Today Ava Wanted Me To Hurry Home!

You were able to add a little bounce to my step as I slowly made my way to the truck following a 13 hour day. 

As I was walking I received a text from mom with a photo attached that said "Hurry Home." I was already after 9:00 p.m. and I knew you'd be going to bed soon. 

 

As I was walking, staring at the photo with a little more pep, another text came through, this time with a video.  You just have to watch it. I'll swear on this for a long time that you said "Hurry home!" and then a second later added "Dad."

The bounce in my step was nearly a run by this point. 

Today Ava Was On To Our Game

Sitting on my lap, you reached across the table to mom with a chopsticks wrapper in hand. Once mom reached for your offering, you yanked it back and laughed at her.

Lady rides with mom!

Surprised, we thought we were having a moment when you were learning to share, rather, it was a moment when you saw what mom was doing with you and took it upon yourself to return the favor. 

She had been playing with you in this manner across the table, offering the wrapper and pulling it back. After a few attempts she let you have it and that's when you turned the tables on her.

Where were we? We went to one of our all-time favorite restaurants tonight, Jasmine's Asian Bistro, for a "last supper." I'm about to fall off the radar for the week and thought going to dinner as a family would be nice.

You're such a busy person that it's becoming increasingly difficult to take you out to eat, to Church, to anywhere that you'll have to sit and be confined for any length of time. At one point mom had to take you outside and have a talk about your behavior.

You had my phone in your hand watching a PBS app when our waitress stopped by to check on the table. You turned, offered her the phone and when she reached for it, you pulled it back and giggled again. You did this with her three or four times. 

Some time had passed since you were playing with mom so we were astounded that you weren't just mimicking mom but you retained and made a game out of it with others.

Today Ava Was Topless

This is a headline I better only write once!

For some reason or another you felt that wearing a shirt was too confining and cried until mom removed it. Not once, but at least twice today. We both questioned your reasoning, but let you be free and happy. 

Watch:

Not sure what that was all about ... 

You weren't acting like your normal self today. Mom caught you using a binky. You haven't used a binky for something other than a chew toy since you were born. It's something that we were happy about, since we didn't want to have to go through the trauma of weening you from it. 

I asked mom if it were possible that you were swapped out last night? Where did our Ava go?

No shirt, no shoes, no problem!

It was a little chilly this evening and we had a birthday party for a family friend's daughter to attend. Mom was prepared to change you into long sleeves but I said it wouldn't be necessary. I didn't realize how chilly it was tonight. After a bit, mom grabbed a few light jackets from the car. All adult sizes. She came back with one shirt and we put you in it and tied up the sides. You were restless and walking around the yard when mom captured the photo below. One of my new faves!

Toda Ava Made The Connection

I clicked the button on the garage door opener,  pulled in the driveway gathered my stuff and in the door I went. 

Someone love her Biscoff!

I took a little longer to round the corner than usual. Since it was late (8:45) I fed the fish and turned off the light on the tank. Most of the time I can hear you making noise at the top of the steps, tonight I didn't hear anything. 

I was honestly a little disappointed. It makes my day to see you and mom at the top of the steps when I get home. I switched the lights and rounded the corner and to my surprise there you were!

You tarted jumping and squealing like normal. I scooped you up from mom's arms and we went into the kitchen. 

Mom began to tell me that you've made the connection between hearing the garage door go up and me walking in. 

She said that tonight, when you heard the door go up that you got excited and began to make your way to the door. Too awesome. 

You're growing up o fast and call me biased, but you're so smart. 

Year one is almost in the books, I can't wait to see the development year two and beyond brings!

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 Left Dad Home Alone

My status as "dad" was on hiatus tonight. And to be honest, it wasn't very much fun. 

When I walked into the house this evening no one was at the top of the steps to greet me with flying arms and a squeal. No one was there to eat dinner with me (or eat my dinner). No one was there to play with and eventually rock to sleep.

Cheesin before dad goes to work.

Just quiet. Too quiet. 

It was a little strange having an evening to myself. It's the first night since you've been born that I've been home alone for a period of time. This is the first but certainly will not be the last as you grow up. You'll go on trips, have sleepovers etc.

You and Mom met me at the HOF and we had lunch with a friend of ours who moved to Texas last year and was back in town for a bit. We walked around and caught up on what's new in each others lives. When we all departed you and mom went straight to Shelby. 

Mom made plans to go see the "Lion King" at Playhouse Square in Cleveland with Grandma and Aunt Casey while you hung out with Grandpa. 

He sent me a few pics through the evening, you went swinging at the playscape, and read some books to him. 

Hopefully you were well behaved for the remainder of the night! I'll find out today, we'll have a talk if the reports are not favorable. 

I'll see you tomorrow!

Today Ava Chatted With Dad

I was able to see you this afternoon ... sort of. Suddenly my phone started to vibrate across my desk. Looking down I saw that mom was attempting to FaceTime with me. 

I excitedly got up and went into one of our conference rooms. When the phones connected I saw you playing with a big box in the living room. Earlier in the day Aunt Suz sent mom and I a message saying your birthday present was on it's way and could arrive today. 

We discussed if you should open it now or wait until your birthday. You made the decision for us and began to tear into the box. Inside was a small shopping cart with space for two dolls. I received a picture from mom later where Mickey was front and center strapped into the seat of the cart. I'm not surprised. You love Mickey.

We chatted for a few more minute before I had to return to work. We laughed a little and you read me a book. 

Thanks, mom! It was a wonderful break to my day. 

Often times i end this journal with a video. Today, mom caught you combing your own hair. She was only able to capture a few seconds at the end, but it' adorable nonetheless. 

Today Ava Was Pretty In Pink

I came home from work tonight to find out that you and mom had matching pink toenails.

Tootsie pops

And I thought the adjustment of having a girl was getting the knack of buying your clothes. Once I conquered that I thought it would be smooth sailing. 

First a tea party, now this? My comfort zone is turned on its head once again.

I'm not saying it isn't cute, sometimes I lose sight of the fact that we're raising a little girl. You must understand, all I know is Legos, Tonka trucks and playing in dirt. 

So the last two days have snapped me back to reality. I've learned two things: 

1. You're growing up. Way too fast I might ad. 

2. Your allowed. No matter how big you get, and how much I'll need to adjust - you'll always be my "little girl."

See, the girly-est thing I've ever done in my nearly 32 years on this earth is paint your moms toe nails. And it wasn't very long ago that this happened. She was pregnant with you and could no longer reach her feet.

One thing you need to know about me ... I hate feet so it was quite an accomplishment for me and if it made mom feel better about herself, then it made me feel good too.

Stealing mom's ice cream.

At this stage in your life your I'm okay with your feet. As Uncle Shawn would say "they are still pure." You squirm and giggle when I rub my beard along the soles of your feet or pretend I'm eating your toes. 

For as little as your feet are, mom said it was quite the daunting task to get your toes all dolled up. Knowing how much of a busy body you are, I can understand.

As I write this I wonder what other aspects of raising a girl I'll need to get used to? 

1. Boyfriends. I was young once and know how they think. Advantage: me. I'll know how to scare the bejesus out of them if they try and date you. I have GREAT aim.

2. Pony tails and braids. Luckily I'll be able to adjust slowly and read up on this one as your hair isn't growing very fast. Advantage: still you. I've never had long hair so this'll be a tough one.

3. Clothes. Baby clothes were an adjustment. Teenage girl clothes are going to be an absolute nightmare. I see too many young girls at the mall looking like they are going clubbing. Advantage: you and mom. I can't handle an "ini" on vacation, I'm sure I'll hate the fashion trends but it'll be two against one. 

4. Fast talking. Teenage girls talk fast. Like too many OMGs and like this and like that and like it's all too much and like I'll need like the new Rosetta Stone "Teen Girl" addition. My head may just start smoking and explode.

Those are just a few that I can think of off the top of my head. I'm sure more will come but I am looking forward too it!

On a side note - tomorrow is Uncle Joe's birthday. We tried to get a pic of you holding a sign that read "Happy Birthday Uncle Joe!" but you didn't cooperate. Watch:

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:

Today Ava Was In My Dreams

Your red catching gear on you walked towards home plate with that  signature gate in your step every catcher has as they carry all that extra protection to the plate. I nervously inched closer and closer to the chalk of the first base line so I could see through the crowd of people and watch your debut without obstruction.

You crouched behind the plate and in came the overhead pitch. My heart racing as I anxiously awaited the smack of the ball into the mit, you caught it and I breathed a sigh of relief. I could feel a proud smile extend across my face.That's my girl!

All seemed normal - a 90 mph overhead pitch in a little league girl's softball game - until the all too familiar blare of my alarm yanked me from your World Series run. Once I came to, I realized how outlandish that scenario is.

It was just a dream, but could it be an omen of the future? Only time will tell. 

Some of your favorite toys are in our basement, a container of baseballs, softballs and a tiny wooden bat that we use as decor. I can only speak for myself, but your mom and I are former athletes and this makes me prideful to see. 

I could be biased, but I think you're hand-eye coordination is exceptional at your young age. We sit you down and roll a ball to, your eyes find the ball and watch it the whole way in then grab it once it's in reach. It's rare for one to get by you. Hence a new nickname - shortstop. 

So, why you were a catcher in my dream last night, I have yet to figure out the meaning behind it. Maybe as a catcher you have to watch the ball in the whole way? That's my only guess. 

I woke up excited, maybe a look into the future? Though, I hope to be coaching rather than sitting on the sideline.

Today Ava And Dad Had Quality Time

It won't be long and I'll be handing over the reigns of this journal to mom. I know she'll do a great job! 

You'll be seeing less and less of me over the next few weeks as work begins to pick up. Such is life at the HOF, mid-July through early August you belong to work as the small staff prepares for the annual Enshrinement Festival. 

Chill out, dad. Relax a little with me.

When I was young and single with nothing to worry about, HOF time was an exciting adventure, then mom and I got married and it became harder to be gone all day.

That was especially true last year as you were due to arrive two days after the festivities. There was a backup plan that went into effect should I have to eject at a moments notice. We reassured everyone that you would wait to arrive until after the festivities. My boss even joked with mom that he was going to have a birthing room built onto the stage to make sure I was at the event. Mom was quick to tell him she was fine with it if he could secure a sponsorship with Pampers. We would even

True to our word, you waited. Now that you are here, it is increasingly more difficult to stay at work all day - and I've only been staying late for two days. It's going to be a long next three weeks as the hours at work take away from my hours at home.

Unless you get up early, I don't expect to see you at all for the week of the Enshrinement and Game, so do me a favor and be good to your mom. 

So, back to our quality time. I doubt you recognized it's significance, but it wasn't lost on me.

You're slow to wake in the morning. There are many similarities between you and mom and the wake up process is one of them. I don't say that as a bad thing. I pop out of bed the moment my alarm goes off or as soon as I wake up. I always have.

You and your mom wisely use the time to relax, adjust to your surroundings and get going when you're ready.

That being stated, it's a rarity for you to simply sit with us, you're constantly on the go. Typically it only happens when you're tired and ready for a nap or bed, or like today, just after I pluck you from your crib. 

I checked the monitor and you were stirring so I went back and brought you to the living room. We sat on the couch and turned on your cartoons. I expected you to come alive as Mickey's voice filled your ears. Nope. 

You just at there. Hey - I'll take it. Like I said, it doesn't happen often. We just sat together watching the cartoon and you slowly woke up and became the busy-body we've come to know and love. 

Soon, it was time for the "Hot Dog Dance" and I caught some of it on video:

 

Today Ava Had a Conversation

With anyone who would listen!

Looking so grown up!

I've wanted to know what you've been trying to tell us since you first figured out that you could create noise.

Lately it's turned into full-blown conversations. 

I've written about your "screams" about "Dad" and "Button" but today it was a whole new level. Mom showed me a few videos she captured today of you yelling at the TV, the cat, pretty much anyone who would listen. And with the tone, everyone within ear shot couldn't help but listen. 

I've replayed the video a  number of times and laugh just as hard each time I see it. 

I sent your Uncle Kris the video telling him if your cousin is anything like you, neither of us will get a word in again, ever. He agreed, saying we're both screwed.

It's something the written word simply can't describe, you just need to see it for yourself. 

Enjoy, we sure have: 

Today Ava Went To Taggart's

Mom told me you had been in a bit of a crabby mood since waking from your afternoon nap. How were we going to cure this? With some ice cream of course! 

Mom came across a forgotten $10 gift card for Taggart's in the office desk. Bingo, let's go. Taggart's is a little ice cream shop in your hometown of Canton that's been in existence since 1926.

Showing mom all the cool stones in the path.

Walking in, it's like you went back in time. It has that old ice cream parlor feel to it which to me is part of the allure of the place. 

We didn't have plans for this evening so mom and I decided to take you down there for some of their famous ice cream. Mom ordered a brownie sundae, I had an old fashioned banana split and you enjoyed a vanilla kids cone.

We had a family beside us with a little girl eight months older than you. The two of you chatted in only the language the two of you understood. Mom and I exchanged pleasantries with her parents and once we were done with our ice cream, we went to the park for a swing. We also exchanged a few words with the elderly ladies on the other side of us. 

While mom was paying the tab, they asked me if you re always this happy. 

Of course you are!

It's interesting to me how we have met and talked to so many people since you've been born that we wouldn't have normally conversed with. It's not that we're arrogant or introverted, the common denominator is the children. I'm not putting my thought into words properly, it's just one of those things I didn't understand until I became a parent. 

At the park we met a couple that came to the swing beside us with their two and a half year old granddaughter. We made small talk for a few minutes before parting ways. As we walked you to the car  a lady with her eight-month-old daughter stopped us to as a few questions about when you started walking, you're teeth, etc. I think she was curious as to when her daughter would start doing some of the things you're doing. 

I'm really enjoying this part of life. Let's hope it continues!

Today Ava Learned A Life Lesson

Easy transition from baby to boss.

Today went by rather quickly. After work it was out to the yard to clean up the remainder of the bush we removed from the front yard and mow. 

We also threw a quick dinner in the mix before it was off to the late night softball games. Although I'm sure it was a little chilly for mom, the weather was pleasant. She brought you out to the first game. It was here you learned your first life lesson from me "Do as I say, not as I do." 

I've been in a bit of a batting slump lately but tonight got a hold of one and sent it to the fence. 

It had extra bases written all over it. Feeling good I rounded second and hustled for third. In I went standing up ... and was quickly tagged out. You saw the whole thing, and yes, had I not been lazy and slid, I would have been safe. 

So please, if I ever have the good fortune of coaching you in softball, do as I say. Not as I do. 

Today Ava Took Her 11 Month Photos

Mom and I have enjoyed taking these monthly pictures throughout your first year, yet today was bittersweet as we know it is drawing to a close. Only one more left. 

Oh don't fret, it won't be the last time you'll have a camera in your face.

Hard to believe it's been nearly a year has passed. It's been fun reflecting on how you've grown and how we've grown as parents.

When we first began tracking your growth through these monthly photos I was naive in thinking that as you get older they would get easier. I thought you would understand what we were doing and cooperate. My, how wrong I was. 

On your half-birthday I mentioned the same thing. It hasn't gotten any better.

We coax you to remain still any way we can, with toys, singing, dancing - whatever it takes.I'm sure it looks like a circus to an outside observer.

We work well as a team, mom places you and distracts you while I am on the step stool firing away and hoping for the best before you roll over or get bored. 

We get good shots, but you make us work for them. 

And not to mention, your shiner really darkened up today, adding some character to the images. 

Mom tried to ind some boxing gloves for some fun photos but no one seemed to have any in stock.

Here are a few unedited shots from this evening: 

 

Outtakes:
 

 

 

 

Today Ava Had a Shiner

Well, my fear came true ... 

This is my "show me sympathy" face.

When you woke up I went in to get you and the first thing I looked at was your left eye. Son of a gun, black. 

Your first shiner. 

Your going to take bumps and bruises and Heaven forbid maybe even a broken bone or two while you're growing up. I can tell myself that until I'm blue in the face but it doesn't make me feel too much better since I caused your black eye.

I had kept my finger crossed that it would remain red and puffy through the night and not progress. After all, we had Church to go to this morning (which you weren't on your best behavior) and you're 11-month photos to take tomorrow. 

How awesome will those images be years down then line and I have to explain the darkness under your eye? This one might follow me for a while ... 

Other than the visible, there didn't seem to be any other effects of the pup hitting you or your head hitting the ground. You continued the day as your normal self, wearing your shiner as a badge of honor. Daring people to ask so you can show them how tough you are!

We played outside while the pork chops grilled and after dinner took you to the park. Just another day (thankfully).

Today Ava Captained The Ship

We might just need a new dishwasher. Ours is on par with the stink in your diaper. Unlike you, the stink remains after we clean it. 

There's a crazy girl in the wavy mirror!

So, we went to Sears in the mall to check out new ones. On our way out there is a stand with many different children's toys. A NASCAR, a vintage corvette, a helicopter and more. Walking past, we thought you might enjoy a ride in one of them. The NASCAR had the deepest seat - less risk of you falling out. I put in my dollar - nothing. Hmmm .... tried to get the change, no go. Shady toy vendor 1, Dad 0. 

We scrounged up some more change and went for the chopper. You seemed to navigate towards that one anyway. It was painted like a cartoon, with eyes on the windshield and a big smile. Right up your alley. 

Naturally, you took the the left seat - the Captain's Chair. No co-pilot here - a born leader. 

We put in our 75 cents and and it began to rock back and forth. You leaned for the controls. A pilot to be. 

Cautious at first, we weren't sure how you'd react, but you loved it.

We also let you stretch your legs and walk through the mall with us. You were into that as well, making noise the whole time and attracting smiles and "Ooooohhs and Awwwwws" from the gallery. 

Today Ava Took Her Lumps

She didn't mean it, you snuck up on her and she took a right when you took a left. Knee, meet face. 

Down goes Gravy. 

Towel Thief

We'll be installing a "Nanny Cam" next time she comes over to babysit. Grandma felt terrible as you cried from the shock of what happened. 

Once you realized "Hey, this doesn't really hurt." it was back to your mumbles and chasing Scout around your grandparents house. 

Something struck me as this incident was playing out, now that you're walking, we better have the first aid kit ready. You're going to take your lumps, whether it was like this morning when your throat and coffee table kissed or this evening where you stealthily crept up on Grandma and she didn't know you were there.

Let me explain about this morning, you get ridiculously excited when Mickey Mouse Clubhouse comes on and not to mention this excitement goes off the charts when they do the "Hot Dog Dance." 

We watched it once, did our dance and I decided to rewind and see how happy you would be the second time. Your arms flew into the air and you began to walk excitedly towards the TV. Losing your balance, you fell forward and your neck met the edge of the coffee table. 

Mom and I felt horrible, but you were fine. I feel like this entry is making us sound like bad parents, but we always have a close eye on you. These were just accidents and don't worry, the band aids are ready. 

We took you to Paul's Drive In for an ice cream cone to make peace.

Today Ava Is Teething

Waking up ... slowly.

Judging by the last few days, and especially today, we'd be surprised if you weren't getting another tooth. 

It started on Saturday with a really bad rash on your booty. First thought was maybe the new brand of diapers wasn't sitting well with you - pun intended. Then we noticedyou chewing on everything in sight. From your fingers to combs to whatever will sooth your tender gums. 

Strangely enough this is how your first six teeth came in, started with the rash, then the chewing, then on to a day of two like today before it finally pops through.

Today you slept a lot, refused solid food and took more bottles than usual. 

You woke up around an hour early this morning - 6:45 - and I was surprised to received a text from your mom at 9:20 saying you were down for a nap already. Logically though, I shouldn't have been surprised, up an hour early, down for a nap an hour early.

Your nap lasted nearly three hours - nearly an hour longer than normal. I was sad to come home to an empty stairwell until mom explained to me your sleeping habits and that you were down again. You didn't make me wait long and started stirring minutes after I walked in.

Resting as long as you did today kept you up until about 9:30 when you become punch drunk. 

You sat with mom and did a little light reading before she took you back to bed. 

Watch:

Today Ava Skipped Her Second Nap

And we paid for it! 

It's obvious you need both of your naps throughout the day. It wasn't for our lack of trying, you simply wouldn't go down for a nap.

Mommy's funny when she juggles!

Mom has gotten you on a good schedule of napping around 10:00 a.m. and again at 4:00 p.m. 

You woke up this morning and instead of whimpering to let me know you were ready to come out and play, I checked the monitor and you were playing hide-and-seek with yourself and the blanket. 

It was so cute I almost let you go for a bit but since I didn't see you much yesterday I came in and got you. 

Waking up this way, I thought it was going to be a smooth day. 

Late morning nap - Bingo, right on target. Things quickly went downhill from here. You showed us many times throughout the afternoon that you wanted to sleep, but refused each time we tried.

I'm officially handing down your mom's childhood moniker to you; Ava Bear. Ask your mom about it sometime. <------ I'm going to be in trouble for mentioning "Heather Bear."

I don't want to say today was a challenge, because it wasn't; you were simply a little more needy than normal.

We've never had a bad day together; countless great days and a couple good days. There's never a bad day when you're a parent.