avery taylor, almost 3.

"Please mama, can I please have some goal-fish in a cup...in a orange cup...with some am-mul cwackers on top please?"

"Avery, thank you so so much for being such a good girl and minding mama today. You make me so happy when you listen, and when you say please. Yes, you can have goldfish and animal crackers. Here. Don't you see, when you are a good girl and ask nicely, you get to have fun stuff!"

"Oh yea mama, I know! Like when I say pllllease can I ride the carousel today, you always smile and say oh yes you can!"

She's getting a little too smart for my own good.

That's my first born. Avery has grown up so much, so fast, and at an even quicker rate since Christian was born last January. While she definitely has her moments, (and she DOES have them) she had turned into one of the sweetest, smartest, imaginative, curious, and thoughtful little girls I've ever known.

The thing about being a parent to Avery that always makes me smile is how truly alike we are. Even in the smallest ways. I see myself in her almost every day. The way she fixes her hair...the way she organizes her toys, or puts her markers in a straight line...the way she sleeps...how she eats...and the list goes on and on.

On one hand I have no idea how my mom put up with raising me. On the other hand, I feel like our having similar personalities has helped me to know best how to motivate her. Traditional scare tactics never work. With her, I often find myself thinking ahead to what I would have liked to do or see or touch or investigate in any situation, and then try to provide opportunities for her to safely (and mess-free) be involved. It's no wonder to me that one of her all-time favorite cartoons is Curious George. I don't like the cartoon myself. George the monkey is always getting into trouble.

Well, cartoon or no cartoon, Avery finds her own trouble. But, she never leaves me empty handed when it comes to funny one-liners or surprising antics. She is a smarty pants. She is a daredevil. She is a fabulously loving big sister to Christian. She won't take no for an answer. She's learning how to share. And, she's my favorite little almost-3-year-old in the whole world.

Avery Taylor, you are indeed loved.

and then there were four.

He is here! And, has been for over 2 months now. Christian Timothy Finch is the newest love of our lives. A boy. An infant. A house of (now I can say it in the plural) kids! I've often thought of writing about him during his 3am feedings, and his 5am feedings, and his 6am feedings, but have yet to write down how much I love him.

I do. Very much. He's just so soft, and his face is such a perfect blend of Finch & McDiffett (with maybe a little more McDiffett) this time round. His big big big blue eyes match his sisters', and he has his dad's rounded (more normal-looking) ears. As of now, at our 9-week point, he has only 1 dimple on his right cheek. His thighs are chubbing out, and he's started to grow into his storing-up-for-the-winter squirrel cheeks. But, the best part...has got to be his smell. I could nuzzle my nose under a cheek, into that neck and stay there. All. Day. Long. Maybe chew on that said cheek while I'm at it.

Originally, Avery couldn't pronounce his middle name Timothy. She said Tumbally. That was it. He has been Tumbally and Tumbles and Rumblin Tumblin ever since.

Here is our little Monster, Inc. at 8 weeks...

a good landing spot

The Willy Wonka blueberry girl; Aunt Petunia that Harry Potter blows up into a helium balloon; a sumo wressler. Pick a card, any card - that's what I'm feeling like today. Large. I thought about designing an XXL clothing sticker and sticking it to my belly for these last three weeks...just to see if Jonathan notices. I'm sure Avery would love it- belly being right at her eye level and all, and with a new fanatic love of stickers.

Avery came with me to my 36-week doctors appointment this morning, and when they got out the "magic wand" to hear the baby's heartbeat she says, "Mama! Mama! I hear pony! Fast pony!"

I'm starting to think she's going to be extremely disappointed. Instead, she gets a crying baby that takes up more of my attention. I'm thinking that this baby could give her a stuffed pony as a gift when she comes to meet him at the hospital. Ya know, meet her half-way at least.

That stork that left the station many many months ago has got to be pretty exhausted by now. And, I'm keepin' a lookout for a good landing spot.

and I hope she never changes

Avery met Santa today, for the second time. Granted, she doesn't remember the first time, but something makes me think she'll remember this one. (The strange man with un-kept white fluffy hair grabbing at me with white gloves, asking me to sit on his lap?) Yeah- she wasn't having any of it. And, a parent can only really be proud of a child for not gravitating toward such strangers, right? We did get one shot of her sitting on my lap, while she was so very distracted with Santa's helper/camera dude shaking jingle bells above the lens. I cut myself out of course because I looked like what a mom looks like after waiting in line for 20 minutes while trying to keep a 2-year old entertained long enough without crying, pulling out her cute sparkly hair clips, or throwing her goldfish at other people.

I have to say, at this stage in my 36-week pregnancy number two, I am spent. Avery is far too heavy for me to hold. But, I just love to hold her. I keep thinking that once this new baby comes, she won't be my baby anymore. She's going to be my older girl. It's hard to let go of that; especially when she looks at me and says "Mama, hold you hold me." My heart melts. I'm just really hoping that she takes a lot of joy out of helping me care for this new little boy. She is definitely a care-taker at heart: strolling around her baby doll, wrapping up her animals in blankets to go nigh-night, changing her puppy dog's diaper, and patting my back when I'm hurt or crying. She's definitely going to grow up a little with such responsibilities of being a big sister, and of eventually paving the way for all of our future kids in the house. I can't wait to see the girl she becomes. She's so feisty, and creative, and independent. And, I hope she never changes.

happy ween!

Halloween was actually a lot of fun this year. I think Avery was old enough this time to actually participate in the slimy pumpkin dissecting, looked cute as can be in her baby strawberry get-up, and loved going up to peoples' houses to ring the doorbell. To her disappointment, she just didn't quite understand why she couldn't actually GO into everyones houses. I guess this makes much more sense when you really think about it. Walk up to every door, ring the door bell, get them to answer, and then....just walk away?

What they say about living childhood over again through your own kids it totally true. I have to admit that Halloween has never been one of my favorite holidays. Don't get me wrong- it's fun an all, but if I had to choose between all of the other holidays, it wouldn't make the top 3. This is probably due to growing up in Anchorage. By Halloween, we always had tons of snow already, and most of the time you had to plan your costume around wearing a big puffy snowsuit or coat. So, no cute skinny little snow whites or pincesses for us. It was either the obvious round pumpkin, or a fat witch. The latter of which is no good, in any situation. Having said that, Avery is making me like Halloween much more now.

This year, due to Halloween, Avery has learned the following words:

sly-mee
boo!
caaan-dee
choc-it
happy ween!
frick o freet
vitch
skair-ey

Dana also sent me the cutest black t-shirt to showcase little man in the belly. Can't quite believe we'll have 2 to dress up this time next year!

Click here for all Halloween pics. Password: Finch

my little pony

Ponies are the new thing. Of the year. For Avery, that is. She is obsessed! And, I'm actually loving her new-found obsessions with things. It reminds me of myself going through phases of tufted furniture or all things turquoise, or anything cupcakes

She is at such a fun age where Jonathan and I can tell her stories, and she actually remembers them later on. "Remember when you got to ride a pony at the zoo?" Her face lights up, and she immediately says, "Again! Again, dadda! Poe Ey! Again!"

That's why I know she'll be perfectly smitten with her new big girl bedding...

Here is our newest equestrian:

avery taylor's annual report

Just one year late, I have finally put together Avery's annual report poster that I have been thinking of doing for so long. For me, it acts as a much more functional baby book- visually reporting her milestones, special 'firsts', and specifics concerning her first year. I'm pretty excited to have the template done, and can't wait to have a wall for all of the framed posters once we have collected all of our children. Hee...collected.

I'm mostly certain that this is just a small bi-product of my "nesting" for baby bird #2. Hey- whatever gets things done these days is fine with me and my bigger-than-need-be-at-24weeks-belly!

the drive thru

Never have I ever truly appreciated the convenience of a drive thru until having a kid. There are so many more times than I would like to admit to where I am still in my pajamas, Avery is still in her pajamas, and we are out making a quick stop for coffee or food. You know mom needs her coffee in the morning when Avery knows the drill all too well:

Avery: "Mama...Coff...Hot!"
Me: "Yes my baby. Very hot. Can you say mmmmmm?"
Avery: (With a smile) "MMMmmmmm mama"
Me: "Now that mama got her coffee, how about we get my baby some pancakes and hashbrown?"
Avery: "MMmKay. Mamma! mamma!...I like cakes."
Me: "Mmmmmm. Me tooo. Yumm."
Avery: (With a giggle) "Yummm"

All are happy...having never left the car seat. Love!

the update

Time is a flyin'. Here's the update...

I'm 16 weeks along with baby bird number 2, we are renovating bathrooms, repairing the deck, re-constructing our entire backyard landscape, test-driving minivans, and traveling galore. Only a few things on the plate at a time. We are back into full-blown nesting mode, and I am loving all of the projects!

Avery is 18 months old, going on 10 years. She is now in the 99th percentile for height, and pediatrician says she is very advanced for her age. Ah, isn't that what all parents want to hear of their kids. I'm sure they believe it, even if it's not said. I'm attributing her said advanced self to her height and long hair.

Exhibit A: Height. I don't really notice how tall she is until she's around kids her own age, and is then a whole head above them. This allows her to climb on top of more stuff, and to grab more things she shouldn't be getting into. Thus, she probably explores more. She's already gone through the bumping her head on things and has learned the skill of "ducking" before all of the other kids have grown tall enough to hit their heads.

Exhibit B: Long Hair. She's always had crazy long hair. Since birth really. She's had over a dozen hair-cuts, and now requires either a braid or pony tail to keep the strands out of her face, and mouth. With the long hair, people have always thought she was older, and treated her such. I can recount plenty of times pre-8-months-old when people would come up to her stroller and ask her what her name was. She would just stare back as mom answers for her.

Armed with these valiant tools, she has certainly grown into a little person with definite opinions and attitudes, and for lack of a better words, knows exactly what and how she wants things. Her dad often tells me, "Hmmm, mom- wonder where she got that from?" I'm so proud.

This weekend also marks Jonathan and I's 3rd anniversary. 3 years, and 1.5 babies. Craziness to me.

I'm trying to figure out Avery's big-girl room decor & furniture, we will find out whether baby #2 is a boy or girl in a few weeks, and I'm trying to get Christmas shopping already under-way. Things are so busy, and I'm trying to remember to record all of the chaos along the way.

Amidst the contractors coming in and out of the house, Avery cranky and ready to go down for a nap, the phone ringing, and the power going out, Jonathan says, "Don't you think we should get a dog soon?" Sure. Why not?

products to live by/with: part 1.

My friend Heather inspired me with her latest post about some of her favorite products that have either made her life easier, and or better. It got me thinking...

I have to admit, I am an extremely loyal brand consumer. If I find a product or service I like, I tell everyone about it...to the point where I think that, in some cases, I should be receiving annual checks for promotional services rendered. I like to think of it as my own personal "Favorite Things" show. Here ya have it:

1. Dove body wash. I never used to like any body wash that had even a hint of oil in it- so I just stuck with things like Zest soap that left your skin so rubbery-clean. Now, I love pretty much anything Dove. Whenever I use it, Jonathan always asks, “What smells so fresh and clean?” Can't complain with that.

2. Waverly fabric drawer organizers. I usually find them at TJMaxx or Marshalls. They make alllllllll of my drawers in every bathroom, junk drawer in the kitchen, office desk drawers, and even car console look extra cute, and really help to keep clutter under control. They also have pretty fabric boxes w/ lids that I use for storage boxes in hallway closets (light bulbs) and kids closets (grown-out-of sizes).

3. Naked by Urban Decay eye shadow case. I didn't really ever even wear eye shadow all that much, but my sister bought it for me and in only a very short amount of time, I have come to love the everyday normal and nude colors, and the smooth smooth brush. It also comes in a pretty magnetic case that is easy to manage. No issues trying to get the brush out, or cracking shadow powders or cheap plastic cases to crack. Thanks, Dana!

4. Summer infant baby video monitor. This is by far my couldn't-live-without baby product. Peace of mind all the way. And, I'm excited to just buy another camera for when the new baby arrives. You can use the same monitor and simply flip from cam 1 to cam 2. I still have friends with the sound-only monitors and wonder how they do it. It almost feels like the difference between a VHS/cassette tape and a DVD/MP3 file to me now...if that makes any sense.

5. Pottery Barn king down pillows. I think I made the switch when we finally got a king bed, and I decided that I was going to splurge for extra-nice pillows, sheets, and a duvet. It's one of those one-time purchases that keeps on giving. I still love getting into bed and laying my head down on such a comfortable cloud. Every night.

6. MyPublisher.com. It's an online site for making gorgeous photo books. And, it couldn't be simpler! Just upload your pics, drag and drop where you want, and order a book. I can't think of how many people I have introduced to their site. I was sick of taking so many pictures and having them sit on the computer... a file that never gets seen. I have started to make a book per kid, per year of their life, and hope to eventually give each of them a custom box filled with 18 books when they graduate high school and are off on their own. I am also making a copy for me, to keep at home.

7. iMemories. While we are on the subject of websites, this one digitalized your old video tapes/reels/you-name-it, into an awesome DVD with easy-to-navigate chapters. I also love that the chapters viewable on the TV appear in small boxes that are individually moving. Reminds me of the moving pictures in a Harry Potter newspaper.

8. Retract-A-Gates. These are soft mesh gates that keep kids and pets in/out of where you want them to be. I grew up with the wooden, clunky child gates that took up space and made for somewhat of an eyesore. Retract-A-Gates only have a thin tube that is adhered to the wall and 2 clear hooks adhered to the opposite wall. Love!

More to come. Back to being mom.

round 2.

I think it's about as official as it's going to get: Nausea in the mornings, peeing all night long, wild and crazy dreams, beer-belly pooch, and annoyingly-constant hunger (hense the belly pooch). And, if you ask Jonathan, he would probably attest to the early arrival of mama Finch's new 'nesting' ideas.

That's right- baby chick #2 is on the way! The stork has most likely just left the station, and grumbling to himself what for 7 more long months of flying time.

This time around is actually (dear I say) a little more fun so far. It's all of the joy and anticipation and thoughts of boy or girl, and big sister Avery, and nursery re-arranging, and big-girl bed planning, and name selecting MINUS all of the necessary first-time large purchases, stresses, new-ness and unknowns. I'm also constantly thinking about how Avery's world is going to be changed, and less about my own. After all, every hard edge of a coffee table has been padded, cabinet doors locked, and breakables moved up to flood levels. Charlie-cat is well used to ear-grabbing, and tail-stepping, and being full body steam-rolled. Jonathan and I have (for the most part) gotten used to a the seldom sleep-ins, anytime-of-the-day meltdowns, and the planning-our-life-around naptimes.

Coming from a family of 10 kids, it's exciting to know that we are on our way to building our own little crazy bunch of love and chaos. That's why we are still thinking about getting a family puppy as well. Yep- with a new baby. Yep- at the same time. Why this is the shock of people is beyond me. Yea- it's going to be tough for a while. But come on-- you can do it! Think of all of the fights and long nights and potty training and Avery-dog food-eating there will be! Organized chaos. Gotta love it.

For now, we are just praying for a happy and healthy little baby. We are content is our small corner of the world, and can't wait to see what this next chapter has in store.

On that note, I'm off to clean up the entire bowl of cereal and milk that Avery has tipped onto the carpet.

a better day.

When the sun is shining, everyone has a better day. Avery can roam the neighborhood searching for sticks and flowers and puppies and water puddles, and bugs. And, I can walk closely behind to watch her experience life's fascinating things for the first time: A scrunched up forehead looking at a squirmy worm in a puddle, a giggle when the puppy down the street licks and tickles her hand, her eyes opening wide and starring at me as an airplane wooshes through the sky making a loud noise, or the attempt at a genuine "bauuk bauuk" sound when the chickens run over to her chubby bread-filled hands.

When the coffee pot is hot and full, everyone has a better day. Jonathan is awake enough to play with Avery while I check my email. The mornings are so so great with a hot mug against your hand. And, the brewing smell warms up the entire house.

When Avery takes good long naps, everyone has a better day. Baby is well rested and happy when awake. I have had an ample break from toys and bottles and "no's" and "don't do that!" and "get down from there," and "be nice to the kitty kitty," and pretend tea time, and diapers, and "where are your socks!?" and "go find your DAD!". Naptimes bring with them a magical piece of your old self, a time when you can make the lists, and organize said toys, and actually take a shower this week.

When you have a great husband, everyone has a better day. I love being a mom. I really do. But when you're at it 24-7, all you really need is a loving husband to give you a nice long kiss, tell you what an extraordinary mom and wife and best friend you are, and then go on and on about how good your cooked meal was. Then, it can't hurt to vacuum the living room without even asking him to. Jonathan has it down. He makes my every day better.

mother's day

Mother's Day was awesome this year. I have to say- the best out of...well...two years total. I was so surprised to come downstairs to a vase of gorgeous hot pink roses, glazed doughnuts, my favorite Starbucks blend, and a crayon-scribbled card informing me of a date night to the Broadway performance of Mary Poppins.

Exhibit A, The Loot:

Exhibit B, The Card:

Yea- I know!

Me: "Sweetie! How did you know all of those lines from Mary Poppins!?"
Jonathan: "I have to say, I looked them up."

Now, that's what ya call real love.

avery words

As of March 6, 2011, Avery words/sounds are as follows:

Mama
Dada
Boogs
Ball
Bite
Hot
Go Go Go! (cat & the hat song)
Rock-a-rock-a-rocka
No no no
Utt Ohhhhhh
Moooooo (cow)
Ruff Ruff (puppy)
Meow (kitty cat)
Baauuk baauuk baaauk (chicken)
ooh oohhhh ahhh ahhhh (monkey)

I'm not quite sure what we did for entertainment around here before Princess Popper of Finchland arrived.

high, lull

We just returned home from one of the best vacations we have ever been on, as a family. Roatan, Honduras was a laid-back, rustic, easy-access, no frills type of place that was just what two couples with one-year-old babies needed. The kids were thoroughly entertained by each other, the new beach house and its hundred new things to explore & get into, as well as seeing new animals, spending much of the day walking on/sitting on or throwing sand, and splashing in the salt water. Jonathan and I enjoyed day after day of absolutely no plans. Jonathan went scuba diving, came home and watched Avery while I walked down the dirt path for a massage, then it’s a little beach lounging, followed by the biggest decision of the day: where to go for dinner. I read the rest of my book, we played with some monkeys, explored the beach shops, ate some terrific seafood, went zip-lining, walked barefoot down the beach to dinner, put the babies to bed, and drank wine on the patio with friends. The sunsets were gorgeous. We swam with dolphins. And, I didn’t wear a watch or carry my cell phone anywhere.

Hense the lull. There’s always something great about coming home to the familiar--home to the routine, and the home-cooked meals, and the comfortable bed. But, you also come home to the small little problems and projects you left before vacation. The stack of mail to go through is only fun for the shopping catalogs that have piled up, and the house is usually only clean again for about 2.5 days. The post-vacation depression settles in for approximately 1 day for every 2 that you were gone. So, that puts my recovery time’s over-under at yesterday.

So, today is a new start. I re-painted our bedroom, finally broke down and ordered a new dishwasher, and have even started my own at-home-ab-workout-session. (Throat clearing)…the latter of which I’m predicting will last approximately 2 weeks, so don’t get too excited.

That being said, I’m also on the computer trying to figure out the next vacation destination. Jonathan has definitely given me the travel bug. He is pretty nuts about getting out of the country at least once a year, diving at least twice a year, and what he likes to call, “just making it happen.” This means strapping the kid to a backpack, and lugging the extra diapers/cherrios/pack’n play/favorite toy/blankey/bottles along with. Life with a baby is certainly harder that you think…and traveling with kids isn’t easy, but I do think that it’s all worth it. Nap schedules mess with touring during the day, finding warm milk for a bottle is always tricky when you’re not anywhere near a local Starbucks, and strolling around with a baby who only wants to walk themselves has presented an all-new-and-fun dilemma.

I’m happy to see Avery’s picture on a passport at 9 months old. I didn’t get one until I was 22 years old. So, I’m just going to concentrate on enjoying the lull while it lasts. Come to think of it, it’s kinda cozy in here.

Here are all of the pics. Password: Finch

my life, right now.

It’s not every day that I have a this-is-my-life kind of moment. But I thought I would catch up for a few of the very many missed opportunities I’ve had to write about how this life if going.

1. Going to the bathroom is a group activity now. Avery notices me walking toward that corner of the room, removing a piece of the barrier than encompasses her baby-friendly perimeter, and makes a b-line for the open bathroom door. She pops her happy head around the corner and smiles that amazingly famous I’m-so-happy-smile to be finding my way to follow mama. Yes- into the bathroom. A few dozen open and closings of the cabinet door follow 5 or 6 master crawls in and out of the stand-up shower- each of which require a certain skill for avoiding bruised little baby knees and pinched little baby fingers. She is a master. And just when I think I have amply enjoyed the entertainment, our kitty cat (aka The Boogs) panders on in as well. He finds a safe little 6-inch spot on the left side of the magazine rack to hover, just out of the way of cabinet doors flying open, and teeny fingers grabbing for kitty’s pretty necklace. As I flush the toilet, Avery and The Boogs stop what they are doing, look up at me and smile-- or err meow. It’s been yet another successful venture to the bathroom. Let’s go get everyone a treat.

2. I can’t really remember the last movie that I went to in a movie theatre. Jonathan and I used to attend the theatre at least once a week. Now, we are loyal Netflix card-carrying members with a somewhat-eclectic queue filled with anything from foreign film classics to cheesy romance flicks to national geographic studies to comedy club specials to newly nominated best pictures. It takes all kinds to broaden our horizon when we usually watch at least 5 movies a week. And, it has to be Pop Secret’s Homestyle popping corn to accompany. Really, nothing else will do. And, it has to be the blue pillow to stuff on my right side for Jonathan’s shoulder to lie on. And, it has to be the tan blanket (not the white one) to throw over the both of us. And, all of the lights need to be turned off except for the two dimly lit ones in the living room. And, Jonathan needs to make sure he shuts the kitchen cabinet doors before joining me on the couch. That way, all is perfect in the world.

3. The house is officially a home when:

a)The Boogs has sufficiently scratched up at least two corners of my favorite furniture pieces.

b)The lamp on the left side of the room has to been moved to higher ground every morning before Avery finds her way over to it, pulls on the light string, and it crashes to the floor- denting the shade just a little bit more.

c)I can heat up a bottle of milk in the middle of the night, and in the pitch dark, know exactly which numbers I’ve pushed on the microwave.

d)I know the species of animal The Boogs is looking at downstairs out the window from the type of chatter sounds I hear up in my bed.

e)When I find Cherrios in the cracks of my laptop, in the toe of my boot, and stuck to the side of the remote.

4. Only when I’m halfway done with grocery shopping do I realize what song I have been humming for 20 minutes now: the theme song to Avery’s Cat In The Hat morning cartoon. “Here we GO GO GO GO on an adventure, the thing-a-ma-jigger is up and away-ay-ay.” And, I don’t feel as silly when I return home to hear Jonathan humming the very same thing.

Life is really great. I'm just trying to take one day at a time, and remember all of the tiny pieces of goodness.

all for the little ones, christmas joys

As I type, we are anxiously awaiting the arrival of baby Nelson into the world. It’s amazing how much faster the time goes by while on this side of the induction “waiting game.” Imagine that.

A new baby in the family has made me think all day long about the day that Avery arrived, how long ago that was, and how very very quickly the year has flown by. It’s funny how life’s greatest gifts are usually surrounded by lots of hard work and waiting. But after you arrive at what you were so longing for, you inevitably forget most of the trials and tribulations it took to get there. The happy always wins over the headache. Especially when it comes to babies.

About once an hour I ask Avery, “Lolly- where’s the pretty tree?” She looks at me, draws a soft n’ sly smile, leans her head toward the Christmas tree and points with her little chubby pointer finger toward the sparkly lights. I smile. And, then- she claps for herself.

The Christmas season is upon us and I’ve already gotten everything I wished for.

howl-o-ween

There's a certain lull in the Halloween spirit for a few certain years: those after the fun college days of being ridiculous when dressing up in costume to attract boys and drink beer, and before the ones where you actually have a new little 'someone' to dress up and teach the whole tradition of what the holiday actually brings.

I know that my blog posts have increasingly become more and more about my baby and less about me. But, in a lot of ways, she IS what I do each and every day. She is exactly what I think about almost every minute, who I plan the future toward, and who I hope for a truly magical upbringing. I can just feel it beginning...the living-vicariously-through-my-children's-colorful-and-imaginative-world syndrome. And, I absolutely love it! Not to mention, it's a great excuse for over-doing every holiday decoration/birthday theme/vacation fun. It's not for me, it's for the kid.

Halloween was a great start. While I probably wouldn't have taken Avery trick-or-treating at this age, it was great fun to join our favorite neighbors as they took their babies door to door. We only hit about 10 houses, but it was surely worth the pictures. As usual, my baby bird (chick to be exact) was cuter than ever. It was also so nice to have grandma Finch and papa Campbell here to spend the night. Thai food, wine, a warm fire, trick-or-treaters, and football. Twas a really nice night for Avery's first Halloween.

Here are all of the pics.

3rd annual mcdiffett sister's reunion

It was back to Houston again this year for our annual get-together. The rule is that you have to be 21 to attend. Luckily for Bethany, she juuuuust made the cut this year.

This pretty much sums up the entire weekend: Going out, eating cupcakes, attending Dana's baby shower, fun dressing up, lounging & talking, and oh yea- eating some more cupcakes.

These weekends have really become a nice way to get some good 'ol laughing-until-your-stomach-hurts IN with the sisters. If I've learned anything, it's that your sisters know you better than anyone else. They are comforting, mean, and a fabulous reminder of home.

For more pics, click here.

eight point five months old

These days, it's almost harder to find a picture of Avery where she is NOT smiling. While she has always been a super-smiler, I feel like it's only been in the last month or two that her personality has been set to super-show! She has an "I'm trying to be slyyyy" grin, the "I'm so happy I can't stand it" smile, the "Did I just hear daddy come through the front door" face, and the oh-so-loved "mama, I just love you" smile.

As my grandma would say, it just really "gets ya where ya live."

For day two of crawling, click here.

east coast trip

The thought of catching up is exhausting. But the thought of catching up a few more months from now is really scary. So, here it goes. Our trip to the east coast was one of the best vacations in a long time. We toured D.C., lounged in Martha's Vineyard, and had fun in Boston.

D.C.
Jonathan showed me all of his old haunts around his alma mater George Washington. I'm really kinda glad I didn't know him as a college student. We hit up all of the fabulous monuments, and my family has nick-named Avery "traveling Avery", like the "traveling Stanley" character. He's the paper cut-out that you send around the world to your friends and family to have his picture taken in front of famous city-specific venues. We will surely drag out these pics when Avery is studying American history around the 5th grade. Maybe she'll appreciate where she's been. We loved spending time with family and getting re-acquainted with old friends.

Martha's Vineyard
Might quite possibly be the prettiest little spot in the world of relaxation. The island had all of the ice cream, clam chowder, beautiful beaches, quaint boutique shops, and pretty houses you could ever want. And the fact that we stayed at an Inn that shared a wall with a mexican cantina, close enough so that Avery's baby monitor reached the front porch filled with the best margheritas in the world didn't hurt! Mama and baby were both happily sleepy!

Boston
Our whole east coast trip started with the fact that we were going to a friend's wedding in Boston. My sister Bethany, a junior at KSU, flew in for a few days to nanny for Avery. Best money ever spent. Avery was so well taken care of, I had complete peace of mind leaving her for half nights at a time, and Jonathan and I really enjoyed some much-needed adult conversation/wedding reception dancing/not worrying about who's driving/having to get home to feed the baby/ remembering what a Saturday night was like before baby time. We rode the duck tour around the city, and put some serious miles on the BOB.

Getting an 8-month old on the bus, onto a ferry, into a rental car, through a 6-hr flight, back into the car, way past her bed time, and finally home was a fun ordeal. Totally worth it...but needless to say, we were SO glad to be home.

THE END

For more pics of the entttttire trip, click here.

and then there were three

Whidbey Island fun. For more pics, click here.

make-believe nap time

Avery only takes two naps a day. Right now, she is lying in her crib for a make-believe 3rd nap. My video monitor shows her every move. So, even though she is not sleeping, and only playing with the blanket and making funny noises, I’m going to pretend she IS sleeping and not go get her for a while.

I don’t know where the summer went. Somehow, it snuck on by- probably somewhere between the going to the park, strolling around the neighborhood, and nursing Avery for the umpteenth time every day. Ever since not working outside of the house, and never really having to write the date down, I kinda forget what the day is, even the month. I know…I know—but when my days consist of almost the same routine in and out of a week, things are bound to reach a certain mundain-ness. It’s not a bad thing. It’s just strange. Today I thought to myself, “hmmm…is it August or September? Yes- it has to be August. I know July ended…but I’m not quite sure I remember August beginning. Oh, what the hell—who cares if I remember it or not. I’m quite certain it’s here. Or, did it just turn September?” I’ll leave it at that. To go on would just be embarrassing.

Our days are busy. And, my time is limited. So, here is the bulleted version of what my post was really going to be about:

1. The weather has been so hot lately. We ALL sleep in the same room with a portable AC unit.
2. The apples in our tree out back are getting so big and round and red.
3. Avery’s cheeks continue to get chubbier and chubbier.
4. I need to get my hair trimmed and layered and highlighted, and shampooed and looking healthier and looking new-er. This post-pregnancy pulling it back into a ponytail has got to stop.
5. Jonathan and I cherish the post-7pm-Avery’s-bedtime-hour where we watch movies, drink wine, and debrief our lives.
6. Avery is starting to put things together. This isn’t good. Smart-ness is not what you want in a 6-month old.
7. We are loving the amount of travel we’ve gotten to do this year. It’s tough with a baby, but so nice to get away so often.
8. Jonathan is an amazing husband and an amazing father. He just gets it. And, I’m so glad.

That’s all folks! It’s about that time…for the age old question of “what’s for dinner?” Besides, Avery’s make-believe nap was up about 7 minutes ago.

lolly

I’m waaaay behind. So, here’s the update:

I’m starting to feel like we have a schedule around here. Or, at least, a somewhat predictable run-of-the-day. And it only took 6 months. Everyone says it happens. The time will fly by and you’ll miss your baby being so little. It’s true. I feel like we just brought her home yesterday…ok- well maybe more like 4 weeks ago. Still, she is growing up before our eyes. And, at this age, there are so many milestones to record. It’s actually a bit ridiculous, but every day brings with it a new “first” for our baby bird.

Oh, by the way- we call her Lolly. Probably about 80% of the time. Poor girl won’t even know her own name. I think I started calling her my dolly lolly when she came home. Then, it became Lolly. Now, it’s “the Lolls” or just “Loll” or “baby bird”, or “chick-a-dee”, maybe “baby baby”, often “umpa loompa”, and sometimes “sweetie pie”, or other times “lovey”. But, mostly- it’s just Lolly.

Avery runs our life. We love it. She is the happiest little munchkin I have ever seen. She’s pretty much all-smiles 97% of the time, has mastered rolling over as many times as it takes to get from one side of the room to the other, ate bananas for her first solid food, is just on the vvvvverge of saying daa daa, and now has hair long enough to put into pigtails. Yes- at 6 months old.

Every time our Charlie-cat walks past her, she follows him with her eyes, tries to reach out for him, looks at me, and gives me one of her famous silent laughs—with her mouth wide open, her eyes as squinty as can be, and her nose all wrinkled up. It’s one of my favorite occurrences. I think she and the “kitty kitty” will become fast friends. Well, if the Lolls has anything to do with it. Charlie, on the other hand, rolls his eyes (if cats can do that), re-positions himself just out of her reach, and goes back to sleep.

Avery knows our morning routine down pat. She wakes up, feeds, and goes back to sleep for 2 more hours. This is mostly just because I have trained her that mom is still tired. When it’s finally time to get up, we sing the good morning song, and she sits quietly in her chair until mom has made coffee and taken approximately 3.5 sips. That’s fine with me though, because I can drink the rest while feeding her yet again, and watching The View. Love the show. Can’t stand some of the hosts. Hense, the love.

Sidenote: Heather, I really miss debriefing with you in the mornings at work about our shows the night before. I think we’re going to have to schedule a weekly conference call. Lord knows we need to catch up on much more. I miss you.

Back to the Lolls. She loves riding in the stroller. I’ve even started jogging with her. She looks especially happy to go “more” when I am completely worn out….which is usually after only 20 minutes or so. I’m telling you- getting back into pre-baby shape is going to take a lot longer than planned, especially with all of the late nights staying up drinking wine with Jonathan. Hey- after a full day with the baby bird, a nice round glass of zin is everything a girl ever dreamed of. It’s all worth it.

Last but not least, I’d like to mention how happy I am. I mean, really happy. I didn’t always think I would or could be this happy…being a stay-at-home-mom. And, sometimes, I still plot out my next career move. But, most of the time, I am very content keeping our home, planning our trips, making the meals, doing the shopping, and watching the Lolls.

This story has been brought to you by Starbucks Verona Bold. The only real way for a mom to post to her blog way past bedtime.

fun in the sun

We had the best time in Maui for a much-needed vacation, and Megan & Matt's wedding. Avery had her first dip in the pool, in the ocean, and in the condo kitchen sink! I think she's definitely going to be a water baby if her dad has anything to do with it. Jonathan's the one that grew up in San Diego, and is all about surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. I, on the other hand, having grown up in Anchorage (land of indoor-only swimming) am much more content to snorkel a bit and then lie out on the warm beach.

It was the first time that all of my sisters got to meet Avery. She absolutely loved it! So much so that she now insists on being held 24-7. This is not a good thing.

Here are our pics from the week!

i heart crocs

I am in love with my new Olivia walking crocs! They are one of my better finds in a while, and I can't stop marketing for them. I think I've already convinced 3 people to buy them as well. Super comfy. Super light weight. Goes with anything from casual to dressy to sporty. Has a perfectly girly rhinestone, and a peak-a-boo window for your baby toe.

Happy summer walking!

all-star baby

The following was taken before and after I asked Avery the big locker room question.

"Are we going to beat daddy at basketball today?"

Even babies know what kind of a question that is! Just. Plain. Silly.

we do marshmellows

My friend Heather wrote a fabulous post about sugar cereal, and how she lets her kids eat it, along with licking the spoons when baking. I concur.

She wrote of her love for Captain Crunch. I, on the other hand, have had a 20-year affair with Lucky Charms. Jonathan and I have had "the sugar cereal" discussion SO many times. Mr. Healthy says there will not be any in the house. I say otherwise. And, moms pretty much always win when it comes to kids, and food in the house (since I shop for it). I grew up with sugar cereal and I think I'm fine. Probably better for it! Oh yumminess! Really, what is childhood without a bowl of Corn Pops or Coco Puffs?

When my sister Megan was here visiting last month, we had "the sugar cereal" talk again. Megan was on my side. Jonathan said, "Well, why don't we compromise and just get frosted mini wheats?" Megan and I just laughed.

Haaaaaaa...Weeee don't do wheat. We do marshmellows. Only. Thanks for playing though.

all smiles!

easter

Easter was pretty low-key this year. Avery is still too small to eat peeps, mom was too tired to make a big fancy meal, we saved some money on baskets and straw hay and plastic eggs, and enjoyed a movie and popcorn instead! I'm just gearing up for next year, when our little chick can sit up by herself and actually focus on and pick up a stuffed animal. It will most likely yield a much better return on my investment!

Besides the getting all prettied up for church, we spent the entire day in pajamas. It. Was. Fabulous. Here is Avery is her big 'n fluffy (yes- polka dot) Easter dress. Also, a big thanks to aunt Meredith for some extra cute baby bunny ears!

baby string bean

Jonathan says he can't help but think Avery looks like a string bean when she wears this outfit! I'm going with sour apple jolly rancher.

Here she is smiling for her aunt Meredith. We had a great time with her visiting us this weekend and can't wait for her to move to Seattle after she graduates from Ohio State! Meredith is the last of our looooong line of visitors since the string bean was born. Both sets of grandparents and 4 aunts down. And, only ehhh 7 aunts ta go!

the bumbo chair

Avery looks like she's turned into a toddler overnight in her new chair for plopping. The Bumbo chair was not on the original list of things to get today. But, lets face it- have I ever gone to Target and come home with just the things on my list? We all know the answer to that question. Aww Target, the land of candy-colored wonderfulness. I just couldn't resist! I really just need to steer clear of the kids department from now on. What is it about new, shiny kids stuff that looks so appealing? I think we get so used to the prices of adult clothing, so when you see a cute infant dress for $4, you say to yourself, "Hey- that's less than my coffee cost this morning!" And, then you put it in your cart. And, then you put more in your cart. And, then you go to check-out. And, then you look at the total and wonder if that could ever be correct. "Are you sure it's that much? I didn't buy one piece of adult clothing!"

I'm starting to realize how quickly Avery is going to grow out of everything...and need many more everythings in just a bigger size! I've already started a box of stuff that I can ship to the first sister that has a baby themselves. We'll just send all of our cool stuff back and forth to each other. Ya know, the things that you really want, but don't want to spend the money on for just 1 months use.

Now that the Bumbo has arrived, we officially have more seating for Avery in our living room than for adults. Anything wrong with this situation? I think our pediatrician was right when saying, "Well, it's obvious this baby isn't loved very much."

happy mornings

Avery is the happiest little giggle bug in the mornings! And, this is one of my favorite pair of pajamas. I know- polka dots - who woulda guessed? Makes me think of a candy store! Very fitting, since I call her my "lolly", like a dolly lolly, or a lolli-pop! So sweeeeet. I nibble on her allll day loooong!

2 months old

Our baby chick is 2 months old! I really really can't believe it. Avery stats are as follows: 11 lbs, 10 oz, and 24 inches long. Jonathan and I suffered through two more shots at the pediatrician's office today. Avery, on the other hand, if just fine. She's beginning to get some real chub on the thunder thighs, double chin, and kankles. She's more like a tiny sack of potatoes now, and pretty much smiles on demand. Here is our little munchkin with one of her new, much-needed slobber accessories!

st. patrick's day

This year, we have been so lucky. I'm so thankful for a healthy family, a cozy house, a stable income, and an incredible husband. But, I'm most thankful for our teeny tiny good luck charm! She makes everything happy... everything sunny...everything sparkle!

the blankie

My friend Holly is one crafty lady! She made this beautiful patchwork baby quilt for Avery! It is one of my favorite gifts she's gotten! Complete with my favorites, (bird and damask prints) it is backed with a super-soft white chenille. And, the large embroidered monogram on the corner makes it one-of-a-kind. Thank you so much, Holly! I have a feeling that this could be the blanket...the one she can't go to bed without...the one we need to wash a million times...the one that needs sewn back together after about year 2! (Click on pic to enlarge.)

the mood chart

I couldn't resist! Avery has some of the cutest facial expressions ever. The raised eyebrow, the curled lip, and the squinty eye. Pick a mood- any mood! Sad, happy, confused, surprised, tired, irritated, playful, or mad.

avery's baptism

It was so nice to have Dana and Tom here in town for Avery's baptism. They will make fantastic godparents! The great thing about having family here (especially sisters) is that they love Avery like we do. They love her like she's theirs too.

Tom and Dana gave Avery the most beautiful silver tea cup engraved with her birthdate and baptism date. It is one those "special" items that she'll keep forever. I'm thinking of hanging in from the tiny chandelier in her room with a ribbon. I have no idea what it is about having a baby that has turned me into a Martha Steward wana-be. Keepsake boxes...lullaby soundtracks...new traditions.

If I can create even half of the magic in our house that my parents gave me growing up, I'll consider myself a success. The birthday frosting and the Easter Bunny...Santa Clause and the Tooth Fairy.

Here are all of the pics from her baptism weekend.

rainbow bright!

soft 'n snuggly

Avery is almost 7 weeks old. She makes whiney puppy sounds in her sleep. Her soft, frizzy hair cannot be tamed. Her big round eyes make my heart melt. I love her fake cry, and her curled little lips when she's pouting. She giggles when we kiss her tiny toes. She raises her eyebrows when Jonathan makes his scary faces. And she loves to lie on her tummy.

It seems like the days are just passing oh so quickly. I'm starting to get scared that I'm not recording enough of my thoughts of her. I have so much to say, but no time to say it. To me, Avery is the sparkle in a crystal chandelier, the feeling of warm towels just out of the dryer, and the happiness in a hundred colorful balloons.