Friday, September 3, 2010

Happy Birthday, Avery!

(This week is far too big to post about only once - A's birthday, Kitty goes to school, and the normal excitement. So, today - Avery Girl, it's all about you.)

Four years ago this week, Jordan and I became parents. That night, our lives changed in all of the traditional ways: parenting is amazing and indescribable. But Avery came into our world and changed it in other ways, too. That tiny baby wasted no time in opening our eyes to joys in life we'd previously missed. She, as a baby, toddler, and now as a very big pre-schooler, shows us how to take life on full-force, with excitement, resolve, and a good bit of haste.

It's hard to feel nostalgic with Avery; she takes life full steam ahead and we love throwing ourselves wholly into every moment with her. It doesn't leave much time for reflection or missing what used to be - who can slow down and remember Avery as a baby when Avery as a four year old is so much fun?!?

Avery is the life of our never-ending party. She is comfortable in the spotlight and has an advanced sense of humor and the personality to pull off some serious attitude. We love that she is so emotive; her delight is contagious and rewarding. It comes with the other end of the spectrum, too - stubbornness, tears of rage or disappointment at the drop of a hat - but we wouldn't change it if we could. Mold it into a more socially appropriate and respectful way of being presented... yes. But change it... never!

For Avery's birthday, she gathered with her family at Rainforest Cafe. The evening would have been overstimulating for some children - noises everywhere, lots of adult interaction, the limelight, and numerous gifts to open and respond to appropriately... but for our first-born (and the first grandchild on both sides), it was her perfect way to spend a birthday.

Avery Girl,

You have so much of your Daddy's adventurous spirit and so much of your Mommy's zest for life. We're so blessed to take on life with you. You make this ride so much more fun and so much more fulfilling. Here's to many more years of nurturing the best in you!

We love you!
Mommy

1 comment:

  1. It just doesn't seem possible that Avery is four years old. She is such a beautiful little girl, and so sweet. I love her imagination. She can always come up with something creative.

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