Sathers Learn How to Multiply

It’s Potty Time!!!

2011-12-09T20:02:00.002-06:00

I decided to wake up last week on Monday morning and make my life even crazier than normal. Why not potty train the girls alone, sure I can do this alone and not go insane…right? WRONG!!

Since I was not prepared for this other than having bought panties and stickers a few weeks prior I was nervous about the girls reaction to the low key potty day. To my surprise they were excited to choose their princess or Minnie and Daisy panties and so it began.

As Madi Belle often says, Look at me! They are growing up too fast.

Logan joining in the designated sitting area, since he is in diapers to feel like he was included he went shirtless the first day.

Hey there blue eyes xoxo

Some of the incentives – Tangled panties, Cinderella and Tinkerbell washcloths, necklaces, along with candy, stickers, praise and love.

Sticker charts at the end of the day, Madison obviously does not potty nearly as often as Elizabeth nor does she want M&M’s or stickers. We have always known Elizabeth thrives on praise and it made this so much easier for me. I have no idea how many times I asked, do you need to pee-pee or poopy on the potty? Brandon thought I was crazy when he was home 15 minutes and he had already stopped counting – don’t mess with my system boy!

The start of the second day I was a little worried they had forgotten the concept when this is how they both looked on their potties.

No accidents for Elizabeth Day 1 so she got a special gift on Day 2, both girls admiring Sleeping Beauty that has two outfits (a pain in Mommys booty). Lizy LOVES this so much and is still so proud of it. Madison had two accidents the first day, one being my fault because I did not act quickly enough or believe her when she said she had to potty…bad Mommy.

I kept the kids downstairs which made them very unhappy, they have the run of the house normally and they had to stay where I could see them at all times. Logan loved having the girls and all their thing with us…precious boy.

Trying to keep my sanity and let them do whatever they want and watch anything all day long. They watch movies which helped and we now have a few more favorites. The good thing about any accidents is both girls HATE having them and we know instantly with crying.

Day two they each had an accident which is so much better than I ever expected. The only accidents occurred when they were playing with the itouch and they have not seen them since. If they get too focused they forget that they need to listen to their bodies. There had not been any pooping on the potty yet which was very odd to me, we had been practicing for two months and the only thing the girls, especially Madison, would do is poop-never pee on the potty.

Day three I was exhausted and I think we were all tired of hearing Mommy say, do you need to pee-pee or poop on the potty? Logan had OT in the morning and during that time Elizabeth decided that’s when she was going to poop, hello Miss Kellye. Girl just sat down and stared her down…cracked me up and I must have apologized 10 times. Thankfully she has been with our family since the kids were six months old and feels like a part of our family. Madison is the only one that had accidents this day and she had a lot, or maybe just a lot to me. She waits until the very last second to go and then is so mad when she potties on her big girl panties. I seriously debated only training Elizabeth with the thinking Madison just did not understand what was going on. Maybe she couldn’t control her body or maybe she has other things going on that we don’t know about, my mind thinking worse case scenario.

The day I dreaded, day 4 arrived. Elizabeth had a follow up with the doctor after an ear infection and all three were getting their flu shot. I was so nervous putting them in the car but it had to be done. I asked Heather, a fellow quad mom, her opinion on Madison and the doctor visit. She talked me off my ledge since I was thinking of just stopping all together, so thankful that did not happen.

That morning, the girls dancing and flying around. They are too little to wear panties.

I did put the girls in pull-ups to go to the doctors office, it is a 30 minute drive and with the appointment being during naptime I was sure they would fall asleep and pee.

They sure proved me wrong! We got to the office and checked their “special big girl panties” that were dry and then had them try to pee in the car potty with no luck. After the nurse checked Elizabeth and while we were waiting Madison had to potty, we ran to the bathroom and she peed on the big girl potty. Of course Elizabeth was right behind her and she went also!! Not only were we so proud of them, Dr. Goebel their pediatrician was so proud as well. He had previously promised Lizy a happy dance if she was potty trained the next time she saw him and she held him to it. All three danced with their favorite doctor that they say goodnight to every night. Elizabeth even had something special to say, we asked her if she wanted to tell Dr. Goebel anything and she said, I love you Dr. Goebel. Seriously this girl is so sweet she tells us all the time that she loves him and whenever she doesn’t feel good or if her tummy hurts she wants to go see her doctor.

Madison lucked out and got the flu mist with the other two having a not so fabulous time with their flu shots. The ride home included me stopping by Starbucks, very needed. I knew they were going to be wet this time and yet again I was proved wrong and so proud. Nothing I love more than these tiny people proving me wrong and becoming such little grown ups. Extra stickers and candy were had by all as soon as we walked in the door and went potty.

Sissy look at this Mickey!

I feel bad that Logan is not included in this post that much and needed to throw a recent photo in. He has been such a trooper with the girls getting so much attention during potty training. He loves his sisters and clapped along the entire time.

The girls sticker charts after five days.

During the last two week things we have heard many times every day that keep us smiling:

Madison

Yay Madi (while clapping for herself)

Madi no pee-pee in her panties, Madi pee-pee and poopy on Elmo

Daddy you no potty on Elmo, your too big! (this was only once but I love it)

Mommy. Logan a boy, Logan not a girrrrl

I poopy on potty like big girl

No I fine

Madi silly

Elizabeth

Mommy, sissy pooped in her pants

I need to pee-pee, (5 second later), I need to pee-pee

Mommy I get sticker, two M&M not one two Mommy

I peee-peee (with the most excitement I have ever heard)

With the weather being a bit chilly outside we had been inside all week and needed another activity. It was time for new polish on the girls toes, green for the holidays.

This was just too precious, Madison was upset and asked if Lizy could hold her. Lizy then asked if she could rub Madi Belles back, so much love until the fighting began.

This is how our nights have been, I need to poopy…really girls I don’t believe you anymore!!!! Elizabeth especially has to potty as least three times every night after she is in bed. It’s slowly getting better thank goodness.

Until next time…

We have a lot more to update on and I hope to get on here again soon if my laptop cooperates.

Love to all ~ Amy-Jo

Halloween 2011

2011-11-29T22:58:00.001-06:00

The kids were more in to Halloween this year and it was a lot of fun. We had fun with our dress up clothes and costumes before the big day. My Nana was here helping out on the big day to enjoy the fun with the kids.

Madison trying on some dress up…she is still so tiny!

Practicing for the big day, gorgeous girls.

Logan loves hats and the girls wanted to share, sorry buddy.

Madison loves the Cinderella dress. Elizabeth as Ariel, and Logan just being his handsome self.

Pumpkin carving time!!! This year they did not cry…woohoo!

Sharing my favorite part with my favorite girls, gooey fun!

Lizy scraping out the guts…girl has some talent already.

Snow White (Mommy’s favorite) and Princess Aurora, love their faces and the happiness here.

The cutest Thomas I ever did see.

The final decision…trick or treat time.

We have been extremely busy lately and time seems to just pass us by. I have so much to update on and hope (crossing my fingers) to have another post this week.

Loves ~ Amy-Jo

The perfect little zoo

2011-10-10T22:38:00.003-05:00

We went to Michigan this past August, Brandon was there the first week and then back to work in Texas with the kids and I left to have fun. One of the first few days we were there we went to a little zoo in Birch Run, the perfect size for the kids with a lot more animals than we were expecting.

We are here!!!!

Logan my little stud, looking for all the animals.

Izzy, do you see it??

Moo Moooo, yep that’s pretty much what my kids say instead of cows, Logan is Mooing in this photo.

Madison is such an animal lover, with all of her little quirks it amazes me every time she is fearless about touching any animal. My children love animals and their sounds.

This gigantic rabbit freaked me out so I let Brandon handle it while Logan and I went a different way.

DUCKS!!!! According to the girls if it looks anything like a duck or a bird it is a duck 99% of the time.

I can just about read Madison's brain here…Mama how do I get down there…I need to be there now?!

Feeding the ducks, swans, geese, whatever is around…even a turtle that my girls loved.

Logan and Mimi feeding away, Logan was throwing the food in like a pro.

He reminds me of Mr. Ed, Wilbuuurrr.

This beautiful tiger woke up as our children were approaching…imagine that! They now know officially what a tiger sounds like and they practice every single day.

Hey there Mr Tiger, wanna play? Logan loves all animals and is so excited with every new one he sees.

The girls were not the happiest being pulled away from feeding the deer, something Brandon and I took for granted growing up in Michigan.

Algigacors, yep honey those are algigacors.

Not sure if Logan is amused or unsure of his surroundings here

The girls wanted to go in with the turtles, sweet girls loving on everyone and every thing.

Feeding time

Feeding and then … sanitizing!!!

Go Lizy go…

Madi Belle would sit on a swing all day if you let her and she had a professional pusher.

Back at Mimi and Papa No-no’s house having fun

Mimi cleaning the water table, thanks Mimi!

Water fun!

Love to all ~ Amy-Jo

A long long time ago…

2011-09-24T19:34:00.001-05:00

……we would update frequently on this thing we call a blog. Yes we have been horrible or I have been horrible as Brandon is refusing to write another blog post. There is a lot to update on however here are a few photos for now.

The girls LOVE dressing up and here is one of Elizabeth in a favorite.

My talented Logan…he loves any music

So do the girls…

Our family piano band, music to my ears.

Typical everyday morning, they just wait to be changed…potty training soon to come.

This was a movie morning when Mommy was not feeling so well, just love looking at my beautiful babies.

Fourth of July! We love our outfits and are still wearing them, thank you so much 3 Little Monkeys!

Logan shirt is done by 3 Little Monkeys as well, we love our upcycled shirt!

If you know me you know how much Disney is a part of me and that I make sure my children know who Mickey is…Oh Toodles!

OHHH

Toodles….

Madison striking a pose, absolute crack up this day.

Lizy bear checking out the scene with our “Linus”.

Seriously Madison…

Will sleep anywhere!

Especially if Lizy is there and it is uber comfy

Go buggy go…

From way back in June when The Gerwer Quads came for a play date. Love them!

Love the lovin’ going on, you would have thought our kiddos were long lost high school BFF’s.

Until next time.

All our love ~ Amy-Jo

Rollin' With My Homies

2011-07-22T20:00:00.005-05:00

The Dirty South will never be the same after the Sweet Sixteen took to the streets!

Back Row: Jenn Suz Moni Amy Jo Sandra Charity Mari Kelly Gen

Front Row: Beth, Jenna Kami Casey Heather Jac Misty

Quad Mommas 2011 Shirts:

Front:

Back:

Our 3rd annual Quad mom trip was a blast and we are already planning QM 2012!

Our little man

2011-07-09T12:07:00.001-05:00

Since last November Brandon and I had been going back and forth with something we consider major regarding Logan. Is this going to help him or set him back even further? When Logan gets sick he always has a set back of a month and sometimes longer, last November after his adenoid surgery it was a lot longer. He lost two pounds which may not seem like much, however for someone that is down to 20 pounds and never gains it back it is huge. I have made myself absolutely sick with every possible positive and negative outcome with this scenario and Brandon and I decided in May we had no other choice but to have a Gastrostomy tube or g-tube placed in Logan for extra feeding.

I know I need to keep doing what is best for Logan but in the back of my mind as his Mom I think I will always have that what if thought. I HATE that he had a surgery, it kills me to think we put him through that. He was terrified of it at first when we started using it so much so I was ready to go back and have it removed. Logan has always been motivated and thrived so if it were to change that to me it would not be worth it. Thankfully he is better and likes to “help” hold the tube for his bolus feeds.

He has had to go back in once to have some granulation tissue removed, I am very thankful for a fellow Quad Mom Jamie Barnes that has helped to put me at ease and walk me through my fears.

June 2nd he had the surgery and had a very rough recovery, poor little man had a bad day from the start with the IV attempts. They ended up putting in his IV after his happy medicine and laugh gas, we never have an easy time with his veins but he fought that morning just a little extra. When Logan is not happy the entire building will be sure to know and they did as soon as he woke up, his IV was infiltrated which did not help and starting a new one was a fun task for everyone involved. We felt bad for all the nurses because any time someone in blue came near him he would freak out and even though his nurse we had after we were in the room was AMAZING he was terrified of her……………We interrupt this Amy-Jo post for the below BRANDON POST. That’s right I am back off my self imposed hiatus to finish this blog which has been over a month in the making. I stayed with Mr. Logan in the hospital, and I’m thankful it was me and not AJ. See here is the thing, he HATES having is Blood Pressure checked and for those who have been in the hospital over night this happens every 4 hours. Well unless I’m there for you, after the 8 PM check (which was 30 min after he fell asleep for the first time) and he threw up all over the bed, me and the nurse, I put an end to the little routine checks. See the thing is no Doc or Nurse has EVER got his BP, so waking him up (which you do not do, ever) and then trying is just a dumb a$$ idea. I told the nurse I would see her in the AM and she is not to come back unless I call for her. That’s how you get a solid 8 hours sleep in a hospital, so the nurses hate me I got to sleep.

Flash forward to present day (July 7th) and we have a very nice reminder as to why we got the G-Tube. All three kids and AJ are sick, I mean crazy stupid high fever sick. I mean its 100+ outside and the whole house is inside with cold/cough/fever’s, what gives? But anyway in the past this is when Logan’s stubbornness he gets from his mother kicks in and he decides not to eat or take any meds. But AHHA! we have our secret weapon and it has been AWSOME!!!! Food, check. Medicine on command, check. We probably needed this little reminder as to why we had him get the G-Tube but its been great. Hopefully, he will continue to thrive and with the extra calories begin to gain some weight.

The rest of the crew is doing well and maybe AJ will guilt me into another blog to catch up on the other happenings in the Sather home. I meant with three 2 year olds it has been soooooo boring. I’ll just leave you with this little tease, when a two year old says “faker” it can only be blogging gold.

Here are some photos in case you are curious.

Bright and early in the morning, Logan was not so happy to be woken up until my phone came out, smile for momma.

Every nurse was in awe of Logan so far, they had yet to hear his screams. I love my happy little man, so does Daddy.

Happy juice, Logan was talking to the fish on the ceiling and who knows what else, they need to hand this out to parents for their children to get through the rough days ;-).

Recovery for Logan was not so great he wanted to turn blue on us a few times which is actually normal for us. The surgery went well, the IV was infiltrated and this is Logan on a lot of pain meds waiting for a second IV to be placed…FUN, not so much.

Poor buggy, breaking my heart looking back through these. I took photos so the grandparents can see what is going on because they are all far away. Logan wanted to switch between Brandon and I about every 45 minutes.

Finally in Logans room he is calm until anyone in blue walks in, I think nurses need to wear fun colors from now on. It was already a very long day and not even half over.

A glimpse of his “new tummy” that is how we chose to tell the girls about it and why they have to be extra careful.

Time with Daddy, I could watch Logan relax and sleep all day long, all of my children…just precious.

There is that darn new IV that still gave him problems…GRRR!!!!

The start of the nasty granulation tissue we had to have removed. The surgeon told me if it continues to reoccur I will be removing it, umm no thank you I will be more than happy to drive to your office. I removed some dead skin after the fact and that was enough. Logan screamed louder than ever in that office and I cannot do that to him.

This is nothing compared to what the surgeon removed, this is just after the fact…yuck. Oh yeah I did have to share.

Loves! The Sather Family

Happy Father's Day Brandon

2011-06-19T11:34:00.001-05:00

The song does not fit our children, however it was the best I could do early in the morning.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

The bunny did show up

2011-05-29T23:57:00.001-05:00

…a long time ago.

We are having too much fun lately and getting so far behind on our blog. We colored eggs this year after I double protected the island from the dye and triple checked it after that. I’m not sure if I had more fun or the babies.

The Easter bunny showed up with baskets full of goodies, too much candy, and even more that he told me to keep hidden for the rainy days he must have known were headed our way.

There is so much to catch up on so please start bugging Brandon for one of his infamous posts. In the meantime enjoy the photos.

I was so proud of my chaotic organization before the little ones and Brandon came into the room.

Egg coloring fun

Logan getting in on the action.

I got this daddy.

Momma teaching Madison what to do.

I think there is a drop on me!!! NOOOOO!

Easter Bunny leaves the goodies. (Note to bunny: get bigger baskets(

Can YOU find the eggs?

She loves the camera.

Which to eat first? Decisions, decisions…

One good looking boy.

Logan digging in…chalk or candy, bring on the chocolate

The girls LOVE these glasses and wear them out. Madison has already broken both blue pair.

This is as true as it gets of every day life.

Logan the Great Egg Hunter

All morning we heard “I found egg”

Love this concentration face, just precious.

Taken with my phone however I love that you can see Madison won, Elizabeth just gave in.

One of the most beautiful bunnies.

Outside with Daddy using the picnic table I (Amy-Jo) grew up with. My Dad refinished this for our children, so special.

Let’s color the paper Logan not our teeth.

The best part of the day is after dinner, the girls chant for…

YOGURT!!!!!!

Here are the phases of Madison eating her yogurt, spoon uh oh all gone…

maybe if I just start licking the bowl and clean Elmo…

got it, how’s that Mama?

Elizabeth making sure she doesn’t get too dirty and at the same time not leaving a drop behind.

Gotcha, I knew you were hiding down there!

Logan after Daddy finished, just whisper the word yogurt in his ear and he gets so excited.

Love to all ~ Amy-Jo

Pool Time in April, New Phone for Mama

2011-05-10T21:06:00.001-05:00

Before the nasty weather hit in April we had our small pool up enjoying the beautiful weather. I even was brave and took the kids in it by myself, something I thought I would not do for years. We found the perfect pool for our yard and to fit Logan’s bath chair, the girls, as well as Brandon and myself. All three kids love being in the water so let’s pray the weather starts cooperating soon so we can get back out there.

The bad part of this day, April 18th, is as I was throwing anything I could find for the girls to play with in the pool I somehow picked up my phone and threw it in as well!!! I wish I could have seen myself react to hearing the phone hit the water. I felt my heart drop to the ground and I swear I never moved so quickly in my life. I tried for a day and a half to revive my poor helpless phone with no success and was very lucky to have Brandon’s plan be up for a renewal so I could get a new iPhone. I need to say one more time – THANK YOU so very much Brandon. I still feel so bad for not thinking or realizing what was going on.

Now that I have that off my chest here are the photos from the pool day, not the greatest pictures, but still proof we were in the water.

Madison getting used to the water

Logan so happy to have his bath chair in the water

I’m thinking the girls enjoyed the pool A LOT

Go Logan Go…

The girls were terrifying me with trying to swim under the water, not so funny to Mama.

Here I go again Mommy….weeeeee

Lots of love ~ Amy-Jo

Return of the Blog Slacker

2011-05-05T00:30:00.001-05:00

It was almost three months ago that our little ones turned TWO so we decided it was time for that final birthday post. Since we did not do a party this year our wonderful neighbors came over to help us celebrate on Sunday with an ice cream cake and to open presents.

Uncle Jon and Aunt Debie with Logan and The Blue

We had to have Elmo balloons, they were not afraid this year.

If you look closely you can see Logan and Elizabeth contemplating their take over.

Logan kisses are the BEST!

Mama and my mini me

Debie and I, miss you and love you!

Our big girl Madi Belle, she loved her ice cream cake

Logan was in heaven, YUMMM

Loving those baby blues

Lizy Bear making sure it’s not going to jump out at her

Just a second Mama, one more bite…

Logan – DONE, Lizy – is not such a big fan of the ice cream cake

I got this Mama

ELMO!!!

Finally they were allowed to open gifts

Every gift and card received this much concentration, so sweet

Logan loving his manly truck

Elmo phones that say their names, not sure if this was smart of us or not…still debating three months later

Uncle Jon hiding Elmo otherwise the day was over

The girls love to open clothes and toys of course :)

Reading our cards

Pretty sure the girls read their cards for and hour, I make a big deal about cards and read each one to them. It does help they had a few that sang and made noise.

Even Uncle Jon loves Elmo…

Another gift from Oma and Opa that is now outside

I already have another post in the works so plan on it soon.

Lots of love ~ Amy-Jo

Happy St. Patrick’s Day…a bit late

2011-03-17T22:26:00.001-05:00

The kids were not so cooperative today so this post is a tad late. More updates to come soon. Here were all are in our green and our part Irish selves.

Sick little dude finally feeling better.

They are turning into little divas…sorry Brandon Elizabeth is pulling away from sports for a while.

Hmmm, what should I do with this, maybe I will nap on it.

A D O R A B L E !!!!!!

No sissy let me do it!

Come Blue everyone has to wear it…

Love to all ~ Amy-Jo

Madi and Logan and Lizy OH MY!!!

2011-02-25T10:42:00.001-06:00

With reinforcements visiting we finally made it to the Dallas Zoo. We started off the morning a little late as we decided to change up how we were going to transport the children around all day. Brandon and my brother Jon took apart two of the choo-choo wagons to fit into my vehicle (I need a mini-van badly) and we threw in a stroller for Logan. Logan is able to nap if needed in the stroller, however next time we need a better plan for the girls. Since we took the wheels off the choo-choo wagon and had to put it together once we arrived the front wagon was not too happy with us and kept coming apart. My big toe has a scar to remember the occasion forever, thankfully Brandon and Jon had on shoes that were able to help the situation.

Thank you Jon and Debie for taking your camera and for all the great pictures from our day and the weekend, I love them all.

Logan at the beginning of the day full of energy.

The girls were interested in every animal. They were all adorable in their birthday shirts – THANK you Auntie Casey and Designed for Babies.

In the Children’s Zoo we saw FEEEEEEEEEESH!!! That would be fish according to Madison Isabelle. Below Me with Madison, Uncle Jon with Elizabeth, and Brandon with Logan.

“Uncle Jon should I jump or not?”

Madison and Mama, we are either Moooooooing at a Rabbit or Whooooing because we looked up and saw an Owl.

Lizy in awe of the beautiful pony, my goodness Lizy Bear you are getting more beautiful by the second!

And I’m pretty sure Madison’s new obsession is going to be pigs, after I made her leave the ducks she literally drug me back to the piggies – the girls knows what she loves.

The piggies would not move I doubt they would bite…

Lunch break, Uncle Jon entertaining Logan so I could scarf down some very “healthy” nachos.

I wanted to take this little guy home with me, what is one more monkey around the house right?

Madison wanted to see the bigger “Ah Ah’s” what the girls call Monkeys.

I want that one Mama.

Freedom, the girls loved running around all day and I still cannot believe I let them and did not have a panic attack.

Madison found the bigger Ah Ah with Brandon

I love this picture of Brandon and his mini me.

Let me warn you, never stand too close to the rear of a Rhino, when they “relieve” themselves it is stronger than a fire hose!

It’s diaper changing time, how fun!

This does look like he was staring right at Debie for the perfect shot, watch out Jon someone has a secret admirer.

Such beautiful animals…thank you again Debie for all the pictures, love you!

We all had a blast and stayed as long as the little ones would allow. I think they did amazing for their first visit and we do plan on venturing back often as well and many other places this year. One more birthday post coming.

Love ~ Amy-Jo

We made it to TWO!

2011-02-22T19:24:00.000-06:00

Our adventure started over two and a half years ago, here is the link to our first post with the first pictures we have of our precious Miracles Welcome to our Blog.

Two years ago we were here…

Logan, my sweet handsome little man

Our little sweet Lizy Bear

Miss little-bit Madi Belle

Two years later we are chasing after our little 3 pounders still trying to get them to grow.

Time flies when you’re changing lots of poopy diapers, err I mean having fun. This post is a few days late as our Amazingly Gorgeous MIRACLES turned Two last Friday February 18, 2011. My brother Jonathon and his fiancée Debie flew in to spend the fun filled weekend with us. We did not have a party this year since at least one of the babies have been sick since Christmas, hopefully I will be over this fear next year.

On their actual birthday we had a busy morning here, Uncle Jon and Aunt Debie flew in and thankfully we had a low key rest of the day. Playing in the sand/water table was the hit of the afternoon along with the girls favorite pizza - the cupcakes this slacker Mom gave the kiddos were not with the little ones. It was wonderfully celebrating with family!

Happy Birthday!!!!

He just melts my heart all day long…

YUMMMM

They really do love each other so very much

Uncle Jon and Aunt Debie –we MISS YOU!!!!!!

Madison is the only child that wanted to cupcakes, our best eater believe it or not.

This is a the Lizy face

How you doin’?

More to come from the weekend, I will try not to overload y’all with too many pictures at once.

Love to you all!!!! Amy-Jo

Valentines-Kansas-Updates

2011-02-16T21:43:00.002-06:00

Let’s start with a belated Happy Valentines Day! I am so blessed to have the most wonderful Valentines that no matter how frustrated they make me keep me smiling and my heart happy.

Lizy Bear

Madi Belle

Mr. Handsome

Logan had his regular follow up with his developmental pediatrician and we are more than ecstatic to be able to say he is showing improvement! Just typing this brings tears to my eyes, Miss Holly saw all of our babies starting in the NICU and still follows Logan today said this is normally when she stops charting progress with age when she has patients with Cerebral Palsy such as Logan does. We still are not able to determine the type of CP Logan has and they most likely will not give us a “type” until he is around 4 years old. Just the fact that she is so happy and proud of his progress and determination makes this Mama more proud of him than I could ever be and I have been so proud since I knew I was pregnant. I love all Four of my children more than words could ever describe, Logan wants to be like his sisters and they take care of him and entertain him day in and day out.

Here are his developmental level results:

Gross Motor: 7-8 Months

Fine Motor: 17 Months

Receptive Language: 13 Months

Expressive Language: 13 Months

A big change from six months ago, we have never shared these results before however for our family and close friends to know the progress we feel it is important.

August 2010 developmental level results:

Gross Motor: 6 Months

Fine Motor: 12 Months

Receptive Language: 9 Months

Expressive Language: 9 Months

The end of January we ventured to Kansas with most of my Quad Momma Besties thanks to Billy Graf. Billy is such an amazing husband, he planned a surprise party inviting all of us and our husbands for the gorgeous Moni!! We had such a great time over the weekend, there never is enough time together. I love you all so very much!

Waiting for the birthday girl and Billy with our hubbys…I can still feel the excitement!

All of us with Moni…out of 16 we were only missing 3 Mommas.

This is what happens when the girls do not want to sleep and they have their Daddy wrapped around their little fingers.

Hehehe…we did it Izzy (Madison calls Elizabeth this).

Blocks are a favorite right now so I hide them until they or I am ready for my feet to hurt.

Cheeeeeeese, I did it Mama!

Logan helping Daddy build-do not get in Daddys way he is worse than an almost two year old!!!!

With the cold weather and snow we had we did not leave the house for over a week so the girls came up with new things to do besides just destroy every room.

Picnic with some night time animals

I’m ready for the sand, where is the warm weather…we live in Texas right?

Elizabeth had been fighting naps and night time for a while. This is an exhausted Lizy after a fight and making herself sick in time-out falling asleep.

Mama felt bad so she got to sleep in our room. She is so sweet and precious even when she is fighting us.

Play time while sissy sleeps!

Kisses brother…xoxoxo

Elizabeth, what are you doing with Logans shoe?

New snack container, not only that she is also using socks.

Love to you all ~ Amy-Jo

Growing and eating…

2011-01-22T20:36:00.001-06:00

Time is going by too fast, in less than one month my little 3lb babies are going to be TWO years old – I cannot believe it TWO! Where has time gone? I’m not going to lie there are plenty of days I want to go by just a little faster so I have Brandon home to help wrangle the kids or to go to the bathroom alone. At the same time I wish there was a way to keep them little just a bit longer, we are so lucky to have been blessed with our children even though we may get frustrated some days we love them more than anything.

Since the girls were sick their eating habits have been very off kilter to say the least. Finally in the last couple days they have gotten an appetite back. Little bit aka Madison eats a lot and will not gain an ounce. Elizabeth will eat fruit mainly and stay at a great weight, where as Logan has been refusing to eat some days. If anyone has some quick easy suggestions for the girls that would be great – I like to try new things when I can tell they are up for it. Logan is still on a thickened bottle and stage two baby food, he will not eat pureed foods that we eat – ABSOLUTELY refuses them. We are starting a new feeding therapy to see if anything changes and looking into other possible options for him.

My Dad refinished this picnic table I had as a child for our children, oh the memories I have throwing mashed potatoes at the tree.

Snack time with none other than Elmo in our Elmo shirts.

Elizabeth gives a fake smile as I disturb her eating time.

Alright Mama, I rolled over for the picture…big smile and play time again. Logan gets more handsome by the second.

I guarantee Madison was up to something here, those eyes say it all. She will also lay down anywhere to relax.

Love that bed head Madi Belle!

No fair Mama, my hair is not ready! Their hair was the worst we have seen this particular morning.

During Logan’s PT, his therapist is holding him up. Elizabeth holds his hand while Bobbie moves his legs – so sweet, we try to get Madison to hold his other hand but she likes to walk very fast.

I can see the love here…melt my heart!

Pillow Pets, they love these although I am cautious with them and Logan spitting up near them.

Dance Logan Dance…

I took way too many pictures and the girls were very annoyed by the end…too bad girlies that is what this Mama does. Love you!

Loves! ~ Amy-Jo

Snow 2011

2011-01-18T19:55:00.002-06:00

Since we are from Michigan I look forward to at least one snow fall a year down here, I’m not sure that Brandon does however. I was so excited I even took Madison outside although she had been sick with a stomach bug the day before – she had to experience it right in some way. Logan napped for three hours that day and when Logan naps we do not disturb him so unfortunately he did not go outside to see snow this year. As soon as we stepped outside my camera battery died – seriously! I was mad to put it nicely and looked all over the house for my itouch and was ready to snap anything and everything in sight.

I couldn’t wait to get the kids out there, however we waited for the snow to stop first.

Seems odd to see snow with leaves

If Mommy puts another layer on me I may fall over, three layers on top, and a couple under the jeans.

Madison was not pleased and would not leave my side.

Maybe I’m not ready for this white stuff after all - Elizabeth

Get me out of here…NOW!

I got this Momma…no worries.

I’m not sure if Brandon wanted to play in the snow or Elizabeth.

Daddy is going crazy making this big thing, what is he doing, it’s bigger than me!

Brandon with the girls as I get ready to take Madison inside for good *there were many trips inside before this*

I pleaded for a smile instead of tears, one picture of about twenty came through for me…thank you Madi Belle.

Elizabeth and Daddy with partial snowman

They really are buddies and more alike than either of us like to admit, it is scary.

My little bear is growing up way too fast, she looks like a big girl here and not at all like a baby.

I like this snow Momma, lets play more…

Brandon teaching Elizabeth what a snowball is and what to do when you have one.

Here ya go Lizy, it’s not yellow you can eat it…

Brandon did try to get Elizabeth to eat snow with no luck. She was a little grossed out and still has major texture issues. She did stay outside for a lot longer than I or Brandon thought she would and wasn’t ready to come in. I think she would be okay with us living in a northern state – not that that is going to be happening family – just that she enjoys the snow and different seasons.

As I said earlier Madison had a stomach bug that was passed on to Elizabeth and then to me, it was HORRIBLE. Brandon missed 1.5 days of work to help me because I just could not get out of bed. Thank you Brandon for staying here to take care of the kiddos. We are so thankful Logan nor Brandon had this and we also tried to keep Logan as far away from the girls and I as possible. As of yesterday we are all 100% better or bebber as the girls like to say. Keeping the germs away as much as possible.

We are now dealing with after sickness sleeping routines with the girls that I may be begging readers for help with very soon.

I have made a promise to myself and I am writing it on here as well so I hope you will keep me to this that I update on our kids at least once a week whether it is pictures, a quick update on our household, something funny one of the kids did, or a long post just to keep the family and friends updated on happenings.

until next time…Love to you all!

~Amy-Jo

Christmas 2010

2011-01-01T10:44:00.001-06:00

We made it through another Christmas, hard to believe. My parents were here which made it easier for Brandon and I to finish up last minute details. No pictures of my Mom because she and Logan were both sick during the holiday, yuck yuck.

Instead of seeing Santa we rode the train in the Safari store, thank you Grandpa and Grammie! There was no way our kids would have held up in a hour long line and been alright sitting with a stranger.

*Brandon comment - for those who say these pictures are not “centered” or “good” you try taking pictures of a train moving around a 10 foot circle at 100 mph. Not as easy as it sounds.

Christmas Eve, this is the best we could get of all three together for a couple days…Santa is about to come but first Christmas Eve gifts just like we were in Michigan.

*Brandon comment – Below picture allowed under extreme protest.

Baby, baby, baby…

Big Foot is sooo cool! The girls do not like him but Logan LOVES him oh and so does Brandon.

*Brandon Comment – This is by far the best gift I, errr I mean Logan received. This thing is cool, too bad the girls do not like him.

CHEEEEESEEEE

Chuck the talking truck…seriously awesome, I want to be a little boy!

Merry Christmas Santa came, 7 people and gifts from Michigan and beyond = opening gifts all day long. The kids loved it and wanted to stop and play after 5 seconds.

Elizabeth was set with her stroller and baby.

Madison and baby, so sweet

Logan driving away with the wrapping paper still on

My babies, growing up so fast

Sock Monkeys, we love these, or per the girls ah ahs, they will not say monkey they call every monkey ah ah-so stinkin cute.

Elizabeth lounging in her Michigan chair after nap

Animal sound puzzle…mooooooooo

*Brandon comment – Pretty sure she has the cat, which apparently looks more like a cow then a dog or duck, because she is making it moooo. Seriously I love the three category animals, I plan on never correcting this.

Jammies!!!! Something we love in our house.

More jammies, it makes me so happy they get as excited about clothes and pjs as I do.

The perfect trike/bike for Logan – he loves it already

Yes, Madison Isabelle is kissing every single Elmo on those pjs!

Thank you Great Grandma Begley for our Cozy Coupes

*Brandon Comment – I love the Cozy Coupes, but Grandpa and I agree the engineer behind building them needs a swift kick in the pants. You know who you are and you’re on my list.

Logan has a new favorite spot :o). Seriously he loved being in there, the girls wanted brother out though.

Freedom

All bundled up Christmas night to check out the new playhouse with Grandpa Tomlinson, thanks Grandpa and Grammie…so much fun!

Love to you all. Happy New Year!

~ Amy-Jo

Gobble Gobble 2010

2010-12-13T20:59:00.001-06:00

Since Thanksgiving was two and a half weeks ago I thought I should share in our day. We spent the day at home as a family, as usual I made way too much food – I actually love to cook when I get the chance. The girls chose to not eat a thing with the exception of rolls. Logan loved mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, and pumpkin pie as that is all he was able to eat before we pureed it for him. Unfortunately, we did find out the hard way something in the pumpkin pie does NOT like him. I felt so bad so I am steering clear of all the spices I used for a while as pumpkin has always been fine-poor little man.

Enjoy the pictures!

Thanksgiving Day, Elizabeth was not camera happy at all.

Madison Isabelle – she is the sweetest little thing.

Getting prepared to eat, or not eat in the case of the girls.

My handsome little man, love him to pieces!

Elmo, thank you Elmo for helping us clean up.

I beg every year to put the Christmas tree and Christmas lights up before Thanksgiving since I do not get my way it happens in the cold. The girls think the deer are cows and Brandon loves it so they are mooing here.

Logan helping out and laughing at the girls.

Come on Daddy there’s a lot more to do.

Hi ho hi ho, it’s off to help we go…

The girls LOVE the Christmas tree and wanted to be as close as I will allow.

Love to you all!!!! – Amy-Jo

love

2010-11-24T08:52:00.001-06:00

Say Cheeseburgaler….

2010-11-20T10:34:00.001-06:00

That is what I say to my not so little babies for a smile these days and get those oh so cute and crazy grins.

A few weeks back we had family photos taken by Sarah with Sarah Toth Photography – one of the most AMAZING people you will ever meet. I am so thankful Casey introduced me to her while I was pregnant because one she really is the sweetest and two I love love love the photos she captured of our family. Not many people can get our girls to look in the same direction or even be happy or content at the same time these days.

It is so hard to choose from the photos of the kids, they show their true personalities in every last one. Did I mention how great and wonderful these pictures and Sarah are???

Thank you so much Sarah!

~Amy-Jo

Our little piggies

2010-11-07T22:39:00.001-06:00

We were not able to get many pictures from Halloween itself of the kids especially Logan as he was not too fond of the day itself. Here is an overload of our piggies and the days leading up to Halloween. I’m headed to bed and will let Brandon add captions.

“Evil laugh” All I need now is the kitchen sink and my evil plan will be complete, ooohahahaha!

Logan doing some crunches…1001, 1002, 1003…..Adrian!!!!

Lizy looking calm for the moment.

Man those girls are cute!

She’s trying to get in touch with the E-trade baby for some stock advice, from her cubical.

Hi mommy, just getting some work done.

Time for break and a little light reading.

I’m cute and I know it!

Now leaving me alone, do I bother you on your thrown????

The great Elmo duel is about to begin.

But not before they make themselves an audience.

We gave up trying to have them sit for pictures, we decided to start gluing them to the wood floors.

Dressed for success.

Madi Belle getting brave and actually touching pumpkin.

Lizy, well, um, ya not so much. She would have run further if we didn’t lock her in the kitchen.

Logan is ready for his turn.

You missed some mamma.

AWWWWWW! What great reaction time from the greatest photographer in the world. (sound of patting on back)

Okay but mamma you still missed some.

Sharing is great!

This one is more my size.

NOOOOOO! Logan’s don’t like getting messy!

Stop that piggy!

Nice Tail.

I hated the idea of these costumes, but I’ll be the first to admit they were pretty darn cute.

CANDY!

Logan pretty much agreed with me on the costumes.

He eventually calmed down.

And we are off. 5 minutes later we returned. Longest 5 minutes of my life.

We made it to the pumpkin patch

2010-10-29T09:21:00.002-05:00

So many things have prevented us from taking the kids to a pumpkin patch or farm this year. Elizabeth and Logan had croup, nasty weather, Brandon and I were sick, the list goes on however we finally made it last weekend and we're so happy we did.

The kids liked the animals as long as they were not too close to them. Surprisingly Logan was the least excited and the most terrified.

DADDY, get that thing away now!!!

Umm, Daddy I want back in my safe car here.

Just looking over I could see the kids eyes says please no Mommy.

I don’t know much about animals but I have a bond with this one and anyone that knows my family knows Onyx and this little buddy reminds me so much of Onyx I could have just cuddled him all day. He just fits :).

We were entertainment and many children tried to get into the choo choo, very funny.

It was very nice of someone to offer to take a picture of all of us, I had barely sat down so this is what you get.

Maybe they won’t see if I run this back to the car, just maybe

Madison checking out other pumpkins getting ready to leave the boys hanging.

Maybe, hmm no, well lets look over there

Refreshment time

Here Sissy, said in the sweetest Lizy voice ever.

Boys together again

If there is a baby around we will never get a good picture of Elizabeth or Madison all we here is “baby, baby”. Yes Lizy that is a baby please look at Mommy for just a second sweetie.

Yes Madison that is the same baby Lizy was talking about…

Yes girls there are a million different babies in the world and you can show me all of them I promise if you just look at Mommy for one picture PLEASE!

Even Logan was checking out the baby, Mommy did not win on this mission.

Ok I’ll smile for you now

Madison learning a new way into the choo choo

It’s a little bumpier sitting where your feet go but het if it works and she is happy I am all for it.

Love to all! Amy-Jo

I turned 30, what!

2010-10-17T13:05:00.001-05:00

A couple months back I turned 30, my body feels a lot older than that lately. Brandon invited friends to Pete’s Piano Bar for the evening and we had a fabulous time celebrating with everyone. Of course I forgot my camera and the pictures we have did not turn out. Thank you to everyone you came out that night.

In the mail I received a beautiful gift from some amazing friends and I wanted to share it with you all. Thank you Sandra and Casey, I love you so much and think of you every time I wear this necklace.

Loves – Amy-Jo

I knew something was up

2010-10-15T11:17:00.001-05:00

Whenever we change Logans diaper he always does what I call his crunch a munch. Boy has abs that I can only dream of having some day and probably never will unless my muscles somehow go back together perfectly. He is always looking down to see what we are doing and watching us change his diaper, to me it is strange, the girls could care less and just want a book to play with. Well, yesterday I figured out why or at least maybe why. I put Logan down to get his bottle come back to a laughing little man and half his diaper is undone! I know it was him because the girls were in the foyer playing the entire time. Oh goodness me.

Not even thinking to take a picture, just wanting to make sure he did not pee on my freshly cleaned carpets I did it back up and then ran for the camera to capture him still laughing for the longest time.

Still going…

Madison joining in along with her cheeser smile

Elizabeth not putting her milk down in case Mommy takes it

Wait, what’s that, yes seriously giggle machine is still there!

Seriously Mama, more Lizy and less Logan

Logans new favorite game, inside the bucket

Crunch a munch time!

Log loves it when the girls join in or bang on the bucket, better puking in the bucket thank on the carpet :).

Going through the pictures I went back to last year, WOW is all I can say. It is crazy how different life is in just one year.

Let alone TWO years, I was 13 weeks pregnant in the picture, I remember I started showing at 8, yes EIGHT weeks and had to start buying maternity clothes.

Love to you all and prayers to the many families and friends that need them right now.

Amy-Jo

Water fun!

2010-09-29T15:10:00.001-05:00

Labor Day weekend the kids had some fun outside in the little pool and water table. Unfortunately we only have pictures of Logan and Elizabeth as Madison was not in the best mood and decided to nap instead. Have fun and enjoy the pictures.

Logan splashing Lizy Bear

I had a blast with the kids and I’m think they did too, Logan was laughing the entire time. A great work out for me!

Let’s go again Mama!

Elizabeth became brave and walked back and forth on the grass numerous times, this is a huge step for her and her sensory issues. Still each time she thought really hard about “helping” us clean.

I think I’m going to stay at the water table for a while, I’m safer here Daddy.

Oh my beautiful girl, Mommy love you so much!

Let me in they are tricking me out here…NO MORE GRASS!!!!

Hehehe, all to myself, well and Mama of course.

Love you little man and your determined little self.

Next time there will be more pictures and Madison will be included.

Loves! Amy-Jo

So far behind…

2010-09-26T10:35:00.002-05:00

Since the kids are now 19 months I thought it was time for their 18 month post. We have been terrible at keeping the blog updated lately so I will put as many pictures in as you can handle. August is always a busy month for us and it has not stopped since.

August 19th we had their 18 month checkup. Everyone is doing great and on their own curves growth wise, below were their stats they have changed since.

Logan

Weight: 19.6 lbs

Height: 30.5 in

Elizabeth

Weight: 23.8 lbs

Height: 34 in

Madison

Weight: 19.2 lbs

Height: 32 in

We also had their Developmental Pedi visit-the last for the girls. The drive there was probably my worst drive with the kids. Its close to a 45min drive with a little traffic, add in an accident, construction, and rush hour and boy oh boy. When we were 10 minutes away Elizabeth got sick so much so that I quickly exited the tollway and pulled into the first drive I passed. Poor sweet Bear had her breakfast everywhere and I tried to clean her up the best I could with what I had as people are walking by on their way to work listening to Lizy and Madi scream. Once we arrived at the office Brandon was there to help and took all the kids up while I had the fun job of cleaning the car.

The appointment went well and the girls are ahead of their age on some things and right at 18 month in others. Logan is behind as expected and they are very happy with the progress they are seeing. The Developmental Pedi is the only place we go that does not phase the girls, they talk and play as if we were at home alone.

Logan had his evaluation with ECI as well and they are continuing with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. The girls were also evaluated and are getting speech therapy because they were both wanting to sign instead of talk and they have sensory issues, Elizabeth more so than Madison. The speech is great when it is just me here, when the therapist is here Elizabeth will not talk at all. Both girls are still not liking to get dirty, Madison is getting better and warms up to the idea of touching different textures after a while. Elizabeth is a completely different story, she will not even walk near the tub of rice or touch pasta.

It is all a work in progress and one I am more than happy to do. I cannot believe how big the babies are, they don't seem like babies to me at all. Below are some pictures until next time, I cannot believe I am putting up the pictures of me but this is a blog for our children and they are memories…no judgments please. Captions provided by Brandon.

If she were only this sweet all the time.

They only look innocent.

Girls playing at Gymboree trial class.

I was just watching mama, I promise.

This time Madi did it mama.

Go ahead, try and tell her no. Impossible.

I think Blue helped Logan take this picture, nice work boys.

Madison in her comfort “spot”. When she starts to cry we put her in the corner of the couch and she usually stops. As I type this she is being put in her “spot”. She spends a lot of time in her “spot”.

Logan napping in daddy’s spot, don’t get to comfortable there boy!

Learning to write using the magna doodle.

I wish I could say we staged this but the girls did this on their own, love those two crazy girls.

Apparently they both really, really did not want daddy, again on their own.

Her booty is so bony she needs extra padding to sit, eat something girl, eat!

We brought this down for Logan, the girls had other ideas. These toys should not be given to children who can climb, not safe.

I am starting to think she is just a big ham for the camera. Of course you would be too if you mom took 100 pictures…per day of you and your siblings. I think we have a picture of every outfit they have ever worn.

Please don’t take my toy Lizy, pretty please…..MAMA!

Lizy doing a stand up routine that has Madi and Logan rolling on the ground laughing.

Queen of the mountain, moments later Lizy knocked her off. Okay I don’t know if that happened for sure but based on a normal day I can assume that probably happened. Followed by a timeout and lots of crying.

Logan moving in for a smooch. The girls love giving Logan kisses, if he cries they run to him.

Lizy touching rice, not exactly excited about the idea.

Get me out of here!!!!!!

Please Mama they are coming for me let me out!

Such a big boy in his AFO’s!

Love to all – Amy-Jo

Where have we been…busy.

2010-09-04T12:37:00.000-05:00

Since today is a very important day and we have so much to catch up on I thought I would share a few of the 93 pictures I have taken since 8:30 this morning. Why is today so special…football season is here and Michigan plays in just a couple of hours! GO BLUE!!! Here are too many photos of the kids just this morning.

Love to all and I will try to get all the updates out soon. – Amy-Jo

I am now a little man Mama…

2010-08-01T10:21:00.001-05:00

Brandon has been on me for a very long time to get Logan a haircut, I just LOVE his curls and could not bring myself to do it. I finally agreed this weekend as we are constantly cleaning his hair from spit up or puke, plus his hair is caught in his bib every time we eat.

I had made the decision this past Wednesday however I told Brandon Saturday when I was completely sure I was going to be okay with it. I took A LOT of pictures, close to 70 of just him getting his hair cut. I won’t post all of them but here are a few. There are a few before pictures to show how long his hair was.

Happy Logan with all his gorgeous hair.

See Mama it’s ok, my hair is a mess

They even got to see the Logan pout…poor Mr. Man does not like the trimmer

I no longer have my baby boy, he is officially a little man.

Lizy look what they’re doing to brother

And it is official with certificate and all.

Love to all!

Amy-Jo

Where has the time gone?

2010-07-26T05:37:00.001-05:00

It has been a long time since a blog post and so much has changed I don't even know where to begin. I had this dream of doing a Quad Mom 2010 post with the girls I love so much, however that one will have to wait just a little longer.

This is my first time using Live Writer and who knows if I am doing it correctly. The pictures all have weird spacing but they are here for your viewing.

For now here are some pictures of the kiddos. It is 4am and I cannot find my connector for the camera so these are a little old. These are all before my trip in June and the kids have changed so much.

I can never get enough pictures of Logan sleeping, so peaceful.

On our way outside to the kiddie pool for the first time

It was more like a bath to them all, if we turned the tail sprayer on the girls freaked out.

Mommy, Daddy is more fun go away.

Elizabeth did not last nearly as long as Madison and Logan, here she is chillin in the shade.

Mean Mama is making Logan work to get to those toys, rolling mostly along with an army crawl.

I got him!

It wasn’t me it was her. I am pretty sure Lizy started this and ran when she heard me coming. Needless to say our wipes are now out of reach, these girls were taking brand new packages and rubbing them all over the floor!

Lizy going in for the kiss, she loves Logan so much.

Now both of them kissing Logan or their version giving a soft head butt.

Yes Mama, I am being a good girl for now…

My attempt a picture together, out of 27 this is the best I got.

The girls are so happy to be carrying anything around the house. I think here Madison was actually trying to lay down though,

Whenever the Belle is unhappy find Duckie and fast!

My attempt to make Logan very comfy in hopes for a nap.

Excuse us Mommy we are busy here…

And this time it worked!

Logan is still loving this toy and gets so excited when I bring it out, the girls love to tip it over and roll it around.

A normal look for Madi Belle, she concentrates on something before she gets it, too cute!

Alone time with Tommy in the ball pit hide out.

Lizy and her Glowy…she will play it and love on it with all her heart. It is so sweet to see she is not a destroyer of all things.

Bed, I’m not going to bed. Can’t you see I am busy here.

Our first trip to the big pool, not completely successful but after a while they were all happy. I was interrupting their snack and as you can see Madison was not happy about that.

Clay and Tori with their kids were a huge help. Logan with Clay and oh so happy.

They still do not understand this sit and spin, that may be because I hide it…no off button makes me go crazy sometimes.

Logan and I with our crazy hair.

Lizy trying to get away from us, she really looks like she is up to no good here.

Sister I love you. Such a great picture as most of the time it is not so sweet.

Logan rolling over, it is taking all his might but he can do it…

See Mama I told you I’m a big boy!

Logan and Tommy after a tired morning of therapy.

Should we…hmmm I’m not sure

Okay yes…cheese Mama!!

A new game of rocking in the chair, we can do it Madi…

Yay!!!

Love to all!

Amy-Jo

Holy Momcation!

2010-07-01T10:00:00.002-05:00

16 Best Friends

Front (left to right)

Kelly, Heather, Amy Jo, Misty, Casey, Beth, Mari

Back (left to right)

Charity, Suz, Sandra, Kami, Jenn, Jenna, Jac, Gen, & Moni

mom·ca·tion [mom-key-shuhn]

-noun

1. a period of suspension of all mommy duties,usually used for rest, recreation, or travel;recess or holiday: 16 moms of Quadruplets met in Austin, Texas for a 5 daymomcation.

a part of the year, regularly set aside, whennormal activities of wiping bottoms, administering time outs and referring to yourself in the third person are put aside

freedom or release from preschool activities

an act or instance of vacating with 15 best friends who are collectively called mom by 67 children

Quad Mommas 2010

We, as always, had the time of our lives and encourage all of you ladies to do the same. When you have unconditional friendships like these, life is so much sweeter. We can't wait for next year!

Just like Mommy

2010-06-16T07:02:00.001-05:00

When I was pregnant and in the hospital my Mom and I watched the Gilmore Girls series, every day. I have seen each episode a number of times and still watch it every single day. When the TV is on the kids normally don't pay any attention unless it is Mickey Mouse or Baby Einstein. They do however know when Gilmore Girls is on, Logan turns his head to see the television and the girls run in from where ever they were playing to dance to the theme song. They only watch during the theme song, too cute!

Just a quick video that I love, I think they remember the theme from the womb. From my camera so the quality is not that great.

Loves!

AJ

Bye bye germies!

2010-06-13T09:57:00.002-05:00

It has been way too long since the last post and so much has happened around here, some good some not so good. The not so good is all the germs and sickness since lockdown was over. Most of the pictures below were taken from my camera phone so they are not the best quality.

We never posted it but in late April Madison was sick with a virus, lasted a few days and then it was over, out first sick baby. At the ER with Daddy.

Our Belle didn't have any energy to play, sweet little girl.

In May Mimi, Brandons Mom visited and watched the kids while we got out a bit. They also loved the extra attention and being loved on even more than normal.

Mimi with Elizabeth and Logan during nap time, the day before Lizy got sick.

Just happens to be a picture of Madison I could throw in, so sweet. Madison wants a bottle so bad and she goes behind the chair, lays on a boppy and cries for it, she cannot decide between a sippy or a bottle.

Poor Elizabeth not feeling well. Not wanting to sleep in her crib I made her a bed on the couch.

Mama, enough with the pictures lets cuddle.

We took Lizy to the doctor after trying to control her temperature and she had hand, foot, mouth disease...sounds so nasty however we were thankful she had only the mouth (throat) spots. It took her two weeks to feel completely better, when Lizys not happy nobody is happy.

Elizabeth put blankets on the couch and climbed up to lay down. Our little sicky Bear.

Logan started to feel bad a week and a half ago. He wasn't eating well at all and had a high temperature for two days. Then he stopped eating all together and there were no wet diapers. I was on the phone with the pediatricians office a lot in a three day period. We went to the ER at a near by hospital Friday night and he received fluids and was sent home. Saturday he had one wet diaper that we were pretty sure was the fluids he had the night before. We were in constant contact with the pediatrician on call, tried to get Logan to take fluids through a syringe with no luck. After much debate we took him to Children's Hospital ER where he was admitted for dehydration. He had a viral infection (no idea where he got it), he refused a bottle or anything, which led to the dehydration.

Logan starting to feel bad, when he naps it is not a good thing. We always keep an extra eye on him because of his health issues and are very cautious of any change.

Friday night in the ER, poor sweet boy couldn't stay awake.

Saturday or Sunday 2 in the morning after too many IV attemps he had a ng tube placed for fluids and was so exhausted.

Us cuddling Sunday morning, I couldn't stand the thought of leaving him in the hospital. I did feel bad for Brandon though because my bed (couch) was much more comfortable than the one he slept on for 3 months while I was pregnant.

This is the first smile we had seen in days, it makes every day better.

Fighting the sleep. Logan slept for almost 3 days straight.

Our great friends Kris and Phill watched the girls while Logan was in the hospital so Brandon could visit us, I think they took advantage of them.

Bryan, Kris and Phills son, love him and those gorgeous eyes.

Auntie Kris, we love you!

Switch and our wonderful neighbors came to watch the girls for a few hours while Brandon was visiting and bringing me food at Children's Hospital.

Major, our neighbors Tori and Clays son. His eyes are beautiful, I would give him anything if he just gave me the stare.

Their daughter Alanna with the girls. They loved it and Brandon said they were wore out and slept great Sunday night.

More sleeping in his hospital crib that looks more like a cage.

Logan starting to feel better. He started drinking a bottle with milk and pedialyte and our little man was on his way back.

Miss Kaity watched the girls all day Monday and we cannot thank her enough. Monday evening Logan and I finally made it back home after I was reassured numerous times Logan would be fine by the nurse, doctor, and Brandon.

I missed my girls so much and I think they missed us too. As soon as the door opened they were waiting and smiling.

I wondering if Lizy is thinking, thank goodness Mama...Dada needs a break from us.

Logan wasn't himself still for a few more days and the girls just wanted to love on him. They try to "help" in any way. We have one bouncer in our house for anyone that comes to visit and unfortunately for Logan it is pink. This is how we got him to eat in the hospital so we tried it at home.

Kisses are huge in this house, Lizy loving on her big brother.

Many more posts to come soon!

Love to all - Amy-Jo

Morning out with Mama...

2010-05-12T13:07:00.001-05:00

This morning I had to run The Blue to the vet to be dropped of for tests, will let you know more when we do. While I was talking to the tech about The Blue (yes we actually do call him The Blue) outside next to the car a delivery guy was checking out the stroller hitched on back. He waited until Blue was inside and asked if the stroller just sits there and how it doesn't fall off. As I was telling him about the strap, my brain stopped and thought oh *!@* I didn't even put the strap over the stroller! Luckily the vet is only 5.6miles away and yes I did map it out. So now that the strap is secure and I no longer have the fear of what could have happened we were off.

This is the first time I have ever taken the kids with me to a store. We stopped by Starbucks, Mama needed her caffeine badly, and then on to Target. I was going in to return an item and thought about looking around. I found some storage containers I had been wanting and without a cart I scoop them up and carry all 3 under my arm. I little difficult yes, but I was not going to the front just to go back and remember what I had found. I did use a cart once I found one and pushed the stroller and pulled the cart, I was so proud I was doing this all by myself. While I was walking out of the store a woman said well if she can do that I can do anything...made me smile. I thought about taking them to lunch by myself and had to really think about it, in the end we had lunch at home. So this may have been a ramble however I wanted to make sure I had this on the blog for my kids to read when they are older. I did not get any pictures unfortunately.

Stroller on my car.

I tried to blur everything out here, see that black strap, that's what holds the stroller on and what I did not attach this morning. There are divots in the hitch for the wheels but one large bump and the runabout would have been gone.

I was able to capture pictures of Elizabeth Sage getting into the chair in stages this morning.

Now what's next on my list, lets try to go out head first!

Below are a few pictures from Mothers Day. It was so nice spending the day together, our big outing was to the grocery store and it was great, the kids were great, and Mama was happy.

Mama with all her babies even The Blue

One last thought, I highly recommend not wearing the Super Mom shirt out without at least one child. I had to run to the store and boy did I get A LOT of looks. Yes I saw and heard whispers as I would walk by. I did wear it proud and when someone did ask me where I got it I told them the fabulous Designed For Babies website.

Here is a picture of the kiddos last Mother's Day...what a difference a year makes.

Love to you all!!!!

Amy-Jo

You asked we answered

2010-05-06T07:00:00.003-05:00

A long long time ago in a world far away we talked of doing a Q & A post and for you to send in any questions you may have. Finally we are here to answer, and if you have more questions let us know.

Q-The most asked question is how did Brandon and I meet.

This could be a blog post or two itself and I plan on doing so in August. So put shortly we met when we were 14 at a high school football game. We talked a little and one of us always had a significant other. Then in 2003 my cousin who just happens to be a best friend of Brandon's was married and we reconnected there and haven't missed a beat since.

Q-Which of the kids' personalities are the most like AJ; which are like Brandon?

Madison is definitely me (AJ) 125%, picky eater, is very cautious of germs, and does not like to be dirty. Elizabeth is Brandon to a T, she gets this grin and I see trouble in it just as I see in Brandon. She is his mini me which scares us so much! Logan is both, he is so happy like me and can be very stubborn and both Brandon and myself are. He is a determined little man just like Brandon.

Q-How often do you get together with the other Quad parents in the DFW area?

Not as often as we would like. If we all lived closer together this may be different, however with numerous children and busy lives as it is we talk more often than we see each other. I miss them all and wish I could see everyone at least once a week.

Q-What is the kids' happiest/funnest time in the day? i.e. morning? after lunch? never?

Happiest time of the day for all of them is usually the morning right after breakfast, they have so much energy and are just itching to get on the move. The funnest time of day is when Brandon gets home from work, the kids go to the gate in the kitchen when Blue barks because they know Daddy is home and he will have more energy than Mommy at that time.

Q-Does raising multiples feel surreal to you now? Was it ever?

It is, I love it and would not change it for anything in the world. We don't know any different and this is our normal. At first we couldn't believe it and I think even though we saw them on ultrasound every week it was not "real" until they were here even though we could not hold them.

Q-Besides your helpers, what got you through the early days of no sleep, frequent feedings/changings, etc.?

Honestly caffeine once I was done pumping. We were very sleep deprived, we did not have helpers other than our Moms and my Nana who came down at different times to relieve each other. We would be delusional at the 3am feedings and just laugh for no reason or come up with funny and sometimes not so nice nicknames for the kids, that is how Logan became Lougee. Brandon helped a lot even though he had to get up early to work. I have a schedule and routine that we stuck to no matter what at that time and I did not stray from it ever.

Q-I don't know if this is somewhere in your blog or not, but how did you meet? propose?

This was kind of answered in the first questions. Brandon proposed on the day we moved in to our first house. I came home from work and was so mad he was not coming out to help me carry my car load in. Once in the door I was confused and eventually got it :0).

Q-I suspect they will be Spartan fans right?

This is a big NO, they will be raised watching Michigan. However, we do cheer for MSU when they are not playing MI and I do cheer for Penn State ahead of MSU. Sorry, and green spartan gear in this house is for burp cloths or rags.

Q-How do you do it all?

Plain and simple we have to. It does not seem like extra work for the most part as I have said it is normal for us and we do not know any different. I am OCD about many things and have to get things done otherwise I don't sleep.

Q-Is it getting easier as the babies get older?

Heck no, it is harder in all honesty. The girls are into things if they are awake and are always keeping us on our toes. Logan is work, but in a good way, he wants to do more and is motivated by his sisters so I am always working with him as long as he is awake.

Q-Do you like being a SAHM?

I love it and it was always my dream to be a Mom and stay at home with our children. I had planned on working until we had our second child. It can be stressful but there is so much I get to see every day that Brandon doesn't. I rarely miss anything new and when I do I am crushed. I personally believe I have the best job there is.

So this last question is not a question at all but a comment we received on a prior post regarding March for Dimes and the March for Babies walk we participated in. We normally ignore comments that frustrate us or are mean however I feel I need to respond to this. I don't know if this encourages people or makes them happy that they got to us.

Comment:
I think the March of dimes is a great thing for preemies but there would be less preemies if doctors would do less fertility treatments. Multiples can be controlled and I believe that there are too many multiples especially families who ask for help from neighbours. If you have those children then raise them yourself.

A response from a fellow multiple mom is below:
Well anon, you can be pissed at the parents that couldn't have kids and went to fertility treatments all day long, BUT it's not the preemies fault. I'm pretty sure no one is asking you to raise them or even pay for them. It's donations for preemie research and the fight against premature birth. Not all preemies are born due to multiple pregnancies. If you don't like it, don't donate, but keep your opinions to yourself!!

My response:
I could not put it better myself and that is why I used my amazing friends comment. We had no other choice to have our own children, without fertility treatments our MIRACLES would not be here. I have wanted to be a Mom since I can remember and when my dream of that was not happening I cannot explain the pain and emotions I had and still have today.

We were not asking for anything for us but for research so hopefully one day any baby born premature may not have to go through was past babies have such as ours. Without the research from March of Dimes who knows how or where our children would be today.

Thank you for all the great questions, if there are anymore out there let us know and we will try to do this again.

Sending out love to you all!

Amy-Jo