The Wertenberger Family

Rub the beat!

2012-02-10T14:50:00.001-06:00

IMG_0225 a video by wertfamily on Flickr.

I posted this video on Facebook a few days ago. Unfortunately, Papa and Gigi were not able to view it. What a shame! It's too good not to post here too. Enjoy!

Leah likes to watch the Fresh Beat Band on Nick Jr. "Twist" is name of the DJ in the band. I am assuming that is the inspiration for Leah's performance, but really... who knows!

My sister says it has been too long since our last blog post...

2012-02-10T10:08:00.004-06:00

And she's right. But I do have a few good excuses.

1. We are in the middle of basketball season (only one loss so far and just a few short weeks until the post-season).

2. I have started work on my transitional doctorate of physical therapy. Classes are online but my evenings have been spent reading 3 textbooks on health policy. Boring!

But here's what the kids have been up to:

Rhett is still loving school and counting down the days until his and Trey's birthday (27 days!). He has been taking advantage of the nice weather to learn how to ride his bike. He only needs a little help to get started and then he's off to go wherever he wants. He is reading 1st grade books from the school library and likes to read to Leah and Trey.

Leah can hardly wait for her turn to go to school. She loves to work on projects at home and is starting to write her name really well and can color in the lines better than her big brother. She MUST wear a dress or skirt to Daddy's games so she can cheer and dance for the Lady Broncos. Trey continues to get lots of love from his big sister.

Trey was 11 months old on Wednesday! I can't believe it has almost been a year since we spent 20 days at Wesley waiting for Trey to arrive and then waiting for him to come home. I am almost done with his first haircut. Yes, it has taken me 2 days, but Ben hasn't been home much this week so I have had to wrestle and cut by myself. Hopefully Trey will let me finish before Daddy's game tonight! He is cruising everywhere and getting into everything. I had to move the trash can yesterday... He continues to be easy-going but certainly has found his voice for those times he wants to get our attention. He has 2 teeth but 3 more are on their way. He eats ANYTHING and thankfully, has started to use a sippy (this took much longer than I anticipated).

Hope you enjoy the slide show!

Avalanche it is!

2011-11-13T16:16:00.003-06:00

Rhett suggested Avalanche yesterday before Ben & I left to get the dog. I thought it was good in theory, but too long. Somehow I had a one syllable name in my head. But Rhett and the puppy have bonded so well, so quickly, we thought we'd go with Rhett's choice of name. Welcome to the family, Avalanche!

A new friend

2011-11-12T21:50:00.004-06:00

Introducing...

Well we don't actually know yet. We can't decide on a name for this "little" guy yet.

Ben may not have been ready for another dog yet, but Momma was. Basketball starts next week and there will be more late nights for Dad so adding another man to the house was necessary.

He's a yellow lab-great pyrenees mix and one of the cutest guys I've ever seen. He will be 10 weeks old tomorrow and is going to be a BIG guy. He was one of nine and the last one left. The people we got him from said he was pretty calm once all the others were gone. He was good with the kids today and they were really good with him.

He's not really fast yet. Ben says he doesn't run like a dog, more like a steer. Pyrenees are nocturnal herding dogs. Full-grown, males weigh over 100 lbs. I never thought we'd have a dog like that! But once I saw the pictures of him, I was sold. Have I mentioned how cute he is?!

Here's what Wikipedia says about Great Pyreneese:

In nature, the Great Pyrenees is confident, gentle, and affectionate. While territorial and protective of his flock or family when necessary, his general demeanor is one of composure, both patient and tolerant. He is strong willed, independent and reserved, yet attentive, fearless and loyal to his charges both human and animal.

Here's to hoping for a long, loving relationship with what's-his-name.

(we'll keep you posted on that)

A good friend

2011-11-12T21:31:00.002-06:00

We got Scar last year, Thanksgiving weekend. He was 8 weeks old. What a cutie!

This picture was taken this summer. He was a fun puppy. Rambunctious. He loved to play catch with a tennis ball or frisbee. He could catch a frisbee out of the air! Ben & Scar would play lots of catch together.

Scar was hit by a car in front of our home just after dark on October 14. The homestead has been pretty quiet since then. The cats are coming around more often and closer to the house. Ben was in a funk for a good 3 days. Scar was his first dog and they were good friends. He said he wasn't ready for another dog quite yet...

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T21:28:00.003-05:00

We celebrated Halloween Friday with the grandparents. Ben didn't have school so we traveled northeast for the weekend. Here's my "fighter fighter," candy corn, and Tinkerbell posing for Papa and Gigi.

Trick or treating downtown with Big Papa and Grandma Sauce.

Visiting Great Grandma Flossie.

We carved pumpkins Saturday night with Big Papa and Grandma Sauce. We put them out tonight incase we had any trick-or-treaters. We had none.

It was a beautiful day. Bring on November!

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-27T08:30:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, Leah and I joined Rhett's class on their field trip to the pumpkin patch. It was a sunny, WINDY day, but we had a lot of fun. Rhett was most excited to ride the school bus. He can't wait until kindergarten when he gets to ride the bus everyday. Leah's favorite part was going down the big slide with mom (sorry no pictures of that). I have to admit, it was pretty fun! Today is Rhett's costume party at school. A big week for my little guy!

Birthday Girl!

2011-10-14T09:20:00.003-05:00

A little late with the birthday post. This is our 3-year old on her birthday, September 22.

Momma and Daddy got her a fairy dress up costume.

Love the pose, Leah!

A week later, we had her party. It was also the day of Whitewater's Fall Festival so we went into town for the parade.

Leah waiting "patiently" for the parade to start.

Leah has been wanting this pink scooter since she first saw it in the spring.

Thank you Big Papa and Grandma Sauce!

Leah was pleased with her Barbie cake. Momma was not. I'm glad we got this cake out of the way while she won't remember what a pain it was for her mother to make!

Rhett has some big news to share!

2011-10-11T21:44:00.002-05:00

We are NOT pregnant. This is waaaaaaay better news!

Where has the last 6 months gone?!

2011-09-10T13:10:00.002-05:00

Trey is such a happy boy! What a joy to all of us. Rhett continues to be protective and Leah continues to smother. Trey is not short on attention.

He had a good check up Thursday. He weighs just under 17 lbs (37th%ile against 6 month olds, 77th against those with his due date) and is just short of 27 inches long (69th%ile against 6 month olds, top of the chart against his due date).

Skills are about 5 months but not a concern at all.

He has been eating yellow veggies and cereal. We will be starting some fruits next week after we visit the store. He takes 3 naps a day and sleeps 11-12 hours at night. He is an ANGEL!

Silly Leah!

2011-09-02T22:10:00.002-05:00

Leah definitely tries my patience... frequently. But she is a blast to have around!

I love it when she covers her mouth and laughs when she thinks something is funny.

I may be biased, but I think she is so pretty. And this makes me nervous. Pretty and fun to have around? She may not be allowed to leave the house as a teenager.

Trey smiles and laughs at her all the time. She talks baby talk to him and he loves it!

This is Leah winking at me. Silly Leah!

Not to be left out...

2011-08-22T22:11:00.003-05:00

Here's what our tubba wubba is up to lately. He wants so badly to sit up. Tonight I moved him from the "infant" side of the tub to the "toddler" side of the tub where he can sit up more.

Another picture of our happy boy!

SOOOOO Excited!

2011-08-22T21:43:00.003-05:00

Today was Rhett's first day at his new pre-school. He is a peer model at one of the early childhood programs where I work. He was so excited all morning (and for the last 5 days or so).

He kept asking when we were leaving for school. He'd really like to ride the bus, but that's not an option this year. We went on our usual Monday morning shopping trip, he said, "Mom, just go by Wal-Mart and take me to school." Trouble was, we weren't even in the same town as his school.

I continued to explain to him that after he ate lunch and Kaylei got here to watch Leah & Trey, we would leave for school. He only ate half his lunch and then said he was done and ready to go to school. He was kind enough to put off leaving for a few pictures.

The apple with the glare on it... that's Rhett's :)

He walked right in, hung up his backpack and went right to the trains. He found these quickly last week at Meet the Teacher night. I had given him a job to make a new friend and learn their name. As soon as he came out the door when I picked him up, he said, "I made a new friend! His name is Luke. But not my cousin Luke."

The only disappointments were that he sat on the letter Y on the rug and he wanted the R. And then his teacher told me he asked what bus he rode home and looked disappointed when she said I was picking him up. I think there is a field trip in October when he'll get to ride a bus. This kid loves school buses!

Here's to a great year, Rhett!

Leah's Music Video

2011-08-22T21:09:00.002-05:00

Our little performer was on point this evening. It was a nice night so we went outside after supper and before baths. Rhett asked Daddy to ride bikes with him. Skar wanted Daddy to play Frisbee with him. And Leah just started dancing. Boy, does she have moves! She was singing some "Light Up the Sky" by The Afters mixed with a little Bella Dancerella. Lately she's been shy when I bring the camera out, but tonight she was ready. It was hard to decide which of the 3 videos I took to post. Hope this doesn't disappoint!

Down by the creek

2011-08-19T18:48:00.002-05:00

The kids like to walk down to the bridge over a little creek north of our home and throw rocks into the water. Before it got too hot this morning, the four of us headed that way. Rhett on his bike and Leah & Trey in the double stroller.

I think Trey had a good time.

We have worked a few times with Rhett riding his bike without training wheels. Today he went with the training wheels raised a bit so it was a little wobbly. And since we were on a gravel road, he was pretty tired when we got home.

Although Leah is "potty trained," she doesn't tell us when she needs to go. Instead she sits down with her legs straight out in front of her and rocks side to side. She did this in the middle of the bridge... So I took her over to the edge of the gravel and held her little fanny over the grass. She was a little shy to start but she finished great... no pee in her socks!

Congrats, Leah on popping your first squat!

Relieved!

2011-07-25T14:16:00.002-05:00

The other night at dinner, Leah said, "oh Jesus." Ben and I looked at each other... did she really just say that?! Ben took over, "Leah, we don't say that." "But Brother Bear said it," she said. Rhett pipes in, "Yeah, on the Berenstain Bears and the Truth." Grandma Sauce sent home a Berenstain Bears video and the kids have been watching it pretty frequently lately. I'm pretty sure that Brother Bear doesn't say that and I'm also pretty sure that Grandma sauce wouldn't own a video that said that either. We left the conversation at, even if Brother Bear did say it, we don't say it.

Rhett & Leah watched the video this morning so I sat and listened carefully to see if I could identify what they were talking about. Brother Bear says, "aww gee, Sis." Whew! Glad we got that figured out!

One Proud Momma

2011-07-20T11:44:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, Leah & I were making popsicles in the kitchen. Trey is moving around a lot on his mat lately. He was moving closer to the fireplace. I said out loud, to no one in particular, "Trey you're about to hit the fireplace." I noticed Rhett ran down the hall. Before long, he came back with a blanket and laid it against the fireplace to keep Trey's head from hitting the brick. You can see it in the picture. What a great big brother Trey has!

Trey is getting so much stronger. He is so happy, too, smiling and laughing for much of his waking hours. Mommy makes sure he has plenty of tummy time every day. I probably should move his mat away from the fireplace now, because he can scooch around all over that thing on his tummy or back.

Leah LOVES to dance and sing. One of my friends gave her a DVD called Bella Dancerella Pop Star when Trey was born. She asks to watch it every day and it is so fun to watch her perform. Here is one of the songs she likes to do the best. She can do the whole thing without the video, but since she was watching it this morning, I took advantage to video her. Enjoy!

Reading Rhett

2011-07-18T19:01:00.002-05:00

Ben's Aunt Connie retired a year or two ago after teaching 1st grade for over 30 years (forgive me Aunt Connie for not remembering the exact details!). When cleaning out her room, she divided up her books and things between her great nieces and nephews. We received some early reading books and Rhett & Leah have enjoyed listening to them. Rhett has shown some signs of reading so tonight I asked him to read to me. Turn it up loud and listen carefully.

We are so proud of you, Rhett!

Swimming Lessons 2011

2011-07-14T11:52:00.003-05:00

Rhett & Leah are taking swim lessons for the first time this summer. Our friend Jayne is their teacher and her daughter and a friend help her out. Both kids have come a long a way since we started last week. Rhett wouldn't even blow bubbles the first day and Leah wouldn't let go of Katrina. Now, Leah is all about doing it on her own, so don't ask her to do anything but keep your eye on her cause she will do it when she thinks you're not looking. There are still 2 days left but we are so proud of both kids already and can't wait to see what they'll be up to next summer!

Trey 4 months

2011-07-13T08:28:00.003-05:00

Seems like our big boy has stalled out a little. He weighs 14.4 lbs. I haven't measured him lately and we couldn't get in for his 4 month appointment until the 21st so we won't know his percentiles until then.

He is starting to talk a lot and take notice of more things around him. He is getting stronger, too. He has tried rice cereal a few times and isn't doing too bad with it. Our mama kitty enjoys eating his leftovers. He has been pretty slobbery lately and it looks like he may be teething already. Geesh!

Big Papa and Grandma Sauce took Rhett & Leah home for a few days. It was nice (and easy!) to be at home with Trey. Sounds like Rhett & Leah had a lot of fun, too. Leah's favorite part was playing with Aunt Cindy's old Barbies. Grandpa even played Barbies with Leah! Rhett's favorite part was playing monster trucks. Sounds like Rhett had it pretty good... he had 6 trucks by the end and Grandpa only had 1 and it had a broken wheel.

Quick Trip out West

2011-07-06T13:30:00.002-05:00

We made a quick overnight trip to western Kansas last weekend. My Grandma Warrenetta (Gramma Netta) is one of 9 and they all get together every summer for a reunion. My dad is one of 28 (if I counted right!) first cousins. The reunion was in Meade but we decided to spend some time in Dodge City on our way out. We intended to do Boot Hill but it was too hot to have Trey out for too long. My Grandpa is a member of the Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame at Boot Hill. But we did enjoy the hotel swimming pool and quick tour of the Harley Davidson shop there. This was Trey's first time swimming. He and I were only in a short time and then we had fun watching Daddy, Rhett, and Leah. The kids all slept well at the hotel and we headed to Meade the next morning for the day. The kids had some more water fun at the reunion and Ben played pitch with some of my great aunts and uncles. All 9 siblings had wrote down some of the memories they had growing up. It was fun to read those. We left Meade about 7:15 and drove straight home to be here by 10:45. We saw lots of fireworks from the car on our way home.

Bath time fun!

2011-06-30T15:48:00.004-05:00

Going Home

2011-06-29T17:38:00.002-05:00

We went to Sabetha for the first time since Christmas last weekend. With Trey arriving just at the end of basketball season, we hadn't been able to go. Here are a few highlights from our weekend. Drew and Tyler were there too since Randy and Amy were on a date weekend with friends. Uncle Brent and Aunt Cindy were also there.

Our Favorite Daddy

2011-06-22T08:06:00.003-05:00

Had a lovely Father's Day this weekend. Another filling morning at church, a filling lunch for Daddy (he chose the KFC buffet), naps for all, and playing in the yard after supper.

And a picture of Trey for good measure. He's sleeping through the night!!!

Leah...

2011-06-22T07:55:00.002-05:00

Here are a few things we have caught Leah doing in the last week or so...

"Washing" dishes in the kitchen sink.

She carried a stool in from the bathroom and shimmied her way up on the counter.

Leah can pretend that almost anything is make-up. She LOVES make-up. She was hiding behind a chair with a package of markers when we found her this way.

You can see her legs are also covered. Her arms were too but she has them turned back in the picture. I had to get a picture before she got cleaned up and sat in time out!

There is never a dull moment with Leah around. She is definitely in the terrible two's. We haven't found her discipline "currency" yet. She's pretty much going to to what she wants to do despite any punishment/reward we hand out. Just a phase, right???

Date with Mom

2011-06-22T07:42:00.005-05:00

Rhett and I had a date a few weeks ago. What a pleasure to spend some one-on-one time with my favorite big brother. There is a mini golf place at the outlet mall in Newton (a mere 7 miles from our house!)

We went once last summer and it was pretty frustrating for this little perfectionist. He didn't want to take much advice either. This year was very different. He let me help him with his grip and show him how to swing.

I started counting swings and keeping score but then I needed the score card to pull watermelon gum off the bottom of my shoe (AGH!)

We were the only people there and had so much fun together. Thanks, Daddy, for staying home with Leah and Trey so Rhett and I could go!

Leah and I have girl dates almost every week to the grocery store. Not as novel as mini golf but fun to have a shopping buddy in my little girl!

3 Months

2011-06-09T14:54:00.003-05:00

Trey is 3 months old! He is smiling a lot and talking more and more.

He weighs 13.5 lbs and is 24 in long. He is wearing 3 month clothes and the next time I buy diapers, I'm buying size 2!

He still gets lots of attention from his big brother and sister. Leah likes to play "pack-n-play" where she lays down blankets for herself. This morning she shared with her brothers.

Skar: 1, Turkey: 0

2011-06-07T20:45:00.002-05:00

Skar has been spending some time down by the creek. We've seen a flock of turkeys down that way. Now there's one less. Every time we go out there seems to be another "part."

spine

feathers

pelvis

more feathers

Sit around a cry

2011-06-05T21:00:00.002-05:00

Rhett asked tonight if we could play "sit around and cry." It's something Ben does to make fun of the kids throwing fits. It usually can turn their tears to laughter pretty quick. This is the first time one of the kids has asked to play it like a game.

Leah's sad face.

Trey did not play. He only fusses when he is tired or hungry, both problems are generally easily fixed. He weighed 13.6 lbs before his bath tonight!

Left Trey with a sitter for the first time yesterday. Ben & I had a wedding so Kaci & Kari came to watch all 3 kids. We had a great time seeing past students and their families. We have another wedding in 2 weeks so Ben & I will have 2 dates in a month!!!

Hodgepodge

2011-06-03T21:13:00.004-05:00

Some photos of the last week or so.

We truly completed the school year last weekend with the State Track Meet. My mom and dad came down and helped me take the kids for a few hours on Saturday. They had never been before. If you haven't either, you really should go sometime. All class sizes compete at WSU Cessna Stadium so there is a lot going on and you get to see a lot of talented Kansas kids.

We've had several visitors: Uncle Josh came on Memorial Day. Leah asked to have friends over. When I asked her who she wanted to come, she said Jessi (one of Daddy's ball players who also babysits for us sometimes and who Rhett wants to marry). So Jessi came over for supper and we flew kites afterwards. Rhett wants Jessi to come back when Mom and Daddy aren't here. Mommy wants that too!

I made Rhett a stegosaurus hat and although it has been over 90 degrees, he has enjoyed wearing it around the house.

Trey has really begun to smile a lot and we are all enjoying it!

Wisdom

2011-05-28T20:43:00.002-05:00

Tonight we read about Solomon asking God for wisdom in Leah's Bible story. Daddy explained that wisdom was being smart when making choices. He asked Rhett what he would ask God for. Rhett said, "To find my Buzz Lightyear." Then Daddy asked, "Leah, what would you ask God for? Do you want to be smart?" Leah's response, "No. I want to be pretty."

Think we have our hands full?!

Aunt Cayla

2011-05-26T17:26:00.003-05:00

This is my dear friend, Micayla. The kids call her Aunt Cayla.

She spoils us. She is always shopping for the kids. At Christmas I told her, "no toys!" So instead she bought Rhett & Leah new winter coats, snow pants, and boots.

She is the mom of 3 boys, the youngest just graduated from high school. We took this picture at Alex's graduation party.

She is the one we called when my water broke and we needed someone to stay with the kids.

Don't know what we'd do without Aunt Cayla!

This one's for you, Uncle Justin!

2011-05-26T17:14:00.002-05:00

Rhett has been asking if he can spend some money from his piggy bank (that is actually a cowboy hat) on some Toy Story toys. We have never really talked about what he could do with the money in there so we had a little lesson in financial literacy.

First we sorted his coins and then we put them in 3 different cups: Share, Save, Spend. We didn't talk about percentages or anything like that, just went down the line... one penny in each cup until they were gone and so on and so on.

He ended up with about $3 in each cup. Not much for Toy Story toys but he is excited to take his "Share" money to church this weekend!

Chubby

2011-05-26T17:10:00.003-05:00

I think the picture speaks for itself.

Trey is 11 weeks old and weighs 12.4 lbs (per our bathroom scale).

Swimming fun!

2011-05-25T08:41:00.001-05:00

It started a little chilly since it's well water but they didn't seem to mind. Looks like we should get miles of fun out of the pool this summer. They love it!

Program

2011-05-18T14:36:00.002-05:00

Rhett had his preschool achievement program last Thursday. Since his public performance history is sketchy, we resorted to bribery again. I asked him what he wanted for a special treat if he sang at his program. He asked for a red sucker. Easy! So, I offered him 2 red suckers if he sang and did the actions.

He came in and stood front and center. I waved to the 2 red suckers when he looked at me as a reminder. It did no good. No singing, so actions. Just him grabbing himself "down there." Leah was standing on Ben's lap so she could see. She asked, in a voice loud enough for those around us to hear, "Daddy, why is Rhett grabbing his penis?" Good question, Leah.

They handed out awards to each student. Rhett got the "Quiet Spirit" award and "Academic King" award. Other than the song performance, we are proud of the year Rhett had at preschool. Next year he will be a peer model at the early childhood preschool where I work, 4 afternoons a week.

A sampling of what he has learned this year :)

I'm not posting the video I took of his program since he didn't do anything. Leah, however, was anxious to put on a program for us at home. Enjoy!

Trey is 2 months old

2011-05-10T08:20:00.002-05:00

Trey has his 2 month check-up yesterday. He weighs 9 lbs 12 oz and is 21.3 in long.

When compared with babies with his due date, he is in the 80+%ile for both height and weight.

Compared to other 2 month olds, he is in the 4%ile for height and the 10%ile for weight.

Doc was pleased with all he is doing. We are to stay on the apnea monitor at night for another month, but can be unhooked during the day. Yeah!

Trey is very long-waisted so he has outgrown some of his newborn clothes already.

Way to grow, Trey!

I think he is going to be our biggest child...

A Happy Mother

2011-05-07T21:18:00.004-05:00

Here's what makes me happy...

My family of 5.

Rhett had a Mother's Day Tea at preschool last Thursday. He seated me when I got there and brought me a fruit cup.He had made me this BIG card for Mother's Day. It has my heart in his hand :)

They each wrote an "Introduction to My Mother."

"My mother is very special! She is 30 feet tall and weighs 100 pounds. She has curly brown hair and blue eyes. She is 20 years old and is very happy.

My mother is very good as playing with toys at my house. When our family is together she likes to play with me. She likes to talk with her friends.

One of her favorite foods is lima beans and her favorite restaurant is The Jungle. She likes to shop at the grocery store and she usually buys pizza.

My mother is lucky to have me because I am so tall. I need her because she takes me to school. When I grow up my mother will be proud of me because I will be a dad.

I love you Mom. If I could give you anything in the world I would give you love for Mother's Day. Thanks for loving me!

Hugs and Kisses,

Rhett

My early Mother's Day gift from Ben and the kids. One of my favorites from the winery down the road and one of their new wines, a sure new favorite.

I am hoping to go to The Jungle restaurant tomorrow after church (the kids call Playa Azul "The Jungle" because of the decor.) And Rhett is right, it is my favorite!

Thank you, Ben, Rhett, Leah, and Trey!

I love being the Mom in this family.

Happy Due Date!

2011-04-30T22:02:00.003-05:00

Happy Due Date, Trey!

So glad this 8 lbs 4 oz, 21 in long baby boy is in my arms tonight and not my belly!

Easter laughs

2011-04-27T08:17:00.002-05:00

http://www.terrisfp1.com/holidays/chick.html

Rhett & Leah have been asking to watch this over and over. They laugh hysterically EVERY time.

Thanks, Aunt Karen for sending this to us!

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T21:11:00.002-05:00

Click here Easter 2011, and then you can watch the pics in a slideshow.

We had a fun day with our church family and some of my extended Fisher Family. Leah said her favorite thing in her Easter basket was the toothbrush. Rhett liked his Toy Story beach towel. After church we went to my cousin Tara's in Wichita for Easter dinner. Her family (my aunt, uncle, and cousin Tate and his wife Katie) were there along with my grandparents from Garden City.

Huntin'

2011-04-23T21:34:00.004-05:00

We did a little Easter egg hunt on Saturday afternoon.

Look up, Leah!

Got one!

Good Friday

2011-04-23T21:15:00.002-05:00

Ben was off work Friday and also has Monday off. He has been working hard on home projects; moving furniture around downstairs, washing the basement floor on his hands and knees (yes, ladies, he did that for me!), working outside.

My grandparents are in Wichita for a few days for doctor appointments and to stay through the weekend for Easter. They are staying with my aunt and uncle but came to spend Friday afternoon with us to meet Trey. We will see them again for Easter dinner at my cousins in Wichita.

Great Grandma Warrenetta

Papa Don and Grandma Netta admiring Trey.

Pictures of Trey

2011-04-21T20:52:00.002-05:00

A few pics of our growing boy. He's over 7 1/2 lbs now!

Conked out!

Great-Aunt Karen came for a quick visit from Albuquerque.

Content...

Rhett is so protective of Trey. Always checking on him or soothing him if he is fussy.

Kitties!

2011-04-21T20:47:00.003-05:00

Well, it was bound to happen. We have had our 2 cats, one male and one female, since September and we finally have our first litter of kittens. Not that we were wanting kitties, but just surprised we made it this long.

Black Jack had 5 kitties yesterday afternoon/evening.

Anybody want a kitten?!

The latest bedtime stall technique

2011-04-08T20:25:00.001-05:00

"Mom, I need some more love. So does Leah."

How can I say no to that?

A big brother's wisdom

2011-04-06T11:48:00.002-05:00

Leah cut her toe this morning playing downstairs. My kids don't really like bandaids (crazy, huh?!) but she needed one because it wouldn't stop bleeding. She wasn't crying until I put the bandaid on. Now with the bandaid as a reminder of her owie, she's talking baby talk about it. I heard Rhett say:

"It's okay, Leah. Jesus knows about your owie. And God knows about your owie. They will make it better soon."

Awwww! I love these kids!

The first night

2011-04-05T10:50:00.004-05:00

I started this yesterday but forgot to finish and post it. Here you go!

I think the first night for Rhett & Leah downstairs went pretty well. I had to go down a few times before they fell asleep because they had met up in the adjoining bathroom to whisper with each other. I laid with each of them for a few minutes more than usual. Rhett had a coughing fit in the night and it woke him up. I think he forgot where he was and got upset. I went down a tucked him back in and that was that. Leah cried out about 5 this morning and Ben went down and laid with her and they both slept till 7.

The second night went well too. They came up the stairs together a few minutes after we laid them down (not really sure why, but Rhett said Leah couldn't get back in her bed by herself). I laid with each of them again for a few minutes and didn't hear any more from them. Leah woke up again at 5. I laid with her for a little while but then it was time for Trey to eat so Ben laid with her. She never went back to sleep... She's been a little delicate this morning so I think she will nap well this afternoon!

I think it worked well because it was their idea to sleep down there. Leah is already asking when her clothes will be moved down there. Ben said he would help me move the rest of the furniture in tonight so I can move their clothes down.

Moving downstairs!

2011-04-04T20:34:00.002-05:00

We planned on having Rhett and Leah's basement bedrooms ready before the baby arrived. Well, Trey had different plans.

Ben had both rooms painted long ago. He painted this metal bed from my Grandma Colene's house over spring break. The new carpet was laid on Friday. We have had Rhett's comforter for a year or more but I bought sheets today.

While the kids were at daycare and Trey was sleeping, I put the bed together and had it ready for Rhett to see when they got home.

He was so excited and said he wanted to sleep down there tonight. We had planned to start out with him taking naps down there and Leah taking naps on the twin mattress on the floor where Rhett has been sleeping. But he was excited so we went with it.

Ben put Leah's bed together when he got home because she was so excited about Rhett's new bed and said she wanted to sleep down stairs too. She has been taking naps on our bed but overnight has still been in her crib.

Hopefully she doesn't fall out!

This was my daybed when I was growing up.

The bedrooms are connected by a bathroom.

Any guesses how many times we have to go down and put them back in their beds or who gets scared first?

Our performer

2011-04-03T20:21:00.002-05:00

** Thought I could rotate this in iPhoto but no luck. Sorry. You'll have to turn your head or your laptop :)

Leah put on quite a show this morning. She had been singing and dancing for awhile before I got the camera and went on even after I turned the camera off. Looks like she has her daddy's moves.

Our three kids :)

2011-04-03T20:12:00.003-05:00

Aunt Cindy and Uncle Brent got Rhett this puzzle for his birthday. He can do it all by himself!

Leah's hair has grown so much lately. We are still working on growing most of her bangs out, but I think her pony tail looks pretty cute! When she has a ribbon in her hair, she says she is a lady.

Here's our long and skinny baby boy. Trey's hair has a little curl to it.

Way to roll!

2011-03-31T14:21:00.003-05:00

Rhett asked for a scooter for his birthday. Big Papa and Grandma Sauce were happy to oblige.

What a trooper

2011-03-31T14:07:00.002-05:00

Trey was a trooper at his doctor's appointment yesterday. First off, he weighed 5 lb 9 oz. Yeah! Then came the "procedures." I helped to hold him down for the circumcision. Not something I thought I would ever observe, but very interesting. Once he got his pain block, he pretty much slept through the whole thing. The tongue clip on the other hand... They really can't do a pain block for that but thankfully it doesn't take very long. He fussed most of the way home but hen slept well the rest of the evening and night.

My favorite big brother with my favorite little brother.

So much love on one little blanket!

3 weeks old!

2011-03-29T21:52:00.004-05:00

Seems like Trey has been a part of our family forever already. It's hard to believe that he has only been home with us for 9 days. He continues to be a good baby. He eats every 4 hours and sleeps most of the time between feedings. He is starting to be awake a little more during the day but seems to be conserving his energy for growing while he sleeps. We return to the doctor tomorrow for a weight check, circumcision, and tongue clip. Anxious to see how much he has gained. (The doctor said they want him to gain half and ounce to an ounce a day so we are shooting for 5 lb 3 oz to 5 lb 7 oz.)

It's game time!

2011-03-27T20:21:00.002-05:00

We celebrated Rhett's 4th birthday this weekend with ALL our family. Rhett saw a picture of this football cake and wanted a football party. Apparently he's unaware that we are in the middle of March Madness...

Speaking of March Madness. I won the Wertenberger Family NCAA bracket. What should I spend my winnings on?

The last few days

2011-03-23T09:21:00.004-05:00

A few photos from the last few days. We are all doing well. Hopefully Trey keeps up the stellar behavior he has displayed since we've been home. He wakes up for about 30-40 minutes to eat, then sleeps through the noise until he eats again (usually 3.5-4 hours later). Rhett & Leah are good with him and often go into the bedroom to check on him or talk to him. Rhett likes to hold him and Leah likes to kiss him. They are good about washing their hands before touching him. Rhett says, "It's okay Baby Trey, I'm your big brother" and "I love him. I love him a lot!"

Trey is on a heart and breathing monitor so is pretty stationary. We had a 2 week check up with our pediatrician in Newton yesterday. He is back to his birth weight (Yeah, Trey!) and doing well. We go back next week for his circumcision and to clip his tongue.

Papa and Gigi went home Monday night. Aunt Edee, Nate , and Luke spent Tuesday with us. We are on our own for a few days (Ben is on spring break). All the family will be over on Saturday for Rhett's birthday party.

We're home!

2011-03-20T20:35:00.002-05:00

Trey was released from the hospital at about 11:30 this morning. My parents had taken the kids to church so we were home when they got back. Rhett & Leah were excited to see Trey here. We all took long naps this afternoon. It is so good to be home!

I do have some pictures but have not uploaded them yet. Will try tomorrow. Thank you for all your prayers. This is really just the beginning. The Dr. suggested we keep him pretty close to home for several more weeks and encourage everyone around to practice good hand washing. RSV season is not over until the end of April so I apologize in advance if I don't offer for you to hold him right away!

Surprise!

2011-03-19T16:20:00.004-05:00

Ben & I came up to the hospital this morning to take an infant CPR class and get trained on the heart/breathing monitor that Trey will wear when he goes home. Surprise! Dr. wrote orders for us to move to a family room as soon as we completed our monitor training. This is the last step of care before we go home! In family care, Ben & I are in charge of Trey's care and the nurse only checks in once a shift for a short assessment. As long as he doesn't have any apnea or bradycardia episodes and gains weight, we could be going home... TOMORROW! Yesterday they started him on caffeine to help with his bradycardia and he hasn't had any episodes since then so hopefully we are done with that. But as long as he is on caffeine, he has to be on the monitor. The only other thing that has to be done before we go is his circumcision and that is happening tomorrow morning when the Dr. gets here.

We weren't prepared for the nurse to tell us we would be staying with Trey tonight and possibly going home tomorrow. So once we got settled (and Ben saw the end of the West Virginia-Kentucky game) he headed home with a list to get what we will need for tonight and to take Trey home when the time comes. My mom and dad are on their way down now to stay with the kids until we get home.

Crazy day! But so excited at the thought of being home together. I have been praying that Trey would not have to stay 4 weeks like they originally estimated, but God is amazing and it looks like Trey will be home before he is 2 weeks old!

Can you tell the difference?

2011-03-18T20:07:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, 3/17/2011

Today, 3/18/2011

It's a little hard to tell because Trey would not keep his head turned for me.

His N-G tube came out today!

As of 4 o'clock this afternoon, he had taken all feedings by mouth for the last 24 hours.

A pic of the big brother and sister just for fun.

My friend, Micayla, bought these outfits for them.

They both wish they could wear them everyday.

Thanks Cayla!

Getting closer!

2011-03-18T14:39:00.003-05:00

Trey continues to make great/fast progress! Yesterday afternoon he nursed for 30 minutes! We didn't give him any extra in his N-G tube to see how long he stayed content. He made it to his next feeding (3 hours) and took a full bottle. He has taken full bottles at every feeding between then and when I got here today and then nursed for 30 minutes again!

Right now Trey is doing a car seat test. He has to sit in his car seat for 90 minutes without any apnea episodes or drops in his oxygen saturation. This has to be done before he can go home. Ben and I are taking an infant CPR class tomorrow, also something that has to be done before he can go home. The nurse thinks we could go home as early as Monday or Tuesday! He has had a few episodes of bradycardia (low heart rate) while he is feeding so we will probably go home with a monitor. This is common in preemies and he will grow out of it.

I wasn't able to come in this morning because Rhett had a mini preschool session/screening at the preschool where I work in Andover. We are hoping he gets selected as a peer model for their special education preschool for next year. Leah and I had a little girl date while Rhett was at school. We went to Michael's and got a few activities to do. Then we went to Wal-Mart to see of we could find something for Trey to wear home. Bed time the last few nights has been a STRUGGLE. Hopefully a little one-on-one attention will do her some good.

Trey is progressing so fast that I know it can only be because of all the prayers on his behalf. Thank you!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T11:37:00.002-05:00

Ben and his mom were able to come in yesterday evening and Ben gave Trey a bottle for his 7 o'clock feeding. He didn't take but about half and then they gave him the rest of his feeding through his N-G tube. The nurses continued to offer him the bottle overnight and he did well, taking all but 6 mL of his 7 AM bottle. They weighed Trey last night and he is up to 4 lbs 12 oz. Almost back to birth weight!

After some snuggle time this morning, Trey nursed for 18 minutes! Nursing has helped with my milk supply. I am still not making quite enough for his full feeding but am producing about 3/4 of each feeding.

Praises: Trey's progress with feedings and his weight gain.

Spring break starts tomorrow after school!

Requests: Continued strength and endurance for feedings.

Progress at home to get ready for Baby Trey!

March 16, 2011

2011-03-16T11:17:00.003-05:00

Happy birthday Uncle Justin! Hope you have a great day!

Trey had another good night. When I came in this morning he was just starting to stir as it was getting close to feeding time. I held him skin to skin for awhile (helps with bonding and can also help to increase my milk supply) and then I pumped while Nurse Ruth introduced him to the bottle. He didn't seem to latch on very strong or be that interested but after a few minutes when Ruth pulled the bottle away, he had drank 20 ccs of the 45 for his feeding. Sneaky little guy! He burped and finished the bottle in less time than it takes me to pump (20-25 min). Now that we know what he can do with the bottle, we'll nurse first and then finish his feeding with the bottle. If he continues to complete his feeding with the bottle, they can take out the N-G tube! That puts us closer to moving out of the Special Care Nursery to a Family Room where we do most of the care. That is the last step before going home! I have no idea how long this will all take but Trey is just doing great and I am so proud of him.

Thank you for all your prayers. God is faithful and we praise Him!

The promised pics...

2011-03-15T19:50:00.002-05:00

Grandma Sauce with Trey while big sister talks to her baby brother.

This was while Trey was still on the bili blanket and wearing his shades.

Wide awake for Momma and Daddy last night.

He's wearing newborn clothes because the preemie stuff is too short for him!

Yeah for Trey!

2011-03-15T11:33:00.002-05:00

Thank you for your prayers yesterday! Leah is feeling better and both went back to preschool/daycare today. Aunt Cindy is on her way to the hospital now to meet Baby Trey. Ben is eating more pie and the seniors even gave him a Pi t-shirt.

Ben and I enjoyed our evening with Trey yesterday. We got to do lots of cuddling and Trey was very alert. We got a good picture but I forgot my USB cord so I won't be able to upload until I get home tonight. Check back later.

This morning a lactation consultant came to help with his 10 o'clock feeding. She brought in a breast shield to try and boy did it help. Trey latched on almost immediately and nursed for 10 minutes! What an answer to prayer! I was so proud of him and I couldn't wait to call Ben and tell him. The lactation consultant also noticed that Trey is tongue-tied. Rhett was too (these boys have a lot of similarities). It's an easy procedure to clip it but she said they don't do a lot them here. I'm going to ask his Dr. tomorrow but we may have to wait for his pediatrician to do it when we go home. Pray that this can be taken care of soon. It will help him to nurse even better.

I did speak with the Dr. this morning (before the lactation appointment). She said his bili level has continued to drop even after not being on the lights yesterday. The preliminary report from his head sono was that there was no sign of a brain bleed. Another praise!

Happy Pi Day!

2011-03-14T09:24:00.002-05:00

Ben always looks forward to 3-14 every year. He's trained the kids at RHS that it is a national holiday celebrated by eating pie at school. It comes during a good week this year, too. He has parent-teacher conferences this week so at least he has the pie to look forward to. (Wonder if his boss is reading this???)

I wasn't able to go in and see Trey this morning. Leah got sick overnight (threw up 3 times, YUCK!) so she couldn't go to daycare. Rhett was up from 4-6 AM in all the commotion. Pray that the rest of us don't get this. Aunt Cindy is coming this afternoon so once she gets here, Ben and I will both go to see Trey for the rest of the evening. With conferences, Ben won't be able to see him tomorrow.

I called his nurse this morning and she said he had a good night. His bili levels had come down so they are taking him back off the spot light. Hopefully this time for good. Please pray for this! She had called for a lactation consultation today but was going to call them back and see if they could call me at home.

I sure miss that little guy! Can't wait to see him this afternoon. We love you, Trey!

March 13, 2011

2011-03-13T14:14:00.002-05:00

Ugh, daylight savings time. Momma is tired! We all went to church this morning. Quite a few surprised to see me there but it was so good to worship with our church family. Ben took the kids home for naps (hopefully Rhett & Leah let Daddy nap a little. He needs it!) I came to be with Trey for a few feedings.

His bili levels were back up a little so he is back under the spot light. Nurse Shandra made him a little nest and he seems to be more content in there than the other day. So far he is maintaining his body temp okay without any clothes on under the light. His sodium levels were about the same so they increased his feeds again. He's up to 45 mL now! (about 1.5 oz). He was wide awake for the 1 o'clock feeding and even latched on a couple of times. I was so proud of him! He's been giving the paci a workout today so hopefully he's building strength and endurance for the time when he really understands what he's suppose to do at snack time! I told the nurse I am praying he'll be a boob man! At least for the next few months...

March 12, 2011

2011-03-13T14:08:00.002-05:00

Trey came off the big bili light and was much more content today all wrapped up. He is still on the light blanket. They also took out his IV so no more fluids. They have continued to increase his feeds to make up for not getting fluids. His sodium levels were a little high (149, normal 140) so they are monitoring those. He was awake quite a bit of the time we held him (during feedings).

Daddy came up to the hospital in the morning and spent the day. Momma took Rhett & Leah to the library in the morning and brought them up to see Trey after naps. Big Papa (Grandpa Rixey) and Grandma Sauce (Grandma Brenda) came down to see Trey this afternoon, too. Grandma got to hold him a little even. After we all ate supper, I came back for one final feeding before heading home. A good day!

March 11, 2011 PM

2011-03-12T08:21:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the delay in posts... In the midst of Trey being born Tuesday, I forgot to pay the wireless bill! I think we're back on now :)

Headed to the park on Friday afternoon.

Not sure why this photo will not rotate...

Pouting for a turn on the swing.

What a big guy!

March 11, 2011 AM

2011-03-11T10:06:00.004-06:00

I was a little discouraged when we left last night. Trey was agitated all day. He had to be naked lying on a light blanket and under the big bili light to get as much light exposure as possible. He just didn't like it! The only time we was content and restful was when he was wrapped up for us to hold him at feedings. This was sweet of course and we loved it, but it was not very conducive to learn to nurse!

When I came in this morning, Nurse Sara was taking away the big bili light! Now he can be wrapped again with just the light blanket under neath him. I feel like he has already slept more since I've been here (8:45 am) than he did all day yesterday. He has taken pretty well to the pacifier so hopefully when he wakes up, he'll know what do for nursing :) He also displayed the rooting reflex when Sara put her thumb up to his mouth. But once this kid has his sunglasses on for the light blanket and is wrapped up, there is no waking him up!

The Dr. upped Trey's feedings again to 27 mL. We are hoping that he tolerates this increase as it would be one step closer to getting rid of the IV fluids and fat emulsions. I am going to work on a little hat for him today so once his scalp IV is gone he can wear a little hat to keep warm. They did move him back to a radiant heat bed overnight as his temps dropped some. But now that he is able to be wrapped up again, Sara thought he'd back in the regular "crib" before long.

Thank you for all your continued prayers for Trey and our family as we find what our new normal will be in the next few weeks. Rhett & Leah are enjoying Momma and Daddy being home more and so are we. Leah has even started pooping in the potty for Grandma! It's a beautiful day here so I think a trip to the park is in order for this afternoon.

March 10, 2011 PM

2011-03-10T16:05:00.003-06:00

Our sweet boy...

True love!

The IV they put in this morning had come out by noon so Trey had to get stuck again. He seemed a bit agitated today but slept pretty peacefully while Momma and Daddy were holding him. The Dr increased his feedings again from 15 to 21 with the hopes that he won't need IV fluids much longer if he can tolerate larger feedings. So far so good and no spit up! I've kept busy changing diapers (2 poopy ones-- a good thing to help get rid of the bilirubin in his system), trying to nurse (not much progress today as he has been a sleepy head when I am holding him), and pumping. Ben has kept busy checking on Trey, holding him a little (not much today since he is on the big bili lights), and watching the Big XII tournament on the flat screen in the waiting room. We are here for one more feeding and then will head home for the evening. I'll be back tomorrow for more of the same!

March 10, 2011 AM

2011-03-10T10:23:00.002-06:00

Trey was moved out of the NICU last night after we left to go home! Yes, I was discharged last night. I am feeling good and had never taken a pain pill other than Motrin so they didn't have any reason to keep me. I was anxious to sleep in my own bed and be back more with Rhett & Leah. Momma and Daddy received a very warm welcome when we got home and celebrated with ice cream!

Anyway, back to Trey! He now shares a room with 2 other babies and 1 nurse. It's more private and yet more accessible too. Visiting hours are not as restricted but there just aren't as many people around. I have met the mom of one of the other babies. They are from Colby and he is 2 weeks older than Rhett. She was on bedrest for 3 weeks before he was born so has been away from her 2 older children for over a month now. I am already praying for her!

Okay, back to Trey (again). They have upped his feedings from 9 ml to 15 ml. I was able to bring him 9 ml this morning. He had lost about 3 oz of his birth weight. His bili levels were up again so now he has the light blanket under him and a big light overhead. The nurse was putting in a new IV back on his scalp when I got here because they were having problems with the one on his hand kinking. He has been maintaining his temperature on his own.

He is just doing great and we are so proud of him. He's pretty sleepy with the jaundice going on so hopefully we can continue to make some progress on feeding. All one step closer to home!

March 9, 2011 Part 2

2011-03-10T10:16:00.003-06:00

The kids were excited to go and see Trey this afternoon. Trey, however, slept through the whole thing! Both Rhett & Leah talked to him and Rhett reached out to touch Trey's leg and tummy. Rhett thought Trey's black umbilical cord on his belly button was hilarious.

Can't wait until our family can be together full time!

March 9, 2011

2011-03-09T10:59:00.005-06:00

Last night Ben was able to hold Trey for the first time. It was a little awkward to get started trying to manage all the tubes and cords but a precious time nonetheless. We both enjoyed talking to him and telling him how much we love him.

Rhett and Leah were not able to meet him yesterday as their immunization records had yet to arrive from the pediatrician's office. They were both so sad and did not want to leave without seeing Baby Trey. Today's the day though and I can't wait to see their reactions.

Momma was anxious to see Baby Trey this morning! When we went down at 8:00 it didn't take long to realize he had made even more improvements since last night. He is off the CPAP and breathing room air all on his own!!! They moved the IV from his scalp to his hand so there are no tubes on his head. He looks great!

We both got more cuddle time this morning and we even tried a little breastfeeding. The nurse told me not to expect much interest from him at 32 weeks but he latch on a few times and even gave 4 or 5 good sucks before pooping out. The nurse and I were both pleased!

Trey's doctor came by to speak with us this morning too. He will have a head sono on day 6 and again on day 28 to monitor for brain bleeds. He was on a spot light for elevated bilirubin, pretty common for preemies. He had had 2 poopy diapers already so things are moving :) He will begin feedings today by N-G tube. Not ready to introduce a bottle yet until we give breastfeeding a go. I have already started pumping...

I am feeling great. Ben keeps telling me not to overdo it. My labor and delivery were so quick that if you didn't know I just had a baby, you wouldn't know I just had a baby. Except for that tummy that is still hanging around.

Thanks for all your prayers. God is faithful and it is evident when we look at our son.

Trey Rixey

2011-03-08T16:40:00.002-06:00

Just after Trey was born.

Holding my little man for the first time, just a short time, before sending him off to the NICU.

In his bed in the NICU.

He has been making improvements all day! His respirations per minute went from 67 this morning to 30 this afternoon. His blood sugars have been stable since about 10 AM. We are still waiting to hear when he will begin feedings. Right now he is still on IV fluids through the IV in his skull. Trey's nurse said that he began crying when they took his temperature this afternoon so she knows he is feeling stronger and more alert.

We are waiting for Rhett & Leah now to have a little birthday party for big brother and take them down to meet Trey. So excited!

Birthday Buddies

2011-03-08T10:29:00.002-06:00

Today is Rhett's 4th birthday! We decided to go all out and get him a baby brother for his present!

Trey Rixey Wertenberger was born around 5:30 this morning after a quick labor. He weighs 4 lbs 15 oz and is 18.5 in long. The NICU staff was on hand to check him out right away. I was able to hold him for just a minute before the took him to the NICU. After a few hours of "recovery" and another room switch, Ben and I were able to go and see him.

He is breathing room air but he is on a CPAP (positive pressure to help keep his lungs open). The other main issue this morning was that he had low blood sugar even after some sucrose. However, I just got a call from the Dr. that his last blood sugar had come up from 20 to 53 (they were hoping for 40). Praise the Lord! I am tired but doing fine. Only pushed through 2 contractions and out he came.

I'll get some pictures up in a little bit.

Rixey is Ben's dad name and Big Papa was pretty surprised when we called to tell him about his newest grandson.

1 week & 5 days to go!

2011-03-07T11:25:00.002-06:00

No change! Had a full day of visitors yesterday and loved every minute of it. Ben and the kids were here most of the afternoon. Then Ben came back for a little while after dropping the kids off with Uncle Randy and Aunt Amy (thank you for hosting a sleepover with the cousins so Ben could get some much needed rest!!!!). The kids will be back at daycare today and Grandma and Grandpa are coming back this afternoon for the week.

Praises for today:

Still pregnant! And baby continues to be content inside.

A beautiful flower arrangement that just arrived.

A good nights sleep for Ben last night.

Requests for today:

No infections! I finish my course of antibiotics tonight but an infection is one reason we could deliver earlier than 34 weeks.

Mature lungs and overall health for the baby when it arrives. The unknowns grab hold of me sometimes...

1 week & 6 days to go!

2011-03-06T09:58:00.004-06:00

Although I have enjoyed all my visitors, here are a few pics of my favorite visitors...

Rhett enjoys playing games on pbskids.org and has missed having mom's computer at home to play. So whenever they come he asks to play games. Leah enjoys watching him and annoying him by pushing buttons.

I needed some benadryl to help me sleep last night after the Lady Bronco's OT loss in the sub-state finals. This morning I've had a shower and am waiting for our church service to start at 10:45. So thankful I can watch online!

Praises for today:

It's Sunday!

I am expecting visits from lots of friends and family.

Sunshine through my window.

Supportive friends and family.

My Lady Broncos. I am so proud of them and love each one!

Requests for today:

Rest for Ben as he didn't sleep well last night. Hoping he will take some time off this week to recuperate.

Continued maintenance of this pregnancy. The Dr said most women deliver within 1 week of their ruptured membranes and that week will be up on Monday...

Finalizing of baby names :)

2 weeks to go!

2011-03-05T11:41:00.003-06:00

In no longer than 2 weeks, we will be a family of 5! The Dr. this morning said that most women with premature rupture of membranes deliver within a week. But he is pleased and encouraged that I am going on 5 days with no signs of labor or complications. So we are still hoping to make it to March 19th and then deliver.

Had a nice visit with the kids last night. Rhett was laughing at something on the computer and it was so good to hear that. Ben called back after he got them home and in bed and said Rhett said he missed Momma and wanted me to come home. Break my heart! I know he won't remember all this and someday I'll be praying he WOULD miss me! Mom has gone home for a few days and Aunt Cindy is here now.

Ben brought the team into see me this morning. I think it was good for them to see that I look the same and am doing fine. They were headed out for a team meal and they play for their sub-state championship tonight at 6. I am here on my "prayer post" and will receive text updates throughout the game. Lots of Ben's family will be at the game too so I am looking forward to more company today.

Praises for today:

A GREAT night's sleep last night.

A visit from a neonatalogist yesterday who answered lots of questions for me.

Continued good reports from the baby's daily non-stress tests.

My computer! I can listen to songs, look at pictures of the kids, check emails, etc...

Requests for today:

No complications or signs of labor!

That Rhett & Leah would behave and obey for all those taking care of them.

Clarity of mind, strength of character, and sharpness of skill for the Ben and the Lady Broncos tonight. And of course, a win!

Travel safety for Ben's family as they come for the game.

2 weeks and 1 day to go

2011-03-04T12:54:00.002-06:00

Miscalculated the countdown yesterday... Although I'm not really sure what the end day will be. We hit 34 weeks on a Saturday so we may go a little shy of that or wait till the next Monday. Nevertheless, we are still pregnant and one day closer to meeting this baby!

Praises for today:

A win in a tight game for the Lady Broncos last night!

Stable conditions for me and the baby.

SOOO many offers for help that we don't even know where to begin.

My mom and her availability to stay with Rhett & Leah right now. She is getting a break

this weekend thanks to Aunt Cindy and Uncle Brent!

A hot shower.

Requests for today:

Continued pregnancy.

Safe travel for my mom and Brent & Cindy as they will be on the road this afternoon.

A little motivation :)

Progress in potty-training Leah through this change in routine.

This is the stuff

2011-03-03T20:24:00.002-06:00

The following are the lyrics to Francessca Batistelli's new song, This Is The Stuff. Even before Monday night I would find this song stuck in my head. However, God also planted these words in my mind early Tuesday morning when I couldn't sleep, despite being exhausted, while lying in a hospital bed feeling out of control, not knowing what was going to happen to me or this little baby in my tummy. "Why now God? Ben is in the middle of the 2 most important weeks of basketball. Rhett's birthday is coming up. I don't have the time to take off work. This is going to be expensive!"

So many of you have sent messages or left comments that have been an encouragement to me already. I know there are lessons being learned already about the blessings and provisions of my heavenly Father. I also know that I am a stubborn, control freak who will need to learn these lessons again and again.

I lost my keys

In the great unknown
And call me please
'Cause I can't find my phone

This is the stuff that drives me crazy.
This is the stuff that's getting to me lately.
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I'm blessed

This is the stuff that gets under my skin
But I've got to trust You know exactly what You're doing
Might not be what I might choose
But this is the stuff you use

45 in a 35
Sirens and fines
While I'm running behind

This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff that's getting to me lately
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I'm blessed

This is the stuff that gets under my skin
But I've gotta trust You know exactly what You're doing
Might not be what I might choose but this is the stuff You use

So break me of impatience
Conquer my frustrations
I've got a new appreciation
It's not the end of the world

This is the stuff that drives me crazy.
This is the stuff
Someone save me
In the middle of little my mess
I forget how big I'm blessed

This is the stuff that gets under my skin
And I've gotta trust you know exactly what You're doing
Might not be what I would choose but this is the stuff You use

This is the stuff You use

Right now I am missing one of Ben's basketball games and it is killing me. My mom has come and gone with my babies and I am lonely. Thank you, Lyn, for sharing this verse with me yesterday. I am praying it right now!

Zephaniah 3:17

"The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."

2 weeks and 3 days to go!

2011-03-03T12:38:00.002-06:00

Praises for today:

Another day pregnant and no change in baby's status or progression of labor

Lots of visitors bringing goodies and things to keep me and my mind busy

Special notes and emails from friends far and near with encouraging words and Scripture

The great care I am receiving here at Wesley

Requests for today:

Continued pregnancy

Stamina for my parents as they care for the kids at home

Ben's ball game tonight. Win, win, win!

Ben as he juggles work, visiting me, and spending time with the kids

Momma missing her kids

Just Hanging out!

2011-03-02T08:09:00.006-06:00

Well, a lot has changed the Wertenberger Family in the last few days...

Ben won his first sub-state game Monday night at home! Then my water broke as we were leaving the school. Thankfully not a gush that anyone noticed (how embarrassing!). When I got home with the kids, I was rushing to get in the house and Rhett got his arm caught in his seatbelt and fell out of the car and scrapped his face and landed on his head. Really?! Leah was so patient and waited in her car seat while I got Rhett in and an ice pack on his head, changed my clothes and went back for her. I called Ben and he hurried home with his assistant coach hot on his heels to help out. Another friend came to spend the night with the kids until my mom could arrive in the morning. We headed to Newton to the hospital but after it was confirmed that I had ruptured membranes, an ambulance took me to Wesley in Wichita as Newton is not set to provide care for moms or babies at this early stage (31 weeks).

I have received steriod shots to help the baby's lungs develop and will be on antibiotics for 7 days to prevent infection for me and baby. I am not in labor right now. They want to keep me pregnant until 34 weeks so I am on bedrest here at the hospital until then or unless I get an infection or the placenta starts to pull away. A sonogram showed there was still fluid around the baby and the Dr said the baby will continue to make fluid too. The sono also showed the baby weighed 4.5 lbs which is big for 31 weeks, but if any of you had seen me lately, this was not a surprise!

Baby has not shown any signs of distress and is still moving around and has a steady heart rate. Two of my 3 doctors have been in this morning and are encouraged that we have made it another day closer to 34 weeks. I had a good nights sleep and a shower this morning so I'm feeling pretty good. My mom is here with the kids for now and she and Ben brought them up to see me last night. It was so good to see and hug and kiss them, but really heartbreaking to see them go. I am tearing up just thinking about it!

Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers. Specific prayer requests are: for this baby to stay inside until around March 19, for the kids and I as we are apart, for stamina for my mom and Ben as they care for Rhett & Leah, for Ben's basketball team to keep winning, for me to keep busy lying around. No news is good news, so I will update here if there is any change or excitement.

It's show time!

2011-02-23T09:11:00.002-06:00

Bragging...

2011-02-21T21:56:00.002-06:00

Just want to brag a little on my 2 favorite guys today...

Had parent-teacher conferences with Rhett's preschool today. They are impressed with how smart he is (of course!). Only a few "developing skills" marked on his card and most had to do with being shy. Ben made the comment that Rhett probably gets along better with 16-18 year-old girls than other 4 year-old boys. We are so pleased with Rhett's preschool and so proud of Rhett for being a great student!

Ben coached the Lady Broncos to their first League title since 2001. It was a tight game tonight but the girls fought through and beat Moundridge to become Heart of America League Champs with a 17-2 record. Ben's girls are tough and play with a lot of heart and are nice girls on top of that. So proud to see Ben and the Lady Broncos rewarded for all their hard work!

Stickers

2011-02-12T09:34:00.004-06:00

Rhett loves stickers and Curious George. The other day he had covered his shirt with Curious George stickers. As we were getting ready for baths, I asked him to take his stickers off and put them on some paper. I knew throwing them away would not be acceptable to him. Well, as I came into the bathroom to start the water, here's what I found...

Pretty resourceful, don't you think?

Sinking in

2011-02-11T09:24:00.003-06:00

Rhett: Mommy, it makes God happy when I am kind. I am going to be nice to Leah today. Is that a good idea?

And he really is being nice to her! Using kind words and sharing and giving her love pats... Good to know some things are sinking in!

Oh my...

2011-01-30T21:12:00.003-06:00

Saturday, Jan 29, 2011:

Leah, screaming her head off...

Momma: Leah, what's the matter?

Leah: I can't get my booger!!!!

...a few moments of silence...

Leah: Momma, I got it! I happy now!

As Momma came in from feeding the animals...

Rhett: It's okay Mom. I already spanked myself.

Some things we love

2011-01-16T21:44:00.003-06:00

Here are a few things we love to do when we are stuck in side, avoiding the freezing cold temps outside.

Playdough! I know it looks a little suspicious, but it really is playdough made with grape koolaid.

(thanks, Aunt Cindy!)

Rhett loves his MobiGo game that Santa brought him. Especially the Mr. Men and Little Miss game Nate got him for Christmas.

Chilling out with Daddy on the couch watching the NFL playoffs.

The first of many...

2011-01-16T21:30:00.002-06:00

The kids enjoyed some time in the snow this weekend, sledding down the south lawn.

Dad got quite a workout getting them going and walking down to help them carry the tube back up.

Leah wasn't so sure at first but ended up enjoying it too.

Many Thanks!

2010-12-30T16:42:00.000-06:00

Another free ecard by Smilebox

Trains, trains, and more trains

2010-12-29T21:49:00.002-06:00

Aunt Karla set up a visit to Van Electric for all the extended McKim cousins to see some electric trains. And when I say some, I mean A LOT.

This is just the entryway...

Rhett was in heaven!

Not sure who was listening more intently... Big Papa or Rhett.

The largest set up was 16' x 32'. All the trains were Lionel trains. Mr. Van and his brother started collecting and building around 1952. They had trains running around the ceilings and, if I remember right, 6 different set ups (including a Christmas village, a circus show, and a set up on a trailer that they take on the road!)

I think ALL the cousins, and 3 generations there, enjoyed the trains. Thanks, Aunt Karla for setting this up!

Wertenberger Christmas 2010

2010-12-29T21:26:00.003-06:00

We also spent 2.5 days with the Wertenberger Family this week. Always a good time!

Hangin' out with some cousins. Love Tyler's glasses! I actually took this picture to document that Rhett CAN share (he's letting Drew play his MobiGo!)

Megan's first Christmas... a little snow angel!

Against my better judgment, I made Kyson a hat in KU colors. Luckily this kid looks good in anything!

Grandma Flossie was able to spend Christmas evening with us.

Leah, Tyler, and Kyson watching "God Made Christmas" on the computer.

Santa's Visit

2010-12-29T20:53:00.002-06:00

Santa found Rhett & Leah at Papa and GG's house this year. We left cookies and milk for Santa and some carrots for the reindeer.

The theme for Rhett's stocking this year was things to take to Daddy's ball games to keep him busy. He got a MobiGo hand-held game system, preschool activity book, sight word flashcards, and a Llama Llama book.

He likes to "dial" his name on our computer at home and this has a pop out keyboard he is enjoying already.

Leah got some magnetic Tinkerbell paper dolls (also for Daddy's games), some "girl stuff" (aka nail polish), a Llama Llama book, Princess jammies, and...

a Princess play tent!

Even in the process of growing most of her bangs out, she looks pretty cute, huh?!

Fisher Christmas 2010

2010-12-29T20:28:00.003-06:00

We enjoyed 2.5 days in Manhattan with my parents, aunt, sisters and their families. Here's a few highlights.

Couldn't resist posting this pic!

Grandpa reading the Christmas story from Luke 2. The grandkids get to help by adding the characters to the nativity as he reads. It was Rhett's year to add the baby Jesus.

Nephew Will LOVES green and soccer. So I made him a green hat with a soccer ball on it. Do you think he likes it?

Luke got a hat too. His has a basketball on the crown. Luke was the only grandkid to get to attend the KSU-UMKC basketball game with my sisters, their husbands, Aunt Karen, Ben & I to celebrate my birthday. The others had to stay home with Grandma and Grandpa.

Rhett excited about the new Lego set he got.

Extended Fisher Christmas 2010

2010-12-29T20:10:00.003-06:00

We hosted 36 of my dad's family for Fisher Christmas at our home the weekend before Christmas. Lots of work to get ready and clean up (thanks Mom, Daddy, & Aunt Karen!) but I think everyone had a good time. My kids certainly did!

Rhett & Leah getting ready for company. Great Grandma Warrenetta made the red overalls Leah is wearing. Leah said she didn't want to be a farmer, but we convinced her she was Santa's helper and she jumped in!

Papa Don brought a Santa hat for our nephew Will and he helped Great Grandma hand out the presents.

Rhett's gift was wrapped in Thomas Christmas paper and was a Thomas the Train book. Jackpot!

The first big project

2010-12-20T10:58:00.003-06:00

Rhett & Leah currently share a room upstairs (there are only 2 bedrooms upstairs). Well, that needs to change before this baby arrives in April! In order to move them (at least Rhett at first) to the basement bedrooms, we needed to have escape windows installed. Here's a look back at the project (just almost completed Friday).

Although we missed seeing the hole dug, the kids did enjoy climbing on the dirt pile.

The foundation was cut, pulled out and broken up to make room for the new windows.

You can see the forms for the new window wells in the picture above. The kids loved to see the big concrete mixer come to the house.

The concrete forms had a brick pattern to them.

Rhett slept through most of the back-fill process even though it was right outside his bedroom window!

All that's left to do is put up wall board in the bedrooms, replace the bottom piece of siding, and build the well covers and ladders. Only 19 more weeks for that to get finished!

Success! (with a little help from bribery)

2010-12-11T17:02:00.003-06:00

Rhett's Christmas program was held last Sunday morning at church. I drove him into Wichita on Saturday for a rehearsal and he didn't sing a word, despite knowing all the words to every song.

Enter, bribery.

I had ordered a few new Christmas books but had not given them to the kids yet. So he got to pick one that would be his reward for singing at the program.

And it worked!

He sang every song, with a few silly moments of making faces and waving at us.

Great job, Rhett!

His preschool program is Thursday...

Introducing...

2010-11-27T20:26:00.004-06:00

Skarloey!

(Rhett named him after a train from the Thomas books. Think we'll call him Skar)

He's a 2-month old lab/shorthair mix and cute as can be.

The kids were so excited when we told them we were getting a puppy.

As you can see they both love him already.

We got him Saturday and last night was better than the first. He's sleeping in the garage in a crate. Eventually he will be in the shed with the cats at night and out during the day. Right now, he can't hold his own with the cats and they are not amused by him. The kids have enjoyed playing "chase" with him in the garage and taking turns giving him his bone.

KSU-Texas Game

2010-11-18T10:18:00.004-06:00

A few weeks ago, I was able to meet up with a few of my sorority sisters before the K-State-Texas game in Manhattan. It was so fun to catch up on the last 10 years (can't believe we have been gone that long!) and reminisce about those four years we spent together.

Thanks, Jess, for setting this all up!

Me, Jessica (came from San Francisco), Teresa (came from Lakin, KS)

The kids and I were able to spend some time with my family in Manhattan too.

Wes & Leah playing with Luke through the door at Pizza Hut.

Cousins Will & Wes

Sure love all that purple!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T13:12:00.004-05:00

We went trick-or-treating in downtown Newton on Saturday evening. It was a nice night so there were A LOT of kids out.

Larry the Cucumber and Bob the Tomato from VeggieTales.

We met up with our friends the Baxter's. Pretty Charley Girl (as Rhett calls her) made a very cute Tinker Bell.

It also happened to be Matt's 35th birthday, so the staff at Acapulco's brought him a huge sombrero and fried ice cream and sang to him. Rhett and Charley had their share.