Back from Traveling the World

Disney World, that is. It was a very impromptu trip and It. Was. Fantastic!!! We spent 5 days touring the parks, meeting/dining with Disney characters, riding rides, seeing shows and swimming. We arrived at our resort on Thursday, unpacked our bags and then headed straight for the Magic Kingdom. I couldn't wait for Abby Kate to see Cinderella's castle. She was even more amazed than I thought she'd be when she first saw it. She just kept staring in awe and holding her hand out as if to present the castle to us. We met the princesses soon after. That was her favorite part of the whole trip, I think. She had this sweet look of complete adoration that I'll never forget.

Avery was there, too, but she spent the days tucked away sleeping in the Baby Bjorn or stroller. She was an angel! I had a few doubts about taking her, but it couldn't have gone any better.

There's so much to tell, so I'll just let the pictures do the job:

Meeting Ariel.

We stayed at Coronado Springs. It was beautiful!

AK's favorite.

Avery took plenty of 'rides' in the Baby Bjorn.

Meeting June from the Little Einsteins.

My standard picture in front of "Casey's." It's a restaurant in the Magic Kingdom. You could probably mark my growth from childhood to now with as many pictures I've taken below this sign.

AK trying to get Avery into the spirit of Disney. This balloon is still full of air and entertaining Abby Kate even now that we're home. Good thing, because it cost us $10!!!

The trip was truly magical for Abby Kate. We had such a great time and loved watching her experience it. Avery obviously won't remember it, but we're certain we'll take them both back in a few years.

Avery's First Month

Avery had her 1-month check-up yesterday. Abby Kate and I took her to the doctor and were delighted to hear she is growing and healthy. She's gained nearly three pounds since her birth! And she's also grown a couple of inches. She weighs 8 lbs, 10 oz and is 21.5 inches. I had one concern for the doctor - her spit-up problem. She spits up quite a bit every time I feed her. But the pediatrician assured me that it's more of a laundry inconvenience than a health issue since she is gaining weight and she's not in any pain.

Avery is growing more alert everyday and is eating and sleeping very well. She is pretty content for the most part. I attribute it to the Babywise schedule. We went back to church for the first time since her birth this past Sunday and she was a sleeping angel through the service! We had fun introducing her to everyone.

Abby Kate continues to be great with her. She is still so helpful and doesn't show one bit of jealousy. I am so proud of her. Avery couldn't have asked for a better big sister!

We have been very busy with a visit from Mike's parents, and then Mike's brother and his family came to visit for a few days after that. I have pictures to post from that, but right now we are busy packing for our trip to Disney World! We planned it very last-minute and we leave tomorrow for almost a week. Abby Kate is beside herself with excitement at the idea of meeting the princesses and all the Disney characters. Avery has no clue, of course (and may very well be the youngest person at Disney World) but she'll get to take some nice outdoor naps for a few days in her stroller and in the Baby Bjorn. So... many updates and fun pictures to come!

Mike in the Harrier

Getting some gas.

Getting ready for the vertical landing.

Hovering.

Last week I finally got to see my husband do his thing in the Harrier. It was awesome! They let us come right up next to the runway to watch and take pictures. I was standing just a few feet away! I saw him practice vertical landings and a few takeoffs. So cool. And so loud. My eardrums wouldn't have survived it without earplugs. (I also have video, but I need to purchase a new cord to download it since I got a new computer.)

First Day of Preschool

The day has come! I can't believe my little girl is old enough to go to school. I took her for her first day yesterday and she couldn't have been more brave - and happy. When the doors opened to let the children in, she took off running in search of her classroom, leaving Avery and I to catch up. She found her name at the table and sat down, ready to get started. Needless to say, I was the only one with tears in my eyes when we kissed goodbye! When I came to pick her up, she was all smiles and chattered about all the fun things she did at school. I'm so proud of her, and even though it breaks my heart that she's growing so fast, I'm glad she is enjoying it and will benefit from the interaction with the teachers and students there.