Cooper and Kale, 6 week update

I can't believe our little guys are six weeks old. Here are a few things they are doing now:

*Eating more, they are like little piggies. But it's good because that means they are starting to sleep more as well.

*Growing like crazy. They are getting so big and gaining some chubs. They are out of the newborn stage. We have an appointment for them in a few weeks and I can't wait to see how much they've grown.

*Smiling. They are starting to recognize our voices a little better and will occasionally treat us to a little grin. No matter how many children you have, those smiles can't be beat. They are so sweet. Riley even claims that Cooper laughed the other night.

*Cooing and making fun baby sounds. When they are feeling especially comfortable and happy they will ooh and ahh a little.

*They both like their binkies, but it is impossible to get them to stay in their mouths. I think it is almost more trouble than it is worth.

*They are starting to have distinguishable crying. Riley is better at telling them apart than I am when they wake up at night. Kale's sometimes contains a high pitched meewing that almost sounds like a kitten. They both cry harder than any babies I've ever seen. Tempers, tempers. :)

*They are starting to get a bit fiesty. They can move their heads around really well and are super strong. They move around in their cribs and will grab onto your shirt so hard you can't get them to let go.

*They both hate getting dressed and getting in their car seats.


Some individual traits:

*Kale is a little bit more laid back and will hang out a bit more.

*Cooper will follow you everywhere with his eyes. Seems that he likes to know whats going on.

*Kale does little leg quivers when he gets scared.

*Cooper has more of a surprised look with eyebrows going up, Kale furrows his eyebrows in a more serious look.

*When I'm putting Kale to sleep he likes to have one hand grabbing the neckline of my shirt and has a tendency to fall asleep with his head hanging way off to the side.

*Cooper likes the bouncer better, Kale does better in the swing.

It is so fun to watch them grow and change. They are such cute boys!


**I thought I might add that we are blessing the boys this Sunday for anyone who would like to come.

Our Christmas

Christmas Eve my parents, Tucker, and Tamra came up. Riley's mother joined us after she got done with church. We had yummy snacky type food and did the usual Christmas Eve traditions of singing some carols and letting the kids open a gift which is always pajamas. It was a fun and relaxing evening. Before bed, Kendle left her letter and some cookies for Santa on the dining table and then sprinkled food for the reindeers all over the front lawn with Morgan's help. She was getting him excited for Santa to come.












This was a very different Christmas for us this year, due in large part to the babies. Usually Riley and I are so excited to get the kids up early, this year Kendle came in at 5:00 after Riley and I had just put the babies back to sleep. We told her to get back in bed and wait a little longer. I hated to put a damper on her excitement, but we were way too tired. I knew they would not be able to stand waiting for very long though so we got the kids up around 6:30 or so while the twins slept on. Stockings were first, and I loved watching Morgan's little face as he pulled things out one by one. The new sunglasses and tie were cool, but when he got to the bottom where the candy was, his eyes got super big and he thought he had struck gold. I think he could have stopped right there and been perfectly content. Little ones are so easy to please. I guess Santa figured the children had been good afterall this year and he left some good gifts for them. It was fun to watch their happy little faces.

As per Dodson family tradition, after opening our gifts, we jumped in the car in our pajamas and raced down to my parents house in Oregon to enjoy the rest of the Christmas festivities. Well, that's how it usually goes. This year it took us a little longer to get there. We enjoyed our stay with them and all of the delicious food and snacks my mom always makes, not to mention all of the help my parents and Tamra were with the babies. The following day my mom treated the kids and I to a movie (The Alvin and the Chipmunks sequel). It was Morgan's first movie and he LOVED it. He was so good and liked all of the music in it.

All in all we had a very Merry Christmas!

Christmas Break

It is Monday afternoon, the start of "Christmas Week". The month of December is passing us by faster than ever before. Wasn't it just Thanksgiving? The children are getting anxious for Santa to come, and starting to feel the crunch of trying to squeeze in all of their good deeds before it's too late. Kendle has been trying especially hard to help out around the house and with the babies and it's something I really appreciate.

This morning, after a long night of babies who had no intentions of going back to sleep, I began the process of getting the house back in order after our two early birds had been playing out in the living room and helping themselves to a bowl of cereal or two in the kitchen. Bottles, burp rags, and baby clothing adorned the family room and ottoman. I don't know how I leave the house clean at night and then wake up to a war zone every morning, but it definitely happens. Four hours later, I am finally sitting down for a (somewhat) quiet moment after tidying up, bathing and dressing Morgan and the twins, feeding the babies, throwing in a load of laundry, changing Kale's clothes again, taking Morgan to the bathroom (yep, potty training is a blast) loading and starting the dishwasher, feeding everyone lunch, putting the babies to sleep, cleaning up lunch, and eating a quick bowl of cereal - I never get to eat breakfast anymore unless it's around lunch time. I have been so busy lately, it has taken me awhile to get into the Christmas spirit and I have felt a bit Grinchy, but I put the Christmas music on this morning and I'm coming around and getting a bit more excited.

I'm wishing I had more time to do all of the fun things I enjoy this time of year like baking and taking time to shop and wrap cute gifts, but I'm also enjoying a more simplistic season without the pressures to constantly be checking off a gazillion things on my to do list. I am feeling like my load is lighter and I'm way less stressed than I was around Christmas time last year. I am feeling a bit bad (mom guilt) for Kendle and Morgan, but have some fun activities lined up to do this week. We are going to go look at Christmas lights, see the reindeer, make some Christmas cookies, watch lots of Christmas movies, read Christmas stories, do some Christmas projects, and enjoy time with our family.

We all better be good because Santa is watching................

***

On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me............

.................... 2 crying babies and a partridge in a pear tree.

Can't you tell from this picture we are getting in the Christmas spirit around our place?

Happy Birthday

Today in blog land I must give a big birthday shout out to my good friend Natallie.

I first met Natallie almost four years ago when we served in the nursery together at church. Our family had just moved into the ward a few months before that and I didn't know very many people yet, so I was not too thrilled when they asked me to be the nursery leader and the opportunity to meet and get to know other ladies in the ward on Sundays would be pretty slim. But as luck would have it, Natallie was also helping out in there and we soon hit it off. I immediately recognized what a cool, witty, and fun person she was and we had quite a few good times in the year we served together. I was fortunate to have made a good friend from that experience.

Natallie is one of those people that will really go out of her way for her friends and make them feel special. She is genuinely thoughtful and is always doing cute and funny little things like this. She has a mischievous sense of humor and always has a little twinkle in her eye, ready to try to her hand at pulling one over on you at a moment's notice. Her laugh is contagious, which is not always a good thing when you are hiding to surprise a friend, or trying to be sneaky. She is also a good example of doing service and has served me time and again when I needed it. One instance was when I was called to be the primary pianist when Morgan was just a few months old. She would come and get him for me almost every Sunday and watch him while I played and Riley taught his class. I know that was not an easy thing to do. (And I still owe you a necklace Nat.) She has a very warm and caring personality and is a loyal friend.

*Here are some more fun facts about Natallie that Kristen and I came up with*:

-She has 3 super cute and sweet kids

-She loves to scare people. At night when we are in the car, she'll scream, grab your arm, and make you jump out of your seat. Some of us fall for it, and others don't!

-She has a super nice husband that loves to cook. We are all jealous of that!

-She has twin sisters.

-She can color her own hair and it looks great!

-She is crafty and very talented.

-Her house is decorated way cute.

-She is an Activity Day Leader and loves it.

-She is very stylish and always looks fabulous.

-Nat loves summer. Boating, swimming, camping and more. Oh how she'd love to have those summer days last!

-She loves to enjoy every season. Always living in the moment and not wanting anything to pass her by!

-She makes yummy cinnamon rolls.

-She loves to mow her lawn in the summer.

-She is a great example of being a good mother.

-Loves to write letters to the newspaper and is always a concerned citizen.

-She knows how to shop and score awesome deals.

-Has razor sharp wit, you have to be on your A-game to keep up with her.

-Nat loves smiley faces :) :) :) :)

-She is always making comments on all of our blogs, but she doesn't have one?? Weird, I know. (We are still trying to convince her to start one and come over to the dark side.) But we are all laughing when she speaks. Here's a look at some of her famous thoughts:


Comment on Kris's B-Day: "happy bday again. i hope your medicine is kicking in and there's something that sounds good for you to eat for your birthday dinner! i guess i won't be bringing over that mushroom and onion cake with olive sprinkles after all! :)"

Post on Sarah's Pregnancy: "hey, not knowing what's going to happen is how it's been since time began. no matter what the plan it's always subject to change.(and it usually does!:) you could be in labor right now for all i know! :) take your elephant feet for a walk through the mall like kris did and you could have babies before the weekend :)"

Comment on Sarah's Summer Vacation 2009: "my favorite part was a night on the beach w/ a fire and smores. would've been a seen from the bachelor i'm sure if the kid's weren't there...and you weren't pregnant :) riley on a clyde. now that is funny. was he wearing his plaid shorts and crocs? :) nothing like "spending time" with your daughter! :)"

4th of July 2009, Sarah's Post: "love you guys in your red white and blue next to the flag...could there be a picture that said the 4th of july any better? perhaps...if you got some of your neighbors lighting illegal fireworks in front of your house or buying all the ice at yokes cause all the beer they need to get drinkin is getting hot. never a dull moment :)"

Nan's Blog: "sorry about the dishwasher kicking the bucket, glad you have much to clean this week, hope you have fun at your ward dinner/nutcracker, and what does dvr stand for? driving very reckless?"


Happy Birthday Natallie!

Found It

Have you ever been frustrated trying to find something? I've been haunted by the song on the new U.S. Cellular commercial, the one where the couple is out making snow angels at night. Every time the commercial comes on I have to stop and listen to it. It is kind of magical. I've been scouring the internet to try and find out what it was and then finally stumbled onto it by accident. It is called "Kaliedoscope" by Sleepy Rebels. You can listen to it here. Scroll down the page until you see the blue box.

I think I want to go make some snow angels at night now!

What I'm Digging This Week

*Mollee and Jakob's waltz on SYTYCD.
It is my favorite dance of the season and total perfection. Here's the clip. I think I have watched it about twenty times now. Also, Kathryn my favorite girl dancer, made it into next week's finale. Yay!

*Glee's Season Finale.
Could quite possibly be at the top of my list for finale shows with the perfect ending. If you missed it, you can watch the full episode here commercial free.

*I'm loving some of these senior pictures my little sis took for my cousin Mitch.

*My favorite werewolf Taylor Lautner will be hosting SNL this weekend. If you didn't see him on late night with Jimmy Fallon a few weeks ago, you must watch this clip. It is hilarious.

*All the help my husband has been giving me. He did baby duty yesterday afternoon so I could do some much needed baking and then took the older two out for the night to a hockey game with some friends who had extra tickets. I know we are both exhausted and it is hard for him to go to work after being up at night with the babies. I think he gets a super dad award.

*Kendle went to the dentist yesterday and is cavity free. That is a good feeling and sure nice for a mom to hear.

Glimpses of Normalcy

Last night we took our first family outing with the twins in tow. We felt somewhat normal getting out of the house and attempting to do something all together, never mind that it was FREEZING. The u-14 soccer team that Riley coached had their end of the year team dinner at a local pizza place. It was loud and fun and great to chat with the parents and the girls. Riley really lucked out with snagging such a great talented group of girls and super nice and supportive parents. They all had lots of great things to tell me about Riley and what a great job he did coaching this year. Their team was the only 3 Rivers Soccer Team to land a league championship and we are all pretty proud. Riley had a nice little speech to say about each of the girls, along with their stats and individual accomplishments. I was really touched with the nice things he had to say about each of them and how well he could remember the details of their games and the entire season. He absolutely was cut out to be a coach and one of his best qualities is that he is FAIR. He does not do preferential treatment, but whether you are the best or the worst on the team he will give it his all to make you a better player.


So while Riley was doing his little shpeal, where was I? Oh yes, at the very back table with two car seat strapped infants, one who started crying and needed to eat. Kendle luckily was having fun sitting with the older girls, Morgan however was sitting across the table from me chowing down on a piece of pizza another parent kindly served up for him since I was basically limbless. He had an almost full glass of water sitting right in front of him, and I mentally started counting down how long it would take before he knocked it over. It took about three minutes. After that he was standing at the wall flicking the light switch on and off while Riley was speaking. Yep, got to love the feeling of watching your 2 and a half year old be naughty in public and be totally helpless to do anything about it.

After the dinner was over we packed everyone up to go home. As we got in the car and were pulling out of the parking lot, Kendle and Morgan started fighting about something and they were clear in the back where we couldn't really talk to them or break it up. Then the twins both started howling and crying. We are driving down the road and Riley glances at me and I know we are both thinking the same thing. This is our life now. For better and for worse. I think all the forces of the universe have conspired to gang up on us and make us more patient parents and individuals. We get it. We just have to laugh about it. This is our new "normal".

2 Weeks Old

I tried my hand at taking a few pictures of the twins yesterday afternoon. I'll just say it's not easy to get one baby to stay still, let alone two but they did their best to help me out.

Cooper is in the white shirt, Kale is in the blue.

We sure are in love with these little guys.

Monday, November 16th 2009 - Cooper and Kale Arrive

*The baby boys are now 2 weeks old and my lack of sleep is starting to distort my memory. I figured I had better start recording what I can about the twins birth before I lose some of the details.

After being told we couldn't come into the hospital on my scheduled induction day and dealt with that disappointment, we were ready and waiting by the phone for any new information from the hospital all weekend. Saturday and Sunday Riley and I woke up super early, showered, dressed, and ate breakfast and stared at the phone, willing it to ring. My sister-in-law who is a nurse on the birthing floor kept calling with little updates. Finally we decided it could be a long wait and so Sunday night Riley drove to my parents to pick up Kendle and Morgan so my mom wouldn't have to take another unnecessary day off of work the following day.

Early the next morning I was having a dream I was talking to my sister-in-law on the phone, when I drowsily awoke to the real phone ringing on my night stand. It was my sister-in-law telling us to eat some breakfast and come into the hospital as soon as we could. YAY! I looked at the clock - it was 6:30 am. My adrenaline started pumping trying to think of everything we needed to do. This whole pregnancy had been one big lesson in expecting the unexpected for me. My mom drove up to be with the kids and we headed out the door by 7:30.

Before we left Riley took some pictures of me in all of my 37 week pregnancy hugeness:

I will just comment that there are no shirts big enough to substantially cover a belly like this. I could never have imagined my stomach could get that big and I could still walk. It was like having my own built in coffee table - I could set my books, drinks, and remote on it. Ha.

After we arrived at the hospital and got checked in and situated in our room the doctor broke my water and the adventure began. I was already dilated about a five or six so that was great news as well. Then they had someone from the lab come up and take my blood. After she was done, she put a cotton swab on my arm and commented on what a good bleeder I was since the blood was taking a while to stop flowing. I looked at Riley and had a horrible sinking feeling in my stomach. I've had trouble with my platelets being low in the past with both births of my other children. [Basically that means if they are too low, you're blood may not be able to clot and excessive bleeding can occur. In other words, the anesthesiologist would not administer an epidural unless my levels were higher.] In Kendle's case that resulted in my not being able to have an epidural ( if you are ever about to give birth to a ten pound baby, trust me that is NOT the news you want to hear), and with Morgan they barely let me have one because I was borderline. They were also concerned if I had to have an emergency c-section that I might need a blood transfusion. So they took my blood about four more times, one of the head pathologists tested my blood himself, I talked to the anesthesiologist about five times, they were having meetings about me and I was starting to have contractions and be in some pain. They did not want to give me anything to speed up the contractions more at this point until I could receive some pain releif.

Just when I thought things were looking kind of bleak, the anesthesiologist came back in and let me know the good news that they were going to go ahead and let me have one. The process of getting it in my back was a nightmare. It took about four times, one of which he scraped my spine. To say the least - it was horrible. I do not cry easily, but for whatever reason it was not easy to get it in and just as I had finally came around to the idea of bringing these babies into the world naturally, he was able to insert it correctly and it wasn't a second too soon. After that, the relief spread through me and my contractions started speeding up on their own without anything else needed. The pain of getting that thing in was totally worth it.

A little while later my parents came to sit with us at the hospital. It was nice and relaxing and my mom kept track of my contractions from the monitor by my bed. I kept joking that I wanted to have these babies before dinner time because I was starving and my stomach kept growling. I hadn't eaten anything since 7:00 that morning. About 5:00, my parents left for a little while to go grab a quick dinner and right after they left I started feeling some strong pressure. After the nurse checked me out she let us know we were ready to rock and roll. My nurse was awesome and with the hilarious comments of Doctor A. and the help of many other staff (when I say many, I mean it looked there was a party going on in our room) they started preparing the room for the birth of our boys. As they began to set up the two different beds for the babies and turning on the heat lamps and arranging the supplies, it finally hit me that I was about to deliver TWO babies. It had not seemed real to me during the entire pregnancy, I mean I knew it in my heart, but my mind had not fully comprehended and wrapped itself around the fact that it was really going to happen - and it would be happening now.

Doctor A. asked me which names we had for each baby. He wanted to make sure that they were given the right names as they were delivered. Cooper had always been the baby that was head down and right in the position to be born first. He was ready. It did not take long and they were holding him up for me to see his little face. I couldn't believe how big he looked. Neither could everyone else in the room. He looked so healthy and good. Then it was time for Kale to make his way into the world. Doctor A. had to help move him over so he was in a better position, Cooper had been taking up most of his room. Kale, who we are now coming to think of as Mr. Laidback, came out with his little legs crossed like a frog and his eyes open looking at us like "hey, what took so long?" Again, I was amazed at how healthy and good he looked. Perfect little round head, chubby cheeks, little arms flapping around. Almost 16 pounds of pure baby love had just come from my tired body and I felt like the proudest mom alive.

Because they were twins and born a few weeks early they had to do a little more to them than most normal babies. Kale had to have his breathing jump started a bit after he was born and Cooper was having a bit of trouble with some rapid breathing as well. It felt like a really long time before they finally let me hold both of them. That is a feeling I can't even begin to describe. I looked down at the two little faces that I had been thinking and dreaming about for months and just melted. It doesn't get much better than that. This is what happiness looks like:

*Fun Fact: Doctor A. told us they were the biggest twins he has ever delivered.*

My parents were gone for half an hour and this is what they came back to:

Cooper had to be in the NICU for a day because of some rapid breathing and low blood sugar and then he was released back to our room. I am glad for that reason that we had to wait until Monday to come to the hospital. I am so thankful for all of the staff that took such good care of us while we were there. We truly live in a remarkable time with the technology and medical care we have access to.

So Monday the 16th was a good day. We arrived at the hospital by 7:50 am, and met our baby boys for the first time by 5:30 pm and 5:45 respectively. I'm so thankful for these precious little boys and for a strong body that was able to carry them safely and deliver them soundly. We have so much to be thankful for this year.

Short Update

I can't believe it's been a week already since these babies were born. Time has all of a sudden kicked back into high gear instead of crawling along like it had for the previous months. Here is what we are up to at the Dodson household:

*Feeding's x 2
So far both babies are good eaters. Kale likes to take his time, he will fall asleep half way through if we don't prod him along a little. Cooper gets down to business and is the faster eater. When he hears that bottle coming he doesn't waste any time trying to attack it. One thing is for sure, these guys wake up hungry and are ready to chow.

*Diaper changes x 2
I know some baby boys like to let loose the minute you take off their diaper (Morgan got me once or twice), but this is like nothing I've ever seen before. Riley and I have learned to be super fast at the risk of getting soaked and/or having to do multiple outfit changes for the boys. We are developing cat like reflexes.

*Getting up at night
Riley and I each take charge of one baby and get up with them during the night. So far this has worked well for us. Then there is no confusion about who changed who last, how much each baby ate last, etc. We still keep a little chart on the fridge (like the ones at the hospital) to write down when each baby had their last feeding. This helps us feel somewhat "organized"? The babies are on a pretty regular schedule so far and usually one wakes up a little bit after the other so it isn't too crazy at one time.

*Feeling super duper tired
So far I think we have lucked out that both boys are sleeping good, Riley and I are just having trouble getting back to sleep after we've been up with them at night. It helps that they are so darn cute and that they go back to sleep fairly well. I wish I was one of those people that could pass out the second their heads hit the pillow. Riley had to go back to work this week, and I know he is feeling it. I feel like I've accomplished a lot if I just get the basic things done around the house during the day.

*Telling the boys apart
We have had so many people ask us if they are identical. I know it might be hard for everyone to see their differences for a while, but Riley and I are getting pretty good at telling them apart at a quick glance. It was tough for a day or so after we brought them home, but they are starting to have their own little looks and personality traits now that help. Plus, like I told someone the other day - when you are their mom and dad you just know.

*The good stuff
Snuggling and rocking these two little guys is like having a little piece of heaven in our home. It's hard for me to pass their room without tip-toeing in to take a little peek at them sleeping soundly in their crib together. I still feel such a sense of wonderment that they are here with our family. It just doesn't seem real at times. I love when they open their little eyes to look around and when they stare up at me when I'm holding them. Life is good.

I will try and post some more pictures soon and do a post about the boys' birth and our hospital stay.

Baby Boys

We came home this afternoon with the twins. They are the sweetest little guys and are eating and sleeping so well. We are totally head over heels for them and in awe of everything that has happened in the last few days.

I thought I'd post a few pictures quickly while I had a minute:

Cooper Channing Dodson - 7 lbs 10 oz, 19.5 inches

Kale Kruise Dodson - 7 lbs. 15 oz., 2o inches

Can you tell them apart? (Kale on left, Cooper on right)

Getting ready to come home.

Pictures from the hospital website:

I'm Still Here

So I thought I would write a little update on what is going on, I've had lots of people asking and I didn't want anyone to get worried.

Here's the story:
I was supposed to get induced on Friday at Kadlec. Little did I know that the NICU was going to be totally full. They will not let me come to the hospital until there is room in the NICU in case these little guys (don't think they are going to be so little) need to be admitted there, otherwise if something happened to them they would be sending them off to Spokane or Seattle because there is basically no room at the inn. Because I am having twins, I'm considered a "high risk" patient, but they still will not let me come in because "I'm not an emergency" to quote the lady we talked to. I think they should take a gander at my ginormous belly and maybe they'd reconsider.

SO..................we are just waiting and I am trying to not go crazy. They called again this morning and told us it didn't appear any babies would be moving out of there this weekend and that I could possibly have to wait until Monday, or Tuesday, or.............................................

So maybe you could all say a prayer for those little babies in the NICU at Kadlec to have a safe and speedy recovery. I don't know how much longer I can carry around this huge belly and support the 14, 15, or dare I say 16 pounds that is going on in there.

The Scoop

I found out at my appointment this afternoon that they will induce me on Friday! This is great news to me. Yes, it will be Friday the 13th, but luckily I am not the superstitious kind. My doctor thinks I am an excellent candidate to try and have these babies normally, but they will have everything ready to go and extra people standing by just in case. These boys are running out of room in "la casa de Sarah Dodson". One baby is scrunched towards my back. That cannot be comfortable. I bet they will be as relieved as I am to finally have some room to move around.

I have so many emotions running through me and so many last minute tasks to do. I can't believe the time is almost here!

Climbing That Mountain

Two weeks ago, I wrote this post. I thought I had reached the end of my rope and was getting discouraged about how I was feeling. Now here I am at 36 weeks, still carrying these babies around and life has been slowly marching on. I'm learning important lessons during this cycle in my life. I'm capable of doing more than I thought, the key is not letting my mind take over and tell myself negative things. I feel like the "little engine that could." Every day I get a bit bigger and a bit slower, but I'm still making my way up that mountain and am so eager to get down the other side where our beautiful baby boys will be. I remind myself how blessed our family has been and continues to be. The excitement is building and keeping me afloat until the big day arrives. I have had so much support and encouragement from friends and family and I feel like that has made me even stronger.

I can do this. I CAN do this.

I want these babies to know that even though it was hard for their mother at times to carry their weight around and endure the days of being sick and uncomfortable, it was worth it every single step of the way.



*To my future sons: You have a big cheering section waiting for you.

Family Update

I feel like my blog has been totally focused on everything pregnancy related and lots of babytalk, so I thought I would give a little update on what everyone else in the family is doing before I get too behind to remember.

*Riley has been killing it at work and was the top salesman in his whole company for the last few months. He beat out all of the guys from the bigger areas like Seattle and Salt Lake which should be nearly impossible. He told me these babies have been some good motivation for him. For his "second job", (even though he gets paid it is really more of a hobby) he's been coaching a U-14 girls club soccer team, the Rage, who have been in first place in the state league premiere 1 division. He is an excellent coach and is always looking for ways to improve his team and help his players. We have been so impressed with these girls on his team, they play better than a lot of high school teams and are very coachable. I've also been keeping him busy in what little spare time he has doing random projects and honey do's. He has been a big help to me the last few weeks doing things like making trips to the store at odd hours, helping pack lunches, fold laundry, and rubbing my sore, tired, and swollen feet, not to mention listening to my constant complaints and ramblings.




*Kendle had her last soccer game on Halloween. She did pretty good this year and I think has a knack for playing defense. She has been watching too much older girls soccer and likes to stay back analyzing the game instead of being right in the little cluster of six girls all trying to kick the ball. She would wait for the ball to get kicked back to her and then take off with it. She also says she wants to play goalie. I think she will really have more fun once they get into position playing. This is her first year taking piano lessons and she has been really enjoying it. She likes to sit at the piano and sound out songs she knows, which is funny because I used to do the exact same thing at her age. Right now she really wants to learn how to play the Oregon State fight song on the piano. I have no idea why? She loves to read and goes through books as fast as she can get her hands on them. I think she would go to the library at school every day if she could. I wish we didn't butt heads at home so much, but I am glad she saves up all her goodness for school and when she's with other people. She brought home a prize certificate on Monday that she got for being really quiet during their library time and I'm thinking, "wow, she is usually the most NOT quiet little girl." I guess she will continue to surprise me. She really enjoys her little friends from school and is always coming home with little pictures or nice notes that they write to each other. Also, she is getting taller just since school started. I should be better about measuring and keeping track of that sort of thing, but she just seems huge to me lately. In addition, her other front tooth that seems like it has been missing forever is finally starting to come in. Yay for that!



*Morgan is my little buddy still and I joke that he is a little man-child. He is so particular about how he likes things and is pretty neat and tidy for a 2 year old boy. He likes to have his routine in the morning - sausage and eggs for breakfast, take a shower or bath, get dressed, help mom clean up, etc... One of the cutest things is that he tucks his slippers (has to wear those slippers) right under the bed so he can easily slip them on when he wakes up in the morning. He plays pretty hard during the day and lately instead of real naps in his bed, he has taken to passing out in a comfortable spot. The other day I didn't know where he had gone to, and I found him snuggled up in our bed and yesterday he got a blanket and went to sleep in the recliner. At this point I don't care where he takes a nap, just that he's still taking one if he's tired enough. He is talking so much now and it is fun to be able to have little conversations with him as we go through out our day. He loves to go to church and asks me about it every day. He likes to go see his "buddies" in nursery. Any time we leave the house (and most of the time at home) he is always wearing a hat. I've never seen a little boy that liked to wear hats so much. The thing that gets me is how he knows how to pull it on and adjust it until it's just right. It makes me smile every time. I think he is just so adorable and he melts my heart on a regular basis.

Well, I guess that pretty much sums it up for now.

Hold Up, Wait a Minute

**I'm 35 weeks and two days pregnant, but who's counting?**

Well, the jokes on me for thinking everything was planned out and I could relax knowing how things were going to go down in the next week or so. At my appointment today we found out BOTH babies are now facing head down, and now we don't really know what is going to happen. Doctor S. had me keep my surgery date for next Thursday just in case, but I am going back in for another appointment before that on Tuesday to get another ultra sound and see what's up. This is good news, since I was not too thrilled with the idea of getting a c-section, but I'm not sure if I should get my hopes up just yet. I'm dilated to a 3 or 4 so I guess anything is possible at this point. There is the chance that Baby B could turn again, or that I might get induced. Basically the message of the day was be prepared for anything. So that is what I will try and do - these babies will be born some way or the other. All I know is that I'm breaking their office record for the biggest tummy measurements. HA! It is essential to keep a sense of humor in these type of situations.

Meanwhile, I am trying to "take it easy" and relax with my elephant feet propped up as much as I can. I've been having some numbness issues in my right leg, so that is keeping me from doing too much at this stage of the game. I have been having some luck with trying to get my family to jump on the "keeping the house clean bandwagon", but I would have to say Morgan wins the prize at this point for putting his things away where they go. Also, I am in full night feeding training as I have been waking up every two hours like clock work for the last month or so.

Well, I'm off to go eat some yummy lunch and arm chair parent for the rest of the afternoon.

Freezer Meals

I'm trying to do a little planning ahead for the next few months and thinking I could save some time by preparing some meals now. I'm just imagining how crazy that 4:00 -5:30 dinner hour stretch is going to become in the next few months and trying to salvage some sanity now while I still have some. So I'm looking for some good freezer meal recipes - anything that still tastes good after being kept in the freezer and is easy to reheat. I have not tried much of this style of cooking, but thought I might give it a go since I was going to pre-cook some chicken and hamburger and have it ready to go in the freezer for some quick meals anyways. I've found a few recipes that sound promising on the internet, but it's always better to get tried and true ones from people you know.

So if you have any yummy recipes for the freezer - share away! Or even if you don't, just tell me what your favorite quick meal to cook for your family is. *Quick as in you have a 2 1/2 year old pulling on your leg and zooming cars around your feet, and two babies waiting for someone to come feed-change-hold them.

Spooktified

Halloween 2009 will forever be known as the year of the Beautiful Witch and her trusty side kick the Tiny Ninja:

Got Candy? We sure do.

Lots, and lots, and lots.

34 Weeks Part II

Had another ultra sound and appointment with my doctor on Tuesday, babies are getting quite big (6 1/2 and 5 1/2 pounds) and I am quite uncomfortable. Actually, uncomfortable is a huge understatement at this point. I'll just say I'm doing my best to cope with a large bulbous mass that has become the front of my body. Babies are still healthy though, lots of fluid around them and very active. So active, I feel like they are fighting to get out. I've been scheduled to go in for a c-section delivery on Thursday November 12th. I am relieved about that. I did not want to have to have a spur of the moment c-section and the baby on the right is still breach, so better to have it planned this way so it will go smoothly. Hopefully by then the little guys will be ready to come into the world and not have any problems. I will be about 36 1/2 weeks or so. The only bad thing about the c-section is I can't have anything to eat or drink after midnight the night before. Seriously? I'm thirsty like a horse - I have to have water bottles strategically placed all over the house, and especially when I wake up in the morning I drink about a gallon of water. That little stipulation will be a challenge for me.

I am feeling like I am finally starting to shake some of this flu bug I've had. I'm not sure if it was the regular flu or the swine flu, but whatever it was it struck hard and it has lasted a long time. I've never been sick like that before where it just completely took over. Morgan and I have had quite the time of it the last few weeks. The fatigue was horrible, especially with how tired I already was. I was telling my mom about how I had been wearing my neck pillow around because my head would just start bobbing from exhaustion. I couldn't understand how when Morgan was sick he would just lay down in the middle of the floor and pass out. Little did I know...

My appetite has come back a little though, and that always helps to feel like you have more energy and get back to normal. I always tell people who aren't feeling good that if something sounds good to eat, try it - no matter how weird it sounds because it can jump start your appetite a little and it's better than eating nothing at all. After my doctors appointment on Tuesday, I was feeling pretty yucky but for some reason a Dr. Pepper sounded really good. So I swung into the Burger King right there off of G-Way and got a DP and some hash browns. It was the best thing I had tasted in over a week.

I'm trying to get all of the little things done now like packing my bag for the hospital and things for the babies. I still need to get some last minute shopping done at the store and I wanted to clean our living room carpet. I was also wanting to get a pedicure before I go in, because if nothing else it always helps to have pretty toes to look at even if the rest of you is feeling like crud.

The two week countdown starts today!

34 Weeks

You know how you always hear runners say how they hit a wall at a certain mileage while doing races? Well, I would have to say at 34 weeks I have hit my wall where it feels pretty hard to keep going. I've been so sick all weekend with the flu, have zero energy, and just want to throw in the towel. I consider myself a pretty strong person, but this pregnancy has pushed me past what I thought I was capable of. I'm trying so hard to focus on the end result and telling myself I can do this. Every day seems so long at this point. I know I have to hang in there just a little bit longer.....

So Glad It's Friday

I'm happy today because:

*I got some decent sleep last night.

*Morgan has slept in his big boy bed two nights in a row + a nap in it yesterday.

*My parents are taking Kendle with them to my nephew's baptism in Coquille, OR and she will get some much needed one on one time, not to mention lots of cousin time. She is so excited and has been counting down for weeks.

*I will miss Kendle being gone, but the house will be a little (a lot) quieter this weekend.

*I've been working hard all week and today minus a little bit of laundry, I am going to relax and have fun.

*On that same note, take out or going to dinner somewhere is on the menu for tonight, along with renting some movies.

*Going to Yoke's this morning to stock up on some canned goods. Won't have to buy those again for a long time which I like. I hate loading up my shopping cart with heavy cans when I'm grocery shopping.

*Don't have to worry about packing lunches, gathering homework, fixing hair, or early breakfast's till Monday.

Have a fun Friday!!!

What's Making My Head Spin Today....

*Talked to my doctor on Monday about birth plans, looks like I'll be getting induced in three or four weeks. I'm freaking out to have an actual deadline. Preparing myself for a possible c-section.

*Large to-do list that grows every day. Shouldn't it be shrinking?

*Have official baby names picked out, now just having "friendly" debates with Riley on how to spell them. I need to know though so I can finish up some projects I've been working on. I feel like we should have had this worked out months ago. This has definitely been the procrastination pregnancy.

*Morgan not adjusting to the bunk beds, getting up too early with Kendle, and being over all cranky. He's over the flu, but now has runny nose and a cough. I'm ready for him to be back to his happy self.

*So frustrated when helping Kendle with her homework. Poor girl has to draw out pictures for math that is so simple to her, and bring home books to read that are too easy. I feel for her and am at a loss for how I can help her have a better school experience. I see her losing her spark.

*Trying to figure out where to put the 18 boxes of cereal I bought on sale this week.

*Wondering if my house is really cluttered, or if it's my super-sensitive nesting instincts kicking into over drive.

*Watching my 2 year old plug his portable radio into the computer to charge, and working the remote like a pro. Wondering why the concept of potty training is so hard to grasp then? :)

*After getting zero sleep last night, I'm not as hyped about cleaning out Morgan's room which I wanted to get done today. I feel like a truck ran over me, backed up, then ran over me again.

*Excited to make some caramel corn tonight after my family has been asking for it for the last three days. Let's hope that idea still sounds good later this evening.

*I'm in disbelief that Halloween is fast approaching. We bought pumpkins Monday night and the kids costumes are ready to go, but I'm dreading buying the Halloween candy.

What's making your head spin today?

Family History

"In all of us there is a hunger, marrow-deep, to know our heritage, to know who we are and where we came from." -Alex Haley


I've been thinking a lot about family lately. I LOVE my family and extended family and am proud of my heritage. I'm beginning to learn more and more about both sides of my family and it is all because of the people who kept journals, pictures, and records. There are so many interesting stories. I hope that one day, the things I have written about through my blog will be of equal interest to my children and grandchildren, even the mundane every day details of my life. I hope my stories will make me come alive in their minds, so that I am not just a picture hanging on a lonely wall somewhere years from now.

This is a picture of my great grandparents on my father's side, Lester and Edith Tovey. Edith was a tiny little woman and had 14 children, the youngest two being twins. (Twins run on both sides of my family.) They lived in Malad, ID.



































I saw this quote of my great grandmother's on my aunt's facebook page and I can't get it out of my mind. I love it. I think I need to hang it in our home where I can read it every day:

"If there is righteousness in the heart, beauty in the character, harmony in the home, and order in the nation, then there can be peace in the world." -Edith Tovey

I think that pretty much sums it up.


A year or two ago a member of our family posted this picture on our family website of Edith when she was a little girl. I love the big bow in her hair and her big dark eyes. She looks like such a charming little girl. There were remarks about the resemblance between her and Kendle, and I can see a little of myself as well.




























There is not so much space separating the links in our family chain as we might think.

"Family faces are like magic mirrors. Looking at people who belong to us, we see the past, present, and future." -Gail Lumet Buckley

Taking It's Toll

This is what happens to a little two year old boy who's been completely exhausted the last few days:



























This was how we found Morgan last night after dinner.

Can you imagine falling asleep like that and being so tired you don't even care that your feet are hanging off and dangling down the chair? Good thing he was already in his pj's.

Distraction

Something to take my mind off the crazy week I've been having:

I was number 25 on the waiting list at the library, or something like that. Finally got it over the weekend and haven't had much time to get to it. While Morgan is resting off some of his flu bug this afternoon, (fingers crossed) I'm going to ignore the loads of laundry waiting to be folded and my floor that needs to be mopped and sit in my comfy chair and lose myself in an interesting adventure for a while. Washington D.C. here I come.

Isn't it Ironic

Yesterday morning Riley put up the kids new bunk beds. Here is a picture of what they look like: (That is not their room, I don't know if I could get a full size picture of them since the room is so small.)


















Kendle has been ever so excited for them, especially since she gets the top bunk. After they were put up I made the beds (actually bed and a half, that top bunk is going to be a challenge). I bought the kids new pillows, sheets, comforters - the works. Everything looked really cute. I rearranged the rest of the furniture in the room, vacuumed, and admired my hard work.


Morgan loved climbing in and out of his bottom bunk and pretending like he was sleeping. That is........until nap time rolled around. After much frustration on my part, he did not end up getting a nap yesterday afternoon. He would not stay in bed. I remember this happening when we first put Kendle in a bed, it took a while and we just had to be patient.


So keeping that in mind, the same thing occurred during bed time. Kendle snuggled into her new top bunk and was doing fine. That is..........until Mister Morgan decided he really didn't want to be in bed. He kept coming out to us in the family room and then would run back in his room when we told him to get back in bed. Kendle was getting mad because he was keeping her awake. This happened about ten times before I (being totally exhausted) gave in and let him just lay by us on the couch for a little bit. In about five seconds he fell deeply asleep, looking so adorable and sweet we hated to move him. After a while we figured it was probably safe to try and put him back in bed. He was totally knocked out and just curled up in his bed when Riley put him down.


About an hour later, I'm reading in bed and I can hear Morgan crying. Riley comes in and tells me Morgan has thrown up ALL over his new bed. Yep, that's right. All over the new pillow, sheets, and comforter. Riley cleaned it all up and threw stuff in the wash while I got Morgan in some new pj's and rocked him for a while. Needless to say, Morgan ended up sleeping back in his crib last night after much effort and energy on our part. It was quite the night.


What is it they say about best laid plans?