The Hellstrom Family

Count Your Blessings

2011-11-23T19:22:00.000-07:00

My sister found this saying on a friends blog and I've accepted the challenge.
Erica is right. This is a great post for this holiday week and I myself haven't posted in a long time! But mine will be a little different than Erica's!

“Count your blessings” is simple to the point of stupid and powerful to the point of life-altering. Gratitude, that very specific feeling of thankfulness in your heart, allows you to see and absorb all you have, forgetting for a moment all you may lack. It connects your brain with your heart, and gives you the ground to be a more giving, effective, loving human. Being grateful allows generosity to flow. And many believe it also makes us more receptive as in, the more you love what you have, the more you get what you want. So herewith, a list to remind you of fundamental things to be grateful for every day, from apples to clouds to ice cream to getting enough nightly Zzz’s.

I am thankful for...

A is for Avie! I love her Chucky smile, her "Uh Oh's" and her curiousity.
B is for Brother-in-Laws. Not only loving but dealing with my sisters!
C is for Chocolate in so many ways! Dark, Hot, Milk!
D is for Dad. I don't know what my family would do without him. "What's going on?"
E is for Ella! I love my Princess, how she cleans and folds clothes and her giggle.
F is for Family and Friends! I love you all!
G is for Grapes, black especially! Costco sells the big ones and they are amazing!
H is for my Husband. We've been through so much and he still loves me!
I is for Images. Moments saved for all time!
J is for Jewelry. It's amazing what an accessory can do for your daily style.
K is for Kelly. Thankful for all the hard work he's put into our house.
L is for LOVE! Loving someone and having someone love you in return.
M is for Mom. How would I or my girls be able to survive without her?
N is for Nancy. She is the glue that keeps our family together!
O is for Outside. Gotta love some Vitamin D!
P is for Playboy Sushi Roll. My all time favorite and oh so yummy!
Q is for Quiet. Oh how much I love quiet time!
R is for Rain. The smell, the sound, everything!
S is for Sisters. My best friends in the whole world, I couldn't live without them!
T is for Tickling! I love the sound of my girls laughter.
U is for Unitards, always good for a laugh!
V is for Vacations. Especially ones with my family in Disneyland! The best times ever!
W is for Walrus, my absolute favorite animal in the world!
X is for Xanax. I'm sorry, but it helps me on those bad days!
Y is for YOU! If you are reading this, I am thankful for YOU!
Z is for my Zzz's! Everyone knows how thankful I am for sleep.

What are YOU thankful for?

Happy Thanksgiving to all! Have a great one and be safe Black Friday Shoppers!

My Baby Girls!

2011-10-12T10:03:00.003-06:00

These are my girls!! The top picture is them at the zoo for the first time! They loved it.

Left is Avie, then Ella both getting their first haircuts with Auntie Erica at her salon, My Hair Lady! Avie wasn't too thrilled at first, but lightened up after watching Erica in the mirror! Ella did very well, which was expected of our princess. I think holding her dolly helped!

i'm terrible

2011-09-12T22:15:00.000-06:00

at blogging!!

I've got so much to say... Work, The Girls, Kelly, Me... but I just don't have the time to share it. It's 24/7 girls and when I have a moment to myself, I usually nap or just sit on the couch!

I've got another new schedule at work now. I know, when will it just stay?! But it's going to give me even MORE time at home with the girls. Now it's time for me to step up and be SUPER MOM & WIFE!!!! I've got to do my duties and keep the house clean, play with the kiddos and have dinner on the table for when my husband gets home.

Oh no! I can already see my next blog post. I'm terrible at SUPER MOM & WIFE!!! :)

Reagan Lagoon Day!

2011-08-12T21:33:00.003-06:00

Today was Reagan Lagoon Day! Thanks Reagan for spoiling us with free passes, free games and free food! Kelly didn't win anything at the raffle, but our friend Andrea won a iPod Nano and Mike won a 27" T.V., which he then traded with someone for a Wii. It was great fun!!

The girls had a great time! Although they only went on two rides, they LOVE to people watch. The girls weren't brave enough to go on the small rides by themselves, so we settled for the train and the carousel. The girls take after their father and never smile in photos for me. But I was able to snap a few!

Cute pictures!!

Now for my rants...

I had a selfish moment tonight. But then I stop and realize that the only thing that matters and should matter is my girls happiness. Yea, I didn't go on any rides but my girls had fun! They love being out in public where they can run around and scream. Do I wish I was able to just do whatever I wanted? Yea, kind of. But my girls smiles and giggles are worth so much more. Am I a little upset that Kelly got to stay late and enjoy himself while I had to get the girls home and get them to bed? Yes, I am.

I'm at the point right now where I feel that WE need to change because of the girls. I mean, shouldn't we? We are a family now. If I'm going to go somewhere, the girls go with me. Therefore, plans will have to change since we have children. Sometimes I get jealous that Kelly still has a "friend" life and gets to enjoy himself. I have a few friends that I would love to get together with, but I don't. Not because I don't want to, but life is different now. My girls come first, end of story.

Kelly has a friend Mike that is getting married in less then a month and it's up in Sun Valley, Idaho. I'd love to go as a family, because that is what we are. But Kelly wants us to leave the girls at home so that we can enjoy ourselves for a weekend. Why do I think that is wrong? I don't know... It's just an inner battle that I have with myself. I put my girls first and I know that I need to take time for myself, I just don't.

Hopefully I'll find a happy medium somewhere. Sorry for the rambling, I guess I just needed to get it out! It was a fun time, I would have enjoyed to go on some rides, but I guess there is always next year!

Hope all is well with all! I'll try to post more, the girls have been so cute lately!

My Ballerina & Hip Hop Dancer

2011-08-12T21:33:00.002-06:00

Maybe it's all the SYTYCD we've been watching lately or maybe it's in their genes... but my girls have got some moves! They've always loved to dance and I've recorded it several times. It's amazing at what they pick up. The other day, Ella started to twirl in circles with her hands in the air, almost like a ballerina! So I decided to record! She is so cute! She'll get dizzy and want to keep dancing, but she falls down a few times. Avie joins in the fun, but she is more of a hip hop dancer. She stomps and shakes back and forth.

I love watching these girls and I find it amazing! that they now how to dance and when!

My next video will be Avie's "Oh No You Didn't." Maybe this weekend!

20 Days & Counting...

2011-06-28T20:28:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I've posted.

The family is doing good. KJ is working hard at Reagan, hating the hot summer days. He's definitely got some awesome tan lines. The girls are getting bigger each day. Avie is getting her 8th tooth and Ella her 7th. They are both walking everywhere, crawling is in the past. They love exploring the entire house and are a little upset about the cabinet/drawer locks. They were still able to squeeze some measuring cups out of our bottom drawer and they think that is the coolest. I'm still working with Marriott, at least sometimes. I try to work my full work week, but it's hard. I like to stay home. I'm starting new depression/anxiety meds and it's been a hard couple of weeks.

But enough about that. Let's get to the blog title...

20 Days & Counting!!!!

That's right! We leave for St. George & Pine Valley in exactly 20 days!! I can not wait to get away for a week, relax, swim and best of all... SNOW FAMILY REUNION!! We always have so much fun with the whole Snow Family. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone, the new babies, playing POUNCE with my clucking sisters and having fun with my sweet girls!

I came across this picture when I was thinking about this post and I wanted to share it again!! It just shows you how much Pine Valley effects you! EVERYONE has a good time, even the husbands!! (Jesse is happy, I promise!)

Oh... and look at this!! The girls were really THAT small? I can't believe that they weren't even 2 months old when we went last year. Crazy!

I CAN'T WAIT FOR PINE VALLEY!!!!

Happy 1 Year!

2011-05-30T22:16:00.007-06:00

My dearest Ella & Avie,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! 1st BIRTHDAY!

Your Dad and I are so proud of you two! You both have made this past year one crazy, yet extremely wonderful ride!

Looking at you both now, it's amazing to think you were once 5 lbs and that I could just leave you on the floor for hours and you'd be fine. Now, you are little chunky babies that won't sit still! Here are a few things that you have accomplished in the last month!

Avie
- You are now walking by yourself. Longest has been 5 steps!
- You are very good at mocking others. Coughing, clicking or sticking out your tongue
- Mama Mia!! (Hands on your head)
- Both arms in the air when someone says "Yay!"
- Climbing up on everything! Coffee table, fireplace, etc.
- Love using your teeth, biting everything! (4 teeth on top, 2 on bottom)

Ella
- Clicking your tongue
- Not quite walking, but you are great at standing
- Who loves Erica? I DO!
- You love the camera! You've established a cheesy face and even do it on cue
- Little Miss Whiness! You want attention, definitely a Momma's Princess!
- Love music! You will dance when you hear music and smile when we sing!

We celebrated your birthday with the whole family and all the friends at the house! You were spoiled beyond belief and got the cutest clothes! You absolutely loved the toothbrushes that your Cousin Jesse gave you. You won't stop playing with them. They actually helped us get you guys to be more comfortable in the bath again. Another favorite toy is the "Little People Home Sweet Sounds" that Grandma and Grandpa Snow gave you! I love seeing you guys playing with dolls!

Your Auntie Erica made you each a huge cupcake for your birthday! Avie, you jumped right in! Making sure to use both fists! Ella, you were a bit more timid. You enjoyed the taste of the cake/icing, but didn't like the whole getting messy thing.

You guys were surrounded by love and have been ever since you arrived! I can't wait to see what the coming months will bring! We are especially looking forward to the Snow Family Reunion coming up during the 24th of July. We are hoping that you guys will be ready for the annual races! Gotta earn those Cracker Jacks! Plus, it is going to be great seeing the whole family and all of the beautiful babies!

Ella, Avie... Mommy and Daddy love you with all of their hearts, more than words! You've changed our lives in so many ways and it's all been for the better. We still look at you both and are amazed that you are ours. It is still so surreal! We enjoy every minute with you, even the ones where I want to pull out my hair. Thank you both for being the cutest little girls EVER!

We love you!
-Mommy and Daddy

We also got your 1 year photos down at FotoFly (amazing place!) Avie, you were a little pill! After the first picture, you immediately started to freak out. Nothing would calm you down! Miss Ella, you were a little princess! The camera loved you and you LOVED the camera! We got some great shots of you! However, you started getting a little upset when you got you messy with the cupcakes! Avie, you loved it! You dug right in and got all messy! You are definitely my daughter!

{ 11 Months }

2011-05-06T12:30:00.003-06:00

Long post. Sorry!

But yes, 1 more month and I will have 1 year old twin girlies!! I can't believe how fast time has flown by. I'm a little late at posting. Technically the girls reached 11 months last Saturday, but I was in Vegas so I wasn't able to post then.

What's changed? The girls are so smart and growing every day. They both are still sucking their thumbs as you can see from the pictures below. They generally do it as a comfort when they are tired. They used to do it all the time, which Ella still does I guess.

They are standing alone really well now and are almost walking. It's pretty cute to see them struggle. Especially Ella. We've noticed that if she wants to get somewhere, she will first try to stand up like she is going to walk over. But then she realizes she can't walk, so she crawls. Oh and crawling! Man they are fast! We've got our entire living room gated off! It's not that we don't want them down the hall and/or the kitchen, it's more just to keep them in one location. It won't be long until the gates will have no more purpose. Like I said, they are smart. They both love to be on their knees, which is adorable. They look so grown up when they do it. Their falls are becoming less and less severe. They can catch themselves almost every time. And they will walk along all of our furniture, so I can see them walking before their 1st birthday, which is "Oh crap" for us!! But hey!, we need to start training for the 24th of July Races down in PV!

What else is new? Oh TEETH!! Both girls have their two bottom middle teeth in. Avie has the 4 top teeth almost through, but poor Ella doesn't have any. She doesn't even have signs of any coming in. She'll probably cute all 4 at once. At least with Avie, it was 2 at a time. But with teeth comes more food opportunities! The girls love noodles and love to make a mess with them. I've been sharing cheese sticks with them here and there, but I'm trying to introduce as much food as I can so they won't be picky eaters. They like eggs, toast, yogurt or pudding, most fruits and veggies (at least all the ones we've given them) Okay, no wait I lie. Ella didn't like raspberries. Which I didn't expect her to, but I thought I would try. But hey, they like olives! We haven't yet introduced juice, just water. The girls are still on formula, bottle fed. Some days I get over ambitious and try to give them formula in a sippy cup but they end up just getting frustrated and crying. I have yet to find a sippy cup that works well. They like the ones with handles, but it's too hard to drink out of. Then the ones that are easy to drink out of don't have handles and the water comes out too fast. See the problem that I'm having?! Any suggestions would be much appreciated. I need to start weaning them off the bottle asap. The girls are doing great at feeding themselves, Ella a little more so.

There is more?! Of course there is!! They are growing babies!! They both love to talk, sing and dance. They dance on queue when Mickey Mouse Club House has their end Hot Dog Dance or when any music is playing nearby. They can say Mama, Dada, Baba and my step dad Kelly is convinced they have said Papa, but I have yet to hear it. Erica taught them to raise their hands when she asks "Who loves Erica?" Avie responds with both arms stretched! They are both starting to know more and more about the NO concept. The majority of the time, they'll stop what they are being told no for and look at me all sad. So I think it's starting to click. Right now we are trying to teach them to blow kisses. They are however great at blowing raspberries. Avie will still do her coughing thing and she has now learned to stick her tongue out at you when you do it to her. Both girls give kisses, Ella's are a little more open mouth and slobbery, but we love them anyways. They both still hate grass! Erica enjoyed torturing Ella the other day. She would put Ella on the grass standing and try to have her walk to her. Ella couldn't do it and was afraid to sit down. It was kinda sad!

We are no longer swaddling the girls, so we find them in the weirdest positions in the morning. Ella is a big fan of sleeping on her belly, butt up. Avie is mostly on her side. Bedtime and Naptime has been getting better. I mean, there will be some bad days. The girls have now started throwing everything out of their cribs on to the floor. That's another game they like to play. At a restaurant, in their highchairs, wherever... you give them a toy, they drop it. You give it back to them, the look at you and drop it. Silly girls!

Below are a few recent pictures of the girls. I'm hoping Erica might be able to take more this weekend when they are more cooperative. It was close to bedtime so the girls weren't at their best. But Erica does a great job regardless!! I'm not going to lie, I like having Erica around. She's become an expert at not only taking photos but editing them as well. Thank you Erica! See more of her photos on her photography blog here! (My girls are featured in a few!)

We've got a full weekend ahead of us for Mother's Day! Saturday we'll be with Nancy and Sunday we'll be with my Mom. I don't know if we are going to fit KJ's Mom in there. He hasn't said anything about it. I'm hoping that I'll have some time alone with my girls for MY Mother's Day, but with me working both Saturday and Sunday (insert UGH here) it may be hard. No worries, just having them is all I need to celebrate!

Happy Mother's Day! I hope you all have a great weekend!

Spring is Here! (Picture Post)

2011-04-16T17:37:00.001-06:00

Couldn't get one of Avie with Daddy. But doesn't Ella look a lot like Kelly? I think they are even pulling the same face!

More Sacfrices. Eh, I'll live!

2011-04-13T11:43:00.005-06:00

That's a little cheesy. Well, maybe even a LOT cheesy because I made it. I couldn't find any other Sacrifice Motivational pictures, so I found my own picture and my own quote!

Anywho! There is a meaing behind this quote, I'm not just a weirdo. We all make sacrifices. I've come to find that being a parent, you have even more sacrifices. Go figure right? Don't worry, I'm not completely clueless and just finding this out now. I've just realized that I will have to make more to make my day to day work.

As some of you know, I'm currently working 4 days a week, 35 hour days. Which it's been fine, especially with Kelly out of work. But I find myself sick with worry now that he is back into work. Will our schedule work out? Since I only work 4 days (I only have babysitters for 3 weekdays) I'm working 9 hour shifts. That is a long time. Especially when you are watching 10 month old twins. I'm usually getting off around 6:30 or 7. And even though Kelly's schedule is flexible, it's also unknowing. He works until work is finished. He like to leave early, just in case and we can't guarantee that he'll get off before me and be able to pick the girls up at a decent time.

So what do we do? How do we fix this? I guess, Andee will work Saturdays too! I know, I'm crazy. I don't know what I've set myself up to do. I'll now be working 5 days a week, 35 hours. I'll be working every Saturday and Sunday, which is 16 hours, and then 3 weekdays at 6.5 hours. I figure, the less hours I work during the week, the better. This way I can get the girls to the babysitter at a decent time in the morning, but be home before 5 so they aren't watching them forever.

May will be my test month. We'll see how it works. Yea, I may miss out on Saturday activities, but I get off at 3. It's not like it's an all day thing. But we have to make sacrifices!! This has to be mine. Will it be hard to go back to 5 days of work, yes. But it will be so nice only working 6 1/2 hour days during the week. SO NICE! But 10 hour babysitting schedules? I mean come on. That's tough! Plus, Kalie AND Erica are taking their only day off during the week to help me out. Do I really want them to waste the entire day watching my hellions? No, I don't! It makes my stomach turn to know that they are going out of their way to help me out and it isn't very flexible. I mean, I can barely stand watching the girls all day long on my day off and I'm their mother!

Again, BIG THANKS to my family!! Erica, Kalie, Mom, Dad & Nancy for your willingness to help us out. I really can't thank you enough. You all are absolutely amazing!!

I'll keep everyone posted on how it goes. I'm hoping this works out. But if it doesn't, we can always adjust starting June. That is another great thing about my job is that they are amazing when it comes to schedules and they are so understanding.

Here's another one. I love my family!!!

10 Months.. I'll get to it!

2011-04-06T20:31:00.001-06:00

So the girls are now 10 months old! (March 30th)

I can't believe that I'm already starting to plan their 1st Birthday Party! Time flies!

I'll post about 10 Months soon. Erica has been wanting to take photos of the girls for some time now and I'm hoping we can do it soon! I'll post then!

P.S. Ella, unfortunately, didn't make the Top Ten for Baby Idol on 97.1ZHT. But no worries! I still think that my girls are the cutest ever!

Vote for Ella!

2011-03-27T08:27:00.002-06:00

I'm sure this won't be the first contest I enter the girls in, but I need your help!!

Please visit http://www.971zht.com/pages/babyidol11/ to cast your vote for Ms Ella Rae! Once you're there, go to VOTE NOW and select #319! You can vote once per email address, so if you have more than 1, go for it!

I know what some of you may be thinking... "Jeez, Andee! Why only Ella? Isn't Avie just as cute?" Why yes, she IS just as cute. In fact, because of that reason, the radio station thought I sent in two pictures of the same baby. Although Avie's was adorable, I can't help but LOVE this picture. Erica took it one day while we were just hanging out. It's perfect!

Spread the word!! Voting goes until April 4th when the Top 10 will be announced. If we make the Top 10, voting begins on April 5th and ends April 7th. I'll keep everyone posted! Grand prize is Lifetime Store Playset and a San Diego Getaway!

Thanks to all in advance!!!

Our Ella Rae

2011-03-22T18:07:00.003-06:00

Today was Ella's appointment up at Primary Children's for her head. Just a brief overview if you don't know, Ella's right ear is more forward on her head then her left. At their 9 month appointment our pediatrician had the impression that maybe Ella's head had fused wrong and it may require surgery. So she referred us to the Plastic Surgery Clinic at Primary's.

Luckily, it was a short trip!! Dr Siddiqi came in, looked at Ella's head and said she was fine. Our pediatrician was wrong, her head didn't fuse wrong or developed uneven. It is actually a result to her flat spot. Ella favored one right side of her head when she slept but her head began to round out so we didn't worry. However, that's when we noticed her uneven ears. The Dr said that it was too late for a helmet and unfortunately there isn't much we can do about it now. We just have to wait for her to grow out of it. She too old to try and maneuver her head while she sleeps, because she'll just move it anyways. The Dr did say that there is a chance that her ears will remain uneven but that it's normal for people to have asymmetry. We won't notice it once she gets some more hair on that head. So NO SURGERY!

Am I upset about the $35 copay that basically went down the drain? Maybe.
But am I glad to have some peace of mind knowing that she is okay? YES!!

Driving home Kelly and I had a moment of thanks. It's amazing at how you forget how lucky you are sometimes. I don't know how many time I can say it, but I'm so happy that I have two healthy, beautiful baby girls. I plan on enjoying every moment of their childhood, because it seems to be going to fast already!

Ella had a very exciting day today! Not only did she have a trip up to Primary's but we noticed her right eye was watering a lot and red. GREAT! Pink Eye!! So another $25 copay and $5 for her drops. Expensive day for Ella! But I guess it was inevitable. My nephew Jesse had it, then Kelly got it. I'm sure it's only a matter of time before Avie gets it. We're home now sanitizing all toys and may make a laundromat run so we can wash their sheets, blankets and pajama's. I can't wait until we have a healthy household!!

Lesson of the day: Don't forget how lucky I am for all of the people in my life. Especially my baby girls!!

Avie & The Mirror

2011-03-18T21:20:00.000-06:00

Make sure you check out her reflection!! She is so adorable!

| 9 Months |

2011-03-11T22:27:00.003-07:00

please forgive the orange faces... carrots stain!

Avie Joy

18.8 lbs - 52%

28 in - 67%

Head 18.1 in - 94%

Ella Rae

17.9 lbs - 34%

27.5 in - 49%

Head 17.9 in - 88%

They BOTH:
- Army crawling like crazy. We've started barricading them in the living room with pillows and turned over chairs. We need to purchase some gates.
- Located the DVD rack!! What is it with babies and DVD racks?
- Starting to pull themselves up on to everything, more comfortable on their knees.
- Waving! They don't do it all the time, but mostly with Bye Bye.
- Holding their own bottles, so nice when you have to feed them by yourself.
- Two beautiful bottom teeth! They make their smiles that much more adorable!
- Getting better with sippy cups. I'm hoping to have no bottles after 12 months.
- Starting to experience new foods! (non baby food) Fruits and Veggies, Cheese, Yogurt.
- They love to talk! Da Da is the only specific thing we hear, other than rambling.
- Both have learned to do raspberries! It's so cute to hear when they are playing.

They both seem to be learning and developing the same. If one starts to do something new, the other follows shortly. I think Ella being able to clap is the only thing that Avie can't do. And Avie does her little coughing thing. But yea, they pretty much learn from each other and learn quick. Great Doc appointment, which leads me to the next info.

Ella's head. It's mishapped. No, well it's uneven. The left side of her face is bigger than the right. More noticeable in the cheeks and ears. Also, when you look at her from the back, you can tell her ears are lopsided and from the top of her head they aren't even. Anyways, the Doc recommended seeing the Plastic Surgery Clinic at Primary Children's to get a diagnostic. From what she said, her head isn't flat so a helmet wouldn't help. She thinks it has more to do with how Ella's head fused together. I'm hoping it's more so like "she'll grow into it" then, "she has to have surgery." I know it probably wouldn't be a major surgery, but I've been lucky enough with my girls so far that something big like this would kill me. I'd worry way too much about her!

In other news, I'm happy to say that I nursed these girls for 9 months! I can't believe I was able to do it that long. Okay, yes... we did add formula in at about 6 months just because I wasn't producing a ton. But hey, I'm proud non the less! I knew it had to come, I wanted to at least try and go for the full 12 months, but with the girls new teeth, they loved to bite! I know I've said it before, but omg hurts like hell! Plus, not only were they biting, but they were viewing my nipples as more as toys than a food source. Grabbing, pinching, flicking and biting. Not the best time for me. It hurt for the first couple of days, but I just wore a really tight bra and that seem to help. I actually didn't need to pump out any and I think I've been okay. I still getting really hot sometimes, but other than that it was fairly easy to stop.

In other news: Kelly goes back to work in a couple of weeks and he couldn't be more excited. He's getting a little stir crazy couped up in the house and playing Mr Mom. We are still going to look for other employment for him since Reagan isn't what he wants to stay with. But the plan is for him to work his butt off this summer (they can make good money) and then maybe go back to school in the fall. We are thinking more of a trade school, like ITT Tech or something. I'm absolutely loving work right now, only because there is a new training class in. I absolutely love back up training!! It's so much fun and I hope to one day go full time!

Other than that... not much more to report. The next month will fly by I'm sure. My little sister Jessica is getting married, so I'm sure we'll have loads of fun things to keep us occupied! Much love to all!

A nice change of pace @ work!

2011-02-26T21:44:00.001-07:00

Like the girl in the picture above... work has been a bore! It can get really tiring when you are doing the same thing day in and day out. Talking about the same situations with all owners, them complaining about yearly fees and no availability, it's hard.

But that's all about to change! Well, not really. I'm still going to be a Vacation Ownership Advisor (VOA), but I will have a few things that will break up my work week.

-Webinars
-IDEAS Committee
-Back Up Trainer

Webinars: Once in awhile, I'll be working on an online Webinar. I'll be on an online chat with Owners that are listening to a presentation. Basically to answer any questions that they may have during the session.

IDEAS Committee: This isn't a huge one. But I represent my team on the committee. The committee is just as it says. I gather ideas from my team about anything then take them to the committee who then decides on which ideas are good enough to take to corporate. At least that's what I think it's all about. I haven't been a member before, but we are meeting together next week.

Best of ALL! Back Up Trainer: Every time there is a new hire class, I'll be in there 2x a week helping out with any questions. They don't have classes all of the time, so it may only be a couple of times a year. But when I work only 3 weekdays, it will be awesome to have a break for 2 of them. Plus, I love helping others.. teaching. I mean, I always wanted to become a teacher, but was never motivated to go through with it. And I figure that I'll most likely be with Marriott for awhile and I would love to become a full time trainer one day, so this gets my foot in the door!

I am happy to report that I did work my 4 days last week!! Okay, well I did leave a little early on Wednesday because we had a WIC appointment.. and I left an hour early on Friday because it was so slow. But hey!, I'm just glad I made it to work those 4 days!!! Baby steps remember! One thing at a time! There is a new hire class staring on Monday the 28th, so hopefully getting in my full work hours won't be as bad for awhile, since I'll have a break 2x a week.

In other news... I think I'm done nursing. About a month ago, I started nursing only for morning and night feedings... but the girls aren't very nice anymore. They seem to bite me almost every time I try. They seem to online bite me during the night time feeding. Why, I don't know. But I'm terrified to even attempt to nurse now, so I think I'm just going to stop. I thought I would try again tonight, but Avie bit me. Worst thing EVER! We'll now have to buy a couple of extra cans of formula a month, but luckily WIC helps out with most of it.

That's pretty much it for now! Kelly is still home, no seizures since his last in December, so with Dr approval he should be back to work late March, early April. I can't wait for him to get back... he's starting to get cabin fever and it's driving us both nuts. Girls are great, we have their 9 month appointment next week so I'll be sure to update with stats!! Gotta get to bed! Work early tomorrow and then off to the Family Oscar Party!

Two Milestones!

2011-02-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

The girls are getting so big and each day they surprise us with something new.

For the past few weeks, both girls have learned to wave Hi/Bye and they've both started to army crawl, Avie a little more then Ella. I finally decided to get them on video.
They're pretty cute!

Ella Waving!

Avie Army Crawling!

[ Flash Dance ]

2011-02-19T20:31:00.010-07:00

Look at 'em, already playing charades! Pretty good right?!

They'll both be dancers... Avie will just prefer to dance around a pole! :P

Back at the Starting Line!

2011-02-18T13:02:00.001-07:00

I'm so done with being weak and depressed. I missed a pill this week and I swear I can feel it. Plus Kelly and the girls have been sick. I've got some symptoms, but not terrible. So... I should be working right now. I know it, you know it. But I'm not. I'm home. I'm home regretting not getting to work today! Yes, we did have a bad night last night. But should that really be an excuse? No, it shouldn't. I need to realize that this is life. I'm a mother, a wife and now the soul bread winner for our small family. Kelly is collecting disability but not much.

I'm tired of disappointing my family, Kelly and my girls. I guess I can be lucky enough that the girls aren't old enough to really understand. I'm tired of being over weight. All the weight that I had lost after having the girls is now back. I hate how one day I will be okay with my size, but then the next day I can't even look myself in the mirror.

You would think that a sane person would be like "Okay, these are the things I need to fix. What can I do to accomplish that." And then they do them. At least that is what Kelly thinks. Which he is right. I don't want this post to turn into a pity party, like a few of my lasts posts. I want to fix everything!!

That is why, I, Andee Hellstrom, am making a promise to myself to FIX MY PROBLEMS! I'm considering these last few days as my last vacation until Memorial Day. I tried to pick up a few hours of work tomorrow, but surprisingly no one would give it up. So I start Sunday. I'm promising to myself that I will work my ENTIRE week shifts for the rest of this month and all of March. I would say until Memorial Day, but I don't want to get crazy. Start out small right?

I'm also using this as a time to start managing or losing weight. I need to get back on a daily routine of breakfast, lunch and dinner. No more soda or sugar drinks, water only! No more sweets and less junk/fast food if any at all. Plus, no eating after 8 o'clock. This is a big one! I think eating late is where all this weight as come back. Working late and then coming home to put the girls down to bed at 8, Kelly and I sometimes have dinner within minutes of going to bed. Plus the late night bowl of cereal.

This post is for myself. It's for me to actually write down what I want to do. I need to change and I know I've said it before. I'm sure many of you are rolling your eyes when you read this. Especially my family who knows that I haven't worked a full work week since probably before my pregnancy. (That isn't all true. I've worked a couple)

But I'm ready for a change. And even if I'm not, I can't afford not to be. I don't know why getting to work is so tough. When I get there it's fine. I love seeing my work friends and having some what of a social life outside of babies. But getting out of bed and making it to work is the hard part. I know I may be talking crazy, but I'm even going to try and work on my off days. Nothing big, maybe just 6:30-9:30 or something. I know that's a big jump, so I'm not promising anything... But I figure I should have been doing this ever since Kelly stopped working. With him home and a constant babysitter, I should have been trying to make as much money as possible. If I could go back, I would!

So there you have it. I know my problems and I'm admitting to them! I know what I have to do to get back on track and I hope I have the strength! I have an interview for Back Up Trainer on Monday and I'm going to try my HARDEST to get it. I figure if I get a Back Up position, it may break up my work week and going to work may not be as hard.

Thanks to all that have been supporting me! Family, friends, even those I don't talk to much anymore. It does make me happy to know that there are some people out there that understand what I'm going through. The hardest thing right now for me is to have people judge me. I know I may not be doing the right thing, but I'm not hurting anyone. Bills are getting paid, my family is being fed... I just need to grow up so that my family will still be okay if anything else were to happen.

You are ALL my witnesses!! I've put it out there for all to see. I'm going to change my life! It may not be the easiest thing I have to do, but I HAVE TO DO IT!

Thanks for listening. Sorry if you're bored with my life problems. This post again was more for my benefit. Now I'm going to try and enjoy the next two days as much as possible!! I've got a few chores to do and some birthday presents to buy. But back to work on Sunday!

Sunday, I start my 2011 all over! I'm putting myself back at the starting line!

P.S. I may blog about my progress. Again more for my benefit. Read along if you want, but feel free to just zone me out!

Is it wrong to feel this way?

2011-02-13T15:59:00.001-07:00

Is it wrong to feel so lucky to have these adorable little girls?
Lucky that they were born both healthy and strong?
I love them so very much it's ridiculous! I don't know what I would do without them!

This Video Has It All!

2011-02-03T09:41:00.002-07:00

It was just another typical morning. Happy, happy babies and so talkative. So I decided to get the camera out and see what they would do. I originally wanted to tape them saying "Da Da," which they both do now. The video is of some length and I'm sorry.
But it's got everything!!!

You've got naked chics, "Da Da," sister rivalry, dancing, smiles, and rolling! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. You even get to hear my voice a lot, which isn't the best. Hopefully you'll be able to sit through the whole thing, because it's worth it!
At least I think so!

Mood Change

2011-01-31T22:16:00.002-07:00

It's amazing at what getting out of the house can do. I do think that is part of my problem. I need to actually DO stuff, instead of just sit at home. I think I get too involved with the day to day schedule that it really starts to effect me.

But yesterday Kelly and I had had it. We needed to get out of the house! Luckily my Mom was available and ever so willing to watch the girls, so we planned a last minute Date Night!

We went down to the District to have some dinner and catch a movie. We were finally able to use some gift cards that we got, I don't know... Last Valentine's Day maybe. We ate at Olive Garden and it was probably the best service and food I've ever had there! Then it was off to the movies! Kelly has been dying to see TRON, he was a fan of the 1982 version. I was okay to see it, not jumping up and down. But let me tell you...

BEST MOVIE EVER! (okay, exaggeration... let's say the best I've seen this year!)

The visual/special effects were amazing, but I think I enjoyed the movie so much for it's music! Daft Punk did an amazing job!! The music just HIT you! I don't know what else to say about the movie, except that I loved it and can't wait to see it again!

It was a great night out and even though I missed the girls terribly, it was so nice to get out of the house and have some grown up time. It is really funny how I want/need time away from my girls, but as soon as I leave them, I miss them!!

I'm hoping to have a more positive week. We've got my Dad's Super Bowl Party on Sunday to look forward to and Valentine's Day is coming up! I don't know if Kelly and I will be able to afford Five Alls this year (Our Valentine's Day Tradition - Every Valentine's Day we've been together - 6 years!) Kelly is supposedly getting a Christmas bonus mailed to him since he hasn't been at work. But depending on how nice it is, we'll decide if we can make it out for the holiday! It's always nice to be reminded of the love we have for each other. Not all babies! Plus, Dad & Nancy owe us a babysit! :P

Thanks to all that showed support in my last post! I'm so lucky to have so many caring friends and family! Even if I don't see you every day or haven't talked to you in ages! It means a lot!! Thank you!

Here's to a better Andee!

Worst Week Ever

2011-01-30T10:22:00.002-07:00

I'm sick. Kelly's sick. The girls are sick. What a wonderful week.

However, that isn't the only thing that's made this past week hard. Some of you may already know, but I started taking anti depressants back at the beginning of December. I finally went to my OB and told him I need help. From two babies to a husband out of work, I need some help. And also, let's be honest. I'm depressed. I'll be the first to admit it.

So he started me on Celexa. He wasn't able to prescribe anything too strong since he is an OB and really doesn't specialize in that area. I started taking them right away and within weeks I could see a difference. Only, it was a negative difference. I was feeling worse. I know I know... I can't rely on medication to make me feel 100% happy. But contemplating suicide and having really low moments when I'm on happy pills, that's not right.

Don't worry, I'm alright. After talking to Kelly and some friends, I decided to see my Physician to discuss some options. I went in last week and she made me feel out a couple of sheets. I guess just to see how depressed, anxious I was and if I needed therapy. It was hard to be honest, because I hate admitting that I'm not doing well. I'm supposed to be strong, right? Well I suck at it! That's why I took Kelly. I wanted to make sure the Doctor knew the truth.

They immediately wanted me to stop Celexa and told me that in some cases, these pills can have the opposite effect on you. Which I guess I was one exception. They decided to start me on Wellbutrin which I've tried in the past, but wasn't faithful taking the pills. Luckily my husband and I know have a pill taking time both in the AM and PM because of his anti seizure medication. I swear I feel like we are 80 years old when we pull out all of our pills.

So I started taking them on Tuesday. Hence, the bad week. I'm going through a withdrawal from the Celexa and I won't start feeling the Wellbutrin for awhile. So I'm all sorts of emotions. Plus I've been sick and it hasn't been getting better. It's hard to get better when there are two little babies to take care of. You have to put yourself last. Luckily Kelly, who also feels sick but won't admit it, has been letting me rest. He let me sleep for a couple of hours yesterday and is letting me relax today. I have to get better. We can't afford me not working.

And then more depression comes in. I know most of you won't understand and think I'm just lazy, irresponsible, crazy or over dramatic. But it's hard. It's hard to just get out of bed in the morning, let alone go to work or take care of two babies. I should be strong, right? I need to be strong! Just get up, get to work, take care of my family! Seems simple enough. But it's really hard. I know some of you who read this won't understand and probably won't believe me when I say I'm trying. But I don't know what else to do. I'm trying to make myself happy right now and can't worry about what other people think. I need to focus on me. However selfish that may sound, but I need to get better. Not only for myself but for those adorable baby girls who are counting on me and for a husband out of work.

Worst Week Ever.

{ 8 Months }

2011-01-30T10:05:00.002-07:00

My babies are 8 months old today! I can't believe how fast time flies. It really does once you have kids. They change so much month to month...

Ella Rae

Our content baby. I know I say that every time... but she really is. * However, once she gets mad... step back. * Our dancer. If you haven't seen the video, check two posts back. * Difficult sleeper. She always has been. It's only at night though. She is only one that will fall asleep in her crib at night time. * One of her cheeks is fatter than the other. * Difficult eater. Well, only when her Dad feeds her. She moves a lot so the food gets all over her face aka frustrating Daddy. * She can hold her bottle, but only when she wants to.

Avie Joy

Our singer. She loves to scream, especially early in the morning. * The best sleeper... at night. Once she falls asleep, she stay asleep. However, nap time in the crib isn't her favorite. * Loves to kick. When she lays on her back, she brings her feet into her chest and throws her legs down. It's amazing how strong she is. * Will eat anything. She gets very upset if you don't feed her fast enough. * Biter. She's got two teeth and she knows how to use them. * The thief! Whatever Ella is playing with, even it it's the same thing she has, she will grab it from her sister!

They both:
Suck their thumbs at bedtime or nap time. * Have their bottom two teeth. * Rollers! You put these girls on the floor, you can NOT expect them to stay put for long. As soon as they fall over, they are rolling like crazy. * Animal lovers! They love Kittie, Rosie, Lucas and Simon. And of course, they love to stare at the fish. We've only had 1 bad experience and it was with Kalie's dog, Maggie. I think it's only because they don't know her or see her everyday. * Changing clothes or diapers has become the worst part of the day! They will not sit still and just try to roll over on. Which is really hard when changing diapers! I know it's only going to get worse! * Big Pear, Peas and Green Beans Lovers! * Both are starting to love to cuddle which makes me so happy! * Almost waving... it's coming along. * They both now reach out for you if you want to hold them. * Getting really good at balance. They love sitting on the floor.

The last month has been fun. This last week, not so much since they've been sick. It's hard to see them sick but I know there is more like this coming. I'm excited to see what this next month brings. Crawling maybe? Being able to lift themselves back up after falling?
I don't know!

Best Friends!! Or are they?

Scared to Stop...

2011-01-30T09:32:00.002-07:00

So, I'm thinking it's time to stop nursing. I don't do it often. I'm basically just nursing for their 8 AM feeding and the 8 PM feeding. It's been working well, until recently.

I've been taking anti depressants, which the Doctor says won't harm the girls, I still feel uncomfortable about it. Besides that, my sweet little girls have decided that they like to bite me. Now I don't know if you have ever had that happen... I guess some girls are kinky. But with newborn teeth (kinda like a puppy) it hurts like HELL! I'll be honest. I've really only had a problem with Avie, but Ella is now starting to do it.

I started a trick my friend Leigh told me, but it isn't really working. After they bite, I immediately take them off, sit them down and walk away. But all I get is a screaming baby who ends up doing it again.

So why am I scared? After explaining the above, you would think I would be glad to stop. I guess I'm scared of the pain that comes with stopping. My boobs will get huge and I've heard it is PAINFUL! Plus, will I lose that special bond that I have with the girls? I mean, they probably don't feel it. But I'm wondering if I'll miss it. It's the only thing that I can do that Kelly can't.

I don't know.

Too Early for Another Blog Challenge?

2011-01-28T08:11:00.010-07:00

I'm considering another blog challenge...

My sisters friend Elizabeth, well I consider her my friend too, started a blog challenge not too long ago and it interests me. This blog challenge is a little more personal, really deep topics. So instead of picture after picture, I'd be writing.

I just know that I finished a blog challenge not too long ago and didn't know if people would think I'm going overboard. If anyone even reads my blog anymore...

Hmm. I guess it's something to think about.

Ella = Dancer!!

2011-01-23T15:05:00.002-07:00

My little Ella Rae! We noticed some time ago, that she would dance or wiggle with a certain song on one of her toys. It's a wiggle song that is on their toy mirror thingy. We thought it was funny that she was dancing to that song because it specifically sings about wiggling. Each day, she gets more and more into it and better at it! She has even started doing it to any song or noise! I absolutely love watching it, simply because of her head movements! Her head is so heavy, she just looks so special!! I heart her!!

Big Blue Eyes!!

2011-01-13T11:40:00.002-07:00

I love my big blue eyed baby girls!! My Avie and Ella! Plus those CHEEKS!

They make me so happy!

2011-01-06T17:17:00.004-07:00

I'm in love with these little girls!! Their smiles just light up my life! They've become the best of friends, getting excited every time they see each other.

I've been so worried the last week and a half and I've been going crazy. With Kelly not able to drive for another 3 months, he'll be out of a job. It sucks that he had to have 2 more seizures, but I'm happy they happened when they did. It's a new year, so he qualifies again for disability. That way, we know we are getting money. We may look into some part time work for him so he doesn't have to sit home and go crazy for the next 3 months.

But I look at my girls and I know that everything will be okay. Everything will okay as long as we stick together as a family. Cheesy, right? Along with worrying, I've been super emotional too. I'm even tearing up just writing this. I don't know what I would do without my girls! They make everything worth it! Even working extra hours to make some more cash. I miss them terribly, but this is for them! I want to be the best Mom that I can be!!

LOVE THEM!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 30

2011-01-03T21:31:00.003-07:00

Day 30: Who am I?

I MADE IT!! Day 30!! I can't believe it's been a month. How fast time flies!

I don't know how much I like the last day though... Who Am I?! I honestly don't know if I can even answer that question. I think I'm still trying to find out...

However I would hope that when people think of me, they would say I was:

Kind - Honest - Trustworthy - Fun - Lovable

I hope to be a good mother to my girls and a loving, supporting wife to my husband! They deserve the absolute best from me!!

XOXO

Andee

I guess I can just go back to blogging about my girls! :)

Blog Challenge: Day 29

2011-01-02T07:19:00.003-07:00

Day 29: A picture that can always make you smile

BATH TIME!

I will always smile/laugh when I see my girls in the tub! They are so entertained by the water, it's so cute to see them splash. They especially love taking a bath together! It can get a little slippery and hard to manage 2 at once, we've had a couple of tip overs. But the girls are okay! They are best friends and love being together!!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 28

2011-01-01T20:51:00.003-07:00

Day 28: A picture of yourself last year and now. How have you changed since then?

Sisters and me, December 2009

Okay, so I can't find any recent photos of me. I'm sure Erica and my Dad have some from the holidays, but I haven't gone through them yet. Besides... nowadays, no one really wants to look at me. They want to look at my beautiful little baby girls.

Ella December 2010

Avie December 2010

How have I changed? Well, others may not see it... but I definitely feel different. It's crazy at how much you change when you have kids. I didn't know how selfish of a person I was before then. Okay, well maybe I knew but I was never honest with myself. I mean, I was #1. Not only to myself, but I made sure I was #1 to Kelly. Now, girls are #1. I guess I didn't realize until now, but I never really put anyone else before me. I always looked out for myself. Sounds terrible thinking about it. But now, all I think about is the girls. Yea, I get a little upset here and there because of it, only because it's hard not being able to do what I want whenever I want it.

I would do anything for my girls. There happiness means the world to me!! I'm still adjusting.. I still struggle with some things. Work being one of them. I just get into those moods where I want to stay in bed all day. But I need to realize, that I'm a mother now. I'm a provider. I NEED to work! I started taking some medication about 2 weeks ago, but I think it's make me even more depressed. Plus with Kelly's accidents last weekend, my anxiety has shot through the roof.

A lot has happened in a year, that's for sure. I've learned that you can't take your family for granted. Love and love as much as you can! Grow up and take care of your family! Sleep isn't everything! Everything will be okay as long as you believe it will be!

I'm hoping for a great 2011! The girls will be meeting some fun milestones this year. Crawling, walking, first word, first tooth and I can't wait!! Yea, today wasn't the best day, but 2011 is just getting started. I'm looking forward to see what the year brings!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 27

2010-12-31T15:54:00.002-07:00

Day 27: A picture of something you are afraid of

Death.

I am terrified of death or dying, not just for me... but for my loved ones as well. What am I going to do when my family leaves me? What really happens when you die? Is there a heaven? Is there a hell? Do you come back? Will I see my family again?

I wish I had the answers to these questions. I'm not really religious, I'm more spiritual. I know that there is a higher being and that things happen for a reason, but that's it. I sometimes wish I believed in more, but I figured if I don't 100% agree with everything in a religion, then I shouldn't practice it.

I just know that I'm so scared to die and I don't want to. I don't want to leave my family. I'm nothing without them. I guess I'll just try my best to stay healthy and be here as long as I can!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 26

2010-12-30T20:51:00.002-07:00

Day 26: A picture of something that means a lot to you

No. A deck of cards doesn't mean a lot to me.

But L-O-V-E does!

With 2010 coming to a close, I've taking some time to reflect on the year and it's memories. We had some high times, but we had some lows, some extreme lows. But even when I look back at the heartache, the lose, the worry... I'm reminded of the love that surrounded my family! I'm extremely grateful and lucky to have a family like mine. We stick together during good times and bad. We are always there to catch each other when we fall or to be strong for one another when someone feels weak. I know for sure that I wouldn't, WE wouldn't have been able to get through this year without the love of my family!

Okay 2010... You may have brought me the most wonderful gift, but other than that...

YOU SUCKED!

2011 HERE WE COME!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 25

2010-12-29T19:22:00.004-07:00

Day 25: Freebie!

Okay, so I took this 30 Day Blog Challenge from a friends blog... and on her list, day 24 and 25 said the same thing. Now, I don't know if that was on purpose or mistake. So I thought I would just do a random one! So, I thought I would do...

Day 25: A picture of my favorite movie

I'm a movie freak! I watch way too many...

But one of my favorites, well a couple of my favorites are the Harry Potter movies! I'm in love with them all! I can't believe I've only seen Deathly Hallows once, I need to see it again! Ron Weasley is just so dreamy!! It's mine and Kelly's favorite movie to fall asleep to!

Superbad is SUPER HILARIOUS!! Get it! :)

I remember when this movie came out I did NOT want to see it. I can't really remember why, but it's now one of my favorite movies. I think it's the only comedy that I would be okay with watching over and over and over and over again and not get sick of it's jokes.

But I can't leave out the movie I was named for! THE GOONIES!! It is just pure awesomeness!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 24

2010-12-28T20:18:00.003-07:00

Day 24: A picture of you and a family member

This is me and my nephew Jesse!! I love this little guy... This photo is from my birthday last year! It's probably the only one where I was able to get him to smile with me! I chose this little man, because tomorrow he turns 5!

I can't believe how fast time has past! I remember when Kalie brought him to my apartment in February 2006 after I got my wisdom teeth out! I held this little baby boy who wasn't even 2 months old yet and I apologized for my fat cheeks! Ever since then, I've watched him grow up into such a sweetheart! A little rambunctious at times, but what 5 year old isn't?! He made me tear up when he presented Kalie and Jesse with their Christmas gifts. He was so excited! He had to demonstrate to his father how to use his new fishing chair. Priceless moment!

He is so great with my girls! Always giving them hugs, kisses, and reading them books. He is especially proud that he taught them to suck their thumbs!

To Jesse: HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOMORROW!! I can't believe you're 5! Thank you for feeling our lives with joy and smiles! From transforming into a hot dog to "Ooh! That's gotta hurt!" Thank you for being such a great cousin to my girls! They light up every time they see you!

Love you little man!!!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 22 & 23 / Life Update

2010-12-27T18:30:00.005-07:00

Day 22: A picture that confuses you

I really didn't know what to do on this one, so I just googled "funny confusing pictures." I thought this one was pretty good!

Day 23: A picture of someone you've been the closest with the longest

I've definitely been the closest to my sisters the longest!! They've been with me through thick and thin, even when I was a stupid teenager! Love them!! They were a BIG help this weekend!

I hope everyone had a good Christmas. I'm sorry I didn't blog yesterday... it was a shitty day to be quite honest. Just to bring everyone up to speed. Kelly had 2 seizures yesterday early morning. The first one happened around 1:50 AM, I woke up to it happening. I don't really remember a lot of it, but apparently I was able to grab my glasses, pajama pants, call Erica twice and search for Joe's number to call him for help. They both rushed up to help me, I was too emotional to do anything really. Before Kelly could come to, we made the decision to call 911 to get some help. Kelly came to just as the paramedics arrived. They recommended taking him into the ER and offered me a ride along with them. We weren't there for long. Kelly was feeling good and the doctor just recommended that we contact our Neurologist on Monday for further testing. Amazingly enough, we were in and out of the ER in less then 2 hours.

Both Kelly and I were really emotional and finally went back to sleep around 5 AM only for m to wake up to him having another seizure at around 6 AM. Erica rushed up again to help out, contact emergency inquiring if we should call 911 again, which was recommended. The exact same paramedics came back to pick Kelly up and take him back to the ER, where we stayed until about 11 AM. The doctor we dealt with this time suggested we get him started on medication which strongly agreed with. We've made an appointment to see our Neurologist, next Tuesday so Kelly will be out of work all this week. Hopefully with him now on medication, he'll be back to work next week with the doctors approval. Thankfully his boss is very understanding and is giving him the time off.

It was a very hard thing to witness, especially twice in one night. Props to those who go through this stuff daily. I don't think I could handle it anymore. Seeing someone I love in pain and completely out of it. He would stare at me and wouldn't be there. Like he was staring right through me. It was really hard to sleep last night, because every time Kelly would move or make a noise I would freak out thinking that something was going to happen.

A special shout out to Erica and Joe! Both were in a NyQuil coma, but were both able to help me control the situation. Erica came to pick us up from the ER after the first one, while Joe took care of the babies! Erica then helped me again after the second one and called 911 each time. I don't think I would have been able to make that call. THANK YOU BOTH for being there when I desperately needed you! Also to Kalie and Jesse. Since Erica wasn't feeling well, Kalie came to pick up the girls when we were at the ER the second time, since it was now morning. THANK YOU Kalie and the Jesse boys for taking care of our baby girls when we couldn't.

We are still overwhelmed with the love and support we are receiving from family and friends. We are so grateful to be surrounded by such amazing people. I know that with you guys by our side, we'll be able to get through this, just like last time! I'm anxious for 2011 to get here! 2010 didn't end too well and I'm ready for it to be over!

I hope you all had a good Christmas!!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 21

2010-12-25T12:01:00.002-07:00

Day 21: A picture of something that makes you happy

Here is my beautiful baby girls taking a bath Christmas morning! Erica took some great pictures with her new camera!! Gotta love those faces!

Avie

Ella

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 20

2010-12-24T06:55:00.002-07:00

Day 20: A picture of somewhere you would love to travel

Hawaii!! It drives me nuts that so many people go to Hawaii like it's Disneyland to me! I have friends that go every year! What?! If the flights weren't so freakin' expensive, I'd go! Especially because I could get some good deals at some Marriott's! But I want to one day be able to travel out there and get to experience it! Who doesn't want to get leied!

I would also love to see Ireland! Gotta love all that green!

XOXO
Andee

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Blog Challenge: Day 19

2010-12-23T22:32:00.002-07:00

Day 19: A picture of someone you miss

I miss Barbie! I do!

I miss playing Barbie! She could be whatever you wanted her to be, and did! She was a teacher, an astronaut, a vetrinarian, a flight attendant and more! I miss playing make believe and having fun with your imagination! I miss being a kid!

Now, there isn't any time for imagination. However, I can't wait until the girls are old enough to start playing and goofing around with! I've saved my entire Barbie collection and will be happy to pass it down to them!!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 18

2010-12-22T15:20:00.002-07:00

Day 18: A picture of the cast of your favorite show

I watch way too much T.V.!! But these are the shows that I can't WAIT to see each week!

GLEE! I'm now a huge fan, but only started this season! Erica and I want to buy the first season so I can see it from the beginning. Erica says the first season was much better.

Vampire Diaries!! What can I say? I love vampires and hot men!

So You Think You Can Dance!!! I've watched every season except the first! I love this show!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 17

2010-12-21T13:31:00.005-07:00

Day 17: Your favorite song

My favorite song recently has been Firework by Katy Perry. She sang it live on Ellen about a week ago and I've been in love with it ever since. I really like the lyrics! But the live version she did on Ellen is better than the radio version. It was a slower version, more like a ballad.

Firework

Do you ever feel like a plastic bag,
Drifting through the wind, wanting to start again?
Do you ever feel, feel so paper-thin
Like a house of cards, one blow from caving in?

Do you ever feel already buried deep?
Six feet under screams, but no one seems to hear a thing
Do you know that there's still a chance for you?
'Cause there's a spark in you

You just gotta ignite the light, and let it shine
Just own the night like the Fourth of July

'Cause baby, you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go "ah, ah, ah!"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go "ah, ah, ah!"
You're gonna leave 'em all in awe, awe, awe

You don't have to feel like a waste of space
You're original, cannot be replaced
If you only knew what the future holds
After a hurricane, comes a rainbow

Maybe the reason why all the doors are closed
So you could open one that leads you to the perfect road
Like a lightning bolt, your heart will glow
And when it's time you know

You just gotta ignite the light, and let it shine
Just own the night like the Fourth of July

'Cause baby, you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go "ah, ah, ah!"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go "ah, ah, ah!"
You're gonna leave 'em all in awe, awe, awe

Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
It's always been inside of you, you, you
And now it's time to let it through

'Cause baby, you're a firework
Come on, show 'em what you're worth
Make 'em go "ah, ah, ah!"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go "ah, ah, ah!"
You're gonna leave 'em all in awe, awe, awe

Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 16

2010-12-20T17:20:00.003-07:00

Day 16: A picture of someone you would like to trade places with for a day and why

Well, of course I would switch places with either a singer or an actress... just so I could see what it would feel like to be in the lime light. Plus, I've always loved singing and I'm already a drama queen, so it would be kinda cool to spend the day as a singer or an actress.

Singer choice would be Carrie Underwood! I love her style and her voice is amazing! Not that big of a country fan, but I love her songs!

Actress choice would be Scarlett Johansson. Come on... she is gorgeous! She has like the best body ever, plus a face to die for. I would definitely want to take a day in her place, but if would have to be a past date. I would have loved to get a taste of Ryan Reynolds!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 15

2010-12-19T21:09:00.005-07:00

Day 15: A picture of something you want to do before you die.

Okay, this probably wasn't the best one for me today... I'm having a really down day today! Man, I wish my new medication would start working already. I don't know if I can last 4-6 more weeks!

Be Happy! I wish that before I die, I will be truly happy. Not only with my life, but with myself. I've just been in a funk recently and it seems that my girls are the only thing in my life that brings me joy. Even hanging out with my family isn't what it used to be and I used to love that. Have I changed? Has becoming a mother changed everything? People aren't who they used to be and they treat me a lot different. Sometimes I wish things could just go back to the way they were... but with the girls. I used to be happy, I used to be fun.

But then I guess I will always have my baby girls. They'll have to love me right?! And I guess being a mother has really changed my perspective. My happiness doesn't matter anymore, my girls are what matter! I'd spend the rest of my life unhappy as long as my girls were happy.

They are my whole world.

Okay, enough with the depressing post!! Sorry guys! I really need to pick up my attitude if I'm

going to survive the holidays.

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 14

2010-12-18T16:35:00.003-07:00

Day 14: A picture of someone you couldn't imagine life without.

Well, I guess I'll just have to go with the obvious on some of these! There is no way I could live without my two baby girls!! I love those chubby bald babies!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 13

2010-12-17T19:45:00.005-07:00

Day 13: A picture of something you hate

Well that's easy. I hate spiders. Just like that. I HATE SPIDERS!

I even had to put a picture of a cartoon spider on the post, because there is no way I'm googling real spiders! Even the pictures scare me to death!

Big, small, brown, black... Doesn't matter!! They all must meet the bottom of my shoe or the end of a newspaper! It doesn't help that my husband doesn't believe in killing them either!!

UGH! Die Charlotte, DIE!!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 12

2010-12-16T16:08:00.004-07:00

Day 12: A picture of something you love

Again with the just ONE picture! This blog challenge is harder than I thought.

But once again, I'm going to break the rules and showcase a few things that I love!

But trust me, I love many things!

Sushi! Didn't like the idea of it at first, but now can't get enough!

Sleeping and Dreaming! I guess that's the depression talking... but I love it!

Reality TV! Especially So You Think You Can Dance!

Manicures and Pedicures! I just wish I made enough money to keep up with both!

Christmas with the family!! I can't wait for next week! It's going to be so much fun!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 11

2010-12-15T12:05:00.005-07:00

Day 11: A picture of your celebrity crush

Just one?! There is no way I can pick just one!!

Fine, I'll post my most favorite, because let's face it... I enjoy looking at all of them!!

First you have funny and sexy...

Shia Labeouf

Ashton Kutcher! Recent fan, loved "What Happens in Vegas"

Ryan Reynolds! Love him!!

Then you have mysterious and sexy...

Jude Law!

Clive Owen!

Finally, you have those ones that you would just really want to POUNCE!!

James Marsden, 27 Dresses... OMG!

Robert Pattinson! I'm sorry, I find him sexy!

BUT THE BEST is Johnny Depp!! Amazing and Oh So HOT!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 10

2010-12-14T20:53:00.004-07:00

Day 10: A picture of someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future.

Well, I guess it would have to be this guy! I mean, now that I have kids with him I can't really leave him.. schucks! No, no, no!! He is a great man and a wonderful father!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 9

2010-12-13T17:41:00.004-07:00

Day 9: A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most

This blog challenge is starting to get tough! There isn't just ONE person who has gotten me through the most. There is a BUNCH! But mostly, I'd like to give a shout out to my family! Without my family, Kelly and I would not have made it through 2010!!

They've been there for us through everything this year!! Kelly starting a new job, my pregnancy, the birth of our beautiful girls, Kelly's seizure, everything! They've pulled together and helped Kelly and I through the most exciting and most difficult year of our lives! And for that, I say THANK YOU! from my whole heart! Thank you for the dinners, the diapers, the baby clothes, the hugs and the kisses! Thank you for being the most amazing family in the world!! We couldn't ask for a better family!

WE LOVE YOU GUYS!!!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 8

2010-12-12T19:03:00.004-07:00

Day 8: A picture that makes you laugh

Just more proof that my family is the best and how much fun we can have together!! I love being with them and can't wait for the holidays! Fun Fun FUN!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 7

2010-12-11T19:07:00.004-07:00

Day 7: A picture of someone or something that has the biggest impact on you.

I guess I'll go with the obvious on this one and say that my girls have the biggest impact on me! And even though there can be some days when I just want to yank my hair out, I still love them more than anything!! I couldn't imagine life without my girls!

Happy Holidays from Avie & Ella!!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 6

2010-12-10T15:47:00.003-07:00

Day 6: Picture that shows your true self

Yes. It's true. I am a horse.

XOXO

Andee

-I'm sorry, I really didn't know what to post for this one!

Blog Challenge: Day 5

2010-12-09T20:31:00.002-07:00

Day 5: A Picture of a Place You've Been

ROME, ITALY

I was very fortunate to go on a trip to Europe while I was in school! We saw Barcelona, Nice, Venice, Rome, Florence and Capri! It was amazing! We even stomped at Pompeii! I really wish I would have taken more photos and appreciated it more. I mean, we saw the Colosseum and I barely took any pictures! I mainly just remember the bus rides in between countries and it makes me sad.

I hope to go back some day and really enjoy it! But at least I have some memories!

XOXO
Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 4

2010-12-08T16:30:00.004-07:00

Day 4: A habit you wish you didn't have

JUNK FOOD! OY!

I really wish I didn't want to eat junk food! But man... barbecue chips, chex mix, cookies! They are so good and so easy to buy and eat! Plus, since Kelly's got back to work this week we haven't had one home cooked meal. That's right, Kelly and I both enjoy cooking... but we haven't been doing it lately so it's been fast food. Yuck! It sounds so awesome and might even taste good, but the second it's over it's like... "Why did I do that?"

It's strange... I'm the same weight that I was before I had the girls, but because my body is so different I feel bigger. I had just kinda started getting used to it prior to pregnancy but now it's just so different. I have stopped drinking soda, which is a good thing. I stopped when I found out I was pregnant and just haven't started up again. Sure, I'll have the occasional Root Beer, but I'm stuck on water or Snapple. Plus, I've stopped losing more because I'm not nursing enough. I'm so afraid that when I stop completely I'm just going to balloon up. I bought a Yoga Set, complete with mat, dvd, the works... Have I tried it out yet? Nope! It's still in the wrapping. I mean, I guess I would be okay if I didn't lose weight, but I at least want to tone up my stomach... Having twins left a lot of extra skin that I want gone! Plus I want to get more flexible so I can play with the girls more!

I guess it's a hard habit to break especially during the holidays... I'm not looking forward to the mountains of delicious food and the multiple family parties. I'll have to try to be good!

XOXO
Andee

P.S. Not related to my 30 Day Blog Challenge, but visit my sister's website to see some adorable pictures she took of my girls yesterday!! CLICK HERE We had so much fun!

Blog Challenge: Day 3

2010-12-07T15:05:00.002-07:00

Day 3: A Photo of You and Your Craziest Friend

For this one, I've had to make it plural. Me and my craziest FRIENDS!

It's gotta be these 2 here, my sisters! They are not just my sisters, they are my friends! We always have so much fun together! The guys call us the Clucking Hens when we are together! You should never put us all in the same room together with sugar and a game of Pounce. Watch Out!!

I know this photo isn't recent, it was from my pink birthday last year. But it just shows how much fun we can have together on a trip to Harmon's to grab snacks!

They've been there for me through everything and always seem to put a smile on my face! Love you girls! Shall we have another PINK PARTY? Or how 'bout a Christmas Sweater Party!! Let me know!!

XOXO

Andee

Blog Challenge: Day 2

2010-12-06T15:58:00.003-07:00

Day 2: A Really Good Memory

I could choose the obvious... My wedding day, the birth of my girls. But although both events were very meanigful and ones I'll never forget, I wanted to do something different.

DISNEYLAND!!

Literally my favorite place on earth, especially with family! I love this place... it makes me so happy just being there. I mean, as soon as you walk through the gates and down Main Street you can just feel it... True Happiness! I don't even care about the 45 minute lines or the crowds or the over priced food/souveniors. I will take a 18 hour day in Disneyland over anything else! Sure, we get up at 6 AM and don't get to sleep until around Midnight when we go, but I've had the best of times with my family on Disneyland trips!

I guess I would have to say my most recent BEST Disneyland memory is when we went in March of 2009 with the ENTIRE Snow Family! It was so great to have everyone with us and spend so much time together! It was especially fun to see little Jesse every morning and see how excited he was only being 3 years old! I remember when he started to cry when we were parting ways at the airport at the end of our trip... Such a sweetheart! What else makes the trip memorable? Many many things!! *Corn dogs, Pirates, Turkey Legs, Tower of Terror, People watching, Penny dropping (I still think this is lame), Walking and then STOP, Haunted Mansion.. I could go on! I just L-O-V-E LOVE that place!!

So there you have it, that's my Really Good Memory! Disneyland with my family! Every trip has been memorable and exciting and I can't WAIT for the girls first trip! We'll be able to start memories with them and I just know they'll love it!

XOXO
Andee

Alright, I'm in!

2010-12-05T21:15:00.012-07:00

A few of my friends are doing a 30 day blog challenge and I've decided to join in the fun!

DAY 1: Recent picture and 15 facts about yourself!

Here's us girls on Black Friday waiting in line for Old Navy, Erica taking the picture.

15 Interesting Facts About Andee

1. I'm absolutely terrified of spiders. Even the itty bitty ones... they're out to get me!

2. I've started snoring at night since my pregnancy.

3. I'm a completely different person when I'm at work compared to home.

4. I can roll my tongue twice but can't twirl it.

5. I really regret quiting volleyball... stupid knees!

6. I love to sleep. Sometimes I get so depressed that I would rather dream then face reality.

7. I hate my body and try to hide it with clothing.

8. I still watch Jerry Springer and am now a HUGE Glee fan!

9. I regret not going to college and becoming a teacher. Oh how I wanted to be Miss Andee!

10. I'm petrified that I'm going to screw up Motherhood. I've already failed at nursing!

11. I love my hair short. I love my hair long. I love my hair short. No long.

12. Disneyland is and always will be my FAVORITE place! (Must be with family!)

13. I care way too much about what people think of me.

14. I miss having friends. Girls nights, parties, occasional cocktails.

15. I'm in love with sushi. In love as in I would marry it if I could!

See! Wasn't that fun? I can post about something else other than my girls, right? I'm cool too!

Stay tuned for tomorrow's post, A Really Good Memory! Hmm, I'll have to start thinking...

XOXO

Andee

/ 6 Months \

2010-12-01T15:52:00.003-07:00

Dr appointment went well today. Girls got more shots, which I can never handle. Good thing Kelly was there to hold them down and I'm there to comfort them afterwards. Girls are healthy, chubby and ready for solid foods? Yea, their pediatrician said that we can try things out now that they are 6 months. Crackers, soft fruit, stuff like that. She said that we should allow the girls to enjoy Christmas feast too... mashed potatoes and Jello salad! Yummy! I don't know how I'm going to handle it, I freak thinking that they are going to chock!

I still can't believe that it's been 6 months! I mean, Christmas is only weeks away! Nothing has really changed since my last post, but both girls are starting to enjoy fruits and veggies! Avie is sitting up nicely, but she still tumbles no and then. Ella is having a harder time sitting up, but she's our mover. Whether it's on the play mat or in her crib at night, she will not stay in one place. They aren't crawling yet, however we have seen them scoot backwards on their tummy's, so we're getting there.

I love the picture below. It's almost like Ella is saying, "Hi, this is my friend Avie!"

The girls motor skills are amazing! I'm blown away with how much they learn from observing. They will now grab toys that are tangled or placed in front of them. They move toys from hand to hand to mouth to hand. I took the video below and although it may not seem amusing to others, I love watching it. Just to see their faces and how you can just tell that their minds are going a mile a minute, makes me happy!

We Heart Jumpers!

2010-12-01T15:50:00.005-07:00

The girls are becoming more and more active and I love it!! They always seem so happy, especially in their jumpers! Both of them go crazy with all the toys around them, but they particularly like the jumping part! Avie some times scares me with her bouncing...

( 5 Months )

2010-11-14T09:13:00.012-07:00

So much as happened within the last couple of months! We're still taking it day by day and trying to get through this rough patch. It's definitely easier and more fun when you have two adorable girls by your side! Plus an amazing support system! Family, you know who you are!

MISS AVIE

*Has started to grab and play with her feet while laying down. She has even started to use her feet to grab or hit toys.* *She is in love with her jumper. She's got the bouncing part down! Which leads me to my next...* *Our squealer! When she gets really excited, you'll know. She'll discover a new toy and flip out! I've tried to get it on camera, but like always... they stop as soon as I get it out.* *She's been known to sound like a little man when laughing or talking. It's pretty cute though, we like it!*

MISS ELLA

*Squint nose smile. Don't know where it came from, but it's adorable. I'll get it on camera one of these days.* *Our Mover! In her crib or on the floor, she does not stay in one place.* *Difficult sleeper. And by this I just mean, it is so hard to get her to bed at night. She'll sleep through the night, it's getting her there that's the difficult part.* *Garbage GUT! Which is weird, because she is still the smaller of the two. But she loves to eat! She'll even finish off Avie's bottle if Avie doesn't finish!*

OUR BABY GIRLS

BOTH: *Everything goes in mouth. Blankets, sleeves, toys, necklaces!* *Both are starting to notice our pets. They like watching Kittie and laugh at her. They haven't really laughed at Rosie yet, I think they are just a little stunned.* *Still the biggest Daddy's girls ever! The especially love it when Daddy gives them whisker kisses with his goatee! It makes them giggle!* *Drool, drool, drool! It seems to be getting worse. I'm really wondering if we'll wake up one morning and a tooth with break through. Their clothes are always drenched, sleeves, chins...* *Been seen sucking thumbs pretty hardcore. Avie a little more so. We are still trying to get them to take binkis, but it's not working very well.* *Love to watch T.V. Especially Tom and Jerry! Why, we don't know. But they won't take their eyes off the screen.* *Sleeping through the night ever since about 4 months which is amazing. 8 PM bedtime to 8 AM wake-up! It's been nice, especially having the happiest babies in the morning. I love it!!

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The girls turned 5 months the weekend of Halloween and it was a hectic weekend. We had fun carving pumpkins with the family, trick or treating and just hanging out with the family! We spent Halloween with Dad and Nancy, had some Chinese takeout and had like 5 trick or treaters. The weather was a little crappy, but I was surprised that we didn't have more. I think the whole "trunk or treat" that the church does and other stuff is whats causing trick or treating to die. No matter, I'm determined to take my girls out next year, so have your candy ready!

My work does do a Trick or Treating for the kids and we brought the girls in with their Iron Man cousin Jesse! It was fun! However, the girls fell asleep while we were walking around. I guess it's really tiring when people just hold you and your in a toaster oven costume. They got really heavy to carry, all that dead weight. But Iron Man still had fun and got lots of candy! Jesse is a great cousin, I love how he is with the girls! He's always smothering them in hugs and kisses. He'll be such a fantastic big brother!

Our little butterflies! + Iron Man

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And how are WE with two 5 month old babies? We're still doing good. Since the girls have been sleeping through the night AND me going back to work, my milk supply has severely decreased. I'm trying my best to eliminate stress and drink plenty of water, but it turns out I'm not Super Woman! Producing enough for twins is hard and I applaud those who can do it! Because of the fact, we've introduced formula into the girls daily routine. I'm still pumping and nursing when I'm home, but if the girls need extra we'll had some formula to their bottle. They've gotten so used to it, that we can even just give them straight formula and they'll gobble it right up. The girls are also getting either rice or oatmeal added to their bottles everyday, which has made both of them more regular... really regular! We get a lot of poopy diapers now. The girls like to ruin white onsies/shirts especially!

I'm still working 4 days a week. It's been okay, except for work is extremely busy, which makes it even harder to go. Plus the 9 hour days just seem to drag on forever.

7 AM - Get up and ready by 8AM

8 AM - Wake up the girls, get them fed and dressed

9 AM - Leave for work

7:30 PM - Arrive home. Spend little time with girls

8 PM - Girls fed and put to bed

8:30 PM - Get lunch ready for next day, sometimes have dinner and spend little time with Kelly until it's time for bed.

I HATE work days! I hardly spend any time with Kelly or the girls. But it's slowly getting better. Having Wednesdays off helps break up the week!

Kelly goes back to next month and I'm having major anxiety about it. I know he's been fine, no seizures since the one. But I'm so afraid that they day he decides to get back behind the wheel, it will happen. I just have that mind set. It's like with me... I've never done anything illegal. Because I know when I do, I'll get caught. He, however, is excited to get back into work. He's loved being with the girls, but he's getting a little cabin fever.

But that's it, in a nutshell. We hope everyone is doing great! We're looking forward to spending the holidays with family and the girls first Thanksgiving and Christmas. We'll be celebrating Thanksgiving with my Mom this year, but will most likely going Black Friday shopping with Nancy. She really is the best at it! Don't really know what Christmas plans are yet and if we'll stay the night at Dad's like always since we now have the girls. I think we will though, I mean the girls aren't big enough to really understand it anyways.

Much love to the family! Congrats to all those expecting babies next year! I am SO looking forward to the Snow Reunion in our favorite place next year! Can't wait to see everyone!!

I'll get to it!

2010-11-07T20:56:00.003-07:00

5 months old!

It's been a busy couple of weeks. I'll get to the post! Hopefully before 6 months! I've still got time!

I've done it.

2010-10-25T17:04:00.004-06:00

I've applied. We'll see what happens, whether or not I get an interview.

I don't even know if it was the right thing to do. But then again, not applying didn't seem right either. Ugh!

**See previous post to understand!**

Torn

2010-10-22T16:32:00.005-06:00

I have another opportunity to promote with my job.
And no, Erica... it isn't a BUT position.

In June of this year, Marriott started a new point based system allowing owners to travel to other Marriott Resorts that they don't own through us instead of an exchange company. Because of the new change, we now have Senior Advisors who deal with the enrolled owners. This is the position that I'm thinking about applying for. I mean, this is the direction the company is going. Might as well get on board now, right?

One big draw back.. scheduling! Because it is a new position/new program, it's 40 hours a week including weekends. They aren't offering any part time, job shares or 4 10 hour shifts. So, it's not as flexible as my position now. Especially because I will have to work weekends in order to get a day off during the week to watch the girls. They've mentioned that they may offer more flexible hours and job shares in the future, but I should apply now because they may not be hiring at that time. I guess it will be nice only working 8 hours instead of 9... Call me crazy, but I seem to miss out on so much just because of that extra hour.

I'm just so torn between applying or not. Right now, my team is very flexible and I'm allowed to only work 36 hours a week with a guaranteed day off during the week and also weekends off. Do I give that up? Do I sacrafice my weekends to earn more money? But I don't even know if I'll be making more money! Yes, it is a raise when I get it, but I no longer have the opportunity for unassigned bonuses quarterly.

I HATE THIS!!

But I better make a decision fast. Position closes end of business Monday. Might have to work on a resume and cover letter this weekend, just in case.

Video Post!

2010-10-17T10:37:00.008-06:00

We introduced rice cereal a couple of weeks ago and it went over okay... I followed the directions on the box for "Babies First Feeding" and it ended up being very runny. We were able to get some in their mouths, but not too much! Here is a short video of how it went down.

Second we introduced the new motion activity jumpers!! Grandma Karla spoiled us and the girls and bought one for each of them! We put them both in for the first time this morning and shot the videos below. Ella really started to like it once she threw her body forward and found the toys but Avie just wanted to sit back and relax! I love how she refuses to look at the camera. I think she is telling me that she's upset I took her swing away! Poor Avie!

And yes, I say suck its in the first video. We are referring to their little blankies. I know, it's a terrible name... but that's all they do, suck on them. So it kinda stuck! Sorry! I think they call them tag blankets or something...

After filming the first video, Ella really started to bounce and enjoy herself! I caught that on camera, however Avie was done. She wanted out! She ended up falling asleep in Daddy's arms as soon as he took her out. Maybe we'll try again after her nap! They need to grow just a tiny bit more so both of their feet will touch the ground! It's so cute to watch though!

Ella's First Giggles!

2010-10-08T16:37:00.005-06:00

Erica and I were playing with Ella and we started to hear some small giggles! So we ran for the camera and got this video!! Sorry about the noises I'm making, she seemed to like it!! I can't wait for Avie to join in, then this can be a regular thing!

{ 4 Month Stats }

2010-09-29T16:11:00.005-06:00

Avie

13 lbs 9 oz - 51%

24 inches - 42%

Head 16.5 inches - 79%

Ella

13 lbs 3 oz - 42%

24.5 inches - 62%

Head 16.3 inches - 67%

More vaccinations today and even Kelly and I joined in! The pediatrician recommended, that since the girls are not allowed to get their flu shots because they are under 6 months, that Kelly and I get ours. Kelly wasn't too thrilled about it, never having got a flu shot before. Plus he's all "my body can heal itself" thing.. not taking any pills for anything. But he was willing to do it for the girls. So all 4 of us left with our dinosaur band aids!

Dr Lynch is very impressed with the girls size and strength! She has even given us the green light to start solid foods, rice cereal first! I'm always pleased to hear that the girls are great size! I get so nervous that I'm not producing and they aren't eating enough. But their pot bellies and thunder thighs prove otherwise! I think we'll test out rice cereal this weekend! Can't wait to see how that goes!

We also were told something that we kinda already knew. Dr Lynch classifies Avie's behavior as an "intense baby." Meaning, she's very intense no matter what the emotion. Happy, sad, hungry.. all intense. She said that our parenting will have to be a little different with Avie. It's going to be hard to handle two different personalities and two different parenting, but we'll try our hardest! We mentioned to the doctor about the girls recent fussiness. She doesn't think it's colic, she's leaning more on my diet. She says that dairy, wheat and eggs can be bad for the babies. She's recommend that I stop one for 2 weeks and see if it makes a difference. If it has then we'll know what the problem was. If it hasn't, try eliminating something else. First, I'm going to eliminate wheat. Even though I love cereal, wheat has been what I eat most of lately. So starting today, no more wheat... for 2 weeks! Let's see what it does!

It's crazy to think about how big the girls are getting with every milestone they pass. Tonight will be the first night sleeping in their OWN cribs! I'm having a hard time with it, because I want them to stay together. But for the past couple of nights Ella has moved so much that they run into each other and wake up. We're also going to try a new swaddle blanket that my Dad and Nancy bought us. The girls haven't liked being swaddled in the past, but we tried it today for one of their naps and it worked beautifully! Hopefully being snug, warm and free to roll will allow them to sleep through the entire night!! Can't wait for those days! They were doing really good for awhile. Getting to bed around 9/9:30 and then waking me up at 6 AM. But for the past couple of nights, they've woken up at 3 AM and 6 AM. Not so much fun!

How are we doing? Well, Kelly's on disability until December or whenever his neurologist clears him to go back to work. So for right now, Kelly is on his maternity leave. He's staying home with the girls, cleaning house and cooking dinner and doing a great job! It's nice to come home from a 9 hour day to have dinner ready! Work for me has been okay. The first couple of weeks, I wasn't on the phone since I didn't have access. So the days kinda dragged. It's getting better though. I just hate being gone all day. I'm leave right when the girls are waking up and get home just an hour before bedtime. But, it's what has to happen for now. Once Kelly gets back into work, I'm going to look more for a job share and maybe shorten my work week if we can afford it.

I'm not going to lie. The last week or so has been really hard. I've wanted to just get up and leave so many times, just escape somewhere by myself! With having two babies, it seems like one of them is always crying. Thankfully, Kalie watched the girls for a bit last Saturday so Kelly and I were able to go have dinner together. It may have only been for a couple of hours, but it was nice. I had the 24 hour flu yesterday and it was hard to take care of myself, when the girls needed tending to. Definitely have to get used to that... no more time for me thing.

But things are going okay! We're managing to get through with the help of our family and friends. Everyone has been so amazing the last month, I can't thank them enough. We'll see how things go the next couple of months. We figure, as long as we have 2 healthy little girls, we can get through anything!

Hope all is well! Love to all!

I'M IN LOVE!!

2010-09-21T16:27:00.004-06:00

- 4 Months Old -

2010-09-19T20:19:00.009-06:00

Ella

-Definitely the talkative one! Lots of Ooh's and Aah's!

-Getting better at taking a bottle now that I'm back to work.

-She's even becoming more regular, which is a good thing.

-Fascinated with Avie. She loves staring at her.

-Loves to suck on her pointer and middle finger.

-She hardly ever performs for the camera, just like her Dad!

Avie

-Loves the camera!! Stares at it whenever it's in my hand.

-Loves to suck on her fists.

-Drama Queen!! She has this fake cry, I'll have to try and tape it. It's hilarious!

-One of the happiest babies in the morning!

-She's starting to get her voice, slowly.

They both:

-Drool and blow bubbles constantly!

-LOVE sucking on their clothes, blankets and hands. Their clothes are drenched!

-Both have a very firm grip. Be careful with earrings and long hair!

-Starting to notice each other more. They stare at each other and smile.

-Sleeping better at night! We've even had a few all nighters!

-Enjoy the outdoors! They love the sounds and looking at the trees.

-Wearing 3-6 months clothes. We still have a few 0-3 months, but they're tight!

It's been really hard to get back into work with the girls getting bigger! They are so much fun to be around whether they are cooing back at you or just sucking on their blankets! I love being with them! I can't wait to hear those giggles for the first time!! We're working on getting them stronger so they can be sitting by themselves soon! Ella has a flat spot on the right side of her head, so we're trying to work on that. Having more tummy time and moving her head while she's sleeping. Tummy time is getting better. The girls can last longer before getting frustrated and they are rolling over more! It's definitely been a rough couple of weeks, but seeing their smiles in the mornings make it all worth it!

LOVE the video below! We were able to tape Ella talking and smiling! Avie just stares at the camera the whole time and even leans in for some close ups!

Tummy Time - Video Post

2010-09-13T10:58:00.008-06:00

Erica came up to say Hi to the girls last night and to see what we were up to! I had just got done feeding them, so Erica recommended some much needed tummy time and shot these short videos for us.

Video # 1: Avie does well on tummy time! She even rolls over!

Video # 2: Ella joins in the fun, but Avie starts to get frustrated. While we find Avie's cries of frustration funny, Ella rolls over.

Video # 3: Avie's really frustrated and Ella soon joins her! I'm sorry, but I find their little cries hilarious. But it's sad, because you can tell they are really frustrated.

Scared, Worried, Lost, Etc.

2010-09-09T18:20:00.006-06:00

For those of you that do not know, Kelly had a seizure on Monday, during a BBQ we were having over at my sister Kalie's.

It was by far the scariest moment in my life and it all happened so fast. Kelly followed me into Kalie's spare bedroom to hang out with me while I nursed the girls and shortly after he laid down on the floor, it happened. I couldn't do anything... I couldn't move or reach him unless I wanted to drop the babies. The next thing I knew, I was screaming for help and everyone was running into the room. Mom was able to grab the twins and Erica tried to calm me down. Calming down wasn't happening, so Kalie decided to move me into the living room, but I collapsed in the hallway. All I could hear was my step dad saying that Kelly was bleeding because he bit his tongue and he was trying to swallow it. The actual seizure lasted about 45 seconds but Kelly didn't come around until the paramedics arrived about 10-15 minutes later. He doesn't even remember my step dad or Joe talking to him.

You can't imagine... Seeing a loved one in pain, hurting and you can't help them. I felt so helpless. I can't stop replaying it in my head... But as terrible the situation was, it couldn't have happened at a better time or place. Like I said, he was already on the floor, so he didn't fall. The room was pretty empty so he didn't run into anything or hit anything. Plus we had the entire family there, so there was enough people to tend to him, me and the babies.

The paramedics took Kelly to Emergency by fire truck and they didn't have any room for me. So as I was histerical, Kalie took my car and followed them to IMC. The paramedics took the LONG way to the hospital, so I knew he was okay. They even had him call me on the way there, just to say Hi. When we got there, Kelly had a CT Scan, EKG and blood work done. Everything came back normal. So what did this mean? What happened? They didn't know. They kept us there for awhile and gave Kelly some medication and recommended meeting with a neurologist for follow up. We didn't get home until about 1AM Tuesday morning and the girls ended up staying with my Mother. As much as we missed them and just wanted to be with them, we needed to get some rest, Kelly mostly.

We met with a neurologist this morning and he has ordered an EEG and a MRI for Monday afternoon. Hopefully it will tell us something, but the neurologist isn't optimistic. He says that 99% of the time, we don't know why people have seizures. Great! But what happens now? The neurologist informed us that by state law, Kelly is not allowed to drive a car for 3 months. He is also to avoid heights, swimming and bathing. Obviously this means that working as a bill poster with Reagan is out of the question for the next little while. However, the Dr is optimistic that after the 90 days, if Kelly is seizure free he'll be able to get back to his job and Reagan is holding his position for him. In the mean time, he may see about going back to Ream's, maybe joining the stock crew or something. We also need to decide whether or not to put Kelly on medication. The only thing is, is if you start the medication you have to take it for the rest of your life. Taking it and then stopping could lead to a seizure. The Dr recommends that if the tests on Monday show nothing, we should wait the 90 days and if Kelly doesn't have another seizure than he won't get on the medication. However if he does, he should definitely take some. What? Another seizure? I don't want to see that!

Scared, Worried, Lost, Etc... Thankfully we have an amazing support system at home. THANK YOU FAMILY for always being there for us! I'll keep everyone posted as to his test results and where we go from here. I hope all is well!

3 Months Old

2010-09-03T19:27:00.019-06:00

Alright, I know I promised this post a week ago and the girls are technically 14 weeks on Sunday... but better late then never, right?!

Ella

aka Ella Rella, Ella Bella, Ella Bear

Weight: 11 lbs 5 oz - 40%

Height: 22.5 in - 31%

-The mellow one. However, when she gest mad... enter high pitch screech. Yikes!

-The gassy one... she stinks, really bad!

-She is the lower lip queen!

-She isn't a big fan of the play mat, she cries once you set her down.

-Daddy's girl BIG TIME! She lights up whenever she is with him.

-Loves her tongue. It's constantly sticking out.

Avie

aka Avie Bug, Avie Baby, Chubs

Weight: 11 lbs 14 oz - 55%

Height: 22.5 in - 31%

-Miss Fuss! She is definitely the feisty one.

-She smiles the most and they are big smiles.

-Has been seen sucking her thumb.

-Absolutely loves the crib mobile. She gets so excited!

-She likes to play, very active on the play mat.

-Erica's BFF!

They both LOVE:

* Bath time * Being held and loved * Mornings * Clean diapers * Their swings * Car rides, as long as the car is constantly moving * Standing up, stretching *

They both HATE:

* Pacifiers * Being swaddled * Having their ears cleaned and boogers sucked * Being in their car seats and not moving * Being ignored *

LOVE MY BABY GIRLS!

To see more photos of their 3 months, check out my Facebook.

Not a my friend on Facebook? What's wrong with you!

Record Breaking Night!

2010-08-22T08:45:00.004-06:00

Yesterday was quite a day with our multi family yard sale! I was so beat and really need a good night sleep! Well, the girls must have known that because they slept the longest they ever have last night!

I put the girls to bed around 8:30 and surprisingly they fell asleep around 9. I, however, wasn't able to fall asleep until around 10:30. But the girls didn't wake up until 4:30 AM for a feeding!! Did you count that? They slept for 7 1/2 hours!!! It was incredible! What was even more incredible, was that I woke up right before they started to cry. Why do you ask? Let's just say I REALLY needed to nurse and that I was even able to pump 8 oz after I fed them! Yea, it was nuts!

After feeding them and pumping, I was able to get to sleep around 5 AM and the girls woke my up at around 7:30 AM, the usual time. I don't know if you've been calculating... but I was able to get 6 hours of sleep the first time and an extra 2 1/2 hours of sleep after feeding them! 8 1/2 hours of sleep!! And I NEEDED IT! Thanks girls for being so great!

Speaking of sleeping... Let's talk swaddling. Who does it? How does it benefit you? My Mom picked us up some swaddle blankets with the Velcro and everything.. I've heard great things from other mothers that use them, but my girls HATE being wrapped up tight. They are dying to get free. So we just lay them in the cribs... They seem to like being able to move around and have their hands free. So, should I still try to swaddle them? Will it help them sleep longer? I'm open to anyone's thoughts or suggestions!

I'll be posting again later today or maybe tomorrow... The girls are 3 months today!! SO CRAZY! We went to their Dr appt last week and I'm gonna post about it. I just want to get some cute pictures taken first!

Much love!

Job Situation

2010-08-16T20:29:00.006-06:00

Yup... it's about that time!

Right after Labor Day, I'm back to work. I know some of you have heard that I was trying to work out what is considered a "job share," but that fell through. Unfortunately no one was available or wanted to do one...

So where does that leave me? Well in order to maintain full time status, which is my only option, I have to work at least 35 hours. Now, most managers like you to work the full 40, but my manager is willing to work with me. He is allowing me to work 4 days a week, 9 hour days as long as I keep up with my book of business. That's easy! I worked 25-30 hours while I was pregnant and did a better job than those working 40+ hours! It's true! I may not work that much, but I'm good at what I do!

But yea... 4 days a week, 9 hour days! It's going to be so hard to get used to. All in all I think it will be really good for me. Not only could we use the extra money, but I'm going to need "adult" time. Get away from all the chaos that is feeding, diapers and screams! I've set it up so that I will work Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday! I thought having every Wednesday off would break up my week. Mondays I'll open, 6:30 am - 4 pm and the rest I'll close 9:30 am - 7 pm. The hours might not be my favorite, but it works around Kelly's schedule too. It's going to be weird going back after so long. Especially because they've done a lot of changes while I've been gone. Luckily I won't have to jump right on the phones. I'll just have to get back into the swing of things fast... and find a quiet place where I can pump. That's going to be weird!! Plus, I'll have to stock my filing cabinet with food, since I eat like crazy while nursing! I'd rather have a stock than raid the vending machines or go for fast food!

I'm lucky enough to have family willing and wanting to watch the girls for us! Erica offered to take them maybe once or twice a month on her Monday's off and then my Mom offered to take the rest! She is even willing to take them all 4 days if I need her. Not only is she going to be our primary babysitter, but she has also offered to come here, to our house to watch them! She likes the idea that everything she would need is right here and she has even offered to clean and maybe cook sometimes for us. I know! Amazing right?! I honestly don't know what we would do without her! Plus we have other aunts and grandparents that could take a day here and there! We will probably get the girls into a day care sooner rather than later... but I'm thinking for the first year, we'll take advantage of the free and loving day care!! I still feel bad though... leaving 2 babies with someone is a lot harder than leaving one!

As disappointed as I am that we can't afford me to be a stay at home Mom, I'm looking at this as a positive situation! Even though I've loved the last 12 weeks, I've been going a little crazy couped up in the house. This will be good! It will be good, it just has to! Right?! Let's see if I'll still be saying that in October!

Hope all is going well with everyone! Much love!!

The Twin Switch

2010-08-11T10:41:00.005-06:00

I call it "The Twin Switch."

I don't know if all parents of twins experience it, but it's a daily thing here with our girls. "The Twin Switch" happens when one baby stops crying, the other starts. And it just goes on and on. It's pretty funny but can get irritating.

Last night for an example. Both girls were in their swings and Ella starts crying. She goes on for about 5 minutes and then finally settles down. As soon as she stops, Avie starts. And it just goes back and forth!

Ah, the joys of having twins!

Scale Experiment

2010-08-05T11:33:00.006-06:00

I used Erica's scale today just to see if I could get a weight on the girls. The scale still didn't pick them up by themselves, so I helped them out! After weighing myself, I held each baby one at a time and got back on. The results took me by surprise! Now it's probably not the exact total, but this is what we got.

Ella - between 9 and 10 lbs

Avie - between 10 and 11 lbs

I really wasn't expecting that! For some reason when I brought them home at 4 and 5 lbs, I thought 10 lbs was going to be huge! But that makes me happy! My Dr said that they should be gaining about 1/2 lb each week so they're just about perfect from their last weigh in!

My favorite part is their chubby cheeks, their cankels and the rolls of fat on their thighs! Adorable! Even Ella is starting to catch up to her sister! But with Avie, you can tell she weighs more just by picking her up! I can't wait to take them to their appointment on the 18th and see how much they've grown!

Love my girls!

Night Time Feedings

2010-08-03T14:35:00.009-06:00

So I've mentioned in the past trying to give the girls formula at night so that I will have a time to pump and store the milk.

The first night we did it, we gave the girls 2 oz of formula and 1 oz breast milk. They did great, but it didn't really make a huge difference. Girls woke up exactly 3 hours later to eat again. The second night we tried it the girls would not drink, same with the 3rd night. So we decided to take a step back. Obviously 2 oz of formula was too much to start off. So Monday we started giving the girls 2 oz breast milk and 1 oz formula. It's been working great!! The girls are eating the entire bottle and are sleeping better! We start feeding them around 8:30 and they finish around 9. Bottle feeding the girls takes awhile. The girls are still awake, but we put them in their crib. As hard as it is, we allow them to cry themselves to sleep which can take up to 30 minutes. So they get to sleep at least by 10 pm and they don't wake me up until 2 am for the next feeding! Then after that, 6 am! It's been nice! I've been getting some great sleep! I hope I'm not jinxing it, but 3 nights in a row... YES!

We plan on continuing this until next week and then we'll try to increase the formula, 2 oz of formula/1 oz breast milk. Then give that a week, then maybe we can go all formula and no breast milk. Hopefully that will work and I'll get a good milk storage!

It's been a challenge, but we're working at it! The girls are doing great and I hope

that in the next 4 weeks, we'll make even more progress!

[ 8 Weeks Old ]

2010-07-28T15:37:00.020-06:00

It's amazing at how fast time goes and how much they grow. Both girls are doing well with lifting their heads and are becoming more aware of their hands. They are even starting to smile, which I can't get enough of!

How are we doing? Okay I guess!

The girls are staying awake more, but it's in the later part of the afternoon and into the evening. Which is okay. We're wanting to start putting the girls to bed around 8 or 9 and if they aren't tired, we just let them cry in their cribs. They have to learn it's bedtime!

Nursing is getting a lot better, it doesn't hurt anymore. However, I'm finding it hard to "pump and store" for when I go back to work. When you are feeding two babies, you don't really have any left over! So we've tried giving the girls formula at night, allowing me to start storing milk for when I go back to work. The girls seem to like it. I mean, they eat it and don't have any spit ups. However, I think it's giving them tummy aches. They've been extra fussy lately and have had a lot of gas. Let me tell you, I never knew something so small and adorable could smell so bad!! I'm hoping they'll just get used to the formula... because I need that time to store milk. We're even added some breast milk to the bottle to help.

We had a great time in Pine Valley and it was great to see the family! But it's back to reality and trying to get the girls on a better schedule. Their 2 month appointment isn't until August 18th, which they'll almost be 3 months old! I'm trying to see if they have any cancellations for something sooner. I can't wait to see how much they've grown and talk to their pediatrician!

Until next time...

P.S. Like the blog makeover? I have to admit I stole the concept from my cousin Rochelle! I hope she doesn't mind! I just wanted to be able to post bigger pictures, because let's face it... My girls are adorable and deserve to take up the entire screen!

See the resemblance?

2010-07-25T23:07:00.009-06:00

We've discovered that Ella looks more like my sister Erica did when she was little than me, her own mother!! Here I put in 36 weeks of pregnancy, all the work and Erica gets the glory!

Whatever!

Erica

Ella

- Identical!! -

2010-07-18T13:18:00.009-06:00

Monochorionic twins generally have two amniotic sacs (called Monochorionic-Diamniotic "MoDi"), which occurs in 60–70% of the pregnancies with monozygotic twins (identical twins) . Monochorionic-Diamniotic twins are almost always monozygotic, with a few exceptions where the blastocysts have fused.

Make sense? I had to look up almost every other word! But in the long run it means identical twins in two separate sacs. That's what my Dr told my last Friday when I went in for my 6 week postpartum appointment. So there you have it... Identical! How sure are we? My Dr says he is about 90% sure that they are MoDi. Is that good enough for me? Yes, yes it is! Why?

Because I'm sick of having the "Um, I don't know!" face when people ask me. "How do you NOT know?" or "Well were they in one or two sacs?" are the responses I always get from people. And I really hate going into the whole "well this doctor said one thing and another doctor said this etc etc..." Because people don't care what the doctors say. As soon as I mention that they were in 2 sacs, everyone snaps back.. "Well then they are fraternal." So I'm just done. I'm gonna stick with my doctor! We may have the girls tested later, but for now.. Identical!

The rest of the appointment went well. My incision has healed nicely and Dr Kaelberer says I look great! I'm actually 3 lbs lighter than what I was before I got pregnant!! Who knew? I had to get pregnant with twins to lose weight. He also said that if I continue to nurse, the weight will continue to drop. Of course I have to eat healthy and try to get some exercise. Which I'm going to really try to start doing!

My body type/shape has completely changed since I've had the girls. I now have way bigger boobs and my stomach hasn't tightened just yet. So yes, my stomach is just loose skin that hangs, mega gross!! So none of my pre pregnancy clothes fit or look good on me anymore! It's very frustrating! However, Erica, Kalie and I did hit up Kohl's the other day and they helped me pick out a few new shirts to compliment my new shape! It was a lot of fun! I'm hoping to just keep losing and getting more active so that I'll be able to keep up with these girls...

Our next stop will be the girls 2 month appointment, which is just around the corner! They'll be 8 weeks next Sunday, CRAZY!! I'm very excited to see how much weight they've gained! Hopefully nursing has been enough!

But before their 2 month appointment, we've got Pine Valley over the 24th with my family! Oh I'm so excited!! This is going to be a much needed 4 day weekend! Kelly and I plan on leaving late Wednesday night so we can have at least 3 full days before coming home on Sunday. I'm also excited to see all of the family! Pine Valley is another world! I have so many great memories from childhood and now as an adult! It's a Snow Family Tradition for the 24th of July and I'm happy to continue the tradition with our small family! The girls may not be able to participate in the races this year, but we'll have fun anyways!

SUPER EXCITED for this next weekend!! I'll be seeing most of you soon. But for the rest, have a Happy 24th!!

I want them BACK!

2010-07-10T14:18:00.007-06:00

I want my boobs back. That's right, my boobs! T.M.I? Sorry it's how I feel. They are no longer just eye candy. :)

Nowadays, they aren't mine. They belong to the girls. Don't get me wrong, I love my girls and I don't blame them. I just don't like the pain. The cracked nipples, poor latches, engorgement! Will it get better as they get older or worse? Getting older means a better understanding and better latching... however, doesn't that also mean more pain? And what about when they start getting teeth. OMG! I hate thinking about it.

I know I should NEVER wish for the girls to be bigger, because I will regret it. They'll end up growing up too fast. But when can I start with rice cereal? 4-6 months? How long do you nurse? Until about 12 months? I haven't even been doing this for 2 full months and I'm already complaining. Please don't think ill of me... I shouldn't be selfish! My girls need me! And if nursing is the best thing for them... then I'll deal through my problems.

Thank God for the pump. At least I can get a break every once in awhile. My next obstacle is to start pumping and saving for when I go back to work. Because I'm feeding two girls at once, the only time I can pump is after the feedings. However, it's not that much because the girls pretty much take it all. That's my biggest worry right now. Going back to work. Will I still be waking up 3 times a night to feed them? Will I have enough milk to start? Will I be able to pump at work? So much to worry about!!

Alright, I'm done complaining. Sorry about the personal post. I just had to get it off my chest. Ha Ha, CHEST!! :)

| 1 Month Old |

2010-06-27T14:57:00.008-06:00

Avie and Ella

Can you believe it? Our precious baby girls are already 1 month old! And what a month it has been...

It's been hard, I won't lie. But there has been so good times as well. The girls sleeping schedule is still backwards. Sleep all day, awake all night. I've been trying to keep them awake more during the day, but that's better said than done. I don't know how other Moms with twins do it. It's really hard to handle two babies at once. But I'm trying. They also like to take turns as far as who is going to be the pain of the evening. Avie will wake up every 3 hours with Ella sound asleep, but then the next time it will be reversed. I feel so bad for the sleeping baby, waking them up to eat. But gotta keep them on the same eating schedule.

Their eating schedule seems to be the only thing that I've mastered. They are both starting to eat better and I think they are going through a growth spurt. They no longer eat every 4 hours, but every 2-3 hours. In the beginning, I had designated one side to a baby for nursing. They just seemed to favor one side. Avie latches on really well and is an excellent eater but Ella has a little harder time with nursing, she doesn't have the best latch. But I'm trying to work on that. Not only for her sake, but for mine... Can you say OUCH! However, I'm now starting to alternate. It's been hard with the difference in milk supply, but we'll get there. Both are gaining weight, so that's a good thing!! I'm not sure how much Ella is now. She weighed 6lbs 1oz at her 2 week appt and seems to be getting bigger. Avie was 7lbs 4oz when we saw the Dr last Thursday. She is a chunk!! But they are both still so small. I have no idea what I'm gonna do when they get bigger like 10 lbs each. It will be weird.

They are both so different! Avie loves to cuddle, she always has to be held. Ella is more independent, but still likes the occasional cuddle. Ella's cry is screeching death, while Avie's is deeper. Both girls like to pee on you when you change their diapers or right when you put on a clean one. Ella doesn't like to have messy diapers often and it worries me. However she has plenty of wet ones so she isn't dehydrated. Kalie loves to help out! Ella enjoys it when Kalie rubs her stomach.

I'm hoping that the next month is better. We'll be working on their sleeping schedules and perfecting nursing. We'll be headed down to Pine Valley with family over the 24th of July and I can't wait. I just hope we make some progress before we go down.

I've ordered some books online... one to help with the sleeping schedule and then one for help nursing and more. I can't wait until they can be more alert so it's easier to keep them awake during the day.

Let's see what the next month brings!!

Primary Children's Visit

2010-06-24T15:56:00.004-06:00

Our little Avie Bug...

Avie had a Dr appointment this morning to double check a heart murmur that they noticed at last weeks visit. Our pediatrician was still hearing her heart murmur and was seeing some heavy breathing. So to be on the cautious side, she sent us up to Primary Children's Hospital.

3 hours later and after an Echo, Xray and ECG... The Dr told us that Avie is perfectly healthy! I'm so glad that I was in panic mode, witnessing my little girl go through test after test to find out that she is okay.

What IS wrong?! Well, the Dr wrote down the technical term, but I'll have to explain it anyways. It turns out that Avie's pulmonary artery is narrow, so it makes a sound when the blood runs through it. The Dr said it's common in preemies and that 99% of the time, it fixes on it's own. She also has a valve that is a little bigger than normal in the right side of her heart. But Dr says that 95% of babies with this problem, it fixes itself within the first year.

So that's the plan... Go back up to Primary's when Avie is a year old. But until then, she's perfect! All I know is that I do NOT want to have another day like today!!

Worst part of today! Conversation with a mother in radiology.

Woman: Your daughter is beautiful. What is she here for?

Me: We are checking on her heart murmur.

Woman: Really? That's what my son had. He ended up having a heart transplant a few weeks ago.. He's 4 months old.

Me: [ mouth wide open... hands start shaking... PANIC ]

THANK YOU stranger! Why don't you choose your words a little more wisely when talking to a new mother!

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T21:01:00.005-06:00

Today was a beautiful day!!

It didn't start out wonderful... the girls didn't have the best night last night. They weren't fussy, they just didn't seem to want to sleep. Typical!

But even with little sleep, Kelly was able to enjoy his first Father's Day! Yard work, which is his favorite and then celebrating over at Dad's house for a BBQ! It was so nice to get out of the house. It's really the first time I've done something since I've had the girls... which is sad to say, because they are 3 weeks old today! Crazy, right?

The girls enjoyed the sun and I was able to snap a few photos with the help of the family!

Happy Father's Day!!

First Family Photo

Our Girls, Ella & Avie!

The proud parents!

Ella (our turtle)

Avie (our frog)

Loved by Grandma and Grandpa!

Photos?!

2010-06-19T16:09:00.003-06:00

I'm a terrible mother! I never take photos of the girls... but I hope to start going picture crazy this week.

I don't want to miss out on any photo ops! Especially because the girls are already growing up so fast! We've moved on to newborn diapers! Bye Bye Premies!!

I don't know where the camera is... or else I'd put up a few candids. But tomorrow is Father's Day, our first!! I promise I'll go camera crazy and post some pictures soon!

Hope all is well! Love to all!!

Girl Buzz

2010-06-13T17:27:00.002-06:00

Today I allowed Erica to buzz the girls heads...

Yup, my girls now look like cancer patients. It was really hard to watch and even harder now to see them bald. I was really afraid that it would hurt the girls, but Erica did a great job. It actually put both of them to sleep.

Why on earth did we do this? With Erica being an amazing hairstylists, she is in the "know." Buzzing the girls hair off will now allow it to grow in evenly and possibly thicker. Was it so wrong of me to do this? I don't think so. The girls were already starting to lose some of their hair, which newborns tend to do. They'll just need to wear some headbands and bows for the next 6 months. No worries! Kalie and Erica made plenty of those! Plus I have Erica's guarantee that this is going to work. If it doesn't, Erica swore to buy them wigs for the rest of their lives and that I can hate her for all eternity. I trust her... It's just sad to see my girls with no hair!

I know many of you who read this will think I'm crazy and wonder how the hell I could do something like this to my little baby girls. I'm taking a chance! With how thin my hair is and non existent KJ's is, I'm willing to do whatever it takes to help my girls grow thicker, more even hair!

Call me crazy... wouldn't be the first time.

one step at a time

2010-06-11T12:07:00.002-06:00

What a difference a day makes...

It's been a roller coaster of emotions lately, but I can see the light. I know that it's still going to have it's down moments, but I think I'm ready for it.

What have I done differently? Well, I've actually started to sleep when the girls are sleeping. If not sleep, I rest... take it easy with just laying on the couch and catching up on my Boy Meets World episodes. It's been really easy to rest with my Mom here with me this week. She's been handling all of the cooking and cleaning, which has been so helpful!

I've also made the decision to nurse for the night time, early morning feedings. I've been pumping and then bottle feeding the girls at night with Kelly, but they just didn't seem to like it. They would fuss more, not go back to sleep and it would frustrate both Kelly and I. With me nursing at night, they seem to get more of the comfort feel. Also, I haven't had to wake Kelly up for his help the past 2 nights, which means he has been getting 6-7 hours of solid sleep. I can't believe how happy that makes me. I didn't realize how important that was to me until it happened. Kelly is working 10-12 hours a day and it's hard labor. He's out there providing for our little family. I think because of that, I can handle the night shift alone.

We are also trying to change the girls awake/sleep schedule. We've kept them in as much light as possible during the day and no light at night. We've also stopped bundling them up all tight during the day, saving that for a night time comfort. TUMMY TIME!! More and more of tummy time each day. If you read my Facebook status yesterday, you will know that Ella rolled over yesterday, from tummy to back. Avie is getting really close. Both girls love sticking their butts in the air as well as pushing their heads with their arms. It's amazing at how much they learn... Better enjoy them this small, because people are right. They grow up so fast!!

Yesterday we also had both umbilical cords fall off. Avie's came first while Ella's fell off shortly after. Hers falling off was much more eventful. Erica was nice enough to offer to change Ella's diaper and that was followed by a scream I heard from the kitchen. There is Erica acting all squeamish and asking Kelly to switch her babies, switch her babies! Apparently when Erica went to remove Ella's diaper, the cord fell off and fell onto her leg. She flipped! It was pretty funny to watch!!

Both girls are doing fine. I could just stare at them all day long! Ella is such a good sleeper and Avie likes to pee over everything.

Which leads me to a great question. When you know the girls are in need of a diaper change, when do you change them? My guess would be right away... but not with my girls!! It seems that every time we go to change their diapers something happens. We usually always hear a wet fart come from Ella as soon as she gets a new diaper on. And Avie... oh Avie!! The moment you start to wipe her off she pees and poops all over you, the couch, your clothes... everywhere. So I don't get it. They NEED a diaper change, but the moment we do it, the mess all over us or they need another one seconds later. Let's just say we've been going through premie diapers like crazy the past couple of days...

I really need to get camera happy! We miss so many cute moments... Ella makes the best KJ faces and loves playing the air guitar and Avie has the biggest eyes! Oh I LOVE THESE GIRLS!!

So that was my rants and ravings for the day. Things are slowing getting better... however I'm not looking forward to the crying getting worse. I hope our roommates don't hate us! I'm looking forward to Father's Day and spending time with the family. But also looking forward to our visit to Pine Valley over the 24th of July!

Taking it day by day!!

10 Days Old!

2010-06-09T14:20:00.004-06:00

I can't believe the girls are 10 days old!

We went to see the pediatrician today, Dr Lynch. She's only met the girls twice, but she knows them really well. She can even tell them apart which most people can't. Both girls are healthy and looking good. Although Avie seemed a little yellow, so she did have to get tested for jaundice again. Unlucky for her, they also needed to get their PKU, so both of her heels were pricked. Very hard to watch and listen to them cry. But they both are pretty good with it... I think because they were tested so many times for their blood sugar in the hospital.

Weight Status: Both are doing great!

Ella:

Born @ 5 lbs 5 oz

Left hospital @ 4 lbs 15 oz

Today @ 5 lbs 7 oz

It's great to see that she's past her birth weight.

Avie:

Born @ 6 lbs even

Left hospital @ 5 lbs 7 oz

Today @ 5 lbs 15 oz

She's only 1 oz away from birth weight, Go Avie!

I'm doing good. However I'm still not sleeping... With my Mom here with me during the day, I really should be sleeping while the girls do, but it's hard. I'm such a worry wart. I really need to sleep during the day so that I can get up with them at night. Kelly is back to work (10-12 hr days) so I really don't want to interrupt his sleep.

We'll be going back to the Dr next week to check up on the girls weight and possible postpartum depression for me. Yea, I know. Sucks! I'm just very emotional. The Dr said that with the hormones, it's normal to see that within the first 2 weeks of giving birth. But if it last longer we definitely want to get it checked out.

Pictures are courtesy of Erica's photo shoot with them. She did an amazing job! However it was hard for me to watch/participate because I felt like the girls were in pain being put into certain positions. The tutu photos are my favorite and I'll be putting them in the nursery.

This is my Ella and my Avie!

2010-06-05T06:52:00.012-06:00

Miss Ella & Miss Avie

Ella Rae ----------- Avie Joy

5 lbs 5 oz ---------- 6 lbs Even

20 inches --------- 19 inches

May 30th 2010

10:51 pm 10:52 pm

Sunday was a beautiful day. The sun was shining and the Blackstrom household was enjoying the day outside. Kelly working in the lawn, Joe sharpening his "watermelon knife," and Erica painting my toenails while I enjoyed a bag of BBQ Lays. Seems like an normal day right? Well it wasn't and it would be a day that we will never forget!

What made this day different was that I knew something was off... I hadn't felt the girls move since the night before and I was experiencing back pain that I've never had before. After conversations with friends and family, I was convinced that should go into the hospital to be checked out. Kelly kept telling me that I was psyching myself out, so we headed over to Mom's house for her Memorial Day BBQ as if nothing was wrong. But we didn't last there long... After talking to Kalie, Erica and Amanda I finally decided that going to the hospital was the best idea. Better safe than sorry!

So we checked in at around 5:30 and was immediately hooked up to a heart monitor. After the first hour of being monitored, I was still only dilated to 1.5 and 60% effaced, but my contractions were becoming more frequent and they started to really hurt. When the nurse came in to check me, I mentioned that I was in a lot of pain, more so than when we first arrived. Because I mentioned this, hospital policy was to watch me for another hour to see if anything progressed. Kelly was a little irritated at this point, but I had to speak up if I was in pain. So another hour passed... still only dilated to 1.5 however I was now 65% effaced. Because of this, I had to be monitored for another hour. At this point my pain was so terrible that the nurse gave me a morphine shot to help, which to be honest.. it really didn't. So by 9 o'clock after 3 hours of monitoring, the nurse came to check on me for the last time. I was 2.5 cm dilated and 85% effaced.

This was it!! The nurse came back with the Dr on call and they immediately went into preparation mode. Kelly and I got really emotional knowing that this was it! We were having our babies!

Things went by very quickly after that. The nurse gave me my IV, Kelly was putting on his scrubs and my Dr was being called in. I was so scared and couldn't stop shaking. I knew this was coming eventually, but the thought of having a c-section all of the sudden became the scariest thing ever. My Dr and I hadn't even gone over how this would all play out, so being wheeled into the OR was very overwhelming. A cold room with a steel bed and lights everywhere only made my heart race more. I was placed on the table and given my epidural, which is really the weirdest feeling ever. Then you know what happens from there.

BABIES!! Ella came first at 10:51 pm and urinated on my Dr upon entry into the world. Avie was shortly after at 10:52 pm. I can only say that not being able to see what was going on but to hear the girls cry for the first time was the most emotional experience! After about a hour of recovery, we were taken to our room where my family was waiting.

The next 4 days were stressful, exciting, emotional and tiring. Both girls had low blood sugar and we really needed to make sure that they were getting enough food. I felt so bad every time the girls came back from their testing... their poor feet being pricked with needles multiple times. I probably got 2 hours of sleep each day, so 8 in total. It's kinda hard to sleep when you are constantly being bothered by nurses, have to keep up with the girls feeding and then of course worrying about them every second of the day. The recovery hasn't been terrible.. but I can't wait to feel myself again. Moving around is a little hard with my incision and the fact that my feet and ankles have swollen up like balloons. After a few nights of low blood sugar, the girls were finally able to get those numbers up and we were able to leave Thursday.

We were very anxious to get home and start our own routine. However, it's kinda scary going home with little ones... You are on your own!! The great thing is that I won't have to go back to work until the first week of September. So for the next 3 months we'll be trying to perfect my parenting skills. The girls are already doing well with nursing, but I must admit it can get very frustrating. I need to be more patient. However I do have the pump to help, which has been very nice!

It's amazing at how your life changes... What mattered before, doesn't matter anymore. The only thing that matters are those little girls! I worry about them constantly and it's killing my sleep. I really need to start sleeping when they are so I can get my strength back. I just want my family to know how thankful Kelly and I are for the support we've been given. From hospital visits, taking care of my husband and bringing us dinner. It's been so nice! Everyone has been so willing to help and it means so much!

We'll keep in touch, hopefully more so now that I'm out of the hospital. I hope everyone is doing well!

**I'm not the best at pictures... so forgive my lack of experience. I haven't bought the Baby Bella photos yet and I wanted a cute picture of them. Avie isn't really 10x bigger than Ella! Plus I couldn't get Ella to open her eyes, which isn't a big surprise. I think I'll get better at taking pictures because I want to capture everything!

2010-05-27T19:01:00.004-06:00

36 Weeks

1 lb lost, 31 total gain

Contractions every 3-5 minutes

1.5 cm dilated

I swear I look bigger in person! But the date is set... June 14th, Monday at 5 pm. Unless I go early, which my Dr is pretty certain I will. I saw him today and got the run down of what I need to do and go if I go into labor. I've got my bag packed just in case! I don't really want to wait until the 14th.. 2 1/2 weeks just seems so far away. But I'm kinda scared going into labor. At least on the 14th, it's planned. I know when and what to expect. If my water breaks, it's all the unknown. Kinda scary.

I also think I'm holding back for the 14th because Kelly has been working so hard at Reagan this week. He's on his own now and he hasn't gotten into any groove yet. He's working 8am - 8pm everyday. I see him briefly in the morning and then right before bed at night. I'm afraid if I have the babies now, he won't get any rest and he'll hate his life, resent me. I don't know. Maybe I'm just scared. It's really happening. No matter what, I will have 2 babies by June 14th. I hope I'm ready!!

I'll keep everyone posted if any new news breaks... or my water!

2010-05-21T14:39:00.004-06:00

12 lbs of babies!

Yep, that's right! I've got almost 12 lbs of baby in my belly!! I had a growth scan this morning and we got some estimate baby sizes. Baby A = 5 lbs 13 oz, Baby B = 6 lbs 1 oz!! BIG BABIES! I mean, for twins at 35 weeks! No wonder I've been in pain.

And it only gets better! Guess what?! My Dr has scheduled me for a C-Section on June 14th, 3 weeks from Monday! There is absolutely no way in hell that I can last 3 more weeks. I'm officially starting my LOA (leave of absence) from work on Monday because it's just too hard for me to work anymore... But I was expected that I would only waste 1, maybe 2 weeks without the girls. But 3! I can't do this! Is it wrong for me to be googling ways on how to induce labor? If my girls are already about 6 lbs each now, they may grow up to 1 lb a week... 9 lb babies? OMG! I don't know what to feel right now. I'm a little angry/disappointed. I know, I know... the longer they are inside the better, but I don't know how much more my body can handle.

I guess we'll see...

34 Week Photo!

2010-05-14T14:27:00.006-06:00

34 Weeks

Thanks again Erica for making the decision for a pregnancy photo shoot! I haven't been very willing to get in front of a camera lately, but I'm glad you stuck with it and practically made me do it!! I had such a blast and you made me feel beautiful! I haven't felt beautiful in awhile what with this beach ball under my shirt, so Thank You!

I'll be posting many more photos on Facebook this weekend, so be sure to check them out! Erica did a great job styling me, posing me and making me laugh while she took on the photographer persona! She did an amazing job!

Way to Go Red!! I Love you!

2010-05-13T20:16:00.003-06:00

34 Weeks

9 lbs gained, 31 in total

55 inches around the belly

minor contractions every 7-10 minutes

1 centimeter dilated

[ PHOTO TO COME ]

And so I've made it to week 34!! Heck Yes!! My body is doing good... other than being exhausted all the time. I had my Dr Appt today and I was dilated 1 cm, but high. Exactly what the "but high" part means, I don't know. All I know is that the Dr wasn't worried about me and he says I'm still doing great! The only thing really bothering me is my swollen hands and feet (they aren't that bad) and my super sensitive skin. I've developed a skin irritation on my belly, legs, arms and back. It's quite common but it's not harmful to the babies. It does however itch like crazy!! Oatmeal baths, lotion and Benadryl have been helping! -All approved by Dr!

I've started to go to the Dr 2-3 times a week. Once for my weekly Dr appointment and then twice for the Non Stress Test. The Non Stress Test monitors the girls heart rates, contractions and measures amniotic fluid. It isn't that bad... It can take awhile if the babies don't want to cooperate. I can't leave until the nurses see what they need to see. Baby A is always a show off and gives the nurse what they need... Baby B is of course a little lazy. She generally won't do anything unless provoked. A nice buzzer that they put on my belly. That's comfortable! Not harmful, but startling two babies in my belly can sometimes get annoying. Yes, I've started having contractions, but they are very minor. I don't even realize I'm having some. But again, the nurse said everything looks great and I'm sure if there was something wrong, she would not have let me leave. I try to arrange my Dr appt along with one of the stress test so I only have to go in twice a week, but sometimes it doesn't work out. Oh well, I should get used to the hospital!

Baby A is still head down, however Baby B is breeched. That being said, my Dr has recommended a C-Section to be scheduled at my 38 week mark, unless they decide to come earlier. Why a C-Section if Baby A (first one out) is head down? Well yes, it is true that I could deliver Baby A vaginally with the hopes that Baby B would turn in the process. However, my Dr doesn't want to take that chance. I agree. Do I really want to have Baby A vaginally and PRAY that Baby B turns? What if she doesn't? Then I'm going to have to have an emergency C-Section. I think it's better safe than sorry. My Dr and his nurses say that this will be the best for me and the girls. Am I scared? Hell yea, I'm scared!! But I can do this!!

I'm hoping that the 9 lbs I've gained in the last 3 weeks are all due to the babies growing... I've got a growth ultrasound scheduled for next Friday, so we'll be able to see how big these two really are! I'm fine with gaining more weight if it means it's going to the babies! I need them as big as they can be, so I can take them home!!

As notated above, my 34 weeks photos is to come later. I was lucky enough to have Erica spoil me with a make over and a photo shoot!! We're doing some fun editing and I'll post them when I can!

Love to all! We'll keep everyone posted... 4 weeks!

I CAN'T BELIEVE IT'S SO SOON!!

Wouldn't it be nice to...

2010-04-27T18:25:00.011-06:00

[ not have to pee every 2 hours ]

[ sleep on my stomach ]

[ slouch ]

[ take medication other than tylenol ]

[ not have an itchy belly ]

[ get into a hot tub ]

[ walk up and downstairs ]

[ stretch ]

[ help clean my house ]

[ make dinner ]

[ eat sushi / seafood ]

Yes, it would be nice!

but these baby girls are so worth it!!

Only 6 weeks left... maybe less!

2010-04-21T20:28:00.021-06:00

31 Weeks

2 lbs gained, 22 in total

53 inches around the belly

My Body: Blood pressure is good and my cervix is still closed! I'll get some sharp pains every once in awhile, but my Dr is sure it's just Braxton Hicks. But I will need to pay more attention to when I'm having the pain and how frequent/long they last. Dr is very happy to know that my activity is still nothing... but he did remind me to still walk a little bit to avoid blood clots. I don't think I could do anything even if I wanted to. I'm exhausted... all the time! My shoes are getting tighter, but my feet aren't noticeably bigger... yet. It's been mostly flip flops lately! I have lost my ankles and my calves seem bigger. Bummer! Unfortunately I already had stretch marks due to my constant up and down weight, but I haven't noticed any new ones. I'm keeping my skin moisturized and trying not to scratch my belly! It's amazing at how much it itches!

Weight: I'm pretty proud of myself in the whole weight gain situation. I really thought I was going to let myself go... especially with twins. But I've only gained 22 lbs! I think Kelly and I are both shocked with how well I've managed my eating. I still haven't had any weird food cravings or 3 AM snackings. Although I could have one of Kelly's BLT's everyday! Amazing!!

Baby Girls: Both are still head down and they have dropped a little. But these girls are active! I'm feeling them move almost every hour it seems like. The most activity I've found is between 9 AM - 12 PM. It's really the best part of my day to feel them moving around! However, every time Kelly wants to feel them, they stop. Typical! But it can also get kinda creepy... you know when they do a somersaults and my belly will do a wave!

I've got 2 more weeks until my next Dr Appt, then I will start to go weekly. My Dr is hoping for full term for twins at 38 weeks, so that means I have only 7 more weeks!! I can't believe it! I'm so excited, but I'm starting to get really scared/nervous/worried about the whole labor and delivery part! I'm leaning more towards NO CSection, but if I have to I will. I'm going to hold out for as long as my body will let me. Plus Dad and Nancy would KILL ME if I had the girls while they are on their cruise from May 8th to the 15th. And it would be really cool if I could hold out until after May 21st, my girls will be Geminis! Twin girls for the twin zodiac!

I've got my final baby shower this Saturday and I'm so excited! This shower is being put together by my co-worker Amanda and is for all my Marriott peeps! It will be great to see everyone and get out of the house for a few hours! Plus after this shower I can finally finish organizing and decorating the nursery! I'm so excited!!

I'll be sure to post after my shower and on the final touches on the nursery! I'm hoping to have it complete by the end of this month! Especially if I can have the help of my sisters! Fingers crossed!

*********************************************

Kelly is liking his new job! It has had it's ups and downs... but he's getting the hang of it. He'll be out of training soon and out on his own. I think he is really looking forward to that so he can work the hours that are more appealing to him. I'm so proud of him and what he is doing for me and the girls! For a man who doesn't really like change, he's making it work for his family!

Baby Shower Weekend!

2010-04-11T22:12:00.015-06:00

What a blast!! But can I sleep now?

Baby Shower #1 @ Mom's!

Just me and the babies!

Great gifts!! Just to name a few; Diapers, Baby Wash/Lotion, Adorable Clothes, Bath Towels, Bouncers and our Pack N Play!

Thank you Mom for the great day, plus my sisters who helped! Everything went great and I loved seeing all the family and friends!

**********************************************************

Baby Shower #2 @ Dad's!

Brittany was in town for the weekend!

More great gifts! Blankets, Diaper Bag, Bouncers, Car Seats, Clothes, Toys toys and more toys!

Thank you Nancy for another great day!! Everything was perfect and I love being surrounded by family and friends!

But a huge THANK YOU to all of my family and friends! Thank you all for the great gifts! We've been so blessed and have had so much help from everyone, I'm so grateful! We are very fortunate to have such a great support system behind us!!

We couldn't do it without you guys!

WE LOVE YOU ALL!

** More photos on Facebook! **

2010-04-07T16:57:00.016-06:00

I'm excited about the next 5 days!!

REALLY EXCITED!

Thursday - Dr appointment followed by hair appointment with Erica! We're gonna try something a little different, but nothing too crazy! My roots definitely need some attention!

Friday -Pedicures!!! What is better than getting pampered with two of my favorite people?! I swear... Erica, Kalie and I shouldn't be allowed in public together. We always end up having WAY too much fun! Plus we can get a little loud! Now to shave the legs as prep. Uh, should be interesting!

Saturday - Bath Time Baby Shower!!! Mom is throwing me a shower for her side of the family and we are celebrating Bath Time for the girls! I can't wait to see the family and I have to admit I'm excited to see what I (the girls) get!

Sunday - Play Time Baby Shower!!! Nancy is throwing me a shower for Dad's side of the family! My sister Brittany will be in town, which is awesome and it will be great to visit with other family and friends. Am I selfish to be excited for more presents?! I don't think so.. because technically they aren't for me, right!

Monday - DAY OFF!! I figured I would be exhausted after Saturday and Sunday, so I've scheduled myself off to rest. Great idea right?! I know! PLUS... Charlonian Showcase!! I can't wait to celebrate Jessica's last year as a Charlonian and watch her do what she does best, dance!

See! How can I NOT be excited?! I just hope that I start feeling better! I'm still really congested and have a sore throat. But no matter what, I'm going to try hard to enjoy the next 5 days!!!

They should be a BLAST!

*I'll be bloggin' about the baby showers so stay tuned!!*

2010-03-25T18:26:00.004-06:00

27 Weeks

7 lbs gained, 20 total

52 inches around the belly

Ultrasound and Doctor Appointment today. Babies are looking good, both measuring at about 27 weeks 2 days! Baby A - 2lbs 4oz Baby B - 2lbs 3oz. Heart rates are looking good and they are now both head down. They just can't make up their minds on where they want to be. At one time during the ultrasound, we saw all 4 feet in a close shot. It was pretty cute!

The Doctor wasn't able to get a good look at my cervix, but from what he can tell is that its short/small. He scheduled me for another ultrasound for next week to double check. He asked me to drink as much water as possible before it starts to hurt so we can get a good look.

Because of my cervix results the Doctor told me to lessen my activity even more. What?! How can I lessen doing absolutely nothing? He told me that I need to come straight home and lay on my side, left preferably. I guess I have still been doing stuff that I can cut back on... I just feel so bad for Kelly. I hate not being able to help around the house or cook dinner. But he tells me not to worry. It's better that I stay off my feet and relax now so we aren't sorry later. Financially, Kelly and I need me to work as long as I can. We're looking to move my desk at work temporarily so I'm closer to the exit and bathroom. Less walking should help.

Now, two questions that we wanted answers to. 1) How many placentas? 2) Fraternal or Identical? Well, I guess we have to be patient, because we won't find the answer to either one until the girls are born. Right now with the ultrasounds, my placenta is very large, so my Doctor believes that I did once have 2 but they have fused together. (something common among twin births) We'll just have to be surprised!!

I'm starting to go to see him every 2 weeks now, so maybe that will make the time go by faster. I swear the last couple of months have been the slowest. I'm doing good though, other than some back pain every once in awhile and trying to get comfortable sleeping with a bowling ball attached to me. I haven't seen any changes in my feet, but then again I can't even see my feet anymore!

I'll be taking it super easy from here on out, but I'm looking forward to next month! I'll be having all 3 baby showers next month! I can't wait to see all of the family! Love you guys! I'll be sure to keep you posted with any new news!

**************************************************

OH!! Speaking of news!!! Kelly got the job with Reagan Outdoor Advertising as a billposter!! He starts his 30 day training on Monday April 5th! He'll be taking down and putting up billboards all over Salt Lake County. Definitely a change from Reams, but he'll be making a lot more money! He'll say goodbye to Reams next Friday after 12 long years. He doesn't really know how to feel about it. He's excited, but Reams has been his home so he'll miss it! I'll let you all know how it goes!

Updated Picture

2010-03-01T20:56:00.005-07:00

Yup... This is me. About 24 weeks pregnant!

Getting used the belly can sometimes be challenging. I'm running into things, can't lean over the kitchen/bathroom sinks, or sit in restaurant booths. And it's just getting started!!

Be gentle with remarks... It's a sensitive subject!

2010-02-25T17:22:00.005-07:00

*Sore Belly*

*13lbs total gain*

*Feeling babies move*

*Aching back*

*Exhausted*

So there you have it!! Isn't pregnancy the best?!

I went to my Dr appointment today and the babies are doing well! Both of them are no longer head down, but breached. Dr advised that they won't stay that way, so not to worry. I've gained only 13lbs so far... which is still so crazy to me! My belly is getting really big, really fast and that's led to a sore belly. I can feel it stretching and can generally tell when I'm going to wake up bigger. Like today, it's been hurting all day... So I'm sure I'll wake up a few inches bigger tomorrow. This has also led to the start of my back pain. It feels like I'm carrying around a bowling bowl under my shirt! And then, all this of course leads to me being exhausted! Ah, the joys of pregnancy!

But there are some positives! Feeling the babies move is such an amazing feeling and it gives me reassurance that they are still there. I've even had a few hard kicks start. Of course they aren't big enough to really hurt or for Kelly to feel... but it will be fun lying in bed and get a really hard kick all of the sudden! However, I'm not a fan of how they use my bladder as a trampoline. I swear I'm running to the restroom once every hour!

Unfortunately I wasn't able to get all of the answers at todays appointment. In case you haven't heard, I went into the lab for an ultrasound at 21 weeks and the ultrasound tech stated that I had only 1 placenta, while earlier on in my pregnancy my Dr advised that I had 2. This of course raised a few eyebrows only because there are more pregnancy risks with having only 1 placenta. I was hoping that my Dr could tell me today on my placenta issue, but he wants to plan a more extensive ultrasound with him to look that over and also measure the babies growth. That's been scheduled with my regular monthly appointment with him in another 4 weeks. Besides me freaking out on the more risks you have only have 1 placenta for 2 babies, it also helps determine whether the girls are identical or fraternal twins. My Dr stated early on that they were fraternal... but the ultrasound tech a couple of weeks ago stated Identical. UGH! Why can't they all just be on the same page?!

Either way, me and the babies are doing good!! My Dr has put me on a "semi bed rest." I'm able to get up and go to work, but no other activities. He advised coming straight home from work and just hanging out. I'm not able to do any lifting, climb stairs or anything that would require a lot of movement. I think I can handle that! Although I hate being a burden on my husband, I can't be put on bed rest because I need to keep working. So if that means I just come home and do nothing for the next 3 months... that's what I'm going to do!

I'll keep you guys updated with any more news!! Hope you are as excited for Spring as I am!!

OH!! P.S. I've been given the glucose drink for my next appointment! I've been told that is so much fun!