Monday with a Little Cake....

I started my 2nd week back at work. Today. I'm beat! And very thankful, when I got to come home early. In fact, I might have tried to kiss the lead nurse. I think Maria just knew, I'm still struggling with this new schedule.

James got off of work, earlier in the day, than me. So he picked up the girls. And this momma ran home! Practically. When I got home, I was grateful to see that James had done a little grocery shopping. And noticed my list. That included ingredients, for this lovely cake. :)

I spotted this cake last night. When I was reading some of my favorite blogs. Really, it was like the heavens were opening up. Orangesicles are my favorite summertime treat!! Even half asleep, and with only a receipt to write on, I jotted down the ingredients.

And because our beautiful baby girls, were down for their afternoon nap, when I got home. And James had fallen asleep too. Momma had some time on her hands. Which was good for all. I mixed together this treat. And now, I'm sitting here, waiting for the fruits of my labor, to be ready.

Really, how can I complain? It's Monday, and I got to leave work early. My girls are happy and healthy. My hubby is too! And we have the rest of tonight, to just enjoy each other's company. And a piece of this delicious cake!! My whole house, smells like an Orangesicle!!

If you want to bake one too, head over to Shay's blog for the directions. And don't blame me, if you spend a few hours searching through her recipes. :)

Who Knew??

I've really been enjoying my girls. And maternity leave. And of course, this warm weather. Tonight, James is going to grill for us. A little chicken. And I told him that I'd make some sort of pasta salad. It's our favorite!!

 

I was thinking about this. And how I wanted to try something new. Something a little different. And I remembered this post. I'd read it months ago. Then I bookmarked it. Today, I dug this back up. I wrote down the ingredients. And loaded up the girls.

 

My quick trip to the store, resulted in 2 hours at World Market. Then another 2 hours at Target. Not including breastfeeding in the car. You see, I got a little distracted. There are so many great things at World Market!! I usually go with my friend. But she's been out of town.

I still can't believe, that I spent that long, in World Market!! How in the world, do you debate buying serving bowls and platters, for an hour? I did!! And I know it will happen again. Because I love that place!! And I really do adore Target. For the love of life itself, why does Target always have to have such cute things??

Back to my regularly scheduled program here. :) I've got noodles boiling. And veggies chopped. Who knew, you could eat zucchini raw?? I didn't!! It's a new concept for me. But something I'm excited to try. Now what time is?? And when is James coming home?? Because I might have also picked up some fresh pineapple to grill. And a little vanilla ice cream to go with it. This staying home business, it's a GREAT thing!! Next up on my aadventures, trying a few more of these yummy treats. :)

Sugar and Spice: Week 2

Can we start this week's Sugar and Spice with....when did time start flying? How are my girls already a month old?? This is just too much!! Here we go!!

 

Sugar:

 

*Our twins, turned a month old!! Yesterday. There were a ton of tears shed. On my part. I just feel like they are growing so fast.

*Aubrey's sweet smile, when she's done breastfeeding. It makes me, want to eat her up!

*Her little sister Rosalie's soft coos, during our early morning feedings.

*My sweet hubby. Who insists on getting up with the girls at night. For diaper changes. Even when he has to work the next day!!

*This sweet lady. Just because she's so sweet. Never goes a day, without calling to check on us. And sends us the sweetest packages in the mail!!

*The "warmer weather." Yes, it hasn't been so cold lately! And that has been such a comfort!

*These silly footy pjs. Love them!! James is a total rock star hubby. But especially for buying them for me. :)

*The stack of movies, that my MIL sent us. They've been a nice little blessing. :)

*Sweet friends who visit. And bring yummy food with them!! Thank you Chavez Family!!

*Lastly, I found this recipe on Pinterest. James got up, extra early yesterday. And made us a batch. With some yummy bacon. To celebrate our sweet girls!! They were delish!!

 

 

Spice:

*The HUGE blowout that Rosalie had, at her doctor's appointment. That got James dirty too. And we didn't have a change of clothes for him. Let's just say, I've learned my lesson. Not only do we have a change of clothes for the girls. We've got 2 each! And a change for each  of us....
*My slow cooker just dying. In the middle of making us dinner.
*Me not realizing it, until dinner time. By then, the food smelled like it spoiled. We had pizza for dinner that night.
*Realizing that baby spit up, gets everywhere. When does this happen?? I swear I don't see it happening. But I smell it later....
*Not having clothes that fit. I'm in that weird "in between" stage.
*Calling my mom, in the middle of me crying about something. But not really. I realized I had dialed the chief's home number. Did I go blond while I wasn't looking?
*Mailing some "Thank You" cards. And forgetting the postage. Needless to say, all 50 showed up in our mailbox.
*BIG tears after baby shots. I felt like they had tore my heart, right out of my chest. When did that happen??
*Miscalculating our "baby needs." And running out of wipes, in the middle of the night. :(
*Craving that chocolate raspberry ice cream. The one that H&D used to make. What I'd do for another taste of it....

What was your week like? I feel like mine was so full of ups and downs. Mostly ups. I'm falling more in love with my hubby, and girls, every day!! I can't remember what life was like....just a month ago. I just wish, I could bottle up this time!!

Home Depot Has What??

Last week, I was catching up on some blogs. Trying not to jump out of my skin. You know, anticipating the girls' birth. I started reading this post. And started dreaming a little. You know, about the day I would have 2 girls. And could take them on fun outings.

Oh ya! I was pumped!! There is just something, about Christmas. To me, it screams "kids." And makes me want to have a dozen!! I have this soft spot in my heart, for kids. It's the reason I'm a pediatric nurse. :)

Back to the post. Besides the darling Kensington, I noticed her little stuffed animals. Could this be the "mommy in me?" Not sure! But I thought to myself, the perfect addition, to the girls' Christmas nursery. I googled the doll. And ordered 2. So cute!! But the Rudolph. I didn't know where it came from.

I left Shay a quick comment. And she almost immediately, pointed me to Home Depot. Who the heck knew?? Since I knew James was heading to Home Depot already, I asked him to search out these little guys. When I mentioned that they were for the girls, he was all over it! Yes, he bought supplies for our door decoration. And some stuffed animals. :)

And guess who made it home first?? Our little buddies here. But it looks like we'll get to take the girls home tomorrow!! I'm so excited!! Christmas, 2 beautiful babies, our family....life doesn't get any better!! :)

Pregnancy Update: Week 37

How far along? 37 Weeks!!
Total weight gain: 38 lbs (Pre-pregnancy weight: 115 lbs). I don't even know how I'm gaining weight. I barely eat anymore.
Babies are the size of: The twins, are as long, as a stalk of Swiss chard.
Babies' development: From what I hear, the twins are running out of room. They're growing so big. That all these things I'm feeling, are the babies stretching and wiggling. No more hard kicks. :(
Estimated length of babies': About 19.13 in
Estimated weight of babies': Around 6.30 lbs. That's each baby. I know that my girls are quite that big. But still. That a lot of baby!
Maternity clothes: Clothes?? Why do pregnant women need to wear clothes? I'm pretty sure, I've worn pjs for days. Weeks even. And now, I don't even want to do that! Everything is irritating my belly. I've begun to wear underwear and big shirts around the house. Except when we have visitors.
Stretch marks: I'm moisturizing, like my life depends on it! No lie!! But I'm pretty sure, that I see a little stretch mark coming on. And my new BFF....she's just keeps on getting darker.
Sleep: Sleep?? What is that? I can't get comfortable to sleep. My belly is just too big. Last week, I was all about sleeping. This past week, almost nothing at all!!
Best moment this week: Installing our car seats. It just made all these things so real!! 5 days until our induction. I'm nervous and excited!!
Miss anything: Sleeping. Being comfortable in my skin. A belly that doesn't itch so much. My word!! I look like a crazy lady, scratching my belly.
Movement: It's definitely not the hard kicks, from a few weeks ago. More like turns, wiggles, hiccups, and hands and feet pushing against my belly. At first, that was a little spooky. But it's something that I'm growing to love. I almost feel like I can grab the girls' hands. :)
Food cravings: Thanks to this lady, I'm back to loving crispy tortillas with cheese. Not quite a quesadilla. Better! And water with orange slices. Yum! I can't get enough!!
Gender prediction: 2 beautiful little girls!!
Anything making you queasy or sick: Eating more than half a sandwich. I can't eat too much. Or else I get sick to my stomach. Also, trying to bend over. Good thing I don't have to tie any shoes.
Labor signs: Braxton Hicks contractions are happening more and more every day. I get at least 1 bad one a day. I have to stop what I'm doing. Just to get through it. The Drs. tell me, this is very normal. And actually really good for me and the girls.
Symptoms: Light headed, when I do anything to exert myself. If I get up too quick, lie on my side, bend over, laugh too hard. I'm also incredibly sore. Like I've run a marathon or something.
Belly button in or out: It's as out as you can get!
Wedding rings on or off: They're very tight. But I managed to jam them on, for both of our outings this week.
Happy or Moody most of the time: I've been on "Cloud 9" all week! Singing to my girls. Taking in these last few days of pregnancy.
Looking forward to: Finally holding our girls!! This week. I just can't believe it. After all we've been through. This is just a miracle. Soon we'll have Gwen and Melia to hold. And love!!

Door Candy :)

I was browsing my favorite blogs over the weekend, and I came across something so fun. And so festive, that I begged my hubby to run to Hobby Lobby. Just for me! And what was it, that caught my eye? This cute candy cane....

Monday night, James put the plumbing thing and hanger together for me. And then spent the night, watching the football game. Me? I spent it making a perfect candy cane. For our side door!! :)
Yes, I'm proud of myself. My candy cane looks a little different. It's a lot bigger, than I first thought. My embellishments have a lot more "glitz" to them. But it so fun! And festive. Apparently, I was so into my craft, that it completely wore me out! I fell asleep, before watching my beloved, 2 Broke Girls, and Teen Mom 2.

But I learned a few things. 1, I adore crafting! 2, I can craft. 3, our bed still has feathers and glitter in it. Probably not the best place to "get my craft on." Between, I have an A-M-A-Z-I-N-G hubby! What other husband goes to Hobby Lobby to buy these items? Just so his wife, can make this silly candy cane. I LOVE James so much!!

I'm Not Alone!!

OK, so I should be in church right now. Should. But you know the situation. I'm on bed rest. Just 10 days from being induced!! And well, I can't contain myself. James left for church about an hour ago. I'm sure he won't be home, for another 2 hours. That's the tough part, of worshiping, an hours drive from where you live....

That means, I've got some time to kill. The minute hubs hit the door, I hit Pinterest. And these pictures, just made me smile!!

 

Do you get it? It's Christmas decorating....for a nursery!! First of all, I adore little Harper's nursery. And Jessica's blog. Which I originally found through Pinterest. Because of her amazing chalkboard skills!! If you personally know us, now you know!! That was my inspiration, for our mass amount of pictures....with the chalkboard!!

I'm not completely sure how I missed this post. But I found the pictures on Pinterest. Just now! And I just couldn't help myself, I had to go to the post!! The thing is, I've been buying Christmas decorations for the girls. I've ordered some online. Including an "Elf on the Shelf." And I might have also convinced some friends, to pick me up a few things.

James on the other hand, thinks I'm a nutcase!! Why would I want to decorate the nursery?? With Christmas decorations. After 10 years, you'd think he would know me by now! Little by little, I've been handing the decorations over to Lola. You know, our nursery is still a secret, to James and I.

But I know Lola. And I know her LOVE of all things holiday! Christmas included!! She decks out the kids' rooms at the hospital. Every holiday. So I knew my girls would be in good hands. This post, just solidifies, that we're not nuts!!

I like how the decorations aren't too much. Or overwhelming. Just perfect. Adding the charm and magic of Christmas, without too much "in your face." A few fun additions. Splashes of holiday cheer, and color.

Between you and me, that doll, she just caught my eye!! I don't know what it is. But I just have to have her. Or something really similar. I've left a comment for Jessica, and hope to hear back soon. 23 days 'til Christmas. Y'all my girls NEED that doll!!

And that red polka dot blanket. You can bet your behind, that I called this lady. Who by the way, is helping to transport some pediatric burn victims today. Flying back and forth, between our hospital, and the nearest burn center. Please keep them all in your prayers. It was a tragic accident. I'm just grateful, that our hospital has an amazing team. Including this gal!

Between flights, and work, I managed to get in touch with her. Sent her this picture. And asked her, if she might have some time, to make me 2 blankets. :) I was prepared to beg. But I'm so blessed. With a friend, who has a heart, the size of Texas!!

Then I sent James a text. With this picture. And told him, he needed to stop by the fabric store. To pick up some similar fabric. His response, "Gotcha babe!" I love him so!! Now you all know, why these 10 years, have been such a blessing!!

I should probably stay off of Pinterest. You know, for at least the rest of the day. :) Before I get into any more trouble. Dream up anymore ideas, for my girls. And spend more money. Happy Sunday!!

Pregnancy Update: Week 36

How far along? 36 Weeks!! I NEVER thought I'd get this far. Wow!!
Total weight gain: 36 lbs (Pre-pregnancy weight: 115 lbs). Can I get a bulldozer, to help us get around? My back is refusing to do anymore work.
Babies are the size of: A canary melon. Again, I turned to this girl. She not only told me what a canary melon is. Lola brought me one. :) It was so sweet, and delicious! Right up my alley!!
Babies' development: The twins' wrinkly skin, is not so wrinkly anymore. There are starting to pack on the lbs. :) Our Dr. can't get over their chunky thighs!!
Estimated length of babies': About 18.66 in
Estimated weight of babies': Around 5.78 lbs. Each people!!
Maternity clothes: Are we talking clothes here? I live in pjs and big shirts. I've done "graduated" out of most of my clothes. Maternity and all! James bought me 5 pairs of "super maternity, flannel pjs." I'm wearing the heck out of them! With some men's white "muscle" shirts. Size XL please!! When we have to leave the house, I've got 2....maybe 3 outfits to wear....
Stretch marks: I'm seeing a hint of something. But I'm not completely sure if they're stretch marks. Here's to hoping they're not. And all moisturizing is doing it's job!! But oh that line....she is so present!!
Sleep: Honestly, it's all day, every day. I'm up 3 hours, I sleep 3 hours. Like clockwork. I never realized you could sleep this much. Or be completely exhausted at times, with this much sleep. But obviously, my body needs to rest. So resting we are!
Best moment this week: Our appointment on Wednesday. Paperwork was completed. December 12th, is the "Big Day!" The "cherry on top," both girls have gained weight. between 6-9 oz. People that means I'm carrying over 11 lbs of baby!!
Miss anything: Moving with ease. A good, solid 6 hours of sleep. Without 5-6 potty breaks. Tying my shoes. Heck, I miss my shoes!! And my clothes. Oh, and eating a complete dinner.
Movement: All day. Every day. It's so amazing!! The girls like to be on the same side of my belly. That means, momma has a lopsided belly....most of the time! On Wednesdays, we have the girls' appointments. On Fridays, we have our regular appointments. Between any given Wednesday and Friday, the girls go from "head up," to "head down." The Drs. just crack up!!
Food cravings: Rudy's BBQ. It's all I can think of. Maybe it's the commercials. Maybe it's my neighbor. Crazy thing is, I've never eaten there! I could also go for this lady's pineapple upside down cake. Yum!
Gender prediction: Still 2 beautiful little girls!!
Anything making you queasy or sick: Still the mention, thought, or smell of flan. I know!! Totally weird.
Labor signs: At least 2 Braxton Hicks contractions a day. Once in a while, one will be really bad. Like I need to stop, and breathe it out. I've had a couple at night. That wake me up. I actually had one on Monday night, that brought some tears. I can tell, we're getting closer!
Symptoms: Just soreness. I feel like I've been working out, 24/7. My muscles are so sore!! My back is the worst. And when I try to bend over, I get so light headed.
Belly button in or out: Completely out!! I wonder if she will ever go back in....
Wedding rings on or off: On, but they are definitely getting tight. On Saturday, I couldn't even get my rings on. I halfway think, that has to do with all that Thanksgiving food....
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy most of the time. I can definitely tell you, I'm a lot more emotional. I've watched Giuliana and Bill a few times this past week. When Duke was born. Balled my eyes out!!
Looking forward to: Meeting our girls!! All of it. Holding them, snuggling them, feeding them, dressing them up. All of it! I'm so glad that we've scheduled my induction for December 12th. I now have a date to focus on. :)

And We Have a Date!!

We had our weekly "Baby Checkup" today. I don't know if I've said this before, but every Wednesday, we have a Dr.'s appointment. For the girls. To make sure everything is going a OK. To check on their growth and progress. We've had a few scares along the way. And I now understand, the importance of 2 Dr.'s appointments a week.

Since the beginning of the month, we've been "toying" with some dates. For induction. There was one date, since my 2nd trimester, that has always come up. December 12th. Which totally made James crack up. You know, all the 12/12/12 thing, that's going on. James kept joking with me, that we'd finally get our babies. As the world is ending.

Well, today we did the paperwork. Signed off on everything. All of our Drs. agree, and are ready. Are you serious? Yes, we are!! In 2 weeks, I'm going to be induced!! I'll be 37 1/2 weeks! And it will be December 12th. 5am. We'll be that much closer, to becoming parents. Folks this has been over 10 years, in the making!!

Sugar and Spice: Week 13

Wow! I can't believe I'm writing my 13th Sugar and Spice. You know what that means? I've been on bed rest for 13 weeks!! But people, I can see the end in sight.

Let's get on with this. Because I'm sure, you don't want to hear all about my bed rest, pregnancy aches and pains, and all that other good stuff. So here we go....

Sugar:

*Thanksgiving with family and friends! Hello! It doesn't get much better than that. :)
*Lots of yummy food. Specifically, my mom's stuffing. And my momma-in-law's sweet potatoes. We're not going to talk about the weight, I'm sure I gained. We're just going to blame it on the pregnancy. Even though we all know, it was probably the 5 servings of sweet potatoes!!
*Super stretchy, maternity leggings. Because hello, this belly is HUGE!! Add in all the food, and heck, I don't know how my clothes fit!!
*James going "Black Friday" shopping with our mommas. It was for our girls. So he was all in! And came home, with some really good deals. :)
*Thanksgiving with my hubby. Being that he's a fireman, we usually don't get to spend the holiday together. He's usually working.
*Pumpkin brownies!! Hello!! I LOVE Mrs. C! And she is welcome anytime. Especially with those brownies!
*Teen Mom 2. I know. But I'm ridiculously addicted to this show.
*Buying the girls, their first ornaments. Yes, I managed a fairly quick run to Hallmark. With James. This is definitely something, that I've wanted to do for a while.
*Christmas decorations going up. I didn't get to put them up. But boy, they are gorgeous! And getting me into a festive mood. :)
*A warm Thanksgiving. The weather was so nice, that we spent much of the day, on the back patio. It was beautiful!

Spice:

*I can't move. I'm positive that I've become a beached whale. I need help to get up. There are even nights, when James has to help me roll over. Hello!!
*This itchy belly. Why must it itch so much?? Dry skin is the worst!! I swear to you, I almost feel like I'm basting a turkey. You know, every time I slather on the moisturizer!
*Cankles. Hello there!! Didn't know that you would want to hangout. But apparently, we're going to be BBFs!!
*I couldn't stand cranberry sauce this year. Usually, I eat it all. This year, I didn't even want it near me!
*Still no Wons Upon a Time. What else can I say? I miss the cute little Isabelle posts. I just hope all is well with the family.
*Literally, 12 bathroom breaks a night. Hello!! Didn't think that was possible.
*Staying on that note, I miss sleeping through the night.
*Missing "Black Friday." I usually live for the day. Planning out my shopping trip. Knowing exactly what I'm buying, from each store. With all my ads highlighted, written on, and ready to go!
*Missing church. Yes, I still miss it so! Although, my friend, got our priest to come for a visit. I didn't know that they did "Home Visits." But it was nice! It definitely lifted my spirits as we prayed together. But I still miss going to church.
*Saying "goodbye" to our family. I really wish they lived here!

That's it folks. At least that's all I can think of. But then again, I'm sure I'm still in a "Turkey Coma." And we're already missing our family!! Glad that they came. And cooked us so much amazing food! But I really do wish, that they could stay longer. Have a Blessed Sunday!!

Pregnancy Update: Week 35

How far along? 35 Weeks!! Can we all say "Wow!!"
Total weight gain: 35 lbs (Pre-pregnancy weight: 115 lbs). Y'all notice that? I'm 35 weeks along. And I've gained 35 lbs. Wonder how much more I'll gain.
Babies are the size of: A honeydew melon. That's pretty big y'all!
Babies' development: The twins' are like their momma. They're starting to get ready for birth. And now, should be "head down." I say, should, because Melia was "head down" last week. At this week's appointments, she's been "head up."
Estimated length of babies': About 18.19 in
Estimated weight of babies': Around 5.25 lbs
Maternity clothes: I'm sticking to maternity leggings. I will admit this. I may have cut out the waistbands of 3 pair, just this week. The waistbands are really starting to bother me. But I do enjoy, dressing up for outings. You know, our appointments and such. But yesterday, was just a comfy day. It's the only way, I could get through Thanksgiving, being this pregnant.
Stretch marks: Nothing yet. But this line is still going strong!
Sleep: I'm exhausted! And I've started to nap, multiple times a day. As in, a few hours up, a few hours asleep. Y'all is this normal??
Best moment this week: Having our family here. They don't live near us. So it's nice, when they can come for a visit. Man have we missed them! It just made our Thanksgiving so special. We even managed to hang the Christmas decorations. And by "we," I mean my mom and momma-in-law. :)
Miss anything: Eating without feeling like a "stuffed turkey." I also have to admit this, I miss my pre-pregnancy clothes. And the way I felt in them.
Movement: The girls move around all the time. I just adore watching, and feeling them. James and I just LOVE to watch them at night. They get so active, right before bedtime. It's wonderful to watch them. Making all their cute movements. Hiccups are becoming a regular too! Which I just adore!!
Food cravings: Anything pumpkin. But this might have something to do with the season. And these 2 wonderful ladies, that are cooking for us. But really, I can't get enough of it!!
Gender prediction: 2 beautiful little girls!!
Anything making you queasy or sick: Heavy perfume. I discovered that Wednesday. At our appointment. When this lady walked in. With such strong perfume. I had to wobble on out, of the waiting room.
Labor signs: Braxton Hicks contractions are becoming more regular. My Dr. told me, that I'm starting to "prepare" for the birth too! I'm thinning, and have begun to dilate. Apparently, my body thinks we're at 40 weeks.
Symptoms: Tired all the time!! My belly also itches like no other! And feels like it could be on fire. I've also noticed, my appetite is going away. Very quickly!!
Belly button in or out: Oh. Emm. Geee!! She is out!! As far as one could get. You can even tell through my clothes.
Wedding rings on or off: On. But I have to admit, they are getting tighter.
Happy or Moody most of the time: I'm a "happy camper." But also quite emotional. After everyone left this morning, I cried. Like a big 'ol baby. Because everyone else, went "Black Friday" shopping. Who does this? This very pregnant lady!
Looking forward to: The holidays with our girls. I just can't wait! We've all got our Christmas pjs. James bought so many presents today. Our decorations are up. We just have to wait for our beautiful girls.

Christmas PJs

A few weeks ago, I ran into a Dr. that I work with. I was at the hospital for a checkup. And he was there, having dinner with his wife. By the way, when James and I are old, I hope to be just like Dr. and Mrs. C. He still call his wife, "My Bride." They've been married over 60 years!!

James and I ran into them, as we were leaving our appointment. We were on "Cloud 9." My belly was leading the way. And Dr. and Mrs. C, invited us to sit with them. The fact that she had brought a homemade pie, and was offering me some, was a total bonus! Mrs. C makes dinner every day for them. And brings it into the hospital to share. Most days, they eat alone. It's so cute! Some days, they invite Dr. M and Dr. S to eat with them.

This was a total treat for me!! I NEVER get to eat with them. Although, Mrs. C has brought us plenty of yummy, baked goods. My schedule usually doesn't "match up" with Dr. C. But this day it did. Can you tell how much I enjoyed the pie?? Oh, and I also got a meatloaf sandwich out of it. :)

Dr. and Mrs. C happened to have 4 kids. Grown of course! With tons of grandkids. But they never get to see them. They live in NYC area. And we live in the southwest. Instead, they spoil the Drs., interns, and such that work in the hospital. Take all of us in, like their family. :)

We were all chatting about the girls. How potentially, I could be induced on December 12th. How the pregnancy is progressing. Mrs. C asked if there was anything else I was needing. Or wanting. Before the twins come. Honestly, there is not much left to do. We've been so blessed!! By our friends and family.

But I've been wanting some Christmas pjs for the girls. I haven't found anything online. James hasn't found anything in the stores. He's so cute! I send him out, looking for random things like this. Or tights with polka dots. Anyway, Mrs. C stopped by yesterday. To bring us some yummy treats. And 2 sets of these....

Aren't they adorable!! Not only did the girls get pjs. They got the slippers, and hats too! So sweet. I can't believe Dr. and Mrs. C did this for us!! I'm sure the girls are going to look adorable. Simply adorable!! I'm tempted to order James and I, a pair of these. ;) So we can all match!! Too bad they're not our size. But wouldn't this be a fun tradition to start? New Christmas pjs, for Christmas Eve!!

Anyway that you spin this, we're going to be so blessed this Christmas. We're going to have 2 of the most precious gifts, that we could ever ask for. Totally styling, in these cute outfits. Thank you Dr. and Mrs. C!!

Sugar and Spice: Week 12

How's every one's week been? Me? I think I might have forgotten what sleep is. I'm exhausted! But I'm getting it together. And I'm just grateful, that I can nap whenever I want. Let's get this week's Sugar and Spice underway!

Sugar:

*Once Upon a Time! Hello, it's so good every week. Clearly, it's becoming a favorite of mine. What in the world am I going to do, when I go back to work. I usually work Sundays....
*Dove's dark chocolate and raspberry candies. Thank you Lola for sharing them with me!! Life changing. People you must try them!!
*Long phones calls, with good friends. Sometimes, you just NEED to talk it out. Glad I got this girl, and this one, and this one....to talk to!
*Cranberry juice. Unexpected for sure! I've never liked it before. But all of a sudden, I NEED a glass during breakfast. Every day!!
*A hubby that brings home beautiful flowers. Just because. He's definitely a keeper. Y'all don't be jealous!!
*Beautiful gift wrap. Just sitting here, waiting to be used up! The ribbons are pretty gorgeous too! Christmas, you can't come soon enough!
*My hubby's "All Day Chili." Heck ya! He cooked it twice, in 8 days. Love this man! And his chili. :)
*Online shopping. It's helping me get through the day. And not go nutso! I MISS shopping. But I'm finding out, online shopping can be fun too!!
*Carrot cake cupcakes. Thank you Lola! You know the way to my heart. The girls say Thank you too! Let's just say, we were all happy campers!!
*Most of all, this week I'm grateful for growing babies. My girls are both gaining weight. And doing well. We've even begun talking about potential delivery dates!! :)

Spice:

*Watching Orphan. It scared me to death!! Literally, I couldn't sleep on Wednesday night. Because of this movie. I had to wait until James got home. Don't watch it!
*The smell of burnt toast. It takes forever to go away! Ugh!!
*"Pregnancy Brain." I can't remember my name at times.
*I miss getting my hair done. It's just a "Hot Mess" at the moment! I consider it a total success, to wash it. And throw it in a messy knot. Lame. I know!
*Fighting with Blogger. There are just some days, that I want to blog. And it doesn't let me. Or I want to add something cute to the 'ol blog. Blogger, just let me do it!
*Hearing people say, I look like I'm at 42 weeks! Really, you're not helping me out here. And all the "Bless your little heart," makes me cry.
*On that note, all this crying. When did I get so emotional? I cry for everything. Simply everything! Including when James killed a bug last night.
*All this "Holiday TV" interrupting my regular TV shows. Don't get me wrong, I love me some holiday movies. But I really do miss some of my favs right now.
*Our mail system. Why must all of our mail come back? Or get lost? Ugh! And the USPS is wondering why it's crumbling.
*Politics. Period. I'm so over them! Just get it together. Get our country back on track. Remember the average American. And how hard we work. Please protect us, and our families.

That's it! Oh, I'm so excited!! Our family is coming for a visit this week. Yes, I'm so excited!! Not only am I happy to see our family. But I'm also glad, that James will have some help. I know he's been doing a lot lately. Have a Blessed Sunday!!

Colorful Monkeys

I'm pretty darn sure, that by now, you know about my love of monkeys. It didn't really start until I was pregnant. That first time. And it has only "peeked out," while I've been pregnant. Believe me, I don't usually have stuffed monkeys hanging around.

But now that the girls are almost here, I find myself drawn to little monkeys. We bought some larger stuffed monkeys. At Babies-R-Us. And I asked my friend to decorate them. So that we can hang them on our hospital room door. After the girls are born. I seen this years ago on YouTube. But I can't find that video. :( My friend also made something similar for another friend of hers. But with a baby sheep. So cute!

James already knows, if there's a monkey on a onesie, blanket, or pair of pjs....were buying it. Times 2!! We're not all crazy here. Just a few stuffed animals, a set of Christmas ornaments, and some cute clothes. You know, with monkey faces, on the bums!!

Who knew that my hubby would join in, on all this madness?? I know! Shocking!! But one afternoon, I was cruising through Pinterest. Drooling over all these pictures. Am I the ONLY one that does this?? It proved to be too much for my pregnant self. I fell asleep. And when James got home, he noticed the last picture I was looking at....

Yes, I know! Shocking I tell you! But James hunted down the pattern on Etsy. From what I was told, by the firefighters, it took a few days. And a few of them. And maybe a few of their wives. Who knew it was that hard to find??

In case you're wondering, I don't have a "crafty bone" in my body. But my friend, is beyond talented!! Beyond folks! She did our entire nursery. And I'm thinking, I might need to put in some overtime, this Summer. Just so she can decorate our entire home!! I hear the nursery is AMAZING!! In case you're new around here, James and I, aren't going to see it until we bring the girls home. But I know Lola's work. And I know, it is gorgeous!!

Well, to make a long story short, Miss Lola outdid herself. And recreated this fun outfit. Just for our girls! In about a 3-6 month size. Because my dears, the twins' closet, is overflowing at the moment. With all these teeny, tiny clothes. And this will definitely be something fun, to dress them up in. You know, when it's warmer out.

I still can't believe James. He's "Mr. Wonderful" I tell you! And Lola, for making the cutest little things, just for our girls. I can't wait to dress them up. And take loads and loads of pictures!! Yes, I'm positive, that I'm going to be "that" mom!!

Christmas Perfection!!

This past weekend was one of those, that pre-bed rest, I probably would have enjoyed. Because I would have had time, to meet my friends for lunch. Or go shopping. Maybe have a "spa day." You see, James hasn't worked an entire weekend, in almost 2 months. Not from Friday afternoon, to Monday morning. But this weekend, was his weekend....

And I knew, that I was going to have a ton of hours, to fill up. My friend Rachael offered to hangout with me on Saturday. She's a "firefighter wife." So she gets it. Besides, Rachael was bringing her darling 3 kiddos with her. Total score!!

James had stocked the fridge. With my favorite foods, and snacks. He also was very thoughtful. And got me a lot of things, to occupy my time. Hello new nail polish! I told you ladies, don't be jealous of my hubby. He's just a doll! My friend Sarah, was going to come over, for dinner on Sunday. And I was really excited about this. Because she was bringing over our favorite take-out! All the plans were made.

But it still left me with hours, to fill. Yes, I had my stack of books, magazines, a movies to watch. But I also had Pinterest. An entire weekend, and Pinterest. I don't think I've shared this with you. Since being on bed rest, I must spend 3 hours a day, drooling on Pinterest. Boy, I could get myself into trouble there! If I followed all the links. Instead, I pin the pictures. And this past weekend, I found so many ideas. But nothing, and I mean nothing, as cute as this!!

I know! Christmas is 3 months away. But folks, that's just 3 months. What did I do, the minute I seen this on Pinterest? I followed the link here. Oh ya, I don't know how to crochet. But this lady does. And I just might have, emailed her the link, and begged her to make me 2.

Now my friend doesn't want to charge me. And I don't have a way to get the supplies. But I'm going to do something for her. Because this is just too much!! And honestly, it didn't take more than me asking, "Can you make this for the girls?" Lola said yes immediately. She is too sweet. And after a long talk this morning, we agreed that she'd "girl up" this little outfit. Maybe make a skirt, for the diaper cover.

I just can't wait to see the outfits! And to see my girls, in these outfits. Lola is going to make them in a newborn size. And I've already dreamt up, ways to take the girls pictures. Newborns at Christmas. Who would have thought! But it sounds like so much fun!! Just 3 more months.

First Dolls

Now that we know our twins are girls, let the spoiling begin!! I've ordered a mass amount of bows and headbands, from Etsy. LOVE that place!! I've got my eye on some blankets. But the one thing, that James and I really wanted to do, was buy them something special. Perhaps, that something special, that will become their "buddy."

I don't know about you. But growing up, I had this stuffed doll. She wasn't a plastic doll. No. Something that my parents had picked up. I think my mom said, that she bought it at an arts and crafts event. But my doll is a rag doll. That became my BBF.

Even when I moved out, and went to college, my doll came with me. I know! I was 18 y/o. But she was my doll. The one thing I slept with, until James and I got married. :)

I want my girls to have something special like that. Something, that will get them through illnesses, and that they just adore. A little friend that they can turn to....and love. Something, that when they are 30 y/o, they will see. And it will flood them, with memories of a happy childhood.

Before we knew that our twins were girls, I'd looked at many things on Etsy. I'd saved the various shops. That had cute stuffed toys. But I kept coming back to one shop. And silently, in my heart, I prayed that I could order 2 of these....

Not going to lie here. They are pricey. But some things in life, were meant to cost a little more. Because they have meaning. And were made with love. James and I immediately contacted the seller. And ordered 2!! We might not know, what our girls will look like. What color of hair, or eyes they will have. Or what colors and patterns, they will like most. But, we ordered something, that we both enjoyed.

Yes, it was a team effort here. That's a lot of money to spend. So we wanted to make our purchase, something that we'd both enjoy. The girls very first dolls, will be something very special!! With dark hair. I'm almost positive, our girls will have dark hair. They will be half hispanic after all!!

I'm most excited about this purchase. And the delivery. Is that nuts? I hope not. Because this was a "Big Day" for us. You know, after finding out that our twins are both girls!! I just can't wait to surround them with ruffles, bows, lace, pink stuff, dolls, and lots and lots of girly things!! This is going to be so fun!!

Pregnancy Update: Week 14

How far along? 14 Weeks
Total weight gain: 9 lbs (Pre-pregnancy weight: 115 lbs). I see a pattern developing. And it scares me. But my Dr. tells me, it's normal. We'll see when I'm as "big as a house!"
Babies are the size of: A nectarine.
Babies' development: All of the twins organs formed, in the 1st trimester. From now on, they'll be maturing.
Estimated length of babies': About 3.42 in
Estimated weight of babies': Less than 1.52 oz. Their weight has almost doubled again!!
Maternity clothes: Why didn't I do this earlier? I've never been more comfortable. I even managed to find some maternity scrubs! :)
Stretch marks: None
Sleep: I'm completely exhausted after work! Completely!! I need to nap, after my shift. But that could be from the long hours. On my days off, I'm pretty good. I seem to have more energy these days.
Best moment this week: Last week, we started our registry. But I was pretty lost. Didn't get too far.  But on Wednesday, Rachael helped me out so much! She brought Miss Savannah with her. And we put lots of stuff on our registry. Mostly "gender neutral." But I totally trust Rachael. She's a momma of 3. 2 boys, and a new baby girl. Hopefully, we can do this again. In 2 weeks. When we find out our babies' genders.
Miss anything: Being comfy in clothes. It's weird to explain. But I can't wait to come home, and rip off my scrub pants. Maternity or not, my belly is screaming for help. All day long!!
Movement: I felt some flutters at our appointment. The nurse told me, that the babies were moving. It was the oddest feeling. Not strong. Just....different. Like muscles moving. Or bubbles. Yes, that's more like it. Bubbles!!
Food cravings: This week, all I can think of is, sweets!! Ice cream, cake, cupcakes, warm chocolate chip cookies. Oh, and watermelon. I think I can eat an entire one!
Gender prediction: James is predicting 2 girls. I'm positive that there is at least 1 girl. But not sold on 2....not yet anyway. :)
Anything making you queasy or sick: Anything with mayo. This is new. And so weird! I just can't deal with the smell.
Labor signs: None
Symptoms: I've been getting dizzy more often. I just think, I'm trying to move too quickly. Last Saturday, I went to the Farmers' Market. For 2 days after, my feet were so swollen. This was very odd to me.
Belly button in or out: In
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy and excited! I never thought I could be this full of joy and love!!
Looking forward to: Time with our friends this week. And with our families soon! I just can't wait!! I'm bursting with love for everyone. :)

Pregnancy Update: Week 13

How far along? 13 Weeks
Total weight gain: 7 lbs (Pre-pregnancy weight: 115 lbs). 2 more lbs! What's going on?? I know I'm having twins. But is this normal??
Babies are the size of: Meyer lemon. If you are like me, you ask what's the difference between a regular lemon, and a Meyer lemon? Honestly, in size, I don't think there is a difference. The Meyer lemon is just more round. I bought some, but for some reason, citrus just doesn't sounds good.
Babies' development: The twins are forming their vocal chords. This is when we start to see, if they are more like James, or me. :)
Estimated length of babies': About 2.91 in
Estimated weight of babies': Less than 0.81 oz
Maternity clothes: I caved this week. And I started wearing my maternity pants this week. I also went out and bought some bigger scrub bottoms. Mine are just too tight!!
Stretch marks: Not a one!
Sleep: I'm sleepy all the time. But I'm resisting. I just have so much to do. I think my biggest problem, is having to get up all night long! I'm going to bed between 8:30-9:00pm. Most nights. And sleeping until 6:30am. It just doesn't seem to be helping....
Best moment this week: Wearing my maternity clothes. Crazy, right? But I just LOVE that I finally get to wear them. To be 100% honest here, I've had some of these things, for a few years now.
Miss anything: Weird enough, sleeping on my tummy. I don't do it a lot. But when I'm snuggling with my hubby, that's my preferred position. Now, I must find a new way to sleep, with my hubs.
Movement: Nothing. But I'm waiting for it!
Food cravings: Cheerios and cucumbers. Not together. But I want both of those, most days. Oh, and a new one for me....mashed bananas on toast. Yum! My new breakfast. And "after dinner" snack. :)
Gender prediction: James is predicting 2 girls. I'm leaning towards 1 girl, 1 boy. 99.9% of the people we work with, say 2 boys....
Anything making you queasy or sick: Now that BBQ season is in full swing, I'm in trouble!! The smell of BBQ sauce, and most meats, sends me running. Oddly enough, so does the smell of beer. We went out to dinner this week, I just couldn't handle it. We ended up getting our food to go. Oh, and citrus. That's weird. Even I know that!
Labor signs: None
Symptoms: I've been really tired. And if I move too quickly, I'm getting dizzy. Also, my breasts are incredibly sore! I experienced this pre-pregnancy. Thanks to hormones. And probably around weeks 4-8. But it seems to be back!
Belly button in or out: In
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody most of the time: Excited!! This is the end of my 1st trimester. I can't believe how fast, it's gone. I've NEVER made it this far in a pregnancy. And I'm just "over the moon!" This whole pregnancy thing, I'm loving it! I wouldn't mind doing it again. :)
Looking forward to: Learning the gender of our babies!! In 3 weeks, they will tell us. Although, they say they can tell at 15 weeks. There is no "guarantee" on that deal. Until weeks 16-20. I can't wait!

Pregnancy Update: Week 12

How far along? 12 Weeks
Total weight gain: 5 lbs (Pre-pregnancy weight: 115 lbs). Another 2 lbs. Regularly, I'd be stressing out! But this is "good weight gain." 3 weeks ago, my Dr. was worried.
Babies are the size of: A passion fruit. I'd heard of these. But I'd NEVER seen one! James came home with 2. For us to try out.
Babies' development: The twins are forming their bones, fingernails, toenails, and a fine layer of hair. All over their bodies!!
Estimated length of babies': About 2.13 in
Estimated weight of babies': Less than 0.49 oz. Almost double last week's weight!!
Maternity clothes: My pants are getting really tight. I should start wearing some of the maternity ones, that I bought last week. Other than that, I've been wearing this band I bought. To allow me to wear some of my "normal" clothes, a little longer. I did try out 2 maternity shirts. And I really like them. :)
Stretch marks: Not a one!
Sleep: If I didn't have to work, I might sleep 24/7. No lie! I've even cut my "getting ready time" down. Just for some extra zzz's in the morning. Funny how I don't sleep good at night. But when 4am rolls around, I'm so good!
Best moment this week: Searching out nursery inspiration. With my mom and momma-in-law. I'm pretty sure, I know what I want. :)
Miss anything: A good night of sleep, BBQ food, and did I mention sleep??
Movement: None. But I hear, it's just around the corner!
Food cravings: Cheerios, cucumbers, bing cherries, fresh pineapple, and baked S&P chips. :)
Gender prediction: James is predicting 2 girls. I'm leaning towards 1 girl, 1 boy. 99.9% of the people we work with, say 2 boys....
Anything making you queasy or sick: BBQ food. Just the smell of it, sends me running. But it's all I can think of.
Labor signs: None
Symptoms: Feeling more "human." But still so tired! And now, way out of breath. When did that happen?
Belly button in or out: In
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody most of the time: Very happy. But when I'm tired, really tired, I'm so emotional! Like yell at my hubby, emotional. Just because he asked me, to pick up some bread, at the grocery store. Where I already was. Because I was tired. Yes, I feel really bad about that.
Looking forward to: Eating normally again. And feeling more energetic. Oh ya, and buying stuff for our nursery.

Pregnancy Update: Week 11

How far along? 11 Weeks
Total weight gain: 3 lbs (Pre-pregnancy weight: 115 lbs) Holy cow! How did that happen?? In just 7 days people!!
Babies are the size of: About the size of a Brussels sprout!
Babies' development: From now until week 20, the twins' are going to triple in length and their weight will increase triple fold.
Estimated length of babies': About 1.61 in
Estimated weight of babies': Less than 0.25 oz. That's double from last week!
Maternity clothes: I went shopping. Picked up a few things. Because I'm starting to get a little tummy.
Stretch marks: None :)
Sleep: I'm tired 24/7. But I just can't sleep. I feel sick all the time. Make at least 5 potty breaks a night. But at work, in a chair, I take 5 minute naps. All day long!!
Best moment this week: Browsing the maternity and baby departments, at Target. Just dreaming up our future. Oh, I can't wait!!
Miss anything: Sleep. I'm talking good sleep. And eating a hotdog at Target. Crazy! I know. :)
Movement: Nothing so far.
Food cravings: Dry Cheerios, Target hotdogs, anything from Chico's, banana pancakes, and cucumbers. Out of all these things, I just eat Cheerios. Day and night. And for the last 2 days, I've finished off, an entire bag of English cucumbers. You know the bags. From Costco!!
Gender prediction: James is predicting 2 girls. I'm leaning towards 1 girl, 1 boy. 99.9% of the people we work with, say 2 boys....
Anything making you queasy or sick: Lots of movement, the normal "morning sickness," bending over, strong smelling foods. But can we talk about "morning sickness?" Did a man come up with that term? Because my dears, I'm sick all day long!!
Labor signs: None
Symptoms: Tired, nauseous, and I have 0 energy. I also have 0 desire to cook or clean. Which is a very new thing around here.
Belly button in or out: In
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody most of the time: I'm that happy, tired, always throwing up "pregnant nurse." Bodily fluids don't make me sick. But breakfast trays, oh ya they do!! But I'm keeping my spirits up. Telling the kiddos silly jokes. :)
Looking forward to: Being able to wear my new clothes. I just can't imagine myself, with a big 'ol belly. Even though, my "belly" is already showing. Someone asked me today, if in my 2nd trimester. Not yet. And I've only gained 3 lbs. So how am I already showing??