A belated update...

Dear Family and Friends,

I'm so sorry we've been so bad about staying in touch with people lately. Ever since Jason's Dad passed away in early May, it's been a whirlwind of things needing to be done and us just needing some space. From the middle of June to the end of July we were in Colorado (with a week out east to visit the Rohr's and my Grandparents in the middle) helping Jason's Mom go through things and get her house ready to sell. Christopher was truly amazing on the trip! I was concerned that he might not travel well, since he's the first child and is kept on a routine most of the time. It was a blessing to be near family during this difficult time, however it is also good to finally be home!

Little Christopher has grown so much and is such a joy in our lives. He is constantly making me laugh. He is a very affectionate little man; approaching me many times a day just to give me kisses! He loves variety and details! He can sit and play with a small paper box for an hour, but he also loves to "go bye bye" and explore the world. Ever since he was born he loved to be walked outside and his daddy coined him the phrase "I want to see new things..." It fits Christopher well! He is now walking everywhere and gets quite frustrated when he can't walk in the sand very well! Christopher is also very social and really enjoys going to the gym daycare for an hour while Jason and I workout in the mornings.

I'm now 20 weeks along with the newest member of our family! It's hard to believe this pregnancy is going so fast! I have so much to get done before this little one gets here... We found out on August 14th that we are having a little girl! We have named her Monica Lorraine. Monica is kicking me allot now and such a joy to feel. On the feast of the Assumption (August 15th), Jason, Christopher and I went to Mass at 5:30 and then I stayed for the Solemn Mass at 7:30 with the polyphony choir. As I was sitting there "by myself"...realizing that it was just me at Mass, Monica starts kicking me...as if she was saying, "I'm here too, Mommy!" It was so precious!

I will try to be better about keeping in touch with everyone. Know that you are all in our prayers. Please continue to pray for the repose of the soul of Jason's Dad and our little family of four! God bless you all!

~ Christen