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Belated Christmas photos

2012-02-05T16:49:00.000-08:00

I never got around to posting the babes Christmas/6 month photos. It was a crazy day, trying to keep kids happy and get good shots of them. It was more exhausting then any job I have had. I owe a ton of thanks to my friend Emily for taking the time and dealing with all the chaos this day brought.

Chicken Marsala

2012-02-02T09:21:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I posted a recipe.

Here is a new favorite (well not exactly new). Super easy and quick to make, as well as delicious! Picture and recipe courtesy of one of my favorite sites, Allrecipes.com/chicken marsala

Ingredients

1/4 cup all-purpose flour for coating
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - pounded 1/4 inch thick
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup Marsala wine
1/4 cup cooking sherry

Directions

In a shallow dish or bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper and oregano. Coat chicken pieces in flour mixture.
In a large skillet, melt butter in oil over medium heat. Place chicken in the pan, and lightly brown. Turn over chicken pieces, and add mushrooms. Pour in wine and sherry. Cover skillet; simmer chicken 10 minutes, turning once, until no longer pink and juices run clear.

Personally I don't like mushrooms nor does anyone in my family so I do not add them. I add in onion and garlic and cook it with the chicken. I do not use the Sherry wine, instead I use more Marsala. I also double the amounts of Marsala then which is called for so I can have extra to put over the noodles.

The reasons I may be MIA

2012-02-01T15:34:00.000-08:00

....for the next 18 years :)

Dakota now finds that doing this is very entertaining (and please excuse the annoying mommy voice)

She laughs every time she comes down the step. Yesterday she just rolled down it. She has no fear.

Dalton finally picked up the crawling thing last week. He started by army crawling for a few days then got the actual concept down. So only a couple days of crawling and he does this

I leave the kiddos with daddy for 2 hours and that is what happens. No warning, he wasn't even attempting to pull himself up. Just did it out of nowhere like a pro. Then decided it would be great to just balance himself with no hands. I think I can officially say I have my hands full!

Sorry this is really poor quality of a video. I caught him doing this before I could turn the light on.

It's all about the abs

2012-01-30T10:26:00.000-08:00

Our vacation to Arizona is fast approaching. Which means sunshine, summer like clothes, and hanging out poolside. 7 months post partum, my body still has some major work that needs to be done. I still have those last 5 lbs to shed which just will not go away. OK, Christmas season didn't exactly help nor has this major chocolate kick I have been on since Christmas.

But back on the fitness band wagon I go! I was doing so well on P90x for so long and it did help me lose a lot of that baby weight. I will probably start it back before summer. But for now I am back to doing Jillian Michael's 30 day shred, running on the tread mill, and really focusing on these abs.

I have been browsing the Internet for all different ab workouts and came across this

I am very determined to get my tone up on in this next month.

I have also found this

Fab ab February challenge.

If I work up enough courage I may do before and after pictures.

7 Months

2012-01-19T13:49:00.000-08:00

The months are flying boy now!!!

All about Dalton:

Stats as of last Monday

Weight: 20 lbs 4 oz
Length: 27"

Wearing: Mostly he's in 6-9 month pants and 9-12 month shirts/onesies/pajamas. Still wearing a size 3 diaper. He's my little chubster.

Sleep: We are on the path to making it better. I have had enough of the silly sleep nonsense. With both still waking anywhere from 2-4x a night (half the time opposite times of each other) I had to change something. We have had to temporarily separate them at night and work on weaning them off the bottles. They seem to think they need anywhere from 2-4 bottles each night. The past few nights have been better. I have gotten a few 6 hour stretches of sleep. I feel like a whole new person! Hoping it will only get better.

Eating: About the same. 8oz every few hours. Also eating solids once a day and I am trying to work in a second meal. But I am being lazy about it because feeding time takes usually 30 mins to an hour. So far he is loving everything. Peas is the only stage 1 he has yet to try. He has also tried grapes and real bananas in that baby mesh food thing. And he isn't too sure what to think of the baby Mum-Mum crackers yet.

Milestones: Still rocking on all 4's. But now with his sis crawling I am sure it won't be long. He is sitting up on his own and for longer periods but still a little top heavy :). Holding his own bottle (for the most part), drinking from a sippy cup (attempting to anyway) it's still pretty hard for him to tilt it and he would much rather chew on the spout.

Personality: Pretty happy and laid back mostly. If he isn't hungry, tired or teething then he is pretty content. He is going to have a sensitive side and gets his feelings hurt easily. He also is a big love and loves snuggling. But the boy still has a temper. Only if he is tired or if you make him mad.

Activity: Playing with toys, chewing on things, loves books. He can scoot and roll around pretty good and loves finding new things in the house to look at. Still loves his jumperoo and all the toys on it.

What happens at nap time, conversations.

All about Dakota:

Stats as of last Monday

Weight: 16 lbs 2 oz
Length: 26-3/4"

Wearing: A mix of 3-6 month and 6-9 month. She has really started growing!! Size 2 diapers

Sleep: Like I said above, we are working on it. She is more of my problem child when it comes to sleeping then Dalton is. But the past few nights she has only woke once so I am happy with this! She is also my good napper and normally takes 2 naps a day that are anywhere from 1-3 hours (more on the 2 hour side).

Eating: 5 -6oz. I have been trying to get her to take more at her feeding before bed in hopes that it will really fill her up. But 6oz is the max she will take. She is loving her solid foods, although she is my picky eater. The girl does not like peaches! Say what?! I thought every babe loved them! Bananas are OK and green beans and squash she will take a few bites but then clamps that mouth shut tight. But when she likes something she takes her eating very seriously. She could care less about crackers. I am going to be bumping her up to solids 3 times a day. She does not like it when we are eating without her.

Milestones: Officially crawling! 1 day shy of turning 7 months. And she is picking up speed every minute. She has also decided to say her first official word "Dada". Although she has been making sounds like "hiiiii" and "yeah" not sure if they are sounds or if she was actually saying something. She is sitting up on her own for the most part, but a tab wobbly. She is trying so hard to pull herself into the sitting position without my help.

Personality: She is pretty happy but has some major attitude and a little temper. She loves snuggling, but mainly with her daddy although she is a mama's girl. She is mostly content with whatever she is doing. And she likes attention!

Activity: Playing with toys, Crawling and usually tries to get wherever I am at. She loves playing with her big brother Austin. And loves books. Still loves her jumper

Yes, the CD racks are now moved to a safer place.

And so it begins.....

2012-01-16T14:17:00.000-08:00

the days of mobility that is! Any ounce of sanity I had left will soon be gone :) My baby girl decided to officially start crawling yesterday, one day shy of her 7 month birthday. She has only been rocking on all 4's for well over a month now. Don't get me wrong, watching babes first start to crawl is the cutest thing ever! For the first week or two. This isn't my first rodeo though and I know what I am in for when she picks up speed. And that tiny other detail...... that I have 2 babies instead of 1! Luckily Dalton hasn't caught on yet, but I am sure he will very soon.

But in all seriousness, I am a super excited and proud mama! I love watching how excited she is that she learned something new. She is very proud of herself, as she should be! My little girl is growing up way too fast.

Family photos

2012-01-15T07:41:00.000-08:00

These are a bit late, as is everything else I do in life these days :)

My good friend Emily took our family pictures as well as the twins 6 month photos/Christmas photos. We did them in 2 separate days due to the fact the babes were DONE after the family session. We have never had family photos done before, so I didn't realize the amount of work it would require!

I will start with the family photos for now.

At least one of the kids was OK with his pictures being taken!

Old Photos

2012-01-10T14:45:00.000-08:00

I received an offer from Shutterfly for a free 8x8 20 page photo book and have been working like crazy to get it finished before the offer expires. So all my "free" time (which hasn't been much) has been spent working on that. So me wanting to dig out some old photos I didn't have on my computer led me to digging through boxes and in the closet for all my albums. I have a lot of scanning to do!!!

But these were the photos I was after......When I met my hubby and when we first dated. I met him back in 2002. I can't believe how long ago that was and how young we look and how much we have gone through, changed, and have done together in these past years.

The only picture I have from the day we got engaged. December 25, 2004

I love taking a trip down memory lane!!

Happy 2012

2012-01-05T18:41:00.000-08:00

4 days late!!! Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New years.

I am glad and sad it's all over and done with. All last week I was suffering from a Christmas hangover. I was wiped out.

This week I am wiped out from children not sleeping. Teething, tummy aches, bad dreams, and the fact that the twins still don't sleep through the night. The babes have been on opposite nap schedules for some odd reason. It seems one of them always fights me with going to bed at night. I can guarantee the minute I sit down for 5 seconds I have one screaming/crying/or giving me attitude (thank you 4 year old....I really thought 4 years old was turning out to be so much better then 3 but right now they are about equal.) But anywho....

The short rundown of Christmas filled in with pictures:

Christmas was really good. The 5 of us just hung at home all day Christmas Eve then Tyler made a prime rib dinner with all the fixings. Afterwards we headed out to the Winter Wonderland drive through light display. Came home and got all the kiddos ready for bed, but only 1 was willing to go to bed. Got cookies ready for Santa and read The Night Before Christmas. The other 2 children finally fell asleep, then Santa was able to get things done. Dalton (the 1st one to sleep) was the 1st one awake (at 6am) and I wasn't successful at getting him back to sleep before he woke the other 2 up. But it beats last years record of 5am.

Waiting all day for Santa to come

Just 1 present he got to open, from Grandma

The 2 that wouldn't go to sleep

Santa came!

We had a great morning of nothing but family time. It took 3 hours for all the stockings and presents to be opened (for all 5 of us). We made Austin take turns between all of us. I know, horrible to do to a child :) But he actually wanted to play with new toys in between opening the rest of his and he was loving helping his brother and sister. Santa got me a new camera, which I was really wanting. Not one of the big ole fancy ones that everyone else has but just a nice little point and shoot. I love it!

Attempt at a family photo

One excited boy Christmas morning

Morning meltdown

(Dalton was not in a very photogenic mood the whole day. I think the poor guy is sick of me taking so many photos.)

Later on we headed over to my grandparents house for our annual family Christmas. Had a big dinner and then it turned into present chaos. Austin opened one and that was really all he needed. The twins were done with Christmas day as soon as we got finished eating. Dalton fell asleep and Dakota pretty much wanted to lay in the wrapping paper. I ended up opening all their gifts. Next year I think we may need to take 2 vehicles to bring stuff home in. Good grief. My kiddos are definitely spoiled and loved!

My sister and our girls

I didn't see him the rest of the night

That pretty much sums it up.

6 months

2011-12-22T14:38:00.000-08:00

As of the 16th of this month. Say it isn't so!!! They are already half way to their 1st birthday? :*(

Well let the real fun begin as we inch closer to mobility. And my friends, we aren't far off from it either. Heaven help me!

Their 6 month appointment got rescheduled, in another couple weeks, so I don't have their current stats yet.

All about Dalton:

Wearing: He is in 6-9 and 9-12 month clothes. He is still a chunk but he has grown longer. And wearing size 3 diapers.

Sleep: All over the place. Between these 2 I am pretty sure I will never sleep longer then 2-3 hour increments until they are 18. Some nights he will sleep 8/9pm to 5/6am other nights he is up once or maybe twice and occasionally 3x+. He hasn't been consistent at all. He is still napping at least twice a day (morning and afternoon) and normally a cat nap or two extra thrown in there.

Eating: About 8oz every 3-4 hours. Sometimes more frequent. The kid is a piggy. He has officially started solids. Only once a day and he is only eating about 1/2 of one of the 1st stage containers. We are working our way through veggies now and so far he loves everything. The only veggies he is waiting to try is carrots and peas. We will start fruits sometime after Christmas. I really wanted to attempt making baby food. But I have a lot on my plate already.

Don't mind the fact he is wearing Austin's old bib, it's all about reusing things people!

Milestones: He is starting to rock on all 4's. But he can't seem to hold himself up for long. But there has been improvement. He just needs some more strength to hold that big body up. He has learned another new word "blahblahblah" although its more of a new sound he has found he could make. He can finally grab his feet. Playing with toys and getting better with grabbing them. He is balancing some in the tripod sitting position but still lurches backwards. But we work on it every day.

Personality: He is still a happy big boy, except when he is hungry or overly tired, then his true temper appears. He is pretty content though, in playing with toys or doing whatever. I think he may be the type that is just generally happy go lucky until you make him mad...that's when I think we may see a temper with him. Oh boy!

Activity: Loving the jumperoo, we got a 2nd one for an early Christmas present from my grandparents. Loves his toys, the play mat and when we read stories to him. I think we will be adding crawling soon to the list of activities.

All about Dakota:

Wearing: She is pretty much fully into 3-6 month clothes now. There are still some 0-3 pants that fit her and she also fits into a few 6-9 month onesies (the one's that run smaller in size). She is wearing size 2 diapers although they still seem so big on her. But she isn't leaking through them so I guess we are OK.

Sleep: Same as Dalton. Her patterns are crazy, and different every night. Sometimes she wakes up once a night but on average she is up at least twice. And the past week its been about 3x. I think she has gone through another growth spurt and now she is fighting a little head cold on top of teething. One night she was up from 11pm-3am. Wide awake and some fussing. Last night she was up from about 3am-5am screaming. :( poor girl. Her naps are pretty good. Still 2 big ones (2-4 hours each) a day, 1 in the morning and 1 in the afternoon. Along with a cat nap (30 mins to an hour) 1 or 2 x a day.

Eating: About 5 oz each feeding and sometimes another ounce or two every 3-4 hours. We have started solids with her and she LOVES them. I thought she wouldn't be ready for awhile but she was more then ready. She will eat a whole thing of stage 1 veggies and probably more if I offered. But for now we are just getting them used to it. Only veggies we haven't tried with her are green beans and peas. We will start fruits once we are done with that. So far she loves everything. Cereal has been the only thing she's hated, but so did Dalton and Austin.

Milestones: Rocking all 4's quite well. She is going backwards but she is trying her hardest to go forward. It's so cute, every time I tell her to get her knees up she does!!! It shouldn't be long now. I was hoping she would hold off until Christmas to figure it out and hopefully she will wait! She scoots herself all over the floor, in circles and backwards. She rolls everywhere. She is balancing herself quite well in the sitting position and gradually working out of the tripod position. Still waiting for her to say her first word. But Tyler and I have both heard "yeah" and "hi" which comes out more like "Iiiiiiiii" (or something very similar) out of her. We thought it might be our imaginations but she has done it several different occasions for both of us. She also babbles, a lot.

Personality:

Activity: Loves the jumperoo, swing (which she will soon outgrow, thank goodness she is still somewhat small) and play mat. Loves her teething toys and other rattle/hand held toys. Oh and my cell phone and TV remote. Like I mentioned above, she will be crawling in no time. Those last 5 pounds I have left to shed (plus all the extra I will gain between now and new years) will probably come off in no time after that lol! And she loves when we read to her.

The Christmas Card

2011-12-21T12:02:00.000-08:00

...............that I should have sent! It's been one of those weeks! Teething/colds/fussing/non listening, major attitude 4 year old. Tis' the season!

I may or may not use this idea for next year :)

I have a lot left to do in the next 3 days...baking, shopping, date night with hubby, zoo lights, wrapping, keeping the house still standing, etc. So if I don't make it back on here before the weekend I want to wish everyone a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Mama's Wish List and a visit to Santa

2011-12-20T10:11:00.000-08:00

So the top things on mama's wish list this year?

1. MAID
2. A full nights sleep, as in 8+ consecutive hours
3. MAID
4. Clothes, something I rarely buy myself these days.
5. MAID
6. Auto start for my vehicle. It would be so nice to just start it from the window and not have to step out in the cold.
7. MAID
8. Massage
9. MAID
10. Have I mentioned I really ~~need~~ want a maid!

I know, not very exciting. Just keeping it real folks.

I guess we have 5 more days to find out what Santa brings. I did get one present a little early, a vacuum (thank you old vacuum, of less then 5 years, for crapping out on me last minute!). Maybe that is for the new maid that will soon be coming? Ha!

In other news, Santa did tell my kids they were on the nice list. Maybe it was because they behaved while getting their photo taken or the fact no one spit up or drooled on him. I guess he hasn't looked to closely at our house this year ;)

The kids wish list

2011-12-18T12:03:00.000-08:00

Well in this is case it's only 1 kid's wish list as the other 2 can't speak yet. But if they could I would bet Dalton would just want more food and Dakota would wish to be crawling....or walking already, little miss wants to be so independent.

Austin hasn't asked for much this year. He wanted a couple new Toy Story characters (that he got last year) because he has broken them. I told him Santa doesn't bring replacement toys especially when you are not being careful with them. I think he thought that because Buzz had wings he could REALLY fly across the living room. Didn't work out so well for Buzz.

Finally, a couple weeks ago he told me what he was going to ask Santa for. Of course we had pretty much finished our shopping for him. But I couldn't not get him at least one of the items he specifically asked Santa for.

So this little action figure is the #1 thing he wants

Hal Jordan from the Green Lantern. He has never seen this movie and doesn't even know who this character is, except from a commercial he saw. I had to actually google him at first. I truly thought Austin was asking for just a plain old green lantern....like the kind you take camping. I guess I need to become up to date with superheros.

#2 was

The dinosaurs from the Dinosaur train show on PBS kids.

along with this

So there you have it. This is all he is asking for. I love that he is all about simple little things. OK maybe it's the age. I am sure next year's list will be quite different and probably more expensive. But for this year I will enjoy it.

What's on your kids wish list?

Joseph

2011-12-17T13:51:00.000-08:00

Austin had his school Christmas program this past week. He got to play the part of Joseph. And such a cute little Joseph he was. They didn't have any speaking parts but they sang songs, and of course he was the loudest kiddo up there. I think this kinda thing is right up his ally!

We got away with having only 1 slightly embarrassing moment. When he had to pee. He grabbed himself and started to squirm, then in his quiet voice (which isn't so quiet) he shrieks that he has to pee!

Santa stopped by after the program was over and read "The night before Christmas" to the kids. I wish I would have had my camera ready when he walked in the door. Austin's face was priceless! He was absolutely ecstatic!

I felt slightly bad when he got his turn to sit on Santa's lap. Santa asked him what he wanted and Austin tells him. Then Santa asks if there is anything else he wants to tell him, like if he thought he was naughty or nice. Austin looks at me and then tells Santa he was a little bit naughty. I thought he was going to cry. So then I had to jump in and say that he had been pretty nice the past few days. I mean he did look like he felt bad for all the hard times he gave me within the past few weeks!

It was a fun night!

Christmas Photo Shoots

2011-12-13T15:58:00.000-08:00

are very tiring....apparently.

Little chunker was hardly cooperative. And forget trying to get one of the babes together. Neither one of them thought highly of that idea. BUT, we did eventually get 5 minutes of them laying next to each other and both looking with ~~minimal~~ no crying. And there are plenty of single shots of each of them. Can't wait to see the final images!! Thanks again Emily for taking the morning/afternoon to do these photos!

By the way, I really don't know who is more exhausted. The babes or myself. Trying to get babies to look up, smile, quit crying, and to re-position props. I think it may be an early bed night....for ALL.

Looking like Christmas

2011-12-10T12:29:00.000-08:00

.......Around here. We actually put up our tree about 2 weeks ago. This year Austin got more involved with it and really enjoyed hanging most the decorations and helping dad out with the lights. The babes on the other hand just supervised. They were more amused with looking at the lights for a few minutes and then watching big brother bounce around the house because he was so excited.

Apparently Austin thought it was Christmas morning the following day because when he woke up he took one look under the tree and a huge look of sadness and disappointment crossed over his face. "Mom, Santa didn't leave any presents!" and being the mean mom I am "Well looks like you didn't make it on the nice list in time." Only because we had this discussion a couple days prior due to some recent bad behavior. Of course I quickly followed it with "just kidding." And explained that we still had 20 some days left until the big night and that there was still a bit of time for him to make it on the nice list. I wish I could have captured his expression though. Priceless.

Supervising

And this was the most decent pic...see a couple posts below

And I had to do one early with the Christmas pj's. Dalton is about to bust through these

Addicted

2011-12-08T09:11:00.000-08:00

To cheesy Christmas movies that is.

and

My dvr is full of them. Yes I really should be doing something more productive. But I can't help it. I mean at least I can feed a baby or hold a baby in my lap while watching, so I am doing something :)

Please tell me I am not the only one?! Or maybe I am.

Not so picture perfect

2011-12-06T16:39:00.000-08:00

It would probably make for a good post to get a video of me trying to get "that" photo. Jumping up and down like a crazy lady, making funny noises/sounds, shaking toys or any other objects to get the attention of the babies. I tell Austin to keep looking and smiling at me and to not worry about the babes...but the attention span of a 4 yr old boy isn't very long.
Out of any given setting where I am trying to get a "nice" photo I usually take around 100 snaps. But it is pretty funny going back and looking at all the others where one or all kids are not cooperating.

These pretty much sum it up :)

This just kills me lol!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-02T16:57:00.000-08:00

Only a week behind :)

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with the family. The babes were a bit overstimulated and couldn't unwind when we got home. But they behaved and loved all the attention they were getting! Tyler and I actually got to eat a hot meal, with no interruptions. Thank goodness for aunts and my cousins who don't have kids yet and always want a baby fix :p

Now operation Christmas is in full swing! The tree is up and living room decorated!! Let the Christmas festivities begin!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T07:59:00.000-08:00

From our family to yours!

Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!

Thankful

2011-11-23T12:53:00.000-08:00

This past year our family has been incredibly blessed.

I am thankful for:

My sweet,loving, caring, compassionate, understanding, and hard working husband whom I love more then words can say. He is the rock of our family and an amazing father to our children.

All 3 of my happy and healthy kiddos. They are the light of my life. And really, that we are all in good health.

Being blessed with a fairly easy pregnancy (for twins anyway), easy delivery, easy recovery, and giving birth to 2 very healthy babies. Oh and my awesome doctor that took care of me for those 9 months!! She rocks!

Tyler's leg finally being healed so he is able to work hard to provide for our family and allow me to be a stay at home mom.

My extended family who have always been here for me, my husband, and kids. For taking time to help me out when I have needed it. From cleaning my house, cooking us meals, helping me with my kids, running errands for me, and so much more!

This thanks goes out to other friends too, but for some reason can't find any photos :(

My friends who have also helped out so much and have also been there for me and my kids. Bringing me coffee when I have needed it, taking me out when I have needed a little break, coming over and hanging out because I don't get away from the house very often, bringing take out when I have had a rough day where nothing has gotten done, etc.

Good morning snuggles and kisses and "I Love you mommy" from my sweet 4 year old.

Austin being an awesome big brother. He has been such a tremendous help. He helps feed babies, entertain the babies, "reads" to the babies, gets me diapers/bibs/burp cloths or whatever I need. He truly loves his brother and sister to no end.

and on a less serious note.....

-Coffee
-Peppermint mocha creamer
-Mama sanity breaks
-DVR
-Vacations, even when it's somewhere not to far.
-Being 5 lbs away from pre-pregnancy weight at only 5 months post partum (yeah, lets see how that goes with the holidays coming up).
-Living within a 5 mile radius of pretty much every store/restaurant I need.
-Date nights with the hubs (although they are more scarce these days, I still cherish every alone moment we get).
-Crock pot
-Hats ( I don't usually get too much time to look "decent" these days)

See, its the little things that make me happy :)

What are you thankful for?

5 months

2011-11-22T09:32:00.000-08:00

Oh, sweet babies please quit growing so fast!!!

And here I thought the bigger they got the easier photos would be.....nahsomuch.

Best buddies

Big moose man Dalton:

I love his little chunkiness!!! Pretty sure he is way bigger then what Austin ever was.

Wearing: Mainly 6-9 month clothes, but in a lot of 12 month shirts/onesies. He still has shorter legs and I have a few remaining pants in 3-6 month that fit both waist and length. Size 3 diapers.

Sleep: Well once he hit 4 months we hit a sleep regression phase. Unfortunately he is no longer sleeping through the night :( He is now back up about twice a night, sometimes once and sometimes more. Some of this may be because he is now teething. But usually he just wants an ounce or two out of his bottle and then goes right back to sleep. He still takes awesome naps. Normally 1 big one in the morning and in the afternoon. And 1 or 2 catnaps in between.

Eating: 6-8 oz bottles every 2-4 hours. Little piggy. Normally the bigger the bottle the longer he will go in between feedings.

Milestones: He started saying "mamamama" over a week ago. Love it!! But I think its more of a new sound he found out he could make then actually referring to me. He is starting to push himself up more and trying to get those knees up underneath him. He also does this swimmer type scoot when he is on his tummy and can move a little ways by doing it. He is rolling in every direction and really interested in toys and anything colorful.

Personality: He is my chill baby. Pretty content with whatever he is doing or wherever I put him. The only time he gets real crabby is when he is hungry or very tired. He is also becoming a very sensitive boy. He startles easily, especially when Austin comes in out of nowhere being extremely loud. This always results in a major crying fit. And he does not like it when you laugh at him...if he is already upset. And he loves to snuggle!

Activity: Loves the jumperoo still, although he likes just standing in it versus jumping (maybe its all that extra weight?). Loves his play mat and rolling around on it. And big brother still keeps him fully entertained with his songs and "reading". He also loves playing on the floor with his sister. And shoving her hands in his mouth.

Lil miss Dakota:

Wearing: Mainly 3-6 month clothes but still fits in some 0-3 pants and shirts. She is just a petite little thing. Size 2 diapers. But only because I was out of 1's and didn't want to buy anymore.

Sleep: Still up at least twice a night. Every 3-4 hours like clock work. Every once in awhile she will only wake up once. I am hoping we will start seeing more of this as time goes on. Mama needs some good sleep. Naps are the same as Dalton. 2 big naps a day (sometimes she will even give a 3rd big nap) and also 1 or 2 cat naps in between.

Eating: 4-5oz bottles every 3-4 hours. Occasionally she will take an extra ounce or two.

Milestones: She is really trying to pull herself up to crawl. She scoots all across the floor on her tummy (more like launches off with her feet). She is still using that voice of hers, high pitch screeches). She also rolls everywhere and will roll across the room until she gets to where she wants to be at. If she wasn't so squirmy she could probably do the tripod sitting position pretty well but she always pushes herself backwards back into my lap. And she is giving us more belly laughs!! Nothing sweeter then a baby giggle.

Personality: Attitude. She gets frustrated when she can't do something and lets us know how mad she is. I think she is going to be very independent. But she sure is flashing those smiles more often!! She is a mama's girl and when it comes down to choosing between someone she prefers me. But she does love her daddy too. Some times there is just no making her happy whatsoever, even being held or rocked. Some days she actually prefers to be left alone in her crib so she can put herself to sleep. Fine by me.

Activity: Jumperoo!! One of these days I swear she will come flying right out of it. She is so light and really gets to bouncing in that thing, its so funny to watch her. She likes her play mat and toys still and loves the swing. Sadly the swings will be a thing of the past here soon. Rolling all over the floor and loves it when big brother "reads" and sings to her. She also loves being on the floor with Dalton and interacting with him. They slobber all over each other and grab hands.

And I really want to know what her eye color is going to be. I see lots of brown/hazel in them and they aren't anything close to Dalton's bright blues. Fingers crossed she gets her daddy's eyes!

Sunday randoms

2011-11-20T08:55:00.000-08:00

This week has seemed to drag on f.o.r.e.v.e.r. Thankfully the weekend is here. Time for a little rest from a busy week.

The babes turned 5 months old on Wednesday. Almost half way to their first birthday. I wanna cry. Not that I don't love watching them grow and become their own individuals, but they are my last and I want time to slow down.

I found out last week at a preschool field trip that my son is a 2 timer. He has 2 girlfriends, in which both of their moms confirmed. He tells me he just can't decide who he likes better and just decided it was easier to keep them both as girlfriends. Should I be worried, I mean he's only 4. He will grow out of this, right?

I snuck out for a bit on Saturday night for my cousins 21st birthday. I used to carry her around all the time in a front pack, she was my "baby". Wow don't I feel old now.

Austin's preschool will be doing a Christmas program next month. How I can not wait for this. If you know my child then you know it will definitely not lack entertainment. He loves to be center of attention and will probably be the kid who sings the loudest. You can sure bet that I will have my video camera ready to go!

My mother in law left last Friday. She spent 12 days with us. It was nice having her here while hubby was gone hunting. Pretty sure I wouldn't have survived 8 days alone with all 3 kids.

I haven't started Christmas shopping yet. And I was really hoping to be done by now. I guess I will be going along with the other 8 bazillion people at the mall. Oh joy.

Peppermint mocha creamer makes me happy!

Had a nice family dinner with some of my dad's side of the family. And this is just a small portion of us grand kids and great grand kids.

Got to spend a little time with my cousin and her daughter who visiting from out of state.

Now let the holiday madness begin.

My sis and niece are coming into town in 3 weeks, for 3 weeks.

I am already counting down to our camping trip in February to the beach and finally get my 4wheeler back in the sand.

I am also counting down our 12 day vacation to Arizona in March. Hello warm weather and sunshine!!! I am already tired of the cold and rain here.

October Rewind

2011-11-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that the Christmas season is fast approaching!!! October is gone already? I guess we were having a little too much fun to notice :)

The twins had their first "play date" (more like both of us mommies needed some adult interaction) with little Carver. My babes are almost 3 months older then him and this picture makes them look like giants!!

Of course their is nothing that compares to having a built in play mate though :)

Awww

"Get away from me!!!"

We went to the pumpkin patch, twice. Once with Austin's preschool.............

And once with the whole family...............

And this marks the end of the outing

Spent some time with great grandma 'tootie' and cousin Jacob

Dakota and cousin Brooklyn

Dalton wasn't in the mood for photos

We visited the hubby at work. Always a hit with Austin. Some things never get old.

And then we celebrated Halloween

Thankfully this past week we have been able to rest a bit from all the activities. We are now enjoying some time with my mother in law who is in town visiting and helping save my sanity while hubby has gone hunting :)

We are enjoying the next couple weeks of quietness (well there is no such thing as actual quiet in our household) before the "holiday chaos" begins, although its my favorite time of year!!!

4 Months

2011-10-22T07:17:00.000-07:00

And now my days of immobility are numbered. I am trying to enjoy these next couple months as much as I can before the true chaos of crawling x 2 begins!! Time to start thinking about baby proofing!

It's amazing to see how much these babes have learned in 4 months and how much they have grown.

All about Dalton:

Stats: 16 lbs 2oz (80th percentile), 24" long ( 25th percentile).

Wearing: Some 3-6 month pants, very few shirts/onesies and pajamas, mainly in 6-9 month shirts/onesies. Size 2 diapers but ready to bust out the 3's probably by next week.

Sleep: Usually from 8pm-5/6am and sometimes back to sleep until 7am. For the most part he is still a very good napper. A big 2-3 hour nap in the morning followed by either a few cat naps in the afternoon or another 2 hour nap followed with a short nap after dinner.

Eating: Still 6oz-8oz bottles with a couple ounces extra in between feedings at times. He eats about every 3-4 hours sometimes more. I honestly feel like I feed him all the time. Maybe that is why he sleeps so great at night. Thinking we may try cereal in the near future with him. He is obsessed with watching us eat.

Milestones: He started rolling over 1 week shy of turning 4 months. And he only rolls from back to stomach and hasn't yet done it from stomach to back (weird!!!). He is giving us more big belly laughs/giggles. Attempting to pull himself up in a sitting position when propped on pillows. Can push his whole chest off the ground. And "talks" a lot to all of us, he might be a jabber box like his older brother. He loves hearing his own voice.

Personality: I think my babes have had a personality switch!! Dalton lately has become more so laid back. The only time he seems to get upset is when he is hungry or tired. He is now more content then before and part of that might be because he is able to do more things now. He is becoming a little more stranger shy with people he doesn't see often. But he is now such a happy/smiling boy. Melts my heart. And he absolutely adores his big brother. Any time Austin is in the room instant smile and cooing and he won't take his eyes off him.

Activity: Loving his jumperoo now!! Not so much of a fan of the bumbo anymore. He likes his play mat and grabbing the toys and trying to get them in his mouth. He still loves his swing (which is where he naps). He loves when Austin "reads" him books. Hoping he will likes books as much as Austin does. Also loves his bath time and kicking water everywhere.

All about Dakota:

Stats: 13 lbs 3oz (45th percentile), 23-3/4" long (close to 25th percentile)

Wearing: Some 0-3 month pants (a few of those really should be marked 3-6 mo). Some 0-3 month onesies/shirts but mainly in 3-6 month. Also in 3-6 month jammies. Size 1 diapers but after this last pack she will be in 2's.

Sleep: Not great. Bedtime goes 8pm-12/1am then back up at 3/4am and then up anywhere from 5-7am. Some of these nights she decides to have play hour (or two hours). She isn't really hungry at all these wakings and she isn't really wet and not "usually" fussy so I really don't know what the deal is. This past week she has been up more like every 2 hours. Her naps are still pretty consistent. One 2-3 hour (occasionally even 4hrs) nap in the morning followed by either a few cat naps or another 2-3 hour nap followed by another cat nap after dinner.

Eating: She eats 4-5oz about every 4/5 hours. And don't think she is near ready to try cereal yet.

Milestones: Rolling over from back to stomach but can't roll from stomach to back yet (probably because she hates tummy time). "Talking" ( more like screeching) at hubby and I and her toys. Grabbing toys and putting them in her mouth.

Personality: She has become a little high maintenance and pretty sure she is going to be a little drama queen. She has now started to really "scream" if she is not getting attention or just wants to be held. Putting her down for 1 minute you would think it was the end of the world. But we still get times where she is pretty laid back. She does love to smile, when she wants to. And she loves big brother Austin.

Activity: Loves the jumperoo and her swing. She really wants to be sitting up on her own and is quite frustrated she can't yet. She also loves books and when big brother Austin reads to her. Still likes her play mat but gets mad when she rolls to her stomach. Goofy girl.

Just another rainy day

2011-10-09T14:05:00.000-07:00

Well we are back to rain in full force. We tried to soak up every ounce of sun while it lasted for a very short month. Now the countdown is on until our vacation to Arizona in March. Is it too early to start counting down the days?!

I have pulled out the warm fuzzy socks and sweatshirts (not that they were put away for long). Been searching the web for all sorts of new crock pot recipes (if you have any good/easy ones that kids love please feel free to pass them along!).

Babes are getting more active. I pulled out the walker, jumperoo, and a few other baby toys that were used by Austin. My house is officially overflowing in baby loot!! I am even afraid to have company over due to the fact baby crap is e.v.e.r.y.w.h.e.r.e. Dalton (or as I like to now call him, TANK!) has pretty much skipped a lot of his 3/6 month clothes and straight into 6/9 month clothes. I have one couch that is covered in clothes that I am sorting through, trying to get rid of.

Dakota just started rolling over, from back to stomach. Isn't it supposed to be the other way around? She is such a squirmer and she now hates being on her stomach anyway. Dalton on the other hand could care less about rolling over. Not even remotely attempting to. Maybe its because of his chunkness? :)

Austin is loving his preschool and wishes he could go 5 days a week. They are already learning so much. He has his first field trip to the pumpkin patch this week that I get to tag along to. Thinking its going to be nothing but a muddy mess! I am also getting to help with the class harvest party on Halloween. So excited to be able to do things like that with him this year!

So for now this is what our normal days look like :)

Good Morning!

Twin love. Putting up with mom's camera obsession and multiple outfit changes.

Am I the only one who thinks he looks older then 3.5 months?

Austin's mini me

His 2nd costume. We had to get it because they match daddy's bunkers.

Working on that triple chin

Saturdays Austin has started a program that introduces kids to baseball, basketball and soccer. He is loving it so far, we just need to him to pay attention more. He is that one kid that likes to be class clown. Yeah. I am that mom with THAT child. Hoping the next 6 weeks will go better then yesterday did.

I can't believe how big all my kiddos are getting. Babes will be 4 months in 1 week! I am not ready for them to become mobile yet!! Guess I should start thinking about baby proofing soon as that time will be here shortly.

Working out

2011-10-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

So after much delay (from being super busy to tweaking my knee) I finally started P90X over a week ago! And as tough as it is, I am loving every second of it! I have noticed a difference in toning and tightness in just that short of time. I can't do all the moves, but hoping within time I will be able to. Yoga especially, wow. My body just can't bend very well in some of those positions!

I am also throwing in extra cardio 3-4x a week as well. I am hoping to start back up doing a turbo kick class once every couple weeks also for variety!

People always ask me how I have time....I make time. I feel so much more energized and its also a stress relief to me to bust out a good work out. With 3 kiddos I need as much energy as I can get. I am working on getting in a routine of doing it first thing in the morning, before the kids are awake (6am). Doesn't always work that way, sometimes I have to wait until morning nap around 9-10am. It also helps on the days my hubby is home from work so he can be on baby duty for an hour. I am motivated and determined to get the rest of this pregnancy weight off. My butt and thighs are my problem areas. I WILL fit back into my pre-pregnancy jeans by Christmas (fingers crossed for sooner?)!

If you are thinking about doing it I highly recommend it!

Road trip

2011-10-02T10:21:00.000-07:00

Last weekend's road trip, in pictures. We took the 4+ hour drive to head to central Washington and visit an old friend of Tyler's and stay with his aunt in her beautiful home!!! We had a good a time and even the babies behaved for the most part!

View from Gay's house

Swimming in aunties pool

Aunt Gay, Dakota, Austin

Aunt Gay and Dalton

Scenic drive up to Lions Rock

Dakota's first horse experience

The chunk!!

Being a mom to twins

2011-09-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

A friend shared this video yesterday and this pretty much sums up every conversation I have in public with every person that is intrigued with the fact that I have twins. I am pretty sure most moms of multiples can agree!!! Just had to share!

And yes, people really do ask these questions and/or make these remarks!

3 months gone by

2011-09-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

Seriously, time needs to slow down. But I have to admit we are approaching my favorite baby stages now :)

There is so much more smiling going on, little belly laughs, and lots of cooing!! It's the absolute cutest! I love watching them explore the world around them!

Dalton and his smiles just make me light up!! He is trying so hard to "talk" now. Would love to know what he is trying to say.

He is classified as a high needs baby. He constantly needs attention (although he is getting a little better).

He weighed in last week (at his belated 2 month check up) 12.13 lbs and 22-3/4"long. Little man is chunking up good.

Sleep: He normally gives us a good 6-7 hour stretch followed by another 3-4 hour. Typically in bed by 9pm and up at 3am then back down until 6 or 7am.

Wearing: Half in 0-3 and half in 3-6 month clothes. In size 2 diapers.

Eating: I couldn't even tell you. The kid wants to eat all day long. He takes a 5-6oz bottle about every 2-3 hours but ~~most of the time~~ sometimes has more in between. He likes to comfort suck the bottle when he is tired. Pedi told us to let him if its soothing him. Not really sure this is a good thing, but he refuses to take a paci now. He is also on zantac because of his spit up issues. Which more then likely is why he feels hungry all the time. So far it seems to be helping some.

Acitivity/personality: Still not much he is able to do yet. But when on his stomach he can push his whole chest off the ground and hold his head really high. He is getting better with head control but still a bit wobbly. He is smiling like there is no tomorrow (although he still has major anger fits frequently) and lets out some belly laughs every now and then. He has really picked up cooing to his toys/things on the wall. No interest in trying to roll over yet. I am ok with this. Austin was rolling over right about now and I hope these kids will take their sweet time. I am in no rush for them to grow up yet.

I bought them a play mat the other day and it was a hit!!! Dalton doesn't stay content for long with anything and so far this has held his attention. He is starting to grab and bat at the toys hanging from it.

Pay no attention to his off-colored head. He has awful cradle cap.

Loves his big brother

Little miss Dakota, my little peanut.

She weighed in at 10.5 lbs and 21-3/4" long.

She is my snuggle bug and just the sweetest most chill baby ever. I could just snuggle her all day long. Her smiles melt my heart every time. Although it takes some work to get them out of her. And forget about smiling for the camera.

I think she has had it with mommy and the camera

I literally snap 100's just in hopes to catch one where she will look at me and not have the "deer in the head light" look.

Sleep: She is still every 3-4 hours. But we are seeing more 4-5 hour stretches. She normally wakes up between 11pm-12am for a feeding. Then sleeps until 3-4am then back asleep until about 6-7am. And sometimes I see every hour on the clock. Her nights vary a lot more. And weirdly she still sleeps in her carseat (in my room) from 11-12am on. She likes it though.

Wearing: 0-3 month clothes and size 1 diapers.

Eating: 4-5oz every 3-5 hours. Although this past week I can't seem to fill her up. Can you say growth spurt?!! Little peanut needs it though.

Activity/personality: She is so content wherever she is at and is very laid back. She likes her times of snuggle and being held though too. She now hates tummy time. But is getting so good with head control and pushing off my shoulders. She wants to sit up so bad. Anytime I have her propped on pillows she tries to pull herself forward. Loves her play mat and also grabs/bats at toys. She can scoot herself all over the floor from her back. She arches her butt off the ground and and pushes. She has been able to do this since her first couple weeks. So weird. She has spun a complete circle on the floor also. Little mover.

Here is how I spend most my mornings..........

snuggling these 3 kiddos

Austin also started pre-school a couple weeks ago. Sad to see him grow up fast but also very excited for him.

I would share more photos, but yeah my sd card in the phone.....wiped clean. Over 1000 photos. I will share that story later.
And in exciting news (well for me anyway) I have about 14 lbs to go until I am back at pre-pregnancy weight!!! Of course I still have quite a bit of toning to do but hoping by Christmas I will be where I want to be at!

Beach time

2011-09-06T17:44:00.000-07:00

We survived our first "vacation" as a family of 5!! The beach was a blast and the weather was decent for the most part. The babes did alright. The 1st night was great and the next 2, not so much. But luckily during the day on our outings they slept through everything. Glad we rented a beach house instead of trying to stay in a hotel. So much easier.

Did some shopping, got some beach time in, a night out to the casino with my aunt, movies, sunshine, relaxing, and lots of laughs.

The boys getting ready for movie night (Dakota was already asleep)

View from the house

Shopping with the girls

Multi-tasking

Looking forward to another vacation, although I am not sure when that will be. We were long overdue for some much needed time away.

My loves

2011-08-31T22:37:00.000-07:00

I am still around, just have had no time to blog much.

The babes are growing faster then I can blink and really developing quite the little personalities. They are also staying up more during the day and some days they are not napping at the same time. Making it very hard to get anything done. But that is OK. I will take every single moment, good and bad, of snuggling and holding my babes. These moments go by way too fast.

We are headed to the beach this weekend for a mini vacation. The first vacation with the twins. Austin also starts pre-school next week. Hoping to start getting a more set routine in place.

Here are some new photos of my precious kidlets.

County Fair

2011-08-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

We had family day at the fair last week. Trying to get the hang of going out as a family of 5. It can be quite challenging, but so far the babies have done awesome!

The weather was beautiful and it wasn't as crowded as the weekend would have been. I am loving being a Stay At Home Mama, especially with my hubby's work schedule we can do a lot more during the weekdays together.

Austin had a great time. It was his 2nd fair in one week. The babes LOVE being outdoors. Dakota loves the car seat and stroller. Dalton does too, but he is also loving the front pack. He is a bit more needier then sis.

We ate fair food

And got to see many animals

It makes me miss my horses and showing them in 4-H.
This is how we roll.....

Dakota thoroughly enjoyed every minute :)

Austin rode the rides

Dalton had to have a snack break lol! What a chubber!

It would have been great to stay for the rodeo, but with the kiddos it didn't happen. Hopefully next year.

Each day we go out I get a little more confident handling the 3 kids in public. It's just taking some getting used to and working around eating and napping schedules.

8 weeks

2011-08-14T21:56:00.000-07:00

Wowzers! I can't believe the babes are now 8 weeks old, as of Thursday!! Time needs to slow on down!! Tuesday they will hit 2 months!!

These past 8 weeks have flown by. Even in a sleep deprived state, the days just keep on passing before my eyes. Both kiddos have grown so much. They will be walking before I know it.

They both started smiling around 6 weeks. Dalton flashes them more then Dakota. I make the silly voices and smile at her just to see one out of her but instead she looks at me like I am some darn crazy lady. It's very much on her terms.

Fussy time hits at about 5pm every night and lasts until 9-10pm. Not so much fun when I am the only one home dealing with the screaming/crying/fussing. Makes for very long evenings. Hope this little phase passes quickly. It's a bit hard holding 2 babes who both don't like it when you hold the other.

Dalton, our little angry child! Yes, hard to tell from this picture, he really is a sweetheart when he wants to be. He gives us no warning as to when he is going to enter anger mode. It goes from being happy and cooing/smiling to flat out screaming in less then a second. But he does love snuggling up into your arms or on your chest. He has quite the personality already and is trying very hard to interact with us. He has a very strong head already and loves looking around at all his surroundings. He doesn't exactly seem to care too much for his sister though. Oddly enough she is the one person he tries to avoid looking at. Maybe it was because she kicked him in the head a few too many times in utero?

"Mom, why are you making me lay next to her?!!"

Sleep: On average he sleeps about 5 hours now. He has been giving us some 6-7 hour stretches though. But for whatever reason he and his sister think its great to wake back up at 5am and stay awake. They are normally asleep for the night between 8-9pm. And I am that bad mom who lets her babes sleep on their stomachs ((GASP)). Usually only for a portion of the night. They fall asleep faster and for longer that way. Happy baby/ies = Happy Mama. They both also end up in our bed mostly. It's just easier and they sleep better. But I am already wanting my bed back.

Eating:He is a little porker. He is eating about 4 oz in one feeding. That can be every 2-3 hours or sometimes he wants more in between, like another ounce or two. I have tried giving him more then 4 oz in one setting and he won't eat it. But an hour later the child will act like he hasn't eaten all day.

Activity: He likes his swing, when he wants to like it. And some times he likes his papasan vibrating chair. He also loves being in the stroller, but no more then an hour. Other then that he would really prefer to be held...ALL.DAY.LONG. But being a twin he has to wait patiently at times as I have 2 other kiddos to tend to, one being that sweet little infant sister of his.

He now likes taking baths instead of screaming. He "mostly" likes car rides, but hates being put in his car seat at first. He will normally cry the first 5 minutes into the ride and then is out. Unless he feels like he should eat. Thank goodness for my 4 year old who is sweet enough to feed a screaming baby. Bless his heart, he has really stepped up and become such a big boy and is pretty patient with these little babies. He really is my little helper and some days I don't know what I would do without him!!!

Yes, I do realize that my older son does not match (he dresses himself) nor does any of the bedding (not so fond of the Soy spit up smell).

And then there is little miss Dakota.

She can be a feisty one when she wants to be. I can't wait to see her personality start shining through. I see both our stubbornness in her. And the girl has a set of lungs on her!! For the most part she is easy to please but when she is mad watch out! She is pretty content during the day and still sleeps a lot. She loves her swing and the papasan chair. Oddly, she likes to sleep in her car seat every now and again. It might be due to the fact she seems to have a clogged nose constantly. She loves car rides and loves being outside and pushed around in the stroller. Loves her biggest brother and will stare at him for long periods of time watching him play. She still hates her bath, although the screams aren't as ear piercing. Maybe we are having a breakthrough? She is a great snuggler (again when she wants to be) and loves curling up on your chest or shoulders.

Sleep: She has started breaking her every 3 hour streak from when we had to wake her and feed her after the weight loss. Now she is every 4 hours and we have seen a couple 5-6 hour stretches outta her also but not consistent yet. So far both these kiddos are way better then what Austin was sleeping wise. She is sleeping in her crib more. I almost don't like to put them in the same room because they wake each other up and if one is having and "off" night then the other one pays for it also. Plus they feed off each other. One screams the other one typically starts up too.

Eating: She is eating about 3-4 oz a feeding. She normally is like clock work during the day. Every 3 hours. Sometimes more though. Like mentioned above she is slowly sleeping longer stretches at night!!

Activity: She loves her swing and loves the papasan chair. She also loves the stroller and being outside. These are all places she loves to sleep. She still sleeps a lot during the day. She is pretty content mostly.

So life is pretty good! Babes are healthy and we are all just finding our groove with our daily life. Austin is loving being a big brother and can't stand to be away from his brother and sister. He is doing much better then I could have hoped for. He wants to include them with everything we do. It's super cute!!

It's only taken me since Thursday to compile this post. It's now late Sunday evening.

Weekend Rambles

2011-08-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

1. We have been getting real smiles this past week from the babes!! Dalton is doing it more then Dakota and I was able to catch him!

Do you think he looks like his brother much?!

2. We have switched both babes to soy formula and they have been doing so much better and sleeping so much better!! Their stomachs seem to be doing so good.

3. I took the babes (along with my mom, sister, niece, and Austin) to their first trip to the zoo last week. They did great for the 3 hours we were there and loved every second of fresh air!

4. I have decided I am going to get the P90X workout dvds. Call me crazy.

5. My sister and niece left for home yesterday after their 3 week stay. I got to enjoy some time out with her Friday and we went shopping and had lunch (minus children).

6. We booked a long 7 night stay at the beach......for next May. I wish it was sooner but we couldn't get into our time share condos until then....unless we wanted to book it in the winter. Not so much.

7. Dalton has been giving us more 6 hour sleeping stretches at night. Not consistent, but I have hope it will get to that soon. Dakota is sleeping closer to 4 hours consistently, now that we don't have to feed her every 3 hours.

8. Little Miss was weighing in at 7 lbs 3 oz as of 1.5 weeks ago!! Yay for weight gain!

9. My aunt thought it would be a great idea to buy Austin another stuffed animal. You can read about his obsession Here. He really did NOT need this to add to the collection. I have no room for it in this house.

10. Austin LOVES doing the 30 day shred with me......everyday.

11. I have to say I have the best hubby ever!! He cleaned the whole house, did the grocery shopping, mowed the grass, caught up all the laundry while the kids and I were playing at the zoo last week. And he has been sweet enough to watch the kiddos so I can take some time out for myself each week! Even if the time out is just an hour long!

Family reunion

2011-08-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

I am slowly getting around to catching up from when my side of the family was in town. This post has only taken a few days to put together. Free time is very rare.

We had a great couple weeks with my brother and his family and my sister and her family. We did a bunch of fun things, and it was good just hanging out.

The day before my brother and his family left we had a little family reunion at a park. It was a mix from my mom's side and my dad's side. Well a small portion of my dad's side, he comes from a huge family.

The kids all had a good time and the weather was finally warm enough to bust out the squirt guns and tank tops! Yeah it hasn't been all that great of weather this summer here in the NW.

We have a new generation of babies coming up with Dalton being the only boy this time around. He is surrounded by girl cousins!

We are hoping to continue doing a reunion of sorts every summer now!

My whole side (minus my brother inlaw Marcus and hubby)

The whole group

My sis Jamie, me and our cousin Jill

Taryn and Austin

Paislie

Cousins

The next generation of babies

My brother Dave and sis inlaw Carolyn

Ava, Amy, Emily, Jamie

Dalton

Dakota

Brooklyn

Cousins

Grandma was dangerous with that thing

Aunt Gloria getting ready to attack

This face always marks the end of an outing.

A great time indeed!

House full of sickies

2011-08-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

It's summer, and somehow the cold bug has hit our house. Hubby and Austin got it. Then I got it. Everyone knows mama can't be sick!!! Congested, sore throat, cough, fever, etc. This weekend was a blast. The babes have been extremely irritable and wanted nothing but to be held. Not fun when all I wanted to do was sleep. Hopefully it won't get any worse for them. The past few days I heard a lot of this (be glad I didn't video this)

and this

It's been fun :) Here is a glimpse of what life is for a mom of twins!!

Family time

2011-07-26T12:56:00.000-07:00

Been a bit MIA. Mostly due to the fact I am being mama to 3 adorable rugrats and they take up about every second of my day. And the fact that it's summer and even though it's been crappy weather we are trying to enjoy any ounce of sunshine/dry weather we are getting. In a couple of short months it will be back to the full on down pour of rain for a continuous 9 months.

My family has been in town. My brother Dave and his family (from Australia) and my sister Jamie and her family (from Tennessee). It has been quite some time since I have seen either of them. I also have 2 nieces that I had never met. It was so nice catching up and getting all the kiddos together.

This is a little bit of what we have been up to......picture overload

He missed his Taryn.....and we finally met Ava!

Awwww

zoo day

Brittney, Ava, Austin, Hunter

The start of our family BBQ

Taryn and Austin

Ava and Dalton

Grampy with Ava and Paislie

Jamie and Paislie

family volleyball game

Grampy giving tractor rides

Dakota

Me and Ava and Jamie with Paislie

Aunt Carolyn with Taryn and Dalton

Ava and Austin

Aunt Jamie with Austin and Taryn

Austin and Daddy

Uncle Marcus and Austin

Marcus, Dave, Tyler

My whole side of the family

Grandpa helping Austin with his golf

Me, Dakota, Carolyn, Ava, Jamie, Paislie

The babes did really well on our outings and loved all the fresh air. I couldn't have asked for anything better from them :)

A night out

2011-07-24T21:41:00.000-07:00

For my 30th my sister and sis in law came over and took me out for dinner and drinks. The hubs had to work a double shift last weekend, a long 48 hours (probably the longest 2 days of my life). It was a much needed night out for me. A few hours of "me" time. I won't lie, I did not feel the least bit guilty for leaving the babies at home with my parents even though they are only a month old. Save your judgment.

My cousin Angie and wonderful friend Emily also came along. It was a fun few hours with many laughs. It's not too often I get to spend time with my sister and sister in law beings they do not live here. I wish we could all do it again more often. Hopefully they will visit again soon. Well my sister is staying another 2 weeks.

Girls night must.be.done.more.often!!!!!!! Thanks ladies for dinner and drinks!!

1 Month

2011-07-18T19:49:00.000-07:00

The babes hit the 1 month milestone on Saturday. My attempt at snapping some 1 month photos = FAIL. The kids were in awful moods. If one wasn't crying the other was....from 9am -2pm. And Tyler was at work. And the night didn't go any better.

I thought about trying again at another time, but nah....it is what it is.

Both babes are doing well. Dakota is gaining weight finally. Dalton passed his hearing test. Both are above birth weight. As you can tell he is my little porker. They sleep in 3 hour increments at night. I have to wake up Dakota to eat that often still and Dalton has fallen in that schedule also. But we have seen some 4 hour stretches. I am trying to get them to go longer between feedings. They are also sharing a crib still. But thinking they need to go to their own. They also sleep with us 50% of the time. It's just been easier.

They are still quite the nappers during the day but also give us a good amount of awake time. We are nowhere near any kind of "routine" schedule. But trying to get there. Its been a little difficult and every night/day has been different. With Tyler back on full duty at work I am having to do things all on my own every few nights. So far its been a bit of a challenge not having that extra hand to help. I will get there though......some day. To say my life is chaotic and crazy is an understatement. But it's not a life I would trade for anything! Being a mama to 3 beautiful kids is absolutely amazing and such a true blessing.

It's been hard to find time to get on here and update. I have been trying to catch up on blogs though. I can at least do that while feeding a baby :) But when they are sleeping I am trying really hard to start shedding the rest of this weight. I still have about 25 lbs to go. My treadmill has been my best friend. Next week I am busting out the Jillian Michaels DVDs though. I am determined to get back in shape.

I also have family in town the rest of the week so chances are I will be MIA until next week. Then hopefully I can start updating more regularly.

The Dirty 30

2011-07-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

It's the year of the big 3-0H! Like in a week from today! EEEEK!!! And since this year I have just given birth to 2 precious little bundles of joy I figured I would make my realistic wish list.

Yes they are definitely precious

Because a trip to Fiji or even Vegas is clearly not happening.....for at least the next ~~18 years~~ year. And clothes shopping won't do me any good as I plan to be losing ~~all~~ some of this baby weight by the end of summer (like I said, have to keep it realistic). But I won't complain about a Buckle gift card that I can use when I am ready.

So HONEY dearest, are you paying attention?! :)

What would be more appropriate then this bad boy ( or any other model/brand that gets me the same result). After all I am completely sleep deprived after many sleepless days and nights and am very much needing every ounce of ~~caffeine~~ energy that I can possibly get.

I am definitely needing a little rejuvenation so what would be more fitting then a ~~nap~~ massage?

Clearly I don't have ~~any~~ much time to hit the gym so it will have to be in home workouts and the tread mill for me. I have heard great things about this little DVD (and any equipment that will be needed) and would like to add it to my already growing Jillian Michaels collection. And the doctor has now given me the go ahead to resume most normal activities as long as my body is OK with it.

My poor little straightener is starting to go down hill and it's a matter of time until I wake up to do my hair and it will no longer work. I have had my CHI for around 7-8 years now and absolutely love it. It would just be a direct replacement since this is the brand I am now in love with. Ah heck, who am I kidding...when do I even have time to dry my hair?!

Since I won't be going to too many places this summer, I will be enjoying more time out in the back yard. Ones of these comfy patio sets would be alright ;) Well it doesn't exactly have to be that fancy.

And since nothing is getting done besides daily bottle washing/sterilizing, laundry (only washing and drying....who has time to fold clothes now?) and the occasional vacuuming I think maid service would be wonderful. What kind of person who is turning 30 asks for a maid for their birthday?!

Maybe it's not so much a maid I need. Maybe a nanny? Then I can do the housework and get other stuff done that would normally take me an hour or two, not a whole week. Or how about just a night time nanny, I would even be happy to have her over 2-3 nights a week. Heck even 1 night would be OK just to catch up on some zzzzz's weekly.

So there you have it. My birthday wish list. It's nothing exciting I know. Maybe in 10 years when I hit 40 *gasp* it will be a lot cooler.

In reality though, what better gifts then giving birth to these 2 beautiful babes this year?

Dalton

Dakota

****These newborn photos were done by my wonderful friend Emily!!! Thank you again Emily for doing these, you did an amazing job!!

Believe it or not there is more pure sweetness where these came from that I will show off later :)****

And of course what could possibly top spending my entire birthday with all 3 of my beautiful babies....sleep deprived and all

Birth Story

2011-06-30T09:15:00.000-07:00

It's pretty short and sweet as my delivery was a planned c-section.

Hubby and I arrived at the hospital at 6am and my delivery was scheduled for 8am. They hooked me up to the fetal monitors when I first arrived. Then my 2 nurses came in to start the prep work. Lucky me I got a fresh newbie nurse, who did not know how to put in an IV for the life of her. I am the last person who needs a nurse who doesn't know what she is doing because of my little needle phobia. She was a sweet person and I felt bad, but seriously I still have a small mark on my hand from where she shoved it in at (which also took about 20 minutes). At this point I was starting to get light headed and dizzy. My contractions had picked up and baby girl's heart rate was decreasing for some reason. They quickly got me to my side got me oxygen and gave me another shot of terbutaline because it seemed Dakota wasn't doing well with the contractions. All the sudden I had a team of everyone outside my room, they were thinking they may have to do a quick emergency c-section if her heart rate didn't pick up and my doc was still 15 minutes out from arriving. Luckily everything got back under control quickly. I walked in to the OR at exactly 7:59am I got some good drugs, laid back and what seemed a few short minutes later my sweet baby boy Dalton Alan was born. He came out screaming and full of life. 6 lbs 9 oz and 19" long. 1 minute later Dakota Marie arrived 5 lbs 4 oz and 19" long ( although I seriously think they were off on her length a little bit, she is a bit smaller then her brother), it took her a minute to find her voice but boy does she have some lungs (when she wants to use them)!! The babes were in my view the whole time with their baby nurses. Both babes were brought to me right away so I could have a peek. It was amazing how I felt instant relief when Dalton was first pulled out, I could actually breathe again and after Dakota came out I felt even 10x better. Afterwards the docs did the tubal ligation and sewed me back up and I was then on my way to recovery.

Both babes were able to come to recovery for the 2 hours with me along with their nurses so they could continue to have their checks done as well. Then we were headed off to our room. The babes pretty much slept the entire hospital stay. The nurse had me up and moving the 1st night and by the 2nd day I was able to shower on my own. I felt great upon leaving. It was a much more easier delivery this time around.

So there you have it :)

Now 2 weeks post partum I am back to doing "most" things I normally would have prior to pregnancy. Still will wait another couple weeks to start a good work out. But I am planning on getting back on the tread mill in the next day or two.

What I have been up to

2011-06-24T20:10:00.000-07:00

Clearly these 2 precious little angels have been taking up my sweet time.

Well more like 3 little angels

Big brother is adjusting pretty well, except he refers to them as the girl baby and the boy baby. He won't call them brother or sister or say their names. But he is pretty protective.

Dakota pretty much sleeps all day, but so does Dalton.

One proud daddy!

Babies are both doing good. They have both lost a bit of weight since birth. Dakota more then Dalton. The pediatrician has put them both on a high calorie formula for the next couple months and we have to do go in weekly for growth checks. Hoping they start putting some meat on their bones!

They sleep all day long and night time has been hit and miss. We have had one really great night since being home. Hopefully in the next few weeks we will be doing a bit better. They rarely cry unless its diaper changing time or bath time. Other then that they are very chill babies. So different then how Austin was.

I may be a little scarce the next few weeks as I am getting adjusted to a whole new way of life! Once we get into somewhat of a routine I will be on more and catching up on other blogs (I have been a bad reader, sorry!!!!). For now you will probably just be getting to see a bunch of precious photos!!

Side note: I am down 25 lbs! I have about 30 more to go! Hopefully it won't take long!

Introducing...............

2011-06-17T09:01:00.000-07:00

Dalton and Dakota!

Dakota

Dalton

Dalton Alan born June 16, 6 lbs 9 oz, 19" long

Dakota Marie born June 16, 5 lbs 4 oz, 19" long

Both babes are doing great!! They are super content and very alert so far! I couldn't ask for more sweeter and precious babies!

Mama is doing great also! Feeling a lot more better then being pregnant! Delivery was quick and easy.

We are at the hospital until Sunday. I hope to post the birth story some time next week!

Delivering the twins today!

2011-06-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

I am probably at the hospital already and prepping for my c-section.

Doctor decided yesterday that we would move my delivery date up a few days ( pretty sure she felt so bad for how pathetic I looked)! I was literally in tears at her office. I can handle a lot of pain but I can hardly move. She had told me last week that there was a good chance we would move it up anyway. I am measuring 45 weeks pregnant, is that even possible?! I am almost thinned out. And my contractions are getting more intense. Babies looked great last week and I am sure have grown a bit more this last week. They will probably both be in the 6 lb range. Plus tomorrow I will technically be full term, 37 weeks.

I am so excited and nervous! Wow going from 1 kid to 3! Crazy!

Here is my last belly photo taken last night (told ya I was huge!)

I will try to update with photos as soon as I can (it may be a few days).

Still hanging on

2011-06-15T08:21:00.000-07:00

These babies are definitely quite cozy and content. Not that it's a bad thing having them bake a bit longer. But mama is beyond miserable (trying not to complain much). My last OB appointment is in a few hours so we will see what she has to say. Last week she told me we will re-evaluate things and see how I am feeling. Not sure if that means she will move my delivery date up to the end of this week instead of Tuesday? We shall see what she has to say. Otherwise this is the last week of appointments and delivery is scheduled for Tuesday.

I had another growth scan done last week. Baby boy was 6 lbs 7 oz and baby girl was 5 lbs 11oz. So they are nice sized! They were doing great with their practice breathing and still very active. Not sure how that works since there really is no room left for them to move around.

The tech snapped a quick 3D photo of baby boy (baby girl wasn't in a cooperating mood, naturally).

I have to say he looks a lot like Austin. So excited to meet them soon!!

My in laws arrived Saturday to help out with my son and for when the twins are here! It's been so nice having them here and Austin is loving every second :)

Other then that I have been couch/bed bound and planning Austin's birthday party which is postponed until next month (due to obvious reasons). Thank goodness for Internet!!

Hopefully I will have a more exciting update next time :)

Head on over to......

2011-06-13T14:00:00.000-07:00

Jen's blog!!

A Girl in Pearls & A boy with Toys

I am being featured today on her Monday Mama's to be post!

You know you're 9 months pregnant when.......

2011-06-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

Saw this list on a baby board :) Just a little funny something for all my pregnant mama friends!!!

You know you're 9 months pregnant when..

~You feel 300 pounds heavier than you are, compliments of your swollen feet.

~You can fit only one person in your ~~king size~~ queen-size bed because it's covered in mounds of pillows.

~You think every little pain might be a contraction.

~You drop something on the kitchen floor and stare at it, thinking, Do I really need that?

~You call your husband, and he picks up on the first ring.

~You have to find the bathroom in a store BEFORE you start shopping.

~ You look at all of your pretty bras and sadly think "So long; it was nice while it lasted. I hope to see you again someday!"

~ You can't see to shave your "bikini" area anymore, but try to anyway.

~ You worry not about a painful birth, but not being able to eat all day while in labor/surgery/recovery!

~You try to beat your husband to the bedroom and fall asleep before he gets out of the shower.

~ A thong is now considered a flip flop in your vocabulary!

~You look for the closest and widest parking spot at the store because you can't squeeze in tight spaces anymore.

~ You get short of breathe from just walking to the kitchen to get a snack.

~ You have to pee right after you just peed!

~ You run out of a 12 pack of double roll toilet paper in a week

~You know your nine months pregnant when your 3 yr old offers to put your shoes on for you :) (yes this happens at my house).

Baby Shower #2

2011-06-07T18:10:00.000-07:00

I had my 2nd shower on May 14th, right before bed rest orders. This is probably what started the constant contractions. Once again overdoing it. And you can totally tell I have been up on my feet a lot due to all the swelling over my whole body. Luckily I don't look so puffy after laying in bed all day.

It was a great time with family and a few friends/old neighbors! The twins and I were blessed with so many wonderful gifts. I am more then set for these babies arrival. I have more clothes then I know what to do with, and on top of that all the clothes I have saved from Austin. I think I got one of the world's largest Diaper Bag from 2 of my aunts that was stuffed to the brim full of all kinds of goodies! I can seriously fit a few of my things plus some of Austin's stuff in there!!

Please excuse how hideous I look!! I was debating if I even wanted to put these photos up or not. Major puffer cheeks going on!

Grandma J and I

Grandma V. and I, we match!

Me and my mom

This picture doesn't do these hats justice (taken from my phone). My friend Emily made these adorable little hats and I can't wait to have their photos done in them!!!

And these ones also!

I am dying over a few more on her Etsy site Made With Heart By Emily. Seriously check her stuff out!!! You won't be disappointed!

I am so glad that I was able to make it to the shower...well I am sure I would have broken bed rest rules anyway ;)

35 Weeks

2011-06-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

Week 35

Less then 3 weeks to go!! Bake babies bake!! I am so happy to have made it this far with them!

Update from last week: 1cm dilated and 50% effaced. Fluid levels looked good on both babes. My contractions are feeling sporadic but are actually consistent, just not always feeling them.

•How far along: 35 weeks

•Twin Pregnancy: At 35 weeks.
You can relax a great deal now. If your twins are born at this stage, there should not be any major complications, and chances of survival are extremely high.
Your babies are putting on more fat. Their position in the uterus will probably stay the same until their birth

•Total Weight Gain/Loss: I think I am up about 45 lbs. Not horrible, but the number freaks me out.

•Maternity Clothes: All the way. Nothing but sweats these days for me though.

•Genders: A boy and girl!!

•Movement: They are still moving pretty good, but they have slowed down a tad. I get some good jabs now that are a bit painful.

•Sleep: After last night I just want to cry. I just want one solid night of sleep before the babies arrive. With no aches/pains and 50 pee breaks. I get "cat" naps and am up every 30 minutes to an hour at night. I hurt so bad everywhere and laying down seems to be making it worse at times.

•What I miss: My old body!!! I just want to be able to do normal things again, like bend over to put shoes on or pick up my house! I want some energy back also! And I am really missing sleeping on my stomach. And I don't want to hurt everywhere!!!

•Cravings: Still steak LOL! My craving for that has gotten better since I am on an iron supplement but its the only meat I want. Also Mexican food. How about a sizzlin' steak fajita burrito.....mmmmm!! And root beer, it just tastes so good right now.

•Symptoms: Anemic, Sore E.V.E.R.Y.W.H.E.R.E., zero energy, tired 24/7, peeing every 30 minutes to an hour during the day, congested, indigestion, starting to swell every where now....feet, hands, face, pelvic pressure, abdominal pain, contractions all day long (luckily not always painful), prego brain overload. Pregnancy induced Carpal Tunnel has seemed to make an appearance (or at least that is what I think it is). My left hand is throbbing and tingling and it hurts to grab anything. Oh yeah, and I noticed yesterday that the lovely red stretch marks decided to show up around my belly button!! What????!!! I am less then 3 weeks away from delivery, seriously you have to show up now??? :***(
Pretty much anything else you can think of, I am feeling it. I am not sure how much more my body can take physically. I honestly don't know if I can make it to June 21st. Don't get me wrong I am so thankful and grateful that I have been able to carry these babies this long. I am just having a rough morning....it is OK to whine every once in awhile right?

•Best Moment this week: Room is now officially set up (not decorated). I finished putting the diaper bag together. So I am packed and the babies are packed. The car seats are installed. And I am breaking bed rest rules and going out for one more pedicure this weekend with one of my friends. It's still going to be awhile before I can bend down to do them.

•Next up: See the doc tomorrow. And have another NST and Growth scan afterwards at Maternal Fetal. Then 2 more NST's next week along with another doc visit. I actually look forward to these since it's the only 2 days of the week I get out of the house. If anything exciting happens I will be sure to update.

Photo:

Tender Age of 3

2011-06-01T22:18:00.000-07:00

I .just wanted to document what life was like when my son was like the whole year he was 3. I am hoping to do this every year as my children grow. I have been keeping this all compiled this past year for him.

My 3 year old--Austin

Such a silly, loving, trying, stubborn, hot tempered, fully energized, defiant, bossy, strong willed, caring,funny, and sensitive boy we have.

Current height as of July 2010 39-1/4" and weight 35.4 pounds

His favorite friends, Carson, Dylan, Allison, Wyatt

Toys- Disney CARS, Toy Story Characters Buzz lightyear and Woody, Thomas the Train, Batman, Spiderman, Joker, trucks, dozers, excavators, etc. Loves reading books, plays alone at times but likes to have interaction with others for the most part. And of course his beloved Stuffed animals. Those are his best buddies!!

Movies-CARS, Toy Story, Shrek, Thomas the Train, Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, Open Season, Ice Age, Monsters, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,

Loves the outdoors, camping, riding his bike, swimming, playing catch, playing at the park, going on new adventures.

Loves helping daddy work on things...with his own set of tools. And he is forever "fixing" things around the house for me with his screw driver. A screw driver fixes everything....just ask him.
Can't keep quiet, a little bossy, likes to be in charge, full of life and energy, very social, likes being around other kids. Definitely a leader, likes kids to do what he is doing or tell them what to do. Loves playing chase.

Foods-Fish crackers, Animal Crackers, apples, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter and jelly sandwhiches, Ritz Crackers, Spaghetti, Meatloaf, Fries, Pickles (he would eat a whole jar in one day if I let him), yogurt, pepperoni sticks, slurpees, anything chocolate, Tuna Sandwiches,

Sensitive to others, will lend a hand when someone has fallen down. Does not like others to cry and will comfort them. Hugs and kisses everyone when leaving them. Likes structure and routine. Loves all his family members dearly.

He would rather chase the girls then play with the boys....although he loves being all rough and tough.

Favorite tv shows- Mickey Mouse Club House, Special Agent Oso, Little Bear, Chugginton, Scooby Doo, Tom and Jerry, Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Looney Tunes, Sid the Science Kid, Elmo,

Quite the imagination, always has a story to amuse us with, usually a fabricated story.

Can count to 30 and sometimes a bit higher.

Writes his full name out, not exactly all together and he still has a hard time with S.

Can recognize every letter of the alphabet

Starting to associate the first letters of words....like A is for Apple and Austin, B is bee and ball etc.

A typical day with MY 3 year old

2011-06-01T08:25:00.000-07:00

Now that my son will be turning 4 this month I thought I would share some of what my life as a Stay At Home Mom has been like with a 3 year old ( at least these last 6 months).

I have been trying to keep a little journal of the things my son says or does along with some photos to capture those moments. It's a lot easier to keep up on this then to write in his baby book. Maybe one day I can print pages out to put in there.

The things I hear out of my son's mouth on a daily basis always amaze me and keep me laughing or cringing throughout the day. It's not always peaches and cream, he is still 3 years old ( if you have or have had a 3 year old then you know what I am talking about). The arguments we have can be quite ridiculous and sometimes I have to bite my lip to keep from laughing, even through my frustration. Or even in situations where he might say something he isn't supposed to say/do. If he can see my lips move slightly upward he busts out laughing thinking I condone said words/actions. Half of the time I sit here wondering where he comes up with things. Oh to spend some time in his brain. This is just a portion of it all.

Every weekday morning starts out like this: Austin comes into my room and wakes me up "Mom, where is dad?" Me "He is at work." Austin (insert a very tired obnoxious whiny voice "Nooooo, not again!!!" I don't know why we go through this every morning, but we do.

"Do you want a knuckle sandwich? Because I am about to make a delivery!"

Austin asks me if I can help him fix a toy, I tell him I can't it's broken. "But mom, yes you can because you are a big girl and big girls can do everything!" Does big mean like I am literally big, prego big?

Austin comes into the room and asks me a question, I slightly ignore him. "Mom? Are you there? Are you listening to me? Yes or No?" He has selective hearing, this is what I say to him when I know he isn't paying attention.

Flushing the toilet, " Goodbye poops!" And can anyone tell me why he feels the need to take off every.single.piece. of clothing every time he poops?

Pooping in the toilet..."Look mom there is the dad poop and the mom poop, but there is no baby poop....he had to go shopping." I don't have any words for this.

Lightning McQueen goes flying across the kitchen. "Mom, it wasn't my fault it was lightning's. He started it!" Oh really? Now we are fighting with our CARS??

"Mom, you are my very best friend!" Awww (2 minutes later that can all change)

"F.I.N.E.!!!!!! I am packing my bags and getting on an airplane to go see Grandma and Grandpa in Arizona!!" (this usually occurs when I tell him NO to something).

"Mom, you are so beautiful and pretty!" OK, what do you want now?!

"Mom if you don't be nice to me I will take away your computer!!" Me not being nice = me not letting him have his way. So Try that my dear son.

"I want cookies for breakfast!!" Me - "No you can't have any until after lunch time" Austin "Fine, I will tell on you when daddy gets home!" (this conversation plays out at least every other day)

I recorded Beverly Hills Chihuahua a couple weeks ago, he wanted to watch it the other day " Can I watch Bow-Bow-Chicky-Chicky-Wow-Wow?" Yeah my mind went there too, I was worried for a moment. But the kid honestly can't say chihuahua for the life of him. I make him repeat it A LOT during the day just to hear him pronounce it, because I literally pee my pants every time.

I finally heard the "WHATEVER Mom!" this past weekend. 3 yrs old going on teenage years.

Things my son has taught me:

Wearing your baseball hat forward means you are a soccer player. Wearing it backwards means you are a skateboarder, because everyone thinks skateboarders are cool and they yell at you saying " Hey dude you look cool!" And if you wear it sideways you look like a "Doofus."

Being married means you can have a girl sleep in your room forever. I am a little worried....... I had a bridal show on and I told him that they were getting married and that long ago daddy and I got married just like that. And also that someday when he was big like daddy he will be able to get married to a pretty girl. Some how he got the idea above in his head that that was what marriage is all about. Trying to explain things to a 3 year old is quite difficult.

When you have a super hero costume on you can do anything

His room often looks like this (he does pick it all up before bed time though....which may or may not result in the biggest meltdowns in history at times.

I told him the other day that he needs to pick up his room before bed time, his response "Sheesh MOM!! You are ruining my life!!!" Hello teenage attitude?! Where do they come up with this stuff?

We use train tracks as swords

This room has looked worse. I promise I do clean my house.

We may or may not have had popcorn as an after breakfast snack once.

He salutes me when acknowledging something I have said "Aye, Aye captain" No joke.

"Mom? Do you think I look like a cool dude?"

The other day he comes into his bathroom with no shirt on "Mom, who is the best looking guy in this house?" I said "Your Dad is." He says "No, that would be this guy (flexing muscles and then pointing to himself in the mirror...vain much?)"

With all the attitude going on Tyler and I have had to have some serious sit down talks with him about who is in charge around our household. Austin has that selective hearing trait like most men in this world do. I was trying to explain to him about why he needs to listen. He was giving me full eye contact (very rare) and in a complete serious voice says "Mom, can you just hold on a minute I need to turn my ears up so I can hear you better (as he is grabbing his ears)." I couldn't even pretend to hide the laughter.

And my husband wonders why I am so chatty when he gets home from work.

Final Maternity Photos

2011-05-31T07:20:00.000-07:00

I totally forgot about posting the last of my Maternity photos that were only taken 5 weeks ago :) Obviously I am even much bigger now!

But here they are, better late then never!

A 4 year old's birthday wish list

2011-05-28T09:08:00.000-07:00

Austin's 4th birthday is coming up next month and of course this means a never ending birthday list. Thanks to every commercial, every store ad that comes in the mail, and from seeing some cool toys some of his friends have that he does not. Hope he isn't too disappointed that he won't be receiving every item on his list.

Crayola Toy Story Glow Board

Banzai Water Park N' Pirate Ship

Super Soaker, he wants every one on the store shelves.

Swing set

Trampoline, with the nets around it of course

Banzai Infinity and Beyond water slide

Bounce House

Play tent, any kind will do.

Can you tell the kid just wants to be outside and burn off energy?! Hopefully this 50-60 degree rainy weather will leave for good soon. And what does he think? That mom and dad are made out of money???!! :)

Mommy's birthday wish list for him is a bit more practical. Clothes, I can't keep up with his never ending growth spurts. I realize I am no fun :) I am already wondering how I am going to pull off a Buzz Lightyear birthday party when 1. I am on bed rest. 2. My delivery date is scheduled just a few days after his birthday and 3. I could honestly have these babes any time now anyway so I can't commit to hosting anything on any weekends (but refer back to #1). Maybe a belated party in July?

33-34 week update and misc.

2011-05-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

I know, my pregnancy posts are probably getting to be a bit annoying :) But honestly there isn't much else going on these days besides baking the babies and doctor appointments.

This was taken last Thursday, at exactly 33 weeks. I feel a lot bigger then this picture makes me look.

I am on to 3 appointments a week now. 2 NST's and an OB visit. Although at the last couple NST's my OB has come over to Labor and Delivery and checked me anyway since I seem to be having more contractions.

4 weeks from today is my scheduled c-section. Doctor is pretty confident I will at least make it to the 36 week mark. And there is still a good chance I will make it to my delivery date. My contractions are pretty sporadic, but I do have more then 5 during some hours (more the then docs like to see I guess). I am now 1cm dilated and about 50% effaced. Wish I could say that meant something, but I stayed at 1cm with my son for about 5 weeks and still had to be induced! Babies are looking/doing good. At my ultrasound last week baby boy was measuring 4 lbs 13oz and baby girl was 4 lbs 3oz. So hoping they will both at least be 5-6 lbs at birth. I have another NST and OB visit Friday.

I am pretty sure that even if the doctor hadn't put me on bed rest I would be spending all my time in bed or on the couch anyway. I am so tired and sore all the time. It's hard getting out of bed at times with this big ole belly. I don't sleep much during the night since I am up with aches and pains and 50 pee breaks. I am having awful indigestion, pelvic pressure, and feeling kinda nauseous. And now I am hot all day long. My appetite has decreased, I am assuming due to the fact there isn't much room left in there. And I am still short of breath throughout most the day. OK no more complaining, this pregnancy will shortly be a thing of the past and I know I can last a little longer and get these babies to bake a bit longer.

On a happier note, my cousin came over with a friend and fixed up the babies room and put everything away for me. I still have decorating to do, but at this point I will just wait until the babes are here. I have no desire to do anymore at this point.

I still have a few more things to move around. And the bounce chair and swing will soon be moved out to the family/kitchen area. It's hard cramming stuff into a room for 2 babies. I have 2 dressers and still don't have enough space.

And this is only half the closet. Think I need anymore clothes??? Keep in mind I have another 2 dressers full! And I have more diapers out in the garage. We started stocking up the minute I found out I was pregnant.

Before my orders for full bed rest I was able to get out and do some last minute shopping. And I snagged up some matching 4th of July shirts for the kiddos. A little early, yes. But I couldn't help it.

One of these days I promise to have a non pregnancy or baby related post!!!

Dozer Days 2011

2011-05-23T18:48:00.000-07:00

I am currently living vicariously through my son as I finish these last 4 weeks (maybe less?) of bed rest. The one event ( Dozer Days) my son has been talking about non stop since we took him last year. So I asked my parents if they would take him.

From the looks of it and the stories he has been telling me, I think he had a pretty good time.

Warning: Photo Overload!

A little boys (and some girls) heaven!! He is already wanting to go back again!

Keeping occupied

2011-05-20T08:43:00.000-07:00

So with this bed rest thing and all (see previous post) I have managed to keep myself occupied, for now anyway. My new phone happened to arrive Monday after my morning in L&D. Perfect timing.

I settled for one of these:

Droid X by Motorola

So far I am really loving it. I thought about the Iphone, and they are cool and all but a little out of my price range for now. And I was able to get this one free through Target's Verizon wireless retailer agent with an extension of my phone contract. You really can't beat free. I have found a few fun games and am having fun setting up everything the way I want.

The past couple days the weather has been awesome, like in the 70's. Of course it will be short lived, its supposed to get cooler again and the rain comes back this weekend :( But in the mean time I am enjoying every second of vitamin D. Hubby got me a new lounge chair so I can watch my son play and relax outside. At least now I don't feel like I am on house arrest.

Kinda sad that I do look forward to my twice weekly doctor appointments just for the fact I can actually leave the house. Yes, I know it's all worth it. But it's still hard. Especially with taking care of my son, who hasn't been making it easy for me to rest so much.

And it's also not been easy since the twins room currently looks like this:

Don't judge

It was picked up mostly until I had my 2nd shower this past Saturday. I am so thankful for family who have so kindly offered to come over and finish putting everything together in the next few days.

And a big shout out to my Grandma and Aunt Vicki who have brought dinner over the past 3 nights!!! We have been super spoiled!! Thanks ladies for being such a big help!

Now off to catch up with the DVR until it warms up outside!

Bed Rest

2011-05-17T08:41:00.000-07:00

Yep, I am officially on bed rest now from here on out until the end of pregnancy :(

Yesterday was a pretty rough day. I woke up early that morning around 3am with horrible abdominal pain that wouldn't let up for an hour followed by 2 hours of somewhat uncomfortable contractions that were about 2-5 minutes apart. I had my NST (non stress test) scheduled at labor and delivery anyway for 10 am so I didn't want to go in the middle of the night, even though I probably should have.

I called my doc on the way and she said to go on in anyway and that she would request tests to be ran. My contractions were 2 minutes apart and a little uncomfortable and the abdominal pain had eased but was still there and pretty constant. They took my urine and did another swab for preterm labor and checked my cervix. Everything came back clear and I am negative for preterm labor (the test can detect labor up to 2 weeks), I am not dilated just super soft. So the contractions I was having weren't making any changes to my cervix. They gave a shot of terbulatine to stop them. After they gave me that my contractions slowed and my abdominal pain went away, so looks like that was tied in with my contractions somehow even though I had the pain the whole time not just with contractions. Also, baby boy wasn't cooperating in all of this and wasn't passing the stress test. He wasn't moving like they wanted him to although his heart rate looked great. The nurse said it was likely due to the pressure of the contractions. Eventually he passed, thankfully! Clearly after all that my doctor said it's now time for full bed rest. I can pretty much use the bathroom, shower, make myself breakfast/lunch, and stretch my legs out but that is about it. She said to become a couch potato. Sounds great, for a couple days maybe. I still have to take care of my son!!!

So that is the update. I will continue going in for NST's twice a week and once a week for OB visits, unless things change again. Thursday I also get another growth scan, and I am not sure how often they will have me go in for those now. Just hoping these babies bake a few more weeks at least!!

Sorry for lack of posting, my computer had to go to the doctor last week for some fixing and I got it back on Sunday. Now that I have all this couch/bed time I have no excuse!

Happy Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-07T17:54:00.000-07:00

Wishing all you beautiful mama's a very Happy Mother's Day!!

I wouldn't trade being a mama for anything else in the world!!!! I love my son and these twins inside more then words could ever say!

I spent this morning with these lovely ladies, getting pampered. My aunt, Grandma, and Mom.

And then had a lovely lunch. Steak and shrimp for me, would you expect anything else :)

Tomorrow me and my 2 favorite boys will be lounging at home, spending time together and relaxing. Can't wait until next year's Mother's Day!

Hope you all have a fabulous day!

It's May!

2011-05-05T19:25:00.000-07:00

It's finally May, which means my babies will be here next month!!! Wow! Less then 7 weeks to go.

This past week has been a bit busy and honestly when I am home I am laying down leaving me no desire to be on the computer much.

I had my first baby shower last Saturday and it was so nice!! My friends Heather and Debbi did a fabulous job putting it together. Thank you so much ladies!!!

I received a ton of wonderful gifts and so many clothes. My list of things left to get is getting smaller now :) Which means less shopping, in which I have no desire to do.

I didn't get too many pictures, but here are a few.

Saw my doctor on Tuesday. Babies are still doing good. Mama is starting to get more worn down each day. Doc told me to really start taking it easy now and rest as much as I can and to limit my driving. I can't get enough sleep, I can't breathe when I am up moving around and just all around super uncomfortable. I have a ton of pelvic pressure which isn't helping every time I am up. Cervix is pretty soft. Doc did the Fetal Fibronectin swab to check for preterm labor, it came back negative (thankfully). I am now on weekly doctor visits and also have my first NST (non stress test) next Friday. I will start those twice a week after next week, along with the weekly doctor appointments. I also have another ultrasound in 2 weeks. So you now know where I will be spending most of my time in the remaining weeks. June, please hurry up and get here soon!

Hubs had his leg surgery yesterday and came home today. His doc said everything went well. Hubs is just in a lot of pain. We are really praying his leg will now finally be on the road to real recovery. It's been long enough and hard enough dealing with all this the past year.

So now as long as the babes cooperate and stay put until June 21st I will be happy. We need a somewhat functioning dad to be able to help out, because I am going to need it :)

30 Weeks and some more maternity photos

2011-04-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

Week 30

Less then 8 weeks until my scheduled delivery (or sooner if these babies have other ideas)!! And I feel a little more at ease hitting this milestone. Each week I will probably stress a little less.

Update from last week: I had my doctor appointment and growth ultrasound. I am doing alright. Doc says my cervix is starting to thin/soften a bit already (little early for this), but she isn't worried or concerned at this point, and said to really pay attention to contractions because more then likely they aren't Braxton Hicks.

Ultrasound shows the babies look very good. Baby boy is 3 lbs 1 oz and Baby girl is 2 lbs 11 oz. Right on track!

•How far along: 30 weeks

•Twin Pregnancy: At week 30 of your twin pregnancy, the bone marrow takes over the production of red blood cell for the twins.

Your babies can open and shut their eyes and tell the difference between light and darkness.

Your twins are around 3 pounds now and their hands are fully formed.

Your belly is much bigger than if you were pregnant with one baby.

•Total Weight Gain/Loss: I don't know, I didn't even ask at last weeks appointment. The doctor just said the weight gain looked good.

•Maternity Clothes: Yes and have even had to upgrade sizes in shirts because my belly is getting bigger by the minute.

•Genders: A boy and girl!!

•Movement: They are both movers. Baby boy is head down explaining why I am feeling constant kicking on my bladder and in my pelvic area. Baby girl is still all over the place.

•Sleep: What's that???! I can't remember what sleep feels like! It's still more like cat naps. I am up about every hour and sometimes on a good night I can get a 2 hour stretch in there.

•What I miss: A strong adult beverage. Don't worry I won't be consuming any until the babies are born :)

•Cravings: Nothing really. I am not super hungry these days although I do make sure I eat enough each day. Steak still sounds good but now that I am taking Iron supplements I don't crave it as bad. Every once in awhile I get a sweet tooth.

•Symptoms: Anemic, sleep deprived, full body aches, shortness of breath, getting harder to stand/walk for long periods of time, peeing more, light headed, exhausted all day long, I seriously feel like I am going to topple over at any moment!! Getting irritated a lot easier, so don't make me mad!!!

•Best Moment this week: Nothing got accomplished this week. I need to wipe down the swings, bouncer, and stroller and get the car seats ready. I also need to finish my hospital bag just in case things happen sooner then my scheduled delivery. I do have my 1st baby shower this Saturday though, so I am looking forward to that!

•Next up: Doctor appointment next Tuesday, and after that it's on to twice weekly appointments. Not sure if I will be doing the NST (Non Stress Test) both times or if it's just once a week and then my regular check up once a week. No growth ultrasound for another 3 weeks (unless things change).

This weeks photo:

Yeah, please excuse the bra. Trashy I know, but I am too lazy to re-take the photo.

I can't believe the 2 week difference!

More photos from last week

I will post the rest sometime next week :)

What I am loving Wednesday (#2)

2011-04-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

That my 1st baby shower is this Saturday that 2 of my good friends are throwing me!

I am picking up my maternity photo shoot CD today!!! ( I will share more of them later)

Just booked pedicures for my Grandma, Aunt, Mom, and myself for next Saturday as a Mother's Day gift to ourselves. Will be followed with lunch!!

My son can now fully dress himself without help! Ok, in all honesty he has been doing this for a few months now but he finally mastered the socks so it's official now!

Things have been kinda BLAH around here since the weekend. I overdid myself and am deeply paying for it now. The next few weekends are going to be a bit busy so I am trying to take easy during the week. The rain is back anyways, until....who knows when.

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T20:51:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great Easter!!

We had a great weekend, and it even got to 70 degrees yesterday. Not so lucky today. Austin is still battling with a cold and has been for over a week now, so he and I stayed home from church. Hope this lingering cough and runny nose goes away soon.

He still got to enjoy 2 egg hunts and lunch at my parents yesterday. Today the Easter bunny came of course, then we had dinner at my aunt Cheryl's house. And we celebrated my Grandpa's birthday both days!! I think tomorrow is going to be a "down" day for us. My stomach is starting to weigh me down, causing some severe back aches.

You can see how huge I am in our Easter family photo.

Seriously, I am pretty sure I have grown twice the size I was last week. And I have 2 more months to go......

Coloring Eggs

My sweet Grandparents!!

Aunt Cheryl, cousin Amy, Austin

Helping Grampy blow out the birthday candles

Maternity Photos (sneak peek)

2011-04-22T07:57:00.000-07:00

I had my maternity photo shoot yesterday and I am loving how the photos turned out!! We headed out to the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival and also found a couple random spots along the way. It was so much fun!! The weather wasn't looking so promising when we got there, complete down pour of rain/hail. Then the sun broke, thankfully!!

I can't say enough wonderful things about Lindsey at Royal Rose Photography.

Here are a few photos for now

The never ending leg saga

2011-04-21T07:25:00.000-07:00

Rewinding all the way back to June of 2010, when my hubby was in a motorcycle accident.

I won't go into the long version of all this. But since the accident hubby's leg hasn't been functioning normally and he has still been in a lot of pain. His doctor told him in February that the bone was fully healed. A 2nd opinion from another doc has told us otherwise, his bone is NOT healed.

Hubs has to go back in 2 weeks for yet another surgery, basically starting over from the beginning. Another rod and pins needs to be put back in. Which means 6-8 weeks back on crutches and a few more months of healing. I am feeling so bad for the guy, I mean it's been almost year since he has been able to do much physically and has had to give up most everything he loves doing for awhile. And not to forget he's missed out on a lot of family activities and our son's whole 3rd year. And if you know 3 year olds, you know they are busy!!

I am praying everything goes smoothly and he will actually be on the road to recovery now. And praying that these babies stay put until my scheduled delivery on June 21st and that there will be no bed rest. A downed daddy and downed mama is not going to make for a very good combination for many reasons. I will save my stresses/worries/fears for another time. For now we are taking it day by day and are thankful that we have so many friends and family close by willing to help out in the next few months!

I will update later on my doctor's appointment from yesterday after I have my ultrasound this morning.