8.21.08

Happy two months, Madeline and Libby!

I heart delivery men

Usually my love of delivery men is limited to those from florists and Papa John's, but recently it has expanded to include the nice guy who delivered our new front-loader washing machine on a Sunday and took $75 off the price because of a ding that I can't even see. Then today, it further expanded to include the man who delivered our glider from Sears. And, while still not properly packaged, it's not shattered or broken like the last two and is ready to be assembled.

finally

I'm so glad that someone wrote about this. I think I have commented about his playlist every time we watch Phelps swim.

Maddy and Libby's pick of the day

Maddy and Libby here reporting life from our family room, AKA, where we spend most of our day time hours. We wanted to tell you about these cute new blankets that Mom found on etsy. Right now, we're still using the same-old, same-old receiving blankets with ducks and bears, but we really wanted to be a little more sophisticated and let's face it, as we're getting bigger these receiving blankets just aren't swaddling us as much as Mom would like.

She found these great blankets from Elephant Ears. Aren't they cute? We love the retro Alexander Henry fabric and they are huge. We can't wait to be swaddled up in these and Mom says they'll be great for tummy time or for our strollers. I know we'll be the talk of the neighborhood. Plus, Mom was so impressed by the super cute packaging and swaddling instructions.

That's all for now ... we're gonna go listen to this classical music that Mom has playing in the background and squeeze in a little nap before our next meal time.

xo,

M & L

Mom for Hire

I typically have steered clear of blogging about work - I guess it comes from reading about people like dooce and how they were fired for what they wrote on their blogs. Hmmm, she's now making a good living off her blog ... not a bad idea.

So, about 3 weeks ago, I received an email from our VP asking me to come into the office for a meeting. She explained that the owner wanted to update me on the latest financial outlook of the company, etc. I read between the lines knowing that our financial outlook wasn't great when I started my FMLA a month prior, so the meeting probably meant one of three things: layoffs, salary cuts, or dropping the major project that I work on.

So, I went in for the meeting to find out that I was part of a nine-person layoff and there would be no bonuses or raises for the rest of the staff. At least I had the foresight to predict this, but basically it still is extremely unfortunate and very disappointing. I was told that I would be rehired if the financial situation changed, but who knows when/if that will happen.

So here's the thing, at some point, I need to have a job that pays me. As much as I would love to be a SAHM, I really like what I do and like the fact that I earn some income, plus I think I will need adult interaction. Right now, with the girls born prematurely, I would really like to try to work from home or work part-time before moving back into a 40+ hour work week and putting the girls in full-time child care.

So, dear blog readers, I ask a favor of you ... I know that I typically only ask for advice on clothing, babies, dogs, furniture, shoes, wine, etc. but now I'm asking if you have any work contacts for me.

I'll give you some general information about my experience and if you think you may have a lead, please leave a comment, and I can send you specifics - resume, etc via e-mail.

I have a BS in Mass Communication with an emphasis in Public Relations. I have over 10 years experience working in marketing, public relations, advertising, writing, and I have my Certified Marketing Director designation. (I promise - it's real.)

I started out my career working with a regional shopping center and focused on marketing the center and our retailers, then moved into the agency world for a while working with clients that included pharmaceutical, health care, and a national retailer. From there, I went to my latest gig, marketing and PR for two regional lifestyle magazines. I've done a little bit of everything from writing - business, ad copy, newsletters, short articles, etc., website updates and overseeing redesigns, writing and implementing marketing plans, media buying, public relations, event planning, account supervision, working with sales teams, etc.

I'm a hard worker, team-player, detail-oriented and thorough. This description comes from a past boss, not by me. I would greatly appreciate any leads, ideas, or contacts.

Deja vu

Of course we know that the girls really look alike, but when I saw this picture of Maddy today, I felt deja vu.

Maddy - 7 weeks

Check out a very similar picture of Libby.

Libby - 4 weeks

No more preemie diapers

Picture a small picket line with very small babies, parading picket signs chanting ... "No more preemie diapers ... they must go."

That is where I was say around 2:30ish this morning. Someone woke up, so my routine is to check to see who is crying, find the appropriately marked bottle in the cooler. (long story - Maddy receives milk mixed with formula, so at night it's been easier just to use bottles and have everything ready, plus Hubby can help out with those nighttime feedings that way!) Next, warm up bottle, then go to change diaper so bottle is warm by the time said baby is changed and ready to eat.

This morning, I found Maddy completely soaked - down to the mattress pad, so this is through one preemie diaper, one outfit, one blanket, one sheet saver pad, one sheet, and one mattress pad underneath. Needless to say, I think this little girl is getting too big for her britches and it's time to switch over to the whopping Newborn diapers, which seem to be a little more absorbent. Whoo-hoo!

Hubby had to join me in the trenches to help get everything changed on the bed, which anyone can tell you, is not fun anytime of day, but is especially not fun at 2:30AM.

Oh, and did I mention that our washing machine is broken and we are not so patiently waiting on a part? We may be making another trip to our friend Ben's house for use of his laundry facilities. So much nicer than the laundromat!

Very sad

I know for most people, it may seem crazy to have your parents stay with you for over 6 weeks, but seeing my parents drive away this morning has brought me to tears. It already did last night, just thinking about it and I'm sure it will again later today.

I have never had an affectionate, lovey-dovey relationship with my parents. We joke that they aren't huggers, but I've always known that they love me and of course, would be there for me in any situation. After all, they are my parents. My dad is very stoic and quiet, where my mom is a little crazy and doesn't care what others think. I guess I'm grateful that I'm a little bit like both of them.

I think seeing my mom love those little grand babies so much also shows me how much she loves me. I know this sounds like some weird comment and I should probably be laying on a couch talking about this somewhere. While she's not affectionate with me, we laughed that she was going to kiss their cheeks off she gave them so many kisses. I'm sad because my parents live 8+ hours away and I'm not sure if they'll get to see the girls as often as they would or I would want. I'm sad, because my parents are 65 and 75 years old, and not to be morbid, but they won't be around forever.

I know that my parents have probably driven Hubby crazy (Thank you, Hubby for not losing it or leaving us.), but they have been such a huge help and it's been so great to see them with the girls. It's definitely been an emotional rollercoaster since our 1st days in the NICU, to the girls both coming home, to late night crying sessions, explosions of poop, and trying to be the first person to get the girls' smiles.

My mom never cries, and did this morning when they were leaving. I know that it's really time for Hubby and I to truly start life with just the four of us, or six of us ... can't forget Zeus and Zoe! It will be so good for us to establish our routines and get into the groove of parenthood on our own. I know I have to stop this sappiness, because someone will be up soon and ready to eat and to get my love and attention, and that is what's important.

3 days of gifts

Our wonderful friends have been keeping our postal carrier quite busy over the past few days. So much mail has been addressed to the girls, and luckily it's not from the hospital or insurance company! I wanted to share a few of the items that we've received over the past few days ...

From a good friend of mine that I have known since the 2nd grade, some adorable personalized note cards. These will be perfect for thank you notes or writing letters to their Grandparents.

Not one, but two books from Mad About Plaid, who I have also known since the 2nd grade. These books are so cute and I know the girls will cherish them. The illustrations are great and it's so nice to have a book about twins, for twins.

One package from our favorite Canadian friend Lisagh proved to be preppy and pink - what more could two girls want? Two beautiful wall-hangings, made by Lisagh. Check out her Preppy Petunia etsy site for more of her lovely creations. Now just to find the perfect spot to hang these in their nursery.

Yesterday, we received two boxes marked "open immediately." Since I'm typically a big rule-abider, we did. From one of Hubby's managers, we received two gorgeous red Japanese maple saplings to plant in honor of the girls. What a lovely gift. These came from Eternitree, and I noticed from the website, that Oprah is also a fan.

Later on, we were paid a visit from A and E, two of our good friends. They came bearing the cutest monogrammed bloomers for the girls. Who could get a spanking in these? The girls also received "lovies", these adorable and super-soft bunny and lamb blankies. Now, if I can just find one of these in adult size, I'll be all set.

What wonderful friends - our girls couldn't be any luckier, as are we.

Little St. Louis Fans?

My Dad has always been a HUGE St. Louis Cardinals fan. My brother and sister in law sent these little onesies for the girls. I'm not sure how Maddy feels about the Cards ... hopefully she won't turn into a Braves fan.

Feuling my addiction

Who else is watching Mad Men and who is else going to be so addicted for another season? We actually were up to watch it on Sunday, but I've been forgetting to blog about it.

My love letter to Sears

Dear Sears,

I really should have known better to get involved with you. I've not had good luck in the past and have simply been able to ignore you or find other stores that would meet my needs. This time, you drew me in with an offer that I couldn't refuse.

A white glider with green cushions that was $100 cheaper than the one at BRU. I tried to stay away and buy it at BRU, but I just couldn't pass up the savings and BRU wouldn't price match since it was a slightly different model.

So, I gave in to you. I placed my order to find out that you wouldn't even deliver to our local store. Enter the in-laws who volunteered to pick up our delivery at a store near them. First, you lied and said you would be ready in 3-5 days ... try 10 days. But you arrived to find out that your wood was shattered and broken.

Next, we reordered and you would come straight to our door. Trying your best to satisfy. 7-10 days this time and you actually stayed on schedule. Again, a tease ... broken yet again. I sent you back, had some lovely conversations with a few people, and we are trying yet again. Come through for me this time, Sears. Learn what proper packaging means as well as customer service. That's right, say it with me, "customer service."

I'm counting on you ... please don't disappoint.

Love,
Susan D.

date night

My parents kicked Hubby and I out of the house last night, so we could have dinner out. Since we still haven't taken the girls out on the town (just for Dr.'s appointments until they're a little older), we went solo, and I have to admit was wonderful.

I had my first glass of wine since last year, and luckily timing worked out in between pumping/feeding, that I didn't have to do a "pump & dump". We chose a neat little place with outdoor seating and a guy playing acoustic guitar - everything from Coldplay to James Taylor. We had a great dinner, good conversation (mainly about the girls and the birth), and of course toasted to Maddy & Libby.

Now, I'm not sure what Grans and Grandpa did to the girls while we were out, or if they were just jealous that they didn't go, but they were not wanting to settle down at all last night. Feeding, rocking, walking, diapering, singing, holding -- nothing worked. Finally, the pacifier and sheer exhaustion (them and us) finally put everyone to sleep. We are hoping not to repeat that again this evening!

Con artists

We may really be in trouble once the girls reach their teenage years, as they have already started to con their grandmother at 1 month of age.

This morning, I fed both girls around 7 - 7:30 am, then my mom helped me bring them downstairs around 8:00 am. I had been in the office drinking coffee and probably checking blogs, when I walked back in the kitchen when my mom asked me something about Libby's last feeding.

I looked over and Libby was over halfway through a bottle, her second one in the past hour! Apparently, Mom didn't think they had eaten yet, so she went ahead and warmed up some milk and Libby had no complaints - just a full little belly. Maddy wasn't quite fast enough, so she had to survive on just the one bottle for the hour.

It's been wonderful having both of them home, and I will admit it's been a bit of a blur and hard at times, but also amazing. We're surviving and are having fun getting to know the girls and their personalities. I am also happy to report that we survived two Doctor's appointments and our first stroll around the neighborhood this week. They are gaining weight well, and to us look huge, while to everyone else, they are still tiny. Libby weighed in yesterday at 5 lbs., 15 oz. and Maddy is up to 4 lbs., 9 oz. It is hard to believe that tomorrow will mark 5 weeks since they arrived.

Wednesday Meme

1.What is in the back seat of your car right now? Two infant car seat bases and the double snap & go stroller in the very back.

2. When was the last time you threw up? Hmmm, I can't remember. I made it through my pregnancy only feeling like I had to throw up.

3. What's your favorite curse word? The F- bomb

4. Name 3 people who made you smile today? The babies, my husband, my mom.

5. What were you doing at 8 am this morning? Debating if I had time to get a cup of coffee before the girls woke up.

6. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? Feeding 2 babies

7. What will you be doing 3 hours from now? Hopefully still sleeping

8. Have you ever been to a strip club? Yep

9. What is the last thing you said aloud? Goodnight, sweet Maddy.

10. What is the best ice cream flavor? Chocolate Mint

11. What was the last thing you had to drink? Water

12. Do you look like your Mom or your Dad? Both

13. What was the last thing you ate? Frozen banana

14. Have you bought any new clothing items this week? No

15. When was the last time you ran? sometime in the fall of 2007

16. What's the last sporting event you watched? A few minutes of the St. Louis game last night.

17. What is your pet peeve? Not doing something you say you're going to do.

18. Who is the last person you emailed? Vivian with Bonanno to inquire about the sandals I ordered.

19. Ever go camping? Yes, I used to love it.

20. Do you have a tan? No

21. What is your favorite indulgence? pedicures

22. Would you rather take a week off at home or travel? Travel

23. What do you sleep in? Pajama pants and a tee shirt

24. Do you drink your soda from a straw? Yes, if it's from a restaurant

25. What did your last IM say? I don't IM

26. Are you someones best friend? Yes, and I have been for a very long time

27. What are you doing tomorrow? Taking care of babies, going to my Dr. for my checkup and hopefully making an appointment for a much needed eyebrow wax.

28. Where is your mom right now? Asleep, in our spare bedroom.

29. Look to your left, what do you see? Our office door and pictures that need to be hung.

30. What color is your watch? Silver

31. What do you think of when you think of Australia? My old friend, Scott and gorgeous accents, and a place that I would love to visit.

32. Would you consider plastic surgery? Possibly, probably not, but I wouldn't rule it out.

33. What is your birthstone? Aquamarine

34. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit the drive thru? Typically, I'll just run in.

35.How many kids do you want? 2 - guess that was a good thing!

36. Do you have a dog? Yes, 2 dogs.

37. Last person you talked to on the phone? My Aunt.

38. Have you met anyone famous? Yes, Michael Stipe from REM, and Alexander Julian.

39. Any plans today? See #27.

40. How many states have you lived in? Three

41. Ever go to college? Yes.

42. Where are you right now? our home office

43. Biggest annoyance in your life right now? A tie - the fact that I'm still wearing maxi pads and stupid questions from strangers about the girls such as, "are they going to be identical?" Oh, I wanted to be sarcastic, but I was polite. Luckily, the first annoyance will go away!

44. Last song listened to? Either something from Light Classical from the TV or something on the radio.

45. What is your favorite store? Target, JCrew, Williams-Sonoma

46. Are you allergic to anything? Cats, ragweed, dust mites

47. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time? Right now, it's been my black Reef flip flops

48. Are you jealous of anyone? I don't think so.

49. Is anyone jealous of you? Doubt it.

50. What is your dream job? Wedding planner, writer

51. What time is it? 2 something am

52. Do any of your friends have children? Yes

53. Do you eat healthy? Usually, but I do love some sugary candy.

54. What do you usually do during the day? Work

55. Do you hate anyone right now? No.

56. Do you use the word 'hello' daily? Yes.

57. Do you think you have good manners? Yes, I try.

58. How old will you be turning on your next birthday? 36, baby.

59. Have you ever been to Six Flags? Yes, when I was in Middle School, I think.

60. How did you get one of your scars? Bike wreck in elementary school.

sappiness x 2

I have to share this picture of Hubby from over the weekend. After reading one of our Mother Goose nursery rhyme books to the girls, (which brought tears to my eyes), Hubby also had the girls enjoy a little tummy time with him for a while. Again, the tears.

Life is good.

Insider Stock Tip

If it's available, buy stock in OxiClean. This stuff is the bomb and I can't believe that in under two weeks, I have practically drained an entire bottle. Poop, spit-up, formula, milk ... all gone, like magic. Well, with a little scrubbing, but I'm still amazed at how well it works.

Do I sound like an infomercial or what?

We survived ...

The first day and night with both twins home. I was actually a little bit, urhm a lot nervous at how it would all play out, especially the nighttime part. During the day, both girls' schedules were about 30-45 minutes a part, which stayed consistent pretty much through the night. Somehow, I was able to handle the midnight feeding solo and Hubby took the 3 AM by himself. The 6 AM ended up being all hands on deck, including my mom.

But, the good news is the girls survived, as did we. Now, next on the radar is a Doctor's appointment later today for one of the girls, then next week, we have 3 appointments scheduled for both. That does scare me, because it's going to require getting both in the car seats and actually using the double stroller and navigating in buildings.

Our first afternoon nap together.

Full house

It is pretty ironic to me that on what would have been my anticipated due date (July 17 - 37 weeks), that Madeline will be coming home. We are beyond thrilled that both girls will have made it home in less than a month and we can really now have the entire family under one roof. We feel very blessed.

One down, one to go

That is right ... we received notice on Monday that Libby was able to come home with us and that she did on Tuesday. We didn't expect this news quite so soon, and then had a few hiccups getting ready for her arrival that included:

• The first test failure. Every NICU baby has to pass a car seat tolerance test - this is to make sure that they can sit up in a car seat and have no respiratory problems. Well, that wasn't the problem for us - it was the car seat. The ones that we had were slightly too big, so we ended up going to 2 places to find a new car seat that would fit her. We got the new one and she passed her test with flying colors.
• This was also the day that I was going to buy my new car. Goodbye little Audi, hello big ol Ford Explorer. I have dodged the Mini Van for now, but who knows ... I may change my mind in a couple of years. I like the size of the Explorer, but if you see me, I wouldn't suggest parking near me because parking isn't going very well. Of course, the paperwork took an excruciating amount of time and was just a longer process than we had hoped.

So, let's see ... a few things that we've learned so far about parenthood so far.

• I may opt to keep my parents around for the next 6 years. (Just kidding, Hubby!). They were planning just to come and visit for a few days, but have been here since I went into labor. My Mom has been a Godsend and it's great to have the extra help with Libby, cooking, cleaning, etc.
• Libby poops and pees like a boy. Example, when you pull off her diaper, you better watch out because at least once a day, that's when she decides to finish up. Nice. Her burps are also of the college frat boy caliber, but that's a good thing.
• Don't forget to leave all of the clothes downstairs, because when she has an explosion at 1 AM, you really can't run downstairs to get the change of clothes while you have a screaming baby on your hands. (Thank you, Hubby.)
• Zeus & Zoe seem fine with the new addition - they've done a lot of sniffing and a little poking around, but seem relatively unfazed.

So, life is definitely a lot busier, but in a good way. It's hard not to be at the NICU to see Maddy quite as much, but we're still up there quite a bit. She's doing really well and continuing to gain weight and meet other requirements, so we may have two babies home before too long!

Bit of a blur

I guess it's really more than a blur, but that's the best way I know to describe it. I think the body has a mysterious way of allowing you to run on auto-pilot when you need it.

Luckily for Hubby and I, my parents are still here helping out, our church has been great at providing several meals for us (even Zoe managed to help herself to a bit of leftover chicken pot pie that was on the counter), and we are able to see the girls as much as possible.

To answer a few questions and to give a bit of an update ...

Their names are both family names and one that we just really liked.

We did find out that the girls are identical twins. WOW.

They have both surpassed their birth weights. Maddy is up to 3 lbs, 3 oz and Libby is up to 4 lbs, 10 oz. Yay.

Still no definite word on when they can come home, but they are both doing great and are in the least intensive room of the NICU floor. It's still hard for me to believe that they are here, and not still swimming around in my stomach. Especially when I'm holding one of them and their movements are oh-so familiar.

Ritz Camera is getting more of my money than humanly possible.

I know I won't be posting much, but I'm still checking in with everyone ... especially at 3am-ish, when I typically have a date with the ol' b-pump machine. I really need the hands-free model, so I can type better to leave comments!

Introducing ...

Happy 1 week birthday!

Madeline Kate (Maddy) and Elizabeth Lucy (Libby)

They're here!

After a few days on bed rest, Baby A and Baby B decide that it "was time", so off we went to the hospital on Saturday night.

Delivered by C-section, we are pleased to announce the birth of our daughters on Saturday, June 21.

A was born at 9:48 PM and weighed 3 lbs., 2 ounces and 15 1/2 inches.

B was born at 9:50 PM and weighed 4 lbs., 9 ounces and 17 3/4 inches.

Both are recovering nicely in the NICU. A is breathing fine on her own & B is using oxygen, but is getting better every day.

We really went through the range of emotions yesterday, but we feel so blessed and amazed by these two little girls. We are still working on finalizing names and downloading pictures, so hopefully a better introduction soon!

c-ch-ch-changes

Not quite those kind of changes, but it's amazing what 1 day an 1Dr.'s appointment make. We had our weekly non-stress test and exam yesterday. The NST looked great, so we headed over for our exam. We were just chatting before my exam, when she asked if they checked my cervix last week. I replied yes and everything was fine. The Dr. checked to discover I was 2cm. dilated. She checked a few other things in my chart and directed us to have lunch and head to the hospital for further monitoring. After I was hooked up to the monitors, they also discovered that I was having contractions. Who knew? Not me!

So we settled in and they opted to give me steroid injections to help the babies lungs develop, and also gave me meds to stop contractions. So far, so good. No more regular contractions and the babies look great.

It looks like I'll be home tomorrow, but will more than likely be on bed rest at home for the duration. So worth it if we can help these babies stay put a few weeks longer. All I can say is thank goodness for a wonderful hubby who has stayed here non-stop, his lap top, my co-workers for bringing me a stash of magazines, sweet nurses, great in-laws that made the 2 hour drive to check on us, cell phones to stay in touch with family and friends, and let's not forget that lovely pill called Ambien to sleep in a hospital room.

iQuestion

In preparation to "pack my bag", one item that will definitely be included is my beloved little iPod. I already have various songs and mixes that range from "new running mix" and "half" (for the Nashville half marathon), to "slow down" (that has Michael Buble and other slow stuff), but I'm looking for suggestions for my hospital music.

While I really think that some of the half marathon tunes may get me through, I feel like I've listened to them over and over and want some new stuff.

Musically speaking, I tend to gravitate back to the familiar, so my list has a bunch of music from the 80's and 90's and aside from hearing new-ish stuff on the radio, I'm a little bit out of touch. Basically, I like a little bit of everything with the exception of most country music. I know, I know. How does a girl from TN not like country?

One song that I may have to include as a joke is Push It by Salt & Pepa. Hee, hee. So, help a girl out and list some favorite tunes or artists and I'll give them a listen, so I don't end up listening to "push it real good" over and over!

Checking in

Since I haven't posted in a while, I didn't want you to think that the babies were here, so I wanted to check in with a little update. Apparently, my co-workers get very nervous if they haven't seen me around the office for few hours and they think that they've missed important news, so I thought my readers might think the same.

We're at 32 weeks and 2 days, and all is well. This week was a milestone week (according to my Dr.) and I'm glad we've made it. The weekly non stress tests have started (I'm hooked up to 2 monitors while lying in a hospital recliner to monitor the heart rates of the babies) as have the weekly appointments. Baby B decided to move, so now Baby A is still head-down, and Baby B is breech/sideways. I'm still shocked that I never felt that distinct move.

Some of what's been going on this week:

• ordering cute seersucker pants from Ann Taylor Loft maternity and reordering them. The first pair didn't quite fit around my belly & I'm hoping that the new ones do.
• Eating yummy pizza from a new local, organic place last night - mine had fried eggplant, mushrooms, garlic, etc. So, so good.
• Trying to stay "horizontal" as much as possible when I'm home. It's harder than it sounds, but I'm just trying to follow Doctor's orders and stay off bed rest.
• Realizing that I have a gardenia plant in our yard and it has bloomed! This makes me so happy. If it cools off later, I'll try to get some pictures. They smell wonderful.

Hubby should play the lottery

I was sitting in our den on Sunday evening, feet propped on a pillow, watching TV when Hubby came in and asked me what I felt about NY in the fall? My first thought was "Has he gone mad? Does he not remember that we'll have 2 infants by the fall and probably won't remember our first names, let alone want to take a visit to NY?" Then it hit me ... he had entered his name into the ING NYC Marathon lottery several months ago, almost as a joke, because really, does anyone ever get picked out of the lottery?

All I asked was "Did you get in?" His grin said it all.

So, now for the next question ... who wants to babysit or come to NYC and help out with 2 3-month olds?!

He's trying to decide now if he would have enough time to train and be ready by November. He can always defer his entry to next year, but what a great opportunity. I'm really torn ... I would love to go and watch him run, but I don't know that I'll be ready to leave 2 little ones by then and I know I won't be ready to carry them around NYC.

Maybe I could do it with one of these?I can only imagine getting around the crowds with this much baby strapped to me. We'll see, but with this luck, I really think Hubby should go buy a lottery ticket to see if we can win the $25,000,000 or whatever it's up to these days!

Feelin' like a rock star

Some of the women from my office had a baby shower for me on Friday afternoon. It was really sweet and we received some very nice gifts and lots of essentials - huge ol' back of diapers, blankets, etc.

One of the gifts made me feel like a celebrity mom-to-be. I received this cool lullaby CD. This company takes modern music and turns it into instrumental music made for kids. I received The Cure, one of my old faves, but they have everything from AC/DC to Bob Marley to Coldplay.

Rock on!

Tick tock, tick tock

Why is it after 3:00 AM and I am wide awake, and have been off and on since 1:00 AM?

Could it be ....

Heartburn? nope, not tonight.

Can't get comfortable and need to rearrange pillows every 5 minutes? no, I actually felt pretty comfortable.

The babies are moving so much that it feels like they may be wrestling? they are moving around quite a bit, but nothing that drastic.

I'm hungry? well, that could always be the case, but I drank some milk and don't feel hungry.

I need to pee? Been there, done that.

Or is it the fact that I feel like my "mind" just won't turn off, plus it could have something to do with the brownie and chocolate sauce that I had for dessert tonight that has me wired from the caffeine in the chocolate? Ding, ding, ding ... we have a winner!

At this point, who the hell really knows? Hubby is snoring soundly, the dogs didn't make a peep when I came downstairs and poured myself a glass of milk and came into the office, I've updated photos on facebook, checked e-mail, watched Elton John on Classic VH1, watched part of an HGTV show, blogged, have debated about trying to read, and most importantly have wondered how the hell am I supposed to get up and go to work in a few hours? I am not a happy camper without sleep.

Ok, thinking about counting sheep and sweet dreams. Heading upstairs to try this again.

P.S. Just for the record, I noticed that the time of this post reads 2:15 AM and I can assure you that it is actually 3:15 AM.

Birth & Baby 101

Well, Hubby and I finally had our "Birth & Baby" class this weekend, AKA, what to do and when, who to call, and how to avoid having social services called to your home.

While I was a little disappointed that the videos weren't circa 1970, there were a few posters showing labor poses with the women dressed in tights and leotards. Hmmm, how does that work?

Three things we did learn ...

1. During Labor, Hubby knows not to stay 2 inches away from my face and ask me how I'm doing. This will result in lots and lots of expletives from me or actual hitting. (One of the guys in the video was up in his wife's face the entire time and it would have driven any normal person insane).

2. There are still "those guys" that have to act like the class clown and ask questions such as "So, is taking the baby on a motorcycle a bad idea" and "So, how bad is alcohol for a baby?" I just really felt sorry for his wife who rolled her eyes at him through 80% of the class.

3. We learned all sorts of terms like "cheerio to a bagel" and what that represents. If you don't know, I'll tell you, but if you think really hard about it you can figure it out. All I can say is bagel=scary and it has nothing to do with breakfast.

Documenting the belly

30 weeks and 1 day, oh my.

Here I am testing out the new duo glider stroller with car seats. I don't know if the word glide should really be anywhere in the description of this stroller, but a neccessity nontheless.

Also, a shot of us at our baby shower from last weekend.

My friends

I'm not sure if anyone else does this, but do you find yourself referring to your "blog friends" as your friends, or at least wanting to do this? 

I recently overheard people in my office talking about Hong Kong, and I had to restrain from saying, "My friend, Libby is moving there in 2 months." or when another co-worker showed off the skirt she made this weekend, I want to tell her about "My friend Lisagh's adorable aprons that she sews."  I guess my fear was that I didn't want to be further questioned and then have to say, "well, I really don't know them - I just read their blogs ..."

I can say that I actually do know about 3 people who are on my list of daily blog reads that are actually friends - I know where they live, know their husbands, could call them up and chat.  However for the rest, I may or may not recognize you if you came up to me and said hello.

I'm afraid if I started talking about my "blog friends", people would immediately turn up their nose and think, does this chick have no life and no "real" friends?  I guess they would liken it to that imaginary friend from elementary school.

However, since I read about everyone's lives, likes and dislikes, the highs and lows, sometimes I feel like I am a part of everyone's lives and feel connected to those people whose blogs I read on a regular basis.  I guess it truly is a social phenomenon that all of us are going through ... so, my question to all of you, do you ever talk about your "blog friends" in public or is this something that you enjoy keeping to yourself?

Living on the wild side

Today, I'm wearing white pants and am eating my breakfast of a PB& raspberry jam on wheat with strawberries.  Now, I know that this doesn't sound like a dangerous feat for most of you, but for me, I can rarely wear white without something finding it's way to my clothing.  The sandwich is done and I will say, I surprised myself without finding jam on my pants. 

Case in point, yesterday, I wore a white faux-wrap top and made it through most of the work day until I discovered the canister of Hershey's extra dark chocolate with pomegranate bits.  Yum.  I took one back to my desk to savor and looked down a few minutes later to find it on my shirt and also on my arm.  Go figure!

By the way, if you love dark chocolate - find this candy.  It is quite yummy.  We had the individual squares in several different flavors. 

Makin' big babies

Yesterday, I had an appointment for an ultrasound, then 2 hours later, I had to go back and see my Doctor. A little nerve-wracking to split up the appointments, but I was out of there in record time. I may need to schedule all of my appointments like this.

Everything is looking great - I'll be 30 weeks on Thursday. How did that happen? Time really seems to have flown.

When our X-ray tech was measuring the babies, I was anticipating 2 1/2 pounds each. That would have given them about a 1 lb. growth spurt since our last appointment, a month ago.

I was shocked when she measured Baby A at 2 pounds and 14 ounces, who ranks in the 50th percentile for weight. Then, came the ringer ... Baby B measured at 3 pounds, 6 ounces, well into the 80th percentile. We were shocked and amazed. Our Doctor was very pleased with the growth of both - typically he sees twins in the 10-20% percentile. Everything looks OK so far with the difference in their weight. They will keep checking it, just to make sure one doesn't grow too rapidly and or take over all of the nutrients!

WOW. Still can't believe I have 6 pounds of baby in there. I think this is always how I felt after a huge mexican dinner!

Fooling myself

I think that my Fresca over ice is just as good as Hubby's Hoegaarden beer with an orange.

Yes-sir-ee-bob, I sure do. And, I'm sure that Fresca will taste just as yummy with a burger and sweet corn here later tonight.

Why does the start of summer remind me of gin & tonics and cold beer? Not nice to do to a 7-month pregnant woman!

Friday Fill In

It's time for a Friday Fill In ...

1. On my laziest day I like to stay in my PJ's, watch movies, nap, read, and eat!
2. Crossing things off a list or being able to move papers off my desk and know that a project has made progress makes me feel like I'm being productive.
3. I love little kisses and big hugs.
4. This summer I want to learn to be a good mom.
5. Preppy Cafe / Suburban Cupcake made me start my blog.
6. Red reminds me of toenail polish, college (one of my alma mater & sorority colors), the Junior League, and inspi(red) and orange reminds me of UT football, jack-o-lanterns, and fall leaves.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to enjoying the first Friday that we have summer hours at work, tomorrow my plans include a baby shower and seeing friends and family and Sunday, I want to get outdoors for a bit and hopefully do a little organizing around the house, namely one of our spare bedrooms!

Learning to say thank you at a very early age

Aren't these the cutest thank you notes from KT Originals?

I wanted to find cards for our upcoming shower other than my regular thank you notes, but gender-neutral and not too cheesy. I'm sorry, but too many storks, ducks, and bows make me cringe. They also have matching birth announcements as well ... decisions, decisions.

The sweetest sound

I walked in a few minutes ago after working all day, then attending the Annual Meeting for the Junior League to hear the vacuum running. How nice is that? Hubby was vacuuming the house and I didn't have to ask.

I know I don't sing his praises enough, but he's a good, good man.

Maternity slips?

Anyone know if they exist? I hate slips almost as much as I hate pantyhose, but everyone once in a while, I really feel they're a necessity.

I ordered a dress online - it's really cute, but made out of a thin cotton that is a little too sheer for my liking. Or for anyone else's for that matter. I'm trying to wear the dress to a shower next weekend, and would really prefer not to look trashy while balancing my punch on top of my belly!

NKOTB

NKOTB Reunion = I'm OLD.

While getting ready this morning, I heard on the Today Show that NKOTB is playing a concert this morning and it's been something like 13 years since they've performed together. (That may not be 100% accurate - I'm not in the same room when I'm listening).

I do remember in High School, most girls loved this band and had a crush on one of the members. It seems that if you "liked" one of the guys, then your friends had to pick another member to "like."

Lucky for me, I was not into NKOTB at all, so I didn't have to fight over a band member. In those days, I was happiest listening to the Cure and New Order and trying to get Billy F. to notice me. He wore lots of black, and when he wasn't riding a skateboard, drove a black VW convertible bug. Ah, the good ol days.

The "dreaded" orange drink

Is it bad that I didn't mind the glucose tolerance test drink today? It tasted like a Sunkist or other orange-flavored beverage, plus they served it over little pellet ice, so I was fine with it. Don't know my results yet, so I have abstained from the bag of Starburst jellybeans in the cupboard, just in case.

Now, I start having appointments every week and have also started rotating Doctors. I know this is normal, but I really like my Doctor and am not looking forward to seeing someone new every week. Especially when they ask you questions like, "So are you feeling a lot of good movement from the baby? I mean babies?" Just a little thing, but I'm sure TWINS is scrawled in bold somewhere on my chart. Details, details ...

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all of you moms - of children, doggies, kitties, and otherwise!

Isn't it amazing that Baby A, Baby B, Zeus & Zoe were able to pick out flowers and cards all on their own? I think my sweet Hubby may have had just a little to do with it!

What's up with this rating thing?

Did this rating thing pop up on anyone else's blog? And how do you remove it? The last thing I need is a rating system - I would be all 1's and 2's for sure!

Tennis ball = pregnant woman's best friend

In my prenatal yoga classes, we always take a tennis ball & rapidly roll our bare foot back and forth on it. It is heaven. I think this would be good for anyone - pregnant or not, after a long day of walking or on their feet. You can also get a good stretch by placing one heel on the tennis ball and pushing down with your weight. Then, alternate your feet. We also use this time to stretch your arms overhead and lean them to the left, then right.

I had been doing this at home on occasion, until I noticed that Zeus & Zoe kept taking the tennis balls as their own toys (because obviously they don't have enough toys of their own). Just doesn't have the same effect when covered in dog slobber. I may just need to stick to this exercise at yoga from now on.

5 Things

I decided to take part ...

5 Things I Can't Live Without Under $10:
1. Hot tamales candy
2. J.R. Watkins Apothecary Lemon hand cream - it smells exactly like the lemon cream girl scout cookies.
3. iTunes downloads
4. Uni-ball roller ball pens
5. Even though I technically don't buy these anymore, I have to put Martha Stewart Weddings magazine on my list. Love these.

5 Favorite Movies:
1. Sixteen Candles
2. Pretty in Pink
3. Say Anything
4. A River Runs Through It
5. Little Miss Sunshine

5 Baby Girl Names That I Love:
1. Lucy
2. Elizabeth and call her Libby
3. Madeline
4. Zane
5. Caroline

5 Baby Boy Names That I Love:
1. Zane
2. Jack
3. Holden
4. Finn
5. Parker

5 Songs You Could Listen to Over and Over:
1. Best of You - Foo Fighters
2. Bittersweet - Big Head Todd
3. Dani California - Red Hot Chili Peppers
4. Canon in D - Pachelbel
5. Fall on Me - R.E.M.

5 Things That Stay In My Purse At All Times:

1. Burts Bees lip balm
2. Cell phone
3. Debit card
4. Mirror
5. Pen

5 Obsessions I Have Right Now:
1. R.E.M.'s new album
2. Stephen Bonanno sandals - my 1st pair are on order!
3. Baby anything and everything
4. Finding something good to drink other than water that is healthy
5. Feeling little baby kicks and trying to figure out what they're doing in there.

5 Places I'd Love to Go:
1. Italy
2. Anguilla
3. Greece
4. St. John
5. Back out west- Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, etc.

Cookie candy recipe

I promise this is so easy and addictive. I make this for pretty much any party that we attend and there are only crumbs left. I believe the real name is called Cookie Candy, but we typically call it "crack rock"

You will need:

1 sleeve of saltine crackers
2 sticks unsalted butter
1 cup sugar
12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips (you can substitute dark chocolate or whatever you like)
12 oz. Skor bits, toffee chips, or butterscotch chips (I've tried peanut butter- not the same consistency, but still pretty good)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Directions:
Line a baking pan with foil.
Place one layer of saltine crackers in pan.
In a saucepan, mix butter and sugar over medium heat until combined.
Boil for 2 minutes, then pour mixture over crackers.
Bake for 6-7 minutes at 400 degrees.
Remove pan and sprinkle chocolate chips & Skor bits over crackers.
Set for minutes and spread to blend.
Refrigerate for 2 hours and break into pieces.

Time for a Friday Fill In

Thanks to Friday Fill In for today's blog fodder ...

1. Two of my favorite ingredients in a drink are the little pellet ice and Bombay Sapphire Gin!
2. My friend Stephanie often amazes me.
3. You can keep doing that forever, the dog is enjoying a good back scratch, right near the hind legs.
4. Saltine crackers, butter, sugar, chocolate chips and toffee chips, mix it all together and voila! You have the best cookie candy on earth.
5. If I had a yard with a garden, I would love to grow big pink peonies and gardenias. Maybe next year!
6. Makeup for the gym is best au naturel. Really. Why do you put on lipgloss if you're gonna go sweat?
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to stopping by a book sale after work
tomorrow my plans include visiting with the in-laws and Sunday, I want to eat movie popcorn while watching Baby Mama!

Pencil test

This may be a TMI post, but when you were little girls, did you ever do the pencil test? You know, the one where you would hold a pencil under your boob to see if it would fall to the floor or stay up? I think even my Mom told me she wouldn't buy me a bra in the 7th grade, because let's be honest ... I didn't need one. But all the other girls wore one, so I think she finally gave in.

I have no idea why I suddenly had the urge (probably because I have always failed this test miserably, even as an adult), but whattya know? I now pass the pencil test! My problem is I don't know if it's boob or belly holding up the pencil. This may mean that I shouldn't start wearing my PJ's the second I walk in the door!

What a difference a year makes

Almost this time last year, Hubby and I were busy running half-marathons. It was much harder than my first one, but I remember feeling so accomplished at the end. My parents came to cheer us on, so that definitely made a difference seeing them at the end, when all I really wanted to do was walk. Miss Zoot ran the full last year and wrote a great post about her experience. We even stayed in the same hotel, but I didn't get a chance to meet her.

It's hard to believe that so much has changed since then & now I can barely run to the car when it's raining. But for a good reason, so I won't complain. Maybe I'll set my sights on a full marathon at some point and definitely another half. Who knows when that will be, but it's always good to have a goal. I will say that I listened to one of my "running" mixes on my iTrip this weekend and just hearing some of the songs made me want to get back out there.

But for now, I'm going to go lie down on my left side and try to get one of these babies to move away from my rib cage. Ouch.

What a difference a few weeks makes

Documenting the belly, shown here at 25 weeks and 2 days.

This photo below seems like a distant memory. Taken 20 weeks and 3 days.

Zeus & Zoe's recommendation

Zeus and Zoe are huge advocates of this adorable etsy site. So, is it bad to dress your kids like your dogs? Somehow I think that's better than dressing your dogs like your kids.

Political banter

I'm not really sure what is more disturbing:

A) My hubby is addicted to WWE. That's World Wrestling Entertainment for those of you not in the know. You know, guys in tights on Monday night, in a quasi soap opera for males that involves jumping off of chairs and whatever else goes on. I think there are also scantily-clad women involved that are also "wrasslers."

B) That Hillary, Obama, and John McCain all had taped messages on the show last night.

I guess they are all looking for ways to reach new voters and the town hall meetings aren't the way to go anymore.

A new height of laziness

I was talking on the phone to my good friend last night and it was nearly 10PM. During the course of our conversation, I had ventured upstairs to find the baby-naming book and list of names that Hubby and I've been throwing around. When I hung up the phone, I realized that I didn't really want to go back downstairs, but I also didn't want to have Hubby think I went to bed without saying goodnight.

The way our house is designed, if I were to yell "Hubby, I'm going to bed" while in our bedroom and if he's in the den (with the TV turned up really high, no doubt) there is no way that he would even hear me. I have a better chance of getting one of the dogs to notice and act as a carrier pigeon.

So, I looked down at the phone and decided to call his mobile. I knew I had seen his phone on the coffee table earlier. On the first ring, I hear a strange "hello?" It was like that one scary movie where the police yell "the call - it's coming from inside the house!" Our conversation went a little more like this:

Hubby: Hello?
Me: Hey, I'm upstairs, but I'm really tired and going to bed.
Hubby: Laughter for a good minute or so.
Me: Does this mean I've reached a new height of laziness?
Hubby: Between chuckles, I think it does.
Me: Oh well, good night. I love you.
Hubby: Still laughing, I love you too.

Some say lazy, I say conserving energy.

Recommended reading

I've had this book on my "to read" list for some time, and finally borrowed a copy from a co-worker. Oh my gosh, I started reading it when I came home from work tonight and it has to be some of the funniest writing I have read in a while.

If you have worked in the advertising business, you will appreciate this novel. I think I knew I would love it when on page 5, they describe how someone had placed a sushi roll on a bookshelf of another employee and it took weeks for anyone to finally find it, but the whole time, the guy is sniffing his underarms, breathing into his hand to see if he's the one exuding the smell. I had to laugh because I previously worked at an agency where a very similar incident happened that involved banana peels. I will of course protect all parties involved.

So, if you love cubicles, cynicism, and caffeine breaks, check it out.

Higher Ed

Over the next two months, Hubby and I will be taking a series of classes to prepare us for for these two new additions to our home often referred to as Baby A and Baby B. First on our list, Infant CPR. I know I was certified several years ago, but if I had to perform it right now, I would probably freeze.

Next month, we have the power weekend class called "Birth & Baby". We've been told this is full of breathing techniques for relaxation, a tour of the delivery wing, c-section information, etc. I'm sure this class also contains some great 1970's footage of some real life births. And did I mention that lunch is included, since we're doing the super duper power weekend?

In the meantime, I'll be taking Breastfeeding I and II. I'm sure Hubby was glad that he was able to opt out of that one.

As I've really been thinking about these classes - does anyone fail? What if we made a D+ or a C-? What can they do? As far as I know, these babies are coming this summer whether I'm ready or not! Somehow I imagine that these classes will make for a few good posts. Hubby is also looking into the Daddy Bootcamp workshop. Not for exercise, but apparently learning the basics of parenting from a Dad's point of view. I'm totally imagining Scott Baio's class on "Scott Baio is 46 & Pregnant."

Whinin'

It's hard to believe that it's almost 24 weeks into this pregnancy and I feel very lucky that I've made it through without a lot of morning sickness or any major scares. For the most part, I've felt really good with the expected days of exhaustion here and there and a few hours of pain in my rib cage due to Baby A (I think) enjoying a good stretch after I eat a meal.

But, can I just whine about something for a minute? Part of the good side of pregnancy is that your hair and nails grow like weeds. However, I have a new crop of baby hair at the front of my hair that will not stay down no matter what. I use product, I use Chi Silk Infusion that typically tames any fly-aways, I've done the "lick the thumb and smooth it down" method, I've even rubbed my hands through my hair after applying hand lotion, but nothing seems to work.

It's been one thing to get used to my growing belly and swollen ankles, and the worry of stretch marks and labor pains, but this? Really? I'll take the new hair, but couldn't it have cropped up somewhere else? Like somewhere other than the top of my head?? I'm gonna go pat my hair down now.

Tag, You're It.

I was tagged by Life is REED-iciculous to share some things about myself. By the way, she and her fiancee have an adorable black labrador retriever.

I am opting not to tag 6 others (I know, I know), but please play along if you wish! Mad About Plaid girl, consider yourself tagged!!

RULES:
1) you link back to the person who tagged you.
2) post these rules on your blog.
3) share six unimportant things about yourself.
4) tag six random people at the end of your entry.
5) let the tagged people know by leaving a comment on their blogs

1. I drink out of the same coffee cup nearly every day. It's one of those that I painted at a paint your own pottery studio in '97 and it has my single-lady initials on the bottom.

2. When they did those silly High School predictions at the end of our Senior year, I was predicted to become the spokesperson for Chapstick. I think this was not because I was necessarily a great spokesperson, but because I used more chapstick, blistex, etc than was humanly possible. I still use it at minimum about 3 times a day. I hate dry lips. Yeech.

3. When I was really little I wanted to be a Veterinarian until I learned that I would have to be the one to put dogs asleep. Next, I wanted to be a fashion designer. I drew the same dress over and over practicing for this industry. Obviously, I didn't pursue either line of work.

4. I love, love, love strawberries in season, sweet corn, and lima beans. All of these foods also remind me of my Grandmother who would can corn and lima beans so we could have them all year.
5. When I was in elementary school, I was an extremely picky eater so I wouldn't buy the lunch at school. Every day, I ate a cheese sandwich which consisted of white bread and american cheese - nothing else. Probably not the healthiest option, but I guess I turned out OK!

6. Our editor just approved a short little piece of my writing that will be published! Yay. Not in the magazine, but on our website.

It's a sad day

A new DSW just opened up near my house, so I decided to go tonight after work. Didn't buy a damn thing. Now tell me how it is that a woman can go into a SHOE store with a billion shoes and come out empty handed? I feel like I have failed in my "womanly" duties.

Wish this was a permanent addition to my day

Today at work, I was one of the winners of a 15-minute massage. This was part of some sales deal from several months ago. Let me tell you, I wish this masseuse would show up every day at 1PM to knead the knots out of my shoulders and back.

Now, since the masseuse didn't know that she would have a 5 1/2 month pregnant woman as her first customer, she didn't have the right pillow or table for me, so I received my massage leaning over in a chair. It really didn't matter. So worth it.

Next on my agenda - to book a real prenatal massage or somehow convince my employer that this needs to be added to our regular benefits package.

I love a good sample sale

There was a great sale today with tons of bags, totes, storage boxes from Buckhead Betties and Creative Containers. Kelly B. Rightsell was also there with all of her adorable children's items. Kelly's stuff is great and it was the perfect place to find some cute accessories for the nursery at really great deals.

I bought this sweet print. I also bought this one and this one, but wished we could have found this one. I've decided I won't unwrap any of the twice blessed ones until Baby A & Baby B are here, just in case we don't have the one we need. That, my friends is the only downside about not knowing the genders.

I didn't see this one at the sale, but I think Zeus and Zoe would have approved.

OK, enough sappiness for today. It's rainy here, the dogs are snoozing, Hubby has gone to watch the Carolina game, and I think I'm heading back to the sofa to see if the True Life marathon is still on MTV. I've already seen part of I'm a Southern Belle and I'm an Alcoholic. Nice, eh?

Open letter to my morning bagel artist

I'm assuming that's what Bruegger's calls their bagel makers ala the style of Subway. I woke up late today, so instead of making breakfast at home, I stopped by Bruegger's near our house to pick up a quick bite. I opted for a cinnamon raisin bagel with peanut butter, plus a Naked juice, and a bottle of water.

All was fine until I opened up the bag at my desk and I think the lady put about 1/2 a jar of peanut butter on the bagel, plus the bagel was still warm resulting in a big sloppy mess. I hope that I was able to get the PB out of my hair, but I'm sure the smell will remain all day. Hopefully, my fellow co-workers will think it's my new perfume.

So, nice Bruegger's employee, I appreciate your willingness to load up my bagel, but the next time, ease up a little. There are some times when I appreciate a heavy pour - red wine, soft serve ice cream, chocolate sauce, but on this occasion let's just say, "less is more."

I'm here

I promise I'm not suffocating under a large pile of baby bedding. Thanks to everyone for their input!

Last night, I told Hubby what pattern I was leaning towards and he looked at my incredulously and said, "You've made a decision???" He's a funny one, that Hubby.

I am leaning towards the Pottery Barn Stella pattern (pattern B from my previous post), but I'll use one of the pique bed skirts with the light green stripe. At least that's what I leaning towards right now this very minute.

In other news, do I need to seek help for the fact that I DVR'd 2 episodes of the Hills and watched them when I came home from lunch yesterday? I'm sure I killed brain cells wasting that hour of my life.

And, while I am pregnant and I appreciate people looking after me, if one more person asks me how I'm feeling, in that voice that is usually saved to ask about a terminally ill Grandma, I'm going to scream! I have resolved never to ask this of anyone that I meet who is pregnant. Instead, I'll ask about their cute haircut, their shoes, or maybe even that new maternity shirt that they have on and somehow they managed to leave the house without spilling toothpaste or oatmeal on their ever growing chest!

Taking a poll ...

Crib bedding has been on my mind as of late. I've found several things that I like, but I guess I'm looking for a second, third, fourth opinion as I can't seem to make up my mind.

Here are a few options for you to choose (in no particular order). Keep in mind, we don't know the genders and probably won't find out. Cribs and furniture will be painted white. Walls are painted a blue-ish green that tends to change colors throughout the day with white trim. Wall colors could be painted if we have to go that route. We're buying for 2 and as much as I'd love to spend $1,000 on crib bedding, I can't justify it.

Option A: The Callie bedding from Pottery Barn Kids. We would choose the bright green and find a more neutral (non-floral) crib sheet in green or white.

http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/nb80/index.cfm?pkey=cbdgnbd%7Cb

Option B: Stella from Pottery Barn Kids. Again, I would do a different crib sheet in green or yellow.

http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/nb75_1/index.cfm?pkey=cbdgnbd%7Cb

Option C: All Creatures Great & Small from Land of Nod.

http://www.landofnod.com/family.aspx?c=167&f=4157&pc=67

Option D: Womb with a View from Land of Nod

http://www.landofnod.com/family.aspx?c=167&f=633&pc=67

Option E: Squirt from Target.


http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=sc_qi_detail/601-5681841-1567335?&frombrowse=1&page=1&node=15991011&rh=&asin=B000WIF2TY

Option F: Pique bedding from Pottery Barn Kids. In either chocolate or green, then we could add in other colors when the babies are here.

http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/nb50/index.cfm?pkey=cbdgnbd%7Cb

Please cast your vote in the comments section. If you have other ideas, please leave them as well. Baby A & Baby B thank you for your support!

Happy Birthday, Z & Z!

It's hard to believe that the "Z" dogs are 4 years old today. It really just seems like yesterday when we picked them up and I rode in the back of the car with them for the 2 hours trip home.

I remember that during our first weekend, no one really slept much. Seen here at 7 weeks old.


They did help us finish our wedding Save the Date cards by posing for us.

Zoe's favorite past time - swimming at the lake.

Here they are this past Christmas.

And today, enjoying a celebratory drink & cookie!

Pregnant Woman in need of congestion relief

Here's my latest love note to Mother Earth:

Dear Mother Earth,

I hope you are having a beautiful day. Currently, I'm not doing so great. Yesterday, from 3PM to about 9PM, I had about 10% use of my nasal passages. I finally propped myself up on about 90 pillows to make that number rise to about 40%. Being "with child" and all, I'm really limited on what I can snort or swallow. The stuff from my allergist isn't cutting it. (Yes, I know it may take a few days, but I'm a little desperate. Breathing is kind of important.) I am asking you to please dispose of all pollen and ragweed from my nearby vicinity.

XO,
Susan D.

Any neti-pot users out there or anyone feeling the same way? If we're in a 300 mile radius from each other, I'm sure we are. I'm looking for an all natural (or Pregnancy B category) remedy that I can add to my non-effective nasal spray and antihistamine!

Documenting the belly

20 weeks, 3 days on Easter Sunday

I felt the babies move for the first time this week. I've been waiting for these so-called flutters, but today, I think I felt someone flip over. More like riding a roller coaster sensation, than a flutter.

Making me happy

A few things that are making me happy ....

A much needed pedicure in OPI's Pansy

Daffodils from my yard that have a found a home near our kitchen sink

Ben & Jerry's

This one's a little bittersweet - New bras that actually fit. At least for now.

Take5 Tuesday

I was looking for a little Tuesday fill-in, so here goes. Thanks to Take5 Tuesday.


I chose the topic of my 5 favorite Breakfast Foods, so here goes:

One of my favorite as of late is Old Fashioned Quaker oatmeal mixed with skim milk, raisins, cinnamon, and ground flax seed. Ok, the flax seed stuff isn't my favorite, but it's good for you.

The breakfast casserole that my mom makes - eggs, sausage, cheese, and sourdough bread all mixed together in a yummy baked goodness. Can it really get much better?

Omelets. I am not a huge fan of eggs, but when eggs meet cheese and salsa, they become my friend.

Pancakes. Don't have them often, but they definitely earn a space in the top 5.

Biscuits and raspberry preserves. Yes, I know I'm in the South, but this Southern girl doesn't like gravy. Give me a homemade biscuit and homemade preserves with a glass of milk, and I'm a happy girl.

Why I shouldn't take sick days

1) I've stayed on my work email most of the day, working anyway despite not being able to breathe properly and nursing a sore throat. Oh well, I'm still in my PJ's so that counts for something.

2) I can watch A Baby Story on TLC and see a woman give birth to what looked like a toddler. Ummmm, a little scary to this first time new-mom-to-be.

Have you heard?

We recently featured this company in our magazine. Of course, Oprah wrote about it 2 years ago. Guess we were a tad slow!

It can actually replace your google or yahoo search engine and the great thing is that you can choose your favorite charity or non-profit and proceeds go back to that non-profit. You can also shop via their site and make more money for your chosen non-profit.

I personally volunteer for a non-profit and we're up to nearly $2.00, but every little bit counts. So, do your good deed today, use Good Search, pick your charity, do a little searching online like you would anyway, and raise money for someone who needs it.

Baby naming is hard

A co-worker sent this article to me yesterday. I really couldn't believe some of the names that they found in past censuses. King Arthur? Ima Hooker? Candy Storh? Really? Plus, do you really want your child to have to grow up dealing with this?

Yesterday, Hubby met a family with twin girls named "Maggie" and "Valley." For those of you not as familiar with NC, when I hear Maggie Valley, this is what I envision. While picturesque and scenic, not what I would plan to name my children.

I did work with a guy whose last name was Naylor. He always joked that he would name his kids Woody and Didde. I digress ...

Walking dogs = out of breath

Pregnancy observation #12546

Either I am way out of shape or having 12 ounces of baby inside me is already cutting into my lung capacity.

Back from the beach

It's only 7:30 and I can hear two sleeping dogs snoring from their kennels. Hubby & I headed to Wrightsville Beach for the weekend to celebrate my birthday, and the pups went to Air Canine for a weekend of swimming, running, and baths.

We had a good, very relaxing weekend, albeit cold and windy. Walks on the beach were pretty short, but it's still nice to have the ocean as your backyard. Lots of eating and napping, a little shopping, and I even stayed up to watch UNC beat Duke last night. Go Heels! I think my afternoon nap helped me out for the 9pm game. And, not to forget my alma mater, a little shout out to the Peay for making it to the NCAA tourney!

As always, it's nice to be home. Loving the daylight savings time ... I'm sure I'll grumble tomorrow morning, but for now, I love the extra daylight.

See you next week!

We're off for a few days of R&R. See you on Monday!

Lipstick dilemna

Oh the topic is heavy and serious today .... I have been unhappy with my current lipstick/lip gloss choices.

I used to wear Clinique's Black Honey. It always seemed to be a good standby.

I love Stila's LipGlaze in Berry, but wanted to try something new.

I flirted with Benefit, Bobbi Brown, Chanel, MAC, Target brands and others. Help. What's a girl to do?

I'm brunette, fair skinned, with hazel eyes. Anyone out there with a perfect shade for me?

5 things I've learned ...

I've been tagged by Kim to tell 5 things that I learned and with her great suggestion, I think I'll do the pregnancy theme.

1. I have learned that when a pregnant woman says she's hungry, it means she's hungry, like right now, this very second and she must eat immediately. In my case, you may not know what you want, but food better by nearby. Peanut butter crackers are now a staple in my house.

2. From attending pre-natal yoga classes, I have really learned how pregnancy looks different on everyone. I know that everyone's bodies are different, but I'm always amazed at how different women carry, who gets swollen ankles, who complains of the increasing bra size, and those lucky girls who turn around and you can't even tell that they are pregnant.

3. I'm beginning to think that something is in the water in our neighborhood. We will be having the 4th set of twins on our street (East side & West side together), and at least the 6th set in the neighborhood. I've learned that there was a family with quads, but they have moved.

4. I now understand when a pregnant woman says that she can't touch or cook raw chicken, can't remember why she walked into a room, remember an answer to a simple question, or the sheer thought of a specific food makes her nauseous.

5. If we had the means to afford it, I would be like Tom & Katie and rent an ultrasound machine so I could look at the babies on a daily basis. We went today for a very detailed and long ultrasound and I enjoyed every minute.

I won't tag anyone, but if you're looking for a topic, feel free to tag yourself!

I'm in trouble

I was in a candy conversation last week with two of my co-workers. Yes, we were actually talking about what kind of candy we liked. You know the norm - dark chocolate, peanut butter and chocolate, and then I discovered that these two women and I are soul mates. We all love hot tamales.

One of them bought about 6 big boxes and filled up a cute little jar that now sits near our desks, along with another jar of Good n Plenty's.

I restrained until the afternoon yesterday, but one of the women was already nibbling before 8:30. I hope I don't eat the entire jar!