 2 Feet

Family Picture

Hay Rides

Hanging with Mr. Scarecrow

Ava's Pretty "Tiger Striped" Pumpkins

Baby Closet

2011-10-14T22:09:00.000-07:00

You probably know that a baby's closet can become a jumbled mess with all the different sizes.

My solution

DIY closet organizers!

These were super easy to make. I used scrapbook paper and a cricut cutter.

First Baby Doll

2011-10-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

Is this not the cutest thing? I got Avalyn her first baby doll. Pottery Barn Kids has these cute Mini Abby and Lucy dolls. Adorable!

Baby Shower #2

2011-10-12T15:43:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrated a Baby Shower hosted by my Co-Workers! We had a nice lunch, cake, catch up, and gifts. It was a little bit of a wake up call that I only have 3 1/2 weeks of leave left. *Tears* At the same time though, it was nice to see everyone and introduce Avalyn to the crew.

Baby Exercise

2011-10-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

My Two Lovelies

2011-10-11T14:27:00.000-07:00

Maya follows Ava all over the house. I'm pretty sure she's starting to love her as much as we do!

DIY Baby Food

2011-10-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

So, if you read the prior post, you know I like to save a buck. So I decided to make my own baby food. I like to cook anyway. I have one more month off work so I'm getting a head start, since most items can be frozen for up to 6 months. No, we are not feeding Ava real food at 2 months old!

This book was my inspiration. It has lots of great recipes in it, which will be handy once Ava has made it through all the single flavor foods.

Today I made peas and cherries.

A 12 oz bag of cherries and a 16oz bag of peas.

Puree in blender or food processor. The cherries mixed just fine, but I did have to add water to the peas so it wasn't too thick. I added water 1TBS at a time until I felt it was a good consistency.

For beginner eaters, heat on medium for about 5 minutes to remove a little more texture.

Press through a fine mesh sieve to further remove bits. Again, this step is only for beginner eaters.

Pour into ice cube trays. I got these silicone ones at Bed Bath and Beyond. Each cube is 1 oz.

After they are nice and frozen pop them out of the trays.

Date and store in individual freezer bags.

Ta Da, home made baby food. I got 23 1oz servings of peas. I only paid .49 for the entire bag! So basically I got 9 jars of baby food for less than one jar at the store.

My Little Hobby

2011-10-10T16:26:00.000-07:00

There is one thing I have not shared on my blog yet. You might know I'm an accountant, which means I like numbers! I also like saving money!

I coupon!

Now I'm not as crazy as those on Extreme Couponing, but I do have an ok stock pile. I do save a lot of money, but I dont spend 8 hours in the grocery store and ring up 32 different transactions. I'd say, normally I save about 25% - 50%. Except at CVS, I can sometimes get my balance down to cents there. Most of my household products come from CVS. Food comes from Wal-Mart since they have lower prices and they price match ads without a lot of hassle.

Here are some pictures

I also enjoy signing up for freebies and following company Facebook pages for giveaways. It's fun!

Changes

2011-10-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

I just can't believe how much my precious baby girl has changed already. Check it out.

Newborn

8 Weeks!

Happy Friday!

2011-10-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Ava

Sad Ava

GUMMY SMILES!!

Play Time

2011-10-07T07:15:00.000-07:00

Within the last week, Avalyn has really started to enjoy her play gym. When I put her under there she wiggles and coos. She's starting to grab at things too. One time she was laying under there and she sneezed. Both arms and legs hit about every toy in the gym. All the rattles and music started at the same time. Her eyes got huge. It was too funny!

Tummy Time!

2011-10-03T13:22:00.000-07:00

Wow, baby girl is only 7 weeks old but has some awesome neck strength!

You Must Have Had Bad Heartburn?

2011-10-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

Ava's hair is always a topic of conversation. Lately, it's started taking on a life of it's own. It just cracks me up!

Calm Hair

After Bath Ringlets!

Wild Hair!

Best Buds

2011-10-01T13:07:00.000-07:00

Pretty Gurl Ava and Prittee Gee Maya

Maya - "I'm still the favorite you know"

Ava - "Ha not possible"

Cuteness

2011-09-30T19:59:00.000-07:00

Cute new diapers

Cute 0-3 month clothes

Cute sweet face!

Cute new princess ducky bath toy!

Sniff Sniff

2011-09-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

Someone outgrew all their newborn clothes.

1 Month Stats

2011-09-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Sleep: The first two weeks you probably slept 16 hours a day. But lately, you are much more awake and alert during the day and only take little cat naps. Usually we’ll rock you and you’ll fall asleep but the minute we put you down to sleep you are bright eyes and awake. You much prefer to be held, cuddled, and rocked. You also enjoy being walked around the house. Your favorite is getting your bottom gently patted as you drift off to sleep. At night you are almost always up at 3am and 6am. When you wake up for a nighttime feeding you are up for about 30 minutes and then you go right back to sleep.

Feed: You are eating between every 2 to 3 hours. We switched you to Similac Sensitive because you seem to get fussy if/when you have gas. You started out taking about an ounce at a time, but now on average you consume between 2-3 ounces each feeding. As you drink your bottle, you make the sweetest little sounds. I love them!

Weight: You were 7lb 4oz when we left the hospital but now you are 9lb 3oz! It’s hard to believe you have gained almost 2lbs.

Length: You have grown 1 inch and are now 21 inches

Diaper Size: Newborns. We use Pampers Swaddlers or Huggies. It took us 10 days to realize they had a color line!! Grandpa surprised us with a box of 234 diapers! That is probably enough to last 3 weeks.

Clothes Size: Newborns and some 0-3 months. You love to be swaddled. I recently purchased a swaddle blanket that velcros and it does the trick and you seem to sleep much better at night.

Hair: You were born with a head full of dark soft hair. Today you have just as much. The only change is it’s getting a little wavy and the tips curl up a little. When your hair is wet you have lots of little “ringlets!”

Funniest moment: Every time you fart daddy and I just look at each other and crack up!

Milestones: You are much more alert than when we first brought you home. You’ll turn towards us if we start talking to you, or if you hear a toy. You also love to stare at the ceiling fan and at light. You have more control of your head. When we burp you, you can hold you head up better. We say you look like a turtle stretching it’s neck! During tummy time you can hold your head up for a while and also do “superman.” You can also grip fingers and some toys.

Your favorite toys: You love your swing. You enjoy looking at the mirror and the mobile. The swing is the only place you’ll take a nap during the day. You also like your car seat and do great in the car and almost always fall right to sleep as soon as we start moving. You also like sitting snug in your boppy pillow. We’ll put “wrist rattles” on you and you’ll just shake your arms and legs. It’s the cutest thing. You don’t really care for your bouncer seat yet, but we hope you will soon.

Firsts:

First car ride
First well baby visit
First outing to grandma's house

First outing to a restaurant

First BBQ

First professional photo shoot

First walk in your stroller

First stay at a resort

First trip to the beach

First airplane ride

Ava Is A Child Of God

2011-09-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

Today was a very special day. Our precious baby girl was baptized! It was such a wonderful ceremony, Ava didn't even cry. Both families were able to attend. We were able to have her baptized in the same church with the same priest that married Jonathan and I. It was a day I had dreamed of for a long time.

Ava's Pretty Gown

Baptism Party

Jons Family

Rachel's Family

Ava With Her God Father

Ava With Her God Mother

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T00:33:00.000-07:00

Cant Forget Maya

2011-09-21T00:30:00.000-07:00

Even with all the cuteness from Avalyn, the kitten still sneaks in there and makes me giggle. She's been adjusting really well to having a baby in the house. She's pretty curious of Ava but for the most part keeps her distance. She seems to be more interested in Avas things. When we first brought Ava home and she would cry, the cat would dart off not knowing what was going on, lol.

Here are some recent shots.

Sorry, Seats Taken

No Idea How She Got Under There And Left The Covers So Neat!

Big Yawn By The Kitten

Nursery Tour

2011-09-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

We finally put the finishing touches on the nursery! Hope you enjoy the tour.

This changing table was a thrift store find!

I purchased this crib bedding about 2 1/2 years ago

Such cute little clothes!

Pretty bows

Daddy's Little Princess

Lots of blankies

Isn't this quilt gorgeous? Made with love by Grandma Donna

We like bunnies

"A" for Avalyn!

All the desires in your heart will be answered

Cute dollies

My favorite room in the whole house

New Cousin

2011-09-19T04:49:00.000-07:00

Ava has a new Cousin!

Lincoln Miner

September 17th

9lbs

20.5 inches

She cant wait to meet baby Lincoln this Thanksgiving!

Baby Shower - Friends & Family

2011-09-18T23:51:00.000-07:00

A reunion of my former co-workers!

Sorority Sisters

Wanna have a play date?

Mom, Ash, and I

Jons mom and I

Jon even stopped in for a bit

My Baby Shower

2011-09-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

Today was my baby shower! It was so surreal that this day was even happening. We had an amazing outpouring of love and support from our family and friends. We are so blessed. It was a girly vintage shabby chic theme. Just adorable! Ava was a doll and happily enjoyed being passed around all afternoon. Everyone who meets her instantly falls in love.

Its A Girl


Baby Love

Soap party favors

1 Month

2011-09-15T13:19:00.000-07:00

Can you believe little miss Avalyn is already a month old! Getting cuter by the minute!!

I Love My New Sleeper From Aunt Deb

More Newborn Pictures!

2011-09-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

Holding a necklace my birth mommy gave me

Wordless Wednesday (Silly Faces)

2011-09-14T08:18:00.000-07:00

Newborn Pictures

2011-09-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

I finally got a proof to share with everyone. I could stare at this picture for hours!! There are more to come, hopefully I'll get them next week.

New Toy

2011-09-09T05:46:00.000-07:00

Aunt Chelsea got Ava some wrist toys. She really really likes the one that rattles. Watch her go!

Another Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T16:15:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-06T22:15:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure no one will find me under here

Fall Has Arrived

2011-09-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

The weather has really taken a turn for the better within the last week. It is beautiful out! Nice enough to turn off the air conditioner and open the windows.

Nice weather also means it's time for walks. I've always been a little jealous of the moms in the neighborhood walking their babies in the stroller. Well, today I got to join them! We took a stroll around the neighborhood and it went really well. We enjoyed the nice fresh air and Ava took a little snooze.

There was someone else enjoying the nice weather too!

Pretty In Pink

2011-09-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

Today we spent the afternoon at my parents for Labor Day. My dad makes the BEST grilled BBQ chicken and baked potatoes. Ava was able to meet her other 2 aunties. My mom commented that she hardly got to hold her because the aunts hogged her. I'm gearing up for another week at home on my own. I've been spoiled the last 3 days because Jonathan has been off work and he is a huge help!

Husker Cutie

2011-08-31T19:46:00.000-07:00

When Jons family came to visit, of course they had to stock her up with Husker Gear! Looks like she's a Husker Fan already. Jonathan said he's going to start teaching her to say "Go Big Red" and raise her arms during a touch down. I think he's happy to finally have someone to watch the games with.

Meet The Family Part 2

2011-08-31T19:37:00.000-07:00

Ava also met some of my family recently. She liked snuggling on her Papa, and he was able to soothe her when she was fussing. It was also funny, when we were feeding Ava cousin Gavin tried to steal her bottle! He also cried when she cried.

Proud Papa and Grammy

Meeting Cousin Gavin

Stationery card

2011-08-31T19:27:00.001-07:00

Vintage Volute Pink Birth Announcement

Personalize your announcements with Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Meet The Family Part 1

2011-08-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

Since we were out of town for the first 10 days of Avalyn's life no one had been able to visit her yet. Jon's family was so excited to finally meet Avalyn this past weekend. Of course, she captured their hearts! They gave mommy a nice break so I could get the house organized. There were clothes and suitcases scattered everywhere!

Auntie Kate

Aunt Kate and Cousin Jemma

Grandma Donna

Cousin Jemma

Grandpa Dean

I'm Back!

2011-08-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

I'm starting up my blog again and what better way to do it then to introduce our beautiful baby girl!

Avalyn Kate

August 15th

7lb 4oz

20 inches

Party Winner!

2011-05-17T11:51:00.000-07:00

I recently won a giveaway for a "Party In A Box!" How cool is that? The theme is Life is a Beach. I got everything pictured below (excluding food).

Check out Karen Ayars, the creator of Parties in a Box.

The Big First Birthday

2011-05-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

Gavin turned one and we had a blast celebrating!

Simple decorations with Mickey and Mickey themed colors.

Food was themed after the characters:

Plutos Popcorn

Mini's Mix (Chex)

Mickey Ears (oreos)

Pete's Pretzels (Chocolate dipped with Mickey sprinkles)

Toodles Turkey Wraps

Clarabelle's Candy (M&M's)

Donald and Daisey's Chips & Dip

Goofy's Goldfish

And of course, cake!

There was even a visit from Mickey himself!

Gavin loved Mickey!

Gavin loved cake too!

He got in there! It was devoured!

MMM MMM GOOD

He liked his new toys too.

Family and friends had a great time. It's one to remember.

Mothers Day Tea

2011-05-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

My mom and I enjoyed a wonderful English Tea for Mothers Day.

The room was gorgeous and the food was very delicious. We had fruit, cheese & crackers, salad, tea sandwiches, and English biscuits. We even asked for seconds on the cookies!

Mickey Mouse Invitation

2011-05-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

I found this easy tutorial to make Mickey Mouse invitations. I didn't want to pay $80 for the Mickey Cricut Cutter so I just used my standard cartridge to cut out circles and glued them together with glue dots. Worked like a charm.

As you can see, the Mickey head slips into the "pants!"

You can use the same template for Minnie Mouse invitations. Just change it up and use red and white polka dot scrapbook paper for the "Pants" and then add a bow on the head!

The Unique, The Complex, The Extraordinary And Irreplaceable

2011-05-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

Princess Diana

With all the Royal Wedding hype how lucky are we in Kansas City to have the Princess Diana Exhibit going on right now! My mom and I are going this weekend for Mothers Day. We are also attending an English Tea Lunch. How fun! The exhibit covers Diana's life from childhood through marriage, philanthropy, and death. Her wedding dress will be there along with several tiaras and fashions that she has worn.

I'm pretty bummed I wont be able to get pictures. The site says no cameras allowed. We'll see.

Meeska Mooska

2011-04-27T17:28:00.000-07:00

This big boy is turning ONE!

And that calls for a celebration.

Mickey Mouse party details coming soon!

Rachel Has A New Toy!

2011-04-23T09:17:00.000-07:00

Got my new camera! The Cannon Rebel T3. To test it out I picked the most willing candidate, the precious kitten of course! The camera is great. Lots of functions but still easy to use. I was impressed with the quality pictures.

Been A Blog Slacker

2011-03-28T20:38:00.000-07:00

I've been off the blog radar here for a while. I thought I'd let you know what we've been up to!

First, for the past 2 months we've been in the home study process to adopt a baby! Our home study has finally been approved and we are now a waiting family. Super exciting!

Second, I've been busy working a second job. It's only a seasonal job doing taxes. It's been a nice source of income for our adoption fund. Only 3 weeks left. Can. Not. Wait!

So, after everything settles down I hope to be back on my blog more. I've also been researching new cameras. So if you have any recommendations let me know!

Bye for now!

Be Mine

2011-02-14T07:02:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone has a wonderful Valentines Day!

Romantic Fun

2011-02-10T06:50:00.000-08:00

Today we are celebrating Valentines Day early to beat the crowds (and higher prices!). We are heading to a yummy wood fired steakhouse. Can't wait. Valentines is also the only day I can get Jonathan to agree to watch a romanic comedy! Tonight we are seeing "No Strings Attached." Anyone else doing anything special this weekend?

Cupid, Cocktails, and Coffee

2011-02-05T08:31:00.000-08:00

It's been a while so I decided to host a Valentines themed party. Cupid, Cocktails, and Coffee.

Menu Included

Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Dates with goat cheese, almonds, balsamic vinegar, and honey

Cheesecake bites

Mini Tiramisu

Fresh fruits

Veggies with dip

Chocolate

I love my mini shot glasses from Pier One. They were perfect for my tiramisu shooters.

Cupid Cocktail! A big hit and no one guessed it had beer in it!

Favors were little containers with Organic Vanilla Sugar! Perfect to sprinkle on coffee, tea, fruits, or cereal.

Coffee station. I used instant packs of Star Bucks vanilla coffee and Columbian coffee

As always, it was a nice time with the girls. Stay tuned for my next party this spring.

A Sweet Surprise

2011-01-18T07:26:00.000-08:00

Jonathan surprised me last Friday with this lovely diamond cross necklace.

His reason? Just because I'm such a wonderful wife. :)

Shrek

2011-01-17T06:52:00.000-08:00

Jon and I saw Shrek The Musical on Friday. It was great!! Fun for kids and the adults. There was a little girl sitting in front of us, probably 2 years old, and she was mesmerised. The costumes were really creative. Donkey didn't quite meet my expectations but it's kind of hard to top Eddie Murphy. Overall, I would recommend.

Vacation!

2011-01-13T08:35:00.000-08:00

Well, it's only January and my mind is already on vacation! I'm so excited because I just booked a trip with my mom to Catalina Island, CA for May. It looks like such a relaxing laid back getaway. The beach, harbor, pier, B&B, cute shops, cafes, gardens...Ahh can't wait.

Fun Christmas Gifts

2011-01-09T17:58:00.000-08:00

I got some really nice Christmas gifts this year. Here are a few of my favorites!

Pier One tasting party sets. I got the mini dessert bowls and the shot glasses. They even come with cute little spoons!

The Shark Vac & Steam. Quick and easy cleaning in the kitchen!

A gel mat. Another lifesaver in the kitchen.

The Home Made Simple book. Full of great ideas. Everything from organizing to party planning!

A Cricut. Perfect for scrapbooking, crafting, and parties.

Wishing You...

2010-12-22T07:01:00.000-08:00

A Very Merry Little Christmas!!

6 hours and counting until my Christmas vacation!

Touches Of Fall

2010-12-04T10:16:00.000-08:00

A little late I know! I wanted to share before I took everything down tomorrow to make room for Christmas!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T07:10:00.000-08:00

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and weekend!

Source: Country Living

2 Years

2010-11-22T17:00:00.000-08:00

It's our 2 year anniversary!

Ahh, I just can't help but smile when I look at these pictures. It was such an incredible day.

We had a wonderful anniversary. We stayed at a hotel in downtown KC, went to a movie in the "cinema suites", had a late night gourmet dessert, and finally breakfast in bed!!

I got flowers today at work. The card read, "For the best wife any man can hope for." AWWWW!

OPA!

2010-11-13T15:34:00.000-08:00

To celebrate my sisters new job I took her to a new Greek Restaurant in our area.

My Big Fat Greek Restaurant!

Good food, fire breathing, music, and dancing. We left STUFFED!

Two Of My Favorite Things!

2010-11-07T15:00:00.000-08:00

Pretty girl Maya and Baby Gavin!