Well, we are now the proud parents of one year old twins! Wow, I still can't believe our babies are a year old. Their birthday party was a success, despite the rain. Of course, we planned their beach bash party at a park figuring that we should have it around 11 to dodge the heat.... think again! It rained all day, but we still had tons of fun. Their Great Aunt Marsha made individual beach ball cakes for them to dig in to. They weren't too sure about it, and even gagged on the frosting, which sent both of them in to a crying episode. That made for some funny pictures. Thanks to all the family and friends who came out in the wet weather to celebrate their first birthday. It was truly memorable.
This month was full of parties, theirs being the first of three birthday's that we went to. Their friend Allie Johnson had her first birthday as well, just six days after Keaton and Bronwyn's. A week later we celebrated Chase Whisenhunt's second birthday. Both were lots of fun and the twins had a blast playing with their friends. We also celebrated Uncle Shane graduating from chiropractic school. We are all so proud of him and this HUGE accomplishment. The four of us are so excited to have them home for good. Now we don't have to worry about seeing Uncle Shane and Auntie Jacqui once a month, we can see them whenever we want!
On the hottest day of the year thus far, our air conditioning went out, right around bed time. 105 degrees with TWO babies ready for bath and bed was not an ideal situation. So, we packed them up and went to Grammy and Grandpa's for the night, while my parents took the dogs for us. The kids didn't even notice, went right to sleep, and slept all night. We have such good kids. With the weather being so warm we got out their kiddie pool and they had their first experience with that in the backyard. Keaton LOVED it, Brawny... not so much (at first). Keaton jumped right in there, splashing and playing, crawling in and out. Bronwyn had to warm up to this new experience, but once she got use to the water and realized just how much fun she could have, she loved it too. We also took them to their Great Grandma Betty's for their first time swimming in a real pool. Again, Keaton instantly loved it and had a huge smile on his face the whole time. Bronwyn liked it, but still wasn't too sure. Later this month we took them to their Great Aunt Debbie's pool and Auntie Marnie's pool. We found out that Keaton is a water baby and could care less if the water is cold. Bronwyn cries, the whole time, if the water is even the least bit chilly. Their first experience touching ocean water should be very interesting this coming month!
Grandma bought them a new tent, they destroyed their last one. They were so happy to have a new one and with some of their birthday money we bought them plastic balls to put inside. They LOVE it! They play in their together all the time; giggling at each other, rolling around, throwing the balls in the air, and tipping the tent over so the balls roll all over them. Seeing them interact is so much fun. We also played with bubbles for the first time this month. Let's just say that I think mommy and daddy had more fun than the kids.
Bronwyn has had a busy month! She has learned how to climb up the couches. She gets up there and just smiles, thrilled at her new accomplishment. You can tell she feels like such a big girl. The problem with this was the getting down part. Daddy helped her realize that she can't go head first. It only took her a few times to learn to swing her feet off the edge and get down that way. She is very smart. She is also saying Hi, Wow, and Dog. It is so cute when she waves and says hi with a huge grin on her face. My daughter is absolutely darling. She also has taken her first steps. She is not "walking" yet, but she has taken about eight steps. She stands up, takes a few steps, falls on her bum and then crawls to her destination. She is so fast at crawling that I think walking right now just takes too long for her. I'm sure she'll be running around the house soon. I am not so proud to say that my adorable little girl has started to bully Keaton. She pulls him down, pushes him over, and smacks his head. Keaton, being the sweet boy that he is, just takes it, cries, or crawls away. This has been extremely challenging for Nate and I, because how do you discipline a one year old? Every once in a while Keaton will fight back, but not often. I hope that this phase doesn't last long with her.
Keaton, I think, is going to be our child who tests us to see just how far he can go until he gets in to trouble. He loves playing with the blinds and tv equipment, which he knows he is not supposed to do. He'll look at me with his sweet face and big blue eyes, and then jets off to do something that he shouldn't be doing. He'll stop when I say his name, look at me again, but then just turn around to complete his plan of action. He loves to take anything to the tile and bang it on the floor. The louder the noise, the better. He is all BOY! He loves to give hugs and cuddle. When Nate is on the floor, Keaton always crawls over to him and gives his daddy some love.He is so sweet.
They are almost on whole milk exclusively now. Thank goodness! I am almost done with pumping. I began weaning at the end of May, but they were having a reaction to the milk, so we had to take it extra slow. Now, their little systems are more ready for that transition. As far as food goes they have tried pasta, fudge pops, toast, blueberry eggos, macaroni and cheese, and quesadillas. Their favorite foods are toast, yogurt, and anything with cheese. Bronwyn now has eight teeth, and Keaton still only has two.
The best part about this month is that it was the beginning of summer, which means Daddy is home! Having him here is the absolute best! The kids adore him and watching the three of them together just makes me smile. I am so thankful to have a husband that is so involved and dedicated to his family. Being together as a family every day is something that many families don't get the luxury of experiencing. I thank God every day for this amazing blessing.
We're off to the beach for a week! Happy fourth of July everyone. Thanks for checking in and as always, enjoy the pictures. Until next month...
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Month #12
I have sat here looking at the blank computer screen for a while, wondering just how I start this blog, thinking of what I should write, and crying. Tears of happiness remembering all that has happened this year and the joy that Keaton and Bronwyn have brought to our lives, but also tears of sadness; my babies are a YEAR old! After high school the years started to go by faster, but when you have kids it seems as if you blink your eyes and a year has gone by. That makes me sad. I've just sat and watched them alot this month. They are becoming more independent by the second. This too makes me sad. But I see them growing in to happy, healthy, beautiful children. That makes me happy. I marvel at just how amazing they are, I love them so much.
About a month ago Ryan Jones (Uncle Ryan), who is by far the most talented photographer that I know and is the man who documented the twins day of birth, did a family photo session of the Allen four. It was hot and the kids weren't in the best mood, but Ryan worked his magic and he got some amazing pictures. Thank you so much Uncle Ryan for all that you have done for us. We love you so much!
We have been to the park a lot this month. They like to go on the swings, Keaton more so than Bronwyn. We lay a big blanket down in the shade and watch them as Keaton ventures off into the grass and Bronwyn crawls all over the blanket, not wanting to touch the grass. The last time we went to the park she finally realized that the grass is not going to hurt her, and went off the blanket. We love spending time outside, the weather has been perfect!
Keaton and Bronwyn have taken after their mommy and daddy... They love music and dancing! We play music a lot in the house and they really enjoy it. They are both cruising along the furniture. I'm sure walking is right around the corner. Aunt Debbie and Uncle Dale got them an activity walker for their birthday. They walk all around the house with it, looking so proud that they are so big. They are really starting to play with each other. The tent is a great place to hide. Keaton chases Brawny around the room and she hides in the tent. He always finds her and they giggle and scream at each other, so thrilled to have one another. It is really cute. They both stand at the windows looking in to the backyard and yell at the dogs when they bark. We're pretty sure they have learned this from us. It's hilarious. We started giving them their baths out of their seats, so they are free to play and splash with each other. It's a little scary for us, but they seem to enjoy it. At the end of the month we started noticing that when Keaton does something and gets are reaction from one of us, Bronwyn will copy him to get the same reaction. Our Brawny girl is very observant.
Bronwyn is turning in to such a big girl. She will stand on her own now. No steps have been taken yet, thank goodness, I'm not ready for that yet. She loves playing in the car seats. She climbs in and out, from one to the other. I watch her and wonder to myself, "What is she thinking about or pretending to be?". I think she is going to have an amazing imagination. She has really started talking a lot this month. Not any words just yet, but she is getting close. She points at everything and loves looking at pictures and reading books. She likes to cuddle, on her terms of course, and loves pillows.
Keaton is growing in to such a big boy. He loves playing with doors and door stoppers. He has gotten himself stuck in rooms a few times because he shuts the door and can't get it open. He will walk while holding on to someones hands. Playing in the kitchen is his favorite thing to do. They found the Tupperware cabinet, that is only one we don't have a lock on, and they pull everything out and play with it on the tile. Keaton scoots, throws, and bangs the Tupperware on the floor. He might spend all day in there if I let him. Keaton gives hugs and sometimes kisses if you ask him, but he is all boy!
My first official mother's day was awesome. Nate surprised me with the new white Iphone. Now we can face chat during they day on his lunch hour. The kids get a kick out of it, and love seeing their daddy even though he isn't really at home. Bronwyn smiles and giggles and Keaton crinkles his nose and smiles too. Technology is awesome, especially this. Seeing his face is so much better than just hearing his voice (though that's good too). They love their daddy, and so do I.
Well, the next blog will be after their first birthday party. I still cannot think about it and not get teary eyed. A year ago our lives changed for the better. We left the house a family of two and came home as a new family of four. I know many of you are wondering if we will make it a family of five.... Not any time soon (if ever). Right now, our life is perfect, just the four of us. I can't imagine my life without these two amazing miracles, and I can't remember life without them; except for getting more sleep, working, having more time to myself and with Nate, and dreaming of the day that my life would be exactly what it is now. My dreams have come true; I married the man that God made just for me and I have the two most amazing children that a mommy could ever ask for. I am one lucky girl.
Happy First Birthday to our wonderful children. Mommy and Daddy love you so much! As always, thanks for checking in on our little family. That's it for now, enjoy the TWO slideshows for this month!
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
About a month ago Ryan Jones (Uncle Ryan), who is by far the most talented photographer that I know and is the man who documented the twins day of birth, did a family photo session of the Allen four. It was hot and the kids weren't in the best mood, but Ryan worked his magic and he got some amazing pictures. Thank you so much Uncle Ryan for all that you have done for us. We love you so much!
We have been to the park a lot this month. They like to go on the swings, Keaton more so than Bronwyn. We lay a big blanket down in the shade and watch them as Keaton ventures off into the grass and Bronwyn crawls all over the blanket, not wanting to touch the grass. The last time we went to the park she finally realized that the grass is not going to hurt her, and went off the blanket. We love spending time outside, the weather has been perfect!
Keaton and Bronwyn have taken after their mommy and daddy... They love music and dancing! We play music a lot in the house and they really enjoy it. They are both cruising along the furniture. I'm sure walking is right around the corner. Aunt Debbie and Uncle Dale got them an activity walker for their birthday. They walk all around the house with it, looking so proud that they are so big. They are really starting to play with each other. The tent is a great place to hide. Keaton chases Brawny around the room and she hides in the tent. He always finds her and they giggle and scream at each other, so thrilled to have one another. It is really cute. They both stand at the windows looking in to the backyard and yell at the dogs when they bark. We're pretty sure they have learned this from us. It's hilarious. We started giving them their baths out of their seats, so they are free to play and splash with each other. It's a little scary for us, but they seem to enjoy it. At the end of the month we started noticing that when Keaton does something and gets are reaction from one of us, Bronwyn will copy him to get the same reaction. Our Brawny girl is very observant.
Bronwyn is turning in to such a big girl. She will stand on her own now. No steps have been taken yet, thank goodness, I'm not ready for that yet. She loves playing in the car seats. She climbs in and out, from one to the other. I watch her and wonder to myself, "What is she thinking about or pretending to be?". I think she is going to have an amazing imagination. She has really started talking a lot this month. Not any words just yet, but she is getting close. She points at everything and loves looking at pictures and reading books. She likes to cuddle, on her terms of course, and loves pillows.
Keaton is growing in to such a big boy. He loves playing with doors and door stoppers. He has gotten himself stuck in rooms a few times because he shuts the door and can't get it open. He will walk while holding on to someones hands. Playing in the kitchen is his favorite thing to do. They found the Tupperware cabinet, that is only one we don't have a lock on, and they pull everything out and play with it on the tile. Keaton scoots, throws, and bangs the Tupperware on the floor. He might spend all day in there if I let him. Keaton gives hugs and sometimes kisses if you ask him, but he is all boy!
My first official mother's day was awesome. Nate surprised me with the new white Iphone. Now we can face chat during they day on his lunch hour. The kids get a kick out of it, and love seeing their daddy even though he isn't really at home. Bronwyn smiles and giggles and Keaton crinkles his nose and smiles too. Technology is awesome, especially this. Seeing his face is so much better than just hearing his voice (though that's good too). They love their daddy, and so do I.
Well, the next blog will be after their first birthday party. I still cannot think about it and not get teary eyed. A year ago our lives changed for the better. We left the house a family of two and came home as a new family of four. I know many of you are wondering if we will make it a family of five.... Not any time soon (if ever). Right now, our life is perfect, just the four of us. I can't imagine my life without these two amazing miracles, and I can't remember life without them; except for getting more sleep, working, having more time to myself and with Nate, and dreaming of the day that my life would be exactly what it is now. My dreams have come true; I married the man that God made just for me and I have the two most amazing children that a mommy could ever ask for. I am one lucky girl.
Happy First Birthday to our wonderful children. Mommy and Daddy love you so much! As always, thanks for checking in on our little family. That's it for now, enjoy the TWO slideshows for this month!
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Month #11
11.... Nate's favorite number, but not when we are talking about the age of our kids. One more month and Keaton and Bronwyn will be an entire year old. It's funny to think what we were doing a year ago. I was on bed rest, washing clothes, sanitizing everything, getting the nursery ready, sleeping in, taking naps... WOW! How life has changed. I don't remember the last time we slept in, or took a really good nap. Though I do miss those things, I wouldn't want go back to what my life was a year ago. Children change you; for the better. Sleeping in doesn't compare to the moment every morning when we get to go in and see our sweet babies for the first time that day. We look forward to this time each and every day. Walking in to be greeted by a big smile and burst of excitement just to see us. And we are so lucky because we not only get this feeling of so much love once, but twice! Keaton and Bronwyn make us utterly happy!!!
This month was FULL of new adventures, milestones, and memories. So much went on that I will let the pictures do most of the talking. To start the month off I took them to daddy's work, it was TWINS day, so taking them to visit seemed very appropriate. His students gawked at how darling they both were in their matching navy blue outfits. I also took them to big hat days with both grandma's and Auntie Jennifer. It was hot, but lot's of fun.
This month we had Daddy home for a whole week! I treasure this time as a family, and it makes me look forward to summer so much. Having him home just puts a smile on my face. During our break we went to the Zoo for the very first time. They liked it as much as 10 month old babies could like the Zoo. Truthfully, they were more of an attraction than the animals. They loved the elephants and Giraffes. They also had their first Easter. The Easter bunny left baskets full of fun things for them; toys, books, snacks, and clothes. Dressed in their Easter outfits, we had brunch with Nate's family, and that afternoon they participated in their first Easter egg hunt with my family. The Easter bunny filled their eggs with puffs and yogurt bites. Yum!
Keaton has had a very big month! He is crawling (forward), pulling up on everything, and wants anything that he shouldn't have. He now stands in his crib and "talks" back and forth to his sister. He loves standing and holding on to my hands and walking. His first tooth appeared on the first of the month. He has just the one, but I am sure number two will come through soon. When we feed him he slaps the spoon, which is full of food, out of our hand. So, we have to hold his hands while we feed him now, or we will end up with sweet potato down the front of us. He is a BOY! Now that he is mobile, he is so much happier... he always has a smile on his sweet little face. We love him.
Bronwyn is our busy little bee. She started off the month with getting sick. It was so pitiful. She just sat with me all day. Thank goodness she was only down and out for one day, Keaton really missed her company. She has started clapping. It is so cute. Once someone says, "YAY!!!" she claps and has a huge smile on her face. Speaking of smiles, she now has six teeth, which she has used on her crib. I went in their room after a nap and her face and jammies were black. She had been gnawing on her crib. Great! She loves looking out every window in the house, and if you come over you will probably be greeted by a smiling Brawny face in the window. She enjoys batting beach balls all around the house. This keeps her busy for a little while. She is BUSY, and becoming more independent every day. We love her.
Keaton and Bronwyn both wave bye-bye now. Again, so darn cute! They love reading books, music, and dancing. They enjoy exploring the house together. The dog door is fascinating, crawling under the kitchen table chairs is an adventure, and pushing toys around the house is pretty fun too. They have tried all sorts of new foods; cheese, zucchini, yogurt, and ice cream just to name a few. They have really started playing with each other. Sometimes not so nicely, but they are best buds. They really do love each other, and we love them so much. Our lives are non-stop and hectic, but I enjoy every moment!
Like I said before, I'll let the many pictures do most of the talking this month. So I hope you enjoy them. As always, thanks for checking in with the Allen four! Until next month...
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
This month was FULL of new adventures, milestones, and memories. So much went on that I will let the pictures do most of the talking. To start the month off I took them to daddy's work, it was TWINS day, so taking them to visit seemed very appropriate. His students gawked at how darling they both were in their matching navy blue outfits. I also took them to big hat days with both grandma's and Auntie Jennifer. It was hot, but lot's of fun.
This month we had Daddy home for a whole week! I treasure this time as a family, and it makes me look forward to summer so much. Having him home just puts a smile on my face. During our break we went to the Zoo for the very first time. They liked it as much as 10 month old babies could like the Zoo. Truthfully, they were more of an attraction than the animals. They loved the elephants and Giraffes. They also had their first Easter. The Easter bunny left baskets full of fun things for them; toys, books, snacks, and clothes. Dressed in their Easter outfits, we had brunch with Nate's family, and that afternoon they participated in their first Easter egg hunt with my family. The Easter bunny filled their eggs with puffs and yogurt bites. Yum!
Keaton has had a very big month! He is crawling (forward), pulling up on everything, and wants anything that he shouldn't have. He now stands in his crib and "talks" back and forth to his sister. He loves standing and holding on to my hands and walking. His first tooth appeared on the first of the month. He has just the one, but I am sure number two will come through soon. When we feed him he slaps the spoon, which is full of food, out of our hand. So, we have to hold his hands while we feed him now, or we will end up with sweet potato down the front of us. He is a BOY! Now that he is mobile, he is so much happier... he always has a smile on his sweet little face. We love him.
Bronwyn is our busy little bee. She started off the month with getting sick. It was so pitiful. She just sat with me all day. Thank goodness she was only down and out for one day, Keaton really missed her company. She has started clapping. It is so cute. Once someone says, "YAY!!!" she claps and has a huge smile on her face. Speaking of smiles, she now has six teeth, which she has used on her crib. I went in their room after a nap and her face and jammies were black. She had been gnawing on her crib. Great! She loves looking out every window in the house, and if you come over you will probably be greeted by a smiling Brawny face in the window. She enjoys batting beach balls all around the house. This keeps her busy for a little while. She is BUSY, and becoming more independent every day. We love her.
Keaton and Bronwyn both wave bye-bye now. Again, so darn cute! They love reading books, music, and dancing. They enjoy exploring the house together. The dog door is fascinating, crawling under the kitchen table chairs is an adventure, and pushing toys around the house is pretty fun too. They have tried all sorts of new foods; cheese, zucchini, yogurt, and ice cream just to name a few. They have really started playing with each other. Sometimes not so nicely, but they are best buds. They really do love each other, and we love them so much. Our lives are non-stop and hectic, but I enjoy every moment!
Like I said before, I'll let the many pictures do most of the talking this month. So I hope you enjoy them. As always, thanks for checking in with the Allen four! Until next month...
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Month #10
We've reached double digits! 10 months old... WHAT? Our teeny, tiny babies are just two short months away from their first birthday. Thinking of that makes me want to cry. Where has the time gone? I know... it's gone way too fast. I was going through clothes and pictures this month. I completely forgot just how tiny they were. Then I started thinking about the sleepless nights, the hour long feedings, the months that they would just stay still.... aw, the days where we could put them down and leave the room without worrying what they were going to get in to or when I could sit and relax just watching them. Those were the days. Now our days are spent mostly on our feet, chasing Bronwyn down or making sure Keaton hasn't backed himself into a corner. Who needs exercise when you are a mommy of twins right?
Let me start off this month with their stats:
Bronwyn is 15lbs 7oz
Keaton is 15lbs 7oz
Ha! They're the exact same...... we expected Keaton to weigh more for sure, but boy were we wrong. Keaton feels heavier and looks bigger; Bronwyn is so petite. Go figure. However, Keaton does have 2 centimeters on Brawny when it comes to head circumference. That was a given though.
This month Bronwyn has continued to amaze us. She is crawling everywhere, gets into everything, pulls up on anything possible, and wants whatever she is not supposed to have. She has found "the baby" in the fire place, dishwasher, oven, and various mirrors around the house. That poor baby is trapped in the most peculiar places. Little does she know that it is her own reflection, but finding the baby does keep her busy. She now has four teeth. Her top two broke through this month. Now she will try to chew snacks with her four front teeth, it's pretty funny. Binki tricks and blowing bubbles are extremely entertaining, for her and us. Bronwyn is something else; she cracks us up and keeps us on our toes.
I know you are all wondering if sweet Keaton has started crawling. Well, the answer is YES... backwards. He scoots all around the living room backwards and gets extremely frustrated when he backs up into a wall or the couch. So, he figured out how to turn himself around and just go the other way. He gets up on all fours and rocks back and forth. He is so close to figuring out how to go forward, and once that happens, our lives are going to become even more difficult. Two babies exploring the world, most likely in opposite directions, is going to be challenging. He shakes his head "no" to various questions that you ask him. It is hilarious, and because we all laugh he does it all the time. He continues to blow raspberries, but now can make different noises while doing it. He pulls up on things as long as someone is there to help him out a little bit. Keaton is full of personality, sometimes he can be very serious and other times he is full of giggles. His laugh warms our hearts.
We took them to the park for the first time this month. We went hoping to put them on the swings, but they were under construction. So we went to an elementary school and took them down the slide. I think we enjoyed it more that they did, but it made for some cute pictures.
We started to have snack time during the day. They have have been introduced to a variety foods this month. They have had real banana, mango, kiwi, canned pears, and cheese. We make sure that new foods and textures are given to them on an empty stomach so that if gagging occurs, there won't be anything that follows. They like drinking water out of their new sippie cups that have straws. Keaton mastered this quickly. Bronwyn, however, just lets the water run out of her mouth leaving the front of her soaking wet. She's getting the hang of it though.
Grandma Myrna and Grandpa Russ bought them a tunnel and tent. They love it. Brawny goes in and out of the tunnel, and the dogs follow her. Keaton loves to look in the tunnel and someday soon will be able to go in and out on his own.
At the end of the month we went out of town without the kids. Nate went to San Diego for a Bachelor party, and I went to San Luis for a Bachelorette party. Though it was only for a weekend we enjoyed our time off. Both sets of grandparents split the weekend up and watched them for us. It is so much easier leaving knowing that they will be well taken care of. Thank you so much to our families for watching them for us, we appreciate it more than you know. Being away for just a weekend made Nate and I both realize just how much we love our little family of four. Though we both had so much fun away, we couldn't wait to get back to each other and our kids. We are so blessed.
One thing that we won't every get tired of is when they both babble, scream, laugh, and play footsie with one another. Seeing them interact with each other is something that I cherish. There is something about twins that is just so amazing, and we are so lucky to witness these two together every day. I see them and am comforted knowing that they will always have each other, no matter what. They are a blessing from above. Many times I ask myself, "How did I get so lucky"? I have an amazing husband and wonderful kids who are all happy and healthy. What more could I want out of life? The answer... nothing.
Thanks, once again, for checking in with us! Enjoy the pictures. We love you all! Until next month...
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Let me start off this month with their stats:
Bronwyn is 15lbs 7oz
Keaton is 15lbs 7oz
Ha! They're the exact same...... we expected Keaton to weigh more for sure, but boy were we wrong. Keaton feels heavier and looks bigger; Bronwyn is so petite. Go figure. However, Keaton does have 2 centimeters on Brawny when it comes to head circumference. That was a given though.
This month Bronwyn has continued to amaze us. She is crawling everywhere, gets into everything, pulls up on anything possible, and wants whatever she is not supposed to have. She has found "the baby" in the fire place, dishwasher, oven, and various mirrors around the house. That poor baby is trapped in the most peculiar places. Little does she know that it is her own reflection, but finding the baby does keep her busy. She now has four teeth. Her top two broke through this month. Now she will try to chew snacks with her four front teeth, it's pretty funny. Binki tricks and blowing bubbles are extremely entertaining, for her and us. Bronwyn is something else; she cracks us up and keeps us on our toes.
I know you are all wondering if sweet Keaton has started crawling. Well, the answer is YES... backwards. He scoots all around the living room backwards and gets extremely frustrated when he backs up into a wall or the couch. So, he figured out how to turn himself around and just go the other way. He gets up on all fours and rocks back and forth. He is so close to figuring out how to go forward, and once that happens, our lives are going to become even more difficult. Two babies exploring the world, most likely in opposite directions, is going to be challenging. He shakes his head "no" to various questions that you ask him. It is hilarious, and because we all laugh he does it all the time. He continues to blow raspberries, but now can make different noises while doing it. He pulls up on things as long as someone is there to help him out a little bit. Keaton is full of personality, sometimes he can be very serious and other times he is full of giggles. His laugh warms our hearts.
We took them to the park for the first time this month. We went hoping to put them on the swings, but they were under construction. So we went to an elementary school and took them down the slide. I think we enjoyed it more that they did, but it made for some cute pictures.
We started to have snack time during the day. They have have been introduced to a variety foods this month. They have had real banana, mango, kiwi, canned pears, and cheese. We make sure that new foods and textures are given to them on an empty stomach so that if gagging occurs, there won't be anything that follows. They like drinking water out of their new sippie cups that have straws. Keaton mastered this quickly. Bronwyn, however, just lets the water run out of her mouth leaving the front of her soaking wet. She's getting the hang of it though.
Grandma Myrna and Grandpa Russ bought them a tunnel and tent. They love it. Brawny goes in and out of the tunnel, and the dogs follow her. Keaton loves to look in the tunnel and someday soon will be able to go in and out on his own.
At the end of the month we went out of town without the kids. Nate went to San Diego for a Bachelor party, and I went to San Luis for a Bachelorette party. Though it was only for a weekend we enjoyed our time off. Both sets of grandparents split the weekend up and watched them for us. It is so much easier leaving knowing that they will be well taken care of. Thank you so much to our families for watching them for us, we appreciate it more than you know. Being away for just a weekend made Nate and I both realize just how much we love our little family of four. Though we both had so much fun away, we couldn't wait to get back to each other and our kids. We are so blessed.
One thing that we won't every get tired of is when they both babble, scream, laugh, and play footsie with one another. Seeing them interact with each other is something that I cherish. There is something about twins that is just so amazing, and we are so lucky to witness these two together every day. I see them and am comforted knowing that they will always have each other, no matter what. They are a blessing from above. Many times I ask myself, "How did I get so lucky"? I have an amazing husband and wonderful kids who are all happy and healthy. What more could I want out of life? The answer... nothing.
Thanks, once again, for checking in with us! Enjoy the pictures. We love you all! Until next month...
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Month #9
Nine months...... It is weird to think that Keaton and Bronwyn have been in this world for a longer period of time than I was pregnant with them. I don't remember being pregnant really; the enormous belly is a vague memory (thankfully). But I do remember them moving, kicking, rolling, and hiccuping inside me. That, I do miss very much because there is nothing like it. Looking back to that time we already knew the personalities of these two sweet kids of ours. Baby A (Keaton) didn't move much. He was our calm mellow baby, EXACTLY like he is today. Baby B (Bronwyn) was the active one, who never stopped moving from the beginning. She was a firecracker then, and still is to this day.
This month has, yet again, been full of new experiences. Keaton started off the month by finding a new sound that he could make. The only way I can describe it is the sound of an asthmatic person laughing. He would do this repeatedly, and Bronwyn would stare at him wondering "what in the world is he doing?", while everyone else laughed. He likes to pull blankets over his face and play peek-a-boo. When he pulls the blanket down, he has a huge smile on his face every time. He loves toys that spin. Instead of playing with his firetruck, he turns it over and plays with the wheels because they spin. He also likes to bang on things. So Grandma and Grandpa got him some bongo's for Valentine's day to play with. I am sure you are all wondering if this mellow, sweet child has started crawling yet... Nope. While on his tummy he can turn 360 degrees around. He is showing more interest, and likes standing much more than being on his tummy. He will stand in his crib while holding on to the sides, but just enjoys playing on the blanket as Brawny disappears somewhere. I am thankful that Keaton hasn't started crawling just yet, because that gives me a little more time to get used to just one baby being mobile. After all, I can't be in two places at the same time.
Now on to Brawny. On February 11th I went in to get her up from her nap. As I opened the door, there she was STANDING in her crib, looking at me with a huge grin on her face. At that very moment, I knew that our lives had changed, yet again. She is crawling everywhere, into everything, and now pulling herself up on anything she possibly can. She found the dog's water bowl, as well as the dog door. She is surrounded by toys, and yet wants whatever she isn't supposed to have. She is a binki hoarder. She steals Keaton's right out of his mouth, and switches off between hers and his. While playing, she will bulldoze over Keaton to get to wherever and whatever she wants. Grandma and Grandpa got her a picnic basket for Valentine's day. The two of them will sit and have a picnic together, but it only lasts for about 7 seconds. It's still really cute to see them actually play together. She is our little spit fire, and we love her.
Grammy got them new bath seats so they can take baths together now. They love splashing and playing with all the toys in the water together. It is much easier on us to bathe them at the same time too. Both love to pull on the basketball net, which Daddy loves that they show an interest in that. Keaton found a special toy this month in the bath that he can take everywhere because it is attached to him. How convenient!
I introduced sippee cups this month. They have a hard time tipping them into their mouths because the cups are pretty heavy, but they're getting the hang of it. They like to sit on their blanket some afternoons and have Puff Parties. Brawny has gotten the hang of picking the puff up and getting it to her mouth. Keaton would rather play with the puff than eat it, but he makes it to his mouth sometimes.
They both have shown much more of an interest in books this month. They love to sit and listen to anyone read to them, and even like some books better than others. This got me excited to think of the days where I can teach them at home and do fun art projects with them. I'm still a teacher at heart, and how rewarding to get to do it with my own children every day! They are much more interested in the camera also. Bronwyn will crawl right up into my lap and Keaton will lean in for a close up. The pictures are pretty comical.
One of the cutest things that we witnessed this month was one day when Keaton cried, Bronwyn looked at him and started crying. Keaton rarely cries, so when he did Brawny looked at him and just started crying too. They are so aware of each other now, and it is so much fun to see them interact with one another. I absolutely love having twins. It's funny because I almost feel bad for babies who are an only child, because I look at Keaton and Bronwyn and know that they will always have a playmate. Twins have a bond unlike any other. We are so fortunate to have the two of them and are able to experience all that they have to offer!
We went over to a friends Marnie and Aaron's new house for dinner this month and Keaton and Bronwyn got to play with their big buddy Bryson. They loved playing in Bryson's tunnel play house. Brawny crawled all over the place, and I'm sure Keaton would've too if he wanted to. He sat inside and played with the balls, while Brawny crawled in and out of the tunnels. I will be putting one of those on their birthday wish list for sure!
This month Nate and I realized just how incredibly lucky we are. I did a lot of reminiscing as they got closer and closer to 3/4 of a year old. Our babies came one month early. They were with us once I was in recovery, and haven't left our sides since. Though they were tiny, both were healthy, happy babies. I've sat wondering "How could we be so lucky?" I guess the answer to that is a few things: 1)God. He has blessed us with this life. 2) My husband. He made sure that I took care of myself while carrying these two miracles. 3) Our families and friends. Their help throughout the past 9 months has been amazing... They have no idea how thankful we are. So, I like to think that most people get to experience such gifts in their lifetime, and then I realize that we are probably an exception. I try not to take one minute for granted in this perfect life of mine. I am enjoying every minute of it.
So until next month... Enjoy the pictures and thanks for checking up on us. We love you all!
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
This month has, yet again, been full of new experiences. Keaton started off the month by finding a new sound that he could make. The only way I can describe it is the sound of an asthmatic person laughing. He would do this repeatedly, and Bronwyn would stare at him wondering "what in the world is he doing?", while everyone else laughed. He likes to pull blankets over his face and play peek-a-boo. When he pulls the blanket down, he has a huge smile on his face every time. He loves toys that spin. Instead of playing with his firetruck, he turns it over and plays with the wheels because they spin. He also likes to bang on things. So Grandma and Grandpa got him some bongo's for Valentine's day to play with. I am sure you are all wondering if this mellow, sweet child has started crawling yet... Nope. While on his tummy he can turn 360 degrees around. He is showing more interest, and likes standing much more than being on his tummy. He will stand in his crib while holding on to the sides, but just enjoys playing on the blanket as Brawny disappears somewhere. I am thankful that Keaton hasn't started crawling just yet, because that gives me a little more time to get used to just one baby being mobile. After all, I can't be in two places at the same time.
Now on to Brawny. On February 11th I went in to get her up from her nap. As I opened the door, there she was STANDING in her crib, looking at me with a huge grin on her face. At that very moment, I knew that our lives had changed, yet again. She is crawling everywhere, into everything, and now pulling herself up on anything she possibly can. She found the dog's water bowl, as well as the dog door. She is surrounded by toys, and yet wants whatever she isn't supposed to have. She is a binki hoarder. She steals Keaton's right out of his mouth, and switches off between hers and his. While playing, she will bulldoze over Keaton to get to wherever and whatever she wants. Grandma and Grandpa got her a picnic basket for Valentine's day. The two of them will sit and have a picnic together, but it only lasts for about 7 seconds. It's still really cute to see them actually play together. She is our little spit fire, and we love her.
Grammy got them new bath seats so they can take baths together now. They love splashing and playing with all the toys in the water together. It is much easier on us to bathe them at the same time too. Both love to pull on the basketball net, which Daddy loves that they show an interest in that. Keaton found a special toy this month in the bath that he can take everywhere because it is attached to him. How convenient!
I introduced sippee cups this month. They have a hard time tipping them into their mouths because the cups are pretty heavy, but they're getting the hang of it. They like to sit on their blanket some afternoons and have Puff Parties. Brawny has gotten the hang of picking the puff up and getting it to her mouth. Keaton would rather play with the puff than eat it, but he makes it to his mouth sometimes.
They both have shown much more of an interest in books this month. They love to sit and listen to anyone read to them, and even like some books better than others. This got me excited to think of the days where I can teach them at home and do fun art projects with them. I'm still a teacher at heart, and how rewarding to get to do it with my own children every day! They are much more interested in the camera also. Bronwyn will crawl right up into my lap and Keaton will lean in for a close up. The pictures are pretty comical.
One of the cutest things that we witnessed this month was one day when Keaton cried, Bronwyn looked at him and started crying. Keaton rarely cries, so when he did Brawny looked at him and just started crying too. They are so aware of each other now, and it is so much fun to see them interact with one another. I absolutely love having twins. It's funny because I almost feel bad for babies who are an only child, because I look at Keaton and Bronwyn and know that they will always have a playmate. Twins have a bond unlike any other. We are so fortunate to have the two of them and are able to experience all that they have to offer!
We went over to a friends Marnie and Aaron's new house for dinner this month and Keaton and Bronwyn got to play with their big buddy Bryson. They loved playing in Bryson's tunnel play house. Brawny crawled all over the place, and I'm sure Keaton would've too if he wanted to. He sat inside and played with the balls, while Brawny crawled in and out of the tunnels. I will be putting one of those on their birthday wish list for sure!
This month Nate and I realized just how incredibly lucky we are. I did a lot of reminiscing as they got closer and closer to 3/4 of a year old. Our babies came one month early. They were with us once I was in recovery, and haven't left our sides since. Though they were tiny, both were healthy, happy babies. I've sat wondering "How could we be so lucky?" I guess the answer to that is a few things: 1)God. He has blessed us with this life. 2) My husband. He made sure that I took care of myself while carrying these two miracles. 3) Our families and friends. Their help throughout the past 9 months has been amazing... They have no idea how thankful we are. So, I like to think that most people get to experience such gifts in their lifetime, and then I realize that we are probably an exception. I try not to take one minute for granted in this perfect life of mine. I am enjoying every minute of it.
So until next month... Enjoy the pictures and thanks for checking up on us. We love you all!
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Month #8
Wow! 8 months old!?! I can't hardly believe it. I always thought time flew by, but now with Keaton and Bronwyn it goes by so much faster. This age has been so much fun. Their personalities are more apparent than ever, it seems as if they reach a new milestone every day, and our love for the two of them grows by the second.
One thing that I am so happy about that Nate and I (along with my mom) finally got rid of was the swaddle. Yes, I know, a four month old child, let alone seven month old twins... should not be swaddled anymore. The truth of the matter is... I didn't care. They slept through the night, were cozy and warm with it; that was all that mattered. Then this month they weren't napping well at all, so I thought that I might as well slowly wean them off of this. We started with one arm out during naps for a week. It was rough at first, but they got the hang of it after three days. Then we did both arms out, and after another week we decided to get rid of it completely and try it at night. Again, it took three nights..... now I am a proud mama of two babies that sleep un-swaddled! Because of this we had to lower their crib mattresses. Bronwyn was starting to peek over the top while on her tummy. Now she likes to look through the bars at the dogs while in her crib. It's pretty funny.
Bronwyn is a ball full of energy and makes us laugh all the time. In the beginning of the month she started growling, yes that's right, growling like a bear. I have never heard a baby growl before. Leave it to my darling, extremely petite little daughter to growl like a giant grizzly bear. This month she also started crawling. She is quick! I can no longer leave her unattended. I put the plug protectors in all the sockets and took the door stoppers off. She gets into everything and if she wants to go, she goes! Because she is more mobile than Keaton, she likes to steal his toys and even his binki. Keaton, being the sweet caring brother that he is, never complains. He just finds something else to occupy his play time with. She also got her first two teeth, on the bottom. Daddy noticed them first and boy does she think they are strange. She makes funny faces and flicks her tongue back and forth over them. All of this seemed to happen in the same week! Our baby girl is growing up... way too fast!
Keaton, as I said before, is not mobile like Brawny. He sits, with the best posture I have ever seen, and plays with his toys. He will scoot around in a circle on his tummy, but really doesn't show much interest in crawling; and that is totally fine with me! Daddy taught him how to give high fives. It is so cute. He loves to bang on things, even his sister sometimes (accidentally). He thinks it is pretty funny to blow raspberries while his binki is in. He screams at Bronwyn and she giggles at him. For Christmas he got a set of sports balls. Guess which one he seems to like the most... the basketball of course. He will sit and hold it and then roll it to me. His teeth are on their way. He is drooling and chewing on everything! He is the sweetest little boy, and loves to play with his daddy after his baths. His giggle melts my heart, and I love him so much.
This month they have really started to interact with each other. They "talk" to each other, laugh at each other, and Brawny crawls all over Keaton. It's cute to see them smile and notice each other now. They love the I-pad and Stanton optical commercials. If either of those come on, no matter what they are doing, they will stop dead in their tracks to watch it. They both put their binkis in on their own now, yay! So long are the days where mommy or daddy has to run in because they are crying because their binki fell out. They take it out, put it back in, shake it in the air, and bang it on things. Both of them started to really talk this month. They do all sorts of sounds now; ba ba, wa wa, and my favorite MA MA!!!! Though I know that they don't have a clue that mama is me, I like to think that they do. Whenever one of them blurts out that sweet word, I turn to mush and it brings tears to my eyes. They both are much more interested in the dogs. They belly laugh when the dogs run around and play with each other. Brawny crawls over to them and grabs their collars or their feet and the dogs just sit there and take it. They have been so good with the babies. They also rode in the shopping carts at target for the first time this month and loved it. Keaton especially enjoyed facing me, smiling, and talking during our shopping trip.
As far as food goes, they really love every kind of fruit, most vegetables, and will tolerate meat. We are very lucky to have such great eaters. They also had their first experience with puffs. Both of them gagged the first time they tried them. Neither like them much yet, but they are more interested in them now and open their mouths when I get them out.
At the end of the month we took them to their first Clovis East Basketball game. They stayed for the first quarter and then the grandmas took them home because it was way past their bed time. Keaton didn't blink the entire time he was there. He was mesmerized by it. He sat on Daddy's lap and watched the game, literally. Brawny loved it too. She sat with me, would let out a scream or growl every once in a while, and enjoyed watching the cheerleaders during timeouts. I know that they will be attending many more basketball games next year when it doesn't interfere with bedtime so much.
As I say every month, I love being a mom. One of the best parts is sitting back and watching my wonderful husband interact with them. I know how much he loves me, but I have never been able to sit back and watch the way he looks at me or interacts with me. Watching him with Keaton and Bronwyn, I like to think, gives me a glimpse of what people see when they look at our family. This is something I cherrish. He LOVES those two. Being a dad comes so natural to him. He is the love of my life and I couldn't ask for a better husband or father to our children.
So, again, thanks for reading and checking up on our latest news. We love you all! Enjoy the pictures of our ever growing babies! Until next month...
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
One thing that I am so happy about that Nate and I (along with my mom) finally got rid of was the swaddle. Yes, I know, a four month old child, let alone seven month old twins... should not be swaddled anymore. The truth of the matter is... I didn't care. They slept through the night, were cozy and warm with it; that was all that mattered. Then this month they weren't napping well at all, so I thought that I might as well slowly wean them off of this. We started with one arm out during naps for a week. It was rough at first, but they got the hang of it after three days. Then we did both arms out, and after another week we decided to get rid of it completely and try it at night. Again, it took three nights..... now I am a proud mama of two babies that sleep un-swaddled! Because of this we had to lower their crib mattresses. Bronwyn was starting to peek over the top while on her tummy. Now she likes to look through the bars at the dogs while in her crib. It's pretty funny.
Bronwyn is a ball full of energy and makes us laugh all the time. In the beginning of the month she started growling, yes that's right, growling like a bear. I have never heard a baby growl before. Leave it to my darling, extremely petite little daughter to growl like a giant grizzly bear. This month she also started crawling. She is quick! I can no longer leave her unattended. I put the plug protectors in all the sockets and took the door stoppers off. She gets into everything and if she wants to go, she goes! Because she is more mobile than Keaton, she likes to steal his toys and even his binki. Keaton, being the sweet caring brother that he is, never complains. He just finds something else to occupy his play time with. She also got her first two teeth, on the bottom. Daddy noticed them first and boy does she think they are strange. She makes funny faces and flicks her tongue back and forth over them. All of this seemed to happen in the same week! Our baby girl is growing up... way too fast!
Keaton, as I said before, is not mobile like Brawny. He sits, with the best posture I have ever seen, and plays with his toys. He will scoot around in a circle on his tummy, but really doesn't show much interest in crawling; and that is totally fine with me! Daddy taught him how to give high fives. It is so cute. He loves to bang on things, even his sister sometimes (accidentally). He thinks it is pretty funny to blow raspberries while his binki is in. He screams at Bronwyn and she giggles at him. For Christmas he got a set of sports balls. Guess which one he seems to like the most... the basketball of course. He will sit and hold it and then roll it to me. His teeth are on their way. He is drooling and chewing on everything! He is the sweetest little boy, and loves to play with his daddy after his baths. His giggle melts my heart, and I love him so much.
This month they have really started to interact with each other. They "talk" to each other, laugh at each other, and Brawny crawls all over Keaton. It's cute to see them smile and notice each other now. They love the I-pad and Stanton optical commercials. If either of those come on, no matter what they are doing, they will stop dead in their tracks to watch it. They both put their binkis in on their own now, yay! So long are the days where mommy or daddy has to run in because they are crying because their binki fell out. They take it out, put it back in, shake it in the air, and bang it on things. Both of them started to really talk this month. They do all sorts of sounds now; ba ba, wa wa, and my favorite MA MA!!!! Though I know that they don't have a clue that mama is me, I like to think that they do. Whenever one of them blurts out that sweet word, I turn to mush and it brings tears to my eyes. They both are much more interested in the dogs. They belly laugh when the dogs run around and play with each other. Brawny crawls over to them and grabs their collars or their feet and the dogs just sit there and take it. They have been so good with the babies. They also rode in the shopping carts at target for the first time this month and loved it. Keaton especially enjoyed facing me, smiling, and talking during our shopping trip.
As far as food goes, they really love every kind of fruit, most vegetables, and will tolerate meat. We are very lucky to have such great eaters. They also had their first experience with puffs. Both of them gagged the first time they tried them. Neither like them much yet, but they are more interested in them now and open their mouths when I get them out.
At the end of the month we took them to their first Clovis East Basketball game. They stayed for the first quarter and then the grandmas took them home because it was way past their bed time. Keaton didn't blink the entire time he was there. He was mesmerized by it. He sat on Daddy's lap and watched the game, literally. Brawny loved it too. She sat with me, would let out a scream or growl every once in a while, and enjoyed watching the cheerleaders during timeouts. I know that they will be attending many more basketball games next year when it doesn't interfere with bedtime so much.
As I say every month, I love being a mom. One of the best parts is sitting back and watching my wonderful husband interact with them. I know how much he loves me, but I have never been able to sit back and watch the way he looks at me or interacts with me. Watching him with Keaton and Bronwyn, I like to think, gives me a glimpse of what people see when they look at our family. This is something I cherrish. He LOVES those two. Being a dad comes so natural to him. He is the love of my life and I couldn't ask for a better husband or father to our children.
So, again, thanks for reading and checking up on our latest news. We love you all! Enjoy the pictures of our ever growing babies! Until next month...
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Month #7
We got through our first holiday season with TWO babies! Let me start off by saying that the holiday's are so much more fun with Keaton and Bronwyn. Though they weren't totally interested in the MANY toys that they got from Santa, family, and friends; Mommy and Daddy had a blast watching them pull at the paper and stare as the gift they were opening suddenly turned into a toy or clothes. Christmas truly is about the kids, and now that we had our first official Christmas with them, I look forward to the many more to come.
The best thing about this month was that Nate had two weeks off with us. Our sweet little family was together every day during the break. We spent time doing things that we don't normally get the chance to do.... my favorite was our mornings napping and when the kids got up we would bring them in bed with us and play, laugh, and be goofy. There truly is nothing better than my wonderful family. I love those three, and could watch Nate with the kids all day. He is such an amazing dad and husband. The three of us are so lucky to have him as our rock, our provider, our everything.
We started December off with going to meet the Big man himself... SANTA! They were mesmerized with him, and though I secretly wanted that classic picture of them crying, we got a darling one of Bronwyn smiling and Keaton being very serious. A big group of family members also walked down the lighted neighborhood on Peach with us. The night was perfect, and the babies really enjoyed looking at all of the lights. We also had our annul Christmas dinner party. We had 12 of our closest friends over, along with four kids. This get together just keeps growing every year! I wonder how many more new additions we will have next year.... I know of two for sure, another set of twins! Our neighbor's, Paul and Tracy, are expecting twin boys sometime in February/March! These yearly traditions are something that we will look forward to every holiday season.
One of my good girl friends, Karen Johnson, who has a baby girl that was born just 6 days after Keaton and Bronwyn has started making the cutest baby hats. Guess who have become models for these darling hats???? That's right, Keaton and Bronwyn. These hats are so cute and I am determined to learn how to make them myself. Thanks Auntie Karen for the awesome hand made Christmas gifts!
Now for the latest milestones and stats on the kids. We went to the doctor in the middle of this month. Keaton was 13 pounds 4 ounces and 24 1/2 inches long. Bronwyn was 12 pounds 15 ounces and 24 1/4 inches long. Neither of them are on the chart yet, but they're close. It's so hard to believe (and remember) just how tiny they were when we brought them home. Now when I look at them and realize how much they've really grown, it makes me want to freeze time.
Not only have Keaton and Bronwyn both grown physically, but they have both accomplished various milestones as well. They are both sitting up by themselves. Keaton enjoys this much more than Bronwyn. He likes to sit and play with his toys, he is such a mellow baby. Bronwyn, however, is always moving. She doesn't want to just sit; ever. She would rather be scooting around the room like a worm. She gets up on her hands and knees now, ready to crawl, but hasn't quite figured it out yet. She also will post up on her feet and hands with her heiny up in the air. We like to say she is practicing her yoga poses; down dog is her favorite. She has to be watched more intently now. Gone are the days where we could leave the room for a minute and not have to worry about them getting into things. Around Christmas Bronwyn relized that she can smack her tongue and make funny noises. She does it and people laugh, so you can imagine just how much she likes doing it!
Keaton is our thinker. He studies things, and takes everything in around him. When he plays with his toys he looks and plays with them so intently. I love watching his little mind at work. They both smile and laugh all the time, and really enjoy the puppets on their Baby Einstein DVD's. Bath time is the highlight of their day. No matter how fussy they are by 6:15 pm, that all goes away when bath time starts. They love splashing mommy and playing with daddy while they get dried off and ready for bed.
They are now eating all sorts of foods. So far they love every fruit we have given them, with peaches being their favorite. Vegetables are a different story though. Green beans and sweet potatoes are their favorites. Squash and Carrots still give them some trouble. Peas were a definite NO for both of them. They gagged and pushed the spoons away with every bite we tried. It's funny to see their reactions to new foods. This month we will be introducing meats.... that should be interesting!
As I have said probably every month... I love my life! I have an amazing husband and father to my two darling children, and our family and friends are the best anyone could ever ask for. What more could you want out of life? So, until next time.... Thanks for checking in and keeping up to date on our life here in the Allen Family's household. We love you all!
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
The best thing about this month was that Nate had two weeks off with us. Our sweet little family was together every day during the break. We spent time doing things that we don't normally get the chance to do.... my favorite was our mornings napping and when the kids got up we would bring them in bed with us and play, laugh, and be goofy. There truly is nothing better than my wonderful family. I love those three, and could watch Nate with the kids all day. He is such an amazing dad and husband. The three of us are so lucky to have him as our rock, our provider, our everything.
We started December off with going to meet the Big man himself... SANTA! They were mesmerized with him, and though I secretly wanted that classic picture of them crying, we got a darling one of Bronwyn smiling and Keaton being very serious. A big group of family members also walked down the lighted neighborhood on Peach with us. The night was perfect, and the babies really enjoyed looking at all of the lights. We also had our annul Christmas dinner party. We had 12 of our closest friends over, along with four kids. This get together just keeps growing every year! I wonder how many more new additions we will have next year.... I know of two for sure, another set of twins! Our neighbor's, Paul and Tracy, are expecting twin boys sometime in February/March! These yearly traditions are something that we will look forward to every holiday season.
One of my good girl friends, Karen Johnson, who has a baby girl that was born just 6 days after Keaton and Bronwyn has started making the cutest baby hats. Guess who have become models for these darling hats???? That's right, Keaton and Bronwyn. These hats are so cute and I am determined to learn how to make them myself. Thanks Auntie Karen for the awesome hand made Christmas gifts!
Now for the latest milestones and stats on the kids. We went to the doctor in the middle of this month. Keaton was 13 pounds 4 ounces and 24 1/2 inches long. Bronwyn was 12 pounds 15 ounces and 24 1/4 inches long. Neither of them are on the chart yet, but they're close. It's so hard to believe (and remember) just how tiny they were when we brought them home. Now when I look at them and realize how much they've really grown, it makes me want to freeze time.
Not only have Keaton and Bronwyn both grown physically, but they have both accomplished various milestones as well. They are both sitting up by themselves. Keaton enjoys this much more than Bronwyn. He likes to sit and play with his toys, he is such a mellow baby. Bronwyn, however, is always moving. She doesn't want to just sit; ever. She would rather be scooting around the room like a worm. She gets up on her hands and knees now, ready to crawl, but hasn't quite figured it out yet. She also will post up on her feet and hands with her heiny up in the air. We like to say she is practicing her yoga poses; down dog is her favorite. She has to be watched more intently now. Gone are the days where we could leave the room for a minute and not have to worry about them getting into things. Around Christmas Bronwyn relized that she can smack her tongue and make funny noises. She does it and people laugh, so you can imagine just how much she likes doing it!
Keaton is our thinker. He studies things, and takes everything in around him. When he plays with his toys he looks and plays with them so intently. I love watching his little mind at work. They both smile and laugh all the time, and really enjoy the puppets on their Baby Einstein DVD's. Bath time is the highlight of their day. No matter how fussy they are by 6:15 pm, that all goes away when bath time starts. They love splashing mommy and playing with daddy while they get dried off and ready for bed.
They are now eating all sorts of foods. So far they love every fruit we have given them, with peaches being their favorite. Vegetables are a different story though. Green beans and sweet potatoes are their favorites. Squash and Carrots still give them some trouble. Peas were a definite NO for both of them. They gagged and pushed the spoons away with every bite we tried. It's funny to see their reactions to new foods. This month we will be introducing meats.... that should be interesting!
As I have said probably every month... I love my life! I have an amazing husband and father to my two darling children, and our family and friends are the best anyone could ever ask for. What more could you want out of life? So, until next time.... Thanks for checking in and keeping up to date on our life here in the Allen Family's household. We love you all!
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