A day in the life of twins plus one...

Cooper almost 8 months old

2011-12-22T16:36:00.000-08:00

Cooper has been such a blessing to our family! I know that I was in disbelief for quite some time that I was even pregnant, but after he got here, I really got to see God's gifts and His timing.

Cooper has been sleeping through the night since 6 weeks old. He is growing like a weed and eating us out of house and home. This time around I am making my own baby food, and he is enjoying it. His favorite? Spinach.

December 2011

2011-12-21T12:57:00.000-08:00

So my blogging days dwindled....how did that happen? Maybe adding Cooper Leyden to the mix....or new flooring throughout the house....maybe it was the need for all new appliances in the house, going back to work....I know work always gets the blame, but when you really want to stay home with your kids, it gets the blame.

What ever it was, it was never meant to let more than a year go by and not make a post.

Lets see 2011 was a Wonderful year!
January, February and March were spent teaching my class that almost did me in. Literally. I never got to teach last year, the students really struggled with listening, following directions, keeping hands to themselves and not bringing GUNS to school...yes you read that right, guns...anyways I survived and on March 30th we welcomed Cooper Leyden into the world. Now it was not the easiest labor story, but we survived and he is perfect. Love him dearly!

I got to stay home from work from March until August, and it was wonderful. We did get new flooring and then all the appliances went out. Thankfully my parents moved back to this area and we were able to stay at their house and use their refridgerator!

We are all excited for Christmas to be here in just a few weeks....we are also looking forward to getting the house back to normal without all of the decorations.

whoa...where did the year go!!!!

2010-11-06T01:19:00.000-07:00

OK, so my blog took a nose dive this year. I wish I could say it was because I was super busy....I wish I could say that I was on a fabulous vacation.....but I can't....I just got lazy! So many things did happen, so many memories were made, I am sad that I didn't get them all down here!

From January to now....
The girls grew so much! They are FINALLY on growth charts. They are 25%tile in height and weight! YEAH! they turned 3 in September. It has been a magical age for them. They are talking so much, writing their names, naming letters and associating all letters with a person or an object. They are singing songs (and will be in the Christmas program at church) They are running, jumping, counting, talking and talking and talking....did I mention talking???

Rich got a job in May. That has been a blessing on us! He is loving being in the workforce again, and is up to the many challenges. He is continuing with his airplane models, and contests. The girls enjoy those too.

Me, still teaching. Another year in third grade. Many ups and downs with teaching, but still enjoy the hours and the time off!

As a family we have really started going to church regularly and feel part of the family. I have gotten involved with the worship team and will play the piano every so often. The girls love Sunday School and teach us their lesson when they get home.

Rich and I got to celebrate our 6th wedding anniversary this year, kid free. It was so nice, and yet....so different without the twins. We went to the Drag Races....my fave! I have watched or gone to the drags since I was a young girl...it was a GREAT weekend away, thank you nema/papa/ and Aunt Melanie for watching the girls!

We also have news...April 5 or so....we will be welcoming a new baby sister or brother into the house. Never though I would be a party of 5, but here we are. I am 18 weeks along, and everything is going well....for as much as I can tell. When I was pregnant with the twins I went to the doctor every week....this one...every 4 weeks...so it is a different experience. The girls are excited to be a big sisters!!! They are both hoping for a baby brover with a peanut!

Halloween just passed...we took the girls trick or treating this year. They were not too sure about it for the first 3 or 4 houses but then loved every minute of it near the end of the evening.

New Year Goals....

2010-01-01T14:25:00.000-08:00

I have decided that Resolutions are for the birds. I make a resolution and it is broken within a week....so I decided that I would make GOALS for 2010.....

For starters, I need to be a better me...I have been not taking time for myself. I have been so focused on work since Rich lost his job. I want to make sure we have a steady income....my time has been in the classroom, and I need to change my focus to know that the school will still be there whether I spend 10-12 hours there a day or not. I need to leave work at work and come home to be a mom and a wife. Rich and I used to go out for a date night once a week, and now that will have to change to once a month or every other month, so we can get to know one another again. I also need to get rid of built up anger.
A goal of mine this year is to make Church a priority in my life. God needs to come first, he has provided for us over the last 4 months so that we always have food on the table and clean clothes....we have stayed above water when our lives were suddenly flipped upside down...we as a family need to make Church a priority to have God guide us and keep us safe.
My last goal is to lose 25 more pounds...I know, I know, another diet fad....well over the last 6 months I have lost 21 pounds but want to lose another 25-30 pounds...

I don't think I am asking alot....I need to set my goals, to make a better 20101

Fall....

2009-10-24T20:33:00.001-07:00

Fall is a great time of year for Central California. I love when there is a crispness in the air, and all of the fall scents. Pumpkin Spice lattes are in full swing at starbucks too! This fall has been a fall of change for us. God closed one door with Rich's work, and hasn't opened a new one for him yet. We are patiently waiting for the door to open, but know in his time, the door will open and everything will work out. Right now the girls are LOVING daddy time...and will continue to do so.
We had a twins club Halloween party at the park today. (The same park the girls birthday was) We had so much fun, and won the costume contest for the cutest costume!
Enjoy the pics!!!!

answered prayers

2009-08-15T21:36:00.000-07:00

It is always a bitter sweet time of the year. Professional development days, long days in the classroom setting up and waiting for an eager 20 + students to enter the classroom...and I find myself here wondering if I gave my all to my sweet angels this summer. We have been full of giggles and many trips to the zoo, and many words of wisdom!

Hannah has began to come up and hug and say, " I Yuv you mama!' and Megan will follow suit with "I you" and a hug.

With everything a blur, I know one thing is for certain, prayers have been answered over daycare this year. You know mother's intuition when you take your children somewhere, and you know something is just not right and unfortunately the girls have been too small to tell me their concerns. Well....

Let's just say our day care experience was just that, sparing details, let's just say....my worst nightmare came true while the girls were in daycare. But God is good, and has provided me 2 wonderful daycare providers, that love the girls unconditionally, and it is a 1:1 correspondance to watch the girl! I love the fact that when I drop them off, they turn and say "Bye mama" and run to the arms of their care givers...

Note to self: Always follow your mommy's intuition, when you sense something is not right....chances are they aren't. Thank goodness prayers get answered!

We Are so cool

2009-07-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

Today was a total girls day! Rich went out of town, so I took the girls to the mall. We had so much fun walking around looking at clothes and smelling perfume...Then we went to the Disney store! The girls are starting to show interest in Micky Mouse, so we had fun. While we were there...we couldn't resist some sunglasses and and "cincess" bups....

The girls are the pride and joy of my life, I wish there was a way to stay home with them indefinitely!

Pajama Day

2009-07-15T07:21:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't need days like that, when you wake up with nothing on your schedule and no energy to even get dressed. Well summer vacation is a perfect time for that! This last week, the girls and I have been having pajama daze. We get up, eat breakfast and play and don't get dressed. This last monday was no change at all! By the end of the day after coloring, playdough, and puzzles the girls found tutu's and bracelets and were having fun....

Summer Fun

2009-06-23T08:12:00.000-07:00

Summer fun with Toddlers comes in a variety of ways. We are part of a local twins club, as well as the national organization and it is wonderful to get together with other moms and twins that are older and younger than us. Through the summer we have weekly playgroups set up to just have fun together....the girls I feel are making some life long friends and are not so shy anymore. they are learning to climb on play structures and realizing that they are not as scary as they once thought they were.

So far we had a playdate at Oso de Oro park, then had taco family fiesta at the Bicentennial park in clovis....both events so fun! Enjoy the pics from the event.

Mini Vacation

2009-06-22T08:36:00.000-07:00

This last weekend we got to take a mini-vacation. It is the first time since the girls were 9 months old that we took a trip as a complete family. Since the girls are older and didn't have double ear infections that we didn't know about, it was a blast!
It started out Saturday with us getting up and leaving the house by 6:30. We got the girls their morning milk, put an Elmo DVD on and drove to Modesto where we stopped for breakfast. It was fun because we went through the drive through at McDonalds, and got pancakes. The girls got to eat their pancakes in the car and were tickled pink!

We drove to Oakland, to see Elmo live. It was a wonderful show with a them of....Elmo's Green Thumb. It was educational and cute! Megan was enthralled in the beginning shouting out all the characters. Hannah was scared at the beginning, but near the end of the show, Hannah was singing and dancing with Abby, Elmo, Big Bird, Count, Cookie, Bert and Ernie, Oscar, Rosita, Baby Bear, Carrie and the lady bugs!

After the show, we drove to the City by the Bay! It was a perfect time to enjoy SF. We stayed about 1 mile away from the wharf, so had a great walk up and down hills with a stroller with 40 pounds of baby...yikes! When we were settled in the hotel we took the walk to the pier and ate at Cioppino's. It was a delicious meal! I just love seafood...pricey...but delicious!

The next day we headed back to the pier and enjoyed the aquarium. The girls named every "sish" "Memo" but we had a blast. We now understand why the song was written, I left My Heart in San Francisco, as every time you leave, a part of your heart stays. Can't wait til our next trip!

Family Night Planning

2009-06-15T12:30:00.000-07:00

Sol I have been scrolling through blogs and found these "family nights" I want to plan them, but don't know how it is going to work. I want to have fun with the girls, turn off technology for a night, and have a theme. I have seen elaborate family nights, and others that are simple and easy to do. My thought is this....the girls are 21 months old, are they too young to enjoy? Could I really pull it off? This weekend we are going to SF for Elmo live, I was thinking of a Sesame street night and intertwine a rainbow theme. I thought that we could have shish kebobs, do rainbow art and color Elmo pictures. We could pack our bags and pack the car to leave Early Saturday morning.
What are your thoughts? Have any of you done a family night theme? What worked for you and what didn't....any info is appreciated.

Thanks!

a WALK

2009-02-21T16:15:00.000-08:00

I decided to take the girls for a walk today before the rain starts. Now usually I know that most would get out the stroller and get walking that way, but I bought the girls these monkey and bear backpacks with the "leash" handles attached.
Well, have any of you had new puppies learning how to walk on a leash? Hannah and Megan were not too far behind that.....

We had a blast going to get the mail, and hope to take more walks if the weather stays dry!

17 months

2009-02-16T11:44:00.000-08:00

17 wonderful months have come and gone by so quickly...I truly have been blessed to become a mom of twins...Yes, I would love to be a stay at home mom...and give kudos to those who can survive in this dying economy and stay home...but since teaching gives me the "best of both worlds" working 185 days a year, and staying home 180 days.....what more can I say?

The girls have been growing like weeds, even though they still have not cleared the 20 lb. mark. Hannah is just now at 20 pounds and Megan is at 19 pounds....

This last week has been very trying on me, and has raised my faith even more. The girls have been getting over ear infections and by Monday, I noticed that Hannah had this horrible cough...thinking that it was a "cold" I kept her home for 2 days....then on Wednesday, daycare called to let me know that she is coughing even more, and threw up...well I took her to the doc, and had her and Megan's ears checked...they were clear! YAY...but their lungs were a different story...Hannah was worse than Megan, the doc felt that this is the early signs of Seasonal Asthma...not the best of news.
We went in search of a nebulizer, and finally found one at Ray Fisher Pharmacy...they stayed open for 30 minutes longer to train me in using the nebulizer.
Thursday came, and I received a nightmare phone call....from daycare: "Megan is having a hard time breathing...you need to come check her out..." she couldn't get a breath in so, on a nebulizer she goes...

But now, 4 days on treatments our girls are back...
Please enjoy the next few pics!

Blogger Slagger

2009-01-27T09:19:00.000-08:00

Ok, Ok,Ok...I know the new year came and now we are nearly into the second month of the new year...but I think I can honestly say we have been SUPER busy. The girls keep me on my toes and Rich too.

They are saying about 30-35 words.

Hannah can count to 3 and five with help. They both love the ABC song and Row Row Row your Boat.

I will work on posting more pictures soon!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2008-12-07T20:55:00.000-08:00

This weekend was packed full of events. It started off Tuesday night when we walked down Christmas tree lane. It is a must see if you are in the Central Valley...it is better this year, than it has been in the past. So many new things and always a joy when you get to walk down it.
Well...this weekend we also got the rest of the house decorated for Christmas. Rich was such a trooper last weekend to put the lights on the house...I'll remind myself to get outside to take a pic real soon! Then we went and got a tree. I wasn't sure how the girls were going to react with the tree in the house. But so far, they are full of ohhs and ahhs...it is amazing to watch!
Hannah also stood up and started walking this weekend, and looked at us like we were crazy when we were cheering for her. She gave us a look that she has been doing her steps her whole life. (Megan has been walking for about a week or so)

Oh and Megan fell and bumped her head badly...not only once but twice! She looks so tore up! My poor baby. I guess I am glad Rich already took the Christmas photos...which is why I am updating again tonight. We put together the photo for our cards, but I will not post that until a later time!
Here is a sneak peak though...enjoy!

Picture Catch up Day!

2008-11-15T14:04:00.000-08:00

We sure had fun at the pumpkin patch! I don't know what it is, but watching kids do things for the very first time brings a sense of wonderment to you. Grandma and Grandpa went with us. Then when we got home, Hannah got to try on her Halloween costume for the very first time! Well...you see her little expression!
We have had great Fall so far.

We went to the zoo...and have had some play dates with the twins club. It will be so fun to see what comes of the Holiday season.

Tagged

2008-11-11T13:27:00.000-08:00

Ok Darlena here you go! My neighbor, a good friend and a wonderful mother...tagged me...I had to go on my browers to the fourth folder and post the fourth picture.

So here is me at 12 weeks pregnant. Yes that is my 12 week belly....can you tell that I am having twins? Most women don't even show at this time and look at me, I am a house! I was put on bedrest at this time, so it was an afternoon after napping that Rich took the picture.

Ok...so if you read my blog...you are officially tagged!

Wonders....

2008-11-11T12:58:00.000-08:00

Well, yes time has passed again, and I haven't posted in a while. Although I check in on blogs and love to read the updates, I fall behind on our happenings, of course with my little wonders, Hannah and Megan I sometimes wonder how I remember to get dressed in the morning for work!

We have been doing well. Megan had a couple of bad ear infections and we are hoping that on Thursday when they have a well baby check up, they will be good and we won't have to think about tubes. Hannah is just as happy as ever...Happy Hannah as everyone says, but 'Hannahbear' seems to be more fitting!

Halloween came and left with our little bugs loving their costumes. They have both taken a few unassisted steps but haven't done it since. We still have the toothless wonders...well they have 2 teeth...but no one is really worried about it, at least I don't think so.

The girls are still not quite 20 pounds but hope that I will have more of an update on Thursday!

Bug-a-boo

2008-10-25T21:16:00.001-07:00

Today was such a fun day for the girls and myself. we went to a "twins club" Halloween party, and just had a blast watching all the kids and seeing all the gobblins and ghouls.....it is such a great group of women that let me know that i am not the only one experiencing certain things. the friendships I have made have been so wonderful as well. i can't believe that we have been apart of the group for a year now!
Hannah and Megan loved their lady bug costumes....so much, I could not take them off of them without a tear or two!

So cute!

Models?!?

2008-10-11T21:52:00.000-07:00

Tagged....took me a while to catch up!

2008-10-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

10 years ago I was:
1. 22 years old
2. starting my first year of teaching
3. just finished my credential from Fresno State
4. Never thinking about getting married or having twins
5. hanging out with friends and playing darts on any given night

5 things on today’s to do list:
1. go to babies r us
2. watch Emily play soccer
3. Go to Target
4. take a nap....have a cold/sinus infection
5. go grocery shopping...didn't get to it, will be on tomorrow's list

5 snacks I enjoy:
1. string cheese
2. yogurt
3. grapes
4. protein bars
5. popcorn

5 things I would do if I were a millionaire:
1. Pay off all bills
2. Start a trust fund for hannah and Megan
3. Go back to Australia
4. give money to charity
5. buy a honda oddyssey

5 places I have lived:
1. Arvada, co.
2. Fresno, Ca.
3.
4.
5.

jobs I have had:
1. Play it Again Sports
2. Hume Lake Christian Camp
3. St. Agnes Hospital
4. Roosevelt Elementary- Kinder.teacher
5. Hamilton Elementary- third grade

Birthday!

2008-09-20T19:07:00.000-07:00

September 13th was such a special day! The girls turned 1 years old!!! I am so proud of them, they are doing so many things. They are full of personality and love to show off for you.
We had a sesame street theme party....I made the cakes, and they just had fun!

Busy

2008-08-31T09:22:00.000-07:00

That is one word that I can truely say is my life. Work is back in session, the girls are back in daycare and we are inching closer to the girls 1st birthday.
THings that have been going on-

July- Hannah started crawling when Grandma and Grandpa were visiting.
August- Megan started Crawling right before I went back to work. School started for me. I have 16 students...loving every minute of it. The girls got really sick and they spent one week in daddy daycare (daddy did double duty with the stomach flu) We got to get upclose and personal with a firetruck, and went to our friend, the twin boys 1st birthday party.

To my fellow bloggers, I apologize for being MIA....but hopefully you all understand with the word, busy!

Too, Two Fun

2008-08-02T14:22:00.000-07:00

We reached big milestones this weekend that couldn't have come to quickly since I go back to work starting Monday...

Megan Started Crawling!!! Hannah has been becoming a pro the last couple of weeks and it was making me sad not to see this milestone because I had to go back to work, but much to my amazement.....

Megan is CRAWLING....I am beyond excited!

I just hope I don't miss their first steps.....I have heard first words, seen first crawls, I hope I see first steps....

But taking one day at a time, I am planning their first birthday. I am so excited!

Yumm-O

2008-07-24T09:25:00.001-07:00

Mommy made a new dinner for us....

Italian Goulash......Can you tell we liked it???

We also got Blueberries for dessert!

Nothing Sweeter

2008-07-23T10:11:00.000-07:00

There is nothing sweeter than watching a baby sleep..... Hannah and Megan were always arm in arm when they were little...definitely two peas in a pod.

Now they sleep in their own beds, and there is nothing sweeter than walking into their room and finind this!

Memories

2008-07-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

So I saw this on someone else's blog, and thought it was cute, but kinda cheesy. Well the more I thought about it, the more I started thinking about memories I have with my friends and family that I would want to comment about on their blogs. So I am doing this post not because I want you to leave memories of me, but so that hopefully you will post this on your blog, and I can leave memories of you!! Thanks!!

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn’t matter if you knew me a little or a lot, if we’ve actually met in person or not, anything you remember!2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you

Gotta Love Medicine....

2008-07-18T08:46:00.000-07:00

This last week has been very trying. Both girls have gotton really sick, and it has been not alot of sleeping. At first I thought they were teething, as you would think for 10 month olds they would have at least one tooth....but when their fevers reached 103.5 I knew there was something more.
We headed out to the doc's office on Tuesday, and poor Megan has an ear infection and throat infection and Hannah has an upper respiratory infection that got treated because the doc thought it could settle into pneumonia.

Poor girls.....

But after 3 days of antibiotics we are getting smiles back and they are talking and acting more like their happy selves.

YAY...gotta love medicine sometimes!

Photo Contest

2008-07-16T11:35:00.000-07:00

Ok Fellow bloggers....
I entered the girls into a photo contest to win an IPOD it needs votes....

Could you please vote for me?

You don't have to sign up for a thing, and your info will not be shared just votes!

http://www.picture.com/voteforme/photovote1.asp?PID=3019582

Sleepy

2008-07-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

How is it that a baby can be up all night screaming....until 4:30 in the morning, then sleep for 5 hours and wake up happy like nothing happened. Where me, I am awake until 4:30 in the morning, wake up again at 6:00 in the morning for the other baby...and can barely function.....

People who say they sleep like a baby usually don't have one. ~Leo J. Burke

Happy Anniversary

2008-07-10T09:16:00.001-07:00

It has been 4 wonderful years since I uttered those simple word, "I Do" that meant more than the simplicity of it all. Rich has shown me what it is to be loved and feel loved. He has stuck by me through the thick and the thin. He has supported me when I wanted to change grade levels while teaching, he held me when we lost our first pregnancy, and now he has shown me what a great father he is when we were blessed with twins. For this I say, I love you babe....it has been a wonderful 4 years so far, and I am blessed to have you and blessed that we are able to write a story together. I am looking forward to more of the chapters being written as more years pass!

I love you!

photo contests

2008-07-08T16:27:00.000-07:00

So alot of people have asked me or told me I need to enter the girls into photo contests....so here is try #2.....it will win a pair of shoes...but at least I can try right?

http://www.contestformoms.com/babycontestphotos/thumbnails.php?album=62&page=1

Hard Job.....found in disgust....

2008-07-08T11:10:00.000-07:00

Yuck....I went to sweep the kitchen floor, as the girls are starting to get more mobile.....I saw what I thought was pepper spilled on my floor, boy was I wrong! I swept my "pepper" for it to only come alive and start moving around....ewww.....I have bugs...back to the kitchen I go, hopefully I can find the source of the bugs or I am calling Clarks!

Working out!

2008-07-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

We as many of you know, I am a dancer. I have been dancing since I was 3 years old, at the Grange there in Arvada. THen when I moved to California I began dancing at Terry Clark Dance. Well, I have been dancing for a greater part of my life 29 years to be exact....

Anyways, every MOnday night, I have a tap class that I take the girls to. Usually they sit so quietly and circle their ankles and fuss when we all stop tapping. Well, Not tonight.

Megan had nothing to do with sitting in the stroller and playing. So I had to hold her for the entire hour. One full hour of tapping with a 15 pound baby on your hip....I must say it was quite a work out for me, but for Meg? Well she was all smiles and giggles and just "wowed" every turn, tap and sound.....

Too funny!

New Beginnings

2008-07-07T10:52:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking recently about how life makes many twists and turns, and how life can go by so fast that you really don't know what to make of it. I have been having an empty feeling inside, and realized what it was.....I had taken my life away from God, I used to attend bible studies and sunday service, and read the bible...I always gave my problems to God and asked for guidance....then in 2006 things changed. I got angry with him for taking my ^baby^ away from me. I was in a sprial downfall and felt that he took my baby from me.....then In 2007 I got pregnant again. My feelings towards God changed and I begged for forgiveness and to take me back again.

Now that I am in a new routine, and new life and realizing that I can't control everything in my life...I pledge to God and to all my friends....I am making a new beginning....I am praying for your happiness, and for a fulfilled life. I pray that each and every one of us celebrate successes big and small, and we share our lives with a greater being......I pray that we all seek the help we need and pray that we don't take anything for granted. Life is fragile, Life is small....we can make it better if we believe and work with our own strengths.

Thoughts

2008-07-06T08:57:00.000-07:00

ok,so it has been a while since coming back to the blog...so many things are happening right now....for a while it felt as though it were spinning out of control. now, i really think things are falling back into place...but boy was i lonely.
I have had to give alot to God this last week, and realize that for piece of mind I can not fix everything, nor do I have control of everything. I have to ask for guidance and peace, or i am liable to have a nervous breakdown.

with that out....

here is our happenings....

We have had such a busy couple of weeks, and doesn't seem to be ending soon. We had a visit from Aunt D'Anna, Uncle John and Cousins Courtney and Jason...boy were they fun. Grandma and Grandpa were here too...we took family pictures (will be posted soon)
After that Poppy Walbridge has come to visit...next weekend we are going to visit our Great Grandma Veras....then we will have some down time.

WE are trying to get on our knees and are army crawling around the room.

For the fourth, we went to my sister's house for a BBQ and fireworks. The girls loved it, especially since we did NOT have any piccolo pete's.....hopefully next year they like it just as much.

9 months

2008-06-26T21:22:00.001-07:00

As I stated earlier, the girls are 9 months old now. They had their well baby check up and.....the verdict is in......I have peanuts!!!!

Hannah weighs 16 pounds 5 oz. and is 26 1/2 inches long. She is in the 50th percentile for height and 20-25 % for weight.

Megan weighs 15 pounds 2 oz. and is 25 3/4 inches long she is in the 10-15 % for weight and the 25th for height.

They are so tiny....but LOVE their table food!

This was too fun!

2008-06-23T11:25:00.000-07:00

As a 1930s wife, I am
Superior

Take the test!

Luck

2008-06-22T21:54:00.000-07:00

I never knew how lucky I could be until i sat back and started looking at my life. God has blessed me with two beautiful daughters that never cease to amaze me. In their nine months of life on earth, each day brings me such joy and amazement. I think I have a permanent smile on my face for everything they do. I couldn't imagine my life any different, than with my two daughters. Yea, I may miss out on having mommy's little boy, but my two girls mean the world to me.
I have a husband who is not afraid to step in and help out, even if it means to ask a question or two. He is my rock, my friend, whom I don't know what life would be like without him. probably chaotic!
I have a supportive family who have helped me be the person I am today.

Is there more than that, that is needed for happiness???

Bear with me!

2008-06-22T11:40:00.000-07:00

I think I found a better compromise to my blog dilemma! I want a pretty background, where all the links work! And I can still have my pictures and my poems....I think I have it.

I also figured out the blog roll!!!!! Wa-hoo.....thanks TRACY for the reccomendation!

Schedule

2008-06-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

I know that there are others out there who have more than two...but multiples bring a new sense of scheduling and getting ready. So I thought I would post a schedule to let you know what a day is like with twins.....

6:30 am wake up---you hear 2 voices and 4 legs kicking the mattress you know it it time to get up. Start off with 2 diapers. Knowing that if one is poopy, the other is too...they are on the same schedule

6:45 2 bottles...down go 12 oz. of formula

7:30-8:00 breakfast Used to be oatmeal and a fruit, but recently they have been liking pancakes, cheerios and some sort of fruit...pears, peaches, strawberries or babanans.

8-9:00 play time! They play, giggle roll and try to get on their knees.

9:00-11:30 Nap time...just like clock work. Start with a diaper change...then lay them down with their music

11:30 or 12 when they wake up another diaper change (so as you see we already have gone through 6 diapers for the day) Then another bottle. Another 12 oz for the day.

12-1:00 play time

1:00 lunch time....hmm this changes but generally a veggie and a fruit...of course not pureed...they just want food they can pick up. Their fav. being zucchini

1:30-2:15 more play time then another diaper change...number 7 and 8 for diapers.

2:30-4 or 4:30 Nap time again. During this time...I try to pick up the house, and do a load of laundry and wash the rest of the bottles

4:30 another round of diaper changes....number 9 and 10 diapers...then bottles. Another 12 oz down.

4:30-6:00 play time...daddy comes home and plays too, while I throw together dinner. (usually a 30 minute meal from Rachel ray)

6:00 dinner time...another fruit veggie, and cheerios.

7:00 bath time. 20 finger, 20 toes, 8 cheeks, 2 tummies, 4 legs, 4 arms and 2 heads of hair. Also 2 more diapers....so 12 diapers a day. Or more if they have a poopy diaper in between....

7:15 bottle usually 3-4 oz each...then into bed. 2 hugs each girl 2 kisses for each girl, then lay down and you never hear another sound.

Whew...time to clean the kitchen up!

Changes

2008-06-21T11:29:00.000-07:00

I am going through changes on my blog. (Thanks Tracy!) Another blog inspired me to do so. I will be working on it through out this next week. This is not set in stone, but we'll see what happens.

My Friend, My Husband, Their Daddy

2008-06-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

I realized that my blog is mainly about my girls, or me. I have never put in a post about Rich. We are getting closer to our 4 year anniversary, and never have i found a person, more caring or supportive of me. Although he was very nervous to be a daddy, he has proved to be not only my best friend, but a wonderful daddy as well.

Ahhh....

2008-06-18T19:26:00.000-07:00

It is 7:20 pm....the girls are sound asleep, bathed, fed and given bottles. Not bad for being home alone all day long.
Now I need to wash all of the bottles so I can watch, So you Think you Can Dance.

Wow!

9 months on June 13th

2008-06-16T06:36:00.000-07:00

HANNAH
MEGAN
9 months.....Hannah and Megan you are growing up so fast. I am loving each and every stage that you are going through. Your personalities and love for one another and for mama and daddy is contagious. You keep a constant smile on our face and each new day brings a new adventure. I see your determination to learn to crawl....I know that anyday you will do it too!

Hannah your constant smile and laid back personality. Your love of sweet potatoes, and zucchini...I know you take after your mommy.

Megan your new poses and silly personality. I know that you are just like your daddy.

I can't wait to see your other milestones.

I love you more each day!
Mommy

New Word

2008-06-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

Well I don't know if you call this a proud parent moment...or just a moment to let you know that your daughters are thinkers and understand somethings around them....

Zeno (the cat) walks by the girls daily and meows...well today as if it were a chorus for a new meow mixes commercial. Zeno walked by and both girls said....

"Meow"

oh so proud.....

now if I can figure out if they are part feline or part chipmunk...they seem to store their food in their cheeks...too cute!

Crazy?

2008-06-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

Well today, I think everyone that lives here thinks I am crazy! I went grocery shopping with the girls. Thankfully they are sitting up now. So Hannah was able to go in the cart while Megan was carried in the infant bjorn. I went to a grocery store where you even pack your own groceries...and success....it was so fun!!!

2008-05-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

i worked so hard for this...and i am so proud!!! i worked to get the girls on a schedule. rocking and rocking to make sure they slept at the same time...and wa-la....they sleep and eat at the same time everyday. i love it!!! they wake up around 6:30 or 7:00 and then nap in the morning around 9:30-11:30 and then again 2:30-4:00 I love their schedule. then at 7:00 at night they go to bed and sleep all the way through the night. i love it!!!!

megan has been making me laugh. she is in awe of the ceiling fans....to the point of her just saying WOW and then whispers wow. i am so in awe of her.
hannah crack me up with her bwa-bwa...then rolling all around the room.....too fun!

the wind down and hidden

2008-05-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been a shadow in the world? Sometimes I wonder if I am just a shadow living a life with my family in a small little box that many can not see in. I seem to be looking through a tunnel into others and i think...wow no one notices I am existing or gone. I lurk here and there and get over looked in many ways. It is weird and nice, all at the same time. It doesn't seem to matter where I am either. At anyrate the most exciting thing is going to happen next week....

the last day of school!!!!!! My "year" is winding down. I will get 8 glorious weeks with my girls! I can't wait. I have missed so many firsts....and now I will experience their new ones. I can't wait to see when the girls start crawling....I just need Megan to get over her ear infection. Right now she is peacefully sleeping even though she didn't really eat all day. My poor baby! At any rate, I am going to clean the house, and see if I can make a comeback and become part of the world, come into existance!

ahhhh....vacation

2008-05-23T18:08:00.000-07:00

the way i see it, every weekend should be a 3 day weekend. i was so relaxed today at work and wanted to "just have fun" with the kids...too bad not every Monday was a day off, i would enjoy going to work again. well...i do enjoy work, I am just ready for a break....so now a treat before the real time off! woo-hoo.......

precious life

2008-05-22T20:19:00.000-07:00

so i have been sitting here trying to find the words to say to my friend, and the prayers that could be handed to her. she lost her baby at 22 weeks. she held her in her arms for a few short hours and then had to say good bye just as quickly as she said hello. i am at a loss for words. i know what it is like to say goodbye to a baby you want so dearly and now may 22 will always be a memorable day for her. God wanted this baby to stay with him...he wasn't willing to give her up. is that something i understand? no can't say that i do...does it help me realize that your family is needed to bond with and to care for...my heart goes out to her...i wish i could gracefully put into words what I want to tell her...i wish i could take the hurt and the pain and turn it around for her. i just want her to know that she is well loved and that i am terribly sorry for her loss. i send her the warmest love and the biggest (((HUGS)))that can get to her through the wire.....
may you find comfort and healing in this trying time! may your son's smiles and coos help you through and find the strength to move forward. your strength and fight is admirable and your little girl will always know what a fabulous mom you are and you will forever be her hero for never giving up.

two in one night

2008-05-20T20:47:00.001-07:00

Here are the loves of my life...

stress

2008-05-20T20:38:00.000-07:00

you know you are stressed when you can not speak words clearly. with 14 days of school left, i am faced with a long list of tasks that need to be completed by certain days....OMG is all i can say or shout. I have a list of testing that needs to be completed. activities that i want to do, but no time. the minutes tick by so fast....just when the day gets started, then it ends...hopefully after tomorrow i can check off some of the tasks...i am so ready for my list to be complete! maybe my skin will clear up, and i can relax this summer. knowing that tc is not coming eases my mind as well....i love the reading project, but it is not working with our students. I am so glad that there is change a comin' it helps out so much to know that others are noticing that change is needed. i just need my break from work,so i can start fresh with new students that will be coming to my room in August.....

8 month bliss

2008-05-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

i never thought that motherhood could be as amazing as it is now. the girls are so full of personality and a real joy to be with. they hardly cry and have put themselves on the most awesome schedule ever. i think many are jealous that my two are as good as they are, but, after a rough pregnancy what can i say? God has blessed me once again. not only with the gift to have these two, but to have such great girls. i know some probably criticize that i had to stop breastfeeding, as with two i got so overwhelmed....but i think that 1 week shy of 6 months was pretty darn good.

the girls are hitting milestones but are not crawling yet. scooting around the room...yes, crawling? no. but barrels of fun are they.

on a side note....how do you tell others that they are over reacting without really telling them that? i have been part of a couple of chat rooms that i don't want to leave as i have found the coolest people in the world...and i am building friendships, but at the same time wow drama that comes about is too much for me at times. i wonder if there is way to tell someone to chill out with out hurting feelings? on a computer is difficult....in person would be better, but i don't talk on the phone to these people. oh what to do!
oh well, i think i have rambled enough. i can tell i am being a procrastinator right now. don't want to clean. if i at least vaccuum while the girls are sleeping, it will be better!

Patience

2008-04-23T21:19:00.000-07:00

Boy, patience has been a great thing for me the last couple of weeks. I was on pins and needles for my neighbor to have her sweet baby...then the stress of standardized tests....I think I am one big knot! However, now that we are getting through the first week of testing...the knot is slowly going away.
But then I am still sad....I am sad for my dad's best friend who is passing away from cancer, I am sad about a friend of mine who may be going through a miscarriage. When I think about the number of women who have miscarriages and don't deserve them....it irk's me. I guess even with blessings under your wing, you just never get over that loss. What gets me, my baby would have been 2 years old now. That is so sad to me, that this time is going by.

Anyways-just some thoughts tonight....

New Picture

2008-04-16T21:51:00.000-07:00

thoughts

2008-04-16T21:40:00.000-07:00

you know it is pretty funny when you post information on the computer how people read into what you say, and what you really mean. without a voice, the computer is really not your friend. it creates drama even without people realizing what is happening, what could be one persons view completely harmless and truthful can throw a wrench into anothers side without trying. for instance, a thought about children with downs syndrome....life and love is truly learned from a child with special needs. and downs is no exception. i have a friend that is going in today to have a baby with downs and we are all elated to have this little boy to join our lives. he hasn't even made his appearance and everyone has open arms waiting for his appearance. but once again, what may be one persons view is totally not another. it is so weird how views change and people change over time. what could be a safe place to share thoughts and feelings may not always be a safe place....or may be a bit unwelcoming...it is strange how things change for a while, then all is well in the end. Life is like that in many ways, God has you meet many different people in a lifetime,and he never gives you more than you can chew...it is mysterious. life in general is a prayer after another, a worry after another a tear shed after another....i guess things work out for a reason,and everything is in His hands....

7 months

2008-04-15T20:38:00.000-07:00

Wow- Has time really flown by! I sit here and think about the time that has gone by since September 13th, and I wonder if I am missing anything?
Oh, how I wish I could feel the kick and the jabs again....but how I would never give up the firsts that are here. The first giggles, the first rolls, and the first time eating food....but if you blink an eye, the time goes by faster than you wish.

Now that the girls are here, I have so many fears now that my girls are here....I worry about what they do, I worry about working....oh how I wish I could be a stay at home mom....I hope I don't ever miss out.

Love has grown between us. Nothing is better than hearing the words mamma....although R. will think that Dada is even better. I can't wait to see the milestone that are yet to come. But at this point I love my peanuts, and can not imagine my life without them.

Best Sound in the world!

2008-03-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

This weekend I got to hear the best sound ever.....Megan is saying mamama....mama....she says it when she is happy and when she is crying, she will say it again. Music to my ears!

Hannah is so funny with her sounds...she is blowing bubbles and forces herself to laugh...it is hilarious!
I love to hear my babies coo!

new website

2008-02-17T10:15:00.000-08:00

I wanted to have this blog be from me, while the girls got to post on their own site. Please check out www.totsites.com/tot/hannahandmegan

I'm back!

2008-02-09T22:08:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been nearly a month since I posted...so much has happened, I don't know where to begin!
I went back to work....which has been an experience. Oh, how I wish I could just stay home and watch my girls grow up, I would be on cloud nine. But then, having the adult interaction is great as well!
The girls also got sick for their first time. It has been so upsetting to sit there and have your little one stare at you with long faces, and wonder "How can I make them better?"
We have had 3 trips to the doctors and one to the urgent care. Two rounds of antibiotics and now a new found hope that the ear infections will go away....
Thank goodness Grandma could come help us out.
I hope that I can keep my Blog a little more up to date...
Up coming events Hannah and Megan will be 5 months old in a few days, at their last appt. Hannah weighed 13 pounds and Megan almost weighed 12 pounds....ugh, they grow so fast!

Getting it done

2008-01-03T13:43:00.000-08:00

Just had to share a pic, of the girls and I. They were fussy when daddy was cleaning the kitchen. You do what you have to do to get the job done right? Well, after about 10 minutes of walking around, they fell asleep...they both weigh about 10 pounds, but after they were asleep, they felt more like 25 pounds each!

After Christmas

2007-12-27T12:02:00.000-08:00

It seems as though we got ready for babies' first Christmas, and it went by with such a blur. The girls loved it, and now, there are shreads of paper that need to be vaccuumed up...to finish up the Christmas cheer.
Santa came in good fashion. He brought a choo-choo train for the girls to share, with cute zoo animals on it. They love the songs and flashing lights. Songs of Santa Claus is coming to town made the girls squeal in delight, and the pictures too. It was so fun to see the smiles and hear the giggles. I can't wait until the girls are older, of course next year will be bows, boxes and ribbon will be the hit!
Santa was very good to me. I love to cook...and Rachel Ray is one of my favs...Santa brought me the Rachel Ray Furo knife set and the stainless steel cooking set. BEAUTIFUL!!!!
We are now ready to welcome the new year, and I will welcome going back to work (joy) I wish I could be a Stay at Home Mom...but we have to make ends meet at some point. We get by for now, but will have trouble in the future if I don't go back to work soon.
The girls are happy and healthy, they brought delight to my 2007, making it one of the best years of my life!
I will work on downloading pictures of Christmas...for now I will relive the memories and the smiles.

Cookies

2007-12-20T14:07:00.000-08:00

You know it is Christmas when in my home you can smell the tree, and an underlying tone of Chocolate. I love baking for Christmas....mmm....I love to share. This year, is the year of many cookies and candies. I hope that everything turns out!

Rich is going to be in charge of the rice Krispie treats....and I will just make the cookies. Looking forward to my parents being here for the girls first Christmas! It will be a ton of fun.

Three Months

2007-12-17T14:37:00.000-08:00

Wow-
The girls are now three months old. I can't believe how quickly time is going by! They are growing so fast, and learning so many things each day. They took their pics this last Sat. I had to share them with you all....

Sleeping through the night

2007-12-14T10:28:00.000-08:00

I never thought the day would come. Last night, we went about our normal routine, just a little later than normal. We gave the girls their bottles, followed by a bath. Then at 10:00 the girls were put in their cribs. About 10 minutes later, they both needed their binkies to be placed in their mouths. Then at 11:00 I crawled into bed. The next think I know is I hear my hubby getting ready for work, eating his cereal....it is 6:30 in the morning, I ran to the girls room. All was well they were snoring.

I got up and made some Tea, and checked my email. Then at 7:30 I hear "talking" coming from the nursery....10 hours of sleep!

a WOMAN CAN GET USED TO THIS SORT OF THING!

3 months

2007-12-13T07:03:00.000-08:00

Today, the girls turned 3 months old. It is amazing how quickly time flies once your Little ones are born. The girls are my pride and joy. They are growing so much, and learning something new everyday. They are smiling more, and have learned what their hands are. They are beginning to soothe themselves in the middle of the night, finding their index finger or thumb to help them out.

I am starting to get sleep again, too. It is very hard not to wake up and wonder if everything is ok, then one will cough or rustle in her bed to make me feel better.

Now we are patiently waiting for Christmas. Our tree is decorated, the house is lined in lights. We have gone to see Santa at the local mall, and we got to even eat breakfast with Santa as well.

It is the most wonderful time of the year, and now is even better that I have my girls in my life. I needed them, and they needed me. They are angels in everyway. I am blessed each day when I see them smile, hear them cry, and even change those diapers.

Thanksgiving

2007-11-20T13:39:00.000-08:00

As Thanksgiving nears us in a couple of days, we look at each day and ponder what are we most thankful for. 2007 brought many joys and tears, but what I am most thankful for is my twins. They were brought into the world safely and healthy. They bring so much joy to me and Rich. It amazes me that these little being could bring as much joy as they do. What blessings do you all have?

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours!

Many Blessings

2007-11-19T12:29:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when you read a story, or see a newsclip or hear of others struggles, pains and triumphs you learn alot about life, and everything it has to offer. Recently, I was introduced to a young girl who fought a hard battle, and recieved angel wings. Although I never met her in person, I found that she had an angelic heart and had a quality of faith, that I hope to pass on to my children.
In the very end with her family surrounding, she said there were tons of kitties and puppies running around. She was heading to her happy place where she would no longer be in pain, but yet be eternally young to watch over all those whom she loved and loved her in return.
It amazes me how God or a greater being, will guide you and give you strength in ways that you would never gain by yourself.
As the holidays approach, I realize that 2007 was a year of many blessings. It started back on January 18th when I took the 9th home pregnancy test and confirmed that indeed I was pregnant. Although cautiously happy due to the fact that 4 months prior I had a miscarriage, I began a long journey to parenthood. I went to the first dr. appointment, and everything was measuring right on track, and Dr. B said that I could have an early ultrasound. I was so elated, and yet nervous. So February 22nd came and off to the ultrasound clinic I went....wow what a double blessing that would be....we found out it was twins.
March rolled in, 12 weeks into the pregnancy, and boom...problem! I had bleeding and cramping...oh no, my worst fear. (I head into a specialist who became the best doctor in the world! She is the one who saw me through the rest of the pregnancy and delivered my precious girls.) At the ultrasound that day, we see two healthy babies! I was shaking and crying in happiness. But then, I was pulled out of work. The rest of the pregnancy though went on without any glitches.
September 13th, brought on even more blessings as it was the birthday.
2007 brings those blessings that make me happy. Not only my wonderful husband, family and life, but my girls whom bring the most joy in my life.
Happy Thanksgiving, and may those blessings close to you bring you as much happiness as I have.

Two Months!

2007-11-15T13:21:00.000-08:00

Ok...so the girls are now two months old. Where has the time gone???

We had our doctor's appt. yesterday, and Hannah weighs 9 pounds 5 ounces and is 23 1/4 inches long.
Megan weighs 8 pounds 14 ounces and is 21 1/2 inches long.
They got their shots, and did really well. Minimal tears and stopped when I picked them up along with their auntie!

They are really showing their personalities, smiling and all. They also are letting us know in a very loud way when they are hungry or have messy pants. Everyday, they are trying to talk to us too. Their little mouths just a moving, and trying to get sounds out.

I love them to death...and couldn't imagine not having 2 at one time.

Scattergories

2007-11-07T10:16:00.000-08:00

i am stealing this idea from Julie. Thank you! This was fun to play, I love word games. i am tagging everyone that reads this...answer the following questions with the letter that your first name begins with.
What is your name? Stephanie
4 Letter word: Star
Vehicle: Saturn
TV Show: star search
City: Sacremento
Boy Name: steven
Girl Name: sarah
Drink: spritzer
Occupation: songwriter
Movie: Sleepless in Seattle
Popular Band: Steve Miller
Something you wear: Sweater
Celebrity: ???? I am drawing a blank.....stevie wonder?
Food: startburst
Something found in a bathroom: spa
Reason for being late: slept in
Something you shout: shoot

Vaccuum

2007-10-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

I have a dyson already....and am absolutely in love with it. We are going to need a new one soon, as we have almost worn ours out. We use it daily...sometimes 2-3 times a day. But still love it!

It is totally worth trying to win.....check it out!

Weekend

2007-10-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

What a long weekend...I think I spoke up too soon about the girls sleeping so well. Saturday and Sunday were hard nights for the girls...but we survived, and mom will need to learn to take naps more when the girls doze off!

sleep

2007-10-18T09:20:00.000-07:00

sleep is getting better now that I am not pregnant. Unfortunately, every grunt and coo that I hear makes me jump up to think that something is wrong. Of course, as I run into the babies' room I see that the girls are laying side by side, sound asleep, I think they are talking to eachother, planning when they should wake up to eat and what not.

I love being a mommy...it is still amazing to see 2 girls, 2 cribs, 2 swings, 2 bouncy chairs.....two....unbelievable!

Mother Hood

2007-10-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

Wow-
It has been so long since I have been on my blog spot to post an update. What can I say.....I have been blessed with 2 wonderful daughters that are getting bigger by the minute each day. My life is now complete that my girls have made their appearance in the world. The girls were born on September 13th. They came out screaming...and have calmed down and are wonderful children.

right now they are sleeping, after a restless night. I hope they stay asleep for a little while.

I hope to update the page more often as my life doesn't seem as crazy as it was.

2007-08-27T15:33:00.001-07:00

Counting Down

2007-08-27T15:31:00.000-07:00

15 days to go! The girls are going to be here quicker than I think!
Am I ready? I guess as ready as I am going to be....

I am excited and nervous all at the same time. I know that I am ready to have the girls as I have been experiencing BH contractions daily now.

At the last appt. the girls were weighing in at 4 pounds 12 ounces and 4 pounds8 ounces. I can't believe how big they are!

Counting Down

2007-08-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

There are so many feelings that I have right now. I have excitement...nervousness, and a sense of completion all at one time.
I am 15 days away from delivery of my little girls. They are going to be here quicker that I think. Last week at my appt. they measured in at 4 pounds 12 ounces and 4 pounds8 ounces. They are getting so big. I can tell the space is limited for them...and they continue to keep me awake at times.

I am ready to have them, but so nervous about the surgery. I just hope that everything goes well, and I hope that Rich is able to be with me for every step of surgery.

Speaking of Rich, I am so blessed to have him in my life, and these girls are going to be so blessed as well. I can't wait to see him with them. As for now, he has gone above and beyond any expectations that I could have had. He cleans, does all the laundry, and helps me get up and down. He helps with cooking, and continually makes sure I am comfy.

I hope these last few days, go by quickly and I find peace with the surgery and not have too much stress.

Counting Down

2007-08-27T15:11:00.000-07:00

Ok...now I am counting down the days. As each minute passes, I am getting more anxious for the arrival of the girls. Yet, at the same time, I am nervous. I hope some of these feelings go away, and I can enjoy my time.

tomorrow, I go to the doc again, and will get a quick check to see what it going on. I have been having some BH contractions...and wonder if I will be able to go the next 15 days.

Rich has been so supportive, and has really stepped up to the plate. Cooking and Cleaning...he is doing more than I could ever ask for. I feel really blessed by him. Not only is he here for me, but I see the love in his heart for the arrivals of his girls.

September 11th will not come quick enough.....or so I say. I just continue to pray that the girls get bigger...and make it to the 37 weeks.

Sleep

2007-08-14T16:03:00.000-07:00

I have decided that sleep is so over rated. I have always been a good sleeper, but 28 days until delivery, and I can hardly handle sleeping. I often wonder how it seems the girls can be so awake at these times o f the night when I should be in a sound somber, to only stay awake all hours of the night in hopes of getting a nap or two during the day.

One Year ago Today

2007-08-09T13:10:00.000-07:00

Today has been a bittersweet day. One year ago today, I woke up and had spotting....should not be there, I was worried and scared all at the same time. I was starting my 12 week of pregnancy, the end of the scary road...I would be entering the 2nd trimester. I was so excited to be pregnant, and couldn't believe that I was traveling the road to parenthood....but the brown, pink/red was not normal.

By the afternoon, the doctor was able to get me in to see him. He tried the doppler, but nothing could be heard. He said he wasn't concerned with my tilted uterus, so he sent me for bloodwork, and then again on Saturday for bloodwork....and made the appointment to come back on Monday to go over results.

The weekend was a blur, there was a ton of blood and pain....there was tears shed by me every hour, minute, and second. Everyone kept saying everything will be ok...but deep down, I knew it was over.

Monday morning, I went to the doctor for a checkup and ultrasound to find nothing.....it was done. All 12 weeks were lost. I got my angel in heaven looking over me....

Today is a day that I sit and remember losing my angel...but find peace in my 2 gifts from God growing inside of me.

Blind Date

2007-07-31T10:47:00.000-07:00

As I sat here, I realized that I never posted about the time I met my husband.
I was working at a school teaching afternoon Kindergarten, when the learning director and I became pretty close friends. He was married, and has a beautiful family....anyways, after the weekends he would always wonder what I did, or if I was dating anybody at the time. Unfortunately I was dating here and there, but they were always the wrong dates, total loosers. So my learning director said that I need to meet his BIL....however he was away in Kansas at school. So I never thought anything about it, I said if he ever comes to town, I would. Well, another time we were talking and once again he brought up his BIL...and then gave a strange look and said, but he is in Italy working on his last project for his Senior year. But this Christmas he is supposed to be in the area. (well this was January) So, once again, I said OK...keep me in mind.
Well in 2001, christmas time was coming, and I got a phone call saying ok, we want you to come to our house on the 21st to go out with my BIL. I agreed....probably was not the best weekend, as I had just bought a house, and that was the day I was moving, but my parents agreed that it would be ok.
So I left....it was amazing...we went bowling and to coffee and walking around this town, which looks like a very old town. We had a blast. It was as though we had known eachother forever. I didn't want to leave his side, it was easy to talk Rich, and it was great to know that he and I had many of the same ideals/morals of life.
Well....I finally got home, and my dad was so mad that I was gone, he wouldn't talkt o me. That was hard, but my mom said there was something different about me after meeting Rich. I knew that too!
Well...Christmas night, I ended up going back out to the house for dinner and games. Once again, I had a blast and did not want to leave his side. At 3 in the morning, after everyone else was in bed and Rich needed to go to bed as he was leaving for Oregon the next day...we exchanged phone numbers and addresses and I left. Of course after the most magical kiss in the world. At that point I knew that I would marry him!

The next night I went out with my friends, and never even thought he would call for a few more days, but sure enough...I got the call and we talked on the phone for hours. That went on until February, when I invited myself up to house for the weekend...I just knew I had too! Well that blossomed into a wonderful relationship. We would see eachother every 6 weeks or so....and I spent the summer at his house---5 weeks!

AFter 2 years of a long distance relationship, Rich made his way to California at Christmas time, and surprised me with a job interview at a local architecture firm. He go the job and moved down to Ca. in Feb 2003. It was Valentines when he moved. On Feb. 16th...he took me to the coast for the weekend at a B&B.....it was there that he proposed...it was magical once again.....I found my fairy tale. We started planning the wedding, and in July 2004 we got married.

We have found that we are perfect for eachother, and help eachother in every way. We are ready to start our new endeavor by giving birth to these beautiful babies!

You never know what a blind date will bring!

TIME

2007-07-27T10:26:00.001-07:00

I woke up this morning, and realized that time is going by fast...I have 6 weeks and 1 day until the girls will be here....is anything ready? Absolutely not!
I am getting slightly stressed out....the crib is not up, I only have 1 set of bedding, none of the clothes are washed, and I my baby shower is not until I am 34 weeks along....can we say cutting it close?

R. is being supportive, and I always feel so bad that I have to go to him to clean up, or vaccuum or dust, or wash clothes...but he works long hours, and needs to unwind as well....I know once they get here, things will be hectic but my goodness...I wish I could do more around the house.

I think what I will do is, make a list of things that I want done, and see if we can X them out as they get done.....

Where has the time gone?

update on the twins!

2007-07-24T18:23:00.000-07:00

Today was the 30 week check up. One girl is now head down and the other is head up, which is ok since I will be having a C-section. Hannah is head down, she is 3 pounds 4 ounces and gaining like the wind. She is measuring 29 weeks 6 days, and doing all her practice breathing. So that is a relief.

Megan is breech. She is actually sitting on Hannah's head....silly girl! She weighs 3 punds 7 ounces, and is measuring 30 weeks 2 days. They have been 3 days apart since the beginning of the pregnancy.

I have a tentative week of delivery, which will be either September 11 or 12....so 7 weeks and counting!!!

Thirty Weeks

2007-07-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

This is unbelievable to me...thirty weeks and a healthy pregnancy...too bad I couldn't enjoy it more than I did. I have been a nervous wreck through out this pregnancy even when I could feel both girls moving about and going crazy.... We are now on the countdown to the end. Six or Seven weeks remain, and then they will be here. It is so exciting, but at the same time, I am nervous. I question myself on being a mom. Yes, I worked in daycare for many years and continue to work with kids in a classroom....but I still have reservations about my decisions. I guess I will sit down on this rollercoaster and hold on tight.

I am experiencing many discomforts...along with insomnia. As I sit here yawning and wondering why I can't seem to sleep in bed....I miss my bed.....can't wait until I can move back in to the room. The recliner/couch has been a great friend, but I am ready for my bed.

My other didcomfort is.....heartburn....I take prilosec and eat tums like candy, and yet still suffer....ugh!

I try not to complain, but at times, need to get it off my chest! My next post will be upbeat, as tomorrow is my 30 week check up and ultrasound, and will have more news to share......

Looking back

2007-07-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

It is always amazing to me, when you stop and look back on your life how you have changed or grown in some way or another.

As we are quickly approaching August, I remember 1 year ago when I had a miscarriage.....I thought my world was ending, the thought of losing a life was devastating to me. I blamed myself in every way possible....I thought my trip to New York was the problem....then I thought, I wasn't eating properly, then I thought that my body just rejects a new life growing inside.

My life was many shades of gray for months....I finally went to my church to ask for prayer and guidance. I spoke with the pastor who married R. and I and he was very insightful. He shed a new light on me....he said that God provides for you life in ways unexpected. God wanted you to be a mom...therefore he granted you the chance the get pg. God also wanted that baby to be with him. That baby was not ready for life on earth, and needed to stay in his house, happy and eternally young. You will always have an angel to watch over you, and keep you safe. God will not provide you with anything that you can not handle...and that baby he knew was not going to do well in the human world.

It took some pondering on his words, and then it began to give me comfort, knowing that there is an angel looking over me, and when my time is done on this great earth, my angel will be waiting for me with his arms wide open.

As I continue to look at my experiences and thoughts, I realize that as traumatic and awful of an experience the miscarriage was, I learned a lot about myself, and I was able to grow a stronger relationship with my husband. I realized that had I not experienced that, I would not have realized that I am emotionally strong, and able to share my story with others.
I have a built confidence that no matter what life brings my way, I will be able to work through it.
A few years ago....I don't think I could have, but now I know I can. I can thank those close to me for all the support and love that they shared with me....but most of all I thank myself, for opening my eyes and looking inside to see what matters to me, for realizing that I matter and make differences in my life through everything I do.

Friends

2007-07-17T09:36:00.000-07:00

Friendship is a touchy subject with people. Some believe, for a person to be considered a friend, you must be able to see them or hang out with them in a local shop or restaurant. They feel that if you don't then they are just a name, or a person that has no meaning to you.

Life is funny, and God will provide a friendship in a way that has never been thought of. Impractical or even surreal....I have found that going online has been a great source of friendship. Going through a loss of a baby, and losing a child brings women and husbands and wives together in ways, that nobody ever thought could happen.

I belong to a chat group where we are all in different stages of trying to conceive, pregnant or suffering from a multitude of losses, and yet....I find that I call them "friends."

These are women who understand my feelings, offer advice, and just make me smile when I feel down. They are always there with a shout out, a smiling face, or in need of a hug themselves.....It is funny how nearly a year has gone by and I have many friends across the country....that I know if travelling I could call and meet up for lunch, coffee or just to hang out. I may or may not ever meet these women in real life, but for now, I cherish the friendship that has come out of it....I cherish the minutes a day, that I can worry and get some moral support. for that I am thankful...and I know that I will have a lifetime of friends to turn to.....

Moanday once again!

2007-07-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

Why is it that everyone looks forward to Friday, for only another Moanday to make her presence and put a damper on a brand new day?

Being on bedrest, I love the weekends when I can spend time with Rich....but then Monday has to show up so quickly....and that time is over for 5 full days. I want to propose a 3 day weekend and a 4 day workday....wouldn't that be great? I want either Monday's or Wednesday's off...since Wednesdays seem to drag on forever!!!

Anyways-
Today, I am tired...didn't sleep well last night for some reason. I think it is the reflux that I am experiencing with this pg.

In other news....Donald Trump just bought land here in the fresNO....to build a PGA golf course that got started last year, but ran out of money. Now Trump is the only man whom I feel will get the project done...the problem???? LOCATION!!!! The golf course is getting built in the worst area of town....lots of drugs and prostitutes...it will be interesting to see what happens in the coming weeks.

Random Thoughts

2007-07-14T02:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a rough day for me....everytime I stood up I felt dizzy...it was so weird, I called the dr. and she said that it was pretty normal especially when the twins are going through a growth spurt and I can't seem to get enough to eat....like today.

I did go to the movies....I saw the move Evening....it was so good....but deep. I knew it was going to be emotional but didn't think I would cry through the 2nd half. I would recommend to anyone who has a bosom friend, and mom who you think the world of....and believe in love. Just take tissue with you!

Also, I think in a former life...I was a chef...I enjoy cooking so much and Rachel Ray is one of my favs....I tried a new recipe tonight....it was Turkey Cutlet Parmesean with tomato, basil and fresh mozzerella topping...YUMM-O is all I can say.....can't wait for lunch time tomorrow to finish it off!

Well....I'll be back tomorrow.....

This was too fun! Thanks pinkmorning for the idea!

2007-07-12T15:29:00.000-07:00

ME in One Word1. Where is your cell phone? on my table2. Relationship? married3. Your hair? needs color badly4. Work? teacher5. Your sister? getting closer now that I am pregnant6. Your favorite thing? hubby7. Your dream last night? I can't remember?. Your favorite drink? icedtea sweetend9. Your dream car? 1965 mustang10. The room you’re in? living room11. Your shoes? shoes don't fit my feet right now12. Your fears? loosing a child13. What do you want to be in 10 years? world's best mom14. Who did you hang out with this weekend? my wonderful hubby15. What are you not good at? writing all my feelings down without sounding childish16. Muffin? blueberry17. One of your wish list items? to be a stay at home mom, but need to pay the bills one way or another18. Where you grew up? Arvada Co.19. Last thing you did? took a 3 hour nap20. What are you wearing? my pj's21. What aren’t you wearing? jewelry and shoes22. Your pet? kitties23. Your computer? Dell laptop24. Your life? wonderful, full of surprises25. Your mood? happy and content26. Missing? friends27. What are you thinking about right now? my upcoming surgery28. Your car? Honda CRV29. Your kitchen? a little small30. Your summer? uncofortably hot!!!31. Your favorite color? Green32. Last time you laughed? this morning with a tv show33. Last time you cried? I can't remember....very emotional right now34. School? would love to go back and get my masters. Love? Richard. Name? Stephanie (I added this, i realized a few may not even know my name :))

Anniversary

2007-07-11T11:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterdaywas our 3rd anniversary. We has so much fun! We went on a date to the movies and dinner. We saw the movie Ratatouille. It was so cute! It was a movie that taught life lessons rather than giving you tons of humor.

After the movie we treated ourselves to dinner at Dai Bai Dang....a chinese food restaurant that rocks. Of course from the spice, it made the twins jump around and do the jig...but it sure tasted good.

I feel as though I am the luckiest girl because I have Rich in my life. He is so caring and understanding of me. I still have to pinch myself to make sure that I am not dreaming.
The other day, he came home out of the blue with flowers, just because, and he is taking time to pick up the slack around the house as I can not clean and do to much.

I pray everyday for us and our happiness, and I pray for our daughters. So far so good....I can't wait to meet them!

Getting Started

2007-07-10T08:38:00.000-07:00

I have been inspired by acquaintances to get started on blogging. They always have great stories and pictures to share....as my life is getting ready to change in the upcoming weeks, I thought I would find a way to share my feelings and thoughts with my friends.

Today is my 3rd Anniversary. Yes, three wonderful years have gone by and quickly at that. It is hard to imagine how quickly time does go by. These three years have been so great. We have travelled...laughed...lost....and getting ready to gain two wonderful daughters.

Twins.....amazing how God works in your life. He truly provides in a way that blows your mind. After my miscarriage, I felt that I was lost and was a failure to be a mom, then six months later, we are blessed with two girls on their way. I am emotionally stable at this point in time...but know that there is going to be a crazy loops on the rollercoaster of life. I will have to sit back, hold on, and prepare for the challenges and rewards that being a parent and partnership with my husband will be.