Bye Bye

It finally happened. Ava bug has finally stumbled onto more "real" words and I don't know how to feel about it. The other night, we were all piled on the couch just chit chatting before bed... all of a sudden Ava turns to look at Justin and says, "Byeee bye." She then proceeded to wave goodbye with her hands and walk away. We (of course) responded with lots of kisses and a loud applause. She was pretty darn proud of herself after that. In those moments when all of this was happening, I couldn't help but feel a little sad. That's my baby growing up in front of me. It really is an emotional whirlwind, confrontingt that notion. Even on the days where motherhood challenges me more than most, I would (and still plan to) do this all over again. These are the days that remind me of how sweet and innocent life can be. The days that give me the curve in my smile.

In other news, Ava bug and I both made new friends this week. If you know me personally, you know that friend is not a term I use lightly. Things happened really fast with Miss T and her sweet baby Zoe. Long story short, Justin and her husband work together. We invited them to our weekly little gym class (blogged about this a couple weeks ago) and then the next thing you know I'm messaging Miss T asking if she'd like to get together for a playdate. Our husbands discussed it at work, so I just took the initiative in reaching out. That same day, Zoe and Ava ended up having their first one on one playdate. Can I just say, swooon? The girls are SO cute together. They share really well, and they seem to be fond of one another. I was super impressed for that being the first time they really interacted. Turns out the mamas really hit it off as well! We have very compatible personalities, and I foresee an awesome friendship emerging!

Since Justin has a four day weekend, I'm not entirely sure what we have going on. I know Ava bug has another play date with Zoe, we have to head out to the pumpkin patch (again), and my family will be over at some point during the weekend. I think another impromptu trip may be in the works, so we'll see! In the meantime, take a look at a couple of the pictures I've taken recently. This "momtographer" stuff has got me seriously obsessed with my camera. Have any of my other mama's started playdates with their toddlers? If so, what age did you start? When did you notice that your toddler really interacted? I'd love to hear from you by email or the comments below.

Happy Friday all! 

♥- Leilani