Libby needs PT?

I forgot to mention that the physical therapist from Early Intervention came by for our first visit on Monday. This PT was not the one who evaluated her, but she was really nice and liked Libby a lot. Darrell and I took her to the basement play area with the PT, while Paw Paw played with Drew upstairs. We may want to have some individual play time more often b/c we were amazed at what she could do without the hassle of her brother taking things from her and pushing her over. In a nutshell, she was crawling correctly (a goal we had), cruising all over (another goal), pushing the walker wagon (yet another), and get this-- took TWO steps to me!!!! We couldn't believe it and just cheered and cheered.

Ok, so good thing the evaluation was very thoroughly written b/c this PT would have probably thought we made up her hypotonia. Actually, not true since she did see her do a few things indicating that. But she gave us some suggestions for play and so forth. Since Libby has made such excellent progress in so short a time, we are now going to be on a consultative basis (in contact by phone/email). This was great news to us!

I'd be willing to make a bet that Libby will walk first. Drew has the skills, but lacks the confidence, while Libby is the exact opposite. And it looks like the confidence part is playing the bigger role for us.

Paw Paw's Visit

Darrell's dad (Paw Paw) came for a visit while I was in San Diego and had such a great time with Libby & Drew. We were so happy to see Libby, who has the worst time separating from Darrell or me, was actually going to Paw Paw and even let him hold her. He must have sprinkled some of that magic grandparent dust on her when we weren't looking. Or maybe just bribed her with treats or something. ;)

Darrell, Paw Paw, Libby, and Drew had so much fun together. They played a lot, took rides in the wagon around the neighborhood, and even went shopping at Costco and Toys R Us. I was so excited to see one of Paw Paw's presents to Libby & Drew-- these cute pint-sized chairs that they fit in perfectly. He also bought each one a new ball (which they LOVE) and a Nationals' baseball cap. Here are some photos of them relaxing in their new chairs. All they need is a remote and a bag of chips!



We love you, Paw Paw, and can't wait for you to visit us again!!

Uncle B is married!

I've been out of touch for the last few days because I was in San Diego for my youngest brother's (Bryan) wedding. It was the first time meeting his fiancee Erica and her family. The weather and views were amazing and the Williams family was so welcoming to us. I left Darrell, Libby, and Drew behind b/c it would have been such a disaster with 2 babies flying 5.5 hours and being 3 hours behind our normal time. My sister, Gretchen, did the same, so it was great being on a "sisters" trip.

I was supposed to meet her out there on Thursday evening, but good ole United Airlines didn't disappoint by having the worst customer service and bumping me from the flight. I couldn't get out there until Friday morning, but I did get a free round-trip ticket because of it. That was a perk, but it just means I'll have to fly with United again.
Ick.

But overall, it was a great trip and a really nice wedding.

HOT Summer Days

We've been sweltering for days now with 95 degrees and higher! Luckily for us, we got some thunderstorms last night and today it's cloudy and overcast. But still humid outside, so the A/C is working like crazy.

Let's see... what have we been up to? Just typical stuff-- doctor's appointments (Libby's eye is recovering beautifully), errands, and trying to stay cool. I took L&D to the pool last week by myself and it was a little more difficult that I thought. At least one of our neighbors was there to help me get them in and out. Monday we went down to Alexandria to visit my fellow co-workers for lunch. L&D were so excited to have new territory to explore, but I was literally chasing Drew from eating dirt from plants, bending the blinds, and going into another room. Libby, on the other hand, just wanted me to hold her and SCREAMED if anyone else tried. That gets to be difficult when I had to run out to the van or go to the bathroom! Hopefully that stranger anxiety of hers will eventually diminish. Phew!

Saturday we went to a neighborhood block party for a family that is moving away. It was nice to see everyone, but it was SO hot. It was 97 that day and there was no shade! We were drenched and went over to the hose for "misting" every so often. Even the babies were drenched and had rosy cheeks. They were drinking water like crazy. Here are some photos from that day (how do you like my new haircut and highlights?)...

PT for Libby

I forgot to mention earlier this week that Libby was found eligible for services via Infant-Toddler Connection due to the hypotonia in her hips. We had her IFSP on Thursday (Individualized Family Service Plan) and wrote goals for mobility. She will receive 2 physical therapy sessions (60 mins. each) per month at home or at the sitter's. I am awaiting a call this week to schedule her first visit. This is great news and I'm hoping to learn strategies to help both Libby and Drew walk!

Oral Surgeon Visit

We went to an oral surgeon listed on our insurance yesterday. His office was a bit over-the-top as it is like a hip spa in NYC except located in Fairfax, VA. I mean, there were tree logs hanging on the wall like art, a water fountain, magazines I've never even heard of (real trendy and hip) all rolled up into glass vases, fresh flowers, modern looking lighting and hip music playing on the radio (like alternative). I filled out paperwork that was all in lowercase chocolate brown print and gave it to the 20-year-old receptionist. She commented on my crocs flip flops that have bows on them. She said she's not a crocs fan, but these were cute and wondered if I embellished them myself. Gee, thanks... no, I didn't and BTW... once you have children, you may not want to wear your high heels on a Friday afternoon to push them both in a wide stroller that doesn't fit through your hip and cool office building.

We were led back to a tight office with a glass desk. Babies were fussy since missing PM nap and another 20-year-old guy entered and when we told them why we were there, I honestly don't think he knew what we were talking about. He then asked if he could get us a drink (like in a spa). I wanted to say a gin and tonic at this point (if he would even know how to make it). The surgeon finally entered about 15 mins. later. Okay-- he's about 25, has gelled up semi-mohawkish hair, plaid jeans, Chuck T's, and a white labcoat on. I waited for him to say, "What's up?" But he was pretty knowledgable and I think he does know what he's doing. I just didn't get a good vibe from him or the rest of the office staff in their chocolate brown scrubs. It's just something in my gut.

I do still have an appt. with a big Oral Surgery practice with surgeons that are a little more experienced and seem to be more "traditional". I just went to this cool one (didn't know he was cool) because he could see us sooner. So, I'm gonna go to the other appt. on August 1st and hopefully we'll get a better vibe from him.

I realize I'm sounding pretty wishy-washy about the whole thing, but it's hard living in such a big area b/c you never know who you're gonna get. One of the times I wish we were back in LA-- b/c Pops could pull that tooth!

Who are these toddlers?

I took a very close look at L&D today because I wondered if they were abducted by aliens in the middle of the night and these 2 toddlers I have here are fakes. I say this because at around 7 AM (their usual wake up time), they started to stir a little, but weren't ready to get up yet. I wasn't either, so that was a relief! I rolled over and realized it was now 8:00-- they are sound asleep still. Hmmm... maybe a lucky break. I folded some laundry, took a shower, and those 2 did not finally wake up until 9:30 AM! They are usually taking their morning nap by then.

Oh, wait... after dinnertime tonight, I know that these two toddlers really ARE my Libby and Drew:


Even after that huge mess, I still can't resist these cute little faces. They are now starting to smile big for the camera. What little hams...



Follow up: All FOUR of Drew's molars have come through. So, now he has TWELVE teeth. Libby still has 4 (actually 5 if you count the extra one). BTW, we are going to an oral surgeon Friday for a consult. Of course, I will keep you posted...

Teeth Hurt!

This weekend was a very challenging one. That's because both of our babies are really suffering from incoming teeth. I think it is worse now than it was when they first started getting them! I'm not kidding when I say that both cried ALL day yesterday, with the exception of about 1 hour while we went out to the kiddie pool. I gave them some Motrin and they were just miserable. Couldn't sleep, wanted to be rocked or held all day, then Libby couldn't sleep enough and was still grouchy.

Today started with the same thing-- just yelling in the high chair and not wanting anything. Couldn't find the Motrin fast enough! But the cleaning ladies came today, too, and they probably thought I was abusing them with all the crying!! We decided to take a ride because I needed gas and to go to the ATM. Darrell turned around their carseats this weekend since Drew is officially 20 pounds. They rode facing forward for the first time this AM and loved it. Plus a little 70's on XM radio helped, too. Drew was swaying back and forth. I could tell he wanted to dance, but just didn't feel like it. Once he started sucking his thumb, we came back home and went down for a nap. Sleep little babies, sleep. My poor little Libby and Drew. Let's hope those teeth bust on through soon!!

Dancin' Machines

Libby and Drew are so into music lately. No matter what is playing-- classical lullabies, rock, or just me singing (if you call that music) causes them to start boppin' their heads and shakin' their tushes. It is the cutest thing. One day while in the car with Darrell, Drew started jammin' to ZZ Top. Their sitter also told us that he jams out to latin music.

I've been wanting to catch it on video and did get a little of it today. Here they are watching Sesame Street, which is their new favorite thing. They especially love Elmo and all of the other puppet characters. They crack up at our Tickle Me Elmo toy (a big step since Drew was really afraid of it at first). A dancing song came on Sesame Street this morning, so I grabbed the camera and got this:

Basically, Sesame Street is highly addictive:

Libby was so happy this morning! And look how great her eye looks now. It's amazing how quickly she's recovering:

MORE surgery on the way...

We went to the pediatric dentist today, took an x-ray, and saw Libby's nice extra tooth. Fortunately, her regular central incisor was there right under the tissue, but it was a little bit turned since this extra tooth was in its way. So, we need to take that "fang" tooth out ASAP. Also, she will have a upper labial frenectomy since the labial frenulum is connected too low. (Drew will have to have this done later on, too). Both will be done via a laser (since there's less bleeding and no need for sutures) and under IV sedation in the dentist's office next Friday (July 18). She said that her own son had similar surgery at 11 months, and she has operated on babies. That made me feel better.

Our next challenge is that our dental insurance is saying they will not cover the IV sedation. She's a baby-- what do they expect us to do to keep her still??? Darrell is going to try and call them tomorrow to get the details. Keep your fingers crossed that they do because it is VERY VERY expensive!!

POP goes a stitch

Today our families in Louisiana will be so proud because Libby and Drew ate red beans and rice for the first time and LOVED it. I found some in the freezer and thought I'd give it a try. What a hit-- they kept asking for "more". Speaking of, today Libby put 2 signs together for the 1st time. She signed "more cracker" a few times. I was excited to see this new skill!

Later, I was cleaning up lunch and heard Libby screaming in the play area. I ran over and she had blood pouring out of her incision. OH NO! I turned to Drew, who has been having a VERY hard time sharing toys, but he wasn't talking!!! I bet he was thinking that this is a time when being so young with minimal verbal skills comes in handy.

Luckily, our next-door-neighbor and friend Andi (who is a nurse) was pulling out of her driveway. I ran out with Libby to see what I should do. She helped wipe off the blood (which really wasn't that much-- like when you prick your finger) and confirmed that she popped the bottom stitch. It clotted right away and was just a little red. I called the doctor and they basically said there was nothing they could do and not to worry about it unless it shows signs of infection. I was relieved to know that she wouldn't have to be re-stitched or anything!

Andi also recommended (as did her friend) a wonderful pediatric dentist in the area. I called today and got an appointment for tomorrow morning. I was happy to get in so soon. Infant and Toddler Connection is coming for the evaluation on Wednesday morning, too. So, it looks like Libby is having a full week!

Our New Swings

We've been wanting to buy L&D swings, but didn't know where we could hang them. Then it hit us-- the deck has a pergola made of sturdy 2x4's, so it was the perfect place. I am so glad to see how much they love them, especially Libby. If only she would have liked the swing when she was a newborn. I could have gotten some more sleep!

We've Got A Molar!

Drew has been a real bear the past few days. His pediatrician said his gums were really red and swollen and to prepare for the 1st molars. Well, she was right. Poor baby has been so cranky and tired. Libby woke up from nap before him and woke him up before he was ready. He just sat in the play area with us and just cried at nothing. A little Motrin along with swinging with Daddy on the front porch swing helped and he was ready for dinner. Bath (his favorite time) was hard for him as he just cried and chewed on a washcloth. When I was putting on his pj's, I could see part of the tooth coming through on the right side. I had forgotten that baby molars are closer to the front than adult ones! After a book, it was time for bed. But,he couldn't fall asleep as he just sat and rocked himself back and forth and cried and cried (that miserable cry). I had to go in and rock him for a few minutes. That was nice for me b/c I haven't rocked my babies in a while. The only bad thing was that Libby was quite jealous and just stood in her crib saying, "Mama, mama." This is the first time I've heard her call me! I guess she does has some words after all (she mostly signs). She wanted a turn, so she started signing "more"-- I guess the only one in her repetoire that would work in this situation. I gave her some special attention, too, and then they were off to sleep like little angels...

Extra Lemon Bars & Teeth

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY! I just finished making a pan of homemade lemon bars for our block party. As soon as I dusted on the powdered sugar, it started raining. So, most likely the block party will be canceled. Boo hoooo... not because we'll miss the block party, but mostly so I'm not left here with a pan of yummy lemon bars in the house. Too tempting!

Update-- the block party was a little delayed, but we were able to go for a little while and eat dinner. L&D were patriotic and loved riding in their wagon.


On another note... We took some photos and sent them to Pops (my dad- an oral surgeon), Nana (my mom- a retired dental hygentist), and Uncle Bobby (a dentist) and the consensus is that Libby has a supernumerary tooth. Basically, it's an extra tooth that shouldn't be there and most likely will need to be extracted. If not, it will hinder the correct tooth (her top left front tooth) from coming in properly. So, we're going to find a pedodontist (pediatric dentist) next week. More details to follow...

Raising Twins

People ask us all the time what it is like parenting twins. Being first-time parents is always a challenge, no matter how many are born on the same day. There are stressful days, but those are greatly outnumbered by the fun days. I have been enjoying every second of being with the babies so far this summer. I wonder if it will be harder for me to go back to work this fall than last. I say this because Libby and Drew are at an age where so much is developing as they become little people. They are really starting to communicate with us and it's so neat to watch their wheels turn during play. Here are some funny things that happened last night and today:
~ As we were gathering sippy cups, we noticed there was 1 missing blue one. We looked everwhere-- all around the house, in the van, in the diaper bag. Nowhere. Then last night Darrell is sweeping the kitchen floor after a messy dinner and the broom hit something under this cabinet/cupboard we have. Voila! The missing blue cup! And it has liquid in it-- yep, it's old-and-moldy-curdling-sour-clear-the-room-with-its-horrible-smell milk!! This is one joy of raising twins.

~ I was on the other side of the gate getting something in the kitchen when I heard the toys drop and it was abnormally quiet. That is my cue that something is brewing. Yep-- they took my entire 32-oz. plastic sports jug that was filled with pink Crystal Light and poured it all over the ottoman, rug, and themselves. When I appeared, they both looked up with the worst, "I didn't do it" looks ever. Except the evidence was clear as Drew was trying to drink from the bottom of the upside-down jug and Libby's white outfit was pink!

~ My limits have been tested time and again as Libby and Drew throw their sippy cups from the highchair. I tried ignoring it, saying that it's "all done" with the sign, and praising when they keep them on the tray. I have said over and over, "Keep the cup on the tray," while tapping and looking at the tray. It hasn't worked. I finally took away their control of them and now take a break every so often during meals/snacks to hold the cups and give them sips. They are now used to this, but today Drew was grumpy (I suspect teeth-- or perhaps too much Crystal Light) and threw it when I wasn't looking. Before we could even react, Libby was looking at Drew and using that same pointer finger and tapping on her highchair tray-- I mean an exact copy of what I was doing. Oh no-- it's mini Mommy, which could be scary!

These are just today's examples of what it's like raising twins...

15-month Checkup

As I typed the title of this post, I still cannot believe that my babies are 15 months old (well, actually not until Friday). Time has just flown by and I know it won't stop anytime soon. Yesterday was so hectic because we had 2 doctor's appointments-- 1 for Libby's surgery follow-up and then for their well-baby checkup. Of course, both were at horrible times (right during naps) and Libby napped a total of ZERO minutes yesterday. I know they were overtired because they did not go down easily for bedtime at 7:00. Usually, they have no problem at all. So today we're hanging out at home getting back to our routine.

Overall, both babies are doing well:

Drew has gained 2 lbs. since starting the Zantac, so we're going to keep him on that for a little while longer and then try to take him off. Actually, we're out of it and waiting for our disastrous-mail-in-prescription company to ship it and probably won't get it until next week. So, it should be a nice time to see is he regresses or not.
His stats: Height= 31 1/4" (55 %ile); Weight= 20 lbs, 5 1/4 oz. (up to the 5th %ile now, which is progress); Head circumference= 18" (10 %ile)

Libby is right on target with everything and her incision is healing nicely. Her surgeon said that she was a little more purple than usual, but it is of no concern. I told him he should have seen her 3 or so days ago-- it was REALLY purple. Her pediatrician noted something about her new top front teeth coming in. The one on her right is coming out normally, but the one on her left looks to be a smaller width- almost like it is another tooth, not the front one (which should be wider). It almost looks as if it were chipped. Dr. said that we'd keep an eye on it and see what happens once it is all the way out. I'm going to try and take some photos. I'm just hoping it's not another thing that Libby will have to have surgery on. Poor baby has been through enough already!

Her stats: Height= 30 3/4" (55 %ile); Weight= 22 lbs, 14 1/2 oz. (50 %ile); Head circumference= 18" (75 %ile)

It's interesting to see their stats have stayed in proportion since they were born. He has always been a smidge taller while she has weighed a little more.

They had to get FOUR shots (2 in each arm), too. They had 2 nurses and we went into separate rooms for more room. I was with Drew holding him and he got through the 1st one without any reaction. The second-- a little crying; third-- more crying which broke my heart. Then the nurse says, "Now this last one is the one that really hurts and burns." GREAT. She wasn't kidding. He screamed worse than I have ever seen-- I mean EVER. I felt so horrible and just held and rocked him. But the amazing thing is that I signed and said, "All done," and he instantly calmed down. I'm telling you-- those signs have really worked for us. But he still had the "shakes" cry-- where he stopped crying, but has those gasps every once in a while. Poor boo-boo. I heard Libby through the wall and Darrell said she screamed on the same one as Drew. But she was pretty much calm when I came back in the room. She's a tough little girl (and has a little more "meat" on her arms)! I thought they would be tired as they have been from previous shots, but it didn't seem to affect them at all. I'm just cringing thinking of the days when we have to hold them down while they get shots!