DeRosier Family

Long, Long Overdue

2010-03-02T18:19:00.041-06:00

Hello Bennett - headstand

sibling love - for now

fighting to get out of an open gate

chasing after an open door

sporting her Dora car and waving

cheese, mom

How does this thing work anyway?

Bum - he crawls and pushes it instead of walking

upside down paci

Waking up stance - really??

Sledful - not an easy feat pulling 90+ lbs! It was a short walk.

Bennett just wants a nap (yes, he is in pink and purple because he was too big for his snowsuit)

Laney liked the snow (and sporting her brother's snowsuit)

All boy

Look at that pose

Peek-a-boo from the cardtable barn door

Crazy girl!

All dressed up for church (and I didn't even mean to coordinate their outfits)

So if the last post was overdue, this one is long, long overdue. I should just quit saying that because it happens every time. Where does time go and how does it escape me?
Wow do I have some catching up to do. I better go read my last post to know where I left off.
January and February have been a whirlwind of activity. The babes continue to amaze me everyday. There is nothing I love more than to call Troy at work and tell him myself the new things they discovered or did.

Allison - is continuing to sprout like a bean. She is already out of some of the size 5 clothes I just pulled out this fall and into size 6, and she is still 3... She is a very passionate girl about what she is playing or activity she is involved in. She continues taking swimming lessons and is doing really well. Next week she starts yet another level. I can't believe she is swimming the (short) length of the pool lane all by herself already. She loves animals and her hurt aches when she sees an animal sick or worse, die at grandpa's farm. Her love of music is amazing. She picks up on the words quickly and if I start a song in a different pitch as her she will correct her pitch to match mine. I hope she gets the gift of music that my dad's whole family gracious inherited. She sounds a lot like me when I was young... She is talking a lot about going to preschool in the fall and can't hardly wait. Until then she is mom's big helper around the house. I am not sure what I will do when she is gone. I sometimes take for granted what she does help me with. If I ask her to watch the babies she genuinely does and starts yelling and screaming if they get into something they shouldn't be.

Bennett - He is a big boy and I think always will be. I was looking at him from the waist up the other day and noticed that he has a smaller waist and he angle up and out in a V-shape to his shoulders. I guess I have a line-backer on my hands. I took him into the doctor in early February and he was 25 1/2 lbs. He doesn't look fat, he is just all around a brute. He is using his size to his advantage (not in a good way either). He tends to bully Laney around. He will mow her over to get toys away from her. The other day Laney was standing by one of their activity tables and he mosied up to the table and stood next to her. Sure enough a minute later he started leaning into her and then just threw his hip into her and knocked her down. She came crying to me and because she wasn't at the table anymore he was no longer interested and crawled away!! I guess we have some tough lessons coming his way in not bullying. He has 8 teeth and smiles and giggles at almost everything. However, he is no longer my mild, jolly giant. He discovered that he can scream and loudly. He will scream when he is happy, sad, mad and everything in between. He is full throttle when he is awake but still loves to sleep. He will out-sleep any of the rest of us in the house (ok, maybe not Troy). He wasn't too sure about his first experience in the snow a few weeks back. He just wanted to go back in and have a nap. I have found him on several occasions as he is waking up doing a headstand in his crib and of course with an upside down paci (picture included above). He is a speed demon crawler and if he sees the gate or a door open he is there in a flash.

Delaney - is currently not feeling well. She has had a fever, runny nose and cough the last few days. I think it is her teeth coming through. I can see at least two she is working on. She currently has 3 teeth. Her top one is on the side (eye tooth) and not her middle ones. It looks hilarious! She typically isn't the one to be sick so she is very sad and needing lots of mom. Bennett is following suit (just because he can) and will whine and cling to me too. It is funny how much they do the "monkey see, monkey do" game with many things. She is a peanut compared to the other two but in reality she really isn't. She is going to be tall and skinny. She is a talker and I know immediately when she is awake from naps because she is jabbering. Her other telltale sign of being awake is shaking the crib rails so it knocks against the wall. She can operate on very little sleep and can wake in about two seconds. She loves to wave and she saw my mom across the room last weekend she smiled and waved until mom noticed her. Boy was that a proud grandma moment. She and Bennett seem to have switched roles. She is very smiley and happy and Bennett has been the one with a little bit of an attitude. Never a dull moment.

They weaned themselves off of bottles already and exclusively use sippy cups. I didn't even have a chance to be sad about it because it happened overnight. I got all emotional with Allison's last bottles... I pulled out their push cars last week and they immediately pulled themselves up and started walking behind them!! They have both mastered climbing the steps and went up the whole flight of stairs to their room for nap. I could get used to not carrying 45 lbs up and down the steps multiple times a day. The babes are off pureed foods and into soft cubes. I think they are a little orange from eating the 17 lbs of sweet potatoes I pureed (I think I got carried away buying). They aren't the most adventurous eaters (the total opposite from Allison) so meal times can be a little bit loud and hairy. Allison and I sing lots of songs to distract them while I put bites in. Seems to be a good tactic.

Our house is still on the market and the process is frustrating as ever. I feel like all I do is clean my toilets and vacuum these days. Then we get feedback from some of the showings and people can be downright nasty!! I love my house and am not willing to give it away so if that is the case, we will stay put. We are going to give it another couple months and if something hasn't happened by then we will stay put and possibly consider doing an addition. I makes me sick to my stomach knowing what we paid for the house 5 years ago and what we have it listed for.

Troy and I are headed off to Hawaii next week. He met his sales quota numbers and he has an expense-paid trip for two to Waikiki Beach. I can't wait to see sun and sand. I have a feeling my pasty self might get a little burnt... Could be a sight to see. They will know I am a tourist from the cold north in about two seconds of seeing my legs. The kiddos are going to my mom and dad's farm for the week. Allison thinks she has the best end of the deal (or so we have led her to believe). I am not sure my mom and dad know what is going to hit their house. I appreciate them courageously taking them on. I know they will be in great hands but mom hasn't been away from any of them for more than two nights. I hope I can enjoy the whole trip without getting homesick for my babes.

It was a year the end of January when I went on bed rest and no longer worked. I can't believe how much has changed in the last year. In only 3 weeks my babies will be one!! I am trying to plan the big party day and make it special for everyone (since the twins birthday is the 25th and Allison's is the 31st). I don't want to do a joint party but know it isn't possible for everyone to have their own party. I am still on the band wagon of another one but Troy is so not convinced. He thinks we will end up with more than one :)

So long for now. The next time I write it will be of birthday pictures (sniff, sniff).

Long over due

2009-12-29T13:01:00.035-06:00

All tangled up...
Allison buttoned her own "princess" dress
Daddy gave me a mohawk
The next Elvis, I mean Bennett
Cowgirl
Sporting a new hat and t-shirt

Christmas 09 - and the dog decided to yawn for the picture (she isn't going to eat Troy's arm off)
Bathing babes - Bennett (l), Laney (r)
Laney, Allison, Ava (cousin), Bennett, Dylan (cousin) after Dylan's Christmas program
Great Grandma "little" DeRosier
Bucket heads

I guess I owe everyone a post, but is anyone reading this???

Here goes even if no one reads it. I thought I might print it out for the kid's books for them to read some day.

The last two months have had a lot of activity. We had Thanksgiving with Troy's family and then I baked Christmas cookies with my mom that weekend. I had a friend convince me to go out shopping on Black Friday. Only we started at midnight at the Albertville mall (only to find out they opened at 10 p.m.). Target in Otsego was the craziest. We waited outside for 1/2 hour and the line was wrapped around almost two sides of the building. I was getting pushed with carts, etc. and just laughing because there was nothing pressing I needed. I should have known better than to try to follow my friend (with a cart in hand) into the electronics area. I bailed quickly. It was fun but I can't say it was worth the craze. I got home at 9 a.m. and Troy let me sleep the day away.

Allison had her preschool screening and mom got a little sappy. She gave me a look that seemed to say, "Seriously mom? What is the big deal?". It was almost like she knew she needed to perform and scored really well. I am already sad to think about the days I won't have her at home. She has sprouted in the recent weeks as well. Her 5T clothes I bought and had put away thinking she would wear next year she is already wearing. She is still only 3. Everyone asks if she is in school and 5 years old. She is still very "helpful" with the babies. She is very loving and telling all of us how much she loves us. I hope she continues to be a sweet girl and never loses that. She has decided to grow out her bangs and when I pull them back she looks so grown up.

Bennett is a crazy man. He is as big as his 15 month old cousin. He has 3 teeth and has the most adorable bunny tooth grin. He is starting to reject his bottle so I think he will be on a sippy cup sooner rather than later. He has "happy hands" and swats at everything - including his sisters and dog. He is a giggler and finds most things funny. Troy was throwing a little plastic ball and hitting him square between the eyes and he thought it was hilarious. Not sure how many other kids would think that was funny. He mode of transportation is rolling. He is quick and very curious. He is going to want to explore everything when he can get to it all. His favorite things right now are the dog toys - yum. He is up and rocking on all fours and started to army crawl last night.

Laney finally popped her first and second teeth in the last two weeks. Her dubbed name is "T-Rex". She has the shortest arms... Most people's arms extend below your waist but Laney's come to her waist. She is going to be tall too but she is a peanut compared to her brute brother. Now I have people ask if they are twins because they are too close in age not to be. I would guess there is a 4-5 lb difference between them. Laney is very giggly and smiley. She is rolling everywhere too. She has mastered sitting up from a laying down position - she does it mid - roll. I guess it is time to lower the crib mattress... She learned to clap and wave bye-bye. She now claps at everything and loves it when she is encouraged to do it. She already loves baby dolls. She will sit and rock with one (while sucking on its head) for the longest time.

I hope everyone had a blessed Christmas with their family and friends. We had a good Christmas with all of our family and friends. We are truly blessed to have so many great people in our lives. Allison loved decorating for Christmas (inside and out) and cried yesterday when I undecorated. She got a dollhouse for Christmas. She has to keep it in her room so they babies don't get into the little pieces. I enjoy listening to her act out the characters and only dream to have her imagination.

Bennett and Delaney had a fun time opening gifts. They liked the noisy paper and chewing on it. By the time they were done opening gifts they didn't know which way to look first because they were piled deep in toys, books, etc. Troy taught our dog how to open gifts when she was a pup so she helped the babies tear into their gifts as well.

The babies have their 9 month check-up with the doctor next week. I can't wait to see how big they have gotten in the last 3 months.

Troy and I got talking one day about our house and they space we do (or don't) have. We officially put our house on the market two weeks ago. We shall see how the market is these days. We won't be hurt if we stay because we love our house now. We have found a couple places that have some acreage and additional garage space for Troy's toys and mustangs. We shall see how everything turns out. I like having my house spotless but might drive myself crazy trying to keep it clean after three kids/tornadoes rip through it. It was much easier when we sold/bought last time - it was only Troy, myself and the dog. I think we might need a semi to move everything this time. Kids add so much stuff. But they also add so much love and blessing to my life. To think it will be a year ago the end of January when I went on bed rest and quit working. Wow, how quickly life changes and how I have adapted and feel like this is where I was meant to be and should be doing. I am so thankful to Troy for working so hard to make it possible for me to be the one to call him and tell him about the new discoveries of the day rather than the daycare lady...
I hope you enjoy the pictures. Until next time...

Halloween

2009-11-06T21:08:00.020-06:00

I love the weather this week. But in November? What a weird year of weather.

Everyone here is doing well. The babies have a small cold that Allison is now getting but nothing more than that. The babies are changing regularly. Both of them are sitting up (in the tripod stance) with the occasionally tip over. The funniest is when they are playing on the floor together and they grab each other's hands or feet and start chewing on them. Do you they know they aren't chewing on their own?? They are trying to get their legs underneath themselves when laying on their tummies. Troy and I have bets out on when they will be moving. My bet is by Christmas.

Bennett has two big boy teeth on the bottom and is sucking on his lip/gums trying to figure out what they are doing there. He tried a sippy cup for the first time the other day and it was pretty disastrous - he had more milk on him than in his mouth... He loves to jump and will cry if I put him in the exersaucer vs. the jumperoo. Bennett is the man of noises. He hasn't started babbling but motorboats every waking moment. If you talk to him he will blow raspberries in response.

Delaney is still my toothless wonder. She has discovered her voice more in the last week and now babbles and shreaks. She says mamom and bababa. Troy said I rigged it and don't encourage her to say dada. I can't help it my kids think I am cooler, right? She is starting to figure out that food isn't always a bad thing and she is having more meals where she is eatting better. She isn't lacking when you look at the leg and thigh rolls the girl has.

I have decided that now is the time to start letting them cry out their naps and overnight. They are old enough to self soothe now and don't need me running up the steps 4-8 times through the day of naps to fetch pacies. I keep thinking that at 10 months we took Allison's pacifier away. Yikes. Bennett will give in and go to sleep fairly quickly. Laney has a little more of her mommy's stubborness and she screamed for an hour the other day before she was hoarse and gave up. Boy does that pull on mom's heart strings when she cries that hard for that long. Today they napped like champs and we had to wake Laney after a 3 hour afternoon nap. Is it possible that we have turned that corner? I hope so. I just jinxed myself!! I hear Bennett over the monitor! Why do I say it? Everytime I do, they prove me wrong.

Halloween was fun this year. We went to Troy's office with the kids dressed up on Friday, trick-or-treating at Cabela's on Saturday morning with friends and then Troy and Allison went out trick-or-treating Saturday night. Allison was an Indian princess (she wore a dress that a gal from India I mentored at Target bought for her) with her daddy as her prince. Bennett was a chicken and Delaney was a bunny. Laney was pretty serious in most pictures because she doesn't like hats, hoods, anything on her head - not to mention rabbit ears.

I got a little sappy the other day (11/4) because I realized it was a year ago that we found out there were two peas in the pod instead of one! Wow has life changed since that day. I wouldn't change it for the world and have enjoyed the roller coaster ride. I have so much to be thankful for when I read the discussion board posts of other moms of multiples. The one that got me was one mom asking about weight gain of premies. Her babies were born at 2+ lbs and at 6 months were only 8 lbs!!?? Mine were born at 6+ and at 6 months were ~20 lbs. I thank God daily for the simple blessings I have been granted in my life and should be doing it more often I think.

Allison is getting too smart for her own britches. She was washing her hands at the kitchen sink the other night and she blurts out, "I need a towel please, hello, anyone, anyone??" Later that evening Troy scared her and she says, "Dad, seriously, you just about gave me a heart attack." My favorite is when she says she is going to do something and if it doesn't happen or I say no she will reply, "Or not". I guess I am guilty for all of those phrases. Makes you think about what you say.

Troy is doing well in telecom sales and just qualified to go to President's Club. This is an elite group of top sales reps that are awarded a week long trip with their spouse and this year is Hawaii!!! I am excited to be going back to Hawaii again (we honeymooned there) in March. My mom and dad will be taking the kids because it happens to coincide with my mom's spring break from school. I hope grandpa and grandma can keep up.

I hope everyone has a blessed Thanksgiving if I don't post before then (no guarantees).

summer 09

2009-10-18T14:37:00.001-05:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Odds and Ends

2009-10-18T13:52:00.009-05:00

Here I am and it hasn't been a month. Aren't you proud? I just started using Shutterfly for my pictures and posted them through that so the pictures are going to be in a seperate post below this one (I believe labelled Summer 09). Now I know for next time...
We went to the pumpkin patch with the Gunnarsons (and Susan) and had a great afternoon. They had a tractor ride, petting zoo and the pumpkin fields.
Bennett popped through his first tooth a couple weeks back. Boy can he create some drool. They both love to "motorboat/blow raspberries" quite often. But their favorite time to do that is during meals. You can imagine the mess. Today Bennett sneezed right after I gave him a bite of peas. That was a green, slimy shower for mom. He was officially out of his carrier seat right when it snowed for the first time. He is loving it because he sits up higher. This allows him to see out the windows better and also see his big sister (who is always making him laugh).
Laney is really interested in Bennett and thinks he is a hoot. She just giggles at him and he is paying her no mind, continuing to play on his own. He notices her when they are playing close enough to each other for him to steal her toys - he is already really good at that. Bennett is interested in Freckles (the dog). I don't think the dog knows what is in store for her. I think she might learn to hide. He isn't the most gentle when "petting" her.
Allison had Grandma and Grandpa on the farm (my parents) come and watch her swim this last week. After swimming she went to the farm for several days because Grandma had off of school for MEA weekend. They spoiled her like usual and she was too busy to talk to mom and dad when we called. She was greatly missed at home. I never realized how much I talked to her and relied on her chatter to move the day along. They took her garage sale-ing and she found "treasures" - consisting of dresses and accessories. She returned Saturday when mom came up to my sister's scrapbooking day at her church. It was a productive day for me - 12 pages done during a 12-hour event. I was on my way home from St. Paul and the Hwy branches off to 694 and Hwy 10. I was in the left lane and the gal in the right lane decided she wanted to go on 694 instead of 10 and merged without noticing the huge double cab truck next to her. She hit me while we were both going 65 mph. I pulled over right away and honestly heard the impact more than felt it. I looked in my rearview mirror to see if she was pulling over and saw her fishtailing all over the road. Thank God the other cars were able to swerve and avoid her or slow down. If they hadn't her car would have rolled and it would have had a much different outcome. When I got home Troy and I checked the truck out and think she didn't even hit the truck, rather the ball of the hitch. Her car had minimal damage too so I am hoping nothing is wrecked on the truck. We will have it checked out just to make sure something isn't tweeked or cracked underneath.
I am excited about the beatiful weather today (Sunday) and getting outside once the babies wake up from their nap. About time we have a nice fall day to enjoy.
I am enjoying MOMs group (Mothers of Multiples). The first part of the meeting is "support" discussion where the moms are broken out by age group. It is reassuring to know that other moms are going through similar days or moments as you; it helps to know you aren't crazy. I had a gal who has 2 year old twins tell me I am in the "honeymoon period". They are playing on their own but not mobile to "just wait..." Both babies are trying to get their knees underneath themselves when they are on their tummies so it will only be a matter of time before my house is utter chaos. But I am excited to experience all of the milestones twice over (ok so not the potty training or temper tantrums).
Hope this finds everyone well.

Shoot!

2009-09-29T21:19:00.028-05:00

Here I thought I would be getting another entry in long before another month passed. Now I see the date was early September so I won't pat myself on the back...

The babies are 6 months old and they had their check up today. Delaney was 18 lbs 3 oz (86%), 74% for length and a little head at 49%. Bennett is tipping the scales at 21 lbs 10 oz (96%), 98% for length and 98% brains, I mean head. All is well and they checked out to be happy, healthy babies. More shots so that broke my heart to see them cry and give you the look of, "Mom why are you letting them hurt me??!!"

It was put into perspective for me when I got a postcard in the mail saying, "Happy half birthday!!" Really? Don't make me get all sappy about their first birthday already...

Bennett FINALLY rolled over this week. He wanted the stick horse really bad and finally did it. He has been close for so long. He also learned a new trick. I feed them their bottles in the boppy pillows. When he is done (typically always before his sister) he has discovered that he can arch his back up and push with his heals and scoot over the front of the pillow. Once he gets the pillow under his back he will swing his legs up and over his body and somersault onto his stomach. See the progression in pictures above. Once he learns to move he is going to be quick. By they time I get him from his crib after nap or in the morning he as spun at least 180 degrees, sometimes all the way around. He is a very easy smiler and laugher. I hope he will continue to have such a great personality. He is chewing like crazy so I am waiting for the first tooth to pop any day. He is wearing up to 12-18 month clothes already. I guess we can't call him little man any more...

Laney can roll and flip over in the blink of an eye. She is quick. She too can scoot herself out of the boppy pillow and roll over onto her tummy. She looks like a peanut compared to Bennett but she still has a healthy set of rolls to her thighs. She is hilarious when she wakes up and starts her little "motor boat" (or raspberries) - she isn't even totally awake, her eyes are closed... She is starting to eat her cereal and veggies better but she really likes her fruit - sweet tooth already (a woman after my own heart). She has a sizable bump on her gums so it will only be a matter of time before that tooth will push through.

Allison is still my princess. There isn't a day that goes by without her playing "princess dress-up". She had a bout of the stomach flu last week so that was a 2 a.m. shower and hour long clean-up process. Thankfully no one else caught the bug. I am ver skeptical of the flu shot and will opt out of it again this year for Allison and the babies. Allison is very interested in learning her letters and other preschool skills. She has a great workbook that she and I have been working through occasionally while the babies nap in the morning. She sees commercials on TV for toys and ask for it. I have explained to her that we can't have everything we want. Now she asks, "Mom, can you please put that on my list?" Today I was teasing her about her jeans being too tight and how she needed to quit growing. Her response was, "But mom I need to keep growing so I can get big for Bendaroos!" Bendaroos are another one of those commercial items she wants but I told her she was too young this year to put them on her list. She is starting to become very aware of her body and the differences of boys and girls. I will spare you the details but boy have we had some interesting conversations these days!!

Our landscaping project has turned into somewhat of a nightmare. The guy is fitting us in when his schedule allows so the neighbors have all been razzing us about how "great" our landscaping looks. The guy is quit a dingleberry. He showed up to work with no tools (used Troy's), forgot his copy of the design plans, etc. He did not follow the design drawings and has maybe 5 of the 30 plants in the right spots. Needless to say it has been a big topic of discussion around here lately. Those that don't know how it should look have said it is looking nice. We shall see how it all works out.

I left the babies for the first time a couple weeks back for a girl's weekend of scrapbooking. I didn't even cry - you should all be proud of me. But that didn't mean I didn't get sappy and miss them like crazy. I had a great time with the girls in Amboy, MN. Talk about small town MN. A couple of us took a walk at 11 pm and didn't think twice about our safety. We walked pasted a Chinese restaurant and decided we should try it for one meal. So we went the next evening... The only problem?? The place was gutted and had been closed for some time according to the waiter at the Amboy Cafe. Boy did we feel stupid... We had lots of great girl talk and laughs. What happens in Amboy stays in Amboy. Right girls?? I was very focused and wanted to catch up on Allison's book. I didn't but got 20 pages done. Not bad for me.

I went to the MOMS (Mothers of Multiples) garage sale the beginning of September. I was connected with a gal already in the group (thanks Jennifer!) and she suggested I come early to sign up and pay my membership. I got there at 7:30 (sale started at 8) and there was probably 30 ladies lined up at the door??!! They had to announce rules - like no hitting, kicking, pushing, biting - really???? I was starting to question where I was and what I was doing there. Once the doors opened the women literally stampeded in and I just stood there laughing before I got started looking. I had a woman wedge her way in front of me and look at an item I was checking out. Let me tell you it was an experience I will never soon forgot. I went to the first support meeting for the group the following Monday. It was great. They have support discussions broken out by age groups so you can hear from other moms what works for them (or doesn't) and to know you aren't as crazy as some people seem to think you are.

So as some of you know I have been trying to convince Troy that we should have #4. He is NOT convinced at all. But I told him I don't think I could send two off to Kindergarten or two off to college without it being very hard on me. So if I had a 4th it would eliminate that. He just laughed at me. Then he asked what we were going to do if it was a third girl since we have 3 bedrooms up and one in the basement that houses the workout equipment, Troy's gun cabinet and our home office - and I just shrugged. But then he comes back with, "Well I have been thinking, we can just add a second story over the garage and add a couple big bedrooms." See so he has been thinking about it and thinking is might even be possible!!! I am sure I will need to do more sweet talking.

Last weekend we spent an entire day juicing apples and making applesauce. We did 27 quarts of applesauce and 20 quarts of apple juice - and we simply quit because we ran out of jars. We ended up throwing some apples away but they had substantial spots so they weren't great for eating or slicing and freezing. We purchased a Vitamix (basically a blender on steroids) to help with the applesauce and boy did that help (since I smoked my blender on baby food).

I feel like we have somewhat of a boring life but I sure can write a book every time I write. I will end it for now.

allison - hello from Allison (she typed her own name).

5 months

2009-09-02T13:50:00.017-05:00

Oh my!! Where does the time go and how does it get away from me all the time??? I can't believe it has been more than a month since I posted last.

Everyone is doing well. The babies had their 4 month check-up in early August and they are both doing really well. Bennett was over 18 lbs!!! and Delaney was 15 lbs 6 oz. Needless to say, they are both happy, healthy babies.

Bennett is my jolly, little giant. He is probably close to 20 lbs already and busting out of his infant carrier car seat. I am so bummed!! His 3-6 month clothes are belly shirts and the pants are capri's on him. I am pulling out the 6-9 month clothes. He smiles and laughs very easily. If you acknowledge him in any way you will get the biggest grin. He has the funniest laugh - almost a chuckle. He will laugh at you laughing. He especially finds his big sister Allison funny when she plays peek-a-boo with him. He will get laughing so hard that he can hardly catch his breath. He looks a lot like Troy and we have friends that call him TJ (Troy Junior). He has figured out how to jump in his jumperoo and can really get it rocking. He squeals and "talks" quite often and will occasionally get really loud to get one in over his little sister.

Delaney is my sweet girl. She is a peanut compared to Bennett. She loves to "talk" and gargle. She has many important things to say. She would rather talk than eat. She can roll over from her back to her tummy and will tolerate her tummy for about 10 minutes. Then she gets upset but can't figure out how to roll on to her back. She loves to stand and now has to stand to burp, she doesn't want to sit. Too funny! She is working on sleeping better and is doing well.

They are both loving their cereal and veggies. They have eaten carrots, peas and green beans so far. Next will be spinch, mmmm!! They sleep really well overnight - going to bed about 8:30 or 9 and getting up to eat between 5 and 6 and then go back to bed until approx. 8 a.m.

Allison is enjoying her summer. We went to grandpa's "little" (county) fair in early August. She loves the goats and we had to walk through each barn several times. Her little friend Brecken came with us and between Allison's multiple trips through the barns and Brecken's fascination with the tractors and lawn mowers, we were busy! Allison started talking to and playing with a sweet little girl and decided that she was going to go with her family and just walked away from us. Boy did that give mom and dad a heart attack. She couldn't understand the trouble with her going to see the horses with her new friend (whose name we still don't know)! Then ensued the conversation about strangers, etc. How do you tell your child to be cautious but not make them scared of everyone? She is very excited to visit grandpa's "big" (state) fair this weekend and help him show the goats. She was hilarious last year so I am sure she will be another "big help" to grandpa. She is spending 3 days at the farm this week before school starts for my mom. She doesn't have much time to talk when we call because she is very busy. My dad's cat Elmo has to be sick of her by now because she is constantly dragging him around. She even got to name one of my dad's baby goats. Each year he has a letter that all the baby goats names begin with. This year is Z - so the littlest one is Zipper and is HER goat. Boy has it been quiet around here without her chattering my ear off. She has successfully learned how to spell both her first and last names and has almost a little chat to help her remember it. She finished Littles 1 level of swimming at Foss and will be starting Littles 2 session tonight. I can't believe she is 3 and swimming on her own. What a life skill to have...

Troy and I decided to take the plunge and get a piece of exercise equipment to help me get rid of the rest of my baby weight and him to lose his sympathy weight. Now that I am at home, the kitchen is WAY too accessible and the scale is going to wrong direction. Shouldn't it be going down? We got an eliptical machine and Troy is excited to set it up tonight and get started on it tomorrow morning. I hope we can stick to it and see results.

We are doing the usual fall activities - juicing apples, making applesauce, freezing corn on the cob and making my own baby food. I have officially smoked my blender, oops. They love it and it is so much more economical than buying the little Gerber tubs of food for two!

I am going away for the first time since the babies have been born in a couple weeks for a weekend scrapbooking with the gals. We are going to Amboy again. I am very much looking forward to getting some more done and maybe, just maybe catching up on Allison's book, only to start on the babies' books.

I am going to join the MOMS (mothers of multiples) group and network with some of the other moms and have a support system. I have some great babies but we all know that some days can almost get the best of us. There is a large garage sale the group puts on in a couple weeks that members can get into early before the public. I look forward to picking up stuff that we have decided we needed another of over time.

Troy is working with a landscaper and we are hoping to have him rip up and redo our landscaping in September. I was skeptical of planting new plants in the fall but have since found out that it is the best time of year to plant vs. the spring/summer. Instead of working on growing and getting scorched by the sun, the plant grows a good root system and then goes dormant for the winter. Then in the spring it has a good root system to withstand the next spring and summer. I am excited to get it done because it was certainly a do-it-yourselfer job that was not done well by the previous owners. We will post before and after pictures for everyone to see.

I think I have written a long enough novel already and will end for this time. Besides I hear a little voice over the monitor that someone is waking up from nap. I love it when babies transition from waking up crying to waking up and talking/playing until you come and get them. Until next time, take care...

Nice to meet you!!

2009-07-22T14:06:00.019-05:00

I hope everyone had a great 4th. We didn't do our usual drag racing weekend in Brainerd this year for Troy. He decided he would benefit more from going to a track in WI to practice and get his technique down better before he races. Last year kind of spoiled it for us. We spent a lot of money and he got two passes down the track before the weekend was rained out (and of course they don't refund you anything!). We spent the weekend at my parent's farm and had a blast as usual - lots of picnics to attend. Allison experienced a trampiline for the first time. She was not too sure about it when other kids were bouncing it - grandpa needed to be close by. We met up with one of Troy's high school buddies for some drinks one evening while grandma and grandpa had all the kids. By 11:30 I was almost sprawled out across the bar table sleeping. I am getting so old :)
The following weekend my older sister, Heidi and her kids - Kylie and Isaiah made the trip from TN to visit and meet the babies. They were here for a week and we had a great time with them as usual. Always ends too soon... Heidi's boyfriend Marcel flew in for a few days so we could meet him. He got to experience 50 degrees in July - our fickle MN weather. He wasn't impressed. Allison had a great time playing with her cousins. They enjoyed helping with the babies. The best was when Heidi asked Isaiah (age 10) to keep Bennett company in his highchair while I bathed Delaney. So what does he do? Teaches Bennett how to armpit fart. Classy :) Kylie was always the first to investigate and help if she heard one of babies crying. When we were all at my parent's farm is was mild chaos - but my parents were loving every minute of all 6 grandkids together.
We decided to start the babies eating rice cereal (a couple weeks before they are 4 months). They are both huge piggies at it and get more every place else other than in their tummies. It is amazing where I find crusty cereal - including myself. It is slightly disasterous feeding them at the same time myself. As soon as I turn to give one of them a bite the other one is drooling it down his/her face. They are going to share a lot of spit in their time. I hope they are ok with that. The cereal has helped them sleep. They are now doing more like 9 hours at night (eatting at 8 pm and then getting up at 5 am). I can handle that! The cereal has also helped make Delaney a happier little girl. She is back to her smiley little self and I love it. They both started doing a belly laugh and you can't help but crack up yourself. Bennett's "talking" sounds like a pigeon cooing; Delaney squeals and is very serious when she tells you stories.
I don't know where the last 4 months time has gone... But I still can't manage to keep my house clean even being home all day. But I would rather play than dust any day. My kids apparently like to eat and are growing well. I put them on my dad's scale again and Bennett was over 16 lbs and Delaney was almost 14 lbs!!! I was hoping I would be able to keep them in the infant carrier seats longer than we could Allison but it doesn't appear that is the case (limit is 20 lbs).
Allison is attending "Backyard Bible Club" every week at the neighbors and enjoying it. She comes home very excited to tell me about the lesson she learned and her craft. She is enjoying the time with little friends her age as well. We took Allison to ride a pony again. She was very disappointed that Butterscotch was not "working" that day but we rode her friend Peppi.

Pictures:
Trampoline with grandpa

Think Bennett is tired???

Cousins (Kylie, Delaney on her lap, Allison, Garrett, Isaiah, Bennett on his lap)

SOO big

My daddy's trick (and boy do I think it is funny too)

First cereal

Auntie Heidi

Princess Marcel

Peppi

The big 3-0

2009-06-30T17:34:00.017-05:00

Wow, I just looked and it has been a month since I last posted. Sorry to those of you that keep checking and hoping that I have written something new. How time flies when you are having fun.

Let's see - I turned the big 3-0 on June 9. I can't say it bothered me in the least bit so I hope that doesn't change. Troy threw a big BBQ party for me this last weekend with about 50 people. Thanks to everyone who came to help me celebrate. He knew he couldn't keep it a secret from me so he told me about it (and of course sweet-talked me into helping plan, organize too).

Troy's grandma was put into a nursing home so we went to visit "Little Grandma" (see picture below). She was resting when we got there but when she heard one of the babies make a noise she woke up in a big hurry to see them. On our way home from visiting her Allison saw a cemetery and said how "pretty" it was (it was an older one with lots of monument tombstones). So I asked her if she knew what that was. She didn't so I went into the whole life, death, burial and heaven lesson. I told her that your body is put in a box and buried in the ground and your soul goes to heaven. She cocked her head to the side and said, "So mom, when I die are you going to bury my butt in a box?" After stifling the giggles and answered, "Yes". The next night as we were doing devotions we were talking about heaven again. I told her that her that while she is alive her soul is in her body and her body and soul separate when we die. She curled up her nose and said, "Oh no mommy, I don't have my soul in my body, I pooped it out this this morning." Oh the precious words of a 3 year old....

Bennett and Delaney will be 14 weeks old tomorrow, where has the time gone? If I had to guess, I would think Bennett is about 14 lbs and Delaney is about 12. They are sleepin 8+ hours a night (typically). This morning it was almost 10 hours before the got up. Mommy loved that. Bennett loves to play on his mat and swat at the hanging toys and hold toys. He is content to lay back and watch the happenings around him while is kicks his legs madly. Laney wants to sit and stand constantly. She is easily distracted while she is supposed to be eating her bottles. They are both very smiley and have just started to laugh when you play pat-a-cake with them. They are beginning to get themselves into a regular routine of feedings and naps during the day. They are doing an hour nap in the morning, a 3 hour nap in the afternoon and then a cat nap in the evening.

For Father's Day we spent that Saturday morning at Como Zoo. Allison went on a couple Como Town rides and loved them. She is going to be a Valleyfair junkie and I am afraid she will have to go with someone else because neither her mommy nor her daddy enjoy it. Then we went boating with friends for the afternoon. Troy and Allison attempted to water tube and the tube got bogged down and they bailed off the tube. Troy was sure it would freak Allison out and she wouldn't like the water after that. But her swimming lessons have paid off and she was fine. She actually will laugh about it because she thinks she got daddy wet.

This last Saturday my parents came up to help us get ready for the party and we decided to go to the Minnesota Zoo. This was the first trip for the babies. They did great. Allison enjoyed it. I have to say I was very disappointed that they no longer do the dolphin shows. That was always a highlight of our trips in the past. We did a picnic lunch and there was some threatening clouds and several gusts of wind that sent us all chasing down miscellaneous items across the parking lots.

I have joined a book club and really enjoy it. We have read two books so far and just started our third. I am now feeling that I am able to pick up some of my hobbies and not feel guilty about it. I didn't do them with Allison because I didn't want to cut into my precious night and weekend time with her. A couple gals from Target are in the club and one mentioned that I would be coming back to work this week or next. Wow, I hadn't even thought of it. I am still very happy about the decision Troy and I made.

Realizations

2009-05-27T07:13:00.007-05:00

I have come to realize that a stay-at-home mom has the most difficult job. I regretfully admit I have been one of those people that has questioned what a mom "does do" at home with her kids - it can't be that hard... But I will be the one to tell you it is! Even my most difficult day in Corporate America does not compare to some of the days at home. I have an awesome opportunity that I thank God (and Troy) for every day. I wouldn't trade it for the world but I have said more prayers for patience the last 8 weeks than in my previous years of my life! I think the reason for that is in a corporate job you are invested physically and mentally but being a mom you are physically, mentally and emotionally involved. The emotional involvement is the most rewarding but can also be the most difficult. I am struggling to balance out the care of the twins and Allison. She is occassionally regressing with potty training or other forms of being naughty to get my attention. I hope to balance my time better and give her more individual attention. I am going to start this morning by taking her to the library for some books.

Bennett and Delaney had their 8 week well check up yesterday. They were given a clean bill of health. Bennett was 11 lbs 9 oz and Delaney was 10 lbs 9 oz. Bennett is in the 80th percentile for his height - no wonder he looks like he is wearing capris in one piece outfits. I think we better stick with shirt and pants outfits. Delaney is right around 50% for all her measurements. I think she will be a petite little gal - not like her big sister Allison, who is off the charts. I have to say the immunization shots were very hard on mom. Thank goodness for Ms. Lisa (their nurse) who consoled Bennett after his shots while I got Delaney ready for hers. Allison was hiding behind the examine table from their cries. My internal struggle was on who to console, hold, talk to, etc. during the process. I swear they give you the look like, "Mom, why are you letting them hurt me?" Bennett was pretty sleepy once he settled down but Delaney had a very sad day. She would be very sad if I wasn't holding her and if I would move even a small muscle she would wake with a start and cry again. They both seem to be doing better this morning. On Monday night they slept for 7 1/2 hours!!! I hope we can continue down that road and we will be sleeping through the night in a short time.

Changes...

2009-05-19T08:15:00.011-05:00

Many things have transpired since I wrote last. We had our pictures taken and boy was that an experience! It was a challenge getting 5 of us to look, smile, and pull pacifiers before the picture is snapped - all without breaking out in a sweat... They turned out well. You can view them at:
www.kiddiekandids.com
Sitting Number: 591009588
Sitting Code: 2493DBC

Troy and I have spent many, many hours discussing what is best for our family. We have decided for many reasons (financial, emotional,etc.) that it is best for me to change my career to a full-time stay-at-home mommy. I am very excited to be home and have been truly enjoying the babies and Allison. This is been a big change for all of us. I am going to deeply miss my collegues and friends at Target that I have made over the years. But I hope we can still stay in contact. I had a wonderful group I was working in and had a great team that I was supervising. I have had to say goodbye to make wonderful people that I saw and worked with on a regular basis. I hope to someday get back into the working world but right now my babies need me more. My babies are only babies once but Corporate America will always be there waiting for me. This is honestly what I have wanted since I had Allison and didn't think it was possible. Thank you Troy from the bottom of my heart for making it possible and being willing to put in the extra hours and hard work so I can be with our babies each day.

We spent a long weekend at my parent's farm and Troy went turkey hunting. He shot his turkey on Saturday morning and he weighed in at 20 lbs. Allison didn't understand why the turkey didn't move that daddy brought how and how come "daddy got deaded the turkey" with his gun. Then it was even more tramatic when he cut the poor thing's head off. But she is bound and determined to go hunting with daddy next year. Allison spent nearly every waking moment outside on the farm. She and grandpa planted flowers and did the chores. Allison and grandma made cookies. She even got to ride on grandma's "funny thing" - interpretation - the riding lawn mower.

The babies are doing well. My dad has a baby scale on the farm for his rabbits so of course the babies had to be weighed. That is has been the million dollar question - how much do they weigh? Bennett weighed in at 11 lbs and Delaney was 10 lbs! And isn't it by 6 months they should double their birth weight? I think they are well on their way at 8 weeks old. They are starting to longer and longer between feedings so we hope we can round the corner of sleeping through the night soon. Where does the time go? They are already 8 weeks old??? They have both started to give you a random smile and man does that melt mommy's heart.

6 weeks

2009-05-04T16:51:00.009-05:00

Wow - I really have been tardy at writing on here. Sorry everyone. The babies are growing like weeds. They are both getting really chubby cheeks and filling out. I didn't think I would be packing away clothes they have outgrown already, but I am... I am so curious to know how much they weigh now. They are still eating every 3 to 4 hours but we have figured out a good system to be efficient at it during the day and for both of us to get some sleep at night.
Delaney has been in to the doctor several times for her belly button. Her umbilical cord fell off really early but then started bleeding and oozing again. They were worried about it not being "sealed" on the inside or infection. She had to have blood drawn and I wasn't excited to hear about that. Then to add insult to injury they needed to draw it from the inside of her elbow with a butterfly needle. I don't know who cried harder - her or me. Then the vein quit bleeding out so they had to stick her in the other arm too! When they were done the put a bandaid on it and they could wrap it all the way around her little arm. She was on an antibiotic which seemed to help clear everything up.
Bennett has discovered his little lungs and that if he cries he gets something :) Now he can compete quite easily with his sister to let you know he is hungry and NOW. We think he looks like Troy and his baby pictures. He still has the "old man" look but not as much as when he was first born.
We had them baptized on April 19 and it was a beautiful ceremony - despite the weather outside. I am not sure what it is with our family, but we seem to have rain on all our important dates - this one was no different. We are honored to have the god parents we do for the babies and thank God for you and your support daily. My mom machine knit the beautiful gowns and I will cherish them forever and pass them down to their families. Allison is always able to tell the babies apart by they wearing pink or blue but when they both had the gowns on she was really confused who was who.
We went to visit Troy's office last week and Allison was a total riot. She stood by the stroller and every person that walked by she would announce the names of her babies and tell them to come and look. She isn't shy - just like her daddy. She is so proud of her babies and being the big sister. She is very generous with the hugs and kisses and helps mommy try to calm them down if they cry.
We will be going into mommy's work tomorrow 5/5 to visit all her co-workers. I am excited to catch up with everyone again. We will be going to be our first professional pictures taken as a family of 5 this weekend before the babies get too big.
Allison is enjoying the spring weather and can't wait to be able to play outside everyday.
Troy and I are celebrating our 7 year anniversary today. Wow - where did that time go and who would have thought life would be the way it is today. I wouldn't change it for the world.
Pictures:
Laundry baskets - my way of having them lay on their backs but protect them from the dog and a big sister who sometimes forgets to watch out for them. Isn't it ingenius?
Boppy pillows - our feeding system if there is only one parent to both babies.

Two weeks and counting

2009-04-14T14:53:00.018-05:00

Hello everyone,

Sorry it has been so long. Suddenly life is really busy and I can't figure out why?!

The babies are fabulous. They are such good babies it doesn't seem like there are two of them. They are eating well and sleeping well. We gave breastfeeding a valiant effort but are already done with that. Mom is quite sad about it but had enough tears over it and was stressing everyone out in the process.

Bennett is a very low keyed little man. Troy has already nicknamed him Sir Bennett because he has the "wise old man" look to him. He mostly sleeps between feedings and his sister is the time keeper for feedings. We have to wake him for feedings and he will go along with it and float right back to sleep. We can't figure out who he looks like yet - some say Troy's dad, others say me...

Delaney is a sweet girl. She keeps the two on a schedule and lets us know when she is hungry. She has already earned the nickname of Laney or Laney Bird. She looks a lot like her big sister Allison in many of her features.

We had their two week check-up and they were both above their birth weight (they actually like to see them regain up to their birth weight by 2 weeks for those that don't know). Bennett was 7 lb 4 oz and Delaney was 7 lb 2 oz. She is catching up to him fast. It is amazing how quickly they change. Delaney is already getting little cheeks and a double chin on her. I am not sure where Bennett is stacking it. He is all arms and legs so I am sure that is where he is storing it away.

Troy and I had quite the system/process down but of course he is back to work full-time this week. He was supposed to be back yesterday (Monday) but I ended up getting the stomach flu Sunday night! Just what I needed! I have had and will continue to have lots of people offering to come and visit, play, clean, do my laundry, make meals. To all of you that have come or will be coming - THANK YOU!! I am going to have lots of people to repay for a very long time.

Allison loves being a big sister. She is always asking to hold them, kiss them, hug them, etc. She has spent a couple weekends at my parents farm getting some special attention. But now that mom and dad's attention is diverted, she has been exploring things more. For instance, she was taking a long time going potty so I decided to check on her. There she was "stabbing her potty down" with the plunger and swinging it wildly around the bathroom. So we had to break out the cleaner and paper towels.

I am feeling like a million bucks. Everyone thinks I am crazy for being up and taking walks, etc. I couldn't think of doing anything else! I am excited to be able to move comfortably. So I have to take a moment to brag and I apologize to any of those ladies that want to choke me after I say it... A week after the babies were born we went to an appointment for them and I was able to get into my regular jeans. That was a fantastic day. I can handle this weight loss program - 30+ lbs in 1 1/2 weeks.

I have self imposed the completion of my blood pressure meds. First of all they doubled my dose from the hospital when they sent me home. That amount of meds crashed my blood pressure and made me lite headed, dizzy, nauseous, etc. I cut my dose back in half (the amount they were giving me in the hospital) and it was better. But I still felt punk after taking it. I haven't taken the meds now for the last few days and I couldn't feel better. I will be interested to see what my blood pressure is when I go in for my check-up in early May.

For those that have asked about coming to visit, p lease call us - we would love to have you.

Baby Story

2009-03-27T14:17:00.008-05:00

Hi everyone,
I am getting the nitty gritty details out here about the DeRosier Baby Story (for those that watch TLC).
I went in for a regular check-up on Wednesday morning with my doctor. My blood pressure was NOT GOOD and I also had other symptoms of pre-eclamsia. Let me tell you, they don't mess around with that for the mother of babys' sake! Due to the rain storm that had moved through the pressure change caused lots of ladies to go into labor! They had to kick some poor woman out of a room and clean it before they could admit me. We were admited about noon on Wednesday. They started me on antibiotic and meds to lower my blood pressure through an IV. It only took them four attempts to get an IV in - now that made my eyes cross! I guess just talking about it scared my body into action because I start going into labor and contracting on my own. They didn't want me laboring long without pain meds because they worried it would shoot my blood pressure through the roof again. I got an epidural quite early but I was ok with no pain.
The epidural naturally will decrease your blood pressure but with the combo of the meds and that, mine crashed way too low. I was a total zombie and couldn't open my eyes, talk, etc. Troy was watching me closely and the nurses quickly stepped in and gave me meds to bring my blood pressure back up - how ironic, huh? I was in the vegetative/zombie state for about 4 hours. It was almost like I was having an out of body experience and was watching myself sleep but couldn't bring myself to. I got some good rest! Between resting one of the IV meds gave me nausea so that brought on bouts of fun 6-8 times.
By 10 p.m. we were ready to rock. I was just rousing from my zombie state and thought something was wrong the way the team was scurrying around and getting the operating room set up and ready. I was totally pain free and they nurse had to tell me when I was having a contraction and I should do a "practice push". I had two contractions and pushed three times and Mr. Bennett appeared! Troy was excited to be able to cut the cords this time since he missed out with Allison. They put the ultrasound wand on my tummy to watch her and she came down, they broke her water and I had one contraction, pushed twice and Ms. Delaney was born. The entire team stood there in awe of how quickly everything happened. By 10:40 p.m. I was back in my room.
Troy was an excellent coach and advocate. Thanks for the barf bucket, ice chips and cold wash rags honey! You were just as much a champ in the process as the rest of us.
Troy went with the babies to watch the nursing staff do their tests, scans on them. God blessed us with two healthy, beautiful babies. They were in the Level I (regular) nursery and never saw the walls of the Level II (high risk) nursery. Over night they took turns under the warmers because they were struggling to maintain their body temps but by Thursday morn they were both in the room with us and have been ever since.
Bennett is a very laid back little boy. He is a lazy eater and we don't see too much of his eyes - only his eyelids.... Delaney is our little time keeper. She is religiously hungry every three hours on the nose.
Allison was so sweet when she came to visit on Thursday morn. Her first words were, "Mommy, the babies are out!!" She went right to wanting to hold Bennett. I asked if she was holding Bennett and she said, "No mommy, this is my baby boy and that one over there is my little sister." (We haven't figured out they have names quite yet) but she quickly adapted into calling her Laney for short. She hasn't wanted to leave either time she has visited.
A big thank you to all our visitors so far. It has been fun to show them off but really funny to watch people's faces when you say you had twins. A special thanks to Matt, Jen and Brecken for house sitting and having a sleep over with Allison and Freckles.
We are staying an extra night at the hospital to make sure both are eatting well and maintaining their body temps consistently - being released Saturday around lunch time.
We can't thank everyone enough for their thoughts, prayers and well wishes throughout the process - they certainly kept me going and made a big difference. Let the real fun begin.
Feel free to come and visit if would like!
Love,
Melissa, Troy, Allison, Bennett and Delaney DeRosier

BABIES ARE HERE!!!!!

2009-03-27T03:17:00.008-05:00

Babies came on 3-25
Bennett Lucas
10:19 PM
6lb 7 oz
20.5"

Delaney Hope
10:22 PM
6lb
19.5

Both of the little peanuts came into the world fast. Melissa and twins are doing great. I have a few pic's below and Melissa will add the full story once we are at home. Please few free to call me if you would like to come and see us.
Love Troy

Trip #2

2009-03-22T10:36:00.014-05:00

to the hospital and once again sent home... This Friday I was sent to the hospital for my ridiculously high blood pressure. I think my highest reading was 178 over 107!! I went in about 11 a.m. on Friday for them to monitor the babies and me. The babies are "champs" in the nurses' terms and they checked out fine. They ended up keeping me over night to continue my blood pressure monitoring. As long as I didn't lay on my back, sit up, stand up, walk around - anything but lay on my sides, my pressure was elevated but not too bad. I think I got 2 hours of sleep overnight because every time I moved they would lose the heart rates of one or both of the babies and the nurse would come in and "baby chase". They decided that I am not sick enough yet for them to induce. Now they want their lungs to develop for a few more days (especially his). Boy's lung development is slower than girls - go figure - aren't boys/men always a little behind?? :)
The babies would be fine at this point but the longer they can naturally "cook" the better. I am getting crabbier by the day but can understand and appreciate the need for them to stay in for a little longer. I told the doctor that the only two options I would be ok with yesterday was 1) if I needed to stay pregnant, I wanted to be at home, or 2) get them out! I need to go back in on Monday for another blood pressure check and to see my doctor on Wednesday.
Troy has been a huge help around the house with the cleaning, cooking, laundry, etc. He sent me a huge bouquet of flowers last week of star gazer lilies. They are beautiful and put a smile on my face every time I see them. Thank you honey! You are too good to me.
Allison can't figure out why mommy needs to lay all the time and can't get up to play princesses. I can't wait to be able to get up and do a princess dance again.

False Alarm

2009-03-14T17:12:00.004-05:00

I went in for my weekly monitoring of the babies on Friday the 13th. The non-stress monitoring picked up that I was contracting consistently every 4 minutes. Because of that the hospital wanted me to come in for some additional monitoring. I spent 2 1/2 hours hooked up to the monitors. Again the contractions remained regular. The doctor gave me a shot to slow/stop the contractions and they sent me home. However, the doctor also put me on restrictive bed rest - that means either the couch or bed. Or course this is already driving me crazy and it has only been 24 hours. I need to go into the clinic on Monday to check everything out again. They want me to make it to 36 weeks (which is March 21st).

We have been very blessed to make it to this point with very healthy babies so if we can make it another week, the likelihood of us bringing them home with us is much greater. Please keep us in your prayers as we continue this adventure.

We made it to 34 weeks!

2009-03-06T17:04:00.011-06:00

Things are going well and I am still pregnant. Tomorrow (3/7) is the magical 34 week mark were I can deliver them at Mercy Hospital. We had another ultrasound last week and both babies measured 4 lbs 15 oz. No wonder I am feeling big - I am already carrying 10 lbs of baby around. My tummy is measuring as if I was 43 weeks along... I am truly grateful for both of the babies being healthy. Now I have started weekly testing - Non Stress Testing and a Bio Physical Profile to check in on the babies until they are born. Today the monitor showed me having consistent contractions every couple minutes. My doctor did a test to determine if I was likely to go in to pre-term labor (and I told myself I would remember the name and do you think I can?? NO!!). Anyway, the great news is that it came back negative. My blood pressure was slightly elevated today so they are watching me closely. Great news on the gestational diabetes note - I had such good readings of my blood sugars that I am now only required to test twice a day (d0wn from four).

Thank you to Jody for hosting a diaper and wipes shower last weekend. We officially have lots of diapers (see the picture) - but know how quickly they will be used also. Thanks to the small few who were able to attend the shower to help us celebrate.

We do know that I will be induced by the first week in April if I haven't had the babies. I might get my wish of an April baby (or two) yet :)

We took Allison to Disney on Ice - 100 Years of Magic yesterday as her birthday gift from Troy and I. Troy got seats 2 rows off the ice! It was a great show and Allison had her eyes glued to the ice for two hours. She got to shake hands with some of the characters after the show like Ariel, Snow White, etc. We are also going to celebrate her birthday this weekend before the babies arrive. She is very aware of her birthday this year we wanted to make sure she has her day. We are having a My Little Pony party in honor of her 3rd birthday. Happy Birthday sweet Allison - Love you, Mommy

Bed Rest

2009-02-13T12:44:00.003-06:00

Hello everyone,
I am at the end of week 2 of bed rest. I am not restricted in any other way - just not working. I can honestly say it has been a blessing because I have needed the extra time to relax and rest. I am 31 weeks along and yesterday measured 41 weeks. No wonder why I feel huge!
The gestational diabetes diet hasn't been too bad. In fact, when my doctor reviewed my glucose log book she was surprised how well I have been doing. She is thinking the two placentas is what threw my test numbers. She gave me permission to experiment with what I can eat and not to follow the diet as strictly as most women would have to.
I am very slow and deliberate at everything I do and need to rest often. This morning I attacked the nursery room again. I am almost ready for them!
As long as I make it to 34 weeks I can deliver the babies at Mercy Hospital. If I go into labor before, I will be sent downtown Mpls to Abbott/Children's. We pray they will incubate for a little while longer so they are born healthy. I can't believe I only have a max of 7 weeks left...
Thank you to my wonderful co-workers and friends at Target for the shower they put on for us. We can't thank you enough. A big thanks to the scrapbooking girls for the Let's Dish meal shower you surprised me with. I know they will be greatly appreciated when I am dead tired and don't even want to think about meal prep. A third thank you to my lifelong friend Jody for throwing a diaper shower for us in a couple weeks. We can only imagine the landfill our family can fill with diapers alone.
We are very blessed for the outpouring of generousity we have seen already and the many offers to help when the babies arrive. We thank God for you daily!

Welcome!

2009-01-13T20:35:00.014-06:00

Welcome everyone,

I am finally with the current times and decided to create a blog site. I thought this might be the easiest way to keep a mass of people updated on our exponentially growing family (for those that care to know) without bothering others that aren't interested with the occasional email and pictures.

For those that don't already know, Troy and I are expecting twins in April. We know it is a boy and girl. Allison is going to be 3 in March and can't wait for her 2 babies. My pregnancy has been going well. I am starting to get worn out and tired easily but I will take that for two healthy babies. I am 28 weeks along (but measuring 36 weeks). No wonder I feel HUGE! At our ultrasound last week they were both measuring 1 1/2 weeks ahead and about 2.5 lbs a piece. We even got to see them breathing already (which the tech noted was early). What a miracle! Of the ultrasound pictures above the one of the left is of the top of both baby's heads. The middle one is of little mister at our last ultrasound last week. The right picture is of her at our ultrasound in December. She was hiding and we didn't get any good pictures of her last week.

My doctor is putting me on precautionary bed rest to make sure my two Peas in a Pod have plenty of time to finish cooking. I found out today that I also have gestational diabetes. So now on to a specialty diet and blood testing for the next few weeks.

We anticipate our house to be slightly nutty for some time but now that we are over the shock of twins we wouldn't trade it for the world.

For those that know Troy and how he would NEVER drive a minivan - well, guess who is shopping for and buying a minivan?? Mister Mustang himself :)