Happy New Year!

Hello Everyone,

I know that it has been quite a while since we have last posted something, but there was a quite a lot going on in the Garris Household...we logged over 1,000 miles in road travel (that's including our trip to Lorain, OH) for Ava and I. We had a wonderful time with friends and family. For the most part Ava was a really good traveler...even though she HATES being in a car. So- after many diaper changing stops, and a bit of crying here and there- we arrived to all of our destinations with only a few battle wounds :)...We were blessed to see our families that spoiled us rotten, and take many many photos...(Ava might just be on the next cover of something :))

I knew that coming home was not going to be easy, as the Tuesday upon our return she would have to make her first trip to Daycare, because it was to be my first day back at work. When Corey and I first found out that we were pregnant we had made the decision for me to go part time back to work. The day was hard...sad...and tiring. The next day more tears flowed, and after praying and talking about it, I felt I had to quit my job. Motherhood was now my calling, and after talking about it, Corey and I decided that I would stay home and raise Ava. We have never felt such peace about a decision. (I also wanted to thank those of you that provided insight and counsel...Jamie thank you :)) We know that things will be financially tight for a while, but know that in the end God always provides for us. I can think of no greater place to be right now than with her. She is talking a ton, smiling a ton, grabbing a ton, and teaching us a ton...in a nutshell parenthood has taken us to a new level of selflessness and refining. I am amazed by the way she has grown in just 3 months! She has made a number of strides in these past three months- we are praying that she begins to understand how good sleep is! HA!

Regardless I am so thankful- 2007 was one of the hardest and yet best years of our lives- we greieved with friends who were going through trials, we rejoiced with others that had overcome adversity, and we celebrated this new season of our lives...I hope you enjoy these pics...I will try to post more when I get the chance...

Peace & Love,
Cyndia for Corey and Ava