Month: December 2011

Well we’ve been extremely fortunate these past two years. First we got married in 2010, then had our precious little Ava in 2011. It’s going to be tough to out–do ourselves in 2012 but I’m sure it will be a great year. I start back up in school next week so I’m happy to be enjoying these last few days of the holidays before getting back to business. We’re also very happy to have Jessica’s dad Rick and his wife Chris out visiting us. They’re out here from Cedar Rapids, IA for 5 days and are having a great time exploring San Diego. Chris had her first fish taco, and we’ve generally been eating quite well everyday. We’re making lobster tail, jumbo prawns, king crab and sauteed mini portabello mushrooms tonight for dinner and will be washing it down with some nice bottles of wine and champagne. No going out for new years, just staying in and enjoying time with family. This is the first new years eve that Jessica and I have both not had to work, so we’re loving it. We want to wish a very happy new year to all of our friends and family throughout the country. Wishing you all the best for 2012 and beyond! Here’s a few pics of Rick and Chris’ visit so far.

Grandpa Rick and his little Hawkeye watching the game

Grandma Chris holding Ava for the first time

Jessica opening presents from Rick and Chris

Checking out the arboretum at Balboa Park


Ready for a 3D movie!

Today not only do we celebrate Ava’s first Christmas, but also the one month anniversary of the day she was born. Saying that she has only been here a month doesn’t really do any justice, but it’s an exciting landmark. We’re going to take a picture of her on the 25th of each month wearing a sticker that says how many month’s old she is, so today will be the first one. As for Christmas, Jessica and I opened presents last night with Ava overseeing everything. Today Jessica’s friend Erin is driving down from L.A. to spend the afternoon with us. It’s opening day for the NBA and I’m a big hoops fan, so I’m more than ready for a day full of games.

Here’s a few pics from last night’s present opening. Wishing a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday season to all our family and friends. We feel so fortunate to have all of you in our lives.

Yesterday Amy left for Colorado after spending the first three weeks of Ava’s life with us. She was beyond helpful in getting us going as a family. We were sad to see her go but look forward to her next visit in a month, then our trip to Colorado in March. Last night we went to my company’s holiday party at George’s in La Jolla. Ava wore her holiday dress and slept through the entire event. She was quite popular amongst my co–workers. We had a great night and were even able to enjoy a full nights sleep due to Ava not waking up for over 5 hours. Ava’s third week is complete.

Heading to the company holiday party

My Mom flew home to Vegas today after spending three days with us in San Diego. Having her here is always great but seeing her with Ava for the first time was awesome. Tom was here until Sunday as well so we were all able to have a nice dinner at home on Saturday night. Ava’s birth has already made this the best holiday season of my life, but having all this family time has made it even better. Amy is here with us for a couple more days, then we have Rick and Chris coming out at the end of the month. We couldn’t be more fortunate this year!

Two weeks ago today Ava was born, and part of me thinks "wow I can’t believe she’s already two weeks old." Then the other part thinks "she’s only been here two weeks?" We’ve had a good week, especially since it was Amy’s birthday on Wednesday and Tom flew into town. The five of us went out to a nice dinner at El Agave that night and had a great time. Tonight we’re heading out to dinner at The Melting Pot, which is something I always enjoy, then tomorrow my Mom returns from the Mexico cruise and will be able to stay with us for a few days. Should be a great weekend.

Today was Ava’s official due date, but instead we’ve had the last 11 days with her. Honestly it feels like much longer and we can’t imagine life without her. Friday was the one week anniversary of her birth and so far she’s been perfect. She sleeps up to 5 uninterupted hours per night, which is very uncommon for babies her age. Friday night my Mom was able to come and see her for the first time but didn’t get to stay long because of work. Luckily she’ll be staying with us next week for a few days and will get some much needed quality time with Ava.

Jessica is doing really well and has recovered nicely from the delivery. Having her Mom here with us has been such a big help… We’re not looking forward to her leaving on the 15th. The dogs seem to have adjusted nicely to having a baby in the house and have even surprised Jessica at how well they’re doing. Guess that’s all for now, besides the new pics. Please enjoy!

Ava at 24 hours old – still in the hospital

Grandma Amy and Ava

My Mom holding Ava for the first time

Jessica, Ava, Mom, and me

Family pic from the hospital when she was 24 hours old