The Divinos

Updates

2009-10-05T12:21:00.003-05:00

Well, it's no surprise that it's been awhile again. Blogging has to take a backseat to many things! Here is what's new:

The most exciting thing on the agenda is that we're expecting our second child the week of April 20th, 2010! Evan can't wait to be a big brother, and I think he'll be a great one (if not a little bossy). The baby is "Eban's baby" as he calls it. Of course, we can't wait to know whether to say "little sister" or "little brother" in reference to the little bundle. We find out on November 3rd at Baby Views! Less than a month away! The pregnancy seems to be going by a little faster than Evan's, mainly because he keeps Mommy active. If my relationship with this new child is as good as the one I have with my little boy, then I will definitely be a rich woman. I thank God everyday for my son and pray that He keeps him safe and healthy.

So, new things with Evan. He is a very linguistic child. He expresses himself well with words and makes so many observations of the world around him and very astutely informs us of those observations. Some of my favorite things he says or has said are as follows: "Elmo pee peed in my bed, Mommy" (upon my finding his bed wet one morning), "Dear God, thank you for Jesus, Amen" (prayers before bed and dinner), "The chicken pee peed on the floor, Mommy, see?" (upon my finding a puddle in my bathroom floor with his toy chicken nearby and Evan's pants off - this seems to be a recurring theme), "Oooh, Mommy made a mess" (upon my dropping a whole watermelon in the floor), "Thank you so much, Mommy" (upon my tucking him in bed one night when he was so sleepy, his head was drooping in a sitting positiion). He chatters non-stop in the car and loves to sing! We sing everything in the car and I love to hear his sweet little voice. He loves our dogs but puts them in timeout when they try to take his toys - he's even put Jesus in timeout before! He loves the story of Cain and Abel. He says "Cain bad! He hurt his brother. God mad. cain in timeout!" (Thus the beginning of people in the Bible going to timeout. Just wait til we learn about Moses not entering the promised land. That was one LONG timeout.) Evan is 150% boy, too. I hope we have a house standing when he's
16. (And food in the fridge.) I expect from how physical he is, he'll probably love sports. Maybe football. His daddy would love that and Mommy will be praying even harder!

One other exciting thing; my brother and sister-in-law are expecting a baby next March! Baby Divino #2 will have a new cousin very close in age. We are also expecting two new little ones (other than ours) in our Life Group at church. Exciting times!

New Photos

2009-06-20T23:43:00.002-05:00

Blog Slacker

2009-06-20T21:57:00.008-05:00

Well, it's official. I'm a Blog Slacker. Evan has doubled in size (well not really, but it seems so) and we finally moved to our new house in Sherwood. I'm finally back where I belong!

So, what's new, you ask? Evan is almost two, weighs thirty pounds, and he was 29 inches tall last time I checked. His teachers told us at preschool the other day that he's the strongest kid in his class. (I think Ms. Renee's words were that he's strong as an ox.) He chatters like crazy with us at home, but is still a little quiet around other people. He says sentences like "where's _____", "it's ______", "I've got it", "I'll get it", "where did it go", etc. He really knows ALOT of words now. Too many to list. He knows all animals and their sounds, can sing twinkle, twinkle, little star, wheels on the bus, rain rain go away, E-L-M-O, and ABC's. He's also very aware of himself, in that he identifies himself as Evan (Eban), and he knows what he wants and will ask for it, and say yes or no when you ask him specific questions. JR and I have also entered the age of the infamous temper tantrums. Boy lemme tell ya, that is a ball. I'm seriously paying for my raising. And who does Evan act like? Yours truly.

We put Evan in time out the other day (and I've always wondered about the effectivness of this on a rowdy boy) and we left the room. (The point of time out is apparently to remove them from the group, etc.) A minute or so later, we heard him in there pretending to snore. How completely hilarious and frustrating. What do ya do? It's an evolving process. And we're along for a lifetime of a ride.

The house is good. We have alot of room and we're in a great neighborhood that is close to everything we need. I'm having to reign in my perfectionism somewhat in that I can't fix up the house all at once. And it bugs me. But, Rome wasn't built in a day, huh? And I stay busy. Photos to follow.

Christmas and House Photos

2008-12-28T07:35:00.004-06:00

Evaneezer updates

2008-12-28T05:43:00.007-06:00

Hello all! It's about time I updated - so much has happened. Evan is growing like crazy and talking up a storm. His teachers tell us that he's one of the most advanced talkers in his class. Can't help but feel good when you hear that, right? His words at 16 - 17 months are: uh oh, mommy, daddy, papa, lolo (JR's dad), daisi, thank you, cheese, milk, boo boo (he says this when he's dirty), pee pee, diaper, bible, amen, duck, clock, tic toc, tigger, cracker, cookie, car, bye bye, hello, more, baby, boat, book, and no. He also refers to Jesus in my nativity as "baby" right now. He tries Jesus, but he's not quite there yet. Evan will also tell us what a clock says (thus the "tic toc") and what a monkey says (ooh ooh ooh). He shows us his belly, nose, feet, and ears. We're working on hair, now. At his last doctor's appt, he weighed about 26 lbs and was 2 and 1/2 feet tall. He's still in the upper part of his range. He runs and climbs everywhere, points at everything, and is so amazingly (and sometimes, frustratingly) curious! He loves to eat chicken, sausage, carrots, fries (yikes!), bananas, toast, animal crackers, and now, candy canes. He'll eat much more, but those are the general faves. He's also doing well eating with a fork and spoon. He loves milk, will drink water, but can't have juice because his little baby bottom breaks out. :( He's also allergic to penicillin, but so far, no food allergies! Probably the cutest thing he does right now is when he sees a photo of a family member, he'll name who they are and then kiss the picture. My heart melts into a puddle.

JR and I are doing well through all the chasing Evan, but we're waffling about whether we want #2 soon, or not. Sometimes I think - continue with the madness. Other times, I REALLY value the little rest I get now. Evan sleeps fine; ten hours a night most of the time. But when he's awake? Let the race begin. I can't count how many times a day I say "no." I said when I was pregnant that I was not going to change my entire house and life to revolve around Evan because I think sometimes that can spoil a child if you take it too far. For example, I'm not going to rid the house of breakables and keep ornaments off my tree. We're trying to teach Evan that something's "pretty" and so far, he will touch with one finger (sometimes several times) and then leave it alone. It teaches him to respect other people's belongings, but at the same time, it satisfies his curiosity. And mostly, teaching him this is harder on me because I have to be on alert all the time. He has broken a couple of things, though, in moments of pure insanity. :) Ahh, the toddler years. Hope you all are well.

I've been due some blogging...

2008-10-26T06:15:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it's been so long...I wonder what keeps me so busy? Could be that Evan's a busy little man and into everything. That's just a fleeting guess. He's climbing couches, bookshelves, stairs, and toilets. That's right, toilets.

The newest on the agenda in the world of Divino is that we're building a house. Yes, that's right...the economy is in shambles around us and we are BUILDING A HOUSE. How crazy is that? We actually started the process before all the Wall Street stuff happened. Anyway, our new house is in Miller's Crossing in Sherwood. We're excited because we're going to have so much space! Here are some pics:

Peek-A-Boo and More...

2008-09-02T16:56:00.002-05:00

Evan's Latest:

2008-08-27T08:21:00.003-05:00

Evan has officially earned his middle name! Evan "Walker" is all over the place!

Evan's new gal pal

2008-08-27T08:04:00.003-05:00

April and I went out with Evan and Ashtyn last Saturday to On the Border and The Wonder Place. The kids had alot of fun, and so did we! (We ran out of energy faster than the kids, though.) Here are some pics of the cutie pies:

Birthday Photos and More...

2008-08-18T16:16:00.002-05:00

Random Tidbit

2008-08-12T19:05:00.001-05:00

You know you're at the grocery store alot when the employees wave at you from across the store and then mention this is the second or third time they've seen you this week...

Evan: Then & Now

2008-07-29T19:26:00.002-05:00

From Baby to Big Boy

2008-07-29T17:50:00.004-05:00

For the world, tomorrow is July 30th; for the Divinos, tomorrow is Evan's 1st birthday! I'm at a lack of words to describe the last year of our lives adequately, but I'll try.

As a mother, when I first looked at that chubby little cherub face, I felt a rush of emotion unlike ever before. I've never felt more thankful to my God in all my 29 years. I've never been more in awe of God and His mastery in all my 29 years.

I've learned that the true beauty of raising a child is giving of yourself and having a physical reminder in front of you every day of God's love and His sacrifice for us. Evan humbles me and when I'm at my most humble (read - when I'm at my wits end), God takes over. "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." II Corinthians 12:9. When I fail because I'm tired, sick, or even ignorant, I can give it to God.

Evan is our motivation and inspiration. We seek to be better so that he will learn truth, faithfulness, and integrity. We contemplate our example on a daily basis. We realize that we cannot depend on a Christian school, a Bible class, a teacher, or anyone else as his sole source of values; he watches us first.

I have re-evaluated my priorities because of Evan. Our house doesn't have to be the largest, the most attractive, or the cleanest. (Though fairly clean makes me a happier Mommy. *wink*)

We don't have as much free money or free time. We don't buy new clothes for ourselves as often or go on as many dates. But you know what? We are happy, truly happy.

Evan is our joy. That cackle of his when Daddy is tickling him sends my spirits soaring. His little words fill me with pride. I make an idiot of myself in the grocery store with this child, just to get him to wave bye bye to the cashiers, say "uh oh" or "boat", or clap his hands and show off his four little teeth.

There's not enough time or space here to relay all of my lessons, stories, or thoughts. These are a few I'm thinking of in preparation for the big day tomorrow and looking back to July 30th, 2007. In the history of JR and Hilari Divino, that was one important day.

Pictures to follow in the next post.

Independence Day

2008-07-07T18:42:00.005-05:00

The Divinos and Dunlaps celebrated Independence Day on Friday with a cookout and fireworks. We had alot of fun! It's crazy to think that I was huge this time last year and Evan was gearing up to make his entrance. He has made time pass by so much faster. (What did we do with our free time when we were childless???)
Evan had a big time with his cousins over the weekend. He's the only boy in the Divino family and the second boy in the Dunlap family. All the cousins in Little Rock are girls! He's getting in touch with his sensitive side a bit early.
A tidbit from this week - we found a sweet, scared, and pitiful little dog on the way home from church Sunday night. He was just lying in the road with cars doing sixty and swerving around him. I thought he had surely been hit by a car, but there was no evidence of that when we stopped. JR loaded him in the car and now he's making himself comfy in the backyard. It seems as if he's been abused; he's very scared acting. He hides in the bushes all day and won't come out to get food. He did eat the food that I placed next to him in his little patch of the flower bed. We're trying to make arrangements for him because we can't have four dogs!!! Daisi doesn't know anything is different because she's inside with us all the time anyway, but Roxi and Lady aren't happy about not staying in the yard. We don't want them to pick up any illnesses from him, just in case.

My patriotic baby

Evan, Kristin, Bella, & Kimby
Bella's sparklers
Picnic time!
Sad little puppy :(

Evan's Latest...

2008-06-29T14:44:00.004-05:00

Evan's latest favorite song? "Who Let the Dogs Out." Not as sweet as "I'm a Little Teapot", but he sure thinks its hilarious. It was in some TV show one night last week, and we sang it to him to be goofy, and it was a hit! We got some of the cutest cackles ever from our little man. He danced in front of the mirror today to his latest fave sung by yours truly.

I Can't Help It, I'm a Mother...

2008-06-25T19:24:00.002-05:00

A person I've never laid eyes on treated me unkindly this week. If that was all, it wouldn't be so bad, but it wouldn't have happened had I not been holding my eleven month old at the time. He, of course, was pulling my hair out by the roots, yanking my earrings, and generally attempting any acrobatic move he could muster in my lap. No problem, normal eleven-month old tricks, right? So, with one hand on him, I was busy doing something else with the other. (I feel it's best to keep up the anonymity here.) I should explain that what I was doing in this scenario was an act of service for someone else. That being said, this person came up behind me and started talking a bluestreak about what I was doing, and promptly chastised me for not doing it right, and all in front of twenty or so people.

Normally, I would blow this off. I really would. (All the while thinking to myself that this person is just an ignorant busybody.) But this hit a nerve. I do get frustrated that I can't accomplish what I used to. I'm not as sharp as I once was. I'm not as free as I once was. My entire life is just a large blur of multi-tasking. And there are times that I have to stand around and hold my little boy while others do the "real" work. (yea right.)

BUT, I love this child and I choose to do right by him. I choose to focus my attention on his needs above all else. I choose to discipline him when needed, to nurture him when necessary. I choose disorganization above neglecting him. I choose sloppiness over losing time with him. And I choose to accept the disapproval of others when I have to be a mother above all else.

Maybe this person can do everything perfectly with one hand tied behind the back, but this person should not be a mother.

Destin!!

2008-06-15T17:27:00.001-05:00

Evan Updates

2008-06-15T15:44:00.002-05:00

Evan's up to some new tricks these days! He's so cute, I can barely stand it, but I'm his mom...it's my job, right? At his last doctor's appt, he weighed 22 lbs, 4 ozs and was 28 inches long. He's definitely a healthy boy, and we are so thankful for that. Evan has decided that it's time to eat at the table with us and to chow down on what we're having. He really seems to enjoy breads right now, like Cheerios, Puffs, and toast. He loves strawberries, pears (pretty much all fruit), carrots, peas, corn, potatoes. He really likes Vienna sausages, and today at his uncle's house, he tried (and liked) Bratwurst. He also tried baked beans and ate every one on my plate!! He's not acting very fond of cheese right now, which is weird, because JR and I both love cheese, but we'll give the little guy some time. He'll come around.

Our latest and greatest triumph is we've managed to give up the bottle! (For the most part.) He now drinks his milk from a sippy cup and seems to like it. It's funny though, he started saying "Bot bot" around the time he gave it up. So he just calls the sippy cup his bot bot.

Evan's learning how to walk using his lion walker, and doing pretty good with it. (It roars when he takes a step.) He also loves to drop or throw an object and then say "uh oh!" (He also says Dada, bot bot, bye bye and a version of ma ma which sounds like "na na.") He has two teeth on the bottom, and we're expecting more any day. He drools like crazy.

He swam in the ocean and the pool for the first time last week. We were in Destin with our friends, Alan, Barbie, and their little girl, Emma, and Ben and his little girl, Kayley. We give credit to Emma for teaching Evan a thing or two while we were on vacation. He starting doing alot of the above while we were there! She's also the little girl who gave him his first kiss! If you all are reading this, we had a great time with you all!

Sick Parents

2008-05-25T10:41:00.002-05:00

It's been a yucky weekend, folks. When I got home from work Friday, I had a temp of 102. I've been on antibiotics for some sinus junk that I contracted (probably from Teapot's daycare). So, needless to say, my mood was less than sunny Friday evening and I admit (ashamedly) that I acted quite grumpy with JR that night. He did the smartest thing ever and just stayed away from me so I could wallow awhile. So, guess what? JR popped up sick Saturday morning and is now running a fever (and throwing up). I'm worried because he has a headache that won't go away with any medicine. He says it's dull and not very painful, but more annoying than anything. But still, he NEVER stays in bed all day. I am feeling pretty guilty for my show of grouchiness on Friday! So, we have a sick Mommy and a sick Daddy. Can you guess who the only well one is? That's right: Evan. Thank goodness my Teapot is well; now we just have to see who is up to chasing him around all day.

Lunch with Ashley and Garrett

2008-05-22T20:25:00.003-05:00

Evan and I met my friend Ashley and her sweet boy for lunch a couple weeks ago. (Much to the dismay of the employees at the restaurant. Boys are messy.) Garrett is only a few months younger than Evan and it was fun to see how much he has grown! We had some spit up incidents and one crying boy when Mommy went to the restroom (mine), and one throw up incident. Other than that, it was smooth sailing! Here we are:

Updates

2008-05-22T19:58:00.004-05:00

It seems I have less and less time for this blog lately, and Evan Divino is the reason. He's all over the place! He turns over the ficus trees, dumps out the dog's water bowl, wants to eat everything in sight, shreds toilet paper, throws bottles and pacies, steals remote controls, pushes buttons, etc, etc, etc! Whew!!! I tell him all the time it's a good thing he's so darn cute. He's going on ten months and walks himself up and down the couches and coffee table when we're home at night. His latest discovery is the spring on the baseboard that catches the door as it shuts. All I hear when I'm getting ready in the morning is boing, boing, boing, BOING! And then he laughs when we go look at him. He also likes to chase Daisi around the house. Evan can say and wave bye bye now and he has two cute little teeth on the bottom front of his mouth. He's eating some grown up food now, such as mashed potatoes, crackers, bread, and cheese (though he's not fond of cheese, yet. We're working on that). He loves puffs and biter biscuits, and lately, he seems to get frustrated with us when we try to feed him. He acts like he wants to do it himself. (I guess there's no reason for complaint there.) Here are some pictures:

At our house, even the baby does laundry.
Waiting for Mommy and Daddy!
Caught red-handed.
No caption needed...

The Divinos on Mother's Day

Mommy & Evan Day

2008-04-22T20:10:00.001-05:00

Mommy, Evan, and the Old Mill

2008-04-22T19:31:00.006-05:00

Evan and I had a Mommy/Baby day last week. We went out to eat with April and little Ashtyn, which was quite the messy adventure. Evan threw up on the floor (those new teeth make alot of stuff besides teeth come out), threw his rattle a million times, threw my fork on the floor, and gnawed on the table. Ashtyn happily shoved Cheetos in her mouth and what was left over was shoved into the crevice of the table we were sitting at. She and Evan were making eyes at each other, though! It was fun for me and April to have a working mom's day out, but I'm sure the waitresses were glad to see us go.

After eating, we went to see PaPa at his office. Evan got to explore all of the carpet and a few drawers, too. And PaPa really enjoyed showing off his grandson!

And finally, Evan and I visited the Old Mill. It was incredible! I've always liked visiting there because the mill is depicted in the opening credits of Gone With the Wind, one of my faves. But the Master Gardner's society has done a great job landscaping the mill and surrounding grounds. Pictures are in the post above.

A Little of This and That

2008-04-22T19:17:00.003-05:00

Evan is being such a big boy these days! He's really getting around his domain for some exploration. He's managed to overturn a ficus tree on himself, gag on some paper towel, and he's pulling up on the furniture. We've always wondered if he would walk early and it looks like he might. He's not even nine months old yet! JR calls him his little linebacker. We're taking him to the doctor on May 7th for shots and weight check. So, I'll have to post his weight then, but it sometimes feels like 50 pounds! Here are the latest cutiepie pictures:

This one needs no explanation.
Wearing Mommy's U of A hat.
He uses the arm weights more than me!
First haircut.

Evan and his new buddy

2008-03-25T18:41:00.002-05:00

Evan and Daisi are making friends! She's a little skittish (especially when Evan cries or shrieks), but she's handling the transition pretty well.

Easter Baskets and Daffodil Fields

2008-03-25T18:13:00.003-05:00

This was Evan's first Easter, and boy did he have a big weekend. The little fella was pooped when we got home Sunday night! He is such a good baby and behaved like an angel for us during our many activities. The Easter Bunny brought him a nice Easter basket with alot of goodies tucked in the grass! He had an Easter rattle, a snuggly lamb, an interactive storybook, and more. Mommy's favorite thing was how cute he looked in his Easter duds!

As all things do, Easter has come and gone, but Spring will stay awhile longer. We really enjoyed Spring at Wye Mountain on Sunday! The wind was a little strong, but other than that, everything was totally gorgeous. Here are some pictures of Easter and Wye Mountain.

Faces of Evan

2008-03-16T11:44:00.006-05:00

Evan was feeling particularly expressive today...

The Latest

2008-03-16T11:02:00.007-05:00

Evan had several "firsts" this weekend. We bought his first Easter outfit and his first Easter basket. He also tried strawberry Puffs and drank apple juice from a sippy cup for the first time. He sat in his new high chair at the table with Mommy and Daddy and had a ball playing in the high chair box. (Also a first.) All in all, it's been a big weekend for our little Teapot!

Updates

2008-02-26T17:43:00.005-06:00

I've neglected blogging for far too long now everyone. Evan was only five months old when I last posted! He will be seven months old this Saturday!

We've had several firsts in the last two months. Evan is now rolling over like crazy. He's moved up to stage two foods and sits in a high chair. He has an exersaucer that is already worn out from all his jumping! He looks around all the time muttering "Dadadadada, mababa, bababa." (Or things similar to that.) Last night he watched JR and I having a conversation for the longest time, his little head just bobbing back and forth between the two of us. Then suddenly, he yelled "Ed-Ga!" When we looked at him, he had thrown his hands in the air! It was like he was saying "hey, I'm here. Look at me right now!" (JR and I have no idea who Edgar is.) :) The Teapot is also close to crawling. Last night he was on the floor, holding himself up with his hands and trying so hard to get his knees under him! Then he saw me sitting a foot or so away and reached for me, which in turn toppled him over. He's a tough little guy! He just laughed.

Here are the latest photos:

Exersaucer Evan

Evan's Helicopter Hat

This one speaks for itself

Sitting Up!

Tagged by Julie

2008-02-26T17:18:00.003-06:00

Ok, this is my first "TAG" - I'll do my best!

The rules: Share 5 random or weird facts about yourself on your blog or share the 5 top places on your “want to see or want to see again” list or share 5 things you never pictured being in your future when your were 25 years old.

#1 - I am TERRIFIED of spiders! I can't even kill them because I'm scared they will jump on me. Anything that is that coordinated on eight legs better stay far away from me. If I ever have bad dreams, they involve spiders.

#2 - I WILL NOT eat seafood or Chinese food (with the exception of chicken fried rice). I especially have a problem with anything Crustacean. Can you guess why? Because they look like SPIDERS. I don't like the way crab legs and lobsters look. It seems unnatural to have to crack open your food; it's too much work. Crustaceans and Arachnids are both in the Arthropod phylum...did anyone know that? So see, I'm not nuts, there is a relation there. :)

#3 - I really, really like genealogy. I have one side of my family researched all the way back to the 1500's in Northern Ireland. Part of this family also had a famous neighbor: Daniel Boone. I'm a hopeless nerd...really.

#4 - Ok, here's another arachnid reference. I've been stung by a scorpion. It felt like electricity shooting up my leg. The intensity of the pain was the same thirty minutes later as it was when I first was stung. And yes, I was scared of spiders BEFORE this happened. I just didn't see this creepy crawler coming.

#5 - I have held an albino python before. I was in college at the time, and the python belonged to my A & P teacher. Don't ask why this didn't scare me but a spider does. I can't answer that.

So, there you are. Looking back, I really focused alot on the yucky critter stuff! Oh well, I followed the rules.

Everyone I know that has a blog has already been tagged! mg htryx hthfg <--(Evan wanted to type!)

Our Christmas

2008-01-06T16:24:00.001-06:00

Christmas, 2008, and More...

2008-01-01T16:26:00.000-06:00

Again, it has been awhile. I seem to have less and less free time (and energy) as the months roll by. Many things happened in December; nothing bad necessarily, but it has been trying for me. I'm looking at it as a time of growth and self-appraisal. I should start by saying that I absolutely adore Christmas. I love the smiles, the smells, the lights, the decor, and the magic. But this year, I just couldn't get there. I feel bad about that because it was Evan's first Christmas. At least he wasn't old enough to remember alot.

There are many changes on the horizon in my life; some that took place in 2007 (i.e. Evan) that I'm still adjusting to, and some that are in the works now. There are some changes pending with my job and I'm not quite sure where I will fit when those take place. My brother and his family are moving to Milwaukee, Wisconsin on January 15th. And I'm changing. Maybe it's being a mom, or a working mom...I don't know. But it's uncomfortable and exhausting. I miss my old, cheerful, energetic self.

On a lighter note, I have also been trying to keep my blessings in mind. I have a wonderful (and patient, I should add) husband to whom I've been married for two years. I have the cutest baby boy in the whole world; he's my little sweet Teapot. I have wonderful parents who double as the best friends a person could ever have. I have JR's family who have cultivated a friendship with my own family, and we all spent the holidays together. I have my brother and his family and I'm thankful for their new opportunity. I have a job, house, car, food, and especially a relationship with Christ. As I pray, I try to specifically thank God for all of these things.

The Little Teapot is five months old now and changing like crazy. He has been giggling all day long while JR and I took down our Christmas tree and decorations. He plays with toys, he holds his own bottle (YAY!!!), and he's turning over in both directions now. He's been sleeping all night since he was two months old. Once he can change his own diaper, we are THERE! J/K. I want to be with him all the time.

So, my conclusion from all of this self-appraisal? I hope and pray that 2008 is as wonderful as 2007 was for me. And I wish that for everyone else, too. Love you all.

Thanksgiving and More...

2007-11-29T18:41:00.002-06:00

It's been awhile everyone. Our life is so busy!!! I knew it would be when I returned to work, but I sure love seeing my boys at the end of the day.

Evan is getting very big! I took him to the doctor this week to see about a rash on his face, and he weighs 16 lbs, 7 oz! (I guess he's the reason my back hurts occasionally. The little Pillsbury Boy...) The rash was eczema and was gone after only two days because I got a prescription for a steroid cream to put on it. He was one itchy little guy for awhile. He also turned over from stomach to back for the first time on Sunday the 18th. I think he's already practicing for the grand moment that he sits up for the first time. He looks like he's doing crunches when he does this...maybe he can work off a little of that fat belly. :)

Our Thanksgiving festivities were great. We all met at Chuck and Jackie's house (JR's oldest brother and SIL) and my parents came, also. We ate great food and played "pass the babies" for a good amount of time. It was really fun! Photos to follow!

Halloween Bash

2007-11-01T14:47:00.001-05:00

Pumpkin Patch Photos

2007-10-20T21:10:00.001-05:00

Lil Punkin at the Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-20T20:20:00.000-05:00

We had a great day. We started out at Two Rivers Park on the 3 mile walking trail. Evan slept in his stroller and we walked and walked. We saw some deer and two snakes (Yikes!) and just enjoyed the blue sky, the great breeze, and of course, each other. After leaving Two Rivers, we headed to the Hidden Valley Pumpkin Patch to pick out a pumpkin for our porch and to see what all the fuss is about. We loved it! The property was beautiful and it was fun watching all the families like ours picking pumpkins and enjoying the season. Alot of the kids were dressed in their Halloween costumes. I chose not to put Evan through that premature torture! (He will, however, be wearing it at our Life Group Halloween Bash.)

Next, we stopped in the Fresh Market. We've been meaning to check it out for awhile and decided today was the day because we were already on Hwy 10. I loved the atmosphere of that store! JR bought me some roses there; I chose the color yellow because it's such a fall color. Evan said he wanted us to buy him a steak kabob, but we told him he's going to have to stick to milk for now. He cried a little, but finally decided his ole Mom and Dad know best.

Fall is my absolute favorite season. Everything is so vibrant and the air is so crisp. Plus, there is all this anticipation for Thanksgiving and Christmas! The holidays will be better than ever this year with little Evaneezer's presence.

First Week Back to Work

2007-10-04T20:03:00.000-05:00

Tuesday was my first day back to work...my maternity leave is officially over. *sigh* It really feels like I never left; my co-workers have made me feel very welcome again and it has been great talking, catching up, and laughing together. I needed the grown-up time. It is sad, however, to think that I'll never have those days with Evan back again. I suppose it's the same principle as watching your children grow up. (Or so I've heard.) It's bittersweet. Your child will only go to school for the first time once. He or she will only start driving once, or graduate from high school once. You know, all the milestones. I do miss the little honey pie, that's for sure. I think being a working mother has made me "live for the weekend" more than ever before.

Something very heart-warming happened when I picked Evaneezer up on Wednesday that eased the sting a little for me. I walked in and leaned over his bed, he made eye contact with me, and then grinned this grin that to me was bigger than the sunrise, and giggled. He knew his Mommy and was so happy to see her and I was elated! I think I'll be able to live off that for weeks. What a special moment. I don't love him much, do I? I'm wrapped around his little finger. I hope I'll be able to discipline him someday, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. He does, after all, have a Daddy. (Who adores him also, he just doesn't gush like I do. I'm entitled...I carried the little booger around for nine months, shared my food with him, got fat, and all the other fun stuff.) I can't resist posting another photo (or two) of my little guy. I'm so sappy.

Evan's First Smiley Photos

2007-09-27T17:51:00.000-05:00

Smilin' at Mommy
Smilin' at Daddy
Look at those fat rolls!
Bath Time!

Evan finally smiled for the camera!! It was short-lived, but at least I managed to catch him in the act. I had to share these with everyone; he gets cuter everyday. He's my little man and I love him dearly.

Divino Party at Chuck -E- Cheese

2007-09-25T21:10:00.000-05:00

Daddy, Uncle Jo, Lolo, and Evan
Lolo and Evan
Daddy, Lola, and Evan
Evan's Divino Cousins

Evan went to his first birthday party at Chuck -E- Cheese on Saturday. The party was for his cousin Kimberly, who turned one that day. Out of all the Divinos that were there, our family was the "dirty family". By that I mean that Kimberly kicked JR's pizza in his lap when he picked her up, Evan spit up half a bottle on my shoulder, and then he spit up on himself. So Evan and I smelled like sour milk and JR's pants were bright red. We just pretend like spit-up is a new accessory at our house. We wear it around all the time! Anyway, we are very glad that Evan has a cousin so close to his age; Kimberly and Evan are ten months apart. And a bonus...Kimberly and her parents, Jennifer and Jo, only live a few blocks away! Happy Birthday Kim-B!

Getting Bigger Every Day

2007-09-25T20:38:00.000-05:00

Playing with his dragonfly
What a cute belly!
Need tickets to this gun show?
Evan's first "footsie pajamas"
He'd rather be eating

Evan had his two month appointment last Tuesday and he weighs 12 pounds!!! The doctor said that he is in the 90th percentile for weight. He's a big boy! She had us start him on rice cereal because it's lower in calories but is more dense and should fill him up a little more. We're now calling him our little "oinker". He has this voracious appetite...it's really funny. The doctor also said that he's very strong for his age because he's holding himself up with his arms already. He is smiling at us now, but he is still quite stingy about it. It's like he knows how much we want to see it and he holds out on us! He is also playing with toys now. Mama Cheri said it best when she said "he's so sweet I could eat him with a spoon!"

Evan Meets His Cousins

2007-09-12T12:45:00.001-05:00

Uncle Blake, Aunt Bunny, and Evan
Cousin Jasmine and Evan
Cousin Whisper and Evan
JR and "Little T"
"Little E" and "Little T"
Evan had a big weekend! He got to meet his Aunt Bunny (my SIL Jennifer; he has two Aunt Jennifers so he has to have a different name for one of them!), his cousins Jasmine and Whisper, and his cousin Tiernan. He also got to see his Uncle Blake, Mama Cheri, and Papa Lyle again! Needless to say, he slept very soundly Sunday night!!!

Evan's first Hogs game

2007-09-01T15:11:00.000-05:00

Everything is "A-Ok"
Holding my head up and making Mommy proud!
Takin' a little rest
Daddy's little linebacker

It's that time of year again and Evan is ready to watch them Hogs! Here he is, all decked out and ready to listen to the game with Daddy.

More Photos of Evaneezer

2007-08-27T10:05:00.001-05:00

Oh so handsome
Ready for naptime
Pete and Re-Pete
Mama Cheri and Evan

New Photos of Little E

2007-08-27T09:45:00.000-05:00

Bath time's not so bad after all...Evan's new belly button
Just hangin' out
Who is this?
Lookin' cute for the camera

My Two New Loves...

2007-08-27T09:32:00.000-05:00

My two new loves are being a mother and taking pictures of my handsome little man. Becoming a mother for the first time was the most humbling and uncertain experience I've ever been through. But now that Evan is here and he's healthy, I've realized that even when it's 2 a.m. and he's up wanting to eat (again), my deep love for this little man takes over. It's then that I realize that it's my job to make him strong and independent and that God has given him to me to guide and watch over, just as God guides and watches over me. I understand God's love for his children even more than ever now, because my love for our little boy is just a reflection of God's greater love for myself and all of us. That's why little miracles like Evan exist; they're a gift of something pure and beautiful from the Father who loves us all.

Church with Evaneezer...

2007-08-19T19:58:00.000-05:00

We went to church this evening and sat midway down in the auditorium; of course, there was a sizeable crowd and plenty of people sitting all around us. They were all commenting on how cute Evan is and how sweet...the usual stuff. (Don't get me wrong, we appreciate all the compliments, but this is not the point to my story.) So, we're sitting there and Evan is being a little angel cuz he knows God is watching extra close when he's in church. He was all wide-eyed and looking around and being so quiet! I was really impressed with him and thinking that maybe JR and I do have some parenting skills after all, when the bomb went off and not figuratively speaking, either. It went off in his pants and I am certain that everyone within a twenty foot radius heard it. As if that wasn't enough, every other part of his body had to chime in. He burped during the prayer, sneezed four times, and then gave himself the hiccups for about fifteen minutes. Then he had projectile spitup that landed all over Mommy! Yay. So, out we went to the nursery so that I could change him and clean myself up. He really did a nice job of getting himself dirty! It was halfway up his back and took about ten wipes to clean him up. And oh yeah, on the last wipe (he just couldn't allow himself to be clean for a second) he tinkled straight into the air, all over Mommy's hands, his onesie, and the changing table. (I think he was just showing out for Nathan and baby Benson, who happened to witness the ugliness.) And I have to mention how happy he was that he emptied himself; he was peaceful as ever as we left the nursery, and Mommy was a mess. It's Daddy's turn next time!

I'm in love with my baby...

2007-08-18T21:09:00.000-05:00

We have the cutest baby ever! It's hard to resist holding him every second of the day, but we are trying not to spoil him rotten. I know he has to learn to self-sooth and fall asleep on his own, etc, etc, but I really can't keep my hands off the little booger.

For the first time, someone told us the other day that he looks like me rather than JR. I don't see it. (Except for his complexion; he's fairer than JR.) His looks have already changed since his birthday. He's filled out a little and he has lost some of that sleepy look. He is definitely awake for longer periods of time now. He slept from one a.m. to six a.m. last night! I was elated! That's the longest stretch of sleep I've had since July 30th.

His first appointment with the pediatrician was last Thursday, and he gained a pound in a week. I thought that was alot. He was 7 pounds, 7 ounces. I imagine he's close to 8 pounds now. The doc said he's completely healthy, although he is eating about an ounce or two more than other babies his age. He has his Daddy's appetite. Now we just have to figure out how to liquify a ribeye and he'll be a carbon copy of his dad. :)

I was a little sad at the beginning of this week. JR had to return to work and I really missed him (especially when it became my sole responsibility to get up with Evan). Our two weeks certainly passed by quick. I know that we are lucky that JR had two weeks off; I don't know if all Dads can get by with that. So now it's just me and Evaneezer at home all alone. We're having special Mommy/Baby time before I have to return to work on October 1st. I do miss being around grown-ups and will probably be speaking baby when I return to work, but I don't want my time with Evan to end. It's just too wonderful.

And More Photos...

2007-08-12T18:43:00.000-05:00

Mama Cheri and Lola Papa Lyle
Proud Great-Aunt
Proud Uncle Blake
Evan's First Close-Up

More Photos...

2007-08-12T18:36:00.000-05:00

Hello World!
Love at first sight
Daddy, Mommy, and Evan
Mommy and Evan

Photos of Evan

2007-08-12T18:09:00.000-05:00

Here are some photos of Evan's first two weeks with us. He has his Daddy's nose, ears, and appetite!

He's here at last!

2007-08-12T17:47:00.000-05:00

Evan is here at last and we've survived our first week at home together! JR and I are expectedly tired but blissfully happy with our little family. We refer to him as our "second love" and he really is that. Becoming a Mommy and Daddy is truly the most life-altering but fulfilling experience ever. I never had a full understanding of a parent's pride until now. Evan blew a raspberry at me the other day and I thought I would burst with pride about how cute he is (with full knowledge that every other baby in the world has done the same thing, but he's my baby and that's altogether different).

I have to mention how grateful we are to all our friends and family who have supported us during this time. We deeply appreciate the visits, gifts, meals, and the genuine affection you have all shown our new baby boy. He has no idea how many people love him, but we do, and we are humbled and blessed. Thank you, all of you.

It's Just About Showtime!

2007-07-28T19:02:00.000-05:00

We have a little over a day left in our "childless" life! JR and I have been cleaning the house from top to bottom this weekend, getting the yard mowed, and getting the dogs vaccinated for this year. We both want to have everything done when we get home from the hospital next Wednesday! It was strange leaving work Friday knowing that I won't be clocking in again until October 1st. The last items on the agenda for tomorrow after church are to get the carseat in the Envoy, set up the Pack N Play, and get our bag packed. I guess we are about as ready as we'll ever be! It's time to welcome our baby boy into the world.

Two weeks from tomorrow!

2007-07-15T19:52:00.000-05:00

Two weeks until the big day! We are finisihed having showers and are now trying to put everything away and decrease the mayhem in little Evaneezer's room. The idea of finally meeting our little boy so soon is still a little surreal for us. I don't know if it will completely sink in before July 30th. I feel huge, but I'm not swelling, so I know I'm lucky. I am suffering in the heat and I'm tired alot since I'm still working and lugging around 25 extra pounds. I can't wait to exercise again! The two things JR and I are curious about are how much Evan will weigh and how much hair he will have! I think it's a given he will have brown eyes. I guess we'll see in two weeks!! It's right around the corner. Keep us in your prayers.

Evan's first picture

2007-06-23T11:41:00.000-05:00

Here is Evan's first picture...at least, his first discernable picture! Isn't he cute? This was taken when he showed us he is a boy. I was 18 weeks pregnant at the time, and time sure has flown since. Five weeks to go until we meet him!

And the Big Day is...

2007-06-19T16:11:00.000-05:00

July 30th is the Big Day!!! We have to be at Baptist hospital at 05:30 in the morning, and the C-section will begin at 07:30. Of course, it will be both of us in the room, and Dr. Singleton says that he's ok with someone else being there, also. My dad is all about that. We were thinking he can be in charge of pictures while we're in the OR because JR and I will probably be a little distracted. (I wonder why!)

So, this news means that we officially have less than six weeks!! It is very surreal for both of us. I am in a frenzy to tie up all the loose ends and get all my baby projects finished. We plan to stencil "Jesus loves me, this I know" above Evan's crib, and I have some sailboat paintings that I need to finish for his room. JR is not a "frenzy" type person, so I think he is calm as always. I'm not sleeping much; in fact, I'm up and down and all around alot throughout each night lately. JR is very good-natured about it. (He has stumbled out of bed many nights to make chocolate milk for me when my stomach hurts or just because.)

One thing about my pregnancy that deserves mention is how much fun it has been to be pregnant with a ton of other women I know. I counted at least twenty fellow "mother's to be" in my second trimester, and there's nothing like comparing notes with someone who is there at the same time you are. And the most recent additions to that list are my friend Ashley, who is now 12 weeks along, and my sister-in-law, Jennifer, who is 11 weeks along. They are both due in the busy month of December! I couldn't be happier for either of them. Evan is going to have alot of little friends! But first, he has to get aquainted with his Mommy and Daddy. All the rest will follow in due time.

The Countdown Begins...

2007-06-09T09:02:00.000-05:00

Our first son, Evan, will be arriving during the week of July 30th by C-section. JR and I decided to mark the beginning of our eight week countdown by creating a weblog where we can post photos and record our thoughts and most of all, anticipation, as our life-changing event draws ever closer.

Even though I am becoming more uncomfortable than I've ever been in my 27 years, I am also happier now than in any of those 27 years. I'm certain that JR feels the same way. Evan will be the first grandson in JR's family, and the second in mine. His full name is Evan Walker Divino, and it looks like he will be a Leo, just like his Mommy. (Much to the humor of my parents, who dealt with my "fiery" nature for many years now. My guess is they know what we're in for.) JR chose the name Evan, and I chose Walker, which is a family name on my mother's side. At the beginning of the pregnancy, we agreed that if our baby was a girl, I would pick the theme of the nursery, and vice versa if we had a boy. So, JR chose sailboats as our theme and we've had a ball making Evan's room a little nautical getaway. We like to sit in his room sometimes and just look around in amazement, although I've heard from everyone that we can't fathom the change that is about to take place.

So, back to my discomfort. I guess this deserves mention because after it's all over and I'm holding that little living and breathing bundle, I probably won't remember all the "fun" I had carrying him inside my body. My most notable complaints are indigestion (I lost nine pounds in the first trimester) and the loss of my independence. It drives me crazy to have to rest all the time, when there are so many things to accomplish...I can't stand to feel tired! Working forty hours a week is very wearing. Lucky for me I like my co-workers alot. They make it worthwhile

I was attempting a nap yesterday (during one of those times in which I could have been doing something productive, but had no energy), and my lovable little linebacker decided to start stomping (yes, that's what it felt like) on a nerve in my lower right side. Then he proceeded to flop around for a few minutes in between stompings, and then ended up with the hiccups. How's a girl supposed to rest with all that going on? I finally got up and worked on cleaning out his closet and he settled down. It will be nice to not share my stomach with another person here in a few weeks; I sure do love him already, though. :)