12.28.2009
More First Steps!
Owen took his first steps yesterday! He walked for the first time on the day of their first birthday party. How perfect is that? We were getting the babies ready for bed and Owen decided to let go of the baby bed and walked maybe eight steps to get to me. He was of course holding his panther and I'm thinking that may have given him the courage he needed to give walking a shot. He was quite proud of himself and of course we were too! Way to go my little babies...you are truly toddlers now!
12.22.2009
First Steps!
Today Kathryn took her first steps! She took about six or seven steps to my Mom while my Grandmother and I held our breath, waiting to see if she would take more than the usual one or two steps before falling. It was totally unexpected, but all of the sudden she got very brave and we all just melted! We will try to get some pictures or video up soon...Bruce wasn't here today for the big event, but I know we'll get a repeat performance tomorrow. He can't wait to see his little girl walking. I just had to share the big news with everyone!
12.16.2009
The First Hair Cut
Today Owen got his first hair cut! He was such a big boy and sat still once I handed him my keys to play with. He held Panther (his favorite hand blankie) the whole time. The place I took him to gives out first hair cut certificates which was pretty cute and I saved a few locks of hair for his baby book. As he sat in the kiddie-size chair, part of me was a little sad that Owie was getting his first big boy hair cut. However...his new do looks precious and he still looks like a baby to me. He is such a handsome little guy. Kathryn also had her bangs trimmed for the second time today and I've posted a couple of pictures from the first time I took her. She won't get her first real hair cut for a while, but because her hair naturally grows straight down on her forehead I'm going to have her bangs trimmed until she's old enough to grow them out and tuck her hair behind her ear herself. Needless to say she looks beautiful and I'm hoping going to get our hair done will be something fun us girls can always do together (including baby sister too!). We're heading home for Christmas this weekend so I'll have more to post soon. Here are the pics from today...enjoy!
One final shot of all those long curls!
What a big boy
Doesn't he look cute?
Enjoying a mum-mum while getting her hair done.
The pretty lady checking herself out in the mirror
One final shot of all those long curls!
What a big boy
Doesn't he look cute?
Enjoying a mum-mum while getting her hair done.
The pretty lady checking herself out in the mirror
12.09.2009
Progress!
I am very excited about the progress we are making with our schedule, solids and sippy cups. Last night we fed the babies dinner at 6:00 while we ate and gave them their formula in sippies at the same time. We then did baths, brushed teeth and our normal rocking/cuddling routine before putting them in their beds. Owen did fine because he's always ready to sleep, but Kathryn wasn't having it. After Bruce and I both tried to put her down with no luck we decided to let her cry it out (I really hate that phrase and I have never let either of them cry it out at bedtime or in the middle of the night, but given the fact she's almost one, I knew it would be ok. She was just mad, but all her needs were tended to.) and within 15 minutes she was asleep.
So tonight we tried something different. They ate a great dinner which consisted of half a veggie burger each, cheese toast and cottage cheese with peaches around 5:30 and played for a little while after. We then did our normal routine but instead of giving them their formula in bottles, we cuddled with them while they drank it out of their sippies. It was like they had been doing it for forever. Kathryn fell asleep quickly in my arms once we were in their room and only fussed for maybe two or three minutes after I put her down and then was out. Owen was out as soon as Bruce put him in his crib with his favorite blankie. So I think we have found our new routine and getting rid of that evening bottle may not be as traumatic as I thought it was going to be.
Today they had their first taste of whole milk and I broke out the video camera because I was sure they would make some funny faces, spit the milk out or totally reject it altogether and it would be too cute to not catch on film. Nothing...they just kept drinking like it was water or formula. Ok...how great! I only gave them three or four ounces each today and will gradually increase the amount every few days in the coming weeks. I know many people switch cold turkey, but I just feel like for them, slower is better. They have both had tummy problems in the past. Let's just say when it comes to digesting food, one has a super fast tummy and the other's is super slow.
They are on a lovely little schedule now and I think this one will stick for at least a couple of months. They eat three solid meals a day and roughly two snacks. They each get formula in the mornings and at night and a little midday. The rest of the day it's water. Sometimes Kathryn will boycott her morning nap and not go down until the afternoon, but she knows what she needs better than I do so I just go with the flow. Owen, however, never misses a nap and thoroughly enjoys each one. I can pretty much set my watch by his napping schedule. On a typical day it's an hour and a half to two hour nap for the first nap and 45 minutes to an hour for the second.
I started this post last night and I'm finishing it up this morning. I am thrilled to report that for the second morning in a row the babies slept longer. Kathryn slept until 6:20 and Owen slept until 7:00! Wow! I'm starting to wonder if there is something to filling their little bellies up more at night. But I don't want to jinx it so for now I'll just assume it's a fluke.
No pictures this time, but I'll get some up in the coming weeks. Christmas will be here soon. I hope everyone out there is happy, healthy and doing well.
So tonight we tried something different. They ate a great dinner which consisted of half a veggie burger each, cheese toast and cottage cheese with peaches around 5:30 and played for a little while after. We then did our normal routine but instead of giving them their formula in bottles, we cuddled with them while they drank it out of their sippies. It was like they had been doing it for forever. Kathryn fell asleep quickly in my arms once we were in their room and only fussed for maybe two or three minutes after I put her down and then was out. Owen was out as soon as Bruce put him in his crib with his favorite blankie. So I think we have found our new routine and getting rid of that evening bottle may not be as traumatic as I thought it was going to be.
Today they had their first taste of whole milk and I broke out the video camera because I was sure they would make some funny faces, spit the milk out or totally reject it altogether and it would be too cute to not catch on film. Nothing...they just kept drinking like it was water or formula. Ok...how great! I only gave them three or four ounces each today and will gradually increase the amount every few days in the coming weeks. I know many people switch cold turkey, but I just feel like for them, slower is better. They have both had tummy problems in the past. Let's just say when it comes to digesting food, one has a super fast tummy and the other's is super slow.
They are on a lovely little schedule now and I think this one will stick for at least a couple of months. They eat three solid meals a day and roughly two snacks. They each get formula in the mornings and at night and a little midday. The rest of the day it's water. Sometimes Kathryn will boycott her morning nap and not go down until the afternoon, but she knows what she needs better than I do so I just go with the flow. Owen, however, never misses a nap and thoroughly enjoys each one. I can pretty much set my watch by his napping schedule. On a typical day it's an hour and a half to two hour nap for the first nap and 45 minutes to an hour for the second.
I started this post last night and I'm finishing it up this morning. I am thrilled to report that for the second morning in a row the babies slept longer. Kathryn slept until 6:20 and Owen slept until 7:00! Wow! I'm starting to wonder if there is something to filling their little bellies up more at night. But I don't want to jinx it so for now I'll just assume it's a fluke.
No pictures this time, but I'll get some up in the coming weeks. Christmas will be here soon. I hope everyone out there is happy, healthy and doing well.
12.04.2009
February 10th is the Day!
We have a c-section date! Our little girl will be here on Wednesday, February 10th and we are so, so excited! They gave me a few options for dates today at my appointment and said it was up to me. My Grandmother also told me this afternoon that February 10th is my Great-Grandfather's birthday and the day he and my Great-Grandmother got married. I wish I could say I knew that when I picked the date, but I didn't. However, I like the fact that Sullivan will have a connection to her great-great-grandparents (aside from being family obviously). Mom and Pop Strickland were wonderful people and I am fortunate to have had the privilege of knowing them when I was a little girl.
Some of you know this, but long story short, I am now seeing a new doctor off base and will deliver at a civilian hospital. Bruce and I are excited about this change and after meeting the doctor today I know I'm in great hands. He came highly recommended from a friend and I can see why. It was an answered prayer being able to make this switch and I feel like I can now enjoy the rest of this pregnancy and worry less about the delivery. I'll go back in two weeks for my 32 week ultrasound and this time I know I'll be given pictures to take home with me which I'll post ASAP for everyone out there. Bruce and I can't wait to get another glimpse of our little girl! Until next time...
Some of you know this, but long story short, I am now seeing a new doctor off base and will deliver at a civilian hospital. Bruce and I are excited about this change and after meeting the doctor today I know I'm in great hands. He came highly recommended from a friend and I can see why. It was an answered prayer being able to make this switch and I feel like I can now enjoy the rest of this pregnancy and worry less about the delivery. I'll go back in two weeks for my 32 week ultrasound and this time I know I'll be given pictures to take home with me which I'll post ASAP for everyone out there. Bruce and I can't wait to get another glimpse of our little girl! Until next time...
12.02.2009
A Little Humor and Reflection
It's very rare that I ever post anything about myself, how I'm doing as a twin mommy, the kind of day I've had, etc. In my opinion, life with twins is all about routine and the unexpected. So I just chalk each day up to a learning experience and a blessing. Some days aren't so hot (like yesterday for example, but more on that later) and some days I think "man, I have so got this twins thing down!" It's an adventure to say the least; a very loud, chaotic and amazing adventure that I am beyond privileged to be a part of.
There are times when I feel a little guilty for being so tired, not getting the babies out of the house more, wishing I had some help (ok, make that free help)and maybe a "mommy break" every now and then or a date with my husband that we didn't plan three weeks in advance because we knew someone would be down here visiting to watch the babies. Then today, I run across something so funny that it just makes me realize I'm normal and that it wouldn't be normal if, as a mother of twins and soon-to-be mother of three babies under the age of 15 months, I didn't think about such things.
Being a mother is by far the more rewarding, precious job a woman could ever have. It is also the hardest, most demanding and emotionally taxing one too. I know that for the rest of my life I will worry day and night about these sweet, beautiful babies and that to me they will always be my babies. I often wonder or think, "Am I doing it right?" "Can I do it better?" "Will they always want to be close to me like I am to my Mom?" "I hope they always live close to us so we can be together more often than we are able to be with our families." "I hope they know how lucky they will be to have two other siblings and I want them to be best friends."
I've been struggling lately a little and it's easy to get down sometimes even if it's just for a few moments. My belly is getting huge, I'm really slow, they diagnosed me with a hernia at my last doctors appointment and I'm just doing the very best I can here lately. I know I forget a lot of things; forget to call or email friends back in a timely manner, repeat myself or completely not hear things that are said to me. Just this week Bruce and my Mom reminded me of a conversation I had had with each of them individually that just did not ring a bell. Yes, I'm having conversations with people that I can't recall. So forgive me everyone out there - I love you all and I promise I'll be back to normal (if there's such a thing) soon enough.
On to what got me blogging this morning when I should be washing bottles, doing laundry and making breakfast. Read this - I found it on my twins forum this morning and loved it. It was a post from another twin mommy and needless to say it was a hit with all of us on there. In a strange way, it made me feel really good to know that yes, what I do is hard and yes, others find it hard to do too!
This comes from a girl I went to college with - she and her husband decided to give up a very comfortable life in a very comfortable part of town to begin a ministry to serve inner city families, particularly children, in Dallas. They have four of their own children - between 5 and 10 years old - and have taken in a number of children who have been rescued from their own homes. They recently had a set of nine-month-old twins placed with them by Child Protective Services ... here is her assessment, which I found hilarious - and true.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
An open letter to mothers of twins.
Over the past week, having new twins in my house, I have come to the realization that I may need to apologize to some of you for comments I may have made, and things I may have done in my dark, unenlightened past.
To save time, I am writing this post instead of calling or writing each of you individually or whatever Emily Post would say was proper form and all.
If this doesn't apply to you, read along anyway, you may be unknowlingly guilty of the same offenses.
Dear Mothers of Twins,
Please forgive me for ever saying how nice it must have been to get two babies and only have to lose the baby weight once.
Or that it must be so fun since they're both doing the exact same thing.
Or, "I could never have a night-nurse. I wouldn't like someone in my house all the time, and besides, I cherish that time to bond with the babies alone."
Or for ever inviting you to meet me for lunch at a busy, hectic place without good parking or a door that will accomodate a side-by-side double stroller.
Or for being slightly judgmental when you gave your older children chocolate cake for breakfast. It DOES contain eggs.
Or for wondering why you fell asleep during our conversation about leggings vs. skinny jeans. And wondering if you realized you had spit-up on your left shoulder and smushed cereal bar on your right and neither of those "accessories" were featured in People Magazines Style Watch.
And finally, at least for now, forgive me for not being sympathetic enough when you were racked with guilt because if you were holding one crying baby, the other was just sitting on the floor crying by himself and you wondered if he would be scarred for life because of it.
Or for not praying for you every stinkin' day.
Sincerely,
Hoodmama
And for the mothers of triplets or more. I am wearing saccloth and ashes for you, and sending you a case of Diet Coke. And a medal.
I found the timing of this to be ironic because yesterday was one of those days where I felt like I was spinning my wheels. You know that dream you sometimes have where you're trying to get somewhere and you just can't for whatever reason? Well, it was like that. Here's a recap.
6am - Wake up, change diapers, Bruce makes bottles, feed babies with Bruce, chase babies, change diapers again, enjoy a few sips of coffee before it gets cold.
7:30am - Feed babies solid breakfast and start making mental plans for the day.
8am - Nap time. Babies actually fall asleep around 8:30, run for the shower, dress, dry hair, hear Kathryn crying on the monitor at 9:30, go pick her up, take her with me to finish drying hair.
9:45 - Owen wakes up, feed both babies solid meals again and while they pick at their finger foods round up all of our stuff, load car, pick out outfits, lay out diapers, feed dogs, etc.
10:45 - We're all in the car and headed to drop off my medical records at my new doctor's office. Swing by post office and secretly thank the brilliant person who decided to make a drive-through/drop off mail lane outside. Hope it continues to only sprinkle for the rest of the day.
11am - On the road to the doctor, pull in parking garage (thank goodness...covered parking), unload much heavier new stroller, hope I'm not going to hurt myself, put jackets on babies, load them in stroller, notice one wheel is super close to being flat, keeping my fingers crossed we fit through the doorways, drop records off and make an appointment for Friday. Hoping Bruce will be able to watch the babies while I meet the new doctor and go for the first appointment, wish there was a way he could come with me. We are very excited about going to a civilian doctor with an excellent reputation!
11:30 - Back to the car, yep, tire is really low! Load babies and stroller. Head to Target because we're all dressed, in a good mood and have a couple of hours until it's time to eat. Miss my turn so I have to go the long way, starts to rain a little harder.
Noon - Get to Target, unload stroller, babies and half-way to the door wish I had my umbrella. Babies are happy because their canopy on their stroller is huge! What did I come here for again? What did I need to buy? Stop in to the restroom, wiggle stroller through door while nice Target man holds it open for me. Only slightly awkward.
12:30 - Print pictures for Bruce's office as a surprise for him, while they print go round up other stuff we needed. Wishing I had brought a back pack instead of a diaper bag because basket under stroller isn't big enough - grab a shopping basket.
12:45 - Getting tired, can't find what I need, babies are getting wiggly, tire stroller goes completely flat.
1pm - Pull into an aisle, break out mini tire pump, read instructions and think to myself "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can." Inflate tire after about 20 minutes of trying and wonder why they didn't make a bigger, faster pump for this thing. Tell nice lady who asks if I need help I'm ok, even though I'm sure I don't look it.
1:15 - Pick pictures up, pay for stuff, raining much harder, walk quickly to the car, load babies and stroller and get in. I'm starving, drive through Chick-fil-A and then head home.
1:30 - Feed myself, babies, change diapers, let them play a few minutes, put them down for a nap. Sit down, watch a rerun of Desperate Housewives and wish I had the finesse of Bree Van de Kamp.
2pm - Babies finally fall asleep, frame pictures for Bruce, straighten up the house, sit down again.
4pm - Babies wake up, have bottles and play, play, play.
5:30 - Bruce gets home and babies and I are so happy to see him! They crawl as fast as they can to the baby gate to greet him with big smiles.
So as you can see, a lot goes into what should be a two hour outing. I was a little discouraged because it was the first time I had tried to run more than one errand on my own in about a month. Then before I fell asleep last night I started thinking about the fact that I still did all of this on my own (and survived!)at seven months pregnant. So even on days like this I am so fortunate!! I am fortunate to have a big enough car to get the three of us and our stroller places, I am fortunate to have a great stroller to make pushing them easier as I get bigger, I am fortunate that my babies love being out and didn't have any melt downs, I am fortunate to be able to still get around this far along and do what I need to do.
Here's the deal. I had always dreamed of having twins and I got them! How many people are that lucky? On top of that, in about 10 weeks we will have another beautiful daughter to cherish and watch grow up along with our two other babies. Despite the exhaustion and challenges, it just doesn't get any better than that. While there is a lot of truth to what this singleton mom writes, until you are actually a mom who has had twins you just don't understand that you wouldn't have it any other way. Like I said before, I am beyond privileged to be part of this adventure.
Today is a new day and I feel great! The sun is shining, the breeze actually makes it feel a little more like fall here and the babies are having one of their best days yet. I thank God for giving me tiny challenges along the way to remind me to keep a sense of humor and to be thankful for every day and every moment. In the grand scheme of things, I really don't have much to worry about.
To my children: Thank you for allowing me to be your Mommy. I hope I am teaching you as much as you are teaching me. It's a blessing to be able to learn and grow with you. One day I will look back and tell you these stories - or maybe you'll read them on here - and explain how your Dad and I got through our days (and nights) and I know we will all laugh together. You are my world and I love you more than you could possibly ever know. Thank you for your kisses, hugs and laughter.
There are times when I feel a little guilty for being so tired, not getting the babies out of the house more, wishing I had some help (ok, make that free help)and maybe a "mommy break" every now and then or a date with my husband that we didn't plan three weeks in advance because we knew someone would be down here visiting to watch the babies. Then today, I run across something so funny that it just makes me realize I'm normal and that it wouldn't be normal if, as a mother of twins and soon-to-be mother of three babies under the age of 15 months, I didn't think about such things.
Being a mother is by far the more rewarding, precious job a woman could ever have. It is also the hardest, most demanding and emotionally taxing one too. I know that for the rest of my life I will worry day and night about these sweet, beautiful babies and that to me they will always be my babies. I often wonder or think, "Am I doing it right?" "Can I do it better?" "Will they always want to be close to me like I am to my Mom?" "I hope they always live close to us so we can be together more often than we are able to be with our families." "I hope they know how lucky they will be to have two other siblings and I want them to be best friends."
I've been struggling lately a little and it's easy to get down sometimes even if it's just for a few moments. My belly is getting huge, I'm really slow, they diagnosed me with a hernia at my last doctors appointment and I'm just doing the very best I can here lately. I know I forget a lot of things; forget to call or email friends back in a timely manner, repeat myself or completely not hear things that are said to me. Just this week Bruce and my Mom reminded me of a conversation I had had with each of them individually that just did not ring a bell. Yes, I'm having conversations with people that I can't recall. So forgive me everyone out there - I love you all and I promise I'll be back to normal (if there's such a thing) soon enough.
On to what got me blogging this morning when I should be washing bottles, doing laundry and making breakfast. Read this - I found it on my twins forum this morning and loved it. It was a post from another twin mommy and needless to say it was a hit with all of us on there. In a strange way, it made me feel really good to know that yes, what I do is hard and yes, others find it hard to do too!
This comes from a girl I went to college with - she and her husband decided to give up a very comfortable life in a very comfortable part of town to begin a ministry to serve inner city families, particularly children, in Dallas. They have four of their own children - between 5 and 10 years old - and have taken in a number of children who have been rescued from their own homes. They recently had a set of nine-month-old twins placed with them by Child Protective Services ... here is her assessment, which I found hilarious - and true.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
An open letter to mothers of twins.
Over the past week, having new twins in my house, I have come to the realization that I may need to apologize to some of you for comments I may have made, and things I may have done in my dark, unenlightened past.
To save time, I am writing this post instead of calling or writing each of you individually or whatever Emily Post would say was proper form and all.
If this doesn't apply to you, read along anyway, you may be unknowlingly guilty of the same offenses.
Dear Mothers of Twins,
Please forgive me for ever saying how nice it must have been to get two babies and only have to lose the baby weight once.
Or that it must be so fun since they're both doing the exact same thing.
Or, "I could never have a night-nurse. I wouldn't like someone in my house all the time, and besides, I cherish that time to bond with the babies alone."
Or for ever inviting you to meet me for lunch at a busy, hectic place without good parking or a door that will accomodate a side-by-side double stroller.
Or for being slightly judgmental when you gave your older children chocolate cake for breakfast. It DOES contain eggs.
Or for wondering why you fell asleep during our conversation about leggings vs. skinny jeans. And wondering if you realized you had spit-up on your left shoulder and smushed cereal bar on your right and neither of those "accessories" were featured in People Magazines Style Watch.
And finally, at least for now, forgive me for not being sympathetic enough when you were racked with guilt because if you were holding one crying baby, the other was just sitting on the floor crying by himself and you wondered if he would be scarred for life because of it.
Or for not praying for you every stinkin' day.
Sincerely,
Hoodmama
And for the mothers of triplets or more. I am wearing saccloth and ashes for you, and sending you a case of Diet Coke. And a medal.
I found the timing of this to be ironic because yesterday was one of those days where I felt like I was spinning my wheels. You know that dream you sometimes have where you're trying to get somewhere and you just can't for whatever reason? Well, it was like that. Here's a recap.
6am - Wake up, change diapers, Bruce makes bottles, feed babies with Bruce, chase babies, change diapers again, enjoy a few sips of coffee before it gets cold.
7:30am - Feed babies solid breakfast and start making mental plans for the day.
8am - Nap time. Babies actually fall asleep around 8:30, run for the shower, dress, dry hair, hear Kathryn crying on the monitor at 9:30, go pick her up, take her with me to finish drying hair.
9:45 - Owen wakes up, feed both babies solid meals again and while they pick at their finger foods round up all of our stuff, load car, pick out outfits, lay out diapers, feed dogs, etc.
10:45 - We're all in the car and headed to drop off my medical records at my new doctor's office. Swing by post office and secretly thank the brilliant person who decided to make a drive-through/drop off mail lane outside. Hope it continues to only sprinkle for the rest of the day.
11am - On the road to the doctor, pull in parking garage (thank goodness...covered parking), unload much heavier new stroller, hope I'm not going to hurt myself, put jackets on babies, load them in stroller, notice one wheel is super close to being flat, keeping my fingers crossed we fit through the doorways, drop records off and make an appointment for Friday. Hoping Bruce will be able to watch the babies while I meet the new doctor and go for the first appointment, wish there was a way he could come with me. We are very excited about going to a civilian doctor with an excellent reputation!
11:30 - Back to the car, yep, tire is really low! Load babies and stroller. Head to Target because we're all dressed, in a good mood and have a couple of hours until it's time to eat. Miss my turn so I have to go the long way, starts to rain a little harder.
Noon - Get to Target, unload stroller, babies and half-way to the door wish I had my umbrella. Babies are happy because their canopy on their stroller is huge! What did I come here for again? What did I need to buy? Stop in to the restroom, wiggle stroller through door while nice Target man holds it open for me. Only slightly awkward.
12:30 - Print pictures for Bruce's office as a surprise for him, while they print go round up other stuff we needed. Wishing I had brought a back pack instead of a diaper bag because basket under stroller isn't big enough - grab a shopping basket.
12:45 - Getting tired, can't find what I need, babies are getting wiggly, tire stroller goes completely flat.
1pm - Pull into an aisle, break out mini tire pump, read instructions and think to myself "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can." Inflate tire after about 20 minutes of trying and wonder why they didn't make a bigger, faster pump for this thing. Tell nice lady who asks if I need help I'm ok, even though I'm sure I don't look it.
1:15 - Pick pictures up, pay for stuff, raining much harder, walk quickly to the car, load babies and stroller and get in. I'm starving, drive through Chick-fil-A and then head home.
1:30 - Feed myself, babies, change diapers, let them play a few minutes, put them down for a nap. Sit down, watch a rerun of Desperate Housewives and wish I had the finesse of Bree Van de Kamp.
2pm - Babies finally fall asleep, frame pictures for Bruce, straighten up the house, sit down again.
4pm - Babies wake up, have bottles and play, play, play.
5:30 - Bruce gets home and babies and I are so happy to see him! They crawl as fast as they can to the baby gate to greet him with big smiles.
So as you can see, a lot goes into what should be a two hour outing. I was a little discouraged because it was the first time I had tried to run more than one errand on my own in about a month. Then before I fell asleep last night I started thinking about the fact that I still did all of this on my own (and survived!)at seven months pregnant. So even on days like this I am so fortunate!! I am fortunate to have a big enough car to get the three of us and our stroller places, I am fortunate to have a great stroller to make pushing them easier as I get bigger, I am fortunate that my babies love being out and didn't have any melt downs, I am fortunate to be able to still get around this far along and do what I need to do.
Here's the deal. I had always dreamed of having twins and I got them! How many people are that lucky? On top of that, in about 10 weeks we will have another beautiful daughter to cherish and watch grow up along with our two other babies. Despite the exhaustion and challenges, it just doesn't get any better than that. While there is a lot of truth to what this singleton mom writes, until you are actually a mom who has had twins you just don't understand that you wouldn't have it any other way. Like I said before, I am beyond privileged to be part of this adventure.
Today is a new day and I feel great! The sun is shining, the breeze actually makes it feel a little more like fall here and the babies are having one of their best days yet. I thank God for giving me tiny challenges along the way to remind me to keep a sense of humor and to be thankful for every day and every moment. In the grand scheme of things, I really don't have much to worry about.
To my children: Thank you for allowing me to be your Mommy. I hope I am teaching you as much as you are teaching me. It's a blessing to be able to learn and grow with you. One day I will look back and tell you these stories - or maybe you'll read them on here - and explain how your Dad and I got through our days (and nights) and I know we will all laugh together. You are my world and I love you more than you could possibly ever know. Thank you for your kisses, hugs and laughter.
11.29.2009
Babies' First Thanksgiving
Owen and Kathryn's first Thanksgiving was so much fun and very busy! We made the drive home on Wednesday and on Thursday took them to Hartselle for lunch at Bruce's Grandmother's house and then back to Huntsville in the afternoon for dinner at my Mom's house. They probably saw about 30 extended family members in one day and when you're normally used to only seeing Mom, Dad and your brother or sister on a daily basis that's a whole lot of family! The babies did great and made it through the whole day just fine. They sampled a little bit of the traditional Thanksgiving cuisine, but stuck mostly to their regular foods because I was afraid they'd get a tummy ache. Both Kathryn and Owen loved chicken and dressing, rolls and sweet potato casserole (without any of the nuts of course). It was quite cute to see them try to figure out these new flavors and then wait eagerly for more once they realized how tasty they were.
It's true that the holidays take on a whole different meaning once you become a parent. I remember last year Bruce and I making the almost-hour drive out to Cracker Barrel in Manassas, VA to celebrate Thanksgiving when I was about 33 weeks pregnant. We didn't go home because I was on bed rest and we were anxiously waiting for our little ones to arrive. It was hard for me to imagine then what the next Thanksgiving would be like with them and it seemed so far away. Well, this year has flown by and God has continued to bless our little family again and again and for that Bruce and I are truly thankful. Everything from the twins arriving as full-term babies, to a very healthy first year for K and O, the fact that I am able to stay home with them and that we were given this assignment in Biloxi which put us a lot closer to family. Yes...amazing blessings from God! This Thanksgiving all I could think about was my wonderful husband,the two most precious gifts I could have ever been given who were sitting with me at the table eating their sweet potatoes and the sweet little girl who is growing daily in my belly. Sure, we were exhausted, trying desperately to get that perfect first turkey day family picture, driving to get to two dinners and trying to visit with everyone while chasing two very busy babies, but it was just the Thanksgiving I had hoped for. That's what it's all about...family, friends, good health, love and laughter.
Earlier this month I posted our 11-month goal. Well the babies are 11 months old now and are still drinking from sippy cups and bottles. After a week or so I realized that there won't be a problem getting them to take milk and water from a sippy cup, but that mixing formula in a sippy cup is kind of a pain. Bruce and I agreed that we would just wait to make the switch to whole milk and full-time sippy cup use on their first birthday. Naps seemed to have leveled out a little and they now take one long nap a day or two one to one and a half hour naps a day. Because they are awake so much longer in the afternoon now, we've moved bedtime up to 6:30 and they seem to be really happy with that. Kathryn is the proud owner of six teeth and Owen has four, working on at least one more if not two. I hope for his sake they come in soon because he just seems miserable sometimes and that's not his personality at all. I hate to see my babies in pain!
We've had a couple of colds within the last month but nothing that a few nights of a cool mist humidifier and a little TLC didn't fix. Both babies are standing alone now and cruising (or holding on to furniture and walking) all over the place. They try to say "pat-pat" which is the phrase I've taught them that means "be gentle," "dog" which comes out "dod" and Kathryn says "beebee" when she sees her favorite hand blanket. We don't know what that means but maybe it's her version of baby. Their little voices are so sweet and it's obvious they are soaking up everything now! Their little vocabularies are expanding daily even in they can't verbalize what they know. I've read that by one year of age, a baby understands most of what is said to him (or her). I found that to be fascinating and it makes you realize how important communicating from day one with your baby really is. Bruce and I try to narrate everything we do with them or for them on a daily basis which is kind of funny sounding to others I'm sure when you're grocery shopping in Walmart.
December is a very busy month for the Wilhite family. There will be first birthdays, first Christmases and our anniversary to celebrate. K and O saw Santa Claus while we were home and it went totally the opposite of how I thought it would go. I expected Kathryn to melt down from fear and Owen to be all about it, but flip that scenario and that's what happened. So I now have a lovely picture of me, the babies and Santa Claus because having Mommy in the picture made Owie feel better. It's kind of neat because it was Sullivan's first trip to see Santa too! I got an extra picture for her baby book also. For fun, we had both Grandmothers jump in and hold a baby and sit on Santa Claus's lap! The pictures are too cute for words and how many babies can say both Grandmothers went with them to see Santa for the first time?
It will be an exciting month to say the least and I know I'll have some adorable pictures to post along the way. Well that's enough blogging for now I suppose, here are some new pictures. Enjoy and I hope everyone out there had a very happy Thanksgiving!
A few shots from the Po-Boy festival we went to in New Orleans. That's right - an entire festival dedicated to a sandwich. Bruce was on cloud nine. It was on Oak Street in New Orleans, hence the "Oak is for Loafin'" t-shirt.
Owen and Kathryn with Grandmother and Poppie
Celebrating their first Thanksgiving with Pop and Grandmama
I had to get a picture with each of my babies on this special day
Our first (and last...heehee) Thanksgiving as a family of four
Any time Bruce and I are both showered, clean and dressed up a little we snap a picture. Believe us people, it doesn't happen that often.
Kathryn looking at Great-Grandmama's dog Missy and Owen is learning how to churn butter.
The last trimester is here! Wow, didn't I have another post with the same title not long ago? Everything is going well and this is my official 28 week belly shot.
Trying to figure out Santa while we wait our turn in line.
The first trip to see Santa.
Here are the stockings I ordered for the babies. I thought they turned out so well. I really wanted something I could keep for them for a long time and make part of our Christmas tradition.
It's true that the holidays take on a whole different meaning once you become a parent. I remember last year Bruce and I making the almost-hour drive out to Cracker Barrel in Manassas, VA to celebrate Thanksgiving when I was about 33 weeks pregnant. We didn't go home because I was on bed rest and we were anxiously waiting for our little ones to arrive. It was hard for me to imagine then what the next Thanksgiving would be like with them and it seemed so far away. Well, this year has flown by and God has continued to bless our little family again and again and for that Bruce and I are truly thankful. Everything from the twins arriving as full-term babies, to a very healthy first year for K and O, the fact that I am able to stay home with them and that we were given this assignment in Biloxi which put us a lot closer to family. Yes...amazing blessings from God! This Thanksgiving all I could think about was my wonderful husband,the two most precious gifts I could have ever been given who were sitting with me at the table eating their sweet potatoes and the sweet little girl who is growing daily in my belly. Sure, we were exhausted, trying desperately to get that perfect first turkey day family picture, driving to get to two dinners and trying to visit with everyone while chasing two very busy babies, but it was just the Thanksgiving I had hoped for. That's what it's all about...family, friends, good health, love and laughter.
Earlier this month I posted our 11-month goal. Well the babies are 11 months old now and are still drinking from sippy cups and bottles. After a week or so I realized that there won't be a problem getting them to take milk and water from a sippy cup, but that mixing formula in a sippy cup is kind of a pain. Bruce and I agreed that we would just wait to make the switch to whole milk and full-time sippy cup use on their first birthday. Naps seemed to have leveled out a little and they now take one long nap a day or two one to one and a half hour naps a day. Because they are awake so much longer in the afternoon now, we've moved bedtime up to 6:30 and they seem to be really happy with that. Kathryn is the proud owner of six teeth and Owen has four, working on at least one more if not two. I hope for his sake they come in soon because he just seems miserable sometimes and that's not his personality at all. I hate to see my babies in pain!
We've had a couple of colds within the last month but nothing that a few nights of a cool mist humidifier and a little TLC didn't fix. Both babies are standing alone now and cruising (or holding on to furniture and walking) all over the place. They try to say "pat-pat" which is the phrase I've taught them that means "be gentle," "dog" which comes out "dod" and Kathryn says "beebee" when she sees her favorite hand blanket. We don't know what that means but maybe it's her version of baby. Their little voices are so sweet and it's obvious they are soaking up everything now! Their little vocabularies are expanding daily even in they can't verbalize what they know. I've read that by one year of age, a baby understands most of what is said to him (or her). I found that to be fascinating and it makes you realize how important communicating from day one with your baby really is. Bruce and I try to narrate everything we do with them or for them on a daily basis which is kind of funny sounding to others I'm sure when you're grocery shopping in Walmart.
December is a very busy month for the Wilhite family. There will be first birthdays, first Christmases and our anniversary to celebrate. K and O saw Santa Claus while we were home and it went totally the opposite of how I thought it would go. I expected Kathryn to melt down from fear and Owen to be all about it, but flip that scenario and that's what happened. So I now have a lovely picture of me, the babies and Santa Claus because having Mommy in the picture made Owie feel better. It's kind of neat because it was Sullivan's first trip to see Santa too! I got an extra picture for her baby book also. For fun, we had both Grandmothers jump in and hold a baby and sit on Santa Claus's lap! The pictures are too cute for words and how many babies can say both Grandmothers went with them to see Santa for the first time?
It will be an exciting month to say the least and I know I'll have some adorable pictures to post along the way. Well that's enough blogging for now I suppose, here are some new pictures. Enjoy and I hope everyone out there had a very happy Thanksgiving!
A few shots from the Po-Boy festival we went to in New Orleans. That's right - an entire festival dedicated to a sandwich. Bruce was on cloud nine. It was on Oak Street in New Orleans, hence the "Oak is for Loafin'" t-shirt.
Owen and Kathryn with Grandmother and Poppie
Celebrating their first Thanksgiving with Pop and Grandmama
I had to get a picture with each of my babies on this special day
Our first (and last...heehee) Thanksgiving as a family of four
Any time Bruce and I are both showered, clean and dressed up a little we snap a picture. Believe us people, it doesn't happen that often.
Kathryn looking at Great-Grandmama's dog Missy and Owen is learning how to churn butter.
The last trimester is here! Wow, didn't I have another post with the same title not long ago? Everything is going well and this is my official 28 week belly shot.
Trying to figure out Santa while we wait our turn in line.
The first trip to see Santa.
Here are the stockings I ordered for the babies. I thought they turned out so well. I really wanted something I could keep for them for a long time and make part of our Christmas tradition.
11.10.2009
Our 11 Month Goal
In just a few weeks our little Kathryn and Owen will be 11 months old and Bruce and I have come up with a new goal. Our goal is to have the babies off their bottles on their 11 month birthday. We had always planned on accomplishing this feat by 12 months, but with all of the traveling we'll be doing before too long, Christmas, their birthday, etc. we thought aiming for 11 months would allow us to make the transition easier on them. We've also found ourselves in a place where K and O are no longer willing to follow the exact same schedule all day, every day. This is especially true when it comes to napping. I have loved being on a schedule from day one with them and it's made caring for two babies at once much easier. I guess we'll just follow their cues for now and see what happens; I'm not too stressed about it. Two toddlers without set napping schedules is much less intimidating than two newborns without set napping schedules. I think.
They are doing great with their solid foods and for the most part each just about anything we give them. They absolutely love plain water and now take formula in a sippy cup with a straw once a day. Last week when they had colds and fevers I thought giving a little diluted juice might make them happy and encourage them to drink more, but they wanted nothing to do with it! Guess they are plain water kids. I've read dropping the least "comforting" bottle of the day is a great way to start weaning so that's what we're doing by dropping the mid-day bottle first.
A typical days menu for them might include items like whole wheat toast, bite-sized pieces of sharp or medium cheddar cheese, whole milk yogurt, cheerios, puffs, cottage cheese, mum-mums (such an awesome and less-messy alternative to biter biscuits) whole wheat pasta, hamburger meat or chicken in something like spaghetti or a casserole, squash, green beans, sweet potatoes, bananas, mixed fruit...you get the picture. There's a lot of variety in there and the only difference now is that meal time takes a little extra planning and cooking. It was easier to just open a few jars of baby food at each sitting, but it's so rewarding to see them thrive on big people food. We're trying to include them in our meal times so they start to associate eating with eating as a family, but right now I think they just associate it with "yay, more cheerios!" That's all for now, we'll keep you posted as we work towards our goal.
Meal time really makes our little ones happy!
They are doing great with their solid foods and for the most part each just about anything we give them. They absolutely love plain water and now take formula in a sippy cup with a straw once a day. Last week when they had colds and fevers I thought giving a little diluted juice might make them happy and encourage them to drink more, but they wanted nothing to do with it! Guess they are plain water kids. I've read dropping the least "comforting" bottle of the day is a great way to start weaning so that's what we're doing by dropping the mid-day bottle first.
A typical days menu for them might include items like whole wheat toast, bite-sized pieces of sharp or medium cheddar cheese, whole milk yogurt, cheerios, puffs, cottage cheese, mum-mums (such an awesome and less-messy alternative to biter biscuits) whole wheat pasta, hamburger meat or chicken in something like spaghetti or a casserole, squash, green beans, sweet potatoes, bananas, mixed fruit...you get the picture. There's a lot of variety in there and the only difference now is that meal time takes a little extra planning and cooking. It was easier to just open a few jars of baby food at each sitting, but it's so rewarding to see them thrive on big people food. We're trying to include them in our meal times so they start to associate eating with eating as a family, but right now I think they just associate it with "yay, more cheerios!" That's all for now, we'll keep you posted as we work towards our goal.
Meal time really makes our little ones happy!
11.04.2009
Our Stroller Solution
When we found out we were expecting again, we knew we would eventually need to find a new stroller that could comfortably carry three babies without breaking Mom's back. It was very important to me to have something that would allow me to get out of the house with all three little ones on my own. Before starting the hunt for the perfect triple, I thought finding a double stroller that was practical and easy to use had been a hard task and oh how I laugh about that now.
As you might imagine, there aren't that many triple stroller options out there. They're either too expensive or too cheap, not roomy enough or too wide to fit through a door...you get the idea. So after hours and hours of searching, reading and price shopping we found our triple stroller. It arrived today and we've already taken it for a test drive and we all love it! It's a pretty great concept...there's a toddler seat that you attach up and above the two main seats turning it into a stroller for three without adding width or length. Here are a few pictures we took tonight as the babies were trying out their new ride.
The Valco Tri Mode Twin
Taking the toddler seat for a test drive - luckily the babies seemed to love it!
As you might imagine, there aren't that many triple stroller options out there. They're either too expensive or too cheap, not roomy enough or too wide to fit through a door...you get the idea. So after hours and hours of searching, reading and price shopping we found our triple stroller. It arrived today and we've already taken it for a test drive and we all love it! It's a pretty great concept...there's a toddler seat that you attach up and above the two main seats turning it into a stroller for three without adding width or length. Here are a few pictures we took tonight as the babies were trying out their new ride.
The Valco Tri Mode Twin
Taking the toddler seat for a test drive - luckily the babies seemed to love it!
11.01.2009
Babies' First Halloween
Happy Halloween! Owen and Kathryn's first Halloween turned out to be fun and oh so cute! Owen was a penguin and Kathryn was a ladybug. Owen woke up with a cold yesterday morning (poor little guy!) and Kathryn had an "I need Mommy" kind of day...all day. But once we got them dressed, into their stroller and outside, everyone was all better. We met our friends Dave and Alexis and their adorable kiddos in their neighborhood for a potluck block party and it was a great way to spend the babies' first Halloween. As promised, here are some pictures. Enjoy!
Time for a family picture. Kathryn had the cutest ladybug hands and feet, but at this point we were lucky to still have her cape and hat on her.
Waiting to go for a stroll in our costumes.
Our happy little bug. What a sweet girl - her daddy can always make her smile.
Our handsome little tough guy disguised as a penguin
Halloween can really take it out of a baby penguin! What a precious boy.
A full moon on Halloween...how spooky.
Time for a family picture. Kathryn had the cutest ladybug hands and feet, but at this point we were lucky to still have her cape and hat on her.
Waiting to go for a stroll in our costumes.
Our happy little bug. What a sweet girl - her daddy can always make her smile.
Our handsome little tough guy disguised as a penguin
Halloween can really take it out of a baby penguin! What a precious boy.
A full moon on Halloween...how spooky.
10.17.2009
Time For an Update
What a busy few weeks it's been. I know this post is long overdue, but there just hasn't been time to post an update. Joshua had fall break three weeks ago so my family drove down to spend a few days with us. We spent Saturday watching football, eating BBQ and just enjoying the day. Kathryn surprised us all by crawling for the first time during the Alabama game! What a big girl! We were all super excited and I even managed to get it on video. While Bruce worked on Monday, my family, the babies, and I went to the New Orleans aquarium. Well, let me rephrase that...we tried to go to the aquarium. Once we were there we realized it's closed on Mondays. We still had a lot of fun and I took everyone to Cafe DuMonde's for their first taste of beignets. We'll just have to hit up the aquarium another time.
Last weekend we drove home to Huntsville to have portraits made with my family and Bruce's family. We decided to do something different this year for Christmas presents so we arranged for Tonya Melton (an incredibly talented and sweet photographer from Cullman) to take pictures of each family in Big Spring Park. At least we know these gifts will be the right size! The weather cleared at the last minute and it was cool and breezy. Tonya always does an amazing job and I can't wait to see the proofs in a few weeks. I hope everyone had as much fun as I did.
Today was cold and gorgeous, so we broke out their new coats and took the babies to a pumpkin patch. They each picked their first pumpkin and we even picked a tiny one for our new little girl. We then went to the Gautier Mullet and Music Festival. That's mullet like the fish in case anyone was wondering. Bruce sampled the fry'd mullet (their spelling, not mine) and I stuck with a safe grilled chicken sandwich, but the food was yummy. We missed the mullet toss but they had all kind of vendors selling a little of everything and had it not been feeding and nap time we probably would have shopped a little more.
And finally, we have decided on a baby name! Our new little girl's name will be Sullivan Frances. We picked Frances as a middle name to honor my Grandmother. I think she was a bit surprised we wanted to name our daughter after her, but I don't know why. My Grandmother is one of the strongest women I know, her faith sees her through everything and she is positive, uplifting and beautiful...inside and out. So now we just have to spend these last few month's getting ready for Sullivan's arrival. We can't wait to see her sweet little face!
Ok, sorry for the super long post but like I said there's been a lot going on. Halloween will be here soon and I promise some cute pictures of our babies dressed as a ladybug and a penguin. Until next time...
On our way to the pumpkin patch. The babies are riding in their new Sunshine Kids carseats - they're narrow enough that you can fit three across a regular-sized backseat. No minivan required!
Owen in his new hat and coat - he had just picked his first pumpkin. Isn't he adorable?
Kathryn holding on tight while she rides in a wagon.
Kathryn and Mommy
Daddy and Owen
This picture just melts my heart!
Time for a picture with Daddy. Owen decided to take apart some of the display and Kathryn felt like crawling instead of posing.
Owen and Mommy. He's reaching for my earrings.
Mommy and her babies.
Owen's pumpkin on the left, Kathryn's on the right and a baby pumpkin for our new baby. We thought it was funny Kathryn picked a slightly larger pumpkin than Owen.
Yay! We're at the Gautier Mullet and Music Festival!
A few pictures from New Orleans
What a smile! He was trying to sweet talk Mommy into giving him a bite of a beignet. Sorry Owen, you'll have to wait until next year.
Yup, it was closed.
Me and Joey
Me and Mom
All dressed up and ready to go
Pop showing Owen the tractor...don't worry, it was turned off.
My 20 week belly picture
Last weekend we drove home to Huntsville to have portraits made with my family and Bruce's family. We decided to do something different this year for Christmas presents so we arranged for Tonya Melton (an incredibly talented and sweet photographer from Cullman) to take pictures of each family in Big Spring Park. At least we know these gifts will be the right size! The weather cleared at the last minute and it was cool and breezy. Tonya always does an amazing job and I can't wait to see the proofs in a few weeks. I hope everyone had as much fun as I did.
Today was cold and gorgeous, so we broke out their new coats and took the babies to a pumpkin patch. They each picked their first pumpkin and we even picked a tiny one for our new little girl. We then went to the Gautier Mullet and Music Festival. That's mullet like the fish in case anyone was wondering. Bruce sampled the fry'd mullet (their spelling, not mine) and I stuck with a safe grilled chicken sandwich, but the food was yummy. We missed the mullet toss but they had all kind of vendors selling a little of everything and had it not been feeding and nap time we probably would have shopped a little more.
And finally, we have decided on a baby name! Our new little girl's name will be Sullivan Frances. We picked Frances as a middle name to honor my Grandmother. I think she was a bit surprised we wanted to name our daughter after her, but I don't know why. My Grandmother is one of the strongest women I know, her faith sees her through everything and she is positive, uplifting and beautiful...inside and out. So now we just have to spend these last few month's getting ready for Sullivan's arrival. We can't wait to see her sweet little face!
Ok, sorry for the super long post but like I said there's been a lot going on. Halloween will be here soon and I promise some cute pictures of our babies dressed as a ladybug and a penguin. Until next time...
On our way to the pumpkin patch. The babies are riding in their new Sunshine Kids carseats - they're narrow enough that you can fit three across a regular-sized backseat. No minivan required!
Owen in his new hat and coat - he had just picked his first pumpkin. Isn't he adorable?
Kathryn holding on tight while she rides in a wagon.
Kathryn and Mommy
Daddy and Owen
This picture just melts my heart!
Time for a picture with Daddy. Owen decided to take apart some of the display and Kathryn felt like crawling instead of posing.
Owen and Mommy. He's reaching for my earrings.
Mommy and her babies.
Owen's pumpkin on the left, Kathryn's on the right and a baby pumpkin for our new baby. We thought it was funny Kathryn picked a slightly larger pumpkin than Owen.
Yay! We're at the Gautier Mullet and Music Festival!
A few pictures from New Orleans
What a smile! He was trying to sweet talk Mommy into giving him a bite of a beignet. Sorry Owen, you'll have to wait until next year.
Yup, it was closed.
Me and Joey
Me and Mom
All dressed up and ready to go
Pop showing Owen the tractor...don't worry, it was turned off.
My 20 week belly picture
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