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Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Happy Halloween!

From the 3 little piggies!

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Note to EK

EK your life at 17 months just got so much better.  Two days before 17 month you welcomed your 2 best friends for life.  Sisters are special, special friends that no one can ever replace.  There is a bond no matter what.  I just know you will be the best big sister and you 3 girls will have a life full of memories together.  My sister and I have a bigger gap in age and it never mattered.  She is my best friend, we just get each other no matter what.  We of course had our fair share of fights but with a sister being mad never lasts.  As a big sister you have a big job but I have no doubt you will be able to fill that role.  You are still a baby and you already got it.  If someone touches the babies you are ready to touch and if we let you, you would scoop them right up.  Watching you with your baby is unbelievable.  You have such a caring and nurturing side.  I see a lot of you in me and I am pretty sure I was bossy (or still am!) and I have no doubt you will be the same.  Bossy has a lot of pluses but as you get older remember to step back and follow at times.  Little sisters can teach you a lot and the balance of all of you will make you each so strong.  I could not be happier that you 3 girls will get to grow up together; remember sisters are always there for each other no matter what.   Love you! momma

Big Day

We got to each hold one of the girls today....felt do right and so good. It was an amazing 2.5 hours. We both would have sat for days. They just tuck them down your shirt and both girls just nuzzled right in. I held Matilda and Poppa held Margaret.

Both girls are continuing to progress well. Matilda doesn't have tone u set the jaundice light anymore so both are done with the light! The both are done with the CO2 censors and both hit one belly button tube out. Dr. O'Connor is pleased with the progress. When we went back tonight we had Iesha as our night nurse and she said they were looking so much better than when they started. Great news!

Ek had a great day at the music class Halloween party and carved her punkin as she calls it!! Thank you Miss Tina!

Good day at the Manda house!

Monday, October 29, 2012

Way to go girls!

Today is one of those days where we are ahead if the curve. Remember its a roller coaster ride so there will be ups and downs. Celebrate the ups I say!!!

Matilda is mouth tube free now as well!! Margaret is doing great on the nose tube as well. We got to hear both girls sweet little cries. Momma and poppa were there to comfort! Got some squeezes on the finger from both and some kisses today on both. Margaret got one belly button tube out and the new threaded IV. She did great through that procedure and I got to lift her today while we got her cozy after a long morning. Mimi and Auntis Sarah visited before Sarah heads home. The girls looked great! Momma is doing well, slow and steady wins the race right!! Had a little swelling so went and saw Katie but she said all looked normal, yeah! So thus afternoon Matilda is set to have her IV pending nurse time, quads were born and coming in when we left this afternoon. I can't imagine.

We appreciate all the prayers and find strength in the fact that the girls are in the best hands right now and we know this by the strength the are showing.

Hello Margaret!
Hello Matilda!

Sunday, October 28, 2012

First going home

It is bittersweet that today was the day that I was released from the hospital and it was time for momma and poppa to go home. We know the girls are in a better place right know and it won't be too long until we are all home.

The fresh air and sun on the skin felt good and seeing ek at our door felt great.

The girls are progressing. Big day for Margaret, the breathing tube through the mouth was removed!! She now has the nose tube. It was so exciting to see her without the tube and tape . Matilda had a little heart murmur so they need to give her some medicine to help with that valve closure.

We took ek up to see her sisters tonight. She loves them! We sang songs and the girls were kicking!

Very blessed to have 3 little girls!!
Hey Girl! Ready to play, Matilda?!!
Sweet Margaret 
Just sunning like my momma likes to do!  Matilda 

Little Homecoming Tigers

Homecoming Saturday and the little tigers continue the fight! They are doing well and docs are pleased. As you will see this is a slow and gradual process. They take a few steps one direction that may cause a few steps back in another. In the end they do make progress. We don't want to rush anything to be sure these girls get all they need.

Big day though, we both got to change Margaret's diaper and I got to lift Matilda while nurse changed the blanket. It felt so great to do something for them. Made our day!!

Margaret had a little high blood pressure that she got medicine for. I'm pretty sure if I was her I would have high blood pressure! Matilda had her brain scan which came back good. Both have had their first poop, dark black! Both went under the jaundice lights to help their levels. Matilda had glasses and Margaret a head eye band. New style!!

Ek had a great day with lulu and tootie. She has a new word, TOOTIE! The way she makes an O with her mouth is priceless!

All 3 girls cheered the tigers to their first SEC win!
Pappa and Margaret 
Pappa changing Margaret for 1st time
EK at hospital, Go Tigers!!
Cozy Matilda 

First 24 hours

From the start they said our first goal is an average first 24 hours. Both girls had just that! Margaret needed to have a brain and heart scan, both checked out with no major concerns. For the heart they did give her some medicine to help with closure of a valve that typically closes in the end of pregnancy. Matilda didn't need scans yet. We are so blessed with the best nursing and doctor staff. The docs switched for weekend so Dr. O'Gorman will be with us for the weekend.

We are so blessed to have our family all with us and there to celebrate a special birthday!

Special visit from A to capture the first day.

Welcome Mary Matilda and Margaret Frances

Mary Matilda, 3 lbs 5 oz, 16inches at 12:40pm and Margaret Frances, 2 lbs 5 oz, 14.8 inches at 12:41
Margaret Frances 
Mary Matilda 

The journey begins...

We head out Thursday morning for our scheduled appointment with the specialist.  I had survived the first 2 days of bed rest but my gut was telling me after Monday's update and how quick things seemed to be moving...we were going to have babies today.

So the night before I packed my bag, I had the bow just in case, I had the pink and blue packed for me and Pappa.  We were going to be as ready as we could me.  I had the help of Auntie Sarah which was a huge.  She helped me (or did) the last of the laundry and picking up.  We were ready.  Off to sleep.  About 1:30 oh bother needs to go out and it all began...he needed attention about every hour.  At 4:30 Pappa was down here again and I was up.  Ek had woke and as I snugged her my gut just told me this would be the last night as the momma of 1.  I kept going over and over the girls names, I had the boys set but the girl middle names kept needing review.  We had an 8am appointment so it was an early up for Pappa after working and attending to Otto all night.  He did not seem to mind.  We took the picture of the family of 3 and off we went.

The appointment delivered the news we thought.  It was time go deliver the twins.  It was a must since they were not able to measure any flow of the fluids for Twin B.  We knew that it could not get to a 1 on the RI but this was worse, nothing.  So off to the hospital we went.  It was a mix of every emotion.  We were of course excited to meet the twins, scared to death that everything would go ok...it was a roller coaster of emotions while we were quickly prepped for the delivery.  We arrived at the hospital around 10:30ish and set to go into surgery by noon.  They moved fast.

Into the surgery room we went.  It was time to meet the twins.  There were 21 people in the delivery room and it was the most well oiled machine.  Everyone doing their part.  It is amazing.  The temp in the room was so hot for the babies, so hot the docs had ice packs on to stay cool.  We were so pleased to have our OB and our pediatrician both drop everything to be with us.  The room was so warm (I think close to 90 degrees), the dedicated docs all layered up had ice packs on their necks to stay cool.  It was all about the babies and we were so thankful.  They let us know that the babies would not let out a cry when delivered so that we were prepared.  Pappa watches the whole thing standing up which makes it so much better for me because he can say, almost there or getting close.  That was very comforting. 

Baby A would be the first one delivered.  Baby A was head down on the right side of my body.  As our specialist said "Baby A has a Corona and sunblock on so we are messing with the party with this delivery for them".  Sorry baby but you will be happy you came to this party!!  So Katie pulled out baby and Pappa was the first to see and says, "Its a girl"!!  12:40pm  So excited!!!

Baby B was second and on the "top bunk" as the ultra sound techs would say.  Baby B was breach and in a tight little ball.  Just the way it like to be.  Katie was the first to see with this baby because of positioning and she says...Its a girl!!!!  12:41pm  WOW...we have 3 little girls!!  I always said Pappa would have all girls and it is true. 

I got to see both girls up by my face before the left for the NICU.  Pappa left with the docs and girls to be there for the measuring and prep work.  They got them all hooked up and then Pappa got to go tell the news.  Our parents had made it into town and Auntie Sarah brought up EK.  GIRLS!!!! 


Thursday morning.  We thought this might be our last family of 3 photo
Pappa dressed for the twins arrival 
Here we go!

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Family of 3 (plus a pup)....



soon to be 5 (plus pup)....!!!

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

New set up

My new work set up. Day one went well. Followed all instructions. If you know me sitting all day in a lounge position is not my style but I follow rules so sit I will, stairs once, and no lifting. Hope by butt doesn't get flat!!!

Monday, October 22, 2012

Monday Updates

Monday, you came so soon.  This Monday was going to be better than last Monday, no matter what.  And it was.  Still a lot of updates but we felt more prepared for what was coming.  I had one busy Sunday getting all my last things done, just in case.   So in my cotton I was off to the doc! 

Today we met with a fetal specialist to answer the questions around Baby B's growth percentages.  The doc reminded me of Santa.  A cherry face, a round belly, and a calming voice.  When he spoke we listened and learned.  We learned a lot today and it felt good.  The doc started in his explanation of the blood flow and went right to an air conditioner and a clogged filter.  Did he know Builder...we think it must be the camo hat!  So Baby B's placenta is making baby work extra hard to get the nutrients in needs.  Baby B is getting what he/she needs now but it is not good for them to work that hard.  How they can tell this is through measuring the ri (resistance indicator) in the ultra sound of the blood flow going from the umbilical cord to the baby.   This would only be measured when the baby's size is in question anything over a .7 is a concern and we are currently at a .89.  Once this would be at a 1, it is time to deliver.  So what does this mean.  Right now it means they have put me on bed rest to keep things relaxed for baby and I will go in twice a week for monitoring.  Bed rest and me = what you want me to stay in a lounging position all day.  I will do anything for my kiddos and this will be one of those things.  It is going to be very hard, I am independent and like to do things a certain way.  Creature of habit if you will but I will adjust.  Asking for help is not my thing and I will do it.  For those out there I will ask when I need it, promise.  They hope is I can get to 32 weeks but at any appointment if they measure a 1 we will deliver.  If we get to 32 weeks they will deliver then.  The blockage does not improve and only gets worse.  So as crazy as it is we will meet the Manda twins no later than Nov. 9th. 

After all the updates we then asked a lot of questions about what is ahead when you deliver babies so early.  We have a journey in front of us and again keeping the mindset that 'we can do this'.  It will be hard and long at times but are so thankful for all the thoughts and prayers and for all those in the medical field that help us take care of these miracles each and every day.  I still cant wrap my head around a lot of this experience and really am leaning on the strength that it will all be ok. 

I find that if I keep finding the positives, some even silly ones that it helps make it all ok.  I am truly blessed that I was given these two miracles and we will push on through these hurdles.  Never in million years did I think I would have twins and here we are.  The doc even said it today, what we are dealing with could be 100 times worse so we are more than thankful for 2 healthy babies right now and the technology and brains that will help us avoid a major scare.

Note to Baby A:
Baby A you a happy little chunk!  We love seeing those chubby cheeks and all that hair.  You are spread out and taking over a lot of the tummy space, that has just been your style since day one.  You are a kicker and as soon as they start to measure, game on for you.  Today you would not show our face but were happy to be a mover.  When its time to come keep that happy going and grow into a true chunk fast! Baby A it will take a fight but we know you can do it when its time so get ready.  EK can't wait to play!

Note to Baby B:
Baby B you are happy little fighter and have been since day 1.  You have no room but still fight for your space.  Today you were all rolled up with your feet over your head, did not look comfortable but you seemed happy.  We have been watching your growth since the start but I know in the end you will turn into one little chunk as well.  We can see those cheeks!  No hair on that little head.  You are stubborn for all the docs and love to make there job a little tougher.  When its time to come you know how to fight so bring it with you.  We can do this and get home fast to EK and all the fun. 

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Sneak Peak

After that week we started the weekend with our favorite A in town for a photo shoot! Planned in advance and thank you flu bug for being done.

Makes me smile!! More to come!!

Life

Last week is what I call 'real life'. I love to blog for me, really that is why I do it. I go back and remind myself of things or catch up or just reminisce. Most often I like to remember all the good but there are times when the good comes with the not so good. So we had a 'not so good' kinda week last week. But we made it and truly through it all I think we grew. I keep singing myself the song "life's a dance we learn as we go, sometimes we lead and sometimes we follow". If you know me I never have words right to songs so that might be wrong! But truly I lead a lot and this week I was made to follow and follow all that was thrown our way.

So it began Monday with our dear oh bother not looking alive. Builder and I were both up early for the 28 week appt and headed down the steps usually I'm greeted by some nudges but not today. Maybe that should have been a sign! We was fine just not ready for the week. Then headed to our long appointment. It started well and ended well but the in between was long and scary. I don't think I ever took it for granted but that appointment made me so thankful for the past 28 healthy weeks with these babes and the 40 with ek. Yes I am sick being pregnant but that is no big deal. All in all we have 2 healthy babes right now, there is some concern around the growth percentages. All babies are different in growth patterns but when you have two its tricky and has to be watched so that we can ensure we are doing what's best for both. Right now A is growing faster than its growth line and B is slower . What they are watching is a possible cross in blood veins from the placentas. So on Monday the were trying to get a read on this and then moved me into the stress test. All planned for twins with my doc starting at 28 weeks. However I had no idea what a stress test was and side more was not dressed properly for the mass amounts if gel and handling my stomach would undergo. Cords and a silkish bottom up shirt was a terrible choice. That was not my concern but aided in the discomfort. So after failed attempts on the test I was given the news. I truly have prepared myself for rolling with the flow on this pregnancy and just going with it. However I will never be prepared fully to hear, " we need to admit you to the hospital and if we can't get a good read possible keep you for the long haul". It was not said in that short sentence but that was the high view. Tears started and could not be stopped. So fast forward it all checked out and I got to go Home! I have done a lot of reflecting on that time and what's ahead of me. Nobody truly knows but I can tell you this I can do this and I will because wait... I get home and get ek. Sitting on the porch just enjoying the moment and just tired. Pappa, what is happening. Ek getting sick all over both of us...I looked up and said I will take this over being stuck at a hospital.

So the week went on and one by one we all got a terrible 24 hour flu bug. I can't even count the loads of laundry, cans of Lysol, and cleaning we did. It got us all.

So as I approach each Monday I remind myself. Life is hard and I have always said that getting through the tough spots defines who we are and doesn't mean we can't cry, be scared and have our moments because that is real, but then we have to push hard to get where we want to be and then in the end enjoy the outcome. I will also wear cotton clothing tomorrow!

Note to ek and twins: Your momma and pappa would do anything for you and never think we are not right beside you. It doesn't always have to be physical, you all are always at the top of our minds and we always have a hand on your shoulder. Love you.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Catch up

Yes 15 month check up was missed, I promise we are not bad parents! I said I wish I could blame on being preggers but not really the case, have to try! No reminder call and I miss it. But all us good and we got up to date. Poor EK hates the shots as soon as sweet nurse Ruth comes in ek waves bye at her. This time she did like doc (we love her!) and ek LOVED the stickers. Elmo one was her favorite! Healthy report minus an ear infection, tough little girl had shown no real signs of that darn thing. Stats are becoming average except for the head. Sorry EK both momma and poppa gave big domes so you are stuck with that. Big brain, poppa says!

Little tiger catch up from the weekend. Not a good outcome to the game but we enjoyed this game by the fire with poppa. We loved that! Sold the tickets because of the cold and so happy we did!

Monday, October 8, 2012

farm HOUSE

Yes we now have a house with furniture at the farm!! We all LOVE the new haven. It is peaceful, comfortable, and most exciting a blank slate for decorating. It was a great Sunday bringing in the furniture, some like the harvest table stored for quite some time. The jenny linds upstairs look great and with a little change up in our basement we think we really like the love seat and chair at the farm. It was a fun day and overnight. Lots more memories to be made from that house. Far from done but great progress!  I have to show a picture of the lean to (again I am not up on farm lingo but I think that is what builder called it) that Builder built off the barn.  It really looks great and amazes me he can build that stuff alone.  He is using the wood from when he took the barn down, still blows my mind.  I will get a picture so I can remember it.  Other than that a great weekend.  Not the best for our Tigers but we enjoyed watching by the fire (cold temps=selling the tickets =bar not busy =family night!!!).  Headed towards 28 weeks and a weekend full of my besties.  Yes all of us in Columbia!!  Can't wait!!

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Ek says..

Bring on 2, I have room to give both a ride!

What a weekend!

We had a fabulous weekend of many firsts; friends birthday party, pony ride (very confident to start then not sure at all!), overnight at the farm, pumpkin picking in our farm,mastering the slide.. We came home tired and happy!