I'm an aunt.....again!

Karlee Malone was born at 1:05 Central Standard Time . She weighs 6lbs. 4oz. and is 19 inches long. She is beautiful! I can't believe my brother is a father. Congratulations, Sumner and Angie. You have just started a wonderful yet humbling journey. I love you and can't believe we aren't there to give Karlee a kiss.

Eye Appointment

David and I took Elizabeth and Thomas to a pediatric opthamologist this past Monday because I have a family history of amblyopia. In the brochure given to me by the doctor, amblyopia is defined as "poor vision in an eye that does not develop normal sight during early childhood." It is caused by any condition that affects normal use of the eyes and visual development, and in most cases is inherited. The best time to correct amblyopia is during infancy or early childhood. My sister has this condition and was not diagnosed until around age seven (I think) and is blind in one eye as a result. She was told by her opthamologist that all of our children should be tested around 18 months of age.

Anyway, we took the kids in to be tested. Both Thomas and Elizabeth behaved really well. Thomas wasn't crazy about the eye drops used to dilate his pupils, but we got through it. The doctor was wonderful....so soft spoken, patient, and laid back. Luckily, neither Thomas nor Elizabeth has amblyopia. However, Elizabeth is extremely farsighted and will have to wear glasses. The doctor put a lens up to both mine and David's eyes to give us an idea of what Elizabeth sees, and I was shocked. It was so blurry I couldn't make out anything. He asked had we ever suspected she might have trouble seeing, but neither one of us had. She loves to run and play and loves, loves, loves to "read" books. The doctor prescribed glasses but only for half the strength she needs so that her eyes will learn to focus. We will go back in July so he can check her vision again.

Elizabeth was really cute while trying on glasses. She kept saying "glasses" and "Dada".....she wanted to show him each pair. Once she got tired of trying them on she would say," uh-uh" and shake her head. Now I just watch her amazed at the things she can do while not being able to see very well. I guess she doesn't know any better.....it is how the world has always looked to her. I am anxious to see how she responds to her glasses. My guess would be the glasses will reinforce themselves.....being able to see with them on will make her want to wear them. In my experience as a speech pathologist that has been the case with students wearing hearing aids for the first time. We will see what happens.

Happy Birthday!

Thomas and Elizabeth are 20 months old now. They are at such a fun stage and seem so big and grown up. They eat from their own plates and are getting better at using utensils. They play and talk non-stop. Of course, most of their talking is their own language, but they are attempting more words each day. E and T keep David and I laughing constantly. E has suddenly become very attached to her pink monkey given to her by Gramps and Grandmother. She holds it smiling and says "Nini" which is how she says monkey. It is quite cute. Thomas uses the biggest question hands right now and is so deliberate when saying words. His eyes get really big and he looks so intently in our eyes making sure we are hearing him. I can't believe how fast they are growing.

I have registered Thomas and Elizabeth in a Methodist preschool for next year. They will go two days a week until noon. I am so excited about the whole experience for them. They will make friends, learn how to socialize with other adults....all without mama being there.


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David is out of town for a few days. He is actually in my "old stomping grounds."......Northwest Arkansas. How I would have loved to go on this trip with him though I know the area has changed SO much since I lived there. It has been seven years since I lived there....so hard to believe how quickly time passes and life changes. I am currently feeling very "middle aged". I look like hell when I wake up in the morning with puffy, saggy eyes. When did this happen? All of the sudden?

Amanda and I had an interesting conversation the other day about how different we are now compared to when we were 25ish. She recently went shopping with some twenty-somethings and was brought face to face with such differences.

Her trip went like this:
Amanda went straight to the sale racks.......twenty-somethings bought $160 jeans
Amanda buys black, tan, white.........twenty-somethings bought pinks, yellows, etc.


When exactly does it happen? At what age do we become so practical? I guess what is important to us changes. When I was 25 I was single and on my own spending money only on myself. Now I don't care as much about clothes and appearance but instead find delight in watching my children grow and learn.

HOME SWEET HOME

We are finally home from our adventures in Seattle. We flew out late Saturday night, and Thomas screamed hysterically the entire 5 1/2 hour flight. It was awful! At one point I wanted to ask the pilot to just land....it didn't matter where...just land the @#$$#@! plane. We survived without any of the other passengers throwing us off the plane and landed in Atlanta around 6:00 a.m. Sunday morning. Gramps was waiting for us outside and took us to his house. He fed us, and the four of us took a four hour nap. We woke up for an outstanding home cooked lunch with collard greens, rutabaga, Lima beans, field peas, and corn bread and then began the drive home. It was absolutely the LONGEST drive home EVER! We have been recouping all week with David working, me doing 20 loads of laundry, grocery shopping, and playing with babies....haven't had time to touch the cleaning. T and E haven't been feeling well, but the weather has been spring like. I have taken them outside as much as possible...David told me going outside always makes him feel better when he has a cold. I think it has worked for the twins.


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Thomas and Elizabeth had their 18-month Well Visit on Monday...I know it was almost two months late. Anyway, they had a great checkup in spite of being sick. Elizabeth is now 31 inches tall, weighs 21 pounds, and has a head circumference of 18 1/2 cm ( not really sure if it is measured in cm or in.) She is in the 25th percentile for weight and 75th percentile for head circumference! Thomas is 32 inches tall, weighs 24.2 pounds, and has a head circumference of 19 (cm or in). He is in the 50th percentile in terms of weight which is a HUGE jump for him. The pediatrician had no concerns about their physical or cognitive development. She did put E on antibiotics for a double ear infection :( Thomas' ears were clear though he shares the same snotty nose and cough as his sister. They both got two vaccinations each -- HEP A and DTAP.



Thomas and Elizabeth have grown leaps and bounds since their 15 month well visit especially in the area of expressive language. All of the sudden they have started talking. Elizabeth imitates almost everything we say (unfortunately she has already said her first cuss word) and is starting to put two words together (ie. "thank you", "doctor bye-bye") Thomas has fewer words than Elizabeth and is just beginning to imitate some words. His newest word is "bubbles" which he spotted in the washing machine today. He also said "baby" for the first time today as he lifted a baby doll out of the toy box. Thomas and Elizabeth both shake their heads for "NO" and nod their heads for "yes".



One of my concerns has been the limited variety of foods in the twins' diets. It seems to be worse at supper time, and I usually go through the pantry and five or six different foods before they will eat anything. I asked the pediatrician "at what point do I say this is what mama cooked, and this is what we are eating?" The doctor said, "Now." So, as of Monday night we have all been eating supper together.....same time, and same foods give or take a variation. It was quite a milestone. I remember about a year ago wondering when we would really eat as a family rather than the twins' meal....clean up....the grown ups' meal.....clean up. Now we have arrived. David and I just watched Thomas and Elizabeth who each had their own plates and eating utensils. They looked so big! Monday night they ate well though I had fixed one of their favorite dishes -- whole wheat tortellini with red sauce, carrots (they didn't touch), and strawberries. Monday was a good start....they haven't eaten very well since Monday night with the exception of breakfast each morning. Oddly enough I haven't been all that worried. I figure some of it could be due to them being sick or them not feeling well from their shots. Surely they will come around especially if they want dessert to come back....no pudding in several nights.



Thomas and Elizabeth are currently on one waiting list for a two day a week preschool next year. I have one more school to visit and will probably put them on that waiting list as well. They need the socialization and the exposure to other adults besides me. Elizabeth has a hard time separating right now. I know it's my fault....I rarely leave them....not because I don't want to....it is just more complicated with two and with no family close by. Hopefully, eventually, with David's new job we will move closer to family. He has an upcoming business trip to Northwest Arkansas....oh how I would love to make that trip with him.....or move there! (Don't think that will happen, but it sure would be nice!)

Date Night

Last night David and I went out on a date with Kim (his coworker) and Greg. We left Thomas and Elizabeth at Kim and Greg's house with Kim's mom, nanny, and their son Reese and went to this wonderful restaurant called Wild Ginger http://www.wildginger.net/ We had such a great time. The restaurant was beautiful, the food was divine, and the adult company was excellent. It has been so long since David and I went out on a date.....I guess the last time was a Christmas party this past December. Anyway, it was perfect.

Of course, those that babysat might not agree with my description of the night. Elizabeth cried (ahem, screamed) off and on until David and I returned. The nanny had to hide our backpack in an effort to keep E from crying. At one point during the night E laid down by the front door and cried. Thomas, on the other hand, did not miss a beat. He and Reese played all night.

Needless to say, David and I need to get out more both for us and our children.

Tonight we are meeting up with a guy from my hometown in Arkansas along with his wife and six month old boy/girl twins. I haven't seen Jonathan since 1992 and look forward to our visit.

Toddlerhood Socialization

Today I took Thomas and Elizabeth to the Science Center to play in the Toddler Area. We had a great time. T and E slid down the slide a million times, splashed in the water area and popped lots of bubbles at the bubble table. There was much less crying and fit throwing this time around in the toddler area. There were fewer children and more time for interactions with other kids. I enjoy watching and teaching the twins how to share and take turns, and they did a much better job at both skills this time versus our last visit. These skills are so hard for toddlers to learn. Thomas and Elizabeth met a little girl who was having a hard time with socializing. I shouldn't say a hard time....she was trying to say hello but did it with pulling hair and hitting. She got Elizabeth first, but it was over quickly and didn't seem to bother E much. However, when the little girl got Thomas she got two handfuls of hair and held on for dear life. The mom was begging her to let go while Thomas was screaming. Once she let go Thomas looked at me like, "What the @#$#@ just happened?" The poor mom apologized and quickly disappeared. I felt sorry for her. I wasn't upset in the least. The little girl was just being a toddler. Toddlerhood is all about socialization and figuring out the world. T and E have gone through the same thing, and I'm sure will go through it again. The mom was so embarrassed and apologetic, but I assured her I wasn't upset.....that my kids do the same things.

After the Toddler Area we went to the tropical butterfly room, and it was amazing. There were butterflies everywhere....big ones, small ones.....flying everywhere. They were really beautiful. E kept saying "pretty, pretty". Thomas wasn't into the butterfly room. He didn't like them flying close to him.

Today was another adventurous day for the twins and mom. I delight in watching their reactions to the world around them.....and the people.

Centers of Attention

Today the twins and I were invited to have lunch at David's workplace. Actually, I was informed the twins would be the "Guests of Honor." Greg (from the aquarium) came to the hotel so we could follow him to the office. Remember....I have no sense of direction and no internal compass. Anyway, we arrived and met everybody. Thomas and Elizabeth are usually very shy and a little clingy when in a crowd, but today they were like little starlets. They were friendly and independent exploring every room, every crevice of the office. They charmed everyone and were really cute (I'm biased, I know). Nikki (from the cabin) came to my rescue by bringing foods she knew T and E would eat. Also, they both ate BBQ pork....I was shocked and happily so. We arrived back at the hotel in time for their nap. All is well in Seattle.

I saw the first raindrop in Seattle this morning. I should point out that the sun is now shining, and it is warmer here than back in South Carolina.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY POPPY!

Today is my dad's birthday. He is exactly 30 years older than I am. He is the same as he always has been.....works too hard....sleeps too little......gives more than he has......doesn't take care of himself but expects his patients to.

We love you Poppy!

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Today I took the twins to the Seattle Aquarium. We met one of David's coworker's husband (Greg) and two year old son (Reese) there and had a blast. I decided to park the stroller and let Thomas and Elizabeth walk/run around. Thank goodness Greg was there though we were still outnumbered. None of the children ran in the same direction. Greg and I were constantly saying, "You watch these two while I get the other one." I spoke with Daddy this morning, and he told me to take pictures at the aquarium. HA! FAT CHANCE. By 11:00 Greg and I both felt like we had run a marathon, but the kids were just getting started:) We parted ways, and I took the twins to a restaurant on the pier thinking they would enjoy some fish. With enough ketchup they will eat anything, right? Wrong. Thankfully, I never travel anywhere without a banana and some other snack. Oddly enough today it was goldfish crackers. I didn't much care for the fish either so off we went to the car.

The car....this is where the day gets really interesting and more of a "typical Ashley" day. I locked Thomas in the car with the keys, my cell phone, and my wallet. Thank goodness the parking attendant was present, and thank goodness we were not in the middle of the summer. Thomas did really well. He smiled and looked at me as if he was wondering why his silly mama and sister were standing outside the car. He eventually fell asleep and remained that way the entire time the lock smith was trying to get into the car. I was pretty calm in spite of the whole situation. The parking attendant was an interesting man from Ethiopia and talked the lock smith into not charging me. I was sure I was going to be swindled out of at least one hundred bucks....I would have paid anything to get my son out.

Anyway, we made it back to the hotel where I fed the twins a late lunch. They are both napping now.

Still haven't seen rain in Seattle.

The Beautiful Northwest

Our weekend in the Olympic Mountains was wonderful! The Pacific Northwest is absolutely beautiful....the mountains, the water, the evergreens, the temperature. The "cabin" we stayed in was right on Puget Sound with a view of the Olympic Mountains from every single window. I use the term cabin loosely....it was a spectacular home. The company was even more spectacular. We had great conversation, great food, and great fun. We played on the beach, walked on the beach at night, saw an otter and a seal, etc. etc. Thomas ran for the water just as he did at Hilton Head Island, SC though the water here was not the same temperature. It was freezing, and he had a fit when I wouldn't let him stay in the water. I must get that child in a real swimming pool this summer:) Thomas also wanted to eat the rocks on the beach. Elizabeth loved just sitting on the beach and pointing to the birds. She would point and say, " bud." She also liked walking on the rocky beach BY HERSELF! She is so independent right now. One might not believe this, but I have not seen the first drop of rain since we arrived. It has been sunny and overcast and perfect.

It is amazing to me how different the USA is from state to state. I know that sounds like a really simple statement, but it is like a completely different country out here compared to home. The produce in the grocery store is amazing in terms of variety and freshness. I was in awe when I saw the produce section for the first time. The people out here seem so much more health conscious......they are more active, fit, seem to eat healthier. I had REAL oatmeal for the first time in my life.....steal cut (spelling?)....completely different from Quaker instant. I didn't even know there was a difference until I read it in a post on sweet/salty (a great blog of an acquaintance of mine). This visit has made me thirsty for more knowledge about nutrition. I want to do a better job of feeding my family. There is so much I don't know. As far as being fit....I have a LONG way to go. I must become fit so that my children learn the importance and want to be fit as well.

I have always wanted to go to Europe, but now I ask myself "why?" Why when there are so MANY places to see in the great United States of America?

Trainwreck

That is the one word to describe Seattle Day Three. The entire day up until a few minutes ago was a trainwreck. Last night I wrote a long post detailing the day, but there was some kind of computer error causing the loss of the post. So, since I am not in the mood to be witty or creative I will give you the quick and dirty of yesterday's events.....lost in downtown Seattle, screaming kid in backseat, no parking, vomit, vomit covered BORROWED car and BORROWED carseat, falling down fits in hall with witnesses, spankings (hairy eyeballs from witnesses), babies who would not go to sleep.

Toddlerhood has hit me between the eyes!

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On a lighter note and on to Seattle Day Four the twins and I are headed to a cabin at the base of the Olympic Mountains with the company owner's daughter, wife, and granddaughter today. It should be exciting with a ferry ride and all. I will medicate my sweet daughter who gets motion sickness. David will be joining us tomorrow evening, and we will be staying until Saturday. I can't wait to see the mountains and the twins' reaction to them. I'm also looking forward to watching them play with a new friend, Hunter who is one year younger than T and E.

Hopefully, this excursion will help me get myself in a better frame of mind after yesterday's trainwreck of a day. I have decided I don't do well with bad days.....I let the little things bother me....need to work on that.

Seattle Day Two

Today was another beautiful day in Seattle. It was a little cloudy and pretty cold as we headed to the Pacific Science Center, but the sun was shining brightly as we strolled home. Thomas and Elizabeth had a GREAT day today. Before we even made it to the science center we saw two firetrucks at the condos next to our hotel. I enjoyed seeing the firemen as much as the kids enjoyed the trucks. The science center was a blast! There was an area for toddlers only, and it was full of toys to climb on, climb through, slide down, beat on, splash in, etc. The slide was definitely the favorite. T and E climbed up the ladder and slid down at least 1,000 times. Each time they slid down the slide they had the best smiles on their faces. I tried to get some good pictures, but my trigger finger is really slow. Besides the slide T and E flew a holicopter, drove a race car, played musical pots and pans, and blew bubbles. After an hour of solid play the twins were hungry so we went in search of food. After an interesting lunch with a pretty long fit from Thomas we bundled up for the stroller ride home. On our way we saw a helicopter take off from a t.v. station's building top. Now the twins are napping, and I am about to have a cookie and some coffee.

Stay tuned for more Seattle adventures.

Seattle with the Twins

The four of us are currently in Seattle for two weeks for David's new job. We flew out of Atlanta late Saturday night in hopes that the twins would sleep for the 5 1/2 hour flight. Elizabeth was an angel while Thomas had a tougher time getting comfortable. All in all it was a good flight. We are staying in a hotel suite in downtown Seattle within walking distance to the "the needle". Yesterday we went to Target to get necessities and then all took an afternoon nap. We are all sick right now....coughing, sneezing, snotting. We will get through it.

Today has been pretty eventful so far. The people here go to work REALLY early. I guess it is because they are three hours later than the East coast. Anyway, David left for work at 6a.m. and my day started. I got myself ready and took the twins down for breakfast. After breakfast I got them dressed and we bundled up for a walk to the Children's Museum. Our first stop at the museum was in the painting room. Thomas and Elizabeth painted for the first time and loved it. Elizabeth painted her face and tasted it several times. It must have tasted good since she kept doing it. Thomas wanted to paint the block table (not a good thing). Elizabeth seems to get so frustrated with me right now. She wants to do everything by herself and has a fit whenever I try to help. Thomas is also into throwing huge fits at the moment. He throws himself into the floor kicking and screaming and bucking whenever he does not get his way. He threw a huge tantrum when I washed E's hands first. I just ignored him as all the other moms and children stared and walked past Thomas. At home I put T and E in "time out" for throwing fits. What's a mother to do in public? It has definitely gotten harder to take T and E out in public because of their venture into the "terrible two's", but it is much better for all of us to get out rather than to stay at home. The fits usually pass pretty quickly, right?

In spite of the new challenges of motherhood, we had a good first morning without Daddy in Seattle. Our future plans? The Science Center, the aquarium, the zoo.......lots to do and see in Seattle. Have I mentioned how BEAUTIFUL it is here? The snow covered mountain tops are breathtaking, and I can't get enough of the evergreens. We haven't seen a cloud in the sky so far, though that is supposed to end tomorrow.

Stay tuned for Seattle Day Two

Grandaddy is going home

Grandaddy is going home today. A week ago Friday, he was not expected to make it through the night, but he rallied and is going home today. He is not completely the same man he was before entering the hospital in that he shuffles while using a walker rather than exhibiting the long gait his six foot frame once commanded. His mind is back after taking a few "vacations." Grandaddy was always able to orient to person but got confused with time and place. Once Daddy told him he could only go home once he could walk to the bathroom he became to get out of his bed.

Apparently, some type of infection caused this whole ordeal. Grandaddy's CT scans were normal showing no evidence of stroke. His heart is worn out and causes him to sleep about 20 hours per day in order to stay alive. There is nothing meds can do at this point. In spite of all this, Grandaddy is happy and has shown a great sense of humor. He was so happy to be surrounded by his family.

I love this man. He and my grandmother taught me what family is all about...sacrifice, unconditional love, and loyalty. For this I can never thank them enough. I hope I can pass these lessons on to my own children and grandchildren.

Back to the Delta

Daddy admitted Grandaddy into the hospital via ambulance the night of all the storms in Arkansas....I forget which night it was. He had the flu. The twins and I told him good-bye Thursday morning as Jo and I prepared for the long trip home. Yesterday morning Callie called to say that Grandaddy wasn't doing well. I believe her exact words were, "He is dying." I lost it sobbing in front of Thomas and Elizabeth. I tried to stop because I didn't want to scare them, but they weren't scared. They patted me and just watched me. It was quite sweet. I booked us all tickets back to the Delta. Poor David didn't get home from Seattle until 11:30 last night. I think we slept three hours tops and are off to the airport in less than one hour.

I don't know what the next few days hold for Grandaddy. He has been in and out of consciousness since yesterday morning. I'm not ready to say good-bye, but I don't want him to stay if his days are to be spent in a bed. I do know that he is the kindest man I have ever met. He is a member of the Greatest Generation and helped save the world when he was in his early twenties. I love him and have loved him for as long as I can remember.

Hello

I am officially the worst blogger in history. So much has happened since Christmas......I guess Christmas is where I should start.

Christmas was magical. Thomas and Elizabeth didn't know what to think when they got downstairs that morning. Santa Clause was generous but not over the top. David and I loved watching their faces as they played with toys and learned how to open presents. We look forward to each Christmas getting better and better as the twins grow. I made a late Christmas lunch for David's mom and stepfather, and that turned out well. I made duck dressing for the first time, and it was delicious....shouldn't brag, but can't help it:)

Since Christmas life has just happened with the death of Alexis and then more recently the death of Daryla. Daryla was my dad's secretary and office manager and had worked for him for 25 years. I really can't remember his clinic without Daryla being present. She died of a heart attack at the young age of 46. Darlya was hysterically funny, in your face honest, and fiercely loyal to those she loved. She was one, if not the only one, who could give my dad a good cussing when needed and get away with it. I love her and can't believe she is gone. I have no doubts that she is in a much better place than the rest of us right now.

With the ringing of the New Year David accepted a new job with a poultry company in Seattle. He was not looking for a job, but this one found him and made him "an offer he couln't refuse." No, we won't be moving to Seattle. David will be working from home and will spend one week per month in Seattle. Since he took the job things have been wild at our house with one week in Seattle, one week at home, a week in Atlanta and now back in Seattle. I took the twins to Atlanta as well and spent some time with the Wright crew and then went to visit Gramps and Grandmother Jane. David will be in Seattle for the next two weeks so I am taking T and E to Arkansas....two weeks is too long to go solo besides the fact that I just want/need to get home. I have a brand new niece to meet, hugs for Amanda upon losing Alexis, and hugs for my family and friends upon losing Daryla. Jo is flying over Wednesday and we will drive together the 12 + hours to the Delta.

Needless to say, things have been crazy here, and we (adults) are worn out. I don't know if it is the twins' age or my age or the season, but I am exhausted all the time. Just walking up the stairs makes me short of breath, and I always have to make that climb twice. I know.... I am out of shape and need to exercise. It would be great for my body and my mind. Just need to make myself do it. My health is more important than a clean house, right? My weight has dropped as well. I never get on the scale, but my clothes don't fit. Eating has just become such a HASSLE! I don't have the energy to make much (when making for myself) and rarely have the time to sit and eat (not unlike any other mother out there) so it is not enjoyable. I eat when I get the shakes.....not good I know.

I'm not whining....really. Do the rest of you with toddlers feel the same way? How do I get my energy back?

Thomas and Elizabeth are great, by the way. Elizabeth has a couple of new words she learned at Brett and Amy's house. She says "kitty" and will imitate me when I am calling for Thomas. It is really cute. Thomas says "yuck" when pointing to the trash can or the recycle bins, and he really enunciates the word. They are growing so fast and challenging me at every turn.

Motherhood......so exhausing but so rewarding at the same time.

For Alexis

One of my dearest and best friends laid a daughter to rest today. Alexis was thirteen years old and was killed in a car accident the day after Christmas. She was on her way home after seeing family in Wisconsin. Alexis left behind so many people who loved her. I did not know Alexis all that well, but have known her stepmother, Amanda, for as long as I can remember. Amanda loved Alexis as her own and is devastated by her loss as is the entire family and community. I pray for peace and light for all who are missing Alexis.

As I get older death becomes so much more tragic and confusing to me...especially the death of a child. I can't imagine losing a child. The mere thought takes my breath away. Alexis' death has left me with so many questions regarding my faith. I consider myself a Christian though I am not actively working on my relationship with the Lord. I haven't stepped foot in a church since Thomas and Elizabeth were christened last Christmas Eve. I do pray daily, but they are quick prayers here and there throughout the day....not real conversations with God. I begin praying when I lay my head down at night, but I always fall asleep somewhere between "Dear Heavenly Father" and "Amen." Maybe my lack of a spiritual life is the reason I have so many questions. I don't know.

Alexis' death was a complete accident. My biggest question is does God cause accidents? He has the power to stop them from happening, right? I have never believed that God is the puppet master and controls every aspect of life on earth though He most definitely could. Such control would be no fun, right? Isn't it more rewarding for Him to see His children practice free will and still choose Him and His way? Since He didn't stop the accident why didn't he save Alexis? Did God know at the moment Alexis was conceived that she would die in a car accident.......or was it just an accident that resulted in God wanting to take her to be with Him?

The Bible says that we are not to ask why.......but how much of it does God decide? I know He decides who, but does He always decide how and when or does He just let life happen?

I have been thinking about Alexis' tragic death in two ways......1) There is so much life she will never experience....no first date.....no driver's license.......no prom....no high school graduation. The list is endless and heartbreaking. 2) There are so many grown-up disappointments she will never have to endure. Alexis left this world with her innocence. Don't all adults long for childhood innocence at some point in their lives?

I know the Atwill family will forever have a hole in their hearts from the loss of Alexis, but I also know that heaven has gained an angel.

Peace and light to you, Alexis.

Aflac?!!!!

Thomas' first word (besides mama) was Aflac....yes, I said Aflac. I heard it, David heard it, Amy and Julia even heard it. Weird, huh? Why Aflac one might ask...Nana gave the twins a duck that says Aflac, Aflac, AFLAAAAC! when squeezed. T and E love that duck.

Thanks, Nana!

Buffet Style Post

Everyone has been sick at our house...coughing, snotting, sneezing, sore throats, ear infections...we have had it all. T and E are on the upswing as they are nearing the end of their antibiotics. I'm feeling better, but David is still coughing his head off. Franny says this is just life with kids. I NEVER use to get sick. Oh well, as one of my fellow twin mamas says," It is what it is."



Thomas is walking all over the place now. He and E play chase around the kitchen squealing and laughing with delight. I have tried a couple of times to catch it on video but can't seam to get a good camera angle. I will keep trying. It is hysterical to watch though somebody always gets hurt-- usually Thomas. He is not as good on his feet as his sister just yet.



Tuesday night was the annual Mom's of Twins Club Christmas Party (for moms only). I was on the committee this year. It felt good to be involved in something. That night David was out of town so for the first time we had a babysitter that was not a family member or close friend of the family. One of the young women from My Gym watched the twins for us. T and E did fine when I left...no tears. I had moments of sheer anxiety on and off all night feeling a desparate and urgent need to go home. I know this is a sign that I need to get out more....corrections....we need to get out more (meaning David and I). I guess one of my friends could tell I was anxious because out of the blue she said, "Let it go, Ashley." Anyway, I got home around 10:00, and the twins were fast asleep. There are lots of things I need to "let go," but this is not the time or place to address them. I have thought about putting the twins in some sort of preschool, Mom's Morning Out, etc a couple of days a week to give me some time and them some time away from Mama, but I can't make my mind up. I don't want to send them somewhere for "crowd control," but want it to be a structured environment with goals for the children. On the other hand, they are young and part of me hates to start "school" at such a young age.....we go to school our whole lives it seems. I am the worst at making decisions.

CALLING ALL MY FELLOW SPEECH PEOPLE: David and I think T and E need a speech evaluation. They will be 17 months old on 12/13, and the only words E uses spontaneously are "mama" and "dada", and T only says "mama." E will imitate sounds while T imitates nothing. They do communicate with gesturing, vocalizations, and some sign but have no words yet. I'm not worried about the receptive language at all right now but am starting to get concerned about their expression. Any opinions?

And He is Off!

Thomas is walking! He started walking some at Aunt Callie's house Tuesday and really took off at Uncle Tom's and Aunt Sherri's house Wednesday night. He looks like Frankenstein holding both arms straight out in front of him and giggling with every step. Things keep getting more and more interesting in Twinland.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I know it isn't Thanksgiving yet, but I won't have time to make such wishes on the actual day. We are celebrating Thanksgiving in Arkansas this year, and our plan is to leave Twinland Saturday night. Instead of putting the twins to bed in their cribs we will put them in their carseats. E seems to get carsick when placed in her carseat after eating so we figure it will be better to tackle the 12 hour drive at night. I am very excited about the trip because I haven't been home since April. I know everyone is looking forward to seeing Thomas and Elizabeth. They won't believe how much they have grown. I'm anxious to see how T and E will react to all their cousins. David has new camera equipment that will allow him to take better pics inside as well as outside so I hope we have lots of pictures to share upon our return.

Happy Thanksgiving!