Spring is here!

Spring is officially on Saturday, but with temperatures in the 80s during the day, it definitely feels like springtime in Arizona! We’ve all been out more to take advantage of the nice weather. Yesterday we took Ava on a “hike” around the neighborhood. She loves being in the backpack – the combination of a different vantage point and the gentle motion puts her into her chatty mode – like she is commentating on the scenery as we go around.

Today we went to the pool – the temperature was just warm enough to let her do some swimming. She spent about equal parts watching the big kids in the pool and splashing around.

Here’s Ava in her new swimsuit.

In the pool with Mom before she started splashing.

(Almost) Treading water

Working on her backstroke.

Ava is definitely interested in putting her face underwater, but ends up getting a mouthful each time she does it. Now we need to get her some lessons…

Fruits and Veggies

Ava continues to be a good eater – she love her fruit and veggies, including some veggies straight from the garden. She is now (as of this past Saturday) 8 months old – amazing how she has changed from a tiny little newborn into a much more independent baby. She isn’t yet crawling, but looks ready to do so any day now. Ava loves to entertain herself – everything from paper cups to puzzles becomes a chance to explore and bang things together.

With the nearly spring weather, we got Ava out to the park this past weekend. She loved the swings – both the infant ones that she could ride in, and swinging with Mo on the “grown up” swings.

Ava also went with us to a friend’s poker party. She was the oldest of the 3 babies there. Every one there was enthralled with her – and of course she was happy to entertain everyone with her smiles and laughs! We really are blessed with such a cute, happy baby!

Eating swiss chard from the backyard garden.

Gnawing on a carrot.

Acting like a monkey with a banana.

Playing house (complete with Blackberry)

 

Trying to see what we are doing in the kitchen.

Having fun on the swing.

On the “grown up” swing with Mo(m).  

In her “western wear” mode.