Quadruplets

The Little Things Thursdays: Installment #16

Amber 8 Comments

This week, I have to admit I’m totally exhausted.  George and I have been battling a refrigerator on the fritz amidst our typical chaos.  However, I know in the scheme of things, the stresses of the week are totally insignificant.  There are far greater problems in the world than our bit of drama.  Instead, it is more worthwhile to remember this week’s highlights.

1.  Saturday was a special day when Daddy got some solo time with the babies.  He stayed home during lunch while I got a trim and went to Costco alone.  I think it was his first time doing spoon feeds himself, but he managed perfectly!  I think Saturday was a good bonding time for them, plus freedom for me.

I knew George was unlikely to snap pictures while I was away, so I caught one before I slipped away.

I knew George was unlikely to snap pictures while I was away, so I caught one before I slipped away.

And, I captured another after my return. Loved this image of babies crawling over and around their Daddy.

And, I captured another after my return. Loved this image of babies crawling over and around their Daddy.

2. Recently, George and I whined over our dilapidated social life.  We love our babies and being with them, but spending time with our friends is infrequent.  Leaving the babies for an evening poses challenges for us, as it does for any parent.   Before the arrival of our babies, George and I often invited friends over for dinners, movies, and game nights (we love friendly competition).  Now, our babies are all tucked snugly into bed by 8:00 pm, and the evenings are relatively quiet thereafter.  There’s no reason we can’t host a dinner or game night now.  Thus,  we invited some of our board game playing friends, Rick and Holly over for a classy  trashy dinner.  On the menu: chili con queso, bacon dogs, and ice cream sundaes, all washed down with summer beer.  It may not have been a fancy meal, but it was super easy to prepare and clean up; plus, it was a delicious nostalgic summery meal we all enjoyed.  We intended on breaking out a few games, but had so much fun catching up we never got around to games.

Rick got a bit of snuggle time with the babies before it was lights out.

Rick got a bit of snuggle time with the babies before it was lights out.

George, Rick, and Holly enjoying the grub!

George, Rick, and Holly enjoying the grub!

Oh how I love an ice cream sundae topped with a cherry and sprinkles of course!

Oh how I love an ice cream sundae topped with a cherry and sprinkles of course!

3. Sunday marked a special day for my cousin, Seth, as he was confirmed in the church.  It was no easy, feat but we took ALL four babies to church with us.  After all, it was a momentous  occasion.  The church members were so excited to finally meet the babies they prayed for since the early days of the pregnancy.   In fact, the clergy was so thrilled to meet the quads, they wanted to take a picture with them!  We were able to snap a quick one before the service began.  After that, I fell down on the job and did not snap a single one.  Keeping track of four now mobile babies in new places is a time consuming fiasco.  I was slightly concerned about how the babies would handle being in a new place where they needed to be relatively quiet, and if they would startle from hearing loud music.  They did GREAT!  Mason was the only one taken out of the sanctuary (briefly), but it was because he was giggling too loudly.  It didn’t hurt that a large portion of our extended family members were their to help hold and entertain babies.

The babies with the clergy of St. John Lutheran.

The babies with the clergy of St. John Lutheran.  Sydney was hesitant to be held by an unfamiliar person so I kept her while Harper visited many new faces.

What bits of sunshine brightened your week?

Hugs!

Amber

P.S. There’s still time to enter to win the Tiny Prints giveaway.  It’s simple, just be sure to visit Tiny Prints, then click a Rafflecopter giveaway 

It is mandatory to comment about your favorite baby shower invitation or announcement, but there are a few other ways to get extra entries (e.g. like our Four to Adore Facebook Page). tiny prints logo

Tiny Prints Giveaway (closes 5/26/13)

Amber 11 Comments

If you’ve spent much time with us, you may have noticed the countdown ticker denoting the time remaining until the quads celebrate their first birthday.   As of today, we have exactly two short months remaining.  EEEKS!!!!  That means it’s time to start planning the big bash.  Planning a first birthday times four means we have so many considerations.  Location? Theme? Number of cakes?  It’s enough to make my head spin, but at the same time I’m thrilled!  One of my favorite things about party planning is choosing and creating invitations.  In the age of technology, we are increasingly reliant on electronic means of communication, but there is something nostalgic about receiving a letter in the mail.  Of course, I would gladly do away with most other forms of snail mail such as um, bills.

i lined the babies up in birth order for their monthly birthday picture. This is what happened.

I lined the babies up in birth order for their 10 month birthday picture today. This is what happened.

And then this happened....both Rylin and Mason decided to show off their pulling up skills.

And then this happened….both Rylin and Mason decided to show off their pulling up skills.

Finally we got the money shot! Four babies lined up in a crib.

Finally we got the money shot! Four babies lined up in a crib.   They got out of order, however.  Oh well, I will take what I can get.

I simply adore  how invitations set the tone for a party and help hype guests up for the event.  When we receive an invitation, I proudly hang it on the side of our fridge and anticipate the upcoming event.  At the moment we are displaying two first birthday invitations, which bring a smile to my face when I glance at them.

If you look carefully, you'll notice the two birthday invitations on our fridge right now.

Skim through our fridge clutter and you’ll spot the two invitations at the top of the fridge..  It is a bit distorted from the picture of a picture thing, but Noah’s invitation is for a little man party and he’s wearing a mustache, bow tie, and suit (swim) for the occasion.  L-O-V-E it!

After receiving these two invitations, I started cruising Tiny Prints  for inspiration.  At first I felt defeated in trying to find a gender neutral invitation that would fit all four babies, but Tiny Prints does not disappoint.  They actually have TONS of trendy design options and many are gender neutral.  As indecisive as I can be, it’s not going to be easy to select just one.   Plus,  all of Tiny Prints invitations and announcements are customizable.  That means I’m not stuck with choosing one of their sample first birthday invitations, which are typically designed for one boy OR one  girl, or at best twins.  They have a wide selection to choose from, and I can pick a design from any category (e.g. baby shower invitations) and then tailor wording to our unique situation.    On top of all the nifty invitation and card design options, Tiny Prints also has coordinating address labels, gift tags, and thank you cards.  Goodness knows I don’t have a lot of spare time to manage separate orders so I’m thinking coordinating labels and thank you notes are fantastic!  It will take me days if not weeks to make my final invitation selection so I might as well order the added accessories.

Since we have a special affinity for sea turtles, I like this option for the babies.

Since we have a special affinity for sea turtles, this invitation is a contender for me.

Now that we have four sitters, i also wanted to snap a picture of everyone sitting. My little crawlers disagreed with me.

Now that we have four sitters, I also wanted to snap a picture of everyone sitting. My little crawlers disagreed with me.

A little persistance and a fast finger finally captured all four babies sitting.

A little persistence and a fast finger finally captured all four babies sitting.  Of course, Mason is not looking but again I will take what I can get.

While we are preparing a first birthday bash, Tiny Prints is currently running a baby campaign for their fresh line of baby shower invitations and baby announcements, which are worth checking out.  It’s hard to believe that just one year ago today I went into hibernation for ten excruciating weeks of bed rest.  At the time, safety and health of me and the babies was uncertain and taken day by day.  Despite my bed rest circumstance, our friends and family helped us prepare for the arrival of four babies.  They lifted my spirits and eased my mind by hosting baby showers.  By the time the quads made their debut, George and I had a decent stockpile of baby essentials thanks to our friends and family.  While on bed rest, I helped pass the time by documenting each baby shower and now I look back at that time in amazement.  I took a stroll down memory lane and pulled up all the old posts about my baby showers.  In all, there were five showers hosted by Bonnie Brae, Springdale, Melissa, Nekedria & Terra, Lindsay & Jennifer, and finally Terri, Kaylie, Kelsey & Courtney.  I’m sure that seems excessive, but we were expecting FOUR babies, and four babies need a lot of gear.

In order to win the giveaway, simply visit:

Tiny Prints baby shower invitations

OR

Tiny Prints birth announcements

Then click:a Rafflecopter giveaway to enter.  The contest closes 5/26/13 at 12:00 am central time.

Good luck!

Amber

Thank you to TinyPrints.com for sponsoring this giveaway! Four to Adore received a gift card in exchange for hosting.   All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Quads x 2!

Amber 10 Comments

When I learned that the Bell Quad Squad planned to relocate to the Dallas area I was ecstatic.  I envisioned epic quad play dates plus some adult time with parents in the trenches.  A few months ago, the Bells finally made the big move up here.  However, I presumed they were overwhelmed with moving quadruplets across state, searching for a new home, and fielding visitors.  The last thing I wanted to do was pounce on an already over extended  family.  Last week, I knew it was time for the epic quad play date.  The tell-tell sign was Amber’s Facebook post of herself sitting in the apartment lawn encircled by to Exersaucers, a Jumparoo, and a quilt littered with baby toys.   I know that we can feel cabin fever from being cramped in our house.   I can’t imagine contending with 11 month old mobile quadruplets in a two bedroom apartment, even just temporarily.  I messaged Amber to see if she was up for the adventure and she happily accepted the challenge.

As it turns out, planning a quad play date is quite an undertaking.  Amber and I messaged back and forth for a solid three days before the big event.  Topics of consideration included schedules, getting lunch for ourselves, and what Amber should pack (or not).   After a lot of banter, we hatched a fool-proof plan.  At first we were frustrated by seemingly opposite feed and nap schedules.  However it worked out rather well in the end.  Prior to their arrival, I set up our four pack ‘n’ plays in our study and master bedroom while Amber loaded her Suburban across town.  While she was en route, Amber stopped by Chick Fil A to snag some lunch for the Mamas (Hooray for that!).

Amber arrived with babies in tow just as my crew began waking from their morning nap.  As I settled my babies in the feeding table, Amber let her four acclimate to their new surroundings.  They seemed to enjoy their new surroundings and became comfortable quickly, with the exception of Logan.  Poor Logan was having an “off” day and was less than pleased with the whole ruckus of eight babies.   I’ll admit, I expected there to be one or more unhappy babies and figured one or more would likely be mine.  I was relieved that there was only one unhappy camper in the bunch and she didn’t belong to me (sorry Amber B!)  Not bad to have only one baby fuss given the circumstances.  There was one Shawver family member that was far more upset than Logan though.  Lily protested being quarantined on the opposite side of the fence.  I haven’t a clue why a Yorkie would want to roam about with EIGHT babies crawling at her and grabbing her.  Most of the day, babies took turns peering through the bars of the gate at Lily as she whined about her situation.

Mason leaned how to pull up to stand in order to get a better view of Lily.

Mason leaned how to pull up to stand in order to get a better view of Lily.

Logan just wanted a little extra TLC from Mama.

Logan just wanted a little extra TLC from Mama.

After my babies gobbled up their lunch, I practically hosed the table down and we traded out babies.  It wasn’t long before Amber had all four of her babies fed that we had all eight babies in the den for official play time.   For the first time, I thought our den resembled a day care class, but I loved it.  The babies spent time exploring on their own and also noticing unfamiliar faces and toys.  Amber brought some of their favorite toys along for familiarity, but they fascinated my babies with novelty.  Her toys made me once again realize I underestimate my babies’ abilities.  Rylin surprised me when she rolled a bus on the hard wood and they all enjoyed the rocking horse.  It looks like George and I will be searching for some riding toys and the buses housed in storage will soon appear.

Since the babies were on slightly different schedules, we were able to share our quad feeding table.

Since the babies were on slightly different schedules, we were able to share our quad feeding table.

Sydney, Mason, and Harper were enamored with this spinning toy.

Sydney, Mason, and Harper were enamored with this spinning toy.

Harper discovered a new way to play with an Exersaucer, but Rylin was not impressed with his antics.

Harper discovered a new way to play with an Exersaucer, but Rylin was not impressed with his antics.

Mason visiting Logan while Trystan posed for this one.

Mason visiting Logan while Trystan posed for this one.

Kailey strolled by to visit Rylin in the Exersaucer.

Kailey strolled by to visit Rylin in the Exersaucer.

Oh the rocking horse was great fun!

Oh the rocking horse was great fun!

Despite all of the babies (especially Rylin)  having “stranger danger”, they all seemed to know that the other Amber was okay.  Rylin and Sydney crawled right up to Amber and engaged her as if they were old friends and Harrison buddied up to me like we’ve known each other for years.

Rylin saying "hello" to Amber.

Rylin saying “hello” to Amber.

Harrison was quite the little snuggle bug.

Harrison was quite the little snuggle bug.

Later Sydney took a turn visiting with Amber.

Later Sydney took a turn visiting with Amber.

To both Mama’s delight, we managed to get ALL eight babies to nap simultaneously!  It started with protests from many, but even Amber’s babies in the new place settled.  Amber and I enjoyed the bit of peace as we ate our own lunches and enjoyed grown up conversation together.

Amber was thrilled to find four sleeping babies in pack 'n' plays.

Amber was thrilled to find four sleeping babies in pack ‘n’ plays.

I was equally happy to find my four snugged up in their cribs.

I was equally happy to find my four snugged up in their cribs.

As babies woke from slumber, Amber and I snatched them up one at a time to keep them from disturbing others.  Once all eight were up it was play time again.  I’m not sure how much time passed, but at some point good moods faded and Amber inquired, “Do you have a Baby Einstein?”  I’m not sure if you’ve ever witnessed a baby watching one of those DVDs, but they are magical.  As soon as the music filled the den, eight little heads turned towards the television and sixteen eyes fixed on the screen.  We took the opportunity to line all eight babies up to snap a picture.   Of course still and quiet babies was short lived.  It did not take long for Mason and Kailey to escape for greener pastures, but it was nice while it lasted and it helped the fussing cease.  About the time Logan felt at ease and relaxed, it was time for the Bell babies afternoon bottle and dash to beat rush hour traffic.  Quad mamas are forced to be efficient, but there is one thing more efficient than a quad mama: TWO quad mamas!  In a flurry, we had the den tidy, babies fed and changed, four babies in cribs and four more loaded into a Suburban in record time.  It was a successful quad play date for all!  We’re looking forward to a repeat of the action and maybe even a play date with Quadfathers included.

Some how all eight babies gravitated to this toy at once! Amber and I took turns helping everyone stay balanced so the other could snap pictures.

Some how all eight babies gravitated to this toy at once! Amber and I took turns helping everyone stay balanced so the other could snap pictures.

Yes, this is all eight babies in a row.

Yes, this is all eight babies in a row.

When they weren't dog piled, the babies seemed to enjoy independent exploration.

When they weren’t dog piled, the babies seemed to enjoy independent exploration.

While the day was a success, I was tuckered out by the end of it.  By the time our babies were tucked into bed for the night, I decided it was time to wind down with a crisp glass of pinot grigio and a warm chocolate chip cookie.  Well deserved, I think.

Amber B. also wrote an account of our day at Texas Tales: Two Ambers = Eight Babies! She has a couple of cute videos you’ll want to watch if you’ve got a minute to spare.

Hugs!

Amber

Mother’s Day

Amber 8 Comments

Just two years ago, I was uncertain when and if I would ever celebrate Mother’s Day as a mother myself.   I never could have fathomed having four children. let alone all at once.  What a difference two  years makes!  This year, I celebrated Mother’s Day with Rylin, Harper, Sydney & Mason who were once nothing more than a dream.  In honor of Mother’s Day, George and I surprised my Mom with a visit to her and her mother too.  My Mom has always been there for me, and  even more so in the last several years.   She cried with me during the struggles of infertility and lifted me up in prayer.  She worried on my behalf as I endured a high risk pregnancy with quadruplets and then the weeks to follow with preemies in the NICU.  Every week, she unselfishly helps us care for the babies and dotes upon them.  She learned that through example from my Grandma who did the very same things for her children.  I am thankful to have those strong examples before me and I hope to mother my children as well as my own mother.  With another Mother’s Day come and gone, I am grateful for our babies and I pray for those still longing to see their own rainbow babies and for those who said goodbye to their babies far too soon.

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Unfortunately, our visit to Grandma's was brief. However, we made sure Grandma got a chance to hold each baby. When one got fussy, we swapped them out.

Unfortunately, our visit to Grandma’s was brief. However, we made sure Grandma got a chance to hold each baby. When one got fussy, we swapped them out.

I always cherish multi-generational pictures.

I always cherish multi-generational pictures.

Mom wanted to get a group shot at her house, but the quads disagreed as it was "witching hour". I'm keeping it real here!

Mom wanted to get a group shot at her house, but the quads disagreed as it was “witching hour”. I’m keeping it real here, this is what happens around 6:00 pm.

hugs!

 

Amber

The Little Things Thursdays: Installment #14

Amber 8 Comments

Happy Thursday!  Once again, it’s time to link up with Rebecca at ABeautifulRuckus.com for The Little Things Thursday.  Each week, we pause to reflect upon the bright spots from the week.  In our neck of the woods, here’s what we celebrated-

1. The Circle of Moms Top 25 contest is finally D-O-N-E! After two weeks of being badgered for votes, I’m sure you’re as happy as me it finally came to a close.  Thank you for supporting us and continuing to vote repeatedly.   We ended up placing fourth, which seems appropriate for us considering that four is apparently our lucky number.  There is a pretty new badge posted on the right side of our page denoting that we are in the Top 25 for 2013.

2. Every Thursday evening, my mom comes over to help with the babies and spends the night so she can care for them while I work on Fridays.  I always look forward to Thursday evenings knowing that Nisey will be here for the babies and us.  I usually try to whip up my best Crock Pot dinner for her, but this week she turned the tables.  Instead of me cooking, mom brought the trappings for pot roast.  George and I make pot roast in our Crock Pot occasionally, but we’ve never mastered “Mom’s Pot Roast”.  There is something about hers that is inherently better, and it’s reminiscent of home.   She actually tested a new pot roast recipe from Pinterest on us and it was divine!

I tried to find a blog or website where the recipe originated, but could not find anything besides a pin. http://pinterest.com/pin/119134352615348161/

I tried to find a blog or website where the recipe originated to give due credit, but could not find anything besides a pin. http://pinterest.com/pin/119134352615348161/ Mississippi Roast – – Put chuck roast in crock pot, Sprinkle with dry Hidden Valley ranch dressing mix, add packet of dry McCormick Au Jus mix, a stick of butter, 5 pepperoncini peppers. DO NOT ADD WATER. Cook on low for 7-8 hrs

3. Over the past few weeks, the babies have been sitting with better control, but I don’t totally trust them so I usually put a Boppy Pillow or something soft behind them as a safety net.  Several days ago, I went into the kitchen for just a few minutes to grab something and left the babies in the den.  When I came back, Rylin was sitting up sans Boppy Pillow.  I was a bit perplexed.  I couldn’t recall whether I left her on her tummy or sitting, but thought it odd there was no safety net.  The next day, I found Rylin using her hands to push herself up into sitting.  She does it all the time now!  The other babies are working on getting into the sitting position independently, but haven’t mastered it fully.  Their Occupational Therapist taught me some ways to help them master this skill so it’s a work in progress.

I attempted to capture everyone sitting, but Sydney had other ideas and insisted on flopping onto her tummy each time I sat her upright.

I attempted to capture everyone sitting, but Sydney had other ideas and insisted on flopping onto her tummy each time I sat her upright.

4. Over the past few days, Rylin has been rather moody and downright cantankerous.  Mason’s taken it upon himself to cheer her up when he can.  I’ll catch him crawling up close to her with a big grin on her face and she chuckles without fail!  That has to be a tight sibling bond.

Now that babies are sitting mostly independently, we've had an increasing number of head bonks and crashes. I put them in laundry baskets with a few toys to help catch them. It was a great idea until Rylin decided to turn her basket over.

Now that babies are sitting mostly independently, we’ve had an increasing number of head bonks and crashes. I put them in laundry baskets with a few toys to help catch them. It was a great idea until Rylin decided to turn her basket over.

Did you take time to smell the roses this week?

Hugs!

Amber

Quatriplets

Amber 6 Comments

Back in our NICU days, a set of triplets was born just five days after the quads.  For some reason,  triplet suite is on another floor from the quad suite so we never saw them.   However, one night the babies’ nurse impassibly mentioned that she knew the family with triplets and went to church with them.  I really wanted to meet the parents as a way to normalize the whole multiples in the NICU experience, ect.  Of course due to HIPPA, the nurse could share no information about the triplets or their parents.  I cajoled this poor nurse a bit trying to get her to tell the triplets mom to Google and maybe search for our blog and leave a comment.  She agreed to none of that.  Finally someone suggested we both go to the parent lounge at the same time one particular day.  I awkwardly brought my lunch to the lounge at the specified time and waited for someone to enter who might possibly be the triplets’ mom.  I think the triplets’ mom, Tiffany, did the same thing.  At some point we finally introduced ourselves.  The two of us sat together commiserating and story swapping until it was time for “the feed”.  We exchanged phone numbers and have kept in contact since, texting often.  I think we’ve got the quads and triplets practically on the same schedule.

With lock down a thing of the past, Tiffany brought the triplets (Landry, Haylie, and Luke)  over for our very first play date.  We affectionately called it “The Quatriplet Playdate”.  I borrowed that term from a few passersby who apparently lack multiples terminology and call the quads, “Quatriplets”.   Both Tiffany and I anxiously awaited the moment when all of the babies would get an opportunity to see and interact with non-sibling babies.  All of them are around other babies 24/7, but rarely see another baby. To our surprise, the babies didn’t seem particularly interested in one another.  For the most part, the triplets congregated near each other and the quads did their normal stuff too.  Mason is the only one who crawls so he sort of made rounds, visiting everyone and then went off on his own.   On the upside, everyone was completely content and no one fussed.  In my book that is a successful play date!  It will get more interesting when everyone is truly mobile.

I thought the "Quad Squad" onsies were appropriate for our Quatriplet play date. You know, just in case you can't figure out who is a quad and who is a triplet.

I thought the “Quad Squad” onsies were appropriate for our Quatriplet play date. You know, just in case you can’t figure out who is a quad and who is a triplet. I am aware that Mason and Sydney’s are still swallowing them.  But, Harper won’t be able to wear his much longer and it’s sort of a set so I’m trying to get some wear out of them while we can.

Here's what it looks like when you put seven babies together for blanket time. I guess this is what septuplets look like!

Here’s what it looks like when you put seven babies together for blanket time. I guess this is what septuplets look like.  Honestly, it wasn’t half as chaotic as I anticipated.

Mason had to investigate the flower on Haylie's outfit.

Mason had to investigate the flower on Haylie’s outfit.

Just like Mason's siblings do, Landry wanted to investigate his band.

Just like Mason’s siblings do, Landry wanted to investigate his band.

Sly guy, Mason is the only one who crawls so he visited the trips then went exploring on his own.

Sly guy, Mason is the only one who crawls so he visited the trips then went exploring on his own.

As we’ve kept contact, I’ve always thought there was a “match” between each of the triplets to one of the quads.  Of course, Haylie sort of goes with both of our girls well, because she’s a girl.   Like our girls, she’s also seemingly strong-willed and sassy to boot.  Like Mason, Luke sounds like the easy-going guy who giggles often and “goes with the flow”.  Just like Harper, Landry is the big brother who enjoys being the casual observer most of the time.   For fun, I made sure everyone met their match and snapped pictures of them together.

Lukke & Mason

Luke & Mason

Sydney and Haylie

Sydney and Haylie

Landry & Harper

Landry & Harper

Haylie & Rylin

Haylie & Rylin

And this is what happens at the end of a Quatriplet play date! Night, night, Sydney!

And this is what happens at the end of a Quatriplet play date! Night, night, Sydney!

To check out the triplets’ story, please visit their blog at http://teamtriplets.wordpress.com/

Hugs!

Amber

P. S. We are down to the last few days for voting in the Circle of Moms Top 25 blog contest.  If you’ve got time for two clicks, please vote for us.  We were holding a strong second place, but have since dropped down to 5th.  Thank you for supporting us!

Namaste!

Amber 6 Comments

During my senior year of college, my roommate, Neha, and I discovered the wonderful world of yoga.  For a mere $30/ semester we could take unlimited fitness classes in the student activities building.  We dabbled in different activities including Pilates and Nia, but I fell in love with yoga.  Our instructor was from India and spoke with a delightful British accent, which was probably enough to warrant attendance.  Prior to class he gave brief talks about the benefits of yoga such as what poses helped cure headaches or digestive problems.  While we really enjoyed practicing yoga, the best part were the benefits seen after class.  I always left yoga feeling both relaxed and energized.  Upon graduation, I wanted to continue practicing yoga, but yoga studios are rather expensive (oh about $15-20 per class!)  I went without yoga for a few years until I discovered that 24 Hour Fitness offers yoga classes with excellent instructors.  I was hesitant to go there expecting sub par instruction, but was pleasantly surprised.  The two years prior to my pregnancy with the quads, I enjoyed yoga 3-4 times per week.  It made me feel healthy and also confident when I accomplished new poses such as side crow and headstands.  My yoga practice came to a screeching halt after my first appointment with the perinatologist and the bed rest soon followed.   Since delivery, I’ve continued to battle my Diastasis Recti (split abdominal muscles) and cannot practice yoga the way I used to (not that going to class is logistically possible now anyways).  The majority of yoga relies on core muscles which I lack so I’m pretty limited as to what I can do right now.  I am, however, working on rehabilitation exercises and wearing a splint (when I can tolerate it) to correct my problem.  Until then, I’ve got to take it easy.  Even though I can’t practice yoga regularly, I’ve noticed the babies seem to!  George and I often label their poses as we catch them in action.  I’m loving that!  In case you’d like to take up yoga yourself, the babies demonstrated some of their favorite poses-

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Namaste!

Amber

P.S. There are only three days left in the Top 25 Moms of Multiples Blog contest.  If you’ve got two more seconds to spare, please vote for us!

[Circle of Moms Top 25 Moms of Multiples – 2013 – Vote for me!]

The Little Things Thursdays: Installment #13

Amber 6 Comments

I had a good chuckle yesterday when George’s aunt asked me how the weekend was and I replied, “We had a good weekend, but um…I don’t remember what we did.  It was a long time ago.”  By the time Wednesday rolled around it took me a minute to even recall what we did just three days prior.  I’m going to plea the Quad Mom card on that one.  After a short pause, I was able to recall our weekend and it was in fact a good one.  Over the past week, we had plenty of bright spots worth remembering so here are the little things!

1. Saturday evening George and I had a rare opportunity for a date night.  Thanks to Nisey and Grandpa we were able to steal away a few hours to meet fellow quad parents, Mike and Amber Bell, for dinner.  Amber and I became sort of pen pals shortly after I discovered we were expecting quads.  At that time I ferociously Googled about quads and I stumbled upon her blog, Texas Tales.  I immediately emailed her and was ecstatic when she replied back with words of encouragement and hope.  She was about 7 weeks ahead of me and always helped me prepare for “what is to come”.  In fact, she still does that!  I love checking in with her “Quad Squad” to see what they are up to.   Despite our online friendship, Amber and I had never met prior to this weekend.  She was living in Houston, which is about five hours away.  However, they recently relocated back to Dallas/Fort Worth, opening up a chance for a meet up.  George and I had a wonderful time chatting with another couple who has the same normal as we do.  Plus, Amber and Mike are so sweet and fun to hang out with.  We have hopes of future dinners and quad play dates!  Amber and I both fell down on the job and did not snap a single picture over dinner so we will just have to meet up again soon.  To check out their story about the Quad Squad, visit http://bellsandkilts.blogspot.com/

I totally snagged the idea of feeding the babies Ritz from Amber. They LOVED them! Funny thing, the boys crammed them in their mouths like Cookie Monster while the girls nibbled them like little ladies.

I totally snagged the idea of feeding the babies Ritz from Amber. They LOVED them! Funny thing, the boys crammed them in their mouths like Cookie Monster while the girls nibbled them like little ladies.  We are just steps away from a food fight and tea party, I think.

2. Around the time I went on bed rest, our Peke-aPoo, Sasha became sort of lethargic.  She turned out to be a fantastic bed rest buddy since she loved to snuggle and sleep the day away with me.  When the babies trickled home, Sasha, retreated to our closet most days  only coming out for short bursts of time.  We chalked it up to her getting older and having trouble adjusting to her new siblings.  Several weeks ago, Sasha’s allergies flared up and she got horrible skin irritations all over her body.  At first our vet thought it was just her allergies again, but did a blood panel to check.  She discovered Sasha had a tick disease (who knows why since we keep her on flea/ tick preventatives).  Anyways, she’s been on a round of antibiotics for four weeks and a few days a go she turned a corner.  OMG- Sasha is a new dog!  Our seemingly cantankerous dog has become spry and friendly again.  We love having our Sasha back!

I put the Boppy pillows on the couch to vacuum and this is what happened next. On the birghtside, Sasha got the gumption to jump up there and be in the den with her family.

I put the Boppy pillows on the couch to vacuum and this is what happened next. On the brighttside, Sasha got the gumption to jump up there and be in the den with her family.

3.  The babies had their nine month check up this week and in good quad mama fashion, I recruited a reinforcement.  This time, our family friend, Terri helped me schlep the babies to see Dr. Knapp.  She’s helped me numerous times and knows the drill perfectly.  Our appointment went flawlessly and we were done in about 45 minutes.  That meant we had some time before the spoon feed.  Spontaneously, I asked Terri if she were up for a Costco run.  With a glimmer in her eyes she happily accepted the challenge.  The babies were angelic in Costco and we replenished supplies in under 35 minutes.

Not only did Terri come along for this shennanain, she rocked the Baby Bjorn WHILE pushing the twin stroller! She did a fantastic job fielding questions while Harper and I got to business.

Not only did Terri come along for this shenanigan, she rocked the Baby Bjorn WHILE pushing the twin stroller! She did a fantastic job fielding questions while Harper and I got to business.  I’m thinking I ought to get her to help me do weekday Costco runs more often.

4. The babies are becoming increasingly aware of each other and often “entertain” their siblings.  It’s a blast to watch!  After nearly six weeks, Rylin, Harper, and Sydney are suddenly aware of Mason’s band and reach out to pat it or give it a good luck rub.  On the downside, Mason thinks it’s a thrill to gently ram others with his band….oh boy!  Stay turned for more on our home becoming Fort Knox!

Mason and Rylin have reeally been cracking each other up lately. I mean cackles came from them for over five minutes.

Mason and Rylin have really been cracking each other up lately. I mean huge cackles and guttural belly laughs.

5. I know this is totally irritating by now, but don’t forget to vote again for the Top 25 Moms of Multiples Blog contest.  I really wish it was a vote once sort of thing, but it’s not so that means we have to keep soliciting votes to stay on top.  We hang around 2nd through 6th place.  At least it’s easy, just two clicks every 24 hours.

What little things brightened your week?  Can you remember back that far?

Hugs!

Amber

NICU Reunion

Amber 9 Comments

In what seems like an eternity ago, the babies’ NICU nurses often chattered about the day when the babies would be bigger, healthier and returning to the hospital.  There would come a day they would return to the hospital not as patients, but as visitors for the NICU Reunion.   At the time, I don’t think we could see the forest for the trees.  Nine months later, we finally reached that point: NICU reunion time!

As part of the reunion, the hospital requested that each parent make a post of their baby filled with pictures from then and now with a statement sharing the NICU experience for current families to see, and bring them hope.  As I often do, I procrastinated completing this project.  Not because I did not want to do it, but I knew it would take me a good deal of time to create.  Days before the reunion, I finally went to Snapfish and ordered tons of pictures of the babies from their NICU days to what they’ve been doing lately.  It turned out to be quite the walk down memory lane.  It was only nine short months ago that our babies weighed under 4 pounds each and lived in boxes.  Oh how far we’ve come!  A few hours after ordering over sixty pictures online, I picked up a thick envelope from our neighborhood Walgreens.  The task daunted me even more when I flipped through a stack of pictures that would never fit onto a tiny poster.  It sat on our dining room table in shambles for a few days until my mom came to the rescue.  Mom just loves a creative project like this.  I remember she and I staying up “all night” (what I later realized was more like 10:30 pm at most) doing school projects.  Mom never did anything for me, but always put “her touch” on it so it looked just right.  When it came to my latest project, Mom helped me sift through the mounds of pictures and then helped me to arrange them just so.  I took a picture of the final product:

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I was really pleased with the final result. In fact, I hated to part with my little project, it is a cute keepsake.  I hope it inspires current and future families with babies in the NICU. After all, being in the NICU was hard, but we eventually saw the other side.

The pink piece of paper on the poster reads:

On February 2, 2012 our lives were forever changed by four tiny heartbeats detected on an early ultrasound.  We were expecting quadruplets!  That day we were warned about many possible complications and risks associated with high order multiples, particularly the fact that they would be premature.  Instead of worrying, we began preparing.  One of the first things we did was research NICU facilities in our area.  After a tour of Cook, we immediately decided it was the place for our babies.  Not only could they provide us with a private suite equipped for our quads, but we knew they would offer the best medical care possible and a family friendly environment for everyone.  When the babies were delivered July 20, 2012, they were immediately transported to Cook.  We later learned the staff was preparing for our babies weeks in advance. 

Being in the NICU was not always easy.  It became taxing seeing our babies so fragile and struggling to tackle seemingly simple tasks such as feeding.  It was even more difficult to see them make gains one day and then backslide the next.  However, being at Cook made our experience a pleasant one.  The babies’ room always felt warm and inviting even though it was indeed a hospital room.  All of the nurses, care partners, and staff took time to know us and the uniqueness of each baby.  Staff who worked with us could tell at least one thing that was unique to each baby and they championed each baby’s successes.  Not once did we leave the hospital worrying about the babies because we knew they were in the most capable, loving hands possible.  If our babies could not come home with us, there is no other place we would have left them than Cook.  Each morning when we would return for visits, we would find the babies dressed to match their linens and sometimes with notes or pictures taken from our camera.  That warmed our hearts. 

After a seven week stint in the NICU, babies started trickling home.  Within a week’s time we found four tiny, yet healthy babies filling our home.  At nine months old, it is difficult to believe how tiny they once were.  Just like typical babies, they attack new milestones every day.  We are now enjoying baby babbles, giggles, teeth, and even some scooting!  We will forever hold Cook Children’s Hospital in our hearts as a special place that nourished our babies when they were so small. 

Hugs,

 

Amber & George Shawver

We made it!

We made it!

It took us weeks to find a night primary and we finally found Tiffany. However, she sent the babies home within four days! We were sad we didn't get much time with her, but were happy to finally be home with all the babies.

It took us weeks to find a night primary and we finally found Tiffany. However, she sent the babies home within four days! We were sad we didn’t get much time with her, but were happy to finally be home with all the babies.

Some of the babies' nurses: Kim, Kiki, and Emily got to see how much the babies had grown.

Some of the babies’ nurses: Kim, Kiki, and Emily got to see how much the babies had grown.

George and I with Liz.

George and I with Liz who was one of the babies’ primary nurses.  She was instrumental in helping change Sydney’s protocol when she had pneumonia.

3-NICU reunion family pic

There were several volunteer photographers at the even, one captured these precious photos of each baby.  I especially love Harper’s lion yawn.

Rylin Skye

Rylin became a bit fussy so Nisey rescued her from the Runabout.

2-Rylin NICU reunion

Harper Stone

Harper Stone

Mason River

Mason River

Sydney Raine

Sydney Raine

One of the highlights of the reunion was meeting the McClean family.  Unbeknownst to me, they were the only other set of quadruplets admitted to Cook Children’s.  They are now four years old and too big for a Runabout.  I appreciated that the father of the quads told George it got easier for them every year.  Sometimes a little encouragement like that goes a long way!

The McClean and Shawver clans together!

The McClean and Shawver clans together!

The "big kid" quads checking out the baby quads

The “big kid” quads checking out the baby quads.

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Next year the reunion may be more exciting with babies who can walk!  Of course, we’ll likely

hugs!

Amber

P.S. As of now, we are ranked 4th in the Top 25 blogs contest.  You can vote for us in just two easy clicks.

What little things brightened your week?

hugs!

Amber

 

The Little Things Thursdays: Installment #12

Amber 5 Comments

Several months ago when Rebecca at ABeautifulRuckus.com invited me to participate in her weekly series: The Little Things Thursdays, I had no idea how much my readers and I would enjoy it.  Her idea was simply brilliant.  The purpose is to reflect on the week and make note of some of the little things that brightened it.  It’s incredibly easy to get wrapped up in stress and things that go awry,  but so much more fun to recall what was great no matter how small.  The cherry on the top is when readers tell me how much they now look forward to Thursdays!  In a typical work week, most everyone looks forward to Friday (TGIF!!!).  In my little space of the world, Thursdays are much more appreciated now.  Thank you, Rebecca!

Without further ado, here are the little things that highlighted our week:

1. The babies are now nine months old!  I’m having a hard time realizing how fast they are approaching their first birthday and at the same time enjoying every moment with them ( minus some of the screaming fits we have).  Every day is a whole new world for them and they are constantly reaching new milestones.  At nine months old, everyone has at least one tooth (Rylin finally got her first one), they hold their own bottles, they sit up with minimal assistance, roll both ways, maneuver on the floor by pivoting and scooting, and babble often.  Sydney was the first to say “Dada”, and she says it often!  Harper was saying “Mamama”, but hasn’t been doing it much lately, making me one sad Mama.  They’ve also become keenly aware of each other.  Toy snatching is commonplace around here.  One day Harper even tried to roll on top of Mason to swipe a coveted toy.  At meals, Sydney and Mason frequently turn to face each other and sometimes hold hands.  I never seem to catch those sweet moments on camera because they are short-lived.

The babies are pictured in birth order: Rylin, Harper, Sydney, & Mason.

The babies are pictured in birth order: Rylin, Harper, Sydney, & Mason.

If his head would have fit under the couch, I'm certain Mason would have slithered all the way under!

Here’s what happens when Mason starts scooting around.  If his head would have fit under the couch, I’m certain he would have slithered all the way under and scarfed a few dust bunnies!

Harper backed it up and under Sydney's crib.

Harper backed it up and under Sydney’s crib.  For some reason our babies love backing up.  You can really see Harper’s teeth in this picture; I think they’re so cute!

Here's proof that Sydney can roll over. She's been rolling over and getting her legs stuck between the rails. Yes, she is sleeping here and no I did not move her (she seemed totally comfortable).

Here’s proof that Sydney can roll over. She’s been rolling over and getting her legs stuck between the rails. Yes, she is sleeping here.  No, I did not move her (she seemed totally comfortable).

Surprisingly, Sydney was perfectly content having her legs stuck after she woke up that way.

Surprisingly, Sydney was perfectly content having her legs stuck even after she woke up that way.

2. Since we moved into our house, we’ve taken great pride in it’s appearance inside and out.  I love for our yard to look fabulous, but George is the resident yard man.  He’s always worked really hard to make it look it’s best.  However, last summer bed rest and drought got the better of our yard.  The wisteria that once covered our pergola and the sole tree in the back yard both perished, which means we have no shade.  George has been rather depressed about the state of our yard and it really is rather sad.   He ran to Home Depot this week and purchased a few flowers to help the cause.  He filled a pot on our patio with my favorite flowers, Gerber daisies.  These little gems do great in Texas heat and keep bright, cheery blooms all season long.  In fact, there was a single daisy sprout already in the pot.  George was going to take it out and replace it, but I fought for that little flower.  It’s going to be a hardy one, it managed to survive a Texas drought, neglect, and a winter freeze already.

Bright colored daises are always a great pick me up!

Bright colored daisies are always a great pick me up!

Despite all the withered plants in our yard, these Iris' came up and bloomed on their own. They came from George's Granny. She loved her garden and I love that her plants still bloom in our yard. I think she'd like that.

Despite all the withered plants in our yard, these Iris’ came up and bloomed on their own. They came from George’s Granny. She loved her garden and I love that her plants still bloom in our yard.  I think she’d like that.

3. Our friend Natascha and her mom traveled all the way from Berlin for a holiday that  began here in Texas.  Of course, they couldn’t travel all that way from Germany without seeing the babies so they dropped by the house.  The babies warmed up to them and acted like they were old friends.  It was priceless seeing George teach Natascha how we diaper and feed the babies.  He did a really good job, actually.   He’s probably got more experience with those things than the average dad seeing we do everything times four.

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4. So far, we’ve received over 1,000 votes for the Top 25 Moms of Multiples blog contest, placing us in third.  Thank you all for voting because now it’s getting close, sometimes as few as 3-4 votes separate the rankings.

Many people have asked what we get if we win.  The answer is mostly notoriety and also exposure that can open up new opportunities for us.  I honestly love writing and in the future hope to author a book.   This sort of competition can help me achieve some of my long-term goals.  Winning does not bring any sort of tangible prizes or money, but I would still want win, or at least remain in the top 5.  As I mentioned before, George and I are highly competitive so we don’t need to be offered much to play a game.  Winning aside, there are some other great blogs participating and I’ve enjoyed checking in on them.  The Littlest Lesnau’s and A Beautiful Ruckus are both authored by friends and fellow quad mamas so I was already familiar with them.  However, I cruised the triplet blogs that are contenders to win:  The Great Umbrella Heist and The Best Things in Life are THREE.  I personally  found both of them entertaining.   If you have spare time you may want to check some of the other contestants blogs.

What little things brightened your week?

hugs!

Amber