Alex on the steps

New surprises everyday...

Life back to normal....

Julie and Howard returned from Mexico last night. Boy, did they look rejuvinated - tan and energized. I was so happy for them. The live such busy lives, and they needed a break. The boys were so happy to see them. Linus seemed a bit comfused at first, but it wasn't long before he was sticking his hands down his mommy's shirt. Julie pumped over 150 oz of breastmilk while they were away (she's unbelieveable) and only encountered a small bit of trouble trying to get it back into the country. We stayed up talking until about midnight and I got to sleep in this morning. We went out to lunch and then the Halls began their drive back to Boston.
We returned to a quiet (but messy) house, and I began to feel sad. I miss the boys. I miss the craziness and the noise that was everyday. Robert keeps saying "I mitt Ahvah" Translation: 'I miss Oliver.' And I tell him that I miss him too, but that he'll be back in 2 weeks for Ava and Alex's birthday party.
Before I jumped into this adventure, I said it could go one of two ways - I would say "It wasn't so bad" OR I would say "I am never doing that again!" Would I do it again? Certainly. The Hall boys really are good boys and I enjoyed every precious minute of them and I'll never get those moments back.
So, it looks like I have my life back - back to 3 under 3, but not for long for Robert will be 3 before we know it! Back to clipping coupons, folding laundry and changing diapers. It will just be a little less noisy and a few less diapers!
But first, just a little bit of letdown.

Five under 4 - day 4

4pm: Taking a few Tylenol - and perhaps a glass of wine later tonight... if I can stay awake.

Five under Four - day 3

Gram came today! She arrived early this morning - the boys were so excited to see her! She brought wooded cars for them to play with and new books to read. Robert went to school this morning, and then it started to snow! It pretty much fell all day until it turned to sleet/freezing rain at about 7pm. Gram decided to stay over - what a treat! I was able to get to the grocery store while she was here. The day was productive and the extra hands were nice. I am so glad my mom was able to help out. The kids loved having her here, too. Of course, 5 o'clock was the witching hour and things got crazy but 7pm arrived quickly and I was relieved.

We were all in bed by 9pm - no naps for the boys today, so they were pooped. I am starting to think that my 3 kids will seem alot easier when these guys go home. I also had a quick thought - actually 2 - one was that I love the sound of happy kids in my house and the other was that maybe I should consider taking in some kids to make some extra cash. Need to discuss that platform later with Bobby. This week has been one of the most fulfilling weeks in my motherhood career. I love to be needed and I feel so accomplished. Just ask Robert, he'll tell you - "Mommy's the Boss!"

Life with FIVE under 4 - day 2 (part 2)

Tonight at 5:30pm, all heck broke loose in the Trif house. (This is always a hectic time for us, but when you throw 2 more kids into the mix, it gets worse!) I had just cooked dinner and called the boys over to eat. Oliver complained of a tummy ache and he didn't want to eat. he hasn't pooped since Friday, and I knew he needed to go. He's had tummy/constipation issues in the past so I was on to him. I saw this coming and all day long had been offering him foods that will make him go. I made him sit on the potty - but he was too afriad to go. I've tried every bribe in the book. We are making some progress, but he is scared because he knows it will hurt. Poor kid. Anyway, he was screaming and crying on the potty while I was trying to feed Ava and Alex and Linus had just woken up from a nap. I really wanted to spend time with Oliver on the potty, but the other kids needed me too. The twins and needed baths and bottles. They were so tired and miserable. Linus wanted to eat, and Robert just wanted to put his ziti in his milk and make a mess. (ugh)
By 7:15, Alex and Ava were in bed, Linus was having a bottle and Oliver was resting upstairs. Bobby walked in as I was cleaning up the disaster in the kitchen. I couldn't wait to eat - I was starving.

Now everyone is in bed. Robert and Oliver both napped today, so they are not as exhausted as they have been the past 2 nights. They are watching cartoons and hopefully will be asleep shortly. I fed Linus his cereal and wrapped him up like last night. He has been sleeping for almost 2 hours. Fingers crossed.
Robert has school tomorrow, and he will be going. Based on today, I think some time apart will be good for the boys. Robert has become really possessive and pretty much a brat when it comes to sharing. My mom is coming for the day tomorrow, and she can have some one on one time with Oliver. It will be nice.

I changed 14 poops today. Only three were from Linus - the rest were from my kids. That is a bit more excessive than usual. I don't think I even changed that many in one day back in my daycare days!
Must sleep... it's a new day tomorrow...

Life with FIVE under 4 - day 2 (part 1)

Much better night last night! Bobby swaddled Linus and he slept soundly in the pack and play from 8pm until 4am! I kept waking up to check on him - certain that something had to be wrong. I gave him cereal last night and I am wondering if that made a difference (I never believe those old wive's tales) Robert and Oliver slept in the guest bed again. They both woke up once in the night at about the same time. Robert came into our room to get us, and Oliver just cried a bit for him mom and dad but went right back to sleep.
It's just after 2pm and the house is quiet and still. Everyone is asleep! I've managed to amaze myself! Jon and Kate plus 8, you've got nothin' on me!
Other accomplishments today:
I've changed 8 poopie diapers, clipped some coupons, took a shower, bathed the boys and washed and changed the sheets on our bed and Alex and Ava's cribs. Thank goodness for naps! Coffee reheat count: 7. I'm wishing I had more coffee right now!
Bobby has class tonight after work, so he will be home late. I imagine I'll probably be ready to crash sometime after 7pm.
We tried a photo shoot this morning. How is it that the younger kids are the ones actually looking at the camera?

Allergist update

Just realized I forgot to update on last week's allergist appt...

I wasn't sure what to expect - I wasn't sure if they'd run tests right then and there or what. They gave me a questionairre loaded with tons of stuff from what kind of mattress does he sleep on to what kind of detergents we use. Then they took us back and asked a ton more questions. I think they were thrown off since he was stuffy and had a runny nose from his cold. They voiced some concern that he has had 3 ear infections and some respiratory issues, but I needed to keep reminding them that we were there because we suspected a milk allergy. But I guess it is standard procedure for them to explore everything...

Anyway, long story short, we had to schedule another visit to do two 'panels' of allery tests - one indoor/outdoor and one common foods. That will be on the 18th.
In the mean time, the doctor gave me a prescription for a lotion called Mimyx to use on his excema. The pedi had given me some samples of the same stuff a few weeks ago, but he never explained that it works with water and his face should be damp when I apply it. His face started to look better after just a few applications.
They also gave me a pamplet on Atopic Dermatitis (Excema) and a guide on how to include calcium in his diet without milk and a paper on common words for 'milk' that can be found on ingredient labels.
He told me to avoid dairy and supplement soy formula a few times a day so he is still getting fatty acids that he doesn't get from the soy milk. He should avoid eggs, fish and nuts until he is 5 years old. And we now have an epi-pen on hand - just in case.

As far as his diet goes, it's going to be trial and error since I am finding that some dairy is tolerable for him and some (most) is not. argh.

What I am bummed about most: He may not be able to have any of his first birthday cake! Hopefully we'll have the answers before then.

Life with five under 4 - day 1

Preface: This week, my sister and her husband are vacationing in Mexico. They had planned to leave their kids (Oliver 3, and Linus 6 months) with my parents, but I offered to take them since my parents have alot going on right now and since my house is already child-proofed and we knew Oliver and Robert would enjoy spending a whole week togther. (And because, hey, what's 2 more?) I've decided to blog this experience...
We got an earlier start than usual today. Linus did not want to sleep last night, and the best he gave me was a stretch from 12:45 - 2:30am. After that he was up about every 20-30 minutes. Somewhere in there Alex woke up and remained restless. I finally gave un around 5:30 and we went downstairs to start the day. I put Linus in his stroller (he likes to sleep in the Bugaboo) and he immediately fell asleep. Go figure. I emptied the dishwasher and started some coffee. It wasn't long before Alex and Ava were up for the day too. Bottles and Breakfast were had by 7:30 and the twins were dressed. Linus had a bath and Robert and Oliver woke up and started their day. I plopped them in our jacuzzi tub and I jumped in the shower while they played. Alex and Ava had their usual naps today and pretty much remained in their routine. Linus napped sporadically and drank his bottles. He also had some rice cereal and applesauce - which he loved! I pureed him some peaches and some mixed berries that he can try tomorrow. And I somehow managed to get 4 loads of laundry done - and folded - and put away! Of course it was wonderful to have Bobby home today (he is so happy to have to go to work tomorrow!) the day was pretty smooth, with just a few bumps - certainly harder than I imagined, but still nothing unmanageable for me.
So, I guess the worst part of the day happened before it even started (The sleeping (or lack of) part.) It really makes me appreciate what good sleepers my kids are!
Now, Linus is swaddled in the pack and play next to my bed, Ava and Alex have been asleep for hours and Robert and Oliver are tucked nicely together in the guest bed with heavy eyes and tired souls. For tomorrow is another day... with five under 4!

My week as a single mom

Bobby has been in Huntsville, Alabama (Alabammom - according to Robert) since Sunday, and I have succumbed to life as a single mommy once a again. As usual, I was dreading the thought of being alone all week, but I reminded myself that thing s DO indeed run smoothly in Bobby's absence and heck, it couldn't be nearly as bad as last time he was away - when the kids were sick and my back was in bad shape.
WRONG.
On Monday, all three kids had snotty noses. No big deal. I just got a deal on a bunch of Kleenex from CVS, we'll just eat our way through that. Monday night, Alex is coughing. Tuesday, Ava's snot is yellow, and the allergist tells me Alex has 'some' fluid in his ears, but 'he'll be okay.'
Wednesday afternoon, I'm playing on the floor with the kids and I'm suddenly paralyzed! I manage to stand up, but then I can't walk. I give myself a few minutes and I was able to get to the phone to call the chiropractor. He tells me to come in immediately. Luckily, it was not related to my disc injury - I just pulled my sacralilium, but he popped me back into place and sent me on my way. BUT I need to come back on Friday.
Thurday, we call Dr. Novak. Alex and Ava have more that just a cold. They are put on antibiotics (Alex has double ear infections - again! And Ava is treated for Sinusitis) Thank goodness their lungs are clear - I hate that dang nebulizer and I'm so glad we don't have to use it this time.
Friday, We're having company It's my birthday. My parents are coming for dinner. The Halls are coming for the weekend - And I am NOT cleaing the house - not on my birthday! It looks like a daycare threw up in here - and I hope they don't mind a little bit of dust. Julie and Howard are leaving the boys here for the week while they go to Mexico. Am I crazy?

All in all, this week was basically a repeat of the last time Bobby went away. Next week should be an adventure. The title of the next chapter in my book - "A week with FIVE under 4!"

Allergist

We have an appointment with the allergist tomorrow morning for Alex. Hopefully we'll have some answers sooner than later.
My neighbor suggested that he may be allergic to corn syrup, and I have a feeling he may be allergic to eggs. Yesterday, he threw up after almost everything he ate, and today his pants are really loose around the waste. I have a feeling he is losing weight since we started the soymilk, and I may put him on a soy formula instead. Will update tomorrow with whatever we find out...

A diaper full of surprises...

Today Alex had a really stinky (and runny) diaper. I opened it up, and to my surprise, there was a dum-dum wrapper -fully intact, just rolled up a bit (remember my post about Robert and his lollipops?) I saw this very wrapper on the floor last night, and I swore I threw it away. Apparently not - Alex got to it first.
He may throw up dairy, but at least we know paper passes. :)

We meet Levi!

The Trifs drove out to PIttsburgh on Thursday to meet the newest Gladu - Levi Xavier. We had a great time - it was so nice to relax with Rob and Germaine in their home (I really love their house!) The kids were well behaved - for the most part - and the car rides were pleasant and painless. And Levi - well, he's just perfect! A little love! We can't wait to see him again!

Robert will be three... then what?

I have a dilemma... Alex and Ava will be 1 in less than a month (just typing that made me all nervous inside - I'm not sure why!) And shortly after that, Robert will be 3. I can no longer call myself a mom of 3 under 3 and more importantly, our blog needs a new name. Any suggestions?

Milk Allergy?

Alex has been struggling with excema on his cheeks and chin since the fall - about when he started to eat table foods. He has always had a weak tummy - even when breastfed, he'd throwup after feedings and this continued when we switched to formula. I asked the pediatrician about it at his 6 month visit but he didn't seem too concerned - he thought it could be related to volume - in other words, he was just eating too much. He suggested trying soy formula for a few days to see if it makes a difference, I never did. Bad Mommy!
We started transitioning to whole milk about 2 weeks ago. Alex continues to spit up after nearly every bottle - and it stinks even worse than the formula - sour milk - yuck!
Last night I purchased some soy milk. He had his first full bottle this morning - and guess what? No spit up! AND no rosy cheeks and chin! Later this morning, I gave him some Quaker oatmeal - peaches and cream. Soon after, his face got red. I pulled out the box and checked out the ingredients: 'Contains milk and soy'. Okay. I think I am going to have to record everything he eats and see how he reacts. What fun!
So much for being the laid back and calm one... Alex has decided to become difficult in ways much different from his sister!
Meanwhile, neither Bobby nor I have an allergy of any kind. Nor does Robert... I wonder where this comes from - and I hope it is soon outgrown!

Tooth Brushing Buddies

Hot Momma!

The following scenario happened here today:
Robert: I hot Mommy.
Me: You're hot?
Robert: Yes, Mommy, I hot.
Me: Why are you hot?
Robert: You hot Mommy.
Me: I'm hot? I'm a hot momma?
Robert: Yeah. You a hot Momma. Mom Mom hot too.
me: hahahaha

Doctor's appt update

Alex and Ava had their 9 month check up last week. (They are 10 1/2 months, but the appt needed to be pushed back when we faced that episode of illnesses a few months back)
Alex weighed in at 20lbs 2oz and 28 1/4 inches - 25th percentile all around. Still a peanut (a chubby peanut) but growing steadily!
Ava weighed in at 18lbs 12oz and 29 1/2 inches - 75th percentile for height and 40th for weight. She is long and lean, which is just fine with me! Let's hope it stays that way - this girl LOVES to eat!

Everything else checked out just fine. Dr. Novak gave me some medications for Alex's rosy cheeks, which he says is Excema. Poor guy. The prescription is 290.00 - good thing he loaded me up with samples!

We've started the switch to whole milk. Ava has reacted with some constipation, while Alez seems to have the opposite problem, and a terrible diaper rash. These kids are as different as night and day!

Alex is cutting another tooth on the bottom, for a grand total of 7! We have got to get in the habit of brushing them regularly as I have noticed he's got osme wicked breath! (also a side effect of the milk)
Ava has recently gotten two new teeth on the top, as well. She is walking all over the place - it's so strange to see such a little person walking! We'll be taking her to get some shoes this weekend!

The end of the day comes quickly - especially on the days we're out and about. A&A go to bed around 7 on most nights. I am starting to think we should push it later since they have been waking up between 5 and 6 most mornings. as much as I complain, I adore these kids and wouldn't want to miss a second of their day!

Some big shoes to fill...

Robert has taken an interest in his Daddy's shoes lately. Bobby is obviously Robert's favorite person in the world!

Robert

Just a few Robert-isms of late:

Yesterday, he pulled out a collapsable "Thomas" 'toybox' and popped it open. (it kind of resembles a hamper - if you can imagine that) Next thing I know, he has taken his clothes off and tells me he is "swimming in the pool" Interesting for a kid who suddenly doesn't like to take a bath anymore.

Today he made me an "ice cream cone" from a round ball and the yellow ice block from the boo boo bunny.

There has been a perpetual cake baking in Noah's Ark. This Fisher Price Ark has a door on the front which apparently resembles an oven to Robert. He fills it with blocks and repeatedly says "I make a cake for Mommy's birthday"

This afternoon, before his nap, he read to me from his collection of Thomas books. He told me a story from each picture "James is cross" he'd say or Gordon says "hah hah hah." Each book ended emphatically with "DE END. You like dat tory mommy?"

The kid suddenly has a gigantic imagination. He amazes me.

He is always saying "I would like a lollipop?" as if it's a question. If he could live on lollipops, he would. I have tamed him a bit by telling him "Dr. Novak says no more lollipops." which he tells me repeatedly thoughout the day as if I didn't know.
Of course, it wuld be much easier to just not bring lollipops into the house. period.

I hate that he is growing up. I'm going to miss these years.

Hot (well, warm) coffee

I recently came across a list entitled "You know your a mom of twins when..." One of the most commented items on the list was "You have forgotten that coffee is supposed to be consumed hot." (and a bunch of other variations of the same idea)

It had become a common occurance that I'd open the microwave mid morning or early afternoon to warm a bottle to find my morning coffee sitting lonely - knowing it's daily destiny... to be poured down the drain - only after being heated and re-heated several times.

Today, I finished my coffee while it was still warm! I made sure to get that last gulp in just before it turned cold!

...and I thought hot coffee was only a memory! Life is good - and coffee is much better warm!

...and finally a nephew!

Big congrats to Rob and Germaine on their new son, Levi Xavier, born this morning! 7lbs 6oz and 22inches long. We are overjoyed with all of the blessings God has sent to us! Babies, babies everywhere! We'll be heading to Pittsburgh in 2 weeks to meet the newest Gladu.

(the fever is catchy, and it's coming my way....) gasp!

Alex all giggles!

Ava Walks

Ava has started to walk! Look out world! (sorry you have to tilt your head to view - my tech guy (Bobby) will fix it tonight!)

Our Niece

We have a niece! Hannah Genevieve was born early this am to Christopher and Keely! She was 6 weeks early and 4lbs 11oz! We are all surprised, mostly because it is Germaine who was supposed to have her baby first! (She's due next Friday) Hopefully my next post will be about our new nephew!
Ava is not the only grand daughter anymore - and I am especially grateful that I have someone to unload all of my girly stuff.

A New Year's Resolution

I tried to post this last night... but blogger wouldn't let me.

Each year I try to make 3 New Year's Resolutions. I have been successful in most past years at sticking to them. So, without further ado, here they are: My first resolution is to post updates to this blog once/week. I've set up weekly reminders on my email and I'll try to 'blog' once/week.
I know someone who writes a monthly blog to her children (individually) and she includes the best pictures and anecdotes to her kids. I so much enjoy her blog and it makes me wish I had done something similar. I feel like I am forgetting to 'remember' so many of the little milestones. I always try to jot it on the calendar when something new happens so I can later fill it in in the baby books... which brings me to my next New Year's Resolution - To fill out A&A's baby books! I have actually started this task, so that's good news!
The last of the resolutions is to make photo books for each month from 2007 and continuing into this year. Instead of ordering prints and buying albums, I will be making the actual albums on kodakgallery.

We had a great Holiday season. Christmas Eve was quiet at home. Gram and Pape came and spent the night. Christmas Day was a whirlwind... A&A woke up at 6:30am and we waited patiently for Robert to get up, which wasn't until almost 9. By that time, A&A were ready to go down for a nap. Robert opened one gift before their nap and then we ate breakfast. Bobby's mom and sister arrived early in the afternoon, and the gift opening extravaganza continued. Robert was most excited about teh lollipops that Santa left. He couldn't be bothered with anything else. It was a fun and long day. And then it was over - just as fast as it came, it was gone!

Bobby was off until this past Monday (January 7th) It was so nice to have him around. The kids were spoiled with his attention. We (and by we I mean Bobby) spent a few days helping my brother lay hardwood floors and do some work in his new house. That meant lots of Gram and Pape time for the kids.
We've decided that we are going to need to finish the basement and we'll likely try to get to done this year. The kids have too much stuff, and we are learning that the bigger they get, the bigger their stuff gets! It seems we are outgrowing this house sooner than I ever imagined, and a new playspace in the basement will be a nice addition to the house.
Now that Bobby is back to work, Robert has taken Bobby's absence pretty rough. He wakes up in the morning crying for him, and wants to be with him all night long.
Ava is still the 'queen bee.' She will keep one hand on Alex's hight chair tray (as if she owns it) while feeding herself franticly with the other hand. She'll stand in high chair and peer over the table to be sure she's not missing anything on her tray. She pulls Alex's hair and uses him for balance and support when she tries to stand up. She is soooo close to walking, and we're sure it will be any day now.
Alex is still laid back. His chubby grin is all I need to get through the day. He can pull himself up and has even started to let go when he is leaning on something for support. His hair is getting long and he'll be due for a haircut very soon. I swear, he is starting to look more like his big brother, Robert. And yesterday, someone stopped to tell me that A&A look more alike than ever... interesting. Both A&A are excellent eaters and have made the trasition to table food quite well. In a few weeks, we'll cut back on formula and begin the transition to whole milk. My checkbook will thank me!

As I end this "weekly entry" (by the way, A&A are 45 weeks old this week) I must note that I began this entry at 8pm. It is now 10:40! It's not that I'm a slow typer, But that this night has been full of excitment (and phone calls) for us. My 'little' brother is about to become a dad! We are anxiously waiting to hear if we have a new niece or nephew. Hopefully we'll know something in the morning!

Still sick

We have been back to the prediatrician twice since Thanksgiving. Alex had still not kicked his previous illness, and 2 visits later he had another ear infection. Ava has just started showing symptoms, but Bobby has me convinced that it's just a cold, and not to worry. Robert started with a runny nose and caugh last night. I'm afriad it's going to be a long winter.

Somewhere in between the kids being sick and Bobby being away we managed to get the kids portraits done for our Christmas cards. Once again, I spent an obscene amount of money at the portrait studio. How do I manage to do that? So much for 'getting the 9.95 package and running!'

Alex and Ava turned 9 months old two weeks ago. Alex has started to pull himself up (and more importantly learned to get back down) in the past few weeks. Ava has just started to let go of whatever it is she's gripping for support when standing. Won't be long until she's walking, for sure. They are both eating a healthy diet of table food - pretty much eating anything that you put in front of them.

Robert is talking up a storm. He is enjoying school very much. He's become obsessed with Thomas the Tank Engine and just 'choo choo trains' in general. We're still working on the 'be nice to your sister and brother' thing. Overall, he is a very sweet little boy and a great big brother.

That's all for today... I have yet to send out my cards, decorate the (ginormous) tree or wrap a single gift -but at least the shopping is complete. The next 2 weeks will be very busy. Bobby will be away and I will be playing single mom again - fun! The good news is, Christmas is at our house this year so we don't have to worry about packing up and going anywhere!

A Holiday Treat

The Trif kids have prepared a special Holiday treat for their loved ones. Check it out:

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=9619229231

Thankful for good eaters...

We've finally returned from a long weekend at Gram and Pape's house in Horsham. A&A celebrated their first Thanksgiving and boy did they chow down! I'm happy to report that they are great eaters! I mashed up almost everything we ate for our meal and fed it to A&A. Ava will pretty much eat anything - she proved that when we gave her a piece of Asiago cheese on Saturday! She loved it! And then there is Robert, who feasted on Cheez-its this Thanksgiving. He and Oliver were so happy to be together, they pretty much forgot to eat! The entire visit went quickly, but it was so nice to have the family together.
The kids had finally recovered from their illnesses, and now we are all getting sick again (Me and Bobby included!) Blah! I hope that this time it's just a cold.

Enjoy the updated slide show...The pictures are from September and October. I'll update with November pics too - as soon as I upload them!

The next few weeks will be busy, no doubt, but we'll keep you up to date as best as we can!


Hi Aunt Joan! :) We love you!

Sick kids...

Alex and Ava have been fighting (what I thought was) a cold since late Monday night. I decided to take them to the pediatrician today, just as a precaution since we were planning to leave tomorrow morning for Pittsburgh to visit Rob and Germaine. At first I felt silly - they have runny noses and a cough. Alex has been grabbing at his ears, and that prompted me to call Dr. Novak.
I'm so glad I did! They both are 'croupy' and have RSV. Thankfully, its not to the point that they need to be hospitalized, but Alex's breathing is very labored and Dr. Novak said he has a feeling that Ava ia headed down that same path. Both of Alex's ears are infected, and he's been put on a steroid for his breathing. Oh, and they both have pink eye.
Dr. Novak says this is a 7-10 day virus. I hope we kick it quick - I'd like to make the trip to Pittsburgh next weekend if it works for Rob and G. Fingers crossed.

A very literal 'pain in the butt'

This post is going to be all about me. I know you'd rather be reading about the kids and seeing their most recent pictures, but I just need to update everyone on my condition:

A fall down the stairs about 2 months ago has left me, well, pretty much a mess. I was seeing a new chiropractor for about a month, with very little relief. I finally decided to go back to my old chiropractor - from before we moved to Nazareth. He knows my back, and I have always responded well to his technique. After 3 visits, and just a tiny bit of relief, he sent me for an MRI with suspicion of a disc injury.
Fast forward to this week: the MRI results are in and my chiro, Dr. Ryan, wanted to see me right away. He said "it doesn't look good." I have a disc protrosion sandwiched between 2 herniated discs in my lower back. The lower herniation is so severe that it is 'hanging' into my spinal canal and pressing on a nerve, hence the pain. After a complete explanation and visual demonstration, Dr. Ryan warned me that I may need surgery. He said he'd do everything possible to help me avoid that, but I should know that its a definite possibility.
Today was my second day on the Traction Table... a device that 'pulls' and elongates the spine to help the discs shift back into place - or to at least free up some space between the herniation and the nerve. (it doesn't look like the lower herniation is going to go anywhere at this point.) I need to continue treatment on the table as often as possible for as long as it takes for me to start feeling better.
In the mean time, I've been told to handle the kids with care and be mindful of my lifting and bending - which I really shouldn't be doing at all. Unfortunatly, not doing it is not an option for me.
Dr. Ryan told me that another pregnancy will pretty much destroy my back. This information alone is enough to send me for a second opinion. But that's a bridge I'll have to cross down the road. Alot can happen between now and 'then' - whenever that may be.
Enough about me for now. I promise the next post will be all about the kids!

quick update

Finally, some down time... life as a Trif has been very hectic this fall. We've been busy with playdates, and swimming lessons, doctor's appointments, weddings, showers, christenings and birthdays.
We traveled to Boston two weeks ago for Baby Linus' christening. Robert and Oliver had a wonderful time together. They miss eachother terribly when they are apart and they're anxiously awaiting Thanksgiving so they can play again.
We'll be heading to Pittsburg in a few weeks to celebrate with Rob and Germaine for their baby shower. In the meantime, we have Halloween parades and parties to attend. We've still got some costumes to get together - and we're running out of time! We also have to get to the pumpkin patch for a photo shoot- hopefully this week.

Alex is bigger than Ava by about a pound. He is shorter than he, but rounder. He has started to get up on his knees, and can move himself backwards. He has 4 teeth, and is not much a napper. However, he continues to sleep through the night, and we have no complaints there. He is a true momma's boy.

Ava has been crawling for about a month now. She is pulling herself up wherever she can, and her crib mattress has been lowered as low as it goes. I'm betting she'll be walking by christmas. She is very nosy (hmm, wonder where she gets that from) and a true leader. It's already very apparent that she's the boss of her brothers. She has 3 teeth and loves to sleep.


Robert loves school! He goes Tuedays and Fridays from 9-12. His vocabulary is enormous these days, and he is always surprising us with new words. He is very affectionate and empathetic. He is doing great on the potty, but still needs to be reminded to go. He has been taking swimming lessons for the past 6 weeks, and he is doing fantastic. He loves his brother and sister, Alcy and Wava and they enjoy playing together - tho he needs to work on sharing - it's an age thing I guess.


Bobby has been traveling and working like crazy. This weekend is his birthday, so he'll be watching football and relaxing. My work is endless. I'm still waiting on the results of my thyroid test and I need to have my hips evaluated, as I am having awful pain that is not getting better after a month of chiropractic care. I'm positive it's related to my fall down the stairs a few months ago. It's always something.

Hopefully we won't let too much time go by before our next update... sorry for the delay!

Robert the Ring Bearer

Robert was the Ring Bearer in Kelly and Justin's wedding last night. We are so proud of him - he did a great job! He couldn't get enough of the flowergirl, Elizabeth, and we found them hugging and kissing during the cocktail hour.
He was very cooperative, and walked right up the aisle without any delay! He tried to steal the show, but Kelly looked so incredible, it was no contest!

Been so busy lately! Robert is really enjoying school. It seems like once I get him there and then go home, it's time to pick him up already! He really enjoys playing with our neighbor Nina who is just 10 days older that he is. We have been having playdates about 3 times/week. Swim lessons started this week. Robert was not scared at all, and in fact I think he was a bit bored. He is still too young for the next class, so we'll see how the next six weeks go.

Alex and Ava are getting so big! Ava is crawling everywhere! Alex isn't moving much yet - which is just fine with me! Alex is over 17 lbs already. We should probably start looking for a new stroller, since it seems they will be outgrowing their car seats soon and then it's "goodbye snap n go." (sniff sniff) We visit the pediatrician next week for their 6 month check ups. I'll update their stats then.

Little Fans

A tooth!

Who says Ava does everything first? Alex got a tooth this week! Poor little guy has been very grumpy for a few days, but this finally explains why! A second tooth is pushing through, and is almost visible, too.

The lady with the twins...

I have taken on the daunting task of creating a neighborhood directory. I made flyers and put them in every mailbox in the neighborhood. I requested names, email addresses, phone numbers and children's names and ages. My thought is that we can all get to know eachother and form a 'community' as opposed to just a 'neighborhood.' The responses keep coming in, and I am very excited about it.

Anyhow, as I was delivering these flyers, I introduced myself to the neighbors who happened to be outside. I had this exact conversation 4 times on Thursday evening:

Me: Hi.
Them: Hi.
Me: I'm Michelle. I live at xxxx road - up on the corner.
Them: Oh yeah. You're the one with the twins.
Me: Yep, that's me.
Them: You must have your hands full.

So... apparently everyone already knows who I am around here! I'm "The lady with the twins."


"Mind you, there are 3 other sets of twins in the neighborhood. Crazy, isn't it?

Supermom? Maybe just for today...

So, today I ventured out with all 3 kids. It was the first time I've taken all 3 kids out alone. (well unless you count the one time we went to the doctor). It was wonderful! We went to the mall, with a mission - to return a bra to Victoria's Secret. Anything else we could accomplish was just a bonus.
We did manage to walk through the Children's Place (the setup in that store is not very friendly for strollers - and mine is a double. We also walked through Boscov's and searched for a potty since Robert decided that he had to go, and when an almost potty trained 2 year old says he has to go, you don't ignore him!
Long story short, we scoped out the bathrooms at Boscov's and shortly after that found the toy department. Alex and Ava fell asleep in the stroller and it was blissful for just a few moments. We ventured home for lunch and naps (did I mention that ALL three kids are napping from 1-4 every day???) and then mommy had an afternoon rendezvous with the treadmill.
It was an exceptional day! Oh, but I forgot to mention the way people gawked and chatted when we came strolling by - like we were some kind of freak show. Well, I guess we kind of are, huh?
This mom thing is a piece of cake. :)

Ava's First Crawling Attempts

The Trifs in Boston...

We drove up to Boston last Thursday and stayed until Sunday. It was so nice to relax and visit with the Halls. The twins were well behaved for the ride, which was a surprise. We actually managed to get a picture of all 5 grandkids... it's not the greatest, but it's sufficient.
Robert and Oliver had a blast, as always. We can't wait to see them again!

A couple of annoucements...

My sister delivered a healthy baby BOY on Friday, July 20th. Linus Hamilton Hall was 8lbs 3 oz and 20 1/2 inches long. He is beautiful, and he looks just like his big brother, Oliver! The Trifs are taking a roadtrip to Boston next weekend to meet him. We can't wait!

My brother and sister in law announced this week that there will be a new Gladu in January. Germaine is 14 weeks along, and they are thrilled! We are so excited for them, as they have wanted this for so long. They will be finding out "baby new year's" gender in August. This will be Gram and Pape's 6th grand child.

I have lost 10 lbs! I am stoked! I still have a ways to go before I am back into my pre-baby wardrobe, but hopefully that will be before the twins turn one. My tendonitis in my knees seems to be healed and I'll be getting back on the treadmill this week. yay for me!

My current favorite pic...

Took this pic early in the week... it's my current favorite.

Infant Formula...

Tomorrow is trash day (and recycling as well) Before we put our trash out tonight, we took a picture of the empty formula cans that we've used in 2 weeks.

There are 21 (empty) cans in this pyramid. One can is 32 fluid ounces and each can costs $5 (on sale). We go through about 1.5-2 cans/day depending on how many times Alex is nursed. This pyramid represents $105. That means it's costing us just over $2oo to keep these kids fed each month.

The trash men must think I am running a daycare here!

Happy 4th of July

Ava and Alex's 1st July 4th

(2007)

Robert's 1st July 4th
(2005)

17 week pictures...

Here we are... 17 weeks old! We're very animated and fun these days. Mommy just loves it!

A potty training nightmare!

We have begun the potty training process with Robert this week. Some days are better than others. He still doesn't understand that he needs to tell us when he needs to go, but we sit him on the potty many times during the day and most of the time he tinkles.

To make the process easier, I often let Robert run around without a diaper. It is a good reminder for me to get him on the potty often. Well, this morning, I left Bobby in charge while I went upstairs to do some chores. I came back downstairs about 15 minutes later and Robert greeted me by saying "poo poo mamma". There was poop painted on the family room carpet, and Robert had run his trucks through it over and over as if it were mud... really smelly mud, I guess.

Now, Bobby was sitting in the kitchen reviewing an online ad for the new Apple iPhone.. .if you know Bobby, you know he was completely tuned out to anything else around him. All the while, Robert was just 20 feet away 'silently'(so says bobby) playing in his own feces.

It is well known that when Robert is quiet, he is certainly up to no good.

Ava and Alex at the beach

We're in Ocean City for 2 weeks... its so nice to be away from home. The weather has been great, so far...

American Idol Finals...

YES!! Jordin Wins!!

Ava's tongue tie - all fixed

Ava before surgery...(wearing the littlest hospital gown I ever saw!)

Ava's surgery went wonderfully. We had to be at the hospital at 6:45am. She had last eaten at 12:30am, and she had an ounce of water around 5:30am. Luckily, she was pooped from the activity of the Christening on Sunday and she slept really well. She was so pleasant all morning, despite not having anything to eat. At the hospital, she cooed and smiled and hugged her daddy. She fell asleep just before the procedure, which made it so much easier to watch her get wheeled away.

Bobby and I waited in the waiting room for less than 10 minutes before the doctor came to get us to tell us it was over. I went to recovery where I had to give her some glucose water and then I was able to nurse her. We were home just after 10am. She doesn't seem to be bothered with the stitches... we gave her some tylenol anyway, but she really seems fine. She's a trooper. And I really believe that she had angels with her yesterday, because for those of you who know Ava, it's not at all like her to be calm and content for any lengthy period of time.

The top picture was taken just as Ava was being wheeled away for surgery. The other 2 were taken before surgery - we wanted to how how tight her tongue was - she was not able to stick it out any farther than what you see.

Two month doctor's visit

Today, Alex and Ava had their 2 month visit with Doctor Novak. They are now 11 weeks old. Ava is weighing a hefty 9lbs 7 oz and Alex is 8lbs 7 oz. They are still peanuts, but growing well. Doctor Novak said not to be concerned with percentiles at this point (Alex isn't even on the charts yet) as long as they are growing at a steady pace. I was surprised that they were bright eyed, alert and pleasant for most of the visit... until, of course, they got their shots... 4 of them, to be exact - 4 each! We're expecting a few sleepless nights ahead (more sleepless than usual, anyway) poor babies.
Ava will be having her tongue clipped on Monday. I am not comfortable about taking her to the hospital for the procedure, so Bobby will be taking her. We thought she may have to be put under general anestesia, but instead they will use a numbing spray. She should recover from it just fine. The ENT who is doing it assured me that it is 'not a big deal.' I am anxious to get her back to the breast.
Things are fantastic in the breastfeeding department. Alex is a champion nurser, and I am sooo glad that I stuck with it. I only hope that its not to late and Ava will get back at it without a problem. Formula costs are breaking the bank these days!

This Sunday, the twins will be christened. Family will be visiting from out of town, and we are so excited about the whole ordeal! Robert is psyched that Oliver is coming!

God Bless Alex and Ava! pictures to follow!

Robert

ah, Robert... where do I begin? He's two. enough said. Everyday, it seems, I have a new story to tell about him. For those of you who don't know the most recent anecdotes, I'll share them...

We keep our bathroom door closed and locked. Robert loves to go in and play in the sink, the toilet and most recently the soap. A few days ago, he got in and took the soap pump out and decided to 'clean' his toys in his playroom. He squirted watermelon scented soap on everything... and I mean everything! I was furious. Bobby suggested that I make him eat it. So, I did. I scooped up a whole bunch of it with my finger and put it in his mouth. He made a sour face and then preceeded to say "Mmmm." Are you kidding me? My kid likes the taste of soap! argh!

Today, he was coloring at the island in the kitchen. I guess he got bored of that and decided to add some color to his playroom. We now have purple and blue crayon EVERYWHERE in the playroom. On the rug, the windows, the shelves, the tv... everywhere. It's washable, thank goodness... so I didn't freak out too much. It just sucks that I have to spend his naptime scrubbing it up. blah.

The new phrase in the Trif house: "Robert take your hands out of your pants" He apparently is fascinated with his genitals and constantly has his hands in his diaper. Now, this isn't too big of a deal, we just do lots of handwashing. But at nighttime, he manipulates the diaper so that he wakes up soaked in the morning (which makes mom's favorite part of the day even more delightful - and I am being sarcastic here, folks.)
And lets not forget about the times he likes to show me his poop - conveniently this usually happens when I am nursing the twins. And since I can't react immediately he smears it on the sofa, on himself and on whatever else is closeby.

In the above picture, Robert is holding a tulip that he picked from my cousin's gorgeous flower garden (flowers that weren't for picking) He was filling the tulip with mulch and dumping it on the other flowers. Hmm, he's an artist AND a gardener.

This is my life. As crazy as it is... I love it and I wouldn't want it any other way. I DO have my HANDS full, but I my HEART is full, too. Life is just perfect.

9 weeks old

We are 9 weeks old today... and as you can see, we are becoming more and more alert. Ava is growing like a weed (formula!) and Alex is still kind of tiny (breastmilk!) but growing steadily. Spring is finally here and we have been outside for a few walks already! Alex likes it outside.... and Ava - not so much. Only a few more weeks until their Christening and then vacation!

I'm anxious to get Robert on the beach. Something tells me he is going to love playing in the sand. He has been practicing by playing in the mulch whenever he gets outside! He is such a boy!

8 weeks old

Bigger now! (finally)

Today the twins had a check up. They are 7 weeks old. Doctor Novak was very pleased! We have been on a 'fattening up" diet this week. And the results are in:

(drumroll please)

Ava is 7 lbs 4 oz
Alex is 6lbs 7oz

That means Ava gained 20 oz in 1 week! Is that possible??? I guess she just had alot of catching up to do! Alex gained 14 oz - almost a whole pound! We're psyched! They had to get a shot, which sucked, but we're over it now.

Ava will need to have her frenulum clipped. Doctor Novak thought that it might rip on it's own, but since she is having feeding issues, he said he'd like to see it clipped. He referred me to an ears/nose and throat specialist. So, the sooner thats done, the better - and we can resume nursing more regularly.

I have a confession to make... I have been nursing Ava alot the past few days. (only to follow up with formula afterwards) I missed snuggling with her. She is doing well in the nursing department, and I hope the tongue snip will only help.

Getting bigger? Not really.

I decided to take the twins to the doctor for a weight check. I really didn't feel like they were gaining weight properly and it was starting to make me paranoid and stressed out.

So, as of last Wednesday Ava was still weighing in at 6lbs even (for the 3rd straight week in a row) and Alex had gained 2 oz - which was good, but not good enough.

Time to break out the formula.

This was a really hard transition for me emotionally. I was really beating myself up that I wasn't able to provide for my kids. I struggeled the next day or two over what I was going to do -how I was going to feed them. I thought long and hard about quitting nursing all together. I was so close to throwing the towel in. Then, I thought maybe I'd just continue to nurse the twins a few times a day and give them bottles in between. Although I wasn't enjoying nursing all too much lately... I was sore and felt like something just 'wasn't right'. Finally, we discovered the true problem...

Ava has a short tongue - some might say she's 'tongue-tied'. Her frenulum (that piece of skin under your tongue that connects it to the bottom of your mouth) is basically located at the tip of her tongue and she was having a really hard time latching, thus making her inefficient in her sucking. It wasn't my fault after all. (and there was finally an explanation to the pain and soreness I have been having for weeks now)

I finally made the decision to continue nursing Alex, and to feed Ava with bottles. She will get my pumped milk, and formula when necessary - right now that's alot since she has some catching up to do!

I'm anxious for these kiddos to put some weight on... they've got a gigantic wardrobe to get into!

I'm relieved and so much less stressed now. I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I'm glad I can continue to nurse, and I really feel like I have more structure and more freedom!

Our next doctor's appt is on Wednesday and we're hoping for a big gain.

we're still here!

Alex after his first bath Ava after her first bath

hanging out in their Easter baskets:

Our apologies for being MIA! Life has been hectic.
Ava and Alex are doing well. They are still peanuts - weighing 6lbs even and 5lbs 7 oz respectively. Mom is still nursing round the clock, and all is going well.

The babies will be christened on May 20th, so that is our next big event. The following week, we head to Ocean City for 2 weeks of fun in the sun! But first comes Easter - I can't believe it's this week already!