Author: Amber

Toddler Tips #1: Tinkle Catcher

Amber 12 Comments

toddler tips

I’m ecstatic to launch our new series, Toddler Tips.  With each passing day, I find myself trying to solve some new challenge with raising four toddlers, aka “quaddlers”.  They are a cunning lot who inspires a little ingenuity on my part (and George’s) just to manage day to day life.  While my ideas are born from being surrounded by four toddlers, I think many of them could be helpful to any parents of little ones.

Dating all the way back to the days of the NICU, I can recall that all four of our children have peed in their bathwater.  As soon as their little piggy toes make contact with the water, the flood gates open.  When they were tiny infants it didn’t bother me too much.  Perhaps because I expected the volume was small, or maybe because they were in the infant tub and got their own fresh water.  Once they could sit up, we began pairing them up or even dunking all four in the same water.  The thought of bathing in urine, especially someone else’s disgusts me.

While the babies were in the NICU, we bathed them in tiny plastic tubs. It's incredible that they fit into those things.

While the babies were in the NICU, we bathed them in tiny plastic tubs. It’s incredible that they fit into those things.

We used bath seats like this when they could sit up, but not with the buoyancy of water.

We used bath seats like this when they could sit up, but not with the buoyancy of water.

Alas, a four baby dunk.

Alas, a four baby dunk.

Then the idea struck!  Now, I dress them down to their diapers and stand them in the water for a few seconds before removing the diaper.  Before I totally remove the diaper, I peel back the tabs just to make sure they’re done.  Voila!  No more pee pee in the water (they could tinkle a little more, but this prevents the flood gates at least).  I always check for two minor details 1. check the diaper to make sure it’s not soiled 2. don’t let them sit prematurely.

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Stay tuned for more toddler tips. There’s good stuff coming because necessity is the mother of invention!  If you have any toddler tips of your own, I’d love to hear them.  If I try a great one, I’ll feature it and give credit where it’s due.  I’m always open to ingenious ideas.

hugs!

Amber

Cast a Light in the Darkness

Amber 13 Comments

cast a light in the darkness

Today, October 15th, is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.  Each year on this day, I reflect upon the past few years with the challenges we’ve overcome.  It’s hard to believe that just two years ago, our dreams of having a family seemed shattered.  After our third round of IUI, George and I finally got the coveted BFP (big fat positive).  When we went to the first ultrasound, we saw the most beautiful, strong fluttering heartbeat.  I recall my doctor happily stating that 97% of the time when a strong heartbeat is seen, the baby is delivered to term.  We were filled with naivety and confidence after that appointment.  So confident, in fact, that I went alone to the next ultrasound appointment.  Epic mistake.

At the second appointment, the dreaded words, “Your baby stopped growing” stung my ears.  I recall a numbness filled with confusion.  I thought, “What does she mean???”  I sat in the doctor’s office alone in a horrid paper gown flummoxed.  That was when I became the newest member of yet another club that no one want wants to join- the “I suffered a miscarriage” club.

Unfortunately, miscarriage is relatively common, estimated to occur in 10-20% of pregnancies.  It happens to our mothers, aunts, cousins, sisters, daughters, and best friends.  Yet, it alienates us from the very people we hold dearly because only those in the dreadful club truly understand the agony it causes.  Sometimes we suffer alone, while other times we openly share our wounds only to find that those who love us inflict even more pain.  Prior to my own experience, I didn’t have the foggiest concept of miscarriage.  Perhaps I was an offender to those around me, saying “helpful” things that were anything but.  Because miscarriage is common, chances are you know or will know someone in the dreaded club so please be a friend to her and consider my thoughts on the matter.

Recognize that your friend is grieving. Even though the baby was tiny and perhaps she didn’t even know the baby’s gender, the mother was attached to her baby the minute she knew he existed.  She had hopes and dreams for her baby that were crushed.  Most of all, it was the loss of what will never be.  With each passing day, the mother knows her baby will never be part of her family to celebrate holidays, snap family portraits, or to snuggle at night. That is devastating.  It is not the same as other losses, but it is a loss nonetheless and the mother is experiencing legitimate grief.  Consequently, she needs the help of her friends so,

  • Don’t marginalize her pain or experiences with insensitive words such as, “At least it was early. ” or “It was God’s plan”, or “Everything happens for a reason”.
  • Don’t ignore her grief.  It is just as hurtful for friends to ignore the pain of a miscarriage as it is for them to say something insensitive.
  • Don’t inquire about future family planning or make statements about whether the couple should continue trying or not.  Unless your friend specifically seeks advice in this area, it’s really none of your business.

Instead,

  • Keep your words simple and supportive.  “I’m so sorry for your loss”, “You are in my thoughts and prayers”, or “I am here to listen.” can be very powerful.  There’s no need to say more because chances are you may inadvertently say something hurtful.
  • Send her something letting her know you are thinking of her.  A simple card is plenty, but flowers or donations to charities in the family name are other thoughtful ways to honor the loss.
  • If you have a new baby or are an expectant mother, understand that your friend may find it difficult to talk to you about your baby or pregnancy.  It has nothing to do with you.  Rather, your friend is likely experiencing intense pain that is exacerbated by seeing your joy.  She is not jealous of you, but she is reminded of her loss.  Give her time and she will find healing.
  • Help her seek help (if needed).  After a miscarriage, the mother’s hormones are in a state of flux where emotions run high and low.  For most mothers, intense feelings, including depression subside within a few months.  If your friend seems to be struggling immensely after several months pass, encourage her to speak with her physician.

If you are reading this, I hope you head my thoughts about this if it happens to a friend of yours.  Miscarriage is an extremely difficult experience and the support of friends is critical.

Tonight, we will light this candle for an hour in memory of our first as we will do every year.

Tonight, we will light this candle at 7:00 pm for an hour in memory of our first baby, helping create the “wave of light” across the world.

hugs,

Amber

Shawver Shenanigans

Amber 6 Comments

Shawver Shenanigans

If a baby changes everything….four babies turn life upside down! Being Type A personalities, George and I attempt to run a tight ship, maintaining a predictable schedule and keeping everything in it’s place.  I really like order.  Yet, quadruplets have a way of forcing us to loosen the reigns and be far more flexible.  We’re learning to roll with the punches more each day.  We often just have sit back and enjoy the ride, taking it all in stride.  If we took ourselves too seriously, we’d be in for a treacherous road.

When I review the snapshots taken in a week’s time, it’s apparent that our lives are full of shenanigans, but that is what enriches us and makes life full of JOY!  It’s a clear reminder why God thought quadruplets were just right for our family.  Here are some of my favorite outtakes from last week-

1. Sydney is undoubtedly clever.  She figured out the perfect way to stop a runny nose…

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2. Saturday night we went to a friend’s surprise 30th birthday with the quads in tow.  In honor of the occasion, they were dressed in their cutest Halloween outfits, accessorized with boots and all.  I hoped we’d capture a an equally cute family snapshot.  Instead, we got this:

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3. This is the reason I rarely change the quad’s sheets….

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What’s shaking at your house?

hugs,

Amber

Adventures in Legoland

Amber 11 Comments

I feel very fortunate to have the Bell family nearby so that we can share the experience of parenting quadruplets and the babies can be raised with other quadruplets.  It normalizes the experience so much.  We’ve taken turns hosting play dates in our homes, and it’s always been great.  Now that we have toddlers, Amber suggested taking the quads for a play date away from home.  Naturally, any type of outing means a great deal of planning and W-O-R-K, but I thought it was brilliant.  I sequestered the assistance of my friend, Kristin, on a day when Amber’s nanny was available.  Thus, four of us set out to take eight babies to Legoland.

In case you ever wondered, this is what four twin strollers filled with eight babies looks like. I do not envy Nadia Soulman one bit, eight babies is A LOT of babies!

In case you ever wondered, this is what four twin strollers filled with eight babies looks like. Amber said it looked like a Combi convention since we have four of the same model stroller.  Maybe the two of us can start hosting “Combi Cons”.

Since we were all Leogland rookies, no one knew quite what to expect.  After purchasing our tickets, the 12 of us were greeted by electronic doors leading us into a Lego factory where a “Professor” greeted us and explained how Legos are made.  While the babies probably had no idea what the Professor was saying, they seemed to enjoy watching Legos progress through the factory, except when the batch spilled into a bucket causing a commotion.

Following our tour, we were led to an area of low light surrounded by several long ramps cordoned off by ropes.  There, a zealous pair enthusiastically greeted us and directed us to park our strollers in the “stroller park” as if this was the protocol for entry.  I’m sure the four adults in our group stared at this pair gobsmacked trying to work out how we’d manage to park four twin strollers and lead eight babies (with various levels of mobility) up a series of ramps.  Somehow we learned the ramps lead to a ride so I inquired whether it was appropriate for babies to which they replied, “everyone is welcome”.  Still the four adults were hesitant to 1. park our strollers 2. heave all the baby gear 3. lead eight babies up ramps 4. take babies on a mysterious ride.  About twenty questions in we knew it would be startling for the little ones so we opted out.

Apparently each Legoland boasts a miniature of the city where it is located.  We were thoroughly impressed with the Lego version of Dallas-Fort Worth, which was complete with Cowboy Stadium, Southfork Ranch, and my favorite, Reunion Tower.  While looking at Legos is interesting, it doesn’t help harness toddler energy.

Amber and I both snapped pictures of the babies next to Cowboy Stadium for the Quad Fathers.

Amber and I both snapped pictures of the babies next to Cowboy Stadium for the Quad Fathers.

Within the play area, we stumbled upon a giant pit of rubber Legos.  In multiples fashion, we overtook this area by encircling the pit with our strollers and dumping eight babies inside.  Our gaggle of babies undoubtedly confused the other patrons.  Most people presumed we were a twin play group, which was probably far less novel than when they realized it was two sets of quads.  Amber’s nanny dared me to claim all eight as octuplets, but there’s no way I could have done that with a straight face.  It was a humorous thought.

I think eight babies in a Lego pit is about capacity.

I think eight babies in a Lego pit is about capacity.

Well, maybe one baby was upset for a bit. Thankfully this lasted only momentarily.

Someone was not keen on the Lego pit. Thankfully this lasted only momentarily.

I'm not sure that Kristin knew what she signed up for, but she was an amazing help during this excursion.

I’m not sure that Kristin knew what she signed up for, but she was an amazing help during this excursion.

Everyone had an opportunity to go out with just one sibling to explore and practice mobility. I was especially proud of Sydney who began standing unassisted.

Everyone had an opportunity to go out with just one sibling to explore and practice mobility. I was especially proud of Sydney who finally began standing unassisted.

Each of the babies had a turn on the spiral slide with their mommy. I snapped a picture of Amber & Logan.

Each of the babies had a turn on the spiral slide with their mommy. I snapped a picture of Amber & Logan.

The babies did really well handling the small Leogs and attempted connecting them.

The babies did really well handling the small Leogs and attempted connecting them.  They all tasted said small Legos, but we tried to ignore the thought of germ infestation.

I was extremely proud of all of the babies.  They explored their surroundings and remained calm during our stay with only a few exceptions.  After about an hour, the adults were totally drained so we gathered our troops and headed to the food court.  By that time, the babies were so exhausted, a few of them nodded off during lunch.  It was a successful adventure for all!

This is how you feed eight babies in a food court. No need for strollers- simply dish out finger foods and strap sippy cups onto the stroller. I love that these strollers have three snack catch/ drink holders per stroller.

This is how you feed eight babies in a food court. No need for strollers- simply dish out finger foods and strap sippy cups onto the stroller. I love that these strollers have three snack catch/ drink holders per stroller. (Sydney is craning her neck to see the carousel behind the strollers).

Since the babies seemed more interested in Legos than ever before, we had a little Legoland experience at home today.  I gated off our hallway, shut the doors and put only Legos Mega Blocks and their accessories out.  This kept the babies occupied nearly 30 minutes.

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Today, Harper worked very hard to attach blocks together.

Today, Harper worked very hard to attach blocks together.

After our DIY Legoland, we worked on putting everything back in the bag. The babies did pretty well with this, but once all pieces were in the bag they tried to take them back out.

After our DIY Legoland, we worked on putting everything back in the bag. The babies did pretty well with this, but once all pieces were in the bag they tried to take them back out.

Where is your favorite place to take toddlers?

hugs!

Amber

Fall Festival

Amber 2 Comments

My parents have been loyal members of the same church for over thirty years.  Consequently, Courtney and I grew up with a rather large extended church family, who has supported us even as we’ve grown up and moved away.  Long before the babies ever arrived, they prayed for our family, sewed a prayer blanket, donated secondhand baby necessities, and hosted diaper drives.  In fact, they donated so many diapers that we bought very few in the babies’ first year.  However, due to lock down and challenges of traveling, the babies just recently made their first appearance at this church for a special occasion: The Fall Festival.

The Fall Festival is the church’s sole fundraiser, which occurs each September.  Since it was once coordinated by my father, it’s nostalgic for both Courtney and I.  I fondly recall the days when our dance class provided entertainment, we collected game prizes, and I served pizza in the rain with mom.  I’d say it’s the church version of the state fair complete with fairway games, a petting zoo, informational booths, fried food, an auction, and crafts for sale.

We were able to get one whole group shot of our family.

We were able to get one whole group shot of our family.

Surprisingly, I look forward to the Fall Festival especially because I know it’s the single best place to get made-to-order egg rolls, and they cost a buck!  I’ve always secretly loved the rummage sale too.  It’s one of the largest garage sales in the state, filling an entire basketball gym with a menagerie of stuff.  Granted, the majority of the rummage sale is usually junk, treasure always lies beneath, and the hunt is exhilarating.  This year, my shopping time was minimal, but I scored pajamas for each of the girls for just $.50!  This year, the best part of the Fall Festival was fellowship with people we’ve known for years, yet haven’t seen in quite a while.  Without a doubt there were no grandparents prouder than Grandpa and Nisey.  They beamed each time they met a friend meeting the quads for the first time.

Grandpa discovered a more efficient way to carry Harper.

Grandpa discovered a more efficient way to carry Harper through the rummage sale.

I thought the babies would be interested in the petting zoo since they've mastered animal sounds. Not quite.

I thought the babies would be interested in the petting zoo since they’ve mastered animal sounds. Not quite.

Rylin did not take a nap on the way to church and was downright crabby. Nisey finally found a maraca in the rummage sale that appeased her.

Rylin did not take a nap on the way to church and was downright crabby. Nisey finally found a maraca in the rummage sale that appeased her.

Typical Mason flirted with everyone he met, flashing those two dimples happily.

Typical Mason flirted with everyone he met, flashing those two dimples happily.

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hugs!

 

Amber

Just Three Ingredients

Amber 6 Comments

Now that it’s October, I’ve been willing it to feel like fall more and more each day.  The daylight is getting slimmer, I pulled fall clothes from the attic, my house is decorated for fall, but it seems like a façade given the warm weather.  This week, I had enough of the summer weather and decided to make my favorite fall cookies with the babies. Peanut butter.  I’m not sure why exactly peanut butter makes me think of fall, but it does.  I pulled my family cookbook down, searching for the recipe, but no avail.  I searched online for a recipe and thought I found a good one.  It called for butter, brown sugar, peanut butter, and milk among other things.  It wasn’t long before I realized I poured the last of the milk into Rylin’s sippy cup.  Peanut butter cookie making plans foiled!  Then, I remembered my mom making three ingredient peanut butter cookies.  It seems crazy, but she always made perfect peanut butter cookies so I gave them a try.


To make 2 ½ dozen cookies, mix

1. 2 cups sugar

2. 2 cups peanut butter

3. 2 eggs

Scoop the dough out with a cookie scoop then press with a fork, making a crosswise pattern.

Bake 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees.

After mixing the dough, I scraped the last bits of peanut butter onto four baby spoons so the babies could lick it off. They are officially Shawvers because they lapped it up! Next time I'll add a chocolate chip and they will have our official "Peanut Butter" snack.

After mixing the dough, I scraped the last bits of peanut butter onto four baby spoons so the babies could lick it off. They are officially Shawvers because they lapped it up! Next time I’ll add a chocolate chip so they can try our official “Peanut Butter” snack.

I should know by now, but I may never learn. The babies have a long reach and they can grab most anything on the quad table. Mason snatched some dough from the cookie on the corner.

I should know by now, but I may never learn. The babies have a long reach and they can grab most anything on the quad table. Mason snatched some dough from the cookie on the corner.

The aroma that spilled from my oven was delightful!  I made these cookies on Tuesday and as of today, there are none left.  What is your favorite fall dessert?

hugs!

Amber

Every Wink Counts

Amber 9 Comments

B. Q. (Before Quadruplets), I blissfully enjoyed a solid eight uninterrupted hours of sleep each night.  Plus, I almost always snagged a quick power nap when I arrived home from work.  On the weekends, George and I routinely enjoyed leisurely mornings, sleeping past our usual alarm clock wakings.  Oh how I loved sleep!

While I was pregnant with the quadruplets, I adopted the sleeping habits of a house cat (i.e. I slept more hours in a 24 hour period than I was awake).  After delivery, I was in for a rude awakening when my sleep habits were forced into a tailspin. Even while the babies were in the NICU, I woke around the clock to pump for them.  For me, sleep occurred in two hour bursts at best.  I was astonished that it was even possible to function on such little sleep. I was “functioning”, but that was about it.  Some days it was surprising that I accomplished anything.  With such poor quality sleep, I found myself doing goofy things such as wearing my sweater backwards to work, speaking incoherent rubbish, and forgetting to refrigerate the milk I pumped in the night.  Having four babies in the NICU was exhausting and brutal for sleep, but once they arrived home matters did not improve.  With four babies home, George and I woke together round the clock to feed and care for them.  We found our Keurig coffee maker to be our most beloved appliance.  I never drank coffee B. Q., but found myself dependent upon just one cup to manage early morning feedings and such (I still have a coffee habit that I may never shake).

Out of pure necessity, to restore one of our most precious commodities, George and I sleep trained the babies when they were about four months old.  After many grueling sleepless nights, we once again slept in longer than three hour intervals.  We even clocked a minimum of six hours per night without disruption!  Soon they began sleeping well over eight hours per night without bothering us.  Still, they are fantastic sleepers, generally snoozing 11-12 hours without so much as a peep.  That does not imply that we are sleeping 12 hours, or even the eight we desire.  Having toddlers in our home means that few chores, or anything leisurely occurs during their wake time hours.  All day long, we are working to care for them and provide an enriching environment.  Once they are safely tucked into their cribs each night, George and I have much to accomplish.  Around 8:00 pm, we enjoy our dinner together then tick off a few chores before we can hopefully relax with a television show or novel.  Most nights, our bedtime is around 11:00 pm, and occasionally we don’t even pad off to bed until close to midnight, only to wake in the morning to four bright eyed toddlers.  I would love to sleep a luxurious eight or more hours per night, but at this point it’s unlikely.  As a result, George and I fiercely try to preserve the sanctity of the precious winks we do get each night.  I was ecstatic when Silksleep offered to let me try one of their 100% pure mulberry silk sleep masks.

I always think its a treat to get something from overseas, especially when it comes from "Royal Mail". It makes me feel cultured or something.

I always think its a treat to get something from overseas, especially when it comes from “Royal Mail”. It makes me feel cultured or something.

I think the Ivory silk with chocolate trim has a sophisticated appearance.

I think the Ivory silk with chocolate trim has a sophisticated appearance, and I really like the black bag for storage.  Goodness knows I don’t want little fingers tampering with my mask.

Back in the days when George and I traveled, I always packed a sleep mask and miniature fan in my suitcase for good measure.  When you’re away from home you can never count on having an environment conducive to sleep, but white noise and darkness generally help.  Whenever I know someone admitted to the hospital (especially for an extended stay), I bring them a sleep mask and ear plugs if they do not have one because hospitals are notoriously bright and loud.   I certainly appreciated those two things during my brief stint in the hospital.  However, I never once considered wearing a sleep mask in the comfort of my home.  And, the sleep mask I previously owned was some cheap cloth with elastic from a discount retailer.  I always thought our bedroom was perfectly arranged for good sleep, but Silksleep changed my opinion.

The night my Silksleep mask arrived was ideal for my first experience with it.  Earlier in the day, I took the quads for a play date with the Bell Quad Squad, and needless to say I was completely drained of energy.  Play dates are fantastic for the quads and me, but eight babies have a way of zapping even the most lively person of energy.  To relax my mind, I read a chapter of my Sophie Kinsella novel then asked George to snap a picture of me before calling it a night.

For my first night test driving my Silksleep mask, I thought my "Got Quads" t-shirt was apropos.

For my first night test driving my Silksleep mask, I thought my “Got Quads” t-shirt was apropos.

I found it nearly impossible to take a picture with the numbers visible on my alarm clock. If you squint a bit, you may notice it says 11:31 pm. That's typically about the time I turn in for the night. Late.

I found it nearly impossible to take a picture with the numbers visible on my alarm clock. If you squint a bit, you may notice it says 11:31 pm. That’s typically about the time I turn in for the night. Late.

The first night wearing my Silksleep mask was divine!  I was totally exhausted and drifted right off to sleep almost immediately.  I woke the next morning still wearing it and feeling refreshed.

If there’s one thing that always makes us appreciate how well our babies sleep, it’s rough ones.  Thanks to stuffy noses and teething, the past week hasn’t been conducive to sleep.  The quads have literally taken turns ensuring George and I find our sleep interrupted at least two or three times per night.  The challenge of waking from a deep slumber to tend to a baby is getting back to sleep.  My sleep mask proved very helpful in returning to sleep.  When I go to bed I’m usually unaware of all the lights illuminating our bedroom.  The street lights spill through the curtains and all of our various electronic devices shed green hues about the room.  In the wee hours of the morning, these lights are glaringly intrusive to returning to sleep, but my Silksleep mask blocked it all out, allowing me to return to a peaceful state faster.  With so many nights of babies going bump in the night, I found myself needing a bit of a power nap while they take their afternoon nap.  My Silksleep mask is fantastic for that too!  No better way to block out the afternoon sunshine than with a mask!  I’m hopeful that the babies’ stuffy noses will soon heal and their teeth will finally erupt so we all get back to our sleep utopia.  However, I’ve been really pleased with my sleep mask especially for those pesky middle of the night wakings and much needed naps.  Even the night I slept without disruptions, I believe my mask helped me maintain a peaceful sleep.

I haven’t had my mask long enough to attest to this yet, but Silksleep’s masks are designed to help skin retain moisture and reduce the appearance of fine lines.  Given my state of sleep deprivation, I’m certainly hopeful!  I dutifully slather on eye cream before heading off to bed.

What measures do you take to help ensure a good night’s rest?

P. S. If you’d like to try one of Silksleep’s luxurious sleep masks or any of their other silk bed linens (they have an array of bed linens and other sleep accessories), they are extending a special offer: 10% off orders from our readers.  Simply enter ADORE10 as a promotional code at checkout.

I would like to extend a special thank you to Silksleep for providing me with one of their 100% silk sleep masks for review.  I received no other compensation and all opinions expressed are 100% my own.

It’s autumn, right?

Amber 5 Comments

This week the Harvest Moon illuminated the sky in it’s orange glory, marking the official start to autumn. Naturally, in Texas no one would know autumn arrived judging by the weather, where temperatures remain in the mid 90’s. We never let the weather dictate how we prepare for the new seasons in our home. Over the week, George and I spruced the place up with some new fall decor, and the babies gave us their hands (and feet) for the cause.

Our attic is stashed full of seasonal decorations, but some of them are getting rather tired and may need to retire. George thought we needed a fall wreath this year and wanted to upcycle a grapevine wreath from the attic. I think fall wreaths are a wonderful way to welcome visitors, but I’ve never found myself good at making them. But, I’m far too frugal to purchase a ready made one. With a little help from Pinterest and a few new accessories from Hobby Lobby, our porch now looks like this-

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I bought a 12″ wooded S, which I coated with Mod Podge then dusted with gold glitter. George actually made the burlap bow and arranged the sprays into the wreath. The owl was found in our attic and we nested him in the wreath for a spooky touch. Since the chevron on the bow is green, I am thinking of later converting this wreath to a Christmas one by switching out the sprays and owl for other accessories. The pumpkins on the porch were old faded plastic ones in storage that got the same bedazzled treatment as our S.

Recently we’ve had a problem with delivery drivers, solicitors, and even neighbors ringing the door bell just as the babies drift off to sleep during nap time. There is not much worse than getting four babies to sleep only to have a door bell startle them and spoil the peace. For a while, we had a paper note taped to our doorbell, but it wasn’t attractive. George replaced the paper sign with a barn wood frame and wood panel stating, “Knock softly babies sleeping.” Because George is an over achiever, he wanted to make an additional sign with a quote that is meaningful to our family.

There is a wonderful story behind the quote, which George will happily share with anyone who wants to inquire.

There is a wonderful story behind the quote, which George will happily share with anyone who inquires.

Inside, I tossed some spray painted dry gourds into an orange basket for a fresh fall centerpiece. Then, I used the extra burlap ribbon from the wreath to adorn our mantle along with my favorite pumpkin collection and scarecrow.

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Finally, the babies helped us create a Halloween masterpiece with their hands and feet.

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We used black foam board cut into smaller sections as canvas, and I connected them with grosgrain ribbon from our gift wrap box. Harper’s hands created the spider, Sydney’s feet created the candy corn, Rylin’s hands made the skeleton hands, and Mason’s feet became ghosts.
We chose to hand the babies’ art work adjacent to the quad table, and they enjoy admiring it during mealtimes.

The kick off to fall is never complete without a pot of chili. This year, I wanted to try my hand at Crock Pot chili since our slow cooker is my new favorite kitchen appliance. I perused our pantry and came up with my take on Green Chicken Chili.

Green Chicken Chili Dump these ingredients in the Crock Pot: 4 chicken breasts, 1/2 box chicken broth, 2 cans green enchilada sauce, 1 can rotel, 2 cans corn drained, 2 cans white beans (rinsed and drained), 8 oz cream cheese. Cook on low 6-8 hrs or on high 4 hrs.

Green Chicken Chili
Dump these ingredients in the Crock Pot: 4 chicken breasts, 1/2 box chicken broth, 2 cans green enchilada sauce, 1 can Rotel, 2 cans corn drained, 2 cans white beans (rinsed and drained), 8 oz cream cheese. Cook on low 6-8 hrs or on high 4 hrs.

What do you do in your home when fall arrives?

Hugs,

Amber

The Little Things Thursdays: Installment #34

Amber 5 Comments

In honor of Thursday, it’s time to link up with A Beautiful Ruckus as we recall the little things that brightened our week.

1.  Three times is a charm for scheduling quad play dates.  Since our quad buddies, The Bell Quad Squad, settled into their new home, we’ve been trying to arrange a play date.  Thanks to toddler hood and increased outings, both sets of quads have gotten a few colds, causing us to postpone.  On Monday, it FINALLY happened!  I brought the babies for their first play date in the Bell Romper room (e.g. amazing, over sized quad-proof living room).   The babies and I always enjoy time outside of our home, exploring new places.  There’s no place better to visit than the home of other multiples.  The Bell home is equipped with everything we need from four pack ‘n’ plays to a quad table.  Plus, other parents of multiples are tolerant of multiples.  For example, Amber wasn’t ruffled when three of my four screamed bloody murder after being put down for nap.  Amber and I really enjoyed each other’s company and have exciting plans for another play date in the near future.  Stay tuned for that!

The Quad Squad has many familiar toys and some novel ones too. The babies enjoyed playing with this toy, which is identical to one we used to have (I got antsy and purged it a few months ago). They LOVED seeing it again.

The Quad Squad has many familiar toys and some novel ones too. The babies enjoyed playing with this toy, which is identical to one we used to have (I got antsy and purged it a few months ago). They LOVED seeing it again.

Capturing four toddlers in a single picture proved impossible. This was my best attempt. I spy seven babies and it looks like total mayhem.

Capturing four toddlers in a single picture proved impossible. This was my best attempt. I spy seven babies and it looks like total mayhem.

For lunch time, each set of quads took turns in the quad table. I thought it was cute how they peered at each other through the bars on the fence as if they were jailbirds.

For lunch time, each set of quads took turns in the quad table. I thought it was cute how they peered at each other through the bars on the fence as if they were jailbirds.

2.  With the promise of fall weather coming, I brought the babies’ fall clothing boxes down, washed and sorted everything.  My friend, Jen, helped me work on the girls portion Tuesday and I was incredibly thankful for that!  I started going batty trying to match twin sets, coordinated outfits, and sort by size and gender.  With each seasonal change, I find the task of clothing transitions daunting.  At the same time, I am overjoyed with the generosity of our friends and family who clothe our babies with gifts and hand-me-downs.  We are abundantly blessed by others, and in turn we are able to share our things with many other families behind us.

As I sorted, babies had fun jumping onto the clothes pile and carrying items away. Harper was a willing model to try new sizes from our fall collection.

As I sorted, babies had fun jumping onto the clothes pile and carrying items away. Harper was a willing model to try new sizes from our fall collection.

3.  We order many things for our home online these days so we are no stranger to UPS boxes.  This week, I was delighted to find an unexpected delivery all the way from Italy.  My mom’s cousin, Debbie, sent us these stunning blown glass turtle figurines.  She told us that she spotted them in a store front window and immediately recalled our sea turtle story.  There’s nothing that warms my heart more than when seeing sea turtles remind others of our story.

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I found the perfect place for our new turtles in the entry way below our family portraits.

4. Since Mason’s plagiocephaly was corrected by his DOC band, he was given a formal assessment by Early Childhood Intervention this morning.  I was so proud of our little man.  He worked very hard to follow directions and scored within his age range or above in all areas.  Therefore, he’s graduated from Early Childhood Intervention services!  Hooray!!!

What brought you joy this week?

hugs,

Amber

P.S. I’d like to extend a thank you to the Itz, Reese, Clements, McKenzie, Lawson, and Parr families for sharing their clothes with us!  You should be seeing some of your clothes show up on our babies in the near future.

Why Parenting is like Religion & Politics

Amber 27 Comments

Why Parenting

Since joining the ranks of parenthood, I am painfully aware of how parenting choices and styles are polarizing, much like religion and politics.  Everyone has an opinion and naturally theirs is THE ONE.  Each day when I log on to my Facebook account, I am assaulted by the plethora of shared posts that make claims of how and why parents should do certain things, or not.  Everyone seems to have a strong opinion about all things parenting from when to introduce solid foods to when kids should start school.    I’m not talking about when people share tips/ tricks about what they find helpful (isn’t that what I often do here?).  One can simply take or leave such advice, that’s simple.  I’m referring more to articles that put down other methods and claim to monopolize the truth or attempt to make other parents feel insecure about their decisions.  The majority of the time, I find that posts or articles of this nature are not substantiated by scientific research, but are mere opinions of the authors.  I feel confident in the parenting choices I make with my spouse, carefully discerning what’s best for us.  I don’t think my children need to be saved from our parenting style.

Here’s the deal: when it comes to your kids, I think you should have opinions about what you chose to do and what fits your family’s needs, and those decisions should be well thought.  However, I’m baffled at the way some parents stake righteous claims, putting down and sometimes condemning the choices of others.  Like so many things in life, there are multiple ways to parent a child.  While one method may work perfectly for your family, it may not be the best means for another.

For example, George and I found Babywise to be helpful to us in getting our quadruplets to sleep through the night and follow a schedule.  We did not follow it strictly, but we used it to inspire our parenting choices, and it worked well for us.  I felt highly insulted when a friend posted claims and articles about how Babywise was abusive and caused psychological damage. On the other hand, another friend publicly admitted she planned to be a “Babywise Mom”, but did everything just the opposite.  She did not condemn Babywise at all, but instead admitted she found another way that worked for her family.  I appreciated her take immensely.  Will I follow her lead and co bed and feed on demand?  Nope.  Do I respect her decision? Absolutely!

Another hot button issue for me is about when to turn car seats around.  There is currently a buzz about keeping children rear facing until school age.  I agree it is probably best practice; however in accordance with both our vehicle and car seat manufacturer’s guidelines (age and weight requirements), we turned two of our car seats around.  Gasp! I know, they’re under age two, and that’s not what many are recommending.  At the same time, rear facing four toddlers is a monumental task.  With all four no longer in infant seats, we were forced to load two babies via the back hatch and pull dangerous Gumby maneuvers to do it.  Thanks to my Diastasis Recti, my back radiated pain with each loading/ unloading.  Furthermore, keeping a rear facing seat behind the driver meant the driver could not safely operate the accelerator and breaks because the driver’s seat was so close to the steering wheel.  Really, aside from a daycare van, no vehicle is intended to hold four infant seats anyways.  Some may say we’re making excuses.  Okay.  I’d say we are making a choice that works for our family, and we’re comfortable with it.  There are plenty more examples, but I’m sure you get the point by now.

Earlier in the week, I posted about 5 Things I’d NEVER do.  Reflecting on our current family status, it became apparent to me that my viewpoints, habits, and decisions changed drastically after having quadruplets.  There is absolutely no way to know what you may or may not do in a given situation until you are in it.  So why pass judgements?  Even parents of high order multiples the same age as ours may find different methods work best for their family.  That’s because each family is absolutely unique.

When it comes down to it, I believe that parents attempt to force their opinions on others as a means of validation that they are right, and it’s easy to hide behind online means to do it.  Instead, I’d love to see parents make their own decisions, sharing what they find helpful and simply respect the parenting styles of their peers who differ.  I know I shouldn’t get ruffled when I see polarizing posts, I just wish others would share their views in a less judgmental, black/ white way sometimes.

What parenting choices have you made that were criticized by others?

hugs,

Amber