Rogers Family Update

broken arm, surgery, walking and crazy jobs....

2011-07-19T19:55:00.012-04:00

I should know better than getting this behind on the blog....sorry. June/July has been crazy for us. Let the pictures tell the story is the easiest way to talk about our last month or so....

I tried to get most of these pictures in order however the top three are the newest as for some reason they did not want to move down the page :)
Lucas broke him arm at the end of June when he fell off teh monkey bars. This is his 2nd cast and way more comfortable than his first. This one has dinosaurs on it and is waterproof-who is the genius who invented that!!

Tessa's first pair of Nike shoes-they are a bit big and she was not really too sure about them :)

Tessa at the bunny fountains being a bottomless pit!!

The first visit to the Bunny fountains in June.

oh funny Lucas!!

Trip to the Zoo-I just love Lucas face!

Tessa was ready to throw herself off teh shark

Shhh....mom I'm not really doing anything sneaky :)

Science museum exhibit-Lucas was in Heaven

This was Lucas' favorite part!

Poor Kenya had to have surgery two weeks ago

4th of July

Bike parade!!

Neighborhood Sprinkler Party!

Grandma and Grandpa at the Parade with the kids

Tessa was a bit tired

HUmmm there is a theme with this face huh???

Slip and Slide

Hanging out with Grandpa Jerry after a rough day of the Slip and Slide!

Lucas and Daddy eating their worms.

HUmm Grandma Sue I love that frozen custard!

Gofy girl!

Little Sisters ROck!

Lucas' best friend Carly had to come and make sure her buddy was ok.

First nap with Broken arm-sweet baby Lucas. He was so brave. When I told him how brave I thought he was he said "I know mom". He was pretty good and has done well withhis cast.

2011-06-05T08:16:00.008-04:00

So I have had these pictures on the blog in draft mode since the 5th of June. Chris took our pictures off the camera card and put on our external hard drive and the thought of trying to figure out how to get pictures off of there does not excite me. I had every intention of doing that however no time or energy (also did not have energy to change the pictures to vertical so you may have to turn your heads for viewing:P). I figured that there is no sense not sharing some of our fun even if it is not all the pictures I would have liked.

We have been patiently waiting the COSI (our science museum) Dinosaur exhibit to open as Lucas is really into Dinosaurs. His favorite shows are Dino Dan and Dinosaur train. Here are some pictures from our visit there. Tessa loved it too!

There is a great water play area for the kids!

Tessa showing off her two teeth

Lucas and daddy being a "triceratops" notice Tessa's face---SOOOO funny! She is such a drama queen when she is mad!

Our neighbors belong to a local swim club and a few weeks ago we got to enjoy the pool with them. The kids LOVED it!! This is one of those pictures that is just so Tessa. Such a sweet and happy girl.

still hair challenged :)

totally wore herself out!

Lucas and his "best friend" Carly drying off after playing in the pool at our house

Sorry I did not include all the cute pictures I had but here were a few. Chris' job has been a bit nuts but seems to have settled down, at least this week has been a bit calm! We are looking forward to Jerry and Sue visiting in a few weeks for the 4th of July. We hope everyone has a great week.

May

2011-05-22T20:38:00.004-04:00

Lucas is the funniest kid and it is so apparent what a sponge his brain is. It is so fun to watch him learn and grow up. He is really really into dinosaurs and this week in the car said "Mom do you know the (insert a name of a dinosaur I can't pronounce) lived in the Cretaceous period". It was so funny! We can no longer listen to the radio show in the morning on the drive to school, or sports talk radio on the way home as he will find very nice topics to repeat and tell us which words were "bad words" and "not kind". He still LOVES Tessa and likes to make her laugh and really likes to hug her. He thinks it is funny when she tries to wrestle with him, which is really just her trying to get over him. He does aggravate a bit which is so like his dad and Grandpa Jerry!

Tessa is just growing like a weed....well not really growing much as she is a little peanut but developing very well. She is now an expert at walking around objects with one hand. She will go from object to object and will almost take a step alone. She has also balanced for a few seconds with out hanging on to something. Seems like she will be walking soon enough. Last week she had a double ear infection, pink eye and pre orbital cellulitis- and still happy as a clam. Her personality is hilarious to us as she is brave, a little daredevil and so happy.

Here are a few pictures of what we have been up to recently.

Today was very nice and we got to hang out outside :) Lucas was trying to not let me get a picture

Tessa supporting her Gophers!

One of many hugs!

Happy Girl

Today we went to the dog park and had a great time.

Tessa and Gianna playing

Tessa loves her swing!

We hope everyone has a great week. WE are sure looking forward to a three day weekend next weekend!!!

New Tricks

2011-05-16T20:50:00.002-04:00

Tessa was home sick today and had to try out her big brothers walking toy!

Fun times!!

2011-05-08T21:49:00.007-04:00

We have had a fun several of weeks. Here are a few of the highlights!

If you have not heard about our neighborhood let me fill you in. We have the GREATEST neighbors in the world. Marty and Stacey Thomas and their kids (Sydney, Jack and Carly) live directly across the street from us and have become a part of our family. We are often found there playing, having fun and drinking :) They have helped us in many of jams as we have no family here. Stacey even helped on a recent visit of my parents when my dad fell down the stairs! Anyway on top of the Thomases we have other neighbors who enjoy as well. We recently started the tradition of "playdate happy hour" on Fridays and are switching off being hosts for this fun event! Kids love it, parents love it as well as the local liquor store ;) We are so blessed to live in a neighborhood with such great people and tons of kids Lucas' age!!

Last night for Mothers Day we walked to the ice cream store with the Thomases. Here is Carly (Lucas says she is his girlfriend) eating/wearing her ice cream!

On Saturday we had a "Compliance Wives Summit" in Dayton Ohio with our friend Matt and Julia Tanney with twin girls Kate and Lilly as well as Tom and Betsy Mitchell with son Will. We all met in Dayton at the Tanneys (the Mitchells came from Indiana). All three of the boys worked together at OSU at one time. Tom now works for Purdue and the Tanneys are starting a new adventure later this month in Oklahoma. We were so glad to see everyone and wish Julia, Matt and the girls all the best :)

Here is Kate and Tessa having some drinks!

Here is Tessa and Lilly reading some books!

Tessa trying her first taste of Mac and Cheese! She loved it!!

Lucas at swimming lessons with Miss Missy! He does so great!

Here is Tessa walking along the table. She never stops moving and has no fear.

Tessa crawling but the funny part is Lucas-that kid cracks me up!

We hope everyone is having a great week!

Grandma Melissa, Grandpa Ed, the Easter bunny and Lucas' first horse ride!!

2011-05-03T20:15:00.006-04:00

This past weekend at school Lucas had Day at the Farm where he rode his first horse! He was pretty excited!

Grandma Melisssa and Grandpa Ed came to visit us for a week over Easter!! Here are some pictures of our great week!

Tessa giving grandpa some loves!

Lucas and Grandpa

Lucas was trying to suction this cup to his chin!

Lucas was so excited to share Peeps with Grandma and Grandpa. Grandma and Lucas got to eat Grandms's fancy peeps with chocolate while grandpa got a "boring peep" :)

Lucas and Grandpa beating mom in go fish

Tessa jumping for Grandpa!

On Easter Sunday there was an Easter Egg hunt at the OSU Jesse Owens Track Meet. Here is Lucas after running all over the in field getting Easter Eggs!

Easter Sunday!

When Tessa was born my mom bought her this awesome Easter Coat-with matching Easter slippers. The pictures do not do it justice (or show off the carrot rattle in her pocket) but it was adorable!

OUr sweet kids!

Grandma and Tessa being silly!

Coloring Eggs

In April Lucas also started Swimming lessons with Miss Missy. He loves it!

His favorite part is his flippers!

Tessa enjoying her yummy Wheat teething biscuit....yumm....

March-April

2011-04-09T13:16:00.021-04:00

March and April have been very busy at our house so we apologize for the delay in pictures. In order to not make the delay any longer these pictures are not in any real order.

Lucas and Tessa can often be found wrestling each other!

Tessa is now an expert at pulling herself up on anything and everything (Kenya included). She also walks around the object while holding on. Two weeks ago at daycare we had four incident reports in found days due to her bravery and desire to be a big kid. Fortunately nothing major just some bloody lips and bumps :) We have decided that Lucas will have Tessa try things before him as she is so brave and without fear and Lucas is a bit more timid-sounds like this was exactly like Chris and Melinda when they were kids. We are pleased that Tessa would like to take after her aunt Melinda however are hoping for a few less battle injuries than Melinda had ;P

Lucas continues to be a big helper and here he is trying to feed Tessa dinner.

Lucas has learned to climb his rope ladder this year-he is Chris and Lucas at the top

Tessa loved her first swing ride!!

You may see a few more of sticking out tongue pictures as this is what I get when he sees the camera these days!

Tessa a few weeks ago with her toys

I was kind of thinking I had a lot of bathtub pictures. I realized that it is the best I can keep these kids contained to one area and a great photo opportunity!

On March 26th my nieces Alisha and Anna flew in to be with us with their mom Janelle following them to Columbus on the 31st. They stayed with us until April 5th and we had a great time. While they were here we played outside, went swimming, played games and just had fun! It was nice to celebrate my Birthday with the girls-who decorated the house for the occasion! Alisha made me two scrapbooks. One of my family using pictures and narratives from our blog. The other is one of me and her. They are awesome!!!! I could not have asked for a better gift!

Our own Harlem Globetrotter...hee hee. Lots of games of Horse were played while the girls were here.

Lucas had a front row seat in his car for the game

Tessa wanted no part of not playing outside!

After several attempts for teh "perfect" facebook profile shot this is the best we could do :) Pretty cute girls!!

Checking out the OSU women's volleyball game

Kids playing-Tessa still laughs at almost anything Lucas is doing

Loving her jumperoo

Anna while waiting for dinner...did she know she had a sticker on her for head???

For my birthday the girls kept Lucas home from school and decorate the house with Birthday signs :)

We had a great time swimming and Tessa loved her first time in the pool

Just hanging out playing games....one would think that Tessa is in awe of Alisha however she really is calculating how to grab her hair and pull it!

Tessa's chair helps to keep her in one place and allows us to play our games

Last weekend Tessa went on her first wagon ride. I was a bit nervous on how she would do but she LOVED it. She likes to be able to see all around her and check out her surroundings. Here are a few pictures of our family walk.

She follows Lucas every move! Here she is watching and wanting to be next to him in the yard.

Before the walk we got to play in the yard--this is the typical interactions between Tessa and Lucas

Laughing and wrestling

We had this gate in the basement from my friend MaryJane for when Kenya was a puppy. Chris got the brilliant idea to use it to hold Tessa in the living room as she continued to try to get at Kenya's food bowls. Needless to say Chris thinks MaryJane is a genius!!

Tessa continues to love bathtime!

Lucas and mom being silly and taking pictures of ourselves

Lucas just got done saying "mom stop taking pictures"

Again Tessa and Lucas wrestling.

Enjoying the great weather. Tessa loved being on the grass (Lucas hated it at this age and would scream if he sat on it!).

Lucas doing some exercizes

Oops moe outside basketball pictures!

On our way outside to watch the basketball game

Chris, Lucas and Tessa got me a new camera for my birthday. Anna and Alisha were so happy to be my models while I learned about it :)

Lucas making Tessa laugh

Tessa crawling-

Lucas playing some baseball :)

Grandpa's birthday-sports camp-new developmental milestones and life...

2011-03-19T21:11:00.012-04:00

Pictures are a bit backwards with the most recent first-oh well. Today after dinner the kids needed to get clean. We have struggled with Tessa's blow up duck bathtub (which we think is a great invention and loved it for Lucas) as when trying to get the kids in the bath together the duck starts to float and Tessa wobbles. It is quite humorous but probably not the safest. Because Tessa is sitting up (more on that later) we decided to use this contraption today and it worked great. Tessa loved it as she loves feeling like she is as grown up as her brother!

Today we went to the zoo as it was such a nice day out!

This morning was the last of Lucas' sports camp--Tessa really wanted to join in today as she loved all the little balls they used in their activity!

This week has been pretty nice. We were able to enjoy some time on the swing set and going for walks. Tessa laughs hysterically when Lucas was swinging (she was in her bjorn). It is so adorable.

Somewhere Tessa has picked up putting her left hand in her mouth while eating as you can tell by all the carrots on her sleeve!

Lucas just being a goofball

These overalls were my niece Alisha's--she is now almost 15!!!

Tessa trying to enjoy her Baby Mum Mum--she is not quite ready for it yet but tries.

Kenya getting so big!

Tessa just being silly

The Rogers visited last weekend for Grandpa Jerry's birthday. Typical Chris and Nicolle we put them to work and even had grandpa working on his birthday! The boys were able to paint the living room, entry, up the steps and the upstairs landing and also replace a light fixture. It only took three years to paint every room on the main level (almost every room in the house minus 2) thanks to parental manual labor :) We were able to also have lots of fun over the weekend.

Lucas was playing with his headlamp that he got for Christmas from aunt Suzi and Uncle John

After Sports camp last Saturday we went to the Dublin St Patricks Day parade--Lucas was a bit tired on daddy's shoulders!!

Sports Camp with Grandma and Grandpa

One night before the Rogers visited I went to make sure Lucas was tucked in this is what I saw in the pitch black! So funny! Thank goodness for camera flashes!

Tessa is now sitting up, kind of. She can't get to it herself (her self sitting is a bit lopsided but she tries), but will sit up if we put her in this position. She would just rather be crawling and doesn't seem to want much to di with sitting still.

Tessa is now through learning all about veggies (her favorite is Squash) and has had some fruits (only has had bananas and Pears so far) as well as oatmeal and rice cereal. You would never believe it with what a peanut she is but this kid can eat!!

Here is Tessa and her famous dolphin flop, army crawl, crawl....She crawled once at her 6 month checkup (showing off no doubt for the MD) but has not really done much of that since....this is her preferred method of movement!

Likes her jumperoo as much as Lucas!

We hope everyone has a great week enjoying March maddness. Go Bucks!!!

Tessa is six months old!!!

2011-03-03T15:42:00.012-05:00

Tessa had her 6 month appointment today (she is 6 months and one week old). Tessa showed off all of her new talents and impressed Dr Riccairdo with her mobility and even crawled, yes crawled-not just her army crawl but on her hands and knees with forward movement (however this is her newest talent and she did a face plant after about three moves)! Dr Riccairdo said that Tessa "may just be running a marathon by her 9 month appointment". Tessa weighs in at 13lbs 15 oz and is under the 10th percentile for weight. She is 27 inches and in the 75th percentile for height. So all of you who thought Lucas was skinny here are his results at his 6 month appointment-he weighed 15lbs 8 oz and was in the 10 percentile for weight and was 27 inches and in the 60th percentile for height! So yes, for those that have not seen Tessa in a little while she is just a long skinny peanut. She is getting better at sitting however still not doing that alone yet-she would rather be moving than wasting time sitting still-oh joy for mom! She continues to have issues with #2 so we are changing to Oatmeal instead of rice cereal as it has more fiber in hopes to help her with that. We are also starting using sippy cups of water so she gets a bit more water in her diet. Depending on how that works we may add pears or prunes to her diet before finishing up rounds of all of her vegi's. She did great with her shots-even got the princess band aids Lucas was so worried about her not getting as he was not able to come to the appointment with us due to his busy athletic schedule :)

Tessa continues to be a very very happy baby. She has recently learned to scream and she does it for no reason at all-she just likes to hear herself-and oh boy do we all love it (insert eye roll here). Her all time favorite thing is her brother Lucas as she is mesmerized by anything and everything that he does. She loves it when he gives her "loves" (our household word for hugs, kisses and snuggles) and especially loves it when he dances for her. She is fitting into most of her 6 month clothing but still wears 3 month onesies. Her hair looks kind of red in pictures but really isn't and she still has a faux hawk which is kind of funny. We continue to be blessed with two of the greatest kids-in our opinion :)

Tessa at 6 months trying carrots for the first time. Lucas was very excited that he got to pick Tessa's first vegetable!

Here is Tessa at about 5 1/2 months followed by a picture of Lucas at 6 months....they really look a bit alike however Tessa has my round face shape and Lucas has Chris oval face shape. Hopefully with a few more months of shrinking on my part it may not be as obvious who the kids get their body shape from---I know who am I kidding right?!?!

Lucas at 7 - I think we may need to move Tessa's crib mattress down as she will be doing this shortly I fear.

Lucas again at 6-7 months--I just think they kind of look alike in this picture

On a side note last Saturday we braved the basketball game with both kids and had a great time. Here is Lucas in his "crazy hair"

Lucas has been really into singing in the car. I finally remembered to pack my camera so I could turn the video camera on to try to catch some of his vocal stylings. How can you not love this kid? What a sweet boy.

We hope everyone is having a great week!

Sickness, sports camp, mobility and grandma.....

2011-02-27T10:37:00.012-05:00

The last month has been a bit out of control for us. It started with a rain storm that had day care closed for 2 days. Due to my limited vacation/sick time (used all sick time for maternity leave and trying to build vacation time so we can go home throughout the year) it was a bit stressful trying to figure out childcare. Chris' work was and is crazy so he also had a really hard time getting out of the office. The following week Tessa got pretty sick with Broncholitis and was out for 3 days. Luckily for us Sue was able to come out the following week as Chris and I were a bit overwhelmed and fearing that Tessa would be out more the following week. After a week of grandma loves and nebulizer treatments we are happy to report Tessa is just fine. We are so blessed to have Sue come and it was so nice for us all. I know the kids enjoyed her visit immensely I was so thrilled as she was really helpful with all the things that I usually do at night-dinner, baths and trying to pick up the house. How nice it was to come home to happy kids, dinner made and the house picked up. It also allowed Chris and I to go to a basketball game and complete a few errands which is so much easier to do with out children!

Ok we'll let the pictures lead the way...they are likely not in order and I apologize.
I was a bit excited for the thought of spring and had to try on Tessa's sunhat

This weekend Chris thought it may be time to start rice cereal....interesting as he is the one who wanted to start this and has yet to be the one to feed her! She is getting better everyday.

Last Friday we went to the hockey game. Lucas enjoys it for about the first period and then was ready to go. It was the first time our entire family has made the jumbo scoreboard-wonder how many times we will accomplish this in our life of college athletics?!?
Lucas at the hockey game

Tessa really enjoys her Jumperoo and is getting better everyday at jumping!

I just thought this was pretty cure of the kids watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse-Lucas did have his arm around her but I missed it.

This is a pretty common pose at our house with the kids :)

Tessa needs to do a bit more growing to fit into this OSU headband!

Bath time!!!

Oh Lucas makes me laugh--this is the best one I got :)

Tessa can finally fit into her U of M pink outfit--so we had to get a few photo's

Grandma Melissa sent this bunny slippers when she was born--one of our favorites

Tessa in her Valentines Day outfit picked out by the Brechon girls!!

We decided it was time to get Lucas out of his race car bed and into a Twin bed. We were able to get some shopping done while Sue was here and we got to pick up the bed on Saturday.

Lucas last picture in his race car bed

Lucas new bed :)

The race car bed is going to our friends Tom and Betsy this coming weekend so this is what Lucas decided needed to be done with it in the meantime--toy box for his train sets!

We joined Lucas in Sports Camp at Sports Ohio on Saturday mornings. The purpose of the camp is to have the kids experience a bit about numerous sports. It has been such a fun thing for our entire family. Lucas has so far learned Soccer, baseball, Lacrosse, field hockey and football. They also stretch, run and do obstacle courses every week. Here are a few pictures of our fun times at Sports camp!
football week

Lucas' favorite part the obstacle course

Tessa really likes to play on the floor at Sports camp!

Tessa learned to Army Crawl a few weeks ago and is all over the place! I was reading in Lucas baby book and he was a early crawler too. Looks like both kids will crawl before sitting on their own-but she is getting close with that too! This is Tessa a bit over two weeks ago...unfortunately now she is faster ;P

Tessa hanging out in her seat watching Lucas play

Lucas learning Lacrosse

Lucas stretching

Soccer week--

We are looking forward to a fun family date to the OSU basketball game this afternoon :) We hope everyone is doing well.

January

2011-01-29T20:55:00.013-05:00

The month of January has been a blur for us. We can hardly believe that it is almost February and that Tessa is five months old. We'll let the pictures lead the story.
Lucas decided that it would be fun to be a bit wild and took a header into the table. It was one of those hits where you are sure there will be lots of damage by the time you rush to him--he was tough and it was just a nice goose egg.

Can't even tell in the picture :) Mom's heart was still racing here.

Since I can never seem to get Chris to get pictures of me and the kids I have to train Lucas how to use the camera....he did pretty good here (I did not include the three where our heads were cut off)

This was around the time that we discovered that Lucas can make Tessa laugh like no one else in our family. Here are two videos of this....I had to include them both as one he does make her laugh and the other has a hilarious ending...pay attention to what he says--so funny.

This is usually what I get if I ask for a picture of the kids together....Lucas is a goof ball!

In the cold weather we have been playing downstairs - Kenya loves to be chased and wrestled with.

Her head is really not this giant :)

On January 16th Chris' grandma Loyal Rogers died suddenly in Fargo ND. We were able to fly to Minnesota to attend her celebration of life. Although it brings us sadness to think about her passing we are glad that she was able to be in our life, meet both of our children and live such a blessed life. What an example Grandma Loyal and Grandpa Earl were as grandparents and as partners--married for 64 years!!!
Due to the freezing weather and that Chris' parents live about 90 minutes from the funeral we stayed the night in a hotel. Here is Tessa just being Tessa. She was a trooper and was pretty happy most of the weekend-even with a stomach issue she had-poor thing.

Grandma and Lucas got to sneak in a quick swim before the funeral.

Grandpa and Tessa

Melinda and Emmelyn were able to fly in for the funeral as well. It was a nice treat as when we last saw the Whethams in November we were not sure when we would see them again. Tessa and Emmelyn were more interested in each other this visit. They were also very interested in the TV and the fire!

Sweet Emmelyn

Wonder if they think we will still do this when they are 15

Lucas and Copa dog

Lucas helping Grandpa empty his bed.

Lucas tried to tell his mom that he would not like ice cream cones....

I love this picture as it is so them.

watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse

Just hanging out. I can hardly seem to get a still picture of her as she is rolling all over. She even has a scoot down and will literally get herself across the floor--watch out!

This week we took out Tessa's jumperoo-she was not sure what to do but seems to like it.

Trying to get pictures of the kids together-Lucas was being so funny this night we had to snap a few

I sometimes think they look alike however not in this picture....he is so Chris and she is so me.

Lucas thought it was so funny to be in Tessa's bathtub

First snowman of the season :)

Lucas has really started to "read" to Tessa and it is adorable

This was Lucas tonight....only Lucas can make her laugh like this--it is so funny!

Tessa a few weeks ago hanging out in her exersaucer for the first time.

hanging out at home

2011-01-09T10:29:00.009-05:00

The weeks after the holidays were a bit crazy in our house with the second round of strep throat for Lucas and I, an ear infection for me and respiratory issues for Tessa. On top of all of that we all came down with the stomach flu! Good times. New Years Eve Day reached a high of 68 degrees in Columbus--what a great day to take Tessa to the Columbus Zoo for the first time. Lucas had a blast as always (did not sit still for any pictures!)and Tessa when not napping seemed to enjoy herself as well.

We've never seen these Lions up this close. It seemed to follow Lucas when he walked around :)

Here are some other random pictures of what we have been up to lately.....
This is Tessa's favorite toy--

She loves her exersaucer!! Mom does too because dinner can get cooked!

One night while I was making dinner (Lucas was watching Ice Age 3 for like the hundredth time and Tessa in her exersaucer) I looked over and Lucas was standing by Tessa holding her hand and they were both watching the movie....he let go of her hand right before this picture but it was so adorable. Lucas continues to amaze us with his ability to understand love, to give love and to share love. He has exceeded our expectations for the big brother role as he adores Tessa.

getting stronger every day!

We got this cute hat, blanket, bib for Tessa and OSU outfit for Lucas from Chris' aunt and uncle Kent and Cindi! The hat is a bit big for Tessa but will be great for this summer! Thanks Kent and Cindi!!!

I just think she looks so long in these jammies!

Lucas' only rebellion issue these days is pictures (well maybe not his only rebellion-he is 3 1/2 )as you can tell for the lack of pictures of him on the blog lately.....he did like to take this one as he likes to do just about anything with Tessa in her crib.

On January 9th Chris and I took Tessa to her first Ohio State men's basketball game. It was also against the University of Minnesota so she killed two birds with one stone! Lucas had a blast staying home with Ms Elizabeth-his favorite sitter.
Getting ready for the game

Mom's way of sneaking a little gopher in Tessa (see socks). Rogers family I will take any and all credit for keeping the Rogers allegiance to the U of M alive in my household! :)

On our way to the game!!

Daddy and Tessa at the game

We also had pictures of the kids taken this fall. If you are interested you can see them at www.jessicaolms.zenfolio.com

Hope everyone has a great week!

Christmas in Minnesota

2011-01-08T10:46:00.012-05:00

Mom and Dad had a beautiful 1/2 dead tree. On top of the rain showers of needles the vacuum broke--Chris and Alisha were on a mission with the shop vac the day before Christmas!! It was quite the site to see to perfectionists clean a tree that continued to shed and shed and shed,,,

Tessa does not wear dresses often so we have to take pictures when she does!

Grandpa and Tessa (after she got used to the beard and was not scared of it!)

On Thursday December 23rd we went to the Workin/Druckers house to celebrate with Chris' family. It was so fun to see everyone and make Grandma Sue's gingerbread cookies!

Chris' little cousin Ben ;)

Ben's giant feet against Tessa's!!!

Opening gifts-Thanks everyone!!!

This makes us feel lucky to not have this much snow in Columbus!!

Getting ready to leave for Christmas Eve mass--Tessa's dress had a hard time fitting in her car seat!

Tara and Tessa

After mass we went to Suzi and John's house for "the land of misfit toys dinner". It was wonderful!

Christmas Day morning we were about to celebrate with Grandma and Grandpa Rogers at their hotel.

Lucas got a doctors kit!

And Shoots and Ladders

Lucas got Grandpa air hockey!!!

Grandma and Tessa

The rest of Christmas Day was spent at the Brechons. Here are Tessa and Tara waiting to open gifts!!

Tara got matching outfits with Rebecca Ruben :)

Grandpa talking to his littlest girls

Christmas dress pictures again :) The following pictures are my version of a photo shoot with Tessa and Connor

Tessa and her Godmother Alisha

Lucas is going through a phase were he does not want his picture taken-so annoying. This is one of the few at Christmas I did get.

Family shots

Michelle and Tara

Jared, Melissa and Connor

us-this is the best we could get this year!

The Brechons

Grandma and Grandpa with their only great grandchild--the speculation about another Great grandchild did not prove true :P

The Kuypers including Jerame's lovely girlfriend Cassie who continues to come to Christmas--she must really love Jerame cause our Christmas is crazy!

The Bielinski's--with Myriah's boyfriend Jared-who knows if he will be "busy" next year at this time to avoid this family get together!

All the grand kids!

Connor, Lucas and Tessa got matching jammies from Grandma!

This was taken before the gifts we even all here!

Another cute picture of Alisha and Anna

Thanks everyone for spoiling up so much. We had a great time home even thought it was a short 72 hours! We hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday!!!

4 month check up

2010-12-29T09:34:00.003-05:00

Tessa had her 4 month check up today and all is well. Here are her stats:

weight-12lbs 4 oz

height-24inches

Head circumference-16

All of her measurements remain in the 25-50 percentile.I was thinking that Dr Riccairdo would tell us that she was above average with her gross motor skills because she is rolling over both ways and shimmying across the room (I don't seem to remember Lucas doing this this early but looking at his baby book he actually did) but sounds like she is right on track with her age so that is good. She got her four month shots and did great. We are happy to report that we will not be starting rice cereal until 6 months!! So funny when it was Lucas I was so excited to start baby food--with Tessa I am dreading it just because I know how much harder and time consuming it is than formula. Tessa recently switched to Soy formula due to her continued GI issues. We need to try it for two weeks to determine if her symptoms go away. Although we hate Soy formula because it totally stinks we hope this makes her more comfortable. We thought she had pink eye but turns out it is just a cold symptom.

Unfortunately when we were at Tessa's appointment Lucas was totally out of sorts. Luckily for us Dr Riccairdo is his MD as well so she was able to check him out. Turns out that Lucas has strep throat again --poor kid. On top of Lucas having strep all three of us (Lucas, Chris and I) had the stomach flu last night. It was topped off by a trip to my MD today who reports that I also have strep again and an ear infections. Good times at the Rogers house. Let's hope we are germ free so Chris can enjoy his time in New Orleans for the Sugar bowl and I'm not home with two sick kids alone starting this weekend! When I have time this weekend I will post our Christmas in MN trip however not feeling up to it now. Hope everyone has a safe and fun New Years!

Holiday Season at the Rogers

2010-12-19T11:48:00.014-05:00

This holiday season started with a Christmas dinner with friends where Tessa got to wear a cute party outfit! The day after this picture all heck broke loose at the Rogers House as we have been battling vomitting, Strep throat/Scarlett fever, fevers, coughs, runny noises and not sleeping. I stayed home with the kid/kids/me for 2 1/2 days this week. Total bummer. We are not 100% yet but hope to be by the time we leave for Minneapolis on Thursday.

Here is all of our stockings!

Buddy the Elf was so much fun this year!!!

Trying to get a good Santa hat shot to match a cute one we have of Lucas

At our dinner party Lucas got this fun game from the Lauritsens :)

Kenya had to get one too!

Mom look at how high I can raise my head

The rare moment where Santa's face was not in Tessa's mouth!

Lucas and daddy thought our tree needed a train around it

This is apparently what you do with a 15 week old who is burning up in her clothing and needs to be naked...a photo shoot with mom....she is such a happy baby would you believe we were home sick this day and she had a fever????

Lucas being silly!!

Getting ready for our holiday party

I was so excited to plan a dinner with a few neighbors and friends and have Santa make a visit! It was awesome and the kids were so surprised! Each child got to sit with Santa, tell them what they want for Christmas and get a gift. Santa took pictures with all the kids and their families! The funniest part of this video is Marty :) We will definitely be doing this next year!

Lucas was telling Santa he wanted Hungry Hungry Hippos

The Thomases

The Archies

Santa cut off one of his bells and gave to Tessa for her 1st Christmas

All the kids at the party

Looking for Santa's sleigh to leave Marty and Stacey found it first and then the kids saw it ;)

Christmas at the Rogers

Santa came to the Rogers on Sunday the 19th because knows we will be at Grandma Melissa and Grandpa Ed's house on Christmas morning.

hummmm....Lucas lined up his and Tessa's toys....whose child is this?!?!

Tessa with her stocking

Tessa got a Brutus purse from Santa--to match her OSU cheer leading outfit--which will be proudly displayed this spring/summer!

Lucas got a new soccer ball from mom and dad

Tessa's new toy from Lucas

I apologize that I have not put videos up recently-Chris had to show me a better way to do it and now I know. Tessa began rolling over at about 11 weeks-she is now over 16 weeks if I am doing my math right in my head--she decided not to show off her rolling ability the entire time we were home in November but of course the minute we get home she is back to rolling over all the time. So here is a video of Tessa rolling over and then also will show why Tessa is itching to get big to get her hands on her big brother :)

Lucas getting ready for the holidays :)

We are looking forward to a short week at work then off to Minnesota on Thursday until Sunday to celebrate with family. We are so excited :)

Breakfast with Santa

2010-12-08T20:39:00.007-05:00

Last weekend we had a great time at Breakfast with Santa. Lucas loves it because he gets to see Santa, play games and catch flying pancakes!!! Lucas was so excited to talk to Santa about his elf Buddy the Elf!!We went with our friends the Lauritsens :)

Finally brave enough to sit on Santa's lap!

catching pancakes

The ladies with their ladies.... Tessa's first BFF Gianna

The rest of the pictures are just life at the Rogers. I feel like I am picture heavy for Tessa and not Lucas but that is not on purpose--Lucas is just hard to get pictures of anyway much less when holding a 14 week old!

Tessa loves her bumbo seat!!

Tessa LOVES getting a bath

Lucas loves to play in Tessa's crib with her

Home in November

2010-11-28T17:59:00.008-05:00

In November we were able to fly to Moorhead to meet our new niece Emmelyn and celebrate Christmas with the Whethams, have the girls baptized and spend time with family. Here are a few photo's of our time there...
Tessa showing off her Buckeye pride for Saturday game day!

Some of my family was able to come to Moorhead for the baptism and here are a few shots of playing in the hotel pool!They have a great kiddie area!

Great grandma Melissa and baby Connor--who is having more fun?!?!?

Connor is checking out Tessa

Lucas loves to swim!

Tara

Emmelyn was born 17 days before Tessa. It was so fun to see them together. They really liked the TV! Here is a shot of them watching Basketball--maybe we have a few traveling basketball tournaments in our future!!!

Great Grandpa Earl and Tessa

On Sunday November 21st Tessa and Emmelyn were baptized.

The ladies with their ladies :)

The Rogers Clan

Tessa's godmothers Alisha and Janelle

This was donated in honor of Ray and Elnor Johnson (Sue's parents) by their children. The dedication was during the service along with the baptism. It was so special that Ray and Elnor's great granddaughters were the first to have their baptismal candles lit from it--

Great Grandpa Earl and Great Grandma Loyal

Alisha and Connor

Tessa in her baptismal gown--notice her sweet pearl bracelet-it has a T on it and will be saved to be placed in her wedding bouquet (when she is over 3o)!

Sue got Emmelyn and Tessa these adorable jackets!

Emmelyn showing off her neck muscles!

Tessa

After the baptism Sue and Jerry hosted a lovely lunch for the Rogers, Brechons and Whethams. It was great to see everyone and we thank everyone for all you did for Tessa's special day! We had a great week (despite the snow and cold)! We are flying home again for Christmas for a very short stay. We hope everyone is doing well!

Let the pictures tell the story....

2010-11-25T14:06:00.010-05:00

It's been such a very long time since we had a blog entry so here goes. We'll let the pictures tell the story....
These few shots were taken when I was trying to place our 2 month old daughter in...yes...in a hallowed pumpkin. I have the greatest picture of Lucas in a pumpkin from when he was about this age and thought I could do it with Tessa but needless to say she is one month younger, I was alone (Chris wanted no part of this activity) and Tessa was not in agreement with this...so no pumpkin picture. I did get these cute shots though....she is about 2 1/2 months here.

At the end of October we flew home for the Minnesota vs Ohio State football game, to see family and to trick or treat. We will fly home three times over the next three months--Tessa will be four months old and have flown three times!!

Meeting cousin Melissa for the first time

This was funny...I was nursing and Jared was trying to get Connor down when we realized how funny this was :)

Meeting Michelle and Tara for the first time

and Aunt Suzi

and Anna

One day we took Lucas to Camp Nickelodeon (AKA old Camp Snoopy)-Jared and Connor joined us.

This is what Tessa thought of our time at the Mall of America--also the last known destination of this great blanket which we lost on thie trip home :(

Lucas having fun in the Disney Store

Hanging out with Alisha

My mom had a library opening while we were there. Here is grandma showing Lucas a computer game.

Alisha, Tara and Lucas playing on the computers

Lucas and Tara

Playing with Jared and Connor

Wearing her Grandma makes me happy shirt!

Our friends Pat and Missy had baby Connall two weeks after Tessa and here are the two meeting each other for the first time. Really no size difference right :) So adorable....

Hanging out with Grandpa

A very momentous occasion....first trip to Van Maur with Grandma Melissa!

Michelle, Annette and Steve were nice enough to watch Tessa, Lucas and Connor so we could all go to the football game. Here are a few shots prior to the game!

Never thought I would do O-H-I-O in the University of Minnesota Alumni Center

Jared almost crapped his pants when my father in law Jerry brought over Quicy Lewis (former Gopher basketball player and NBA star)!!!! Quincy almost didn't take a picture with Jared in his OSU gear. Needless to say Jared thinks Jerry is kind of a big deal :)

Just prior to entering the stadium

DOn't worry Jared and Melissa cheered for both teams

Script Ohio at MN

Jerry and Sue brought Lucas this pumpkin :)

Halloween Day Anna wanted me to hold her hand when she got her ears pierced....what a gift and so much fun! She did great!!

Before

After

Halloween...how fun to trick or treat with cousins!!

Daphne and giraffe

Our two Giraffes

Meeting Annette for the first time

Annette and Steve with their little lion grand baby!!!

Here are a few shots from when we got home...Tessa is still a bit to young for her chair but did good until I took out the camera:)

Big Smiles

This is our life most nights....all three kids :) I can see my sister and mother in law cringing right now about Kenya's place in this picture...hee hee

We hope every one had a great Halloween. We also went home the week prior to Thanksgiving however will put that entry up later this weekend.

Danner, growing, 2 months check up and pumpkin patch :)

2010-10-21T21:30:00.010-04:00

OK every time I do a blog entry I try to remember to put the pictures in backwards so that they are in the correct order however just about every time I forget to do it! So you will see the most recent outings first--

Tessa had her two month check up today and she is right on track. Here are her stats:
weight-10 lbs 3.5 oz (25%)
length-23 inches (75%)

She got shots and was a total stud-screamed for a minute and then was done :) However her little legs are still a bit tender (due to this I have not taken her two month pictures today but hopw to this weekend). We are struggling with dry skin on her face and head which causes her some discomfort and is itchy for her so we were given more suggestions with how to address that. Probably too much info but Tessa only has one BM per week so we are also trying to address that as we all know that can't be too comfortable :) At a work outing this week my old boss thought Tessa looked like a little version of me so it will be interesting to see what my family thinks when we see them next week. Here are a few pictures of what we have been up to lately.

Here is Tessa just hanging out

Lucas was showing Tessa his monkey that makes a really annoying noise-she was not amused! He also had to cover her up as "my little baby Tessa is cold mommy" Lucas likes to talk baby talk to her and it is really funny cause he sounds like the wicked witch too cute!

Tessa playing with her hand rattles

Asked Lucas for a smile and these are the options he gave me-goofball

Lucas and Tessa playing

We love our neighbors the Thomas' here is Sydney, Carly and Jack--Lucas best buddies (p.s Chris and I struggled with how write this sentence...Melinda please advice....I say Thomas' Chris says Thomases.......

Last weekend we made the third annual pumpkin (aka punkin) patch trip to Circle S farms which is always a family favorite

Unfortunately for Lucas he forgot to close his mouth when he got to the bottom of this run--was not pleasant for him to say the least.

Tessa was enjoying herself

Getting ready to go to Circle S Farms I can just hear my sister Annette gagging looking at this picture!

Aww....isn't she sweet mommy's pumpkin!

Who makes these outfits with hoods--so cute but not very fun for her

Lucas wore this cute shirt too :)

playing and giving "loves"

A few weeks ago our friend Lisa Danner flew in from Florida to attend the football game and hang out with us--this has been her third annual trip to Columbus!! Here are a few pictures of us at the Metro park--don't know who enjoyed themselves more--Lucas or Lisa.

Buddies

As promised I need to announce that Lisa took this cool picture :)

Throwing rocks in the water

Sometimes Lucas cooperates and I get great pictures....it's pictures like this that make me wonder what I could do with a fancy camera :)

We are sooooo sooooo sooo excited to be going home thie Wednesday to introduce Tessa to my family and our friends!!! We fly in on Wednesday and come home on Monday. We will get to play, see family and friends, attend OSU vs MN football game, and trick or treat with cousins! We will also get to see Grandma and Grandpa Rogers--couldn't think of a better weekend! Looking forward to seeing every one. Have a great week and Happy Halloween!!!

weeks of pictures....

2010-10-04T21:24:00.012-04:00

Sorry it has been so long. Here are a bunch of new pictures and some highlights of our last few weeks. Tessa is growing and growing....here are her stats from this months medical appointments.

9-3-10 7lbs 6oz (back to birth weight)
length-19 1/4
Head Cir-13 1/4

9-10-10 7lbs 11.5 oz
length-20 inches
HC-14

9-24-10 9 lbs
length- 20 1/2 inch (finally over what the hospital fist told us was her length)
HC- 14 1/2

I do not think that we have any worries that we are starving her like we did with Lucas. I bet she is close to 10lbs now :) Chubby cheeks like her momma! Besides some annoying infant acne she is happy and healthy!! All of these are in order except the first few as I was not able to drag them for some reason and to tired to spend too much time figuring it out~!

These are pictures from this afternoon- she was in a very fun mood!!

Yesterday we went to the pumpkin patch with Lucas' preschool class. Here he is with his two best friends Maggie and Mia.

Ok now these will be in order from our last entry. Here we are at the kids first Buckeye football game. We tailgated prior to the game and made it to half time. Tessa slept the entire time and Lucas did ok until half time-then was pretty bored.

Tessa at the tailgate

Lucas eating some fruit :)

Just hanging out

Nap time with Daddy

I stole this idea from my cousin Megan who took a picture of her daughter with the same stuffed animal on every monthly birthday to show how much she has grown. This next batch of pictures is Tessa at one month old!

Bath time

Can you tell we are working on Lucas' letters :) T for Tessa

Lucas continues to be a great big brother- he introduces her as "my baby Tessa"

Last Saturday we got to go to our friend Megan's soccer game. Megan is my good friend /co worker Mary Jane's daughter and it was fun to watch the game and hang out with good friends.

Lucas and I call this Tessa's crabby outfit-it was Lucas when he was a baby.

Nap time with mom

On Sunday we went to the Science Museum-Lucas and Chris loved these blocks--unsure who liked building with them more?!?

My good friend/co worker Tracie and I were pregnant and due three weeks apart. Here is Tessa and baby Giana on their first play date. We are hopeful for a few more while we are both on maternity leave at the same time.

I just thought she looked cute in these outfits--one form each grandma!!

Lucas at the pumpkin patch yesterday!

Pictures Pictures pictures

2010-09-19T14:32:00.014-04:00

Sorry we are three weeks over due for more pictures--I only have Chris' work computer which means I'm limited to evenings and weekends for blog posts and unfortunately during the fall and football seasons Chris spends most evenings working from home as well. We may need to fix this with a new computer purchase soon!!

Our first three weeks with Tessa have been awesome, awe inspiring and exhausting! She is a great baby and Lucas adores his little sister-we could not have asked for Lucas to be more loving towards her (mom got the brunt of his jealousy in the first week but we are back to our old lovable Lucas at this point). Amazing how we felt our life was complete without Tessa-she definitely feels like she was meant to be with us :)

Tessa has been to the doctor twice so far. Her first appointment (when she was a week old) she was back to her birth weight of 7lbs 6oz. However according to their measurements she shrunk over an inch from the hospitals measurement on her length--obviously an error at the hospital :) On her 2 week appointment she gained a few more ounces and weighed in at 7lbs 11oz and still not to her documented birth length of 20 1/4 inches. She is a pretty happy baby and really only fusses when she is hungry, cold or is having gas :) I continue to think that she looks differently than she does in photographs. We think she looks more like a Brechon than Lucas ever did however there are times that she looks just like Lucas-we'll see. Grandma Sue thinks she looks like Grandpa Ed. We think she looks like the perfect version of Tessa! She has an adorable colic (wonder if I will always think it is adorable!?!?!) on the front of her head- both my hairstylist and the children's stylist we saw yesterday for Lucas' haircut say that she will likely never have a haircut that will let her have bangs and we will be need to be big fans of barretts.

Well here is the most important part of the post--pictures. They are in order starting on the day home from the hospital.

She has since learned to love her baths--I think I was too careful in this one and it was not as warm as it should have been!

Lucas and Tessa's first bath together--she didn't really enjoy Lucas squirting her in the face with his rubber ducky--I think she will grow up and give Lucas a run for his money!!

Lucas giving her a "pacey" as he calls it

Again a bit cold here I bet

We like to change Tessa's outfits in the crib so Lucas can help and give her "loves"

She's looking at Grandma Melissa here

When Tessa was one week old she made her first trip to the dog park-she just wasn't in the picture!

Lucas loves to give Tessa "hugs and kisses"

Lucas being silly

Tessa in her first dress-she was not a huge fan-nor was mom-who makes collars on outfits for kids anyway?!?

I think she may be praying here for mom to get her out of this dress!

Lucas giving more loves

We LOVE this blanket from our friends Brian and Cathy

Grandma and Grandpa Rogers

Did I mention we are exhausted--and Chris does not even get up to feed her!!

This is my favorite outfit that my niece Alisha wore 14 years ago!!!

playing with daddy

Tessa is really enjoying her play mat which includes tummy time!!

Lucas likes it too!

I had a little photo shoot of Tessa as I wanted to be sure to get a good shot of her in her little sister t-shirt--here are a few of those pictures!

I think she kind of looks like my niece Tara in this picture :)

This picture looks the most like Tessa than some of her other pictures taken

Lucas and Grandma baking treats for Preschool pregame!

Lucas actually participated in a little photo shoot of his own this afternoon :)

New picture of Kenya-she is a puppy however must be a pretty good one--most days as she is still a member of this family :) She has however spent some time in the kennel in the porch when her mom is fed up with her puppiness!!

We are adjusting our parenting from zone defense to man to man defense and seem to be doing ok--meaning no one has been hurt or needed severe therapeutic interventions... yet. This will be the first week of being on our own as both of our parents have visited and are now home--real life now begins.

Tessa Rogers

2010-08-27T21:31:00.006-04:00

Sorry this is just a post of pictures but momma has not slept since I woke up on Thursday at 6:45 am. Tessa is an adorable baby. She was born at 12:24am on 8/27/10. She weighed 7lbs 6oz and was 20 1/4 inches long. She has been pretty sleepy today and has been snuggled lots. I know everyone is interested in her middle name and I said that we would have it official today however Chris is home with a sick puppy and I have to go to sleep. Tomorrow I promise we will let you know Tessa's full name :) Good night and thanks for all the wishes. We are absolutely blessed!

Post of pictures....

2010-08-20T21:28:00.006-04:00

Lucas and Alisha playing outside

yes that is Lucas in long sleeve Santa PJ's in the middle of August

Alisha and Lucas at the Bunny Fountains

Kenya

Alisha and Lucas on the swingset

Alisha at the Park while Kenya was next door at the dog park

Swingset and pool time with Alisha

Alisha and Lucas at Chuck E Cheese

Lucas being silly with Alisha

Excuse the face on this picture--just a 37 week belly shot

Before picking up Alisha we went to touch a truck at the local park-Lucas liked the tractor the best

A week of appointments

2010-08-20T08:19:00.002-04:00

Lucas' 3 year check up

Lucas had his 3 year old appointment on Tuesday and we are happy to report that he is developing great and the only concern is that he is “underweight”. He weighed 29 lbs (under 25%) and was 38 inches tall (75%). She suggested that we try to fatten him up by adding more cheese, yogurt and going back to whole milk. I however look at his father daily and think that no matter what we do he will always be this way so I am not at all concerned-especially since I know he eats well! He had to get two shots which he was not a fan of but luckily mom brought some M and M’s as a treat for when he was done for this very reason! Lucas has been staying with my niece Alisha all week as his day care was closed. I have tons of fun pictures I will add this weekend if there is not an appearance from baby #2.

Baby # 2
We had some false labor on Sunday which we hoped was the real thing and were getting ready to go to the hospital however it ended up being nothing. On Monday 8/17 I had my 38 week appointment and all is well. Not much has changed from the last visit and again we “could go anytime”. He talked about a 39 week induction next week and suggested heavily that we think about that if I am still uncomfortable (and due to family being here and my body being ready). Our 39 week appointment is scheduled on Tuesday 24th. We again had some false labor at work yesterday which resulted in me walking the steps, visiting the nursery and walking the post partum floor looking for the biggest room I could request when the time comes (a fringe benefit of working at the hospital) however that did not help the contractions come any closer together-just made for an uncomfortable couple of hours at work. I had a great night sleep (relatively speaking) last night so that is great. I feel much better today. We’ll keep you posted.

Kenya 16 week check up
Kenya had her four month check up yesterday and is also growing like a weed. She weighs 28lbs and looks “great”. She did have an ear infection but other than that is developing well. She will need to be spayed this fall when I am home on maternity leave so that will work out nice. She has been enjoying Alisha and Lucas bring home and our trips to the local dog park where she loves to play with the other dogs.

Have a good day!!

Lucas' 3rd Birthday!!!

2010-08-11T20:29:00.006-04:00

For Lucas' 3rd Birthday we had a BBQ with friends and family. Chris' parents Jerry and Sue were able to join us (and spoil us like crazy) for a long weekend.

Lucas is really into trains

Lucas loves this book- we had to rent it several times in a row from the library and he got it from Grandma Sue and Grandpa Jerry. Lucas also got a scooter, a big digger and trucks, lots of books and other great things. Thanks everyone for spoiling him!!!

Lucas and Jack playing with one of his favorite toys with Miss Megan. They were laughing so loud.

We had to take the Rogers to the bunny fountains.

Last weekend we drove to Cleveland to meet our friends Justin and Jackie (who flew there from MN) to take Lucas to his first Twins game. Unfortunately the Twins lost but we had a fun time. Lucas stayed awake for the entire game including the after the game fireworks!

Lucas and daddy in their "same same" hats and shirt!

Lucas and Copa dog being silly

We got some pool time at the hotel-Lucas loves to swim but gets cold very easily and has to go to the warm pool!

After swimming we went to the Browns stadium to check out a scrimmage

Lucas didn't last long with out falling asleep!

Hopefully the next post will be about Baby #2 :)

37 weeks

2010-08-11T05:29:00.003-04:00

Again sorry to not have Lucas' birthday posted yet. The nights just seem to get away from me-however when up at 4am not able to sleep makes it easy to do a quick update without pictures about Baby number 2. We had our 37 week appointment yesterday and baby continues to make progress. We are 2+ cm dilated, 60% effaced and the baby is in the -1 position. The midwife thinks that we will likely go with in a week or so. I wanted to make it past last weekend (we met friends in Cleveland for a Twins game), last night (had 20 people over for a good bye party for our friends Tom and Betsy), and today (huge case at work that will hopefully wrap up). Now my new goal is Saturday as my niece Alisha gets in town for the week.

I'm feeling pretty uncomfortable and pretty ready to be done being pregnant! -1 is not doing great things fo my back or for sleep but what can you do. I think this baby will get a jolt this morning as being up since 4am may equal at least 1/2 of my coffee caffinated--I'm off to shower then to work....nothing like showing up at the office at 6:30am! Yikes!!

36 week appointment.

2010-08-05T11:59:00.005-04:00

I'm missing out on Lucas' big 3rd Birthday post and I will try to get to it this weekend I promise. I just wanted to give a quick update about Rogers Baby #2 while I had a second at work.

We had our 36 week appointment on Tuesday and all is well. The midwife's quote was "well I'd really like to see you stay pregnant for another 2 weeks". We are 2 cm dilated and she was able to feel the baby's head and said "second babies are usually not this low this early" --I don't really understand that as I would imagine 2nd babies would be lower than first :) On Tuesday night I began having lower back pain which I have not had much of. Wednesday at work was good until we went for a walk last night and then after that the muscle pain, contractions and lower back pain started again--I swear this kid was inching its way south...I was getting ready this morning and thought my belly looked different but just blew it off until I got to work today and three people before lunch said that they think I have dropped since yesterday.

Football reports today at 4:00pm, we are leaving tomorrow at lunch time to meet friends in Cleveland to take Lucas to his first Twins game, a huge case I've been working on for months may wrap up on Tuesday morning and we have a going away party at our house on Tuesday night for Chris' office. Keep your fingers crossed that this kid stays cooking for awhile :)

Have a great weekend!!

Fun in the sun.....

2010-07-11T20:50:00.009-04:00

Life's been busy with work, Kenya and well just life... Lucas is doing awesome with potty training and has not had a single accident in over two weeks. Every week we get to go on a "special treat" for a week of great potty usage. Last weekend we took him to his first big boy movie (Toy Story 3) and he did great--he even liked the popcorn! This weekend we went to the zoo and the "Bunny fountains" in a neighboring town. Here are a few pictures....

Lucas before he got annoyed at mom's photo shoot :)

Kenya is getting so good at playing fetch!

Lucas in the bunny fountains

Lucas and Daddy at the zoo with "same same" Twins hats-too cute!!

video of Lucas at the Bunny Fountains

Kenya continues to do really well and is fitting into our family beautifully. She is now 11 weeks old and is the all star in her puppy class. She sits, lays down, comes and stays on command about 90% of the time (the missing 10% is when someone other than her dad is talking to her)! This week she learned to go down the stairs so that is great progress. She is growing like a weed and getting so big. She snores louder than Copa did and it makes us giggle. We have yet to hear her bark which we are totally ok with !!

We had our 32 week appointment last week and everything is going great! Hard to believe how soon this baby will be here-My niece Alisha is coming out to Columbus August 14-24 to help us with Lucas as his day care is closed. My mom flies out on August 24th and will be here until September 6th (My dad's 70th Birthday---YIKES!!). So it will be nice to have family here hopefully when the baby comes to help with Lucas and visit us in the hospital. That's about it--hope everyone is well. Have a great week.

Just some fun pictures and updates on Lucas, Kenya and Baby #2

2010-06-29T20:25:00.006-04:00

Here are a few fun pictures from the last week. Lucas got to go to Chuck E Cheese on Sunday as a special treat for having such a great week potty training--no accidents! Lucas is doing awesome with Potty training and we are so proud of him. This Sunday we get to take him to Toy Story 3 as his first big boy movie for another great week potty training!!!

Kenya
Kenya is doing really well. She has been sleeping through the night for the past week or so. Her and Chris walk about 2 miles every morning and one mile every night (I sleep in the morning and sit eating ice cream at night :)). We started puppy socialization class last week and will go once per week for the next few weeks. She "sits" on command, understands "no" and is close to getting "come" and "down" most of the time. She has been going to her kennel on command for the last few days. She does not whine anymore at night in the kennel and at times will whine a bit when we leave for the day. We have yet to hear her bark which is great! She is the bully puppy on the block and recently tackled a 12 week old Doberman--in all fairness to the Doberman it's head was in a bandage--round two will be in a few weeks! Another neighbor will be getting a new Golden Retriever puppy in two weeks so there will be three puppies on the block to play with!

Kenya ready to pounce on the camera cord--stinker!

Baby #2

We are 31 weeks and I am feeling great. The baby is moving like crazy and I swear it will be bigger than Lucas was at birth (he was 8lbs 10oz-yikes!!). Both Chris and I think we will go early for some reason-we'll see. Lucas still wants to name the baby "Micheal Jackson" and switches from wanting a brother to wanting a sister daily. Today he told me that I need to have three more babies----ahh...nope sorry Lucas.

That's all for now. I tried really hard to add video but it was not working for some reason. I will try again this weekend!!! Have a good 4th!!

Getting to know Kenya....

2010-06-18T21:06:00.009-04:00

Our first week with Kenya has been an adventure...I am grateful again that I made the deal with Chris that I would not be getting up with her in the middle of the night! After a few rough nights we seem to be on the right track which includes her whining to go out about twice per night to go potty. Poor Kenya developed a UTI and had some issues in the beginning of the week but after being on antibiotics for a few days it seems to be getting lots better. She is the talk of the neighborhood and our house has now turned into the gathering place for anyone under the age of 10. Here are a few things that she/we have learned over this week...

1. Kenya pretty much knows her name and is doing well at "no"

2. She responds best to kissing noises

3. Has been doing really well with potty training and most of her accidents are our fault.

4. She has learned to go up the two stairs from our garage to the house-it's pretty cute--she still cannot go down stairs.

5. Lucas is her buddy-anytime we need her to go somewhere it is always helpful to have Lucas run there first as she will follow.

6. Chris is smitten and calls her "my baby girl". She adores Chris and follows him around all the time

7. A puppy is more like an infant than I would have thought......makes me nervous that in less than ten weeks we will have one of those too.....AHHHH!!!

8. She will start puppy socialization classes on Thursday

9. She has been called "Copa", "Lucas", "Chris" and "what ever your name is" numerous times...oops....

10. She makes her mom a fall risk as she likes to follow us around and I can almost not see her over my belly.

11. She is not as big of a snuggler as we would have thought however does like to be around us and is becoming more snuggly everyday

Here are some pictures of our first week....

Kenya and Lucas watching cartoons

A few of playtime during the week

Her silly sleeping position

Lucas likes to hold her in the car-figured that this won't happen too much longer!

On Friday Lucas thought Kenya needed to play in the pool!

We went to the local Metro park this morning and had a nice walk which was followed by more pool time and Kenya's first bath at our house!! Kenya was pretty tired after the walk and she got three ticks!

Had to show a few cute ones of Lucas-- yes we do feed him -little skinney minney:)

Kenya was not such a fan of the bath

We hope that everyone had a great weekend. Sorry no video's-- I was planning on it however am a bit to sleepy tonight.

Introducing Kenya!!!

2010-06-12T20:33:00.008-04:00

Kenya 4/25/10---7 weeks oldWe are happy to introduce our new family member Kenya! She is a 7 week old English Lab- and we are already head over heels in love with her. She is very laid back, has not made a sound since we've had her, likes to watch and play with Lucas and loves to sleep (remind you of any other dog you may remember?!?!?) . Here are a few pictures and videos of her.....

Outside time

Kenya's favorite position to lay in-we think it is funny :)

Our first walk-Kenya had no idea what to do on a leash!

I'm sure you'll see lots of pictures of Kenya to come-however now it is time to snuggle. We hope everyone has a great weekend-and that Kenya sleeps though her first night in our house!

Vacation to Minnesota

2010-06-12T07:47:00.009-04:00

Last week we enjoyed a trip to Minnesota. We spent half the time with the Rogers family and half with the Brechons. On Saturday we landed and met my family for breakfast as we had to see our new Great nephew Connor (I have no pictures of this visit as I was too busy holding and snuggling him). We then met Chris's parents and headed to Lake City Minnesota where they rented a condo on Lake Pepin. Melinda and Joe joined us on Sunday and we stayed there until Tuesday evening-here are a few photo's of all the fun we had.

Enjoying a few walks and the park in downtown Lake City

a rare family photo :)

Grandpa had lots of fun at the park too

Lucas LOVES the park-in case you could not tell by this huge smile!!

Lucas also loves swimming!!!!

Grandpa's buddy

Time on the beach with Aunt Melinda and Uncle Joe

Lucas and Uncle Joe trying to catch fish

They did it!!!

Daddy and Lucas on a beach walk

On our hike in the local national park

On Thursday we were able to meet again with the Rogers as we had a baby shower for our new niece (Melinda and Joe too!). Here are a few pictures of that evening...

daughter and daughter in law due 2 days apart-we like to keep Sue and Jerry on their toes :)

While in Minneapolis we got to see lots of friends and spend time with my family. We were able to go to the Minnesota Zoo with my sister Michelle, niece Tara and great nephew Connor (who we got to watch for the entire day!!!) We had a great time! Our first experience with Lucas and a infant together didn't go to bad :)

Lucas seeing his first live camel

Great nephew Connor :) So adorable and such a good baby

JARED and Lucas playing ball at my parents

Isn't this just the cutest?? Lucas giving Connor some loves with their daddy's!!

Connor and Chris--Connor is so happy as Uncle Chris just got done teaching him a few Ohio State songs--the brain washing begins :)

Anna and Connor

Thanks everyone for everything from hosting at the condo to hosting dinners! We had a great time. See some of you in August, October and November!!!

28 week appointment

2010-06-09T15:38:00.003-04:00

Well baby number two, or as Lucas would like to call it-Michael Jackson is doing great. We had our 28 week appointment today and all is well. The heartbeat is beating away in the 150's and baby is measuring about one week early (29 weeks). While we were home last week my sister Michelle was able to determine that the baby is now head down which my midwife Katie verified today as well so that is great news! Katie also agreed with my comment that this baby is a mover as it was having a dance party in my uterus while she was measuring me and feeling for body parts!! I completed my glucose screening and should get the results before the weekend however we are not expecting any concerns there. Weight gain is on the high side but I just really can't stop eating these days--thank goodness for weight watchers for after the baby :) We scheduled our hospital tour for July 15th so Chris can get a feel for where we will be in the hospital. Realizing that the child you are growing could actually live outside of you makes us motivated to get in gear and get ready for this baby. We need to get a new crib mattress (Lucas has the old one in his race car bed) and organize closets and go through clothing...yikes....lots to do!! Hope everyone is well.

Busy, Busy, Busy/Puppy/Baby # 2 update

2010-05-23T15:46:00.011-04:00

Sorry it has been so long with out a post but life is just busy, busy, busy!! Here are a few pictures of what we have been up to over the last month or two.
Outside time with mom and dad golfing, going for walks, playing in the water and planting flowers.

Just cause I can't remember the last time we have a bath picture!

We visited the new Polar bear exhibit at the Columbus Zoo

While looking for a puppy we visited a breeder that had these yellow labs available that day(we were not quite ready for a puppy that weekend however they were awfully adorable). Lucas was in heaven with these four 7 week old puppies chasing and wrestling him-it helped us solidify the fact that we need a dog as Lucas was soooo happy!!

We got a new swing set from our very nice neighbors! Lucas loves having it in our backyard- so do some of our neighbors!

Yesterday Lucas and Chris ran their first race together-and then had to stretch together as well-sitting in that stroller is hard work!

Today it was beautiful out-first time in about 10 days where it has not been rainy--so we spent time with the neighbors running through the sprinkler.

On Thursday of this week we go and pick out our new puppy! They have you wait until the puppy is 5 weeks old as then they have more of a personality-we then get to bring her home June 12th! We have done little things most weekends to prepare the house and us for her arrival and after this weekend are all set for her to come!! The breeder sends us weekly updates of all that the puppies are doing including pictures! Here are a few of our choices--So adorable

Baby Number 2

Baby number 2 is doing well and growing right on schedule. Here is a 24 week picture (We will be 26 weeks on Tuesday of this week)-please excuse the poor posture and sleepy look in my face-sleep has been a bit more difficult with this baby as the baby seems to think there is soccer practice a few times at night! As of our 24 week appointment the baby was still in the breech position-but we are told there is a few more weeks before that gets concerning and that there is plenty of time to move-we are excited for my sister Michelle to be able to tell us what position the baby is in when we see her next week-nice benefit of having a sister who is a midwife! Lucas is adorable when talking about the baby--he thinks it is hilarious when the baby kicks mommy, loves to feel the movements and "poke" the baby to get it to move and nightly asks for me to find where the baby is and will give the baby hugs and kisses before going to bed. He does still however want to name the baby "Michael Jackson".

What I have remembered during pregnancy is the following:

1. Unless you know somone NEVER EVER touch their belly- it is really odd for perfect strangers to be rubbing on your stomach-

2. Never tell a pregnant woman that she is either not showing or is huge (I've heard both this pregnancy and both are annoying). If they tell you you are huge you feel chubby-if they tell you that you are not showing then you feel like you were really fat before pregnancy as you feel like you look really pregnant!! If you need to say something just tell her how happy or nice she looks-no need to comment on stomach size!

3. Always try to compliement on maternity clothes as when you are pregnant nothing feels comfortable or cute--any added reassurance is appreciated.

4. Never comment on a pregnant woman's shoes-it's all about comfort not fashion :)

We are headed to Minneapolis on Saturday May 29th for a week vacation at home. We are excited to see both sides of the family! Hope you are all well and enjoying your spring!

Copa

2010-05-15T21:06:00.002-04:00

On Saturday April 24th we had to put our dog Copa down due to an unexpected medical issue. I think that the Thank you that Chris wrote to the vet sums up Copa's place in our lives. Please read below.

Dr. Scharf,
You may remember me from this weekend when our family came in with our black lab, Copa, who was suffering from internal bleeding in his abdomen. I wanted to thank you for guiding us through what was an unimaginably difficult decision for our family. Copa was incredibly special to us—he has been with me since he was 8 weeks old, and was an integral part of our family—he was with my wife and I on our first date, was part of my engagement proposal to my wife, was the first one to greet our son when we walked through the front door after his birth… the stories go on and on. Despite the heartache that we are dealing with, we are very appreciative of your professionalism and understanding in working with our family this weekend. As difficult as the decision was, we know it was what was best for Copa and are happy that we were able to be with him when he needed us most.

Thanks again to both you and your staff. You have an incredibly difficult job and we cannot say enough about how helpful and understanding you were with our family.

I had wanted to make a nice post with pictures and old memories but am finding that just putting the words down is difficult much less going through pictures. We buried Copa's ashes and a few items of his in our backyard flower garden under our rock that says The Rogers. Lucas knows that this is where Copa is and I've even caught him talking to Copa-which is pretty sweet. It is also very heartwarming as Lucas' security "blanket" is his "Copa dog"- a small beanie stuffed black lab-which he sleeps with and carts all around for the past 2 years-it has taken on a whole new meaning to us and just seems right somehow.

As I've grown older the one lesson I have learned over and over again is to never say never. After Copa died I swore that we would not get another dog for quite some time. However after realizing how much we miss having a dog around, how much our life revolves around an animal and how much Lucas loved having Copa we have decided to begin a new adventure with a puppy. I admit we are a bit crazy getting a new puppy the same summer we are having a new baby, but we'll figure out how to make it work. Seeing this puppy and getting excited about her has been healing for all of us. Although we know the new puppy will never replace Copa, we are excited for the adventures she is sure to bring to our family. She was born the day after Copa passed away, however we will not get her until the weekend of June 12th. We will be sure to keep you all posted on the newest addition to the Rogers house.

Thanks again for every ones support with cards, phone calls and thoughts. It really means a lot to us to have support from all of you during a really sad time for us.

Yeah we are grown ups with real furniture!!!

2010-04-22T20:44:00.005-04:00

After realizing that both Lucas and our unborn child have completely furnished rooms that were nicer than ours it was well time we spoiled ourselves and bought a bedroom set. After looking for a couple of years, researching and saving Chris and I purchased our new bedroom set and we got it this week---We love it! I apologize to all of you who had to hear our...well mine if we are being honest....whining about the wait for our furniture--Mr Amish man finished the set in three months!!!

The pictures don't quite do it justice---it is awesome! Unfortunately Lucas is no longer able to get into our bed--I may not be able to with out the help of a stool for much longer with this growing belly!

Here are just some fun pictures of Lucas over the last week in case you wanted to see something cuter than furniture--

Lucas loves to play basketball with his dad--he laughs so hard that I can't stop laughing to take a video--they are so funny!

Unfortunatley I did not get better pictures but here is Lucas at his first OSU spring scrimmage--

20 week appointment

2010-04-12T16:27:00.005-04:00

On Wednesday April 14th we had our 20 week ultrasound. We are happy to report that the baby is fine and growing right on schedule. Baby's heart beat was a healthy 155 and it's weight was in the 83 percentile.....apparently I like to grow chubby babies! Here are a few pictures of Rogers baby number 2.

This is the video of Lucas looking at the baby pictures for the first time. He is already being a very good big brother. He hugs and kisses the baby every night before bed!

Easter 2010

2010-04-12T16:24:00.009-04:00

This year for Easter we were joined by Sue and Jerry who drove to us in Columbus. They drove so that they could bring us Grandma Johnson's china hutch and some living room tables. We were so hopeful that it would match out dining room set---we are happy to report that it matches perfectly!!! I definitely think Grandma Johnson was watching over us as we got to finally display our (really mine as Chris could care less about dishes :)) beautiful china. We also got a few pieces from both of Chris' grandparents which is so nice to have along with our own pieces.

I cooked my very first Easter dinner and did ok. My fried Marla was able to join us for dinner, a walk and dessert. It was great having them all there! Here are a few pictures our week.

Lucas coloring eggs with Grandma Sue and Grandpa Jerry

Lucas finding his Easter basket

Playing outside and being goofy

vacation to Utah March 24trh-29th

2010-04-10T18:57:00.009-04:00

We enjoyed a spring vacation to Salt Lake City to enjoy the company of family, friends and previous co workers as well as catch some great basketball games. We were planning on staying half with our friends the Boliders and half with Melinda and Joe (Chris' sister and husband). Unfortunately Melinda and Joe had a pipe burst in their condo causing lots and lots of damage. We were bummed that we were unable to stay with them but we made the best of it and tried to see them as much as we could. We stayed with our friends Brian and Cathy Bolinder and their two children Grace and Nicholas. It was wonderful to see Grace all grown up and see Nicholas for the first time. Lucas had lots of fun playing with the kids (he loved Nicholas' trains!!). Cathy was nice enough to watch Lucas for the day on Thursday so we could watch the Sweet 16 rounds of basketball. On Saturday while Chris and I were at the game Melinda and Joe sat for Lucas--needless to say they passed the test--poor Lucas puked all over Melinda right after they paid their admission to the science museum. I left the game before half time to meet them and Melinda drove us to Urgent care while Chris stayed and watched the rest of the game. Lucas ended up having strep throat--as well as Grace and Brian!

We got to celebrate my birthday in Park City Utah (one of my favorite places) which was great. Melinda and Joe bought us lunch (I know right after our kid puked all over them THEY are buying US lunch?!?!?!) and we spent some time in Dolly's bookstore picking out a few books for Lucas. Overall it was a great vacation. We definitely love being in Columbus however did realize just how much we miss the beauty of Utah.Here are some pictures of our vacation.....
Lucas and Nicholas playing at the park by Brian and Cathy's house

Lucas, mom and dad playing on the playground --I bet this will be the last time mom will fit in a tube like that for a few months!

We took a trip to the Hogel Zoo --Lucas has only ever seen a giraffe once in his life so he liked watching them

Grace in the turtle shell

Brian and Nicholas on the train at the zoo

Baby #2

2010-03-22T08:54:00.002-04:00

Well we had our 17 week appointment today and are happy to report that all is "great" with the baby. He/she scared mom a bit at first as he/she was hiding however when his/her heartbeat was found it was definately found and pumping away at 160! My blood pressure is "awesome" and my weight gain is "perfect"-so I rewarded myself with McDonalds for breakfast cause I was starving! It is so different from last time when I was pretty chubby on top of having the weight nazi for a midwife. I actually feel great coming out of appointments instead of sad!! We are scheduled for our 20 week ultrasound on April 14th so we will report more then. Still do not need to be in maternity clothes yet--thank goodness for weight loss prior to pregnancy as I am working my way thru my collection of chubby pants--however I can't imagine this will go on much longer--I look a bit frumpy and honestly not sure if I even match today :)

Lucas is doing really well learning about the baby. He looked at my baby book with me yesterday and liked the pictures. He is very quick to tell Chris and I what the baby does and does not like. He knows he can't jump on me and wrestle like we used to as "the baby does not like that mom-it only likes hugs and kisses"--Ahh....how adorable. He continues to want to hug and kiss the baby before bed. Yesterday we did some spring cleaning and he found a baby doll that he had received last year sometime. The baby had to read books with us to "practice for the other baby mom". The baby had to be positioned just right on my lap like the real baby would. The baby took his nap with him and I head him in the monitor reading I love You Stinky Face to the Baby. We can't wait to see him as a big brother!! He is such a sweetheart. Well that is it for now. We hope everyone is doing well and hopefully are enjoying some spring time weather. Our tulips have almsot bloomed here!
We are off to Salt lake City on Wednesday morning so I will update the blog with lots of fun vacation pictures when we get home!!

The last couple of weeks.

2010-03-07T12:22:00.005-05:00

Here are a few pictures and video's of the last couple of weeks. Everything in Columbus is going well. We are looking forward to a family trip to Utah in a few weeks to see Chris' sister Melinda and her husband Joe, lots of friends and to attend the Sweet 16 Elite 8 round of the NCAA Basketball tournament. I'm also looking forward to spending my 34th birthday in my favorite city, Park City Utah, where we will have lunch, eat a candied apple and buy Lucas a book at Dolly's Bookstore--can you tell how excited I am since I have the day planned out already--can't wait!!!
The baby is busy growing (we are 15 weeks) and I am feeling well- our next appointment is March 22nd.
Lucas looking through the paper last Sunday telling mom which TV we should buy--so funny.

Lucas' babysitter Elizabeth brought this car over for Lucas as her little brother has grown out of it-- he had to try it out right away.

Last weekend we went to COSI (Columbus Ohio Science Institute)

Lucas and Chris enjoying the underwater exhibit

Lucas loves the water play area

He was really excited to get close to this turtle

COSI has a new Grossology exhibit that was pretty cool. Here is Lucas and Chris trying to remove the kidney and then Lucas wanting a turn for himself.

Lucas getting pooped out the rectum slide :)

Lucas was pretending he was Grandpa Jerry and taking Chris' heartbeat. The quote of the day was that "Grandpa Jerry really likes snot mommy" when we were at the exhibit learning all about snot.

Lucas was enjoying the toddler area

This weekend we enjoyed some unseasonably warm weather and we able to spend some time outside. Lucas thought it was fun to have a snow ball fight!

Grace this picture is for you! Copa was really enjoying the sunshine!

Lucas loved being outside for a short time today- he however has a cold and didn't last to long before getting tired

The Mouth of babes...

2010-02-21T20:14:00.008-05:00

We have had a busy few months of cravings, sleeping and more sleeping! I don't quite remember being this tired when I was pregnant with Lucas but I'm attributing it to chasing a toddler this time around! We were able to tell our immediate family about the baby when we were home for Christmas as it is never fun to share this kind of news over the phone. We had asked those who knew our secret to keep it a secret for a a bit until we could share however we had a few scary weeks which included a two early ultrasounds (I'll figure out how to scan those at some point) and we then decided to wait until after the first trimester just in case. Last week would have been our 12 week appointment and we were so excited as then we can finally share our news! Well in true Columbus form our appointment was cancelled as the office was closed due to snow....6 inches of snow--Grr... So we had to wait until this morning for a 13 week appointment. Our doctor stated that we are now considered a "normal pregnancy" and all looks great! Thanks to all the family members who kept our secret (or thanks to those that found out and just didn't let us know that you knew :P) Our new little one will come in late August. Here are a few questions that have been asked already so I figured we'll get them all done in one shot...

1. Will we find out what we are having? No-Chris and I said we would not find out unless there was more than one baby--and thank goodness there is not more than one baby :)

2. What does Lucas think? He doesn't really get it yet. He knows mommy has a baby in her belly and that is why he can't tackle her but he also thinks he has one in his belly as well. Two of his three teachers are pregnant so everyone around himis growing a baby!!

3. Has this pregnancy been very different? We had some complications between week 5-8 however they seemed to have work themselves out. Other than that things have been similar, but you might get a different answer from Chris :) I think he thinks I am a bigger pain this time around!

4. Do we have any idea what we are having? My gut at this point would be to say it is another boy as I feel pretty good now. Chris says earlier that he thought it was a girl as she was already adding drama however now he reports not being so certain.

5. Do we have names picked out? We have a few that we are throwing around but we are keeping those to ourselves for while :) We learned our lesson with Lucas on that one :P

6. How much time off can we take? I will take 12 weeks and Chris gets two weeks off. If all goes well maternity leave will put me back to work the first of December--which sadly for us may mean no trip home for Christmas as I will not have vacation time...bummer. Anyone up for Christmas in Columbus this year?!?!? hee hee

We are very excited and anxious to meet this new little one. Again thanks for keeping our secret-- I know it was difficult to not share such fun news--believe me we know!!

Lucas is getting sooooo big!

2010-01-12T19:45:00.004-05:00

This weekend marked a few first for Lucas. On Saturday Lucas decided that he wanted to wear underwear and not a diaper. I was certain he was not ready for it yet however what the heck. He did do this great pose in his Lightening McQueen underwear. We will be waiting until he is a little more ready to try this experiment again ;)

Lucas also slept in his big boy race car bed!! He loves it. When we get in the door from work he has to race upstairs to "see my race car bed". I've never seen a kid so excited to go to sleep. This weekend we will transition him to his big boy room as he seems to really be into it. I guess we take our cue's from him. The second picture is him rolling around and around in his bed.

Here is Lucas painting on his new easel!