Just the Inspiration I Needed

Last week, while reading this post, I was inspired. In case you didn't know, I've been a bit lazy in the style department. I have no excuse! But during my last trimester, my outfit of choice was pjs. Or these comfy maternity pants, with a long maternity tank. Shhh! I still wear those tanks. :)

 

And let's just be honest here, I'm a nurse. I spend my days, in scrubs. They're comfy. Perfect for a lazy bun like me. And very matchy, matchy. Essentially....a "no brainer." When I get home, I reach for those pjs. It's a sad, sad cycle. But one that I've been in, for a few months.

 

But back to Andrea. She is 9 months pregnant. In this picture. With her 3rd baby!! And look at how stylish she is. I adore, and maybe just maybe, am a bit jealous of her scarf collection. Reminds me a lot of Ms. Lola's scarf collection. Where do these ladies find, such fun scarves??

 

I saw this look last week. And really liked it. Andrea actually has on jeans, a white t-shirt, and a comfy sweater/cardigan. But these earrings and scarf....they make the entire outfit for me!!

 

 

I wanted a scarf and these earrings for myself. Like these. But how do you ask a perfect stranger? Andrea probably already thinks I'm a nutcase! I asked her about 100 questions last week. So I thought twice about this....

 

But I just couldn't get them out of my mind. What's a girl to do?? Then maybe just maybe, my sweet friend came to the rescue. Told me to hit up Wal-Mart for a similar scarf. Are you for real?? She was!! They had them, in all sorts of neon colors!!

 

And those earrings?? I found a very similar pair at the mall. Where?? Claire's!! I know. It's supposed to be for little girls. But as I walked by, twins in tow, I saw the girl unpacking some boxes. And a bunch of flower earrings. Mine are neon pink, with "gold" accents. Now I need somewhere to go. I've got a cute outfit to wear. Thank you Andrea, for the inspiration! Now do think my sweet hubs would like to meet for lunch??

I NEED to Go Shopping!!

On Sunday night, I was a little tired. After our big Target shopping trip. The girls must have been too! Because they fell asleep early. And stayed asleep, for hours!!

That gave me and James a little time, to catch up on things. For me, that meant a little blog reading. And some ice cream eating. Oh ya! And when I got to Andrea's blog, I was met with such a fun post!! Griffin is going to be one lucky little lady!! And that makes me want to go shopping, for our girls. :)

How about some cute onesies. And Babylegs!! Add a few bows, and we're all set for summer. I'm not sure if those are shorts or skirts....but those are adorable too!! Where can I get outfits like this??

 

How about this adorable dress? Oh my goodness! So cute. I don't know what it is. But I adore this dress. Maybe it's because it's a feminine dress. With a masculine print. I really adore this dress. Where can I find this one??

 

 

Lastly, this adorable outfit!! Perfect for a fall day. Those tights, are killing me!! I think I spotted some like these, at GAP Kids. At least I'm hoping I did! The rest, I have no clue!! But my sweets NEED this outfit. Don't worry. Momma is all over this.

 

Maybe this is just an excuse, for me to go shopping. You know, I spent my last trimester on bedrest. And the first few months, of my girls' lives, cuddled up at home. Shopping hasn't been too high on my priority list. Now I need to make up for it. Because my girls need some cute outfits. Or I need some friends like Andrea and Amber....who can shop for us. And have such great style!! Lola, Manders, Rach, anyone willing to do this for me??



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. :)

Sugar and Spice: Week 15

What a week!! People. It. Was. CRAZY!!!! And emotional. And I'm glad it's in the books. And behind us. Looking forward to a better week! Let's start this week's Sugar and Spice!!

 

Sugar:

 

*SURVIVING my first week, back to work. I cried many times. Leaned on friends at work. And I'm grateful, that our girls get to stay with Rach, when both James and I are working!

*The HUGE sale at Target!! For real. If you haven't been, run now. Or first thing in the morning. I'm not lying!! GREAT prices on diapers, wipes, baby clothes, and baby gear. With coupons, some stuff was free!! And they gave us giftcards, just for shopping this week!!

*Shopping for James and I. Since we saved some money this week, on diapers and wipes, we bought some clothes. Because you just can't pass up $5 shirts and tanks. And $8 shorts!! Not when we have over 40 days of 100+ temps, a year!!

*A little splurge for this momma. Essie's Tart Deco nail polish. LOVE this color!! It's perfect for Spring!!

*Beautiful, 70 degree, Spring weather. Thank you Jesus!! This week was just beautiful!!

*A long lazy, Friday evening. Spent laying under our tree, in the backyard. With the girls. Enjoying each other. And this weather!!

*A yummy dinner, with our "Firefighter Family." Good food. Great company!!

*Hart of Dixie. LOVE this show!!

*Bible study. This week, I just needed it. God answered my prayers. And my soul feels complete again!

*Baby bath time!! My favorite time of the day. Playing with our girls. Watching all their cute facial expressions. Just soaking it all up!!

 

 

Spice:

*Going back to work. Being apart from my girls. It was almost too much for this momma to take!!
*All the demo going on in this city!! So much controversy going with it. So much destruction. So much dust and smoke.
*Eating McD's twice for lunch. This week. Because the cafeteria was insane!! I need to start packing my lunch.
*My aching feet. I forgot what it was like, to work 12+ hours/day.
*Dry hands. I NEED to go buy some good lotion. Working in the hospital, is tough on your hands.
*Doing our taxes. When did it get to be so crazy? We finally got them in the mail on Thursday!!
*Cancelling my mani-pedi. Because my feet were so tired, I couldn't think of walking from my car, to the front door.
*Sonic charging me full price, twice this week. During "Happy Hour." For my favorite diet cherry limeaid. FAIL!!
*Re-runs of Grey's Anatomy this week. What's up with that?!?!
*And re-runs of 2 Broke Girls. I miss my favorite TV shows!!

It was a crazy week. This weekend completely made up for it!! Lots of time spent with my little family. Cuddling. Comfy in our pjs. Loving our life!! The little shopping trip to Target today, was a total success!! Love when that happens!! Have a GREAT week!!

Breast Milk Jewelry

If you don't know by now, I'm a sucker for jewelry. There is rarely a piece, that I don't like. Charming Charlies....I NEVER leave without buying something. Etsy....I have spent so much money on "one of a kind" pieces! I LOVE JEWELRY!!

But when a friend e-mailed me this article, on Monday, I didn't know what to say. Literally, didn't know what to say. I love jewelry. I love breastfeeding my girls. But to wear a necklace, with my breast milk???? I just don't know....

What do you think?? It's a beautiful necklace. The craftsmanship is amazing! I like the handmade look. You feel like it's made with so much love. I just can't get past the fact, that the heart....is breast milk!!

There a number of necklaces, on my wishlist. All handmade. Many having something to do with the girls. Or our family. But this?? I'm not so sure. What do you think? Are you this sentimental? Do you think it's odd? Am I over thinking this??

The Best Chinese Chicken Salad

The weather around here is warming up. Like REALLY warming up. And I'm not much in the mood for cooking. It happens every year. The weather gets warmer....I get lazier. It's horrible! But who wants to be stuck in the kitchen....when it's hitting 80 degrees outside? Not me!!

 

I'm also a BIG fan of salads. To be quite honest, at least 3 times a week, during the summer....we eat salad for dinner. Not just the kind out of a bag. But a salad that has some protein in it. Something filling. And yummy!! My fireman doesn't mind either. Because 9 times out of 10, it's followed up with dessert. Some kind of ice cream and fruit. :)

 

 

This morning I was catching up on my blog reading. And noticed this salad on Little Miss Momma. Hello! Ashley, you just made my week!! Tomorrow, I'm making the Best Chinese Chicken Salad. A few friends are coming over for lunch. And I think this would be an awesome fun, and light lunch!!

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. :)

LOVE Me Some Hearts!!

Tonight I was catching up, on a few of my favorite blogs. What else do you do when your hubby is working? And your twins are sleeping. Most people would say sleep. Me? I'm munching on some ice cream. Wondering if my friend Lola was working. Or if I should call her.

Everything about Amber's blog, makes me smile. All the time!! Jolie and Parker make my day! Almost as much as my own precious girls. Almost!! ;)

Well, this post, has me all smiles!! These pictures are adorable. Especially this one. Where in the world, can I get a blanket like this?? Or any of the others, in this post. Or the headbands. So sweet! As are the babylegs....

Amber has such great style. So do her girls! Wish I lived closer to the Massey Family. I'd want to be Amber's friend. I'd turn myself in. So she could help me with my style. And help me shop for my girls. I'd love to go shopping with her! And I bet, our girls would enjoy a little playtime too. Until then....this momma will be searching for a blankie like this. Lola, can you make one??

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!!

Our 2012 Advent Calendar

I've always wanted to do a Advent Calendar. ALWAYS!! Something has always has always come up. I've always put it on the back burner. Always insisted, "Next year, will be the year."

Last year, I went as far as "saving" this picture. Because I adored this advent calendar! I even went to the website, to order the supplies. Then I realized, I needed a machine, that was a couple hundred dollars. Something that I wasn't positive, I'd use again.

And to be completely honest, we were trying to save money. We were dishing it out, on more important things....like fertility treatments and doctors. So yet, another year went by, and we didn't have an Advent Calendar.

This year, well I'm on bed rest. Not shopping in the stores. Not finding what I want online. And I'm still not a "crafty person." Can you see my problem? But I haven't let that bother me. I've dug around Pinterest. Found a ton of ideas. Things that I would like to try. In the future. With the girls. Or with a friend. Who could really provide some help. :)

I was losing hope, for this year too. Wondering if we'd get an Advent Calendar. Being that it ONLY took me 8 years, before I settled on an Advent Wreath. After seeing this lady's wreath. I promptly ordered one. Last year. :)

Are you starting to see the problems? I'm indecisive. I'm not crafty. To be honest, I can be picky too. :( But Pinterest did not fail me. Oh no it didn't! Look at what I came across....

What is this? I asked the same thing, when I first found the picture. Then it lead here. I swear to you, I almost heard the angels singing!! :) It's an Advent Calendar of books. Perfection!! Have you been following along, with how James and I, are building a library for our girls??

And well, most importantly, I can do this. All by myself. Well, almost. The first book that we knew we had to buy, was "The Night Before Christmas." Then James and I, agreed to each find 12 Christmas/winter/religious books. Let's just say, we put a few gift cards to great use! And totally took advantage of some perks on Amazon. :)

We've now got 25 books. I wrapped them up a few weeks ago. All in different paper. James bought me some scrap booking numbers, cards, shapes, and printed tape. So I've had a ton of fun, putting this together. I'm not sure where our camera is, at the moment. But I took a picture of all our wrapped books, laying out on our "Christmas shelf."

On Saturday, we opened the first one. And read it to the twins. James set up the video camera. And every night since, we've done the same. We plan to do this until Christmas. Hopefully, we'll have 11 days reading to my belly. And 14 days, reading to our precious girls!!

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!!