Ready, set, park!

The park has always been one of our favorite activities mostly because there are so many around so they never get old. Plus they're FREE.

Now that Avery is a little older she seems to have so much more fun and for me it's all that much more exciting to watch her explore and learn. It's also very scary sometimes to watch her try to to climb or jump on things, but when she finally gets it the look on her face is absolutely priceless and more rewarding than anything I've ever experienced.

Avery: 13 Months!

 This month has been a big one for Miss Avery. She has made quite a few accomplishments and I am very proud of her. 

Throw ball: She can pick up and throw a ball fairly accurately. She is even learning how to catch!
Take bites: Sometimes Avery doesn't want to to eat things in pieces she wants the whole thing and now will take bites when you ask her.
Stack blocks: She can stack blocks about 5 or 6 high and loves to knock them back down. It's pretty hilarious.
Slide by herself: Since going to gymnastics she has learned how to climb the ladder and slide down all by herself. It's so cute to see how proud she is of herself. 
Use a straw: Avery has finally mastered the straw and really enjoys drinking Jamba Juice out of her very own little cup.
Show how old she is: If asked how many years old she is she can put up one finger. It's quite an accomplishment.

THIS MONTH YOUR BABY MAY:

• bend over and pick up objects, as the development of her muscles and balance allow her to She has been able to do this for some time. She can even do it running if the object is big enough!
• respond to verbal requests without gestures (when you say "come," she will come without parent having to make a "come here" motion) I know she understands the request but rarely obliges. In fact if you ask her to 'come here' she is more likely to run in the opposite direction than actually come to you.
• say two or more words in addition to "mama" or "dada" She says 'hi' to anyone and anyone who will listen and even those who don't listen. She also says 'this' and 'that' and calls the dog 'DD' or 'Diggy'.

Donkeys!

Today we went for a drive because Avery was having a hard time taking a nap. Once she fell asleep I found this great house in the middle of a vineyard and wanted to take a photo. I pulled over and as soon as we stopped these two donkeys walked up. They were adorable, but Avery slept the whole way through it!