Crack

Observations

On my way to the park for a run this evening, I noticed the following ...

A platinum-blond driving a Jag, wearing big ol' black sunglasses, talking with her fake french-manicured hands, while sporting leopard print fuzzy dice on the rear view mirror. I swear it looked just like Kim from the Real Housewives of Atlanta.

Then, I was coming to a stoplight and I let a guy out in front of me. He waved and I waved back. Wish I would have made him wait after I saw his truck window decal of a nudie girl. Nice. Wonder what his wife thinks. Or his Mom. Do guys think that this will get them a date?
"Ooh, lookie there Martha ... that guy has a nudie girl on the back of his truck! Drive faster, I gotta check him out!"

Then on my way into the park, I noticed a sign stating that Registered Sex Offenders were not allowed inside the park. Well, great ... because is there a check-in for those registered sex offenders so they will politely be asked to leave? If so, I think I missed it. Just a little creepy, because unless this is just some sort of state law, I bet it means that they have had a problem in the past.

I guess you could say I might be reconsidering my city for a moment! Maybe I should take that Facebook quiz to see where I should be living.

Busy weekend and Happy Easter

It has been a busy weekend ... On Friday, Maddy and Libby came along to file their first taxes(they said yay for tax deductions) and took a much needed trip to the grocery. They are excited about orzo pasta, kiwi fruit and pears. On Saturday, they went on a 9-mile trail run with Dad, (I ran 8, but Hubby pushed the stroller 9 miles, up and down big hills.), then went to an Easter Egg hunt and an dinner with a few friends. Today, we went to about half of our church service, visited the nursery for the other half, checked out Easter baskets, then traveled to visit Grandparents, had another Easter Egg hunt, then traveled back home. Whew.

I hope you all enjoyed a Happy Easter with your loved ones.

Maddy visited Libby in her crib.

I hope there are some sunglasses in those baskets!

Maddy likes to shake-it, shake-it.

This egg hunting is serious business.

Wondering

Is it in bad taste when my doorbell rings at 12 noon to hug the person, kiss them, and dance around like a crazy person? I guess it would be different if I really knew this person, but it's my cleaning lady who is coming for our first "official" cleaning.

I can't tell you how happy this makes me. I have days that I feel like I should be able to keep our house as clean as I would like, but in reality ... it just isn't happening.

The fact that instead of scrubbing a toilet or mopping a floor, I can use that time to love on my girls, do a little work, talk to my husband, or actually think about making something for dinner and that makes me insanely happy. There. I said it.

I'm that girl

If you happened to be in my neighborhood this morning, that was me. Yes, I was the one huffin' and puffin' behind the orange BOB stroller, pushing nearly 40 pounds of baby + 23 pounds (the weight of the stroller.) There were times that I thought I might lose a lung, but it was OK. I ran about 3.25 miles and did walk most of the hills, but I am feeling like a real woman right now.

We survived!

Hubby and I took our first trip by ourselves this weekend. Gasp! Gone for three nights and two airplane rides away from home! I thought it was a success since we didn't drink entirely too much and make jackasses out of ourselves and we also didn't sleep away the entire weekend. There were definitely periods of imbibing and rainy, Saturday afternoon naps, but all in moderation!

It was a trip to Vermont for my work, but we were able to take families along to enjoy the weekend after our meetings were over on Friday. Since the girls are a tad too young for skiing, we decided to leave them entrusted in the care of their grandparents. All in all, it was a win-win. The girls were spoiled rotten, and the grandparents, albeit tired were able to spend uninterrupted time with their newest grand babies.

Today, I had to pick up Zeus and Zoe from their kennel and poor Zeuser broke his dew claw nail getting into my car. Ouch. Poor guy ... he wouldn't let anyone touch his paw and there doesn't seem to be much we can do about it. The kennel owner tried to wrap up his paw, but Zeus was having none of that. It's no longer bleeding, so that is good. I think he is totally milking us for extra attention.

So it really is back to reality - - emails, phone calls, dogs, laundry, meetings, peas in the hair, and sweet potatoes on my shoulder. Never a dull day.

And the winner is ...

I had a lot of fun with our little April Fool's contest and it turns out that I am going to designate two winners! The first is Meg who hinted at the fact that there may have been some baby switching ... and you were right!

In the first photo, Libby was wearing blue and Maddy was in red.

Later that same day (as if I don't have enough to do), I switched their outfits for another photo opportunity. So for the second photo, Maddy was dressed in blue and Libby was wearing red.

So, I am giving Meg the 1st place price, then chose another name at random from the other guesses and congrats go to Natalie!

Thanks for playing along and I'll be sending each of you a special surprise from two of my good friends who have recently started their own business! Check out BE Creative Goods for great paper products and jewelry. Ladies, I will be in touch for your monograms and shipping information!

April Fool's riddle for you

An April Fools riddle just for you …

Nine months ago,
on the longest day of the year
twin girls were born
both whom are very dear.
Maddy and Libby are their names,
Peek-a-Boo and Patty Cake are some of their favorite games.
We think they are very sweet
From the tops of their heads down to the bottom of their feet.
But they were feeling a bit naughty today

since it is April Fool’s Day.

They want you to see if you can guess who is who.

So, dear readers, what say you?

I have decided to make this a true contest, complete with a special giveaway! Oooooh! Ahhhhh! Ooooo! Here's the deal ... please leave your answer in the comments, and I will pick a random winner from those who answer correctly. You will have until Sunday, April 4 at 5:00 PM EST to enter and the winner will be announced on Monday, April 5. Good luck & have fun!

And a partridge in a pear tree

Today consisted of ...

18 pounds and 10 ounces (Libby)
16 pounds and 3 ounces (Maddy)
27 3/4 inches (Libby)
26 3/4 inches (Maddy)
A combined 6 shots
A few smiles for Dr. L. and a fascination with her cool belt buckle and stethoscope
A few cries for the nurse who had to give the shots
And a TOOTH for Libby! It hadn't quite broken through yesterday, but it was sharp and shining for their 9-month appointment today.

Big pimpin'

Hubby and I were talking about something work related (his work) when we were feeding the girls and getting them ready for bed. He's in outside sales and always carries a small photo album of Maddy and Libby so he can show off the latest pictures.

I think the conversation went something like this.

Hubby "Dr. So and So really liked the latest picture of the girls. She said they are really getting big."

Me "Oh, that's nice. Just as long as she's using your products, I guess you can keep pimping out M&L."

Hubby "Of course ... I have the (insert product name here) sticker on the back of the album."

Me "No you don't."

Hubby "Yes I do. That product may pay for college."

Next thing I know, they're going to be wearing little t-shirts and going along on calls with him.

Whatever works, I guess.

Maddy - Libby, 9 months old

un-friended

I may have jinxed myself.

I commented on Lisagh's post this morning about how nice it would be if life were like Facebook and you could simply "unfriend" someone. Then later, I was on Facebook and for what ever reason, I realized that I hadn't noticed any recent comments from one of my friends.

Well, I'm not his friend anymore.

Do you think he un-friended me? People just don't disappear off your friends list, do they? Should I just request to be his friend again or just sit quietly and brood about it?

This is why Facebook is often too much like high school and it gets on my nerves! All those same feelings of insecurity rear their ugly head again.

I promise that I am really NOT scary, psycho-Facebook stalker girl that this post makes me appear to me.

oh my lord

It's a lovely Lilly explosion! Click here to view the deliciousness. I think these three below are my favorite of the stationery. They also have Lilly party and wedding invitations. I am so ready for Spring. Of course, it's foggy and 54 degrees right now, but these really make me ready for warm weather.

picky, picky, picky.

Maddy has always been the picky eater of the two girls. She's always been a slower eater and my Mom finally admitted that she used to scoop up Libby first because she was easier to feed. Even with her bottle some days, she'll just press her lips together and turn her head away when she's telling you "no!" She's finally eating applesauce, cheerios, and bananas. Maybe a few bites of oatmeal, sweet potato, and carrots, but those are few and far between.

I decided to try out blueberries and yogurt for lunch today. They both gobbled up the blueberries. My only "fiasco" was when I gave Maddy a bath this evening and noticed that she had a bruise on her arm. I nearly panicked trying to figure out what had happened to her, when the "bruise" washed off. She had dropped a blueberry inside her outfit and it left several "bruises" on her arm and tummy.

Anyway, Maddy loved the yogurt. It's the full fat plain Stonyfield. It makes me pucker a little, so I didn't have high hopes. Shockingly, she ate two servings today. Whoo-hoo ... I think it will be the new item on the menu.

No mo' drama

Tonight I had an appointment to get my hair cut at 6:30. I had envisioned a leisurely evening of getting my hair cut, visiting with my hairstylist who is also a good friend & former boss, maybe even having a glass of wine. After that, I was going grocery shopping so I could buy my lemon bar ingredients, plus all the other stuff that we're out of.

So, how in the hell did my evening turn to crap?

When I was leaving the salon, I was swilling down my last few drops of wine when I went to pull out my debit card and pay. But there was no debit card. I rummaged through my purse, pulled out my other cards to see if it was in the wrong place, but still no debit card. CRAP. Luckily, I did have a credit card, because I don't think the $7 in cash was going to get me anywhere.

I called Hubby who looked around the house, but didn't see it. I came home and got online to find that luckily no strange activity had taken place. I called my bank and ordered a new card. I really think that it may be wedged somewhere in my car and I hope that it isn't floating around.

Anyway, the girls were still up so I helped feed them and tuck them in. Then, I went to the grocery.

I was checking out and thought to bring my checkbook, because again, that $7 in cash wasn't buying me squat. Well, as the clerk was scanning my last few items I realized that I had bought the wrong kind of yogurt. Typically not that big of a deal, but somehow I think it's frowned upon to give 9-month olds fat free yogurt. I ran back to the dairy, exchanged out my yogurt, then ran back to the checkout.

Of course a line has now formed behind me and I had to pay with my antiquated check. I don't think I've written a check in a grocery store since I got a debit card. Well, of course they had to call the manager over to approve it and I could feel the stares. I felt just like those Visa commercials where the guy uses a check and the entire place comes to a screeching halt.

Geez Louise. Let's just say I am glad to be home and not out causing any more drama!

lemon bars

Martha must have some sort of tracker on my craving for the day. I was thinking about lemon bars and (poof) an email appears with her best lemon recipes, including one for lemon squares. It's magic ... just like those ads on google!

http://www.marthastewart.com/recipe/lemon-squares?xsc=eml_edf_2009_03_24

Don't they look good? I think I may need to pick up lemons and the rest of the ingredients on my grocery store trip tonight so I can try to make them tomorrow.

Other staples in our house that we are either out of or as we say, "on alert" that we are almost out of ... coffee creamer, peanut butter, oatmeal squares cereal, whole wheat bread, bananas. I'm sure there's a dozen other things too. Hmmm, maybe it's selfish that the things always replenished are items that I always need for my own breakfast and lunch. Well, Hubby eats the peanut butter too, so I guess that counts for something.

I also want to pick up some blueberries for Maddy and Libby. They are into feeding themselves, so I'm going to try to "smoosh" the blueberries and cut into pieces to see what they think. So far, cheerios are the favorite, but they'll also eat bananas, sweet potato, and baked apples cut into tiny bits. The dogs think it's great too, because there is usually about a 70/30 ratio on what actually makes it into their mouths.

It's baaaack!

Warning: TMI.

After a sixteen month hiatus from Aunt Flo, she came back today. And with a vengeance I might add and cramps like I was 14 years old again. And guess what I had zero of in my house? Yep, you guessed it. Thank goodness there were pads leftover from the summer, because I was in no mood to make a trip to the drug store this morning.

This Mother nature thing is a biotch.

Flash forward

Seeing this picture of Maddy makes me feel like in about 13 years I'm going to listen to her say to me "Like, Mom ... you know .... all the girls are wearing polo shirts with their collars popped, Seven jeans, and boat shoes. Oh, and like don't forget a new North Face jacket. I would look like a total loser without one!"

Can anyone tell me where the past nine months have gone?? Seriously. Oh, and we have one crawling and one trying. I may never blog again!

Also, why did I agree to join a swim & tennis club yesterday? Ummm, hello bathing suit that I'll need to be wearing come Memorial Day? I saw shaded, gradual entry baby pool with a full service grill and asked "where do we sign?" Think anyone will notice if I wear yoga pants in the pool?

Is it wrong ...

That I have been eating nachos, frozen pizza, jelly beans, and vanilla wafers while my children have been eating fresh, organic sweet potatoes, corn, green beans, butternut squash, and apples?

I think it's time to reevaluate my eating habits and start eating more like my babies!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Was that a leprechaun?

Breakin' Three: The Inchworm Edition

Libby is hoping that Breakin' makes another movie and it can be all about her. We have crawling! I guess you would really call it inchworming, since she's not using her knees just yet. We have been amazed how quickly she can get across the room, or towards the steps, or to the dog bed (they aren't thrilled). Maddy is content to scoot backwards or rock on hands and knees.

Now if I can only figure out which cord I need to download these videos off our camera and post online. I'm not tech savvy when it comes to camcorders, so all of my videos are just sitting there.

Since they are now not content to just stay on a blanket, we have also added the piece de resistance of our family room ... the baby cage! I think the One Step Ahead website calls it a Play Zone or something a little more PC. It's pretty hideous, but it gives me a place to keep them safe and entertained when I can't be right there with them. For instance, when I'm blogging or on Facebook! Seriously, for going to the bathroom, doing laundry, letting the dogs out, working, etc. And ours is even bigger than this picture. It is huge. The dogs aren't impressed by it either ... one more place they can't take naps.

See, don't these kids look happy? They won't grow up with

thoughts that they were put in a cage, will they?

is it too early?

Maddy and Libby will be 9 months old next week, but lately I've been thinking of birthday plans. I know, I know ... I said I wouldn't be "one of those" parents and make a huge deal out of it. But, then again ... how can you not at least make a little fuss? I think Hubby was the first one who came up with the idea of wanting to have cupcakes. Of course, now I'm thinking about a whole cupcake themed party and seem to keep seeing ideas everywhere.

I recently saw this cupcake stand at Target.

Williams-Sonoma has a pan to make giant cupcakes. Wouldn't you love to have one all to yourself?



We already have a 1st birthday onesie and bib with cupcakes. My Mom bought this ... I told her that I don't want to hear the arguments when they look at pictures and ask why one was wearing the shirt and one was wearing the bib. Hopefully I can find another one before June.

I've seen several cute invitation options, decorations, favors, etc. Hell, there's even a Cupcake website dedicated to all things cupcake? I can just go here and have this shindig planned today!

Date day

Hubby and I had plans to run in the Beerun today. (Yes that is how they spell it.) It's a 5 mile run that starts and ends at a neat little pub in our city. We've done it several times ... it's hilly, but always a good, fun run.

Well, we were going to register today because we missed the cut off for early registration. Today has turned out to be a cold and rainy mess. I was ready to go for it when Hubby reminded me of the rule that states "If you've already registered, you run. If you haven't registered, then you aren't obligated." I guess that's so if you already have the tee shirt, it wouldn't really be fair not to run. Kinda like having the concert tee shirt without going to the show.

So anyway, we already had a sitter for this afternoon so we have decided to go ahead and do something. No real plans ... a late lunch and watch the Tar Heels play some basketball. Isn't that what rainy Saturdays are supposed to be for anyway?

Strong

How can a nearly 9 month old baby be so strong? I would have sworn that her 18 pounds is one big wiggly muscle. Hubby called me into their nursery this morning when he was trying to give Libby medicine and by the look of both of them, he was losing. They were both covered in pink medicine.

She had her first ear infection and cough/wheezy respiratory thing this week. Yuck. Apparently, she doesn't like the taste of the amoxicillian. I can't say that I blame her. It's going to be a long 7 days. Damn 10-day supply.

The hard part is keeping Maddy well. I'm trying to separate them at playtime, separate their food and spoons, but there's a part of me that wonders if the spreading the illness is inevitable. Like when Maddy decided to take Libby's pacifier from her mouth and pop it into her own. Maddy may have just sealed her deal to be in the Pediatrician's office soon. Let's hope not.

How do you ...

throw a party for someone who doesn't want it?

My parents 50th wedding anniversary is this June. That's a huge accomplishment and something that most people would want to celebrate. Except, my parents ... or more specifically, my Mom. She doesn't like the fuss or expense of things like this.

So, my brothers and I have been talking about it and trying to decide what to do. I think we have decided to do something at my brother's house, keep it casual, and somewhat small. Just invite family and close friends.

Most of the invitations and supplies out there are soooo cheesy. Gold rimmed with wine glasses? Gag. What I need is an invitation shaped like a bulldog and baseball bat (their favorite things). Hmmm, where is that one? Our next task will be trying to tell them. I'm sure that will go over well. How do you get them to just relax and enjoy a little fuss being made over them?

It's been a long time

I started running again this January ... I took part in a 5k class with a local group called Janes on the Run. It was a great way for me to get back into running, know that I wasn't going to die trying to get back into it again, and a fun way to meet some fellow runners. Well, we mostly ran at night in the cold so everyone was bundled up and just trying to get through their training plan for that evening. So, maybe I didn't meet that many people this time.

The class ended with our 5K Shamrock Run yesterday and the weather was perfect. I was even able to break out the shorts!

I had some great cheerleaders waiting for me at the end of the race. Don't you think it looks like Libby is giving me a little thumbs up?

Oh, and no, I did not push them in this race! I need to get used to pushing and running in my own neighborhood before I try to do that in front of hundreds of people!

Ugh.

I have been dreading tomorrow all day long, and not for my own selfish birthday reasons. Libby is having her surgery to have her hemangiomas lasered. While the actual surgery part doesn't make me as nervous - they use a laser that will help reduce the size, lighten the color, and toughen the skin so the hemangiomas won't open up - it's the anesthesia.

I have kept myself from googling today and looking up scary statistics about anesthesia. I know as a rational adult that we have a great Pediatric Anesthesiologist who will take care of my girl, but as a Mom I can't help but worry.

We have to be there at 6AM for her 7:15 appointment. So, I'm asking for thoughts and prayers that everything will go smoothly and we'll be back home playing before she realizes what's going on.

** Update at 9:00 AM ** We are back home and everything is fine! Thanks so much for the messages, thoughts, and prayers. Libby charmed all of the nurses and 2 even asked to take her home! It was a quick procedure and honestly, we chatted with another family in the waiting room, then received our call that everything was done and fine. I picked her up from recovery and we were back on the road. Whew!

Not your typical gift with purchase

I saw this posted to a light pole today. I thought it was a little disturbing. Ewwww.

They weren't wrong this time!

All winter our weather forecasts have ended up being very wrong. They would call for 4 inches of snow, and we would see two flurries. Last night, they hit the nail on the head and we woke up this morning to a winter wonderland.

Signs of Spring

I hated to cut them from my yard, but since it may snow here tonight they may fare better inside. I love daffodils ... we always called them buttercups growing up. To me, they are always the first sign of Spring and that my birthday is right around the corner.

Meet Murphy

Why is it that on the night that I try to go to bed early knowing that I have to wake up by 4:30 so I can get showered, dressed, breakfasted, car loaded, and out the door before 6AM that my normally two sweet, sleeping through the night babies decide that they want to be up every 3 hours?

I'm guessing it's either teething pain or Murphy's Law.

I'm really feeling like a mom of newborn twins this morning. Thank goodness for Hubby. Have a great weekend ... I'm off to work an event. Let's just hope there's a Starbucks in the building!

Maybe just as good

One of my favorite pairs of pants are from JCrew ... they are light blue cotton chino pant. Basic and simple. Not skinny cut, not crazy wide leg, just right. They are the Favorite Fit.

I was in Old Navy recently and noticed their perfect khakis. I tried them on and liked them, but they were out of stock in my size. I decided to check online and and they had my size ... they have several pretty colors and they come in 3 different hem lengths for the regular, and a petite and tall version.

Mine arrived today and I may be declaring them my new favorite and I think they may be just as good as the JCrew ones, for about $10 less. I'm thinking the jalepeno color may be fun for Spring. Or even to liven up these 36 degree days with a black turtleneck. Anyone else a fan?

Stealthy?

Meet our stealthy scooter, Libby.
She loves to find her way under the coffee table and chairs. Let the childproofing commence!

Diagnosis: over-competitive

Or why I shouldn't use Ebay ... I just paid full retail for two damn coordinating Mini Boden dresses. I am of course rationalizing this purchase because ...

1. They will still be cheaper because the shipping is less than what Boden offers.
2. These little dresses are pretty cute and it's not often that I find coordinating outfits for M & L on Ebay.
3. Easter dresses can be checked off the to-do list.
4. Umm, I'm being "green" because I'm buying used clothing?

I swear, whenever I have bid on Ebay, I can feel my blood pressure rising and it makes me crazy. I hate to lose, and I think this is why I need to stay away.

I knew it would happen one day

This afternoon, M & L were playing with toys on a blanket. I decided to use this opportunity to pump and still be able to keep an eye on them.

About two minutes in, I look over to see Libby holding onto a toy. Upon second glance, I realize that she is holding Zeus' tennis ball / rope toy just a mere inch below her mouth. I need to preface this story to say that I did not place this toy on the blanket. I am assuming that since Libby has started to get pretty active scooting around, she must have snagged it from the floor.

As you can imagine, I'm hooked up cow like to a machine, so I start talking to her trying to get her attention so she doesn't put this nasty thing in her mouth. I'm all, "Hi Libby ... hey sweetie ... what are you doing, Libby?" For a while it works, she just continues to look at me and hold the toy. Then, she slowly started inching it back up towards her sweet little lips. She's probably thinking, "Silly lady. I'll show her."

So, I "unhooked" and pulled this new toy out of her tiny little hands, checked for any errant dog hairs on her face, and decided that she will probably never have any dog allergies due to her close encounters with dogs on a daily basis.

Oh, life with dogs ... I can only imagine what we'll be doing when they are crawling!

Homemade applesauce

Homemade applesauce is so easy to make for your baby, or babies. Plus, it makes a good amount and is easily frozen. Oh, and did I mention that it's really easy to do? It tastes really good ... I would eat this as is. It's plain, sweet, and yummy.

I started with six organic Red Delicious apples.

Peel the apples.

Next, core the apples. One of these apple corers really does help save time.


Chop the apples and place them in a heavy bottomed saucepan. Add two tablespoons water or unsweetened apple juice. I opted for the water. Cover and heat on low, for about 6-10 minutes, or until the apples are soft.
Puree until all of the apples are blended and no chunks are left. I use a Cuisinart stick hand blender. Spoon the applesauce into ice cube trays for freezing. I let these freeze for about 24 hours, then pop the cubes out and store in a freezer bag. Or if you have a hungry baby, spoon a little into a bowl for immediate serving!

happy heart day!

smooches!

Comin' to you from the geriatric ward

I am *thrilled* to have a great new accessory to wear at night. I think it will complement by retainer very nicely.

Meet the carpal tunnel syndrome hand/wrist brace. Isn't she lovely?

For the past few weeks, I've been experiencing pain in my right wrist and hand. It's gone from mild to making me shout "ouch" out loud when I grab something. I've noticed it when washing bottles, driving, picking up the girls, even adjusting my pillow before I go to sleep. I called my Dr., and he suggested trying this brace out for 2 weeks at night to see if it helps.

$20 and no office visit? Sure, I'll try it. I just hope it works and I don't have to go to 24/7 with this thing.

Hair goodness

** Edited to add ... here is the company. It's called Davines.

I finally had a much needed haircut yesterday. Next week is color. I know everyone is glad so they can quit counting grey hairs. Or maybe that was just me. I had to stop plucking them because I was worried about a bald spot!

My salon has a new product line that I had tried the last time I was there, but broke down yesterday and bought some to try at home. It was a bit of a splurge ... I've already warned Hubby not to touch it ... but it makes your hair feel and smell amazing. I rationalized this, because let's face it ... working from home + 2 babies = not washing my hair every day.

The things I like best about it are that it's all natural products that are good for your hair, it comes in great glass packaging, and it really does make my hair feel soft and look shiny. Plus, it smells great. Oh, and did I mention that it's made in Italy so I can label the glass bottle "fragile" and go around saying "fra-gil-ay."

Easily distracted

Working from home has definitely been a new adventure for me. There are always plenty of distractions, but most don't seem to bother me.

Sure, I do try to tune in to Martha Stewart at 11AM, but I usually end up only halfway listening/watching. A new magazine may come in the mail that I really want to read, but I can usually get by with flipping through a few pages, and of course there is always something to clean. It is much harder to not straighten and clean all day when you are in your own home spotting dust bunnies or marveling at your clutter. Facebook is my big time killer ... I have use restraint not to log on while I'm working.

But my true distraction ... this great weather that we've been having. I'm not complaining. There is no need to stay holed up inside if you can be outdoors, especially since I'm sure this weather will turn cold again. On these days in the 70's (Hello, February!) I don't miss working in an office one bit. No free candy from the office candy jar beats taking a walk at 3PM to enjoy the sunshine.

Mistaken identity

Last night, we were getting the M&L ready for bedtime and Hubby was taking the girls upstairs while I was getting bottles warmed.

I came upstairs and commented on how much Maddy really looked like Libby. Then I questioned Hubby if it was indeed Maddy. (He had placed each girl in their crib while he was waiting on me with the bottles.) He confirmed that yes, it was Maddy ... but then we had to look a little closer and realize that he had switched them. All I can say is if we are getting confused now, there's no telling what they'll be doing to us when they are 5!

And I leave you with preparation for Valentine's Day. We'll be wearing these sweaters every day this week!

sweet 'taters and bananas

Maddy, who may become our little social butterfly prefers dinner conversation to the actual dinner.

Libby, on the other hand, wants to make sure that she receives her fair share. Here's to hoping that a little bit did end up in her mouth.

snotty

Maddy and I are both snotty. The good thing is that I don't have to have that big ol' bulb-syringe inserted into my nose! I am declaring yet another PJ day.

Hemangiomas

L. has had three hemangiomas since she was just a couple of weeks old. They all appeared while she was still in the NICU. They are located on her hand, upper back, and on her back hip, right where the diaper lays across her back. We are very lucky that they aren't on any areas that would impare her vision or eating.

We have been keeping an eye on them and our Pediatrician checks them out at every visit. The one on her hip is starting to get a little weakened in the middle, so she referred us to a plastic surgeon for further evaluation.

Our appointment was earlier this week, so we had someone watch M. while Hubby and I made the trek for the appointment. It was the first time since leaving the NICU that they've been separated! Both did fine, but we made the dumb mistake of not taking a stroller and of course we didn't park in the right spot, so Hubby ended up carrying L., who was still sleeping when we arrived, in her car seat all across a big ol' hospital. Next time, we'll park in the right spot AND take the stroller!

So, we found out that she'll have to have surgery to remove these, since the one is getting weaker and they don't want to risk it ulcerating and opening up. As you can imagine, you don't want to run the risk of this thing opening up + coming in contact with any, um "diaper related" contents.

So, my sweet girl will have to be put under with anesthesia and they will go ahead and remove all three at one time. I know that she's a trooper, but I just hate to think that she'll have to be go through this at such a young age. It probably is better, because she won't remember it ... plus, we won't have to wait up to 5+ years for the hemangiomas to go away on their own. This practice specializes in pediatric plastic surgery, so I know they know what they are doing, but still. I guess part of becoming a Mom is learning how to worry like one!

The Honest Scrap

I received a fun award today…the Honest Scrap Award from Natalie at Old Southern House. Here are the rules: A.) First list 10 Honest Things about yourself - and make it interesting, even if you have to dig deep. B.) Pass the award on to seven bloggers that you feel embody the spirit of the Honest Scrap.

1. I have identical twin daughters. Fraternal twins run in my family, but we somehow beat the odds and had identical. They are by far, one of the best things that has ever happened to me.

2. Their birth/delivery was not at all as I imagined. I envisioned a natural birth (or at least putting off drugs as long as possible), practicing yoga poses while laboring, walking the halls, eating ice chips, etc. None of this happened. I had a short stay in the hospital on bed rest, more bed rest at home, my water breaking at home, going to the hospital without names picked out, no shower, and feeling really unprepared, and then having an emergency c-section. But, they are here ... beautiful and healthy, so if I had to do it all over again, I would.

3. I am not a math person. I love working on budgets or balancing a checkbook, but give me Algebra or Geometry and I feel like you are speaking a foreign language. I really don't see how I made it through some of these classes in High School and College. A big thank you to those teachers who somehow got me through!

4. I have a love/hate relationship with running. I love the way that running makes me feel, love the feel after a good run, and I love participating in a race. Somehow, I can beat myself up prior to a run about everything ... are my clothes right, where am I running, is it going to be cold, is my knee going to hurt, can I do this, will my ass jiggle? If I just get out there and do it, I'm fine, but the getting there part is hard for me.

5. My best friends are scattered across the US and I miss them all the time. I think now that I'm on Facebook it makes it even harder, because I read about their daily lives, but it makes me sad because I'm not a part of them.

6. I am very lucky to have a wonderful husband who is kind, funny, a great dad, handsome, positive, and loving. I do tease him that sometimes his positiveness is too much to handle ...(come on, are you really this happy at 6AM?), but I can't imagine him any other way.

7. I grew up in a very middle class family, but my parents and Grandmother always somehow were able to provide us with more opportunities that we would have normally had: private school, nice clothes, gifts, etc. I now realize how thrifty my Mom is and how they were probably able to squeeze budgets and make everything work.

8. I have a weird memory ... I can often remember clothes that were worn or music that was played for several events in my life. And not necessarily "big" events ... ones like one summer, I was with CC in college on the way to dinner, and we were driving in her car and Devil's Haircut by Beck was on and I will always remember associate that song with her and that moment. But, I often feel like I still have Mommy brain and can't remember day to day events or who I spoke with on the phone!

9. I never knew my maternal Grandfather and one of my aunts passed away when I was 3. I really wish that I would have known these two people as they were so important to my Mom and Grandmother. I just feel like there are untold stories and experiences that are lost forever.

10. I started using email when I was in college, and I distinctly remember thinking that email would never replace writing letters to people and that I would probably only use it just for school/work. Let's fast-forward 14 years and I am probably addicted to email more than my daily coffee. I do still believe in using real stationery and writing letters, but now I do it several times a year compared to several times a month!

I tag, Mad About Plaid Girl, The Seven Spot, Goddess in Progress, Life with OG, Mistah B, Runner Susan, and Chloe. Have fun!

I've decided

That nothing kills a good running stride like having Pachabel's Canon in D come up on your iPod when it's in Shuffle mode and nothing makes you run any faster than passing what appears to be a scary homeless guy walking past you as you enter back into your neighborhood.

Running Dork

I think I may just try to strap a headlamp on when I run next week, because I really "need" one more item to carry.

For last night's run, I carried/wore ...

* My iPod, a necessity and full of songs to keep me moving.
* Hubby's "clicker" so my ADD self could keep track of how many laps I had done on the track. I'm not good at counting "one" in my head the whole lap.
* My knee strap, since my left knee has been bugging me since Saturday. Old+not running in almost 2 years=my body asking me WTF?
* Water bottle. Well, I did leave this on the bench while I ran. However, it does have a handle on it if I decided to carry it.
* Gloves and ear muff thingy. Again, a necessity when it's 40 degrees.
* Car key
* Watch / heart rate monitor combo. To keep track of my time and to keep track of calories burned, heart rate, etc.

I just laugh at myself, because you always hear how running is the best sport ever because you can just grab your shoes and go. Maybe it's just me, but I seem to keep accumulating stuff with every run.

Trouble?

I sent out a few pictures of M & L yesterday and one of my friends commented that "the one in the blue looks like trouble." Hmmmm ... wonder if we're in for it.

Oh sweet coffee

I missed you yesterday.

Yesterday was a blur of feeling like I had a vice crushing my head, watching our 44th Presidential Inauguration, taking my temperature, trying to help Hubby with the girls, looking at our teeny amount of snow outside, sleeping, and more sleeping. It must have been some kind of 24-hour bug, because I feel better today. So, no coffee yesterday and I'm not sure if I really ever ate yesterday. Yuck.

So, I am glad to be up today and not feeling like I want to crawl under a blanket. I hope to work on cleaning up our den that looks like an explosion has taken place, get some work done, mop the floor where I spilt 7UP yesterday, and grab some kisses from my girls ... that may be the hardest part of being sick ... no kisses from Hubby and no giving them to the girls.

I leave you with this ... we did manage a photo opp of M & L yesterday while they were "watching" the Inauguration. And to the makers of the Bumbo chair, I realize you aren't supposed to put these on an unstable surface, but I promise that Hubby was just out of the camera shot ... waiting to grab a baby with cat-like reflexes!

Jan. 20, 2009 - an important day in history when we were almost 7 months old.

We marked the day by having a PJ Day!

Just wondering

For you tea drinkers out there, will teas that contain Matcha make you feel like you are craaaazee?

Rollin', rollin', rollin'

I don't think Maddy is one bit pleased at Libby's latest trick ... rolling over, then pinning her down in wrestler-like moves. It does give Maddy a good opportunity to stick her thumb in Libby's mouth, or her finger in her ear, or for easy pacifier stealing.

Can't you feel the love?

Baby Food Making, Attempt One

Well, I guess it's really my 2nd time ... I baked and pureed a sweet potato for the girls last week. Today, was butternut squash. I know I've never bought a butternut squash and I may have tried one, but I think it was in a ravioli?

The one I bought looked like a gourd and I wasn't sure if to use the stem part, so I didn't. It smelled and felt like a pumpkin when scooping out the seeds. I just used the round part and I was surprised that I didn't end up with more "meat." Maybe I should have used the stem. I cut it in quarters and baked it for 45 minutes, then scooped out the meat, and gave it a blend with our hand-held food processor thing.

Sorry for the blurry photo ... aren't the pink ice cube trays so cute?

Anyway, here it is pureed and in the cute little silicone ice cube trays, ready for the freezer. I saved a portion to use for dinner later on today. I guess to get 9 servings out of one squash is still very cost-effective. The squash cost $3.00, so about 33 cents a serving. The organic squash baby food was $1.49 a container, which is 2 servings, so about 75 cents a serving. I'm not trying this out solely for cost savings, but also that it seems pretty easy to do, plus it's fresher and not sitting on a shelf for two years.


Now, don't get me wrong ... I still consume plenty of processed and packaged foods and I'm sure the girls will later on in life as well. Which we really shouldn't eat the crap, but I guess I would rather start the girls out with as fresh and healthy of foods as possible. If they turn out like me, I'm sure they will discover Wheat Thins and Hot Tamales all on their own!

Chili Day

Just like in elementary school ... well, I wish! I can remember back in Elementary School when it was the day that they were serving Chili for the school lunch, they would also serve a cinnamon roll for dessert. Yum! I think that was about the only day that I would eat the school lunch.

I've been wanting to make chili lately, but haven't wanted to make the time to find a good recipe and let it simmer for 6+ hours. I lucked out yesterday when I went to my favorite place for when we need something good for dinner, but again have no time to cook, which is often lately. Best chicken pot pies, ever! Anyway, I found out that Saturdays are "Buy one, get one 1/2 off" soups and entrees! I bought two types of chili - regular and southwest and plan to have the regular later today.

Do you eat in plain or with toppings? I think it's great with cheese, Frito scoops, and maybe a little sour cream or jalapenos on top.

Growing up

I just packed up a box of 4-ounce bottles, since they were taking up cabinet space and we haven't used them in months. Sigh. It's so hard for me to believe that 6 months has flown by this quickly! Some days, it seems like only yesterday we were making daily trips to the NICU and Maddy and Libby were eating out of the little NICU bottles that look like baby doll bottles. I think they may hold 2 ounces, plus they were taking about 22 ml, which isn't even an ounce and they normally would end up finishing those bottles via their feeding tubes.

It just seems so long away now and it's hard to remember them being this small. I'm sure it will be even harder to remember when they turn 13 and are wearing their generations version of Maddona t-shirts, and I will look back at these pictures and smile. Or maybe cry. Or both!

Mix it up

I recently found this mixing pitcher, made by Dr. Brown's. We have always used their bottles and have loved them. This may be my new fave, plus it's BPA free.

It holds up to 40 ounces and has a mixing wheel inside of the pitcher to easily mix formula. It really worked well - no clumps and it has a spout so you can easily pour the formula into bottles.

It's nice to have a large batch of formula made, so no more making up small increments of formula whenever it's time to eat. It definitely is a time saver and when you have a hungry baby or babies on your hands, that time is precious.

Amazon has them listed around $40, but last week, I found it for around $25.

teething

Could Zoe, the nearly five year old lab be teething? She has managed to destroy two new teething toys that obviously (to every one but her) belonged to someone else. Luckily, I caught her with the 3rd toy before she started chewing. Of course she picks the new toys from Christmas and not the hand me down toys!

I really need to find a way to attach the leashes to the stroller so I can walk everyone at once. I know they are in need of more exercise and attention ... we're just having a hard time giving it to them.

I did it

Just had to put this out there, if nothing else but for me and my own documentation.

I signed up for a 5K running program, since it's been oh, I don't know, about 18 months since I've ran or jogged. We were supposed to start last night, but due to heavy rains we are starting on Thursday night. I'm looking forward to getting back into it ... the program is women only and you are given a personalized training program that will culminate with a 5K race in March.

Since I still thought I should get in some kind of workout, I ended up going to the gym and did the elliptical, then ran and walked on the treadmill. Not for long, but it felt good to run again. Well, it finally did when I got used to the way my hips, boobs, and other body parts jiggled and shook to the beat. Once I got used to that again, then I was fine.

I think that feeling is the worst part of running, at least for me. That feeling that your hips are swaying back and forth and may actually become a big ol' swinging pendulum of their own.

Oh well ... I did it and I'm looking forward to more. I also discovered that the Katy Perry Hot N Cold song is a good running song. A bit cheesy, but good to add to your running mixes.

Day One

I feel like it's Day One of my "new" job. This is the first day that I've worked without parents or Hubby around since I started, so it's up to me to work, take care of the girlies, and play on Facebook, I mean work really hard today. Here's to hoping that I can get some work accomplished today, and all of the girls (myself included) out of their PJ's and into real clothes!

All I can say is Thank God for email. I've been emailing and working since around 7AM. I could never do that if I had to be on the phone.

So far, so good. Libby is awake and downstairs with me. She's currently entertaining herself with a toy in each hand and trying her hardest to insert the largest toy, in it's entirety in her mouth. Maddy is sleeping and I'm tuning in via baby monitor.

So, here's hoping to a good first day and for all of you who are back in the office after a two-week break, I'm going to get myself a second cup of coffee ... how about you?

Down the drain ... or more literally, in the landfill

How is it that I have been to Target exactly three times since December 29 and really don't have anything to show for it? Besides a few cute mercury glass candle holders and a new pair of yoga pants? And, how is it that the two cans of formula that were purchased there are G-O-N-E and we had to make the late night run to the grocery store last night to purchase two more? I also want to know how that for the measly amount of things that I bought today, how was my total $124.58? Humph.

Over Christmas, one of our relatives was asking us how many diapers, cans of formula, etc. we used in a week and I don't think we have really ever added it up, but I can tell you it's scary.

2 babies x 6 to 8 diapers a day = 12 to 16 per day x 7 days a week = 84 to 112 per week. Wow!

Formula ... I don't have a great calculation to use here. M & L both drink about 6 1/2 ounces of formula and breast milk, usually 5 times a day, so 2 babies x 32.5 ounces = 65 ounces per day x 7 days = 455 ounces per week. The amount of formula depends on how well "Bessie" has been making the milk that day. Sometimes I've noticed that Bessie's left side gets a little lazy, and that Bessie likes to get into the wine at night, so that gets thrown out. Let's just say that formula goes quick around here.

What else is in high demand these days? Bibs, pacifiers, burp cloths, lovies, and M & L's towel dolls, oh and we can't forget OxiClean. Never enough!

Happy New Year!

I still can't believe that 2009 is here. 2008 flew by, especially the last six months for obvious reasons.

I would rather look toward the future, but I can't help remember that last year on New Year's Eve, Hubby and I ended up at the hospital for a little scare early in my pregnancy. Nothing was wrong, but I will say that it was the craziest place I had ever spent a New Year's Eve. Women who I think were trying to get a tax deduction would walk the halls to only be sent home. We met another woman who was there to "find out what was going on." She knew she was pregnant, but hadn't been to an OB yet. (!) Plus, I was pregnant and hungry and trying to survive on vending machine snacks.

I am really looking forward to 2009 ... it's amazing to me to think that by the end of the year, Maddy and Libby will have celebrated their 1st birthdays, be full-fledged toddlers ... eating, chatting, and walking! I am so excited for new phases, but I also want to savor each stage of their lives.

Once again, I have a new job that is fulfilling to me, plus it has so many good perks. Let's just hope that Karma is good to me this year and I can keep it. 3 layoffs in one person's career is about as much as I can handle!

I hope to spend more time with Hubby, family, and friends this year. We are lucky to have good health and happiness. Perhaps a little less sleep than before, but so worth it.

Happy New Year!