Roll Family

First Laugh

2008-08-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

Yea! Blogger has video! Well, let's see if it works!

Wednesday was bath night at the Roll household. After Stella is finished, we go sit in the bathroom and wait for Jed to finish. In the past Stella has gotten cranky, but she didn't - even though I thought she was crying at first. :) It's kinda long - a little over a minute, but that laugh is precious!

You may also like to know that Jed is finished with his potty training! He did a fabulous job! As we say around here, "He is a super-duper pooper!" (from a video that was loaned to us that he totally LOVED!)

An Active August Ahead!

2008-08-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

July snuck out without us having any 90+ degree days that I was dreading. After last summer and trying to stay cool w/ only one little one, I wasn't sure how I'd handle it with Stella being so new. But, God is good and there was very little heat that we needed to escape. I finally am finding some footing at home. I found it more difficult to transition into staying home due to illness - either mine or the kids. But we're all finally healthy and doing well. We've got a bit of a routine down. The ladies at the library should know us by name VERY soon. It's on our walking route most days and Jed always wants to go into visit the red-earred slider, Sally (she's a turtle). Tuesdays are a joy for me as we head to a park to meet other moms. Jed loves meeting Max there & running around all over with him. Jed is absolutely exhausted when we get home and sleeps most of the afternoon.
Stella continues to be a mellow baby. She is still sleeping through the night w/ 2 night feedings. She is starting to stretch out the time between some feedings. Last week there were at least 3 instances I remember of her going 5 or more hours between feedings. Sometimes this happens at night and sometimes during the day. She is getting to be a talker - always babbleing to someone or something. And she has LOTS of smiles. Mostly for mommy, rarely for daddy and sometimes for Jed. Stella continues to be a mommy's girl and is currently sleeping in my lap as I type. She won't sleep as sound and as long if I put her down. I'd rather have her sleep longer than put her down! And unless it's really hot - which it is not - or I have stuff to get done, then I'll put her down. Honestly - I love sleeping babies - watching them sleep, cuddling with them, the sleepy smiles - everything about it! It's still difficult to tell what color her eyes will be. Her hair gets longer all the time and is still red. Jed still is wonderful with her - though he is getting bold and telling us when he wants us to put her down and play with him only. "Sessa down play trains me."
Jed is getting new words daily. He's getting the gist of a sentence. He misses words like the, he, she, and and others. He'll fill in their spots w/ a small "uh." He is starting to sing the ABC's by himself and gets all the letters (except J) through P. He's trying to hum along or sing more words to song we hear often. And he's potty training - more later.

Here's some new pictures to delight your eyes! I'm not sure if this is inbetween smiles or fusses - but still cute.Stella smiling for mommy. Jarrod does get a bit jealous. He'll try to jump in and she'll just stop smiling sometimes and get her serious look back. Yeah! A great picture of Jed with a REAL smile!!! I LOVE it! When I say smile I get a big open mouth like he's about to catch a marshmallow or something and sometimes he'll stick his tongue out to boot!
We blew up the inflatable pool on a rather warm day and put both kidlets in with daddy. Jed loved it, Stell either enjoyed it or tolerated it - hard to tell which was the case. My guess is she enjoyed it just like her baths. She is SOOOO cute in her swimsuit.
A paci is a baby's best friend.
Jed got caught reading books by the book police. He was given a ticket to redeem for more books a.k.a. a trip to the library.
Ahh . . . potty training. Well, I really enjoy it. He does so well! At first we started out putting on a diaper at nap and bedtime. He was doing great w/ #1 on the potty, but it always worked out that #2 would be in a diaper. So, about 4 days into it all, he was walking around goofy and saying, "Mommy butt hurt." I knew he had to go #2, so I would explain it to him and sit him on his potty. He was refusing to go. Then he started asking for a diaper. I told him that he couldn't because it wasn't nap time. So then he crawls into his bed and announces that he's going to go "nigh night." Needless to say this went on for a few hours and I made 3-5 frantic/worried calls to other moms to make sure that I was doing the right thing by refusing nap time and a diaper. Eventually it all caught up to Jed and he pee'd on the floor. While I went to get carpet cleaner and towels, he #2'd on the floor. BUT you could tell he tried to get to his potty by the smear on it.
Later that evening, he was outside w/ Jarrod and tried the same routine with him. Soon I noticed Jarrod standing outside with a concerned look on his face. I rushed out to see Jed on the potty and squeezing/pushing with all his might. And this is where we all joyfully went a moment later:So, starting then, no more diapers. I asked Jed if we should give his baby diapers to nursery and he though that was a great idea - so we put them in a gift baby and on Sunday took them with us to nursery. He was so proud!
Here's my little guy on the blanket outside. I put the blanket down while Jed's playing for Stella to lie on. Jed always ends up on it because he wants to "cuddle Sessa."
Our little tomato lover! (I don't mind - helps keep him regular! :) )
There was a rail fair held at a park not far from our house. So we took Jed and got to tour the caboose and old steam engine. Jed was pretty scared due the noise of the horn that the kids could blow in the engine. We're lucky we got him in the caboose at all! Once inside he was just fine and enjoyed himself very much! It was treat for all to see the inside of "old timey caboose." I can't wait to go again next summer!

Our little tooth brusher - sometimes we have to do it for him.
After the rain fun for the whole family:
I'm not sure who's the bigger kid?
Jarrod does pull-ups in our tree. This makes Jed want to climb the tree. Then Jarrod wants to climb the tree! I'm just glad the branches are high enough that Jed needs assistance, otherwise, he'd be in there all day everyday!
Jed was racing his cars on a board Jarrod and I were turning into a corner shelf. It was adorable. Then we hear, "Fastest car ever!" Jarrod and I looked at each other in surprise!
Here's Smiley!
And here's Bright Eyes!
Ahh, my favorite - bedtime stories! I love it! Jarrod really enjoys it because it's the only activity that we can do with both of them. And it involves lots of cuddling!
It's time for breakfast - "Toast gel-lee." Notice the underwear:
I've got more pictures on my camera that I haven't yet had a chance to download. So, check back soon for more Roll Family Adventures! We just got back into town from my Mom's. Next week we'll be somewhere in IA with our small group, then a weekend home, to the Oswald's on labor day to meet baby Nate and Green Bay the weekend after for my cousin's wedding.

Jumpin' Into July

2008-06-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

Well, July 4th came and went and we have yet to see a fireworks show. Turns out Jed is terribly afraid of fireworks and ends up in hysterics if he hears them. Ugh . . . Everyone is assuring me that he will grow out of it. I sure hope so, because I love fireworks and miss them! On to the pictures!
Our first family photo together. I still can't believe that Jed has a "nice" smile rather than a big, goofy, open-mouthed grin. Being a housewife/stay-at-home mom is great! Until they both start crying at the same time. But moments like this one make it all worth while. I had run into the house to get us a drink. Came out to see this . . . so I had to run back into the house for the camera. By that time Jed figured out that I had seen him being sweet with Stella and had gotten up. So, to be honest, I made him pose for this one. It's still perfect!
This one was all him! What a little stinker!

Jed's still enjoying his basketball hoop. Jarrod has had to raise it twice all ready this summer! He does a great job and makes lots of buckets, even though he missed here. I thought his expression was too good to pass up!
What a helper Jed is! He was very interested in Stella's bath time so I asked if he wanted to help. He did a great job keeping her warm by continually pouring water over her. We did need to remind him a few times not to pour the water in her mouth.
Stella is just too cute! Honestly, I would love to have a picture of her cuddled up in her towel like we have with Jed. Soon she'll have enough neck & head control to do so! She's getting so strong.

We have been in search of a good sprinkler. This happens to be our third. The first was good for first time/summer in the sprinkler - it was Elmo shaped and would either mist or shoot one stream into the air. The second is a lady bug one that looked like it had a ton of potential - lots of streams in all directions out from the middle. Turned out that it couldn't get the water higher than about 10 inches off the ground and was not exciting at all! This one is great! It shoots water in all directions, has great water pressure - you can get the water quite high in the air and it has one super bonus feature (other than serving as a good drinking fountain). Notice the orange spiral tube - you put balls into it and they roll to the bottom and get launched by the water out of the green center tube. If you have the sprinkler standing straight upright, the ball will suspend in the stream of water (yea for Bernoulli's principle! [yes, I once taught Physics]).
Here's a synopsis of the conversation happening for the next picture:

Jed: Nose!

Mom: Did water go up your nose?

Jed: Yeeaaaaahh (slightly embarassed)

Kinda got a cute bath towel pic at the next bathtime. I just missed a smirky smile.

After church on Sunday, I thought I'd try to get a few cute shots of her in the pink polka dot outfit that I absolutely love! What a profile! What an adorable button nose!
It is difficult to get a good picture of the Stella. She's either wiggling too much or making a frowny or serious face. This one turned out pretty well.
Pretty girls in pink!

She changes so much over short periods of time . . . I'm sure this is not new to most of you . . .

I can't get over how precious she is.
Last week I was washing Jed's sheets which meant that he got to nap in the big bed. I was pretty pooped too, so after reading books, I think I fell asleep first. When I woke up I was sandwhiched between my precious babies. I hope I never ever forget how great that felt - to have them so close and so sweet. Since no one was around to take a picture for me, I have to just imagine myself inbetween the two.

She's a Month Old Already!

2008-06-17T11:18:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that June 14th was just this past Saturday? And that marks Stella's 1 month birthday. Wow - does time go by quickly. I'm so glad that I'm staying home now so I don't have to miss a thing! Stella is smiling and cooing now - mostly at Mom. Dad doesn't get it so easily. I don't remember Jed having such a preference. Funny. Jed is still a great Big Brother - more on that later!
Aunt Pam came up to visit us with Grandpa Tut and she made Thomas move! I thought that would be sweet fun for Jed. But he said "uh-uh, no," all the while shaking his head. Wow, was I wrong.
A few days later I was getting laundry done. I had the clothes folded & in baskets, left the room to tend to something and returned to find a child in one of them - watching one of his favorite shows - Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. It's his favorite because it flashed blue as they get ready to ask the question, yellow if it's a correct answer and green for the correct answer when the contestant is wrong. He proudly yells out the correct colors. It's quite amusing to watch.
Jarrod and I finally set up his train set. We've been collecting items for it for quite some time. We have track & trains from Grandma Tut, extra track, trees, house & animals from garage sale-ing and a few "specialty" items that Jarrod & I hand picked. Can you see the railroad crossing in there??
We put it all together while Jed was napping and after waking up & snack time, we brought him in to see it. Wow - he was a bit overwhelemed, but quickly went right to work, making the crossing arm move up and down. He loves to go "UP!" to play "choo-choo" all the time. He'll even 'disappear' and I'll hear a tiny voice chatting away upstairs with a few "woo-woo" or "ding-ding-dings" thrown in.
I can't say enough about this window. We love it! I'm going to put a baby gate in front of it when I'm not upstairs - just to be safe. But how precious - he's watching the birds outside in the yard pulling up worms.

Dad and Jed have lots of fun "hopping" on the bed together. They also play "Spider-Jed." Jed loves to crawl along the ceiling to be dropped onto the bed unexpectedly.
We went for a family hike last weekend in Hixon forest. We all loved it. It was a bit buggy - even with bug spray. Jed was a hoot! And he did get tired after awhile and needed a piggy back from Daddy.Jed admired the really big trees in the forest and I discovered what he thought tree trunks were for - scratching your back! (That's why the picture is blurry.)
Stella slept the whole time in the babybjorn. Jed was always making sure that Mom and Baby didn't get left behind.

It can be hard at times to put down the baby to play with the toddler, but Stella made it easy this time. She really seemed to enjoy looking at Jed's Thomas pillow and I even caught her cooing and smiling at it a few times. How precious.
Jed found this camera and loves it. He'll walk up to you and tell you to say "cheese" and snap your picture. I just happened to have the camera with me at the time.

He had to take a portrait rather than a landscape!
Stella's bathtime is so enjoyable for all - she doesn't cry! She is so alert and attentive during her baths and quiet! Here she couldn't take her eyes off me.
First off - can you believe this red, curly hair?? I love it!

Jed & I were out walking with Stella and he fell and scraped up his knee pretty good. He handled it really well until we got home and I was trying to clean it up. It all started when Stella woke up mad (which is rare) and was screaming. Jed was more concerned that I take care of her than his knee. Since I, being the all knowing and wise mommy that I am (not), continued to care for his knee while telling Jed that Stella was OK and could wait, Jed got upset and started crying - hard. It was a catastrophe! Next time, I'll pacify the baby first. Here he is kissing his own owie.

Here's a "pouty" face that has a hint of giggle to it.
Now for the "Awe, how cute" pictures:

Jed asked to hold Stella. They were so cute together - each with their paci that I just couldn't not take a picture. In the 5 seconds it took me to run & grab the camera, Stella had fallen asleep and spit her paci out on Jed's lap.
Then she woke up and was very content cuddling with her big brother.

Then she started fussing, so Jed helped her with her paci. And she fell asleep again. The two of them sat that way for at least 15 minutes before Jed started pushing her off of him. Now I just need to teach him to ask me to take her back.
Stella just loves to be swaddled. I swaddled her the other night and she was so angelic looking on our bed I could hardly stand it.

I am continually amazed by my kidlets. They each grow and develop in their own unique way. Just yesterday, we were playing upstairs with the trains. Stella was content hanging out on Jed's bed (only with his permission) while I ran downstairs to get some water. I heard Stella start crying and hurridly gathered my glass, Jed's sippy cup and some pretzels to snack on. Before I even got to the stairs, the crying subsided. I peeked around the corner to see Jed with his chin resting on his hands gazing at Stella saying, "OK Sessa, OK" and when she would spit her paci out, he would put it back in her mouth as gentle as a toddler could. My heart melted.

I just love being a Mom. I love how God can reveal more about his heart for me through my role as Mom. Just the other day, Jed was off a ways playing. It was time for him to come by my side. I called to him a few times before he began making his way toward me. He moved slowly but I kept encouraging him that he was doing the right thing. A few steps later, he stopped, looked back then started crying. Immediately I thought of how God will be asking me to do something and I ignore his request or move slowly - while kicking, screaming or complaining about it. I thought about how God responds to me in those moments. He doesn't yell or call names. He keeps requesting and sends encouragement my way when I take steps toward him. So, in desiring to love my son in his disobedience, I told him that he was being a good boy coming to Mom and to keep walking toward me rather than telling him to stop crying or angrily calling out to him or just snatching him up and telling him he was being naughty. I was amazed at Jedidiah's response. His crying didn't stop, but he kept walking toward me, knowing that what he was doing was right, even though he didn't want to do it. When he reached me I gave him the biggest hug with lots of kisses and lots of praise and thank yous. His tears quickly disappeared and proud smiles decorated his precious face. Sometimes, it is difficult to do what God is calling you to do, but if you act in obedience to Him, you won't be disappointed.

The First Weeks Home

2008-05-30T05:56:00.000-07:00

Well, we've made it two weeks at home so far and adjusting to having 2 little ones is not too bad. It helps that Jarrod is home most of the week with paternity leave.

Our stay in the hospital was wonderful. We were able to get much more sleep this time around. Our nurses were wonderful and very supportive of us getting lots of rest. We didn't have too many visitors, but some of our friends from our small group came up to see Stella. It was very a laid back and relaxing time overall.

We got home Friday afternoon and were so blessed to have my sister waiting for us. We had been planning on her visiting this weekend for over a month since she'll be in Washington state all summer completing a PT clinical experience. Her presence made the transition so much easier, as she was able to do whatever Jarrod and I were not able to do at the moment. She played with Jed, made dinner, cared for Stella while we slept and so much more! Thank you Pam! She brought Jed a surprise (below). He just loves this Thomas tent (except when it walks around!).

We were blessed with the free gift of a used double stroller (Thank you Peterson Family!) which Adam(Pam's boyfriend) spent over an hour cleaning up and oiling. He was using the shop vac from which Jed found this "telescope" for optimum train watching. Here's Stella! She sleeps well at night - now we just need to master this thing called nursing. Then we'll be all set!
Jarrod, bless his heart, wanted to do something special to encourage me, so he picked up some chocolate doughnuts! Yum! We were enjoying a lazy morning when I realized that Jed was in the kitchen and very quiet. I looked over to see him grab a doughnut out of the box and take a BIG bite. He was so proud that he was able to help himself to breakfast.
Stella's second bath. She didn't like the first one either.

Stella's favorite place to sleep is either on Jarrod or I. We both don't mind it one bit.
It was absolutely gorgeous out sometime last week (time is already slipping away from me). Since we all wanted to be outside, we had to bring Stella too. It's hard to enjoy the outdoors when the littlest one should not be in the sun.
Jed's trying out Stella's papasan chair, err . . . his papasan chair?
Do you think someone really enjoys being Dad? I do!

Jarrod and I overestimate Jed's ability to play anything that requires some sort of organization. So we picked up tee ball for him. He hits the ball really well off the tee and thinks it's great fun.
But, he has just as much fun putting flowers in the hole in the tee!

And to leave you with something so sweet . . . a twinkling star!

The Day A Star Was Born

2008-05-18T14:11:00.001-07:00

First, a few cute pics of Jed:

Here Jed is telling us that there are two trains. You can't really tell, but there are two and they are heading opposite directions. This has been common lately - Jed gets quite excited exclaiming "Two! Two!" I'll ask, "Two what?" to which he'll reply, "Choo-choo!"

Jed has taken to watering anything. It started with watering his sand and water table - and not just the water end. Then he began watering my plants on nice days. Then Grandpa Tut (Papa Tut) came and planted a few cherry tomato plants for us in the back garden. Everyday Jed will fill his watering can, point to the back and say, "Papa Tut" and then lead us around back to water "his" plants.

This was taken on May 5. We were out enjoying a beautiful Saturday (or Sunday) when we realized that we didn't have a picture of my big, pregnant belly. Wow! It doesn't look so big from above.

On to our story:

Tuesday, May 13 was my last day teaching for quite some time. I had a blast with my students - celebrating the year and the baby. We took tests, ate food and then played the Wii. Saying goodbye wasn't fun, but I will be back to help write finals and enter some grades sooner or later. Then on to graduation to see them walk! (Congrats!! all you seniors!)

Wednesday I awoke praying that I would not have to wait long for our little girl to arrive. The thought of waiting like I did with Jed (12 days) was not my idea of fun, but I would have trusted that God had a plan. Well, his plan was much different than I had expected and much better than anything I could have hoped for. I send Jed off to KK's and Jarrod off to work, took a nap, went and then got my hair cut (Mike is the best!). On the way home, I called Jarrod and suggested that I drive out and visit him for lunch - so we had a wonderful date at Ginny's Cupboard in Sparta. It's the same place that we debriefed after our first doctor appointment for our first pregnancy - so it was a little sentimental. Driving home, I was just exhausted. I had been going full throttle for days - trying to have not only Jed prepared and the house ready, but my classroom ready for my absence. So I took a 2 hour nap in the recliner. It was wonderful. I was having contractions at that time, but it was the status quo for the past 3 weeks. I went to pick up Jed and spent about half an hour talking with KK (she's such a dear friend and great babysitter!) I noticed the contractions getting stronger, but it had happened before with no triumphant end. So, Jed and I went to the grocery store, came home and played outside waiting for Jarrod to get home. At this point, I started timing contractions, just in case: 10 minutes apart, 30 -45 seconds long.

Jarrod got home, took Jed on a walk and I started making dinner. I was taking my time(a.k.a. watching the news) because I knew that they can take some long walks. But tonight they made it home earlier than I expected, so off the kitchen to make dinner. I go the meat frying and started on the rest of it. At this point the contractions we about 8 minutes apart and 30-45 seconds long. Still bearable. Next thing I know I'm on my knees in the kitchen and still convinced that it would end without a trip to the hospital. Jarrod and Jed came in to check on dinner during one of those on my knees moments and seeing Jed's face convinced me that it was time for him to go to KK's. But we still dilly-dallied. The false alarm on Saturday night made us cautious of dealing with another false alarm because we didn't want to inconvinence KK and her family any more than we had to. At this point I left the kitchen to just relax as much as possible & Jarrod was finishing dinner, repacking Jed's bags and playing airplane with Jed while I was contracting. Jed did not like it when the contractions came, hence airplane. Otherwise, he really just wanted "Mama." So we would cuddle in the chair(below), waiting for Daddy to come and play airplane every 6-7 minutes for about 45-60 seconds.At 7:00, Jarrod ran Jed over to KK's. Jed was not hesitant to leave - I had to specifically ask him to come and give me hugs and kisses. I was so sad to see him go.

Jarrod returned to re-pack our bags since I had scavanged items from them since Saturday's false alarm. After the bags were packed & in the car, Jarrod sat down to make sure that I was in the serious stage of labor. He had a more difficult time judging this because I was still joking with him about some things - for example when he took my picture on the couch in the middle of a contraction (which you will not see on this blog). But when I started crying saying that I can't do this, he realized it was definately time to go.

The car ride down to the hospital wasn't bad. The ride up to the 5th floor in a wheelchair was awful. At 8:00 we were waiting for the nurses and midwives to get the tub full of water. Waiting was terrible. In addition, they have to monitor the baby first, ask you all these questions that I didn't have the energy or ability to answer due to the pain and they check to see how dilated you are (6 cm!). They also had to put in an IV since I hemorraged last time. I was frustrated because all I wanted to do was get in that tub - this made the pain worse. But the student midwife, Mary - bless her, spoke the most relaxing words to me - I don't even remember what they were, but I was able to relax through the contractions and take them one at a time. Jarrod was such phenomenal - answering all the admission questions, rubbing my back at the same time and reminding me of what was to come - that I'd get to hold her soon! He was the perfect partner through it all (and still is!! :) ). At one point all the nurses and midwives were making the final tub preparations when I yelled, "I feel like I need to push and my water just broke!!!!!" I'm not sure they heard much more than I need to push. Next thing I know I'm being ushered across the room and helped into the tub. I think I may have even cracked a joke at this point.

Once in the tub, I pushed a few times. At the third I yelled out to the nurses & midwives, "Fire, fire, fire!" (If you've had a child, you or your wife, know what I'm referring to.) I remember looking up at the nurses and midwives, seeing them look at each other with slightly clueless - this can't be happening yet looks. At this, one of them checked and said, "I feel a head - the baby is right there." These were the most encouraging words I've ever heard! I took the next pushes a little slower to avoid tearing and next thing I'm holding a little girl! She was so precious - didn't even cry right away. And so here's, Stella Lynn Roll:

KK and Unc brought Jed up to visit on Thursday evening around dinner time. We were able to meet him in the hall, love on him and when he was ready bring him in to meet little Stella. He was just wonderful with her. He looked at her with this geniune look of amazement and awe. He was so gentle with her. He touched her nose, her mouth and counted her eyes(the right one ended up with a slight poke), and then exclaimed, "Two!" We found her two ears, checked her hands and found her hair. He was so gentle and loving - he really made Mom & Dad proud! Since Jed is a lover of pacifiers, he was very excited to help her with hers (below).

I love this picture - it looks almost identical to one that we have with Jed, except it is Jarrod holding him, rather than me. Stella and Jed are making the same face!
When we got home on Friday, Jed was quite excited to see Mom & Dad and the Baby. He still refers to her as "Baby." The funny thing is we had taught him her name before she was born! He'd say it then, but not now. Here he is counting her eyes again. This has become a daily ritual.

Couldn't help but include this one. He is so precious giving her hugs and kisses. The best part is it is unprompted by Jarrod or I. We are such proud parents of two wonderful, sweet children. Thank you God for entrusting them to us!
Today we had the 5 day check up. It went really well. Stella is so very healthy. She has already surpassed her birth weight. At birth she weighed in at 7lbs. and 12oz. and was 20in. long. Friday, before we left the hospital, they weighed her again - 7lbs. 6 oz. Today, she weighed in at a wopping 8lbs. 2oz.! So in 3 days she gained 12 oz. Wow!

When she was born, her hands and feet were quite wrinkly - which is normal with a baby on time. Jed was late so he didn't have wrinkly feet and hands. Today I noticed that Stella's wrinkly feet & hands are gone - they've plumped up already! This brought tears to my eyes - she's growing up too fast. This is the same sentiment that I felt at about the same time in Jed's life (and it's on tape).

Jed is still growing up too fast. He knows his alphabet, numbers 0-10, colors and can identify shapes. He is surprising us with new word(s) everyday! Yesterday's word was tall. He stood on the couch, reached up and said, "Tall." Wow! Today he surprised me with "Juice."

Well, honestly, I'm a tired Mommy, so I'm signing off for now. Since I am an official stay at home mom now, we hopefully have more timely updates - so stay tuned! Thanks for all your prayers and support - we love you all very much!

Urgent Prayer Request

2008-03-04T09:36:00.001-08:00

Hello family and friends. I am asking that you join with us in unashamed, confident prayer, for a miracle. A young woman, just a few years older than I is very sick. I met her on my summer project in Lake Tahoe during the summer of 2002. Her name is Lora and she has impacted my life in ways that I am still discovering. Her witness and example of how to be a Christian woman will never leave me. Rather than repeat her story here, please visit her here:

www.caringbridge.org

To get to her site, in the space that asks for a name, type in 'lorakesselhon' in all lowercase with no spaces. I will put a link in our sidebar.

Feel free to sign her guestbook with words of encouragement. Thank you!

We're Seeing Pink!

2008-03-01T12:01:00.001-08:00

Well, it's been a long time since the last post. The posts are getting farther and farther apart. Not necessarily because we're slackers, but because Jed really likes to have both Mum & Da-dee around him. So it can be difficult for one to sneak off and update the blog or balance the check book or even just use the toilet!

I suppose I should start off with the good news. It's a girl!! And at our check up last week, she's doing well. I'm doing well - except when she decides to do a flip - as that is not too comfortable. Here's a picture of Jarrod & "Cinna-bun's" profile. (My students have nick-named the baby.)

Here are some Christmas time highlights as this Roll family went on the trip fondly referred to as "Four Families in Four Days." (It's actually 5 if you count the extended family on my Mom's side). Traveling at the holidays really takes alot out of us. So, we're working on rethinking it. But it's not easy! : ) Derrick (below) was Jed's buddy at G&G Roll's. Derrick was getting some "Daddy Practice" as he and Amy were awaiting their little one who was born last week! Congrats Derrick & Amy!
Here's Jed at G&G Oswald's getting a ride on. The coolest part are the buttons that make lots of different construction type noises.
Jed and his trains . . . . "Whooo whooo!" (We don't leave home without 'em!)They be jammin! Uncle Ryan was rocking out and Jed was holding his own for a toddler and first time drummer. Jed loves this picture. I still need to get a print made for his room. He really looks up to Uncle Ryan and Uncle Kevin.Jed at Grandpa Tut's house. Grandpa put up the old electric train that used to be his as child, which he also brought out at Christmas' when I was little. Jed was in his glory - he loved running around yelling "whoo whoo!." We tried to get a picture of him with his 2nd cousins Ciara and Kira, but his was just too excited about that train.Here's Jed at Grandma Tut's house. He got a Percy wooden engine and was completely in awe. Here we are at home about four days later having our own Christmas Celebration. We found Jed a wooden train whistle. Jed didn't want to blow it so he had Da-dee do it.One of the many pictures we have of Jarrod & Jed playing outside in the snow. This is one of their first adventures outside. Jed enjoyed climbing up the large pile of snow and sliding down on his bottom. Every once and awhile, Jarrod would hide on the other side and "Surprise!" Jed. He thought that was great fun. All tuckered out from an afternoon in the snow. Jarrod just soaked up every moment of that nap since this is the first time Jed slept on either of us in about a year or more. (We really miss those naps!)Jed is soo proud that he can "swim" in the bathtub. He's getting more and more brave with each bath - putting his face in the water and attempting to blow bubbles, pouring water over his head and more!Jarrod had taken about 5 days off so we could spend time together and do a little rearranging of the house before the baby comes. During this time, Jed would get to watch his new Thomas & Friends Videos while Jarrod & I moved furniture. He loved cozying up in his Thomas chair with his Thomas blanket.Once the rooms were finished, we discovered how much fun it was to play upstairs in the big room. It is so much more spacious with the new arrangement. The train table(below) will have a train set up on it when the baby comes. But for now it makes a great bowling alley, racetrack and building block space. You can also see that we converted the crib to a toddler bed. Our little man is so grown up. Across from the toddler bed, from where the previous pic is taken is my old couch. It a great place to read about ladybugs and other stuff. Sometime this summer, the couch will find a new home and a twin bed will take it's place. Then the toddler bed will be converted back into a crib. Wow! Such transitions! I think Jed will be very excited to have a "big" bed.Another picture of Jed and the snow. He enjoys playing outside soo much. I'm very thankful that we were able to find some great boots and warm snowpants. He does not like to come back in the house - even after an hour or so outside. He adopted a slotted spoon from the kitchen which has come to be fondly known as the "snow spoon." Jed is very content to walk around the yard and scoop snow. Sometimes he'll even toss it in the air.

Another favorite of Jed's is Da-dee's tape measures. Here he is mimicking Jarrod by measuring our refrigerator. If he's anything like his dad, he'll be quite the handyman.We've rediscovered the joy of a clothesbasket. For about 3 weeks Jed would ask for rides around the house in them. But with the quickly expanding belly, Da-dee was the only one who could wield the toddler-ladden basket. So, while waiting for Da-dee to come home, we would put Jed's favorite things in the clothesbaskets and make little nests.Another fun aspect of our house is this low window on the second floor. The best part is that we have an ottoman that fits perfectly between the two walls that flank it. It is the perfect window seat. Jed is often found sitting reading a book or watching Da-dee snow blowing the driveway. This time I found him with his pillows, stool and new Hot Wheels ramp. Does he look like a little king on his throne or what?

We don't have much for pictures from his second birthday party, so we're hoping those of you that were there to celebrate would be willing to share them with us. We can hardly believe that he has been in our lives for two full years. We are so thankful for him, as he has been and will continue to be a blessing in our lives. Thank you to all our family and friends that have been supporting us and praying for us and specifically Jed. We are looking forward with excitement about what God has in store for this particular Roll family and hope that you will all continue to share in the journey with us.

Still alive in Onalaska.

2007-11-14T17:18:00.000-08:00

Here we are and it's all ready November - Thanksgiving is just a few days away. It doesn't seem as though that much time has passed. Jed's toddlerhood keeps us on our toes. He is always busy and active. Jarrod is still keeping it real. Jarrod and I joined a small group of younger couples, from our church, with younger children that meets once a week. In addition, Jarrod meets with a few guys once a week and I've been getting together with a few good women as well. In addition, Jarrod has accepted a part time job helping the Onalaska Historical Society to get their catalog of stuff in professional order. And we've had a few gravestone cleaning/photography jobs on the side. God has been very good to this particular Roll family. I'm enjoying my new teaching position at G-E-T. The staff is wonderful and the students are great. But teaching Chemistry is the best!

Well, on to what most of you come to view - pictures of Jed!

Jed at the Labor Day Parade. We found out once we were all ready there that it is known as the "candy" parade. Luckily we knew the family sitting next to us and they had an extra plastic bag.

Jed loved all the fire trucks and ambulances. It was his first parade - he finally got the hang of it near the end. About a month later we took him to the Octoberfest Torchlight Parade which is held after dark. He absolutely loved everything - the marching bands, the dancers/twirlers and of course all the emergency vehicles!

Jed-zilla!

Jed was out playing the mud. Silly boy. Still cute though.

We've got a concrete pad in our driveway. It's not big enough to park a car on, but it's great for sidewalk chalk and playing Little Tikes basketball.Found this trike at a garage sale for cheap. It's in great condition. Jed just can't quite reach the pedals. He likes to sit on it and get pushed around.

The colder weather seemed to sneak up on us. But we still manage to get out a little bit before dark comes. I'm sure that it won't be that way much longer. Jed just loves to watch the trains. He's actually in mid jump. He's just starting to get a little tiny bit of air.
Jed playing in his water-sand table w/o the water.He moves just a bit too fast these days. Fresh Fall Leaves. He really likes the leaves. They make him giggle.Since our house is pretty drafty, I insisted Jed have a bathrobe to wear around the house when he's in his PJ's. Jed just loves it - and he is sooo handsome.Jed is becoming quite proficient at stacking blocks. He's becoming quite the builder.
Super-Jed!
Again - what a handsome boy. We didn't go Trick-or-Treating this year, but he did go to a Harvest Festival w/ KK and her family.

This little man loves to sit on the stools at our counter when I'm cooking in the kitchen. He colored with crayons for awhile, but now likes to sit around and play with whatever is available. He did get some small tubs of Play-doh at the Harvest Festival. He enjoys pulling the dough out of the canister and then putting it back in again.

Hmmm . . . looks interesting.

Jarrod got Jed to try pulling out the insides twice. Then Jed didn't want anything else to do with the pumpkins.

Jed especially didn't like them once we put the candles in them and turned out the lights.

Strawberries, Keyboards & A Contest!

2007-07-31T19:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to the Roll Family Blog. With Jed being the On-The-Go guy that he is, I'm finding it more and more difficult to take any pictures of him. As soon as I've got the camera in hand, he stops doing whatever cute thing he was doing to do something else that is more mundane. Or all I get are blurry images. SO, here are the few gems that I got the past couple weeks.

Jed really likes to type. Usually he is sitting in our lap with his keyboard on the desk, since that is where keyboards are found. But I watched with amusment as he carried his keyboard out of the office, into the living room and plopped it on the chair. He then proceeded to climb onto the chair and peck away.

Ahh . . . this is Jed in his glory - sitting down for a snack of strawberries. I wish I could catch the excited look he has and his exlaimations of joy as I bring them over.

Classic Jed. He loves to spontaneously point out lights in any room he may be in. He does the same with ceiling fans and basketball hoops as well.

"Be gentle with horsey," Mommy says as Jed tries to poke him in the eye.

And now for the Contest: Can you guess what Jed has on his face in the picture shown below?

The Winner will receive a batch of home baked goodness as Jarrod likes to say. That would be a batch of either chocolate chip cookies or oatmeal raisin (your choice) either hand delivered or mailed to your home (depending upon your location relative to ours).

Here are the rules & requirements:

1) You must be a family member or friend of this particular Roll Family (I don't see this as being an issue, but just in case . . .)

2) You have to leave your guess as a comment on our blog. Yes, that may mean registering, but you won't get any junk mail.

3) The first 5 people with correct answers will have their names in a drawing for the batch of cookies.

4) The last day that you will be able to post a guess will be August 15.

Now get guessing!!

End of July Activities

2007-07-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm officically gearing up for the school year. Today I head up to GET to help tear out some cabinets and rearrange the room, try out my new desk chair and whatever else I need to do. I expect to be there for the majority of the week. Jarrod & I are also helping with Vacation Bible School for a few days this week. Jarrod is in charge of the games. We spent last night gathering matching items, blowing up balloons and water balloons.

This weekend we were busy with projects around the house. We bought an iron table with 4 chairs. It needed to be repainted, so we used metal brush on it, washed it, primed it and painted it! It looks great. Once it is put back together I'll take a pic and put it up so you can see it.

Last weekend we had a nice visit with Grandpa & Grandma Roll. They brought Jed a little tikes basketball hoop and mini-basketball. He is now the envy of the neighborhood. Jed is very good at dunking and stares in wide-eyed amazement when anyone dribbles the ball. I'd put up a pic, but he is always moving too fast and they are all blurry. So pray he pauses just long enough for a pic.

Jed also took a real good tumble off the couch and landed on a wood cart for his wooden blocks. We sat for 20-30 minutes yesterday watching Bob the Builder just so he would let me hold a cold pack on his head. It is a doozy - you'll see. I think this is a consequence of Mommy & Daddy roughhousing with him on the couch - oops. Now he thinks he can jump around on it by himself. We'll have to start modeling roughhouse on the floor rather than on the couch.

Here's some fun things that Jed has done this past month that I forgot to write in the last two posts.
-He's trying to talk - he can say Mom, Momma, Ma, D, Daddy or Da-dee, "K-K", truck, Oh Boy!, this and that, cheese (kinda)
-When playing with a phone, he jibber-jabbers - sooo adorable.
-He is stacking blocks.
-He is "playing" with his farm - driving animals around in the tractor and such.
-Dancing and spinning
-Trying to jump
-Almost able to go up and down small steps by himself
-Puts his hand to his ear for various sounds - the most common are trains, big trucks, police/ambulance or fire truck sirens, planes and more
-Looks to the sky when he hears a plane or helicopter
-Beginning to "type" with one finger instead of key mashing
-can drink from a straw
-Likes to draw with writting utensils, but gets them taken away because he chews on them.
-Has a molar or two with more on the way. Strange says the dentist because he only has 3 top teeth and 2 bottom ones.
-Gives kisses & hugs
-Wants his owies kissed by mom
-Will kiss your owie
-Will wave goodbye to his books when you finish reading
-points out motorcycles, lions, ladybugs, monkeys, giraffes, elephants, trucks, fire engines, cars, butterflys (& moths), strawberries, apples and tons of others when you read books.
-Is finally attached (not too much) to his baby bear
-LOVES Thomas the Train
-Gets upset when Daddy leaves
-Drums on his drum
-Has a bottle before bed and about half the mornings
-Will bring an object to you if you ask or take an object to someone
-Helps put things away or pick up when asked

Well, I think I'm running out of new things. Maybe Jarrod can add some - he always thinks of ones I don't. We're a great team that way.

Oh, and check out the following websites:
One is linked over there under links - Roll Family Scrapbook Pages, the other is http://www.rivervalleynewspapers.com/articles/2007/07/30/business/7-29%20saving%20stones.txt and finally http://saveyourstones.googlepages.com/ .

We really haven't told anyone that we started a business. Partly because we haven't had any business to speak of. But the local paper, the LaCrosse Tribune, called and wanted to feature Jarrod & the business as their Business of the Week. Wow! Thought you might be interested in the article. I also included our website. For some strange reason, 4 out of 5 times I get an error message when trying to get to it. Well, love you all! Pics coming within the next week.

Feeling A Bit Guilty

2007-07-26T11:08:00.000-07:00

I have to apologize again for the funky formating in the last post. I'm not really sure what to do about it - so PLEASE, if you know how to fix it, please help! I've tried editing the post twice and it's not working.

So, if you haven't read the last post yet, you'll want to before you read what is coming up next.

I feel guilty . . . When Jed got home today, he spent 10-15 minutes wandering around the house saying, in his really cute way, "Oh no. Oh no!" He was obviously searching for something. It was so difficult to try to talk to him, knowing full well that I have done this. I tried interesting him in other toys to no avail. Thankfully Daddy returned home a little early and the car was a great distraction.

Well, I'm off. I'm in the middle of a digital scrapbook page with some pictures from our wedding. Love you all!!

July Happenings

2007-07-25T11:09:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I don't know how to get the big spaces out - maybe someone with some more computer knowhow than me can help me out! Leave a comment if you know how to help! Thanks in advance!

Wow – can you believe that it has been an entire month since the last post?! This summer is flying by and I can hardly stand it! I really don’t want it to end. I feel like I just transitioned out of the school year and am finally beginning to relax. But then I look at the calendar and realize that August is almost here. It’s time to start ramping up for the school year – a new challenge this year as I will bet at a new school.

Well, what has the Roll family been up to this month? Great question! A lot! I’ve been to two weeks of training, one for AP Chem and another for using Vernier products for the classroom. Both were wonderful weeks with so much to learn that I didn’t get everything in that I had hoped.

We spent the weekend before July fourth at my mom’s. Jed spent some time playing in, err drinking from his Elmo sprinkler. Silly boy. We all had a grillout together, as the Oswald’s joined us for dinner. Then we headed up to Sanitarium Hill to watch Rhythm and Booms! It was fabulous. I was a bit nervous that Jed wouldn’t like the noise from the fireworks, but he didn’t mind. He must be used to all the noise since we have a train running through our backyard at all hours of the day and night. He even curled up next to Aunt Pam and tried to fall asleep. A few minutes later, he was in my arms sleeping instead.

We have discovered the fun and exciting times at the Onalaska Aquatic Center. Jed loves it – especially the slide in the kid’s area. (Scroll down for pictures) Jed still gets very excited when Daddy gets home because he gets to play in the car for a little while. We also went to Jed’s second county fair (his first was last summer when we saw Uncle Ryan play for Battle of the Bands in Washington cty). Jed really enjoyed the fair – from the sheep, chickens, cows, rabbits to the rides and big “trucks.” It was entertaining to watch him gallivant around the small animal barn. He was acting a very proud – like he owned the place. As he passed the sheep, one bleated loudly in about a foot away from him. Jed startled and looked like his pride was squashed. I couldn’t help but smile at the new sheepish looking Jed.

The following day, we packed up the car to head to Verona to visit the Kilp’s family (see link to their blog in upper right). I haven’t seen Karen and Andy since May of 2005 – before our little ones were born. We had a wonderful afternoon meeting each other’s children, visiting, watching Jed and Bella “swim” in the pool and enjoying Butterburgers at Culvers – yum! I didn’t manage to take out the camera, but Karen put up a few of her pics on their site. Thank you Karen and Andy! (Andy - Congratulations on your ordination!) Then we drove up the my Aunt and Uncle Marquard’s cabin for the weekend. It was Jed’s first lake, boat, cabin and canoe experience. We enjoyed visiting with everyone there. And we definitely got a lot of visiting done since the weather was quite chilly for mid-July. Even Jarrod was wearing his jeans and a borrowed sweatshirt!

Drinking out of the sprinkler - a regular occurance. Really, he tries to drink out of anything that holds water - cups and glasses of course, but also the top of his water-sand table, drinking fountains, hoses, bathtubs, watering cans, puddles and the swimming pool.

He's so proud of himself!

I just found this picture - I didn't realize he fell asleep before curling up with Aunt Pam. He really must have been tired - I don't blame him since the fireworks didn't really get going till after 9:30om.

When we got back into town we were blessed to get to visit with Brooke who we haven't seen since our wedding. While she was over, she and Jarrod watched as Jed took a tumble in slow motion. It was one of those falls that doesn't look like it would cause any damage, but he had three small goose-eggs on his forehead. Here you can only see two.

Jed found my goggles in one of my boxes full of stuff from school. He though they were pretty cool to wear. All ready wants to be like Momma . . .

The goggles now reside in his toy box.

At the Aquatic Center on family nights you can take in floaties. Jed loves riding around the pool via Daddy power. I'm a bit worried that he is going to pop it because, as you can see, he chews on the built in "toy."

There is a really great children's play area with little fountains. He has a great time trying to "catch" the water.

Did he discover his ears? We don't know, but he will plug his ears at funny times - like at the pool. He also did this on a walk we took. Maybe it was too noisy walking by the busy road?

At the fair we found a large plastic cow. Jed was very gentle, petting it instead of pounding it. He really felt special up there - had to go back and sit on the cow later on in the evening.

He really liked all the animals. But he was most interested in petting the rabbits - maybe because we always see some in our yard.

His first carousel ride. We ended up sharing a horse but had a blast. I know that you can't really tell from Jed's look, but after we got off he was really excited. He wanted to ride again.

We found one other ride to take Jed on. He spent the entire ride showing concern, but when we got off, he was pointing to it and saying please in sign language. We didn't go back because it almost made Mommy sick to her stomach.

What a cutie - he thought it was pretty neat to sit in the tire.

Can you spot little Jed? I wish this picture was big enough to see his face! He's in the process of exclaiming "Wow!"

See the rainbow?

I am so blessed.

On a whim, I took his Thomas motorized train set out that he got from Grandma Tut for his 1st birthday. He was so excited! The only problem is that he doesn't have the skill, yet, to set Thomas back on the track if he falls off. Nor does he realize that he can't sit on the track or pull the track apart. When any of these things happen he starts screaming and crying. Not fun. We'll put Thomas away for a little while longer . . .

Jed liked spending time at the cabin. He also enjoyed the water and the boat ride. He did not like the life vest. He also did not like the band-aid we had to put on his foot to prevent his water shoes from creating another blister (the first one had just healed).

The Tuttle family tradition of taking a picture of the family by the car.

Jed can now climb. Is this a good thing or a bad thing? Let's see . . . he can get on our bed, the couch and the chair with out needing out help = good. He climbs the back of the couch to play with the lightswitch, climbs on his Lego bench to watch the trains out the window and can get his leg over the edge of the bathtub = bad. But cute. Hard thing is, cute is once only. The subsequent incidents are not cute.

Jed likes to throw objects into the bathtub - so before a shower, one of us is usually cleaning out the tub first. Yesterday I heard him throwing objects in and didn't think anything of it - it keeps him busy while I make dinner. Then I saw the door move to shut, but it didn't make it. Normally I wouldn't have even been concerned, but for some reason I checked on him. I looked around the door and saw feet in the air, his hands in the tub holding him in a hand-stand like position. He must have tried to get whatever he had thrown in . . . I was so funny, but you can't laugh (at least in front of them in the moment).

So, I said Thomas was going to be put away . . . Well, Mommy left a tiny corner uncovered. Big no-no. Jed really LOVES Thomas, so Thomas had to come back out to play. And the screaming began again, after we all had a lot of fun building tunnels around the track with blocks. This was difficult for Jed because when we usually build towers, he gets to knock them down.
I have to say how amazed I am at how bright and observant Jed can be - even when I am frustrated because it is getting more and more difficult to hide something or distract him.

Thomas ran out of steam (a.k.a. dead battery), so Jarrod promptly changed it. Jed watched Daddy so intently. Afterward Jed tried his hand at fixing Thomas too.

Shhh . . . don't tell Jed . . .
A few days later, Thomas was packed up and put in a red bag and hidden. We'll try again in a month or two.

Playground fun and other stuff

2007-06-23T13:37:00.000-07:00

The best thing to help Jed get moving after a nap is a snack - here a whole tomato and some crackers. Jed really likes his fruits and vegetables. He'll eat a dozen strawberries, whole nectarines, green beans, peas and more. I hope this lasts . . .

Jed's favorite toy.

Don't eat the bubbles . . .

Our little guy had an outpatient surgery. It was an early morning for the Roll family, but God is very good and provided strength and compassion for Mommy & Daddy, skill and discernment for the doctors and quick recovery along with a patient temperment for Jed.

Jed looking pensive on the playground equipment, after lunch - same day as the surgery.

He must have been feeling great because he wanted to go down the slide all by himself.

Two days post-op. Jed really enjoyed the bouncy thing at Kids Coulee.

If you haven't been to Kids Coulee, there are turrents and tunnels and winding narrow "staircases," swings, bouncy bridges and more. Jed was loving it. Here he is doing his "happy dance."

We had one tuckered out little guy. He actually didn't squirm for his diaper change and continued to lie on the floor "reading" this Baby Einstein brochure.

He didn't like me interrupting his reading by taking a picture.

Jed likes to help with the dishes. Normally he'll roll the dish holders in and shut the door, but this time he thought his box needed a good wash.

The long awaited pictures.

2007-06-21T17:21:00.000-07:00

Here are a sampling of pictures from the last six months of Jed's life. Hope you enjoy them as much as we have.

Hanging out while watching Mommy & Daddy shovel after a snow storm.

Hittin' the books with mom. Physics is fun! Yea!

Playing Uncle Ryan's piano.

This is where warm bubs come from.

Sharing Birthday cake with Mom & Dad.

Digging in to his second birthday cake - a week later due to a snow storm.

Spring is finally here! It's so nice to practice walking outside.

"I'm in a bucket!"

"Jed, you need to peel those first."

Practicing for the Strong Man competitions already.

So picturesque - darn that paci.

Exploring part of God's creation - weeds.

"Boats are meant to be banged together, Dad."

More practice.

"What do I hear? A Choo-Choo!"

Enjoying the gorgeous weather - and learning to draw.

Bike rides often end this way.

Asleep at the wheel.

What a semester!

2007-06-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

Whew! It has been a whirlwind of a spring semester here in the Roll household. But before I tell you a brief synopsis of the happenings we have a few announcements. No, we're not pregnant, but I did take a new teaching position at Galesville-Ettrick-Trempealeau High School teaching Chemistry, AP/Advanced Chemistry & a little bit of Physics! Finally within my certification areas! That means that the email address hroll@aquinas.la-crosse.wi.us as of right now is a very bad way to get ahold of me. If have your email address in my address book, expect notification of my new email address.

On to the happenings:
Jarrod continued lead a small group of youth and sporadically teach on Wednesday nights throughout the semester. He finished up by teaching a few times at our Adult Bible Fellowship Hour (Potter's Wheel). I am continually amazed at his passion and talent for teaching. Way to go Jarrod! (love you! :) ) Jarrod still loves the outdoors and is continually encouraging family bike rides or walks. Jarrod is an excellent father that is quite excited that Jed is reaching an age in which they can "roughhouse" a bit.
We hope to do a little bit of camping this summer - it'll help when Jed is finally sleeping through the night. He's getting better. Our hope is to hike Devil's Lake sometime this summer as well.
Jed is a handful - always wanting to be where the action is. He likes to "help" in the kitchen. When I say help, all he does is unpack the tupperware cupboard or pull all his magnets off the refrigerator. But, he is beginning to do a little picking up after himself. He loves to watch a few Baby Einstein videos (Thank you Lehman's for giving us our first two!). His favorites are Numbers Nursery and Baby MacDonald. He now can tell you what a cow, dog, elephant, kitty, fish and lion say. He is imitating our speech and the TV now. He is good at saying "Mommy" and is getting much better with "Daddy." His other two favorites are "uh oh" and "oh no!" He adores ladybugs (Thanks Grandma Tuttle :) ). He finds them in books - even before I'm aware that one is there. I'm trying to find a plush ladybug for him with no luck.
Jed is able to climb on a few furniture items and is very good about crawling up the stairs. He is beginning to want to walk up them like a big boy. I can't complain about his eating habits at all. He is an excellent eater. He likes almost anything -though he does still have some problems because he only has 4 teeth. The fifth actually just popped through last week and part of a molar also just started to break the surface.
There is so much more that he is doing, but you'll have to wait till the next post I guess. We miss you all so much and hope to see lots of you this summer! :) God Bless!

I apologize for not uploading pictures. There is technical problem either with blogger or with this computer. Thank you for your patience - we will get pictures up sometime this week! So keep checking!

Update Coming Soon!

2007-06-06T07:55:00.001-07:00

Hey all you Roll Family fans! Keep checking for an update - one will be here soon. We've had a very busy and interesting semester (as a teacher, I think I will always classify time by semesters . . . :) )

We've got lots of pictures of Jed and lists of all the exciting (or not so exciting) things he is now doing. So stay tuned!

"A horse is a vain hope for deliverance; despite all its great strength it cannot save. But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine."
-Psalm 33:17-19

All I want for Christmas are my two (bottom) front teeth!

2006-12-14T12:39:00.000-08:00

As I told you about a month ago, Jed started really teething. My question is: Where are the teeth? We have yet to see a pearly white in his little mouth. But, finally, he has bumps on his gums. He won't let us look, but every once and a while I can get my finger in there and feel around. Maybe he'll have two (lower) front teeth for Christmas!

Saturday morning breakfasts are special at the Roll household. We always have a large breakfast and eat together. The menu usually consists of whole wheat blueberry pancakes. Last Saturday was the first Roll family breakfast that Jed got to partake in. We gave him half a blueberry pancake - no syrup of course. He didn't know what to think at first, but after passing the pancake from hand to hand, pulling it apart, clapping it and squishing it in his fists he realized that blueberry pancakes taste great!

Last Tuesday, I picked up Jed from Karen's and headed home. While we were sitting and playing I noticed that his tongue would pop out of his mouth when he was concentrating. I stuck mine tongue out at him to see if he was aware of what he was doing. And, "pop," out came his little tongue again - this time amongst lots of smiles and giggles! He has discovered his tongue!

Jed has been doing lots and lots of new things lately. One is pulling himself up on the couch, toys and mom or dad, among other things. The first time this happened was Monday, yes, 4 days ago. I put Jed on the floor so I could check on dinner. I came back to the living room and he was standing at the couch! I couldn't quite believe that our little, squirmy, fussy, helpless Jed was standing there looking at me so proudly. Tuesday night, while I was running into the other room, I saw him begin to pull himself up the hassock - so I stopped to watch. He wanted my cell phone. I now need to be more aware of where I set things down - not all objects, just the ones that only mommy and daddy are allowed to handle!

Examining the blueberry pancake.

Enjoying blueberry pancakes!

A rare glimpse at the elusive tongue. Who would have thought it could be so cute!

"I think I can, I think I can . . ."

Success!

First look at our decorated and lit Christmas tree.

"Hey, the blinking things on the tree are pretty cool! I think I'll give them a round of applause."

Jed really loves his "ba ba."

Jed On Tour

2006-11-27T12:43:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend visiting lots of families - which Jarrod dubbed "Jed On Tour." Even with all the hustle and bustle of traveling between 4 families we are so blessed! Jedidiah had an especially fun weekend - he enjoys being the center of attention. Jarrod and I enjoyed being able to sleep in a few mornings - Grandma and Grandpa Oswald watch Jed when he wakes up at 6:30 in the morning. That was the first time in about 9 months that Jarrod and I awoke and saw that the clock read 10:00am! :)

Jed eating his favorite food - green beans - all by himself! What a big boy!

I wonder who has more fun at bathtime - Jed or Mom & Dad?

Much to Mom and Dad's surprise, Jed will climb out of his car seat if you do not buckle him in right away!

Enjoying Mommy's balloon.

Jedidiah has taken a great interest in his books lately. He enjoys looking at all the pictures and turing the pages. Here he is standing up and using his book for a drum.

Sharing his zwieback toast with Grampa Oswald.

Reading his favorite book - 5 Little Ladybugs.

The rest of the pictures are from our evening Christmas Tree Hunt. We didn't get home until dusk, but it did not deter the Roll family from tracking down the perfect Christmas tree. The air smelled amazing as we snuck between the pines. Jed was mesmerized by the trees - they are very different than the birch tree that is outside our front door.

Just Jed's size.

Helping Daddy cut down the tree.

He is such a good helper!

Teething And Yes, More Pictures!

2006-11-16T09:53:00.000-08:00

Jed has officially started teething. He has all the signs and symptoms, EXCEPT no swelling or white spots on his gums where his teeth will be! Since he started this phase, he has been less interested in nursing - even taking mom milk from a bottle. So, we begun the weaning process. He still nurses when in the morning before we all separate for the day and then I get home from work (and sometimes at night - much to our dismay). That leaves me with an actual lunch break now! So, expect more updates and pictures to come on a more regular basis!

On to the pictures!

Jed & his infamous bitter biscuits -

he loves them, but they are messy!

Jed has been eating those Gerber Fruit Puffs. This one got

stuck on his lip just in time for Halloween!

Making the most of a "warm" day!

His first pile of leaves! He still does prefer them on the tree.

Daddy and Jed having fun with a new - used toy.

Jedidiah doesn't quite know what to think of the snow.

Shortly after I took the picture he began crying. Maybe he

is still going through leaf withdrawal . . .

This is Good Morning Jed!

Amazing!

2006-11-14T09:53:00.000-08:00

I am continually amazed at God's creation! Jedidiah is growing so fast and changing so quickly. I was looking back at his first pictures while we were still in the hospital. He face is the same, but yet different. He is now longer, heavier, even more alert, says syllables such as da da, la la lo, ma, ba, mo and even some fff's, is beginning to pick up objects with his thumb and index finger as well as getting up on his hands and knees. His head is still bald and his mouth still lacks teeth. He is amazing!
Sorry, we've been such slackers! We always talk about what to put on the next post, but we have little time to actually post, since we do not have the internet at home. Life has been hectic since I started back this fall. I love teaching and being a mom, but wow - is it tough to do both! I've been teaching AP Biology, AP Physics, Physics and Anatomy and Physiology this year. Even with all the challenges of new curriculum God has encouraged me through student thank you's and words of appreciation, support of the faculty and even conversations about Creation (vs. evolution). I feel out of touch with so many friends and family. I was recently speaking with a dear friend and she said to me (in reference to my exasperation of being out of the loop), "Teachers are often out of the loop. Parents of small children are also often out of the loop. You are a Teacher and Parent. Get used to it!"
Jarrod spoke a few Wednesdays at youth group - about the supernatural and what the Bible has to say about it. Jed and I were able to make it to his first talk. Jarrod did a fantastic job and the kids really responded well to what he shared with them. Jarrod is really enjoying being a Daddy. He and Jed do the most giggling (Jarrod reminds me that Jed may not giggle with me as much, but I sure can comfort Jed). Jarrod and Jed enjoy the outdoors together - walking, running, watching the 'choo-choo' go by and playing with toys on a blanket on the lawn. Jarrod and I wonder what winter will be like - some days the only thing that make Jed happy is being outside.
Well, enough of us, here's Jed:

Jed's first taste of Cheerios! (Don't let that smile fool you - notice the cheerio on his bib!)

This is cranky Jed. Cranky Jed gets to go outside. Outside transforms Cranky Jed in to Life is Good Jed!

Got more pics!

2006-11-13T12:34:00.000-08:00

I finally got pictures to load! Hooray! They are not in sequencial order. Hope you enjoy them as much as we do!!

Jed's last romp with tree before it lost its leaves.

Jed & Mommy giggling on the couch.

Daddy tried to give Jed "bubble hair."

Enjoying the fall weather. He misses the leaves off his tree.

Help! I'm stuck!

Jed still loves bathtime - just in the sink. He doesn't like the tube!

He makes big messes at mealtime.

Jed's Got Mail!

Cooling Off

2006-07-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

On a 100 degree day, Jed spent some time splashing in his bathtub in the shade. He loves to be outside, which is challenging on those very hot days. Using his tub as a "kiddie pool" worked great!

"I Can Grab My Toes!"

2006-07-20T18:17:00.000-07:00

Jed started grabbing his toes at the end of June. Now it's one of his favorite past times. He struggles to get his toes in his mouth. When he succeeds he makes an "icky face".

He also enjoys sitting on the ottoman in front of our 2nd floor bedroom window. The window is low enough that he can gaze out into the neighborhood.

Jed and Daddy Laughing

2006-07-20T18:12:00.000-07:00

Jedidiah chuckles when he hears laughing. So, Daddy and Jed exchange giggles in the mirror and get each other laughing.

Family outing

2006-07-20T18:08:00.000-07:00

We went on our first family bike ride one sunny day in early July down to Riverside Park in downtown La Crosse. Heather and Jed are cooling off next to the fountain. Jed doesn't seem to mind wearing hats and he looks so cute wearing them. This is good because he is still very bald.

Where's your smile, Jed?

2006-07-20T18:03:00.000-07:00

We tried to get Jed to pose for this photo, be he wouldn't smile. He just kept on staring at Mommy intently as she did her best to get him to "show his teeth" (so to speak).

On his four month check-up, Jed weighed 16 lbs 6 oz and was 25 3/4 inches long. The doctor said that he is a very healthy boy.

A little prune juice gets things moving...

2006-07-20T17:56:00.000-07:00

Jed's a very healthy baby, but sometimes he gets a little...um...stopped up. This makes for a very uncomfortable baby. Here's Grandma Oswald giving Jed a bottle of good 'ol prune juice, at the recommendation of our pediatrition. The juice works (when he chooses to actually drink it!).

Can I Take My Tie Off Yet?!

2006-07-20T17:51:00.000-07:00

We had a few weddings in late June and early July. Needless to say, he almost received as much attention as the brides . . .

After A Bath

2006-07-20T17:47:00.000-07:00

I love to snuggle after a bath! OK, really I just love to snuggle!

Bath Time!

2006-07-20T17:35:00.000-07:00

He's graduated to the kitchen sink . . . and is loving it! This was the first bath time with no crying . . . until it was time to get dressed.

Weeeeeee!

2006-07-20T17:25:00.000-07:00

Well, not quite yet. This was Jed's first time on the swing - he really didn't know what to think about it yet.

My Circus Book

2006-07-20T17:19:00.000-07:00

Elephants are neat! They come in such pretty colors!

Dad On Paternity Leave

2006-07-20T17:17:00.000-07:00

Jarrod was blessed to be able to stay home with Jed for 5 weeks while I finished up the school year. They had a grand time - taking walks, talking, visiting mommy for lunch, and (best of all) napping!

Jedidiah Jump Up!

2006-07-20T17:13:00.000-07:00

Jed just loves to kick, but for some reason knawing on the front of the seat is more interesting . . .
This is a rare moment of him 'jumping.'

Even sleeping can be dramatic!

2006-07-20T17:10:00.000-07:00

I'm getting sophisticated!

2006-07-20T17:02:00.000-07:00

I can hold my rattle for a long time now (like . . . 5 minutes)! Mommy is so proud!

2006-07-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

I'm all bundled up to go watch my first soccer game! Aquinas vs. Holmen

He's growing too fast!

2006-06-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

These two pics reiterate what all of the parents we know have already told us--"enjoy every moment with your children because they grow up so fast!" And to think its been only a few inches thus far!!

Shake, shake, shake!

2006-05-26T10:05:00.000-07:00

Since the last post, I've transitioned back to teaching and Jarrod is now at home with our little one! While my mom was helping us with the transition we discovered that Jed would hold onto his rattle for short periods of time!

"I'm such a big boy!"

2006-05-08T11:24:00.000-07:00

Jed hanging out on the front steps with Mommy. At his appt. on April 26 he was just shy of 13 pounds and 24 inches long.

Getting outside

2006-05-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

Now that spring is here, we can take Jed outside on nice, warm days. He really takes in the sights and smells of the outdoors. (Mommy made sure he wore his cap in the sun).

Happy baby!

2006-05-08T11:15:00.000-07:00

This is one of his first "real smiles" (i.e. not gas).

Sleepy

2006-05-08T11:12:00.000-07:00

" Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz....."
(actually, Jed makes more of a goosey "honk" sound when he sleeps than a "zzzzz")

Talking on the changing table

2006-05-08T11:09:00.000-07:00

For some reason, Jedidiah loves to talk and smile on his changing table. Sometimes we spend several minutes just communicating after changing him.

Stripey jacket

2006-05-08T11:07:00.000-07:00

Jed looks so handsome in stripes, doesn't he?

Making eye contact

2006-05-08T10:44:00.000-07:00

Jed loves to look deep into your eyes.

On the phone

2006-04-07T13:47:00.000-07:00

Here's Jed and a just awakened Daddy on the phone. When you give us a call we'll pass the phone on over to Jed and he'll breath a "hello" to you.

Kick, kick, kick!

2006-04-07T13:40:00.000-07:00

Lately Jed really enjoys lying on his back under the Kick and Play. His little left leg just goes wild. He's so much fun! While he's lying there, we will talk to him and he will get this look of excitement on his face and coo! Precious!

Such a big boy!

2006-04-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that our little Jedidiah is 6 weeks old already?! (on April 7). He weighed 11lbs 10oz at his last check up on April 4.

Dedication day

2006-04-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

The Roll family says a big "thank you" to our family and friends who were able to attend Jed's Dedication to the Lord on March 26. What a special day that was for us...we are grateful that you all could make it.

2006-03-15T06:22:00.000-08:00

Jedidiah weighs about 9 1/2 pounds now. He had his second check-up on March 8th and he is healthy and growing strong! God is so good!

Tummy Time!

2006-03-15T06:18:00.000-08:00

I'm told that infants should spend some time on their tummies to build their neck and back muscles. Here's Jed doing just that...oh, wait...this must have been taken AFTER a long tummy time workout. Isn't he cute though?!

Recognizing voices

2006-03-15T06:13:00.000-08:00

Since Jed is only 2 1/2 weeks old, most of his day is comprised of eating, sleeping, crying, with some non-fussing awake time. Those moments are the best. That's the time when we can talk to him and play with him. He definitely recognizes mommy's voice and is starting to recognize dad's.

Bath time

2006-03-15T06:07:00.000-08:00

Jedidiah has only experienced sponge baths so far. He doesn't mind them, actually. A big help is the portable heater pointed at him. But now that his cord is gone, he can enjoy the bliss of full immersion! We're going to have lotsa fun at bathtime!

Here's Jeddy!

2006-03-03T13:12:00.000-08:00

Jedidiah is truly a gift from God! He is a beautiful, healthy baby. He's such a joy to be around. He's very alert and has had his eyes open since birth. We are so excited to have him in our lives.[do I sound like a proud father, or what? ;) ]

Mom and baby are doing great!

2006-03-03T13:05:00.000-08:00

Heather gave birth to Jeddy naturally in a large bath tub (a waterbirth). It was an amazing experience! Mom is recovering well (if not a bit tired). Baby is doing wonderfully too.

Jedidiah

2006-03-03T12:58:00.000-08:00

The name "Jedidiah" comes from the Bible. It means "loved by God." [see 2 Samuel 12:25]. "Alan" is Grandpa Roll's middle name (Gary, Jarrod's dad).

He's here!

2006-03-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

We have a son! Jedidiah Alan Roll was born on 2-24-06 at 2:24am. Pretty neat, huh? He weighed 8 lbs 15 oz! A pretty big baby for such a little mommy! The Lord has blessed us with a healthy, beautiful, boy!

Almost there!

2006-02-20T11:43:00.000-08:00

Hello friends and family!

Heather and I thought that this blog would be great way to share pics of our (growing) family since we live quite a distance from some of you. So please check in now and then, as we'll try to post regularly, especially after the baby is born. NOTE: we don't have internet at home so it might be a week or so before we post pics of the baby after he/she is born.

Now for an update...

Today (Feb. 20) Heather went in for a check up since the baby is 8 days past his/her due date. An ultrasound of the baby was taken and the baby is doing fine--very healthy, praise God! Just not ready to come out yet, I guess. Heather will be induced on Sunday the 26th of Feb. if Bun Jr. does not come naturally before then. So, please pray with us that baby comes naturally so we can avoid induction (is that the correct term?).

I've posted two pics of Heather pregnant--one at 5 mos. and the other at 9 mos.

With love, from Jarrod and Heather