Firsts

The last few weeks have been filled with firsts for us. Perhaps most notably, Ava has tried her first solid food! Organic Brown Rice Cereal... Yummmmm! That's what she thinks now at least (she hasn't tried ice cream!)

As you can see, in true first-born-girl fashion, she doesn't stand for being fed and insists on holding the spoon herself. We try to grip the other end just so she gets a little in there!

And, two weekends ago we decided to try Ava out in her crib, a much deliberated big step from her co-sleeper bassinet right next to our bed. She did great the first couple of nights, but I'll be honest, this picture was staged; she has never actually made it all the way through to see the morning light in her own room. She much prefers our bed, and I can't say that I blame her!

Ava also took her first big road trip... to the Colorado River. We stayed with our friends the Barbattas and had a great time wake boarding (well Jeff and I did at least) and hanging out for a long weekend.

Here's Jeff prepping Ava for the four hour drive.

The family picture before boarding the boat, which was not one of Ava's favorites.

Snuggles from Daddy.

And swimming with Mommy.

Take your baby to work day... A few weeks ago I had a doctor's appointment and instead of exposing Ava to all the nasty germs that can be contracted in a doctor's office (H1N1 anyone?), we decided that I'd drop her off at Jeff's office so he could watch her during the appointment. Here's how I found them upon my return...

I think they had fun, don't you?

We've also continued our Monday swim lessons at Swim Ventures. Jeff had Columbus day off (despite the economic outlook, it IS good to work for a bank sometimes!) and posed as the official swim lesson photographer.

Ava can hold her breath like a champ...

And is really coming along with her survival back-floats.

Here's our class. (Gotta love all the Mommies' faces. We're trying to talk them into the idea that they're going to like getting dunked!)

One of Ava's favorite new things is bath time! Since she can sit up, she LOVES splashing around and playing with all her toys. (I think if reminds her of the pool!)

And, here's Ava over the last few weeks with some of you...

Grandma Barbara

Grampa Dave


Charlotte and Chas

And Charlotte's and Chas' Mommies

These two look pretty coy. We may have to watch them in about 16 years!

And a few of her new friends from our New Moms of 2009 Play Group.

And here she is with her new little friend Cayden Griffith, born September 8 (exactly five months younger than Ava!)

In closing...