Four score and then some

Happy Birthday to my Hubs, my hubs; my hunky, funky hubs!

Snot Funny

The boys and I were sick recently and we are finally getting better. This was the first time they were sick since they were a month old. I think that is fantastic considering their immune system is still maturing. I felt so bad as I am sure I gave it to them. I came home one day and Tang said that Dean's nose was dripping. For the next week and a half, they both ended up with some sort of cold and they were congested with tons of drainage.

Seriously, the amount of snot that both of them produced could have filled an 8 ounce Dr. Brown bottle. We used bottles of saline, the nose bulb and the nasal aspirator to clean them out. It just kept coming. Dean was the worst hit and his stuffy nose would wake him several times a night, poor thing could not breathe.







Dean rubbed his face until he was covered in snot. Good thing I was camera ready. He will hate me when he starts dating.

Christmas 2009

The twins' first Christmas was wonderful. We started Christmas Eve at their aunt and uncle's house. The boys got passed around to relatives and I had a chance to eat all kinds of wonderful goodies. Chili, good. Spinach dip, good. Red velvet chocolate balls, so very good.

Dean and Sam had a blast crawling around on the tile floor. They were excited by the tree and all the presents shining under it. They were so good. Until it was time for bedtime. We headed home and Dean had a meltdown, he was so tired. Sam actually slept through the screaming a crying which is a first.

Christmas day we had family come to our house. Hubby the gourmet chef made roasted pork loin, glazed carrots, cornbread stuffing, cream cheese stuffed new potatoes and bacon wrapped asparagus. It was a bit of work wrapping the asparagus but so worth it. I wish I had taken a picture of it all because it was so beautiful. And so good.










The boys were in their red pajamas loved all their presents. They also loved the gift bags and wrapping paper. They got these puppy sleeping bags from Grandma and Pawpaw. They are going to love playing and sleeping in these when they are older. The puppy head is a pillow and it is super adorable. They got the Parents Tugboat from their cousin. They loved playing with the lids and all the fun fish. Dean swings the fishing pole around and I just know he pop himself in the eye.

Their first Christmas was lots of fun and I know it will only get better when they truly understand what Christmas is about.

Through the Wardrobe

I am on vacation this week. Whoohoo! I cannot express how happy I am to get to stay home from work, spend time with my babies and take cat naps.

Houston Museum of Natural Science opened a site in Sugarland. The museum is small and looked like it took over a pre-existing building. There were places where walls looked like they were knocked down. Their first big exhibit is the Chronicles of Narnia. Lucky for me, I found discount tickets and we were off to see the White Witch.

Preview: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Exhibition from HMNS on Vimeo.

No picture taking was allowed inside the exhibit which was a shame because there were so many costumes and props I wanted to take pictures. It would have been so fun to get Sam and Dean sitting on the white witch's throne. Incidentally, the arm and seat of the throne were cold and wet.

After the Narnia exhibit, we took the boys to see the frogs. They don't quite know what frogs are or what to look for but Sam enjoyed slapping the glass to get their attention. We also saw some awesome quartz formations and we touched the oldest rock and a Mars rock. A very exciting day indeed.

You can't handle the boob

This is information I got in an email from Baby Weekly tips. I could not find a link.

If your baby's teeth come in while you are still breastfeeding, you may be bit while nursing. This can happen for a number of reasons: if she's biting early in the feeding, she might be over-eager or frustrated, waiting for your milk to let down. If she bites late in the feeding, she may be sleepy and feeling her latch slip. Your baby's latch may also be affected if she has a cold or stuffy nose, and may bite while adjusting. And, of course, your baby may just mistake your nipple for a teething ring and try to
relieve sore gums.

To stop your baby from biting while nursing, calmly and gently remove her from your breast and say "Don't bite Mommy" or "Don't hurt Mommy." Put her down gently or hand her to someone else and wait a minute or two before you try to nurse again. This teaches her that when she bites, the milk goes away. Repeat this as often as necessary. However, always remain calm if bitten - never scream or yell. Startling or yelling at your baby may form a bad association with breastfeeding and she may refuse to feed altogether. Early and sudden weaning can be traumatic for you and your baby.

Sam cut his teeth first. I still tried to nurse him but it became too painful. He would suddenly bite down and it would take me by surprise. I don't know about any one else, but when sharp objects suddenly apply great force on a sensitive body part, I am hard pressed to stay calm. I admit there were a couple of occasions where Sam and I scared each other. I think this is why he went on a boob strike and did not nurse for almost 2 months. He recently started back up and even though he still bites (to remind me that he is boss) he is much better. I do find that I tense up every time he latches. Hubby says teeth equals no more nursing. I plan to ween after their first birthday which is only 2 months away.

I think I will be more sad when that time comes. I know that there are different ways to bond with your children but this was extra special for me. I am able to provide immunity, nutrients and all around goodness to the boys. That's something I am very proud of. I have the teeth marks to show for it.

Head's down the funniest thing

Sam likes to do head stands now.



His shirt is a little big and it was covering his eyes so he decided to hold them back so he could see. It's his upside down version of peek-a-boo.

Unexpected

I got a call today from the clinic that was keeping our remaining embryos. They shipped them off to the agency where we will be donating them for adoption.

I started the process months ago and I was just waiting for the agency to pick them up. It was a tough decision when we made it and every once in a while I think about it. I contemplated changing my mind and keeping them "just in case" we wanted more children down the road. Hubby is done. I on the other hand could do with another set of twins. That is the emotional, motherly side of my brain wishing that. The practical side of my brain says we simply cannot handle any more kids financially.

When I got that call, a wave of sadness washed over me. It made it so final. These are no longer my "babies." Whatever becomes of them, I have no say so.

While I was putting Sam to bed tonight, I kissed him just a little more than usual, hugged him just a little tighter. Lord, I love those kids. But I know I made the right decision. There are so many couples trying to have a family of their own and this is a little bit of hope we can give to them. Knowing that we could help a couple complete their family helps reaffirm my choice. But I can still be a little sad tonight.

One time

Ok. I never claimed to be hip or with it or even cool. Today, Justin Bieber made me feel like an old dork. I have heard his song "One Time" for some time now and I like it. It has a great beat and catchy chorus. I would dance with the boys to this song and they liked me singing it to them. Well, I would just sing the "one time" part and bounce them around the room.

I thought Justin was a 20 something black woman. Every time I heard the name on the radio, I thought they were saying Justine. I was telling the folks at work and they had no idea who I was talking about. I searched for it on YouTube and when I found the video, I was floored that it was some teeny bopper. He's 15. And white. Nothing like I imagined.

I hope I get some cool points when the boys are older, otherwise, they won't let me be seen with them. Maybe they'll let me watch 20 paces behind them at the mall.

Aspirations of a Nasal Aspirator

D has the worst sinus problems. He is always so stuffy and he wakes up in the middle of the night, screaming and crying because he cannot breathe. The crying makes it worse and he gets even more stopped up. Then we try to clean out his nose with saline and the nose bulb and that becomes another crying meltdown. It is a vicious cycle.

The hospital bulb proved ineffective in getting into their tiny nostrils so we bought the Little Noses brand bulb. It worked some of the time but it took forever to get their noses clean. We would have to immobilize their head and hands and they would scream bloody murder until it was done.

I was tired of the battle and went in search of a better way to clean out their noses. I found battery powered aspirators, more bulbs and even one where you suck the snot out. I read review after review and was finally suckered (pun intended) into buying the Japanese model. When I first got it, I didn't like it. The tube is too short and I didn't feel it cleaned out enough snot. No one else wanted to use it so I became the designated snot sucker.

After several more times, it became easier to maneuver and it did clean out quite a bit of the sticky stuff in D's nose. He still cries because it's something going in his nose rather than his mouth. I like the the tip does not go far into the nostril. I would like for entire unit to be clear so I could see what was coming out. The tube could be longer but then it would just be more tempting for them to grab it and yank on it. All in all, it was a very good investment.

So if a nasal aspirator were to dream, it would want to be the best at sucking.



And this comes pretty close to the best. Do you see the sticky snot? Better in the jar than in your mouth. Cause that's snot a pretty sight.

Hypothetically speaking

If you happened to be going through you husband's cell phone to look for a redbox code that you texted him, and saw no less than 10 text messages to a female former coworker, would you be upset?

Would you be annoyed that he ended each message with :D?

Woud you be mad that he dropped off a movie to her house so she could watch and then maybe "chat" about it when she had time?

Would you be angry that he called her Princess or Princessa?

And would you be so totally pissed that you wanted to punch him in the throat because he said she was just a friend and that Princess was a nick name he called her and that it was no big deal?

Really? REALLY? Then what does he call all his guy friends?

Snow Day

Houston got snow Friday December 4, 2009. It wasn't a huge snowstorm, but it was enough to cover the ground.

Cool hand Sam says "Yo. Whassup."

Chillin'

Meltdown

Snow Bunny

Christmas photo session

Getting family photos taken at 9 months is much harder than at 6 months. The boys didn't want to sit still nor did they want to smile at the photographer. We had to bribe them with ornaments so they would stop fussing and sit still long enough to get some decent pictures. At least their outfits look good. I love argyle and blue argyle on top of that. The caps are icing on the cake. Too bad Dean does not like anything on his head.

Snow Wrong yet Snow Funny

If the graphic does not show up: Click here

Wrap up Happy for a great cause

I saw this video by way of Thrifty and chic mom.
For each viewing of the video, AJ Wright will donate $1 to the Boys & Girls Club up to $50,000. It is a neat little video with shadow art.
Watch it now. It's for a great cause.

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme

Today's Mama and Provo Craft are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What 5 items are on your holiday wish list this year?

Hubby to find a job
Savings account or trust fund set up for the twins
Time and energy to get things done around the house
Organize a garage sale
Hubby to find a job (I know this is in there twice but I want this more than anything)

2. What is your favorite handmade gift you have received?

I got an ABC scrapbook for my baby shower

3. What handmade gift have you always wanted to tackle?

I would like to make no sew fleece blankets as gifts on year

4. What was the best Christmas gift you received as a child?

I remember a lite brite set that I loved but those pegs are easy to lose

5. What items are on your kid’s wish list this year?

Something to stick in their mouth
Something to bang on
Something to crawl over
Something to take away from their brother

6. What is your favorite holiday food?

Cornbread dressing

7. What will you be hand-crafting for the holidays?

It will either be personalized note cards or cookie mix

8. What is your favorite holiday movie?

Frosty the snowman

9. Favorite holiday song?

Do you hear what I hear

10. Favorite holiday pastime?

looking at Christmas lights

Riding along in their ride-on-mobiles

Tang recorded this while they were watching a Baby Signs dvd. They love this dvd so I hope all the signs are sinking in.

Dean is on a Lightning McQueen ride on toy I got for $5 at a garage sale and Sam is on one that I won. It's like they are at a drive in, so intent on wathing the screen. When Sam gets excited, he has this weird growling laugh. Dean is unusually calm and his reaction to Sam laughing is so funny to me. I think Tang was trying to get Dean's attention and like his daddy, when the TV is on, nothing else exists.

Standing tall

Sam stood up by himself tonight. He wasn't propped on anything. He wasn't holding onto anything. He stood. Arms outstretched. Looking a bit stunned and excited at the same time. And 6 seconds later, he fell back. He will be walking on his own before too long.

It just seems in the last month or so, they have really been developing. They can't stay babies forever. Sometimes I wish it would slow down so I can take it all in. I hardly get to see them during the week and weekends are never long enough. I know I will miss so much being away but that's how it is being a working mom. I need to win the lottery so I can be a stay at home mom.

Through their eyes

We took the boys to have their eyes examined today. Sam had his checked when he was a month old. The concern for him was due to his low birth weight, he may have retinopathy of prematurity. His exam at that time was very good and there were no signs of ROP. The doctor wanted another exam at 9 months. Our pediatrician said it was a good idea to have Dean examined too.

The waiting room was full. There were children with different abilities and special needs. I spoke to a woman who has a daughter with a neurological condition. Megan is confined to a chair. When her mom spoke to her about going to Starbucks way too much, she responded with smiles and laughs. It was so sweet. I was saddened for this mom and all parents who much adjust their way of thinking and way of living in order to give their children the best possible life. Then it occurred to me that children in general have that affect on people. A parent has to adjust their life and way of thinking to give their children the best life so they can thrive and be happy. We are just given hardships in different forms.

I never thought of myself as a loving individual or particularly fond of children. But I looked at these kids and felt such a surge in my heart. These parents are doing the best they can.

As I spoke to Megan's mom, I asked about where they came from. She spoke of the difficult time she was having with the school district. School systems do not look at case by case, they apply rules across the board. And when a parent has to pull a child out of school for treatment, how can that be unexcused? If a child needs physical therapy, why would that count against them in their school records?

I spoke about the difficulties we were having with sleeping through the night. I complained that Sam was such a mama's boy and that he had severe separation anxiety. I realized after the boy's exams were done that I had nothing to complain about. How can I compare sleepless nights with a lifelong condition? My kids will grow out of it but special needs kids don't grow of it.

I am so blessed to have our boys. They are healthy, they are happy and they are thriving. Would I have been strong enough to deal with a child with special needs? I don't know. But I look at special needs parents and am full of respect for their ability to make it work. I will think twice before I talk about hardships with my twins with other parents.

I like this site. It is so inspirational and has a wealth of information.

Why I need a bedroom makeover...

This is embarrassing to show but I am doing it in hopes of changing it. Visionbedding.com is holding a giveaway for a custom bedroom makeover ($1000 value) for the TwitterMoms blogger who has the most compelling story why a makeover is needed.

This is our bedroom. We have no wall decorations, no color scheme, no theme, no nothing.



Let's start with the bed. We don't even have a bed frame. The box springs are on the floor. It bothers me that the bed is sitting on the floor where any old bug or critter can climb up. I am not saying that bugs can't climb a bed that is on a frame. However, there is much more surface area where they can crawl into bed with us. The bedding is not coordinated and is over 6 years old. It was all purchased on sale or clearance. Do you know how expensive King size bedding is? King pillow cases start at $20-$30.



We recently took down the pack n play and removed the dresser/changing table from the room. The boys would nap in this room during the day and we tried to block out some of the light with trash bags over the windows. You can see the left side where the bags are falling down. And your eyes are not playing tricks, that really is a sword propped up against boxes.

Speaking of boxes, that is hubby's cleaning and storage solution. When he gets in a mood to clean, his idea of cleaning and putting things away is throwing them in a box and putting it in our room. We just have no place to put anything.



We do not have any type of dresser so clothes are thrown in the closet. The only furniture are two particle board night stands and a rocking chair. We have accessorized the room with 2 infant car seats, an oscillating fan and laundry baskets. Sometimes the room is decorated with an ironing board. It is a small bedroom but looks like a large room. That's because we try to keep all the "stuff" against the walls. I think I saw on HGTV that design strategy really opens up the room.

Our room is in desperate need of a makeover. I think if it actually looked clean and uncluttered, it would reduce my stress level. It would be a room I would want to retreat to not retreat from. It would be so incredible to win the makeover with products from Visionbedding.com. I love all the items you can personalize, including pillow and blankets. My favorite item is the Photo Wall Murals. I could get a picture of a Scottish castle and rolling hills. All that would be missing would be Ewan McGregor. Then I might never leave the room. On second thought, hubby would keep bugging Ewan about how he let his young padawan go to the dark side and how telling Anakin to "mind his thoughts" really wasn't the best form of intervention.

You can find details here on how to enter your room.

Brought to you by the number 40.

Today is Sesame Street's 40th anniversary. I grew up watching this and love the show. I am glad it is still on and the boys will probably watch it when they are older.

When I lived in Dallas, there was a Sesame Place, in Irving. I think it was by the Crystal Palace and I would always see the big structure from the highway. I got to go once and I remember having fun but cannot remember any details of the rides or activities. I cannot wait for the kids to get older so they can enjoy amusement parks. I can live through them.

Happy 40th Sesame Street and may you be around another 40.

I wish it was My Zigo

Zigo from My Zigo on Vimeo.

Hubs and I used to ride our bikes around the neighborhood. I like cycling. I didn't like my bike. I am very short so when I was looking for a bike, I bought a Junior boys bike just so I could reach the pavement while seated. The problem was it was the most uncomfortable ride and the space between the seat and handlebar was too short. I felt like I was going to topple over the handlebar.

I found the Zigo by way of Jolly Mom. She is one of three blogs who are hosting a giveaway for the Zigo Leader. Go Graham Go and Babyluxe are also running the giveaway.

This bike with child carrier is valued at about $1400 and it has several configurations. You can use the bike and the child pod together as well as separately. Get a Jogger kit and convert this bad boy into a jogger. This is the coolest bike with child carrier and it is so versatile. I would love to win this and maybe I can get back into shape toting around two kids.

Go enter the giveaway and don't forget to Fan Zigo on Facebook for another chance to win a Zigo Leader X2.

7 & 8 months

Didn't I just do a 6 month update? Man, time flies.

I am getting further behind with their updates. So much has happened in the last 2 months. Sam has his two bottom teeth and Dean is sprouting his right now. They are crawlers! They have eaten peas, carrots, apple, green beans and butternut squash. They tried bananas at the end of last week and both threw up on Tang. I am not sure if they just don't like it, if their tummy was upset or they are allergic. Maybe they didn't like what she was wearing. There was no breakout so I am not sure what it could be. I will try bananas later after they have had some other fruit.

They are both such sweet, happy babies. They love to fly around the room. Their ticklish spot is their lower back and they squeal when you tickle them. They are so curious and their eyes take everything in. They love all things electronic and would rather play with paper, trash cans, drawer knobs and DVD players than their toys. Bathtime is so much fun for them and they like to splash the water. But they hate getting their hair washed. They like to sit outside and look at the lights in the sky and down the street. At some point towards the end of their seventh month, they started flipping over in their sleep. These boys are belly sleepers. I cannot get them to stay of their backs.

Developments by baby:

Sam cut his first tooth about late September, early October and now has 2 big teeth sticking up. He loves to smile and show them off. And he likes to bite and has made nursing a painful problem. I think he might be on a strike. He has fierce separation anxiety and cries like a madman when he sees me and I don't pick him up or sees me leave in the morning. I try not to cater to him and let him know that I can't always hold him. For the most part he quiets down after I leave. He hits the milestones a bit earlier than Dean. His personality most resembles mine, he wants his own way, is competitive and a bit manipulative. At least that is what Rod says. He is a momma's boy and knows how to play me. Sam crawls like a champ and gets put in the playpen more often to keep him out of harm's way. He wants to stand so badly and can already pull himself up using various toys and furniture. Rod already caught him trying to pull himself up on the crib and we have had to lower the mattress. Sam's hemangioma is still present and doesn't seem to be getting to much larger. It is the size of a quarter and with it being bright red and on his right thigh, he wants to pick at it.



Dean started his teething about a week and a half ago. They are cutting right now and he is doing much better than Sam did. He always has something in his mouth and if you are holding him, he will grab your face and try to bite it. More hair is sprouting and he might actually need a haircut by his first birthday. His crawl has not quite developed yet but he can move around. Dean takes after his dad and is so laid back. He can sit for hours chewing on some toy. His current favorite is the cloth sword that came with his pirate costume. He is a restless sleeper and can't seem to find a comfortable position. He has bad sinus problems and gets stuffy with lots of big boogies and he hates having his nose suctioned. Dean is developing an aversion to hats and will yank them off as soon as I put them on. This I know is just like Rod.

Halloween 2009

The boys had their first Halloween season and it was really nice. They got to wear their costumes to 2 fall festival and trick or treating. I know they are way too young to know what Halloween is but their dad wanted to dress them up and show them off. I think he wanted to get dressed up and take the boys to get candy.



You can't see it but there is a genuine sword that is strapped to his waist. Every time he moved or turned, he was banging it into this. I suggested he leave it at home and he thought I was insane. His reaction? "Woman! The sword is what makes the costume look good."

Oh. Ok.

I walked with them so that hubby did not have to maneuver the double stroller alone. We decided to carry the boys instead. Our neighborhood stinks when it comes to this holiday. No one on our street decorates and only one other house besides ours was giving away candy. I have a complaint about modern day trick or treating. If you do not plan to give away candy, turn your lights off. It is just for one night and only for a few hours. You don't have to participate in the holiday and it would help parents out to know what houses to avoid.

Was it 23 years ago that I took my sisters trick or treating by ourselves? There were other kids tagging along, or maybe we tagged along, but there were no adults. We walked for blocks and blocks and amassed tons of candy. I can't imagine how my mom let me take them but it was lots of fun. Back then, it was much safer. I would never let my kids go it alone in this day and age.

There are not many treaters nowadays and it is sad that such a tradition is made so unsafe with all the crazies out there. Next year, I think we will take them to a trick or treating event where it is indoors and the environment is more controlled.

On a separate note, Dolphin Girl won the $15 iTunes giftcard.
Thanks again for all the costume suggestions.

The Proposal

We watched The Proposal tonight and it is hilarious. Love Sandra, love Ryan and love this movie. It doesn't matter that this movie is cookie cutter and predictable, I enjoyed it. Betty White looks great for being 120. At least that is what hubs says.

There is a funny naked scene where Ryan is taking his clothes off on the balcony. Who does that?

And where can I go to witness this?

Samuel the crawler

Last Friday, I was playing with Dean when I looked up at Sam and saw him coming our way.
He was very wobbly but it was obvious he was moving towards us.


or click here


Then tonight, he really crawled.


or click here

*sniff* Where does the time go?

Fall Festivals

This weekend was so busy. I am still exhausted and trying to recover. We went to my moms of multiple fall social, I volunteered at the Moxie Moms booth at the Katy Kids festival and then I went to a baby shower.

This is the scrapbook I am putting together as my gift. I took pictures and will print them to finish this book. I love the idea of an ABC book to commemorate the event. I received one for my wonderful shower and I still look at it from time to time.



The Moxie-Moms booth was a lot of fun. I got to help some children make hand ghosts. I had to go and suggest hand turkeys too and the kids love to get crafty. For just 2 hours of volunteer time, I get to renew for another year membership for $10. It's a huge cost savings.

Sunday, Tang and I took the boys to an au pair Halloween party held by one of the host families. Tang wore my geisha costume from a few years back and I wore my old pirate/wench costume. I found Dean and Sam pirate costumes from Babies R Us on clearance for half off so I decided to go with that. I loved the tiger and monkey outfits I found at Walmart but I really like the pirate outfits.



The boys did very well and all the au pairs just thought they were the cutest. Sam is a flirt with the ladies. I am going to have to reign him in as he gets older. Dean and Sam won cutest costume. Incidentally, the orange pumpkin girl in the background frightened Sam, it has to be the bright orange hair that set him off.



I need to attend more au pair socials because it makes me feel young. Three different people thought I was an au pair and were very complimentary when I said I was a host mom. I credit looking young and good skin to my mom. She always said to moisturize and moisturize. Pearl cream optional.

Bouncing baby boy

Oh to experience pure joy like this would be bliss.





I bought this jumper at a Moms of multiples buy and sell a few weekends ago and it is probably the best $30 I spent on a baby item. Considering these can go for $80-90, it was a great deal and the boys love it. The first time each of them got in it, they didn't know what to do. They started bouncing and that was all it took.

Just seeing how much fun they have in this makes it priceless.

H1N1 not for every one

H1N1 mist vaccine is out

We are all vaccinated in this household. The twins get their second shot next week so I will ask about the H1N1 vaccine for them. I really don't want to get it. It is so new and I am leery about getting it so soon out of the gate if you know what I mean. I especially don't want it for the boys but I will see what the pediatrician says.

A coworker's daughter tested positive for H1N1 so it is hitting pretty close. I just need everyone sick to stay away from me. I don't want to shake anyone's hands, hug anyone, nothing. So for all you sniffling, touchy feely people at work, don't get offended if I tell you in the nicest way possible. Back. Off.

Silly Kids Contest

This is Dean when he was almost two months. He's showing off his 'jazz hand'.



You can enter your silly kid at 5 Minutes for Mom for a chance to win $1000.

Pumpkin Patch

We took the boys to the pumpkin patch at St. Peter's Church this weekend. A cold front had blown through along with a ton of rain and it was a bit nippy Saturday morning. I wish I had some argyle outfits for Dean and Sam because Rod, Tang and I were all wearing argyle.

Their shirt has a tree house and a sign with No Girls Allowed. I saw it at Target for $3 and thought it would be a cute fall outfit.

We sat them on a bench and they did very well although there were a couple times Dean wanted to tip over and face plant in the grass. Speaking of grass, the boys were so engrossed in the grass when we sat them down that they would not look at the camera. I need to get costume pictures posted too. Maybe we will try again with their costumes.



Tang and the boys


Momma's boys


Their expressions are the funniest

iTunes gift card giveaway

I need costume ideas and votes so hopefully, this will entice folks. I have a $15 iTunes gift card giveaway. To be entered in the giveaway, do any of the following. Make sure you include your email in the entry comment.

1. Comment on this post with ideas for themed family costumes (one entry per idea)
2. Comment on another post and come back here to let me know which post (one entry per comment)
3. Visit this post and vote for my boys. (one entry per daily votin and voting and entries can be done once daily)*
4. Follow me in Google friends -1 entry (cause you gotta have friends)
5. Follow me on twitter, @twinpowells and tweet - once daily and provide tweet link

Giveaway closes October 16th and one winner will be chosen using Random.org.
Updated: I am extending this giveaway to Halloween.

*You have to register to vote but once you do, you can vote to your heart's content.
Just search the gallery for Taowyn and/or kcirdor3112 and you will see Dean and Sam.

Thanks so much!

Family costumes

Rachael Ray talked about this site on one of her episodes and I have been cracking up preusing this site. I just never thought I could get Halloween costume ideas from that site.

Inspired by Lord of the Rings

Ninja without the pirates

Long time no see. Wanna ketchup?

Walk like an Egyptian

Lost in space

Momma the Pooh

Rod didn't think it was funny when I told him his Eeyore costume would be here in time for Halloween.


5 Minutes for Mom is giving away a kid's cotume from Pedal Cars and Retro collectibles. I would get the pirate costume in size 2/3 or maybe the ninja. They would look so dangerous. But in a cute way.

Calling all babies

Of course I had to do it.
It's part of a mother's genetic code.
Entering your babies in every cute baby contest you can.
That's what mother's do.
That and use spittle to flatten wispy hair and remove face smudges.

If you think they deserve a vote, please for for them. It takes a minute to register but once you're in, you can vote once a day, every day through November 17, 2009.


Samuel's page

Dean's page

In Fashion Kids costumes

It's October and time to think about Halloween costumes. I have so many ideas and so little money to dress the boys for their first Halloween.

Dee at Two of a Kind Working on a Full House is hosting a giveaway for a child costume from In Fashion Kids, your choice of costume. If that wasn't great enough, if you have twins, In Fashion Kids will give away 2 costumes. How awesome is that?

In Fashion Kids has so many cute costumes, many are on sale too. So go enter the contest and scope out some great costume deals.

Watch out single ladies

This is all over the interwebs and is the cutest version of this song.
Those leg kicks and arm waves crack me up.





Not as scary as this version

Cutting a tooth

Sam has been so fussy lately. Tang said he did not want to sleep yesterday and just kept whining. He has not been drooling like his brother so I thought he was just cranky. I felt around in his mouth and sure enough, a tooth is trying to break through on the bottom.



I tried natural remedies to help him with the discomfort. I tied a knot in a burp rag for him to chew on. He got crankier. I tried to give him ice in the mesh bag. He just got wet and crankier. When I dug around some more in his mouth, he seemed to be content chewing on my gloved fingers. I started losing feeling in my hand so I decided it was time to give him teething tablets.

My attempt to place those two little tablets under his tongue proved to be a difficult task. He ended up getting it down. Thank goodness it is quick dissolve because I was afraid he would choke on it. He seemed to settle down a bit an hour after I gave it to him

I have read that teeth can move around for quite some time but I am wondering how long before it really starts growing in. It is surprising to me that Sam got a tooth first. Dean being bigger and much droolier, I was certain he would cut first. You just never know with kids.

Pretty soon Sam won't look like a toothless old man.

From 2009_September

Swine Flu vaccine

The boys got their first flu vaccine last week. We go back for another shot later in October. Looks like they may also get the swine vaccine since it has been FDA approved. I am already hearing of confirmed cases of swine flu around Houston. It will be a bad season and I am not wanting to risk having the boys get sick so I am insisting that Rod and Tang get a flu shot.

I had sent our au pair coordinator and email asking about their policy on this and I was told that they do not require their au pairs to get shots. This surprised me because au pairs are around children. Caring for kids is what they do. How can an agency not take precautions and require them to get shots or at least provide means for au pairs to get them at discounted rates? That is a failure on their part.

Two of Tang's au pair friends were sick last week, not from swine, thankfully. But in a house full of kids, sickness spreads like wildfire. There are places like CVS and Walgreens that are providing shots for around $25 so we will take her to one of those locations. Luckily, my company provides vouchers for their employees and family to get shots. Rod will get his first flu shot ever. I say you just need to do it. Suck it up.

Not wanting to be around lots of people has put a damper on some of our plans this season. There was a rice festival and some play dates that I want to take the kids to but I am concerned about their exposure. I know I am being overly protective and probably not helping their immune system to develop but that's the way it's gonna be this year. I can let them play in dirty sandboxes, eat dirt and roll around in used Kleenex to toughen them up when they are older.

What's in a name?

Check out this site to see how many people have your name.

Looks like Samuel has the more common name in our family.
There are 9 people in the US with Rod's name and only 3 people with my name.
I wonder if those other 2 people get mistaken for the 80's pop group T'Pau when they introduce themselves.

What's the Big Idea?

I bought a double feature DVD of Veggie Tales and it has been a big hit with the boys. I have been scouring eBay for DVD lots but I cannot afford shelling out big bucks for them right now. I plan to sell some items on eBay so that I can replenish my PayPal account in order to buy more videos to rot my children's brains. I am hoping the Christian overtones of Veggie Tales won't cause too much damage.

Big Idea, the creators of Veggie Tales, is offering a free video and song download of their new song, "I can love (because God loves me)"

A new video, Saint Nicholas - A Story of Joyful Giving, will be released October 3rd. Santa just may have to get this stocking stuffer for the boys because they love the Veggie Tales.

9

Our wonderful friends John and Kristi offered to babysit the boys so we could have a date night. As much as I love being with the kids, we jumped at the chance to go for Mexican and catch a movie.

My movie choices were All About Steve and 9. Rod chose 9. I liked the movie OK. The digital animation was good and the story line was interesting. Rod really likes movies that utilize everyday objects as weapons so he was all into the rag doll weapons. I think the ending could have used more work.

Was it coincidence that 7 or 9 is the only girl? I think not.






All About Steve trailer

I still want to see Sandra and Bradley in this movie. I will need to find another date though, because Rod cannot stand Bradley Cooper. I'll just Netflix it and sneak it in.

Go with the Flo

Guess who has returned after being on vacation for the last 14 months? I could have gone the rest of my life without this visitor. Curse my femininity.

Madsen bucket rides

How fun would this be? I would love to have this to take the boys out for a nature ride in the concrete jungle. It would almost be as cool as riding around in the sidecar of a motorcycle with the wind and bugs slapping you in the face.

Madsen is holding weekly giveaways so go here and check out the bike accessories.

5 and 6 month progress

1 month


6 months


I just totally bypassed the boy's 5 month progress. They are now 6 months and they have gone through so many changes. I am sure I forgot all of them. They had their 4 month well visit in June. The well visit took forever. I really like the pediatrician but I cannot stand the front desk women. They are both not personable nor polite. They are curt and on the verge of rude. I guess being around kids and parents all day can wear you down. Since I only interact with the front desk to pay the copay, I guess I shouldn't think about finding a new pediatrician. But boy do I hate dealing with those two.

They are progressing on the developmental track very well, I think. At the 6 month visit next week, I will discuss starting real solids for them. I know they are ready. They are always smacking their lips and drooling when they watch us eat. We started adding rice cereal to their nighttime bottle and it seems to help with sleeping a little longer through the night. They still wake once for a feeding so I am not sure we are giving them enough.

They both do not consistently nap for longer than 30 minutes. Some days they will go down for 2 hours, other days, only 15 minutes. Getting a nigh time routine is killing me. I come home around 6 or 6:30, spend a few minutes with them, eat dinner and then put them down for the night around 7:30 pm. The boys fight going to bed. They cry so much that the only thing that gets them to bed is a boob in their face. And you guessed it, I am the only one that has that job. Sam is easier to get to bed then Dean but I still spend a good 2-3 hours dealing with bedtime. I have been researching all kinds of sleep training methods and suggestions so I will just go through them until one works.

Dean - 5 months
weight - 14 lbs 11 oz - 10-25%
height - 24.75 inches - 25-50%
head - 16.5 inches - 25-50%

Dean - 6 months
weight - 17 lbs 6 oz - 50-75%
height - 25 inches - 10-25%
head - 17 inches - 25-50%

- drools and makes a giant mess when he gnaws on his hand. And he loves chewing on his hand.
- is a loud talker, so very loud (when he and Sam are talking to each other, Dean will startle Sam and the whole house when he screams)
- is a loud crier, oh so very, very loud
- does not mind tummy time and can lift his head very well
- has rolled front to back a couple of times
- does very well with diaper changes and does not squirm too much
- is a painful eater. Gets my attention by chomping on my nipple whenever I nurse him and am paying attention to Sam.
- tries to sit up and does not enjoy lying down for extended periods
- is still a floppy sitter and falls over often
- loves watching TV, which is not a good habit but his father seems to think this is a perfectly fine way to watch a kid.
- blows lots of bubbles with his spit and makes loud spitting noises
- can hold his bottle for a short while but generally too lazy to do it
- is intrigued with red lights, from laptops, fans and tries to grab it.
- seems to have a deer in headlights look about him 95% of the time


Sam - 5 months
weight - 13 lbs 1 oz - 10-25%
height - 23 inches - <5%>
head - 16.5 inches - 25-50%

Sam - 6 months
weight - 15 lbs 14 oz - 10-25%
height - 24.5 inches - <5%>
head - 17 inches - 25-50%

- has the sweetest smile, gets his crooked grin from his father
- is a loud eater, his gulps and swallows are so noisy but at least I know he's enjoying his food
- does not like the Bumbo and sinks into it and hunches over.
- is getting better at tolerating tummy time but does not particularly care for it.
- likes playing with paper and wants to snack on it. I was looking at the ads in the Sunday paper and Sam was more interested in grabbing and tearing the paper then playing with his rings.
- is the squirmiest when we are changing his diaper. He tries to roll over from back to front but has not yet rolled from front to back.
- never wants to nap for fear of missing something
- loves sitting and playing in the exersaucer and turns around in it like a champ.
- has mastered sitting. Sam has such a compact body and a low center of gravity that it helps him sit for long periods.
- does not sit for longer than 15 minutes when watching baby Einstein
- still has no hair but looks so cute with his big ears sticking out
- watches people eat with such intensity, like he can taste that taco I am eating.
- loves his Gerber cereal and begs for more.

They both:
- love the exersaucer but not for longer than 15 minutes.
- can push off and walk backwards in the walker.
- laugh hysterically when tickled and have their tummy munched on
- have so much fun playing with daddy and staging mock kung fu fights (daddy fights dirty)
- have the sweetest smiles and give amazing sugars
- still nurse like champs
- are the best things that have ever happened to us

Click for more pics

2009_August

Closer to Love

Every once in a while I hear a song that just sticks in my head. Doesn't happen often but when it does, I have to hear it over and over until I am sick of it. I play it at work and my folks would rather throw a stapler at my head and risk unemployment then to listen to another minute of this song. But being the boss has its advantages because I am loving Mat Kearney's Closer To Love song.





The actual video is here but I couldn't embed it. The embedded video also had lyrics. I have no idea what this song means but I cannot get enough of it.

Sam was fascinated by my netbook when I pulled it out so I let him bang around on the keys a little. I played the video and he just gave me a look that said, "Why is this not playing baby Einstein?!" So I put in Baby Einstein. Babies rule in our house.

I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend!

Who's your daddy?

Tang is taking an English as a second language class at the community college. She started Monday and Rod has been driving her since she does not have a driver's license. Rod went to pick her up tonight and was waiting in the car. One of Tang's classmates saw him and asked her if Rod was her father. Tang laughed and laughed. But Rod has been in a sour mood ever since he came home. Kinda like grumpy old men.

I'm gonna think that's funny until someone asks me if Tang is my daughter.

Best Baby Products Carnival

I have a friend who just started her third trimester. She also had infertility issues so we shared a lot with that regard. She was going to start an IVF cycle when she got pregnant. You never know what a vacation and some alcohol will loosen up for you. Maybe that was my problem, I didn't drink.

She is having all sorts of baby showers and I was thinking about all the things that were a necessity and what things were luxury items. I want to get her practical stuff that I know she will use.

As I was doing my usual rounds in mommy blog/giveaway land, I came across Thrifty and chic mom. She is hosting a Best Baby Products Carnival starting in September and just look at all the great companies she has lined up. I can get some great ideas for gifts.

■Bumbleride Indie Twin Stroller
■Ergo Heart 2 Heart
■O Yikes!
■Moon Over Maize
■HappyBaby Meals
■Playskool
■Two Tinas
■The Sofia Valeria Collection
■Designs By Dad
■Smart Mom Jewelry
■Little Luvee
■Happy Panda Baby

How awesome would it be to win the Indie twin stroller? Head on over to her blog and check it out.

Tumbling, stumbling

Baby stuffs is dangerous. Last Wednesday I stubbed my toe, the one next to the pinky toe on the bouncy chair. I checked it after I got to work and it was turning purple. It hurt like hell and it made me limp the rest of the day.

That night, I was on the computer upstairs when I heard Sam cry. I hobbled my way to the stairs, placed one sock covered foot on the first step, slipped, fell on my arse and slid down about 5 steps. Actually, it was more like I bounced down the steps. The glass of water I had got dumped all over me. My right arm and back got rug burned and my ego was bruised. I sat on the stairs for a minute when Rod came to my rescue. He heard loud thumps and thought one of the babies fell again.

Then the next morning, I was putting Sam in his bouncer and wouldn't you know I hit that dang chair again! In the same spot. I fell over and cried so hard. By the time I got to work, my toe was black and blue and purple and slightly magenta. It was jacked up. I limped along for two days before I could actually put a shoe on that foot. It still hurts but at least I am not limping.

I tried to take a picture of it but then I remembered I needed to shave my big toe.

First feeding

The boys got their first taste of solid rice cereal this weekend. I started with Sam on Saturday. I mixed the cereal too thick and it sat on his lips. It was so funny to see him smacking his lips to try to get it off and he didn't know what to do with it.

I added some more liquid and he started sucking on the spoon. After a few spoonfuls, he started getting used to the new sensation in his mouth. After a while he was really itching to get more food and tried to grab the spoon.

Rod tried to feed Dean but Dean was having a tough time with the texture. He did eat a little but Rod decided to give up.

The next day, I gave them some more and Sam was going to town. He got mad everytime I went to feed Dean. I think Dean could take it or leave it but Sam loves the Gerber single grain rice cereal with DHA. I am going to have to check with the pediatrician about starting them on other solids so that they get more iron nutrients. According to this article, the boys may get constipated from all that cereal. I am hoping they are not too affected since it is one nighttime bottle with cereal and maybe every other day with cereal.

I am so glad that they aren't pitching fits about the cereal but it sure is messy feeding two boys at the same time. I am surprised food didn't end up all over them, on the floor, on furniture or even the ceiling. Although I think that will soon be coming when they learn to grab food and throw. I'll let hubs deal with that.

Sam

Dean eating directly from the bowl

Sam loving the Gerber rice cereal

Hungry Hippo

The pediatrician told me babies should have between 24-28 ounces daily for a four month old and 28-32 ounces for a 6 month old. I remember reading the Similac guidelines being more than that. We give then 4-5 ounces about 6 times a day but they seem to be hungry even after feedings.


Every time they finish a bottle, they cry. I would give them a little more milk but because of what the doctor said, I worried about giving them too much. The doctor wanted to wait until they were six months to start them on solids as well. At the time, they were 4 months and I agreed because I felt they were not ready. But the fact that they stare at us and smack their lips whenever we are eating, I feel they are now ready. They can sit in a Bumbo or in the exersaucer and even with their adjusted age into consideration, being 4 months, they should be able to tolerate solids.


I went to my moms of multiples meeting on Monday and we had breakout sessions where we got to discuss issues with raising multiples. My main concerns were the crying after feedings and sleeping through the night. The other moms said that you can't overfeed a baby. If they are hungry then they need to eat. I do think you can overfeed a baby but I also agree that if they are legitimately hungry, then they should be fed.


I just happened to have Rod pick up a can of rice cereal on Monday. They got a little rice in their night time bottle and it seemed to decrease the amount of times they stirred and woke up. I think we will increase a little cereal at a time until they sleep through the night. Then mommy and daddy can sleep through the night and every one wins.

Adventures in Breastfeeding

...or my milk jugs bring all the boys to the play yard.

It's National Breastfeeding week and of course I wait until the end of the week to post about it. This is my photo contribution to this week. This photo will also be used for National Spit-up on mom's shirt week and Generally Looking Like Crap While Caring for Twins week. But let me just talk about breastfeeding for now.




My adventures in breastfeeding did not start right away. The boys were born at almost 34 weeks gestation and had been in NICU for a couple weeks before I even got the chance to nurse them. Dean was two weeks old when I was given the opportunity to breastfeed him. I was saddened and joyful at the same time. Happy that I got the chance but disappointed that he would not latch. I was so discouraged that I did not want to try with Samuel.

When I brought Dean home, I continued trying to breastfeed him but I was more concerned with him getting enough nutrients that I really didn't try all that hard. I was told by the pediatrician, lactation consultant and other mothers, especially the La Leche League moms, to keep trying and that one day it would click.

And wouldn't you know it, one day it did. It was ironic that Samuel clicked first. Because he was so much smaller, I thought he would not be able to latch. Sam has such a small mouth, I thought surely he would not be able to fit my mammoth mammary in it. I put him on the breast one day and he went to town. I was so happy, I cried. Dean finally came around a short time later.

It was hard enough trying to feed one baby that I never tried to feed them both at the same time. I even bought a special twin nursing pillow and tried to use it one day. I was still on maternity leave and Rod was at work. I got the pillow situated and tried to place them both on the pillow. I will just say it was so cumbersome and so difficult trying to get them situated on the pillow and keep their head supported. I gave up on that very fancy, very expensive pillow.

The boys will be 6 months old in a couple of weeks and my original goal was to make it to 6 months. I have decided to keep nursing for as long as possible. I love it. Not enough to nurse them until they are 8 but enough to keep going for another 6 months. It truly is a bonding experience. I know breast is best for baby but it also helps me. I feel closer to my boys and it gives me a chance to spend one on one time with them. It is the only time I slow down and take the time to revel in their babyness. I cherish that time with them.

I decided to put together things I have learned about breastfeeding:

Dual nursing takes a special skill and extraordinary hand eye coordination - which I do not posses. I have only tried nursing them both at the same time one other time. We were at the beach some weeks ago and both were so fussy that I had Rod help me get them situated on me. It was such an ordeal and after 5 minutes of laughing and 10 minutes of them nursing, I had to call it quits.

A hospital grade pump is a must - If you only plan to express milk for a few months, then rent one from the hospital or lactation consultant. If you plan to go longer, invest in a good pump. I am still renting the Medela Symphony but if I had known I was going to go longer, I would have just spent the money to purchase it. I also bought the Medela pump and go back pack to take to work and pump. My company offered a substantial subsidy so I took advantage but this portable model does not have the same horsepower as the Symphony. It sucks but it doesn't suck if you catch my meaning.

Make sure you have all your components in place before proceeding to pump - I happened to have forgotten to put a bottle on one of my pumps and as I was clickity clacking away on this very laptop, I started to feel a wetness seep through the fabric on my thigh. I look down and saw my milk spewing out of the breast shield onto the floor. Not only did I feel like a moron, the cats won't leave me alone.

Improper positioning and latching hurts like a kick in the crotch - get help if it is hurting and it discourages you from continuing. I sought advice from the hospital lactation consultant, the La Leche League and the Internet. There are times when Dean and Samuel chomp down on me or bat my nipple around like a hockey puck and I just have to grip my teeth and work past it.

Nipples can heal pretty quickly but just not quick enough - My nips have gotten so red, sore and cracked that I have to take a break from nursing, otherwise, they will surely fall off my boob. Lanolin is your friend. Get it. And get tubs of it. I am sure there are many brands but I have only tried Lansinoh and Medela. I prefer the Medela brand because it is not as thick so it glides on more easily and doesn't feel like you are dragging sand paper across your nips. There mus be some healing powers in Lanolin because after 24 hours, the nips are as good as new. Or at least they are like the nips of a 22 year old.

Organic cotton nursing pads may not have a faux nipple but they are fabulous -I tried the disposable ones and they were a little itchy around the edges. I found some organic cotton pads at Babies R Us and they are great. They are comfortable and thick enough to absorb whatever leakage may happen.

Mother's milk tea tastes funky but it works - I researched ways to increase milk supply and found this tea in addition to Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle. When I take all three in the recommended dosage, I am a milk producing machine. I try not to take them close to bedtime because I would be at dangerous levels of engorgement by the time I wake up.

Engorgement may make my boobs look fantastic but it is excruciatingly painful - I have gotten better at timing my pumps and nursing so engorgement seldom happens to me anymore. There are times when I get hard knots where the ducts get plugged or they are making lots of milk but I just have to grit my teeth and work the knots out.

Working out knots in your boob by kneading and massaging them does not make me feel sexy - so stop staring at me. This is more aimed at hubby so enough said.

A breastfeeding doll is not appropriate for small children - No matter how open minded I am, this just disturbs me.

People who make inappropriate gestures regarding pumping are jerks - I was at work and going into my private pumping room to put my stuff down. I came back out to go wash my hands and saw a peer make cow milking gestures to another peer. I said from across the room that I saw it and didn't think it was funny. He made a half assed attempt to apologize from across the room and I have not spoken to this person since. It was a highly sexist, crude and inappropriate thing to do. He's an ass and if I wasn't so high class and professional, I would make donkey noises at him.

I am not comfortable nursing in public - I always go somewhere private to nurse because I do not want to flash anyone. I have a hooter hider that seems to provide adequate coverage, but I just know that a strong gust of wind will come out of nowhere and everyone will catch that 3 second shot of boobage and it will end up on youtube.

Breastfeeding has been an incredible experience - for me and babies. It is not for everyone and I have spoken to a number of women who chose not to do it. It is an individual choice and no one should be judged for their decision. Bonding with baby can happen with breastfeeding and bottle feeding.

There are about a half dozen more things I am sure I learned, I just can't think of them. Here are some links about breastfeeding that I find useful.

World Breastfeeding Week

How to Breastfeed

Breastmilk storage guidelines

We're freezing

Rod is still looking for a job so now would not be a good time to make large purchases. I made an exception this weekend and sent Rod to get a deep freezer. We had discussed getting one because we simply have no room in our refrigerator freezer. I don't store breast milk in the freezer any longer. Not only is there no room, frozen breast milk really does not keep that long due to the number of times we open and close the door.

I was looking on the Sam's Club website and found a 5 cubic foot model, which is the smallest they have, for $156. I thought this was plenty big for us.

However, when Rod came home, he was dragging in the 7 cu.ft. model. He got it because it had a lock and that will definitely come in handy when the boys are older and start getting into things. We do not want them falling into the freezer and not be able to get out. For the, I would gladly pay and extra $40.

We got it set up and it is huge. Rod can fit in it. This picture is very misleading because it is much longer then it looks on the website. I thought I would never be able to fill it up but after my grocery shopping adventure, I can see it would not be hard to fill it at all. I had all these coupons for frozen goods burning a hole in my organizer and it was so liberating to be able to buy food without worrying whether or not I had room in the freezer. I know this may sound crazy but I got giddy. I never realized how irritating that was for me. There was never enough space for storage for when meat or frozen foods were on sale and then we never a wide variety of things to make meals. Now, we should not have to say, we have nothing to make for dinner. Just look at my precious!

This day in baby Dean's history

I need to mark 7/29/09 on Dean's baby calendar as the first time he slept through the night. I am not sure if this is the start of something spectacular or just a fluke. He went down about 9 and did not wake until 7:30 this morning.

Rod and I just looked at each other this morning thinking one of us had fed him during the night. Discovering that he did indeed sleep through the night, we were shocked and awed. I am hoping something in Dean's circadian rhythm has clicked. That would help tremendously in getting both of them to sleep through the night. These are great articles regarding sleep cycles in infants and children.

Circadian Rhythms in Infants

Sleep/Wake Cycles and Circadian Rhythms in Infants and Children

The Marriage Ref

I want to jump on the reality TV show bandwagon. Well, I got on the reality bandwagon years ago when I submitted an application to The Mole season 2. That show is one of the best reality type shows I have seen. It is thought provoking and I liked the concept of the challenges. No bug eating or swapping spouses. I made it to the phone interview and I submitted a video.

I just wasn't outgoing or entertaining enough to go any further. I was a little perturbed that the winner of that season was an Asian chic.

The parents of multiples reality shows are getting out of hand so a show about our family with just one set of twins would be uneventful. It's not like I thought of a name for our show or anything but what do you think about "Two by Two"? Catchy, right?

Now here is a casting call for a show I want to be on. Jerry Seinfeld is the creator and executive producer of The Marriage Ref, a show where couples who disagree on various topics can have their disputes settled my different refs. I have many issues with Rod, some I have written about here and others I keep to myself. I know Rod hates airing our "dirty laundry" but as he has said to me many times, I have no friends, so I must vent somehow.

The application deadline was July 28th but lucky for me, there is a casting call in August in Houston. I mentioned this to my dear husband and he is fearful that I will give him a public beat down. One of the reasons I would love to go on this show is not to publicly beat down my husband but to get some sort of resolution to our issues. It would be a different story if every time I bring up an issue, we talk through it and get it resolved. But when we have "disagreements", it is rehashing old issues because nothing ever gets resolved. I get the typical "I'll do better next time" or "it won't happen again" response but it doesn't get better and it does happen again.

Now I just need a way to get Rod over to the casting call...

Recalls

I was grocery shopping at Kroger and found flotation devices for the kids on clearance at 50% off. There was a small inflatable pool with a sun shade and a wave rider float. I thought it would be good for next year and they were each under ten dollars. I got to the check out and was informed the wave riders were recalled.

I get home and I see an email from Babies R Us about the recall on AQUA-LEISURE INDUSTRIES flotation devices. The reason for the recall is "the leg straps in the seat of the float can tear, causing children to unexpectedly fail into or under the water, posing a risk of drowning." Yikes!

I am glad that we have the kind of technology available where tracking and information can be immediately dispatched to places to let folks know about such issues. The clerk rang up the wave rider and the system told him of the recall.

Even though the Aqua Leisure Sun Smart Baby Hideaway Pool has not been recalled, I am debating whether or not to keep it. I am sure it will be fine for us to use with the boys next year but you really do have to watch what you buy. Everything is a potential safety hazard.

I get emails from Babies R Us and the CPSC regarding recalls. These are great resources to ensure your family and children's safety.

Beachy keen

Life’s a Beach

We went to Galveston last weekend and it was HOT! This was the boy’s first minibreak holiday and they enjoyed the attention of his grandma, pawpaw, cousin Maggie and Aunt Rhonda and Uncle Ray.

Rod’s parents let us have the master bedroom while we were there and it was a blessing. It was big enough to accommodate the pack and play and all the stuff we had to pack. I had made a packing list just for the boys and asked Tang to get started on packing Friday. I came home from work and could not believe how much crap we had to take. The obvious being a ton of diapers and wipes and clothing but also, their play mat, bouncer, portable swing, pack-n-play boppies, bottles, warmer, beach tent, sunblock, sunglasses, hats, lotion, saline nose spray and bulbs, Baby Einstein world music DVD, toys and Bumbo. With all that, we still forgot to bring the bottle rack and bath mat chair to wash the beach off of them.

My little Jeep was filled to the top and Rod put the rest on the back of his truck. Times like this, I wish we had a big 'ole RV or at least a suburban to tote all the stuff and people in one vehicle.


Rod and Sean played games while Tang and I watched the boys. I don't get to spend much time with them during the week so I try to soak it all in on the weekends. Tang was off work but she seems to love taking care of them. And Rod's not one to complain.

I bought a beach tent/cabana type thing at Target.com and the set up was super easy. I liked sitting in it for about 10 minutes and then it started getting hot. It was almost like sitting in a sauna after awhile. It could just be that I was getting uncomfortable in the heat. I don't see us getting much use out of it but the kids might end up playing with it when they are older.





When Tang and I got home, we fed the boys and tried to get them down for another nap. They would not have it and I think they had been so wound up with excitement the whole weekend. By the time I finally tried to get them to sleep, they were both crying so bad that they were inconsolable. Dean couldn't even take his bottle because he was so stopped up from crying that he could not breathe. I need to find some solution to their lack of quality naps. Their naps ranged from 10-30 minutes so I know they did not get enough rest.

Even though it was a fun weekend for the majority, I don't see us going away for weekends like that until Dean and Sam are older. Between getting ready for the trip and lack of sleep for the babies, it was just too much work. It was nice to get away for awhile. But I suffered from internet withdrawal and needed to get back to entering giveaways.