Way too many things have happened in the past 5 weeks. Our little baby hasn't been a "baby" in quite some time, but now she is officially on her way to becoming a toddler. While Ava has changed a great deal over the month of March, we have also had a lot of excitement with three international trips and two sets of visitors. Here is month ten, ready, set, go:
We started the month with a trip to Vienna, Austria. Gorgeous weather and historical sights. Accompanied Dad on a work trip and did well on two solo flights with Mom.
Next up was a visit from Grammie and Pop Pop. Spring was just beginning here in Berlin and we were able to make many trips to the park and visit the Zoo for the first time. Ava was about three feet from a brown bear cub and loved putting her face up to the glass when looking at the giant fish in the aquarium.
Towards the end of the month we took the train to Prague, Czech Republic for Easter. Again gorgeous weather and so warm. We had our share of delicious food and beers. Ava mastered waving. We visited Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge and then spent Easter Sunday afternoon lying in the park, taking in the sunshine.
A few days home to regroup and then Uncle Jon flew into town. Our first weekend with Jon was spent in Poznan, Poland. We were able to spend part of Saturday at their art museum and Ava especially like the ancient Egyptian artifacts. Who doesn't like mummies?
Okay so with the facts of the month cataloged, here is what Ava is up to:
Sleep - About the same as previous months. She is sleeping 12 hours at night, still not quite an all star when we travel, but gets back into the routine once we are home. She is taking an AM and PM nap for about 1.5 hours each. She is becoming more flexible with afternoon naps in the stroller when we are on the go.
Food - Ava is now tasting all types of food. This month she had a few new meats trying chicken, rabbit, and salmon. She is beginning to strongly prefer feeding herself and switches between a careful pincer grasp and not so gently smashing a fist of food into her mouth. Things she likes to eat by herself include chunks of fruit, pieces of cheese, cheerios, and small squares of bread with hummus. She continues to like pasta of any sort and spaghetti.
Movement - This has been a big month for Ava on the go. She is now standing on her own for around 5+ seconds. She is walking/running (almost) using her walker toy. She is able to crawl with a purpose to get something and is able to crawl up and over things. She can pull herself up to stand using anything (even a flat wall) and then can cruise around furniture. Mommy thought she maybe took a first step, but we will have to keep watching for the official confirmation.
Well that is our last month, fun & busy, and certainly never dull. Wishing all is well with our friends and family back home. We are looking forward to six week of "normal" spring here in Berlin with a break from visitors and travel. Coming up at the end of May we have the NYC crew coming for a visit and then we are off to Barcelona for Carlos and Carla's wedding where we will be joined by Megan's parents and sister Christina. We are hoping to make a summer trip back to the USA, but plans TBD.
Much Love from the Aylesworths