Hello to all! The title is apropos - while I have not sent out any updates, pictures, etc., I have been very busy taking care of my five children (every time I say that, it's still a little overwhelming}! Everything is going really well - we are slowly finding a "norm" but it changes from day to day! Let's start with Taylor and Colton for a change!
Taylor recently finished up what proved to be a rather disappointing volleyball season. They only had five games scheduled and then a "tournament" - too bad because she really enjoys the game! We hope to be in a better prgram next year! Tay's cheer team had their first competition on October 12th and took 1st place against 4 other teams. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend so I don't have pix but hopefully the next comp (Nov 1st) will be different! She has chosen to be a Cat for Halloween this year - here's a partial costume pic! What a beauty! She gets her braces off in December - just in time for Christmas {but of course, it couldn't be soon enough for her liking!!!}. Lastly, she continues to get straight A's - to include he Accelerated Algebra class! All of this while helping us juggle our beautiful babies!
Pretty Kitty!! :o)Colton is doing absolutely wonderfully! He is an amazing little man!! He's getting so BIG that it's unimaginable sometimes! He isn't your typical 21 month old - he picks up his toys, helps mama with chores, loves bedtime (99% of the time - smile), and is now going through quite a mommy phase. I think he's just happy to have me "back" after I was so physically limited with the pregnancy. He's also vying for my attention which pre-trip's was something he didn't really have to do... We have been managing to get some alone time and I find ways for him to help me with the girls so I think he will survive this with very little therapy {smile}! When I go back to work in January, we are hoping to find a place for him at the child development center on the base. I think he will love it there!!! Here's a picture of him helping me wash bottles!
Mommy's good helperOkay, on to this decade's divas! Lexi, Emma, and Addie are proving their determination and strength. Through physical growth and alertness, I am in awe and truly humbled by these beautiful little beings! They will be 8 weeks next Tuesday and since coming home on the 16th of September, have had no problems, issues, etc. They have been to the doctor three times - two gold star check ups and the most recent visit (Wednesday) for their RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) shots. As preemies, they are at an increased risk for infection and what could start off as the common cold could turn into something much more serious... We are extremely vigilant with hand washing, OUR flu shots, etc. We also ask visitors to be just as careful and they have been more than understanding under the circumstances. For anyone interested, I found this website and it gives some good, easy to understand details: http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/welcome/infectionsguide/preventing_rsv.html Okay, so on the the FUN stuff to hear about! First of all, in case you haven't heard, we have confirmed the answer to the "burning question" - the girls ARE IDENTICAL!!! We had a DNA test done a couple of weeks ago and it confirmed our thoughts. As the girls are getting bigger and closer in size (Currently: Lexi 7 lbs 10 oz, Emma 7 lbs 10 oz, and Addie 7 lbs 14 oz!!!) they are looking more and more alike. We have taken measures to avoid getting them mixed up (though looking close enough, we can pick out the subtle differences). They each have their own color for blankets (Their big sis made 'em!) to their big toes' / pinky fingers' nail polish! Laugh if you must but it works!!! LOL They are still on a 3 hour feeding schedule (and will be so until they are >10 lbs.) This 24 hour grueling schedule truly tests my ability to function on little to NO sleep! BUT, it IS temporary and it beats them being on three separate schedules!! If they aren't awake to eat, I wake them. I couldn't be more thrilled with their progress! Did I mention that they are absolutely beautiful?!?!?! There are some pix below for your viewing pleasure! They are starting to 'listen' and focus on my voice and face...LOVIN' IT!! The Dayton Daily News came infor an interview and will publish a story in a couple of weeks. And the local NBC news anchor is coming in next week to do a story. Kinda fun!! In a day's time, we go through 24 bottles and 30 diapers... It all tends to be a blur at the end of the day!!!
Lexi (green...)
Emma (pink...)
Addie (yellow...)
My first "FIVE" picture!
All made up for competition (less the uniform!)
Big brother and Sissy - teamwork!! :o)Last but not least - Will and I are doing fine.
Hehehehe... What can I say? We have been on lock down for the past 6 weeks and for the most part in survival mode! :o) One learns that when one has kids - it's all about them; especially in the first months/years. Once they gain some independence (or are old enough to send to their friend's house!!!!), then we can start thinking about us again!!! Okay, a bit of an exaggeration perhaps, but it depicts the past month+ ! Finally, I want to say is that I'm humbled... I'm humbled by the outpouring of support we have received from family, friends, and even strangers that have "heard about us"... It's impossible to name names or give specifics without the risk of leaving someone out so we will simply say thank you to ALL who have offered the assistance and most importantly - their prayers. Apparently He heard you - the girls and I came out of this with nothing but gold stars and good health!
Till next time... Take care, everyone!
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