Celebrating Ava at 19: A Firstborn's Journey and the Parenting Lessons Along the Way

Send a textJoin us for a very special birthday episode celebrating Ava turning 19! In this heartfelt journey through nearly two decades, Elissa shares the real story of raising Ava, her and David's firstborn—and how she taught them to be parents.Ava's Journey Highlights:Dramatic birth story and "juiciest baby" phase with reflux strugglesThe legendary three-day potty training standoff that showed her determinationFinding her passion in softball, including a grand slam home run on her 15th birthdayNavigating multiple school changes and learning to advocate for herselfHealth challenges, injuries, and social struggles that built her resilienceBrave decisions to leave situations that weren't serving her—from quitting softball to switching collegesKey Takeaways for Parents:How firstborns teach you to parent while you help shape themThe importance of letting kids advocate for themselvesRecognizing when it's time to support big changesWhy confidence means showing up even when things are hardPlus: Hear Ava's thoughts on her future—career goals, relationships, friendships, and what kind of mom she wants to be.Perfect for parents of firstborns and tweens and teens learning to trust their instincts. A celebration of growth, resilience, and figuring it out together.