Double the Giggles...

{Surprise Giveaway!} Hats from Boot's Boutique

2012-01-30T11:01:00.003-05:00

Want to keep your little ones warm this winter? A local, talented crafter has offered to give away two of her adorable, hand-made hats to one lucky Double the Giggles follower!!

Check out Boot's Boutique on facebook - make sure you click on "See All: photos". You will fall in love with not one, not two, but likely all of her designs. Boot's Boutique also has an etsy shop - she has tons designs available, and she is always coming up with new ways to keep your little ones warm and stylish.

I have ordered several custom hats (yes, she takes custom orders, too!) from Boot's Boutique and was very impressed with what we got! The boys love their Boot's Boutique hats just as much as I do.

Here are a few (ok, way more than a few) of her designs that I absolutely love. Sorry, I couldn't decide on just 2 or 3!

Classic and just adorable!

Perfect for your little hunny bunnies!

See, I told you... Adorable!

So appropriate ;)

This Who-Ville inspired hat might just be one of my favorites!

Sock Monkey Hat for your little monkeys?

Sweet candy corn - the cuteness is killing me!

- Winner can pick any two hats offered by Boot's Boutique. I will put you in contact with Boot's Boutique once the winner is selected.

- Match your kiddles hats, have them coordinate, or have them be completely different! It's totally up to you!

- One winner will be selected using Random.org on February 14th (cuz I just love love love these hats!). All comment-entries must be in by midnight EST on the 13th. Come back to DTG to see if you won.

Here's how to enter:

1. "Like" Boot's Boutique on Facebook. Leave Boot's a comment to let her know that Margie from Double the Giggles sent you. Then, leave a comment here telling me you did so.

For additional entries:

2. Follow Double the Giggles and comment below telling me you are now a follower (or already are).

3. Leave a comment telling me your favorite design/designs (hard to pick just one, I know) from Boot's Boutique. Be sure to view all her facebook photos - there's so many great designs!

4. One of my little guys is hiding in Boot's Boutique's facebook photo albums. Can you find him? Comment here telling me what hat he's wearing!

Winner has 7 days after close of give-away to select/order hats.

Leave me an email address to get in contact with you if you win. You can always mssg me privately at doublethegiggles@gmail.com with your contact address.

Good Luck!!

All photos used with Boot's Boutique's permission.

{Things I Love}

2012-01-17T18:55:00.000-05:00

Short and sweet.

I love red noses and rosy cheeks.

Don't you just want to pinch 'em?

{Link} Do's and Don'ts when encountering parents of multiples

2012-01-06T08:23:00.001-05:00

Here is a great article from a blog I follow religiously, Multiples and More - Multiples Etiquette 101: Do's and Dont's. Couldn't have said it better, myself. Thanks M& M!

Every once in a while, a multiple-mom blogger will ask fellow multiple moms what the oddest, strangest or rudest comments they have ever gotten were. I always love reading the responses. We have all heard them, and sometimes we've answered, ignored or just plain winced. One of my all time favorites is someone telling me that their children, born 18 months apart, was practically just like having twins. Although I'm sure it wasn't easy, I can assure you that it was NOTHING like having twins. Normally, I enjoy talking to people about my children, but please don't just walk up to me to tell me that your husband's brother's wife's friend's dog has twins, too. Seriously?

So now it's my turn...
Is there any comment out of the ordinary or rediculously invasive question that someone has asked you about your multiples? Please share! Sometimes it just makes me feel better knowing that I'm not the only one dodging questions and avoiding all possible eye contact in the grocery store!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T10:34:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours. May 2012 bring you prosperity and much happiness.

xoxo,

Margie, Dan, Wesley and Andrew

Photos with Santa/Build-A-Bear

2011-12-14T11:39:00.000-05:00

Here it is, folks!

The yearly Santa Claus visit, captured on cheap photo paper, yet costing a rediculous amount of money.

I thought this would definitely be the year for the 'kids screaming on Santa's lap' photo, (and I'm not going to lie, I kinda really want one of those pictures just to look back and laugh at years down the road), but I was totally wrong. I thought exposure was the key in the boys not feeling intimidated by the Big Guy in Red, and as it turns out, they were all smiles for every Santa we saw this season.

Every. Single. One.

All 6 of them.

This photo was Santa visit number 5, but Santa #1 and #5 out of 6 (meaning we saw him on 2 different occasions.) He was my favorite (pretty, authentic and so good with the boys), but the first time we visited him, I tried to cheap-out and use my cell to take a picture, which wasn't allowed on "the set", hence the blurry images were captured from far away.

In defence of my cheapness, we had just finished up spending lots of "green" at Build-A-Bear, where the boys each chose a pink teddy bear.

Not a typo...pink bears.

And there's more. Wesley named his bear BOB.

Funny? Indeed.

What's even funnier?

I'll tell you...

Andrew named his pink bear, (oh, so appropriately) GREEN.

Our Half-Naked Tree

2011-12-07T08:11:00.001-05:00

Just like that little Charlie Brown Christmas tree, you almost can't help but feel sorry for our Christmas tree this year. I tried putting what I thought were non-breakable ornaments at the bottom for the boys to enjoy, but soon found out that even non-breakable stuff breaks. And to add insult to injury, the dogs chewed the bottom strand of lights beyond repair, so after several years of re-wiring, replacement bulbs and electrical tape, the strand of lights was finally removed.

Soo...This is what a Christmas tree looks like in a house with two 2-year-old boys and three nutty dogs. Sorry Christmas tree, maybe next year you'll be better dressed!

"Elfie" on the Shelf

2011-12-03T09:45:00.000-05:00

This is going to be a very exciting Christmas. The boys are talking up a storm and now are starting to really understand what all the holiday hustle and bustle is about. Before I was even pregnant, I bought The Elf on the Shelf at a local card shop for 75% off after the holidays one year. My mom swears I paid more for it, but I'm certain I got it dirt cheap. I brought it out last year, but the boys were more fascinated with tearing paper than behaving for an alleged helper of Santa Claus.
This year, though, things are different. They know who Santa is and that he brings presents to GOOD girls and boys. We watched the Elf on the Shelf special a few times, and I think they "get it".

Insert "generic Elf with wimpy felt body" here....

This thing has total vintage cuteness, yet is creepy at the same time... How can that be? Anyway, I had plans... big plans... There's not much this momma can't do with a little sequins, sparkles and a hot glue gun ;)

Our Elf got a girlie makeover!

Why should I be the only chick in the house?

For less than $5, I used what I had around the house (and a few purchased goodies) to give this Elf an extreme makeover (and shoes, because what girl doesn't want a new pair of shoes!)

I love the outcome!

The Elf made her debut the very next day - the boys LOVED her! I was very excited about naming our new visitor from the North Pole, but Andrew was just concerned about not being able to give her a high-five (wouldn't want to take away her magic by touching her, now would we?)

So, for now, we call her "Elfie". Cute, but I'm hoping we can be a bit more creative next year with the name. I do love hearing, "Elfie is watching" from both of the boys. They know she is on a special mission and required to report back to Santa all she sees (naughty and nice!) It's working.... and she might just stick around our house well past Christmas!

Stay tuned for more holiday excitement from the P house!

{Sneak Peek} Holiday Photos

2011-11-17T08:46:00.001-05:00

I mentioned last week at the end of my Shutterfly plug that we were having our pictures taken last weekend. I've only seen five of the pictures so far, but I couldn't be happier with the results. I think we (and by "we", I mean the twins) shocked the photographer with how active "we" were. She was great with the boys and I'm thinking she got some really beautiful pictures (muddy knees, and all). She created a few holiday 'sets' at a campground near our home... Think little log cabins in the woods, rocking chairs, pine cones, ornaments and Christmas lights. It looked so homey and inviting. I loved it.

Here are some of the photos she shared. Stay tuned for more ;)

I told you. They're so handsome, aren't they? Now I just need to be patient and wait for the rest, and then pick out the winning photo that makes our family Christmas card this year. (...and maybe a new blog header?)

Christmas Cards from Shutterfly

2011-11-07T09:35:00.000-05:00

Halloween is over, and as far as I'm concerned, we can just skip right past Thanksgiving (although I'm thankful for lots!) and head right on to Christmas! To say I love the Christmas season is a HUGE understatement. I may or may not have already listened to some holiday favorites on my ipod at work. OK, I definitly did. Just this week. ...and maybe last week, too.

I'm big on sending out Christmas cards... I used to make them every year, and incorporate pictures of my 1, then 2, now 3 dogs. Since having the boys, the dogs have never been happier. They no longer are foced to wear antlers, santa hats or be wrapped in Christmas lights. (I can assure you that they are just as happy about the Halloween situation, too!)

In this digital age, I turn to Shutterfly for my Christmas cards. It's super easy peasy to upload you favorite images and create beautiful cards that I guarantee you will get compliments on.

Here are just a few of my favorites....and I have a lot of favorites! There are literally HUNDREDS to choose from!

Shutterfly also makes awesome photo calendars, mugs and books! I haven't ordered any mugs, but I've orderd numerous calendars and photo books and am always extremely pleased with their top-notch quality.

Now wish us luck on our family photo shoot this upcoming weekend. My goal is to have one shot with everyone looking in the same direction. Smiles would be nice, too, but I'm aiming low, and just hoping that every shot isn't a blurred image of us chasing the twins around!

Belated Halloween Update

2011-11-06T19:08:00.002-05:00

Happy Belated Halloween!

The boys did GREAT Trick-or-Treating.

Here are some facts about our Halloween experience this year:

1. The boys didn't carve their pumpkins; Dan and I did. They really wanted to hold the pumpkin knives, but didn't want to touch the pumpkin or it's guts.

2. These were our second set of pumpkins. The first two pumpkins were much smaller, but rotted weeks earlier because Andrew took bites out of them at the pumpkin farm (which is why we originally {had to} buy such tiny pumpkins.) Blessing in disguise, I guess...wouldn't have been able to carve those teeny-tiny ones.

3. Both of the boys cried hysterically when we told them that they were supposed to leave their pumpkins outside on the porch. I think they wanted them to sleep in their beds with them.

4. Wesley was a lion, Andrew was a penguin. Cutest kids ever ;)

5. Wesley and Andrew both practiced how to go up to a door and say, "Trick or Treat!" Too bad we didn't practice turning around and leaving. There was a lot of awkward post-candy-receiving lingering.

6. Even though we DID practice saying "Thank You" for the candy, we didn't discuss what gluttony was. Andrew actually told a home owner "...but I want more" after only one piece of candy was dropped in his bag. Whoops! My bad!

Hope you had a safe Halloween with your little ones.

Check out this hysterical video of clips that Jimmy Kimmel put together about kids and their candy. Too funny!

PS: Hi Miss ~~Sandy~~ Sandi :) Thanks for stopping by Double the Giggles ;)

Nursery Dutch Door: Pros vs. Cons

2011-10-20T11:54:00.001-04:00

The Dutch Door...

Looks great and super convenient during the infancy stage - it was so simple to peek in on the boys while they were napping without the dogs charging into their room, possible waking them up.

Now...

We are out of the infancy stage and on to the full-blown monkey phase.

Maybe it's time to go back to a solid door.

A Sweet Visit

2011-10-06T17:38:00.001-04:00

Sarah (the adorable blonde), Lauren (the adorable brunette) and I.

I recently had the opportunity to visit a good friend while I was out of town for work. (Yep, an entire hotel bed to MYSELF! In my defense, I missed the boys dearly!) I was in Massachusetts, she was in Connecticut. Close enough, right? Anyway, my dear friend Kate and I always look forward to the opportunity to see each other, even more so now because we are both mommas to multiples. Kate had two beautiful girls, Sarah and Lauren, just about 6 months before the boys were born. It's so cool to have such good friends in the same boat that we are in (...and for those of you that don't know, my bestie who lives 10 minutes away also has twins.) I refer to these moms as my Twin Senseis. They are my go-to's when I have troubles or questions about raising two kids the same age...and it's also fun just to chat and share a few laughs with them from time to time.

Kate just emailed me this photo she took of me and the girlies- I forgot she took it. I LOVE it. Her girls are beautiful, smart and oh-so-funny. During my brief visit, they serenaded me with the National Anthem (their favorite song - seriously, they knew it word for word!), hopped around like frogs, waddled like penguins and the best part happened after I was headed home the following day. On Saturday morning, Kate said they woke up and asked, "Momma, where my friend?"

Seriously. Too sweet.

****

I know I've been absent for a while. I have lots to share with you, I just can't seem to find the time. Soon, I hope.

{Party} Little Men 2nd Birthday Celebration

2011-09-06T16:37:00.003-04:00

This past Friday, my little dudes turned 2! I can hardy believe that 720-some days have come and gone so quickly. Yes, during those multiple, early-on, late night feedings time seemed to drag, but thousands of bottles and sippie cups later, we have reached another milestone.

Two.

Amazing.

I came up with the idea of a Little Men themed party because, well, Dan and I refer to Wesley and Andrew as our 'little men.' I wanted all-things-grown-up; bowties, hats, suspenders, glasses and most importantly, mustaches. Who doesn't love a good mustache?

I have to take a moment to thank my childhood bestie Kim of the TomKat Studio for capturing my vision and designing the perfect invitation and cupcake toppers for the event. She is beyond sweet, and is an amazing party planner and designer. If you haven't checked out her blog or etsy shop of do-it-yourself printable party files, you are missing out! She does all the amazing work, and all you have to do is the printing and cutting. Easy Peasy!

Invite and toppers designed by The TomKat Studio

I got the idea for the 'bunting' from the party blogosphere. I took a ton of pics of the boys, printed out my faves and glued mustaches to them. Attach yarn and Viola!

There were plenty of snacks and goodies to go on the table. Cupcakes, chocolate chip cookies, a veggie tray (had to squeeze something healthy in there!), the cake and the mustache cookie favors.

The 'Stache Stash: Mustache cookie favors, made by me :)

I ventured into cake-making for the first time: A delicious (whew!) two-layer buttercream cake (homemade frosting, box cake) with chocolate fondant mustaches (created from a leaf-shaped cutter) adhered to the sides. The cake was topped with a mini-chevron banner that I improvised from the bottom of the invitation! It sat upon a bright orange hatbox to create some additional height on the table.

I created several mustache props to go on the table, as well as some for a prop box for a make-shift photo booth. So. Much. Fun.

(Yes, the adults had a blast at the party!!)

After practicing with me for weeks, the boys finally had everyone sing Happy Birthday to them. They loved it!

Every. Single. Note.

Their faces lit up with excitement, and Andrew actually blew out the candle all by himself!! Wes provided some backup air of his own ;)

Being sung to. I absolutely LOVE this photo!

My little boys are two... TWO! I can't believe it. Happy Birthday, babies. They had a great time at their party playing dress-up and playing with the gazillion trains they got (their latest passion). Looks like I already have a theme for next years party... All Aboard!

Sources:

Invitations & Cupcake Toppers: The TomKat Studio and The TomKat Studio's Etsy shop
Favor Thank You Tags: Free Printables from The TomKat Studio
Mustache Prop Templates: Easy Makes Me Happy blog
Cupcake liners, ice cream cups, stripey straws, tissue fans, glass milk bottles: Shop Sweet Lulu

Cupcakes, cake and cookies all made by me! I know it's hard to believe, but it's true! I also created all the other decorations (banner, photo props, etc) and the two handsome redheads! ;)

{HDYDI Guest Post} - Giving Back

2011-09-04T14:37:00.000-04:00

Hop on over to How Do You Do It to read my guest post about giving back a little something to the amazing Doctors and Nurses of the Sisters Hospital NICU, as well as a little something for the newest guests of the NICU. Also, stay tuned for a Little Men 2nd Birthday Party post later this week at Double the Giggles!!!

TWO YEARS OLD!

2011-09-01T20:40:00.000-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ANDREW & WESLEY!

Happy 2nd Birthday to my babies!!! I cannot believe it has been two years!

No sad, reminiscent post like last year (I promise), this one is just gonna be short and sweet. I love you both to pieces and cannot believe what big boys you have become. We can't wait to celebrate this weekend at your Little Man party with your Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and cousins! You are truly awesome little men and your daddy and I look forward to the year ahead; learning more words, singing more songs, seeing more places, using the potty (crossing my fingers!), etc.

Here is the best I could do for a spur of the moment photo shoot of the little men in their Birthday outfits (not to be confused with their Birthday suits, which I'm certain Andrew would rather be wearing!)

Two. Years. Old.
So grown up!

Crying Babies

2011-08-16T21:11:00.001-04:00

I'm a few days late with this post, but Marcia over at 123 Blog did a great link-up this week that I just had to participate in. Photos of crying kids. Sure, I may have wanted to rip my hair out when it was happening, but looking back, these are some of the most comical photos I have!! This one definitely takes the cake. Two for one!! Pardon the poor quality of my cell phone camera.

The boys were only a few weeks old here, and they were definitely not happy about something!

How Do You Do It?

2011-08-08T11:31:00.002-04:00

Hello! I know it's been a while (embarassingly, too long) but I had to hop on and share something exciting with my readers. I've been asked (along with several other amazing moms of multiples) to be a guest blogger on the How Do You Do It blog! If things go according to plan, I will hopefully be posting once or twice a month, and I'll be sure to let you know all about it here, on Double the Giggles. HDYDI is a great spot for reading up on parenting and realizing you are not alone in the challenges you may face raising multiples. Be sure to head on over and give HDYDI some sweet blog love ;)
Look for posts a little less personal, and more about challenges and/or milestones we all face as mom's of multiples. I'm planning on doing my first post about my crazy climbing toddlers, and not too far behind that will be a post about celebrating the twins 2nd birthday - yes, I know this is personal, but I think everyone can benefit from some cheap, easy party ideas, right?
So that's really all that is new here. It's summer, it's hot, and we are busy enjoying the amazing weather here in Buffalo, NY. I'll be back soon, or sooner if something post-worthy happens! Thanks for being patient with me and I'll see you all over at HDYDI in the next few weeks.

Jar of Stars

2011-06-21T22:18:00.000-04:00

I keep a spice rack in my craft room (yes, a spice rack) and each little container is filled with little crafting goodies. Tiny buttons, fancy shaped paper clips, pastel paper brads, and stars.

Lots of gold stars.

Today the boys reached over the baby gate and grabbed the jar of stars. Normally, I chase after them and grab whatever they aren't supposed to have, but this time, I ran for the camera.

**A jar of stars**

They were mesmerized.

Andrew started out with the jar, and Wesley's interest grew until he snagged it and took off with it. It was like they were seeing Christmas lights for the first time.

I think everyone should have a jar of stars ;)

Andrew offers me the remote in exchange for letting him keep the star jar.

Holding on tight.

Really tight.

Wesley goes in for the steal.

Wesley takes off with the coveted jar of stars.

Andrew chases after the star thief.

Wesley keeps a tight grip on the jar of stars.

Ready to share the stars again.

Wet and wild

2011-06-20T15:56:00.002-04:00

Summer will officially be here tomorrow (Hooray!) and although I'll be outside instead of in front of the computer blogging, I can assure you that there will be lot of this going on:

We have to enjoy this weather when we can. In a few more weeks, there'll probably be snow on the ground!

Keep checking out my flickr page, as I intend to upload photos more than blog these next few weeks.

Race for the Cure, 2011

2011-06-12T14:57:00.000-04:00

Forgive me for not being around lately. Since summer finally showed up in western NY, I've found myself in front of the laptop less and less. Throw a new iPhone into the mix and who even needs a computer?

With that being said, this is a short, but important post. I need to tell you how many amazing people I have in my life and how I'm lucky and blessed to know each and every one of them.

I was blown away by the turnout at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure breast cancer 5K this weekend. I was even more surprised at how many came out to support the team that I created in celebration of my breast-cancer-surviving Mother-In-Law, Dottie. I was shooting for 10 participants and got 30. We even managed to raise a few bucks for the cause.

Thanks to all who walked, ran, donated and cheered us on. I thank you 100 times and more!

Presenting, team Dottie's Hotties:

Our team tent. Go, Dottie's Hotties!

The Guest of Honor, Dottie.

Me and my m-i-l.

Me and the moms.

Dottie and her amazing doctor.

Some truly awesome ladies.

Survivors and supporters, walking for the cure.

The boys and PopPop even helped kick cancer's butt!

{In the Works} Playroom

2011-05-26T14:57:00.003-04:00

Just ordered this awesome wall decal from OffTheWallExpression on etsy! Couldn't have said it better, myself!

Ever get the feeling that your kids are taking over your house? I think I first felt this when I had to surgically remove a tiny Lego that was embedded in my heel. (I'm exaggerating, but only a little.) The twins knew exactly where they had placed it. Unfortunatley, at 4:45 am when I got up in the dark to let the dogs out, I did not. Next, there was the matchbox car next to my dinner plate, followed by random torn scraps from pop-up books left scattered on my family room floor.

Enough was enough.

Time for a playroom.

Even if it meant giving up my brightly lit craft room, cuz lets face it; who has time to craft when you are chasing two 20 month old boys around?

The playroom is not entirely complete yet, but my house is clean...*ahem*...cleaner. Lets just say the toys are all mostly confined to one area... and I'm loving it. A fresh coat of paint, and some creative decorations and it'll be finished. I will share photos when that day comes. I just have to find the perfect shade for 3 of the 4 walls. What about the 4th wall, you ask? Chalkboard paint, of course!

**The photo credit above goes to Off The Wall Expressions on etsy.com. I totally laughed my face off the first time I saw it and HAD to have it for the playroom!!

Toddler Bed Trials

2011-05-25T14:54:00.001-04:00

The toddler beds seem to be working well. The transition for Andrew and Wesley from crib to bed was way better than I imagined it would be. Nighttime is almost always a success, with only the occasional, "Get in your beddie!" stated firmly through a slightley cracked-open door.

Cue giggling, and running to said 'beddie' x's two.

Naptime is not so much a struggle, as it is ...endangered? Does that make sense? Some days they nap wonderfully, but most days the nap is non-existant. Oh, they go into their room, but the nap, well, it doesn't usually happen. Yes, they have emptied their dresser drawers numerous times and cleared off their bookshelves more times than I can count, but even if they don't sleep during naptime, at least they have some quiet time (and so does Momma).

The past few afternoons the boys have pleasantly surprised me. In for a nap, and within 20 minutes, SIILENCE. Perhaps we're getting the hang of things? Nope. Not quite. Here is what I found while tiptoeing into their room during naptime to cover them up.

Sleeping, yes.

Sleeping in the toddler beds? Nah.

Adorable? Absolutely.

Snoozing so close to each other on the floor. I love this one!

Glad I vaccuumed!

Almost, boys, but we do actually have a bed for each of you!

Thanks, Mom.

2011-05-06T14:34:00.000-04:00

It's so much fun going through old photos.

Like, ridiculously fun for a photo-crazy girl like myself.

It's even more fun when the photos aren't yours, but are of people you love.

Perhaps taken before you were even born.

Such is the case with these beautiful photos of my beautiful mom.

She's still just as beautiful.

Inside and out.

My Mom, Linda, circa '71.

Lookin' good, Linnie!

Happy Mother's Day, Mom.

Thanks for all you do. ...for me, Dan and the boys.

We love you and appreciate you more than you will ever know, and if I can be just half the mother that you are, then I think I'll be doing a pretty good job.

Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing mothers out there!

xoxo

"Bums" Up!

2011-04-30T15:17:00.000-04:00

Night time is going fabulously in the new toddler beds.

Nap time, not so much.

Lets just say the boys have gotten really bad at napping and really good at pulling every book, toy, outfit off their bookshelf and evenly distributing it on their bedroom floor.

Today is the first day in almost 2 weeks that the boys went right in after lunch, got real quiet and fell asleep with minimal playing, squealing, laughing.

...we're going on 3 hours now. I kid you not.

Finally some "me time."

(...and by "me time" I mean "laundry, cleaning, dish washing time.")

I just couldn't help myself taking this photo.

Even if it meant possibly waking them up.

Total cuteness!

Don't you think?

Wanted: Desitin Delinquint

2011-04-18T17:03:00.000-04:00

For those of you interested in knowing how our transition to toddler beds is going, I'll be posting soon on the beds, nap time, etc. For now, here's what I walked into this morning at 6:45:

The Crime Scene

The Evidence

The Guilty Party

(No need for a trial. The paste on his face totally gives it away.)

Snuggles

2011-04-14T10:40:00.001-04:00

Boys bed time: 7:30pm.

Andrew on mattress on floor.

Wesley in crib.

Minimal talking/giggling overheard on monitor.

Figured boys must be tired.

Checked in on them around 10:00pm.

Andrew not on mattress.

Andrew not on floor.

Both were in Wesley's crib.

Found him snuggled together with his brother.

Just like they were in my belly (only with less kicking!)

I left them right where they were.

They seemed quite happy.

And I was, too.

Monkey Blood

2011-04-12T20:56:00.001-04:00

Andrew and Wesley both received several blood transfusions in the first few days of their lives.

I think there was a terrible mistake made in the hospital.

I believe Andrew was accidentally given monkey blood.

He literally climbs out and in (yes, in - found him in Wesley's crib several times now) in a matter of seconds. 28 to be exact.

Out of all these shots, I think my favorite one is his "ta-dah" shot.

He's pretty pleased with his dismount, don't you think.

The crib tent is working great at my parent's house, but I think we'll move right to the bed, here.

Andrew's mattress is now on the floor until we make his toddler bed.

It's in the works.

Most of the time, he falls asleep (after at least an hour of giggling) somewhere near the mattress. If he's lucky, he gets half of his body on it by the time he finally passes out.

I wonder if he's dreaming about bananas...

{Way Back When-esday} Pregnancy Photo

2011-04-06T15:55:00.000-04:00

April 02, 2009, 16 weeks pregnant with twins.

I just came across this photo and I'm remembering the joys, as well as the aches, pains and morning sickness of carrying twins. I took this photograph of myself almost exactly 2 years ago to the day, when I was 16 weeks pregnant with Wesley and Andrew.

When I took this photo...

1. The shock was still sinking in that I was having TWO babies

2 I wouldn't find out for another two weeks that they were both boys

3. I was morning/allday-sickness free for only about one week.

4. I was 22 weeks away from meeting my two favorite little men.

Have a warm memory from the past? Play along with Cheryl from Twinfatuation!

{Recipe} Mom's Almond Puff Pastry

2011-04-06T13:16:00.002-04:00

Flickr Photo Credit: honesthappenstance

I wanted to share a recipe that my mom has been making for years. I shared it with some friends this morning, and as usual, it was a crowd hit. If you want to impress the in-laws this at Easter brunch with an easy homemade pastry, this recipe is for you! Just click on the link:

Almond Puff Pastry

There are two recipes per page, so print it out, and give one to a friend!

This is my first time sharing via Scribd, so if you have problems accessing the file, let me know in the comment section, leave me your email and I can send you the word document.

Enjoy!

Got Yardstick?

2011-04-04T08:00:00.002-04:00

Toddler-proof.

This is my house.

Once, I used to grab a fork and knife and think nothing of it.

Now I have to think.

Struggle.

Curse.

This contraption was a last resort, and it works.

At first we just used a yardstick.

Perfect, until the twins learned how to slide it up out of the drawer handles.

Next, I put Ikea bag clips in between the handles, clipped around the yardstick. Again, it worked until they figured out the darn clips.

Here is the final product. Totally twin-proof!!

Sure, it takes me 3 minutes to get a teaspoon, but the boys are safe, and my utensils stay off the floor.

Next is the entertainment center.

Looks pretty classy, eh?

(By classy, I mean trashy, but again...it works)

Cardboard, painters tape and plexiglass. Oh my!

As much as I'd love my boys to stay little forever, I can't wait until they are old enough to understand what don't touch means.

What innovative twin-proofing ideas have you come up with?

Recycle, Reuse, Make Cash!

2011-04-03T21:10:00.001-04:00

For the past few weeks, I have been very busy during the boys naps and after their bedtime.

Busy washing, sorting, scrubbing, hanging, ironing and tagging.

My bff got me hooked on participating in a huge children's consignment sale twice a year.

AMAZING and GENIUS.

This was my second sale.

I'm not going to lie, it's a lot of work to prepare for, but if you're done using your childrens' stuff (bottles, clothes, playpens, strollers, clothes, wagons, clothes, bikes, clothes, shoes, toys, clothes, books, ...and oh, did I mention clothes?) there is someone out there willing to buy it secondhand.

Garage sales are great, but people come looking for all sorts of things and personally, I can't stand someone asking me if I'd take a quarter for junk that's clearly worth fifty cents.

At the Mothertime Marketplace Consignment Sale, people are looking specifically for children's products and clothes. They wait in a line to get inside the doors, and they wait in even longer lines to purchase the discounted goods; some stuff brand new with tags, and all items 50-75% (or more) off original retail value.

You set your own prices.

Awesome.

I underprice my items, but I bring very little home with me after the sale.

A mere $10 allows you to consign, and you keep 70% of your sales.

Wish I thought of this idea.

My bestie Melisa grabbed as many outfits for her 3 daughters as her arms could hold during the consignor pre-sale.

After assisting behind the registers for a second time, I've seen many people spend well over $400. It's really not that unusual. Some have to make several trips out to their cars, carrying bags and bags of gently used goodies.

Being a mom of multiples, I've always taken whatever people have offered me secondhand. I knew I couldn't afford all new things (especially in quantities of 2), nor did I need to have them. There are definitely moms out there that want everything brand new, but that was never me. I was always glad (and still am) to reuse and help recycle.

Look for a sale like this in your area.

Invest the time and energy of being a consignor.

For those mommas that have trouble 'letting go', I'd suggest saving a few favorite outfits, and saying goodbye to the rest. Cut that cord, girls! The check you'll get in the mail will make all the pain go away!

The Crib Vault

2011-03-30T15:19:00.000-04:00

It might just be time.

After hearing excessive amounts of giggling, my mom realized that Andrew not only climbed out of his crib during nap time yesterday, but into his brother's pack-n-play!

1. So cute! They must have been so excited!

2. So dangerous!

...although Andrew is super graceful and has insane upper-body strength (see previous upper-body strength shenanigans here.) I really don't think he'd fall. If Wesley tried it, however, we might have to call the paramedics.

Bull. In. China Shop.

Due to the crib-nastics, giggling and non-napping, my mom got the boys up, fed them lunch and then tried again, putting Andrew in the playpen and Wesley in the crib. Her theory was that if he tried again, he'd have less of a falling distance to the floor (if he actually fell). Minutes later, Wesley is sound asleep and Andrew...well, Andrew was standing in the hallway with one of those "I'm not supposed to be here, am I," looks on his face.

The kid is not a napper. That's the first issue. Wesley could literally take 4 naps a day, but not Andrew. Andrew is my night owl, too.

My second dilemma is the crib/toddler bed transition. Any advice? I've read that some kids are in beds before they turn one, but for some reason, 19 months still seems too early for me. I like (liked) knowing my babes were safely contained. Obviously, that's not the case anymore.

Here is Andrew not even two minutes after we left Nana and Papa's house. Figures. The kid was exhausted from crib vaulting.

So last night I bought a crib tent for my parents house. I acted impulsively, and probably should have explored more options before buying the thing, but we'll see how it works.

The good news is that I've wanted to make these DIY toddler beds since I first saw them... The supplies make 2 beds! It was meant to be. Crafty Momma + Handy Hubby = Perfect Spring Project!

It's time. Here's the link:

http://www.designspongeonline.com/2009/07/diy-project-upholstered-toddler-beds.html

Photo Credit: Design Sponge

Time Flies

2011-03-28T16:02:00.002-04:00

First, let me say that I admire you M-o-M's out there that can find time to post daily. I constantly think of topics, but somehow sleep or catching up on the DVR'd stuff (and oh-so-predictably falling asleep before the show finishes) sounds more tempting to me after the boys go to bed. Can you blame me? Please keep in mind, however, that it is your posts that get me through some days. I may not post daily, but you can bet I go through my blogroll! Knowing there are other mom's of multiples out there going through the exact same thing I am is comforting, and blogging has definitely made me feel like part of an entirely new family. I have you to share with, to laugh with (and when you have two children the same age, you MUST laugh, or I'm convinced you'll go crazy), and lastly, I have you to thank. Thank you for being there, documenting what life with twins (or more) is like, and for making me feel almost normal.

My almost-19-months-old "kids."

So today I just want to share a photo and a thought. I ran into an aquaintance at the grocery store yesterday. His kids are 7 and 5, and he commented on how time flies, and how he and his wife are now in a 'new stage' of life with their children. Their 7 year old now acts like she's 15 (eye rolling included) and the 5 year old is just not a toddler anymore. Kids. Full blown kids. He went into the pros (parent gets a little more time back due to child being more independent) and cons (eye rolling, attitudes, etc.) of this new adventure they are on. I had to laugh to myself. Any parent can understand this. Although we are only 19 months in, just the other day, my hubby and I were talking about how our twins are no longer babies, ...and toddlers? Forget it. They may still technically be toddlers, but they are starting to look like "kids". Little boys. Makes me smile and tear up at the same time. Partly because I can hardly remember when they were teenie- tiny, and partly because I can't wait to see what they will become. Tomorrow, next week, next year...

Flying With Twin Toddlers

2011-03-17T17:45:00.001-04:00

Flying with my husband and our 18-month old twins.

As promised, here is the "Flying with Toddlers" post, however, it comes with a little disclaimer: This is a really long post, but hopefully it's informative for those of you about travel with toddlers, or better yet, with twin toddlers like we have. Don't judge me for how I went about things in my travels. I'm still learning, and I will be for a long, long time.

I'm not claiming to be an expert in this area, but I've recently been on two 3-hour flights with my husband and our very busy, very active 18 month old twin boys.  I did a lot of research before the trip, and I learned a lot while traveling with them. First and foremost, nothing about traveling with toddlers is predictable. You just have to accept that. The only way to handle the unpredictability is to be prepared for anything and everything.   We were VERY prepared, perhaps OVER prepared, however this didn't stop my husband and I from stressing over the actual flight and how the boys would behave.

Shoot for at least a 1:1 adult to toddler ratio. Hopefully you aren't the only adult flying with twin toddlers, and if you are, good luck. I've read that it's been done, but you won't catch me doing it. Not with my two monkeys!

Booking the flight:
If your toddlers are under 2 years of age, they can fly free as lap babies. Only one baby per lap. You can opt to purchase a seat for the toddler (offered by most airlines at a discounted rate, and preferred, as it's the safest way to travel), however you must use an FAA approved car seat. How do you know if you have one of these? The label on the carseat should read something along the lines of: Approved for use in motor vehicles and aircrafts. Call me a terrible parent, but not only was I not going to pay for 2 extra seats on the flight, I definitely wasn't going to lug two car seats through the airport on top of everything else we had to carry. If you have money to spend, they sell carseats with a luggage-type handle and on wheels for easy airport travel.   I didn't have $400+ to drop on two. **If you have lap babies, remember to bring birth certificates to verify their age.

Packing the Carry-On:
Now is NOT the time to catch up on all the celebrity gossip in People or InStyle.   First, you won't have room for your fave magazines, second, you won't be able to read; you'll be way too busy entertaining your children and keeping them contained in your seating area. Only bring what is absolutely necessary for you (wallet, keys, meds) and utilize all of the remaining space in your carry-on for things your child will need/want. First, you will need diapers and wipes. Pack enough to cover you in case the flight is late or gets diverted (for whatever reason) and you get stuck somewhere overnight. Hey, it happens. Next, a change of clothes (everything - comfortable outfit, onesies, socks, slippers or shoes) for each child.   One of my little guys had a MAJOR BLOWOUT at the tail end of one of our flights and he was stripped, scrubbed and re-clothed with a fresh outfit, socks included. All in that tiny airplane bathroom. There should be a club for moms who have accomplished this task.

You'll definitely need some snacks and cups for the kiddies, so don't forget to cram those into the carry-on bag. When all else fails, Cheerios and Goldfish usually end up saving the day. (Cheerios and Fruit Loops work great for older kids. Bring along some string and have them make necklaces for the flight attendants ;) Activities are great (such as the necklace stringing, coloring, reading, flashcards, etc) if you're kids can stay focused, but mine don't at this age. We resorted to toys.  Lots of toys. Go to the store and spend some cash.   I spent about $30 on toys/electronics/stickers/stampers between the local dollar stores and the Target $1 bins.   You want to hide all of these goodies from the kids (and if you have multiples, you must know by now that you must have two of everything, unless you want to become an instant referee. I'm perfectly happy with just being a mom and a ringleader. Don't need to add Ref to my titles just yet.) Slowly, as the flight goes on, introduce new toys to them, but only when they tire of the one they currently have.

Andrew playing with a buckle-clip thingee.

Wesley stringing beads.

The Airport and The Flight: Making it through TSA will be the most difficult part of your day, that is, if they behave on the flight. Not only do your shoes and accessories have to come off, but so do your children's. Haven't you heard of the Baby Shoe Bomber? No? Well, apparently, TSA thinks it a possibility. ...and don't think it'll be easy with the kids strapped into a stroller. Nope. They have to come out of the stroller, and the stroller needs to be collapsed and put through the x-ray, all with one hand while your other hand is busy attempting to contain your barefoot children. Piece-of-cake, right? If someone offers to help you, TAKE THEM UP ON IT! The more adults, the better!

Let your kids walk/run as much as possible before the flight. You want to wear them out. Maybe you will be lucky enough to find a play area in the airport you are in. We found a vacant gate with a ramp - the boys loved running up and down it. Board when they let families board, and try to get a seat in the bulkhead (first row), or do what we did and go all the way to the back of the plane. After you are seated, pray, pray and pray some more that it is NOT a full flight. If it is, there can only be one lap child per row, as there are only 4 oxygen masks that will fall from above in the event of an emergency (one for each paying passenger, and one extra for a lap child). If the flight isn't full, you can rest assured that nobody will want that third seat in your row. My hubs and I sat at either end of our row, and after take-off, the boys took turns rotating from our laps to the seat in between us. It was enough room to make the trip more bearable.

Calm Kids:
Before the flight, I may or may not have administered a small amount of a pediatric anti-histamine to my twins, hoping it would make them a bit drowsy. About two hours into the first flight, as the boys were literally climbing the back wall of the plane, I remember my husband asking, "When is this medicine supposed to kick in?" "I think it already has," I said with a silly, awkward grin. It literally did NOTHING, or so I thought. On the flight home, we went sans drugs, and it was much more chaotic, with crying and screaming, so maybe in hindsight, the meds worked a little magic. I still don't think I'd use them again, though. Do what you fell you need to do. I was desperate for a stress-free flight, and when the kids were medicated, we had an overall decent experience.

Calm You:
It doesn't take too much to get stressed out while traveling. I start sweating at just the thought of going through TSA; carrying heavy bags, taking off belts, emptying pockets, cell phone ringing...you know the feeling, right? The best thing that I took from all my pre-flying-with-twin-toddlers research, and the most important thing that I want you to take from this post is that it will do absolutely no good if you lose your cool when things start to go downhill. Psych yourself up before the flight to maintain a positive attitude, regardless of how your children behave and how those around you react to the childrens' behavior. You are not the first person to fly with little ones, and you sure as heck won't be the last. Don't let the stresses get to you once your trip is underway. Just go with the flow. We made a humorous disclaimer to those sitting around us before the flight. They knew what they could be in for, so we felt as though we appropriately warned everyone the possibilities that might ensue. As stressed and as worried as I was before the flight, I remember laughing hysterically (perhaps maniacally?) and smirking at/waving to anyone who turned around to see what all the fuss was in the back of the airplane while we experienced a massive Twinado, aka, the Double Meltdown.. There is nothing you can do about the situation beyond your over-the-top preparation. Sometimes, they just need to scream. Let them, and comfort them the best way you know how. If you start to cry (and I know this happens from time to time) it'll only make things more difficult. Take it with a grain of salt, because you deserve the vacation you're trying to get to, probably more than anyone else on the airplane!!

On a side note, is it bad that, at one point, I let my kids eat goldfish that fell on the airplane floor? They were quiet and still, just munching away under our feet. For a moment, I felt relief. I know my husband did, too. Now, I'm not one of those germ-a-phobe moms, so maybe it might be deemed as dirty and gross by some, but when needed, I don't hesitate to implement the 5 second rule (or 10 seconds, or 1 minute, or a 3 minute rule, for that matter.)

I sure hope some of my flying experience will help you on any adventures you might attempt with your little ones! Happy, safe and stress-free travels to all of you!

Really, kid?

2011-03-13T21:38:00.000-04:00

Seriously, kid?

I was only in the other room for 30 seconds.

I swear.

...and look what this little stinker did.

Me: Heart failure.

Yeah, I know I probably should have gotten him down before running for the camera, but I know how strong this little daredevil is, and that he was loving his new view.

Is this kid for real?

Yeah, he's behind the shade, alright.

A Peeping Andrew, if you will.

(Yes, Vanessa, he was looking over at your house.)

So I take this hysterical photo, lift him down, pull up the shade and remove the couch cushion, assuming he won't be able to get up there.

I was wrong.

So wrong.

Within another 30 seconds, he got right back up there. I could not believe how fast and easy it was for him.

Fear not. The window now has cardboard taped over it to prevent it from happening again.

...and once again, there go my chances for winning Mother of the Year.

Our Florida Vaycay

2011-03-04T20:59:00.000-05:00

Hello, friends! It's been a while, but I'm back to share our recent vacation with you! We recently spent a wonderful week (with WONDERFUL weather) down in Florida with my parents, who have been renting a condo near Clearwater for the past few years.

The flight down went great. Dan and I were extremely nervous about our very active 18 month old boys remaining still for almost three hours. Getting through TSA and waiting to board were the most difficult parts. Oh, and dressing the boys in slippery outfits was a bad idea, but you live and learn. I think I'll do a post about flying with toddlers, soon.

Yeah, I will. Definitely.

The close quarters on the airplane kept the kids contained. Luckily, we scored three seats in the very back row (instead of just the two we actually paid for) because the flight wasn't full. All was well until we were about 5 minutes from touching down in Tampa and Andrew went and had a blowout. ...and when I say blowout, I mean BLOWOUT.

Code Brown.

Brown 100.

I begged our very understanding flight attendant to let me get up to change him and he just wanted to be sure that if asked who gave me permission, I wouldn't blow him in. After all, the Fasten Seatbelts/ Final Descent announcement had already come over the loud speaker.

As my luck would have it, the bathroom with the changing table wasn't right behind us, it was all the way at the front of the plane, so with stiff elbows and arms extended, I carried Andrew up to the world's tiniest changing table, sharing his stink with every passenger on the plane. So sorry!

Andrew and I came back to our seats, me without shame, him, without a turtleneck, missing a sock and wearing new pants. We touched down and our sighs of relief could probably be heard back home in Buffalo.

Now, onto the vacation itself:

What good is a warm, sunny day without ice cream? I swear this kid got more of my cone than I did. He's lucky I don't mind sharing.

Nana and Andrew sunbathing. The pool was empty this particular day, but most of the days we were there, it was swarming with senior citizens ;) As you can imagine, they all got a kick out of the redheaded twins.

Pool time! Nothing like a heated pool! After the boys went to bed, my parents stayed up in the condo with them while Dan and I got to enjoy the hot tub! Ahhh.

We all spent a lot of time on the beach. The fresh air did wonders for the boys. They took great naps and slept solid from the second we put them down for the night until the sun came up the next morning. These are the few photos I have of their faces (or parts of their faces). Most of the pictures I took on the beach were of them running away from us, having fun in the sun.

How much do I love this picture of Wesley? He finally noticed his shadow and was delighted to meet him!

Here are my wonderfu parents, the boys' Nana and Pop Pop. Can you believe they had the entire condo baby-proofed before we even got there? They are that awesome!

I love this family photo with my parents. Hard to believe that it was two years ago, here in FL, that Dan and I told my parents we were expecting. We did a toast to "the 5 of us" even though there were only 4 of us sitting at the table. My mom's eyes welled up with tears and she just kept saying, "Really?!! Really?!!" and my dad, confused, just said, "but there's only 4 of us??" We didn't realize that there were actually 6 of us there until a month after our trip ;)

The hubs and I got all dressed up to go out for a fancy dinner and drinks in St. Petersburg, sans kids. Our big night out ended around 11pm, proof that we are parents, or just that we are getting old.

We tried to mix up our activities to keep the boys busy. We were told that a child's museum nearby was a bit "too old" for the boys, so instead we found a great playground to occupy a few hours. This dino reminds me of one of my fav movies, Pee Wee's Big Adventure (and I've even been to the actual dinosaurs that were in the movie, in Cabazan, California!) Have any dreams, Pee Wee?

Someone wore himself out climbing up all the slides! I shouldn't have been, but I was amazed at how brave the boys were on all the playground rides. We definitely have two little daredevils on our hands. I can smell the Bactine already.

With the exception of a quick trip to the ER and some heavy duty prescribed antibiotics (Dan had a little MRSA issue on his elbow), we had a wonderful, warm, relaxing week. Many thanks to my parents for ~~putting up with~~ hosting us for the week! We all had a blast! Can't wait until next year (if you'll have us back)!

Heart Shaped Balloons

2011-02-14T07:56:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentines Day to you and all your little loves!

We are on vacation this week, so stay tuned for some 'interesting' posts for next week. (Like how we made it through TSA and a 3 hour flight with two busy toddlers and our Day 1 of vacation trip to the ER.)

Tuesday's Cookie Mishap

2011-02-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday, I decided to bake some cut-out cookies for the boys.

Heart cookies, perfect for Valentine's Day.

The boys decided to "help" by pulling out my pans and dancing on them.

I was out of butter, so figured I'd pick some up later in the day, make the frosting and then have a decorating party. I was a bit nervous about the boys and candy sprinkles, but was willing to take the risk for a good photo op.

Turns out, I never had to get butter. The boys decided that the few samples I gave them were so tasty that they didn't need frosting on their cookies. They pulled the entire rack onto the floor.

Ugh.

Then they decided it was necessary to taste every dog-hair covered cookie to make

sure they were all the same.

Yep, this one tastes just like the last one.

If only Wesley's hands were bigger...

After most of the cookies had little tiny teeth marks in them, I picked up all the pieces

and then called in the cleaning crew.

God, I love having dogs.

Reading with Daddy

2011-02-09T20:57:00.001-05:00

How cute are these photos?

I don't really need to write anything.

You get the drift.

Just some quiet time before beddie, reading with Daddy.

{Product Endorsement} Petunia Pickle Bottom Bags for Mom's of Multiples!

2011-02-09T08:28:00.000-05:00

I usually don't so this sort of thing, but I was more than thrilled when I received an email advertising Petunia Pickle Bottom's new line of Boxy Backpack diaper bags specifically designed for moms of multiples! Finally! It is called the Abundance Boxy Backpack, and it's full of spaces to make things a bit easier when going out on the town with your little bundles of joy. I scored a PPB Boxy Backpack a few years ago at their semi-annual Outlet Sale (well before I was ever even pregnant, cuz, well, they are just GORGEOUS), and then several more purchases followed. Shortly after having twins, however, I soon realized that my sassy, stylish Cross Town Clutch that I just had to have may have well have been a change purse. There was no way I could stuff everything I'd need for two babies in there! Cute, but sooo not practical for this momma of multiples.

Then along comes this new bag. Perfect, roomy and like always, stunning. Yes, a diaper bag can be stunning. Don't believe me? Check out their website. I cannot tell you how many compliments I get on my bag. Weird, but true. And it's totally worth the money, you'll get more than your money's worth out of this product. They take a beating, and when you're covered in 2 times the poop and spit-up, you'll still feel confident that you *appear* to have it all together! So if you know anyone expecting 2 or more, send this idea their way (or better yet, it'd make a great shower gift!) Or, just go ahead and treat yourself to one. We deserve it, right? Anything to make life with twins a little easier.

What a mess...

2011-02-04T16:00:00.001-05:00

Can someone please tell me how and when your little ones started using silverware?

Is there a trick I'm missing here? A certain food that's easy to start out with?

Almost, but not quite.

My poor table!

I really think he's trying, here.

When all else fails, use your fingers.

Just look at this face. Are you kidding me?

Hey! He's got it!

Look at those hands! Yuck!

Pretty proud of himself, even though he got more on him than in him.

As you can imagine, the twins went right in the tub after this event.

(and the silverware went back in the drawer for a few more months.)

Nothing Like Grandpa's Goulash

2011-02-03T20:05:00.000-05:00

Day four of the hunger strike.

This kid wouldn't ingest anything other than milk.

We tried, oh how we tried.

Maple yogurt, gourmet grilled bologna and cheese, panko chicken fingers with homemade honey mustard sauce.

Nothing.

Boy, was Wesley stubborn.

...that is, until Grandpa's goulash came along.

Four servings later, this is what he looked like!

Wesley with a goulash goatee.

What do you mean Wesley ate my seconds?

Snow Bros

2011-01-27T18:17:00.001-05:00

The boys played in the snow for the first time ever today. Pretty sad that one, they are almost a year and a half, and two, we live in Buffalo. Shame on us for not letting them experience the cold white stuff sooner, but last year they were too little, and this winter, it's just been too darn cold. We're having a heat wave today (30 degrees!) so we thought we'd jump at the opportunity. The snow bros LOVED it!!!

The Barbershop

2011-01-25T18:16:00.002-05:00

Vincent's Barbershop in Riverside.

My husband went there as a boy.

My father-in-law started going there as a teen.

It was Wesley's & Andrew's turn.

The first "real" haircut".

What a difference from the mom-cut.

I loved the feel of Vince's Barbershop the second I walked in the door.

Old-school chairs,
an old-school register,

and

Vince.

Pretty old-school, himself.

Vince is in his 80's (!) and still cutting the hair of his "regulars."

He was dressed in his adorable old-man duds.

His uniform was completed by his glasses and old-man smell.

(Yes, old men smell...not bad, not good...they just have that smell. Don't believe me? Go sniff one.)

The twins were definitely a challenge for him, but he succeeded.

Wesley before the haircut.

Andrew's "before" shot.

Wesley did GREAT! Minimal wiggling. Nice haircut, Vince!

Andrew didn't do so well. This was seconds before the massive wiggling and screaming meltdown.

Looking good, Wesley! The "after" shot.

Andrew's After shot. Nice from the front!

...and a little mishap from too much wiggling! Too funny. Reminds me of that silly skit on Jacka$$!

Simplifying

2011-01-18T16:30:00.001-05:00

The hubs and I had a very productive weekend at home. We had three entire days together with absolutely no plans, which doesn't happen too often. It was a great time to get things done indoors, being that the temps hit below zero here in Buffalo.

Brrrrr.

Why do we live here?

Oh yeah, the beautiful summers and falls.

We managed to squeeze in a visit from the boys Aunt and Uncle (complete with chicken wings), as well as a spontaneous and slightly expensive trip to Ikea in Canada. We're re-doing our bedroom that is in desperate need of a make-over.

Don't believe me?

Just imagine this:

Teal.

Shag.

Carpet.

Oh, yeah.

We got some serious Swedish goodies to help move this project along.

I actually made a resolution this year. I'm not usually into this tradition, so I kept it simple: Drink more water and eat healthier (um...forget I mentioned those chicken wings).

As for "us", Dan and I have resolved to SIMPLIFY. We have so much clutter in the house, and we both have saved a ridiculous amount of memorabilia over the years.

Time to let it all go, ...or, ...well, most of it.

Soooooo,

we simplified hardcore in our bedroom this weekend.

Not priming (yet).

Not painting (yet).

No decorating (yet).

Not ripping out that hideous carpet.

That day can't come soon enough.

Just lots and lots of simplifying, in the form of multiple garbage bags that are now waiting to be donated or taken to the curb.

Hoping the boys didn't inherit our pack-rat gene.

Night Owls

2011-01-09T17:00:00.001-05:00

I'm back and feeling MUCH better. Thank you all for the well wishes. It's amazing how much more you run yourself down as a momma. It's impossible to drop everything and focus on yourself for a few days. Not easy, and not fun!

Anyway, no cute photo to share today, but we seem to have a situation with the twins and I'd like some advice. Or maybe you can share a similar experience, just so I know we're not alone.

Dan and I are tired. Very tired. We were blessed with twins that have been sleeping through the night since they were 12 weeks old. That's right, 12 weeks. Amazing. It's been great, so I probabaly shouldn't complain, but I'm going to anyway!

For the past week or so, one (if not both of the boys) seems to wake up during the night screaming and in tears. I've done some online reading and we've tried all the suggestions, but the only thing that really consoles them is being held. Perhaps if we only had one 16 month old, some of the suggestions might work; rub child's back, talk to in a soft soothing voice, don't pick them up, let them cry it out, etc., but we have two little guys, and inevitably, one eventually wakes the other up (or we do, when attempting to act out these suggestions on the first crying child.) Then there are two crying toddlers who want to be held (and two crying adults who want to sleep.)

Are they too warm? Too cold? Hungry? Not sleeping enough during the day? Sleeping too much?

Are they teething? Both have mouths full of teeth, and haven't had trouble sleeping while getting them in the past. Just for sh*ts and giggles, we tried a little Tylenol for the past two nights, and that seems to have done the trick, but I know we aren't out of the woods yet.

Suggestions? Advice? Earplugs? Red Bull?

Under the Weather

2011-01-05T18:57:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been gone for a while.

All the hustle and bustle of the holidays

has given me a nasty cold.

I feel run down.

Like total crap.

I've felt this way for several days now.

It's difficult enough being a mama right now, let alone being creative and coming up with blog posts.

Give me a few more days, and I promise I'll be back.

Until then, I'll be putting vaseline on my poor, red nose and drinking lots of tea.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-24T11:28:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

During these busy few days, remember to take time to relax and enjoy celebrating with family and friends!

Andrew the other reindeer.

Santa's little helper.

XOXO,

margie, dan, wesley and andrew.

Busy Week Ahead

2010-12-20T11:06:00.002-05:00

What's better than starting out Christmas Week with a party featuring the Man in Red, himself?!

Last night, I took the boys to a friend's house for a fun holiday gathering.

This (above) is the only picture I got with the twins (or a twin, rather) remotely close to Santa. I'm actually surprise Wesley isn't a blur, here. No, they weren't afraid, we were just in someone elses' house, and there were someone elses' toys to play with.

Here's Wesley (confined) with his gift from Saint Nick and an adorable certificate stating that he was on Santa's "Good List."

Andrew attempted to finger paint an ornament at the party.

At least Andrew tried.

Wesley's ornament remained dough colored, however he embelished it with festive teeth marks that would make Department 56 jealous.

Wednesday, we are getting together with good friends for a holiday meal. My boys get to meet my girlfriend's (~20 months old) twin girls for the first time. I'm super excited to see everyone and share some laughs.

Thurday, we have another kiddie Christmas party at my bestie's house. I'm actually thinking of dressing up in the red suit to make a quick appearance. Am I nuts? I think I can pull off the Santa voice, and I am not really worried about the kids recognizing me... I'm just worried about bursting out laughing in front of everyone!

Ho Ho Ho!

{Giveaway} Winner Winner, Chicken Dinner!

2010-12-18T07:52:00.008-05:00

We have a winner!! The lucky winner (selected via random.org) of three Romeo & Mae digital patterns is our 4th comment from "Z"! I will be in touch with you to let you know how to receive your patterns.

Thanks to all who entered!

Haircuts and Tubbie Time

2010-12-14T08:04:00.000-05:00

Andrew & Wesley sporting their new haircuts, 15 months old.

I've been cutting the boys hair for quite some time now. It's funny, we have a few little friends that are a bit older than the boys and still don't have enough hair to trim! Andrew's already had about 9 haircuts (not even joking) and Wesley only 3! What can I say... I just hate to trim those little red curls of his!
Haircuts usually take a while... like sometimes a couple of days. Sometimes I have to do them in rounds. It just depends on how long I can get my wiggle-worms to sit still. As soon as they lose interest in what's going on in front of them and start grabbing for the comb, scissors or their own hair, the barbershop party is over.
After the haircuts, it's always tubbie time. I actually remembered to bring my camera in this time. I usually forget it during bathtime, and of course those times are when the twins do all sorts of adorable things.

Andrew and his clean, freshly cut 'do.

Just a little off the sides and back, preseving most of his curls!

Please, please, please don't forget to enter my giveaway HERE!!! If you don't sew, maybe you know someone else that does! You can enter up to 3 times, by leaving 3 different comments. Good Luck!

A Visit with Santa

2010-12-13T21:14:00.001-05:00

Second Christmas with the boys.

Second trip to see Santa.

Andrew was a bit scared, but I bribed him and his brother.

Place kids on Santa's lap.

Insert animal crackers into kids' mouths.

Capture moment with a photo.

Done!

Perhaps I should have bribed the big man in red to smile a bit.

He looks like a kid whose parent just put him on Santa's lap!

Dont forget to enter my sewing pattern giveaway!

{Giveaway} Romeo & Mae Sewing Patterns

2010-12-10T08:00:00.017-05:00

I'm super excited to announce Double the Giggles' first ever giveaway! Jennifer, the crafty, clever mind behind Romeo & Mae is giving away not one, not two, but THREE of her digital sewing patterns to one lucky Double the Giggles reader! Most of her patterns are for little girls apparel, but there are several patterns for the little men in our lives, too! Each pattern is more adorable than the next - I can't decide which one I love more! (Although I think I can totally get away with making and wearing one of her gorgeous headbands!)

As a crafty momma, myself, I have saved some serious money by making things for my boys (bibs, burp cloths, shirts, etc.) as well as for other moms/mom's-to-be as gifts. This is the perfect prize for someone who loves to sew or is just learning to sew. You really can't beat something that is handmade!

You can enter to win up to three times. Here's how:
1. Head over to Romeo & Mae's Etsy shop and come back here telling me what your favorite pattern is and who you'd make it for.

2. Follow Romeo&Mae on Facebook and leave a comment here telling me you have done so. Don't forget to leave her some facebook love!

3. Follow DoubletheGiggles.com. Leave a comment telling me you have done so (or already are).

One lucky winner will be randomly picked on December 18th and will be announced shortly thereafter. Entries will be accepted up until midnight, December 17th, EST. Be sure to leave me an email address to contact you in the event that your comment is chosen! Contest open to everyone, as there is no actual 'shipping'.

Check out her blog, too! Not only does she create adorable clothing patterns, but she is an amazing photographer! Many thanks to Jennifer over at Romeo & Mae for participating in this giveaway!

Also, check out Sew Mama Sew for other crafty giveaways!

My Weekend Getaway

2010-12-08T17:14:00.000-05:00

This past weekend was my long overdue trip to NY to visit my good friend Eve. We met sophomore year of college, lost touch after graduation, and were reunited once again a few years back thanks to good ol' facebook. We have been in touch ever since. (Aww!)

Cold. Snow. Wind. Flurries. Plows.

The weather in Buffalo was terrible (even for Buffalo.)

People were actually stranded on the roads for hours the night before due to the snow piling up and I was nervous about making it to the airport, let alone my flight not being cancelled.

I arrived in Newark fashionably late, and then the weekend festivities began!

This is Eve at the Union Square Craft fair. See? I told you she was crazy cool!

Eve's roomie works at the Empire State Building, so we got to go up with him for half price. The best part was that we got to cut right up to the front of the line! No waiting!

Here's the amazingly awesome view...

Stupid me unknowingly had my camera on manual focus, so I got some great blurry shots.

Can you tell we're freezing here?

Eve showing me some NY love.

The weekend flew by, but we packed a TON in.

We ate at some AMAZING restaurants.

If you are in NYC, you must check out Mario Batali's Eataly. You could literally spend three days in this place; eating, grocery shopping and gawking at all the amazing products for sale.

We ate at Le Verdure, his vegetarian restaurant within Eataly, and I'm still drooling over the chickpea fritter, drenched in sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese, the mushroom-and-caramelized-onion-covered focaccia and the roasted fennel on stewed tomatoes. YUMMMMM!

We had the pleasure of dining here with Eve's friend, a former chef, who now works in NYC for Spain's Rioja wine region.

She works for the whole region.

Yes, the entire wine region.

Could there be a cooler job?

Where do I apply?

We dined and heard some great French gypsy jazz at Madame Claude's in Jersey City.

Awesome food and ambiance.

We had a mouth-watering brunch at Marco & Pepe - I highly recommend the Eggs & Toast, and the giant glaze covered Portuguese muffin.

I can actually hear myself gaining weight as I type!

Got pizza and beer with all the hipsters at Roberta's.

We took a long, cold walk across part of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Went to a soul party, featuring The Sweet Divines, an amazingly talented group of gals and soul legend Syl Johnson. AWESOME!

Went to a record fair and scored a sweet album.

Spent half a day at Spa Castle, a huge indoor resort with saunas, hot tubs and spa treatments, galore!

Eve knows her city.

She loves her city.

...and I'm glad she shared it with me for just a few days!

Are you ready to get your craft on?
Check back this Friday for a Double the Giggles giveaway!

I ♥ NY

2010-12-01T16:30:00.004-05:00

It's almost here!

One more day and then my little weekend getaway!

Well deserved, I think.

Check that. I KNOW.

(I'm a momma to twins!)

Headed to the Big Apple.

(Er, Jersey City. Close enough.)

Dan is on single parent duty for the weekend.

Can he handle it?

Absolutely!

He's a pro with the boys.

I'll be visiting my girlfriend Eve, who is quite possibly one of coolest chickies I know.

We plan on shopping.

Eating.

Drinking some cocktails.

Seeing the holiday sights.

Texting home to see how everyone is holding up without mom around.

Can't.

Wait.

Will I miss my guys?

Absolutely.

All three of 'em.

Do I feel guilty for leaving?

Should I?

I don't.

I worked hard for this.

I earned this.

I'm soooo going to have a blast!

What do YOU do (or have you done) to recharge your mom-of-multiples batteries?

Tree vs. Twins

2010-11-29T10:47:00.001-05:00

The twins, looking for the tastiest ornaments.

After doing a bit of research on toddlers and Christmas trees, we put up our tree this weekend and left the bottom foot and a half free of ornaments. Little did I know that the boys would reach up and help themselves anyway. Hopefully we make it through this holiday season without any tree pull-overs or ornament breakage. We can block off this room if we need to, but hopefully the boys and the tree will learn to live together. Peacefully.

I plan on filling a basket with silk (safe) ornaments for them to play with.

Somebody tell him these aren't real marshmallows.

Confirmation that I didn't hang the ornaments high enough.

The finished tree

Our stockings, ready to be filled with goodies ;)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T10:33:00.001-05:00

My brother Joey (yes, you were still called 'Joey' back then!) and I on Thanksgiving, 1980.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, Everyone!

{Photos} Christmas Card Photos

2010-11-22T17:24:00.000-05:00

I got a bit lazy and only did one outdoor photo sesh of the boys for our Christmas cards this year.

(Speaking of lazy, post much, Marge?)

I promise I'll put forth more effort for next year's card.

Really.

And maybe they'll both actually look at the camera...

at the same time...

standing next to each other.

Nah, who am I kidding?

For now, I'm using one shot of each of them.

Looking super cute and crisp and cool.

Here are the winning photos:

Mr. Dubs, looking quite dapper.

Mr. Drewbug, as charming as always.

{Holiday Photo Time} Shutterfly.com

2010-11-16T10:46:00.000-05:00

Remember this card (and post) from last year??

Alright, I don't ever get brand specific on this blog, but I wanted to share a great offer with all of my blogger friends, as well as my other dedicated visitors. Shutterfly, which is a great photo company you have probably already heard of, is offering bloggers 50 free photocards just for doing a little bragging on their behalf... which isn't hard to do. They really don't have to twist my arm. Really. I have used Shutterfly for several years now and am always pleased with the final results. Whether it was for Christmas photo cards, regular old prints, photobooks or photo calendars (which, by the way, the grandparents LOVED last year!!), their products are of the highest quality and do not dissappoint. Shutterfly also makes it super easy to upload your favorite photos and play around with them until you get the perfect look for your cards.

I think I'm in love with their new flat stationery cards, and I'm pretty sure I'll be ordering a bundle of these once I'm able to capture my two little buggers in just the right crisp, cheery holiday expression! That's an experience for another post.

So here's the deal, my dear Blogger friends. If you have a blog and would like 50 free holiday cards, all you need to do is go HERE, fill out the form, (read the fine print so there will be no surprises), mention them in a blog post and they'll send you a promo code for some of their fabulous cards.

Simple enough, huh?

I thought so.

Take advantage of this!

Do it.

Who doesn't like free stuff, especially when its really nice free stuff?

Oh yeah, good luck trying to decide on your favorite Shutterfly card style.

I've narrowed it down to a at least dozen!

Child Labor

2010-11-14T10:36:00.000-05:00

Now if only I could get them to sort, wash and fold, we'd be in business. Why can't I ever have this much fun with the laundry basket?

The Impossible Photo

2010-11-08T10:24:00.001-05:00

Could it be that the twins are FINALLY starting to understand cameras? In the past 2 days, I've managed to get several pictures of them, both looking in the same direction!

Okay, so they aren't looking right at the camera. They are looking at a goofy stuffed animal strategically placed on my head, but I'll take it!

By the way, this is where we spend most of our time now; sitting in a crate full of books.

{Makes My Monday} Great Grandma's 90th Birthday

2010-11-08T09:17:00.002-05:00

The twins' Great Grandma turns 90 this week!

You read right.

Nine. Zero.

I can't even imagine all the things she has seen in her lifetime...

We had a small celebration for her yesterday at a relative's house. There to celebrate with her were her children, her children's children, and her children's children's children.

(Umm, that's her kids, grandkids and great grandkids!)

Of course, I got to bring the cupcakes!

I managed to snap a few shots with my dinky camera... my good Nikon is still in the shop (Grrrr.)

LOVE LOVE LOVE Gram's face in this one! She looks super excited for her party!

Grandma Julia with some of her super adorable Great Grandchildren.

Only five candles. Didn't want to have to call the fire department!

The twins would not sit still, so this is the best we could do for a pic with Great Grandma.

We even squeezed in (literally) a family photo. Only missing a few of the entire gang.

Celebrating such a family milestone makes my Monday!

Happy 90th Birthday, Grandma Julie!

(Play along weekly w/Cheryl at Twinfatuation, and share what makes YOUR Monday!)

Surgery Day

2010-11-02T12:57:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was Andrew's surgery. We waited for several hours before he was taken in. With no nap, no food in his belly and knowing what lay ahead, this was quite a long day.

While we waited, we explored the halls of the hospital. This kid put on some serious miles!

There is Andrew on the far left with one of the resident doctors, off to the OR... If you zoom in, he is screaming his face off. They assured us he would be asleep within a few minutes.

We waited about three hours to see our little guy. When we finally got to his room, all he wanted to do was to be held.

So Daddy held him...

...and Mommy held him.

And Nana held him, too.

Andrew hasn't sat this still in a looong time! It was nice to cuddle with him again!

By bedtime he was quite comfortable, a little loopy from the meds, and ready to play.

We got home this morning after a long night of interrupted hospital sleep.

Wesley has spent the past few days playing musical cribs at Nana and Papa's and Grandma and Grandpa's houses. We are looking forward to the twins reuniting again this evening. We can all tell that they miss one another.

Halloween costumes from the past

2010-10-27T18:57:00.003-04:00

When it comes to holidays, Christmas is my absolute favorite, but Halloween is a very, very close second.

When it comes to costumes, I don't mess around. I was lucky enough to find a guy that enjoys creating unique costumes just as much as I do.

The past few years, our usual parties have fallen through, but thought I'd share some of our handmade, unique and/or hysterical costumes from Halloweens of previous years, as well as from a few other events.

Enjoy!

Here are me and my girlfriends as an 80's wedding party on Halloween of 2003. Can you tell I was a child of the 80's? I already owned most of this stuff!

I met up with Dan later that same evening at a party. I convinced him to dress up for this one, otherwise, he wouldn't have. Believe it or not, I think this is one of our first pictures with each other, taken just two weeks after we started dating!

Then there was the World's Largest Disco of 2003 and 2004. Yes, we're chameleons.

Dan's favorite show growing up was The Flintstones, so we paid homage to Fred and Wilma in 2004.

Best. Costumes. Ever. Halloween 2005. We even brought Hooters wings to the party. Dan was the hit of the party. Everyone could care less about me. (Control your laughter, he's quite comfortable in his own ~~hair~~ skin! Perhaps a little too comfortable! Haha!)

In 2007, we hosted a 1920's murder mystery party for New Years Eve.

In 2006, we grouped up with some good friends to form the Wizard of Oz gang. Dan, once again, was the hit of the party we attended and won best costume.

Halloween 2008. Where's Waldo and Lisa Nowak, the crazy, diaper wearing astronaut!

What was your funniest Halloween costume?

Fisher Price

2010-10-27T16:37:00.002-04:00

Living in Western New York definitely has it's benefits. We're 5 minutes from beautiful Niagara Falls, great chicken wings are available everywhere, we have an amazing football team, (Yeah, right! I'm totally joking!), and Fisher Price's Headquarters is practically in our backyard.

I finally had some time to fill out the forms (notice the date on the letters? I'm a bit behind.) and obtain the boy's 'working papers' so they are legally allowed to model for Fisher Price. I know several people who have had their children featured on FP products, and thought it'd be cool if my boys were, too! We are already product testers for the company and get paid to occasionally test out new things. If the boys get selected for a photo shoot, it's not guaranteed that their photographs will be used, but each time, we'll get a gift certificate to use in the Fisher Price store... and it's a wonderful store filled with enough kiddie eye-candy to make Santa's elves jealous!

Keep an eye out... you just might see Mr. Dubs and Drewman on a box in a toy store near you!

Day of Doctors

2010-10-25T21:16:00.003-04:00

Lots of appointments today.

Andrew goes in for surgery next Monday, so we had to stop at the urologist and then we went to the lab to get some blood work. Andrew did not enjoy this one bit.

Screaming... lots of screaming.

...and how do you explain to a one year old that there will be a little pinch, and then no pain.

You can't.

You just have to restrain him until the procedure is done.

Then you can give lots of hugs and wipe away the tears.

...and boy, were there a lot of tears.

Poor little dude.

Then came the urine sample.

Yes, I'm writing about a one year old's urine sample.

First, to tell you how it's done... and second, to share how a mother of twins will do anything to make life easier. Driving home, collecting a sample and driving back would not have been the easiest option.

Here goes: Picture a long bag with 3"x 3" sticker at one end (with a tiny hole in the middle of the sticker for the you-know-whatie).

Bag is stuck to child, sample is collected, bag is removed from child.

Slowly.

Very slowly, as to not remove any skin with the unnecessarily GIANT sticker.

Again, poor dude.

I swear, that sticker covered all of his little giblets and more.

So I get the sticker off without ~~ripping~~ ~~tearing~~ spilling anything and have to dump the contents in a specimen cup.

...but I left something out of the story.

You think Andrew gave the specimen while we were at the lab? While I had a lab technician's extra set of hands to help?

Of course not.

Did I want to drive back later?

Of course not.

I loaded the boys up in the van (with said collection bag still attached), loaded up their wagon (my double stroller of choice) and decided to check Andrew one last time before leaving the lab. I got him out of his car seat and checked him on the front seat floor of the van. That's when I saw that he cooperated and finally gave his sample.

...so back to the story.

After I remove the bag, I have to re-diaper and re-dress Andrew so I stick the bag to the side of my van.

Yes. There is a bag of pee hanging off the side of my minivan.

I guess that nasty sticker was good for something after all.

I re-diaper and dress my little guy, buckle him in and then transfer the sample;

from the side of my van into the specimen cup.

Unbuckle Andrew.

Unbuckle Wesley.

Scoop up a kid under each arm and head back inside the lab. I literally walked up to the desk, shoved the sample through the glass window and said "We got it. You won't see us later."

Done.

After this, both boys went to the pediatrician and got their flu shots.

Yes. More needles.

No crying this time.

Here they are sporting their flu shot band-aids.

What tough little guys.

Costumes

2010-10-25T20:34:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday, the boys and I went to a fall festival at my husband's old grammar school. I decided to throw the boy's costumes on, seeing that they are far too young for trick or treating, and not many people would see them otherwise. Despite being the only kids in costumes, an annoying hat that Wesley wouldn't keep on, and skin tight pants that might be considered obscene had the boys not been a mere one year old, they looked adorable and drew some smiles from the other festival-goers!

Here's my little Buzz and Woody checking each other out:

{Family Photo Wall} It's a hit!

2010-10-14T13:32:00.001-04:00

I just posted THIS this morning... ...and it's a hit with the boys!

I love it!

{Family Photo Wall} Babies and Facial Recognition

2010-10-14T10:39:00.004-04:00

Dan: "Say Mama."

Andrew: "Mama."

Dan: "Good! Say Dada"

Andrew: "Mama."

Dan: : "No, say Dada"

Andrew: "Mama."

Believe me, I love hearing my name, but I think the twins are a bit confused. It's time we start seeing our family and hearing their names every day, not just when they might come up in conversation or when we actually see them in person.

I've created a photo wall (FINALLY) for the twins on an awkward window in our house. We have a very low window in our dining room, which used to look out into the backyard until a sunroom (aka, my messy craft room) was added to the back of the house. Now, it's just an awkward, really low window - see the register and carpet? Like I said, weird and awkward.

Eye Level: Photos will be placed on other side of window so boys can point and touch as much as they want.

We wanted the boys to see photos of family, but not be able to tear them down, or ruin the photos with their often slimy, sticky fingers. This window solved the problem. We are going to hang family head shots on the other side of the window, so A & W can point out and touch as much as they want without tearing the photos down. We will start with just us; Mama, Dada, Andrew & Wesley and then slowly add familiar faces. I can't wait to see them pointing everyone out and to eventually hear them saying everyone's name.

Starting with just these four in the center, then we'll slowly add family members (and pets!) to the mix ;)

{Makes My Monday} Accomplishments

2010-10-11T08:35:00.001-04:00

Before the twins were born, I made a big promise to myself. I promised that no matter what, I would somehow manage to get in a shower every day after they were born, as this is sometimes a difficult task for moms of singletons to even accomplish.

...and let me tell you something,

I. LOVE. MY. SHOWERS.

No matter how quick or lengthy they may be, it's MY time... and the water drowns out any crib crying sounds that might be taking place while I'm in there!

Yesterday, I not only managed to take a loooong relaxing shower, but I also did two loads of laundry (minus the folding part) and baked not one, not two, but THREE apple pies!

Accomplishing more than expected in a busy house of boys Makes My Monday (Oh yeah, and so does warm pie a la mode!)

Play along with Cheryl of Twinfatuation... what makes your Monday?

{Think Pink} Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-08T14:44:00.001-04:00

Free BCA party circle printable courtesy of The TomKat Studio.

Do I check myself regularly? Yes.

Did I know, before this year, that October was Breast Cancer Awareness month? No.

Did I ever expect the "Big C" to hit so close to home? No.

Am I scared out of my mind? YES.

This morning, someone very near and dear to me lost her left breast to cancer. Everything happened so fast. A routine mammogram showed abnormalities, the cancer was confirmed, treatment plans were discussed, tests were run, more cancer was discovered.

This woman is a very strong woman and I know she'll pull through this.

She is determined and courageous.

She won't back down without a fight.

She is a survivor.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, Kim over at The Tomkat Studio is offering these fabulous free printable party circles (Thanks, Kim! You're the breast... I mean, BEST!). So bake some cupcakes, decorate them and share them with your mom, your sister, your girlfriends, your aunt and your grandma as a reminder to check yourself monthly for anything out of the ordinary.

It could save your life.

Fifth Wedding Anniversary

2010-10-02T00:04:00.001-04:00

Happy Anniversary to us!

Five amazing years!

{Vacation} It's a Wash

2010-09-30T10:13:00.000-04:00

Bait & Tackle shop across the street.
Carolina Beach, NC

So... our 2010 vacation turned out to be a bit of a wash (literally), but we are making the best of it. Normally, there is something exciting about making the national news for the extreme weather you are experiencing. Living in Buffalo, we make it a lot with the piles of lake effect snow we get. Being on vacation and making the national news for weather isn't quite as fun. First of all, we don't know how much worse it will get, if any. I am very familiar with blizzards, but not tropical storms. Second, we are stuck indoors with two very active (and entertaining) toddlers that are running in circles. There's no getting out of here today, as many the roads are closed. Perhaps we will rearrange the furniture and have a dance contest. For the babes, AND the adults! Everyone get ready to do your best Elaine Benes!

This is the street view... Unfortunately, we left our paddles at home.
Carolina Beach, NC

{Makes My Monday} At the Beach

2010-09-27T09:44:00.001-04:00

Seeing my beach babies in Hawaiian shirts makes my Monday! Keeping this short, but sweet. There is major relaxing that needs to be done!

Children of the Corn

2010-09-20T20:55:00.000-04:00

Made bug-shaped mac-n-cheese tonight, perfect for my science-nerd self, who works with bugs for a living. I added mixed frozen veggies to the mix to make it somewhat healthy,

(or at least that's what I'm telling myself).

Frozen mixed veggies... Let's see. That's carrots, peas, green beans, lima beans and corn. Oh yeah, and CORN. Did I mention CORN? I really mixed this stuff. Really.

The cheesy noodles and the veggies.

One big cheesy mess.

Looks like someone doesn't like corn.

Well, at least for today.

{Makes My Monday} A Little Get-Away

2010-09-19T20:17:00.000-04:00

Plum Beach, St. Maartin, April 2009

Knowing that I'll be on the beach with my 3 favorite guys in less than a week makes my Monday. The hubby and I haven't had a vacation since April of 2009, when I was pregnant with the twins. We knew that would be a 'different' vacation for us, as will this one. Our first vacation with children, BUT, we're well overdue, and I think the travel part (which I'm stressing about the most) will go smoothly.

I'm certain that a few days of R&R is just what we all need to recharge our batteries. I cannot wait to feel the sand in my toes, bask in the sun and be sung to sleep by the crashing of the ocean waves. Oh yeah, and I can't wait to see the twins eating sand. I know it's bound to happen!

{Photo Shoot} Cousins at Green Lake

2010-09-19T12:50:00.000-04:00

I've finally had some time to do a little bit of editing (including some amateur dabbling with Lightroom) and as promised, here are some of the great shots I got of the twins and my brother's kids at our "Cousins" photo shoot a few weeks ago:

All four of 'em. Aren't they cute?

The boys and their fav chick!

Buddies

Mr. Miles

Little Mia Pia

DrewMan pretending to be serious.

Silly Dubs

Um... yeah... This idea didn't work so well.

You guessed it! This is my favorite shot! This totally sums up the sibling relationship, doesn't it? I'm sure there's one of my brother and I just like this from back in the day. I got some good advice as to where to have my prints professionally developed, so I'll be sending them out soon and then making a photo wall for my mom, aka Nana. ;)

Rockin' It, Old Skool

2010-09-18T15:33:00.000-04:00

My little guy is cool and he doesn't even know it.

He sports vintage apparel.

Check him out.

Don't mind the drool marks.

So adorable.

So handsome.

So ahead of his time.

This thing is OLD.

Like 35 years old.

I have proof.

Here it is again:

This is my big brother back in October of 1975, and although he is normal sized now, he was only 3 months old in this photo.

...wearing this sweet poly/cotton nautical jumpsuit

sized at 12 months.

O. M. G.

So cute!

Nice holiday photo card, huh? I wonder where he was vacationing when this was taken.

...and who leaves a baby on a log by a lake at sunset?

Play Date!

2010-09-15T17:19:00.000-04:00

It's always fun to have friends over. Last night, little Emerson came over to hang out with the boys. All three had a great time playing together.

Adorable Emerson!

Emmie playing in the tent

Baby Train

Emmie digging right in to the boys' toys

Playing nice ;)

{Photo Slideshow} One Year Old

2010-09-10T15:15:00.008-04:00

It's here!! The slide show I've been anxiously waiting for from the boys 'one year' photo shoot last week!! Megan Dempsey of Village Photography had a blast chasing Andrew and Wesley around Beaver Island State Park! We especially liked this as the spot to take pictures because we were married here, too! I'm in love with each and every photo and can't wait to see more of the proofs! Megan did a FANTASTIC job capturing the twins' true busy spirits! Thanks Megan!

(Sorry the slide show is wider than my page. Not computer savy enough to fix it!)

{Sock Monkey Party} The Twins' First Birthday

2010-09-05T22:08:00.005-04:00

Somebody pinch me! My babies are ONE! We had the twins' first birthday party this weekend and it turned out great! I came up with a Sock Monkey theme shortly after they were born and had been brainstorming decorations all year long. My ideas finally became a reality for my little guys on Saturday, as we celebrated with the grandparents, great grandma, aunts, uncles and cousins.

The table turned out to be absolutely adorable! White streamers were hung as a backdrop for a red a white polka dot table filled with sweets and gift bags for the guests. I'm officially in love with poms, and as I mentioned HERE, I can't imagine ever having another party without them. Ever. Period.

We served my specialty, vanilla cupcakes topped with homemade buttercream and chocolate frosting, complete with sock monkey cupcake toppers that matched the invites. Remember these?

The boys didn't have individual "smash cakes", I just added a little extra frosting on 2 of the cupcakes. Just for fun ;)

Red and white polka dots were everywhere! I ordered the balloons probably 7 or 8 months ago, and I'm sorry, but I can't remember where they came from, but I'm sure you can find them online somewhere! The balloons definitely pulled all of the rooms together, and the boys LOVE balloons, so they had fun playing with them after the party!

The boys did great during the singing of Happy Birthday, and both dug into their cupcakes without much coaxing. Andrew was much neater than Wesley, though!

The Birthday Boys sported handmade sock monkey onesies. Believe it or not, I got the onesies at one of the local dollar stores, so they'll probably fall apart in the washer, but they were perfect for my sock monkey applique experiment. They turned out ADORABLE!!!

I whipped up some coordinating frames to display our sock monkey photographs from the park last week. These were the perfect additional pop of color & polkadots for the table.

These two handmade guys (let's call them Phillip and Randy, shall we?) made an appearance as the center focal point on the table!

We even managed to attempt to get another family photo. Never mind the smiles, I'd be happy if we could get everyone looking in the same direction! Getting there... baby steps... 3 out of 4 isn't bad!

Last but not least, these were my FAVORITE!!! Chocolate covered pretzels! So simple, yet packed with such deliciousness! They totally deserved their own photo! Don't you agree?

Happy Birthday my little lovies!

Love, Momma

{Sneak Peek} Beaver Island Photo Shoot

2010-09-05T17:11:00.001-04:00

A sneak peek (well, 3 photos, anyway) of our photo shoot is up on Megan Dempsey's blog. She had a great time chasing the boys around the park and into the water! Check it out! Can't wait to see the rest! In the meantime, check her out a Village Photography! She was great with the boys!

Happy First Birthday: A letter to my babies as they turn one

2010-09-01T23:05:00.003-04:00

Posting this an hour early, because I'm exhausted, won't make it to midnight and have lots to do tomorrow in preparation for this weekend. Here it is... the birthday post. Enjoy ;)

Dear Wesley and Andrew,

Happy Birthday, boys!

Wow, can you even believe it? This past year has been an amazing journey, almost impossible to wrap up into one little letter, or perhaps just impossible to remember the majority of it! Today we celebrate your first birthday, and with that, I'm remembering a year filled with many other firsts:

Our first first, ...heartbreak. (Might as well get this one out of the way). When my babies were not born healthy, I could have died. No mom wants to hear a neonatologist say "You're babies are very sick". No mom wants to have a neonatologist at her bedside at 6am telling her that one of her babies had a seizure. No mom wants to see other new moms wheeling their babies around when she can't even hold hers yet. No mom wants to leave the hospital without her newborn babies, but that's just what I had to do. It was in your best interest, and luckily, I have two happy and healthy children as a result of the amazing nurses and doctors in the Sister's Hospital NICU.

You were both born with an extremely rare blood condition. So rare that the doctors couldn't figure it out right away because they had never seen it, and they had to consult with other professionals as to how to make you better. Your little bodies were attacking themselves because Mommy's blood was that .00000000001 freakish percent that had a funny antigen in it, whatever an antigen is; one that no medicine could have helped (even thought I took the medicine when it was offered, well before you were born.) Enough of that, onto the happy memories!

Next up, the first time we got to hold you. I was never happier in my life. You both fit into our arms like perfect little puzzle pieces that had been missing since the day you were born. We were complete.

Your first time back together again at home. I'm singing "Reunited and It Feels So Good" as I type.

There was the first nap on my chest. I wish you still fell asleep in my arms as easily as you did back then. Your daddy and I loved this, because we got to hold you close to our hearts and we got to nap with you ;)

First baths, first food, first smiles (even if it was just gas ;).

Your first coos, your first flip, your first entire night of sleep at 12 weeks. (That's right! Both of you were sleeping through the night at 12 weeks!)

First tooth, first words, first time sitting, crawling, standing up.

Of all your firsts, your first steps are when I really started to feel exhausted. You are both busy busy busy boys and mommy needs a nap most days more than you do!

Wesley,

You were so fragile and tiny when you were born. From the first moment I saw you in the NICU with all those tubes, wires and needles, I don't know what it was, but I told your daddy that you'd always have a special place in my heart. You still fit that mold perfectly. You are our gentle little meatball. You are softspoken and silly and have such a happy, lovable personality. Your face is full of so much expression. You know when you need a hug and you know when we do, too.

You love wheels, tupperware lids and chewing on book bindings.

I love your toothy smile, your laugh, your blueberry eyes, your bright red curls and your hugs.

You are my Mr. Dubs. Happy first Birthday, little man! Daddy and I love you so very much and look forward to all the adventures we will have together!

Andrew,

From the very beginning, I knew you were very special. I called you my 'high-maintenece baby' but that was only because you seemed to be happier in my arms than anywhere else. Little did I know that this little personality of yours would develop into such a charismatic performer. You still prefer to have us around at all times, but mostly for entertainment purposes. You are sneaky, silly and truly enjoy making us laugh along with you. Your eyes light up constantly and you melt our hearts.

I love hearing you say "Mama", even when it's at 5am.

I even love your fake tears.

You love your books and flip through them often, right side up or upsidedown.

You love to dance. You love to laugh.

You're a little ham.

We love to watch you, Mr. Mandrew. You're our tiny Buddy Boss (don't even ask where that nickname came from.) I can't imagine life without you for a second. We have so much to show you, teach you, share with you and learn from you. Happy first Birthday, little Drewman. We love you very much!

{Payback} A trip back to say thanks

2010-08-31T23:40:00.001-04:00

On Thursday, it will have been a year since the boys were born at Sisters Hospital and a year since we became regulars (well, for two weeks, anyway) at the NICU there... This place is AMAZING. The nurses that work around the clock are like angels. The Doctors...OUTSTANDING. Although the twins had an unfortunately unhealthy start, they were lucky enough to be under the care of these miracle makers...and it's now time to say thanks and give back a little something.

My wonderful mom came up with this idea of heading back to the NICU on the boy's first birthday to deliver some goodies as a way to say thank you for all they did for us. She has been busy knitting 12 gorgeous baby blankets, one for every month the twins have been with us. I will be busy baking some yummy cupcakes to bring along, as well. On Thurday morning, we will head up to the hospital to deliver the gifts and goodies to the medical staff and families currently calling the NICU their home away from home. Not sure how I'll hold up, as just thinking about returning to the NICU brings tears to my eyes and a huge wave of emotions as if I were going through it all over again. (Stay tuned for this Thursday's post...it took me a while to get through that one - well, the first paragraph or so - as the tears made it difficult to focus on the keyboard.) I will never forget the time we spent up there, and although it was the hardest 2 weeks of my life, I'm truly thankful my boys had the best care available. Miracles DO happen on Main Street. Thank You, Sisters Hospital!!!

{Photoshoot Sneak Peek} Makes My Monday

2010-08-30T14:34:00.001-04:00

Got the boys together with my big brother's kids twice in the past two days! Yesterday was a surprise visit, and today was a planned photo shoot. Capturing 4 children, all with minds of their own, all looking the same direction (sort of) and smiling (sort of) at the same time really Makes My Monday! Now we just have to work on 'brother and sister wanting to sit next to each other' for next time! Here's a sneak peek at one of the shots I got:

Left: Mia holding Wesley, Right: Miles holding Andrew

Stay tuned for some more pics, after they hit the ol' editing room ;)

{Party Planning} - Sock Monkey Photo Shoot

2010-08-26T16:03:00.000-04:00

Had a little photo shoot this morning in the park with the boys and their new sock monkeys. I hope to print some pics and display them on my dessert table along with all the other goodies I'll be making for their birthday party. Got some great shots, although the boys could care less about the monkeys most of the time... and... oh yeah.. I forgot to sew the darn mouths on the monkeys. I know what I'll be doing after the boys go to bed tonight!

{Party Planning} - Sock Monkey Party

2010-08-23T22:37:00.002-04:00

Sock Monkey party invitation designed by me ;)

I'm currently preparing for a huge children's consignment sale coming up this weekend. I'm hoping to get some decent vacation spending money. All my items are washed, tagged and ready to go, I just have to deliver them and work a 5 hour shift to get 70% of my sales. After that, it's full steam ahead with the boys first birthday party! I can't even believe it's been a year. Honestly, I don't really remember most of it, but I know I've loved every exhausting minute of being a twin mommy! Even those late, late night minutes!

I love sock monkeys and thought it would be a great theme for the twin's 1st birthday. Apparently, someone else thinks like I do. I hope I can come close to the adorableness of this party by Shutterbug and the Sweet Life! Boy party themes seem harder to come up with than girl themes, but we'll see what I can do with these nostalgic toys. I'm not doing anything over the top, but I want their first party to be special and memorable. I can't wait to share all the details with you! Until then, here's a sneak peek at the two new little friends I'm making ;)

Two more new additions to the family, halfway done.

Makes My Monday

2010-08-23T08:53:00.000-04:00

I'm always looking at new blogs and adding them to my list to follow. It all started with party blogs when I was planning my baby shower. Then, I was hooked on baking blogs as I ventured into the wonderful world of cupcakes and cutout cookies. Now, I'm onto twin blogs. When mom's advice just isn't enough (sorry mom), you need twinmom advice ;) ...or I at least need to know that others are managing to survive a chaotic twin-filled life like we are! Anyway, I stumbled across THIS twin blog and was hooked. There are some great links to other twin-mom blogs here, too.

Sooooo.... Cheryl from Twinfatuation does something that I like. She does a "Makes My Monday" post, and also allows other bloggers to share what makes their Monday. I'm jumping right in. Not sure if I'll get to it every Monday, but here's my little addition for today. Enjoy.

My boys are getting so big. New forward facing car seats means no more removing-them-while-strapped-in-an-infant-carseat-and-throwing-them-(contained)-in-a-shopping-cart. This makes shopping trips more interesting, and by interesting, I mean rediculously more difficult! Most stores don't have double cart seats. At most places, I buckle one baby in the seat, put the other in the cart and push the cart around backwards so I can hold the unstrapped baby and catch whatever he is tossing out of my basket! As you can imagine, I was thrilled with our shopping trip last night. This little (*ahem, HUGE*) gem worked PERFECT! Sure, Andrew almost lost an arm a few times, and Wesley pulled an entire box of m&m's off the shelf in the checkout aisle, but I got my shopping done in no time, and the boys were *tickled* to be "driving" a car. That Makes My Monday! Now I just have to learn how to maneuver a semi-truck around a grocery store.

Houston, we have a biter.

2010-08-20T22:02:00.000-04:00

Someone's been watching too much True Blood.

Poor little Andrew. His brother got him pretty good.

How does one tell an 11 month old that it's not cool to bite?

Turn around, turn around...

2010-08-18T10:44:00.002-04:00

The little dudes in their big boy carseats.

Now that I'm singing my dad's favorite They Might Be Giants song (yeah, that's right, my dad is way cool!), I've got the perfect segue into my latest post. A new mini van means new car seats! The boys have finally turned around, literally, and thought I'm not too thrilled with the "Cowmooflage" covers, I'm ecstatic that I managed to get 2 Britax seats for dirt cheap! I owe a ton to the girl at babies R Us that hooked us up with so many discounts. (Don't forget...there's always a twin discount on 2 "big" purchases there! ...and don't forget to ask for whatever other deals they can give you.)

The moment of truth was a little less monumantal than we thought it'd be. In fact, it was completely lackluster. We thought the twins would be super stoked to be seeing the world fly by from a different angle, but we were sorely mistaken. a.) A & W still both despise being put into the carseat, regardless of where it's facing. Luckily toys and Cheerios help curb this passionate hatred, b.) Wesley can't stay awake long enough in a moving vehicle to enjoy anything, and c.) I find myself turning around more to see them and get carsick more often. Awesome.

A&W acted as if they had been sneaking out at night and facing foreward in vehicles for months! Why didn't this new perspective affect them at all? Anyway, no more pulling out the infant seats and throwing contained babies in a shopping cart. We are in full toddler mode now! Wish us luck!

Farewell, Muddy Baron...

2010-08-18T09:57:00.000-04:00

My 2008 Chevy Cobalt (Standard Transmission)
Goodbye, Old Friend.

It's Official.

I now drive a minivan.

Please...try to contain your excitement.

We just leased a Honda Odyssey and I am LOVING IT! I still can't even believe that my hubby caved in to the idea. I think he even enjoys driving it, but he won't come straight out and say it. He's said things like, "This things got some serious pick up to it!" and " I actually feel more manly driving this than my truck!" OK, maybe he didn't say that last one, but he really does like it. I swear.

We will both miss my little Cobalt, who was fondly referred to as the Muddy Baron. MB was good to us, but we just needed more space than what he had to offer.

I have to laugh at how other moms now come out to admire, and ohh and ahh over my new momwheels. They stare at it in googly-eyed wonder, like it's a man doing laundry or something. Reminds me of the time Dan and his friends stared admiringly (and broken heartedly, if that's even a term), with what I swear were tiny tears in their eyes, at Dan's '81 Monte Carlo as a tow truck came to to take its partially dismantled body away for scrap.

I just know that when the time comes to transfer back to a smaller vehicle, that I will feel the same connection that he felt to that rusty old piece of junk ;)

Going Up?

2010-08-16T22:39:00.000-04:00

The boys are climbing, and Dan and I are chasing them EVERYWHERE. There have been a few spills. You take one down, the other climbs up. You catch one, you miss one... They have absolutely no concept of depth or of falling. Time to invest in some ice packs.