Christmas in Indiana

Once again, we hit the highway for the holiday season. We traveled to IN to visit Grandma Donna, Grandma Jill, and the Grandfather. On Christmas Eve, Evelyn donned her Santa outfit and made her way over to the presents and ripped off a bow and some ribbon. Turns out, ribbon is as much fun as ripping off the paper! Then, Christmas morning, Evelyn donned her red dress and opened presents. Her new favorite toy seems to be the sound stage that Santa brought to Grandma Donna's house. It has everything that she loves--a mirror to admire herself in, lights that flash, and music! Of course, Santa Dog visited Mindy again and she loved her new bone! Later that afternoon, we headed up to Grandma Jill's for more Christmas fun. After opening more presents, it was time to play ball with Grandma Jeanna and Aunt Abby. Evelyn loved it! In the evening, Cousin Heidi and her husband, Christopher, stopped by to visit along with Cousin Heather, her oldest son, Trent, and newest family member, Blake. Little Miss Social (Evelyn) loved meeting them and ate up the attention (as usual). Christmas was a blast for her, but as you see, it wore her out! She cuddled up with the Grandfather for a nap and dreamed about Christmases to come.

First Christmas

We celebrated Evelyn's first Christmas tonight since we will be traveling this holiday season. Mindy opened her stocking from Santa Dog first, then Evelyn had her turn. She immediately ripped off the bows and tried to eat them, then seemed to eagerly rip the wrapping paper to get to her gifts (or was it Daddy who was so eager?). She loved trying to eat the rings and blocks from her toys. Afterwards, we headed downstairs for a ride on her new car/walker. She absolutely LOVES riding on it--thank you to the Garrettes for the gift. We hope this holiday finds everyone well and that the new year will bring you many blessings. As you know, we have been richly blessed with a Korean angel. Merry Christmas!

Meeting Santa

Evelyn met Santa for the first time this morning at our PAT's Frosty and Friends event. She loved getting on her festive outfit this morning--you could tell she instantly felt pretty in it! We headed over to the event and met Santa first thing. We weren't sure how she would react as we watched several other children cry and refuse to go up to him, but in true Evelyn style, she went right to him and smiled the whole time. After visiting with Santa, we headed down the hall for some winter time fun. The PAT had a special room for children B-12 mos. that had activities such as making an accordian book to help build visual skills, sledding around the room, and tummy time with water bottles filled with winter items. Evelyn even met a couple other children and seemed excited to interact with them. It was a fun-filled morning for our little angel!

Thanksgiving in Hayti

On Wednesday evening, we packed up the Pathfinder and headed to Hayti. Since we left around 7:00 p.m., Evelyn slept the entire way there--so we were the picture of one big happy family traveling down the interstate! When she awoke on Thanksgiving morning, Grandma Cheryl couldn't wait for Evelyn to open a present, so she got a head start on Christmas! Once she opened a gift, we headed over to Aunt Kathy's for a wonderful Thanksgiving feast! Of course, Evelyn enjoyed seeing all the family that had come from Tennessee and the surrounding area to see her. The next day, we stayed close to Grandma's and opened more Christmas presents that evening. What do you know, Evelyn found the ornaments on the tree and decided to try one! Then, on Saturday, Aunt Gwindel came to say good-bye, but Evelyn was taking a nap. Later that day, Aunt Kathy and Aunt Sandy came to say good-bye. Early on Sunday morning, we packed up the Pathfinder again and headed for home. Again, Evelyn did very well and we were one big happy family traveling down the interstate.

Recovery Road

Evelyn is back to the picture of health! Thanks to everyone who called and prayed for her. She has been feeling much better since Wed., but now Mommy is not so well. I think I have the virus that she caught. Luckily, it didn't really hit until Friday night and lasted most of the day on Sat. Mommy spent the day in bed and Daddy helped care for Evelyn (which I think they both loved the time together). By Sat. evening, Mommy was feeling much better and we ventured out to do some Christmas shopping. When we got home, it was time for Evelyn's bottle and Little Miss Independent decided she wanted to hold the bottle all by herself! We continue to be amazed at how fast she is growing and changing.

Sick Baby

Evelyn has her first real illness and Mommy is worried! It began yesterday morning with an explosive diaper and has continued. She is having such explosions that it is running out of the diaper and onto her clothes. Also, she has vomited a few times. If it weren't for those two symptoms, you'd never know she wasn't her self. She is laughing, babbling, and playing like normal. I called the doctor's office this morning and they said since she wasn't running a fever (thank heavens for that) that we should give her Pedialite and reduce her food intake before rushing her into the office. We are trying it, but she doesn't seem too keen on the pedialite. Please pray that this ends soon--I am so worried about her dehydrating.

Halloween

Tonight was Evelyn's first Halloween! Mommy rushed home from work to get Evelyn ready for her big night out. As you can see, she was the cutest ladybug ever! Her big hairy sister, Mindy, also got in on the costume action this year and dressed as a ladybug as well. This took a lot of convincing of the Daddy, but he finally agreed to it. You have to admit, they made quite the pair! It didn't take long though for our little bug to tucker out. I guess all the excitement was too much for her!

What A Weekend!

It was another busy weekend in the Simmons' household. Actually, make that a busy, stressful week. Our normal daycare provider became very ill and we scrambled to find a backup. Thank heavens we were able to find someone very loving to help out in our time of need. Friday afternoon, the Grandfather (Kristina's dad) and two daughters (McKenzie and Abigail) came down for a visit. On Saturday, we attended our Sunday School class' annual fall picnic at Creve Couer Park. It was a beautiful, windy day and we had lots of great food and fun. Evelyn watched the geese intently as they came close to her. Saturday evening, Pop, Grandma Cheryl, and Aunt Kathy came for dinner. Then, Sunday morning, we all headed to church for Evelyn's dedication. Of course, Mommy dressed her to the hilt in a leopard print dress and matching hat. She listened to Dr. McAlpin with great awe as he spoke. Afterwards, the Grandfather, Kenzie, Abigail,Pop, Grandma Cheryl, and Aunt Kathy all left for home. We spent the rest of the weekend playing, laughing, and shopping for Halloween candy.

Latest News

I forgot to mention that Evelyn went to see Dr. Reichert on Friday for her second round of immunizations. Being the new, paranoid mommy that I am, I expressed my worries about her not sitting up on her own yet. The good doctor reassured me that she is doing very well and not to worry--he tested her and said to give her a couple more weeks and she would have it down. Well, she is not sitting up on her own, but if we put her in the sitting position, she is able to sit up straight for about 5 minutes before tumbling over. It may not be much to some, but it is a proud moment in our home! Also, we learned that she is now 16 lbs. 8 oz. and 26 1/2 inches long--such a big girl!

Playgroup at the Park

Today was a cool, cloudy and rainy day. But before the rain moved in, we met our Korean playgroup friends at a local park for some outdoor fun. It was Evelyn's first time at a playground and she seemed to really enjoy seeing all the kids running around having fun. Rob and I took her down the slide (she wasn't too sure about that) and on a swing, which she didn't like at all. Of course, Mommy felt she was getting cold and decided to bundle her up in a fleece blanket for warmth. We were only there for about one hour when the rain began to fall. So, we moved the playgroup to a local restaurant called J.J.'s. It was a day full of good food and friends.

Happy 30th, Leslie!

Today was Leslie's 30th birthday and her husband hosted a surprise party for her! It has been hard to keep this a secret from her, but everyone seemed to help pull it off--even if she was suspicious at moments. It was a room full of family and friends as she celebrated this milestone. As you can see from the photos, Evelyn enjoyed herself at the party as well. She spent a lot of time playing with Jared. Of course, all of this partying wore her out, so we left around 6:30 to head for home where she could eat some cereal, take a bath, and hit the bed. Such is the life of a social butterfly!

Invasion at the Pumpkin Patch!

Some of you may be wondering: Where is Rob in all the photos? Well, Daddy left at 6:00 AM to go to a race in Talladega, AL with our neighbors. So, while Daddy is away, Evelyn and Mommy will play! We headed over to a local pumpkin patch called Rombach's with our Korean playgroup friends. Yep, you guessed it, Owen and Avery were there along with Jared, Bailey, and Connor. Evelyn seemed to be interested in the big orange things all around, but mostly enjoyed seeing her friends. After about an hour, it was time to go. Mommy had to take some documents to be shredded at a shred event at a local bank. Once home, we put our pumpkin on the porch until time to carve it. Later this evening, we will be attending a party for a friend--so be watching for more photos to come!

P.S.
This was Mommy's first week back at work and we have survived! Of course, Evelyn did great, it was Mommy that had all the issues!

Dillon Picnic

The Dillon picnic on Sunday was the perfect end to a busy, but fun weekend for our family. After church, we headed home for a quick wardrobe change and headed to Bierne Park for the picnic. When we arrived, we immediately spotted our friends, Owen, Avery, and Jared. While Daddy played with the boys on the playground, Evelyn and Avery hung out in their strollers together while the Mommies chatted. Eventually, we made our way to the gazebo for drinks and snacks. It was great to see so many adoptive families with their children running around and having fun. While at the picnic, all the families were treated to a Tae Kwan Do exhibition where the children were able to participate. Unfortunately, we had to leave a little early because Daddy needed to finish some homework for school. Oh, well--it was fun while it lasted!

First Birthday Party

Yesterday, Evelyn attended her first birthday party for our friend, Owen. It is hard to believe, but Owen turned 3 yrs. old yesterday. He had a monster truck theme for the party. He really loved opening gifts and asked to open more when he finished! Of course, Evelyn enjoyed seeing her friend Avery and getting lots of attention from everyone.

First Day of Daycare

Well, today was Evelyn's first day at our daycare provider. It was a success! Both Evelyn and Mommy did not cry! In fact, Mommmy woke Evelyn up at 6:00 AM (which she has never done before) and got her dressed and fed her breakfast. Then, it was off to Miss Marty's house for a few hours! When we arrived, Evelyn was all smiles and went right to Miss Marty (big relief for Mommy). While Evelyn was there, Mommy went to school to observe her class for the morning. Those few hours apart were hard, but Mommy did well. When Mommy arrived to pick up Evelyn around noon, Evelyn was all smiles and the other children were eager to tell me how much they liked her. She will be going another day this week and then 3-4 days next week. We are trying to ease into this--Mommy's time at home is ending all too soon! We are so grateful to have someone we trust and know will love our little angel just as much as we do. Thank heaven for Miss Marty!

Playgroup Debut

Evelyn had a busy day again today! After waking up at 8:00 a.m. and eating, we got dressed and went to the bank to open her first savings account! Evelyn seemed to really like holding onto her money and was reluctant to hand it over! Afterwards, we headed to McDonald's for her first Korean playgroup. Of course, our good friends, Owen, Avery, and Jared were there! She also got to meet Liam and Aidan, Bailey, and many other adoptive children. Evelyn seemed to enjoy this time and really liked it when Jared loved on "his girl."

PAT Visit

Evelyn had her first PAT (Parents As Teachers) visit today! Miss Tara came out to our home this afternoon and played some games with Evelyn. Of course, Sleeping Beauty had to be awakened from her nap so she could visit with Miss Tara. Once we got passed all the informational paperwork, Evelyn enjoyed playing "So Big!", looking at herself in a mirror, and reading a book. Miss Tara said that all seems to be on track right now for Evelyn and gave mommy some ideas to encourage Evelyn to sit up more on her own. We'll see her again in November!

Labor Day 2007

Evelyn had a very busy and fun Labor Day! The day began at 8:00 a.m. at the home of our friends, the Paynes. We met up with them, Jared, Kira, and Spencer to go apple picking at Eckert's in Grafton, IL. We took the Grafton Ferry across the river (mommy was a bit nervous) and drove about 10 minutes to the orchard. Once there, Rob and his buddies, Owen and Jared, took off to pick apples while Evelyn and Avery spent some time playing with each other. Jane spent most of the time helping Kira pick her apples. Afterwards, we headed back to MO and home. At 2:00 p.m., we had our annual court party. Evelyn enjoyed being outside with everyone and loved when Miss Beth put her in the grass for the first time! A little later, a kiddie pool was brought out and Evelyn donned her swimsuit. She enjoyed getting to splash around and cool off in the afternoon heat. At the end of the day, she was wiped out! Evelyn went to bed at 8:00 p.m. and didn't wake until 8:30 a.m.--what a peaceful night of sleep for us all!

Korean House

Last night we met friends at a local restaurant that serves authentic Korean food. It was Evelyn's first trip to the restaurant and she seemed to enjoy seeing the other children. Of course, our dear friends, the Paynes, were there along with Jane, her mom, and her son Jared. We also met a new family that is visiting from OK. Kim and her daughter, Kira, and son, Spencer, are in for the holiday weekend. We all plan to meet on Monday and go apple picking at Eckert's Farm. It should be a beautiful day weatherwise and lots of fun!

Look Who's 6 Months Old!

Where has the time gone? Evelyn has been with us for one full month already and is turning 6 mos. old today. While we are still introducing her to new foods, we had to take the carrots away. She developed a rash on her face and it has since disappeared. Since this is a weird food allergy, we may introduce it again later to rule out that it may have been the reaction to any lotions and such. Evelyn is still trying to figure out how to crawl--she digs her face down and scoots to move anywhere, and we are working on sitting up on our own. She gets it for about 2 seconds, then we tumble over. It will come though. In the meantime, she loves her tummy time with her big hairy sister, Mindy, watching over her and playing in the exersaucer. Our little girl is growing up before our very eyes!

Weekend Fun

The weekend began with a fun playdate with our good friends, Owen and Avery. We went to Scott and Leslie's house for some ice cream and good times. It was so good to see Evelyn begin to interact with other children. She was very content on her tummy to watch Avery move all over the place (that girl gets around now that she is crawling!). Of course, Rob thoroughly LOVED getting to spend some time with his buddy, Owen.

On Sunday, we took Evelyn to church for the first time. She did so well! She took about a 30 minute nap during the church service and seemed to enjoy the music. Towards the end, she wanted to talk during prayer time, so Daddy and Mommy had to hush her--it was comical! Then, she went to Sunday School class with us and drank some of her bottle and took another 30 minute nap--the girl loves her sleep! Once home, Evelyn had her first taste of carrots. She wasn't too thrilled about them, but we aren't giving up yet. While most of it was on her bib, about half of it went into her belly. Hopefully, she will quickly acquire a taste for healthy eating!

Visit with Grandma Jill

Grandma Jill arrived on Wednesday afternoon for a very brief visit with Evelyn! We are thankful that Uncle Donnie and Aunt Debbie were able to drive her to St. Louis for an overnight visit with her great granddaughter. It was a hectic evening as we had Tammy, our social worker, come for our first post placement visit. It went well, and after an hour visiting, Tammy left. Then, we all went to eat at Kitaro. Evelyn was a trooper through the showy dinner. We finally got home and in bed around 9:30, which is a little off her schedule. The next morning, Grandma Jill, Uncle Donnie, and Aunt Debbie headed back to Indiana. The visit was much too short, but we are glad that they got to come and stay for a little bit.

First Road Trip

Over the past weekend, we had our first road trip to visit family in Hayti. Evelyn did very well considering it took about 3 hours to get there. She only fussed a little towards the last hour of the trip. Once there, we had the chance to visit with extended family from Tennessee and Arkansas. On Saturday, Rob and I were once again overwhelmed by the love and support of our family and friends at a baby shower hosted by the women at First Baptist Church of Hayti. The Lord has truly blessed our family with such special and wonderful people. Of course, Evelyn was the hit of the shower. She just laughed and smiled as everyone spoke of how sweet and cute she is (which her mommy and daddy already knew because we are biased)! It was a wonderful time. Perhaps the most special moment of the weekend was when Evelyn met Rob's grandmother, whom she is named after. It was such a joy to see Grandma's face light up when she saw Evelyn at the nursing home. Of course, she had to have all the nurses stop in to see her great granddaughter!

Our Big Girl!

Yesterday was our first visit to the doctor! Mommy was nervous, but Evelyn was a pro! The nurse took the measurements and wow! Evelyn is now 14 lbs. and 9 oz. and is 24 inches long. Of course, she flirted with Dr. Riechert--heaven help us as she gets older! He gave us the okay to introduce rice cereal to her along with some fruits and veggies in the coming weeks. So, last night she gave the cereal a try. I think more ended up on her daddy and her face rather than her tummy, but she seemed to like it okay. Hopefully her willingness to try new things will continue!

Busy Days

After saying good-bye to family, Evelyn has had her first play group experience and more overnight visitors. On Friday, we met our friend Natalie and her son, Mason, at the mall for some shopping, which Evelyn loved! Afterwards, we headed back to our home and Bethany came over with her son, Jacob. The three of them had some fun playing with each other and the mommies enjoyed the time to chat! The next evening, Damon and his wife, Lulu, came for a brief visit. They are moving back to the area and we can't wait for them to move here! Evelyn seemed to really like Damon as she kept smiling at him the entire time he was here. Such a little flirt!

On another note, Evelyn has mastered the art of rolling onto her tummy (heaven help us!). She gets frustrated when she isn't able to go anywhere from that point. She also has her first doctor's appointment tomorrow morning. Pray that all goes well and that mommy doesn't have a melt down if her little one cries!