Wild Adventures...

Cooler temperatures settled in this week, so we decided to "get the stink blown off" (an expression that was common in our house growing up) and head to the city's equivalent to a zoo. There are some nice walking trails, local wild life and a brand new playground --- complete with shade. Avery, Cole and I were joined by our friends Amy (mom), Hannah (3 yrs) and Sarah Ann (2 yrs).

A wonderful time was had by all...

Bobcat..

Florida Panther

Hannah enjoying the swingset

The daredevils came out in the girls -- they would drop off while being spun around.

Avery had a ball on the rock wall!

Amy and Sarah Ann enjoy making beautiful music together

Avery and Hannah loved racing down the slides, although it did a number on their hair-dos!

Baby Cole's favorite activity - SLEEP!!!

One Month Old...

Cole is now a month old. These 4 weeks, though somewhat sleep-deprived, have been wonderful. I'm trying to repeat the "once a month" photos against this stuffed animal that Mike gave me nearly 16 years ago on my first birthday we spent together as a couple. It dawned on me that next year, we will have been together as a couple HALF my life --- amazing! We have had good examples of love and commitment, with all our grandparents being married 50+ years.

I hope Mike and I are as blessed (only 40 more years to go to achieve that status). Right now, we are just focused on the two little blessings that call us Mom and Dad....


Just for the curious, Cole has gained nearly 3 pounds since his release from the hospital. Upon discharge, he weighed 7 lbs 14 ounces and was 20 3/4 inches. At his one month check-up, he weighed in at 10 lbs 13 ounces and 22 1/2 inches long (80% percentile across weight, length and head circumference). Mike is still hoping for a defensive tackle for the Colts ;)

Cole Hayes - 4 weeks old (the wink he got from his great grandpa Sal -- always a ladies man).

Avery Jane - 4 weeks old (remarkable resemblance don't you think)

Proud Big Sister - Avery has been amazing with Cole

Avery in her prima ballerina garb -- dance class at her day care started mid-September.

The "Firsts"...

Late August and early September brought many firsts - the first family pictures, the first bath, the first Colts Football game (good job Peyton), the first stroller ride, etc. It has been a truly magical 4 weeks --- seeing Cole growing right before our eyes and the pride in Avery's eyes!!!

Avery, Grandpa, Nana, Cole and Michael --- Say Cheese!

Cole loves playing on the floor with Avery. He's already rolled onto his side -- doesn't want to miss anything his big sister is doing. She is so sweet with him and he coos whenever she's near!

Avery Jane holding Cole on her 3rd Birthday (it was what she wanted!)

The girls go for a walk with "Mr. Man" -- baby Cole loved the outdoors despite the humidity.

Grandma, Cole, Avery and Papa enjoying their visit