Beautiful Ava is 6 Months Old Today

I cannot believe it has been 6 whole months since the midwife first placed this beautiful baby on my chest.

When Liesl was born, I heard "the time goes by so fast" a million and a half times, and dismissed it. Next thing I know, I'm kissing her hair at 1:00 a.m., with one foot out the door to the birthing center to give birth once again. As many people with more than one child told me would happen, Ava's birth and babyhood have made me really stop, think, and savor every moment I possibly can with both of my beautiful daughters. Suddenly, Ava's still-toothless smiles and throaty chuckles are dearer. Liesl's insatiable curiosity and toddler chatter are more amusing. With another baby edging closer to milestones, I now understand much more clearly how fleeting the passing of time is...and we have yet to really enter the "preschool" stage that I keep hearing about. When will I truly learn how fast the time really does pass?

Daddy, Liesl, and Mommy love you so much, beautiful Ava...my Dumpling, my Funny Bunny, my Wee Little Rossie. Your smiles and chuckles delight us. Mommy so loves to hold your warm, soft little body close to my own, to stare into your bright, clear eyes, to cover your soft neck, chubby cheeks, and pudgy feet with kisses. As much as I can't wait to see the little girl you will become, I am savoring your baby moments as much as I possibly can. You and your sister have taken over my heart completely. We are so very, very blessed to have you both in our lives.

Before you were conceived, I wanted you;

Before you were born, I loved you;

Before you were here an hour,

I would give my life for you;

This is the miracle of life.

- Maureen Hawkins