The Stecher's

Superbowl Party

2012-02-07T08:28:00.003-06:00

Even though our team wasn't in the "bowl" we decided to show some Bear love anyway!

We also held the annual Super Bowl Party at our house this year.

The crowd has grown again, both by hosts, and guests...there were a few favorites who were unable to make it in time for the picture.

Dance, Dance Mickey on the floor, Cow and Hound dog were still in the closet, bunny duck and friends were unable to make it up from the basement and several other friends who just didn't RSVP...none the less, a good time was had by all.

Big Boy Bed

2012-02-07T08:23:00.001-06:00

I'm kissing my crib good bye guys!

It's been a great place to sleep and I have grown big in it...but I'm a big boy now and I"m ready to move on...

to my new big boy bed...well...really it's my in between bed. Grandpa Stecher is making my bed frame for my real big boy bed so Mom and Dad said I could start with this trainer bed.

It's all the same to me.

Adios crib...

No crying mom...I'm still a little guy...just a little guy in a big bed!

Popcorn Family Night

2012-02-07T08:19:00.000-06:00

Last Tuesday was Family Popcorn night at the Galesburg Library.

Carson hung out with Bella, a new friend from Church.

Parker made a Popcorn Picture,

A popcorn necklace...with dad's help...

And had a popcorn spoon race.

The highlight of the evening might have been this:

at the end of the night. The kids sat on the outside of these big picnic sheets and there was a popcorn explosion from the popper...the anticipation was great as the handle turned round and round. When suddenly the kernels started shooting out everywhere the kids were all yelping and hollering...my son being one of the biggest yelpers of all...pure joy!

Free fun is always great right? :)

Even little brother couldn't sleep through the whole night, he enjoyed the popping corn too!

Saturday Morning Fun

2012-02-07T08:07:00.002-06:00

This is becoming our norm on Saturday mornings and I LOVE it!

Dance, Dance...Carson?

2012-01-26T08:44:00.001-06:00

While Parker was never a huge fan of Dance, Dance Mickey...Carson is very intrigued by him, they are buddies!

6 month photos

2012-01-26T08:31:00.002-06:00

We tried something different for Carson's 6 month photos. We were given a free sitting at Shyvel's photography studio. Shyvel is a local children's photographer. She did a great job with Carson. She was fast and had great props to use! We just had the photos done last week and already have the proofs!
Here's the information to view the proofs!

www.shyvel.com
click on session proofing
enter any email address you choose
type the session password: 3002s

Enjoy!

Kindermusic

2012-01-26T08:29:00.001-06:00

Parker got a Kindermusic class from my folks for Christmas. We go every Wednesday night. Last night we got "the box". It looks like a train, which he loves right now, and it has the CD and books that we use in class. We were also "so fortunate" to also get a bonus...2 harmonicas! Lucky us!

Parker is having a great time and is starting to sing a long and dance along with the other kids and teacher. We look forward to music class on Wednesdays. I'd recommend it to anyone!

Growth Spurt

2012-01-26T08:26:00.000-06:00

This was Carson yesterday at lunch. Kim said he couldn't keep his eyes open. My guess is watching all the big boys/girls play and growing himself is just tuckering him out!

Night Night Buddy!

We're still here!

2012-01-16T14:27:00.002-06:00

We're still here!

I think this is the longest period of time I've gone with out posting to the blog.

Our office and computer was put into our room when Parker arrived...no problem...

When Carson arrived he, too, was added to our room...no problem....

but over the last couple of weeks our bedroom has become a multi-purpose room:

Bedroom, office, nursery.

Carson is now transitioned into a crib...in our room...and has decided that unlike his brother he wants, quiet, and dark to sleep.

All of this jibber jabber is to explain that when Carson is napping, or after he goes to bed, there is no longer the option for using the computer. I usually blog at night, but no more! :)

So I've been wanting to post but just haven't had the opportunity.

The boys are doing good! Both growing like weeds.

Carson turned 6 months old, WHERE DOES THE TIME GO?!?

He is in the 97th and 95th percentile for height and weight and is wearing 18 month clothing!!!

Crazy!

Travis had a "BIG" birthday last week and officially joined the 30 club all the rest of us are in!

He celebrated with family here at the house with Pizza, and angel food cake.

Carson has turned a corner in the last weeks and is now sitting up by himself, playing with toys, and bouncing in his jumper! He is turning into quite the character!

Parker has decided he wants a potty (no need to see a photo of that!) so we bought him his own choice at Wal-mart. He has yet to use it but he sure loves to sit on it for lengthy periods of time and talk about the M&Ms Kim (the babysitter) will give him if he goes ;) We might be starting a LONG process here!!

The boys love each others company...maybe Carson enjoying Parker a little more than Parker notices Carson, but they smile, and hug/kiss each other none the less. I've been told to enjoy it while it lasts, because it won't last ;)

We're all doing good just livin/lovin' life...and hoping to find time to blog more often!

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T22:04:00.004-06:00

Christmas started on Christmas Eve with Travis' folks. They came to our house this year and we had a great visit. Kay made her family's traditional oyster stew and we also had sandwiches and lots of finger foods. Parker liked the cake pops best! :) After dinner and presents we started a new tradition and went to the Peoria Festival of Lights. We had lots of fun!

This is how Parker woke up on Christmas morning...crazy kid...so excited!

After changing clothes he came running out to see what Santa had brought.

Toy STORY!!!! Blue PAPER!!!! PRESENTS!!!

Parker asked Santa (repeatedly) for presents...blue presents...with Woody, Buzz, Lotso and Woody's hat for Christmas.

Carsee, Carsee...did you see?!?!?! Toy Story!

Woody's Hat

Ummmm...smells like strawberries! Here Carsee, try my hat on.

Crackin up before Church...

Huh?

Attempting a family photo after Church...

After Church on Christmas Day we headed to Grandpa/Grandma Vancil's. Again, we had a great time. The house was full of friends and family, good food, games, and presents!

Parker helped everyone open their stocking gifts and opened all of his and Carson's gifts as well. We had a great time and Parker was a great cheerleader during the Wii bowling tournament.

Both boys did really well with two days of excitement and limited naps.

Parker and friends (Woody and Jessie) serenaded us with "Christmas Classics" ;)

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Ho, Ho, Ho!

2011-12-21T22:21:00.001-06:00

Shyvel is a local children's photographer. Some friends use her and she has great backdrops/photos with Santa, Easter Bunny, a Fall scene etc.

This year I just had to have her do the kids photos. The cost is very comparable to the mall Santa and I had great visions of this picture perfect Santa photo that I could enlarge and hang in our house as part of our Christmas decor, send out in Christmas cards, etc...

The photo didn't make the cut...

Shyvel is still wonderful, and I look forward to her doing work for us in the future. She was patient with a bawling Parker who was suddenly petrified of Santa and of Carson who wouldn't look at the camera and with me who kept dodging in and out of the photo trying to get both kids to look and smile at the same time...

Also, please excuse the lime green, unmatching, Oscar the grouch socks that Carson is wearing. Travis tried to change the socks when we got there, but I was in such a rush and so worried that we would be making people wait I said it was fine, don't worry about it...

Once again, I wish I had listened to Trav....

Ho, ho, ho!

A Sharp Dressed Man...

2011-12-21T22:14:00.005-06:00

We can't decide who's fashion sense Parker got......

Gingerbread House

2011-12-21T22:12:00.005-06:00

We continue to do the Try it on Tuesday's at Bright Futures Pre-School. We ask Parker if he wants to go to pre-school and he immediately shouts yeah! This previous Tuesday he added..."what we make mommy?"

It is fun to see him so energetic about "school" at such an early age!

This week Parker made a Gingerbread house. He had very little assistance. I helped him frost the inside edge, he added the graham crackers. He started to frost the outside edge,I helped finish. He added all of the candy decorations...I helped by eating the skittles in his bucket ;)

We think Parker's first Gingerbread house is beautiful! I'm still amazed he did it mostly himself!

We will miss Try it on Tuesday's over the next few weeks, but look forward to starting again in January!

Yum! Frosting...Eat it mommy? Eat it?

Look at my house guys!

Cheese!

Carson's Dedication

2011-12-21T22:02:00.003-06:00

Sunday was Carson's dedication at Church. Since Chervenka's were home for Christmas, they were able to make the extra drive down to Galesburg to be at Carson's day. It was nice to have friends and family around.

Carson had on a really cute stripped sweater...(I didn't try it on before Sunday morning...it had been Parker's and it said the right size on the label...not a good choice)...the sweater was too small and drove him nuts so as soon as the actual dedication was done, the sweater came off! (I also didn't think through the vest for Parker) He looks like a turtle in his shell for most of the photos!

Carson's Family

The Stecher's

The Vancil's

Mommy, Daddy, big brother, and Carson

Travis and his sister

Stecher Family Christmas

2011-12-21T21:55:00.002-06:00

Saturday was the Stecher Family Christmas. We had a wonderful visit with Travis' sister and family. We went to incredible pizza for lunch and play time, then had ham balls and presents later that afternoon/evening. Everyone had a great time!

Ear Ache

2011-12-21T21:38:00.003-06:00

This photo looks like Carson is too big for his swing...he's getting there....

This photo looks like Carson is falling out of the swing....he's strapped in...

This photo looks like Carson has a dirty pillow...it's hair that's rubbed off...'

This photo looks like Carson is covering his right ear...he is...it hurts...

This photo does NOT show the yucky ear infection and first antibiotic our baby has had...nor does it show the allergy to penicillin he apparently now has....

but it does show his sweet innocent face even during illness.

Discovering the Christmas Tree

2011-12-12T21:50:00.002-06:00

Hey! There's a tree there!

A blurry Christmas smile!

Movie Night

2011-12-12T21:46:00.001-06:00

Parker went to his first movie on Thursday.
Thursday was Nielson School's Family Movie Night at the Orpheum Theater.

Parker and Travis went together for the first experience at a dark, quiet movie theater....partially to see how he would do, but mostly because it was free and they could leave when Parker fizzled out.

If you take a toddler to the movies...

you better buy him some popcorn!

These are pretty cool seats dad!

La, la, la la la la...la la la la la..

Can you guess what movie was shown??

The smurfs!

Parker did GREAT! (much better than Travis or I expected)

He lasted an hour...probably could have made it all way, but it was past bedtime and Travis figured why push it.

The big boys had a great time and we have heard a lot about the "murfs" since the movie!

5 year anniversary

2011-12-09T22:13:00.001-06:00

5 years ago today.....

...I married my best friend.

Our ride on the Polar Express

2011-12-03T23:00:00.002-06:00

We just got back from the North Pole! It was a great trip!

Our train left at 5PM this evening. It was almost dark and you could hear the steam whistle coming before you could see the light.

Before boarding the train. (We left Carson with Grandma Vancil so we could enjoy our trip with Parker)

Sitting in our car...the penguin car...

I was super excited when I looked up and read that the car I was sitting in was the same train car used in Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman...I LOVE that show!

The conductor came and punched our tickets.

And before we knew it...we were at the North Pole. We were very fortunate the North Pole has a a brief string of 50 degree weather!

There was much to do! Parker met with the Snow Princess and got a winter silly band. He posed for some photos with a winter backdrop.

And he climbed on the back caboose with his buddy Carter Nelson.

There was time to make a craft in a heated room with Daddy....A cool ornament to hang on our tree...

And then it was time...time to see the big man himself. We did an impromptu dry run this morning at Sandburg Mall. Didn't go terribly, and we were thankful we had the chance to get the first experience of Santa out of the way before this one.

Santa was sitting inside his red caboose with Mrs. Claus. We waited in line for some time....

The Nelson family was just ahead of us and it definitely helped to see an older, much wiser, "pro" talk to Santa first. Carter did a great job!

When it was Parker's turn, he did GREAT!

He talked to Santa, he told him he wanted "presents". We helped Parker be a little more specific on what he would like Santa to bring. Then Santa gave Parker a shiny bell.

Parker inspected it with Santa and then graciously gave it back to Santa...

We had to explain that that was his gift from Santa to keep. Once he understood, he wouldn't let go of the bell!

After having our turn with Santa, we were able to let the boys play with some train tracks and pieces before our train began boarding to take us back to Iowa.

Parker thanked our conductor and rode like a big boy all the way back talking about "big Santa"

This may be a trip we hear a lot about in the coming weeks!

Pre-Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T22:30:00.000-06:00

What?!? Tomorrow's Thanksgiving? We better go to the Festival of Trees to get into the holiday spirit!

Come on guys!

Can you believe all of these TOYS?!?

I want....that one! Do you think they'll miss just one? Have you ever played Jenga? Dad says we shouldn't play with this stack of toys...

Choo-Choo trains are so cool! I could stay here and watch this all night...

no really, mom and Carson, go ahead and look at the trees...dad and I are good here.

You didn't tell me there was a SPIDERMAN tree!

I got my picture taken with daddy, Carson and the "Go-Bears" tree.

We made one last stop at the train station before we left the main hall. It was sooo cool! The train was even cooler than the "barn" (the gingerbread houses) although I wanted to see the barn again too, Mom said no. :(

This crazy tree talked to me on the way out. I didn't know what to say. I wasn't sure if I was amused or bewildered.

But, by the end of the conversation I had made a new friend and I told her "See you later".

She said, "See you next year"

I hope so, I had a lot of fun at The Festival of Trees!

My brother, Carson, however, was ready to go...we had overstayed our welcome according to him.

Festival of Trees Parade

2011-11-23T22:19:00.000-06:00

Last year we went to the festival of trees parade...photo left. This year we made it a tradition by going back..photo right.

It was another great weather year and we had a lot of fun. Making new family traditions is as good as keeping old family traditions!

This year Grandma Kay joined us. We got to the parade almost an hour early....

So Parker entertained himself acting silly...

and it wasn't long before little brother joined in!

Big Tuesday

2011-11-15T20:21:00.000-06:00

Today was a big day of firsts at our house!

Today was Parker's first experience at "pre-school"

OK...not true pre-school, but that's what we have told him. Our local pre-school has a Try it on Tuesday program where children pre-preschool age can come on Tuesdays to play games, read books, and make a craft. Luckily it goes until 5PM so even working families can take advantage of it! :)

I wish there were more things that went into the evening for us!

So tonight right after school Travis, Parker, Carson and I all went to Pre-School.

Parker was definitely taking it all in. He didn't wander far, but before we left he had already made friends with the instructor and was talking all about the toys and the craft.

Today's craft was noise shakers...

Look what I made!!! Look how they move!

Listen to the sound!

Next week...Turkey hands.......with PAINT!!!!

The other Stecher boy also had a big day...tonight was his first experience with cereal. After weighing in OFF the charts at his 4 month visit on Friday (19lbs. 4oz.) we got the approval to start cereal. Tonight was the first chance we've had to play with it.

I'm ready mama!

First bite...

YUM! I like it!

After a little while, and most of the bowl...Carson started to get full...however, he ate the whole 5 tablespoons full!

I get to have this again tomorrow?!?

Ugh...I'm full

He is now sleeping...I wonder how long he will sleep with a belly full of cereal...

Happy Birthday Mommy

2011-11-15T20:10:00.000-06:00

My birthday was last week...however, I spread the event over a two week period.

We had dinner with friends the Friday night before, Adults only at our favorite causal restaurant...SOOO FUN!

Then we had a family dinner this past Sunday with my family.

And on my actual birthday Travis and the boys cooked dinner and cookie cake for me.

What a fabulous birthday!

Carson must have done something funny here...I'm surprised and Parker is cracking up!

Happy Birthday Mommy! Let me help you blow out the candle.

I WANTED TO HELP BLOW OUT THE CANDLE TOO!

Grandma and Parker coloring

Everyone just hanging out at my dad's. I loved this! Just hanging out together on a Sunday evening. No on rushing here or there, no one leaving to go meet friends or having to run errands. Just being together as a family on a non-holiday. LOVED IT! Hopefully we can do it more often, but if not, I know what I'm planning for next years birthday....

The exact same thing as this year!

Random weekend shots

2011-11-06T21:36:00.000-06:00

Kitchen Help

2011-11-06T21:31:00.000-06:00

On Saturday afternoon in an effort to multi-task, Travis jumped in the shower while I cut vegetables for a dinner party we were attending that night.

The boys decided to "help" me in the kitchen. I believe Parker's exact words were "help cook mommy"

Parker gave Carson some Montreal Steak seasoning to "play" with while he helped "power rangers" which is code for help with the dishes...don't ask...I have no idea where that came from!

Dad came out of the shower to this...

The vegetables got chopped (with taste testing), the dishes got washed (some were done twice), and no one fell off the counter or chair...

Successful mission accomplished!

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T22:49:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween 2011!

Two pictures, In each one a different child is giving the same look...

"come on mom, really???!!!??"

At the Church for Trunk or Treat.

Carson ditched his Peanut, it was too warm and neither Travis or I could carry him with out the carseat while wearing it.

But I want to be carried at Trunk or treat!

This little Peanut got his way! :)

Toddler Buddies

2011-10-31T22:39:00.000-05:00

This, although blurry, was the best picture of two toddler boys on Halloween eve....

An elephant and a rabbit have a lot of energy!

Bounce bunny bounce!

The rabbit's brother went as a carrot!

We look forward to next Halloween when there are not 2, but 4 boys running around on Halloween!

YIKES now THAT's scary!

Boo at the Zoo

2011-10-31T22:33:00.000-05:00

Lessons Learned:

You can not do 3 cities for Halloween in 1 day. Thus, this year we went to the Quad Cities on Saturday, Monmouth on Sunday and Galesburg on Halloween Monday.

Since we were going to be in the Quad Cities anyway, we took the boys to Boo at the Zoo...

CRAZY!!!!

There were a total of 11,700 people at Boo at the Zoo over the weekend...
CRAZY!!!

If you ever get the chance to go...I'll give you a tip, go on the first day, be there as soon as they open (before preferably), skip all the first "vendors" don't start trick-or-treating until you get to the train at least. Make sure you are out of there by 11:30. If you pull up and there are no more parking spots and people are parked all crazy directions on the side of the road....you've arrived too late, turn around and try again next year!

Parker was an Elephant and Carson was a Peanut.

Grandma Vancil made the peanut costume for us and made sure that her newest baby would be extra warm...now THAT's a lot of stuffin!

The Elephant with the Elephants

Carson could look out his arm hole to see what was going on!

The elephant and the peanut.

Happy Halloween from the Stecher's!

Daddy Day Care

2011-10-22T20:50:00.000-05:00

WHAT? NO MOMMY THIS WEEKEND?!?

Nope, just us boys. What do you want to do?

Umm.....read books!

Um.....race cars!

Here Carson you try the fast blue one, it always wins.

Um.....play doctor!

Here Parker I'll check your blood pressure.

Looks serious, better listen to your heart.

Carson, I better take your temperature.

Might be an ear infection, lemme see.

Nope, just need a bandaid.

Oh yeah. Feelin' gooooooood after a clean bill of health.

Um......have snacks?

Um....call Gwamma and Gwampa! YAY!!!!

Um....take baths!

And yes, sorry mom, but your youngest born was almost eaten by a shark, but.....

BIG BROTHER SAVED HIM!

And now we sleep after a busy weekend, but you'll just have to take our word for it. No pictures available. Oh yeah, and by the way we have no idea how the lamp broke in Parker's room.

Parker's not talkin....... Carson's not talkin........ Daddy's not talkin.

Football Season Closes

2011-10-18T21:29:00.000-05:00

Travis' football season officially ended tonight with an end of season banquet....however, last Tuesday night was the cross town rivalry games between Churchill and Lombard. This is the first time that Travis' team has won this rivalry game...and boy did they win!

Parker and Mia have had fun cheering their Daddy's on over the past several weeks!

Coach Pilger and Coach Stecher grinning after their MUCH deserved WIN!

Congrats guys!

Go Cards Go!

2011-10-14T21:44:00.002-05:00

Go Cards Go!!!

How to get a toddler to stop crying

2011-10-09T14:29:00.000-05:00

How to get a 2 year old to stop crying:

Step 1:
When said 2 year old is crying as you are buckling him into his car seat...simply have your significant other climb into drivers seat

Step 2:
close the driver side door....

Step 3:
with the person who is buckling the child's foot in the door...

Step 4:
make sure the driver smashes your little toe in the door...

Step 5:
have person who's toe is smashed start screaming in agony but don't tell the driver why you're screaming...so he thinks you're just playing with the toddler...

Step 6:
Person with the toe smashed needs to begin screaming...OPEN THE DOOR...OPEN THE DOOR!

Step 7:
Driver, quickly open the door, climb out and try to figure out which limb you have smashed while the "smashee" is crying/laughing/sobbing in pain...

***This is GUARANTEED to make the toddler stop crying for at least a few moments***

Pumpkins and Petting Zoo

2011-10-09T14:22:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we were invited to Moline to Travis' Aunt Carla's workplace. They were having a pumpkin give away complete with bounce house, goodies bags, prize drawings, tattoos, doughnuts and SUCKERS!!!

We had a great time and were thankful to be invited!

Urgh, Urgh...heavy....

Grandpa Stecher helps out!

Come on guys!!

After the pumpkin give away we went to the Freight House in Davenport for a Farmers Market. This week they also had "The Greatest Petting Zoo in the Midwest" (their actual name).

It REALLY was the greatest petting zoo I've ever been too....Parker and I could have stayed all day!!

Admission was free and cups of animal food cost $1.00. Here grandma is trying to give Parker his cupful of food...and here she is being tackled by a goat!!...they were not shy!

Here we are trying to get to a bunny in the corner...notice the little boy in the orange shirt? He wouldn't leave the rabbits side the whole time we were there...we even tried nudging him out of the way...he wasn't movin'

So we just observed the bunny...Here I am talking to a sheep.

Parker did really well with the animals until the sheep started to try to herd him...then he wasn't to thrilled!

Due to a bad experience with a goose when my brother Justin was Parker's age, we stayed a "safe" distance away...I'm still traumatized!

HA HA HA! That tickles!

This petting zoo was fabulous. We were allowed to be "in" amongst the animals. All of the animals were exceptionally gentle with everyone wandering around. There were: sheep, goats, pot-bellied pigs, a rabbit, a calf, llamas, geese, ducks, more goats, crazy roosters with feathers on the top of their heads and bottoms of their feet, more goats, and probably some animal I'm forgetting.

It was FABULOUS and I want to go again soon!!

Thursday's with Grandma

2011-10-09T14:00:00.000-05:00

Thursday nights are Travis' football games. For the past many weeks Grandma Vancil (who works in Galesburg) has been coming over to our house after work to hang out and help with the boys.

She has the "Midas" touch with Carson...here he is sleeping in the yard on a warm Autumn night. He woke up when I took his picture.

Parker was too busy playing in the yard to be bothered with photography....he wasn't feeling the photo shoot!

Thank you Grandma!

We are so glad you've been able to hang out over the last weeks!

We Love you!!!

The many faces of Carson

2011-10-07T22:41:00.000-05:00

Carson has many "looks" to him...these are just a few of his expressions...

He's starting to chub out! :)

Chicago Bears

2011-10-06T22:00:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, Travis was able to go to a Bears game with his dad. This was special because neither Travis or Ben have ever been to a game, and they both LOVE the Bears.

Devin Hester #23

Great views of the Chicago skyline!

Tanner's Apple Orchard

2011-10-03T20:07:00.000-05:00

We took Grandma Vancil to Tanner's Apple Orchard for her birthday a few weeks ago. It was supposed to be a beautiful, warm sunny day and it ended up being cold and rainy, so our trip was cut a little bit short...but we still had fun!

Parker loves the color orange, so imagine his excitement (rain or no rain) when he saw the sea of orange pumpkins!

I'll take this one!

He is still talking about the "goots". I found them a little bold and rather assuming, but Parker LOVED them...and Grandma loved giving Parker food to feed the goots...

That's not for you...it's for the Goats!

"Bus...yellow bus!"

We count the buses we see each morning on the way to daycare...depending on the time we leave the house we can see anywhere from 3-7. He gets so excited when he sees a "yellow bus" that we just had to have his photo with this one.
Hopefully our visit next year will give us nicer weather where we can go out into the orchard and spend time in the playlot.

Carson is 3 months old!

2011-10-03T19:55:00.000-05:00

Guess who's 3 months old already?

Carson is grasping items, "talking" through coos and squeals, and smiling a lot....when he feels like it!

He loves being naked and is ticklish under the arm pits. He likes having air blown gently in his face and likes to play patty-cake. He is sleeping though the night occasionally and usually only waking once somewhere between 3:30 and 5:30AM for a bottle, a diaper change and then right back to sleep.

We are very lucky to have such a happy, healthy, little guy!

Happy 3 months Buddy!

Serving Lunch

2011-09-29T21:08:00.001-05:00

Parker is getting very imaginative and loves his new kitchen. In this video he is "feeding" all of his sesame street friends and has a special treat for Bert and Ernie! :)

Birthday Party Do-Over

2011-09-29T21:05:00.000-05:00

Because it was raining on Parker's party we invited some of his buddies back over later in the week to enjoy the bounce house that one of Misty's teaching friends let her borrow.

Parker and Emily both love Elmo, the Wiggles, and Trains!

Sophie and Sawyer are Parker's day care buddies!

And Parker might have a bit of a crush on Sophie :)

It's great to have friends isn't it??

Birthday Party Part 2

2011-09-29T20:46:00.000-05:00

On Sunday of Parker's birthday weekend we had his friend birthday party...and it rained...again...for a 2nd year in a row....

However this year we were prepared and expecting the rain!

Lots of Parkers friends were able to come.

Uncle Justin and Sara weren't able to come to the family party so they joined us on Sunday.

Barb recently had hip surgery and made a special appearance just for Parker on his birthday!

Super big thanks to Jeff A. who let us borrow his yard tents again this year. This year, however, we were able to set them up the day before instead of 1/2 way through the party.

Thanks to everyone who endured the wet weather to celebrate our 2 wonderful years with our little boy!

I wanted to get a photo of all of Parker's friends on his birthday...

Ever tried to get 7 children ages 21 months - 5th grade to all look at the camera and smile at the same time???

Ever tried to take a family photo on a 2 year olds birthday party with an almost 3 month old infant?

Happy Birthday Parker!!! WE love you!

Ever put all 7 children hyped up on cake and ice cream in a basement toy room?

Parker had a great birthday and absolutley didn't even notice the rain. He had all he wanted, his friends, his family and play time in his toy room!

Happy Birthday Buddy!

Happy Birthday part1

2011-09-29T20:15:00.000-05:00

Man, life gets busy doesn't it???

I can't believe that already 2 weeks have passed since Parker's 2nd birthday!

We haven't been doing anything especially exciting, just normal life, but I haven't been able to find time to blog about his and our exciting weekend.

Here Goes:

Parker started his actual birthday at home with mommy, daddy and Carson. He loved his Toy Story card and Yo Gabba Gabba toys.

He enjoyed a visit from his pal Scooter, (and Jeff).

And helped get things ready for his family party, which was really blustery and a sign of the weather front that was coming in...

Parker partied with Grandma and Grandpa Vancil, Grandma and Grandpa Stecher and mommy,daddy and Carson.

He enjoyed time in the bounce house that Mrs. Young from King School let us borrow

and even got both Grandmas in the bouncy house with him!

however, the grandPA's preferred to sit back and watch ;)

grampa, grampa...jump??

Happy 2nd Birthday Buddy!!!!

Parker was overindulged with presents which he calls "prizes"!

His two favorite prizes were his new kitchen and his vacuum!

Parker is lucky to have so many people love him so much!

Fun with brother

2011-09-12T14:02:00.000-05:00

This is the chair Parker insisted Carson sit in...

but Carson couldn't sit by himself....

WHAT?!?! You're going to sit with me?

Pucker up Carson!

"...kiss the Carzun"

Brother, you're so funny!

Tops and bottoms...

Prime Beef Festival

2011-09-12T13:55:00.000-05:00

Last week was also the Prime Beef Festival in Monmouth. Mommy, Daddy, Carson, Parker, Grandma Vancil, Uncle Justin and Sara all went to the parade on Wednesday.

This is "fire dog".

Parker gave fire dog "5" and was a little less scared than when we made him give Chuckie Cheese five...see earlier post...

Now the story is:

"Fire Dog Five"

You gave the fire dog a high five?

"Soft"

The fire dog has soft hands?

"soft"

After the parade we went out the fair for a look around and hopefully dinner at the Lutheran tent...all I wanted was a burger and cherry pie...however, for the 2nd year in a row I didn't get my pie! The line was way to long and the hour was getting late so I settled on a corn dog and Uncle Bud's cider slush..YUM!

Parker got to go on his first carnival ride. An enclosed tilt-a-whirl type ride with large dragon/dinosaur creatures. There was green, orange, blue, purple and pink...what color did our son pick???

PINK!

After one trip around Parker says...."all done!?!"

Although a little skeptical, I think he had a good time.

Back to Work

2011-09-12T13:48:00.000-05:00

Last Tuesday mommy had to go back to work. Carson is attending the same daycare as Parker and has adjusted well. It helps knowing Kim takes such good care of the boys and that Carson has his big brother there to watch out for him ;)

Stearman Week

2011-09-12T13:46:00.000-05:00

This past week was the Stearman Fly-In at Galesburg airport. Parker has gained a new love of planes and all week would say, "airpane, airpane" and take off running to the front window to see the all flying overhead.

On Labor Day, Grandma Vancil met us at the air port on a very blustery, cool, morning to see all of the airplanes.

We weren't too sure about the tram ride, but it was the only way to get out to see the stearman planes up close so we made him ride and once the tram was moving we did just fine! :)

Bue, yewow, bue, airpane!

Carson doesn't not currently share the same love of airplanes. He was just happy to have a cozy napping location!

Happy Labor Day!

This 989 plane is the one that Travis got to ride in when he flew over Nielson school for their annual fly over.

Love this shot!

AIRPANES!!!!!

AIRPLANES!!!

On Friday, in the rain, we went to the airshow. It was really cool, even with the rain and I can't wait to go again next year with hopefully better weather. Parker dug it too. The best part was at the end of the show two fighter jets buzzed the airport. Since Friday Parker has been talking about the Jets that go fast and high, and loud.

Maybe we have a future pilot on our hands....

Pre-Mature Hair Loss

2011-09-12T13:33:00.000-05:00

Carson may been in need of some Rogaine in the near future...he seems to be having pre-mature hair loss ;)

Check out the side of his head below.

Even his mullet in the back is thinning!

Toy Story

2011-09-12T13:30:00.000-05:00

Ow, ow, ow...my leg!

Don't Shoot Buzz...It' me, Woody!

Jessie's been attacked by the claw!

This is our new thing...imaginative play staring "Buzz Year", Woody, and Horsie, AKA the characters from Toy Story.

He's got quite the imagination and often asks Travis and I to "talk" which means make his non-talking friends talk. :)

She's Baaaaaaack!

2011-09-02T18:18:00.000-05:00

Grandma Stecher is back babysitting on Friday's. This year she will be only watching Carson. Look forward to many photo hijinks's...

Today was mommy's last day home :( Grandma took this photo during a "dry run" with Carson while mommy and Parker went to see the Ear Doctor.

Similar yet different

2011-08-26T22:05:00.000-05:00

Parker and Carson are both unique individuals...that is already clearly evident...however, in these photos there are similarities! Parker was in week 6 and Carson is just a day shy of 8 weeks.

Mommy and Me!

2011-08-26T21:57:00.000-05:00

Today it was just mommy and me! Parker got to go play with his friends at Kim's house.

Ok..I've had enough of this hat

That's much better!

Mom and I read books! It's never to early to learn to love reading!

Oooh! What is going to happen next?!?

Mom also made me have tummy time!

I kinda like having mom to myself....sometimes....!

Daddy's Biggest Fans!

2011-08-26T11:44:00.000-05:00

Good Luck Daddy! I know you'll do great!

I'm the oldest so I get 1 on my shirt, Mia, you get #2 because you're next in line and Carson, you're the baby so you're #3

I love my new shirt that Mia gave me! Ok, ok, I get it and I like my new shirt too Carson, but watch the game, there is important stuff happening here!

Thanks for explaining the rules of the game Grandma!

My two favorite parts of the football game were: Running and playing on the field at half time, and...

Running

my Daddy's arms! :)

Hug...

Thanks for the shirts Mia, you're a good friend!

Tickle Spots

2011-08-25T14:25:00.000-05:00

I'm tickleish on my belly, ribcage, and underarms when I'm being changed for a bath.

Sometimes I just like to air out in the buff! : )

Full Nights Rest

2011-08-25T14:17:00.000-05:00

Yesterday Carson was awake from 1PM until around 8:30PM...I'm not exaggerating. Every time he'd almost get to sleep Parker would hoot, holler or laugh and wake him up.

Last night Carson slept from 8:30ish until 5:15AM!!

We slept through the night for the first time!

Today he has slept all day...he has slept from 8:30AM until 1:30PM and then has just fallen back asleep after a bottle.

Hopefully he's just catching up and will sleep again tonight, if not we'll sick big brother on him! ;)

Football

2011-08-25T13:20:00.000-05:00

I went to Daddy's first football game on Tuesday.

The line looks good dad, but you might want to tighten up those holes...

See Mia, this is how you hand off the football...

TOUCHDOWN! Did you see that mom?!?

The Carson

2011-08-22T20:33:00.001-05:00

This is Carson's first smile on camera. Parker has begun calling Carson...the Carson.

"hold the Carson"

"feed the Carson"

"swing the Carson"

We think "The Carson" has a pretty sweet smile

Mondays

2011-08-22T15:01:00.000-05:00

8:00 A.M. Monday morning.....anyone else dislike Monday's?!?

Hanging out

2011-08-22T14:59:00.001-05:00

I'm tired of hanging out in this swing...put me down!

Ok guys, tummy time is not that fun...can I go back to the swing?

It's OK Carson, I'll make it better.

Actually, tummy time isn't that bad after all.

Just 5 more minutes please?!?

Mom and Dad's bed is pretty comfy too!

Two little boys giving mischievous grins...this is one of Carson's first smiles. He looks ornery doesn't he?

Back in School

2011-08-22T14:54:00.000-05:00

Travis on the first day of school last week.

Misty on the first day of school last week.

All of us had a successful, tireing week. Travis is also coaching football again this year. Friday the boys and I went to check out practice, but it was too hot to get out of the car...looks good from here Dad!

I'll be right back...

2011-08-11T21:47:00.001-05:00

This is Parker's new "thing"...he'll say I'll be right back and take off running! :) What the video doesn't show is the 10+ times he did this before the camera was on...or the 10+times he did it after!

Two Minutes

2011-08-11T21:28:00.000-05:00

Travis:
Parker, in 10 minutes it will be nap-time.

Parker: (In the most straight, serious face an almost 2 year old can give)

No, Daddy (while waving his index finger), two minutes.

Signs of a new mom of 2

2011-08-06T15:04:00.000-05:00

Some signs of a new TIRED mother of 2 children:

If at a doctors appointment for a new baby, a woman jumps up and runs to the door when the name of her first born is called....she might be a tired mom of 2....

If coming through the parking lot at the zoo, a woman stops at a red van that is running, AND NOT HER VAN, to inspect a serious dent on the front....she might be a tired mom of 2....

If a woman calls the first born the 2nd born's name and calls the 2nd born names of children of friends, children at daycare, adults, any name that pops into her head.....she might be a tired mom of 2....

If a woman wakes up in the middle of the night convinced she forgot to put breast milk into the fridge only to find the breast pump washed, dried, and ready for the next pumping....she might be a tired mom of 2...

If the same woman wakes up in the middle of the night frantically searching for her newborn under the covers because she forgets that she put him in the bassinet when he fell asleep....she might be a tired mom of 2....

If a woman can't remember any more of the crazy antics she's pulled in the last 6 weeks...she might be a tired mom of 2!

Newborn Pictures

2011-08-03T19:46:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago we had Jodie McNally take Carson's newborn pictures. They turned out adorable! We love them! Check them all out here:

www.jodiemcnally.com/photography/carson-newborn

Balloon Races

2011-08-02T15:56:00.000-05:00

We ended our busy week with the balloon launch on Friday night.

We started the evening with a picnic in the park with friends.

The kids got to make their own hot air balloon craft and pick out their own color of balloon.

Then both boys popped their balloons. Check out Sawyers photo...look closely at all the adults in the background...they're crackin' up....sorry Sawyer!

Even Carson had a good time just sprawled out on the grass!

Then the balloons started to blow up. Wow!

Parkers said "Moon, Moon"

That is code for Balloon.

Up, up, and away!

Then Parker was sad.

He wasn't scared...he was mad/sad that the moons were leaving!

We had a great family evening with friends!

Staycation

2011-08-02T15:34:00.001-05:00

This year with a shortened summer vacation, a new baby, a healing c-section and all that heat we opted not to go on vacation but rather do a "stay"cation. Here's what we've been up to on "stay"cation!

We got a big, little pool.

That's an oxymoron isn't it?

Helping dad pull it out....Yeah! It's all ready to go!

Can we go swim now guys?

We went to Monkey Joe's with cousins.

Monkey Joes is also known as, Ooo, ooh, Ah, Ah Joes. :)

After warming up to the bounce houses Parker had a ball! (so did his dad ;)

Carson, however, couldn't be bothered to wake up and see what was going on....maybe next time!

Those are Parker's feet flying in the air!

We spent time with our cousins.

Annica made Carson this great blanket with her Grandma Jan! Carson loves how it is so fuzzy and warm!

Parker got to eat the the little "big" kid table. He thought he was pretty hot stuff!

There was play time on the porch and even a smooch from a pooch! (Chervenka's dog Snickers)

We have learned how to cook in the kitchen

....he's already better than his mama! :)

His work area...

A budding Chef.

White Water JunctionThe boys went with the Chervenkas and Grandma Stecher to play in the water at Whitewater Junction in Rock Island. Parker loved it and can't wait to go back!

The great "Bandito"

Parker wears and Ear Bandit to help keep the plugs in and the water out so his ear tubes don't fall out.

Travis showed me this picture and called it the great Bandito...I thought it was funny and the name has stuck!

A budding reader!

2011-07-26T15:16:00.000-05:00

After last weeks post about library story time I feel like I need to put a disclaimer with this post...

**These photos were NOT staged**

This was Parker one morning reading to his toys. He is doing this more and more frequently and it is SOOOO cute!

Sweet Summer Corn!

2011-07-24T14:50:00.000-05:00

YUM!

There is nothing better than some Oquawka Slagel Farm sweet corn in the summer!

Story Time

2011-07-24T14:46:00.000-05:00

We have been lucky enough to take Parker to weekly story time at the library this summer. He has loved every minute of it and has progressively gotten better at sitting and listening to the story, showing "Mr. Jingles" his craft project, and interacting with the other kids. Our only regret is that it isn't offered in the evenings during the school year!

Wow! That's a lot of books!

Welcome song and find your square...

Enjoying the story on his square with dad!

Interacting and taking turns! YEAH!

Making a star spangled flag! Very creative!

Showing off his work to Miss Karen and Mr. Jingles.

Beat the Heat

2011-07-24T14:38:00.001-05:00

How do the Stecher's beat the horrible summer heat?

Depends on which Stecher you are:

Parker:

Parker chooses to go to a pizza/video arcade and play games in the air-conditioning with Grandma/Grandpa Stecher.

Travis:

Travis chooses to go wading at Steele Dam with his dad and catch lots of fish!

Misty:

Misty chooses to set the air conditioner on 68 degrees to compensate for her hormonal hot/cold flashes and watch Hallmark channel while everyone naps!

Carson:

Carson chooses to be bundled under 2 winter blankets and nap comfortably in his warm bed...thanks mom!

Hope you are all finding ways to stay cool!

Odds and Ends

2011-07-20T13:56:00.000-05:00

Last week my dear friend from grade school, Michele and her 2 kids came for a visit. Her kiddos are just about 6 months older than ours. We were able to visit before it got too hot out so the kids were able to play outside some too. Parker was quite intrigued with June's curls and with a "baby" who could interact more than his brother...that would be Mason. We had a great time and can't wait for another visit.

It's official...I'm old....yesterday we traded my Alero for......

a MINI VAN!

It was definitely time and we need the extra space that the Alero couldn't offer. We are very happy with our new family vehicle the only drawback is it's red. Every car I've ever owned/driven as mine has been red. The cougar, the Grand am, the Alero, and now the Mini...at least the RAV isn't red.

Travis and Parker heading out to the van with the salesman after the deal was complete....the family of four in front of the mini...

One good thing Carson is learning about being a baby brother is that you don't have to wait so long to experience the "good" things in life! Parker wasn't allowed to go to Chuckie Cheese until his 1st birthday. Yesterday a day after turning 3 WEEKS old Carson got his first experience.

Parker has been wanting to go back for some time...ever since the high five incident (see earlier post). With the weather being so hot and Parker not being able to play outside to burn off his energy we took the opportunity to break in the van and go to dinner at "I cheese". :)

Carson's repeat PKU test that had come back initially with some abnormalities and gave us quite a scare for what could be has now come back negative for all of the what ifs...his repeat PKU was cleared by the state and Dr. Larson, whom we adore, and Carson has been given a clean bill of health! Praise GOD!

Thank you for all of the prayers and good thoughts lately, it was definitely heard!

We hope everyone is staying cool and enjoying some water activities or some air conditioning!

What we've been up to...

2011-07-11T20:00:00.000-05:00

What we've been up to over the past week...

Snuggle time with dad..

Playtime with our friends Sophie and Sawyer...

A tasty treat for lunch...

Learning to share with our brother...

Here Carson...here...

Turning 2 weeks old today!

1 week check up

2011-07-05T21:44:00.000-05:00

One Week Old!

Today Carson had his 1 week check up and his first visit to the doctor's office. He measured 21 1/2 inches long which is the 90th percentile for height...Travis said he's going to take after me for height..ha ha!

He also weighed 8lbs 5 oz. which is 1 oz. more than his birth weight so we are headed in the right direction! He had a bit of jaundice in the hospital but it's gone now and Dr. Larson said, "he's lookin' good" That was encouraging for us to hear and we look forward to seeing her again next week!

Today was also Carson's first play date! Lucas Nelson came over for some time to "hang out" together. Lucas is 3 months old and a cutie pie! He spent the day jabbering and smiling and teaching Carson all about life! What a difference 3 months makes! Lucas seemed huge in comparison to Carson.

Carson was tuckered out after all the day's events! Let's hope he sleeps well tonight! :)

Random Photos

2011-07-04T21:54:00.000-05:00

Travis, Parker and I have been enjoying our new addition this week! Carson has made a huge difference in our family for the good! Here are some odds and ends photos of this week.

Real funny daddy!

Proud Papa and son!

Look Mom, Dad is super strong and can carry us both....but this isn't super comfy...down..down..down.

Brothers

2011-07-04T21:51:00.000-05:00

These ADORABLE shirts were made by a friend of mine as a baby gift for Carson! Aren't they cute? She has a great display out at Hawthorn craft mall of different baby items and also does custom orders!

Go Team Stecher!

No sleeping during the game Carson!

Awww drats, you caught me!

Cheese!

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T21:45:00.000-05:00

Happy 4th of July!

Carson is 1 week old today!

Having story time with dad.

Are we going to see fireworks dad?

The great thing about having a baby so close to the 4th is a lot of really cute 4th of July clothes! :)

Family Visits~Vancil's

2011-07-04T21:39:00.000-05:00

On Sunday Misty's family came over for a short visit. Unfortunately, this tired mommy and daddy forgot to charge the camera and it died shortly after these photos!

Uncle Justin, Sarah and Parker playing in the water outside.

Uncle Justin blowing bubbles and Parker chasing them.

Family Visits~Stechers

2011-07-04T21:19:00.000-05:00

Saturday Travis's sister and family made the trip from the Des Moines area to meet Carson. It was great to see everyone and we look forward to getting together soon. If Travis and I are brave enough we might try a trip to Des Moines before we go back to school.

Annica was quite smitten with Carson and Aunt Heather wanted more time to cuddle!

Parker was a big help opening Carson's gift.

Grandma and Grandpa with Carson.

All the cousins

Parker enjoying cookie cake to celebrate Tyler's birthday a little early. Happy birthday Tyler!

Just hanging out in the back yard.

Travis, Heather, and Carson

He's Here!

2011-06-30T22:16:00.000-05:00

He's here!

Carson Patrick Stecher

Born Monday June 27th

8:09AM

8 lbs. 4 oz.

20 1/2 inches long

Grandma and Grandpa Stecher

Grandma and Grandpa Vancil

Daddy with his 2 boys meeting for the first time. It looks like Parker is saying something like...I'm the big brother and I'll show you the ropes!

Ahhh, what did I just agree to? He's pretty cool though so I guess we'll keep him!

Uncle Justin and Sarah came for a visit

Getting some Grandpa love!

Hi baby!

Ready to come home

The welcoming committee.

Here...let me show you your room!

Parker is already a great big brother! He wanted to help all night long! He actually got frustrated with us when we wouldn't let him help! It's going to be fun to watch the boys form a great brotherly relationship!

Pre-Op

2011-06-23T21:12:00.000-05:00

Tonight was my pre-op appointment! Can you believe that in 3 days Travis and I will walk into the hospital to have a new baby????!!!?? The time has FLOWN by!

This pregnancy has definitely carried differently than Parker. New baby is much more rambunctious and morphs my stomach often. It is to the point that it actually hurts now when he moves because he's so big. I am convinced that this boy will be bigger than Parker's 8 pounds 7 ounces because new guy feels so much heavier!

This is me a week ago at 37 weeks.

This was me at 40 weeks with Parker right before I left to be induced.

I think I'm bigger now at 37 weeks than I was at 40 weeks...geesh...this is going to be a big boy!

Monday morning we go in at 5:30 and the actual C-section will be at 7:30AM. Baby Jr. will be out and in the world by 7:45AM. We look forward to sharing the birth details/statistics with all of you later that morning. We plan to stay 2-3 nights recovering at the hospital and then will be home. We look forward to introducing little Stecher man to all of you soon!

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-23T21:04:00.000-05:00

This Father's Day all the dads of the family had a great weekend! Travis choose to go to Chuckie Cheese with Parker for his Father's Day eve. Parker conquered his fear of large stuffed animated creatures...remember hop-hop from Easter??

Well, Chuckie Cheese has left his mark on our son. After some tears and squirming, Parker gave the big guy a high five....for 6 days/nights now we have heard...

"I cheese"

Yes Parker you went to Chuckie Cheese.

"I five" (as he's pointing to the prized hand that he gave the high five with)

Yes Parker you gave him a high five.

"Door"

Yes Parker then he went through the door.

If you don't acknowledge this you will hear continuous I cheese, I cheese, I cheese until you recognize his accomplishment!

Sunday Morning Travis got to go fishing with his dad and Parker and I went to breakfast with my dad. Unfortunately, I forgot my camera for breakfast so we'll have to get a grandpa Vancil/Parker shot on here soon.

Happy late Father's Day to all the Super Dad's/Granddad's out there, especially Travis, Ben and Pat!

We love you guys!

Basement Makeover

2011-06-23T20:42:00.001-05:00

Travis has been working very hard this spring on creating a live able space in the basement for us...Parker...to hang out. It will be a great refuge for big brother when little baby Stecher is crying and adjusting to life on the outside!

Here are some before and after photos...the transformation is amazing!

Travis has become quite the handyman around the house! Great Job Daddy!!! We love our new playroom!