The DiPippa Boys

Christmas 2007 - Justin, Tino, Zachary

Introducing you to my nephews! Well, really they are my cousin Chaily's sons, making them my cousins, but they are like my nephews because she is like a sister to me. Most of my life I have been an only child and my cousins Chaily and Malissa were all the only siblings I had. Spending summers with my grandmother, and extended family, in Pittsburgh meant that I got to spend a lot of time with them as well. In fact, they lived with us one summer while we were in Georgia and Chaily lived with us for a while in high school in South Carolina. She was there for me a lot during those crazy middle school and high school years. I was sad when she moved back to Pittsburgh, but in the end it all worked out for her. She is now married with three wonderful boys and a loving husband!

Malissa and Chaily (2005)

In college, Matt and I would babysit Tino when we were visiting during school holidays. In 2001, Chaily was supposed to be in our wedding but found out she was expecting around that time. Justin came early (Jan) and unfortunately was found to have cerebral palsy, among other medical conditions he's living with today. Just months after Justin's birth Chaily found out she was pregnant again. Zach arrived in December 2001. In 2002 Matt and I were honored to be asked to be Zach's godparents.

With our godson, Zach (Dec 2006)


Justin and Tino in their pool

These boys are very important to us. In essence, they are the first nephews we have since Matt's siblings don't have children yet. I am very sad that we don't get to see them very often. We've been lucky enough so far to take a trip at least once a year, but that is not enough for me. At least they are at the age that they remember me, though, because when they were younger they would not remember who I was from one visit to the next. They are growing up so fast and I feel that I miss out on a lot. Thankfully Chaily and I still have a great relationship and she keeps me updated with pictures and phone calls. She now homeschools the boys and has told me they enjoy reading my blog and seeing pictures of Europe. Hopefully they'll get a kick out of seeing their faces on my page!

Daddy Adrian with the boys @ Steeler Training Camp