Anyone else due in June "06 [Archive] - Page 11

vthompson

06-22-2006, 05:47 PM

Hello Everyone!! I realize that I have been MIA for awhile! Just crazy busy. I have been reading posts just have not had time to post myself!

I was so excited though, when I read your post Sherry!! I cannot believe your time is finally here. I am so anxious to hear from you!

Ters - Thanks for asking about me! I felt loved! :)

Ok, I have what seems to me to be a HUGE dilemma. I really wanted to tell you guys about it and get your opinions. Kayley has had a rough week with passing poop. All day, she grunts and actually cries out in pain, which breaks your heart, and nothing comes out. This goes on all day until she finally goes in the wee hours of the night. Well it started last week and has gotten progressively worse. We took her to the ped today and gave them a stool sample. They found blood in her stool. The ped said this can be caused from a milk allergy or being lactose intolerant. So, now we have to give her soy formula. In 3 weeks, we have to bring another sample to be checked. If there are no traces of blood then her stomach has healed and she does have milk issues. If there is still blood then she does not have issues w/milk and will need to see a GI specialist. Well, the issue for me is breast milk. If I want to keep giving her b/m then I have to completely cut out all dairy/lactose from my diet. After looking at the handout the ped gave us, my DH and I looked at her and asked what I could actually eat...basically, this diet would be very difficult to follow...it almost seems impossible. Before all of this, they were getting 4 bottles a day of b/m and 4 of formula. Realistically, I just don't think I could do the diet. However, I don't want to stop giving them b/m. We have decided to continue to give Corey b/m and Kayley soy, at least for the next 3 weeks until her poop is checked again. Am I making a terrible decision? Is what I am doing completely unfair to Kayley? I have cried several times today about all of this. I feel like a terrible mom. Should I just suck it up and do the diet? At the end of the 3 weeks, if it turns out she does not have milk allergies then I will put her back on b/m. Well enough about all of that...I just really feel guilty...

Bottles - We use the playtex vent air and we have the same problems w/ leaking. We have some with the natural shape nipples and they leak a ton. We also have some regular nipples and they don't leak at all except it literally takes them close to 2 hours to finish a bottle, literally, so we stopped using those nipples for now. I bought a few of those soothie bottles today. We will see if they make a difference.

Night Sweats- Check, check

Still Bleeding - Check! Very annoying! How do you know when your first period comes? Does b/f really cause such a delay of your first period?

Well I need to go...I have actually been typing one handed while feeding one of the babies...It has taken forever to post!!

Valerie

AndreaR

06-22-2006, 07:13 PM

sherry - wow! it's finally your turn! i am very excited for you.

bottles - we are using bottles from the NICU for madeline, because she has to have a special nuk nipple, and the only nipples we have fit on the little bottles. for isabelle we use avent, and i haven't had too many issues. once in a while, she'll make a mess. we don't give izzy a bottle every feeding, because she's nursing so well. i need to go to BRU and buy bigger bottles and more NUK nipples for madeline. the hospital bottles are only 2 ounces, and she's starting to drain them every feeding, even after she nurses! she's getting so strong.

my dh was great until he went back to work. now he has virtually no patience. and he comes home stressed from work. i know the girls can sense it, and they get very agitated. i don't know how to tell him w/out making him angry. i also feel guilty that i'm usually able to get in one 30 min nap per day, and he doesn't. he gets no sleep. i know that's not helping his stress/patience.

diapers - it drives me crazy that as soon as we change their diaper, they poop. grrrrr.

period - i'm b/f'ing and hoping not to get mine for a while. i'm still spotting a little from the delivery, but not much. i barely need a pad.

night sweats - i have been lucky here, although it's so hot, i;m just plain sweaty all the time. my sister warned me about the night sweats, so i got these pads to put under my sheet (on top of the mattress pad). maybe you could try something like that? my boobs are so sweaty during the day, that i got a yeast rash underneath one of them. yuck! i got a prescription from my OB, and it's just about gone.

sorry for the typos - i'm one handed again.

good night -

AndreaR

TMoT

06-23-2006, 03:02 AM

Hi, all! ...We passed a calm night (whew!), and had a u/s this morning already. No real news, unfortunately, because doc could only get two measurements (out of three) for each of them!! :-( Based on what he _could_ get, though, Artemis is still as big as an average singleton (!! =6.25lbs) and Darius is in the 35th percentile or so. Still good sizes, but -- as we know already -- nothing concrete at all!!! Two things doc said which surprised me: Darius is back in FIRST PLACE!!! (I don't know how they keep switching/doing this?!) And... They, apparently, still have MORE ROOM TO GROW!!! (?!!) How the @#$% is that possible?!! ...Makes me a bit bummed about the induction, though, because (besides the uncertainty about their weights), it seems like they'd keep going otherwise...!!! :-( Well, still. We'll be at 38 weeks, and that's already fantastic, imho!!!!! :-)

Ters, it WOULD be cool if they would come on your birthday!!! :throb: I can't believe I'm about to write this, but I guess it shows how close I feel to you ladies... Sunday is also my SIL's bday -- and I had secretly been hoping the babies wouldd pick their "own" day to come, instead of on her bday!!! :crazy: And, now, since I know it's your bday too, Ters, I would even be HAPPY if they came on that day!!! (!?) I must be nutty!!! ;-) xx

Val, what a tough dilemma. :-( I feel for you, sweet thing! :aww: Wish there was some simple advice I could share with you, but there really is not. :-( Boo hoo. If you're feeling _really_ guilty, though, maybe you could just _try_ the diet and see how it goes...? Maybe it'll be easier than you think, and everything will go smoothly???? I had to give up dairy products for b/f-ing BOTH of my ds's, and I managed to eventually make it "work" -- buying substitute soy or rice (milk) or other products. You'd be surprised at how much selection there is out there in the way of "alternatives" to milk/dairy, and how easy it is to find. You could even look at this as an opportunity to do some culinary "branching out"...??!? ...Don't know, to be honest. But I hate the idea of you feeling so bad. Then, of course, if the problem with Kayley it isn't dairy products, you've put your milk supply "in jeopardy" in the process/meantime, and it'll be that much more of a challenge to get it going again -- although NOT impossible, of course!!! (Otoh, you could keep pumping/storing in the meantime and have a BIG supply for the future, if need be!! B/m can be stored for a LONG time -- even frozen -- so who knows?!!) ...Well, I am thinking about you and sharing your pain/frustration. I hope it all works out okay!!! :throb:

AndreaR, a 30-minute nap per day -- for a b/f-ing new mommy of twins -- is NOTHING to feel guilty about!!!!!!! You TAKE that nap, and you enjoy it! :-) Your body (no matter what) is still healing and, including b/f, you have a LOT of physical demands on you these days. If both of you can't be well-rested, one of you has to at least _try_ to be!!! ...About dh, that's a hard call. Very understandable that he's stressed, but that's kinda the nature of the beast with new baby/ies in the house!! :-( Poor daddies. Just do your best to sympathize with him (has to work both ways though!), and I would also attempt to communicate with him about how his stress is effecting the family. "Try to leave it at the door, please." Raising two new babies is hard enough. Just gotta both try your best to keep/make room for love, affection and sympathy in the couple, too (in both directions), and go from there...!!! (Geez. I know this sounds like Dear Abby, but I tell ya, I've TOTALLY been there!!!!!) ;-) xx

Bleeding: B/f will keep menstruation at bay as long as you keep it up, normally. It (the sucking) also helps to contract the womb and advance the healing process after birth. ...After giving birth, the standard "benchmark" for a uterus to heal is six weeks. If you have heavy bleeding beyond that, you should definitely tell your doc (but usually they schedule an appt right at that time to check the situation). I'm not 100% sure on this, but it doesn't seem to me like your uterus would have the chance to build up a "new" lining for a future pg while it's still healing from a previous pg. There should likely be a "pause" from bleeding in between the two "stages." (Doesn't that make sense???) So, I would expect bleeding from the labor, a pause without bleeding (or maybe just light spotting) and then your first period. Can't say for certain, but if anyone can get an answer on this from their ob/gyn, it would be interesting to know.....

SEX: In all events, BE CAREFUL WITH HAVING SEX AFTER PG unless you WANT to get pg, again!!!! I have heard TONS of testimony on this point, and I don't even want to test the odds. Word to the wise: You are all now in one of the most fertile periods in your life!!!!!!!!! So, take precautions!!! ;-)

...Well, you all make me feel GREAT about _finally_ being "up to bat"!!!! :yippee: Thank you so much for your love, support and encouragement! You KNOW how much I need it heading into the home stretch! (:eek: for the pun!)

Today, I'm feeling pretty icky again, though, so I'm going to try to take a nap (sorry all!!)... ;-) Take good care of all of you/s and I'll keep in touch with any "progress" on my end!!! xox

swineland

06-23-2006, 08:11 AM

Yo yo yo....

Well, I'm on my 3rd cuppa joe....can't help myself with this new Vanilla Chai Spice creamer from Coffeemate! :spitwater (<----that's blue coffee)

Sherry! You are bringing up the rear in style, my friend! Your photo is awesome...wish we could see it bigger! You should host it at imageshack.com and then put the code in your signature.....just a thought. Especially when your babies come....we'll want to see a big photo! So glad that you are going this far in your pregnancy, as I know it is what you wanted and you'd probably go to 40 if you could :) You should be very proud of yourself and your body.

Bottle situation is working out now pretty good. Soothie for Evan, Playtex drop-in for Bailey.

Sex, not yet, but I hadn't even thought about the whole getting pregnant again thing! (Sherry!) I guess I was more concerned about my healing and is it too soon, etc, etc. But, yeah, especially since I'm not b'feeding and reproductive system could be regulating pretty fast for all I know, we better take precaution! We did IVF, so of course we laugh and say "yeah right" to the chance of us getting pregnant naturally....but lord knows it's happened before to lots of people.

Val, I can tell how stressed you are about the dilemma you have with Kayley. I am with Sherry on this......if you are this stressed over it and feel guilty, maybe you should just TRY the diet. That way, if it doesn't work, you'll always know you gave it your best shot and that will take care of most of the guilt I'm sure. Whatever decision you make, though, you gotta do it and not look back. The coulda-shoulda-woulda's of life can make you crazy, not to mention they are a huge waste of time and energy. What does DH think you should do?? Or does he not have an opinion? Mine didn't care what I did....well, I mean he DID, but just in the sense that he wanted us all to be happy and not stressed...if that meant not breastfeeding, so be it.

Andrea, sorry to hear about the yeast infection! At least you got something for it and it's going away. I wear a bra non-stop these days and to bed I have a sports bra type thing from Bali.....it's breathable and I don't sweat directly under my boobs as much. My DH came in at 1am this morning to wake me up for my shift and he was gently rubbing my shoulder/neck to wake me....it was all sweaty and he was like "eww!". Haha.....how romantic.

This is weird.....is anyone else waking up with very sore joints in their hands?? I try to make a fist and it's like I've got arthritis or something....all my knuckles and finger joints...... hurts!

Well, it's another completely HOT and HUMID day here in Orlando...which really annoys me b/c I'd love to be taking my boys out for walks every day....but once you open the door it's like a steambath and it just is miserable. So, in the house we stay. I try to brighten it up as much as I can.....let a lot of light in and keep the place all clean and tidy....but I am YEARNING to get out! I just can't take the heat yet.

Evan and Bailey (we affectionately have nicknamed "Ebay") are each eating 3 oz. of formula every 2 1/2-3 hours....they are 3 weeks old. Does this sound about right to you guys??? Sometimes, rarely, they eat less and sometimes they eat a little more. When do we move to 4 oz's??

I better go.....
Hugs to you all...
Steph
Heather, where are you?? Are you just dying in this Orlando heat??

LucasMom

06-23-2006, 10:23 AM

Hello Mommies!

I can't believe the boys are 5 weeks old already. I am going for my followup appt. today, and back on the Birth control it is for me! I use the Nuva ring, which I love. No thought process at all!

Steph- Logan and Dylan are at about 4 oz. every 3 hours. Sometimes they go a bit longer, maybe 4 hours. You will know when the boys are ready...they will cry or still be looking for more food when they are done the 3 oz. Also, my hands are killing me. Carpal tunnel from excess blood in the body can take up to 6 painful months to go away. In the late night feedings, I can barely hold the bottle sometimes, and forget pushups:rotflmbo:

Sherry!!!!!! I can't believe you are almost there. Any day now! Soon we will have to move to the First year board! We have a lot of missing mommies. Did they desert us?

The boys are getting so big already.. I guess them to be about 9 1/2 pounds and 9 pounds. We try to get out every day, and get endless really dumb comments. I like "are they twins" the best. No, I just got pregnant REALLY fast after the first one and had the gestation of a fish, 15 days, so they are really close together. I also like when people ask what their names are. Strangers need to know this why? SO DH and I have taken to making up names for them, to see what peoples response will be. We have used Ren and stimpy, Jim and Billybob, Spongebob and Patrick, and some others. Most people just say "oh, those are nice names". I guess I just think it's weird that people ask so many questions. "Do twins run in your family" which is code for are the spontaneous or IVF twins. Does it matter? Twins do run in our family, but they are identical, so it was a fluke. Sorry to rant, just annoying that you can't even eat a dinner out with your family without people hounding you. Look at them, I am proud of them, don't get me wrong, but then walk away, people! Don't stand here and talk to me for 10 minutes.

Really glad to have you all here sharing the fun.
Val- I agree, if it bothers you that much ty the diest, however, you have done an amazing job breastfeeding already and you have NOTHING to feel guilty about. Your children will not know the difference in the long run, as long as they are fed and happy, it makes no difference to them what you are feeding them.
Teresa- how are you?
Lisa- My husband was at the same Phillies game! Where do you live?

Gotta go, doc appt.-check in later.

Mindy

mommyof4at26

06-23-2006, 12:24 PM

hi everyone sherry that is great news keep us posted:yippee: :spitwater where has danielle been? come back we miss you. well i tried to post pics but the modem? is too slow for our digital camera,so when are we moving to the 1st year board? maybe when sherry delivers!!:clap: well take care everyone

qbanmom5

06-23-2006, 03:52 PM

Hi guys!

Glad to see you are still here Sherry. I can't wait to see your babies though!!! I am sure you can't wait either!

Val: What a dilemma my friend! I think the girls are right. Just so you don't feel that guilty you could try the diet and see if its possible to stick with it. If not, you know you gave it your best. You really shouldn't feel guilty or stressed though. Breastfeeding twins is harder than anything I have ever done and you've been doing it like a champ!

Steph: I think the soothies suck too now. Last night I had to change them both twice cause they had milk spilled everywhere. A friend told me the new Gerber bottles are great and compatible to the human breast. I will have to try those.

Danielle, we would love to hear from you.... Hope you are doing well and that you will get a little break and write to us!

Ters

swineland

06-23-2006, 11:17 PM

Hey all!

Felisha, now I've got to point this out, not b/c I'm trying to embarrass you or be rude, but b/c it makes me laugh every time I see it. I notice that every time you post about Thomas' new bottles, you call them the Smoothie bottles....(it's actually Soothie) I really couldn't care less except that the last few times I've read your post and seen "smoothie" I automatically start thinking about how good a smoothie would be right now and how DH is sleeping and if I started the blender he'd probably die! Hahahaha......so, I sit here hungry and wishing I had a smoothie :rotflmbo: Anyway, glad to hear that he likes them. My son Evan likes them too.

Ters, what's going on with YOUR Soothie bottles that you hate them now?? Are they leaking around the cap or from the babies mouth? I noticed that sometimes the bottle would leak around the cap for me so I tightened the hell out of it. Seems that with the Avent bottles, it can't be TOO tight...with the Soothies, it's better tighter. Have you tried the Playtex bottles with the drop-in liners???

So, I have this 64 oz. plastic container that I bought at Target to prepare and store the formula in. After adding the correct amount of scoops, I have to shake the damn thing so hard and for so long to get the clumps out...I hate it. Also, if you are making 64 oz. at once, and need 32 scoops of formula, it can take forever if you are stopping to shake the bottle every 5 scoops (which is what I do to prevent it from being one BIG clump after the 32nd scoop!) ANYWAY, in one of my twins books (Ready or not, here we come! by Elizabeth Lyons) she talks about different ways to prepare formula, one of which being the blender. So yesterday I decided to try it....what a difference!!! There are NO clumps, it took 3 minutes and I was able to make a whole big batch to last 24 hours, and then some. I will now pledge my allegiance to the blender :) (<---thinking about a smoothie again :) )

DH goes back to work on Monday and, while I thought I was looking forward to it, I know I'm going to miss him being here and he's going to have a hard time being away from the boys for the first time in 4 weeks. He LOVES being a dad and pushes that stroller around with such pride. Anyway, my mom is coming back on Sunday to stay for the week and help us transition into me being a SAHM and here by myself. The REAL test will be the following week when she is gone and I truly am here by myself. But, I think it will be okay....I've got the double feeding down pat if I need to do it and they are both so laid back and mild mannered that I think we'll manage. At least, I hope!

Well, I'll talk to you all soon....

Steph

LucasMom

06-24-2006, 11:04 AM

I am ususally a pretty laid back person. But I have to say that it seems as if lately days just flow into each other, and all I hear is the sound of crying babies. I am tired. I try to keep up appearances, and I think I do a pretty good job. Everyone says how well I am handling things, how "normal" I seem, how great it is that we take the kids out and get out of the house and all that stuff. People ask me, "how are they, is it hard?" and I say " Not too bad, actually", but I think I may be lying...
It is hard. Lucas was such laid back baby, hardly ever cried, never threw up, fed easily, slept easily, smiled easily. Still the same kid, save for the three year old things they do naturally.
These guys, not so easy. When they aren't sleeping, they are fussy, not crazy fussy, just "wha, wha, whaaa" fussy. I am on my own with them, have been since week two, when DH went back to work. I haven't had more than two hours of sleep in at least 5 weeks, and I kind of miss being able to do the things a three person family can dowith ease. Dh is being pretty lazy, as a matter of fact, he slept all night thru, and until 10:15 am, woke for an hour to feed one twin, eat a bowl of cereal and is now back asleep. I meanwhile, do everything else, and not only woke up to feed at 4, after going to sleep at two, but again at 6:30 when Lucas woke me, and fed twins at 7, by myself.

I am so sorry to whine here, but I feel a little guilty that I feel kind of exhausted, fed up with being a vomit target, and trying all of the time to seem like supermom. I need a rest! I need one solid shift of not hearing crying, and being happy. I do not feel depressed, I feel alone, except for you guys who I have to say, I am not usually one who can be friends with complete strangers, but I feel as though I can say anything to you.

I am not even sure what I am complaining about...I just feel sad that I can't talk like this to my husband, whi is not a bad guy at all, just a little selfish at times. I am tired of trying so hard to make other people happy. AL those people who were so happy to "help with whatever you need!!", have turned into people who call me or email me and say, "I'd like to come over on (insert their choice of time and day here) and see the babies for a half hour". Well, guess what, that doesn't HELP me! I have to then be the accomodating hostess, make coffee, answer a sh@@load of dumb questions, etc. while still taking care of the babies, because g-d knows they won't change a diaper! Then, I get criticized for not returning phone calls or saying that time is bad for me. Give me a break!

Ok, I am so sorry to go on for so long, but it feels better at least saying it out loud ( or typing it.)

Hope you all are having a better weekend start than I am.

Hugs,
Mindy

PaulaP

06-24-2006, 08:22 PM

Hey ladies! I've only looked through the last two pages of posts, but it makes me feel so much better to see all your struggles- for I am having them too!!!!

Between the night sweats (which I usually wake up shaking with because I am soaking wet and the a/c running strong), terrible carpal tunel, total lack of sleep, leaking bottles, stir craziness from being in the house, frustration with breast feeding and pumping, and trying to adjust to being a parent---- I feel everyone's joy and pain!!!!

We've been using the Avent bottles too and yes, ours leak too. I've never heard of the Soothies, but I'm very interested in them. We bought two of the Playtex vent aire bottles, and I can't get them to really work right, so they're in the cabinet.

I started b/f when the boys were born, but struggled terribly b/c of carpal tunel and having one baby that usually has a hard time ever latching on. I fought and tried hard to continue for about a week after we got home, but finally decided to pump instead of b/f. We are also using formula b/c I'm not pumping enough to feed them on demand now. I've also noticed that my milk has definitely slowed down the last couple of days. It would be so easy to totally go to formula, but I want to try to give them as much breast milk as I can, for a while at least. So I'm trying not to give up just yet!

I have so much more to write, but I need to go for now! Take care ladies!

Sherry---- your times'a comin!!!!! I'm proud that you're still hanging on!!

-Paula

swineland

06-25-2006, 05:32 AM

Mindy,

I don't think there is one thing you are feeling that isn't completely normal and validated. I, too, have had and am still having feelings of "I guess I'll do everything around here" and "why am I getting 5 hours of sleep a night and he's getting 9?" DH doesn't cook, at all. He asks for my help in just figuring out how to boil a pot of water. So, that all falls in my lap. Cleaning...eh. He'll do it if I ask, but I hate always asking. I feel like a nag, and I don't want to be resented for that (especially since I'm asking him to do things that he should be doing anyway!) But men don't know that. We, as mothers, definitely have the burden as far as taking care of our children, taking care of our husbands (!), taking care of the countless things around the house and for some of us, also working full or part time jobs too! It's okay to have a pity party every once in awhile and look around and say, how the heck did I get to be responsible for ALL of this? And especially if you're a people-pleaser, like me. You had mentioned that you "put on a smiley face" and make coffee for your visitors, etc. Even though you are totally overwhelmed and dog-tired, sounds like something I would do. Even this morning, I could have been sleeping while my boys were finally asleep....DH is sleeping.....what did I do? I cleaned the guest bathroom and folded laundry in preparation for my mom coming today. I did this at 6am. I guess my point is, if there is something in your control that you can change (like maybe telling visitors that now is not a good time and screw the coffee OR, in my case, gee, I guess I really should get some sleep now and clean later) then maybe you should try it. Take care of your needs, honey, b/c ultimately you're the only one who can do that. Tell your husband or friends/ family what you need from them right now. Some may be able to comply, some may not....but at least you've taken care of and stood up for yourself. Sounds to me like you are a terrific mother and wife and now with 3 children, yes, you are going to have your hands full. If it's something you can change, do it. If it's not, stop and take a deep breath, give yourself a minute to say "this sucks" and move on. Sorry for the long post and I don't know if it made you feel any better, or more empowered, or whatever. But I just wanted you to know that you are not alone in your thoughts.....I'm sure I speak for most everyone on the board when I say "we've been there"!

:grouphugg

Steph

TMoT

06-25-2006, 04:53 PM

Good news: My blood platelet count is back to "normal" -- even "perfect," as the midwife put it! NOW we're waiting to hear from my doc to see if the induction goes forward Tue/Wed as planned, or not. @#$%! I made all the PERFECT arrangements for dses to be taken care of so we could give birth on Wednesday, and now it's probaby all for naught. ]-(

Otoh, as you all know, I'm psyched about the "opportunity"/possibility to keep these little buggers in there just that much longer... 'Course, I had a total breakdown yesterday, though, after the prospect of another two weeks of "this" materialized... Reflux is terrible and the aching in my hips was so bad I couldn't sleep in either of my only remaining positions. :-(( So, I cried, dh rubbed me, and I got on my birthing ball and revisited the spinningbabies site for "insight"... Well, luckily, all the hocus-pocus worked. Today, I'm doing much better, and especially after a visit to a new mommy of twins (g/g frat, 4 weeks old), I became re-inspired to keep going... You can imagine. ;-)

But all this must seem like light-years by the way-side for all of you, I can guess... Just more on the pg rollercoaster for me, though. God willing, Tuesday, we'll be 38 weeks -- and then I'll be looking 40 weeks right in the eye, as I had always hoped. :'-) ....I'm verklemt. :'-) Tawk amongst yahselves... ;-)

About that 'tawk': I'm shaking in my boots hearing the new-mommy woes from you all...!! (?!) It's so painful and real, I'm instantly back in those months of dirty diapers, barf up to my ears, crying/crabby babies, TOTAL frustration with dh, and serious sleep deprivation. :-( It's enough to drive a sane (?) woman over the edge... And no surprise why I've been "clinging" to pg (even in this dramatic form) all this time...

Mindy, I can sympathize so strongly with that drive to be a "supermom," too! But I guess I've come to realize that, because it's so elusive, the very notion of "super people" is really something JUST for comics and fiction...?!!? Of course, you're all SUPER moms to me :-) , but please be careful about, first, letting other people put those kinds of expectations on you, and second (more important, imho), about putting those expectations on _yourself_. :throb: Why not, for example, when the visitors come over, just hand them a baby and a bottle (or a diaper and a wipe) and let them get in on the action too??!??? I guess that takes some willingness to do away with formalities and protocol, but @#$% it: This is the REALITY of having two, new little babies to take care of, isn't it?!?! ;-)

Something else too: If someone wants to visit and the house is a mess, consider just letting them come over!!! (?!) Hand them a broom and/or some rubber gloves and make them make good on their "whatever I can do for you" promises!!! Or (less dramatic), maybe tell them to bring some carry-out with them when they come -- one less meal for you to prepare, and that much more help you can use, right? ;-) By all means, don't sacrifice the chance to have some company (especially if you need a change of scenery) for propriety's sake. You have time LATER (when the babies are older) to bring more order and organization into your house so you can "show it (and them) off." Now may just not be the time for that. Priorities are priorities, after all. ;-) ...If you really don't feel like it, though, you really shouldn't feel guilty at all about saying "not now" to eager visitors and even explaining why ("I haven't slept all night and the babies are being very demanding for the moment"), etc. I can't imagine anyone who wouldn't understand a situation like that and/or who would have a problem with you postponing their visit for such a valid reason... Just my two cents though... ;-)

About dh, Mindy (and everyone else, I'm sure), this is truly the subject I personally have the MOST fear about. I had SUCH a bad experience with my ex-h after ds1 arrived -- as far as a tremendous feeling of "alienation" and being "abandoned" goes -- that I am petrified about the same thing happening again -- although I just can't, for the life of me, see how it can be avoided. I can't even say that my experience has delivered me some "wisdom" for addressing this situation, as imminent as it is. :-((( Scary. ...I remember, especially, that "grass is always greener" nature of the times: Ex was envious of the fact that I "got to" stay home with Baby all the time, while he had to work his @#$ off. And I felt jealous that he could leave the house/come and go as he pleased any time he wanted, freely interact with other people, and then feel at liberty to sleep more than me and let ME be solely responsible for Baby even when he was home... The tears, frustration, even ANGER that (inevitably) ensued from our mutual "envy" of each other's situation was horrible -- even fatal, I might say... (?!!) :eek:

I guess the only thing I remember trying that _kinda_ worked, was alternating weekend days for sleeping in: i.e. DH would get to sleep in on Saturdays and I would get up early for Baby; and I would get to sleep in on Sundays and he would get up. Of course, I always felt guilty about his lack of sleep (because he WAS actually working really hard, long hours), so it often happened that I would get up early on _both_ days and the system didn't work. But I still think it's a good benchmark to try for, and maybe this time around, I'll be a little more disciplined with dh about getting _my_ deserved "one straight shift of sleep," as Mindy so aptly put it....

You also might make a deal that DH is responsible for dinner one or two evenings during the week anyway... Even if he can't cook (Steph! ;-)), he can still pick up something on his way home from work to feed everyone -- carry-out, like I said, or something from the grocery store which just needs to be nuked, or some such....

And, of course, you have to be sure to make time "just for the two of you." :throb: Otherwise (in my own experience, anyway), a lack of intimacy makes it hard to bridge the gap between his "work-a-day" life and your own (which is just as valid!!). Then, the sense of being alienated/alone/"drifting away" from each other only grows -- as I've experienced all too painfully. I guess this is simply about (ta-dah) "communication." When the frustration, exhaustion and alienation build, it's too easy to fly off the handle and/or have "nothing nice to say" to each other. So, from what I've gone through, it's important to have a medium for expressing how you feel (especially _your_ expectations for dh!) which is a little less volatile and more "civilized" -- i.e. over a candle-light dinner at the local italian place. ;-) Just a thought.

Naturally, I have yet to embark on this stage of The Twin Experience with my new DH, and as I said, I'm a bit intimidated about it. But I hope I'll at least be able to take some of my own advice when the time comes... :rotflmbo: (??!) I've even tried to talk about this right now with him, though, and his reaction was basically one of "polite interest," and only for as long as I could distract him from some Formula-1 race on TV. *sigh* Guess I'm in for it just like the rest of you!!! :cool:

Well, lucky (true!) that we have each other...!!! :grouphugg

Now, I'll get back to brooding over my nest (and trying to keep the acid out of my throat -- ICK!), and will keep you all posted on my progress to "the other side"...! Till then, much love and _strength_ to everyone!!!!!

AndreaR

06-25-2006, 06:25 PM

Mindy - I can totaly sympathize with you. I hope you're feeling better. This is a great place to get that stuff off your chest, and to get good advice. I really liked what Steph had to say.

Steph - you need make sure you rest a little when you can. It's good for the babies. You really need to let some stuff go. When I know my mother is coming, I let stuff pile up, because I know that she'll come and take care of everything. sorry if that came off bitchy, really I just want you to be less stressed/tired.

Sherry- I am sooo proud of you. You've made it this far beautifully! That last post is really the first I've heard you complain about your "condition." You go, girl. I can't wait for you to be on "this side" with us!\

How much and how often are you all feeding your babies? We are having a tough time with feedings right now. We had been on a great schedule (every four hours) and most of the time, the girls were satisfied in between feedings. Now that they have passed their birth weights, the pedi told me we could let them feed on demand, especially at night, hoping they'll go for more than four hours. But it's not working. Isabelle, who is pretty much breastfeeding only (every once in a while we give her a supplement bottle) seems to want to eat all the time, but not very much at one time. Madeline is nursing a little (for like 10 minutes) and then she gets a bottle. She only drinks about two ounces from the bottle. We'd like her to drink more, either at the breat or from the bottle, but it never happens. It's very hard to tell how much Isabelle is drinking. We were just wondering if we're on track with others... I'm not that worried, because they're gaining weight appropriately, but I'd love to be on a schedule, and I'd really like to get more than 2 hours of sleep at one time (during the night). Any advice? I have the book "Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Babies" but I've been too tired to read it!

Oh, Sherry - thanks for the good advice on communicating with DH. It was a perfectly timed reminder for me. I am so short fused on the lack of sleep, and so is he.
AndreaR

swineland

06-26-2006, 05:02 AM

Hello friends!

Andrea, thanks for worrying about me and not wanting me to be stressed :) I know I need to let some things go, i.e. housecleaning, etc. It's just that when those things aren't done, I feel scattered and out of control of things, which in turn just makes me stressed anyway. So, I guess I look at it and say "would I rather be stressed with a clean house and folded laundry or stressed with a messy house and no clothes to wear?" I DO try to sleep when the babies sleep, but then it seems that EVERY time I just start to drift off to sleep on the couch, one of them wakes up or needs to be fed or something. I have to literally pry my eyelids back open and stumble down the hallway, almost as if I'm drunk. (Which studies have shown that sleep deprivation causes the same bodily reactions/behaviors as being legally drunk(!) Anyway, my thought on that is, I'd rather be wide awake, able to be in control and handle the babies with a full focus and attention. So, when it's my turn to do a "shift" (which, my shifts seem to be getting longer and longer....go figure), I actually change out of my nightshirt, put on some type of loungy comfy clothes and make coffee. I just feel better when I'm alert.
Of course, I know ultimately I can't function on 3-4 hours of sleep a day....so, we're going to have to come up with some type of plan.

Sherry, that's great that your platelet count is back to normal and you MAY be able to keep the babies in for the 53 weeks you are hoping for....haha. Just kidding. Seriously, that's awesome.....you'll have nice, round healthy babies :) And thanks for the personal advice/opinions on post partum communication issues with the husbands. I can see that we ALL have had or are having some type of issue with our partners. Nobody ever said having a baby, much less two, makes a marriage EASIER. You've got to be totally willing to communicate a LOT to get through this parenting thing, especially in the early days I would imagine.

Felisha, a mango smoothie sounds delightful! I bought a new blender yesterday (at TARGET!), but it's specifically for the formula. I make about 48 oz's and that lasts us for a day. Somebody (Lisa?) asked how long you can store the formula for in the fridge.....I try not to make more than I'll use in a 24-28 hour period. Similac says you can store it in the fridge for up to 48 hours, Enfamil says 24. To be safe, I go with a day at a time. But seriously, now that I'm using the blender, it is SO much quicker. Takes me no time at all to prepare a whole day's batch.

Are you guys keeping charts on the feedings/changings?? We have 2 clipboards and we printed up our own little charts just documenting when they eat and how much. I am not really TOO concerned with writing down the diaper changes anymore, since they pretty much always pee and the poop is consistent enough that I know there's no "elimination" problems. The feeding, however, is a different story. I have got to know who ate what and at what time, that way I can figure out what's going on if one is fussy. I can look and see that he only ate an ounce at his last feeding, so yeah, he's hungry early now. But sometimes DH doesn't update the chart after he feeds them and it drives me nuts!

Last night was terrible. Bailey was crying non-stop from 8-10....DH and my mom tried everything and when I got up at 10, he was still crying. He FINALLY fell asleep after his 10:45 feeding and has been sleeping every since, only waking up to eat. As soon as I got him to sleep, Evan woke up and did the same thing. I think he had an upset tummy, both of them, so I gave Evan some of those "Little Tummys" gas drops....seemed to work, he fell asleep within a half hour. The only thing I can think of, and my mom actually brought it up, is that she is the one who fed them their most recent bottles before the crying started. She thinks maybe she did it wrong (although I highly doubt that). I said, as long as they aren't getting a bunch of air through the nipple, it's pretty much a no-brainer. But she swears that it's b/c SHE fed them and now she says "I'm just going to be a holder, snuggler, diaper-changer...no more feeding". To that end, I DID feed them both their last 2 feedings and they went right to sleep afterward. (?) I dunno.

Anywho, looks like another dreary day in Central Florida....been raining all weekend. DH goes back to work today :( and I know I'll miss him ....though not as much as he'll miss being here with his boys. It will be hard for him.....he has really enjoyed being "Mr. Mom" and getting to know them. I have a feeling he'll be home every day for lunch :)

They'll be 4 weeks old on Wednesday (which I cannot believe) and are taking in 3 oz. at each feeding, sometimes they need a little more, which we give them...sometimes, especially if they're tired, they take in a little less. Does 3 oz. sound about right?? We feed them 8-9 times a day, usually every 3 hours. So that's 24-27 ounces per day..... Anyone else feeding more/less??

Gotta run!
Steph

mommyof4at26

06-26-2006, 07:29 AM

my boys sre eating 4-6 ounces of prosobee with lipil every 3 hours is that too much ?

AndreaR

06-26-2006, 08:39 AM

I have another question about feedings..... do you wait for the babies to tell you when they're hungry? if one baby wakes up to eat, do you feed the other? i'm trying to figure out a new schedule, and i'm at my wit's end. we had both girls doing well on the four hour schedule, but now that we're feeding "on demand" they are completely out of sync with eachother. and they don't eat as much at once - they're happier to eat a little, but more often, especially isabelle. i find that it is much, much tougher on me (and my sleep deprivation). it also makes it hard to pump, because i feel like i am constantly nursing isabelle. so now i have less breastmilk for maddie's bottles. ugh.

steph - i totally know what you mean about having to pry open your eyelids. until i get a cup of coffee, i am useless. i used to drink a lot of coffee before i got pg, but got off caffeine completely during the pregnancy. now i am afraid of getting "hooked" again. i'm only drinking one cup per day for right now.

for those of you that are pumping, do you double pump? do you do it hands-free? i bought an elastic strap that goes all the way around me and holds the pump flanges, but it is incredibly uncomfortable, chafes me under my boobs. i ordered a new pumping bra the other day; i'm dying for it to come in. i have tried to hold the containers instead of using the strap, but it doesn't seem to work, because i can't do anything else while i'm pumping(including work the pump). i've tried to do one side at a time, but it takes twice as long, plus everyone (books, sherry, LC) says that double pumping produces more milk.

my MIL is here this morning, and then a SIL is coming this afternoon. the girls are being very well behaved. that seems to happen a lot - they only get crazy when i'm home alone with them (or when DH and I are alone). figures.

AndreaR

06-26-2006, 08:41 AM

rachel - it seems like you're feeding your boys much more than i am feeding my girls, but if they are drinking it, and they are not spitting it up, i don't think it's too much. how old are they now? how much do they weigh? my girls are three and a half weeks old; maddie weighs 5lbs 8oz and isabelle weighs 6lbs 14oz.

mommyof4at26

06-26-2006, 11:13 AM

the boys will be 3weeks on thursday.they are at least 6lbs 10 ounces ea or more i wont know till next week at there checkup,

LucasMom

06-26-2006, 01:39 PM

Rachel-the prosobee is a pre digested protein type formula. It does not fill the babies up as quickly and therefore they are hungrier and more quickly so. My guys are 5 weeks, and weigh about 9 pounds. They are on Enfamil Lipil which is not one of these types of formula, and eat about5 oz. every three hours. I wouldn't worry about it. If they are hungry and not throwing up, let them eat.

Mindy

qbanmom5

06-26-2006, 02:31 PM

Mindy-- I can relate!!! I could have written your post verbatim! It will pass I know but boy is it tough!

Sherry: Hang in there baby!

Steph: The soothies are o.k. Better than avent, but I think they cant really get a good latch around the nipple cause there are air pockets around both corners of their lips where milk drips out and air is coming in. I just tried the gerber nursers and so far we love them. Much more pliable nipple and better shape. I cant even hear the air bubbles so less gas and crying. I am going to buy more of those!

DH took all the feedings last night so I could sleep for my birthday! I feel great but guilty that he had to go to work on 2 hours interrupted sleep.

You girls take care!. Ters

LucasMom

06-26-2006, 03:07 PM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TERS!!!!!:yippee: :yippee: :clap: :throb:

LucasMom

06-26-2006, 03:46 PM

Sorry to be annoying mommy with a camera fetish, but I bet you all know how I feel!

Check out my new signature pics.

Logan has his head up all on his own, making a gas face!
Dylan is wearing a hat my grandmother made for him, and is not too happy about it.

Love,
Mindy

Speaking of pics-Monica, Jill, Danielle, Stacey, Andrea...where are you guys? We miss you!

TMoT

06-26-2006, 05:09 PM

Happy (late) birthday, Ters!!! I was thinking of you and wondering if my little ones would "make" the date, but alas... ;-)) Sweet that dh let you sleep, at least. Can't imagine a nicer bday present for a new mommy of twins! Here's _my_ bday present to you too: :kiss: ;-)

...Well, gals, looks like I won't be able to go to 53 weeks after all!!! (Steph!) ;-) Doc doesn't want to take a lot of risks, and since my current condition is "ripe" for an induction, she's only going to let us go another week before inducing...!!! Means that the babies will be here on July 3rd, if not before -- and my dad's only reaction was that it should be July _4th_!!! ;-) ...Well, the induction is okay with me too, since I don't want to take any chances either, but I'm having to deal with a bit of a feeling of "let down," which (since you all know me so well) I guess you understand...?! :-( ;-)

So, we'll see if they come in the meantime, but otherwise, just another week to go! :yippee:

...Take care all and, I realize, since -- until further notice -- I AM actually going to be a JULY mommy (?!?!?!), maybe you all want to go ahead and start posting on the First Year thread without me...??! I promise *sniff sniff* not to take it personally!! ;-) xox

qbanmom5

06-26-2006, 05:30 PM

Thanks for the b-day wishes! Shers- I love the kiss-too cute. you could have them tomorrow on Val's b-day!! Even if they come in July, we NEED you in the first years board!! B est part is that you are having Cancer babies ( vs Gemini babies like we all had). Not cause I am one, but because 75% of my family is Gemini and I think Cancers are sweeter and easier natured people ( also moody, emotional and dare I say broody if its a word). Anyway, holding fussy baby--must go.

Ters

vthompson

06-26-2006, 06:53 PM

Hello Everyone!! I have very little time to post, but wanted to check in so everyone knew I was still alive!! Happy late Bday Ters! I was thinking about you because I know our bdays are really close! Mine is tomorrow and DH goes back to work! Should be very interesting. I am really going to miss him. I do not think we wants to go back at all. He has really enjoyed his time with the babies! Real quick update, I have a terrible breast infection and was put on anitbiotics today. It hurts like hell! I think I may take some left over pain meds from the c section tonight. Kayley is on the soy and is definitely pooping more, but still have problems passing gas so who knows. Her poop has been green, though so I need to call doc tomorrow to make sure that is ok. I have decided to for go the nursing for her until they recheck her poop. As you all know, it was a really hard decision, but I can't look back now. Corey is still getting the pumped milk, but with my infection, I have not been producing that much. After she is rechecked, if they find that she does not have a milk allergy, then I am going to put her back on it.

Feeding - Corey is clockwork and wakes up every 2-3 hours to eat. He scarfs down 4oz every feeding and sometimes wants another ounce. Kayley is more like 3-4 hours and eats 2-4 ounces. After Corey is done eating, I usually wake Kayley up and feed her so that they are on some sort of schedule. Corey has been on Similac Advance as his supplement. However, we ran out tonight and had a free can of Enfamil. I went ahead and used it. Is that ok to do? I hope he doesn't have any problems. Has anyone else ever switched like that?

Charting - We charted feedings and diapers for the first 2 weeks we were home and then when everyone moved upstairs at night, it fell to the wayside so we don't do it anymore. As I said, Corey is clockwork with feedings, so I guess he acts as our chart!!

Sherry - I am so excited for you!! I log on just to read your posts now, even if I don't have time to post myself to see if you are still hanging on! I can't wait!!

Mindy - I think all the girls gave you great advice! Try and let some things go and don't be afraid to get people to help you when they come over. You deserve some Mindy time! You are doing a great job and make sure you continue to vent on the board. I think that really helps!

Felisha - That is great news about the twins' father!!

Lisa - We are definitely coming to Penn State for that game I mentioned awhile back...of course as I write this, I cannot remember the date! I hope we can try and get together some how...think about it and let me know!

Ok, I really have to go now! Sorry as usual, that I didn't post to everyone! I really need to find time to change my ticker picture! The babies have gotten so big...7lbs a piece now as of last Thursday! I can't believe it!

Love everyone and miss all of you!!

Valerie

AndreaR

06-27-2006, 05:37 AM

Sherry - I agree with Felisha and Ters - you belong with us. And like Ters said, WE NEED YOU! Good luck with everything over the next week. Try not to be too disappointed in going "early" - you have made it further than most of us.

Happy (belated) Birthday Ters & Valerie!!

Madeline kept me up all night last night - she just did not want to be put down. And now Isabelle is looking for attention. I'd just like 30 minutes to sleep - really, just 30 minutes. Gotta go. Have a great day everyone.

AndreaR

swineland

06-27-2006, 06:09 AM

Felisha, I second that emotion! We must all stick together on the same board :) Sherry, if we do decide to switch to the one year board, you can just meet us there! However, I think we should all stay here until EVERYONE has crossed the finish line. That means you, Sherry! Besides, you've been here for us the whole time.....cheering us on, telling us to drink our water, etc...you're the Mother Hen! :clap:

We had a good night last night.....the boys basically just ate and slept....I was able to doze for an hour or so at a time between feedings, so I feel a little more rested this morning than I did yesterday morning. Having my mom here is wonderful and she is helping me so much with feedings, changings, everything. The hard part is going to be when she leaves. I realized yesterday, with it being DH's first day back at work, that it's going to get pretty monotonous around here when it's just me and the babies. I will really need to reach out to other adults/friends when that time comes and know that my hands-free headset for the cordless phone will be put to good use! I can't wait for the babies' feedings to space out a little more....say 5 hours or so....but I know that will take a while.

Val, I also have a boatload of Enfamil cans when I actually use the Similac Advance. I have thought of just switching and using the Enfamil just b/c it's there, but then didn't. Let me know if your babies have any problems with the sudden switch. The formula specs are pretty much the same...if you look at the back of the cans and compare....hardly any difference at all. I'm sure they'll do fine. A girl at my husbands office has a 5 month old and she has been using the Enfamil and said she's got a ton of Similac that she won't use, so today he's going to take in our Enfamil freebies and trade with her. :) Then, my mom is going to take the babies and I over to Sams club and get us all hooked up with diapers and formula to last awhile. Gotta love Grandma's!!

Diapers: Babies are in a transition it seems from the Newborn size diapers to stage 1. I bought the White Cloud wal-mart diapers in N-up to 10 lbs and they are too small. There were falling off their little butts! Someone had given us one of those diaper "cakes" and made it with Luvs Stage 1 diapers, so I'm using those currently. They are a little big, but not leaking, so that's okay. The Target brand diaper, from what I experienced, wasn't my favorite. We used up all the Pampers Swaddlers that we started out with, and those were great. Huggies Newborn were good too. I guess I'll switch to the Huggies stage 1 and see how that goes. I hear that Huggies are better for boys and Pampers are better for girls? Is that true or just an urban myth?? :)

Hey Ters, Happy Belated Birthday!! The gift of sleep sounds like the best gift of all. How is it going for you with the twins AND your other children?? I thought of you the other day when I was flustered with both babies crying and trying to get their bottles ready and I thought "Ters also has 3 other children who need her time and attention......if she can do this, so can I!"

Val, sorry to hear about your breast infection. My friend who had her baby May 17th also got mastitis and is on an antibiotic as well. Sounds awful. I know how badly my boobs hurt just from having PMS and stuff....I can't imagine having an infection! Hang in there. And sounds like you've made your decision and are okay with it as far as the breastfeeding and Kayley. Good for you.

REALLY wishing we all lived closer.....I was thinking how fun it would be to all meet somewhere, a park or whatever, for a reunion! (Well, I guess it wouldn't be a reunion, since we've never had a "union" to begin with).

Anyone else been having a horribly dry and stuffed up nose?? My mom bought me some saline drops, which seem to be helping. I didn't know if maybe this was yet ANOTHER postpartum thing to deal with. It's been 2 weeks since I've been able to breathe properly.

Well, I better go......I'll be checking in~!

Steph

TMoT

06-27-2006, 03:16 PM

:'-) *sniff sniff* THANKS for the moral support, gals! :throb: I'm so glad you all still consider me part of The Team!!! :D

Happy birthday to you too, Val!!!! I'm sorry DH is going back to work (some "present" for all of you, eh? Awww :-( ), but I hope you'll get to enjoy your day anyway!!! :throb: Hope that infection goes away soon too. Ouch. Please keep us posted.

Steph, I was wondering (since I remember you had it quite bad...?), when did your pupps rash go away?? Mine is getting WORSE AND WORSE by the day, literally! It's unbelievable! And I really need to KNOW it's going to stop when these babies come. PLEEEASE tell me it's so....!!! (And, btw, I have it EVERYWHERE now! Hips/thighs, wrists, elbows, ankles, and of course, tummy! I'm just a big itchy awful mess!!!!!) :-((((

That and the reflux are really getting the best of me... BUT, today we had a monitoring for the babies and they're doing great. My bp was a bit low (!), but I just came home and slept it off, so.... ;-)

I also had a parent-teacher conference for ds1 this afternoon and found out that he has a fraternal twin girl (of a b/g pair) in his class! Their mommy told me she gave birth at 38 weeks and everything went smoothly and babies were just fine. Whew. Just more confidence-building info for me for these last few days (can't believe I just wrote that)!!!! :yippee:

DS2 has a fraternal twin _boy_ (of a b/g pair) in _his_ class too!!! How strange is that?!?!!! I've gotten such good moral support/feedback from these parents (yes, they DO actually grow up and become independent, folks!!), it's very encouraging... :-)))

So, just back to itching, brooding and :spitwater as best I can. You are all so awesome, I really DO wish we could arrange that "union/reunion" somehow...!!! ;-) Well, the invite to visit Brussels is always valid, ladies...!! :-)

Take care, Mommies and Babies. I'm thinking about you all and hoping you ALL get that +/-30 minute "sleep" (Andrea)!!!!!
xox

sgarrett

06-27-2006, 08:51 PM

So sorry to be missing so long, how do ya'll find time to post after the babies have arrived?? They are doing wonderful, I cannot beleive they are two weeks old! They are great babies, they only cry when they are hungry, of course they are hungry every 2-3 hours. I am b/f and supplementing with the bottle. All is well so far, wish I could b/f only, they had me supplement with formula in the hospital b/c they had jaundice. Isabelle is having trouble latching on so I just keep trying to give her "breast time" every day till she catches on.

I could not read all the posts, but I did see someone mention night sweats - me too it is soo gross! The hand problems, me too I had to go to a specialist and have this awful "shock therapy" done to my hands to determine if it was carpal tunnel or a nerve issue. It is carpal tunnel, it has gotten so much worse since the babies are born.

Bottles - we are using the bottles hammerman bottles, that you have to buy at the hospital. They are suppose to be the closest thing to b/f. They do great with them, you can adjust how fast the milks comes. The downfall they are $30 a bottle!

The whole C section went great, the only bad part was the epidural. My incesion hardly hurts at all anymore, but now my back aches all the time! I will eventually figure out how to post pics, but Aiden is demanding booby time so I gotta go!

Looking forward to hearing about your babies Sherry, way to hang in there!

Take care all!

Staci

TMoT

06-28-2006, 12:55 AM

Staci, so great to hear from you!!! I've been SO curious to know how it went and how you, Isabelle and Aiden are doing!!!! Awesome to hear that it's going so well and that you're all hanging in there!!! :throb:

As you can see, I'm still holding...! ;-) More huge and cumbersome than ever (!), but somehow (I don't know HOW!!), I'm managing...!

Just wanted to say, "nice to 'see you,' Staci," take care, and please POST when you can!!! xxxooo

swineland

06-28-2006, 04:33 AM

Sherry, I am SO sorry to hear that you have that PUPPS rash so bad! I mean, I know you've sort of had it all along, but it sounds like in these last few weeks of pregnancy it's gotten worse for you. Mine was awful and DH had to literally at times hold my arms down by my side so I wouldn't scratch. The good news is that it literally went away right after the delivery.....I had a TINY bit of itching around the incision, but that really didn't have anything to do with the PUPPS. So, hang in there!! (Although, as a disclaimer, I did read that it CAN take up to 2 weeks post partum for the rash to go away...don't know if that is rare or if I just got lucky, but I noticed a definite improvement as soon as these boys were out!)

Staci, $30 a bottle!!! Holy Smokers Strength Polident!! And here I thought Avent was expensive :) Are they 4 oz bottles? Hopefully they're like 40 oz bottles and you can use them until the kids are 20!

Went to Sams yesterday and got 4 2-lb cans of Similac.....we should be set for awhile!

Wonder where Monica is?? And Danielle?? Jill?? Heather?? Jason??

Got the hospital bill yesterday....I was worried it would be something crazy...turns out we just owe $400 in copay. The total was $9,129 for the c-section, hospital stay, etc.

The night sweats are getting a little bit better. And thankfully so b/c I just got the power bill for the last month.....$350!!!

Well, I guess I'm going to run now.....hope you all have a great day!

Steph

qbanmom5

06-28-2006, 04:52 PM

Hi all! Thanks for the b-day wishes guys!!

Steph: Thanks for thinking of me and my 5 billion kids. We are all doing pretty well. I feel bad at times cause I can't give the older ones as much attention as before, but I try to involve them with the twin duties and we spend time together that way.

Sherry: I am sooo proud of you!! 38 weeks is sooo incredible. I don't know how you can even move! I was miserable at 36 weeks.

Pumping: Still double pumping. Not as often as I should. Both babies are still b/f and having formula. I haven't even had a chance to get the fenugreek since I am only getting like 3 oz of milk combined each pump session. Luke and Leia feed almost exactly like yours Val. Luke every 2-3 hours drinks 4 oz. Leia will have between 2 1/2 and 4 oz. every 3-4 hours.

Formula: We have bad gas problems. Don't know what to do, I am using the tummy gas drops but don't seem to make a difference. It seemed to get worse since I switched from the poweder similac to the concentrate. I think i am going back to powder. Leia has been passing gas like crazy, Luke just squirms and crys from a belly ache.

Luke is huge. They see the dr. on Friday, but I am sure he must be like 8 pounds by now at only 1 month. Leia is probably around 7 lbs. It is so hard to feed them at night and put them down. I feel like steph's mom. They just keep crying and fussing (more Luke than Leia). I also wake up Leia at night to feed her after Luke just so I can go back to sleep and not be woken up half an hour later. During the day I don't do it as much and I notice she doesn't get as hungry as he does.

That is about all. Will write later, Ters

vthompson

06-29-2006, 12:20 PM

What a TERRIBLE night we had! The Kayley saga continues...We have not seen any improvement, in fact, she seems to be getting worse. She actually threw up entire bottles over the past few days. Well, we talked to the doctor and she has changed her formula again and now she is on zantac for reflux. Yesterday was the first time everything was changed. With the formula, we were told to ease her into it and only give her 1/2 scoop per 2oz of water and then up her to 3/4 scoop per 2oz. Well, last night, all she did was cry and cry every time I put her down to sleep. I felt so bad, but I got so aggravated with her, she just would not stop crying. Eventually, I started to cry, hysterically, mind you, because I was just so tired. I took her to DH and we all slept in the bed together. I am so exhausted today. I have tried to nap when they nap, but I am still tired. Well, this morning, I upped her to the 3/4 scoop and she has successfully taken 2 naps now without any fuss. Now I feel really bad, like maybe she was still hungry last night. However, I would try and feed her more and she would just spit it up...I don't know...I swear I have more motherly guilt then should be allowed for one human being. I am crossing my fingers that she does better tonight. I am getting scared that she is developing colic...I don't know if I could handle that. Please pray that she starts to feel better. The good news is that we took another stool sample in and no more traces of blood. That is a relief!

Sherry - I agree with everyone, you are a part of us! No more talk about leaving!

Well, I just really needed to vent, but I have to take another nap while I have the opportunity...oh crap, I also have to make bottles. AGGHH!!! I think the stress of being here by myself is starting to way on me! Please tell me it gets easier with time....:)

I noticed that many of you were able to put large pictures on your signature. How did you do that? I tried and it kept saying upload failed. My picture on my ticker is so small you can barely see it.

Valerie

AndreaR

06-29-2006, 02:06 PM

Valerie - I am so sorry to hear about your troubles with Kayley. I hope you're on the right track now with the new formula. Please try not to feel too guilty - you are actually doing everything you can for your babies, and you're doing a great job. This is so much harder than I thought it would be. Unfortunately, I don't think things are going to get much easier for a while. Sorry - but you'll always have us here for support.

Felisha - our girls are sleeping in a pack 'n play next to our bed. I am not sure when I'll be ready to move them to their room. We haven't hooked up the monitor yet, since they're pretty much always in ear shot. We have a pack 'n play in the family room, too, and that's where they sleep during the day (when they're not in someone's arms). I am interested in what others are doing for sleeping arrangements, too. Also, friends of mine have a son who had reflux when he was born and they put cereal in his bottles and it worked great. I hope it works for Thomas, too.

Ters - Madeline gets gas, too. I sometimes use Mylicon drops, which seem to work most of the time. I asked the pedi about it, and he said it was fine to use them, but he's not convinced they do anything. He suspects that it's all a placebo effect. It's funny that you mentioned that Luke got it once you switched from the powder formula, because I feel like Maddie started getting it once we switched TO the powder. Oh well, who knows...every kid is different.

Pumping - I, too, am double pumping (as we speak as a matter of fact). Madeline is getting stronger nursing, but she still needs a bottle. Plus we add powdered formula to it to give her extra calories. We switched eating schedules this week. We had been feeding every four hours, which was working fine, but we have since moved to "on demand" and it's causing my pumping to be way off. I feel bad, because Maddie got all formula yesterday (minus what she got when she was on the boob), and now she's constipated. I'm pumping now for her next feed - I just hope Isabelle can hold out a little to allow some milk to build up for her.

The visiting nurse came on Tuesday. Madeline weighs 5 lbs 12 oz and Isabelle weighs about 7 lbs (we didn't take off her clothes). It's so nice to see them getting big and strong.

Hope you are all doing well. Sherry - HANG IN THERE. Has Paula had her babies yet??

AndreaR

TMoT

06-29-2006, 02:12 PM

Oh, Val, POOR you!!!! :'-( I wish I could come and just take care of Kayley for you for a while so you could rest and feel relieved. :-) She seems to be doing better each day, but it just goes so slowly, I know... The only consolation I can give you is that each _month_, things get exponentially easier. And that by the third or fourth month, you will feel like an "old pro" at this... It's just that +now+ is very tough. You'll make it through, though, I promise. And, of course, I'm thinking about you and praying that things will go more smoothly for sweet little Kayley. :throb:

For me, we had an ob appt this morning, and I'm 2-3cm dilated but cervix is still "posterior" (=not in "birthing" position), and not a lot of action going on. :-( Neither baby is engaged, still haven't lost my mucous plug, so, if you ask me, we _could_ keep going till 53 weeks, if it weren't for this impending induction.... (?!)

*sigh* Sure wish they'd just quickly come on their own, of course, and it's making me a bit sad. :'-( *sigh again* ...Doc even did some "digging around" during the check-up though (I think she sensed my "disappointment"), but nothing doing, so far....

Well, more monitoring and a blood test tomorrow. And, if all is fine, induction goes forward for Sunday night. I'll keep you all posted, and definitely will let you know when I'm "on my way," unless things happen sooner than expected (which I honestly don't anticipate!), of course!!!

Hope you're all getting some decent rest when you can and that you're also taking care of MOMMY (=water, omega-3!!) as much as possible given the circumstances... :throb: Thanks for the solidarity (I need it now more than ever!), and my love and strength goes out to all of you!!! xox

qbanmom5

06-29-2006, 06:21 PM

Val; I feel your pain. That must be hell you are going through! It will eventually get easier and you will get through it. Please don't feel guilty, there is nothing you are doing wrong..

Sherry: I am so impressed with you. You are truly an amazing mom and friend to all of us.

AndreaR: That is funny about the formula switch. I guess we both agree that the ready to feed caused no discomfort? After that I went to powder which they were o.k. with. When I went to the concentrate was when the probs began. I just bought some more of the powder-the ready to feed is too expensive.

Sleeping: They are still in separate bassinets at night. During the day they sleeptogether in the pack n play. They do ok either way.

Gotta run, Ters

sgarrett

06-29-2006, 10:27 PM

Wow Sherry I can not beleive how long you have been able to go! You are awesome!

Feeding: Aiden and Isabelle always wake up together to eat, usually every two to three hours. They acutally did 4 hour streches last night, it was great! We do not chart, I know we are suppose to and I feel guitly but they are doing great gaining weight.

Diapers, favorites so far are Huggies and Pampers. Aiden manages to pee outside of the Luvs whenever he wears them!

Someone mentioned a pumping bra, what is that? I would love to pump hand free it is time consuming! Is that what it is for?

We had there two week check up yesterday and Isabelle was whopping 8lbs and Aiden was 6lbs and 12oz! He had gained 12 oz since his last appt! He has outgrown some of his preemie clothes and she has outgrown some of her newborn clothes already! She is such a little porker, she has the chubbiest cheeks ever! They look completely different from eachother, they do not even look related!

On carpel tunnel, how long after you have the babies is it supposed to go away? It has gotten worse since they were born instead of better.

take care all,

Staci

sgarrett

06-29-2006, 10:27 PM

swineland

06-30-2006, 02:21 AM

Hey everyone!

Wow...I just got up at 3:45.....my mom stayed up with the boys and did TWO double feedings by herself just so I could sleep :) What a great mom. She leaves tomorrow and I'm going to miss her terribly.

Sleeping arrangements: at night, we put the in their cribs in the nursery. They sleep really well in there and, while having them sleeping right nex to each other would be ideal, I think they wake each other up and bother one another. During the day, when they are not in someone's arms, they sleep in a variety of different places....bouncy seat, swing, sofa, playmat. Yesterday, mom and I went shopping and had lunch with my husband and the babies were terrific. They slept the whole time, only waking 3 hours later for food. We pulled over into a parking lot, mixed up some bottles and fed them in the car. It took about 30 mins to feed them both, burp them and change them and then we were back in business!

Mom babysat yesterday afternoon and I was able to run back out and go to Old Navy for some postpartum clothes. My hips, even though I didn't have a vaginal delivery, are DEFINITELY bigger. I mean, they are wider. I went through my dresser and tried on every pair of shorts I have and NONE of them would even come close to fitting. Got some really cute tank tops and shorts/skirts. Now I'm all set for awhile.

Val, I am SO sorry to hear about your troubles with Kayley. Rest assured that the reason you are feeling so stressed is b/c you ARE a good mother.... if you were a bad mom you wouldn't really care about what's best for your daughter and therefore you wouldn't stress about it. That's what we do. We worry about our babies. You are doing SUCH a good job and we are all proud of you! Things WILL get better....I know it doesn't seem like it now, especially in the moment when she's screaming and you're crying, but you WILL be able to look back at this and say "whoa....THAT was crazy." You'll all be okay :aww:

The postpartum joint/knuckle pain in my hands is terrible and I can't wait till my next OB appt to discuss it with him. Also, I have noticed that my hands are swelling MORE than when they did being pregnant. I may try a water pill....hate to do that, but I feel like I've got Michelin Man hands!

Gotta run!
Steph

LucasMom

06-30-2006, 08:21 AM

Hi, I hate that I am not really able to respond to many posts, but maybe after mine, you will understand and forgive me.

Went to doctor yesterday. Good news first. At the boys 6 week check up, they weigh in at a whopping 10 lb. 5 1/2 oz. (Dylan) and 11 lb. 7 1/2 oz. (logan). Little porkers! They are perfectly healthy except for reflux, which we are trying enfamil AR, and so far that seems to be helping.

Bad news, both boys have full blown COLIC. They scream and scream unconsolably from like 8 am until 1 or 2 pm. I mean non stop, except to eat and then they go right back to screaming. I cry everyday! It's horrible. It makes me so sad and so upset that I don't even know what to do with myself. My doctor spent some lovely time with them yesterday during one of these episodes, and gave me instructions on how to deal. He guaranteed me better babies by July 4th. It is kind of a hard way to handle it. Basically, when they start the screaming, I am to do most of what I normally do which is feed, change, make sure nothing is wrong, cuddle for awhile. If and when this does not work, I am to make them comfortable, and leave them to cry it out, checking on them periodically, and feeding at normal times. I am not to go to crazy measures like, vacuuming, putting on the dryer, bouncy chairs and swings. According to him, colic is basically sensory overload, and all of these things may help temporarily, but will make the situation worse. He said the first few days will be horrible, but by day 4 or so, they will be down to 15 minutes and after a week it should be gone. He told me I don't have to do it, but in 30 years of practice, he's never seen it not work when the parents do it correctly.

I am going slightly out of my mind. It is crazy around here during those hours and I am by myself. They are so cute at night, and doing better sleeping and everything, but those day hours, forget about it! It is a nightmare.

Enough about me. Sherry, so proud of you...and so sorry you must be sooo uncomfortable right now. Steph- Aftre Lucas was born, my hips were wider and went back to pretty much normal after a few months, so you may just not be back to normal yet. If not, I am sure you look beautiful, and you were so tall and thin to begin with that it won't even show on you! Carpal tunnel-asked ob and regular doctor about it and both said it can last up to 6 months after birth and has no cure but wrist braces and vitamin b6 will help. Val- I know totally how you feel, but just keep trying to think, at least I know it will have an end. Soon they will be different and things will get easier.

Anyone have truely smiley babies yet? I know that gratification will make the colic seem a bit easier to deal with. I think the boys are getting close.

Have to go, this posting took me 2 hours to write in between screams!

Stay strong everyone!:throb:
Mindy

vthompson

06-30-2006, 02:16 PM

Hello Everyone! Thank you so much for all your support and words of encouragement. You all have a such a great way of making me feel better. I truly appreciate it! Well, Kayley had a much better night last night. I am still worried, though. I will need to see a few nights like that before I think she is doing better. She has not pooped, however, since Tuesday night. She does not seem to be in pain, but it still worries me. I have read and the ped told me that some babies can go up to 5 days before a b/m. That just seems abnormal to me. I swear, there is always something to worry about!

Mindy - I feel so bad for you. I cannot imagine how stressed you must be. I was ready to pull my hair out after only one night of the crying and it was only with 1 baby. I really hope the ped's ideas work. You seem to be handling everything really well, though. Try and stay positive...I am sending good thoughts your way!!

Sleeping - Our babies are still sleeping in their carriers. Periodically, I try and put them down without them, but they scream their heads off. During the day, I put both carriers in the bassinet of the pac and play and at night, we take them to their cribs.

Well, Kayley must have sensed that I was telling you guys that she seemed to have a better night because she is screaming now, even though she should be napping. Gotta go!

Valerie

p.s. Sherry - I am thinking about you!!

vthompson

06-30-2006, 02:53 PM

Mindy - I love the slide...I stole your idea!!

Valerie

sgarrett

06-30-2006, 05:11 PM

Mindy: Wow I am so sorry to hear about the colic issues. I go nuts when they cry for a few minutes at the same time, I could not imagine. I will pray for you that the docs advice works!

Valerie: sorry little Kayley is not sleeping will. I second what someone else said earlier, I wish we were all closer, it would be so great to meet and hang out, help eachother with the babies, etc...

Sherry: I am so excited for you, I know these last few days will be surreal. I am amazed you have been able to go so long, I was at 37 weeks and thought I was going to lose it!

Mindy: Can you take that Vitamen B6 when you are nursing?

Sleeping: The babies sleep together in their co sleeper, of course they usually end up in bed with us!!!!!!

Still cannot figure out how to add pics! I tried the slide thing and I ended up with a slide of all one pic! What am I doing wrong???????

BTW how are ya'll double pumping hands free? Someone had mentioned a pumping bra, I have never heard of that. Where do you find it?

Steph: I laughed when I read your Old Navy comment, I did the same thing the day b4 yesterday. Hubby sat in the car with the babies while I ran in to Old Navy and got a few tank tops and capris. I am scared of not losing this weight though, my belly still looks huge!

Felisha, You really are amazing, I am glad to hear their dad has decided to be a part of their lives, he will really regret it he does not. I do not know how you are doing this alone, you are a very strong woman!

Take care all,

sgarrett

06-30-2006, 05:18 PM

OK I just wanted to try the slide thing, Aiden is the one with dark hair, my Aunt is holding him. Isabelle is the red head with chubby cheeks! Check the pic out of my hubby holding Aidens feet, I love that pic!

LucasMom

06-30-2006, 07:02 PM

Just a quick note...

Thanks to all of you for your well wishes on the colic situation. So funny, I came home and everyone had slides on their signatures. I love to see all of our little ones in full sized color. You all have beautiful children!!

Lisa- Yep, we are due date buddies to the end, May 18th at 3:22 and 3:33. Can I say, I love the outfits you dress the boys in. Where did you get the monkey onesie? It is so cute.

Today was not too bad...better than yesterday. I will keep hoping that each day may get better. The formula switch seems to be helping also.

Glad to have all of you guys as "friends". I really feel as though we have bonded. It's very cool.

Have a great weekend if I don't check in before then.

:throb: Mindy

PS- Sherry-sending love from Philadelphia to the land of waffles for you! Give kisses to those beautiful JUNE (ok, july) babies for all of us!!:)

AndreaR

06-30-2006, 08:23 PM

OMG everyone - I LOVE the slides. All your babies are so beautiful. I can't stop starting at them. I will have to figure out how to do it when I have more time.

Staci - here is the link to the pumping bras. I actually heard about it from someone here a long time ago, but I just bought it. I bought the halter. I love, love, love it.
http://www.breastfeedingworld.com/pumping_bras.htm

Mindy - I am so sorry to hear about the colic. I think the pedi's approach is very interesting and I can't wait to hear if it works. Please keep us posted, and in the meantime, try to take it easy on yourself. I don't know from personal experience, but I've heard that babies w/ colic are one of the hardest things to deal with. I am sending positive vibes your way. We are all hear for you if you are having a tough day. About smiling...my book ("What to Expect the First Year") says that they start smiling at around six weeks. My Isabelle smiles all the time, and I'd like to think they're "real" but they're not. They sure are cute though!!

I agree with whomever said it, "I wish we all lived closer together."

Sherry - GOOD LUCK! We can start counting hours. I am so, so thrilled that your time is near. I can't wait to hear your story and see pictures of your babies!

Valerie - glad to hear that Kayley had a good night. Hopefully it's the first of many. I've been thinking of you. Sorry about the constipation now. Their little systems are so sensitive. Someone here has posted that you can give them watered down apple or prune juice. I think it was Sherry or Ters. I'm not sure of the quantity or the ratio...Maybe they can repost.

qbanmom5

06-30-2006, 08:45 PM

Sorry gals, I just had to copy you all. The babies went to the dr. today. Luke has surpassed his sis and is weighing 8 lbs 8 oz. Leia is not far behind at 8 lbs 6 oz. They are growing so fast. Gotta feed, love, Ters

Forgot to mention, Leia is the one with hair. The picture of Luke smiling was a fluke--it was gas and he was grimacing but it came out looking like a smile. Couldn't have done that if i tried. Ters

swineland

07-01-2006, 06:33 AM

I want one, I want one!!:yippee: What a cool idea, that slide show thing. It's so funny to see how we all started out with nothing, then we got the "ticker", which was all the rage, then we figured out how to do a single photo, then a BIGGER photo, now a slide show....pretty soon we'll have audio .wav files so you can HEAR the babies :)

I wish there was some kind of muzzle they had out for infants to help keep their pacifiers in...haha....I'm only kidding about a "muzzle". But the boys get so pissy when it falls out....as soon as I put it back in they are totally happy. They like to have it when they are trying to fall asleep and every time it falls out they wake right back up again and have to start all over. I bought "wubbanubs"...they are the Soothie pacifier with a little beanie baby type stuffed animal attached. In a little bit longer, they'll learn that they can keep their own pacifier in just by clutching the wubbanub. (http://www.burdickbaby.com/pacifiers.html)

Well, I hope you all have a great 4th of July weekend. Any special plans?? I know we'll all be out late at night watching fireworks and enjoying adult beverages...yeah, right. :) I'll be in bed by 7.

The shuttle is supposed to go up today at 3 something. Hope the weather holds out and they don't scrub the launch. We can always see it here in Orlando and it's kind of cool.

Hugs to all...
Steph

Jillmami

07-01-2006, 09:30 AM

I also purchased the Wubbanubs - frog and horse. My daughter LOVES them; especially the frog. It has stiffer arms than the horse does. They don't really bend/move. She gets her pacifier back into her mouth about 70% of the time. What a help that is! My son on the other hand is like, "what IS this thing on my face? Get it off!!"

All is well here. Just trying to get them to sleep better at night. They are great in the am/early afternoon about sleeping in longer stretches. However, nights are a different story. They are also awake for hours at a time. That is crazy at 3:30 am! Not problematic babies at all. However, the past few days my daughter has had wicked stomach pains after eating; poor thing. It is so hard to watch them in pain. We have the gripe water and colic-ease. We just received the colic-ease so we'll see how that works. So far, they have made a big difference with my son who used to just cry about his gassiness.

I hear you all on the lack of sleep. Luckily, my husband works from home so he can help with a baby when I have to pump during the day. Lately, I have left him here in lots with the babies since my mom has been in the hospital. She was supposed to have moved in to help out but her melanoma has returned and she is in such tremendous pain that she hallucinates and is disoriented from all the pain meds. We are now working with a pain specialist and have appts. in San Francisco with a melanoma specialist to see if there is any treatment. Otherwise, she has to deal with it.

Well, I hear some stirring. Enjoy seeing all the wonderful slides and I can't wait to get mine set up when I have some more time.

Take care and keep enjoying the little angels!

vthompson

07-01-2006, 12:52 PM

Ladies, we need to pat ourselves on the backs! We all have some beautiful babies!!

Jill - It is really great to hear from you. I am so incredibly sorry to hear about your mom. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I can't imagine dealing with all that stress on top of new babies. Your strength is inspiring. BTW, what is colic-ease and where can you buy it?

Steph - I was laughing out loud when you talked about our excitement!! It is so true!

Lisa - I had tears in my eyes when I read your post about your mom leaving. I feel so badly for you. I wish we lived closer so we could all come and give you a hug!! Your MIL sounds SO ANNOYING, BTW. I don't know how you deal with it! Sorry to call her annoying, I hope I didn't offend you. I just can't imagine!

Andrea - I am SO excited about the pumping bra!! I am going to order one right now! Thanks for the link. When I am pumping, I always think about how I could be on the forum posting if only I had free hands...

Well, another good night with Kayley, however, Corey is having TERRIBLE gas problems. The poor guy did not sleep at all because he was grunting and crying so much. I swear, these babies stomachs are terrible. I think I am going to try the milicon drops and see if that helps him. I just feel so bad when they are in pain because there is nothing you can do for them! Any other suggestions for gas relief would be really appreciated!! Well, Kayley went poop today!! YEAH! I swear, DH and I never imagined we would be smiling and happy when someone in our family pooped! How our lives have changed ladies!! :crazy:

Well, we have a 4th of July party to go to today. I swear, when we have somewhere to go, it takes all day to get ready now. It is crazy. I have to go make bottles and pump so we can get going. Talk to everyone later!

Valerie

AndreaR

07-01-2006, 01:20 PM

ladies - i know some of you have taken your babies out. we haven't gone anywhere yet, except the pedi's office, and for walks on our street. after a month, i am beginning to go stir crazy. the pedi and the nicu nurses told us to avoid public places for six weeks. i can understand that. my family is having a party on the 4th of july, and i'd like to go, but DH thinks it's too early. i don't consider my parents' house as a public place. even though there will be quite a few people there, i don't plan on passing the girls around to everyone; in fact, i plan on telling everyone to "look but not touch." but i can't seem to convince DH. it's making me resent him a little. what are you all doing? i'm especially interested in hearing from jill and others who had their babies early, since madeline is considered a preemie.

isabelle has thrush. i'm afraid i gave it to her from the yeast infection under my breasts (yes, i still have it).

i'm having a really bad day...........don't even feel like getting into it. i feel like i need to get out, but DH has all these projects around the house, so i can't leave the girls with him. maybe i'll take them for a ride.

sherry - how are you holding up? are we going to hear from you again before you go in?

hugs to all,
andrea

Jillmami

07-01-2006, 01:54 PM

Andrea: Our doc from the NICU said not to go to public places for a couple of months. However, ours were born 3 months early. I have taken them to the hospital to visit my mom and to the care facility to visit her. I think your mom's is ok. I printed out a baby rule sheet that stated: 1. no kissing the babies
2. Use sanitizer 3. No stealing the babies (that was for my relatives who visited.) I think they'll be fine.

Valerie - Colic-ease is similar to gripe water. The surgeon who worked on my son's hernias does not recommend mylicon since it can lead to other issues such as constipation. Here is the link: http://www.colicease.com/
It is more herbal I believe. Gripe water worked really well for my son but we switched to the colicease because of what is 'does not' have in it. Good luck with it if you try it. It IS difficult to watch your baby/babies suffer with gas pains. I know how uncomfortable it is for me. I know what it is and how to try to work it through but a baby...

TMoT

07-02-2006, 07:42 AM

THANK YOU SO MUCH, LADIES, for your love and words of support and encouragement!!!! :'-))) ...DH and I tried "inducing" on our own last night :rotflmbo: , but looks like we're going to have to leave it up to the "experts" to get these babies to come (although I didn't think we'd done that bad, to be honest)!! ;-)

I've read through everyone's posts (DS1 and I "ohhhed" and "ahhhed" our way through ALL the adorable pictures!!!) and can't wait till I can share some more first-hand input with you all -- which I hope, will be VERY SOON!!! :yippee:

Till then, I at least managed to borrow the slide idea (thanks, Mindy!!) and put some of my preggy pics in there (LOTS of BELLY!), for as long as it lasts...! ...Counting the hours now, literally!!

Well, Ladies (and Jason -- wherever you are!!), now is the moment for _me_ to say, with all my heart, how great it's been to go through this very special, emotional and exciting adventure -- being a PREGNANT MOMMY OF TWINS -- with you all!!!!! :throb: You have all been my inspiration, teachers and life-line to continued (?) sanity for all these months, and it just wouldn't have been as fun, funny and deeply touching without you! THANK YOU ALL for the shared stories, ups, downs, love and support for all this time!!! You're all such special ladies (and Jason)!!! :joytears:

Well, then, here goes (*gulp* -- I can't believe I'm FINALLY going to write this! Seems like a kind of "closure" for ALL of us!!!):

...See you on the Other Side!!! :grouphugg

Love, love, love,
Sherry

cbparker

07-02-2006, 09:50 AM

Steph and all - I noticed you posted that you had the double feeding down pat. Can you please give me some insight? DH goes back to work this week, and I still don't have it mastered and the thought of being here alone kinda freaks me out unless I can figure it out.

Also, I have been using the Dr. Brown's bottles and love them. Knock on wood...we haven't had any gas issues at all.

I keep pumping b/c the girls won't latch on. Is this considered breast feeding when it comes to getting my period?

Can someone tell me how to do the slide thing? I looked for the post but couldn't find it.

Anyways, all the advice I can get would be greatly appreciated!!

Thanks, Belinda

swineland

07-02-2006, 02:56 PM

Belinda, I have been able to do the double feeding with the assistance of the boppy and my lap. I sit on the sofa or bed and put one baby in my lap with his head up by my knees and his feet pointed down and then I elevate my legs...like propped up on the coffee table or something. Then, I prop up the other baby in a sitting position in the boppy and once I make sure everyone is sitting upright enough to not cause gagging/reflux, I pop in both bottles and away they go. I constantly look back and forth between them, making sure the bottles are okay and no bubbles are getting in. Then I burp them both, one after the other, after each ounce of formula they take in. Right now they are taking 3.5 ounces roughly every 3 hours. The MOST ideal way for me to feed them is about 20-30 mins apart. That way each baby gets special one on one time and I don't feel rushed and they don't get pissed at burping time. BUT, with twins both hungry at the same time, you sorta have to double feed. Hope that helps you!

Sherry, Best of luck to you and your family, both present and soon to debut! I will be thinking of you and hope that your labor and delivery go smoothly and is as special as you have dreamed of. I'm sure it will be. Look forward to hearing from you as soon as you can! BTW, your photos are awesome.....

Well, I gotta run...hope everyone is doing good!

Steph

vthompson

07-02-2006, 03:35 PM

Just wanted to post real quick...Sherry, GOOD LUCK!!! You look beautfiul in your pictures!! I will be thinking of you.

Valerie

LucasMom

07-02-2006, 08:16 PM

Just a quick note...
Sherry-Great job! We are all so proud of you! Give Darius and Artemis a hello kiss from all their twin mommies and friends stateside!:throb:

Jill-Glad to hear from you, the babies look beautiful and healthy.
Andrea R-Sorry to hear about the thrush.Hope you and Isabelle are feeling better.

Guys- I wish I had better, more positive feelings right now. I am having a tough time here. The babes are extremely colicky (sp?). When they are not crying, I am so happy, but usually they are and it's exhausting. We are making it through each day though, one at a time. Luckily, 80 % of colic cases are gone by 12 weeks, so only another:crazy: 5 1/2 weeks. I am praying it doesn't last that long. It is so painful to see the babies like this, and to feel any type of resentment towards your child is horrible and makes me feel like the worst mother in the world. I am hoping that with some perserverence and alot of love, this will be a better week.

On better note, my best friend in the whole world who I love the most, is pregnant! Her daughter is 9 months older than Lucas and the boys will be 9 months older than this baby! Happy, so Happy for her!

Happy 4th!

Love,
Mindy

mmzill

07-02-2006, 10:37 PM

Hi gang,

Monica asked me to post something here while she got some shut-eye (imagine that :rotflmbo: ). So I made up a cool slide show thing like everyone else seems to be doing. There are so many cute babies on this board. Good luck to all. I had some NUT at work tell me that the worse is yet to come when the twins hit toddler stage. Forget that! I think that will be wonderful as long as we can sleep good at night! :cool:

Anthony and Nathan are growing like weeds and A weighs 8 and a half pounds and Nathan weighs 6 and a half pounds. Alaina is 19 months now and weighs 26 pounds. These boys want to eat CONSTANTLY!!! As soon as they are done eating, I think they have dreams of eating again.... while also multi-tasking and burping and pooping and burping and pooping and pooping and sleeping and crying and burping and crying and sleeping and pooping. Then their dream takes a hold of their bodies and they yell for more food after an hour and a half or so.

It is so disgusting to be around other humanity that have no concept of sense (common or otherwise). These boys will be dressed in blue from head to toe and some old man or woman will ask if they are twins?.... are they both girls?.... are they brother and sister?... and whatever else dumb question they can think of. I certainly hope these people did not have too many children thus expanding the gene pool of stupidity in this world. Enough venting.... This is what happens when Monica asks me (DH a.k.a. Victor) to post something for her.

My work as treasurer for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in West Virginia took me to our Youth Camp for two weeks for an annual get-together of our churches. Monica was brave enough to bring the 3 kids out for the two weeks and we stayed in a RV trailer. CROWDED! Everyone here has my utmost respect for all the work that you do. :clap:

Get lots of sleep and have happy babies....

Victor

sgarrett

07-02-2006, 10:48 PM

Wow everybody babies are beautiful! I wish I could hug and kiss them all! (with your permission of course Lisa!)

Steph: My hubby wants to get a rubber band and make there paci like a gag ball (the gimp from Pulp Fiction) to keep it from falling out!

Sherry: I am so excited for you! Can not wait to hear the birthing story and see pics of your gorgeous babies!

Just wanted to check in real quick and say HI! I never have time to read all the posts anymore, so hugs to all!

Staci

Jillmami

07-03-2006, 03:05 AM

Staci, my daughter loves the wubbanubs. They are stuffed animals with the soothie pacifiers sewn into them. They are able to grab onto the animal to keep the paci in. The frog has stiffer arms that stay in place better than the horse. Not sure about the others. Might work for you.

http://babythisbabythat.com/wubbanub.html

There are quite a few places online that sell them. Some offer free shipping if you are ordering other items.

teresa67

07-03-2006, 03:18 AM

Sherry........I'm wondering if your holding your babies now:throb:

LucasMom

07-03-2006, 05:09 AM

What are you guys using as far as baby monitors. The one I had from Lucas just has too much interference. Help!

Sherry---How are those babies!!!!:throb:

Mindy

TMoT

07-03-2006, 11:07 AM

Ladies, thank you so much for all the well wishes!!! :throb:

Well, the "last" (dare I say -- but what about PaulaP, nicunurse, Chastity and the one other mommy who just joined our thread recently?!?) of the "June Mommy" thread babies are HERE!!!! And BOY did they arrive in STYLE -- with a fitting end to our very exciting collective adventure!!!!!

...Babies arrived within FORTY MINUTES (!!!) of the start of my first real contractions -- Artemis at 3:48am and Darius at 3:53am this morning! At 3:10am, I woke up with some pretty strong contractions; at 3:40am, I was 4-5cm dilated; and eight minutes after that, Artemis came flying out!!! They only called my doc at 3:40am (she was at another delivery and obviously wasn't going to make it to mine!) and dh was on the phone with my physiotherapist when I started grunting and pushing and the midwives started scrambling and screaming "she's delivering"!!! We couldn't even make it to the delivery room so the on-staff doctor delivered us right there in the labor ward!!! The hospital staff said it was definitely a record for a twin-birth and they're jokingly calling it the "TGV delivery" (with reference to Europe's famed high-speed express train! ;-)) -- with little/big Artemis Rose at the controls!! lol Funny thing is that she had to boot her brother (who's been in "first place" for the last couple weeks) aside to make her/their grand entrance...! Hmmm. ;-)

...Everything is GREAT! Artemis weighed in at 7lbs/19.3in and Darius at 6.5lbs/19.7in. They both latched on to the breast like champs within the first hour (!), and I'm now feeding them in turn (like Monica, I think, suggested) till they both really get the nursing thing down. ;-) So far, Artemis is the real eater, but her brother matches her when he sets his mind to it. ;-)

Mommy is holding up too -- on about one hour's worth of sleep since "T=0"...! 8o) Thanks to ds2, my 10-pounder, I didn't need any stitches or shoring-up of any kind after these two "minis," but I did have to get a second shot to contract my uterus because the post-delivery bleeding was pretty heavy.

Only other "new" variable is that both babies have some breathing/choking problems from the speed of the delivery and having inhaled lots of amniotic fluid. :-( It's very disturbing each time they have a "fit," but I read it only lasts for the first (=sleepless anyway) 24 hours... *sigh*

For my own part, I hardly remember a thing from the delivery because it went so @#$% fast! I was on all fours on the bed and struggling to keep still so the midwife could put a catheter in my hand when Artemis' head popped out (?!)! For Darius, they insisted I get on my back, and I had to actually work a bit to get him back "down" from way up in my uterus and "out"... Still, it only took FIVE MINUTES in total!!! Whew!!!!! ...We had wanted to film (or at least record audio of) the delivery, but alas, that just didn't happen.... ;-)

We've got some photos of "The Aftermath" of course ;-), but I'm just too tired to post them now, so I hope you'll all forgive me for doing that sometime soon -- I promise.

Till then, all my love to all of you, and if I don't find you "here" when I exit the "New Mommy/Daddy/Babies Tunnel," I'll go looking for you all on the "First Year" thread!!!! :-D

Take care and I'll check in with all of you again soon!!! xox

PS Big DSes are staying at their grandparents' this week, but they made a visit to the hospital this evening, and obviously, are quite over the moon about their baby brother and sister!!! :-D Their father agreed to shorten their visitation with him (that's where they're actually supposed to be right now!), so we can all be together next week when the hospital stay is finished (after Thursday or so). I just can't wait for all six of us (!!!) to be together and to start our lives as a new/expanded family! :'-) :throb:

naturalmom

07-03-2006, 11:16 AM

YAY!!!!! Congrats Sherry! I am so happy for you!

sgarrett

07-03-2006, 11:37 AM

Congrats Sherry! Sounds like an exciting record breaking delivery! Can not to see pics!

Felisha: Thanks for the info, I will check those pacis out. I love your baby pics you ave some chubby cheek babies. My little girl has the chubby cheeks and it is so cute!

AndreaR

07-03-2006, 11:48 AM

HOORAYYYY and congratulations to Sherry, Artemis & Darius. I am not surprised at your birth story. I knew those kids were going to enter this world with a bang. Congratulations to all of you. Can't wait to see pictures.

Victor/Monica - sooooo good to hear from you and see updated pictures. The boys look fantastic! They look so big now. Victor, you crack me up. Yes, people are crazy out there.

Hope everyone else is doing well - sorry I don't have time to reply to all posts.

AndreaR

vthompson

07-04-2006, 08:35 AM

Sherry - CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! I can't believe all of our babies are officially here! You know the last set had to come in with a bang! You are truly inspiring Sherry! Even though you had just given birth, your post was still so upbeat and I could sense your energy and excitement! Can't wait to see pics!

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY EVERYONE!!!!

Well, there have been some new developments in our house. I woke up yesterday with severe pain in my breast. I went to the doc and I have ANOTHER infection and a blocked duct. She put me on a stronger antibiotic. This is the 2nd infection in a week...needless to say, I was very aggravated! I have decided to stop pumping and let my milk dry up. The infections and the time it takes is just too much at this point. I cried several times about it yesterday, but I have officially put my pump away. I just feel like a cop out...but I also know I did the best I could, at least that is what I keep telling myself. I am in SERIOUS pain, however between the infection and my breasts being engorged. My ob said to wear a tight fitting sportsbra and to not allow any stimulation to the breast, including water. Any suggestions on how to make this a quicker and more comfortable process would be greatly appreciated. I can barely hold the babies.

So, I found out that the formula that Kayley is on is $40 a can!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can you believe that!!!!!!!!!!!! I have know idea how we are going to afford that, plus Corey's formula. A friend of mine said she bought her formula on ebay for cheaper. What do you guys think about that? I am not sure I am very comfortable with that. She said it came sealed and was bought from parents how didn't need it anymore. However, people are sick these days...who knows if it could be contaminated. Just wondered what your thoughts were.

Well, I had more to write, but my battery on my laptop is going dead.

sgarrett

07-04-2006, 03:13 PM

Valerie:

Does your pedi have samples of the formula he can give you? Everytime we go my husband asks for it and they give us several cans. It sounds like you are using something special but I thought it was worth a shot!

Staci

mmzill

07-04-2006, 07:32 PM

Valerie~ So sorry you are having so much trouble BF! Infections are awful, and antibiotics are not fun either. If you babies get a bad diaper rash, it could be because you are on an antibiotic. Glad you found a formula that will work, but my gosh!!! $40 a can!! Wow, that's alot.

Cabbage leaves will help your milk dry up. Just get a head of cabbage, cut it in half and put a couple leaves in your bra. It will really work. Don't feel bad about not continuing to bf, they did get the colostrum at least. You have to choose what works for your family.

The boys are good, eat all the time. Actually today it slowed down some. I have assigned them each a boob. I think that is going better. Well, I'll post more later.

Oh Sherry - CONGRATS!!!!!\

~Monica

AndreaR

07-04-2006, 11:04 PM

Valerie - sorry to hear about your BF troubles. I admire you for sticking it out so long. I know how hard it is to breastfeed/bottlefeed/pump. I'm sorry to hear about the price of that formula, too. YIKES!

Although neither of my girls have any issues with my breast milk or the formula that we use to supplement, I am feeling so tired of the whole feeding process. Each of the girls has thrush now; I still have the yeast infection under my boobs. I can't get it to go away, and I know we're just passing it back and forth to eachother. It's so frustrating. I went to the LLL website to find out how to fix the problem, and they recommend that I boil everything, wipe my nipples with a special vinegar solution, take acidopholus supplments... I really want to get rid of this infection, but all of that seems like so much work, on top of what I'm already doing (breastfeeding, pumping, bottlefeeding, cleaning bottles, etc). THe only good thing about pumping is that it gives me 15 minutes on the computer.

I am really tempted to give up breastfeeding, but I feel bad. I was so committed to it, and I know it's best. I feel like you said, Val, like a cop out. But I don't have any medical reasons - I just feel like I'm not up to it.

Monica - nice to hear from you. Congrats on being about to breastfeed so well (it sounds like you guys have it down pat). Do you pump at all? Do you tandem feed? How is it going with a boob for each baby? One of my boobs produces less milk, so I feel like I can't assign them, although it would be nice not to have to remember who goes where. Also, Maddie only stays on for 10 minutes or so, and then she has to have a bottle with extra formula in it. Your boys look FANTASTIC. It's wonderful to see them so big and healthy. Are they on breastmilk exclusively? Did you ever have to add formula to your breastmilk for them?

Well, my 15 minutes are up. Gotta run.

Sherry - can't wait to see pics of those babies. Hope you all are doing well.

Do you think everyone can find us here (versus the pregnancy thread)? It took me a few minutes.

AndreaR

newmomx2

07-05-2006, 11:30 AM

Well - I have not posted in like 4 weeks - I don't know how you all do it, All I need to do is think about the computer and someone starts to cry - I have generally been opting for sleep over the computer - I have only turned it on like twice in 4 weeks. Our little guys are still take turns being up most of the night which means no sleep - I am still exclusively breastfeeding but will have to prbably stop when DH goes back to work in 3 weeks - I just can't figure out how to do it tandem by myself and once I go back to work in 6 weeks it will be nearly impossible - I can't pump and save anything because they suck me dry and in between I am changing diapers etc...you all know the drill - I figure if I can do almost 3 months that is good.

1 month check-up today went well they have both gained 2 lbs ! Aside from them not sleeping at night at the same time (and some nights neither one sleeps) we had to deal with acid reflux and both boys needed upper GIs now they are on zantac and doing much better.

Well Tyler is crying again gotta run - congrats to all the new mommies and I will try to post more often - I am really hoping things settle down soon.

mmzill

07-05-2006, 11:38 AM

Andrea~ so sorry about the issues w/ thrush. My sister had alot of trouble w/ that also. I asked her what she did, this is what she told me. Take acidophilus - this can be given to the baby also. But what worked best for her was gensun-violet (not sure on the spelling) - it's over the counter, but you have to ask the pharmasist for it. She said there is a dr. from Canada that has a respected protocol for using it, and that you can look it up on the web. It is messy though!!!

You also asked about how my bf is going. . . I am thrilled w/ it. Although the boys were going through a growth spurt last week, that was very draining! In the evenings I was nursing a baby from 6:30 or so, until 11:30/12:00! That is so tiring! I read in the book BF Multiples, that growth spurts for twins can take 4 to 7 days! They reccomend you just going to bed w/ your babies and feed them every time they act hungry. (needless to say, w/ a toddler, going to bed is not an option for me) Anyways it then explained how everyone is capable of making enough milk, but we can't resrict the amount of time the babies nurse. Our bodies know to make more milk then what we have is all used up. Supply=Demand. I am drinking lots of water and some Nursing tea to help my milk supply.

I seldom tandem nurse unless they are both just screeming. Then it's nice to have a helping hand.

I am not pumping now unless I miss a feeding. I have so much milk in the freezer from when the boys were in the hospital, that I don't have to pump. You asked about supplementing - since we have a stockpile, they have only ever had bm. A cuople times last week they have nursed and nursed, and still been hungry so we heated up some additional milk.

I think the assinged boob thing is working. Each boob makes enough milk for the baby using it. Andrea, you may have one making less, because you are more comfotable using the other, and don't let them nurse the other as long.
Also, you said Maddie only stays on for 10 min, maybe don't give formula, but feed her more often. (but i know that means a more fussy baby)

I just want to encourage all of you. You are the mommy, and we as mommies, knows what is best! If b/f isn't for you, don't feel like a failure!!! But if you were determined to do it, don't give up easily. Give yourself a small goal, like 3 more days, or a week, at the end of that try set another goal. We can do anything for one more day! :throb: :clap:

Take care everyone! Get some sleep!

~Monica

AndreaR

07-05-2006, 11:54 AM

Monica - thanks so much for taking time to reply and for sharing. I really appreciate it. I want breastfeeding to work out; I do, but it's so hard sometimes. When everything is going smoothly, I love it, but that seems to happen few and far between. The VNA nurse just came and weighed the girls. Maddie is a whopping 6lbs 8oz!! I can't believe it! Isabelle is 7lbs 12oz! Now that Maddie is so "big" I think our pedi will have us take her off the added calories. She nurses for 10 minutes only because she is so small and nursing takes so much out of her. Since we are trying to build up her fat (so she can keep herself warm), we were afraid that she was burning off whatever calories she was taking in on the breast. But now that her weight is really taking off, we may be able to let her nurse exclusively and stop giving forumula. The upside to the formula is that you can really count on them going for a few hours in between feedings. The all-day breastfeeding marathons are a nice bonding time, but it's so difficult to get anything done. I will look into the thrush remedies you suggested, too. Thanks!

sgarrett

07-05-2006, 12:01 PM

AndreaR: I understand the b/f woes! I had no idea it would be so hard! Aiden latches like a champ, and would b/f 24/7 if I let him, but Isabelle still has not figured it out so I pump for her. I am also suplemmenting with Similac. My poor nipples are killing me! How much longer until they "toughen up"?

Monica: I am truly amazed that you can exclusively bf two! That was my goal but it did not work out. When I pump I get about 3 oz per boob does that sound right? I keep wondering if my milk if completely in or if I will start to produce more.

Feeding issues: For some reason the past couple of days both babies have started spitting up alot. I have no idea why, am I feeding them to much? I do not track how often and how much, I feed them on demand, but they usually eat about 3-4 oz every 2-4 hours. Last night Isabelle spit out probaly 2 oz of breastmilk. I tried to explain to her that it was liquid gold and that was unacceptable behavior! They have also turned into little night owls for some reason too! They do not want to go to sleep until about 1:00 to 3:00 am! Is it cruel to try and keep them more awake during the day? Has anyone else had any success doing that? The couple of times I have tried they pretty much sleep through anything. They are held so much during the day I think that maybe they are getting so used to that they do not want to sleep unless they are being held. It is not to tragic right now b/c I am off work but I am worried about when I go back.

vthompson

07-05-2006, 12:43 PM

Monica - Thanks for the cabbage leaf idea. I currently have them in my bra!! I was wondering though, how often do you change them? Do you keep them in all day/night? BTW, I can't believe how big the boys have gotten! They are adorable. I am truly inspired by your b/f. You should be very proud of yourself!!

Staci - We do try and keep the babies up during the day and it seems to really work. We feed them, then we play with them on the play mat or with their other rattles/toys. Then, we put them down for a nap. At night, it is all business. Most of the time, they go right to sleep after eating during the night. My ped gave us 4 samples of this new formula when she switched her. I will definitely ask for more when we go for our 2 month check up. DH did some research today and found a company that charges $21 a can. We are going to keep researching to see what prices are out there.

Andrea - I know exactly how you feel about the b/f and pumping. It is so overwhelming at times...I guess that is why I gave up doing it. I just hope that eventually, I will stop feeling guilty!

Well, I will check in later!

Valerie

ChastityLove

07-05-2006, 05:04 PM

Hi all! Just wanted to let you all know that Nick and Ty arrived on June 27th at 9:05 and 9:06 a.m. Nick weighed 6lbs. 8oz., 20 in. long (although the hospital says 18.5) and Ty weighed 5lbs. 11 oz., also 20 in. long. They both had a little fluid on their lungs due to the C-section but did not have to go to NICU. They are both doing great and will go for another weigh in this Fri. Right now Nick is 6ib. 4oz. and Ty is 5lb. 6 oz.

I am pumping and supplementing with Similac Advance. They eat every three hours sometimes four at night. I am only getting an ounce out of each breast. Does that seem low after one week? Should I be producing more? I am going to look into Fenugreek, is anyone taking that? I had the lactation consultant telling me not to give them a bottle but how else am I supposed to supplement? and then the Nurses telling me that I have to supplement and they have to eat every three hours. Very frustrating.

Anyway, we are all adjusting well and I am so happy for all of you. It sounds like you are all figuring this out too!

Congrats Sherry on such beautiful babies! What great weights! Thanks for asking about me. There was a lady at our hospital that had two 8lb. twins! Can you believe that!?

Our hospital had 6 sets of twins born within 32 hours with ours being the first set born. I'm not sure how to send a link but if you search for "Sparrow Hospital Twins" you will find links for the story.

Thanks in advance for your help on the bf issue!

Chastity

mmzill

07-05-2006, 05:46 PM

Valerie - I'm not sure on the amount of time. But once they get wilty, I would change them. And you can leave them overnight, it won't hurt anything.

sgarret -Pumping - 3 oz per boob is quite a bit. You can never pump as much as the babies can nurse out, so don't be discouraged if you can't get as much from the pump. I am having a hard time getting anything when I pump now. I think the stimulation from the pump is not near as strong as from the babies, so my let down is not as good with the pump now.

AndreaR

07-05-2006, 07:32 PM

Chastity - congratulations to you and your boys!! Good sizes, too! I feel your pain with the breastfeeding vs. supplementing dilemna. Try not to let the nurses and LC's get to you too much. I know it's really, really hard, but try to nurse and/or pump as much as possible during the first few weeks. That's what helped my milk supply go up. I'm still having issues - I'm certainly no expert - but luckily there are plenty of ladies here who can share their experiences with you.

Monica - I didn't realize that you (we) couldn't pump as much as the babies can nurse out of a breast. Thanks for the info. I tried to stick to the same boob for the same girl tonight, but it kind of backfired. My right breast, which usually produces more, didn't seem to have enough for Isabelle. We ended up giving her two ounces of formula after I had nursed her on and off for two hours! I saved the left breast for Maddie, but she wanted nothing to do with it.

Has anyone experienced their babies not liking the taste of their milk? I read that sometimes our milk can taste different based on what we have eaten. I can't figure out what I ate that was different, but both girls seemed to dislike the breast tonight. I hope it goes away.......

AndreaR

vthompson

07-06-2006, 06:32 AM

Chastity - Congratulations!!! I now share a birthday with your twins! I took the Fenugreek when I was pumping, but I did not really see any difference. I think other people have, though. It may be worth a try...

Valerie

mommyof4at26

07-06-2006, 12:33 PM

sorry ive been s busy,congrats sherry:throb: :yippee: i will post baby crying

qbanmom5

07-06-2006, 03:21 PM

Congratulations Sherry!! How wonderful that we have all crossed over and your babies are healthy and I am sure beautiful. I can't wait to see pictures.

Valerie: I can soooo feel your pain and guilt about the b/f. I am in pretty much the same boat except I haven't completely thrown in the tower. Since yesterday, I kissed the pump goodbye since I was hardly getting anything. The kids are only getting breast milk like twice a day (if they take it cause Luke has his moments). I hardly feel let-downs, I hardly leak and I am wondering if they are getting anything at all. WHen they nurse I have to follow up with a bottle of formula cause they are still starving. I feel tremendous guilt that I couldn't make it work. I am sooo impressed by the ladies who are still b/f and especially without supplementing. It was just not in the cards for me. My kid's appetites are voracious and I am nowhere near being able to meet their needs with breast milk alone. The pumping, bottle-feeding, nursing, sterilizing, etc is just too much sometimes and I feel like a terrible parent to my older 3 kids who hardly get any of my time. So I am afraid the b/f is going out the door. I will continue to offer a boob until it is completely dry which is probably pretty soon. Bummer, I know. I feel like a failure but I know my babies will still thrive on formula alone.

Hope everyone is doing well. Staci: 3 oz from each breast sounds awesome!! Especially from a pump! Great job!

Love, Ters

AndreaR

07-06-2006, 05:18 PM

Ters - don't beat yourself about about not breastfeeding. You should be (and are) applauded for trying and for sticking it out this long. You need to feed those gorgeous babies, so whatever works for you is best.

My girls' feeding schedule is so wacked out. I am a complete control freak, and it drives me crazy that we can't do things when planned. I know I need to let this go, that this is a battle I will never win, but it's so hard. And in the back of my mind I keep thinking, "if I gave them formula, they would stick to a schedule..." but alas, here I am pumping because it's time for them to eat, yet they are both fast asleep - dead to the world. I have tried to wake them up by changing them, taking off their clothes, etc, but they are just pooped out. They were outside for quite a while today - we put them in the snap 'n go and took them out in the backyard while we sat by our pool. They love being outside, but I think the fresh air must wipe them out. I just hope that they sleep tonight. I'm so cranky today from lack of sleep.

I bought two slings on line yesterday. I've been doing some reading about baby carrying, and it supposed to be great for the babies. I wish I ordered the slings earlier. We did register (and receive) Baby Bjorns, but they are meant for babies 8 pounds and over. We're not there yet.

Hope you are all doing well - Sherry, I can't wait to hear from you.

Andrea

vthompson

07-06-2006, 06:14 PM

Ters - It sounds as though we are both in the same boat...except you have other children in the equation which presents a whole new set of problems. I know first hand that what I am about to say is easier said then done, but please do not beat yourself up. I agree, you need to pat yourself on the back for going this long. All I can say is that whatever decision you make, each day gets easier as far as the guilt feeling goes. Each day that passes, I beat myself up less and less, I hope that makes sense. All you can do is make a decision and not look back, that is what I am trying to do. You are a great mom and you need to do what is best for your family. I am sending hugs your way because I know what a hard decision this is for you!! :grouphugg

Valerie

TMoT

07-06-2006, 07:09 PM

Hi, Gals! Sorry -- I don't have time to react to everyone's posts, but I'm really thinking about you all and hope you're managing okay...! ;-)

Chastity, I saw that you had your babies! CONGRATULATIONS!! I'm SO glad things seem to be going so well, and WELCOME Nick and Ty! :yippee: :throb: ...Incredible about the two 8-pounders in your hospital! With me, they had started "preparation" for the induction, but didn't have to go through the real thing since I responded rather (too?) well to just the cervix-softening vaginal "tablet"...!! (?!) Otherwise, as you all know, I really would have wanted to keep these babes in longer, but it does just feel great for them to be out anyway!!! :-)) ...WOW about the six sets of twins too! And we all thought we were so special...! ;-)

Well, we're all doing really well! :-) Babes have slept in TWO four-hour shifts today (!?), and have just finished a 2am feed. We'll see if that takes them till a reasonable hour in the morning and if Mommy will get in a decent enough sleep to feel more or less "normal" tomorrow...

In the meantime, they're also already regaining their birth-weight and I'm feeling "slim" even with my 4-mo singleton preggo belly! :crazy: ...If everything's in order, we'll be out the hospital tomorrow afternoon and the boys will be home from their father's/grandparent's on Saturday. So we will all FINALLY be home together for the first time as a new, expanded family this weekend! :yippee:

Hope to be able to catch up more when we're back on "terra firma," and send my love to all of you -- and updated pics in my siggy! ...And, THANKS (AGAIN!) to everyone for all the love and sweet wishes for me and my babies! :'-))

xox

PS Our "digital" announcement: http://sinoid.dommel.be/index.html

LucasMom

07-06-2006, 10:18 PM

I'm sorry for the super quick post--just two things.

Sherry- Your family looks so freakin' cute! You guys look like the uber cool, super natural family, like Artemis and Darius have been here forever and you are glowing. Congrats to you and yours. Love the announcement.:throb:

All the ladies with BF issues-I do not mean at all to minimize this situation, just want to give the proverbial two cents here. I went through this with Lucas three years ago, after I had major issues breastfeeding the first few weeks, and eventually went to formula. First- Please stop saying things like give up, throw in the towel, etc. You are all AMAZING, WONDERFUL, AWESOME mothers who love your babies, and have done crazy wonderful things to your bodies for them. You gave them life, and fed them with you tired, overworked, undernourished, exhausted body for an amazing amount of time. You are not giving up!!! AT ALL!!! You are moving on to the next stage.
They will all be smart, wonderful, well adjusted children, and you cannot, I repeat, CANNOT feel guilt over this. You did awesome, better than like 99 % of the world of even singleton moms. Don;t let anyone (including yourself) tell you any different. I AM PROUD OF ALL OF YOU! now stop beating yourselves up, or I am going to come to your homes and do it for you!!:rotflmbo: Please understand I am speaking as your internet friend...no disrespect intended, only love and feeling sad that you are all so sad right now...

One more thing--WHERE ARE ALL OF OUR MISSING LADIES?? STACEY, ANDREA ( i know you are around!!), DANIELLE? I feel so used...ha. Check in sometime, mommies.

Logan and Dylan had shots yesterday. Colic seems to be lifting a bit,or I have just gone deaf from all of the crying and can't hear them anymore! Check in more later.

Love to all the devoted moms on this board.

Mindy

AndreaR

07-06-2006, 11:20 PM

Mindy - that was a very nice post about the breastfeeding woes - you are very kind. Didn't your pedi give you a plan about the colic? I've been wondering how it's going. Were you able to stick with it? I don't know if I could handle screaming babies. You are one strong woman.

I am reading a book about teaching your baby to self-calm. I've just started, but it seems good - very logical, nothing off the wall. I'll let you know if we're able to put it to practical use. I feel like we are getting to the point where we can't hold them all of the time now, and they're starting to notice more when we do and don't hold them. This morning (or yesterday morning, I guess), I declared that I would hold them less and try to interact with them more, keeping them awake, so they sleep better at night. Both girls instantly started screaming their heads off. Oh well. Maybe tomorrow.

Sherry - those babies are GORGEOUS! you look fantastic. It's good to see pics of your husband and sons, too, after hearing so much about them.

Hugs to all
Andrea

vthompson

07-07-2006, 09:15 AM

Sherry - What beautiful babies!! Your whole family is gorgeous! Can't wait to see more pics!

Andrea - If you find some good ideas from the book make sure you share them.

Mindy - Thank you so much for the words of encouragement! I really needed to hear them. I appreciate the way you put it, that we are just moving to the next stage. That is a nice way of looking at it! How is the plan going that the ped gave you for colic? I was curious, too. I give you so much credit for dealing with this in both babies. You are truly amazing!

Well, I am not sure what is up with Corey, but he is so crabby the past 2 days. He usually gets up to eat first and then I feed Kayley. While she is eating, I put him next to me on the play mat or in the boppy and "entertain" him. Lately, all he does is cry through play time. Then, he falls asleep, and cries periodically through his sleep. I use the 2 minute rule...if he cries consistently for more then 2 minutes I pick him up. Usually, he stops for awhile and starts back up. It is getting really frustrating. Then, Kayley threw up a bottle yesterday and today. The ped said that with her reflux, she still may have some bad days, but it is crazy to see all that milk come up. She is such a sweetie, though because she doesn't cry she just looks up at me in surprise. Now if that was Corey, that would be another story! :) Poor Kayley also has some pretty bad diaper rash. I swear, with every few good days, always comes some not so good days!

Talk to everyone soon! Where is all our mommies lately? We miss you!

Valerie

swineland

07-07-2006, 11:18 AM

Hi everyone!

I think we should rename this board the "Catholic Twins Board"......I've never heard so much about "guilt" as I have on here! I wholeheartedly agree with what Mindy said in her post. I cannot believe you ladies are beating yourselves up over this breastfeeding thing. You have to stop and say "what's the best thing here? 1) that my babies are happy and fed and I'm happy and not stressed or 2) that I stick with breastfeeding no matter what, even if my babies are miserable and I am too....at least I can say I'm still b'feeding!" Come ON!
Who are these people in our society who perpetuate this overtone of shame and guilt if you don't breastfeed?? I think it's RIDICULOUS. Is it the lactation consultants? The nurses? The pediatricians?? I have no idea, but the ONLY guilt you should be feeling is for doubting yourself as a mother in the first place. You guys are AWESOME moms.....every one of you. Your babies will thrive and be perfectly happy on formula. My friend who had her baby 2 weeks before me is absoulely miserable trying to breast feed. It's not going well and she refuses, flat-out refuses, to use formula. She keeps saying "no, I said I was going to do this and I am". Well, in turn, she is miserable, her baby is colicky and doesn't get enough to eat and, guess what? The baby also has a cold and an ear infection! Hmm....I guess a breastfed baby CAN get sick. It doesn't give them an immune system made of steel you guys.....
My babies have been on formula since almost day one. They are a month old, are doing fabulously, hardly cry at all and both weigh 9 pounds (appt. yesterday). My point is this: if breastfeeding works for you, then GREAT....if it doesn't, find something that does and be happy that your babies are happy. Everyone says "breastfeeding is so natural. Women have been doing it for thousands of years" Right, and it obviously worked for those women. I highly doubt that 2000 years ago they were making appts. to see a lactation consultant every week.

Sorry, I hate to sound preachy...as I certainly am not that kind of person. But reading all of your posts just got me thinking "where is all this guilt coming from???" Take the self-doubt and guilt to the curb ladies, buy a can of formula and a blender and get on with being a great mom. Your babies will thank you for it.:clap:

Steph

qbanmom5

07-07-2006, 02:57 PM

Thanks so much you guys. I really appreciate your posts Mindy and Steph. It is soo true what you guys are saying. I keep thinking about my grandmother, she had twins and one died after a few weeks. I never knew the reason until I asked my dad a few weeks ago and he said that one twin starved to death. THis was Cuba in the 1930's and there was no formula-it was breast or starvation. Apparently, nursing twins is not something every woman can do and it sucks that my grandmother didn't have any formula to give her kids.

Sherry: BEAUTIFUL BABIES!!!! It was worth every day they were in there cooking, huh?

Val: Funny how we both have a whiny boy and a strong girl. Luke is a total pill. He hasn't slept for more than 45 minutes at a time the last 2 days. I think he is constipated with all this formula. I have heard that some prune juice is good. What do you all think? When DD#1 was a baby the dr. told me to apply vaseline to her bottom and insert the back end of the thermometer to stimulate her butt to poop! And I did it! I just refuse to do it now, I would hate to have it done to me.

Gotta go, both crying now. For some reason they are starving all the time. With formula do I still feed on demand or do I have to make them wait 3 hours?

Ters

swineland

07-08-2006, 03:13 AM

Hello.....

Okay, need to know again....how much and how often are your little ones eating??? My guys are almost 6 weeks old and are eating 2-4 ounces (sometimes 4.5) every 2-4 hours. They've been waking up in the last 2 days every TWO hours to eat....completely ravenous. Then they get halfway through their bottle and fall asleep. Just wondering what everyone else's kids are eating.

Steph

LucasMom

07-08-2006, 06:15 AM

Steph-
they seem to go in spurts. The boys are 7 weeks, and up to 6 oz. at some time, down to 3 at others. They went through a short few day period where they seemed ravenous, and then backed down to almost nothing, and evened out again. I asked my doctor, and he said babies know their caloric intake needs better than we do, and to let them eat as needed. My guys are both BIG, about 11 and 12 pounds, so they may eat a bit more. Yesterday, they ate almost every 2 hours, but fell asleep at 9:30 (long awake period) and slept until 5 tihs morning. This was the second night in a row of this, first night 10:30-5. They are starting to hit a sleeping milestone. Your boys may be close to the same. I think you said they were 9 lbs right? They are trying to bulk up a bit, and when they do, they will sleep more. An 11 lb baby can slep through the night without a feed!

Hope that helped. In short, whatever they are eating is fine.

Mindy

vthompson

07-08-2006, 09:02 AM

Mindy - I am sooo jealous!! I can't wait until my babies sleep for that stretch of time!

Eating - I have had the same experiences. Sometimes, they eat every 3 hours and then other times they want to eat every 1.5-2.5 hours and act like they are starving. As far as how much, Corey almost always eats a full 4 ounces. Kayley goes back and forth between 3 and 4 ounces.

Steph - I was laughing at your post about the Catholics...it is so true!! Thank you for your encouragement and comic relief!! I needed it!

Ters - I feel for you with Luke. Corey is so trying at times. I actually feel bad for Kayley because I feel like she gets neglected sometimes because her brother is so needy. Those darn boys!! :)

Well, Corey is having a really hard time. In fact, he is displaying many of the same signs as Kayley did before we found out she had a milk allergy. We dropped off a stool sample today at the ped's office to have it tested for blood, which indicates a milk allergy. I feel so bad for the little guy. You can tell he is in pain and struggling when he eats. They are supposed to call me with the results so we will see!

Where is everyone at? Did we loose some people?

I need to go make bottles...does anyone else hate this as much as I do? Agh!

Valerie

vthompson

07-08-2006, 07:36 PM

HELP!!! I need some tips on diaper rash. Kayley has been pooping like a mad women, and in turn, her little butt is so red. I feel really bad for her. When you wipe her butt, she cries. I swear she does not sit in dirty diapers or anything. I am guessing that all the pooping and all the wiping is irritating her. I have tried desitin, not making any difference. Now I am trying butt paste, some sort of cream we got at the shower. Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!

Well, Corey did not have any blood in his stool so he does not have a milk allergy. However, the ped is still switching him to soy to see if that helps. We will see! We are trying isomil. I just want these poor kids to get rid of their tummy problems. It is out of control!!

Valerie

AndreaR

07-08-2006, 07:57 PM

eating - it's really hard to tell how much my girls eat, since i am breastfeeding. when we do give them a bottle, they seem to eat anwhere from 2-4 oz. they are 5 weeks old. madeline weighs 6lbs 10oz, and isabelle weighs 8 lbs (we went to the pedi today for their one month check up).

sleeping - these girls do not sleep for long stretches, unless of course we want them to wake up. they have gone four and a half hours straight, but it was during the day. the most they've slept at night is three hours. the pedi said that they won't sleep through the night until they're 14 pounds. yikes. that seems like a long time away. the nights are really starting to get to me. i try nursing in bed, but we can't get into a good position. maddie still takes a small bottle after she nurses (she doesn't last long), so we have to go downstairs to get that anyway. inevitably, one or both of them poop, so we change their diapers. then it's really, really hard to get them to go back to sleep. i have tried to convince DH that we do not need the tv on during the middle of the night feedings, but he doesn't agree. i guess i should just be thankful that he gets up with me (most of the time), but i'm trying to give them as little stimulation as possible.

i haven't made it too far into the book about the self-calmed baby, but i just finished a few pages on breastfeeding. the author says, if you want to breastfeed, then breastfeed. if you don't, don't. he says happy, well-rested parents are more important than anything.

i'm just so tired. i need to do a better job of sleeping when they're sleeping - but then how do you get anything done?? DH, who was not so "D" at that moment, came home from work last night and saw that there were bottles that needed to be washed. he said, with quite a bit of attitude, "i guess i'll come home and wash bottles." like i had left them there all day on purpose. like i was sitting around eating bon bons for the afternoon. grrrrrrrr. i was pissed off at him all day today, and then he accused me of giving him attitude. in the end, we talked and we worked it out, but he never actually apologized for saying what he did. i'm still a little mad about that. i guess it's just my short fuse.

Valerie - sorry about your woes with the milk allergies. and it must be terrible to watch corey when he is in pain. i hope your doctor is able to figure out what is wrong. at least if it's the same thing as kayley, you will be able to feed them the same thing and won't have to have separate bottles of stuff.

steph - i was laughing at the catholic guilt comment too. it SO applies to me. you asked where we were feeling pressure from, and for me i think it's myself. the nurses and LCs have actually been pretty good, in my experience. i don't know if it's because maddie needed so much help or what, but their most important goal has always been to make sure the babies are getting enough calories. breastmilk is preferred, but not at the expense of the babies' health. i also found a thread on this board where there was some heated discussion about not breastfeeding. unfortunately, i read it at a time when i was absoutley hating b/fing and thinking about quitting. after i read the thread, i felt like a horrible, ignorant person for even thinking about going to formula. i know now that i need to do what's right for me, regardless of others' opinions. for now, i'm sticking with it, but knowing that i can stop at any time makes me feel better, too.

sorry for the long post. thanks for listening.

andrea

twinsmakethree

07-08-2006, 08:27 PM

. Hi everyone!!

Well i have been missing in action but i know everyone understands.Well ladies there are some beautiful babies in the world now i love seeing all of the slides I hope i can get some up soon. Congrats Sherry and welcome to the other side we have been waiting for u:)

well the babies are 6 weeks now and i tell u i fall deeper and deeper amazed and in love. Ruwaydah is now 9 pds and 7 ozs( she was 4 13) and Nusaybah is 11 pounds from 6 8. (she has three chins,lol) I am completely breastfeeding but last week i begin to pump(I did it with my hand!!) and fed ruwaydah her first bottle because her gas was so bad we decided to see if the playtex bottles would help if we placed the gas drops in. They seem to work so far. She was getting really painful gas it was so rough seeing her like that and on top of it her breathing seems to be a little irregular it is very rapid we took her to the er last week because her pedi thought she was having an asthma attack but her lungs were clear and she was getting all of her oxygen, so the pedi wants her to see an ear nose throat specialist. I am praying everything is ok

VAlerie- Sorry about the diaper rash- try letting the babies butt breathe a little before placing a diaper back on also the butt paste is good or you can try a and d ointment I place this on them after i change them even though they do not have a rash. I also place it under Nusaybah's neck so it doesnt get chafed(sp?)

They are sleeping almost through the night now maybe they get up 2x during the night they have a pretty good schedule now that they understand night from day.

Question whats the best way to get them in the crib they have been sleeping with me but now I want them in the crib, Nusaybah will stay with no problem but Ruwaydah is our preem a donna. Any ideas

Also when you use frozen milk is it ok to use milk together from different dates?

next what is the best pump? I was going to get the playtex one only because we use the bottles but is there a reasonably price good one out there.

next I have some enfamil cans available for anyone who wants them I was going to place it on ebay but if you need them let me know maybe some one can just pay for the postage. I got them from the hospital but we did not need to supplement,they are un opened!!

Lastly I lost all my weight and then some I weigh the same i did in highschool :yippee: the bad side is that I have loose stomatch skin yuck!!! I start working out next week I hope I can get rid of it. I am surprised at the weight lost but the babies are probably sucking the life out of me. I feed on demand and they just hit a growth spurt I feel like I was put on this eart as a milking machine:crazy: but hey it comes with benefits.

Ok I have to go my breast is calling a child to come!! I will try to begin posting more regular

Everyone you are doing a great job keep up the goodwork

Andrea

fwalker75

07-09-2006, 06:43 AM

Morning Ladies!!

MONITORS: I know someone asked about baby monitors... I recieved the Fisher Price Private Connection Dual Monitor for a baby shower gift. http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/sr=1-8/qid=1152448090/ref=sr_1_8/601-2697432-0577715?%5Fencoding=UTF8&asin=B0009T2CBC

So far I have LOVED it...it's pricey... $45.99 (hey...I'm a single mom...everything is pricey!) I live in a neighborhood where the houses are pretty close together... I've not had any interference at all with these...and they have 10 channels for you to try...the sound quaility is great! I can even here Maya breathe depending on exactly where I place the main monitor... and it's rechargeable... no batteries to buy!

FEEDING: I learned in my breastfeeing class that the babies will go through a growth spur around 7-8 weeks that may cause them to not be 'normal'... change in feeding and sleeping schedules... I read some where that the 'rule of thumb' for feedings is around 1/2 of their body weight...if they weigh 6 pounds, they should eat around 3 oz per feeding...of course...give and take! I still say let them eat what seems to satisfy them. They know what will fill them up. They aren't like us and 'clean their plates' because they have been told too...

We had a doctors appointment on Friday, and Maya is weighing 10lbs 5.5 oz and is 21 inches long (birth weight 6 lbs 5oz 19.25 inches), Thomas is 8lbs 13oz 21.5 inches long (birth weight 4 lbs 12.5 oz 18 inches). Thomas is taller than his sister!! She's certainly much more chunky!! But I love fat babies!

WEIGHT: My pre pregnancy weight was 160lbs...at my heaviest with the babies, I was 181 lbs. Today I weigh 146lbs... I LOVE IT!! I'm able to fit back in cloths that I haven't been able to fit in years!! (I'm a pack rat...don't throw anything away... :crazy: )

About the extra skin... I still have a pooch in front...anyone know of any simple exercises to help strengthn that area? Something I can do at home?? Going to a gym is out of the question...no one to watch the children...

My childrens father and I went for DNA testing this past week... although he's not saying they aren't his...he is still asking for conformation... I have been seeing this man (correction) Jerk off and on for 7 years...and he's questioning me... fine... can't wait for the results!! We should have them back in two weeks from this past Thursday... HE says the reason he wants the test is some doctor told him he wouldn't be able to have children without fertility help - my comment to him was - "you better get your money back..."

Anyway... that you for all the nice comments about me doing this alone... I will tell you that it's not as easy as I guess I make it look! No one on the outside seems to see the tiredness I go through. I hate that I have to go back to work on Monday... I LOVE being home with the babies...and honestly, even though I have a 7 year old... I never thought I'd want to be a stay at home mom completely...maybe parttime... you know, going and coming as I please... if Real Estate picks up...then I may be able to do that!! Cross your fingers!!!

Sorry for such a long post...but I've been missing in action for a few days...I've been reading your posts...just hadn't had a minute to post myself... I'm sure with me being back at work on Monday, I'll have a minute or two to update everyone on the babies and my life! Woo Hoo!!!:woo:

vthompson

07-09-2006, 09:02 AM

Felisha - Thank you for the diaper rash info...I am actually going to call the doc on Monday because Kayley is just crying and crying when you touch her butt to change her diaper. I feel so bad for her and nothing I have tried over the counter is working. I swear, I call the ped once a week between all the stomach problems with these two! I cannot believe he asked for a DNA test! What a jerk off! Do you need all of us to come and beat him up? I think he needs it! I had the same problem when I first tried to put my slide show on. What I did was go back to Lillie pie and redo my ticker with no picture on the side. Then I was able to put both the slide and the ticker. Oh, I also just put a space after the code for the slide and then pasted the code for the ticker. Before, I hit return to put it on the next line and I think it was too many spaces. I hope this helps! Good luck at work on Monday! I hope everything goes well. Who will be watching the babies?

Andrea - It is to good to hear from you!! I am also jealous of you! I can't wait until the babies sleep longer at night. As for b/m, when I was pumping, I added milk from different sessions together. The book that came with my pump said this was fine. The pump I used was the Medela Pump in Style and I LOVED it!! It was pricey, close to $300, but because I was pumping exclusively, it was well worth the money. That is the only pump I have experience with. If you will only be pumping once in awhile, I am sure you can go with something less expensive. Congrats on the weight loss!! As for the crib, maybe try putting them in it during the day for naps and see how that goes and then transition into the night. I have a similar problem, our babies sleep in their car seats and we need to start transitioning them out. I know it is a really bad habit, but that is the only way they will sleep and the ped suggested it so we did it.

AndreaR - I am no good at sleeping during the day when they sleep either. I feel like I have to be up cleaning or doing laundry or things like that. Then, by mid afternoon, I am absolutely exhausted!

Well, my mom is coming over this morning for a few hours so DH and I can nap!! YEAH!!! I am so excited. This mom needs a small break from all the crying, tummy problems, and diaper rashes! I swear, I feel like the babies constantly have something wrong with them! It is exhausting! Then, I constantly question what I am doing wrong to cause these ailments! It is a never ending vicious cycle!

Valerie

qbanmom5

07-09-2006, 12:54 PM

Hi gals:

Glad to hear from you both Andrea and Felisha. Glad that the babies are doing so well. That sucks about the twins dad Felisha. Can't wait till the results come back and he has to bury his head in the sand!

I have heard that Monistat can be used if you don't have a prescription for Nystatin. I haven't tried it, but I read it somewhere. Also, if you bought lanolin for your nipples, that is supposed to work well for diaper rash. One of the nurses told me. I have a tube I didn't use for my breasts so I will try it when diaper rash becomes an issue here (which I am sure it will).

Steph is going to get mad, but I just have to mention how sad I get when I hold the babies and they "root" and try to find my breast. I feel so g$@#$ty.

I posted on the general board about my big stomach. The other gals think I may have diastasis recti. It is basically a big separation of the abdominal muscles and they are all stretched out. I have been reading online about it and trying to find some exercises that will help. From what I have read it doesn't go away completely.

Leia is sleeping so well at night!! Last night she fell asleep at about 10:30 after her feeding and woke up at 3:30 am. Then she stayed up for a bit after her feeding and fell asleep at 4:30 until 8:30! I thought that was awesome! Luke, otoh, went to sleep at about the same time (10:30) then woke up at 1:00, 3:30, 5:30, and 7:00. Ugh. He is always crying and whining and fussing. They were both constipated but it seems to be better. He vomits like once a day and spits up a lot. I told the dr. but she didn't seem concerned because he is not losing weight! I have so little respect for dr.s in my area these days.

Gotta go, Ters

swineland

07-10-2006, 12:17 AM

Top 5 favorite things I love to do with the twins:

5. listen to them chirp and squeal when they sleep
4. watch their faces as they fall asleep right after eating, all the facial expressions and "smiles"
3. gently rub their soft heads from the back forward and then run my finger down the bridge of their nose....it puts them right to sleep
2. burp them...the look on their face and their wide alert eyes

and the # 1 thing I LOVE to do with my twins:

Stare, for hours, at the center hole of the "soothie" as they suck on it.....seeing their little tongue and hearing the sounds, like a kitten drinking water. It's my favorite thing to do! :nod:

Steph

swineland

07-10-2006, 12:25 AM

and Ters...I could never be mad at you! My stance is this: it's okay to long for something, to miss it, like you do with your babies and them rooting for your breast....I was simply saying that to feel total guilt all the time and feel like a failure as a mother, etc etc...that is not okay. Of course you feel some sadness....and that is perfectly fine and normal. :)

Boy, I hope I didn't crack my whip TOO hard!

Steph
p.s. anyone STILL having issues with CTS and sore hands, joints, knuckles, etc?? It just won't go away. I feel like I have rheumatoid arthritis or something......

p.s.s Andrea, I completely understand what you're saying about not being able to sleep when they sleep during the day. There is just so much I have to do....I look around and think, oh I'll just do this real quick then I'll lay down. Next thing I know it's been 2 hours and they are ready for food again. I hate to be a martyr and complain about sleep and then not take any opportunity I get to catch up on it, but otherwise this place will look like a pig sty!

sgarrett

07-10-2006, 04:49 AM

Carpel Tunnel: YES it is worse than b4 the pregnancy! It totally sux!

Diaper rash: Try letting little Kaley's butt have air time as much as possible b4 you put the diaper back on - that helped my 1st son. Also put a little powder on top of the desiten, it will turn into super hard paste.

Congrats Chasity!

I am sorry I cannot reply to everyone, I get so behind in posting, and hardly have time when I am on here.

Eating: Isabelle and Aiden eat about 4-5 oz every 3-4 hours. They are doing better at sleeping more at night - THANK GOD! Funny though my little boy is the fussier of the two as well. He goes into what we call "super freak mode" when he does not get what he wants instantly! Man can he scream! Isabelle is way more laid back.

OK I ran into Bed Bath and Beyond while my DH sat in the car w/ the babies and asked the sales lady where body pillows were, she showed me and than said "we have maternity pillows would you like to see those?" I wanted to claw the skinny b@#$%'s eyes out! I hate this preggo pooch! When is it going away?

Felisha, I would be so super po'd about the test! Be sure to tell him you need a copy of it for your court ordered child support! See how he likes that!

Steph: I love watching them suck their soothies, it is so cute. I stick my finger in the end to feel them sometimes too. I also love putting my face really close to theirs when they are on my shoulder and feeling their breath go in and out. It is reassuring and so sweet!

Spit up: how much is to much? They are spitting alot more these days, I have no idea why. They do it on formula and breastmilk.
Cannot wait to here what the book says about the babies self soothing.

I cannot remember who told me about the pumping bra - but a big THANK YOU! It is great to be hands free, and it really hurt the carpel tunnel issue to hold the pumps!

Hugs and Kisses to all!

Staci

TMoT

07-10-2006, 01:00 PM

Hi, Ladies! I've been MIA, but I know you understand...! xx Just reading through the posts, as usual, and you all have SUCH a way of putting a smile on my face! THANK YOU!

Steph, your Top Five list is so sweet!

Felisha, I'm SO GLAD you're doing so well and SO SAD for you that you have to go back to work on Monday! I have been there myself with an infant and a toddler and the pain of separation was almost unbearable. Mommies gotta do what Mommies gotta do though!!! :'-) LOTS of love, strength and courage to you! You're doing such an AWESOME job!!! (And, btw, I second Staci's remark about the Child Support!!!!)

Andrea, NICE to hear from you!!! I can't believe how well your daughters are doing and how BIG they are! WOW!!! B/F really DOES have a way of plumping them up, doesn't it? I can't wait till I get as far as you have! And, btw, it's FINE to mix frozen b/f milk dates. Only important thing is to let it defrost in the fridge (or at room temp, but you have to be careful that it doesn't go bad) and NOT re-heat it in the microwave -- or you can "cook" all the nutrients right OUT! :-( Maybe you already knew this, but just wanted to make sure. Wow. You've done a terrific job too!!!!!

AndreaR, I've been wondering how your thrush/yeast stuff is going, and I remembered a couple of house-hold remedies: For yeast on the skin: Have you ever used Tea Tree Oil/Melaleuca??? I buy it in the full-strength essential oil form and mix it with vaseline to dilute it. Then, you can use it directly on your skin -- vaseline forms an air-tight barrier, and the tea tree oil "kills" the yeast. Valerie, if baby-dd (!!) has yeast (isn't that what monistat, etc. is used to treat?), you can try the same thing... MAKE SURE YOU DON'T USE TOO MUCH tea tree oil, though -- it's pretty strong stuff! OR, Val, you can just use vaseline alone (like the lanolin Ters mentioned), I swear!!! Smear it on there, let baby's butt get "air time" (as Staci said!), and it'll "suffocate" the rash till it goes away. Cheap, easy and effective. ;-) I promise.

AndreaR, other thing: Thrush comes from a disequalibrium of the ph in your mouth, tummy, etc. An acidic mouth "environment" (can come from eating lots of sugary stuff, low minerals, changes in hormones (surprise!), etc., etc.) brings on Field Day for thrush. When I had this with DS1, doc prescribed me 2-3 gargles with baking soda (!!) per day, to bring down the acidity of my mouth, along with acidophilus and the other things mommies here were writing about. I have also noticed (strangely enough!) that lemon juice actually brings DOWN our body's Ph level, so adding a glass of water with lemon to the end of each mealtime can also help you fight off your own/your babies' thrush. 'Course, I would check with your doc before trying any of this on your babies, but if you start with yourself, you can at least, hopefully, get a bit ahead of the game.... And, GOOD LUCK!!! xox

Staci, what a @#$% with the pg pillow remark!!!:cool: For the moment, I'm down to looking like a 2-mo-singleton preggy mom (or, just "fat"!!), so I'm happy as a clam! :-) B/f is REALLY eating the pounds away (literally!), so I'm feeling pretty good/confident about losing the other half of this 60lb+ gain in the coming weeks! :-))

Ters/Andrea, et al., I got the saggy tummy skin too, but I'm afraid it isn't a "condition" -- just REALITY after twin-pg at 39!!! :-((( If it doesn't look promising after exercise (in a couple months' time, mind you!!), I'll start looking at more "permanent" solutions!!! :rotflmbo: For the moment (Andrea!), I'm just trying to keep the words "breastfeeding" and "ballooning cow" as far apart in my mental image of myself as possible!! ;-)

Eating: The babies ate then slept for TWO five-hour shifts yesterday (!!), but fed virtually from 3am to 12-noon NON-STOP today!!! :-(( I think it's because I switched to cloth diapers (:eek:) last night, and they were just SO uncomfortable, they couldn't stand it! Now (ta-dah!) they're back in Pampers, and we're all sleeping soundly again and LOVING it!!! :-D ...Btw, I know I told you gals I was going to try to go "diaper-free" with these babies... :crazy: I just got a book on it in the mail from my best friend, so I'll keep you posted on our progress with that, if there is any...!!! (!?)

B/G: My little boy is a patient, darling, ANGEL. O:-) His sister rolls on top of him, sucks on his nose and does darn-well WHATEVER she wants to him, and he is as cool and laid-back as a little cucumber. :-) IF he gets mad, though, he can arrive at "ballistic" pretty quickly. Her fuse is a bit shorter, but she's still pretty laid back. Otoh, I haven't given her a lot of lattitude to find out just how _patient_ she is. She tends to want to have her own way, and quickly. But, she's also very fast at everything -- her arrival (for one!), but also b/f, losing her umbilical cord, etc... She's a mover and a shaker, but I think/hope/pray, she still has a decently laid-back character. We'll see how this shapes up over time. And FUNNY how much like their parents the two of them are... He doesn't do anything to her in general (although he HAS peed on _both_ of them more than once!), but will just grab her wrist to calm her down sometimes, and it really works!!! !?!!)

Ters, you mentioned "exercises," so I'm going to re-post here what I wrote on the July thread -- just in case it MIGHT still be useful for anyone here...

A couple of post-partum Mommy Wellness Tips, care of my physiotherapist:

1. DO YOUR KEGELS!!! We don't want incontinence now - esp if you delivered vaginally - so...! 50 per day (tighten, count of three, release) _every_ day for the rest of our lives...! ;-)

2. And, a tummy-toning/uterus-"coaxing" exercise: Lying on your back, blow all the air out of your lungs and "suck in" your stomach, as deep as you can, only using your abdominal muscles. Hold your breath and tummy "tucked" for 15 seconds; then breathe/release. Try to do as many of these during the day as you can. Eventually, you can add other exercises (eg. leg-lifts on your _side_) to the routine, while keeping your breath held/tummy tucked.

3. DON'T use your stomach muscles for a good 4 weeks after the delivery!!! If you delivered c/s, this should be easy to do!!! ...Pretend you're still pg (!!), and roll on your side to get up, DON'T sit up "chin/head"-first (i.e. don't lift your head then the rest of your bod "straight up" to sit up). Baby your tummy muscles in the first month so you don't stretch them out of whack before they've had the chance to snap back into place on their own....

4. Drink lots of water (*echo echo*)! Especially if you're breastfeeding, you still need to get a good 3-4 quarts in per day! :spitwater And, when you're sleep-deprived, there is almost nothing better than good hydration (besides SLEEP, of course!) for your poor body/brain!!!

5. Take omega-3 supplemements and/or eat flaxseed or greasy fish (like salmon and cod), to avoid post-partum depression -- ESPECIALLY if you're breastfeeding! The babies have robbed our brains of this essential fatty acid (which we all need to develop/have good brain "health") during pg, so you need to replenish your own omega-3 so you can fight the Baby Blues after delivery... If you're b/f, babies are still "taking" your omega-3 for their own brain development (esp first 3 mos. after delivery), so keep your supply of this fatty acid UP so you don't get emotionally DOWN...! Another word to the wise... ;-)

Okay. That was all a bit of "refresher" for you all -- who have put up with my diatribes for seven months now!!! ;-) So, I hope you're not disgruntled with me again!! ;-)

And, btw, Mindy, all your boys have your eyes! Darling pics!

Staci, your son looks like Darius to me too! (!?) And, about the spit-up: If you ask me, if you're disconcerted, it's "too much." If it has some velocity behind it, it's "too much." If it happens at every feeding, it's "too much." BUT, if you're not sure, ask your pedi...

And, SORRY about the c/t!! BE CAREFUL about how you're holding/lifting babies. Holding/Carrying: According to my physio, best for your back is a "crotch-grab" with them sitting upright in your hand, backs against your tummy, your arm across their front to support them. Also, be careful about your wrist position when you're lifting/handling babies. Try to use your whole ARM (or more) to do that, keep them close to your body, and keep your wrist LEVEL with your hand (NOT BENT!) when they're in your hands. (Remember all those c/t tips for the computer?? SAME for handling babies! "Neutral" hand position =wrist flat/even with hand= is BEST!!!)

Some links:
For your back+ other: http://babyfit.com/articles.asp?id=649
For your wrists (it's about GARDENING, but the tips/tricks are really good!!): http://www.youcanbefit.com/ergogard.html

Val, hang in there! The first 3-4 months (with gas, acid, adjusting to b/f, formula, etc.) are REALLY the toughest, I promise! You'll be past this stage soon enough (thankfully!) and on to Bigger and Better things! Just keep toughing it out! You're doing GREAT! And take that well-deserved nap when you can get it!!! xx

Okay. Used up all MY nap time now, it seems! :cool: Glad dh is home for the moment to cover for me -- he took the boys out to the movies tonight to celebrate HIS AND MY ANNIVERSARY!!!! (??!) ;-) He's such a trooper, but this is definitely getting to him too. Hope we'll manage! ;-)

Till another time, ladies. Keep on plugging away and stay in touch!!! xox

qbanmom5

07-10-2006, 08:00 PM

Hi all!

Hate to come on here just to gripe, but..... Luke is hardly sleeping, only when I am holding him and in spurts at night. He is crying almost all the time and keeps spitting up/vomiting. There is no weight loss, but it is really tough. Also, his right eyelid is swollen. No redness, no discharge, and it is only evident when he is crying (most of the time). Could he have hit himself on my shoulder or maybe scratched his eyelid with his nail even though I don't see a scratch? Could this be why he is crying and I am thinking it is digestion related? I am going to take him to the dr. tomorrow, I have been putting it off cause I hate going to urgent care with a newborn with all those other sick kids in there. Poor Leia I can hardly hold her and she is soooo good. He takes all of my time, energy, arms, etc. He will fall asleep in my arms and as soon as I put him down he will cry. He won't even stay down for 10 minutes. He has always been fussy and whiny but in the last few days he has been really bad. I thought babies were supposed to sleep a lot! He obviously did not get the memo.

As for me, the pooch has gone down a bit more but not as much as I would like. I will try those exercises Sher. And thanks Steph (had to edit cause I called you Stace) for your words and the beautiful top 5 list. I would have to say I agree about the faces they make after having their milk when their eyes roll around and they "smile". Too cute. I also love to rub their heads-their little hair is soooo soft.

Love to all, Ters--

ChastityLove

07-11-2006, 07:24 AM

Hi Ladies! I am trying to catch up on posts and I'm sorry to say that I don't seem to be able to offer too much advice to anyone! How sad is that?!?! One suggestion for diaper rash is Aquaphor (it's in the lotion aisle). I used this with my first son and it was the only thing that worked for him. It's more expensive than regular diaper rash cream but it doesn't take much and works fast!
I am hoping that someone can help me with pumping questions (maybe Valerie). I am only pumping since the boys are not good at latching on and staying awake to feed. I pump what I can every time they eat which is around 3-4 hours and then fridge it. I mix formula in with the breast milk but am only getting enough milk for during the day. When I pump I might get anywhere from 2-4 ounces total between both breasts. Is that too low? I use the Medela In Style pump and love it! And since the boys weren't great during the first two weeks at breastfeeding and we had to supplement using bottles what are the chances that I won't increase my milk supply now? And how can I increase my milk supply with just pumping? Sorry for my stupidity, I wasn't well informed with my first son so I'm not an "experienced" breast feeder! I would appreciate any help you may offer!

Thanks Ladies!
Chastity

AndreaR

07-11-2006, 08:01 AM

Sherry - nice to hear from you. Glad things are going well. Thanks for the info on thrush. I have never heard of using tea tree oil; I will try that. Things are slowly clearing up - but I suppose since we all have it, it could flare up at any time.

Chastity - you can increase your milk supply at any time. It's all supply and demand. The best demand truly is your baby sucking at your breast, even if it's not vigorous. There seems to be a magical connection between our bodies and our babies. If one of my girls cries for more than a minute, one or both of my boobs starts leaking. So if there's any way for you to get your boys to "hang out" at your breasts for any time at all, even if it's not to get their meals, that should help your milk supply. Pump as much as you can. Take care of yourself by getting rest when you can, eating well and drinking lots of water. I heard that oatmeal helps increase your milk supply. I also drank fenugreek tea during my first few weeks. I'm not sure if it worked or not; it's hard to say. My daughter Madeline was so weak when she was born that she wasn't a good sucker, so she drank mostly bottles for the first few weeks. But I always put her on the breast a few times a day, just to give her a chance to practice and to help my milk supply. I'm not sure if you want to or not, but it's probably not too late to teach your boys to latch on. It just requires patience. I commend you tremendously for pumping for all of your daytime feedings. That is a lot of work!!

Ters - sorry about the troubles with Luke. It's exhausting, isn't it. And it is so hard when there is another baby who needs your attention. I've been experiencing a little of that lately. I've tried to hold them both at the same time, but it usually ends up with all three of us getting more frustrated than when we started. How swollen is Luke's eye? Good luck at the doctor.

Staci - What a jerk that woman was. I've actually been dreading that the same thing will happen to me if I am out without the girls. But we all have to remember that we just delivered TWINS. Not one, but TWO babies were inside of us. Remember how big our bellies were? How can they possible be flat in just a few short weeks? If someone asks/says something about me being pregnant, I am going to proudly say, "No, I just gave birth to two beautiful girls!"

I'm still reading the self calming book - I dont' get much time to read. The latest thing is to encourage your baby to find their fingers/hand to suck on rather than a pacifier, because they will always have their hand, it won't fall out of the crib, etc. Madeline is completely in love with her pacifier. We call her Maggie Simpson, because she sucks so hard she makes the pacifier move up and down. I don't think I'll be able to get her to switch to her hand. We'll see. The book, so far, is good, but he doesn't give a lot of practical information on how to do the things he suggests. For instance, he doesn't tell you how to get the baby to "find" its fingers. His other big thing is that most fussy babies are over stimulated. He recommends that you leave them alone (as long as you've confirmed there is nothing wrong), and that you put them near a white wall. Any other colors/prints are too distracting and make them more stimulated. I have found this to work a little.

Carpal Tunnel - I have moderate soreness in my hands and feet. I wonder if it's C/T.

BIG MILESTONE: I'm able to wear my wedding and engagement rings again! FINALLY!! I haven't been able to wear them since I was six months pg. It's like having new jewelry all over again!

Have a good day, everyone.

AndreaR

vthompson

07-11-2006, 01:53 PM

Ok, this is going to be quick because they are beginning to stir!!

Pumping - I had the same problem, I could only pump for about a full 4 bottles a day and gave forumla for the other 4 feedings. I tried the fenugreek capsules but did not see any improvement. I also pumped about 2-4 ounces at each session. Whenever I looked for ways to increase supply, everyone told me to put the babies on the breasts...however, the nightmare would come back of when I was trying to b/f so I never tried it. I did find a website dedicated to people who pump exclusively...http://www.kellymom.com/bf/pumping/bf-links-excpumping.html
I hope this helps...sorry I don't have more info for you. All I can say is to pump as much as possible. After DH went back to work, pumping became harder and harder for me to find time to do. The weird thing is that if I could go longer then 4 hours, I would pump a lot more then on days when I pumped every 3 hours.

Well, I turned my letter of resignation in today at my job...they were really great. I offered to do things at home at half the cost of what I make now. They said they will discuss it so we will see. We really need the income. I am working with one organization doing admin tasks at home and I will be babysitting my friend's son after school in the fall. I guess I will be the stay at home mom with 15 jobs!!

Took Kayley to ped yesterday for diaper rash and pooping. She was going almost 3 times at every feeding and it was runny. Well, she has been knocked down to 3/4 strength of the formula. Her tummy just cannot handle the full scoop for every 2ozs. I hope this helps. She did not give me a script for rash! She said to keep using the butt paste. I was disappointed!

Wanted to reply to other posts, but baby crying. Gotta go!

Valerie

LucasMom

07-12-2006, 05:52 AM

Sorry for the short post...I posted the other day with some really good belly exercises, and the post is nowhere to be found!!

Well, we have our first official sick day. The boys had a few good nights, where they both slept in 6 hour stretches, and then last night was an all around disaster. Logan went down at 8:00, which is unusually early for him. Dylan followed at around 8:30, again early, but figured I'd roll with it. Gave Lucas a bath, and put him down at 9:15 or so. Fell asleep on the couch, woke up at 12 to Dylan wanting food. Got him back down at around 1ish, at which time Logan woke up, and would not go back to sleep at all. Took him to the family room downstairs, so as not to wake anyone else up. Got him to finally fall asleep at almost 4:30 am!! I hadn't been sleeping (with him in my arms on the couch mind you) for 15 minutes, when I heard Lucas, throwing up at the top of the steps. He had gone to my bedroom, seen I wasn't there, unable to wake my sleeping DH up, so came down to look for me, but didn't make it. The poor kid has thrown up like an entire lifetimes worth of food in the last three hours!! Now he is just heaving and shaking, because he doesn't know whats going on. He managed to cover the top 5 steps and the entire powder room with vomit though, which after I cleaned him up, changed him, and began the process of cleaning, Dylan woke up and the whole process started over again!!!

Dh called out of work, so we could keep Luke home from daycare, and they are comfortable on the couch downstairs, watching cartoons. DH is of course sleeping. Must be nice...in the process of rinsing vomit off of one things or another, I managed to crack the fish bowl!! Needless to say, not a fun night!

I am trying to post a new pic in my scroll of the boys having some tummy time. Check it out. Will repost the stomach exercises at the next naptime. They are two exercises, one a pilates floor move, and the other a yoga move, both for the whole stomach. They work, and are quick.

Love,

Mindy

swineland

07-12-2006, 10:16 AM

Hey everyone!

Mindy....so sorry to hear about your night!! Sounds awful.....cleaning up vomit is the worst..especially when it's not yours. I hope your gang feels better soon....and tell DH to GET UP! :)

Okay, dilemma. THe boys are bottle feeding, as you know, and are 6 weeks old today. They are very inconsistent with the amounts they take and I wondered if that is normal?? Some feedings it's 1.5 ounces (rarely) and others it's 5 ounces. I make up the bottles at 3.5 ounces and more often than not ending up pouring a bunch down the drain. Of course, as soon as I lower the amount back to 3.0, they'll still be hungry after a feeding and I'll have to go make another bottle. The problem is this: when they awake at night to feed, they get about 2 ounces in them and totally fall asleep. And there is NO waking them up...I've tried everything. The crappy thing is, since they don't have much food in them, they wake up like 2 hours later and we do it all over again. I was hoping at almost 2 months now that they'd be able to go at least 3 1/2-4 hours consistently without wanting to be fed. Does anyone else's babies fall asleep like this when they eat?? I'm wondering if, for the nighttime/early morning feedings, I should not warm the bottle? Maybe the nice warm bottle is what puts them to sleep? Then again, I don't want to completely wake them up either.....the idea is that they DO go back to sleep, but also finish their food. I know they are gaining enough weight, I'm not worried about that....it's just logistically a nightmare. Mom wants more than 45 mins sleep in one stretch!!

Any ideas???

Steph

vthompson

07-12-2006, 02:25 PM

I have just a few seconds to post...

Ters - Ever since I read your post I want you to know that I have been thinking about you. It sounds as though our children have very similar personalities, and believe me, I feel your pain. I feel like Kayley gets ignored because Corey can be much more demanding and needy. However, lately, it seems like they are both just as needy, which is even harder with only one person. I am sending hugs your way and you can gripe on here anytime. We can get through this together!!!

Mindy - You look gorgeous in your pictures!!

Steph - I loved your list! That was too cute! As for feeding, I am not sure what to do about that. When we were in the hospital, the nurses said when you are trying to wake them up to eat, you can touch their feet, run a cold rag on their body, or take their clothes off to eat. I found that when I am burping them, if I lightly scratch their backs, it wakes them up. I don't know if that helps. I know what your mean with the inconsistent amounts. Kayley has been starving after 4ozs so I started filling her bottles up to 5 and now she is leaving an ounce and a half. Corey ALWAYS finishes his 4ozs and the last couple of feedings, he is also leaving some. It is very tiring trying to figure out how much to feed them. How long is formula good for once you take it out and feed it to them?

Ok, gotta run...Lisa, where are you lately? Daniele? I know there are other MIA mommies, too...

Valerie

ChastityLove

07-12-2006, 02:28 PM

Thank you ladies for your help on the pumping. Valerie, I agree with you on being able to pump more if I can go 4 or more hours. Isn't that wierd? I thought that the more I pumped the more milk I would make but that doesn't seem to be the case. I am trying to make it to the 6 week mark as right now I have my mom here but she goes home in a week. I will be on my own then as DH is already back to work so the pumping may be too much then as I also have a 3 yr old to take care of as well. We will see what happens. If I make it to the 6 week mark then I will see how I feel after that. Austin starts preschool in the fall so it's going to be a challenge getting him there and fitting in pumping. Anyway, thanks ladies for your help and I hope that we all manage to keep one another sane!!

Chastity

mmzill

07-12-2006, 09:08 PM

Hey everyone~

Does anyone else feel completely "Mommied out"??? I'm so tired and I'm not dealing with alot of the issues you ladies are. I'm just tired. I guess that can be expected though.

The boys are doing well. They are eating every 2 to 4 hrs (mostly every 2) A couple nights Nathan has had a 4 1/2 to 5 hr stretch!!! YEAH! I'm still breastfeeding them, and it's going pretty well. They have slowed down with how often they want to eat so that is good. I still have them assigned to a bood, and that seems to be working quite well. That way they can establish how much milk they need. It makes sense to me, so that's why i'm doing it.

I was thinking about you ladies who wanted so bad to bf and haven't been able to. Don't rake yourselves over the coals! You all have to decide what works for your family. And formula is a great option, lots of healthy babies are raised on formula. Anyways, the other day I was thinking how glad I am that the twins were not my first babies. It's so much harder with two than one. I think most of you are first time moms, who have never bf at all. BF can be really hard no matter, but BF multiples is way way way harder than a singelton!!!! I think alot of my success comes from the fact that I've done it with at least one before. Anyways, (not that any of you are considering ever having kids again:rotflmbo: ) but a singleton is much easier to bf. (On a funny note, when the boys were learning to nurse in the hospital, all the nurses that saw me nursing would come in and say I had the perfect nursing nipples. Then they would tell me how some women just physically can't do it. It sort of would embarrass me, but then again I guess I'm just blessed)

They are 3 1/2 mos now (they should only be 6 wks or so), and weighing in at 9 lbs and 7 lbs! I can't believe how big they are. They are alert alot more and making eye contact good. They seem to like sleeping together, I don't worry too much if one wakes up the other. They seem to always be on the same schedule anyways. I think the 8 wks in the hospital ingrained a "together" routine.

My daughter is so cute she loves to kiss them and to give them their passies. If it falls out and they start fussing, she is like "uh oh" and goes and tries to stuff it back in their mouths. Too Cute!

Well, the boys are asleep, so I should be too. I'm trying to start a bath routine at night with them. I remember that helping my daughter start sleeping longer at night. :crazy: I"m hoping something will help.

~Monica

AndreaR

07-12-2006, 09:38 PM

Mindy - sorry to hear about the sickess at your house. that's really the last thing you need right now. i hope everyone is feeling better soon.

Steph - i am kind of in the same boat as you with the inconistency with bottles. we give maddie bottles, because she still isn't nursing that well. sometimes it's breastmilk, and sometimes it's formula. i get so frustrated throwing anything away, but especially breastmilk! we have done the same thing as you....start off with a smaller bottle and then give more if she needs it. but it doesn't really help. maybe someone else has a suggestion. about the nighttime feeding, i'm not sure there either. we have some nights where i feel like i am up all night long (maybe because i am??). just wanted you to know that you're not alone. it's so hard now, but everyone keeps telling me how quickly this time passes (i don't believe it), and that soon they'll be big and i'll be longing for these days again (i REALLY don't believe that).

Monica - if you can't tell already from my post, I am feeling totally "mommied out." I agree that it's just exhaustion. What I wouldn't give to go to sleep and never wake up!

I'm having a tough breastfeeding day. Today is a day where I feel like giving up. Madeline doesn't latch on hardly ever now. I put her on the boob and she just holds my nipple in her mouth. Isabelle would stay latched on 24/7 if I'd let her. But somehow, even with all of this "stimulation" I feel like I'm not producing enough milk. Mostly I'm having trouble finding time to pump, because Isabelle is either on the boob, or just got off of it. We gave her a bottle tonight, so I could give my boobs a break and build up some milk to pump for Maddie. I'm sitting here pumping, and I'm thinking "I could be in bed right now." Plus it kind of hurts to pump these days. I don't know what it is, but I'm getting a little chafed. Well, we will see if I can stick it out a few more days.

I have my six week checkup tomorrow. I'm looking for the "green light" on sex and swimming! It's been so flipping hot and humid here lately, and I can't even jump in our pool to cool off. Our a/c isn't really working, so I'm so sweaty by the end of every day. Holding babies just makes me hotter and crankier.

Ugh....I don't know what I would do if I didn't have you ladies to "talk" to. Thanks for listening.

AndreaR

JacobsMom

07-13-2006, 07:38 AM

Hi Everyone,

No, we have not fallen off the face of the earth. It's just been so crazy around here that I have not had time to get on the computer harldy at all. I'm doing good to check my email once or twice a week at this point.

David and Tate are doing great. They are 7 weeks old today, and weigh about 10 lbs each. I weighed at my doctor appt. on Monday holding each and subtracted my weight. They are big chunky babies.

They were both finally circumcised yesterday. I felt so bad for them. I wish we could have had it done when they were much smaller and still oblivious to the world around them. They are so aware of things now, it almost seemed cruel to do it at all. They did David first and I was surprised that he wasn't crying when they brought him back, neither was Tate. We were able to give them bottles as soon as the procedure was over. They were content sucking on the bottle until they peed. It apparently did NOT feel good, and they would cry out then suck--suck--suck, cry out again, suck--suck--suck. It took almost an hour for them to finish their bottles. Poor little guys. We are puttting neosporin with lidocaine on their penis at every diaper change. I made hubby do most changes yesterday. I didn't want to touch them and cause them more pain. They are both doing much better this morning.

FEEDING: The boys are both still breastfeeding. They eat on average around every 3-4 hours. But sometimes they are hungry again after 2- 2.5 hours. They will tandem nurse for about 25-30 minutes, and then we follow that with a 4 oz. bottle. They usually finish all of it or leave 1/2 oz. If it has been less than an hour since we prepared the formula and there is any left, we put it in the fridge for later. If one baby doesn't finish his and the other does and is still hungry, we let him finish his brother's bottle. We have been doing this since the beginning. On the feedings that are formula alone with no breastfeeding, they will drink 5-6 oz. When I pump, I can usually get 2.5 oz from my left boob and 1.5 from the right, so I figure they are getting about those same amounts when they nurse.

Sometimes I get really frustrated and consider giving up the b/f. I just wonder since they are getting twice as much formula as they are breastmilk, are they really still getting any benefit from it? It can be so time consuming. It takes over an hour to b/f and follow with a bottle. But they can drink a 6 oz bottle in about 30 minutes. That's roughly an extra 3 hours a day I would have to do other things! And I also feel that the tandem nursing is almost impersonal. They way they lie, I don't get that eye contact that I do when I feed them individually. I just don't feel that close mommy connection with them that I did with Jacob. It makes me sad. I would prefer to feed them seperately, but then I would literally have NO time between feedings! Right now I am planning to keep it up until they are 4 months old and start eating food.

IDENTICAL or FRATERNAL: Those of you who have identical twins, do they look completely different to you? We have been told both before and after their birth that David and Tate are identical twins. They look nothing alike to me. David has darker and longer hair, which is the easiest way to tell them apart for now. But also his face is shaped differently. His is more an elongated oval, where Tate's is more round. Tate looks more like Jacob's baby pictures than he does his own twin! Their noses and mouths are shaped differntly too. I guess I'm wondering if this is normal - or if the doctors were wrong about them being identical. What's really funny is some other people, my pediatrician for example, cannot tell them apart. But some of my friends, even kids, see the differences and can tell them apart. My neice knew which was which right away from having only seen 5 or 6 photos of them when they were still newborns!

We took our first trip with the twins last week. We drove to Mississippi for the 4th of July to visit our familes. It went really well. They boys slept most of the way. Jacob sits between them in the back seat of my Camry, so he had the job of giving them both bottles as we drove down the road. That worked out really well. We actually left him there for this week at his grandparents. I know he needed the break and especially this special one-on-one time with his grandmother. She was here for two weeks after the boys came, but she was really busy helping with the babies. They are bringing him home tomorrow.

Well, I hear one my darlings crying for me. Probably David, since he didn't get his follow up bottle this morning.

Later,
Stacey

EBTwinz

07-13-2006, 08:41 AM

OMG, I almost forgot....

CONGRATULATIONS SHERRY!!! YOUR FAMILY IS BEAUTIFUL! :throb:

sgarrett

07-13-2006, 11:23 AM

Mindy: So sorry for the awful night! Just rememeber what does not kill you makes you stronger! :-)

Monica and Lisa: Totally with you on the mommied out - and that goes along with feelings of guilt for feeling that way! I had no idea twins would be so hard, and they are really good babies. I am so used to getting a million things done in a day, the multi tasking queen. Now I feel like I am always stuck in a chair nursing. pumping or burping a baby. It is really make me slow down and it drives me nuts. Than of course there is the no sleep thing!
I have had my Aunt helping me since the babies were born and she leaves in about a week, I am terrified! How do you pick up two when they are fussy? How will I get anything done?????? I have heard 3 months is the magical time when the babies sleep more and get in tune with your schedule more. Maybe then we will look back on this time and laugh together!

Steph: I have inconsistent eaters too, if you make a 2 oz bottle they want 5 if you make a 5 oz they want 2, never fails!

AndreaR: Have you tried rubbing your own breastmilk on your nipples? It helps with the chaffing better than any cream I have found. Also I did not know we were not allowed to go swimming! I have been in our hot tub several times, why is that bad? Geesh, no sex is bad enough! Has anyone broke the "wait till 6 week rule" on that one! I am so about to cave!

Baby crying gotta go!

Take care all we will get through this together!!!!!!

Staci

AndreaR

07-13-2006, 01:07 PM

LISA - HANG IN THERE. I wish I could come to PA and help you out give you a big hug and some time to yourself. If you truly feel depressed, you should tell your doctor. It's completely normal, especially with all of the extra stress with twins. If Sherry were on the board, she'd remind you to take in your Omega oils... I'm sorry that your MIL is driving you crazy. You don't need help that isn't helpful. About letting your baby cry - I don't do it. I can't. I just can't stand to listen to them cry. I have been pretty lucky that my girls calm down immediately when I hold them or nurse them, and so far they've been pretty good about taking turns being fussy. There have only been a handful of times when I've needed to hold them both at the same time. I get one in each arm (which I can only do because Maddie is so light, I can pick her up with one hand), and we sit in the rocking chair in their room and I sing to them. It's a little squished, but I remind them that it's like when they were in my belly. I am reading a book on the "self-calmed" baby, but I don't get a lot of time to read, so I don't know a lot yet. Hang in there - and if you feel like you need to talk to someone, especially someone who knows what you're going thru, I'd be happy to call you. I think it's really important to have lots of emotional support. These are very trying times. You are doing a fantastic job! :throb: :throb:
AndreaR

qbanmom5

07-13-2006, 02:18 PM

Hi all:

Glad to hear from you Stacey and Lisa. I love looking at all of you guys' pictures. Your families are all beautiful. We done good.

Took Luke to the dr for his swollen eyelid and it turns out he has his first shiner. He probably hit someones shoulder while being burped and "bobbing" his head around. Can you believe it? I was even dropping breast milk into it thinking he had some kind of infection. I think Sherry recommended it to Val at some point? Oh and he is weighing 10 lb 15 oz as of day before yesterday. Can you believe it. He has gained 2 lbs in 2 weeks. Leia is more petite although she has been eating a lot more than Luke the last couple of days.

Gotta go, kids crying. Love, TErs

vthompson

07-13-2006, 07:00 PM

I second the mommied out feeling!! I am so exhausted...Corey is just miserable today...he is crying through every bottle...his voice actually sounds horse, like he has been at a concert lately. I just feel so bad for him, but at the same time, I am exhausted and feeling overwhelmed by these fussy tummy problem babies. DH went out last night for a few hours and he seems very refreshed today. He is insisting I do the same next week so on Tuesday I am going out for a little bit with a friend. I actually feel guilty for leaving them, but I think I need to. This is truly, like someone else said, the hardest thing I have ever done, it is the best thing, but still very hard. I thought I was prepared, but I am obviously not!

Felisha - I LOVED the pics!!! As for the dilemma with the last name...I would feel the same way as you and want to keep your last name for the boys, especially the way their stupid dad is acting! Do not feel selfish for wanting the babies to have your namesake! You are the one that carried them for 9 months and take care of them everyday!

Lisa - I was wondering if your wedding had come yet. I am so sorry that you are feeling this way...but it seems completely normal. I wish we could all get together like once a week and cry together!

Sorry I am not responding to everyone, but I am so tired I need to go now.

vthompson

07-13-2006, 07:07 PM

vthompson

07-13-2006, 07:09 PM

Felisha - I realize I referred to your babies as boys when you have one of each. I tried to fix it, but the stupid thing won't save. I am sorry!!

LucasMom

07-14-2006, 05:54 AM

Oh guys, i wish i could jump through the screen and hug you all! I honestly feel like no one but you guys understand what I feel right now. Lisa-my due date partner, take heart...I really believe it will be ok. I don't know when, but it will. This is the hardest thing I have ever done. I feel so much guilt for the things that go through my head sometimes (no, I do not want to hurt the babies!). I feel things like how much easier life was with just us and Lucas, and how he must feel neglected because the twins are so high maintenence, and how I'd love to have just one hour awake a day where I can accomplish something without holding, burping or being vomited on. Last night, my dh basically said I wasn't "sexy even if I was trying when I was being a mom". He didn't mean to be hurtful, but you know what, it did hurt. The fears, corncerns, sadnesses and troubles we all have on here seem right on par, since we all feel this way. Lisa- it hurt me so much to read your post because I really wish I could call you and say, let meet up and have coffee. I think it would help so much to have a friend who understood. My best freind is awesome, the best, but just found out she is pregnant, and so I stopped talking to her about this stuff because I want her to be happy. My husband doesn't understand, and family thinks they are good babies. Let me tell you something, if you were held and rocked all day long, fed and paid attention to without being put down, we'd all have "good babies", but the problem lies in that we only have 2 HANDS!! You can't please everyone all the time. I have been alone since week 2, and sometimes I find myself walking around holding both screaming boys and crying myself. I am crying now...man this is hard.

I applaud you all because I know how you feel. I know how hard it is to go to sleep at night with the anxiety of waking up and wondering how they will be today. WIll it be a good or bad day. When they are happy and quiet for a few minutes, I relish it, I look at them and feel so happy. But those moments are few and far between. I can tell you it's getting better. The more alert they become, the better they seem to be. Lisa- I am not sure why your babies shouldn't go more than an hour without sleeping. Did you say your SIL was a Pediatrician? That sounds odd to me, as a matter of fact the boys are going 3-4 hours at night, from like 5 on to bedtime awake and eating like pigs. The they sleep for 6-7 hours, so I say, keep them awake and give yourself a rest!

My only advice, and this is the girl preaching to the choir here because I have trouble following my own advice, but will listen openly to your advices (sp?). Listen to your own instincts and STOP listening to other people. People who "know" better than you are not the parents to YOUR kids, doctors included. You know them. THE BEST!

Two quick stories- A mother at Lucas' daycare stopped me to see the boys the other day and she said to me. "I know exactly how you feel, exactly! When my daughter Lily was born, my son was only two, so it was JUST LIKE HAVING TWINS, just like it!!!" I just looked at her and walked away. No, lady, actually that is nothing like having twins at all~

Anyone using Enfamil, if you have your ped call the company, they will send you out two free cases of formula for the multiples program. My ped did this, and they sent me 50 large cans of ready to use Enfmil Lipil, but then I had to switch to AR, so I called them myself after the boys had been on it a week and a half (their requirement which I did not know) and they sent me out two cases of dry powder AR (12 12.9 oz cans). I asked them what to do with the Lipil, and they said to keep it, donate it or give to DR. office. The boys will be able to go back on it in a few months, so guess what I am doing?

One more thing before I go get the boys ready for our morning trip to daycare (what a pain that is by myself!), felisha- I am just going to be blunt with you and I hope you don't mind or get mad-screw your kids dad! Not literally! If he has the nerve to ask you to goto the trouble of a paternity test instead of accepting responsibility for his kids, and hasn't even been there for you and them, as evident by his absence in the beautiful pics of your family, than you let Maya and Thomas be proud to have their mommy's last name. You are doing the work, and have been both parents to them so far. That is just my opinion, from what you have told us about the situation, he doesn't deserve than honor. When the kids are old enough, they can opt to change their own names if that is what they want.

I really care for you guys, and I am sorry we are so spread out and can't get together for real. Just know I am listening, and relly do understand how you all feel.

Sorry for the long post, be back later.

Love,
Mindy

AndreaR

07-14-2006, 09:47 AM

just wanted to quickly post and tell you all how wonderful you are, and what a great "place" we have here. i am experiencing everything you all are - and when i feel like i can't take it, i come here to read, even if i've already read the most recent posts. i also think about you gals all day long, wondering how you're doing and wondering if you're feeling the same way i am (which it seems is happening). wish i had more time to post, but i need to make hay when the sun shines, as they say. i'll post more recent pics one of these days. i need to figure out the slide.
:throb: YOU ARE ALL INCREDIBLE MOTHERS AND FRIENDS! KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK! :throb:

mmzill

07-14-2006, 12:00 PM

All these encouraging posts! THANKS!

It is nice to know that others are experiencing troubles too, it's not just me. (Although I wish you all weren't)

I guess I don't have that many troubles, it's just typical baby things, but times 2, makes it so much harder!

We weighed the boys today Anthony is at 10 lbs! he's such a porker! Nathan is at 7.5 so he's getting big too.

Well, need to go get somethings done. Everyone is currently sleeping:clap:

Have a good weekend.
Monica

vthompson

07-14-2006, 01:34 PM

I just wanted to check in real quick....everyone is right, having each other is wonderful! I can't believe how close we all are even though we have never met! Amazing!! I hope everyone is having a better day today! At least the weekend is here and DH will be here to help with night feedings. Maybe I can get 5 hours of sleep in a row! I used to think I needed 9 or 10 hours to feel refreshed. Now, anything over 3 is like a vacation!!

I has my 6 week check up yesterday. It was really cool because my fertility specialist happened to be there, too, so my ob and specialist got to see the babies. I decided to go back on the pill, even though I vowed I would never go back on. It just seems like the easiest birth control solution for us. It feels like an eternity since I last took it! The last thing my body needs is to be pregnant again!! Wouldn't that be a kicker....

Gotta run!

Oh, BTW, the babies were weighed on Monday and Corey was 8lbs 12oz and Kayley was 8lbs 1oz. Corey has finally passed his sister up! It is amazing how just a few ounces makes him feel that much more heavier then her!

Valerie

LucasMom

07-14-2006, 01:56 PM

Boys got their shots yesterday, and weighed in at Dylan 12.8 and Logan 13.2!!!!! Fatties!!! Dylan has doubled his birth weight! I hope you all are having a better day today. If I don't get on, have wonderful weekend and try to think happy thoughts.

:throb:
Mindy

qbanmom5

07-14-2006, 03:43 PM

Hi all! Wish I could respond to everyone, but in a nutshell I feel we are all in the same boat and i am glad we have each other. And Felisha, its a tough choice about the last name, but I would use my own.

Lisa, My kids go way more than an hour awake. I am pretty sure Luke has colic and now Leia is constipated so between the two they just cry all day and night. It is horrible. Also, even though Luke is around 11 lbs he still thinks he is 5 lbs and insists on waking up every 2 hours to feed. Lately I don't know why no one drinks all 4 ounces just 2-3 every 2 hours. Driving me nuts.

Had to add that Monica: Were the outdoor pics taken at your home? West Virginia looks like a beautiful place. Also, i love the picture of Victor and the baby yawning. How adorable.

Gotta go, Luke crying again....

Ters

sgarrett

07-14-2006, 04:12 PM

Wow, I agrew w/ everyone I wish we could all get together for coffee, hugs and tears. I actually drove to the store today in my sports car that I have not been in since the babies were born. I had the sunroof open and the radio blasting. It was the first time I have been seperated from them and it was great! Even if it was only for 30 min. As impossible as it seems I am going to try and make a little me time everyday.

Felisha, I do not have the same last name as my 17 yr old son b/c I got remarried and I hate it. His dad is not very active in his life and it just does not seem right that he should have his name & not mine. Besides if you have any doubt about him being involved for the long term with them I most definetly would not give them his name. Think about it, teachers at their school, coaches etc.. will always refer to you as Miss (whatever their last name is) and you will always be correcting them and reminded that you have different names. Just my 2 cents.

Keep your heads up mommies things will get better and better for us!

Take care

Staci

sgarrett

07-14-2006, 04:29 PM

I updated my slide wanted to post it real quick

TMoT

07-14-2006, 07:04 PM

I got on here and SWORE I would ONLY +read+ the posts, but here I am! A jumble of emotions and not a lot of time, etc., etc., etc.... BUT _once again_ your posts have moved me and I want to share my love and thoughts with you all... :'-)

First of all, I feel intimidated...! :-(( ;-) I can SO~ see myself in all your (collective) shoes in a months' time (or sooner!), I just want to go bury my head already!!!!! I had a @#$%ch of a week as it was -- only salvaged by an "emergency" trip to the beach Wed-Thur. And, otherwise, I would have totally thrown in the towel already! Babies found nursing from 3am to NOON an attractive timeframe for THREE days/nights this week, and I was totally at my wits' end (which doesn't seem to even come close to expressing the situation!) on each occasion. :-(

Otoh, they are _sleeping_ now (it's 2:30am), and WHERE AM I?!? ;-) Duh. No brainer.

BUT. I wanted to say: Lisa, Steph, Staci, Stacey, Ters, Val, Andrea, AndreaR, Felisha, Monica, Missy, Mindy, Daniele, Chastity... ALL OF YOU: You are SUPER WOMEN!!!!! :) Raising children is the HARDEST thing you will EVER do in your LIVES (as you already know, I'm sure!), but we are now faced with it in -- not DOUBLE, but -- MAGNITUDES, and you are doing much better than you could ever imagine you are doing! I am sure I'm not the only person to tell you all this. But, if there actually are enlightened enough souls in your lives to have told you how amazing you all are, then LISTEN TO THEM!!! ...I know we are constantly confronted with the difficulties of what is happening to us all right now, but pleeeeease take to heart the small tokens of "marvel" and wonder that you may have heard along the way!!! You are all incredible, beautiful, unique and marvelous women for what you are doing/going through this moment in your lives! PLEASE don't forget that!!!!! (Geez. Makes me think we could all use a dose of Jason around here at the moment, eh?!?!!! ;-))

And... Drink water! ;-) And... Take your Omega-3! ;-) Just kidding. You all know what I'm thinking though! ;-) :throb:

And, Felisha: My sentiments are the same as Staci, et al., on the naming issue. I think the children should have YOUR name. I never married my ex, but my children have his name and I regret it VERY continuously and very deeply. I don't plan on going the same route with my dh (but who ever plans these things, honestly?!), but when we declared the babies' birth at city hall today, I asked if they could _at least_ have MY name too... And the answer was: "No." :-( Turns out the Belgians are not as enlightened as they pretend... :-( You might never come across the issue (but Staci mentioned some other very practical ones too!), but I've had trouble TRAVELING with my sons, because the last names on our passports are not the same. I actually have had to resort to carrying their birth certificates with me (!!!) to be able to PROVE they are MY CHILDREN (for goodness' sake!) on occasion. That is not something you want or deserve to have to ever deal with -- among other things! ...You also don't need to sacrifice the honor and privilege of sharing a name with your children for someone who has not been a significant part of your babies' lives so far and who shows no serious inclination to be so down the road. I wouldn't bank on him, and your babies won't have to bank on him either. Give them a name you personally can guarantee you ALL will be proud they possess now AND when they are older. Give them your _own_ name, Felisha. You've earned that right. And, your babies deserve it. ...Just my 10-cents. ;-) xx

Okay, crying baby... (We should have a sign for that -- "OKCB" -- or something!) Gotta go! xox

Jillmami

07-15-2006, 02:49 PM

We definitely all have our ups and downs that's for sure. What's cool is that no matter what we have to face, we have been able to get through it; and wiser at that.

My dh was out of town for a biz trip (soon you will see a McDonald's commercial for their new chicken wrap - takes place on the basketball court - he wrote that.) Anyways, I had the kids all by myself. Luckily, I had someone come over each day so that I could get a 3 hour nap. I had to change my dd's ostomy bag not once but twice since I didn't do it right the first day. I hate changing it and feel so badly for her. Hopefully it will be gone by year's end. While I was changing it, her brother started crying like no tomorrow. I couldn't leave her in the middle of the change so he had to wait, I felt so awful for having him cry for so long. I feel as if I neglect him at times since she has the special issue. I try to make certain that I give him some extra special 1on1 time each day in addition the normal amount. But, I got through it and learned from it to help the next time.

I admire those of you who are not only doing this alone, but who also have other children. My dh works from home and can help if needed. However, with my mom still in the hospital, we have been doing things mostly on our own. Some of you mentioned leaving your kids with someone. Well, we put a posting up at the special care nursery and one of the nurses recommended someone to us. This young lady comes over 2x/week for a few hours each time. She is wonderful with the kids. That has been a huge help! Now I can see my mom, work on her finances, run errands, etc. My dh and I have even had a few dates! If you have a multiples group, ask there also. It's important to get those breaks.

Everyone's kids look great and appear to be growing and developing just great. Keep those chins up ladies!

mmzill

07-15-2006, 06:56 PM

Ters - The pic of Alaina in the swingset taken in the middle of June 06 is taken in WV at our church's youth camp about 3 hours from home. The pic of the whole gang with the loooooooooong limo stroller was taken in WV at a good friend's place about 20 min. from home.

Birth Control - Monica is on Mirena for BC and just had it placed several weeks ago. So far I have not heard any major complaints.... The pill screwed up her hormones too much and greatly decreased sex drive. The nice thing about Mirena is that it is good for 5 years and delivers very low amounts of hormones with virtually no fuss. (Monica here: I thought I needed to clairify some of what Victor said. a Mirena is an IUD. I was really hesitant at first, due to the whole preventing implantation, but not conception issue, but after talking to my dr. she said that the studies showed it prevents conception. It was put in easily and so far I've not had any real complications. I have been spotting some, but I hate the pill and this seemed like a good alternative. Maybe you all would like to look into it.)

Monica and I are just hanging out keeping kids happy and ourselves sane. YEAH, we just found out that the babies finally like a pacifier other than the soothie. The soothie is nice but a pain to keep in their mouth. Monica just ordered pizza (VERY Healthy :rotflmbo: )and soon her boobs will have more food to call the babies to.

I had started a post earlier but then our angelic daughter decided to press a button on the laptop and deleted everything. I was going to give a guy's perspective on the whole name thing.... but I figured it really isn't my business and I don't know the situation or the people involved.

Pretty soon all the babies on the board (do babies really fit on a board?) will be sleeping better, eating less often, and swinging from the rafters. Hang in there girls! Life will be better.

From DH (always DEAR by the way) :yippee:

Victor

AndreaR

07-15-2006, 10:16 PM

sherry - nice to hear from you. i have to ask, how the heck did you manage a trip to the beach with brand new babies?? you are amazing.

jill - your kids are GORGEOUS. i can't get over those cheeks!! it's so nice to see them so big and healthy, too.

lisa - my girls usually sleep for at least an hour at a time, and up to four hours. they seem to sleep the longest between 1pm - 4pm (approximately). just that past two days, they've slept 4+ hours at night. they are staying awake longer and longer after they eat, too (except for the middle of the night feeding, thank goodness). they are really becoming alert and playful. it's getting to be fun!!!

monica and victor - nice to hear from you both. it sounds like you guys are a great team. that's so nice.

for those of you who are sleeping w/ the babies in your room, how long do you plan to do so? we have the girls sleeping in a pack 'n play next to our bed. it's not that bad, but i realized that they actually sleep better in the cribs in their room. i think it's because the mattresses give them better support. i put them down for naps in their room when i am doing stuff upstairs (otherwise they are in a pack 'n play in the family room or in the papasan or car seat). when i lay them down in their crib, they go without a fuss. i'm afraid that it's too early to have them out of our room, though. any ideas?

well, i finally started writing thank you notes tonight. i don't know where i got the energy. i got through most of them, thank goodness. i can't believe how many gifts we've received. people are so generous.

before i got pregnant, and even through my pregnancy, i have never had a sweet tooth. every once in a while, i'd hanker for something sweet, but i could turn away most things (i'm more of a chips/bread/cheese gal). ever since the girls arrived, i have been craving sweets like mad. cookies, ice cream, candy... tonight i begged DH to go to friendly's and bring back sundaes (which he did). i'm worried about this habit. i have been eating really well ever since i had the babies, but this sweet tooth is another story. has anyone else had any weird changes to their appetite?

i've also had changes to my mouth/teeth. i thought my teeth moved during the pg because my bite is different. i can't close my mouth like i used to. my dentist says it's my jaw, not my teeth, and she has referred me to an orthodontist that specializes in TMJ. have you heard of anything like this related to pg? my dentist hadn't.

well, i'm done pumping, so i'm going to go to bed. good night all of you wonderful mommies (and daddies...).

andrear

mmzill

07-16-2006, 10:14 AM

Sleeping -

My guys are asleep for the night somewhere between 9:30 and 11, then sleep for 3 hrs maybe 4, then are awake every 2-3 hrs after that. It doesn's seem like they sleep much to me :)

vthompson

07-16-2006, 03:33 PM

Sleeping - At night, they are anywhere from 3-4 hours at a time. I think Kayley would sleep longer, but after Corey gets up, we usually get her up if she is not up yet. Otherwise, I am afraid we would go back to sleep for an hour and be up again. During the day, they are anywhere between 1-3 hours. They are not the best nappers in the world.

Well, there are so many posts, and I don't have time to respond to all of them. However, Monica, I just wanted to say how funny your DH is!!

Gotta run!

Valerie

LucasMom

07-16-2006, 03:56 PM

Note to self and all twin mommies:
Do not think that taking your 3 year old and twins to the aquarium will be an easy trip. Anything that can and will go wrong will! You will get through it and you must laugh afterwards!

You will be happy when boarding your new SECOND MINIVAN!! (Oh my god, I have two minivans!!!). You will smile at your husband and think, oh this will be so great, the whole family going to the aquarium!!:) You will arrive at the aquarium, and your 3 year old may announce to you "I pooped in my pants, do you have some more underwear for me?" (he never has done this before). You are 40 minutes from home, and waiting in line so you smile so more, laugh and take him to the restroom, clean him up and carry on. Then Twin a will throw up on you when you burp him 15 minutes into the trip. Luckily, you have a layer underneath, so you remove the vomit shirt. Then, you feel something going on in your pants, and not in a good way. You go to the restroom, and alas, your long awaited period has come, and you have bled through your new pants! And there is no toliet papr in the restroom, so you have to clean yourself up with toilet covers (ouch.). Don't worry, when you go to change twin b diaper, he will have leaked through the diaper, and pooped on his outfit! YEAHHHH!!!!!! FUNNNNNN!!!!!!! Also, your three year old will insist on getting his face painted like a sea monster, which you willingly pay for, only to have him want it washed off 15 minutes later, therefore covering your remaining layer of clothing in muddy green face paint, because "he likes the way he looks like lucas the best".

Certainly a comedy of errors! But exhausting and fun nonetheless.

Victor- I am glad to see your input on here. Monica seems lucky to have you. My DH is more of a shy guy, so he just asks questions about all of you.

Sleeping- Logan (bigger twin) sleeps most nights now from about 10-5 or so, Dylan still wakes up at the 6 hour mark to eat, and then every three hours after. My doctor said after they reach 11 lbs, they don't need to eat in the middle of the night, just do it out of habit, but I haven't the heart to let them cry it out at that time of the night, so I still feed them if they wake up. We went to see the Bon Jovi concert last night as a gift from me to DH and Best freind for Fathers day and Birthday. Not a fan myself, but they loved it, and we all felt old. My dad watched all three boys, because my mom is away on business. He had a bit of assistance from my grandparents, but I think he gets how much work it is now!

Hope you all are well, and had a nice weekend. Talk more tomorrow when I have the time.

PS- If I made onesies that said "yes, we're twins a**hole" on them ,do you think I'd have a big seller?:rotflmbo: I am so tired of answering that dumb question. Also some mean twin mom came up to me at the aquarium today, and said "look bys, they are twins just like you. Boy do you have YOUR work cut out for YOU!" Remind yourself not to make comments like that when you see new twin mommies later down the road!

Love,
mindy

mmzill

07-16-2006, 04:04 PM

You ladies are going to get my dh's head all blown out of proportion!:crazy: He is a pretty good guy though! and an excellent father.

megzmom

07-16-2006, 04:47 PM

Just wanted to say a quick hi. I am at mom's house using her computer. I only read 2 or 3 posts. sounds like I am not the only one on an emotional roller coaster.

My mIL just moved out. I liked the help the first week but after 2 months, I was so ready to have my house back. I couldn't even argue with dh.

Update. Boys are great overall. Zack weighs 8.14 and Ben weighs 8.0 as of last week. They keep to a 3 hr schedule most of the time. They are eating soy for spit up and about 4oz each feeding.

We just found out that Zack has a heart murmur. The sonogram during the last trimester showed he also had fluid in his kidneys. The recent sonogram showed he had bilateral hydronephrosis and Ben has it on his left side. We found all this out last week. So we have cardiology and urology appts in the next month.

Worse of all, I start teaching again Aug 1st! I am so not ready. I am just getting into a routine with out MIL and just now bonding.

I will post more soon. I am holding a fussy Zack right now.

ChastityLove

07-16-2006, 07:35 PM

First off, Heather I am so sorry to hear of your little one's complications. I will keep you in my prayers.

Sleeping- well lately it seems like both boys want to eat every 2 hours!! So we are not getting alot of sleep. But who is, right?

I have decided to stop pumping which I was doing exclusively since neither baby was great at breastfeeding. After 3 weeks, I just can't make enough milk and going anywhere involved the breast pump plus bottles and formula. It's just too much and I have cried my tears over quitting but I am also stressing out with it. So I am now sitting here with the cabbage leaves in my bra and taking motrin to help with the swelling. Can anyone give me a timeline of when the engorgment and pain will stop?

Both boys are doing great and were out of preemie diapers by 2 weeks since they peed right out of them! Neither fit into preemie outfits either. They are both getting so big already!

Thanks for your help with the engorgement issues!
Chastity

vthompson

07-17-2006, 12:04 PM

Chastity - If you have any pain killers left over from your c-section, try taking those at night. That really helped me. I was in a lot of pain for about 3 days and then it started to lessen. However, I stopped on July 3rd and I still feel let downs from time to time. Also, I wore a really tight fitting sports bra to keep them "contained". I hope this helps. I know how painful it is! And don't feel bad...you did the very best you could. I was at the same point as you when I stopped. Now that it has been a few weeks, things are so much better now without the pumping.

Heather - So nice to hear from you!! I cannot believe it is almost time to go back to school already. Keep us posted on the appts...I will keep you and the boys in my prayers!

Mindy - I was cracking up at your post...I think it is great that you were able to laugh about it!!

Well, I am exhausted!! And of course, I had a million things to do today so I did not try and nap. Wouldn't you know it that the stinkers have been sleeping since 11am now! Any other day, if I try and nap, they are up constantly! Why is it always that way!

Well, last night, I decided to let Kayley sleep and not get her up when Corey got up. She went to sleep at 7:30pm and got up at 1:30am!!! I couldn't believe it. However, Corey then got up at 3am so I only got 1 hour of sleep in between and I did not go to bed until 11:30pm. Then, they got up at 6am. All of this broken sleep is really hard on me. I am getting very crabby, too, as the day goes on.

Well, I hear stirring so I better go!

Valerie

sgarrett

07-17-2006, 01:43 PM

AndreaR: Wow weird, I am having the sweet tooth issue too! I thought it was just me, I am usually a cheese and cracker gal too. I plan on putting the babies in their room once they sleep through the night on a regular basis - so who knows when that will be!

Lisa: I wish the babies were on a schedule! Unfortunately they ususally go to be anywhere between 11:00 and 1:00am! Then they sleep anywhere between 3 and 4 hours, go back to sleep until about 8:00 than take another long nap. This is fine for now but I go back to work 8/8 and will not be able to pull this off. We are trying to get them to go to bed sooner.

Heather: I am so sorry to hear you are having this issues, especially right b4 you go back to work! Keep us posted on what the doc says. BTW I have a heart murmer and it has never been an issue for me. I only think about it when I go to the dentist bc I have to take antibiotics b4 I go.

Felisha: Good news from your boss! Hopefully the present is a big fat raise!!!

Take care all

Staci

sgarrett

07-17-2006, 01:45 PM

BTW birth control - I had the IUD b4 trying to get preggo. I did like it b/c it was no hormones. I had it for about 5 years b4 having removed. I do not know what I am going to do now, have not decided wanted to talk to doc about what all options are out there.

AndreaR

07-18-2006, 09:36 AM

i'm going out of my mind today. the girls aren't themselves, it's 90 degrees and humid, and our a/c doesn't really cool the house, especially not the family room, where we're usually camped out. i'm trying to pump for madeline, but then that leaves me no milk for isabelle, who is currently screaming her head off. the dog won't stop barking. today is the first day i feel like i'm going to lose it. hopefully you won't be reading about me in the paper tomorrow.

b34chg1rl

07-18-2006, 10:08 AM

hi ladies... i'm from the "due in july" board, but my babies were born in june, so i guess this is my new home. :) i just wanted to check in and say hi.

ok, anyone else??.... my boys are eating constantly now, but the worst part is... they will nurse for 30 minutes or so and then still be hungry!! so i nurse them again, for, say, another 20 mins, and they are still looking to eat! i end up then giving them a bottle (formula) which finally settles them. i'm getting very frustrated and feeling inadequate. i never had this problem breastfeeding my dd. i know b-milk is all about supply and demand, so i hesitate to keep adding more formula feeds, but i just can't keep nursing them like this and i need to keep my sanity, for their sake and mine!! i'm getting really burnt out and feel as though i'm doing nothing BUT breastfeeding! they see the ped today, so i'll ask her about it. (she's a mother of twins too!, how lucky am i to have a pediatrician who truly knows what it's like to have twins!?!). i'm really feeling like i will end up adding more formula feeds, and cutting down on b/f, and i'm trying to let go of the guilt that comes along with that kind of thinking. well, we'll see what happens. maybe it's just another growth spurt, and things will start evening out again.

thanks for letting me vent... i know you all understand.

twinsmakethree

07-18-2006, 02:51 PM

hi everyone!

well everything is good here. a couple days ago i had a meltdown because the girls were staying up all night until 4:30 not really crying but just bing agititated and two nights in a row left me really cranky but now they are sleeping through the whole night :yippee: i usually bath them at 8 have my husband give them a bottle with gas drops in it and by 10 they are asleep they wake up at around 3 i feed them and theyre up again at around 8. I got my period which i was not expecting at all, it came at the most awkward time :sigh: ( DH was a littl disappointed, but hey its not my fault!!)

Our milestones_ both girls are lifting there heads all the way up to the push up stance and we are getting alot of real smiles at least ruwaydah smiles nusaybah is a bit more serious. They are noticing there hands more. And they are sleeping in there cribs. I forgot who told me to begin putting them in there during the day but thanks it worked well.

AndreaR- So sorry your having a rough day even the dog seems to have it out for you! but i think its the heat that is driving everyone crazy hang in there a good day is sure to follow, tonight when they are sleep have a great big sundae it usually comforts me after a hard day!!

Mindy that was sooo funny I am glad you have a good sense of humor Tomorrow is my first day out with them alone I hope I live to tell the story :pray: :crazy:

Monica your boys are really getting big!! do you pump at all? I have started to pump for when i go out and it seems to really increase my supply i leak all over the place I have yet to wear a dry shirt, so now i use maxi pads the thin kind it helps a little. I try to pump everytime I begin to leak but that has become a lot of work more than i want!!

Valerie- as your bABIES GET BIGGER THEY WILL SLEEP MORE(sorry baby on my lap) through the night. Ive noticed since the girls got to the 11 pds mark(well Nusaybah anyway) she has been sleeping through the night even with a 3 to 4 hr nap day so hang in there

our schedule is up at around 8 feed change play until 11 they go to sleep until 1 feed change play sleep until 5 up feed change play bath at 8 bottle then sleep at 10 wake up sometimes at 2 30 0r 3. wow i didnt know they slpt so much during the day i might have to start waing them up

birth control - none:eek: dh and i just missed being pregnant again by 3 days !!!!

ok have to go fussy baby on my lap
have a nice day everyone(or evening)

ps Sherry and Missy how is everything coming along

Andrea
Oh p.s.s.- Staci that was a cute list you did I noticed the top things you loved was while they were asleep is that a coincidence:rotflmbo:

vthompson

07-18-2006, 04:56 PM

Andrea - I noticed that when I am really overtired, I get more emotional, too!! It sucks!! Congrats on the sleeping through the night. I am living vicariously through all of you! :crazy:

B34 - all of us have had the same feelings as you...you are in the right place! Hang in there. I had the same problems with the b/f and pumping, I always ended up supplementing with formula. You are not a bad mom for anything you are doing, always remember that. You are doing what is best for you and your children.

AndreaR - I am sending hugs your way!! :grouphugg Hopefully, your day is going better. Try and take some time for yourself when DH gets home. You need it and deserve it!

Lisa - Our babies have had some days like that, too, where they sleep more then usual. I wouldn't worry about it. I was laughing about your blessing comment and the babies sleeping through the night!! That is funny!

Well, I gotta run...I am going out with my girlfriend tonight! Very excited about getting out!! Talk to everyone soon!

Valerie

twinsmakethree

07-18-2006, 06:46 PM

has anyone thought about vaccinations? the girls receive theirs in two weeks the first set is 5 shots the pedi said she can break it up if i prefer i want to because 5 is sooo much but then again i dont want them to have to go through the pain again 2 weeks layer

any suggestions or advice

Andrea

swineland

07-19-2006, 08:37 AM

Hey everyone!

Just wanted to check in and do my roll call. I have been MIA the last few days as I was in South Florida with the twins visiting my parents. I returned on Monday and yesterday morning had my follow up post-partum appt. (I brought the boys with me, by myself....everyone was very impressed :) )

Period: yes, I got mine on July 14th. I thought I might not know if it was an actual period or just leftover c-section stuff.....but rest assured, there was no mistaking! It's back with a vengeance :mad:

Feeding: the boys are 7 weeks old today and are about 9.5-10 lbs each. They are eating 4 ozs (sometimes 5) during the day and at night I decrease it to 3 ozs b/c they always fall asleep during the feeding. The longest one of them has gone between feedings is about 5 1/2 hours. However, we are still sometimes getting hungry babies after only 2 hours....is this still happening to anyone else?? Does the amount I'm feeding them sound about right for their age and weight?? They seem content with it.

Carpal: hands still hurt in the mornings....anyone else??

Felisha: congrats on those gift certificates!! I bet you had fun grocery shopping.....I can think of all the things I"d buy if $$ was no object :) Your CEO sounds like a nice guy.

Heather: sorry to hear about your little one's complications, but was glad to hear from you. You're my local twin mommy and I was wondering how you were doing.

Mindy: what an awful experience at the aquarium!! I was however laughing when I read the details...a comedy of errors for sure. Don't let it scare you into never going anywhere again though..... :) Oh, and this coupled with your "sick day" incident...oh lawd!

Lisa: I have not gotten any books yet on sleeping, so I found your quick mention of the E.A.S.Y routine from the Baby Whisperer quite interesting. I decided to try it last night and this morning and it works!! I kept them up right after the feeding and did playtime, Einstein mat, zoo DVD, etc. until they started getting cranky. Then, I swaddled them and put them in the swing....bam, fast asleep. We'll see if it continues, in the meantime I think I'll go buy that book.

Val: How is little Kayley doing since you brought her formula concentration down to 3/4 of a scoop?? Is her tummy handling it better?

We registered for and received a Graco swing that matches our pack n' play and only swings from front to back. Well, at a friends house last week who has the cradle swing that goes side to side, I realized that my boys LOVE the side to side. So, I stopped by a childrens consignment shop and there in front of me was an almost brand new, clean as a whistle, perfectly working Ocean Wonders Aquarium (Mindy?? haha) Swing. It's listed on Target.com for $109.99....I got it for $34! Evan is asleep in it now and it's great to have two swings. That made my day.

For everyone who is feeling or has felt "mommied out", I totally agree. While we love our babies and wouldn't trade being a mommy to them for anything, we still will have "those" days. I really truly think it is all in relation to the amount of sleep we get. On the nights when I'm up every 45 mins and DH is sound asleep in the guest room, I wake up crying and getting totally frustrated. I feel miserable and think if I have to do ONE more feeding, I'm going to die. Then, I have a good night, and my attitude totally changes the next day. Hang in there ladies......

My inlaws are coming on Friday for 10 days....staying here. Normally I would be all irritated about that (you all remember my inlaw stories, right??) but since we could use the extra help, I'm looking forward to it. Hoping we can teach them how to swaddle, change the diaper and put the new one on tight enough, etc. Because lord knows when I'm not making MORE FORMULA, I'd like to try to sleep some!

Thank goodness for the blender...I even starting adding two dropper fulls of gas drops right into the blender.....it comes out with hardly any bubbles. How are the rest of you making your formula? Bottle by bottle or in a batch, like me??

Well, I gotta run......I hope ALL of you are doing well and I've missed talking to you!!

Steph

swineland

07-19-2006, 08:41 AM

p.s. Monica, I love the new addition to your slideshow, the photo of Victor and one of the boys yawning...what a priceless photo.

p.s.s Ters, where are YOU?

p.s.s.s. We're never going to hear from Danielle again, are we?

2Potato

07-19-2006, 11:07 AM

I so understand that being up and cranky til 4am thing. My boys are doing the same thing. Then sleeping great in the mornings. This will work ok until I go back to work in Sept.

Where do we go for new moms of twins in June 06? Here? I had boys (Dylan Leo and Ethan Doss) on June 12 by scheduled c-section at 37 wks. They were both 20.5 inches long and one was 6 lbs 8 oz and one was 7 lbs 8 oz. Good sizes! They are probably well over 8 lbs now. Doing well. Being breastfeed, and yes, sometimes that's all I feel like I do. Shower? I'm not good at getting in there til my hubby gets home. They have a great, very involved daddy. Couldn't live without him. Didn't sleep til after 5am last night, but they slept (and I did too) from 5 - 11 (well, with a couple of feedings inbetween!!!) I agree that when it's bad it's bad and when nights are good and you sleep better, it all looks so much better!!!! Anyway, just wanted to meet other moms with newborn twins. Another thing - where and how do you do the slide shows? Too cool.

TMoT

07-19-2006, 11:40 AM

Hi all! Just a quick post (you know why...)!!

Mindy, what a trip! lol I had a few those with the big boys when they were smaller, but the difference now is exponential! Good you can laugh (and make us all laugh too) tho'!!

Heather, I'm very sorry about the situation with the boys. I think I wrote this before that my oldest ds had something similar: a blocked urethra which caused some high-level reflux in both of his kidneys... :-(( It took two procedures to remove the obstacle (over the course of two years), but the check-ups, urinary tract "exams" etc., were total 7734 for Mommy. It should be okay, though. Don't worry too much as long as you are all in good hands... ...I had a heart murmur at birth too. I had to be in nicu for a month -- alone. Boo hoo. It spontaneously corrected itself. Anyway... I hope what Zack has is in the "not dangerous" category and that everything with BOTH of them will be fine. Just keep taking good care of yourself and them. That's the best/most you can do. :-) xx

As for us, Babies have been eating each night non-stop from about midnight till 9 or 10am, so I am FRIED. :-( It's also in the 90s here and we don't have a/c so everybody is croaking from the heat! Besides that, though, both babies are growing well and Mommy is shrinking (:yippee:), so not much to complain about but the lack of sleep -- but isn't that sufficient to drive you over the edge?!!

And, that's why you haven't heard much from me. 'Fraid it'll be more of the same too till they're "over" this stage (if ever?!), but I wanted to let you know that I'm thinking about you all and you're each in my thoughts daily -- really!

Take care, wonderful Mommies!!! :-)
xox

sgarrett

07-19-2006, 12:33 PM

2potato: Welcome! My twins bday is June 13th they were 36 weeks and 6 days. We are right there together. Way to go on the BF too, I am breastfeeding but have to supplement with formula. My little girl Isabelle has not figured out how to latch very well.

Steph: CT me too, in the morning and my fingertips on my left hand are numb all day! I hate it!

Feeding: They eat about every 3-4 hours approx 4 oz. I can bf Aiden for 40 mins and sometimes he still wants a couple of oz of formula. Anyone else feel like their breastmilk does not fill the babies up like formula? It is very frustrating.

Sleeping: We go a whole 4 1/2 hours sleep in a row last night. I was thrilled!

Andrea: How old were your babies when they started sleeping through the night? I am soo jealous!

Felisha: Wow, your boss does sound wonderful. I hope you can enjoy that T bone soon!

Sherry: You continue to amaze me, if my little ones required that much breast time I would have thrown the towel in by now! And no a/c on top of that! I get really hot when I am b/f, I do not know why. Hang in there superwoman, we miss your posts, they are always so enlightening!

Milestones: Both babies hold their heads up really well, they have started pushing up with their legs too, really cute. No actual smiles yet, plenty of little smiles playing across their faces. Tons of cooing, Isabelle makes the best noises. She grunts, coos, snorts all the time. (even while she is sleeping!) They both fart so incredibly loud too! I cannot beleive these noises come out of such cute little bodies! I am sure that will be very entertaining when we take them to church. Aiden has the best facial expressions, he looks like a pissed off old man, it cracks me up.

Mommied out: It is so hard some days, even when they are doing great, (and they really usually do!) it is hard to adjust to everything revolving aroud babies, does that sound bad? I was so miserable while I was preggo, and now that I feel good again I am dying to go out on the town. We do not have a babysitter we could leave them with. Plus I know as soon as we got downtown, I would be so filled with worry and guilt we would rush right home! I am thrilled to be able to enjoy a glass of red wine at night again. I just get so antsy sitting in this house aaaaalllllll day! Anyone else?????????
I want to go out with my girlfriends, (still can not fit into my cute clothes though!) go shopping all day, have a spa treatment etc....... SIGH I am thrilled to be a mommy just have a major case of cabin fever.

Did not mean to whine but I know you all understand!

Take care,

Staci

swineland

07-19-2006, 01:13 PM

I hear ya about the wine, Staci! I've gone through several bottles of wine myself over the last 2 months. Sitting at home all day, gets to be about 5pm and while there's no "quittin' time" for mommy, at least she can have an adult beverage!

Gotta go :)

Steph

twinsmakethree

07-19-2006, 03:39 PM

well ladies i punked out!! I left the babies with dh while i went out solo, i couldnt take them with me anyway because our air condition needs to be fixed, can you believe it in this heat having to drive in a mini van without air!!! oh well at least its working, right!! it felt so different i didnt know how to behave:D

When I got back He said how nusaybah really showed her a$$ but i figured that because she is a mommy's baby if we lay together she has to be right near my breast to go to sleep ruwaydah will just reach her hand out to touch it, I think they are obsessed with the breast!!!

Staci the girls have only slept through the night three nights now and counting I hope it becomes a habit, but they do wake up at 3 or 4 for one feeding. But its pretty good sleeping i must say. I just hope it will last

felisha- why did they get their shots so early, did your pedi say. wow 3 needles at the same time she's good. how were they afterwards, what did you give them for pain and how long did the pain last.

ok can anyone help- ruwaydah seems to be latching now with some difficulty after taking to the bottle she still takes the nipple, but now seems to have a hard time keeping it in. any suggestions?????:confused:
ok ladies time to cook talk 2 you all later

andrea

megzmom

07-19-2006, 05:14 PM

Steph- YOur story is just like mine. I think our kids are almost the same age? Mine will be 7 weeks tomorrow. How do you make your formula? DO you use a regular blender? If so, how much do you make at a time?

Okay boys are fussing. gOTTA go for now.

swineland

07-19-2006, 06:05 PM

Hey Heather....

If you remember, I am the one who had my boys 2 days before you at Celebration. In fact, as I was being discharged I saw a family in the hallway who said they were there with twins also...I think it was you! Well, it had to be you....it was June 2nd.

I mix up my formula (Similac Advance) in one big batch that usually lasts 24-36 hours. I bought a blender at Target specifically for formula, DH knows not to use it for anything else (like he would ever use a blender..haha). Anyway, I pour in 40 oz.'s of nursery water and add 20 scoops. I also started adding two dropper full's of gas drops. Then I pulse blend for a few seconds and pour it all into a plastic pourable container. I usually do this twice, yielding 80 ozs and lasting me for the 24-36 hours. I then make up all the bottles and put them in the fridge. The blender leaves NO clumps...not a one....and it's FAST.....I'm usually done with the whole thing in 5 minutes.

Well, I'm off to bed. DH and I just watched the season premiere of Season 3:Project Runway...I am ADDICTED to that show!!

Talk to you all later...
Steph

AndreaR

07-19-2006, 07:46 PM

latching issues - my madeline has problems at the breast, too. originally i thought it was because she was so small and weak. and all of the nicu nurses (even the LCs) were vigilant about making sure i didn't tire maddie out by putting her on the boob for too long. on her bottles, we use a nuk nipple that has a very fast flow. she barely needs to suck when she eats from the bottle. up until today, i thought maybe she couldn't suck very well. but then i realized that she has no problems sucking when it comes to her pacifier (which is an avent). the kid is like maggie simpson with the thing - you can't get it out of her mouth sometimes. so she knows how to suck, but i don't think she feels like doing it at the breast. it is a bit frustrating, because i'd much rather she nurse than have to pump for her bottles. this evening i tandem nursed, so that isabelle could do most of the work. maddie lasted for about 15 minutes (which is much longer than she ususally does on her own). tonight it worked, but it doesn't always. i don't have time to pump as much as i should, so i realy only have enough milk for one baby. i try to pump at least once a day, so madeline gets some breast milk, but i'm starting to feel guilty because isabelle gets almost 100% breast milk. since maddie is much smaller, i feel like she's the one who needs it more! but the thought of pumping more really bums me out.

staci - i feel the exact same way as you about being "mommied out." i've decided to take the girls out in public tomorrow. they will be 7 weeks old. we're going to an outdoor shopping mall (so hopefully they won't be inside too much). i need to make some returns at baby gap, and i need to get myself some clothes. i'm hoping that being out in public will make me feel more normal (and less mommy). there's nothing like retail therapy.

sherry - nice to hear from you. i've been thinking about you. hats off to you and that nursing schedule. and the heat - isn't it the worst? like staci, i get so hot when i b/f. isabelle is like a little heating pad. being hot makes me sooooooo cranky. we have a lovely pool, but rarely do i get a chance to jump in and cool off. anyway, how are your older boys handling the twins?

sorry i didn't respond to everyone - i need to go to bed.

love you all,
andrea

megzmom

07-19-2006, 08:16 PM

Steph- That is so cool. I heard about twins before me and then the day after I delivered there was another mom of twins. I didnt meet her though.
THANKS so much for the tips on the blender. I am going to go and look at Target. I think we shop at the same one Hunters Creek?? I hate making bottles. I make them twice a day and so many clumps. I shake them for more than 5 minutes. I even bought this little hand mixer for bottles from bru piece of junk. Doesn't reach the bottom.
Carpal Tunnel- I had to have surgery after my preg with dd. I waited for 5 years to see if it went away (plus no insur at the time). That was on my right hand my left wasn't too bad. No with this preg it started right away n my left and hasnt gone away. I am going to schedule surgery around Christmas or spring break. I was driving within 4-5 days. Granted I probably should have waited a little longer but it worked for me.

Birth control- I am so glad others are as frightened of getting preg again. DH still wants more. I am 32 and have a almost 8 yr old dd. Not sure if I want to risk having another set of twins or worse triplets. dd first sonogram showed 2 sacs. Never thought much of it until this preg. I am going to ask for info on the IUD. I haven't been on bc in 8 years!!!! Then I was only on ortho novum 777. I am too afraid to take a pill because I always forget/forgot my prenatal vitamins. oops

I am so thankful to be back online with you all again. I REALLY missed the support of others misery hahaha. No really you are all like my family-NOONE understands my emotions like you all do.

swineland

07-19-2006, 09:48 PM

Hey Heather....

I bought a blender at Target specifically for formula, DH knows not to use it for anything else

Heather...the way I typed the above sentence made it sound like the blender is made specifically for formula prep. It is just a regular ole blender that I bought specifically to use in making formula. Sorry if that was misleading! And yes, I shop at Target Hunters Creek.....there almost every day it seems like :)

Steph

swineland

07-20-2006, 12:06 PM

uh......HELLooooooo?? Where is everyone today??

sgarrett

07-20-2006, 12:25 PM

I am here, soooo sleepy babies wanted to stay up and party all night. Today they want to be held and I am here by myself. I finally just let them cry so I could take a shower. I hate nights like last night, and I feel bad b/c we went out to eat and that threw their whole schedule off. But damn I have to got to get out of this house once and a while or I will go nuts. (and boy was that Thai food good!)

Gotta go more crying

Staci

qbanmom5

07-20-2006, 12:55 PM

Hi gals, I am here. Exhausted as ever. I am not as lucky as some of you to have babies sleep for longer than 3 hours. Not only that, Luke gets the worst gas pains and I am burping him almost non stop until his next feeding. Sometimes I can't even tell if its gas or he is hungry so I keep feeding him which leads to more burping. Mind you that now Leia has figured out that she has to whine like her brother to get attention so it is non-stop from one to the other. I swear they don't sleep day or night. THey sleep for 30 minutes then boom they are back up. Have you all noticed that when one gets gas the other does too? They also poop within minutes of each other. I am sooo frustrated that I have noo time still and they are 7 weeks old today. Luke is 11.5 pounds and Leia is 10 so why are they like this. All day long I am swaddling, unswaddling, changing, feeding, burping then all over again swaddling, unswaddling.... All day and they are still not soothed. Sometimes I think they are overstimulated with all the kids and noise at home but if I put them down in my room I won't hear them in the kitchen (monitor: the one thing I didn't get at the shower and haven't had time to get on my own). Ugh!

I had the same b/f problem that you all had. Not enough milk for their unquenchable thirst. The guilt is getting better though...

Getting my tubes tied 8-10-06. Put a fork in me I am done!!!

I mix my formula one bottle at a time. They sometimes drink 2 oz sometimes 4 or 5. It is sooo hard to tell. Most of the time I do 4 and if one has some left over I give it to the other. Like someone else (Felisha?) I have been doing this from the beginning.

The pounds aren't melting away as I had liked. I am trying weight watchers.

Gotta go, holding Luke. Ters

megzmom

07-20-2006, 01:08 PM

Steph-tried making the formula with the blender...LOVE it. No more shaking forever for me. It was done and washed with in a few minutes. I owe you girl. One day we should meet near Target for coffee. :)

Ters-I am sooo sorry that you barely get time for yourself. I am the same w/ bf didnt have enough and the guilt is almost gone. I too let the babies cry a little now. I can tell they have two cries. When they are overtired I let them cry for 3-4 min then pat them on the back and wammy they are out. I know you are supposed to sleep them on their back but it didn't work for them after they kept coming loose from the swaddle. NOw they are soley belly sleepers like the rest of the family.

Feeding-I also share left over formula. Zack eats more and is very consistent. think hes moving to the next 1/2 oz (4 1/2) but Ben is very inconsisten. MOstly he is 4 like Zack but everyday there is a feeding or two when he eats only 2 or 3 oz. Do others have that problem too?

House is quiet now. Its rainy and cloudy. Daddy and boys are taking naps. I hate to because I only get 20 min and seem to be more groggy than before.

vthompson

07-20-2006, 01:13 PM

Hi Ladies!! I have been so exhausted the past few days, just like everyone else. I actually fell asleep last night at 9pm...DH did baby duty until 1:30am when Kayley got up. She seems to be sleeping 6 hours at night. However, Corey is still 3-4 hours. I wish he would sleep the same as her. Sometimes, Kayley will get up to eat and then Corey gets up an hour later...it sucks! We are trying to transition out of our carriers for sleeping during the day...NOT FUN! I figured once they are able to nap during the day laying on their backs, then we will move to night time. They just get so angry when I lay them on their backs, even if they are fast asleep. They kick their swaddle off and then cry.

Shots - We go next Friday for ours...and the ped said it would be 3 shots. I am making DH take off of work so he can help hold one of the babies. I am really scared that they are going to be miserable!

Formula Mixing - Since the twins are on 2 different types of formula, I make each of them a batch to last a day...I have to mark EVERYTHING with their names, including bottles! DH is a chemist and he brought home a thing that uses a magnet to mix...it is pretty cool so I use that to mix their formula.

Ters - I feel so bad for you! I really hope everything gets better. I swear, our children sound so much alike. Kayley has also learned how to get attention like her brother. That is the worse when they both go at it!

Heather - We are so glad you are back, too!! We missed you!

AndreaR - Do not feel guilty about Maddie getting more formula. When I was pumping and Kayley developed the milk allergy, I only gave b/m to Corey. You have to do what is best for each baby individually. You are doing a great job!!

Steph - Thanks for asking about Kayley!! She does seem to be doing much better on the 3/4 scoop...she needs to eat more at each feeding, but that is better then her being miserable!

Ok, wanted to respond to everyone, but babies crying, as usual!!

Valerie

qbanmom5

07-20-2006, 02:43 PM

Lisa: Sorry about your sit. and feelings right now. It's hard enough w/o ppd!! Typing 1-handed so bear with me.

Sher: I am overwhelmed by your commitment and "mommyness". I definitely would have quit!

Totally random feedings right here. It is so nuts I can't even tell you who had how much at what time!

I am glad that you guys can relate and are in the same boat as me. Sounds selfish, huh? Misery loves company. Yes, it gets easier (and harder in other ways) but I would def. get meds Lisa. I am almost there too! I have taken anti dep. after my son and I felt 100% better and kicked myself for not seeing a doc sooner.

Feeding Luke-gotta go ( yes again). Ters

sgarrett

07-20-2006, 02:53 PM

I really wish we could all get toghether for coffee, wine, shopping whatever. I know this is going to get easier, but it is really tough right now. We are raising beautiful demanding babies! Just think when they are able to play together how wonderful that will be! We will laugh at those singleton moms who have to constantly entertain their little ones!

Lisa: If you think you might have post partum please go see your doc ASAP. On top of everything else you have to deal with right now that just sux! There are drugs that really help, my SIL went through it.

We are strong woman who are all concerned, caring, tired, wonderful mommies! Raising twins is such a demanding job, but a wonderful blessing! I am so glad we have eachother to "talk" to. Chins up ladies we will ge through this together!

Staci

twinsmakethree

07-20-2006, 03:03 PM

Hi I am here I think I spoke to soon ruwaydah went to sleep lovely last night at 930 and was up at 230 and decided she wanted to party as well up until 542 this morning:woa: staci i think she was in a partying mood with your babies I wish she just knew how to party alone!!!!

Ters- our girls have terrible gas we begin to use colic ease its good so far heres the website www.colicease.com its good for hiccups as well which my poor girls suffer with. I hope things get better for you

Lisa- I am sorry things are a little down for you please hang in there this stage with them will not last long. Dont give into the depression see if someone can take the babies while you do something little for yourself even if its a walk by yourself or with a friend have a girls night and eat your omega 3s its important. This is a fussy time with our babies mine are actually begginningt o fuss more as well when i cant take it i have a time out for myself only a little one and i go and think about the joy i felt pregnant and all of the emotions of the pregnancy and it calms me down to know this is what i was blessed with and i put on my gloves and go at it again even though i admit sometimes they win the bouts i havent got knocked out:) good luck with the dr appt tomorrow

Val- Is your pedi mixing the shots needed together or you split the 5 into 3 and 2? I am going crazy over this topic im scared to death like i m getting the shots!!

ok i will try to reply some more lady hang in there guys we only have 18 yrs left:crazy:

oh weight watchers- i did that before and it was great maybe we can be a support system for everyone and put up recipes i have a great dessert that is nutritious and everyone loves ill try to post it when i come back

pss toys- have anyone brought any toys that their babies love im going on a toy spree and need ideas i am going to buy this lamaze toy its called grow with baby discovery land it seems cute

Andrea
Andrea

twinsmakethree

07-20-2006, 03:14 PM

heres a 50 % off a playskool toy its a tummy time togethr gym its very nice its normaally $25

go to www.hasbrotoyshop.com the code is BABYGYM1

ANDREA

sgarrett

07-20-2006, 03:40 PM

Andrea: Thanks for the tip on the toy website. That is so cool! I cannot wait for Aiden and Isabelle to really start playing with toys!

Staci

swineland

07-20-2006, 03:57 PM

Lisa! :aww: Many across-the-miles hugs to you... You are in the middle of what is probably going to be the hardest time in your life. You are home alone all day with 2 brand new babies and, as a first time mom, trying to figure it all out at the same time. I can sense the frustration you are going through and I know it seems like this will all never end. (But rest assured it will) You are doing an AWESOME job...I mean it. You love your babies, you are concerned about their well-being, and all the while also caring for your husband and yourself....it's a lot to handle for one person. There is not ONE mommy on here who hasn't cried at one point or another in the last month. We are beat tired, exhausted, frustrated, hungry, disheveled and we are responsible for TWO human beings.....unreal! What you are going through is expected and TEMPORARY. However, I also agree with what the others said about an anti-depressant. I take 100mg of Zoloft every day and if I didn't I'm sure I'd feel like you do. It takes the edge off, lets you handle things better, you let things roll off your back a little easier and aren't so impatient. I have been taking it for years, mainly to combat my impatience and quick-to-frustrate issues :)

I re-read the "swaddling" section of Happiest Baby on the Block today and want to remind those of you who swaddle...do it tightly! Also, make sure their arms aren't bent, otherwise they'll get right out of it and freak out again. My boys are big enough for the "Swaddle Me" blankets now, but I still like to use the jersey knit ones from Old Navy...they have been the BEST. (Except for the thread coming apart....typical Old Navy quality)

Oh girls....you all hang in there. BIG group hug ------>:grouphugg

Heather, I am so glad someone finally took my advice on the blender! Good for you. And sure, I'd love to meet up for coffee!

Ters, honey we are all having issues with feeding I think. There are definitely days when I am like, what the hell? You're hungry AGAIN? You just ate 1 hour ago!! Then they are eating their hands and I think, crap, they really are hungry. It's a crapshoot trying to determine ahead of time how much they'll eat....so try not to have any preconceived ideas or expectations as to how much they "should" eat. Also, i just started trying to implement a routine here....using that "E.A.S.Y." method. It seems to work. I've noticed that keeping them up after a feeding for at least 10 minutes and trying to play a little until they get cranky and then swaddling the heck out of them puts them right to sleep. Girl, go out and get a monitor!! Order one online if you can't get out to the store.....I definitely think the goings-on in your busy house might be overstimulating them.....if they could get used to being away from the noise, it might help. (Of course, you are way more experienced as a mom than I...so I may not even know what I'm talking about!)

Gotta run...
My love to you all.....you're just doing great.

Steph

qbanmom5

07-20-2006, 06:18 PM

Thanks girls for the support and the website. I will check it out ASAP. Too busy to go back and find the post--what does EASY stand for again? I will try it right away. Also, Steph, thanks for the good advice. I forgot what it was like and its like virtually starting over for me. I keep telling DH that we need to swaddle the arms down but he says they don't like it and bends their arms up which as you mentioned is worthless. ARe your kids growing out of their receivieng blankets too? I have the bigger ones which I use now but to be honest I haven't been swaddling too much anymore. Maybe that is part of the problem?

Ta-ta, Ters

vthompson

07-20-2006, 07:43 PM

Sherry - I am amazed and proud of your b/f stamina!! Keep up the GREAT work!!

Lisa - My heart was breaking for you when I read your post. You are such a great mom and yes, we have ALL cried during the past 2 months and continue to cry when things are really rough!! I agree with the rest of the girls, see a doctor and get some time for you, just you!! You need it and deserve it!

Ters - I was nodding my head about your feeding issues. Some days, I just want to pull my hair out. It seems like they want to eat constantly. I also agree...get a monitor!! For you own sanity!

Steph - I was laughing about the twins eating their hands...mine do the same thing when I "ignore" their hunger...not that I don't feed them, but sometimes I wait a few moments to see if they really are hungry again, even though they just ate an hour ago!

Andrea - I am not sure what the ped is doing for shots...she said their would be 3 shots...I am not sure if that meant 3 needles with some doubled up?

I bought the infant Tylenol for shot day...on the back it said to ask ped about home much for our age of babies...anyone know how much to give. Also, should you give it before the appt or after?

Gotta run...very tired!!

BTW, my babies are now addicted to the soothie pacifiers, but sometimes I get SO annoyed because they fall out and then they cry and I have to put them back in!! Like right now....

Really gotta go this time!

Valerie

Jillmami

07-21-2006, 06:10 AM

Valerie - Re: pacifiers my daughter LOVES the frog wubbanub. We have the horse which she will also use, but the frog is her new buddy. She is able to pull the pacifier out and then put it back in which she can't yet do with just the pacifier. I still have to help her at times, but not nearly as much as the reg. paci. Plus, it is helping her motor skills/dexterity. She hugs it sometimes too. I put a few pics of them in the slide show for you to see.

Sometimes they are on sale if you do a search.

Hope that helps! It is a pain to keep putting the paci back in. I know that the sucking really soothes my little preemies. ;)
http://www.kodakgallery.com/milestwins

Jillmami

07-21-2006, 07:50 AM

Lisa,

Hang in there. I know how you feel. Sometimes you just wish you could leave everything where it is and take a break for a few hours. Are you able to do that financially? If you could find someone from a Mothers of Multiples group to watch your little ones for a bit, it does make you feel better.

I have shed tears feeling overwhelmed and it's not a good feeling. I think you are on the right path by calling your dr. Nothing wrong with that. It is difficult rearing twins alone. My dh's job is demanding and even though he works from home is not available often to help but does when he can. It is stressful when they are both crying.

Mine sleep longer than 2 hours at least 1-2x/day and it's ok. They need those long periods of deep sleep to help grow as well as before they get ready to achieve some milestone developmentally. My daughter just woke up from sleeping 8 hours. I don't think that will happen again since it has never happened before though. Normally she is up for hours at a time checking things out.

Your babies look healthy to me. They are gaining weight, eating, sleeping, becoming more observant which is good for brain stimulation,etc. That means you are doing a great job.

OK, I have two hungry fussy ones so my turn to leave and get bottles going.

Take care and good luck!

vthompson

07-21-2006, 11:51 AM

Lisa - We love that picture, too!! We think it is hilarious...we actually used it for our announcements. They are so funny! It is so funny because everyone thinks Kayley looks just like me and Corey looks just like DH. I am glad that you are calling the doc today. And don't feel guilty for any of your feelings...this is by far the hardest job any of us are going to have! As for sleeping, I think you are putting too much pressure on yourself. During the day, I just put them down for a nap when they start looking tired and getting cranky. I think you are worrying too much about what your SIL said. You do what you think is best for your boys and don't worry about what other people say!

Jill - Those pics are adorable!!! Where do you buy the wubanubs (sp?)

Felisha - I thought what you wrote was so sweet and thoughtful! I had tears in my eyes thinking about my little ones!!

I am so glad it is Friday!! I love when DH doesn't have to work because I get more sleep at night! We bought some steaks tonight and are going to cook out and open a bottle of wine. Very excited about this!

Talk to everyone later!

Valerie

swineland

07-21-2006, 01:12 PM

Have a great weekend everyone!

My inlaws are arriving tonight so I may not be posting as much over the next week.....actually, I may be posting MORE! haha.....

Val, I hear ya on the TGIF thing....yay! Daddy's home!! Mommy can sleep!!!

Today's tip: when changing the diaper, place the unfolded clean diaper under the dirty diaper, that way all you have to do is quickly pull away the dirty one and voila! the clean one is ready to be secured. This is especially helpful with boys....no more playing beat the clock as your son's penis is aimed at you like a loaded gun, ready to fire at any time. :)

Steph

2Potato

07-21-2006, 02:43 PM

Staci: Thanks for the welcome. We are right there together. I could have sworn my twins were boy/girl, but they weren't and they look SOOO much alike. We have one of their toenails painted (a suggestion in a twins book I read) but we still screw up. Ethan doesn't latch well, so he uses a shield and last night I fed Dylan with the shield (he doesn't use it) and then when Ethan went to eat, I didn't use the shield because I thought I had fed Ethan already - but it had been Dylan. It was funny because I was "telling" him, "what did you do? Forget how to latch?" and then I thought wait a minute - checked the toe - and went christ, I need more sleep. ;) Our babies are just about the same age. They grow so fast. My name is Tricia, btw. Thanks for the congrats on the bf too - it is hard. I'm going to try to pump so dh can give bottle at night sometime, but it's so hard to find time to pump AND feed! I will go back to work in Sept and we'll see how it goes then. Day by day I guess. How are yours sleeping? Ours sleep "on us" a lot but are getting more used to the crib. Thanks for saying hi.

qbanmom5

07-21-2006, 02:46 PM

Hi gals!

Thats funny about the gang signs, that is what DH calls it too when they do that.

How long do we swaddle? I tried it last night after a while and boy did I try to do it tight and both busted out of them. So I tried the swaddle me's but she broke out of hers too. I think they hate it.

Tried the playtex drop in bottles.We all hate them.

Anyone on Isomil for spitting up and gas? Thinking about it....

There is a blue similac advance have you seen it? It really does make a lot less bubbles. We like it..

Gotta go. ters

AndreaR

07-21-2006, 03:44 PM

hi ladies - just checking in really quick, as i finish pumping.

the visiting nurse came yesterday.........madeline now weighs 7lb 8oz! and isabelle is up to 8lb 15oz. they've both gained about 2.5 pounds since they were born. it's so exciting. the nurse said that maddie is doing so well that next week will be her last week. i guess that's good news, because it means madeline is getting big and strong, but i really liked having someone come in and check on them every week. i get all my questions answered and it gives me confidence that we are doing things right.

lisa - thanks for posting and telling us how you feel. i feel the exact same way sometimes, and i have help (we have an au pair - she came three weeks ago). almost every day i say out loud that i am in awe of anyone who can do it by herself. you are doing a great job as a mom, please make sure you know that. i'm glad you are calling the doctor; i think the zoloft (or something like it) will definitely help. i was on antidepressants for two years before i got pregnant. it was the best thing i could have done for myself.

Tricia - madeline sleeps on me almost every night. she starts out in their crib, but she ends up crying after about an hour. i lay on my back, and she lays on her stomach. she is a total stomach sleeper, but i'm not comfortable letting her do that in the crib at night. i think we are creating a monster in letter her sleep on me (or DH), but i don't care - i just want her to sleep!!

ters - we hadn't been swaddling the girls with their arms inside for a couple of weeks. we did it last night (i had to wait for them to fall asleep so i could pin their arms down), and they slept much, much better. i did need to use bigger receiving blankets. the koala brand from bru are a really good size.

well, gott run - sorry i missed a few people. i'll try to post more later.

xoxo
andrear

LucasMom

07-21-2006, 08:04 PM

A quick post-

Felisha- You made me cry with your words of the day. I have good days, or I should say I have days that are not that bad! And then I have bad days. Everyday feels so long and frustrating, and the fact that the boys are smiling a little now does help, but I know that as hard as it is right now, one day I will miss them being this small. Thank you for your words.

Lisa-Listen, I know we don't know each other, but please accept my hug to you. I am sorry you feel this way, and I really do understand. It is so lonely sometimes, and you are worrying too much about being a good mom and screwing your kids up. The amazing thing is, we worry so much at this age, and they don't even remeber it at all later down the line. Do you remember what your parents let you sleep/stay awake when you were two months old? You love them and you do the best you can and thats all you can do! I wish you knew how good of a mom you really were and how hard you were working to be a good mom! No one really does understand but other twin moms, and that is why we are all here for each other.

I haven't swaddled the boys in forever because the little fatties kept breaking out of even the tightest swaddles. Lucas got poked in the eye by another kid at daycare, and was in pain all night, so I called the doctor and got him some eyedrops and kids eyepatches. I swear, if it's not one thing it's something else. He finally fell asleep.

I have been going into work one or two days a week for the last 5 weeks or so, I bring the boys with me, and I start back full time in 4 weeks. Talk about a breakdown! I think, if I get so little done now, and I am home all day, how the hell am I going to get it done when I work all day and them come home to do it in three hours? One day at a time right!

Jill, your kids look so awesome. I have followed their growth since they were born and you posted the original pics, and they are just filling out so beautifully. You and DH make a great looking couple and I am so happy for you that the kids are healthy and doing so well.

Val- I like the pic of Kayley leaning on her hand. She looks like a little lady, bored and waiting for a date or on a bad date! I showed it to my husband, he thought it was so cute.

Steph- Always remember to point the pee pee down in the diaper. The older they get, the more frequent the "baby erection" becomes a surprise visitor, and then they pee right out of the top of their diaper!:rotflmbo:

Lastly ters- Logan and Dylan are both on Enfamil AR- for babies who spit up. The formula has cut down on their spit up by at least 60 percent, and I don't have to use mylecon drops anymore. It may make them constipated in the beginnning because of the rice starch in the formula. My doctor said that gas is usually from colic issues, and resolves itself when the colic goes away. The boys colic has gotten alot better, and I have noticed the gas getting better as well. I like the AR though.

Ok, not a short post! Love you all!:throb:

Lisa- if you ever want to talk, pm me and I'll get you my number, you only live 1 1/2 hours away! Of course I want to talk to all of you, not just Lisa, but ...you get it. I'll call all of you if you want!!

Love,

Mindy

megzmom

07-21-2006, 10:05 PM

Hi. The "free" internet in my city sucks. I have been trying to post for a day and nothing. Trying to type fast so excuse the spelling.

Steph- cant remember if this post went through but I have really bad carpal tunnel in my left hand still. I already had surgery on my right a few years after my dd was born. Luckily I didn't wait so long..never got permanent nerve damage which could still happen on left.

Formula-using Similac Isomil. Doesn't really help spit up. I had to use 3 large burp cloths for Ben in one feeding.
Does anyone else use Enfamil AR? The pediatrician has recommended anything else but both boys still have formula coming out their nose where they cant breathe. I don't like it at all. She wanted to have an upper GI on Ben but they are both gaining alot of weight.

Okay not bragging but a MIRACLE happened last night BOTH boys slept from 10pm to 7 am. I even got to take a nap this afternoon. I don't know what happend we didn't do anything different.
Cardioloy-Zack had his cardioloyg apt and he does have a murmur but the dr was really nice grandmay type. She said no meds or limitations. Just a check up again in 4 mths. He also weighs 9.13! Up a lb in one week....

Steph- are you interested in the twins club here in Orlando? They have a new members/percpective members meeting tomorrow. I went in Feb and it was nice.

Hpefully the post will go through

AndreaR

07-22-2006, 11:48 AM

Lisa - you sound like you are feeling better - that is great. It's amazing what a little help will do. I'm so glad that your parents are there. I feel the same way when my mom is here with me. Early Intervention is going to come and evaluate Isabelle and Madeline. I think Isabelle is fine, but I do worry that little Maddie is going to need some help in some areas, especially speech, because she seems to have issues with her tongue.

Heather - wow- what a great night of sleeping! What did it feel like to get that much sleep?! ;-) Glad to hear that Zack's murmer is not serious. What a relief!

Mindy - I can't believe you've been going into work for the past 5 weeks! Even though it's only one day - I could never have got my act together 5 weeks ago. I can't remember what you do.... but it's pretty cool that you get to bring the boys with you!

Steph - thanks for the diapering trick. Even though we have girls, they both pee when you take off their diaper, and sometimes it goes straight up in the air!

Felisha - I can't remember if you are breastfeeding, but if you are, that's probably why you haven't got your period yet. If you are not breastfeeding, then I don't know - I guess it can take a while for your cycle to regulate. I am not looking forward to getting my period. Thanks for the kind words, too. I loved what you said about crying, and I TOTALLY agree.

Hope you all are having a nice weekend. The weather here is kind of yucky. I don't mind, because it means that DH is hanging out with us in the house instead of doing yardwork all day.

Sherry - where are you? I hope you all are doing okay. I'm sure you have a baby on each breast, preventing you from posting. Thinking about you and hope things are going well. Looking forward to hearing from you and learing about the latest adventures in Belgium.

xoxo
AndreaR

sgarrett

07-22-2006, 11:56 AM

Sorry I cannot reply to everyone, limited time. Just wanted to say hello and check in.

Lisa: Sounds like you are feeling better, I am so happy to hear that. A great doc does make a difference!

Felisha: Loved to post, I read it to my husband with tears streaming down my face!

Tricia: My husband is an identical twin and his mom painted his toenail so she could tell them apart. We tease him about it b/c she painted it pink! The site is great for support, ideas and just being able to communicate with people who understand what you are going through!

Cooking: I had an idea, any quick easy recipies we all have let's post. I love to cook but with twins I am having to learn to cook quickly instead of spending 2 hours on a great recipie. Of course I say lets do this and I do not have time to post one right now but I will.

I swear Aiden gained 2 lbs overnight, he just looks bigger this morning! They are 1 month and 1 week and already eating 5 oz every 3-4 hours! Pigs!

Take care all!

Staci

LucasMom

07-22-2006, 02:39 PM

Lisa- so glad to hear you feel a little relief today! Sending hugs!:throb:

Andrea-I am the Director of Operations for all retail and food services at Temple University in Philadelphia. During summer, when the kids are on break, we are mostly doing budgeting, concept development new food ideas etc. so, I go to my office which is in a Starbucks (my company owns the license, so I have an office behind the store)!!, and my management team meets me there, and I drink coffee and do work while they hold and play with the boys. I love my team. Now come September, I don't have that luxury and the job is high paced and demanding, so check back with me then!

Recipes-not this minute, but I am full of them. DH is a chef, and obviously from my job, I am a foodie.

Boys slept from 9-4 and 9-5:20 last night!!! Inlaws coming tonight for the night, so maybe a date night!

Love you all--:throb:
Mindy

PS have to post new smile pics, check back soon!

cbparker

07-23-2006, 03:41 AM

OKay ladies I have a personal question. This was my first pregnancy and my girls are now 1 month old. I know there is this 6 week rule for sex, but how much do I really have to follow it. Also, as much as I want to try, I am scared to death. Is it going to hurt, and will I even enjoy it? Sorry for such an intimate question, but I really want to know.
Thanks,
Belinda

sgarrett

07-23-2006, 10:31 AM

Sex: We have not gone to the 6 week check up but we could not wait either. Everything was still in working order and it was wonderful! The bad part is my babies have a sex o meter and know when mom and dad are trying to get frisky and instantly wake up! I read in one of my books (I think it was what to expect when you are expecting) to wait 4 weeks. Maybe call your doc's nurse and see what they say just to feel safe. I say GO FOR IT, you need all the stress releivers you can get right now!

Ok receipe

Spaghetti and clam sauce

3 cans minced clams
minced garlic
flour
milk
1 minced onion
sliced mushrooms
red pepper (spice)
oregeno
parsley

In a large frying pan sautee your onion, garlic and mushrooms until tender in butter. Add the juice from the cans of clams, and all your spices bring to low boil. Take about 1/4 cup milk and mix with some flour, add some of this to your sauce a little bit at a time just to get it to a thicker consistencey, than add your clams. Serve over angel hair spaghetti with parmesean cheese. It takes about 25 minutes start to finish and is really yummy!

Feeding issues: Isabelle always chokes when she is taking her bottle. It scares the crap out of us everytime. I cannot get her to latch so she is always taking a bottle. It seems like she suck in alot of air too. Anyone else have this problem?

Take care all,

Staci

LucasMom

07-23-2006, 12:46 PM

No time to post, just wanted to say...

I love you guys! I am so glad we have this site, and are able to talk to eachother!

More later. Don't ask where that moment of cheesieness came from!!!:crazy:

Mindy :throb:

PS--Belinda--Have sex if you want, but go slowly the first few times and remember, you can get pregnant even if you haven't had a period!! Have fun!

AndreaR

07-23-2006, 03:02 PM

sex - dh and i tried it right before and right after the 6 week mark. both times it was so painful for me that we didn't get very far. my doctor told me that if you breastfeed you might be dry, and boy was i. we even tried lots of ky, but it didn't help. sorry if that's tmi.... i guess the good thing was that we both wanted to do it. these days i have no desire, and dh and i aren't getting along that well anyway. hopefully things will change soon.

LISA - i sent you a PM.

vthompson

07-23-2006, 03:15 PM

I swear, ladies, the more I read the posts, the more I realize how much I truly love all of you!! We are so lucky to have found each other. I also think that since we have all had babies, we are more emotional then we were before!! :)

Belinda - We had sex around 4 or 5 weeks. The first few times, it was uncomfortable, mostly because of the dryness. Now, it is much better!!

Staci - That recipe sounds really easy. I like that the ingredients are not anything crazy, but things you can find at your local store. I think we should try and post more recipes that are easy and fast!!

I just looked over at DH on the couch and Corey is laying on his stomach and they are both sleeping. It is the cutest!! Sorry for the side note...

Mindy - Your job sounds really interesting...and with DH being a chef, you guys must have some really good dinners at your house! I cannot believe you have been going to work all this time. I give you so much credit!

Lisa - It sounds like you are feeling so much better...I have been thinking about you all weekend! Feel free to pm, too...Ohio is not that far from PA! We could always meet halfway!! I wouldn't worry about the early intervention stuff, it sounds like he just needs a few exercises!! Glad to hear the shots were not that bad. We go on Friday, and I am so scared for my little ones!

Heather - You should be bragging!!! I would be! I hope this continues for you!

Mindy - DH and I LOVE that pic, too!! I was laughing at your take on it!! She is such a little girly girl!!

Andrea R - It sounds like both girls are doing wonderfully!! That is awesome!

Ters - We are still swaddling, but we let their arms out. We have been doing that for awhile...they both became very agitated when their arms were pinned to their sides. If they are asleep in their carriers, the swaddle stays on, if they are flat on their back, they kick it off and wake up. I guess that is why it has been very hard to get them to transition out of their carriers and sleep on their backs. Corey has been on Isomil for a few weeks...knock on wood, I have seen a difference. However, as you all know, my children have very unpredictable stomachs so all that could change tomorrow!!

Tricia - When I was b/f, I used the nipple shields because the twins would not latch on. They seemed to help.

Well, Kayley seems to be sleeping at night 5-7 hours now!! However, Corey is still 3-4, and he is so much bigger then his sister...I guess he didn't get the memo! We took the babies to our first large crowd last night...the Irish Festival. The funny thing was that our friends, who have identical girls also went...at one point, there was a crowd of people around us. It was kind of annoying, but to be expected, I guess. I couldn't believe how close people would get to them. I NEVER do that to someone's baby unless I know them really well. Anyways, we bought this cute onesie for Corey that saids "party at my crib 2am"...we figured since he is still getting up at night, it was fitting for him!

Wow, I really posted a long one! I better go...of course they are taking this extra long nap when DH is home...they never seem to do this during the week when it is just me!

BTW, I love everyone's new pics that they have posted. I have so many to add, but I have not transfered them from the camera yet. I love having a digital, but it takes us forever to put the pics on the computer. I can't believe all the smiles! My babies smile a little, but not a lot yet...I can't wait until they do!

Ok, really gotta go now!

Valerie

twinsmakethree

07-23-2006, 03:32 PM

hi all real quick post

sex- dh and i waited u ntil the weeks mostly because of my c-section and even still we took it slow it was uncomfortable for the minute but by and by it became ok. i did notice i was dry but that diappeared as well. i was scared at first too, matter of fact i felt like a virgin all over again an thats how we approached it too!!

staci- thanks for the recipe unfortunately i am allergic to shellfish, maybe i will cook it for dh

lisa- glad to hear you sounding better and that you survived first shots :yippee:

my quick recipe- chicken cacciatore

ingredients- 1 tspn virgin olive oil
1 pound of boneless chicken breast cut into 1 in pieces
1 large green bell pepper, cut i nto strips
1 jar of marinara sauce
1/2 cup of water
2 cups of rice

heat oil in skillet med heat add chick, and pepper, stir frequently for about 5 minor until chick is lightly brown. add sauce and water bring to boil. reduce heat,cover cook until chick is done, serve over rice serve with spinach salad or other. total tim 20 min. hope u like it like we do

Andrea

qbanmom5

07-23-2006, 05:00 PM

Hi gals-

All is well over here. We switched to Isomil and things are much better. They are still waking up for feedings at night. Luke was up every 2 hours on the nose last night. I sound like a first time mom, but what else could they want waking up at night? I give him a bottle and he will drink maybe an ounce or 1 1/2. I change him and re-bundle him, but I am thinking he is not waking up for a bottle. Usually he is not really wet and he seems warm, so I am not sure why he keeps getting up.

We had sex at about 4 weeks. It was a little painful, but it is fine now. Dryness is a bit of an issue still. Also, no period yet. I stopped b/f about 6 weeks, is that why?

Val: Too funny about Corey's onesie. Leia has the same bib in lavender!! She is wearing it today for the first time and the kids loved it.

We now love the playtex nurser nipples!! I still dont like those disposable bags so I am using the nips on gerber bottles. Much less leaking and spilling.

My kids are kind of bored I think. They are staying awake longer and don't like the play mat yet. The swing and bouncers are old news and not entertaining anymore. Any suggestions?

Danielle: If you are checking in and reading and don't have the time to post, we just want to let you know we are always thinking of you and hoping the best for your family. If you get some time, I would love to see your babies, and we miss you....

I am forgetting something, but it will have to wait. Luke is up.....

Ters

megzmom

07-23-2006, 06:07 PM

Sorry if I am repeating any posts. Not only am I brain dead lately but I keep trying to post and the dumb computer stops working.

Shots- I always gave my dd tylenol an hour before the dr appt and brought a warm bottle with me then gave her the next dose later on. It really worked. I did the same when she got her ears pierced.

Formula-I tried to find AR lipil but didnt have any at walmart. Ill try Publix tomorrow. Do you all switch formulas frequently? Ive switched twice already and I am nervous about keep switching. I have 6 cans free of good start soy but I am going to save it until they are almost on cows milk.

Work- I am so stressed and angry about starting in two weeks. Can you believe that my principal moved me to a portable this year. I dont care if its a portable just that I have to now unpack everything and the worST part is the portable isnt ready until 4 days before school starts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
All the other teachers started setting their rooms up this week (or hand the opportunity to). My husband is upset too because he works 10 hrs each day and wanted to have a couple of weekends to get it done. Now we only have 1 weekend!

ANniversary-I am definatley brain dead because I forgot that tomorrow is my 2nd anniversary! :throb: :throb: We have known each other since high school. He sat behind me in English. Everyone knew he loved me back then. It took me years and a divorce to realize how special he was. Financially we cant do anything. Anyone have any neat ideas I can do/make for him? Our first Valentines I had diecut a bunch of pink and red hearts. I made a path of hearts from the front door to the bed. On every heart I wrote something I loved about him. ie dimple, good kisser, etc. I also put his favorite reeses cups on every few hearts. HE LVOED it. Now I want to do something like that. ANY suggestions????

swineland

07-23-2006, 06:30 PM

Hey all..

Ters, I was JUST going to post on here about my boys being up so frequently during the night and was comforted to see I'm not the only one! Both my babies sound like your Luke....they wake every 2-3 hours and I assume they are hungry. So, I get the bottles ready and they each eat 1-2 ounces (out of 4) and fall asleep. Then, they go right back to sleep and we do it all over again 2 hours later. It leaves me exhausted and wondering if I'm doing something wrong. I know that sometimes babies can fuss, squirm, and actually cry all while still sleeping and that if you go to get them too soon, you're actually waking them up and disturbing them more. We tried keeping them up today a lot more than usual, so we'll see what tonight holds. I'm so jealous of all of you who are saying "yay! they slept from 10pm to 7am!" or "the baby slept for 8 hours!". What am I doing wrong??! They are going to be 8 weeks old on Wednesday, so we're at the 2 month mark and I would have thought by now we could go at LEAST 5 hours without waking. It's a catch-22....I know they'd sleep longer if they had more food in them, but they don't stay awake long enough to EAT the food!

Do you guys all have a "bedtime" routine yet? Do you have a specific time of night where you "put them down"? And if so, what does that entail? Going from family room to cribs or just swaddling and letting them sleep anywhere....need advice!

We don't have a bedtime yet for them. Seems like they just eat when they are hungry and aside from 15-20 mins here or there of playtime, they get cranky and want to go back to sleep. Tonight I was going to try and keep them up until their 8:30-9pm feeding and then take them into the nursery and "put them down" at 10. However, they ate at 5:30pm and fell asleep shortly afterward, still sleeping now! (8:25pm) I just didn't have it in me to wake them up just for the sake of them being awake.....

I'm just getting really frustrated.......I miss sleeping SO much and am now on an air mattress in the nursery b/c my inlaws are taking up the guest room and my husband and I can't sleep in our bed at the same time....we'd both always be up if we heard them. We're still doing the shift thing.....

Anyway, looking forward to hearing all of your info on what each of you is doing for sleeping and how it's working out. I gotta get these guys to sleep more than 2-3 hours at a time.

Also, I agree about Danielle....girl, if you're out there and reading the posts but too embarrassed or guilty to post b/c you ditched us for 2 months (just kidding :)) don't worry about it! Let us know how you are and what's going on with the babies, post pics, etc. We will welcome you back with open arms :)

Gotta go...
Steph

megzmom

07-24-2006, 03:56 AM

Steph- Ben use to eat the same way. Wasted so much formula and then he was alwasy like clock work 2-3 hrs. What I do is I feed him until he falls asleep. Do the burp thing then I change him which wakes him up then feed him the rest. Its worked much better.

Night time routine-They actually sleep alot during the day trying to "play" but they really dont want anything to do with it. So come 8pm they are up and grumpy. So we feed them 1/2 their bottle or even all then I give one a bath while dh is feeding the other. Swap. Then we rock them which usually they are still awake but calm. Then we feed them the rest of the bottle or an extra 1oz. Rock and put them down. We let them fuss for about 3-5 min because I notice that they actually have a tired cry. Its almost like they are putting themselves to sleep. Lettng them cry for a little bit has been such and change for the better in my house. Hopefully MIL will do it went she returns from Canada and I start back to school. I asked her to do it and checked in on her a minute later and boom baby was in her arms.

Feeding-how do you all feed when both are hungry at same time. Which happens alot around here? I bought the podee bottle (strawlike hands free bottle) from BRU and it works well for only a little bit. They dont keep the nipple in for long and Ben isnt a great sucker. They both get tired out around 2 oz. I only use it at the mall or when both are like feed me now!. It allows me to at least burp them during the feeding. I end up putting 2 in the podee and 2oz in the Dr Browns bottle for each boy.

Again...hopefully this will post...still having problems with computer.

megzmom

07-24-2006, 04:22 AM

Slide show-My computer wont allow me to do this. I will try on my mom's but for now I finally got a picture added to my signature. That was when they were 2 days old. I have some more I will p/u tomorrow.

Gotta go to sleep. Been on computer too long :)

Jillmami

07-24-2006, 06:07 AM

Re: night routines... I sleep from 9pm-1am so I do baths in the morning for my son. My daughter gets a bathtub bath every 3 days when we change her bag. She gets washcloth baths otherwise. We haven't really done any specific nightly routines. My kids eat so frequently. They have been sleeping longer stretches at night (I'm talking 3 hours max.) My daughter is up to 6 1/2 pounds but she has such a tiny stomach still that she eats 3 ounces every few hours. My son has a 'disorganized' suck/swallow/breathe reflex according to our lactation consultant. He still only eats 3 ounces every few hours. He tires himself out my guarding his swallow with his tongue. He is improving. I think Staci has an issue with a baby and choking. My son used to do that a lot. He just needs to get the coordination down. Takes a while sometimes I was told. We were instructed to make sure he is sitting upright and to keep the nipple half full and do a slow and paced feeding. I have been making sure they eat frequently during the day to fill up for night. My son usually sleeps in the pack n play downstairs and my daughter in a swing or the glider. We have done naps upstairs in the cribs and it's worked well. If it's too quiet, they still get restless. All those noises in the NICU...

Hope everyone had a nice weekend.

AndreaR

07-24-2006, 06:34 AM

Good morning, ladies... (and Jason, wherever you are.......)

Well, we had an okay night. It took Isabelle about two hours of rocking to fall asleep, but she finally did at 10:00pm. She slept until 3:00, and even then she wasn't really awake. I fed her and she went right back to sleep, and she didn't wake up until 7:00. She slept in the nursery in her crib. Madeline slept in our room, in the pack 'n play. DH had to wake her at 11:00 (she'd been sleeping since 7:00) to give her a bottle (he didn't want to go to sleep only to have her wake up in an hour). After she ate, she slept until 4:00, and then I brought her into bed and she slept on my chest until 5:00am. All in all, I got a decent amount of sleep (for these days).

Madeline LOVES Isabelle. I notice that she's always really calm and interested whenever they are together. This morning, I put Maddie in the crib next to Isabelle as Izzy was waking up. Madeline started cooing and smiling for the first time!! It was so adorable. She was just staring at her sister with so much love. Isabelle was pooping, so she wasn't really interested in Maddie. It was pretty funny. Normally, Isabelle doesn't really seem to care whether she is near Maddie or not. I hope that changes soon.

Heather - Happy Anniversary! Could you do somethng with photos for a gift? You seem very creative, so I'm sure you will come up with something. I think it's very sweet that your DH helps you set up your room. Sorry that you've got so much work ahead of you. That really stinks. Do you always put the boys down to sleep together all the time? And when you let them cry, do you worry that one is going to wake the other? I really want to let the girls cry a little to go to sleep, but I'm afraid that if one is asleep, she'll be woken up by the crying one. I'm getting very tired of rocking/holding/pacing the floor for hours. And I'm worried that we're getting into a habit. Am I wrong? Regarding feeding them at the same time... I breastfeed Isabelle and give Madeline a bottle, so it's basically impossible to both at the same time. I have heard of people putting the babies in their car seats or bouncy chairs and feeding them at the same time.

Ters - for activity, my girls love the mirror (I hope it's not a sign of things to come!). We have a few toys with mirrors, and we have an activity mat that has a mirror mounted to one of the overhead arches. We put them on their backs on the mat, and they turn their heads to the mirror. They last about 5 - 10 minutes at a time. Neither seems very interested in the mat when we put them on their bellies. I also read to Isabelle once in a while (she has more alert time than Maddie). I sit her on my lap, reading a book that has bold pictures, and I show her the pictures. They also love to be outside on a nice day. I put them in the stroller and wheel them out to the backyard, and they look around, listening to the birds. We have nets that go over their infant seats, so we don't have to worry about bugs.

Steph - we don't have a bedtime routine yet, but I'm starting to feel like this is the time to start. I am reading three books at once, and I can't remember which one said it, but I read that getting them into a routine is really important for good sleeping habits and getting them to go to sleep on their own. I really want to move both girls into their cribs, because they seem to sleep better in there, but DH isn't ready... he's worried that we won't hear them. We don't have a very good monitor. We have a Summer video monitor. The picture is great, but the audio is bad because we have a lot of interference. You can't keep it on all the time, because it's all static. Do you guys think we'd do better with a differnt model, or do you think that we'll have interference no matter what we use?

Andrea & Staci - thanks for the recipes! I will have to post something one of these days. I haven't been making anything very elaborate for dinner. We usually eat some kind of meat cooked on the grill, along with some rice and/or veggies and salad. On a good night, I have 30 minutes to prepare dinner.

Okay, I know Steph is going to give me grief about the Catholic guilt, but...... like I said earlier, I breastfeed Isabelle and give Maddie a bottle. Usually Maddie gets formula, unless I have time to pump in between feedings or we give Izzy a bottle and I pump that feeding for Maddie. I feel really guilty because Isabelle gets a lot of time on the breast AND she gets the benefit of breast milk. I hold Maddie at the breast at least once a day, but I know she's not getting as much time, plus she's not getting as much breastmilk. I WOULD breastfeed her, but she won't latch on. We keep trying and she is only getting worse instead of better. The thing I feel guilty about is that I COULD pump more, if I really made an effort. But I never feel like it. The worst part is that Maddie is the smaller one, who was in the NICU, so I feel like she needs more breastmilk. Plus I don't try very hard to get her to latch on. It's too frustrating. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Danielle - I would like to echo what the others have said. WE MISS YOU! Hope you are all doing okay.

Sorry for the super long post, but I wanted to respond to everyone while I had a moment.

Love you all!! :throb: :throb:
AndreaR

LucasMom

07-24-2006, 07:00 AM

Only have a few minutes here, so forgive me...

Steph- You should try what heather said and feed them until they are sleepy, change diaper, burp and go back to feed more. If they are wakingup for only an ounce or two, then they are still hungry when they fall asleep. Even if it takes an hour to finish the bottle, I am giving both boys 6 oz. before they go to bed, and they are sleeping at least 5 hours. They usually only take 4-5 during the day. Also, we are putting them down at 9-9:30. Every other night this is preceeded by a bath, baby massage, and bottle in the dark. On alternate nights, just pajamas and a bottle in the dark. Then at around 9-9:30, when bottle is done, up to the crib, laid down and out of the room. Sometimes, we'll have a crier for a few minutes, which usually means still hungry. I am keeping them awake for the most part from 5-9 or 4-9, maybe a catnap or so in between. But they are napping at around 8:30-9:00 am for about an hour or so, and then again at 12-1 pm for 2 hours, and then up the rest of the afternoon. They get tired this way.

Ters- for entertainment- try facing them to look out a window. I put the boys in their carseats or bouncy chairs, and on top of the table and face them to look out the window. They love to look at the light and shadows made off of the curtains. Free Toy!!! This also works while making dinner, especially if one is napping so you can be interactive with the awake one. Put them on the counter in the kitchen, and tell them everything that you are doing. They love the sound of your voice right now.

Heather-The old fallback for us when we have no time for gifts or money!! A coupon book for adult things like "Good for one back massage" "good for one shower together". Make it yourself, it's free and it will force the two of you to have time to do romantic things together as grown ups. We have been together for 8 years, and they still work like a charm on DH. He turns them in on nights when the kids are asleep and we have some alone time.

Steph- I think it was you that was on that baby website, I don't remember the name...Danielle was on there too. Maybe you could go on there and look for her. Or post the name of the site and I will look...it is so weird that she dissapeared after being so active for so long. I do hope she is ok. I am having abandonment issues~~~:crazy:

OK- off to get dressed. My managers are coming here today to do some work. Tomorrow, my mom is watching the twins, and I am taking Lucas to Sesame Place with his best friend Madison, who happens to be my best friends daughter, so we are having a mommy and me day!! I am very excited, plus if the weather is nice, I may score a tan out of the deal!

Lisa- How are you? Thinking of you. You know Philadelphia isn't far away!!:throb:

Love to all-check in later

Mindy

megzmom

07-24-2006, 07:19 AM

AndreaR-Sleeping- Yes we put both boys down usually within 20 min of each other. Sometimes at the same time. Depending if they fall asleep at the sametime. I dont put them down cold turkey. They usually are groggy or have a winey cry. They usually dont really wake the other up except when its time to actually eat but not when they are actually going down. I also put on a cd a student of mine gave me. Baby Einestein. I think that kind of lets them know its time to sleep.

Our place is small so they sleep in their cribs. The first 5 weeks they slept in the pack in play in the living room (just outside our door) I cant sleep if I hear every little coo. They used to baa like sheep to back and forth.

Before I put them down I put Ben in the bouncy and Zack in the swing (same one as you Steph-love it) until they start to have the winey cry.

Feeding-when they both cry and I do feed them with a reg bottle then I usually have one inbetween my legs with his head on the bend of my inner thigh. The other is usually in the bouncy chair. I also have done it when they are both in their carseat (unbuckled in case they choke)

Jillmami-Ben had the same problem eating. He couldnt get sucking and breathing down. He would suck until he choked. It took forever to feed and was sooo scary. He is much better now. He still has moments when it comes up through his nose and cant seem to catch his breath.

megzmom

07-24-2006, 07:24 AM

Ters-oops forgot. Free toy is putting them infront of a full length mirror. I also got a really cool "toy" it is bright red with white pokadots on one side and yellow/white poka dots on the other. YOu open it up to a triangle shape. On the red side is a mirror and the other side you can put a real picture in. Its about 8x10. Got it from BRU.

megzmom

07-24-2006, 07:54 AM

I am trying to post the slide show that I saved a few pictures to. How do I attah it to my posts? When I went to user CP it said I could have more than 500 characters. oops. HELP!

okay lets see if this works
YEAH it works. Going to add more soon....

JacobsMom

07-24-2006, 10:31 AM

Hi Everyone,

It seems I never have time to get on here anymore. I just spent about 45 minutes reading the last few pages while I fed David a bottle lying in my lap. I can't stand to type one-handed so I just went and put him in the swing. I'm hoping I can get this typed before Tate wakes up. It's almost time to nurse.

DOCTOR VISIT: The boys were 8 weeks old last Thursday and had their checkup on Friday. David is 10lbs. 14 oz. and Tate is 10lbs. 10oz. They are both 22 inches long now. Jacob went with me to the appointment. Most of the time he played on the playground, but he did come back into the room when it was time for the boys to get their shots.

SHOTS: The boys each had to get 4 shots. I had asked the nurse as soon as we got to the office about giving them tylenol. She said I could give it to them as soon as she took their temp. It was about 30-45 minutes before the shots were going to be given. I went ahead and fixed both boys bottles so I could give them as soon as the shots were done to soothe them. Well David saw the bottles and started crying for one, so Tate of course joined in the chorus. I went ahead and started feeding them. They were lying on the exam table head to head, and I was sitting on the stool in front of them feeding them both. When she came in to do the shots, I asked her if they could still feed while she did it and she said sure. She did Tate's first. I moved David farther down the table and had Jacob feed him for the moment. I scooted Tate closer to the edge of the table and wrapped my right arm around his head and kissed his face while she did the shots. That way I didn't have to watch! I cannot stand the sight of needles!! LOL! She was awesome and did them FAST, two in each leg. He started to cry out really loud when she did the first stick. You know one of those hard ones where they almost quit breathing. But as soon as she had done the last one, and he caught his breath, he went right back to sucking the bottle. No more crying at all. I swapped him with David and did the same thing with the same results. It went really well. One long cry from each boy, and even better, no crying for mommy! They didn't have any reactions to the immunizations. We did give them Tylenol every 6 hours for the first day, just in case they ran a fever.

BREASTFEEDING: I tandem nurse the boys using the EZ-2-NURSE Twins pillow. I sit in the middle of our couch, and I have to put a bed pillow under each side to steady it on my legs. Tate is usually on the left breast, with his body in front of me. David is on the right breast in a football hold position. I start out holding their heads to get them established, but then can lay them down. I have to put folded receiving blankets under David's head to keep it high enough, and also to protect his head from Tate's feet! LOL! I am still breastfeeding about 5 times a day. Then we follow with bottles. I don't get upset about that anymore. I figure the boys are getting about 2 oz. from the breast at each feed. I asked my pediatrician, if that was enough to even keep up with doing it. They drink about twice as much formula. He said that as long as they are getting at least 4-6 oz. a day of breastmilk that they are still benefitting from it. So I am still going to make that commitment. I plan to at least nurse them until they start eating baby food.

BOTTLE FEEDING: I bottle-feed the boys by myself all the time. Sometimes I leave them on the nursing pillow, but usually I move it and angle the two bed pillows diagonally on each leg and lie them on those pillows. It is easier to pick them up from there and burp and put them back down than it is on the nursing pillow. It is really high. If we are out shopping or something. I will usually take one out of his carrier and cross my left foot over my right knee and lay the baby there. I feed him with my left hand, and feed the other one in the carrier with my right hand. Or sometimes, I will park the stroller sideways in front of me and feed them both in the carriers. I do unstrap them first so I can take them out quickly if they choke or need to be burped. I am using the Playtex Drop-In disposable bottles and love them. I used them with Jacob as well. Tate spits up quite a bit, and I have tried him on the Playtex Vent-Aire bottle. It seems to work pretty well, but it's aggravating to have to take it apart afterward and clean all the parts. I only use it at home. I don't trust the air vents not to leak toting it around in the diaper bag. They usually eat 4 ounces at each feed following a B/F session. Sometimes they will still be hungry and we fix them 2 oz. more. They will drink about 6 oz. when they have to bottle feed only.

SLEEPING: We haven't swaddled the boys since they were about 2 weeks old. Not sure why we quit, but it didn't seem to affect the amount of time they slept at the time. We have used the Swaddle Me a few times lately for bedtime only. We do not enclose their hands. We started letting them sleep in our bed a couple of weeks ago. We were sleep deprived and desperate. It has worked out pretty well. We have a king sized bed so we have plenty of room. We put the boys on a towel between us. They also sleep on their tummies. We all go to bed around midnight - 12:30 ish. Most nights the boys sleep until almost 6am. Some nights until almost 7am. Last night they only slept until 5am. Tate woke up ravenous. Probably because he fell asleep nursing last night and I couldn't wake him enough to take is bottle. Of course his crying woke up David. For naps, they are usually in their swings. We have two of the Fisher-Price Ocean Wonders swings and they really like the cradle motion. I found two of them at consignment shops for $45 each! SWEET!

PLAYTIME: We have been putting the boys on their tummies several times a day. They are having longer periods of awake time so we are taking advantage of them to tire them out for night time! LOL! Both are getting very good head control. David especially. Tate can "scoot" around quite a bit. It's amazing how far he can move. He actually scooted almost a foot toward Jacob to get his pacifier! We are starting to introduce little toys, but they aren't too interested in them. I want to get one of those playmat/baby gyms soon. I want the Ocean Wonders one that becomes a tunnel for them to crawl through. I think I saw that Jill had one in her photos.

Well I hear my little darlings. I need to go nurse. Later,

Stacey

megzmom

07-24-2006, 12:09 PM

Okay I posted so much today to make up for all the lost time :crazy:

My boys are just over 7 wks and they havent smiled at me yet. My mom said they have for her-JERK j/k but I am not sure if they were gas smiles for her or not. Plus the boys dont reach for anything yet. They do scoot in their cribs especially when fuss. They are holding their heads up good for a moment or two. I feel bad that they aren't really smiling happy boys. I dont get much "playtime" with them. I try all the talking and dancing but nothing not even cooing. Is this normal. I remember my dd smiled and cooed all the time. I dont remember when it all started though.

swineland

07-24-2006, 12:53 PM

Thank you all so much for the advice on sleeping and bedtime routines....I can't wait to try some new things tonight and in the coming days. I think that one of the problems is when they nap in the afternoon, I let them sleep until they wake up...sometimes 3-4 hours...I guess I should be waking them up after an hour or so??

Mindy, funny you should mention that baby website b/c I JUST yesterday did that exact thing! I went to babycrowd.com, looked up her page (Mallaritwins) and it says the last time she posted anything was May 20, before the babies came. So, who knows where she is.

I gotta run....will write more later. Thanks again everyone.....

Steph

sgarrett

07-24-2006, 02:27 PM

Heather: I have done the coupon thing too and it works out great. Of course be careful of what you put in there b/c they definately enjoy cashing them in!

Steph: We have no schedule either and I am glad you asked about that, I need to try and put them on one soon. I start work 8/8 and am really worried about the lack of sleep. Thing is they sleep great from about 9:00am to 1-2:00pm!

Jill: It is my Isabelle that chokes when she eats. I have tried different bottles but it does not help. The only time she does not choke is when she breastfeeds, but she has latching issues and I can only get her to do it maybe once a week!

AndreaR: Where did you get the net for their infant seats? I have been trying to find that as well. We love taking them for walks. Do not feel guilty about the breastmilk thing. I have the same issue with Isabelle, once in a blue moon I can get her to latch, but it is very rare. You do the best you can, Isabelle is probaly 2 lbs bigger than Aiden so she is not suffering from the lack of breastmilk. I know it is frustrating, and I feel I should try to bf more often with her, but it is aggravating and that justs upsets us both. Aiden on the other hand would stay on my breast 24/7 if I let him. I swear if I hold him where his head is any where near my boobs, even if he just ate, he wants them! Typical guy.

We had a crappy night last night, the babies are so good during the day, only fuss when they are hungry. At night though, Isabelle gets cranky, why is that? Is it b/c it is too quite? My hubby and I get so cranky b/c no matter what you do she just fusses. It is not a screaming cry like she is hurting, just kinda whiney fussy. We try rocking her, feeding her, snuggling with her in the bed, putting her in her carrier, swaddeling her NOTHING WORKS. She will finally decide to "wind down" and got to sleep when she feels like it. She snorts and grunts the whole time she is sleeping so even then you can hardly sleep through it! The thing is she is so happy all day what gives?

I cannot remember who posted the caccatori (sp) recipie but thanks, I will definetly use it!

BTW, does anyone else have a nanny out there? I have one starting 8/1 and I am typing up a contract, any suggestions on what I should put in the contract. She is not a live in, should I supply her food for lunch or should she bring it?

Love you all!

Staci

AndreaR

07-24-2006, 03:45 PM

Steph - I have the same question about waking them up when they've been napping for a long time. The nurses in the hospital told us to wake them every three hours during the day to feed them and not to wake them at night. Then, there's a whole camp that says never wake a sleeping baby. I think if I had one baby, I would definitely agree w/ never waking them, but with twins I feel like you really need a schedule. Right now, we're not waking them unless it's been a really long time or if we need to be somewhere. What does everyone else do?

Staci - I got the nets at baby universe http://www.babyuniverse.com/pro/baby/27696/InfantCarrierNetting.html
It's so buggy around here, there was no way we could go for a walk without them. They have been a great investment (for $4.99!). About Isabelle fussing at night......I'm no pro here, but I have been reading a lot about this. The theory is that babies get over stimulated and by day's end they have a melt down. Try to take her to a quiet room with no loud wallpaper (white walls are best). I'll let you know more when I finish the book. We have an au pair (a live in), and our contract is through the agency. I think it would be nice if you supply lunch.

baby crying.............

TMoT

07-24-2006, 07:33 PM

Hi, Gals. Please don't think I've forgotten about or abandoned all of you! I've just been in this b/f tunnel for the past ??#?? Days and, I've been thinking about you, but I just haven't had the chance to read/write. Surprise.

Got caught up on all the posts though, and BOY am I going to regret this tomorrow, I'm sure! Babies have been nursing on and off as I read, but usually I'm busy cat-napping along with them, so tomorrow I will certainly PAY. :-(( *sigh* Oh well. A Mommy's gotta do what a Mommy's gotta do. And DARN do I really need all of you and I so much share in those sentiments of gratitude and relief that you are here!!! :'-)

Most of what I want to say is that I hope everything is going okay for you now, Lisa, and that you've managed to let go of some of that pressure you (and your MIL?!?!!) have been putting on yourself, poor thing. I keep thinking about my own mom having brought twins into the world as her first kids, and about those of you on this site who are doing the same thing, and I am over-awed. :'-) I fall back so much on my experience with my boys for "handling" the twins, and there are still SO MANY @#$%ing GAPS, I'm at a loss sometimes... :-( Mostly with b/f and little "ills" that come with _any_ baby, but in MAGNITUDES with multiples -- latching, gas, jaundice, weight-gain (of course), etc., etc. Lisa, Steph, (sorry, who else?) you REALLY have my utmost respect. And of course, all the rest of you who already have children -- well, you TOTALLY know where I'm coming from! Like Ters said, with twins, it's like starting from scratch... Geez. We're all such @#$%ing SUPERSTARS, aren't we??!?!!?!!!!

Felisha, I LOVED what you wrote too. And I take your advice to heart. I mean: During pg and now too, if I feel like crying, I just do it. When nothing else is gonna do the trick, what's the harm, right?! Somehow it manages to cleanse and re-charge my batteries too. So I can then get on with that 13th tandem feeding in a row, at 4:30am!!! *sigh*

Otherwise, plenty of goings on around here (including a nice "Baby Day" we had yesterday), but mostly I'm sharing Staci et al.'s feelings of cabin fever. Don't yet feel "mommied-out," but I have the feeling that becoming "babied-out" (like that CONSTANT drag on my attention to be focused on one or the other of these two little creatures -- not to mention guilt for neglecting my big dses) is right around the corner... I force dh to take me out of the house -- even if it's just for a sit on a terrace in the neighborhood with babies in their respective slings -- to keep my sanity. I suggest that EVERYONE on this thread find their own small sanity-keepers like that and indulge them (Staci, get the babysitter and go out for TWO HOURS. You can definitely do that -- guilt-free!). You are all my heroes, and I want us to make it through this very rough early stage of baby-raising emotionally intact -- at ANY and ALL cost! And, believe me, Ladies: If I have to start investing in formula to keep my own sanity, you CAN BET I'll be doing that! For the moment, though, I'm drinking as much water as I can (still!!), and eating fish regularly -- No joke! -- so I'm hanging in there, more or less! (?!)

Well, *sigh* I'm thinking about you ALL and going back into the tunnel now. I'll check in again on my next "outing" and hope and pray for great strength for everybody and send much, much love to you all! xox

AndreaR

07-24-2006, 07:51 PM

Sherry - we've missed you! Thanks for posting. Thanks to Artemis & Darius for giving you the time to post!! Congrats on the breastfeeding. I know how hard it is, and I am in total admiration of you for getting through these tough times. It must be all that fish keeping you strong mentally and physically.

Just wanted to say hello..and good night!

vthompson

07-24-2006, 08:28 PM

Wow ladies, you have been very busy posting!!! I am really tired so I am going to make this quick....

Well, I jinxed myself at my last post. I said Corey has doing much better on Isomil and since last night, he is very cranky and fussy and cries while he eats. Very frustrating!! Plus, Kayley got up with her brother every 4 hours last night. So much for that excitement!!

Routines - I think it is harder to have a routine when the babies are still getting up so much to eat. However, around 8 or 9 pm we all head upstairs, change the twins into pj's, swaddle and feed. We bath every other night. Then we put them down. During the night, I try to make feedings more "business like". Then during the day, I interact with them more. They seem to know the difference between night and day (knock on wood...I am sure after I write that, it will all back fire on me :) ). I also try and read a book to them before they fall asleep, but this does not always work out.

Choking - Kayley used to choke all the time and now she rarely does it. It used to scare the living crap out of us. I think she just needed more time to learn how to coordinate everything while eating.

Netting - I got mine at BRU

Naps - I do not wake them up when napping, however, they very rarely nap long. Kayley can hang out most of the day w/out napping, but Corey gets very cranky so he needs more naps during the day. He is slightly more high maintenance then his sister, in case you haven't figured it out!! :) Kayley can sit and entertain herself for awhile before getting agitated, Corey needs constant entertainment.

Toys - My twins LOVE ceiling fans. I realize they can't actually see them, but they will stare up at the ceiling while they are on...it is too funny.

I agree, I am worried about Daniele.

Sherry - You go girl!! You are doing so great with the b/f. Keep up the good work!

Lisa - I would love to meet you at Grove City. We actually stopped there a few years back on our way up for our PSU weekend. Let me know when you are going and we can make plans. We should meet before PSU so we are sober (Just kidding!! :crazy: Ok, no I am not! We tend to like to drink while we tailgate!!)

So, I took the babies out to Walmart and Giant Eagle all by myself today!! Of course, I could barely fit anything in the cart, but all I needed was formula from Walmart and just a few things from GE. It went better then expected!!

Ok, really need to go to bed....

Valerie

vthompson

07-24-2006, 08:31 PM

Lisa - The pics are adorable!! I love the sideways hats!! You look great!!

Valerie

sgarrett

07-24-2006, 08:59 PM

Lisa: loved the pics! Too cute!

Sherry great to hear from you!

Just wanted to say good night to everyone

Staci

TMoT

07-25-2006, 02:12 AM

Thanks for all the sweet greetings everyone! I've missed you all so much too!!!

Well, D&A are sleeping for the moment and I wanted to add a couple of things I was thinking/remembered...

In a calmer moment (nursing), I remembered that Valerie, Staci, Jill and Danielle are all ALSO first-time moms, of twins! :'-) :throb: (I guess there are more on our thread, but my brain is really fried!)

Also, I got my rings!!!!! :'-))) DH bought me something made by a friend of our artist-neighbor. :throb: It's actually two rings in the shape of crowns that fit together and make one ring. Very pretty. I was so touched. It's so appropriate in so many ways: Besides being our littlest Prince and Princess (I should say KING and QUEEN!), in Dutch they call a b/g twin a "King's Wish" -- isn't that sweet??! I'll post a picture of it as soon as I can....

Dh is also working on posting pictures of before and after the birth, so I'll let you know when/if that works out....

Something else: I read a long time ago that adults take an average of SIX minutes to fall asleep, while babies take TWENTY. So, if you want to move babies after they've fallen asleep, be sure to wait the right amount of time... ;-) (Another probably useless fact c/o yours truly...!)

One more thing: I read that AIR is the most common cause of gas -- which we are having a LOT of trouble with now (mostly with Darius, since he's having difficulty latching and a lot of air is getting in there when he feeds). Also, 90% of allergies (also a big cause of gas and _constipation_, esp in formula-fed babies) are caused by the five major allergens: milk, soy, wheat, peanuts and one more thing which I've forgotten now! 8oP (Ditto on the useless fact business though! ;-))

Okay. Quickly gotta write some more announcement cards. ALL my love to EVERYONE!! xox

megzmom

07-25-2006, 04:13 AM

Sherry- I must be brain dead because I havent seen a post from you. I cant believe you delivered in July. Your babies are beautiful and so chunky :) Great job on the BF. I stopped the breast for both after 10 days but pumped until 2wks ago. It was hard because I BF dd for 5mths eventhough I worked full time.

Nanny-is she cooking/cleaning too? I dont know much about this. I think it would be great if you feed her and she starts or cooks dinner for you.

Anyone else have a most stressful time of day? The babies eat then are up for 1/2 hr before naps all day long (reason I post so much :) ) Except when my dh husband comes home 4pm. THen they want to stay up for longer while I am getting dinner ready. Then they only go back down for a very short nap and fuss until feeding. I bathe them everynight. Sounds like I am the only one. The nurse said every other day but the boys had such horrible peeling/dry skin and the dr said everyday and use oil too. The oil didn't work but the new Huggies lotion worked great on the within two days no more scales.

Steph-what size and type of diapers do you use? What conisgnment store did you buy your swing>?

Is everyones babies smiling, reaching and cooing? Mine arent. I think Zack was reaching yesterday for a toy. We have the play mat where things dangle from above. He is the most alert and loves to stare especially at lights.

okay I got to go to bed...this time of day its the easiest and fastest for me to get on my computer...all normal people are still sleeping.

Jillmami

07-25-2006, 05:06 AM

RE: playtime... mine love to lie on the aqua wonders mat (in my slide show) and kick at the hanging ball. I have a different mat that butts up to it and lie each baby on a mat with their feet at the hanging ball. As long as they are not close enough to kick each other! :crazy: They also enjoy being on their boppy underneath a different play mat (TJ is on in a slide pic) to swipe at the hanging toys. When I dangle things in front of them or hang them from their car seat, they don't do anything. I did buy a cool crib mirror from Target and they love to look at themselves. Actually, my son likes to splash in the bath while he looks in the mirror (I bathe him on the countertop in the bathroom.)

As for tummy time, it depends on the day. Our home health nurse told us to put them on their tummies for a minute or so before diaper changes and then afterwards. So if we do this during the daytime, that's like 12 minutes or so/day.

Both my kids will smile away when you talk with them. They also follow me around when I talk to them. It's fun. It's weird how my kids aren't like 'regular' 4 month olds or like 'regular' 5 weekers. Development milestones will be crazy I think due to their extreme prematurity.

Last night was weird. Usually my son is up every 1 1/2 -2 hours to eat since he has trouble with suck/swallow/breathe he eats smaller amounts more often. I took him to bed with me at my bedtime and he slept from 10pm-3:30am when I made him get up. If I would have only known that weeks ago! :clap: We'll see if it works again though.

Well, I'm off to pump/feed. Enjoy your week! I just realized my 'vacation' is almost over as school starts in less than a month! I'm only teaching 2 days but it will still be weird at first.

Take care all and keep up the wonderful mommy work!!

vthompson

07-25-2006, 05:45 AM

Quick question...for those of you who are having the babies baptized, do you have to get the godparents a gift? I was a Godmother last year and I did not get anything but when DH was a Godfather he did get something. Just wondering what the "norm" was...If gifts are the norm, any ideas on cheap gifts. We are on a VERY strict budget now...

These are the silly things I sit up at night thinking about...this is getting VERY annoying...I am SO tired when I go to bed but I cannot get my mind to stop thinking so I lay there with my eyes closed. Then, before I know it, they are up to eat. The same thing happens after a feeding...it happened last night AGAIN and now I am exhausted! Ok enough complaining!

Development - Many of you have asked about what other babies are doing. Our babies are not really smiling much yet...a few here and there. Corey makes some baby talk, Kayley just let out a few yesterday. They both grasp at things (i.e., my shirt when they are laying on my chest, our fingers when eating). They will bat at toys from time to time.

Valerie

vthompson

07-25-2006, 07:07 AM

I finally added some new pics to my slide!! I have such a hard time picking pics and deleting pics! I probably have too many on there...oh well!!

Valerie

megzmom

07-25-2006, 07:08 AM

Valerie- Thanks for posting the milestones. I know every child is different but seems like mine are close to yours besides the ever sought after smiles :) I am going to try and read to them at night..someone mentioned they did that. As for a godparent gift, how about making them a photo albumn with recent pictures? I scrapbooked one for my bf last year before twins. But I think a regular albumn would be nice and that way they can continue putting pictures in as you send them over the years (dd godparents live out of state and receive lots of pictures).

AndreaR

07-25-2006, 08:47 AM

Valerie - I am a godmother to one of my nephews as well as a niece. I did not receive a gift from either at the baptism. I do get godmother gifts at Christmas, but it's usually something small. I really like Heather's idea of a photo album. Your new pics are great. The kids are so cute.

JILL - I don't think I've mentioned this, but I've been meaning to....your kids are SOOOOO cute. I love, love, love those cheeks!

swineland

07-25-2006, 09:07 AM

Hey everyone! Wow, you HAVE been busy....burning up the wires!

Heather, we are using Pampers Swaddlers size 1 (8-14 lbs). My MIL bought us two HUGE boxes (214count) from BJ's, so we will be using those for a while longer. Also, the consignment store I went to is, unfortunately, in Ft. Myers. I got it while I was down there visiting last weekend. I wish there were some around here....I'm going to look that up and I'll let you know what I find. Oh, and thanks for the FYI on the twins club.....maybe next month I'll go to the intro meeting....do you go??

Sherry, so good to hear from you! Glad all is well and I hope the heat over there isn't too bad. It's hot as you know what here. Good job on the breastfeeding, if anyone on here could do it, I knew it would be you!

Lisa, I love all your new photos.....and Val was right when she said you look good! You and DH make such a cute couple. The babies are an adorable compliment.

Smiling: Both boys are starting to smile more and more. Evan smiles way more than Bailey, but it's not like they smile all day long. It's when we are talking/interacting with them and sometimes when they look at their playmat/lights, etc. The cooing has started some as well.....but it's a really fine line between a smile and a cry...has anyone noticed this? It just seamlessly transforms from one into the other. You're thinking "oh! a smile, how cute! oh wait....oh crap."

I started giving the boys 5 ozs now.....they've been finishing most of it every time.

Great idea about the recipes! Here's one that's really been a big help in the days and weeks since the delivery:

Cereal
1 box of cereal
1 carton of milk
pour milk over cereal in a bowl. enjoy.

Seriously, though. I'll try to find some easy ones of mine and post them.

The boys are nappers....they eat and then can stand maybe 20-30 mins of playtime/interaction and then it starts going downhill. I find that if I take their cue and go ahead and swaddle em up, give them their soothie and put them in the swing, they are OUT. We do this all day long. Eat, play, sleep. Eat, play, sleep. They do not have a routine as of yet other than that. I'm trying still to come up with some kind of nighttime routine. Where is everyone bathing their babies?? I use the small tub sometimes or what's really easy is for me to just get in the tub and have DH bring the babies to me one at a time.....I can clean them better when I'm in there with them....not hunching over and killing my kneecaps.

I bought some Mustela no-rinse required wash liquid. You just use it on their faces or diaper area....it's awesome! Smells SO good and is for sensitive skin (Mustela makes really good products). Anyway, I got it at Nordstrom for $13.95. Just a product recommendation for you gals.

My inlaws are here, as I've mentioned, and they just don't put the diapers on tight enough. I usually make sure the two tapes are almost touching each other in the front. Well, they barely get the tape on the front of the diaper as it is. As a result, both babies, one last night and one this morning, have had poopy diapers that have gone up and out the back, all over their backs, their clothes, the changing table....ick!! Both required emergency baths :) That's never happened before and I really think it's b/c the diaper was too loose. Argh!!

On the other hand, MIL and FIL stayed up last night with the babies so I could get a full night's sleep....DH and I went to bed together and woke up together....what a rarity!

Sex: we tried at about the 5 week mark and it was sorta painful for some reason. So, we stopped. Then we did it again a few days ago (7 weeks) and it was fine. I used some of that KY warming stuff....it's a help. Poor DH had gone quite some time "without", so it was all over in the blink of an eye anyway...hahah.

Well, i better go do some type of domestic organization.....

Steph

swineland

07-25-2006, 02:57 PM

Flat heads: yes! I just noticed this the other day and was like, oh crap! I even bought the sleep positioners with the memory foam headrests that are supposed to prevent the flat heads....but I must admit I have not been using them lately. Anything we can do to reverse the flat head???

OKAY, I need opinions/advice (again!). Evan and Bailey have been having some tummy issues as of late....lots of gas, farting, crying after the bottle, bringing the legs to the chest, turning red, grunting in pain, etc. They have been on Similac Advance from the start and so today I decided to switch them to the Similac Isomil Advance (the soy formula). It says it's for fussy, gassy babies and it will cut down on all that stuff within days. Does anyone have any experience with switching to soy and did I just mess things up by switching???

Anyone else having or had crampy like pains in the pelvic area? I think I may have an ovarian cyst....of course, that's me and WebMD diagnosing here. :)

Gotta run...
Steph

qbanmom5

07-25-2006, 03:41 PM

Hi!

Steph: I just switched to the Isomil a few days ago and it has helped tremendously. They still don't sleep but at least they aren't crying all day. I still have spit up but that is o.k, with me. they are a lot happier, good luck! Also, I had that pain a couple of weeks ago on my left ovary. It lasted like half a day and I was starting to worry. I figured maybe I was ovulating but I haven't gotten my period yet. They pain came back yesterday on the left side as well but it went away within an hour. If its a cyst, then I have one too. Maybe some of the other gals can help...

I complained so much about the kids getting up at the same time and being hungry at the same time that now I have the opposite scenario. Just when one goes down the other gets up. Now I am getting NO free time at all. UGH

Do your twins interact with each other? Mine don't seem to give a darn about the other. I hope that changes! I put them close to each other and they end up crying and hitting and kicking each other. I also read somewhere on one of these boards that if you don't separate them when one cries they will get used to and be able to sleep through the other one crying. Right now I have been soooo hypervigilant that every time someone makes a sound I whisk them away to the next room. Thats got to stop cause I end up with babies all over the place.

Gotta go, Ters

vthompson

07-25-2006, 04:40 PM

Ters- My twins do not really interact with each other. When they lay next to each other, they sometimes move their arms and legs, which ends up hitting the other one. Other then that, I am not sure they realize the other is there yet.

Lisa - We have planned the baptism for August 27th, we take our class a few weeks before that. I looked up the distance for Grove City and it looks like it will be about 1.5-2 hours from here. Let me know when you go and we can definitely plan something!!

Flat Heads - I am going to go look at both their heads now to see...

Isomil - Corey was switched to that and did much better, until the past 2 days! Now, he is very crabby and crying through most of his bottles as he grunts. I can't wait for all the tummy problems to get resolved!

Steph - I was laughing at your cereal recipe!!

Thanks for all the info on the godparent presents. I think I am going to forgo any gifts...especially considering our financial situation. In order for me to stay at home, I have to bring in an income, which I am doing, but it is not enough. Therefore, we have really had to cut back and "borrow" out of savings. In the spring, DH gets paid for coaching the high school hockey team he coaches so we will be able to put back money into savings, but we still need to be careful. Money is another thing I have been laying in bed at night thinking about. August is going to be very expensive...we have a wedding, the baptism, and DH's college roomate is coming into town. I swear it never ends!!!

Well, it is almost 7pm and I have not showered yet today. I need to go!!

Talk to everyone later!

Valerie

megzmom

07-25-2006, 06:31 PM

I put the boys together in one crib during the day or the playpen in the living room. They are really good about sleeping during the others cry unless it almost feeding time.

FLat head-None hear. I have them sleep on their stomach with no swaddling.

Steph-I use the same but the boys seem to be almost out growing them. I also switched to ISomil (Soy) and it worked great for a few days but they still spit up a lot. I use the drops every feeding and they still get pretty fuss so I burb 3x for 4 oz. I am going to try the AR lipil. Ben had very loose stools for a few days after switching to Soy but Zack didnt. LOVED the cereal recipe. We have 3 consignment shops in St. Cloud. 2 are good but overpriced and 1 is like a flea mart. I have only been to the new members class but never to the reg meeting because its on Tues evening in Orlando. I have the phone # and email. Do you want to me to email you my number too so we can have coffee?? I am so excited to finally meet one day. I think its so bizarre that we live so close.

REcipes-I used to HATE to cook but I finally used the Fix It and FOrget it Lightly cookbook for crock pots. And wammo I can actually cook. Love it because all the prep is 10 min and ingredients are all that you have and alot of the recipes use similiar items. I have tried 6-7 new recipes and all have turned out great.

LucasMom

07-25-2006, 08:51 PM

Oh my god, you guys went crazy with the posts. I took Lucas to Sesame Place today and just got home so I will post tomorrow when I get home from work, just wanted to say a few things fast.

Lisa- You look GREAT. Love the pics, and the boys outfits! I am all for K of P shopping day.
Val- Love your new pics! You look so great too!
Heather- Also :throb: your pics! Your DH looks like my ex boyfriend. Your Daughter looks so proud to be a big sister.
Sherry- Love Artemis' big smile! Darius is adorable too!

Promise to fill in the holes tomorrow. I have info on AR and constipation, flat heads etc., but still have like 5 loads of laundry to do before sleep!

Love,

Mindy

AndreaR

07-26-2006, 05:52 AM

oh, i have so much to say/ask, but maddie is in my left arm, so typing is torture. i'll check in later if i can.

megzmom

07-26-2006, 08:44 AM

Steph- Ijust received August MoT newsletter via email. Do you want it?

cbparker

07-26-2006, 10:34 AM

How long does it take for your milk to dry up. My girls will be 6 weeks, and I can pump no more!!! Any tips other than the cabbage to help ease the transition? Thanks, Belinda

swineland

07-26-2006, 11:44 AM

Hey everyone!

Heather, I would love to have the MoT newsletter.....my email: swineland@earthlink.net. Also, maybe one day we could meet at that Atlanta Bread Company next to Target, or there's even a Starbucks inside Target if you needed to do any shopping there. My inlaws are here this week, but any time after that is great. Just email me and we'll talk.

Mindy, I want to go to the K of P shopping mall TOO!!!! I can just see all of us with our double strollers....move out the way!

It's only been one day, but so far the soy formula is working out great. I've already noticed a difference. (Could be the placebo effect...who knows) :)

I'll post more later.
And can you believe that Andrea Yates is now NOT guilty of drowning all her kids....whatever.

Steph

vthompson

07-26-2006, 12:37 PM

Hello Everyone! This will be quick, BOTH babies are VERY fussy today!!!

Belinda - It took awhile for my milk to completely dry up. However, the first 3 days were very painful, then it eased up after that. After about a week, I stopped leaking as much. About 2 weeks, the let downs were less and less. The only thing I did was wear a really tight sports bra around the clock, took motrin every 6 hours on the dot, and percoset at night for the 3 days. Hope this helps!!

Has anyone attempted to cut nails yet? Kayley really scratched the heck out of her face. I filed them down, but it did not seem to work. Now, she is wearing socks on her hands!! I am just so afraid to cut them!!

Sherry - I love the new pics!! It really looks like the babies are smiling! Too cute!

Valerie

qbanmom5

07-26-2006, 01:12 PM

Hi gals!
Beautiful pics girls. Lisa: Hope you are feeling better. You look beautiful!

Val: Your babies are too cute. I love those pictures! I like to file down their nails vs cutting them right now. I know that I prefer the tiny clippers over those scissors, and it is much easier for both of us when they are asleep.

Sherry: I can't tell you how much I admire your strength! YOur pictures are amazing! the babies are too beautiful for words....

Working girls (that doesn't sound good): YOu are soooo amazing to tackle work along with all this motherhood. I really admire you! I feel like if i had one more thing on my plate I will topple over.

Update: Still waiting on the insurance company for reimbursement of my car and payment of medical bills.....

On July 4 my mom's condo burned (her microwave exploded) and she is staying with us....

School starts on August 14 and we are down to 1 car which DH needs for work.......

I get my tubes tied on August 10.

It's not all bad, I am in pretty good spirits considering all I am under.

Gotta go, fussing and crying going on, Ters

sgarrett

07-26-2006, 02:02 PM

Hello fellow mommies!

My sister and her partner and my two nieces are visiting. It is great to have a bunch of people around who want to hold babies and feed them all the time! I set a hair appt at a fancy salon like a month ago to time when my sis was here to watch babies. It is about 40 min away, when I got there I found out my appt was tomorrow!!! I swear the babies are sucking my brains out!

Development: I wish I could remember how old everyones babies are, Isabelle and Aiden were born June 13, 2006. They are just starting to smile, it is really cute. They do not seem to notice eachother at all though.

Take care,

Staci

LucasMom

07-26-2006, 02:19 PM

Quick-Anyone using Similac? I have coupons for 5 dollars off if anyone wants me to mail them. pm me your address.

more later-Mindy

megzmom

07-26-2006, 04:02 PM

Steph- I sent you two emails. One with my cell and one is a forward from MoT.

Coupons-Great idea. I get a bunch from Huggies that I don't use. PM me if you want me to mail them to you.

Nails-I clip the boys every other day! They grow like weeds. Only cut skin the 1st day. I usually do it after the bath when they are soft. I also have heard of alot of people just bite them off. I did that with dd.

Drying up=- I am probably not the norm bc my experience was less painful. I did it within 2 weeks. I still have alittle milk but I dont leak. I went alot longer between pumps and only pumped for half the time. After a few days of that I started to hand express. THis worked great for me because I could do it in a bottle or if I was out and was leaking I did it in the h/c bathroom sink. I only expressed at the end went I felt like I was leaking.

Period-still havent gotten it. My dr said I have to wait to get the Minerva(sp) until 12wks after delivery and I need to be on my period. Did you guys get the same info?

Zack SMILED for the 1st time and it wasnt gas either. I am so happy. He only did it once and Ben still hasnt. They with be 8weeks on Friday so I am a little concerned. SHould I be?
I know I forgot to say something...gotta go eat.

Heather

vthompson

07-26-2006, 05:29 PM

Mindy - I pm'd you for the coupons. I hope I am not too late!! Thank you so much for offering them and going to the trouble of mailing them!

Ters - I cannot imagine what you are going through right now...you have so much on your plate right now. Your strength is amazing. Keep up the good work!

Gotta go, Kayley is being a fuss bucket!!!!!!!!!!

Valerie

EBTwinz

07-26-2006, 06:53 PM

Val: PM me your address, I can send you a bunch of similac coupons, too.

Anyone have enfamil coupons??

Gotta run, more later.
Lisa

AndreaR

07-26-2006, 07:08 PM

Flat Heads - not yet. Maddie sleeps on her tummy all day and Izzy seems okay too, so far.

Smiles - both girls smile now, Isabelle more than Madeline. But when Madeline smiles, her eyes turn into little crescent moons - just like a doll. It just melts your heart. DH saw it today for the first time. He couldn't stop talking about it. That was one of the moments that make all this worth it.

Gas - Madeline has pretty bad gas, and she is terribly constipated. The visiting nurse comes tomorrow, and I think I'll call the pedi. We use mylicon once in a while, but I heard it constipates. I heard that colicease works well, but I never see it in the stores. Is anyone using Dr. Brown's bottles? I heard they work great, but as many of you, we've already been through a few kinds of bottles and I'm hesitant to buy another brand. Especially since the Dr. B's are very expensive. But if it helps the poor thing.... Last night she was SHRIEKING she was in so much pain. It made me cry. Keeping her on her stomach seems to give her some relief, but that's it.

Diapers - We are using Pampers Swaddlers. Maddie is still in Newborn, and Isabelle is in Size 1. Maddie is growing out of the Newborns, but she's not ready for Size 1. We have Huggies Size 1, which are pretty small, but she peed out the side of it, so I'm hesistant to put her back in those. We also have a whole bunch of Pampers Baby Dry Size 1, but they seem HUGE. Felisha, thanks for the coupon info! Nice to hear from you, hope you are all doing okay.

Nails - I just peel them when I'm nursing Isabelle or when Maddie is sleeping in my arms. I do at least one or two fingers a day - I just do the ones that look long. They seem to grow very, very fast.

Sherry - your new pictures are beautiful.

Staci - that's too bad about getting the day wrong for your hair appt. But I do stuff like that all the time. The brains are definitely fried. I heard you never really get it back. Someone please tell me that's not true!!

Ters - I'm so sorry to hear about your mom's home!! That's terrible. Is it a good thing or a bad thing having her stay with you? I seem to remember a post a while back, I think it was from you..... anyway, good luck with everything you've got on your plate!!

My girls are getting very fussy in the evening, and I'm convinced it is due to overstimulation, so I'm trying to cut way back on their activity. My SIL was over last night and she was holding Maddie, shaking a toy in her face, talking to her kind of loud. I explained the overstimulation thing and asked her just to hold Maddie quietly. I hope I didn't offend her. She doesn't have kids, so I am not sure she understands completely. My MIL called last night and wanted to come over for dinner and a visit tonight (they were going to bring dinner). I told her that dinner time was a bad time for the girls, so they came this afternoon. She still brought dinner (yay!). I feel a little bad about being so stern about "visiting hours" but.........not that bad.

Isabelle is sleeping longer and longer through the night! Hooray! If we just had one, we'd be golden... Maddie is still feeding every 3 hours, and she's so uncomfortable that she doesn't sleep well unless she's sleeping on one of us. Hopefully this will pass quickly.

Just so you can compare development, the girls will be 8 weeks tomorrow, Isabelle weighs about 9 pounds, and Maddie weighs about 7 1/2.

Well, I'm done pumping, so I have to go rescue DH from a cranky Maddie!

Have a good night (hopefully with some sleep!). :throb: :throb:

Andrea

ps. Steph and Heather and Lisa and Valerie - I think it's great that you guys are close enough to get together!! I wish someone lived closer to me here in Massachusetts. Danielle is in Rhode Island, but it looks like we lost her. :(

Jillmami

07-26-2006, 09:02 PM

Andrea,

Mine both had terrible gas. We use Dr. Brown's bottles and they really help out a lot!

In regards to having to tell family/friends certain rules/needs of your babies, I created a "Preemies 101" sheet that all visitors have to read when they come in. They also have to use hand sanitizer as well. If they don't want to abide by the guidelines, too bad. No babies for them! These babies are different then 'reg.' newborns so... I haven't had anybody complain at all. They usually ask more questions to make sure they don't do the wrong things.

Mine are 4 1/2 months old. Noah is 9 1/2 pounds and TJ is about 7 pounds. (Of course they were born 3 months early...)

Take care and keep enjoying those babies!! Remember to take some "YOU" time each day. Even if it's only 15-30 minutes.

megzmom

07-27-2006, 05:31 AM

Jill-I just wanted to say I LOVE you! You are always so encouraging. Even when you first delivered. I am so glad to have you on this site :)

Andrea-I use only Dr. Browns, went through alot of bottles too. I use the cheap ones to store the mixed formula. That helped cut down on bubbles and you can shake then I pour into the DRB bottles. My boys still spit up alot but not as much. I'd say buy a newborn pack. It has one small and two large. I wish I would have seen that first. I only have the large ones. The only draw back is that you cant use any other nipples and it requires "assembly" Nothing major though. They also have preemie nipples which I havent tried and then after size 2 they have a Y cut for thick formulas-assuming with cereal in it? They have an 800#, maybe you can call and ask for a sample or coupons.778-9001 and www.handi-craft.com. Cant hurt to ask.

I also have the boys sleep on their bellies. Its easier for me to put them down half groggy. I pat their bottoms for a little. Then they grunt for about 10min. Not really a cry. I think they are singing/soothing themselves to sleep.

Felisha- thanks for the diaper info. I will try it when I get low. Like Steph I stocked up on Pampers size 1 from BJs (like Sams/Coscos). I also use the Pampers Baby Dry size 1. I thought they were too big too but they fit nice and dont leak. I tried ALL the other kinds and everyone leaked. I was hoping to get away with the storebrand names. Walmarts Parent Choice also worked well. I didnt leak but I only tried it during the day.

Little boys-I always forget to point them down (so tiny) but I never heard of a baby erection??? Is that true? Little girls are so much easier :)
Anyone use Good Start (soy)? We got a bunch of free coupons so I stocked up. I want to use them up before I go try AR lipil. Wanted to see if you say a change? We use the soy in Similac right now.

Bedrest-my best friend is also pregnant Yeah but she was put on bedrest the other day(30 weeks) does anyone know a good website for singleton moms? She isnt one to ask for help but if its available hopefully it will help. She is the most independent woman(even more than me!) that I know. She is a K9 handler for Customs and its been hard enough going to "light" duty for her.

Well going to try and get a little shut eye-plus my left hand is completely numb :(