Happy Holidays!

What a wonderful time we had for Avery's first Christmas. It took us about half of the day to get through all of the presents (the two boys got a little bit spoiled this year) and the other half to digest all of the food we ate!






Truman was very excited to see that Santa brought him exactly what he asked for, an apple! He said that next year he will ask for a melon. Avery asked for a 50" LCD flat screen television and was incredibly angry when he didn't see it under the tree. He decided to punish us for Santa's mistake and hasn't slept very well for the last three days. In all honesty, I think it's because there has been so much excitement and commotion. The little guy doesn't want to sleep because he's afraid he will miss out on some action.







As per our annual tradition, we stayed in Ajax from Christmas Eve until Boxing Day, and were able to relax and truly enjoyed spending time with family. Of course we were missing the South Carolina clan, but got to catch up briefly with a phone call on Christmas Day.




Boxing Day, we spent the evening at Wanda and David's. We were once again treated to an amazing dinner which Wanda made. Avery was as well behaved as a baby can be on about half as much sleep as he should be getting. Unfortunately, we were having such a nice time that we missed Avery's regular bedtime again, which lead to a difficult night. We are hoping that since the holidays are now over, we can get back into a scheduled routine. And next week we start the dreaded sleep training.

Santa Claus Came to Town...

and how!

Avery met Santa twice! Although in all honesty, both times he was asleep. Alas, no pics with Old Saint Nic as of yet. We will have to visit the mall sometime this week to finally let Avery offload his massive wish list. I hope you are ready for it Santa.



We started out our day by visiting West Park for their annual Saturday with Santa. It was a day filled with entertainment (including some impressive Ontario wildlife) and infinite amounts of timbits and coffee (which kept Pat and I satisfied). My boys got the grand tour of the Food Services kitchen and even got to see Mommy's office. It was quite a long morning and by the time Santa came to deliver his gifts, our little guy had fallen asleep in my arms.



A little later, we headed out to see Mr. Claus in Junction City Square. We were joined by many Stroller Moms, and indulged in free hot chocolate and cookies (which, again, kept us satisfied). Just as the flamboyant Kris Kringle arrived, Avery had drifted off to dream land in his stroller.







On another note, Avery turned 6 months a couple of days ago. He had his doctor's appointment (along with another set of shots) yesterday. We were surprised to find out that Avery weighs only 15lbs 13oz. Pat was certain he was at least 18lbs. We were very excited to start him on solids and promptly introduced Avery to sweet potato. I can't say it was love at first taste. Today we decided to mix the puree in with his cereal, which received better reviews. What an exciting chapter we are entering now! Bring on the blender... here I come!

All I Want for Christmas is...

My two bottom teeth?

Is this really what Avery wished for? Well, it seems as though he's getting them whether he wants them or not!
We have been patiently (?) awaiting the arrival of Avery's first tooth after what seems like months and months of teething symptoms: excessive drooling, constant munching on anything within arms reach and rosy red cheeks. Last week we felt a sharp nub just under his gums. Finally, this morning we can see a little tiny tooth emerging from his gum line, with, lo and behold, a neighbor to the left.

I have been told by other mom's that the appearance of multiple teeth at one time is a common occurrence. I am very happy to say that since the teeth have mostly popped through, Avery's mood has been very pleasant. It was perfect timing for Avery's first encounter with Santa this weekend.



On Saturday morning, we met up with many of the Stroller Fit Moms to take in the Lakeshore Blvd Santa Claus Parade. We braved the chilly weather, with the help of some coffee and croissants from Tatsu's Bakery, and cheered on all of the wonderful floats and marching bands. It was much more low key than the Toronto Santa Claus Parade, but that just added to it's charm. As one of the Stroller Fit Moms so aptly put it, it had a small town feeling - which is exactly what I was hoping for.









This evening we attended a wonderful Christmas party at Alix and Fiona's. Avery was the centre of attention and gave the hosts a frightening sneak preview into what parenthood is all about. Avery lasted about 1 1/2hr and decided that he wanted to leave, which means he screamed bloody murder. We can't blame him, he hadn't napped all that well during the day and it was time for his dinner. We just want to wish Alix and Fiona Congratulations on expecting their first bundle of joy! With the risk of sounding absolutely nauseating, it will be the most wonderful thing you will ever experience, period!