Office Surprise Showers

Our offices have done a great job in throwing us surprise showers. Several weeks ago, my office set up a "meeting" at 11:30am, which didn't make me happy since I typically go to the gym over lunch. After running from another meeting, I opened the door to the conference room only to be overwhelmed by incredible food, all my work friends, and presents for the girls. What a great surprise.

On Friday, I was all set to go to the Pentagon for a surprise awards ceremony for David. I was so proud that I hadn't slipped up to David, arrived at the Pentagon on time and even had my camera ready to snap some pics. When I walked into his office, his entire staff (seemed like 20+ people) surprised me! David can walked in a few minutes before me. The room was decked out in pink everything (including pink peeps, my fav), tons of food and too many way generous gifts. Coming from a bunch of Marines, I was super-impressed! It was like a real party, not MREs and physical fitness test.

They were both very cool parties! What incredible people we both work with!

32 Weeks -- Long Rambling Post at 4:20AM

This was yet another productive weekend, but more relaxed, so no swollen feet. Thank goodness that's the only time I've really had swelling...my husband was running me ragged last weekend.

This weekend was pretty chill. Friday, we went out for Thai food. Saturday I made my last trip to BabiesRUs for a while to get sheets for our PackNPlay, went to Trader Joe's to stock up on easy meals for when the girls arrive, interviewed a nanny (she's great, I think we are going to try to hire her if we can meet her salary expectations), and then I went to Kathryn's baby shower. She's due just 4 days after I am and pregnant with a boy. It was a good time and she looked great!

By the time David and I reconnected at the house it was nearly 6:30pm, so we grabbed Mexican food and a movie. I fell asleep on the fouch (the movie was stupid...some Iraq/CIA crap) and went to bed around 10pm. So, this morning, I couldn't sleep and have been awake since 2am doing stupid stuff online like trying to merge my outlook contacts into yahoo (unsuccessful), syncing my blackberry, and posting this blog (pic will be added later if I get around to it). It's 4:20AM! Today, I'm going to start washing all the babies stuff -- sheets, receiving blankets, clothing, etc. I also need to put together a bouncy seat and organize their closet. I'm still expecting to hit the "wall" so I want to jam out these last "to do's" so I can just put my feet up (if necessary) the last few weeks. Oh yeah, we're also interviewing another nanny tonight. We've decided that the time it takes to get the girls ready, transport them, etc, etc, it will be well worth the extra expense to have someone come to our house. I'm willing to cut back on that unnecessary purse/shoe purchase now and then to have the benefit of a nanny!

You know the status on the girls, but they continue to be extremely active. That's part of the reason why I am up this morning (plus, my brain won't stop going!). A new fun fact is that over the remaining 6 weeks, they will gain a third of their birth weight. They also now have toenails, fingernails, and real hair (remember, we saw this on the ultrasound!).

As each day passes I'm getting more prepared (mentally) for their arrival. I know it's going to be extremely hard, but we are fortunate to have my Mom, Dad and David's Mom coming to visit and help for about 2 weeks each. All coming from far away -- Indiana and California. Plus, David will be taking 3 weeks off work, so hopefully for over 2 months someone should be home with me helping out with the girls, but also making sure we're fed, able to shower, and reasonably sane. Then, I'm sure I will be ready to spend some quality alone time with the girls. It's all going to happen so fast! It feels like yesterday I found out I was pregnant on my birthday (Aug 30th!).

The Girls are "Growing Impeccably"

We had another ultrasound today and we are ecstatic! Much to our surprise, our girls are definitely a lot fatter than I thought they'd be. I was rooting for 3 pounds 3 ounces and we far exceeded that goal. I actually belted out a "whoo hooo" in the doctor's ear this morning and had to apologize for it. According to the perinatologist, the girls are "growing impeccably!" {We get great quotes from the perinatologist, don't we?!). Baby A and Baby B have officially switched designations. Baby A is now on my right and Baby B is now on my left. They didn't confuse them, it all has to do with who's closest to the cervix. So, Baby A (right) is the lightweight of the two (as usual) weighing in at 3 pounds 11 ounces!!! This is 50th percentile for twin girls. Baby B (left) is the heavy weight weighing in at 4 pounds 3 ounces, which is the 75th percentile! GO GIRLS!!!! I suppose all the protein I've been eating has really helped (I strive for at least 80-100 grams per day, which is a TON compared to the 40 I used to eat). Did you add up the weight? At 31.5 weeks, I'm already carrying the equivalent of a nearly 8 pound baby!

In more good news, Baby A (which used to be B) is now head down, just like her sister. This means the odds are improving for a regular (not c-section) birth. However, they could still flip again. They will soon run out of room and be too heavy to flip. I'm going with the flow on either way...it's not like this is something I can control!

We are very happy. If you think about it, we have no more than 6.5 weeks to go, so they should have no problem reaching 5lbs 8oz, which is when they are officially low birth weight. Remember, the goals are 37 weeks (April 20th) and 5lbs8oz. If we have a regular birth and no bed rest, we'll have really beaten all the odds. I'm hopeful we can make these important milestones for fat and healthy babies with minimal hospital stays.

Also, the girls continue to hide from us. They are facing towards my spine (anterior), so we only have a picture of their heads together.

BTW, Baby A has the hiccups right now.

31 Weeks and Still Truckin'

I think I'm supposed to feel terrible by now because everyone is surprised I'm feeling good, still going to the gym and generally have a smile on my face.

The girls are so active! I feel Baby B so much more than I ever have...I sort of think she's now breech and transverse like her sister. It's a relief because I used to have to poke my belly to really feel her moving around, now I feel the bootie bump all day long. Neither of them like to be squished at night when I'm lying on my side, so I get the kick, kick, kick until I flip over, then the other one does it. They are drama queens! So, I've now discovered this side/back sleeping position where I prop a pillow along each of my sides and now I don't squish my belly. They seem to be pleased with this arrangement and sleep quietly...that's until I get up and go to the bathroom around 2am every night, take a drink of water and they are dancing for at least 30 minutes. I think they are like "Woooo, Momma gave us something to drink." They celebrate like it's gin and tonics! Oh, I think we're in store for some pretty sassy ladies! By that point, I'm typically awake for 2 hours thinking about them, work, child care, etc. Surprisingly, while I'm not sleeping solidly anymore, I don't feel super tired. I think it's all prep for when they arrive.

Here's what's going on with the girls, we will get to verify some of these statistics in our ultrasound on Thursday. This week, the babies measure over 16 inches long. They weigh about 3.3 pounds and is heading into a growth spurt. They can can turn their head from side to side, and their arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath their skin.

Weekend with My Man

David and I haven't had a lot of time to spend together alone lately, so we decided to block off an entire weekend just for the two of us. Friday, we went out for a casual sushi dinner (well, I didn't really have sushi, but he did). Saturday was fun filled -- I made David his favorite breakfast of eggs benedict and then we went out and about. We visited the National Arboretum (see pic of funky tree), Congressional Cemetary where lots of VIPs are buried (or were buried until their home State's wanted them back), went to Old Town for lunch and snacks, checked out a planetarium in Arlington, and then out to dinner at the Melting Pot. I've never been -- it's a chain fondue restaurant -- but was in the mood for chocolate yummies. It was a fun change (and delicious chocolate). We were so tired last night we passed out until 9am this morning (it was still only 8 hours of sleep considering the time change). It was nice to be with David. We've been so consumed with catching up with friends and getting ready for the babies, we were long overdue for some quality time.

Today, my feet are up because 12 hours of running around yesterday was too much. I think I officially have knakles (When you have no ankles between your feet and calves). They aren't terrible, but they are definitely more swollen then they ever have. And, yes, I'm fully aware I need a pedicure...that's coming soon! David is supposed to be rubbing my feet, but he's busy reading the paper. Maybe later.

First Lady to Visit OMB

We learned yesterday that there was going to be a "special event" in our courtyard for OMB employees only (there are several other Executive Office of the President agencies in our building...OSTP, OA, etc). We were informed to be in the courtyard by 11am and expect to be there no longer than 1 hour. We expected good things...we expected the POTUS (that's President of the United States for those of you not up on the lingo!). Well, it was good, but not that good, we got FLOTUS (First Lady of the United States), Michelle Obama. She came in with our Director, Peter Orzak and delivered a few short remarks. She thanked us for "keeping the midnight oil burning" working on the recovery bill and FY10 Budget. It was nice she paid a visit. Next time, the Man himself better show. There were only about 100 or so people there, so it was a nice, intimate setting. Here's a pic from the event.

Winter Wonderland

Our first real snow storm of the season came late this year. At the time of this post, we've received about 6 inches and it's still coming down. Unfortunately, the Federal government is clueless and is operating on a 2 hour delayed schedule. I'm still debating if this pregnant Momma should be braving the conditions. However, first, David must get his butt outside and shovel. My Arizona boy is having a hard time getting motivated.

It sure is pretty though! This is a shot outside our front door.

5 to 8 Weeks to Go -- MAX!

To refresh your memory, here are some important statistics:

--Average gestation for twins is 35 1/2 weeks
--Term for twins is 37 weeks
--My doctor will deliver no later than 38 weeks 1 day (April 27th)

I am 30 weeks today, so we think we have 5 to 8 weeks to go MAX! We're assuming I will go to 35 weeks since everything has been so far, so good. Here's what's going on this week with the little ladies: They are about 15.7 inches long now, and weigh almost 3 pounds. A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds them, but that volume will decrease as they get bigger and take up more room in the uterus. Their eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after they are born, they keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When they do open them, they'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means they can only make out objects a few inches from her face.

Big Night Out

We decided over a month ago to try to score reservations at Restaurant Eve (www.restauranteve.com). It's consistently rated one of the top 10 restaurants in the DC area and while we had been once (on our wedding day, actually...we went for lunch), we had never experienced the tasting room. We enjoyed dinner with our friends Peter and Dori and it was wonderful. We had our choice of 5-9 courses and all of us chose 5 since I had heard of all the extras -- amuse bouche, intermesso and even pre-desserts (it was a tiny canolli). Both Dori and I are pregnant, surprisingly 4 days apart, we couldn't be as adventurous as we normally would have, but it was delicious!! It was a gastro experience that lasted nearly 4.5 hours! That's probably the last fancy meal we'll have for a while :(

29 Weeks

Check out my HUGE belly! Good news this week -- no bed rest or gestational diabetes! I think I would have had a hard time if I had gestational diabetes...I eat well, but have been enjoying my annual endulgence in Somoa girl scout cookies! Yum

As for this week's developments -- They weight about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and are tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. Their muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and their heads are growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. Their bones are soaking up lots of calcium...about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day.

Take That -- Bed Rest!

I had another successful doctor's visit today. When my OBGYN entered the room she said "you look great!" She didn't prescribe bed rest (remember, they ROUTINELY prescribe bed rest between 26 to 28 weeks through week 34 regardless of medical issues). Apparently, I'm looking too good to be on bed rest! Ha! I'm thrilled. I know things could change at any time, but I'm living life large until then! [large in more ways than one!]

Get this -- For breakfast I had 1.5 milky way candy bars. It was a little gross, but I tried to enjoy it. It wasn't for fun, it was for my gestational diabetes test. I will have the results back in a few days.

So, I'm pretty much full term if I had a single baby growing inside, but I have 9.5 weeks max left to go. I will deliver no later than April 27th (My friend Christina's birthday). Their heartbeats were solid -- 160 Baby B and 153 Baby A. My doc reminded me that I will likely have a c-section unless the girls are both head down. Duh! At this point, I don't care...I just want them to be fat, healthy, and happy.

28 weeks

By this week, the babies weigh two and a quarter pounds and measure 14.8 inches from the top of their head to their heels. They can blink their eyes, which now sport lashes. With their eyesight developing, they may be able to see the light that filters in through my womb. They are also developing billions of neurons in their brains and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

Those once way too big maternity shirts are actually fitting (well, some of them). Nice belly, eh?

"Perfect Incubator"

We had another ultrasound this week and the girls are growing like weeds! They are 2.6 pounds (Baby A) and 2.3 pounds (Baby B). They are in the 43% and 31% percentiles respectively (that's for a single baby); the perinatologist said they are in the 50-60% percentile for twins, which she was very pleased about. She commented (again!) that their hearts are "beautiful" and that I'm the perfect incubator for the girls. My cervix is still long (4cm) and closed; under 3 cm is when they are concerned. She said that since I'm beyond 24 weeks, cervix shortening isn't typically an issue. She also said 32 weeks is the "chip shot"...meaning (I'm no golfer) that that's the goal for keeping the babies in and that they require less assistance and time in the NICU. Given my track record so far, it's not looking like 3.5 more weeks will be an issue. And, besides not having a completely restful sleep each night, I feel great!



The girls are very active (part of the reason I can't sleep). The violent thrusts I feel on my left is Baby A's butt and hipflexors (baby will have BACK!); she is still breech and 1/2 way transverse (looking over to the right side and Baby B's feet). Baby B I feel less because she's in the right position (head down and facing up); I mostly feet kicking.



According to my week by week guide, they are sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing their eyes, and perhaps even sucking their fingers (they weren't sucking in the ultrasound). With more brain tissue developing, the babies' brain is very active now. While their lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if she were to be born now.



The only decent photo the doctor got was of their feet; they are very shy (even though we refer to them as the "Party Girls"). It's tough to get a good shot when someone else is blocking the view.



We'll have another ultrasound in 4 weeks (that's 31 weeks).

Pediatrician -- CHECK!

We interviewed a pediatrian group this week. It's AMAZING! Maybe this is how they are all, but they are open 6am-8pm Mon-Fri and on Saturdays. There are 12 doctors and nurse practicioners, day of visits, and sick and well waiting rooms. The group was recommended separately by two twin Mom's I've met recently (and ran into one of them while we were there!), so without a doubt we are going with this group. Plus, they are less than a mile from our house in the same health plex as my OBGYN, phyiscal therapist, and internal medicine doc. One stop doctor shopping!

Baby Shower

Our friends, Lynn and Melissa, hosted the most fantastic baby shower ever! I was sooo impressed with all the details -- the cake was to DIE FOR!!! It had two little peas in a pod (little baby girl faces with bows...sooo adorable). Te food was delicious, the games were fun (even though I did not want to play the belly game), and the favors were super cute. They really went beyond my expectations and we are incredibly lucky to have amazing friends who would really go out of their way to host a shower we will never forget!

About 35 of our dearest friends came and brought with them way too many gifts for the girls. There were so many incredible presents, like the two headed dollies that were handmade to look just like the one I carried around as a girl (thanks Mom, I'm still weeping!), our double stroller, a digital SLR camera the special books that each had a reason on why they were important, the baby and Mommy care packages, the super luxurious blankets and footed sleepers, super cute clothes, bottle and breast feeding gear, bouncy seats, swings, car seat bases, car mirrors, swaddlers, monitors, and the list goes on and on. What happened to the day of a onesie and bottle? David and I are completely overwhelmed by the generousity and love felt by all of our friends who came (and those who didn't). We really can't thank everyone enough! There's no way we'd be ready for these girls without your incredible gifts and we are so thankful for them. Now we just have to figure out how all this stuff works! :)

Mom & Lanny's Visit

This weekend my Mom and Step-Dad (Lanny) drove all the way from the good ol' Hoosier state for the baby shower. They arrived Thursday evening and we had a great time indulging in the ciy's ethnic food (Indian at Bombay Club and Thai at Bangkok 54), touring around a bit, running around for maternity panty hose (don't ask!) and then partying at the shower. Here's a shot of Lanny and David at dinner on Friday night.

Week 26

Still feeling pretty good, but the waking up at night to go to the bathroom has started again. Then, they start kicking me and I can't fall back to sleep. It's hard to balance the hydration and bathroom needs! It's slowly getting more difficult to get up from a lying down position, especially on the couch (the bed doesn't seem to be a problem). I'd rather just sit, but I know it's good to take the pressure off and lie down after a day of sitting up and standing. I am definitely getting bigger, which is OK...now everyone knows I'm pregnant, not just chubby with lots of belly fat...ha ha!

Here's what's going on with the little ladies: The network of nerves in the girls' ears are better developed and more sensitive than before. They may now be able to hear voices! Thank goodness because David is singing to my belly nightly. He gets a "kick" out of feeling them move around. They are inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when they are born and takes that first gulp of air. And they are continuing to put on baby fat. They weigh about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (size of an English hothouse cucumber) from head to heel.

Practice!

We offered to watch our friends', Josie and Bob, baby on Saturday while they enjoyed brunch out. Clay was a joy and we had a great time testing out toys (he loves the jumper), feeding him a bottle, and singing silly songs. He's a very smiley and happy boy of just 5 months. We look forward to tons of play dates with the girls and Clay! Don't you love how he is looking at David so lovingly? He turned David into mush (David that is!)!

Josie and Bob -- Thanks for trusting us with your precious cargo!

Week 25

Well, it's already Wednesday and I don't have a picture, so I'll do a post anyways. My belly is definitely growing and the girls are very active. It's quite amazing, actually. Here's what's going on inside -- Head to heels, they measure about 13 1/2 inches and weight about a pound and a half. They are beginning to exchange their long, lean look for some baby fat. As they do, their wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and they'll start to look more and more like a newborn. They are also growing more hair and if we could see it, we could could able to discern its color and texture.

We had a great weekend -- Friday we went to a friend's birthday party; Saturday we went to an art exhibit, brunch and then David had poker night and I had girls night. Us ladies went to dinner and then enjoyed chocolate fondue for dessert! It was yum! Sunday, we had brunch plans with friends who also have twins and then ran errands! Can you tell I'm trying to fully take advantage of life before it changes forever?

Baby Moon Part 2

To escape the madness of the Inauguration activities, we escaped to the Goodstone Inn in Middleburg, Virginia. Only about an hour from DC, but we felt like we had really escaped! It was lovely! The property is amazing! There are five different houses on the 265 acre property with only 17 rooms. We stayed in the Dutch Cottage and we called ahead to see if anyone was staying in the second room and to our surprise they said they reserved the entire cottage for us. David called ahead and arranged for candles, rose peddles, flowers and champagne (cider for me)...it was super romantic. We dined in the restaurant our first night and it was nearly as nice as the Inn at Little Washington (our best meal in the area...nothing still has beat the Otahuna Lodge in New Zealand). It was seven courses of amazing food and presentation. The second day it snowed and the countryside was beautiful. After exploring the quaint town of Middleburg, we cuddled up to the fire and enjoyed a day in the cottage. We will definitely return to the Goodstone! Check it out.
http://www.goodstone.com/

24 Weeks

The girls' are almost foot long (picture an ear of corn you Hoosiers!). Their brains are also growing quickly now, and their taste buds are continuing to develop. Their lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help the air sacs inflate once they hits the outside world. The girls' skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.

My regular OBGYN visit on Friday went well. Both heartbeats are around 160. They threatened bedrest again and I fired back with the statement of "rockstar cervix" by my perinatologist and the fact that there is no clinical evidence that indicates bedrest without a medical reason prevents preterm labor. She agreed and said we'd come up with a workable solution when the time comes. What a relief. Don't get me wrong, I may happily accept staying at home instead of commuting nearly 2 hours a day, but bedrest sounds DREADFUL!!!! However, if there's ever a medical reason for it, I will not push back whatsoever.

So, do I look bigger this week?

David Has a Cold!

David has been off work for 3 days this week with a cold. Poor baby. I think he's faking it, but I have still been showering with love and affection...at a distace. He's enjoyed "camping" on the couch for the last 3 nights too. There's no way I'm going to risk getting whatever he has. Call me selfish, I don't care! :) It's all about the girls!

I put this hat on David when he was complaining about his 99.8 degree fever and the "shivers."

Week 23 or 6th Months

Check out my big belly! The girls are very active all most of the day; sometimes they literally make me jump. I can also see them squirm underneath my clothes. It's the strangest and coolest feeling ever. I'm still convinced that Baby B is going to be the trouble maker or seriously outgoing. She packs a mean punch -- let's hope she wasn't like I was at a kid or I'm going to have trouble. Mom, I need advice now!

As far as the development, more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango). Blood vessels in her lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and their ears can distinguish loud and familiar noises. A pretty uneventful week. I'll just continue to eat well and get some light exercise.

"Rock Star Cervix!"

Yesterday, we had another ultrasound. While it is sooo exciting to see the babies, it is also very nerve racking to know for sure that they are developing as expected. Dr. Poggie (my perinatologist) was very pleased. The girls' are in the 40% percentile in weight (this is among all births -- girls, boys and singletons), so she was super pleased. Baby A weighs 1.3 pounds and Baby B weighs 1.2 pounds. I only have 5-1/2 more pounds to go to avoid the low birth weight classification! This growth is totally consistent with what was expected. She did a ton of other measurements and spent a good deal of time on the heart--she again was visually excited to see that everything looked great. 4 chambers with blood all pumping very well. Baby A is now head up and spine up, Baby B is head down and face up. They will continue to move around. Unfortunately, Baby A's position didn't allow for any cute profile shots, so you here you can take a look at her perfect spine and back of her head (that's not her face). :) Baby B seems to have a stuck up nose like me.

Then, the part I was waiting for...the evaluation of my cervix. This is where the rubber meets the road on preterm labor, complications for early delivery, etc. She exclaimed, "You have a rock star cervix." Of course I wonder, how long that's going to last. She explained that typically it doesn't change much after 22 weeks, so I should be in the clear. However, I know things can change at any time for any reason. My cervix, for those of you who are dying to know, is 4.5cm. That's MUCH longer than the 2.5cm that would cause alarm. Yeah!

I had a lengthy discussion with her about bed rest (remember, my other doctor is going to mandate it). She said there are no medical studies that indicate bed rest for the sake of bed rest (i.e. no real reason) does anything except potentially cause blood clots in the legs. This is excellent news. We'll see what my OBGYN says, but I'm likely going to see how I feel before following doctor's orders if nothing is wrong. However, I know soon I will likely feel uncomfortably huge and might enjoy working from home in jammies, instead of making the 50 minute commute on metro. We'll see. Regardless, I am very happy!!!

Thank You, Papa Romley

The nursery is coming together and we're thrilled. We've decided to not take on a totally baby theme (no bright pinks or anything too baby) and make it a little more of what I'm calling "sophisticated baby." It's a bit shabby chic, sort of. We've gone with a bird theme with the use of bedding from Pottery Barn Kids and have scored some really cool bird figurines and pictures along the way. I love it (and think David does too) and since the girls' will dictate every moment of our lives after they are born, I figured why not go with a theme we love!? Plus, I've never been a girly, girl...I can't handle too much pink.

We finally have all of the major pieces of furniture for the nursery. Papa Romley (David's Dad) and Carol (Step-Mom) gave us a cash for Christmas and we couldn't think of a better place to spend it -- on the girl's room. After much searching, we found a large rocker that should give me plenty of room to feed both girls at the same time (hey, I'm hoping to be efficient in the ways I can). The chair rocks and swivels and the ottoman rocks. It's upholstered in a light green gingham. It's been scotch guarded to protect from all the spit up. So...thank you Papa Romley and Carol. The girls will hopefully love to be fed and rocked to sleep in this chair!

The Belly Popped

On our vacation to Florida after two days, my belly POPPED! I finally fit into maternity shirts and people on the street rubbed my belly and passed along their congratulations. I suppose it is about time at 22 weeks, but it's a little strange and I'm just feeling chubby.

The girls are kicking up a storm and we realized over our babymoon that they are night partiers. They love loud music and to dance around after dinner, which is actually quite painful to Momma's right ribs (they feel very brusied inside). I can now feel their dancing on the outside of my belly--David also felt their first real kick on December 30th (btw, which is the date David proposed in 2005).

The girls are growing -- they are 11 inches long and almost 1 pound. They are starting to look like miniature newborns. The lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and they are even developing tiny tooth buds beneath their gums. Their eyes have formed, but their irises still lack pigment. Inside their bellies, the pancreas — essential for the production of some important hormones — is developing steadily.

A Potential Future Boyfriend

Lucas Jackson Willis Venner was born on December 3oth; he's one of the cutest babies we've ever seen. Kelly and Jason are doing well and we are excited to share the joys of parenthood with them as soon as our girls arrive. Congrats to our good friends!

Baby Moon & New Year

Knowing our travel adventures will be seriously cut after the girls are born, we went on one "final" vacation - a Babymoon to Florida over New Years. We started in Miami, laying on the beautiful beaches of South Beach (SOBE). We visited our friend Justin, and later explored the beautiful Art Deco district stopping in the famous Delano hotel to check out the happenin' Miami nightlife (Meredith wasn't sad she missed). After a couple of nights, we rented a car and drove West to the island retreat of Sanibel and Captiva island near Ft. Myer where we explored the island's nature preserve (David's upset because we didn't see a live aligator). New Years was out of control for David, partying with old and young. Meredith was a real trooper as she patiently watched David drink and dance the night away (see video - posted by Meredith in editing). Meredith helped David nurse his raging hangover and then drove to our final destination North to Clearwater, Fl. We caught up with David's good friend Ned and his family, and Meredith's Dad and Debi rode down on their motorcycle from Orlando to visit in the morning.

Merry Christmas!

Today was a blast. We woke up early (as usual), I made sticky buns, and we started to open presents and call family. Our parents and siblings were super generous. Some highlights include cash from the fathers and Shane, maternity pjs from David's Mom, spa goods from Gage and Jen, an advent calendar filled with goodies from Aaron & Suzette, homemade cookies and a small flexible tripod from Aunt Sylvia. David also hit the nail on the head with my gifts -- new pearl earrings (I lost the last pair he gave me...very unlike me, I know), a massage, new alarm clock, a baby book, and makeup bag. I got David a new shirt, sweater vest, overcoat, and shoes. His favorite gift a harmonica, which Santa gave him in his stocking. Unfortunately, I think the coat and shoes will be returned because David is impossible to shop for because he is so buff and short! The shoes just might not be right.

Tonight, we cooked dinner and enjoyed it with our friends Jon, Jen, Monique and Shawn. Mo and Shawn were joined by their new baby, Maya, who is soooo adorable. Hannah was there too and she was well behaved and a little lady.

It was a wonderful Christmas!!!! We hope it was for you as well!

Christmas Eve

Last night we celebrated Christmas Eve at our good friend's -- Jon, Jen's and Hannah (their 4 year old daughter). They served up an amazing meal of lobster, filet, croquettes, asparagus, and mini spice bundt cakes for dessert. It was delicious!

Over Halfway Through -- Late Post

This week was another good one full of holiday parties and cookie eating. I'm still feeling great except for definitely feeling some weird pains in my side and back when I stand too long in heels.

Christmas is this week and sadly Mom and Lanny aren't coming because they are still healing, but it's for the best. On Christmas Eve we're going to our friend John and Jen's house for dinner; Christmas Day we'll likely have some friends over (still working out the details); and the 27th we have yet another party to go to. On the 28th we leave for Florida for a week -- a few days in Miami, Sanibel Island and Clearwater. My Dad will actually be in Clearwater, so at least we'll see some family over the holidays.

My belly is bigger and the girls are moving quite a bit (I think the side pain is them digging in...it's very weird). I'm still in regular clothes (barely...I must look like a sausage stuffed in casing). The picture is from Wednesday night as I didn't get around to taking a pic until now. I imagine after our "babymoon" to Florida, I'll be back in the office in full maternity gear (can't wait-NOT!). I hate most of the stuff becuase I think it's all pretty ugly and homely looking. Oh well.

So, the girls are about 10 1/2 ounces now and around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, when a baby's legs are curled up against the torso and hard to measure, measurements are taken from the top of the head to her bottom — the "crown to rump" measurement. After 20 weeks, they will be measured from head to toe.)

They are swallowing more these days; they are producing meconium, a black, sticky by-product of digestion. This gooey substance will accumulate in the bowels, and we'll get to see it in the first soiled diapers (some babies pass meconium in the womb or during delivery). That's gross, but apparently an important development this week.

Not a Happy Pregnant Camper

I had a routine 4 week checkup at the doctor today. Fun facts -- Baby A's heartrate was 155 and Baby B's was 166. Both normal. Both babies are head down according to the ultrasound, but they will continue to move around. My fundal height (pelvic bone to top of uterus) is 25 centimeters, which is 6 centimeters bigger than someone carrying 1 baby.

BAD NEWS: The doc told me it wasn't a question of IF I'll be on bedrest, it's WHEN!!! She said between 26 and 28 weeks, I'll be placed on modified bedrest until week 34. That means no work. I can bathe and cook my meals, but other than that I'm on the couch or in bed. I'm really bumming. You all will have to help keep me entertained. Who's known me to sit on the couch for a few hours, let alone 6-8 weeks?

Holiday Open House & 19 weeks

Yesterday, we hosted a holiday open house. About 80 people showed up between 2-6pm and it was a great hit! We saw friends we haven't seen for a while and others we see all the time, but it was the first time all of our friends were gathered togther. We practically ran out of food -- you'd think 200 stuffed mushrooms, 250 meatballs, 300 shrimp, veggies, dips, other appetizers, and 6 different desserts would have been enough. Laura and RJ came down on the choo-choo from Philly and it was wonderful to see them! We are excited they plan to return for our baby shower on February 7th. They brought the babies their first gift, a cute and fuzzy blue elephant, which is already hanging out in the nursery.

Most were amazed that I was 19 weeks along and expecting twins. I'm still hiding it pretty well in normal clothes -- I'm not fooling anyone in my weekly sweat get-up (see picture). The little ones are growing -- their brains are designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. They may be may be able to hear our voice now (David has started singing directly to my bump). They each weigh about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom — about the size of a large heirloom tomato. Their arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of their body now. Ther kidneys (which were all verified to be in good condition by my perinatologist) continue to make urine and the hair on their scalps are sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on her skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid. Yikes, thank goodness for vernix case-whatever!

This week marks the offical halfway point since I won't be carrying the babies longer than 38 weeks. I have a feeling the "real" pregnancy sets in soon! Besides not being able to stand on my feet for hours on end and some minor back upper back pain in the morning (I think because of my new bustiness!), I'm feeling great. Just so you know, I'm not styling every Sunday all day in this outfit; I thought it would allow us to compare week to week easier. Do you think I grew much last week?

Aren't you dying to know?

Well, we had a very successful visit to the perinatologist. The ultrasound went well -- we saw what the doctor called "beautiful hearts", stomachs, arms, legs, eyes, brains, spines, feet, hands. We saw it all. We also saw that they are TWO GIRLS!!!! Can you believe it? We are SOOO excited!!! David is anxious to be called Daddy. We're so happy they are growing as they should and everything looks "normal." However, the ultrasound pictures they gave us are of their faces, which is weird. Here's Baby A staring at you and the top of Baby B's head.

Now we have to come up with another girl's name. Any suggestions? BTW, we're not going to tell you the names we've picked out. There have to be some surprises, right?

Month 5 and My Belly is Growing...Finally!!!

Well, according to the "What to expect when you're expecting" book, I'm officially in the 5th month (weeks 18-22 weeks). Yes, funny math if you ask me. I guess you're squeezing 40 weeks into 9 months, you have to do funny math. This is the big week we find out the genders! Any guesses?

I've attached the weekly belly pic (I'll try to keep this up) and boy I feel like you can see a difference this week. Hello Babies! Here's what's shaking with the kiddos:

Head to rump, they are 5 1/2 inches long (about the length of a bell pepper) and weigh almost 7 ounces. They are busy flexing their arms and legs — movements that I can feel everyday! Their blood vessels are visible through the thin skin, and their ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from his head a bit if they have Benson or Romley ears. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around their nerves, a process that will continue for a year after they are born. If one is a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. If we're having a boy, his genitals are noticeable now.

Stay tuned for what will hopefully be an exciting post this weekend. However, there is still a chance their "stuff" may be hiding from the doctor.

Longstanding DC Traditions

Last night we continued two holiday traditions that seem to be a staple since I've arrived in DC over 8 years ago. Earlier in the evening, we went to the White House Open House for Executive Office of the President Staff. We toured around checking out the decorations and the official White House Christmas Tree. I love the gingerbread house, which is made from 150 pounds of chocolate; they do a version every year.

Later that night, we had our annual holiday party with my closest DC buddies. I think the party has been going on since 2001 (too many glasses of wine at these parties to remember exactly, I suppose). It was a different dynamic this year...not as crazy...as three of the five ladies are pregnant (with Diana just announcing that evening she was 14 weeks along!). We had a great time with tons of food, a hilarious gift exchange of outrageous gifts, a little "Guitar Hero" and lots of story telling from previous years. A few of our "crew" have moved back to the Midwest (Kristen, Josh, Tanya and Travis) and they were missed, but we still rallied until after 2am and enjoyed copious amounts of red wine (unfornately, us pregger babes did not induldge).

It's Beginning to Feel A Lot Like Christmas

Tomorrow is December 1st -- how on earth did that happen? On Thanksgiving we put up our tree and played Christmas music. This year, there was no spiked eggnog though :(
We're excited for our holiday party on December 13th and all of our friends who will come. Only one family member will be able to make it -- my cousin, Laura, who lives in Philly and her husband, RJ -- but we are very excited they are making the trip just for the party. Then, a few weeks later, my Mom and Step Dad are coming all the way from the good ol' Hoosier State to celebrate Christmas with us. I'm looking forward to dragging my Mom to the baby store to finish up our registry. Maybe we can accomplish a few more baby errands/tasks while they here too.

The picture is of our tree; pretty, eh? Happy Holidays Everyone!

15, 16 and 17 Weeks

I've been a slacker and not writing because I've been hoping to post some pictures. Our last doctor's visit went well, passing our latest blood test (the AFP) with flying colors. The RN had a hard time finding Baby A, but the doc found him/her right away. My next ultrasound is on 12/12 and we'll find out their gender!!! I'm soooo excited. Everyone keeps asking what I think they are -- I have no idea! How would I have a clue?

So, onto their developments (Btw, besides a cold which lasted a week, I feel fabulous!)--

The babies are 5 ounces and are 5 inches from head to bottom. The skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord — her lifeline to the placenta — is growing stronger and thicker. They can bend their joints and sweat glands are starting to develop. Their hearts are now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as your baby continues to develop. Isn't this insane? Now you have a good idea why I'm no longer running...I'm huffing and walking on an inclined treadmill! Last week, the ears are very close to their final position and the patterning of the scalp has begun. They have tiny toenails.

Attached is a picture of what the babies are supposed to look like at 17 weeks, and a picture of my belly at 17 weeks, 1 day. I'm starting to show (no one has said so yet), but all my clothes still fit...they are snug!

Thank you Grandpa & Grandma Benson

As you all expected because we are crazy planners, our nursery is coming along. My Dad bought us a dresser/changing table/hutch. We love it! Also, thanks to our friend Brian for helping David lug it up the stairs. We also ordered a crib and hoped to put it together over Christmas when my Mom (Gram) and Lanny (Step Dad and Gramps) will be visiting, but we were required to return it within a week if we didn't like it. So, by default, not anal planning, we have a crib and dresser already assembled -- which totally freaks me out. It makes David excited (I think it's because he doesn't know yet what we're in for--ha ha). Here's a picture of the nursery so far.