Today Ava Was Out Late

I left work around 7:30 tonight and came home to another empty house. Disheartening, but I knew you and mom would be home soon. 

Missed her daddy.

It ended up working out for the better because our hayfield of a yard needed mowed and had you two been home, I would have neglected the yard to play with you and chat with mom. 

I mowed, showered and had a few minutes to relax before I heard the garage door go up. I met mom at the car to help her bring you and your bag in. You woke up when she handed you to me. 

We all went up and got ready for bed. I let you sleep on my chest in our room for a bit. Jut like old times. 

That was great until Cookie jumped up on the bed. It was like you snapped out of it and right into your second wind. You just wanted to hug her and followed her all over the bed, not satisfied until your arms were round her and your head in her tummy. 

Eventually you tired and fell asleep. 

I'm glad you're home.

Mom sent me this video in the evening, you are getting the hang of feeding yourself, Have a look:

Today Ava Was A Lover Not A Fighter

Gotcha!

It's about time for a change kid. I keep telling myself it's only a few weeks but as I say that, I also look ahead, years down the line to memories potentially missed as work consumes my life and my summer. It was difficult but manageable prior to your arrival, but this year is different. I don't want to miss you growing up.

Even though i've only been working late this week so far, it's just going to get worse until Aug. 5. 

Technology can be a blessing and a curse. A blessing because mom keeps me constantly updated on what you're doing by sending me pictures and videos but a curse since it makes me want to be home that much more. The pros of technology outweigh the cons right now.

I'm putting these thoughts to "paper" as my promise to you that I'll work diligently to change this scenario and we'll get to spend our summers together as a family. 

What does mom send me throughout the day? Well, this afternoon it was photos of how much you love your cats. I can't guarantee the feeling is mutual, but you adore them

You can't escape my love!

Your latest kick is hugging. I know McGee can handle it, he's young and beefy. Cookie on the other hand is old and frail, so I worry a bit about her. We know you have no ill intent, but poor Cook isn't too fond of the affection. You might say she's a bit of a grumpy old lady.

If they are laying in the sun, or just sitting around and it catches you're eye, they're doomed for some love. You'll head their way and before they know what's upon them, you're on the ground they're in your clutches Typically it looks like a yoga pose - on your knees with arms extended over your head and holding on to them with your head resting on their sides. 

McGee will tolerate this to an extent, but Cookie will try and immediately wiggle out of your grasp. 

I have an idea, hug mom and I! We'd be fine with that. 

One other thing that I feel compelled to share is a video from this afternoon. It's been in the 90s all week and mom took you outside to play with your water table. I think you enjoyed it: