I Didn't Prepare Myself

On Friday Jackson, Chris, myself and the two dogs packed up and headed to Kirksville, MO to meet Rohan and congratulate the new parents. I was so excited to meet Rohan I didn't prepare myself for how small he is. I never thought I would be afraid to hold, change or move a baby but I was. The photos don't do his tiny little body justice. At 5lbs 10 oz and 18" I swear he would blow away in the wind. Mike and Mara have adjusted to his size, I on the other hand, couldn't muster up the courage to change a diaper until this morning....the morning we left! I did feel more comfortable holding him by the second day and by the time we left I didn't want to put him down!

The trip was wonderful, as are all our visits with Mike and Mara, and now Rohan. We miss thembeing s close!!! We enjoyed temps above freezing and tag teamed working out so Mike and Chris could play racquetball and Mara and I could hit the gym. I would say all in all it was a great time with the exception of the youngest Stokes, Jackson was in fine form. It was obvious he was green with envy around Rohan. He demanded that I give him to Chris so he could be with me. Beyond the jealousy thing he was an out and out cranky-butt the entire weekend. Some of the finest tantrums and attitude we've seen to date, I was sure to thank him for waiting to display it in front of his Aunt, Uncle and new cousin. That was received with a devilish smile. Once home, he played like a mainiac with his toys and crashed at 6:30 pm. I have to ask Mike and Mara if they're nuts agreeing to drive with us 20 hours to AZ this May!

It was so awesome to see Mike and Mara in the parenting role. Mara is a natural which was no surprise to me, she has always been wonderful with Jackson. What cught me off guard is how Mike has transitioned into being a Dad, now this surprised me : ) However, Mike's parenting style is what I would have expected, fun and entertaining. The photos and videos tell the story.

Roh-Diddy or Roh-Dizzle, whatever you prefer.