CATCHING UP

Ava turned one December 9, and all of her grandparents, aunt and uncles, and cousins were here with her to celebrate. At her 12 month check-up, she was 20 pounds and 29.5 inches, which means she finally got to use her Big Girl car seat and face forward. She loves it. She is quasi-walking, taking a few steps at a time here and there, and she's doing it more often everyday. She is such a happy, easy, makes you want to have more little girl. She is still our greatest gift.

We spent Christmas with my family, including the Cresses and my aunt and uncle. We were at my parents an entire week and were sad to leave but so happy to be back in our home. Then, my mom's middle sister, another aunt of mine and uncle and cousin drove to Dallas for the Cotton Bowl. We were able to see them briefly, which is always wonderful.

Now to the most recent events... Brent had Oral surgery this past Friday. He had all of his wisdom teeth pulled - not because there were problems, but because he could have them done for free, and then he had major gum surgery on nearly all of his upper teeth. I think when they pulled his wisdom teeth, he must have truly lost some wisdom with them because all I could think this past weekend - between hacking up a lung every other breath because, yes, I was sick, too - was WHAT WAS HE THINKING??? Forget that he never told me about the impending gum surgery, only about the teeth pulling. Forget that he didn't think it would be a big deal or long recovery. Forget that I was sick, too. He told me that if the Dr. had suggested continuing on to the gum surgery on his bottom teeth, he would have "soldiered on." What?!?That Nitrous that they gave him must be REALLY good stuff because it made him briefly lose his mind. Did I mention that he drove himself home? Refused my offerS (plural).

So, now Brent looks like he's packing food in his cheeks for winter AND like he got into a major bar fight over the weekend. Nice. Each morning is more fun because we look to see how many new colors we can see now on his face. Pictures to come soon, I promise.

Merry belated Christmas and Happy New Year, too. I'm sending Valentine's cards because I want to be the first to wish you Happy Valentine's Day and not the absolute last to send out Christmas cards - ha! I WILL do something on time, I will do something on time, I will do something on time.