EbbyCub & babyJ

I was thinking last night (as I was laying in bed, trying to get comfortable) and envisioning my life AGAIN with a toddler. An 18-month old, to be exact. You know, that in-between time (one of many) when your child can walk, drink regular milk, eat regular foods - BUT still wears diapers, still has tantrums (oops! guess those haven't completely gone away, even at 4). They're not technically a "baby", but still FAR from being as independent as a preschooler. I couldn't even remember that time - so I went through pictures - and it all came back. There are so many things I look forward to experiencing again with babyJ (and other things I'd love to SKIP). But one thing I just can't get over: IT GOES WAY TOO FAST! :(

Evan at 18 months

Evan at age 4

Saturday was my cousin Helen's wedding - at a vineyard in McMinnville. I pulled out Evan's only pair of nice slacks to discover that he'd completely grown out of them in just a few short months! I made an emergency trip to Kohl's to buy a new shirt and slacks - and at the last minute saw some little-guy ties on clearance. I just HAD to!! Of course, I totally forgot about buying a belt (it would have been the cherry on top of this cuteness). But, look at my little man!!

I love his flirty facial expression!

Being silly with cousins Natalie & Sydney. My Aunt made their dresses!

Just had to share this one - I thought it was so cute.

The other night, Ryan was telling me about the evening he'd had with his friend. They went to Big Al's for a drink (Ryan doesn't really drink), then to see a movie. He doesn't like beer, is picky about wine, and didn't really know what to order. His friend suggested a rum + Coke. I said to him, "So that's what you had? A rum and Coke?" Ryan confirmed.

Then, from the other side of the room - listening intently - Evan says, "Daddy, you drank RUM?!?" He sounded so surprised, disgusted and confused! Ryan said, "Yes son, I did." Evan couldn't believe it. He looked at his Daddy and said, "But - PIRATES like that!"

Today was a first - Evan had never been to the zoo with anyone but us! Mom, Evan and I walked around "The Great Northwest", "Stellar Cove" and a few misc. animals before Mom got to go to her massage (jealous!). It was a little wild at first, but Evan managed to mellow out after a bit. He and I stayed for lunch and a couple more animals (no baby elephant though - the line was too long) before heading home. A great, but WARM day!

...NOT! I saw this in the current issue of Family Fun Magazine and HAD to try it! This was such an easy project - Evan did all the tracing, taping of the paper clips, gluing and hole-punching.
Behold - the "Bird Family" - Daddy, Mommy and Evan...