Addie and Alex: Adorable Twins

Christmas 2009 Part 1

2009-12-24T12:41:00.000-08:00

Here are photos from our Christmas trip home to family, part 1. The first few photos/videos are from celebrating their birthday at grandma and grandpa Downs. They are followed by pix and videos from Christmas at Oma's Enjoy!

Best Weatherman

2009-11-29T12:50:00.000-08:00

Vote for Best Weatherman
Last week, we found out that Dale had been nominated for best weatherman here in Huntsville. For being on television for not even a year yet, this was a big accomplishment for him!
Show your support by visiting the site below and voting for Dale!!!!
http://blog.al.com/breaking/thebest/index.html

Early Birthday with Oma

2009-11-29T11:35:00.000-08:00

Over Thanksgiving, we decided to let the kids have their birthday with Oma while she is in town. We have agreed that with their birthday so close to Christmas that it is fine right now to spread it out. These kids will have so many gifts between the 19th of December and the 26th that they won't know what to do! So, allowing them to get some early was a good choice!
From Oma, they got a kitchen set with lots of dishes and food and a train table with lots of train accessories. These things have kept them busy all weekend! Now, if they can only learn to pick up all the dishes and toys when they are done, we will be happy :)

Alex is quite the cook! He will make you just about anything you want!

Turkey Day 2009

2009-11-29T11:28:00.001-08:00

THANKSGIVING 2009
We decided to stay at home this year for Thanksgiving. So, our family has taken turns coming to our house. Over the holiday, mommy was fighting strep throat and a bad cold. The week before, Alex had been in the ER for a double ear infection, strep, and conjunctivitus in his one eye. However, we still had a great time this Thanksgiving!

As all family can agree with now, getting pictures is not an easy task these days! Addie and Alex are EVERYWHERE and it is so hard for them to hold still at the same time to get a perfect shot. However, we tired our best!

Fall Festival

2009-10-25T21:09:00.001-07:00

Fall Festival 2009

Whew! I think that we are all beat after a very busy day.

This afternoon, we went to a fall festival with the kids. It was great as they had a special area designated for toddlers. Addie and Alex loved jumping!!!!!!!!

Addie loved the duck pond and Alex liked digging in for treasures in the sand.

We had planned on staying later in the afternoon for trunk or treat. However, the kids were just too tired and I was not going to push them. Looking forward to this event next year!

Feeding the Ducks....

2009-10-25T20:53:00.001-07:00

Today was a beautiful fall day here in Huntsville. We spent the day with some friends celebrating the good news that we received this past week. For the past 9 months, daddy has been working part-time. However, we found out this week that he will be starting full-time on the 1st of November. Our friends took us to lunch to celebrate! Then, we all took Addie and Alex to the park to feed the ducks. I am so thankful that they were there to help us chase the kids. There is no way that we could have done it without them! Whew, I am tired just thinking about all the running around we did earlier today. To end the day, we went to a fall festival here in town where Addie and Alex had a blast. Stay tuned for those pics.

Here is Miss Norma. She is our adopted mom here in Huntsville. We met Miss Norma through Addie and Alex's school. The kids LOVE her and we are so glad to have her as part of our family!
Miss Norma and Mr. Tom with Addie and Alex at the park. We should have taken this picture when we first got there as by this time, they were ready to be set free and continue playing!

Told ya, Addie was all over the place! She could have cared less about feeding the ducks. She was all about running the grounds.

Mr. Climber himself. He was so tired from running that he decided that he needed a break!

Funny picture... Why? Well, this was when we first got to the park and the kids were actually holding our hands! After about 2 minutes, they were done with that!

Catching Up....

2009-10-25T20:43:00.001-07:00

When we went home to St. Louis a little over a month ago, Daddy went and talked with the first graders at the school where mommy used to teach. He taught them the tornado dance and all about severe weather safety. While he was talking, the kids had a blast playing in another first grade room. They were the hit of the day!

From the start, Addie helped herself and hopped up into this little girls lap and started using her supplies. Does that surprise you?

Candid Shots

2009-10-25T20:38:00.000-07:00

Finding time to take pictures these days is still quite difficult.

However, every now and then we are able to grab a few shots.

Keeping Addie and Alex out of all of our decorations has been rather interesting. Addie is in love with the scarecrow bear that you see in the picture below.

But, for the most part, all she does is kiss it :) Christmas will be interesting. I don't know what daddy is thinking as he wants to put up a few trees.

Apple Picking

2009-10-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

APPLE FUN 2009

Another hard part about moving to Huntsville has been not having a place to pick apples.

A few weeks ago, we finally thought that we had found somewhere to take the kids. However, when we got there, we were told that they do not allow you to pick apples from the trees. We were very disappointed. However, we made the most of our trip!

Here are some images from the trip to the apple orchard! Both Addie and Alex LOVE apples!

They had a blast running up and down the orchard! It was hard though to watch them all the time as they were wanting to eat apples off the ground...

Trip to see Old Grandma

2009-10-06T22:23:00.001-07:00

About a month ago, we made a trip back to St. Louis due to a death in the family.

This trip was jammed packed with appointments, visits, and lost of activities!

Here are some pictures form our trip to Old Grandma's house!

Alex was too busy eating cookies to be in the pictures.

We are so happy to have the barn and the blocks at home with us now to play with.
Old Grandma was so glad to have the kids over!

Daddy's Dream

2009-10-06T22:16:00.001-07:00

With living so close to a home town airport, Addie and Alex have come to LOVE airplanes!

We can be sitting in the sunroom, and they will just go crazy watching the planes out the window.

A couple of weekends ago, the airport had a fly in. Daddy had to go and do a story for work and was able to go up in a plane! Mommy stayed very busy chasing us around, but Daddy had a blast! Here is a picture of Daddy before take off!

Visit to Big Spring Park

2009-10-06T22:09:00.001-07:00

Addie and Alex love going to the park. We have an awesome park here in town that the kids just love. There are days where you can drive by the park and they will ask to see the ducks. Even from as much as a mile away, they know their route very well! When we visited the park a few weeks ago, here is what we saw next to some shrubs.

Going to the park next time will not be this easy. On this trip, they sat very well in the wagon. Now, they are all about walking!

Fancy Fairy

2009-10-06T22:05:00.000-07:00

In August, Addie had a few opportunities to have her picture taken at mommy's work. We do promo shoot pictures to show our clients what sets will look like for our Limited Editions. It is always a nice way to get current pics of the kids :)

Addie made a beautiful fancy fairy. You should have seen her getting her hair fixed and jewels put on her face! Such a big girl now!

School Days

2009-08-16T19:10:00.001-07:00

August 12th, 2009
Addie and Alex had their first day of school today.
Even when I was staying at home with Addie and Alex, I knew that around 2 years old that I would put them in school part-time. So, I did a lot of research checking out places here. The place that I wanted to send them was on a HUGE waiting list, but I went ahead and took the chance. I have stayed in touch with them over the past year and this fall, they had two openings for Addie and Alex !
I took them to school on Wednesday and daddy met us there. They did as expected. Addie ran right in and Alex was a little hesitant. I am thankful that for weeks before they started that we took them there several times to check out their classroom and of course the play ground!
The first day was not as hard as I anticipated it being and DEFINITELY not as hard as what people told me that it would be. I truly feel that having confidence in where we are sending them has made the transition so much easier! We could not have them enrolled in a better program!

This chalkboard in the classroom has lots of magnets. Addie ran right for it!
Even the first day, she started acting like she owned the place! She knows right where everything is at and moves about like she has been there for months!

Alex is still investigating! Anxious to see how he does this week!

Imagine that, needing to sit in the ELMO chair on her first day :)

The kids had their 2nd day of school on Friday.
Both of them ran right in the front door. Alex was still a little hesitant at first, but did great! From what I understand, he whimpers for a few minutes and then finds something to play with. When I picked them up on Friday, the 6 kids in the class were sitting watching a video. But of course, as soon as Addie saw me, she had to get up and start pointing everything in her classroom out to me! Looking forward to a great week!

2009-08-16T18:49:00.001-07:00

Both Addie and Alex LOVE shoes! However, they do not leave them on their feet for more than 30 seconds. I don't know how they will do with having to wear tennis shoes to school. The other night, I came in the front door and put my shoes next to the door. Before I could even turn around, Addie had them on her feet and was trying to walk. Considering that they are flip flops and she knows how to wear them, I think that she is pretty smart!

Remember the play-yard that we used to have for the kids? Well, for the most part, it is not being used anymore. We are still using pieces of it to block off the fireplace and other areas of the house. But, we had to take it down when the kids learned to tag team to get out of it! Now, we just have the kitchen and the hallway blocked off with gates :) However, Alex has started trying to figure out how to open them as you can see in this picture.

Always wanting to watch ELMO!

The other day, my friend Brandy came to watch the kids while we went to work. Ms. Emma is so cute! I think that the kids had a great time sharing their toys with her. Good practice too for Emma, as she will be a big sister this winter! Thanks Brandy!

Bath Time Fun!

2009-08-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

With Addie and Alex being into everything and wanting to ride in the wagon several times each night, they are filthy dirty! It is so funny to watch them splash each other in the tub. We have had a hard time getting them not to scream when pouring water on their heads to wash their hair. Any tips?

We have had a lot going on at our house over the past several weeks. Therefore, it has been hard finding time to update the blog. However, I am going to try my best to update it more often. I think that if Addie and Alex would sit still for more than 2 seconds that I would have more pictures to post and update more freequently :)

Trips with Oma and Another First for Addie

2009-07-10T14:53:00.000-07:00

The past few days Oma has been in town with us and we have gone on a couple of day adventures. The first day we went to see some waterfalls in northeast Alabama. We went and saw Desoto Falls and Little River Falls. We also saw Little River Canyon. There are many more falls in the region but due to the recent dry conditions many were dried up. We will have to go another day after recent rains.

Today, we went to the Tennessee aquarium where we saw fish from all over the world. We also saw some penquins with one being a 3 week old chick. We had lots of fun. Thanks for the good times, Oma.

The other BIG news of the day was that shortly after arriving home after the aquarium Addie said she needed to use the potty. We have been trying to teach her this for the past couple of weeks.

Adorable Ballerina

2009-07-06T18:42:00.001-07:00

Addie participated in a promo shoot today at Bookout Studios.

It was so much fun!

Alex wil hopefully have a turn of his own, very soon.

However, for now, enjoy these beautiful pics of Addelynn.

Thanks Heater for the AWESOME pictures!!!!!!!!

PS: Please leave me a comment with your favorite!

4th of July

2009-07-06T18:27:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July

We hope that everyone had a happy 4th of July!

The holiday was rather uneventful for our family.

Daddy had to work and we agreed not to get the kids off schedule by keeping them up late. Therefore, the kids were in bed before the fireworks even started. However, earlier in the day, we were all decked out in our Cardinal gear to visit daddy at work.

Get this.... Addie is wearing an older outfit of Alex's. She is still so petite.

Guess tht next year, she will be able to wear the one that Alex has on.

Enjoy!

Addie loves to climb on the couch and watch Bradyn lay outside in the shade.
Awwwwwww, dakota! Yes, it is a dog tha looks like Dakota, just 20 times the size.

I love my puppy!

Both Addie and Alex are addicted to wipes right now. They will be the cleanest kids in town!

Wonder why you don't see many pics of them together, its hard!!!!!!

Go Cardinals!!!!!!!!!!!!

More Updates:

Addie and Alex now think that they are big kids.

They do not like you to feed them. They MUST feed themselves.

We think that it is so funny that they love to eat lemons. Yes, they do!

Both of them now LOVE to sit on the potty chair. Nope, they have not gone yet.
But, they will have the cleanest teeth in town as that is their reward.

I know, some will say its too early, but if they want to sit, fine with us....

;

18 month Stats

2009-06-23T19:07:00.000-07:00

18 Month Check Up

Addie and Alex had their 18 month old check up this morning.

Overall, we have been very lucky as both of them have been very healthy!

We consider us to be very lucky that they have not seen a doctor except for a handful of times outside of routine visits. For being premature, that is a blessing.

Here are the stats from the appointment:

Alexander: 23 pounds and 32.5 inches tall

* He is in the 56% for height and 14% for weight

Addelynn: 17.9 pounds and 31.5 inches tall

* She is in the 45% for height and 1% for weight

We hope to make it back to St. Louis this summer for their NICU follow up!!!!!!

Popsicle Party

2009-06-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

We had lots of free time today at home!

With daddy being off this weekend, he was here to help mommy clean up lots of messes. So, we decided why not pull out the popsicles again. The first time that we gave Addie and Alex popsicles was the day of their baptism. BIG MISTAKE. Alex was still a rainbow mess all the way there. But, thats ok...

So, since we had no where to go today, we let them make a huge mess!

Our next step is play dough, so stay tuned!!!!!!!

I have always liked parties, but POPSICLE PARTIES are the best!
ALL DONE! I can smile now that I have a popsicle.

Yes, I do like popsicles.... But, they are not as good as COOKIES!

Yea for POPSICLES!

Yes, I am still a MESS!

How do I put this back together?

I figured it out!

2009-06-04T18:53:00.001-07:00

Finally, New Pictures!

2009-06-03T19:24:00.000-07:00

Wild Wednesday

Per the request of everyone, I spent lots of time tonight working on pictures.

With Dale working lots more these days and the kids into everything, it has been hard to find time to snap pictures. However, you will be impressed as I promise to post pics from our weekend strawberry picking trip on Thursday night. But, for tonight, here are some pictures.

Daddy is now the weekend Meteorologist at WAAY-TV. However, he has been working several week days while people are on vacation and due to the recent severe weather. This past weekend, he had his first weekend off since January and we had a great time shopping, cleaning and picking strawberries.

During the day Addie and Alex have been staying home with Ms. Carley. They love playing with her and have so much fun that they cry when she leaves....

Thanks Carley for all that you do to make Addie and Alex feel special!

Addie and Alex will be going for their 18-month checkup here in the next few weeks. Right now, they are eating like little pigs. Here are some things that you can note:

Addie will only feed herself with spoon and fork. You cannot feed her anymore.

Alex loves COOKIES

Addie and Alex spend 50% of their day reading books. Considering that we have more books that the local public libraries children section, that is not a problem.

Addie and Alex love Elmo

Alex calls mommy "dada"

Both are sleeping about 10-12 hours at night. I know, some of you are jealous. However, they only nap for 45-60 minutes a day!!!!!!!

ENJOY THE PICTURES

Addie still likes the playcube. They are almost to big for it as they try to climb over the top.
The play-yard has been a blessing. But, they have TWIN POWER. They can work together to climb it or knock it down.

"Our new toybox holds all our toys, but we might need another one soon just for books"

Alex and his "stinky feet" as they both would say.

Check it Out

2009-04-26T17:47:00.000-07:00

As you can see from the lack of updates, we have been quite busy.
Dale is now working more often and has aquired both weekend days now at the station!
Here are some pictures from the March of Dimes Walk. More pictures coming.
Alex has also gotten his first haircut and I am working on those pictures too.

Thanks to Jill for the awesome Ally Zabba blankets. Addie and Alex have been sporting them around for months. The walk was chilly, so a perfect day for them. Want to learn more about the best blankets ever? Visit: www.AllyZabba.com
The texture and designs of these blankets are amazing! We have washed them a number of times and they are still like brand new!

March for Babies

2009-04-17T05:11:00.000-07:00

Well, tomorrow is the big day! The Huntsville March for Babies takes place on Saturday. This morning, Dale and I participated in an radio show interview. We discussed how the March of Dimes has helped our family and how they help families across the Nation.
Here is an interesting fact about the March of Dimes:
* 77 cents of every dollar raised is used towards research and programs.
Today, we are asking for your support.
Please visit our team page and sign up to walk with us.
Any and all donations are also greatly appreciated.
Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow!
Lots of pictures to come.........
http://www.marchforbabies.org/s_team_page.asp?SeId=636369&si=

Diaper Deals

2009-04-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

DIAPER DEALS As many of you know, I am all about finding deals for Addie and Alex, especially when it comes to diapers. When we go through almost 280 diapers a month at our house, you have to be on the search! Until now, I have always shopped the ads as well as hunted down tons of coupons. However, I AM DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have found one place that is quick, easy, inexpensive and takes less than 5 minutes to check out.... With two toddlers trying to climb out of a stroller or a cart, I am done shopping in the stores these days. So, I decided to check out: www.diapers.com

There is not anyplace in town that I can get 280 diapers for just $50..... If you know of somewhere, please share. Until then, I can share with you.....

Visit: www.diapers.com

Check out what you want and at the checkout, enter my email: baderjenn@gmail.com as the promotional code. You will then receive an additional $10 off your purchse!

Does not get any better than this.........

Have Fun!

JELLO

2009-03-26T01:25:00.001-07:00

Now that we are into feeding ourselves, we get QUITE MESSY!
Alex is pretty much a mess maker when it comes to eating. If you put a bib on him, he pulls it off or screams and will not eat. So, granted, we have gone through plenty of SHOUT!
For the first few times that we would try JELLO, he would try it, but would then spit it out and feed it to the dogs. Now, he really likes it. But, it is definitely still a texture thing...

I try very hard to stay clean.
Addie loves to feed herself! She is getting to the point where she will not even eat anything unless you let her feed herself. She uses a fork and puts everything on a fork, even cheerios. For the most part, she does a great job!

Enjoy the videos below of Addie and Alex eating JELLO!

Fashion Show for Addie and Alex: Sneak Peek

2009-03-15T12:38:00.001-07:00

Happy Sunday!!!!!!!

Whew, I am telling you...... It is so hard to get pictures of Addie and Alex these days.

You set them some where and 1 second later, they are on the run!

Thanks to Micki for these wonderful outfits.....

Mommy and Daddy are thinking that we will wear these for the March of Dimes walk in April.

Thanks Micki!

What do you think of the outfits? If you want to get in touch with Micki, please leave me your email, and I will send it her way. For those visiting from Kelly's Korner, yes, this is the Harper Dress! I hope that you all have a great rest of the weekend.

Beautiful Weekend

2009-03-09T12:52:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Miss Sarah, Addie and Alex's babysitter for taking these great pictures. Last week, daddy had to work every afternoon, so Sarah had plenty of time to chase Addie and Alex around..... With it being so nice outside, they were able to go to the park and get some great pictures.

Alex had enough and had to take a little snooze.

With the weather being so nice this past weekend, we tried to get a lot of outside work done. So, we thought that the pack n play could get some more use. We put Addie and Alex in the pack n play with lots of toys/books and thought that they would love being outside. WRONG! Addie has now learned how to climb out of the pack n play! She is our little monkey!
On Friday night, we received tickets to the Spelling Bee Broadway Show.
We had a great time!
This week is another busy week.
Anyone have any ideas as to how to get Addie not to want to eat the grass?

Fun at the Park

2009-03-08T06:34:00.001-07:00

With the beautiful weather that we have been having, daddy has been spending a lot of time at the park with Addie and Alex. Their babysitter Sarah has also taken them to the park. They love to swing! Yesterday, we all went to the park and I was able to take some pictures. Unfortunately, unless we are both there, they cannot really RUN the park as they are everywhere!

Here are some of the things that they LOVE:

Running in the mulch

swinging in the same swing

going down and up the slides

climbing on timbers

Alex was all about digging in the mulch too

When the kids were smaller, we always wanted to get this picture!

However, when the weather allowed, we had other things to do or could not find a park that had these swings. Now, we have accomplished it! They love swinging in the same swing!

Yesterday, we went to a few nurseries to check out some of the latest flowers. However, it is still to early to plant any as we still could have some days with frost.

Can't wait til Friday

2009-03-04T05:21:00.001-08:00

Fun Friday Ahead for Addie and Alex
Our family is very excited about this coming Friday.
Our friends from Nashville are coming into town!
We have not seen eachother since this past summer. Boy, Addie and Alex have for sure changed a ton since then and I know that Owen has some new tricks ready to teach them. The last time we were together, he was so excited to teach Addie and Alex how to dance in their highchairs. What will he teach them this time?
Adrienne, Owen's mom and I met through the world of infertility.
We hope that one day we will live close enough for our kids to be able to play all the time.
Learn more about Adrienne and Jim's Journey to Parenthood on their blog at:

http://our-journey-to-parenthood.blogspot.com
Be sure and stay tuned for pictures from our Friday adventure! Between Adrienne and myself I bet that we will have quite a few of them!!!!!!!!!!!

Fun with Kyler

2009-03-03T21:22:00.001-08:00

Our friend Kyler came to play when we were couped up in the Embassy Suites. During his visit, we played toys, ate lots of Lucky Charms, and went swimming. Kyler taught Addie how to dance to The Backyardigans and taught Alex how to read books. We can't wait for Kyler to come back and play with us again soon..

Here is one of the many pictures that we have of late of Alex reading! Both Addie and Alex love to read. They are starting to turn the pages in order and are also pointing to images and making sounds. Can't wait for them to see mommy's library of books!

Happy Addie

2009-03-03T21:12:00.001-08:00

This picture if for those of you that go back to our NICU days and recall "happy ADDIE"

Yes, this picture was just too cute to not post on the blog.

Help Addie and Alex take Steps

2009-02-14T06:50:00.001-08:00

As you might be aware, our family has been touched by the March of Dimes mission to prevent birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. That's why we have formed a Family Team to raise money and participate in March for Babies. Please join us in our fundraising efforts today by sponsoring our event. In addition to forming a team for Addelynn and Alexander, we have been selected by the March of Dimes to be The Ambassador family for Huntsville, Alabama. During the time up until the walk, Dale and I will be very active in community events, promotions, interviews, and present in local media. At the event on April 18th, we will be giving a presentation on how the March of Dimes has impacted our lives and the day to day life of Addie and Alex.

It is now that we are asking for your support. We realize that with much of our family and friends living out of town, it might be hard to join our team. However, you can join our team and help us raise money without being present at the walk.
When all is said and done, we would like to have a team of 150 people. Yes, we would love to have you join us on this exciting day for our family, but would be honored just by you joining our team.

Contributing to our team online is fast, easy and secure. You can donate directly from my personal web page with a credit/debit card or Pay Pal. If you prefer, I can also accept cash or check. Just click the appropriate box on my web page.

Our family knows firsthand the challenges associated with prematurity. It is important to find out why premature birth happens and what can be done to prevent it. By raising money, ongoing research to answer these critical questions is funded. When you support our Family Team, you show you care and you give hope for defeating premature birth and other threats to babies.

Please join us and millions of compassionate people across the country who support March for Babies each year. We need your help. Visit my web page and sponsor our event!
http://www.marchforbabies.org/636369

With your support, there's hope!

Thank You!

Dale, Jennifer, Addelynn and Alexander

Addie Shows off her Sweet and Sour Sides

2009-01-29T14:27:00.000-08:00

Here is couple videos I have taken over the past couple of days of the little ones. One shows her showing Mommy how she walks and the other shows her being sweet with Alex, notice the awww, and then in the same breath showing off her sour side by pulling his hair. We are working on correcting that now otherwise poor Alex will soon look like Great Uncle Scott. :)

Told Ya So!!!!!

2009-01-29T05:28:00.001-08:00

Watch out as we are TROUBLE!!!!!!!

Did we not tell you that the play cube is Addie and Alex's favorite toy?
We have placed the play cube inside their HUGE play yard. It is located in a corner of the sunroom in between the couch and door that goes outside. Yes, they try to mess with the blinds, but we try to raise the blinds so that they can't get into them. We have noticed that Addie and Alex spend 85% of their time over in the play cube area. They crawl in and out of the bottom part, climb up onto the platform, slide down the slide, climb up the slide and much more!!!!!! Alex has even figured out how to take his hammer up there and bang on the cube for hours! Addie has figured out how when she is on the platform and brother is below that she can pull his hair. Overall, they have a great deal of fun and this was a MUST PURCHASE for us!

See, this is how Alex tries to get into the blinds. They can reach everything now!

Addie Walks and the Twins Play

2009-01-26T12:34:00.000-08:00

Addie finally let me catch her in a video when she walks. She is starting to get it down pretty well.

Here is a video showing Alex climbing on the play cube and Addie playing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6x07tg_QPPU

Lastly, this video shows Addie getting on and off her zebra and riding it on her own.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WxKrSsobR0

Addie and Alex enjoy the Boat Show

2009-01-25T20:45:00.001-08:00

New Favorite Toy

2009-01-24T11:54:00.000-08:00

Check out our favorite new toy!
We love to play in our new play cube. Alex climbs up to the top and laughs and bangs on just about everything. Addie loves to climb up the slide... Both like to climb and crawl through the bubble shapes!

Alex says "room in there for me"?

"SHE ALWAYS GOES FIRST"

Happy Kids!

2009-01-24T11:47:00.001-08:00

Here are some pictures from this morning....
With daddy having to work today, mommy has had time to take pictures and update the blog. Stay tuned for some video of us too....

Alex thinks that he is HOTT STUFF up on the top of the play cube!

Addie just wanted to play with her toys and not mess with the play cube this time!

We love our new friend!

2009-01-23T05:38:00.001-08:00

Exciting News!!!!!!!!

2009-01-11T07:47:00.001-08:00

Congratulations!!!!!Thank you very much for all of your thoughts and prayers over the past couple of months. Congratulations to Dale for obtaining a position with WAAY-31 TV in Huntsville.
Tonight is his debut as on air Meteorologist. For those local blog followers, tune into Channel 31 at 5:30 and 10pm. For those of you out of the area, you can check out his weather web cast at: http://www.waaytv.com/!
Please visit the WAAY-31 Weather blog by clicking on the Storm Force image above and cheer on Doppler Dale as he debuts tonight!
There will be a Sunday night blog post for you to give him a shout out!
In the mean time, you can stay tuned to his personal blog at: http://dopplerdale.blogspot.com/
Thanks again for your support!

Here is a letter from Alex and Addie to their Daddy:

Dear Daddy,

We are so very proud of you! Mommy said that we can stay up past our bedtime tonight so that we can see you 2 times on TV. We will miss having you home on the weekends to play with us but we look forward to having lots of playtime during the week! We would say break a leg, but then you could not play with us...... So, good luck!

Love,

Addie and Alex

Christmas Part 5

2009-01-07T18:10:00.001-08:00

Christmas Part 4 at Oma's House

2009-01-07T11:59:00.001-08:00

Christmas Part 2

2009-01-03T19:36:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year!

2009-01-03T19:25:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
Sorry for the delay in posting Christmas pictures. Things have been quite hectic since getting back from Christmas vacation.... Please stay tuned for updates...

Birthday Fun Continues

2008-12-24T07:00:00.001-08:00

Christmas Continues Part 1

2008-12-24T05:36:00.001-08:00

O Christmas Tree

2008-12-23T14:03:00.000-08:00

Little Christmas Tree

Hey, little Christmas tree. Is there something there for me?

Santa promised me a special present.

Alex's First Steps

2008-12-22T14:44:00.001-08:00

Alex takes his First Step: December 21, 2008

After riding in the car for 6 hours on the way to Grandma and Grandpa's house, Alex was ready to move.... He was so excited to get out of his pumpkin seat that will hopefully be replaced with a big boy seat after Christmas, that he started to take a couple of steps. For the past couple of weeks, he will stand on his own for a few minutes. But, last night he did it!

Today, he has taken 2 steps at a time...

Who knows, maybe by Christmas he will be all over the house!

Alex says, "I can do Anything, what can you do?"

Addie and Alex's 1st Birthday

2008-12-20T10:34:00.001-08:00

Sleepy Addie

2008-12-19T19:05:00.001-08:00

OUR SLEEPING BEAUTY

Addie has been going to bed with her bunny and blanket now for a few months. During nap time, we let her have them in her bed the whole time. However, for the night time sleep, we take them out before we go to bed! Just the other night, I went in to take them out and this is what I saw......

Ho Ho Ho

2008-12-16T16:08:00.001-08:00

HO HO HO
Addie and Alex would like to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas!
While we were back in St. Louis, we visited Santa. Both of them were not real sure about sitting on his lap, but we tried our best!
Be looking for your Christmas card in the mail.
Stay tuned for pictures from our 1st birthday this Friday!

One Year Ago Today...........

2008-12-06T08:04:00.000-08:00

Tribute to St. Johns Mercy Antepartum Unit

One year ago today, I was admitted to the Antepartum Unit.

For severeal weeks, I had been battling pre-eclamsia. At this time, I was going to the Perinatal Center two times and week and the OB, once or twice a week. A home health nurse was also coming to the house to check in on me and the babies. At my appointment one year ago today, doctors hoped that I had my bags packed as I was not going home!!!!!!

My bags had been packed and in the car for a little over a week. So, I was prepared. However, I was not sure what to anticipate.

When I was first admitted, I had a room-mate. However, that did not last long. My blood pressure continue to rise and my high risk perinatologist requested that I be moved to a single room where it would be quiet and less distractive. So, I was moved to a double room as there were not any private rooms avialable. I spent 1 night in the double room before being told to pack up my things as they had a private room available for me..

Once I was moved, I started decorating my room as I knew that I was here for the long haul. I will not forget asking the doctors everyday if I could atleast go home for Christmas. Obviously, I was home for Christmas, but not pregnant anymore.... See below for more details about my Antepartum Journey!

Our stay at St. Johns Mercy was WONDERFUL! It was here that I felt at home and accomodated more than I could have ever wanted. I spent my days in the Ante-Partum unit staying very very busy! Here are some of the things that I did everyday.......Granted, I was supposed to be on bedrest...

Decorated Nurses Station

Created Bulletin Board in Hallway

Decorated my room

Made Christmas Ornaments for Addie and Alex

Made Christmas Stockings for Addie and Alex

Took Wheel Chair Rides

Rented movies from the Antepartum Video Store

Made Blankets for Addie and Alex as well as many nurses

Took atleast 1 trip a day to the Perinatal Center

Visited the NICU windows

Played on the Internet

Drank Sprite in the middle of the night

MADE THE BEST OUT OF MY TIME IN THE ANTEPARTUM UNIT!!!!!

Where do I start to tell you about this amazing woman! Amy was one of my nurses. She spent hours trying to keep me busy as the patient activity director. We miss you Amy! I hope that we get to see you over the holidays!!!!!!!!

Thank goodness for my laptop computer!

We had tons of arts, crafts, and scrapbooking supplies to use. I tried to make something new everyday! Here are Addie and Alex's first Christmas stockings!

Here was the door to my room! It is so much fun to walk up and down the halls looking at everyone's doors. At this time, we we hoping that Addie and Alex would bake for 9 more days. However, that did not happen as this picture was taken, on December 19th, Addie and Alex's birthday.

First Birthday Gift

2008-12-06T07:40:00.000-08:00

For those of you that are wondering..........

We did make it home with all of their birthday presents!

Thank you to all of you for the wonderful gifts for Alex and Addie!

They have had a good time this week playing with all of their new toys...

Happy Birthday Video

2008-12-06T07:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Alex and Addie!!!!!!!

First Cupcake Video

2008-12-06T07:36:00.000-08:00

When you watch this video, you will see just how much fun Addie and Alex had digging into their first cupcake. They were such a mess and covered with icing that we put them in the kitchen sink to wash off and the water turned yellow!!!!!!!

First Birthday Card

2008-12-05T19:02:00.000-08:00

Thanks to mommy's friend Robyn for sharing this scrapbook idea. Abigayle and Olivia always look so cute in their pictures~ For my first attempt, how did I do? I can't wait to explore the scrapbook world. Thanks again Robyn~

1st Birthday Party

2008-12-04T17:37:00.001-08:00

Waiting for the FEAST

2008-11-29T05:44:00.000-08:00

IS IT TIME TO EAT YET?????????

Thanksgiving Day Part 1

2008-11-29T05:29:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM 2 Turkey's.....
Sorry for the delay in posting pictures. But, as you can imagine, our schedule has been very busy! Here is part 1 of the 72 pictures that I took on Thanksgiving Day. Nope, that does not include the 90 something that Great Aunt Diane took on Thanksgiving Night. Stay tuned for more.....
Happy First Thanksgiving Addie and Alex
Here is what Addie and Alex had for their 1st Thanksgiving Feast!
Addie: turkey, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, corn, and rolls.
Alex: mashed potatoes, rolls, and pumpkin pie
As you can see, Addie has switched to our "I eat Anything" where Alex is being a bit more picky......

Be sure and stay tuned for Kami's performance of the Turkey Song!

I don't know who was in trouble the most today with all of the cousins together! Here is mommy with Amanda and Kami....

Kami LOVES Addie and Alex!

Our Trip to the Old Neighborhood

2008-11-27T09:02:00.001-08:00

Wednesday was a very crazy day! We started out by running a few errands. Then, we went to our old neighborhood and visiting June, our previous neighbor. Unfortunately, this was the first time that June had the opportunity to meet Addie and Alex. June's family lives in Huntsville and in our previous attemps to visit her, she was in Huntsville. We hope that she will come and visit us soon!

After trying many times to get a good picture, this was as good as it was going to get. Both kids were very tired and ready for a nap. Thanks June for trying to use our digital camera. We hope that you get a computer soon to follow our blog!

Dear June,

Thanks for letting us play at your house today! We had fun crawling all over your floor and with the turkey on the fireplace. We can't wait to see you again...

Alex and Addie

Tuesday Night Pizza

2008-11-27T08:51:00.000-08:00

Welcome Jonny's Pizza!!!!!

On Tuesday night, we headed over to Jonny's pizza for dinner.

If you are looking for a great tasting pizza here, check them out!

They are located in the same plaza as Bandanna's BBQ and the new Pasta House.

During dinner, Addie and Alex were busy eating pizza and crackers. After dinner, they had fun visiting with great grandpa. We will add Jonny's to our list of places to frequent on our trips home.

No, this is not Jonny! But, this is great-grandpa holding Addie !

Thank Goodness for the Play Yard

2008-11-27T08:41:00.001-08:00

There are many things that we are thankful for this Thanksgiving. One of them is the FAMOUS play-yard that you have seen in many of our pictures! For those of you with twins, I don't know how you manage without this lifesaver!

Just give me a few more months, and I WILL KNOW how to get out of here!

Thanksgiving Break Play Time

2008-11-27T08:28:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Break Play Time

We arrived at grandma and grandpa's house on Monday afternoon.

Thank goodness we brought some of the play-yard as they are everywhere these days!

Addie loves to talk on the phone!

Addie and Alex the STL Cardinals Fans

2008-11-27T05:30:00.000-08:00

WELCOME TO ST. LOUIS

We are in St. Louis for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Addie and Alex could not think of a better jacket to where the other night out to dinner with grandma and grandpa! Mommy and Daddy bought these jackets last fall before the babies even were born. They fit them perfectly now!

There is no such thing as getting both of them to sit still for a picture!
Go Cardinals!
I love my new jacket...

Alex is a big boy!

2008-11-27T05:26:00.000-08:00

Addie the Beautician

2008-11-27T05:21:00.001-08:00

Sunday Fun at Our House

2008-11-23T12:56:00.000-08:00

Today has been a crazy day with getting things ready for the Holiday week!
Addie and Alex found lots of things to do while mommy and daddy were able to get everything ready. Check them out in the video below!

Kids, Elmo and Sesame Street

2008-11-13T15:17:00.000-08:00

Over the past few weeks as stores stock up for Christmas goodies, we have discovered how much the kids really like Elmo from Sesame Street. A few weeks ago we were in Sam's and there was the new Elmo Live doll. We played it and immediately the kids were in a trance. Since then, every time we go to a store we go by the toy area and look for Elmo. The kids just smile and laugh we the see him and he starts talking or singing. Since currently, the little ones don't have an Elmo doll, we have been showing them Elmo videos on You Tube. Here is a video taken this morning of Addie while watching the Elmo Video.

The next video is of a happy and relaxed Alex who was enjoying watching Sesame Street today.
The pictures that follow were taken right afterwards. The kids have figured out the camera and when they see it they stop doing what they were doing and stare at it or come towards it.

The final video is of the little one's playing together and as you will see I was spotted and Addie came to investigate.

Finally, here are some fall shots taken earlier this week out our back door. Good thing I took the pictures when I did because things don't look like this anymore :(

Addie and Alex's First Halloween

2008-11-01T04:37:00.001-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Addie and Alex had a very exciting first Halloween. At first, we were not quite sure if we would take them trick or treating or not! But, since the weather was warm and they had warm outfits, we did take them out in our neighborhood. For only going to 8 houses, we were gone 2 hours! Of course, mommy and daddy will eat some of their candy this week!
In this picture, you can see how hard it was to keep their BEAR SHOES on!

Here is a picture from before trick or treating and we were already tired!

Mommy and Daddy did not take the stroller as the costumes were too bulky! Man, our backs were killing us when we got home as they are heavy to carry around for 2 hours!

Little Sister Bear!

Oh No! What are mommy and daddy thinking now?

Little Sister Bear Outside....

Little Brother Bear outside........

Addie and Alex receive a gift

2008-10-31T06:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the twins received a gift from Grandma and Grandpa. This was the first time they actively assisted in opening a gift. It should be fun in just a couple of months with their birthday and Christmas.

You can see the video of them opening the gift here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZvUczhjPC0

Thank you Grandma and Grandpa!

Alex is Off!!!!!!!!

2008-10-28T16:33:00.000-07:00

Here is Alex off to the races!

Enjoy....

Ready, Set, GO!!!!!!

2008-10-28T16:21:00.001-07:00

Check us out!

Over the past week, Alex has really started standing and trying to let go!

Addie has been sitting on her own for longer periods of time. She is also pulling up on anything and everything just like Alex! Thanks to Oma for this much needed toy. Alex has been trying to push on things that just DO NOT MOVE! So, this is great! Stay tuned for a video..

How do I get this thing to move?

I think that I will just watch!

Addie says Bye Bye

2008-10-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

Addie has been trying to say, "BYE BYE" for a few weeks now. It is so funny when she does it! She is even starting to wave and say it to other people now which is so cute! As you can see, Alex was content just chewing on the telephone!

Super Smiles

2008-10-21T13:05:00.001-07:00

Finally! This morning, Addie and Alex were playing the play area and we were able to get some smiles! I was beginning to think that this was never going to happen.....

But, little did I know!

Enjoy..

It is a constant battle around here to see which one gets to the phone first!
As you can see, we have more than one phone to choose from.
This morning, mommy and daddy walked in to get Addie up from her nap and she was standing in her bed. So, we lowered her bed to the lowest level now. In this picture, Alex was trying to pull on her legs to get her to fall down!
Cutest picture of all times!!!!!!!!! Don't you love it?

Fall Pictures

2008-10-20T15:09:00.001-07:00

Happy FALL Y'all!!!!!!

Addie and Alex October 2008

Well, this was not the easiest photo shoot that we have had with the twins. But, we did manage to get a few good pictures! We had a hard time getting Addie and Alex to smile at the same time. But, here are a few that we liked!

10 Months Old!!!!!!!!

2008-10-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 10 Month Old BIRTHDAY Addie and Alex

Can you believe that just about a year ago was my baby shower for Addelynn and Alexander?

It seems like it was just yesterday! So, I thought that I would share a few pictures from that special day! Only 2 more months to go until the big party!

As many of you know, I was on bedrest and was VERY lucky that I was even ALLOWED to attend my own baby shower.... It was cold outside and I could hardly get sock/shoes on as my feet were so swollen!

We are 10 months old now and such BIG KIDS!!!!!!!
We have some updates for this week!

Addie and Alex both now have 2 top teeth. So, they both have a total of 4 teeth. I guess that we should start getting out the tooth brush and tooth paste. Alex is continuing to pull up on EVERYTHING! He is starting to walk places by holding on. He loves to climb under the jumperoo and exersaucer. Addelynn is crawling like MAD! She is also just starting to pull up on things. She does not want big brother to out do her anymore! With it getting chilly here now, Alex is wearing 9-12 month sleepers and Addie is wearing 6-9. Can you believe it?

Funny Funny!

2008-10-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

Here are some funny pictures of Alex from this week!

Now that my camera has working batteries, I will try and get some more.....

He also likes to go under the Jumperoo while Addelynn is jumping. Oops!

I've Been Tagged!!!!! Who will Be Next?

2008-10-13T09:24:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!

Heather from "Mama's little Sugar Booger" has tagged me!

To view her blog, visit: http://mammaslittlesugarbooger.blogspot.com

Thanks Heather!

Lets see, who will be next!

Hmmmm. What should you know about me?????

1) I do not like vegetables! The only veggies that I will really eat are corn and potatoes and those are actually starches!

2) I do not like to go to the movies. I cannot sit still long enough to watch a movie.

3) I like to watch the good old favorite, Punky Brewster!

4) I love to go to bed early!

5) My husband is a meteorologist....

6) I don't drink milk!

7) My kids have more books to read than the public library. Can you believe they are only 9 months old and can already read! Ha Ha Ha

So, I will tag!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kelly: http://www.kellyskornerblog.com/

Brandy: http://titsworthfamily.blogspot.com/

Lindsey: http://kylespence.blogspot.com/

Adrienne: http://our-journey-to-parenthood.blogspot.com/

Heather: http://lifeatsonicspeed.blogspot.com/

Stacy: http://sgirl79.blogspot.com/

Shannon: http://thedavisfamilynwa.blogspot.com/

TAG LADIES!!!!!!!!! YOU'RE IT.........

Addie and Alex Pick Pumpkins 2008

2008-10-10T18:17:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the CIRCUS

2008-10-10T08:32:00.001-07:00

No, there is not a circus in town this weekend. But, can you smell the elephants and cotton candy? No, not hear at our house either! However, if you would walk or look into our sunroom, you would feel like you are one of the ring leaders!!!!!

Thank you Oma for the new additons to our play yard! When Addie and Alex were awaken by the UPS man ringing our doorbell, we did not care, as we knew it was the wonderful gift!

Thanks Again!

Love,

Addie and Alex

P.S: To all of our blogging friends, this play yard will save your life as a parent. Should you be interested in learning more about the play yard, visit "One Step Ahead"

Where in the world is Addie? Yes, you are right! She is hiding under the Jumperoo!
I'm fine mommy, just looking for a place to play....
Alex says, no matter how big this play yard is, I will still pull up and learn to get out of here!

Dr. Kasper always said that twins will work together to figure things out. I guess one day they will find a way to help eachother out!
For now, Alex will try and pull Addie's ear! Awwww, I love my sister!

October is Here!!!!!!!

2008-10-09T18:22:00.001-07:00

Welcome October

Whew! I can't believe how busy we have been here lately....

Seems like just yesterday that I updated the blog!

Taking pictures has even been getting harder. Now that Addelynn and Alexander are getting bigger and more mobile, we are finding ourselves with less free time! However, we promise to be better in weeks to come!

Here is some news about our week!

Addelynn and Alexander went to daycare for the first time for 2 days while mommy was going to try and go back to work. However, after Addie coming home after the 1st day with a double ear infection and the beginning of strep, and us looking at things, it was not going to be cost effective for me to go back to work! So, I am praying that I will be able to stay home with them for many years to come! Don't get me wrong, I think that interacting with other people and kids is a wonderful experience for children. However, I am not going to pay to go back to work... Addie and Alex are happy playing at home with all their toys!

Tomorrow we are getting new pieces to our play yard. You know the play yard that you have seen in so many pictures? Addie and Alex say thank you to Oma for getting us some extra pieces. We can't wait til the UPS truck arrives tomorrow! I think that our whole sunroom will be play yard soon! Yea!!!!!!

Alex is starting to stand up and also pulling up on everything!!!!!!!

He has really been moving all over the place. He loves to play in the play yard with Addie, but for some reason he likes to aggrivate her too. We always find him trying to climb on or over her and also tugging on her ear..... Of course, we think that it is funny, but try and re-direct him! His bed is on the lowest setting now as he stands up in bed now! Addelynn is getting stronger everyday! She has started sitting on her own for short periods of time and is eating like a champ.Her new thing is that she loves to go down for a nap and bedtime with a board book. Yes, I know that she cannot read, but it is never too early to start introducing them to books. Plus, considering that we have more books then our old hometown library, Addie and Alex will always have plenty to read! You name it, we have it! At the doctors office this week, Addie weighed 14 pounds 12 ounces and Alex weighed 19 pounds 4 ounces. They are getting soooo big.

Of course, we are proud of just about anything and everything that Addelynn and Alexander do. However, this week has been HUGE! With Alex standing and starting to walk when you hold his hands, we have made some big milestones. But, the biggest one is Addie is saying "ba bye" Yes, you can make it out!!!!!!!!!! We prompt her and then she says it and also waves. Sometimes she waves with one hand, but sometimes with two! That is ok!!!!!!!!!! We are so proud of both of them!

Ok, this has taken me way too long and I am sure that I am forgetting something!

I will do my best to update you more often as this was tiring!

Have a great weekend! Be sure to stay tuned for pictures from our upcoming trip to the Pumpkin Farm!

Alex has been feeding himself for a month or two now. Tonight he was so tired, but wanted to keep eating Cheerios. While mommy and daddy had dinner, he relaxed in the high chair. When we turned to look at him, we saw this!!!!!! Awwwwwww..........
Thanks to some very special friends for having lunch with us today!

Even though Addie and Alex's grandparents live 6-7 hours from here.

It is nice to know that they have adopted ones here in Huntsville!!!!!!

We hope to see you again soon!

I know, I know, it has been a very stressful week! Fever blisters are no fun!

Addelynn is getting to be such a big girl! I cannot believe how big she is getting! Yes, it is so hard to rememeber when she was so little, but she is growing up too fast! She also loves to sit in the high chair and eat cheerios with her brother! In this picture, she had just finished talking on the phone with old grandma. As you know, she is quite the phone talker, these days!

Go Illini!!!!!!

2008-09-28T14:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, both kids were dressed for the Illinois Football game.

Even though they were in bed when the game started, they are still Illinois Fans!!!!

Addelynn and Alexander were sad that they lost the game, but we will cheer harder next week!!!!!!

GO ILLINOIS!!!!!!!!

I guess that the orange and blue attire did pay off some as our 2nd team, Auburn did win yesterday!!!!!!

Grandma and Grandpa, Can WE Go?????

2008-09-28T14:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Grandma and Grandpa,

As you can see we are getting good use out of the outfits that you brought us from your last cruise! Even though it is 8 months later, we are NOW able to fit in them!!!!!!! Since you had such a hard time finding clothes for us on the cruise, we don't want you to have to spend time next week looking for clothes for us. Why don't you spend time taking us to the beach, feeding us pineapple juice, taking us to shows, and swimming with us????????

Our bags are packed! Please pick us up no later than Thursday!

See you soon,

Addie and Alex

See, we really can be good listeners! We promise to turn our listening ears on and behave!
Have you decided yet?
"I'm calling grandma"!!!! "NO, I'm calling grandma"

Taking pictures these days is not so easy, the phone is the only thing that will keep them still...
I am taking my Watermelon Swimming Suit! Don't forget to pack Mr. Turtle. He will love going to the beach too!
I am ready to go snorkeling!!!!!

Mr. Personality Himself!

2008-09-28T14:06:00.000-07:00

Mr. Personality Himself was being such a CAMERA HOG today!

I had to share these pictures that I snapped of him.....

Alex loves spending time in the play yard. I think that is the best money that Oma has ever spent!!!!!!!!! We have gotten so much use out of it. Now, we are on the hunt for an addition so that we can make it bigger!

This picture reminds me of the book, "WHERE's WALDO". I am like, "Where is ALEX"? There are so many toys in this play yard that I am not sure how they move about.
While Daddy and Mommy were cleaning out closets, we found this summer hat! I know that it won't fit him next year as it is already a little small.............
Alex!!!!!!

Biscuits, Biscuits, EVERYWHERE!

2008-09-24T18:13:00.001-07:00

Addie and Alex: First GERBER Biscuit Cookies

September 24, 2008

Mommy talks to OLD grandma a few times each day. Last week, OLD grandma asked mommy about what kind of goodies we had tried to eat. Mommy told her that we were eating REAL applesauce with our cereal and also PUFFS. OLD grandma asked if we had tried those "MESSY COOKIES". Mommy said no, not yet! Earlier this week, we went to check the mail with mommy and we had a letter from OLD grandma. She had sent us tons of diaper coupons as well as a few dollars with a little note that said "TREATS". So, mommy took us to the store and bought us a whole bunch of treats~ Tonight, we made a HUGE mess with our GERBER BISCUIT COOKIES. Thanks OLD grandma for the treats~

Addie sat in her highchair for almost an hour working on one cookie. Afterwards, she was put into the bathtub! She was covered from head to toe in biscuit mess!
Alex was not too sure about these cookies. He gave it a few tries and then was banging on the tray for PUFFS. Daddy and I think that he is going to be the PICKY one. Whew! Alex also had a bath but was not as much of a mess!
Ok, mom, I can pose for a picture!
Here you can see one of Addelynn's teeth! She was covered in cookie mess! At one point, she tried to brush her hair with the cookie. Yuck!
Adrienne, now do you believe my mommy that I am a MESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I WANT MY PUFFS!!!!!!!
If you look really close, you can see one of Alex's teeth!

The Three Bears!!!!!!!

2008-09-24T17:51:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from today! Addie and Alex had a very special play date! Not only did Emma and her mommy Brandi come over to play, but they were the first people other than family to babysit Addie and Alex!!!!!!! Thanks to Brandi, mommy's friend for taking time out of her day to do us a favor. It is not easy to trust just anyone and I am so thankful that I have you as a friend! While mommy was out and about today, Brandi and Emma took very good care of Addelynn and Alexander as well as the two dogs!!!!! Thanks again!

Alex playing peek-a-boo with Emma
Finally, Brandi caught Alex climbing on Addie on camera. He has been doing this for a week or so, but by the time that I notice it and run for the camera, he is done!
Am I handsome, or what?
Little sister is not SO LITTLE, anymore.....

Alex Pulls Up

2008-09-21T18:52:00.001-07:00

Almost There, Alex!

Everyday, Alex is getting closer to pulling up. Today, he was starting to pull up in his bed and in the play area. Tonight after his bath, he was crawling around on our bedroom floor and we noticed him trying to play with the drawer handles and pull up on our dressers and bed. Yikes! I guess that it is time to put the outlet covers all over the house! I was putting off doing that, but I think that the time has come!!!!!

"I'm not in any trouble, I promise"
Hmmmm, how can I climb up?
I will sit on my knees and play with the drawer handles.

Rub a Dub Dub

2008-09-21T18:42:00.001-07:00

Rub a Dub Dub, Addie and Alex in the Tub

Since we moved in May, we have been giving Addie and Alex their baths in our tub. It is much easier to just put them in the tub with one of us or take them into the shower! They both love their bath time! Alex loves to splash in the water and Addie loves to swim!

Tonight both Addie and Alex were very crabby! Therefore, we decided to try putting them both in the tub at the same time. Whew! I am so tired!!!!!! This took a lot of energy. They both love to squirm around and it is hard to watch them both at the same time.

Daddy was able to catch a few cute pictures!

Happy 9 Month Old Birthday

2008-09-21T18:27:00.001-07:00

Happy 9 Month Birthday Addelynn and Alexander

September 19, 2008

WOW! It seems like just a few days ago I was writing their 8 month old birthday post. Time sure goes by fast! Addie and Alex are doing great! It is amazing how much they have changed in just a months time! Tomorrow we go for our 9 month check up and shots. We are looking forward to see how much they weigh and how they are doing! Seems as if they are both eating like little piggies here of late! Be sure to stop by tomorrow night and see their stats from their appointment!
Addie was so tired on Saturday that she fell asleep in the play area. Good thing Alex was not around as he would have been pulling her ear, biting her, or crawling all over her! She slept like this for over an hour! When Addie is sleeping, you do not mess with her!
Mommy and Daddy put Addie and Alex's letters up on their walls this weekend.

When we were doing this, Addie and Alex spent twin time reading books! I will try and get some pictures of their letters this week. However, when I realized that I did not have any to put on the blog, they were already and bed, and I was not disturbing them!

GO FIGHTING ILLINI

2008-09-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

GO ILLINI

Mommy and Daddy bought these Illini outfits as well as many more in bigger sizes before Addie and Alex were born. It is so much fun now that they are able to wear them! I know, I know, we live in Alabma, but we still cheer on the Fighting Illini. However, our friend Ansleigh is a HUGE Auburn Fan! We have decided that since Auburn has the same colors as the Illini that we will also cheer them on this football season!

During mommy's pregnancy, we learned some really neat things out about her doctors. Dr. James Bartlesmeyer, the high risk perinatologist was a HUGE ILLINI fan. I hope to send him some of these pictures of Addie and Alex. I am sure that he would get a kick out of them. Dr. Jewell, the OB, was a HUGE MIZZOU fan. We will also be sending him a few pictures just cause he knows that we were supporters of the ILLINI! I know that he too will LOVE them!

Dear Amy, our favorite nurse on Floor 5, if you happen to see Dr. Bartlesmeyer or Dr. Jewell before I get these pictures in the mail to them, would you please share?

Our friend, Ansleigh!!!!!!! She is our Auburn fan!

To learn more about Ansleigh and her family visit:

http://alwaysfriday-carrie.blogspot.com/

GO TEAM!!!!!!!!!!!

Addie says, "You can take my picture!" Alex is being silly!

We like to play toys!
Mommy and Addelynn
Addelynn always finds a way to look for Bradyn or Dakota when we are trying to take a picture!
Whew! It is getting harder and harder to take their picture. They have a hard time wanting to sit still. Imagine that!

GO ILLINI!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lots and Lots of Pictures

2008-09-17T09:43:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone!
Sorry that there has been another delay in posting pictures! But, you will be happy that I will be posting tons of pictures today. Getting away to get the camera is not as easy as it was just a few weeks ago! Read below to see what is new! I hope that you enjoy the updates and pictures!!!!!!!!

Addie does not feel like smiling for the camera today. I think that she must be getting another tooth as she has not been in the best mood. She does smile, but as soon as I get the camera, I usually get a face like this!
Can you believe all the toys I have? Alex says, which one do you want to play with?
I have all these toys to play with but I would like to go climbing all over my sister!
Addie and Alex have fun playing in their play area! Between all the toys, you will find Alex sitting on a few and Addie laying across all of them!

Yes, you see it correct! Alex has STARTED to pull up on things. He has not yet mastered getting to standing, but he is very close!
Who would have ever guessed that this little ball could be such a hit for both Addie and Alex! They absolutely love playing with it. We should add a few of those to their Christmas list! It is very funny to watch them crawl after the ball when you roll it.
Little sister says, "Ok, mom, you can have this smile"!
Here is my serious face!
"" When is snack time mommy, I am hungry!"

For the most part, this has been a good week, so far! The weather here in Huntsville has been slowly cooling down. We have been dying to open our windows, so we have been bearing the warm afternoons. With having over 22 windows to open, it can be quite the chore! But, it is well worth it! Unfortunately, Addie and Alex have to have their windows closed during nap time as they are still building the house next door. However, that should be completed within the next month. Last night, we had fun giving Bradyn a bath outside! Dakota will have a turn this weekend. No big plans for this weekend.

Addie and Alex go to Dr. Patz, their Huntsville Pediatrician next week for their 9-month shots and appointments. We are anxious to hear how they are doing. I can tell you that they are growing more and more everyday. Finding pants this winter is going to be hard for Addelynn as she is so long! As you have read before, Addie has been a good cereal eater for a few weeks. Alex did not care for it so much. I have noticed that Addie likes the veggies and Alex likes the fruit. However, this past weekend, I started mixing their cereal with REAL APPLESAUCE and Alex will eat it now! Yea!!!!!!

Meet our New Friend Emma

2008-09-13T19:47:00.001-07:00

Addie and Alex Meet Emma

For months now, I have been trying to get involved with Huntsville Hospital NICU. I had such a moving experience with the NICU in St. Louis that I wanted to get involved with the local NICU. In doing some research, I came across a blog of a very dear friend. I met Brandy, Emma's mom back in May when we moved to Huntsville. We have spent the past 4 months talking via the Internet and phone. However, due to our busy schedules and kids being sick, we have not had the opportunity to actually meet in person. I have been so looking forward to meeting her though and knew that when we met that I would feel so comfortable as I feel like I had known her for a long time. There is something about having a preemie baby/babies that draws you close to others that have been there. Emma, Brandy and George's daughter was born at 26 weeks. She is now a healthy, energetic and loving little girl! Tonight, we had the pleasure of meeting them in person for the first time! What an exciting experience. It is one that will never be forgotten. Between Emma's balloon popping at the dinner table, to Emma kissing Alex, and Emma trying to push the stroller, we had a great time visiting. We are already planning another play date for possibly as soon as tomorrow! Thanks to Emma and her parents for such a fun night out!

Here are our pictures from this evening. Want to learn more about Emma and her family, please feel free to visit their blog at:

http://titsworthfamily.blogspot.com/

For now, enjoy these pictures!

Normally, you save the best for last. However, this one had to go first!!!!!!!!!!!
Emma was so thrilled to put her hands on Addie and Alex. She kept petting Alex saying, "pretty". She tried to kiss Addie's toes, push the stroller, and kiss Alex all in the same night! How funny!
Emma says, "Pretty"..... I don't know that he is pretty, but he sure is handsome!
Ok Emma, what about me???????? I need some attention too!
Do you think we're cute?
Emma did save the best for last, Addie! Check out her pose in this picture. Do you see her crossed feet! How cute!

Alex and Addie had a fun time getting to know Emma!

Saturday Smiles

2008-09-13T19:33:00.000-07:00

Today was a very busy day for us! We started of the morning by picking up the house a bit. Saturday and Sunday always tend to be pick up day as we are so busy during the week. Then, we went to 3 different Post Office's this morning for mommy to ship out some packages. Guess What? Not only is Regions Bank closed on Saturday down here in Huntsville. But, 2 of our local Post Office's are closed on Saturday and the one that is opened does not open til 10am. Well, back in St. Louis, we were used to having all of our errands run by 9am! That just proves, they do things a lot different down here. I am dying to know how working people get their errands done during the week when the banks and post offices are not open on Saturday!

Addie and Alex spent the afternoon playing! This afternoon, we set up a play date with our friends for this evening. You will see more pics of that in the next post. But, here are some pictures before our night out on the town! Enjoy!

Thanks Grandma and Grandpa for these adorable outfits. They are both still a little big, but they will fit them into the Fall.

Ok, can you not tell that this little girl is a MESS? Addie was not wanting her picture taken tonight. But, daddy was able to get this little grin.

I'm sleepy mommy, but I still like to cuddle!
We are ready to go!
Alex was trying to show you his new shoes!
Mr. Personality himself!
Awww..... Little sister, herself!

Does this make you LAUGH?

2008-09-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

At our NICU follow up appointment, we were told that using a plastic ball could really help the kids learn to sit. The ball is placed in between their knees when in the sitting position and it can help them with sense of balance. Well, we were bad!!!!!!!!!!!!! We did good with going to buy the ball. But, we forgot all about it! Yesterday, the kids were getting fussy and I decided to see if Addie and Alex would watch me bounce the ball.... It was a huge hit!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I find it so funny how the cheapest toys are sometimes the best!

Messy Messy!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

WHO IS THE MESS?????

As you all know, we have started to call Addelynn, MESS with a CAPITAL M!!!!!!! However, I am not sure that Alex is not catching up to her!

Both Addie and Alex are starting to eat more and more food. There was one day this week that Addie alone had 2 jars of sweet potatoes at one sitting. No, she does not say, OINK, OINK!!!!! Here are some feeding trends that we are noticing:

Addie loves rice cereal mixed with a fruit or applesauce!!!!!!! She will eat 2 bowls full a day, plus take all of her bottles and more food. Addie is still taking 5 bottles each day! She tends to eat 4-6 ounces at each feeding. She tries very hard to hold her own bottle. However, I have noticed that she has a hard time sitting still! So, I still feed her most of the time so that the bottle is not all over the house

Alex loves just about anything! However, I have noticed that he tends to favor the fruit more than the vegetables. Imagine that!!!!!!! Most of you know, that mommy does not eat ANY VEGGIES! I did not eat one vegetable when I was pregnant with these little munchkins! But, even though he favors fruit, he still gets plenty of both. Alex is holding his own bottle most of the time. However, we still feed him in our arms for his nighttime and first morning bottles. Alex eats between 6-8 ounces at each feeding.

Alex says, "See, I live in Alabama, however, I am still a Cardinal Fan!"

Alex knows now when he gets in the highchair that it is time to eat. He makes the funniest noises!

Addie says, "I'm stuffed and I think that I am ready for a nap". Addie had so much for dinner that she did not even take all of her nighttime bottle and went straight to sleep!

Today, mommy and daddy went to Target to stock up on more baby food as it is on sale this week. You can get a 2 pack of Gerber for .88 cents. That is .20 cents cheaper than normal. When you are feeding 2, you take every deal you can find!!!!!!!!!!!! Old grandma wanted to buy the kids some snacks/treats, but we could not find the baby butter biscuits. So, we bought some cobblers, mac-n-cheese and a few other treats to try out. Thanks Old Grandma!!!!!!!

Feeding Time

2008-09-09T16:47:00.000-07:00

To all that have been asking for pictures, including grandma, here are a few from this week! With daddy being home this week, we are back on track! Addie and Alex are getting food now twice a day. They both normally have a fruit in the morning and a vegetable at night. Addelynn loves rice mixed with fruit, and she sometimes has that instead. Alex hates the rice, oatmeal or cereal! With having two of them to feed and so much else to do, I don't force him to eat it! Our pediatrician has told us that unless someone has twins, they should not question how you are parenting or feeding :) He can say that as he himself has twins too......Addie and Alex have got the routine down pat. Alex especially knows that when you put him in the high chair with a bib that he is going to get food. They both love to sit in their highchairs and play table toys too!!!!!!

There is no way that they will keep bibs clean anymore!
Addie has just eaten a whole bowl of rice with fruit and some sweet potatoes~
Hi Mom, I am still hungry!
Sorry Bradyn, baby food is not for dogs!
Dakota wants a bite!

Saturday Fun

2008-09-07T05:44:00.001-07:00

Daddy had to work late Thursday, Friday and Saturday, so we had lots of playtime at home. On Saturday, our friend Allison came to play with us. She is a lot of fun! We were good, so mommy and Allison decided to pack us up and take us to the mall.
Since today is Sunday, daddy is home and we will be spending the day at home!
Here are some pictures from Saturday!

Alex is really starting to sit on his own now. You can put him down on his back or tummy and he finds a way to get into the sitting position.
Addie says, "Yes Mom, I am trying to sneak out of here".
"Bye, I'm on my way". Addie always finds a way to be in the middle of all the toys. She does not care if they are in her way at all. She could lay right on top of all of them!
Mr. Personality!

Picture Frenzy

2008-09-04T08:42:00.000-07:00

Addie and Alex are adjusting to being back home from Grandma and Grandpa's house. I think that they are enjoying having their exersaucer, jumperoo, and play yard with tons of toys to play with. Here are some updates for the week!
Alexander: He must be teething still! Alex has been much more fussy than normal. But, I know that he is not sick as he is still playing and smiling like always. He is either teething or going through the normal speration routine that some go through. Here lately, he cries even when I walk with him towards the exersaucer, play area, hallway (towards bedroom). If I am anywhere in sight where he is playing, he wants me to pick him up. So, I have been trying to leave the room but still be where I can check on him. On the positive note, Alex has been seen sitting up all by himself. We see this alot when he is crawling on the floor or in his play yard, you turn around and he is sitting up playing with toys.. Yea Alex!
Addelynn: Can you say "Mess" with a capital M? Little sister has been into just about everything. She has discovered that all of the toys on the exersaucer are removable and that she can pull them out and throw them across the room. This morning, I was trying to get bottles ready and I put her in the bouncey seat for all of 2 minutes. When I walked back in the room, she was 1/2 way out of the seat as she has figured out how to unsnap the seatbelt. Yes, this could have been an odd occurance, but it does not surprise me as she is strong. Addie has been fighting naps this week. But, we are working on that. She now lays down with a soft doll and then, I take it away, once she is asleep, of course!

Here are some pictures from our morning! As you can see, Alex is dressed.. But, Addie is still in PJ's. Since Alex has not been wanting me to put him down, I had tmie to dress him. But, Addie had been content, so I did not disturb her!

Take me out to the Ballgame!
Put me in Coach! I am ready to play today!
Addie is still saying dadadadadadadadadadada non stop! Here she was as I was trying to take the picture of her!
Mom, you can take as many as you want, but I am not going to smile!

"Mommy took so many pictures of me this morning that her camera batteries are dead! Please send us some more batteries grandpa!