4 months

Avery turned 4 months old today- and seriously...I cannot imagine her getting any cuter, or more fun than this! But here's what's cool...I know this is only the beginning! She's sure to become more alert, more chatty, more giggly, and her personality is just beginning to blossom! She is so in love with both me and John- and she's a joy to come home to, whether it's after a few hours at work, or just getting her from a nap.

At her 4 month appointment, Avery weighed in at a whopping 16 lbs 9 oz, and is 26 inches long! She is in the 95% for both her height, and weight! She was a champ when she had her shots today, and only cried for a few seconds- you go girl!

You are dearly loved and adored little girl! Thanks for being the source of endless smiles and laughter the last few months!!

New discoveries

I totally forgot my brother and his wife passed on this cool play mat to Avery. She really likes it, and seems to have a lot of fun checking out the rings that hang from above her. She's still discovering them, and figuring out that they move. It's really cool watching her learn, and watching her play. Here's a short clip.

Change of scenery

At around a month old, the doctor started telling us to put Avery on her belly, and let her have 'tummy time'. This is where the baby lays on his/her belly, and it kind of forces them to lift their neck and head. It strengthens those muscles, which are imperative for holding their head up, sitting, up, and much more. Avery hates tummy time- it's hard work! She fusses, and usually face plants at least once each time.

Up until yesterday that is!

I totally forgot that my sister-in-law passed on to me a play mat with bright colors, flowers that make noise, and hanging rings for the baby to reach and play with. I brought it down from the man cave, and Avery LOVED it! Maybe it was the change of scenery- but there was no fussing, and a lot of laughter!!

I can see so clearly how her mind is developing, and how she;s becoming much more aware of her surroundings! She reaches for toys, holds onto things, and will laugh and smile when toys make noise. What an amazing thing to witness!

Ch-ch-ch-Changes...

Yesterday was a big day, but not as bad as I expected!

John and I have decided within the last few weeks that I'm going to return to teaching part-time. I contacted my principal last week, and we worked out a pretty sweet schedule: 3 days a week., from 12-3:30 as a Math Interventionist. I'll be working with 3rd grade students who are struggling with Math in small groups. Yesterday was my first day back, and it actually went really well! I think there are a bunch of reasons it went well: I know in my mind this is not a full-time job, I know in my mind that it's only a few months til the end of the school year, and last but not least...I have an awesome lady from church watching Avery! I was expecting to be really emotional, but I was kept so busy at work, I didn't have time to think about it. When I picked Avery up, Kristi said she was wonderful...music to every mom's ears! If you feel led, please pray that it continues to go well, and that my time back at work would be productive, and fruitful and that Avery would continue to do well with a babysitter.

Monica's day of celebration- FINALLY!!

The day has finally arrived- Monica's baby shower! We've all been waiting for this day for a very long time, and it was an awesome day of celebration! Rob and Monica had a difficult time getting pregnant, and after many years of trying- found out they are pregnant with TWINS due the end of April!!! I was so glad to share in Monica's day, and am even more excited to meet sweet Hayden and Reese!!

Claire's birthday celebration!

Avery and Piper...not looking at the camera.

Claire and her birthday cake!

Stewart, Claire, and Kai!

Angela, Claire, Lindsay, Katey, and me

Claire, me, and Katey

We all celebrated Claire's birthday on Monday night at the new Plaza Azteca in Yorktown. It was great to have everyone there (minus the Lancours). Once again- I'm so thankful for awesome friends! It was such a blessing to look around the table, and see how my friendships with these girls have grown over the years, to see all the beautiful, healthy babies, and see how all the guys laugh and get along so well!

3 months old!

Look who's 3 months old!

She's a happy, healthy, chubby, smiley, giggly, content, girl- and she's such a blessing!

She had an appointment today- and she weighs a whopping 14 lbs 14 oz! She's gained over 2 pounds in one month- wow!

Loving every little piece of this kid!