{holy crap. we have twins}

no more diapers. no more diapers. no more diapers......

2011-02-07T16:49:00.000-05:00

Can you tell what we've been working on since my last blog post?

Do you realize this is the FIRST month in over 3 1/2 years

we do not have to buy diapers?

I don't even want to think how much money we've spent on

diapers....but I will enjoy having $50+ dollars extra a month!

It's been a busy year so far.

Preschool 3 days a week.

In home daycare/family care once or twice a week.

Trips to visit family & friends.

Packers Super Bowl win.

Growing like weeds!

Life is busy, crazy and full of toddler humor.

Connor's favorite words are poopy, poopy butt, yucky.

He wants to stay small.....

I think he would sleep in bed with Chad & me every single night.

it's a hard habit to break.

He wants "rainbow hair", "long, long, long rainbow hair".

I'm on the lookout for a rainbow Halloween wig.

His birthday is in the garbage.....

Chloe's favorite words are big kid, no, woof-woof and I'm TALL.

She wants to grow big, big, BIG!

Her love of all things Toy Story continues,

though she'd wear her WI Badger football jersey every single day.

Yes. every.single.day.

And outright refused to wear a GB Packer cheerleader outfit.

How dare I even offer it!

Both are so sick of the snow.

They want sun.

ME TOO!

Our snow piles are so tall.

Not sure where we will be putting snow that's collected

between the road and sidewalk.

Since the blizzard last week, we've received at least 8 more inches

that's on top of the oodles of snow on the ground already.

And have I mentioned that we have undie butts in the house

every.single.day?

So proud of my shorties.

Timmy/Tina the cat.

2010-11-04T23:03:00.000-05:00

Chloe, Connor and I visited my sister's farm last week. Timmy/Tim-tim/Tina the cat quickly greeted us on our arrival. Let's look at the photo story of the reunion, shall we?

After this last photo, Chloe took Tim-tim into the house to ask Uncle Eddie of the can could come in. No? Then where are Duncan and Roxie??? They LOVED the animals, even the wet kisses on their faces.

Happy November!

2010-11-04T22:57:00.000-05:00

So sorry to have neglected my blog. I need to make an effort to update at least once a week!
Here are some photos of life the past 2 months:

First day of preschool. Chloe-super excited. Connor, no so excited.

Painting pumpkins!

waiting for the local high school homecoming parade to start.

I broke my right big toe. trying to kick a soft ball. I missed!

playing at a local orchard.

1st time riding horses. Chloe LOVED it. Connor had a poopy lip the entire ride :-)

"driving" their "fire truck". Don't all firefighters wear hats w/ diapers?

riding our trikes on the sidewalk. back and forth, back and forth.

preschool halloween party! They were a tad excited that daddy showed up. Look at Chloe's face!

Chloe as Woody the Cowboy {yee-haw}

Connor as a race car...vvvvrrrrroooooommm!

getting ready to carve pumpkins.

ready to trick or treat!

see how fast Chloe is running.....

The loot, from the 15 or so houses near us.

the pumpkins were a big hit with trick or treaters.

at the local children's museum with our friends.

chloe designed this all by herself!

connor's magnet design (a house!) Like the bandaid? Boo boo from dear, sweet, angry Chloe.

Happy September.

2010-09-08T09:33:00.000-06:00

Chloe & Connor started preschool today. Somehow, the alarm never went off at 7:30. Chad wakes me at 8am, school starts at 8:15. Nothing like mad rush to get off to the first day of school! Chloe was THRILLED to go and knew just where to put her back pack and sat right down to write her name. Connor did not want to be there, clung to our legs and was crying as we left. Poor guy would much rather be a homebody!

Here are some photos from activies we've enjoyed in the last month or so.

Chloe playing goalie at a soccer class.

Connor watching soccer class from the bench.

At Badger Fan day.

Enjoying dinocakes from N&B party.

The gut wants to eat with a BIG spoon.

Helping daddy open birthday presents.

playing pinball w/ daddy.

Chloe in a telephone booth at the museum.

Orangutan BIG, Chloe SMALL.

Connor, Chloe, Nali, & Bina.


Mama Kangaroo & Joey's Chloe & Connor.

Chloe at Cousin Justin's football game.

Connor at Justin's football game.

3 years ago

2010-08-15T22:31:00.000-06:00

I was recovering from an "emergency" c-section. Fortunately it wasn't a true emergency, just needed to get the babies out and into the controlled environment of the NICU. I was forced to wait 24 hours to even see my babies, after a very quick glance as they were taken from the OR into the safe haven of the NICU. So grateful that we had our digital camera, so Chad could at least visit the babies and share the photos with me. After the infusion of magnesium sulfate finished, I could not wait to meet my pink and blue bundles of joy.

It's pretty amazing how they've grown into such wonderful, creative, smart and enjoyable shorties. Many times during the day I just have to smile and shake my head, amazed at their curiosity, insight and deep thoughts on the world they know.

Thank you for sharing the journey with me thus far!
Can't wait to see where the next year takes us.

Enjoy the "my how we've grown" photos......

Connor one month old.

Connor 3 years old

Chloe one month old.

Chloe 3 years old.

Almost 3.

2010-08-12T22:32:00.000-06:00

We had a party this past Wednesday with playgroup and daycare friends. I thought it would be a nice, reserved party with friends short and tall. It was a zoo! The shorties had fun (or at least there were no crying fits)!

Here are a few photos from the day.

The end.....

2010-08-02T09:31:00.001-06:00

Of cribs.....

I'm taking them down today. The full platform beds are waiting to be put together.

The mattresses will be delivered Thursday.

Where did the time go???

ring, ring....

2010-08-01T22:50:00.000-06:00

Yikes! I'm still around. Just neglecting this blog. So sorry. Here's some photos to make up for lost posts......

Chloe before her hair cut.

Connor before his hair cut.

After the drastic hair cuts!

Connor and mommy at the first parade of the year.

Chloe & Daddy at first parade of the year.

Chloe...trying to make herself taller???

Connor being his cute and silly self!

Chloe, Baby (pink) Bear, bunnies and blankets.

Connor, sporting my sunglasses and shoes.

At a twin playdate.

Chloe takes sandbox play VERY seriously. The shorts are still stained from the sand!

Connor plays at the Rockford Discovery Center.

Shameless plug....

2010-04-29T09:27:00.001-06:00

Do you like to get inky with rubber stamps?
Are you a scrapbooker wanting to add
some fabulous new stamps to your collection?

Check out my {ippity} by Jennie blog and
see how you can add some fabulous stamps to your collection!

I've drooled over the new releases, and believe me, you are going to LOVE them.
I'll be able to share sneak peaks of the new kits May 10th,
with sales open to YOU on May 13th.

Can't wait to start sharing with you and filling your order for the new {ippity} goodness!
Jennie

No more curls!

2010-04-25T18:46:00.003-06:00

Easter 2010. Family fun.

2010-04-19T20:54:00.006-06:00

Easter 2010. First egg hunt.

2010-04-19T20:46:00.004-06:00

Connor wanted NOTHING to do with collecting eggs. The only ones he gathered were given to him by Chloe.

Chloe took off and filled her bucket in a flash. This girl was all about finding eggs.

Easter 2010. Dyed eggs.

2010-04-19T20:41:00.002-06:00

I spy someone with blue lips from licking their dyed Easter egg.
I spy someone trying to peel their egg after smacking them together.

Tired Chloe.

2010-04-19T15:10:00.003-06:00

Life is hard. Even harder when you play yourself to sleep under the coffee table while playing with your Buzz Lightyear and Woody dolls. She slept like that for at least an hour!

Tea for two, with the Mouse and China Boy.

2010-03-21T10:53:00.003-05:00

Our first tea party experience was interesting, to say the least! One child dressed up as a mouse, another dressing in his Chinese silk outfit. Very proper and refined, these children of mine!

Happy Spring!

2010-03-21T10:39:00.006-05:00

We entered spring with snow on the ground. Luckily, it was only an inch or two. Of course, we let the kids outside to play in it. It's so funny to watch them outside, Connor usually follows Chloe around. The side-by-side tracks through the back yard are quite humorous. And, watching them go down the slide and launch 5 feet from the end of the slide.....priceless! fortunately they both enjoyed the ride!

This boy needs a haircut, but I HATE to lose the curls....We planned to cut it with our clipper last Sunday, but the longest guard we had was 1/2". And, in the process of getting supplies together, it fell and cracked. I need to look for a 1" or 1 1/2" guard next time I'm out.

This garage was the best $5 I spent! Honestly, they play with this almost every single day.

Usually, C&C help each other and enjoy the company of each other. Sometimes, not so much. fortunately, I captured moments of helpfulness recently. Chloe helping Connor get on his boots. Connor helping Chloe with her socks. And, like lightening, this can be gone in a flash!

Chad put his XXL Packer sweatshirt on Connor one day. Sadly, he'll probably fit into that perfectly before we know it!

We entered spring with snow on the ground. Luckily, it was only an inch or two. Of course, we let the kids outside to play in it. It's so funny to watch them outside, Connor usually follows Chloe around. The side-by-side tracks through the back yard are quite humorous. And, watching them go down the slide and launch 5 feet from the end of the slide.....priceless! fortunately they both enjoyed the ride!

We went on our first, of many, hike of the year last weekend. The weather was perfect for it! Chloe stayed in the backpack carrier the entire time, Connor wanted to walk a short while into our hike. We are hoping to plan a family trip around hikes in other parts of the state.

Ok...another post, soon!

January 2010.

2010-02-04T11:05:00.004-05:00

How in the world is it February? So glad that I take pictures frequently to help remind me of our activities. I'm taking lots of pictures with my cell phone camera. They actually are decent, considering it's a phone camera!

Hope you enjoy the photos. Wish me luck at trying to keep up with more frequent posts!

2010-02-04T10:58:00.003-05:00

December was a fun month for us. This is the first year that C&C fully enjoyed opening presents. Last year we had the unfortunate Shitmas. Gift opening was really quite pathetic with the sick and tired family ours.

Our family of four had a nice celebration at home Christmas Eve and Day. Then we headed up to celebrate the holiday with Chad's family. More gifts to enjoy and open!

Would you believe that Chad and I enjoyed TWO nights away from the shorties? It was heavenly. Chad's parents watched C&C one night, while his sister, Joy, and her family watched them the second night. While we didn't do anything exciting, sleeping in was a pure pleasure in itself! So grateful to have family that enjoys spending time with the shorties, allowing us a much needed break!

Yikes...poor neglected blog.

2010-02-04T10:56:00.003-05:00

really, I haven't posted since December???? Ok...let me try to catch up my blog readers! I'll get some new posts written soon!

compare and contrast.

2009-12-17T00:28:00.003-05:00

It amazes me how much these two short people changed in the last year.

christmas photo bloopers.

2009-12-17T00:20:00.002-05:00

First snow of 2009.

2009-12-12T17:27:00.003-05:00

Chloe, Connor and their friend, Zack, enjoyed playing out in the first snow of the season. Unfortunately this snow was followed by a dump of 14 or so inches a week later!

First haircut for Chloe.

2009-12-12T17:20:00.003-05:00

Chloe just needed a trim and the ends evened out.
Doesn't she look happy???

Watching herself in the mirror....what a girl!

After, not a huge change and she still has the curls!

First haircut for Connor.

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

Before, in it's usual messy, semi-curled stat.

During, he pretty much squirmed the entire time....

After....I think we'll still have some curls show up! He will get cuts at home from now on,
but thought a professional cut for the first time would be nice.

Connor has nice curls...that last from after his bath until he goes to sleep. Otherwise, it looks like bed head! So, it was time for his first haircut.

Yikes! I can't even blame the snow for lack of attention to my poor blog....

2009-12-11T10:02:00.005-05:00

Not so recent photos....I'll update with newer photos soon! For now, you can enjoy photos of the bucket head backpack wearing duo.

Showing her boo-boo. She even has the perfect boo-boo face.

You NEED to wear oven mitts while wearing your backpack and bucket head, without a shirt, of course!

Can't forget the need to wear bucket shoes.....

Though we did recently get dumped with 14 inches or so of white fluffy stuff. I decided to bundle the kids up to go outside.

Getting ready to go out was like this......

Get Chloe dressed (as she stripped down to her diaper (or less) about 7 times today. Tuck pants into socks, shirt into pants. Put on pink snow pants. Put on chloe's pink hat and mittens. Put on her pink jacket, zip it up, put hood up.
Ask connor to look for his boots. Stop dressing Chloe to find Connor's boots. His boots are downstairs.
Pick up Chloe's boots as I head downstairs. Help Connor find his boots. Head upstairs. Get Connor's shirt on (again, strippers live in my house). Put on Connor's snow pants, boots, hat, mittens, jacket. Zip up jacket, hood up.
Chloe decides to take off her jacket, hat, snow pants. Fine, Connor and I head out. As we head out the front door, Chloe decides she NOW wants to go outside.....get her dressed, praying that connor keeps his clothes on.......
Get outside. In all of five minutes, Chloe has taken off her mittens, hood is down, hat is off, jacket unzipped and starting to take it off......so I get them inside. Darn kids! Took longer to get them dressed to go outside than they stayed outside!

HarmoniConnor

2009-11-02T10:47:00.003-05:00

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T22:26:00.003-05:00

We stayed home and handed out candy tonight. The shorties do not quite get the idea of trick or treating, so they were my little helpers. They both got into giving candy out!

Sill boy...we ended up taking the jammies off and putting on a sweatshirt and pants. He kept that on, thankfully!

Chloe waving to people outside. They were excited when visitors arrived!

Connor pulling the spider web that was on the front door.

Mine, all mine. I'm not sharing, either!

Grabbing candy for visitors!

Photos by Connor.

2009-10-30T23:39:00.002-05:00

What happens when a two year old grabs the camera and yells "cheese"????

gentle nudging.......

2009-10-30T23:22:00.003-05:00

A photo post, for those who have been hinting for an update....you know who you are!
Chloe, who was awfully quite while in our bedroom. She found the tube of lipstick I put on the bed. Isn't she pretty????

Connor, wearing cymbals on his ears.

His faithful friend, Diego.

Enjoying a warm weather day.

Making a pumpkin shaped cake. They were more interested in the sprinkles.

Watching me work.

Walking to the park with Chad. They noticed me following and ran back to me.

And he falls down. Love the facial expression!

Yeah, he's with the band.

Connor, Chad and Uncle Dennis watching Justin play football.

VERY proud of her pretty face.....

I'm with the band.

2009-10-30T23:07:00.002-05:00

Nothing but seriousness and manners in this house. No more, no less!

Making cookies.

2009-10-07T20:11:00.003-06:00

I had some peanut butter cookie balls in the freezer, left over from CHRISTMAS! I decided to let C&C have some fun with them. I found Halloween sprinkles at Target in their dollar spot. I'm pretty sure they enjoyed eating the sprinkles more than decorating. And, Connor decided to throw most of his cookies on the floor....but they had fun!

October 2008 vs. 2009.

2009-10-02T21:34:00.002-06:00

Apple orchard trip.

2009-09-13T20:16:00.004-06:00

Chloe, Connor and I headed to a sort of local orchard with our friends/neighbors Erin and Zack. My friend, Jen, met us at the orchard for some fun times! We definitely plan to return to this fun and almost free orchard, the kids LOVED it!

2 year anniversary, 9 year anniversary.

2009-09-02T12:16:00.002-06:00

Two year ago (and a few days) we brought Chloe and Connor home from the NICU. After a 15 day stay, we were looking forward to having all of us in the same house, with no more long days at the hospital. What a blur it was two years ago! Here is a link to posts from September 2007 and September 2008. It's amazing how much the have changed in the past two years!

Nine years ago, Chad and I were married. It was a beautiful day. I'm so lucky to be spending my life with Chad!

Tonight we are going to enjoy steaks at home. Friday we have a babysitter coming, so we'll celebrate at a restaurant at that time.

Later, Jennie

Is it odd?

2009-08-27T22:00:00.003-06:00

That I follow up with photographers that documented C&C's early days? I remember touching base at one year, and again tonight with Elaine and Nicole.

Nicole took photos while C&C were in NICU. They are the only photos we had taken, other than the ones we took, while in the hospital. Not exactly sure why the typical newborn mug shot was missed, as they always look like their first prison entrance photo. I made a photo book for both C&C with the photos that Nicole took. She released the CD to me. Simply amazing. She volunteers for a great organization, ACPCG.

I met Elaine early in my pregnancy. I was at Archiver's working on birth announcements. Elaine was scrapping with a group of friends. She was starting her photography business and wanted to add some twin portrait photos to her portfolio. She took photos soon after returning home from the NICU and again around 9 months old. The photos she took are on our living room wall and one each in C&C's room. I wish I could have bought one of every photo she took.

Odd? Maybe. I know in Nicole's case, she often takes photos of severely ill infants, many who do not survive their NICU stay. I hope a healthy report a year or two after a session brightens her day a bit.

separation of toys.

2009-08-26T08:58:00.002-06:00

Has there always been a severe line of separation between boy and girl toys? Or is my newfound appreciation of Redefining Girly helping me to see the obvious that has always been present?

I shopped at a local Toys 'R Us last week. I was searching for a toy or book, as both Chloe and Connor had birthday coupons. They were good coupons, too. $3 off a $3 purchase! I looked at the books. I looked through the wooden toys and puzzles. I searched for the play food. Not sure if I walked right by it or if I was blinded by the pink and sparkly displays...but I headed up to the counter to ask where it was located. The store employee told me it was on the girl side of the store. What? They refer to the store as girl and boy sides of the store?

So I guess I will not allow my son to play with toys or my daughter to play with trucks. No more wearing Princess shoes, Connor. Chloe, stay out of the dirt.

Maybe I'm more sensitive to it because I'm raising boy and girl twins. I am not pushing Chloe to play with dolls, nor am I stopping Connor to play with them. Connor has actually taken more of an interest in dolls than Chloe has.

Am I being too sensitive? Not sure I'll ever know that answer. I do know that I'm not the only parent who notices the severe and obvious line drawn between traditional boy and girl toys.

I also realize there is no right or wrong way to parent. Your parenting style may not be right me, but it works for you. And that is OK.

What am I not OK with? Spending my free money at a store that supports the girl/boy line of toy separation. Childhood is a time to explore, play and enjoy life. If that means that Connor will play with dolls and dress up in a princess dress, so be it. Chloe is more than welcome to wear a tool belt and carry a hammer everywhere.

What did I do? I walked out of the store, coupons still in my purse.

Wonder if Melissa will take my coupons?

Second birthday photos.

2009-08-16T16:48:00.001-06:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Link to 2nd birthday photos.

2009-08-16T16:32:00.002-06:00

Here is a link to most of the pictures from the party. My generous friend, Erin, borrowed her d-slr camera to me so here are the photos from that camera! I'll upload more later.
Shutterfly birthday album

first glimpse: double second birthday twins.

2009-08-15T19:43:00.003-06:00

first glimpse: double second birthday boy

2009-08-15T19:40:00.001-06:00

first glimpse: double second birthday girl

2009-08-15T19:20:00.004-06:00

Reflecting: one year ago

2009-08-13T19:18:00.002-06:00

Reflecting: going home.

2009-08-13T16:27:00.002-06:00

Reflecting: Connor in the NICU

2009-08-13T16:22:00.003-06:00

Our camera died mid-NICU stay....and we lost the photos that were on that memory card. So, we missed out on a few days of photos, along with some between the delivery photos and when we bought the new camera. So glad we had my laptop at the hospital to download the delivery and day after photos!

Reflecting: Chloe in the NICU

2009-08-13T16:16:00.003-06:00

It's hard not to remember two years ago. Our life changed dramatically! I'm sharing some early twin life photos so you can remember with me.

Reflecting: double birthday delivery

2009-08-10T18:46:00.003-06:00

Reflecting; professional NICU photos.

2009-08-10T15:26:00.004-06:00

Photos from the NICU by fabulous photographer Nicole Green. These were the only photos we had taken for hospital photos...so glad we had the opportunity for a spot of time with Nicole.

Photos from the NICU by fabulous photographer Nicole Green. These were the only photos we had taken for hospital photos...so glad we had the opportunity for a spot of time with Nicole.

almost 2!

2009-08-09T17:00:00.004-06:00

We are trying to get things together for a double second birthday party. I need to check my to do list and keep things moving forward! I'm sharing my favorite photos from the photo session we had in the back yard last week. I ordered some wallet size photos to print to give to the party guests. I'm looking forward to some good family time next Saturday!

2 year portraits

2009-08-06T22:26:00.001-06:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

July in review.

2009-08-01T23:00:00.001-06:00

1st. We are learning how to dress and undress. Connor does a great job getting his clothes off. Chloe needs a bit more direction!
We bought a Brio train table off Craigslist today. Mommy found a great deal on it. We love playing with the pieces on the floor. Connor even took a few train pieces to bed with him.
Mommy had to cancel playgroup, as a mild stomach flu was making an appearance. We didn't want to share our germs.

2nd. Connor is taking the undressing to a new level. He now takes off his pants/diaper during nap time (last two days) and other times I'm not watching....darn him. Miss Chloe thankfully has not started that, but she does stick her hands down the back of her diaper....
Ok, have to go. Connor is doing chin-ups on the treadmill bars.......
Connor goes pee while sitting on potty!

3rd. We head up to my sister's farm for the weekend. Hit heavy traffic thirty minutes into the drive.....joy. Kids check out animals and visit with family.

4th. Second annual 4th of July parade for C&C. Chloe's throws first piece of parade candy back into street. Connor sits on my lap most of the parade.

5th. Head home. Hit traffic again.

6th. Chloe is up at 6am, Connor sleeps until 8am. I nap while snuggling with Chloe.....though she does go sit at the table, opens up my makeup bag, sets out the makeup on a wash cloth (just like I do) and puts on make up. No damage, except for a few scratches in the blush. Goofy girl. Connor takes shorts off before eating supper and puts them back on when done eating. Goofy boy.

7th. Yeah. I make it to the gym with C&C. I drop them off at childwatch. Chloe is the one crying, Connor gets right to playing. Luckily my MOMs club friend, Michelle, is working there today. I hit the treadmill and do the weights. Next stop is Sam's Club. It's always a riot when your kids are doing their best goat call for all shoppers to hear. mmmmmmmaaaaaaaaaaaa, MmmmmmmmmmmAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa, MMMMMMMMMMmmmAAAAAAAAAAAAaaa.....fun time, fun times. It doesn't help that they are tired and almost immediately fall asleep once we get into the van and head for home.

8th. I have plans. BIG plans. Y for a Zumba workout, Woodmans for groceries, post office.....the short people have other plans. Chloe refused to get dressed and wants to stay in her jammies. Connor refuses to stay dressed and repeatedly takes his diaper off....so we stay home. I escape for mommy time once Chad arrives home from work. The door did not hit me in the a$$ on the way out, either :-)

9th. C&C head to day care a few houses down. I head out for a haircut, MOMs club meeting and shopping time. My hair is VERY short....hasn't been this short in a very long time....it's an adjustment. I'm working to finish up birthday invites and a wedding gift of family recipes in a scrapbook. Of course, the wedding is this weekend. Nothing like last minute rush! I'm almost done, so all is well!

10th. The van is packed. We are heading away for the weekend. C&C do not sleep in the car, makes for a long trip. Chad is dropped off at his brother's house so they can head to play golf. The short people and I head out, I'm hoping they nap...I can dream, right? They actually both take a short nap. It's a long night and Chad and I try not to fight. Why do I get so stressed when C&C are cranky? I hate it. Chad enjoys time with his family at the hotel bar while I stay in the hotel room with cranky butts.

11th. More golf for Chad. Connor and Chloe and I head out to buy some supplies to finish the wedding gift..nothing like last minute! We head back to the hotel and attempt naps...unfortunately, Connor has different plans. Plans that involve brown stuff. It's not pretty. Naps are out the door. I'm cranky, need to shower and have two toddlers that need a nap. It's not looking good. We leave the wedding ceremony a few minutes into it. Fortunately the short people enjoy the music and lights. Chloe loves to polka!

12th. We dump, I mean leave the lovely children with Chad's parents. We head up to Door County for a night of adult interaction. Much better than our last night away without kids.....

13th. Back to pick up Chloe and Connor. They have been sans pacifiers for their nap and Chad and I decide to continue the trend. First night without pacifiers, we are at least at home. Connor cries longer than Chloe. Chloe is up once during the night. Both sleep until 7:30am.

14th. It's amazing how much more children talk when they don't have something blocking their mouth. Two and three word sentences are spoken by both Chloe and Connor. While there is still some screaming, they (and I) seem to be surviving sans pacifiers. No bedtime fight from Chloe, Connor fusses less than 30 minutes. They sleep through the night (HURRAY).

15th. HAPPY TWENTY-THREE MONTHS OLD! It's so hard to believe we have two almost two year olds. C&C head down to daycare, late, as neither wants to get dressed. Though it doesn't help that they both sleep until after 7:30am AGAIN. I head to Zumba then some leisurely shopping at Target. I buy an iced coffee instead of my high calorie Frappaccino. Slow but sure, hopefully things will start working for me!

16th. Chad and I have a date night tonight...so I'm trying to make the house presentable! That is easier said than done some days. We are heading up to Madison for a collegiant league baseball game. C&C get to play with out great babysitter!

17th. C, C and I head out to a MOMs club playdate. It's unusually cold for July, so we are all wearing long pants and long sleeves.

18th. We head out to a BBQ at a MOMs club mom's house this afternoon. C&C run around and are ticked off when we decide to leave. Chloe put up a good fight as I was trying to get her into her car seat....After the BBQ, we stopped at the house of Chad's high school classmate. Their two girls did a great job of helping to tire C&C out even more!

19th. I got to sleep in until 8am. Thank you C&C! Honestly, they are sleeping better without pacifiers. We head out for the local town parade. We walk down, as it's not too far, thankfully. Our neighbors, Erin and Zach, join us. The freak factor was pretty low, surprisingly!

20th.....did we do anything today? I'm catching up and can't remember!

21st. Super, duper day! In the morning, the three of us head up to Madison for a triple double plus one playdate. Chloe and Connor, Nali and Bina and Noah (2 and almost 2) plus 4 month old Eden and Chloe and their respective mommas meet for a playdate. It's been a long time in the making! The weather was great and the rain held off until we left the park. That night, I have a Stampin' Up party, of course C&C want to join the fun and watch the crafting!

22nd. Connor dons a pair of Chloe's bloomers...he's a super hero for the day and wears them half the day!

23rd. Mommy heads to the dentist while the kids are at daycare. After that I head down to get new van tires and an oil change.

24th. We head to Minnesota to visit Perry, Jen and Kate. It's the first time the kids meet. The drive is painful, as the back seat drivers are a tad cranky.....

25th. The dads play golf while moms and kids stay home. Once the dads return home, moms escape for some retail therapy!

26th. Time to head home, with a break to visit my cousin on the way home.

27th. Monday, monday.....

28th. Playdate with Lori, Nali and Bina. Sadly, they are moving to Michigan, so won't see them for a bit. It's a day of play, ending with sadness and a little drama.....

29th. Morning errands which are shortened due to Toys R Us having a later than expected opening time. We hit Walmart and barely finish the shopping before someone needs to be carried during the tail end of shopping......

30th. Going to bed with wet hair makes for a very scary picture when you wake up, especially when it's short hair. Oh well, C&C were not afraid of me. Low key day, hanging at home with an afternoon walk.

31st. Another month gone. C&C head to daycare in the morning while I attempt to clean a bit before heading out for a Zumba class. Five hours at day care usually guarantees a LONG afternoon nap, love it!

then and now.

2009-08-01T22:54:00.002-06:00

It's amazing what a difference one year makes.....

pacifier free?

2009-07-15T12:46:00.002-06:00

We have been pacifier free for TWO WHOLE DAYS! I became a bit dependant on the little buggers. We were doing good and only using them for sleep....then I slacked and we used them most of the time. C&C spent an evening with their grandparents. They took their nap without a pacifier. We have not given them one since Monday. Sleep is getting much easier for both. Nights are much quieter, as we don't have to search and rescue lost pacifiers.

new goal.

2009-07-02T14:33:00.003-06:00

I haven't been posting as often as I'd like, so I'm hoping I can get back into a habit of at least posting once a week.

I'm also going to be keeping a draft of daily postings, to post the final draft at the end of the month. My hope is to have highlights from each day, for me to keep track of the little things. I so wish I had started this earlier....

The pool is open!

2009-06-25T07:48:00.006-06:00

The froggie pool was opened for the season last week. Even though the water was a bit cold, the sprinkler was a huge hit! We even added a slip 'n slide to the back yard play area!

taking care of me.

2009-06-24T13:09:00.002-06:00

As a mom to almost two year old twins, it's easy to forget about me and let things slide. But, as a birthday gift for my upcoming 35th year celebration, I decided a membership to the local YMCA would be a great gift. Of course, I signed up last Friday, went to a Zumba party, woke Sunday with laryngitis.....So, I was out of commission for a few days. I jumped into a Zumba class today and enjoyed it. My plan is to at least go three times a week to the Zumba class. I'd love to start going on other days to use the cardio equipment or weight machines. The great benefit is the childwatch program. I calculated the cost of the membership into cost of child care. If I go three times a week for four weeks of the month, cost per hour of daycare for both short people is about $3/hour. Not to bad, is it?

On another note, the weather has been icky, sticky and HOT lately. Thank goodness for air conditioning!

22 months.

2009-06-16T12:46:00.004-06:00

I'm not sure where the past 22 months have gone. Luckily I'm a photo taking maniac, so much of our past almost 2 years is documented in photos and scrapbook pages. Life is a ball, joy, stressful and rewarding. It's hard to believe how different life was two years ago. I was not quite in bedrest, still working and anxiously awaiting the arrival of the bundles of joy!

Fruit snack wall art.

2009-06-11T12:16:00.004-06:00

Imagine my surprise when I noticed some wall art in the hallway. Such creative little people I have!

Yikes!

2009-05-29T11:23:00.005-06:00

It's been awhile....so sorry about that. Needless to say, life has been busy with C&C. It's amazing what little people they are turning into. Such a joy to have in our lives. So...here are some photos to show what we've been up to.

Visiting cousin Becky in Winona. She made us a wonderful breakfast and took us to a park near her apartment. We were her first visitors to her new place!

Our first parade of the season. We attended the kids parade in Stoughton. And, it was the first time we used the backpack hiker carriers.

Playing in the rocks....what fun!

Chalk graffiti on our wagon.

We LOVE to swing.

One proud chalk artists!

Playdates with our bestest twin friends, B&N.

Our cool daddy dressed up for 50's day at work. Mommy made the snazzy pants!

Fun with markers. Silly mommy thought markers would be neater than paint....boy was she wrong!

April 2009

2009-04-23T12:36:00.001-06:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

April 2008 and 2009.

2009-04-06T20:45:00.004-06:00

I'm amazed at the changes. I shouldn't be, but I am. What a difference a year makes! Miss the leg chub!

little painters

2009-04-06T18:53:00.002-06:00

video share: shoe boy and short stack.

2009-04-06T12:16:00.002-06:00

new favorite photo.

2009-03-22T19:50:00.002-06:00

No, not this one. Miss C was throwing a tantrum.....

This one. What kind of advice do you think daddy is sharing with his son?

This one melts my heart, too.

And my shadow, and the beautiful blue sky, the trees, my lovely hubby and son.

family visits are such a delight.

2009-03-22T19:20:00.003-06:00

Living three hours or less from family has been wonderful. We've had more family visits than we can count and C&C are delighted with the extra attention. And, we love the break, too!
My sister, hubby Ed, and three nieces visited last weekend. C&C loved the spoiling from each and every one of them! Chloe is glammed up with Andrea's sunglasses and cell phone. Connor looks a bit jealous, doesn't he?
C&C playing with Ella, Anna and Andrea. I'm not sure who had more fun playing, my kids or my nieces~!
They fully enjoyed going down the slide, although not the normal way. It didn't stop them! Note Connor getting in position before Chloe is even at the bottom.

The look on his face is priceless!

Say it with me...."wwwwwwwwwwwwwwhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhheeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"

My college friend, Jen, visited us bearing gifts from many holidays. She even put together the play kitchen and table! Of course, the short people had to help her a bit.

A few days before Jen's visit, Chad's parents, brother, another brother and his family and his other brother...are you confused yet? Anyway, Chad's family arrived for a nice Saturday visit. My in-laws ever brought all the food! How sweet is that? The visit was great, too.

Later, Jennie

St Patrick's Day at home.

2009-03-22T19:14:00.002-06:00

I believe we were outside more than we were inside this day. After the zoo, we enjoyed more time outside!

St Patrick's Day at the Zoo.

2009-03-22T18:59:00.002-06:00

Holding tight to bunny, that poor lovely was quite dirty by the end of the day.

I think he's making a run for it.

Chloe green bottoms.....

The glass wall was less than one inch think. It was pretty amazing to be that close to a tiger!
We had an absolutely fabulous time at the zoo with my wonderful friend, Lori, and her beautiful twin girls, B&N. The weather was perfect, we both snagged a parking spot close to the entrance and the animals were happy to have visitors!

leaps and bounds.

2009-03-13T13:10:00.003-05:00

I've been gently nudged to get some new info posted......Here are some pictures from March. C&C are keeping me busy as they push play chairs to the kitchen counter to see what is up there, as Connor inches along on the six inch ledge along the basement stairs, when Chloe makes the first tub turd....Thankfully bath time was over, the water was drained and Chloe was standing, waiting to get out. Oh, and all this happened in ONE DAY. YES, ONE DAY!!!
Honestly, while it is tiring, it is fun to see their advances and learning where my limits are (no walking on the ledge to the basement, ok to stand on the couch if the cushions are all on the floor). Honestly, I could be telling them nonononono ALL day, and it would just encourage them to do more of the things I do not want them to do.......

18 months old!

2009-02-16T10:47:00.005-05:00

Wow. We've survived 18 months as parents of twins. It's hard to believe our twin parenting journey started just over two years ago, when the first ultrasound.

Chad joined us at C&C's doctor appointment today. It is so nice to have him there with us.

Here are their stats:

Chloe:

31 inches tall, 31%
22 lb 8 oz, 24%

Connor:

33 inches tall, 71%
24 lb 7oz, 30%

I'm surprised that Connor is two pounds heavier than Chloe. Miss C is so much more compact and has the baby booty to flaunt. Oh well! Glad to have healthy babies. Other than teething and a mild cold, we've been healthy for the most part. Chloe cut her first molar, with three more working their way out. Connor has not cut a molar yet, but it's not that easy to check his gums. Hopefully soon!

Later, Jennie

no little piggies.

2009-02-11T23:21:00.001-05:00

He's marching right out of the picture......

two little piggies.

2009-02-11T23:17:00.003-05:00

Meet Vito.

2009-02-10T14:51:00.003-05:00

All he needs is a handful of gold neck chains and some chest hair! On a serious not, by this time tomorrow, Connor will no longer have his cast (yeah!). Don't worry, the camera will be used and I'll share pictures.

New forms of childproofing.

2009-02-10T14:44:00.004-05:00

Connor, showing the new "lock". He put the hat on all by himself...silly boy.

Connor and Chloe are now able to open the bi-fold doors throughout the house. Last week, they got into the furnace room in the basement and were messing with the window screens....So, I used some temporary measured to keep the doors closed that actually work pretty well. I do need to find some actually door latches, but this will do until they figure out how to open them up! And, Connor has figured out how to open the oven...so the chip clip works for now. Yes, we tried to set the oven lock, but the stinker knows how to close it. And, you can already see we've had to remove the oven knobs (that happened right after we moved). We have a gas stove, so we really don't need them messing around and fixing things, do we?

Enjoying the warmer weather!

2009-02-10T14:37:00.004-05:00

Today we are experiencing record (or near record) high temperatures. We took advantage of it by bundling up and heading into the fenced back yard. It was quite windy, so we were not able to fully enjoy the 50 degree plus weather. The top photos start with us heading outside, some swing time, and after the wet clothes were stripped off to warm up!
Later, Jennie

Joining other moms.

2009-02-05T13:40:00.002-05:00

I recently decided to join a local moms group. I finally received info on who to contact and have been to two activities this week. And, C&C seem to enjoy getting out and have fallen asleep in the car on the way home! It's been nice for me to get out, also. I look forward to getting to know other moms and learning to coral C&C~!
Connor has his cast for one more week....this time next week he'll be getting used to life without the cast.
Our bi-fold closet doors are now accessible to short people....I've made the double doors somewhat child proofed with hair bands, but not sure how long that will work! I think I'll need to buy some plastic safety devices that slide at the top of each door.....now I just need to count up what I need so I'm ready when I am able to purchase them!
Ok....need to get something done before naptime is over. Don't want to spend my entire time on the computer!
later, Jennie

Kaderabek Look-alike Meter

2009-02-03T16:57:00.001-05:00

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebrities - Collage - Morph

Kaderabek Look-alike Meter

2009-02-03T16:51:00.001-05:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Family history - Finding relatives

monkey see, monkey do.

2009-02-01T12:43:00.004-05:00

Sometimes, you just don't know what you are walking into.......

2009-02-01T12:22:00.003-05:00

Connor and Chloe were quietly playing in Connor's room. They were too quiet, so I knew I had to check on them.....the crib, which is usually against the wall to the far right, was moved as it is now.

Chloe looks quite proud of herself, no? Look how she's riding the horse. Oh, it's not a horse?

No, it's not. It's a Fisher-Price ball drop zoo toy thingy....but she's sure riding it like a horse.
And she looks mightly proud of herself.....what is she trying to grab? It must be something good, no?

She's almost there.....and, do you like Connor and his flesh colored pants? Little man did not want his pants on after a diaper change. Look at the second picture, top left, to see the object of their desire. We've been using this only for naps and nighttime......

fun with hats in diapers.

2009-01-23T13:00:00.003-05:00

They love to play with their winter hats. Even cuter that they are just wearing diapers!

I'll post more later, but nap time is over. We were down to one nap a day this week, but today C&C needed an early nap...two hours later, they are awake!

basket cases.

2009-01-23T12:53:00.004-05:00

Again, why do we bother with toys??? Chloe even played in is by herself. Her hair was good and static clingy!

17 month photos.

2009-01-18T20:33:00.002-05:00

In my mind I planned pictures in diapers only...but plans change. Here are pictures from today. Connor is such a trooper with his cast and has adapted so well. And, he has not used it as a weapon, on purpose, at least.....

photo tag

2009-01-15T10:42:00.001-05:00

I was tagged by fellow twin mom, Dianna. I took the fourth photo in the fourth photo file on my computer.

If you are reading this and have a blog, post your fourth photo in the fourth file on your photo section of your computer!

later, Jennie

first time playing in the snow.

2009-01-14T15:32:00.002-05:00

Chloe and mommy.
She LOVED it, as long as I carried her!

Connor "helping" daddy shovel. He actually got it!

Love this picture of Chloe with daddy and C in the background.

Little Man, Connor.
He screamed his head off when we went back inside.

Hopefully the weather will get back into the teens soon so we can play outside again.

Connor and his new club.

2009-01-14T15:21:00.004-05:00

His thumb before surgery. It's the best picture I could get without looking through saved images.

In recovery. I thoroughly enjoyed the snuggle time.

You can see his fingers and his thumb with the pin ball is behind that metal part.

Club hand, that is. Connor was scheduled for minor surgery to correct a trigger thumb. He's had a "fat thumb" since birth, and I never thought anything of it. Well, we asked at C&C's 15 month appt if it was normal, and his new pediatrician referred him to a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon. We expected a quick surgery to release the the tendon and allow full extension of his thumb. Unfortunately, once they looked around his thumb, the surgeon noted that it was not truly a trigger thumb. So, he cleaned the area up and mobilized the tendon as much as possible. To keep full extension of his thumb, he placed a pin in his thumb bones. To keep that area immobile, they placed a long arm cast. So, the little guy has a cast for the next month. He's adjusted well and other than when frustrated, does not use his new weapon. I did place an old sock on his cast to keep it clean and less scratchy. We haven't signed his cast yet, but should. Don't you think?

Ok. Need to make a winter/snow post now.

later, Jennie

final family Christmas.

2009-01-07T11:53:00.003-05:00

We celebrated my family Christmas this past weekend. C&C received some great gifts and enjoyed time with their cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents. Now I need to get our Christmas thank you cards out!

Home wreckers?

2009-01-07T11:48:00.001-05:00

What do you do when mom and dad flip the chair to clean out stuff pushed underneath? You sit on it!

our wild and crazy new year's eve.

2009-01-07T11:43:00.003-05:00

After C&C went down for the night, Chad played computer war games and I scrapbooked. We both made it until about 2am! We felt it the next day. Nothing like a sleep hangover.

piggies.

2009-01-07T11:34:00.001-05:00

Piggies in Chloe's hair. Not quite there yet, but her hair is slowly getting there. She left them in until she saw herself in a mirror, then proceeded to pull out the hair bands!

channeling beyonce

2009-01-06T14:24:00.001-05:00

holiday happiness.

2008-12-30T00:51:00.003-05:00

We enjoyed a lovely Christmas at home, just the four of us. Unfortunately, Pukesgiving turned into Shitmas in our house. Darn it, why can't we be healthy for a holiday? Connor starting the sickness, followed by Chloe. I enjoyed the illness when Chad and I were enjoying a night away from C&C at a great resort with an in-room whirlpool. Relaxing, yes. But it could have been better had I not been sick! But, we are all on the mend and settling in until our next trip to visit my family. I'll try to upload a few pictures soon.

Later,
Jennie

fascination.

2008-12-21T15:50:00.004-05:00

Just showing us her TWO bottom teeth....

Connor kept going back to this "book" ornament. Guess he's already a Winnie the Pooh fan.

Even Chad shook a present to try to figure out what it contained.
C&C actually didn't touch any presents.

Chloe peeking into the tree behind Connor.

Love this picture. Chloe is delighted. Love that look on her face.

Chloe Claus and Daddy.

I put up the tree today. I put up ornaments that are not too breakable and candy canes. All I can say is that it was admired greatly, tugged on and admired some more. Not sure how long it will survive, but hopefully it will last until the evening of December 25th. I did manage to get some great pictures, and am sharing a few now. Only one candy cane and one ornament suffered during this brief tree vs. toddler meeting.

Ok...need to work on more Christmas goodies. Off to make cookies. Tonight I'll dip candy, at least enough to take for Chad's boss when we meet for lunch tomorrow. All four of us are meeting at a nice restaurant with no kid menu.....it should be interesting! Fortunately they are well behaved restaurant patrons.

Later, Jennie

walking machines!

2008-12-15T11:38:00.001-05:00

Julio's new perch.

2008-12-15T11:25:00.002-05:00

we found Julio hanging out here soon after bring him to his new home. He continues to chill out, out of read of human life.

Walking, walking, walking.

2008-12-14T22:30:00.003-05:00

I knew this day would come, just not sure when it would happen. I was not sure who would walk first and if they would walk on the same day. Wonder no more! Connor and Chloe have both taken transition steps over the past few weeks, just not enough to say they were walking. I guess those were their first steps (note to self, add notes in date book for scrapbook pages). Well, this morning, Connor and Chloe were in the basement with Chad. I'm organizing coupons upstairs, getting ready to head out grocery shopping. Chad yells up at me. I head downstairs and see Connor taking steps! While I was out, Chloe got her competitive/stubborn streak and took off walking behind Connor! I was lucky enough to get pictures and video of the two of them walking before bed tonight.

Connor has been CRANKY lately, which is so unlike him. Chloe has been HAPPY lately, which is so unlike her. Now we know why!

I'm trying to get ready for Christmas. The tree is still in a box in the garage, along with the stockings and other Christmas decorations. My goal for this week is to get the tree out of the garage and into the house, decorated. I'm not planning to do full decorating this year, as I'm not sure how much help rearranging everything we'll have from two little people......

Today I made two batches of Starbucks liqueur fudge (one with, one without nuts), two batches of caramel (one plain, one with added pecans for turtles) and added another bag of coconut for the almond joy and mounds bars. My plan was to cut back in the amount of Christmas goodies I made this year....seems I doubled the almond joy/mounds amount and made a double batch of peanut butter cookie dough for the peanut butter treasures.....so, I've made it easier, yet still have lots to do. Fortunately, once I get to the point of dipping in chocolate, things tend to be easier. More tedious, but easier, if that makes sense.

I'm trying to upload photos...but my laptop is not recognizing the memory card from my camera. I'll try to upload a collection of photos from the desktop computer this week.

later, Jennie

Have people lost every sense of right and wrong.

2008-12-10T19:13:00.002-05:00

If you were hauling a load of crap in the back of your truck and something fell off, wouldn't you turn around to pick it up? And, once you turned around and you saw that someone hit your piece of shit that fell off your truck, wouldn't you make sure everything was OK and leave your info?

Nope, not if it happens to us. Chad was on his way home from work and is unable to avoid a chair that fell off someone's vehicle. The offender turned around, stopped. Someone actually got out of their vehicle, crossed the road toward Chad. Chad was on the phone with the police, so he tried to talk to both at the same time. Chad asked the person who stopped if it was their stuff (why the hell else would they stop? They had a truck full of stuff, too). They said no, not their stuff and proceeded to get the hell out of there. So, his car is messed up, he's waiting for the cops and pissed off.

Well, there you go. Let's hope the rest of the night is half way decent and he can at least drive home without too much damage to his car.

And to the two women in their white Ford F-150 driving on highway 138 outside of Stoughton, Wisconsin.....get a conscious. Do the right thing. Karma bites hard.

ok, enough bitching.

15 month stats.

2008-12-03T20:23:00.002-05:00

Ok...these are a bit late, but here they are! C&C had their 15 month appointment November 17th. We met their new pediatrician and he, along with the staff, seem nice. Hopefully we will only need to make regular, well child visits. I can at least hope!

Here are Chloe's stats:
22 lb 5 ounces, 42%
30inches tall, 36%

Connor:
23 lb 12 oz, 39%
31.5 inches tall, 63%

The office gave us a great hand out for each, which includes development info and medication dosages. Now I just need to keep it handy when I need to give medication.

I've started buying Christmas presents....I even have two wrapped. Ok, they were wrapped for me as I left Barnes and Noble. It was free, I couldn't resist!

I'll try to share photos soon.

Jennie

busy, busy, busy.

2008-11-28T22:57:00.004-05:00

Life has been busy, but good, for the most part.
Last Friday, we closed on our new home. We have been enjoying it for the past week and it feels right. It will be where Connor and Chloe start walking/running/talking.
They've adjusted and I think they enjoy the new house. We've even began taking blanket rides around the floor (both babies sit on a blanket and I pull them around the floor). It's quite the work out! I need to get it on video soon and share. The entire upstairs is hard flooring, either wood, laminate or tile. So there is plenty of space for blanket rides!
Our house has been hit by the stomach flu. I think our last victim is on the road to recovery. Wednesday night Chloe started the "fun", followed by myself, Connor and last night, Chad. Yuck, yuck, yuck. I hope it's a one time event, as I'm not looking forward to the next time. Chad was a trooper and helped with clean up. Needless to say, the washing machine got a workout through the night.
Unfortunately, we canceled out Thanksgiving plans. We missed out visiting and spending time with family. Instead, we enjoyed a quiet meal at home from a meal I threw together from a quick trip to the local grocery the night before. It was nothing to write home about, but I enjoyed it with my three favorite people!
I need to take 15 month photos and share their 15 month stats......both babies are growing like weeks and 40-60% on their growth charts. I'll share their official stats soon!
Ok, I need to get to bed. I may get some shopping deals tomorrow, pending healthy and happy family members!
Later, Jennie

Giggles practices standing.

2008-11-12T12:33:00.003-05:00

I never know what to expect when I hear C&C giggling away while I'm in the kitchen. I think walking in on Chloe's short list. Love hearing these two giggle. It warms my heart. They have both been so good lately, just happy, joyful babies. They get along, so well, too. Yes, they have moments of crankiness, but it's usually due to being tired or hungry. We've gotten pretty good at reading their needs, fortunately.

And, FYI, no spoons are allowed in the play area. Yes, Connor is ok. You are confused? Move along, nothing to see here.....

Response to Chloe's missing nose....she will sometimes show me her nose. When she does, she will stick her finger up it half of the time. So she knows it's not on the ceiling or floating around the room! Fortunately they both know where their belly is, where socks and shoes go and have fun squishing my belly. Joyful times!

bucketheads.

2008-11-10T10:37:00.002-05:00

14 month photos.

2008-10-28T10:41:00.003-05:00