Ava Joy (with Mommy and Daddy) the day she was born – October 8, 2007. Columbus Day. It was around 80 degrees outside!
Ava Joy last night with Mommy, at ArtPrize, with her signature crazy hair and sweet smile.
And Ava Joy this morning. The first thing she said when I walked into the kitchen was, “Sorry, Mommy.” She had pushed her chair up to the counter and begun to eat her (unfrosted) birthday cake! This was one of those times when I probably should’ve disciplined her, but I took her picture instead! 
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My dear daughter Ava,
Today you turn two years old! It is hard for me to believe that it was already two years ago that you were born, on a hot October day. It was Columbus Day, and as we drove to the hospital, Daddy and I joked that if you were a boy we could name you Jaden Christopher, after Christopher Columbus. But you were a girl – and Daddy and I were thrilled!
We didn’t know that day how appropriate your name is – Ava Joy. You bring such JOY into our lives! You are spunky, silly, and crazy sometimes. You love to make faces and say silly things to us, just to make us laugh. And sometimes you are super-sweet, ready with a warm hug and smile. You are always ready to hug your siblings if they’re hurt or sad, too. I pray that you develop that compassion as you grow older, so you can show the love of Jesus to everyone you meet.
You are a great talker! You almost always talk in sentences, though they’re not always English! You’re very expressive, and I’m excited to see how your dramatic flair plays out as you grow older.
You love to read books, and you can’t help but dance when there’s music on. You love to smile and encourage people. I love that about you.
Ava, you are still so young, but I pray that very soon you will come to accept Jesus as your Savior, and that you’ll let Him be in charge of your life. With Him as your guide, you will be such a blessing to so many people. I pray that Daddy and I can show you His love every day at home, so that you have a deep desire to grow in His love throughout your life.
I love you, baby girl, more than I can say. Happy 2nd birthday!
Love,
Mommy
Ava Joy – a precious jewel! Happy Birthday! I pray, too, that Gma & Gpa will be an example to you of how you should walk with the Lord. Can’t wait until you accept Jesus as your Savior. What a JOY that will be!
I love the pictures – I am stealing them. Have a super birthday! Loveyou!
Mmmm, cake! Good move. But really, you should’ve waited for the frosting, it’s the best part!
Love you, Ava; happy birthday! You are one pretty little girl!
Aunt Erin
i tool that pic
at the hospital!
i love you Ava !