You're all grown up...

Four? really?........four?? where did it go? You're a big sister now, a fun and loving daughter, and the most perfect grandaughter that anyone could wish for. You are such a reflection of your parents and one day you will be so thankkful for that! We love you Avery Lee...mimi&papa

The Big Sister Promotion

Avery's new job description now includes, but is not limited to, the following...
Handing me the: boppy | rag | bottle | pacifier | diaper | wipe | remote control | cell phone | blanket | pillow
Singing to Ellie when she is upset [usually twinkle twinkle little star, occasionally an itsy bitsy spider]
Transporting dirty clothes from Ellie's room into the washer machine
Folding blankets and burp cloths
Moral support and entertainment from 8 to 10pm during prime colic time [hugs, kisses, cuddling and dancing]

On Sept 3, 2011 Mimi said:

As scheduled, Avery became a big sister on Thursday, September 1st at 8:21 am. Mommy and Daddy finally decided on the name Ellie which seems to fit Ellie perfectly...funny how that works! Ellie weighed 7 lbs, 6.5 oz. and was 20 inches long. Avery doesn't seem too concerned with Ellie just yet but I know when she gets home from the hospital things will change. I can't wait to watch you two grow together!

JUNE 7, 2011 [an older post/comment from Mimi]

Yes, Mimi and Papa are here full time now and there is nothing on earth that could make me happier. I'm enjoying catching up on everything that I have missed the last three years. Your third birthday was grand to say the least! You sure had a ball...just ask anyone who watched you and Jadyn riding your F150 for the first time...I laughed till I cried. You are so amazing to me and surprise me every day that I spend with you. I am so glad we are finally together as a family should be.

The day that I left Florida I walked around our "Florida house" as you call it and started to get sentimental as the memories of your mommy and Uncle Jacob and Papa stirred. As I walked from room to room I relived so many memories and realized how much I loved the home itself and all the work that we put into it over the years. Then upon reaching the last bedroom it occurred to me how quiet it was...it was completely silent... no laughter, no music, no crying, talking, doors slamming, pots clanging or toys creating their noises...it was silent and then and there I realized that home isn't a house at all, it's where your family is.

I am where my family is now. I am home.

I love you Avery Lee

[Mimi]

Her Summer

This summer Avery has been going to Florida, the water park, Mimi & Papa's house a lot, and too many daily adventures to list. Lately she's loving writing her own name, watching Care Bears and Tangled, feeding her chickens, and reading Curious George stories. One of her favorite games is Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, a board game from her friend Jessi. This afternoon we're going to the Library to get some books then going to her cousins Dylon and Jadyn's house for pizza. In a week and a half she'll welcome her baby sister, who she only wants to name Carly Fishy Elephant.

Bonanza Jellybean & Third Birthday

Avery's new sibling is a little girl. She'll likely arrive at the end of August and Avery can't wait to play with her. According to her, this new kid will come out walking and talking and should be named Carly or Shirley.. neither of which are in the actual running. Names I would go for are Hanna, Mollie, Indiana, and Bonanza Jellybean. Although, Avery has Casey's middle name and we're thinking this second girlie will take my middle name ;)

Avery turned three last week and amazes me all the time with her personality, appetite, and ability to draw letters really well. For her birthday she got a play kitchen, a Ford F150 Power Wheels, a Daisy BB gun, a doll house, lots of arts supplies, a doctor kit, and she had a Strawberry Shortcake birthday cake. Her party was at her Mimi and Papa's new house; she is happy they live up here now and can see them any time she wants.

big sister

September 1 or sometime thereabouts, Avery will become a big sister :)