Life With Triplets

Am I Back?

2009-09-26T01:34:00.000-07:00

(Blowing away the dust) Anyone out there? It has been a very long time..
Okay, so here we are now in sunny, tropical, Central Florida! We have a fairly new, much larger home now as opposed to a very old, too-small-for-5-people house. Unpacking is moving along, and, oh yeah, I got a DREAM JOB!!!!!
Yesterday, I drove over to my appointment at Central Casting, and after much anticipation and nervousness, I got a part-time job! Now, I know a part time job doesn't sound like much, but it's a start. I'll be working at the hotel we honeymooned at (GF). Let me just say that every part of the process was absolutely magical! The entrance rotunda is marble with columns and gold statues. And the ramp....the paintings on the ramp.....up to reception....I'm choked up again. I'll just say that the experience was as special as anything I've done at the resort.
So, here I sit, very early in the morning feeling very blessed. I can't help but wonder if some of this peace and luck doesn't have something to do with our return to church....I believe it does.

A Career Path?

2007-05-24T05:13:00.000-07:00

“Knock, Knock!”
“Who Dere?”
This is a now familiar sound in our home. Our Bobby has begun telling knock knock jokes. He is very insistent when he says, “Knock, Knock” that someone says, “Who’s there?” If no one does after some cross looks, Bobby will answer himself with an apparently hysterical punch line. Last night, we hit a new height with his joke telling though. As Bruce went to check on them before we went to sleep, he heard the familiar strains of Bobby’s knock, knock jokes. He groaned at the thought that Bobby had woken up, but when he entered the room he found that they were all asleep. Yes, our Bobby tells jokes in his sleep!

Potty Time!

2007-05-08T04:51:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, May 3, 2007, we had a very big boy moment. William used the potty twice!! We were so very, very proud of him. We told him all day what a big boy thing he had done. Grandma even brought him ice cream and watermelon. These are William’s favorite things.

On Friday, William then announced that he was “done” with the potty. A minor set back to be sure. Actually, we’re not actively potty training yet. We do have a potty that the three of them picked out when Evan had expressed interest in having a potty. Really I think they’re really not ready yet. I’m not sure if I’m ready for them to be potty trained yet. It means that they are truly not babies anymore. I still want my babies even though I tell them they are big boys. I have tried to cherish each moment knowing how fast time goes and how precious these first years truly are. I’m so grateful to have shared this time with them, and even though I couldn’t say when each first step was taken and each first word was said I do know I was there for it. I know I celebrated it.

A Reunion

2007-04-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

Well, it’s over now. Bruce and I went to the 25th Anniversary celebration yesterday. As I mentioned before, I was really quite nervous. I had been somewhat shy and quiet (except when I got to drill my class-then I was able to echo a parking lot). I was no one of real note until my senior year when I started to participate more. Surely, not even my favorite teachers would remember me.

I was pleasantly surprised. First, I ran into my favorite Brit (at least my favorite that I know in person), my old geometry teacher. She had no freakin’ clue who I was. I wondered if that was going to be the tone. Then, a very excited young teacher saw me and recognized me. She had been my English teacher senior year. It was her first year teaching, and some of my classmates were dating guys older than her. I wasn’t a favorite student nor did I know her very well. She somehow remembered me, though. It seemed as if the tide was turning.

Then, I ran into an old classmate. He and I were on different tracks and really never had an occasion to know each other well, but in a class of 55 everyone knows who everyone is. He is an RN now, and I was truly happy for his success. Next came my junior year prom date. It was good to see Matt. We weren’t romantic ever, and I think we were consolation dates for each other that year. It was still a very nice time with a very nice guy.

The last memorable person I ran into gave me reason to pause. Let’s call him T. He was someone I chatted with briefly from time to time back then. I was certainly not a person with whom he would have shared secrets, and it was probably a good idea because I probably would have had a hard time keeping my yap shut. At the party, he told me that he is gay along with some other fun things that friends were encouraging him to do. I said, “Great! Sounds fun. You should do it!” He was amused. Then he commented that I was one of the last people he would have thought of as accepting. It kind of shook me. When I asked why he thought that way, he basically told me it was because I seemed so conservative. I explained that college changed me by exposing me to all kinds of different people. Honestly, I was glad he felt comfortable sharing with me. The way I figure things is that if a gay person (or any person for that matter) has to hear me rambling about my hubby or my kids, the least I can do is listen to them do the same. Since I never thought that there was a huge gay recruitment department out there laying in wait to try to convince people to change lifestyles (and if there is please don’t tell me because then I’d have all kinds of “why don’t they want me” issues), then each to his or her own as long as they are happy.

As the morning wore on, I ran into more teachers who remembered me and whom I respect immensely. I also had more and more memories come back to me. Oddly enough, it was T that caused my one and only rebellious incident in all my then 12 years of school-the Christmas sit-in. It seemed that someone was offended by Christmas decorations. It wasn’t the Jewish kids and it wasn’t the atheists, and Kwanzaa was not yet widely known. We tried to find out how it was offensive and how it could be fixed while keeping Christmas. There was a resounding no, and the seniors formulated a sit in. I was petrified of having my mother find out I did anything against the rules, so I was going to class. As I walked towards homeroom, T walked up along side me and a friend and began singing Christmas carols. A teacher came up to us and told T he couldn’t sing carols. T is Jewish. That made a world of difference to me. The school attempting to stop free speech offended me. I joined the sit in.

Of course, it wasn’t easy for me to do. I tried my absolute best to get to the middle of the pack. Why wouldn’t they let me in! I just wanted to get in! I would be an easy target for an authority figure to get moving back to class. I began singing with the throng. I was there, I was proud; I was scared shitless that they would call my mother! The teachers and principal did target me, but I stood strong (all while crapping my pants and watching for my mother who I was sure would be there shortly). Eventually, we did disband, and we never did get Christmas back, but thanks to T, I had my meager moment in school history!

So, to sum up my very long winded entry, I was glad I went. I mentally changed to no longer being super-shy, and it turns out I haven't physically changed at all. I got to tell some of my teachers what they meant to me. I got to give hugs meant to be given 14 years ago, and I got to catch up with some great people!

In Protest!

2007-04-13T17:30:00.000-07:00

I Protest!

I’m incensed by the firing of Don Imus! I’ve listened to him off and on since 1999. Meaning that I’ve listened on the way to work with Bruce mostly. I clearly remember that horrible September day when my world was thrown into chaos running to a friend’s office just because I knew he’d be listening to Imus. I wanted to hear the real news, and I turned to Imus and his crew for just that.

Anyway, I will say that what he said about the team was off-color, and I understand that it was offensive to them. But I see no reason why it cost the man, who does wonderful things for people (children with cancer and disabled soldiers most notably), his job. What in the hell happened to free speech? Nowhere is anyone of us guaranteed the right to not be offended. Most of us are blessed with the ability to shut off or change offensive programming.

Who among the sensible is not offended by the themes of cop killing and raping and general degradation of women found in a lot of the “gangsta” rap genre? Yet, these men are not fired from their jobs, instead they are made millionaires and have horrifically become heroes to some people! Still, I believe in their right to speak. Let us not forget the hate mongers. I do not believe in espousing hate of any race. I DO find it offensive when the color of a person’s skin allows them to spew their hate more freely than another person, but, again, I defend their right to speak. Unfortunately, Mr. Imus has become a “sacrificial lamb” (as stated by several newspeople). I sincerely hope he finds employment on the air soon and is able to be joined by his teammates.

I will now jump down off of my soapbox, and add in that we will be listing our home tomorrow. Hopefully, we'll be in Florida shortly. Oh, and an added yay to Disney for allowing commitment ceremonies on their properties!

Free Stuff and A Confession

2007-03-27T04:36:00.000-07:00

First, the free stuff. Yesterday, my mom came in and told me that our neighbors had a playhouse in front of their house labeled “free.” I had wanted to get the boys a playhouse, but I was waiting for our big move to buy one. Free is good. I knew that it was pretty much brand new since I had never seen the little girl play in it. When Bruce and I went to get it, I noticed a tricycle on the side, too. Woo Hoo! I had also been looking to get them tricycles. The thing that had been stopping me was that there is no real place for them to ride a tricycle. The free one could be pushed around the yard. They were all very excited by the house and Evan and Bobby loved riding on the tricycle. I’ll have to snap a picture of them in the house later. Funny thing is that my Dad and I found the same house (minus a few parts) for my cousin about 15 years ago in the garbage. It was quite a sight to see, I’m sure. We began walking the house home from the inside. People driving by saw a walking house!

Now for my confession. It’s been brewing inside me for a few weeks now. My high school is having a 25th year celebration next month, and I’m having all kinds of feelings about it. Mostly, I worry that no one will remember me. Of course the teachers have had many students before and after me, so I really shouldn’t expect much (especially since I was just the quiet good kid). My “friends” won’t be there, so there goes that hope. But, this is something deeper than people I knew 14 years ago (gulp!) remembering who the hell I was/am. It’s been bothering me that I’m just not someone that anyone notices much. I try to be always pleasant and courteous and thoughtful, but it doesn’t seem to matter. Even being the mother of triplets doesn’t make me stick out in the minds of workers at places we frequent. The pizza guy doesn’t remember me (he remembers Bruce, though), the lady that we buy our weekly pretzel from at BJ’s doesn’t remember me (but she remembers Bruce)-see the pattern? Even when I’ve “been there” for a friend or acquaintance, more times than not, they’ve credited another person for helping them through. I’m tired of being invisible. What I have decided is that the celebration will be a good time for Bruce and I to enjoy a meal together that’s hot and (hopefully) doesn’t have hands stuck in it! It’ll be some much needed just us time.

New Stuff

2007-03-16T16:53:00.000-07:00

The boys have some new things going on lately. They are big fans of Vanna White, and thanks to their daddy, they call her "dish." Daddy happened to say she is a "snappy looking dish just like Mommy." They love to see what she is wearing each night, and as the show starts Will begins calling an "M." They also sort of enjoy Jeopardy which they call "Jeoperly."

Will had begun using a new word-"damnit." He used it several times in rapid succession fairly appropriately. I'm troubled, but it's not the worst he could say and it doesn't come out too much.

There are probably a ton of things I'm missing, but the loss of the nice weather has really screwed with my brain.

Last Day of Magic

2007-03-16T16:52:00.000-07:00

Day 8
It was our last day in Disney. I had arranged for a character breakfast in Animal Kingdom at Donald’s Breakfastosaurus. How could we not go back to Animal Kingdom? They had been talking non-stop about the “trucks” and the animals we saw. So, we got there a little later than we meant to and had to wait on the entrance line instead of going in through the breakfast line. We were going to be late! Ack!

We got through the gate, and the old me kicked in. We were about to do a “Speed Animal Kingdom” tour!! Of course, it would have been nice if Bruce had told me he had no idea where we were going, because I sent him ahead as he was in front of me on the line. It led to me getting aggravated BIG TIME. Then, we got caught at one of the in-famous not open yet ropes. Fortunately, we told a cast member we had breakfast reservations and got through. I raced ahead and checked us in. When I got back to Bruce and the boys, we got them together and got our family picture taken. It turned out to be the first even okay picture of our little family.

Once inside, we were pleasantly surprised by a blast from our past visitor. Pat, from RWJ Hospital, came by to say hello!! She was one of the head nurses while the boys were there and was a real sweetie. As she visited, our waitress announced that we would be singing Happy Birthday to the boys, so she stayed a few moments longer to sing with us. It seemed only natural since she was there on their actual birth day. It ended up being a really crazed meal, and the characters were not as wonderful as the day before at Crystal Palace. We left a little disappointed and not very full. I did, however, manage to grab a few mini muffins for later on.

We went on merrily back on the safari and along the wilderness trails. After the boys had a nap, we headed back to the Magic Kingdom for two last rides on Small World and the Jungle Cruise. At some point as we were walking right near the Castle, I heard an announcement that families were about to be selected by the Castle for a parade. I was shameless. I got us into that parade! We met a nice young lady who instructed us and another family on waving banners and waving at the crowd. She also gave us directions for dancing in the grand finale at City Hall! The boys were given little American flags to wave in their strollers. It was amazing!! I waved, I danced, I choked back a little tear. Then, when we got to City Hall, I silently gave thanks to my grammar school music teacher, Mrs. Quish, for teaching me the great patriotic songs and belted out every last word! My father later asked if it cleared the park. There’s a critic in every bunch, I guess. I only wish there were pictures.

Sadly, our trip had come to an end. We left the park-somewhat appropriately-as the evening fireworks began. I promised the boys through near tears that we would be back soon. We had such a nice trip, and I was sorry to see it end. We left the next morning and headed for a mostly uneventful trip home (except for our last day when two of our little munchkins came down with a tummy flu).

Cookies!

2007-03-11T04:47:00.000-07:00

When does the boring Mommy gene kick in? I noticed it particularly yesterday morning. My mom came in with a yummy loaf of Italian bread for us and three shamrock cookies for the boys. Now, the old me would have broken open the bag and fed the boys cookies immediately (I probably would have even given it to them as breakfast). The boring Mommy me, though, immediately thought, “Great! They can have the cookies after lunch if they eat nicely.” Then I thought about the mommy thought and was shocked at myself for having changed into a mommy so completely. For a moment, I almost wavered and gave them cookies. They did have breakfast already at least. The after lunch rule stuck.

As a side note, we happily have Baby TV back. Our satellite TV people tried to make it a pay station, but it apparently didn’t work out for them. It’s baby friendly programming full of learning and parent tips for actively watching with said baby(ies). The boys are enjoying their morning milk and watching it now. Welcome back Baby TV!

Day 7

2007-02-25T18:50:00.001-08:00

Day 7-EPCOT and Magic Kingdom
Our day began wrestling them once more into their car seats for the 5-minute trip to Mickey’s house. And, again, Evan and Will fell asleep. Bobby and I went into The Land to get us a little something to eat. It was an experience with that little guy zipping about! We somehow managed to get food and get back out to Bruce and the boys.
After eating, we headed over to the new Nemo ride. I thought they’d enjoy it, but I was wrong. Evan handled the ride okay, but Will attached himself to me. Bobby freaked out at the turtle part. Maybe the dolphins? Evan was excited. Will wanted out! Bobby was busy running around. The baby leashes were no real help with them spinning around us and heading in different directions. We got out of there as soon as we could.
We headed to The Land next to go on Living With the Land (a boat ride). They didn’t really mind this one too much, but we knew that time was limited. We got them back out to their strollers. EPCOT was not for them. Bruce and I were a little disappointed, but we understood just the same. After a little discussion, we got them some McDonald’s and decided that we would Park Hop back over to Magic Kingdom.
We got over there about 2:30 or so with babies that had not napped and a 4 o’clock character dinner at the Crystal Palace with Pooh, Tigger, Piglet and Eeyore. We were worried. A parade was scheduled for 3 which we thought they would enjoy as they had the parade at Animal Kingdom the day before. I went off to get us ice cream. Can you tell I was in a daze? Hello? Ice cream an hour before dinner??? Anyway, by the time I got back, Evan and Will were asleep. Bobby shared our ice cream. The parade went by complete with drums as Evan and Will napped unmoving. Bobby had fun.

We moved along to the restaurant. We told them we were celebrating the boys’ birthday. Bruce and I woke up our little nappers. Everyone was in a good mood. When we got to our table we found it decorated with confetti and streamers! The boys were very excited to meet Pooh and friends. They especially enjoyed showing Tigger their Tigger forks. Will got very excited when he saw Piglet for the first time. In fact, he could barely get Piglet’s name out. When our meals were done, the boys were presented with cupcakes and birthday cards! Everyone sang Happy Birthday. It was very special, and I highly recommend the restaurant (which I have done in the past).
We finished our day with a ride on Small World. We had another busy day ahead of us with a character breakfast at Animal Kingdom. Since our realtor wouldn’t give us any more of his time, we added a last day to our tickets before we had to head home. It was a good thing, too, because the most amazing thing I’ve done in Disney World happened.

They're 2!

2007-02-25T18:48:00.000-08:00

Happy Belated Birthday, Babies!!
Evan, Bobby and William (or Willmy as he is affectionately known) have gone and turned two years old on us! The day was indeed bittersweet. They have grown so much and learned so much that it makes all the bumps in the road to have them worth it. As Shelli mentioned in her blog not long ago, the joy of her adopted daughter has almost made her forget the pain of infertility. In my case, I have not only almost forgotten that agony (among other feelings), but I have also gotten past how scared and isolated I felt while my babies were in the NICU.

Having to ask permission to hold my babies and sometimes being told that I couldn’t was ridiculous to me. There were times when they cried and I knew they needed me, and I could do nothing but cry over their incubators with them. There were times when I was there by myself not allowing myself to leave the unit for any reason just in case something happened. I remember being there during rounds and interjecting to make sure that they had the boys taking the necessary hurdles to come home. Then the awful moments when Bobby caught the bacterial infection…. Bruce never felt that we could lose him, but I trembled and looked for my fellow NICU mommies-one of whom I had comforted just the day before when her baby turned critical. But then, we started taking them home and the excitement began. It’s been exciting ever since and I don’t expect that it’ll end any time soon.

Animal Kingdom

2007-02-25T16:47:00.000-08:00

Day 6-Animal Kingdom
The boys love animals. I’ve never liked Animal Kingdom much. So, I set out to figure out a way to spend the day at Animal Kingdom. The place now has a major bonus for this mommy-Expedition:Everest! A new roller coaster! Bruce promised that I could ride.

So, we told the boys we were going back to Mickey’s house to see animals and wrestled them into their car seats. By the time we got there, Evan and Will were fast asleep. We plopped them into their strollers, and tried to get Bobby up to the day ahead.

We figured we’d head right for Everest. On the way, Will woke up and began to smile one of his famous Will smiles. Woo Hoo! Evan woke up next in a similar mood. I eventually rode 5 times! It was great fun!

It was today that the boys first experienced their favorite ride-Kilamanjaro Safaris. They pointed out all the animals-even the ones not always familiar to the under two set (rhinos and hippos and gazelles). People were impressed. Bruce and I were like two peacocks! We were there until closing at 5 just enjoying all the animals.

Real Estate

2007-02-25T16:46:00.000-08:00

Day 5
The home search began. Unfortunately, we looked at homes for my parents mostly. There was a beautiful age-restricted community where friends of ours have a home. I would live there in a second. The folks will love it!

The homes we were shown were nothing like I asked about. They had property, but I didn’t like the neighborhoods at all. Still, central Florida has possibilities for us. We have three concerns: hurricanes, sinkholes and tornados. Other than the possibility of major destruction and devastation, it seems like a great place to be.

Disney World!!!

2007-02-19T05:25:00.003-08:00

Day 4-Dreams Really Do Come True
When I woke up, I was bursting. I’d been dreaming of this day for years. It was the day I’d take my babies to Mickey. But, as usual, the day was not to go smoothly. As we tried to get them ready, the boys struggled with us. I imagine that every time we lead them towards the car they think we’re back in for a long journey. They even went as far as blasphemy (“No Mickey!”). My heart broke.

I plotted our route into the Kingdom as if we were headed to uncharted territory. We headed out, and once more, when they saw the sign came, “Diney World.” My hopes ran high once more. I purchased our tickets and we headed for the monorail at the boys’ request.

We pointed out the various sights. They were too short to see them, but we pointed them out anyway. Once we got through the gates, we saw Chip and Dale. They were excited. Jackpot!! Then, I was walking right down the middle of Main Street USA with my babies! I sang. They hid their little faces. We paid way too much for some food, and continued on. We headed towards Mickey’s house!

They ran through Mickey’s house to see him. There was almost no wait. As we got through the door, Bobby went under the velvet ropes and began waving and saying “Hi!” repeatedly to Mickey. This was worth the entire cost of the tickets! We got to the main mouse and they stared in awe. They felt right at home as if Mickey was there just for them. They exchanged low 5’s and sat down. That’s how our picture was taken.

We made it to Fantasy Land next. That’s where our excitement began. We parked the strollers and headed to Peter Pan’s flight. I turned back to put the diaper bag back on the strollers. Evan and Will tangled around Bruce. Evan somehow got a bloody lip. I took him back to the stroller for “medicine.” All was right with the world again. Evan, Will and I rode together. Bruce and Bobby followed in another boat. Evan and Will took the ride okay, but Bobby got freaked out by Hook. When we got off the ride, Bobby was crying hard. We were greeted by a friendly lady who informed us that we were a special family of the day.

Holy crap! I thought that we had won the night in the castle!!!! It turned out that we had won magical moments lanyards. I was thrilled to be one of the winners, and I did my very best to not look disappointed. It was a very cool thing!

Then, we rode Small World. The boys LOVED it. Then, after we got off, Bobby ran ahead of me and into a woman. We hit his little head on the ground. We shuffled him off to First Aid as quickly as possible. He was fine, but has a nice scrape on his head and a black eye.

The last piece of excitement came as I was getting us lunch. Someone tried to move Bobby’s stroller. Bruce was irate. Disney Security removed the offender.

The rest of the day went by fairly un-noteworthy. The boys got a little cranky and we went back to the villa to prepare for our real estate adventure the next day.

Day 3

2007-02-19T05:25:00.001-08:00

Day 3-Orlando or Burst!
It shouldn’t have taken us more than 4 hours in the car…. Somehow it was longer.

We ate a late-ish breakfast at the hotel. Wrangling them back into the room and then into the car was an adventure. We also needed gas. Bruce thought he saw an Exxon station, but he was wrong and had to make a u-turn back towards the hotel. The boys started in. Back to the movies.

We made it to Florida finally. I hoped to be in Daytona Beach by lunch. We made it just to slightly before Daytona at lunch time. They ran around the play place for a bit. Then we fed them and once more wrestled them into their carseats. We didn’t have happy campers.

Once we got to Orlando, we exited I-4 for our villa, but we were cut off at the turning lane and had to make a u-turn. Ironically, we had to turn near the Marketplace. They saw the Disney World sign and I swear read it! There were three spontaneous “Diney World” calls from the back. I knew for sure then they are mine!

We got to our villa not long after (we’re 3 miles away from the Park). It’s a nice unit for the money, and I’ll admit it feels homey. Tomorrow, we are headed to the Magic Kingdom. I’m hoping they love Mickey.

Day 2

2007-02-19T05:24:00.001-08:00

Day 2
We were now in a time crunch. We needed to at least make it to Georgia today. Bruce and I planned to leave the hotel by 7 to get on the road so we could stop at around 3:30 again. HA Again!

Bruce went to load up the van while I tried to calm the savage beasts. He came back just as I was about to call out the Guard. He announced that our tire was completely flat and would need to be repaired. Ack! So much for 7 am! The front desk gave us directions to the nearest car dealership. They opened at 8, but by that time it was almost 8 anyway. I got out of the car to try to get help a few minutes early. I put on my most desperate woman face and pushed it up against the glass door. From behind me, an employee came along and pushed open said door (our van clock was slow). The service manager nicely pointed us across the road to a tire repair shop.

Once more, I got out of the car with the face this time adding worried mother to the mix. I wanted them to feel sorry for me. Hell, I felt sorry for myself! I began to mentally beat myself up for even considering this long trip. Luckily, after pulling out the “baby triplet” card, they got us right in. Bruce got out of the van to supervise (he worked in tire repair, too (I’m telling you he’s like freakin’ MacGyver)), and I climbed in to keep the boys calm. As the car was jacked up right under Will, he started to grin his famous Will grin. He didn’t even flinch when the air gun was used to remove the nuts (he’s noise sensitive)! Go Will! I got out of the car to see what the damage would be, and I was shocked that it was only $10. We tipped the mechanic an extra 5 because he checked our other tires.

We had hoped to be baby movie free at least part of this leg of our trip, but Bobby was in such a foul mood that it was impossible to not put them on. Just imagine 8 hours of the same 3 twenty minute baby movies…. Mind numbing, isn’t it?

It appeared that we would make it to South of the Border by lunch. It was a little later than lunch time, but close enough. We went to Pedro’s Diner. A little less than stellar. After lunch we almost literally wrestled the boys into their harnesses so they could walk around a bit. One gift shop later we were wrestling them back into their carseats. Onto Georgia!

The boys fell asleep. No baby movies at last! Bruce and I got a little music and quiet. The two hours flew by. Baby movies were put back on. Finally, the Georgia Visitor’s Center. It was getting late. We were going to have to stop in Savannah. Eventually, we were booked at a very nice Hawthorne Suites (which I would very highly recommend). It was time to release the hounds! We ate a late Sonic dinner and called it a night.

Day 1 of our adventure

2007-02-18T06:24:00.000-08:00

Day 1
We left the comforts of home at 7 am. I knew, of course, that we’d probably end up having to leave that “late.” Our boys are always up early but not the days we want them to. Bobby decided to sleep in, and I had to wake him to leave. We had even tried to quicken up our morning by putting them to bed in their clothes. Again, our Mr. Bobby threw a wrench into things by peeing through his shirt and his pants. This left me running around trying to find something comfortable for him to wear that was clean (good luck after packing half the house!). Then, it was off to our favorite local Dunk**’ Donu*s.

Bruce sadly parted with his coffee supplier, John, and we really hit the road. Things seemed to be going swimmingly. Then, we stopped for gas. I went into the back to adjust the boys a little and noticed spit up on Will. No biggie, I thought. HA! Just after we got into Virginia (and Will woke up from a little nap), he puked all over the place! We had little more than 10 minutes to cancel our hotel reservations for $25 as opposed to having to pay for the 5 days. There were intense discussions. It was finally decided that since Will was in good spirits and was not running a fever that something did not agree with his tummy and was now gone. Luckily, we were right. On with the trip!

As we neared the end of Virginia, it started to snow. The boys were excited. I was nervous. We had been in the car nearly 8 hours anyway, so we stopped for the night at 3:30. Someone told us as we got into the van to go off to dinner that our left rear tire looked low. We paid the gas station the $0.75 to get air. Remember when air was free???

Thursday!!

2007-01-30T16:23:00.000-08:00

Ack! We leave for Florida Thursday morning! I'm excited/nervous, and the weather isn't helping much. We got a great deal on a 2 bedroom villa ($77/night). It ends up being a resort in my parents' timeshare company, but we didn't book through them. It's going to be a long trip down. A much longer car ride than they are used to. That's where the nerves come in. I'm really excited about looking at the homes/areas, and nuts over going back to The World!! It'll be trip #31 for me!

Disney World is sold out! I'm thinking it has something to do with the Super Bowl. I'm hoping it won't be ridiculously crowded. I'm sure they'll love it either way.

As a side note, you girls know that you are more than welcome when we do move! I may even be able to swing a couple of free passes!

Evan

2007-01-24T16:40:00.000-08:00

In the last few days Evan has made a lot of progress. He has just started saying "Evan," and he now loves to go around labelling the family-especially his brother "Willmy" (pronounced Will-me). It's so cute! This morning, as I made my tea and Bruce's coffee, Evan looked up at Bruce's cup and said, "bring." He wanted to bring his daddy his morning cup of coffee! So, with my help, he held the mug by the handle only and carried the coffee to Bruce. Then, he asked to bring me my cup of tea. Again, with major assistance, the cup was successfully brought to our living room!

The most exciting thing is that Evan is showing major interest in the potty! Woo Hoo! I know we are still so far from no more diapers, but it's a start. So, we made a family outing to Wal-Mart, and he picked out his potty! He selected a Winnie the Pooh potty with sound! Evan was very proud to have his potty and loved helping his daddy put it together. He sat on it fully clothed in the living room for quite some time. Evan would like everyone to know that he is very proud of himself for picking out a nice, new potty and for sitting on it so nicely.

We're Going to Disney World????

2007-01-22T16:49:00.000-08:00

Yes, we did win something...finally a break with work. Looks like we're going to get some. It's been a long, frustrating road filled with questions of faith for me. But, as with most things with Bruce and I, the bumps finally smoothed and we have some nice prospective things coming very soon.

After the Vegas fiasco, we found ourselves wondering where we would move. My parents became included in this, too. My mother claims that they've decided not to move to Vegas because of the reported poor healthcare. I think my dad just refuses to be far from the boys (not that my mother loves them any less than him) and found appropriate excuses. Anyway, there was a great incentive for teachers in Florida. The alternate route was surprisingly easy to navigate (at least at the level of research I did). So, it seemed Florida was the way to go. Then, of course, hurricanes came up. The area seemed to be fairly high priced and on the coast. That kind of ended that. Then, a friend from the gym mentioned the community he and his wife bought their vacation/retirement home in. It sounded really nice and close to my favorite place in the entire world-Disney World. I thought maybe with the lower cost of real estate, we could live on a Disney full time salary.

That's how the search began. We were all headed down there in a few months. Then-whammo!-this business opportunity hits. It's a year long contract with the possibility of two years. Now we need to go to Florida to see if the area would be a place we could see living so that my parents can go and buy a home there when my dad retires. Small note: If we choose another state after they've moved there, we're dead!

So, it now boils down to driving the boys there in the next few weeks! Of course, we'll be close to Disney World (and if I get my way, we'll be staying in one of their resorts).... How can I NOT take the boys??? Evan is a Mickey nut. It's instant smiles all around and lots of screams of "MICKEY!!!!" when they see him on tv or in pictures or ads. What a great 2nd birthday present, huh???

Making the Most of a Beautiful Day

2007-01-07T16:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, so the title is a slight homage to Mr. Rogers Neighborhood. Wasn't yesterday gorgeous??? I'll take 70 degrees in January! Now to just convince the Mister that winter is bad....

The day started out normal enough. We fed the boys, got them dressed and went off to Target on a mission to get my parents an anniversary gift. The boys were very patient as a somewhat slow kid set out to get us a "nicer" box than the one that was out on the shelf. Of course, playing peek a boo with them kind of helped things. By now you know me, so you know it wasn't "normal" peek a boo. It was hiding behind the cart and jumping out peek a boo (which the boys love!). Definately not a thing you do when there are other patrons around! Anyway, the kid finally came along, we looked at some more stuff, and then headed home for lunch.

They demanded a nap when we got home, passing on lunch for later. Since it was 11:30, that was fine. Or so I thought. It seems that the three of them refuse to eat lunch if they don't get it before nap-even if they refuse to eat in favor of said nap. Nothing short of standing on our heads helps this.

Anyway, they got a surprise visit from their silly Pop who had happened to be on the highway that parallels our house. I'm sure he still has no idea how he got to our house and what roads he took. After Pop left, we herded the kids outside to play in the yard. I felt like we were wasting the day by being in the yard, so we headed down to Belmar. I felt brave and daring (since most of my in laws live there now). Bring 'em on!

The boys had lots of fun on the climber on the beach. Then, the bigger kids starting kind of stepping on them, and Bobby headed to the top of the climber where the fence gap is. Ack! Of course, I had to then climb up the rungs and through the "hole." The kids looked at me as if I were strange. Since it's not a new look for me, I paid almost no attention and slid the boys down the slide to Bruce.

Off we went in search of waves and sand. They kept calling the sand "dirt" and were really interested in the feel of it. They also met some very nice boxer dogs who were bigger than them! Bobby went walking up and said, "Hi, Doggie!" It's his thing now to say hello to everyone. It's cute! We played almost an hour in the sand, and without an inlaw in sight, we headed home. I can't wait to do it again!

Desparate Times...

2007-01-03T16:10:00.000-08:00

The old addage is true, desparate times do call for desparate measures! Last night was quite possibly the end of my sanity rope, at least that's what I'm sure Evan thought! To be clear, I've been sick. My throat swelled almost completely shut for nearly two days and then I lost my voice. So, I'm not totally myself.
That said, when Bruce rushed William into our room and woke me up to take him, I was a little concerned. I croaked, "What's wrong?" "They're up!" was Bruce's reply (he later told me he was in a rush to prevent one of Evan's famous melt downs). William happily snuggled into me and fell fast asleep in moments. Mommy heaven!!
Nirvana was disrupted by sounds from the nursery. Evan! Bruce cringed. I stupidly volunteered to go in. I say stupidly because they NEVER go back to sleep for me. They seem to want to talk to me and be held instead of sleep. So, anyway I went in at 2:30 to hear Evan's now famous line- "Done." I tried to reason with him that he could not possibly be done sleeping at 2:30 and that it was still dark outside and therefore "sleepy" time. Note to self and other newer mommies: Logic does not work at 2:30 with toddlers.
Finally, I reasoned with myself that William was already coveting my side of our bed and that my only chance of real sleep was to-get ready for it-climb into the crib with Evan. Since the crib converts without any additional supports to a day bed and then full size bed, I further reasoned that climbing into said crib should not cause its eminent collapse sending us to the floor in a thud scarring Evan for life and waking Bobby up. So, I told him to move over and climbed on in!
Evan's eyes practically popped out of his head. My mother informed me later that it was his way of saying, "Oh shit! I've really done it this time! I've pushed Mommy right over the edge!" Luckily, I ended up not having to sleep in there. A mere hour and a half later, after Evan repeatedly telling me that red means stop, green means go and yellow means go fast, he fell back to sleep.
I returned to the bliss of our room where Bruce reported that he was uncomfortable because he had to pee. I told him to try sleeping in a crib. He laughed and said he wished he had a camera. I gave him an angry squirrel.

We're Baaccckkk!

2006-12-19T16:12:00.000-08:00

It was, to say the least, an exciting trip. The boys were really pretty good on the plane. Will and Bobby were a little active with Bruce and my Mom, but Evan was an angel. They gave us no trouble getting into their strollers or the rental van even after the almost 6 hour flight!! Go Babies!
Then the proverbial crap hit the fan! Evan got a stomach virus during the first week. Luckily, it lasts 24 hours. I know this because after Will and Bobby got it, I got it and so did my parents! Mom and Dad mostly just had the "green apple two step." The boys and I got the works! Bruce got nothing which he credits to Wendy's chili seasoning.
We did look at houses while we were there as well. Our realtors were fantastic, and I would happily recommend them to anyone! The houses were less than fantastic, though. Bruce noted a lot of construction issues. I noted some flow and neighborhood issues. Together we poo-poo'ed all but 3 homes. One of the biggest disappointments was that the homes I liked online were in not great areas.
Also shocking was the cost of food! I have no idea how the people who work as maids and the like at the casinos afford to eat! There were some things as much as twice what we pay here in Jersey. We spent over $400 in the two weeks we were there and didn't really use much food nor did we buy anything extravagant! Speaking of pricey, Bruce and I went out to eat for our 4th Anniversary. We ended up eating at Alan Albert's (a vintage steak house) right on the Strip very close to Polo Towers where we stayed. The food and service were excellent! The prime rib was bigger than me. The ambiance was also very nice (although a little dark for people who hadn't slept all night in almost 2 weeks), but the staff honored our request to check on us to make sure we hadn't fallen asleep in our plates! So, if you happen to be in Vegas, I'd put Alan Albert's on your list of places to eat.
Other than that, there isn't too much to tell. There was only a little gambling done on my part and on Mom and Buzz's parts. I don't think Bruce spent anything-although he really would have liked to play a little roulette. As a bonus, our last breakfast in Vegas was at Terrible's on Paradise Road near Flamingo. We had a coupon for a free breakfast buffet when you join the Player's Club. We were nervous, but it turned out to be a great buffet with classic Vegas prices ($4.99 for breakfast)! The boys enjoyed it as well.
So, now we're on to figuring out what our next move will be. Jersey is still home for the foreseeable future.

6 Days Left

2006-11-27T16:46:00.000-08:00

...and William has the beginnings of an ear infection! Luckily, we got in to see the other doctor in the practice today. I told her I thought it was teething, but since we're flying in 6 days, I wasn't taking any chances. She checked him over and said his ear was red and possibly slightly infected, so she blackberried in a script for antibiotics. She said he'd be okay to fly. The doll that she is also said to call her on Friday and she'd send in the one for the ear numbing drops! Victory is mine!

I'm praying to have a nice picture of the boys to post after our trip, but until then...

Bobby Evan William

Their His Kids!

2006-11-26T16:25:00.000-08:00

We've all read and heard the stories of the scary fertility clinic mix-ups. Honestly, I've never really been too unsure that weren't among those families. They have always shown signs of being Bruce's babies (hard heads and all). Today, though, sealed the proverbial deal!

Bruce and I drove 1 1/2 hours south to the Naval Air Station Wildwood Air Museum to donate some of his aviation books. As we arrived, the boys got more and more excited! They ran around the inside of the hangar touching and trying to climb into all of the planes and helicopters-even correcting me when there was a "jet" instead of a run of the mill plane. Not too much damage was done to the place, and while Bruce and I are a little tired after chasing them around (we didn't break out the strollers as they had been cooped up for the hour and a half), we're still pleased with both their behavior and their apparent like of airplanes. Let's just hope that keeps up after our flight.

Speaking of our flight, let me just rant a little that our pediatrician will NOT write a script for prescription ear numbing drops just in case they need them. She says that they don't need them. I say I don't want my babies in pain in case they do need them. She says she'll give them drops for an ear infection-WTF!! Argh!

9 Days and Counting

2006-11-24T17:01:00.000-08:00

Yep, we're into the single digits now, folks! We have our realtor meeting us only certain days, and now I just have to book the rental car. I'm not sure how the boys are feeling about the trip, but I'm keeping them updated on the countdown. Just in case they forget, every time I see a plane I tell them that we are going bye-byes on an airplane very soon.

Black Friday worked out nicely for them. I just want to know where the hell the other people were! Value City was selling a train table for $49.99, and there were plenty of them! The highways were empty, and except for the check out line in Kohl's, there wasn't much of a crowd. Mom says that she thinks my aunt was helping out a bit!

Other than that, Thanksgiving was nice and quiet. The boys got to spend some time with their Great Grandmother as well as the beloved Na-Na and Pop. They enjoyed Na-Na's good cooking, too.

Good News and Bad News

2006-11-20T16:38:00.000-08:00

First, the Happy News!! Friends of ours have just adopted and brought home their new son-6 month old Jorgie!!! They have been a brother and sister in proverbial arms for the better part of 20 years. They have also announced they are adopting their son’s sister very soon!

Onto the sad news, another fertility battling sister has gotten another negative beta test. We hope that she finds strength to keep going (if that’s what they choose).

In other news, the boys are doing great! We have a little parrot in Evan, and Bobby is starting to use 2 word phrases. William is counting nicely and knows his colors.

Humping

2006-11-10T20:31:00.000-08:00

When I was in college, I had a sociology class with a crazy professor. He would only refer to people by their last names (I had the honor of the title Miss before my last name because there was an unrelated Mister in the class and because the professor said that assigning us numbers as in Smith 1 & 2 could give one of us a complex). He also told us that the people sitting in the first row would get A’s, the second row B’s, the third row C’s, and not to sit beyond the third row. The Mister sat way in the back, I sat in the front and got an A, I can only imagine… This crazy professor taught us that there are rules to social interaction. The one rule he never taught us was that a wife should never go about humping her husband’s friends.

Now that I’ve gotten your complete attention…. I came to the realization today that I don’t get to socialize enough. We stopped at the hobby shop Bruce works at every other Saturday to drop off some books for our friend/the owner’s son. As Bruce was inside, I noticed two familiar faces (who I will call Mr. Noodle and Mr. Noodle’s brother, Mr. Noodle (or N1 & N2)). I adore the Brothers Noodle. They are simply just great guys! That said, when I saw them I practically leaped through the open car window. I couldn’t get the door open fast enough. I was like a dog that gets excited to see people and stopped just short of humping their legs. And, I sadly admit, I probably had that same crazed look in my eyes as said dog.

Here I am, 20 months into the boys’ lives and I’m back to being like a dog again. When I was pregnant with them, I often said I felt like a dog given my heightened sense of smell. It was the strangest thing having my nose lead me around. More than once it lead me to strangers tables at a restaurant. Now, here I am leaping out of windows just for a few moments of conversation.

Hooray for Sesame Street

2006-11-08T16:11:00.000-08:00

I've always thought that Sesame Street was a great children's show, and I never agreed with the critics that said it was too fast paced. Think of the target audience, people! And now that I've stepped down from my small soap box, I let out a cheer for the show. Yesterday and today featured a story line that has Gina, a single woman, adopting a baby from Guatamala. She sang such a beautiful song this morning about being the baby's mommy now. After battling with infertility and wondering if adoption was going to be the way that we would have a family and after following the struggles of my online buddy, Shelly, the story touched me. Sesame Street has also begun to tiptoe around gay and lesbian families during Elmo's World. For that, I also applaud them. Three Cheers: Hip, Hip Hooray!Hip, Hip Hooray!Hip, Hip Hooray!

In other news, my parents and I took the boys to Popcorn Park Zoo yesterday. As they are now animal nuts, they had an even better time than they did in June when Bruce and I took them. Being a little older didn't hurt any either. Evan and Bobby fed popcorn to sheep, goats and deer. William decided it wasn't a good idea, but he loved sanitizing his hands along with his brothers!

4 Weeks and Counting

2006-11-05T16:38:00.000-08:00

As of today, we are 4 weeks from our trip to Vegas!! I'm getting really excited as we are now starting to consider new homes. By we I really mean me, but I digress. I'm now toying with taking them to Disney Land. Then again, I'm always toying with the idea of taking them to a Disney park! Evan, though, has become such a HUGE Mickey Mouse fan, that it's near impossible for me to not take them. In fact, Mom bought them all Mickey Mouse dolls at the Disney Store on Halloween, and all Evan has been saying is, "Mickey, Mickey, Mick." For several days he wouldn't be without it!

Halloween went by fairly unremarkable. The boys weren't really dressed up because they had been sick, and I wasn't going to buy costumes for a quick trip to the mall which is where we ended up. I had nothing Halloween to dress in-not even anything orange, but Mom came dressed in a Halloween sweatshirt. Honestly, I felt like a really sucky Mommy.

Here are some new things. I have been taking the boys to a story time at the library. They seem to really like it. Evan loves the books and takes tons off the shelves (eek!). It's the sheer excitement of the place. It thrills me. I had been trying to put the books back, but Evan's godfather (a librarian) has informed me that most librarians would rather that you not put the books back. Now I can leave them out without the guilt, and it also leaves me time to chase Bobby who loves to wander around the library meeting people and going where he shouldn't (like behind the circulation desk).

Gluttons for Punishment Redux

2006-10-19T16:09:00.000-07:00

Again, because we aren't crazy enough, Bruce and I have planned another outing with the boys (and my mother) to wonderful Las Vegas!! There will be some house hunting involved for sure. I'm really excited and nervous all at the same time. I have faith that things will smooth out relatively quickly as we already have cribs and highchairs set aside for the boys, and my parents' timeshare (right on the Strip) is equipt with a full kitchen. We'll be able to eat in most times to save $.

So, here is my plea: I am looking for any and all tips from you kind people for travelling with toddlers on long trips. We'll try almost anything (we're not ruling out a trip to the bar (just kidding-well, maybe for us)).

As a side note, the boys have all essentially disqualified themselves from EI services! Our DI therapist, though, is going to recommend services continue for Will who just isn't as talkative as his brothers. The real big news on that front is that they all score at 28 months for social/emotional skills!! Yay Boys!!

I'm Back!

2006-10-16T16:25:00.000-07:00

Hello Faithful Readers!
Sorry I’ve not been posting lately. The boys have been sick, and I’ve been tired and all around fed up with everything. I’m feeling a little more normal now, and the boys are healthy (yay!).
Today, Evan and William had wonderful sessions with Cindy! They said lots of new words. Evan came out with “shampoo”! We even had some singing along. Cindy is “worried” about testing them on Thursday. She’s thinking they may not qualify for EI anymore.
Bobby has already been evaluated by his PT, Dana, and he no longer qualifies for her services. We’ll miss Dana!
In other news, we’re starting to get ready for the BIG move to Nevada. We’re pre-qualified for a mortgage, we’ve had market evaluations on our house, and we’re working with a realtor out there. Dad actually spoke with another realtor today who may be even better to deal with. It’s very exciting.
We’ll of course miss our friends, but they can always visit (HINT). I think the move will be good for all of us. Bobby will be able to get a head start on his cowboy career. Bruce and I will hopefully get rid of the sinus problems we’ve been having over the last few years. A different life pace can’t hurt any either.So, there it is minus the one issue that I cannot discuss.

Our Trip to Thomas

2006-09-21T17:07:00.000-07:00

I just have to say that I have amazing kids! Okay, it’s a mother’s pride here, but I do have great kids! Our boys are always complimented on their behavior, and our trip to see Thomas the Tank Engine again was certainly no exception. They sat so nicely in the car for almost 2 ½ hours with several stops along the way. We stopped about 30 minutes away from the railroad at a McDonald’s to let them stretch their legs. They ran around in the outdoor play area for a little while, and then willingly with no fuss went inside with us to eat. People were amazed that after being in a car seat for so long, they still sat so nicely!

After a little indecision on my part whether or not to stop at our hotel first, we decided to go to the rail yard first. We got there just as Thomas was pulling into the station for the train 1 hour before ours. The ladies at the ticket booth said that since it wasn’t crowded we could ride right away. So, we jumped onto Thomas for our ride. It gave us a chance to explore the grounds after our trip instead of trying to squeeze things in. They seemed to enjoy the ride.

After our “ride on the rails”, we headed to the front of the train to get our picture taken with Thomas. The boys were a little busy looking at Thomas so close to really pose nicely, but we still got an okay picture with our camera. Then we were off to the exhibits where they were really a hit! The boys enjoyed playing on the train tables that were set up, and thought that the hay used to create a hay maze was hysterical. All the adults in the tent were enjoying the sound of their squeals of laughter!

So, that was pretty much it. We stayed at a very nice Best Western (with a not so great restaurant service wise-food was good though), and the boys had a great night’s sleep. We headed back for home late Wednesday to make it back for Bobby’s Physical Therapy session. All in all, Bruce and I were very proud and made sure to tell them so.

Gluttons for Punishment

2006-09-18T16:34:00.000-07:00

I’m just starting off by saying this has been a very difficult week. Yes, I had full intentions of blogging about 9/11 (don’t worry I have comments), but then the boys and I got sick. We’ve been battling runny noses and slight coughs and fevers. They’ve also been teething again. Thank God Evan’s almost done. I shouldn’t complain about him or Bobby though. We never know they’re teething until an extra tooth shows up. Actually, I shouldn’t complain about any of the boys. They are really so good and so sweet most times. Even while uncomfortable, they’ve still been very loving and usually happy.

Now onto 9/11. Since most of you don’t know, my Aunt Donna was murdered on 9/11 along with the other 3000+ people. I loved her almost as another mother. She was a wonderful aunt, a good friend, and a fellow Maniloonatic. I’ve had my share of guilt and grief, and I have chosen to NOT be a part of most memorials because I have been victimized by the press. I have chosen to deal with my loss privately. That said, I am so tired of people ignoring my feelings and more tired of people asking questions like I have no feelings. Why would anyone ask anyone who has lost someone they loved deeply if body parts or pieces were ever located???????? Do I really appear to be that inhuman and unfeeling? No, this hasn’t happened once. After I have told people that my Aunt Donna was murdered in the attacks and after I have mentioned my deep connection with her, several people have asked about pieces or parts! I am insensed. For the curious, no they have never recovered pieces or parts. We have chosen to believe that she was at or near her desk when the plane hit in that general area. We choose to believe that her death was instantaneous and have fairly good reason to.

On a more positive note, I will never forget the kindness of all the Red Cross volunteers I came in contact with both shortly after the attack and several months later at the Family Assistance Center. They were amazing to say the least. I will also never forget the outpouring of love sent electronically from around the world (with a special remembrance for an email sent from Turkey offering hope that a victim could be found alive after more than a week). Also, a special Thank You to Don who literally picked me up off the floor when we heard the Towers fall in his office listening to Imus. And, I cannot forget Modeldad (Steve) for offering a home if I needed to get away. For those of you who were with us that night and the following days and all of you who to our surprise crowded the funeral home, you will be in my heart always.

Okay. I’m done. Back to baby stuff. Bobby is now a whopping 20 pounds, 1 ounce. William is 22 pounds, 3 ounces. Evan is 23 pounds, 8 ounces. They are doing very well. The pediatrician is very happy with their growth and progress. We have decided to take the boys back to see Thomas tomorrow. They loved their ride last time, so I’m sure it’ll be fun again! Tune in again on Wednesday for the Thomas the Tank Engine update!

Bobby and His Women!

2006-09-10T16:13:00.000-07:00

Bobby has a thing for older women. If they are asian, all the better. He started his first "love affair" just before they turned one with an asian girl who works at the local China Buffet. Every time he saw her, he would practically dive into her arms and not want to come back to us! Again, it happened today, but with a different girl. He saw this girl, dove out of Bruce's arms to her, hugged her and blew her kisses. He's a little casanova!

By the way, Happy Grandparent's Day to all the grandparents out there!!

Cute Baby Moment

2006-09-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

Bobby is and has always been quite a little character. Bruce reminded me to add this to today after I had already done the posting. It was too cute not to do.

All on his own, as Bobby walked onto our porch from the house he lifted his arms above his head like a gymnast who has completed a flawless routine and said, "Ta Da!" A person could get weak with cuteness like that.

"Seal" of Approval

2006-09-06T16:46:00.000-07:00

Today, Mom and I took the boys to Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant, NJ. At first, we balked at the $9.00 admission fee per adult (under 2 is free), but then felt better when we were told it was good for all day admission. We had just missed penguin feeding. That was really disappointing because when Elmo was thinking about penguins, the boys were so excited.

When we got to the first tank of colorful tropical fish, we knew we were in for a nice time. Bobby was trying to leap out of the stroller, and Evan was standing up as much as he could in the next seat. William was very happy, too. Everyone loved the “blue” fish. They weren’t initially happy with the next tank of HUGE native fish. I think some of them were bigger than me! Soon though, Bobby was calling for the fish to come “down.” They also really enjoyed the sharks. However, when we went back after lunch, they were really upset by the commotion of feeding time in the tank.

Unfortunately, they never did get to see the penguins. They are set up pretty high-too high for the stroller bound-behind dark glass. We did take them up to the second level where there is a touch tank, a marmoset, two birds, a few more tanks, and the upper levels of the seal and shark tanks. Mom and I were brave! We took them up without strollers! The boys climbed up beautifully with William using the railing!

We washed all of our hands per instructions. The boys all touched a snail and a sea star (formerly known as a starfish). They weren’t all that impressed. Then, they spotted the seals sitting on the ledge of the tank and got so happy! They all ran over and blew kisses with many waves hello. William began laughing and running all over the place! He was exploring. Bobby also enjoyed exploring. Evan enjoyed finding a place where his brothers weren’t so that they were in three places with only Mommy and Na Na to catch them!

Overall, it was a nice day. I have to add that food was pricey, but it was fresh. They also got to try mac and cheese bites (deep fried triangles of mac and cheese-yum!) which was a nice change. Of course, I also bought chicken nuggets. We’re planning to go back as well as planning a trip to the New Jersey State Aquarium in Camden.

Rudeness Dignified

2006-09-05T16:08:00.000-07:00

We live in a relatively upscale town. Our neighborhood is fairly low key and is working middle class-ish (although McMansions are creeping in). That said, there are some extremely very rich people in town.

Mom and I took the boys to a local market today famous for its apple cider donuts (YUM!). Mom was pushing the twin stroller and I had the single. A woman walked up to her and asked if they were twins. She told the woman that they were triplets. The response was, "Are they yours?" Mom was a visibly happy that someone thought she could be their mom. Actually, my Mom is young looking, and since women are having babies older now, it's not much of a stretch. I piped up that they were my sons. The woman looked at me and fumbled, "How did you.... Uh, are they...uh...Are they...uh...Was it....ummmm?" Even though I swore I would answer back smartly the next time, I felt bad for her. I told her we were blessed with our boys through IVF, quickly ended the conversation and walked away.

What in the hell is it with people?!?!?!?! Not even Mom is safe from rudeness that generally abounds. With her standing right next to me, people will ask if I have "any help at all." Ack! I'm now in the process of trying to come up with smart ass answers for these people! A Canadian friend with triplets has suggested a response of, "Do you masterbate?" when people ask if the boys are natural followed up with, "Because that's how personal what you are asking is." I'm thinking this would kill my mother. So, for her sake, I'm ready with, "No, they are a poly cottom blend."

Labor Day

2006-09-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

In honor of yesterday, Labor Day for future viewers, I began to think of the labors of Motherhood. Many of our jobs are done uncomplaining and full of love (like reading the same book over and over and over). But motherhood has done some things to me on top of doing things for me (like bringing me the immense joy of having the boys and getting their hugs and kisses). Motherhood has really screwed me up!

Sure, from time-to-time I would get teary at a sad part of a movie or show. Now if a puppy so much as appears on the screen I’m in desperate need of a tissue box! I was so moved by a young boy on the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon that I couldn’t even see the screen any more! However, figuring that you might expect that level of emotion because such a precious child has such a debilitating disease, I’ll go on. I cry when they hug or kiss each other. I cry when they are nice to each other. I cry when I even think of their little faces when we take them to Disney World the first time! We haven’t even planned a trip!! I was near hysterics when we took them to see Thomas in June seeing them see Thomas. Not only am I teary, but I’ve lost my functional brain.

I used to have conversations with people that had absolutely nothing to do with babies. I could converse at length about Historic Preservation Laws and how they affect the siting of cellular antennas. I could give presentations on it or tutor the new people on the client side. There were even conference calls when I could take on a pretty intimidating lawyer. Now, nursery rhymes and toddler tv theme songs are in my head. I can discuss at length exactly why I thought Big Bird was selfish when he didn’t want Allen to go on vacation to Hawaii. I almost know the Doodlebop pledge. I tutor the boys’ Developmental Interventionist on Raffi riffs.

But, you know, I would not trade it for the world!

Well, maybe on the really cranky days I’d pay you to take them…….

My Brain Washed Babies

2006-09-03T15:55:00.000-07:00

Bruce was hoping against hope that their first word would be, "Spitfire." I tried and tried to explain to him that "Spitfire" was a little difficult for a baby to say, but he held on to his dream until they said, "da da."

Not to be outdone, I believe that he has been secretly brainwashing them with airplanes whenever I'm not looking-and sometimes when I am. He has them so hooked that every morning when he gets them from their cribs, they point up at the Spitfires in their room, wave and blow them kisses.

A Dentist's Dream

2006-09-01T16:15:00.000-07:00

Did you ever know of a kid who got angry when they were told to stop brushing their teeth? I know three! Yes, our Evan, Bobby and Will actually get mad at us when we take away their toothbrushes!
In other news, we tried to get their 18-month-old pictures taken today once again at the Picture People. This time we made an appointment. The boys did not cooperate. The pictures came out looking like we had three very sad little boys. Needless to say, we didn’t buy any pictures, and we are going to try again another time.

I Think I'm Turning Japanese

2006-08-30T16:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my Mom and I made a vain attempt to take the boys to have their 18-month-old pictures taken. JC Penny’s was too crowded (and I previously vowed to never, ever go back to them for pictures again). Picture People, which take the best pictures of the boys, told me their next appointment was at four. It was almost noon and the studio was EMPTY. Grrrrrr! So, we walked around a bit trying to figure what to eat. When we got to the food court, I suggested grabbing a few free samples. We stopped at the Japanese place handing out samples of chicken teriyaki. The boys gobbled it down, and William was demanding by signing and speaking “more.”

My parents and I have always loved Japanese food. Bruce is so-so about it. Plus, the Atkins diet isn’t ideal for hibachi (he doesn’t eat sushi either). Mom thought the boys would find it fun to watch the chef make their lunch. I was worried they would be frightened by both the man and the noise.

Unfortunately, I was right. Still, we got through it. Thank God he didn’t have the lighter to make the onion volcano! The boys enjoyed the food all in all. Bobby enjoyed grabbing rice and veggies from my plate. They all ate some salad, shrimp, chicken, steak, lo mein, fried rice and veggies. Will and Bob had some of my soup until William spilled the bowl on me. I was grateful that it wasn’t still boiling. Evan enjoyed watching food hit the floor.

Well, you live and you learn and then you eat a very fast Japanese lunch!

Too Early!

2006-08-27T23:07:00.000-07:00

It’s 1:30 in the morning. The boys and I have been up for at least a half an hour. Will woke up crying and somehow woke his brothers. After the third time going in to settle them, I made them some bottles and turned on their lullabies. Lying in bed, I began to write this blog entry in my head. It would not go away, so I had to write. I think I’m addicted.

I also started thinking about Deadwood (the HBO show, not the actual town at first). Then my non-awake brain started to wonder how the writers knew what the people’s conversations were so accurately! Ack! It took a good fifteen minutes for my brain to focus enough to realize that although the show is based on history, it is actually fiction and that 99.99% of the dialogue is made up. It’s a little scary that this isn’t the first time something like this has happened.

A few months ago while watching a news magazine like Dateline or one of the others, they showed the town of Mankato. I immediately thought of Little House on the Prairie and said to myself, “Wow! That place has really changed.” My next though was, “Well, it should after all this time.” Hello! TV set!!!

They aren’t asleep yet. I hear a crib being shaken. I’m starting to wonder if it will be one of those days when their therapist Cindy is amazed at how functional I can appear with little sleep. I have told her in the past that I have no choice. Stupidly, I don’t nap when they do. I eat or watch my soap, but I never nap. Bruce is up now, too. Evan won’t settle even with the bottle and neither will Bobby. Evan is now reading to Stitch. Bobby is talking to his teddy bear. I’m wide awake and I’m sure Bruce is wishing I would stop typing and shut off the computer. He gets back to sleep so easily. With them still fussing, I can’t. I’ve almost fallen down the stairs too many times going into them half asleep (like tonight). Here’s hoping they get back to sleep soon!

A Proud Day

2006-08-27T16:28:00.000-07:00

It was a good day all around! They woke up in good moods, played together nicely before Thomas and breakfast, watched Thomas, ate most of their breakfast, played on the porch, took a bath and just before 10 took a nap. That gave me enough time to eat a little something, take a shower and put together an outfit for our day out. I felt new! I hardly get a chance to do one of those things, never mind all three! Woo Hoo!

I woke Bruce and the boys at 11:15. I was a little worried about being late for our brunch with friends from the gym at noon. Actually, I was a little worried about brunch. The boys are generally very good, but toddlers can be so unpredictable. They looked too cute in their khaki pants (compliments of Na Na and Pop) and green shirts with yellow pineapples (compliments of their “Aunt” Tina). We actually made it at exactly noon.

I was very excited. Not only did I have a chance to see everyone, but we were having brunch at the officer’s club where my high school held all its special events and where I led in the color guard the night they held a dinner in honor of the Battleship New Jersey’s retirement. I had warm and fuzzies.

The boys were very good. Bobby and Evan ate pretty well, and while Will didn’t eat that well, he was pretty decent in his behavior. He also said a new word, “cut.” We all had a chance to eat and socialize, and the boys loved the attention. We were there for two hours! I was thrilled when an older woman came over to where my mother and I were standing with one of the boys and complimented their behavior. I thanked her. Later, as I was getting our van, another woman in her party made the same comment. Bruce and I were very proud and told the boys so.

After brunch, we took the boys to Costco to buy our weekly 6 gallons of milk. Again, they were wonderful. As we were walking, we met a mom who has 15-year-old triplets. We exchanged pleasantries for a while. The whole time the boys were all smiles and friendliness. They then chowed down on the samples! Isn’t that the best thing about Costco? They tried an energy drink, peanut clusters, chocolate chip cookies, rice crisps and granola bars. They wanted to try some salad, but it looked messy and old. Again, we were proud and told them so.

When we got home, they had a bottle of milk and watched two Baby Einstein animal videos. They laughed hysterically at the puppy puppet on the Neighborhood Animals video. We ended the evening as we usually do with tunnel time and some books. Since they didn’t have an afternoon nap, they fell asleep almost instantly after their nighttime story. I really couldn’t have asked for a much better day!

CowBobby

2006-08-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

Bruce and I took the boys to Point Pleasant tonight. They were having an event called “Lots for Tots.” They were doing video ID’s as well as pony rides, a petting zoo and a children’s concert. After we got them videoed and fed them, we brought them to the ponies.

All three of them rode ponies at Monmouth Race Track a few weeks ago, and Evan and Bobby rode ponies last week at the town fair. Only Bobby would go tonight. He went willingly without Bruce or me. Bruce told the handler that Bobby took horsemanship seriously. He truly does. He sits up straight on the pony, holds onto the pommel with one hand and lets the other hand hang at his side like he’s too cool and has done this his whole life. Tonight he held on and pointed things out to the handler with his serious work face on. It’s too cute.

After Bobby’s ride, we walked towards the petting zoo. Evan was interested but the line was huge, so I had him touch the lamb, bunny and calf through the fencing. It worked well enough for him.

18 Months Ago Today...

2006-08-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

I believe I left off the night before they were born….

It was a fitfull night’s sleep. The monitor kept slipping off Bobby’s side (he was on a down-slope), and the nurses and residents kept coming in to fix it. Somewhere around 5 am, the resident came in to tell me that the babies were to be born shortly. They hadn’t seen any improvement in Bobby’s condition overnight. I called my parents as promised. My mother said they’d be at the hospital for 7. I told her that the babies would be at least an hour old by then, but that it would be fine. They must have jumped out of bed and flew to the hospital.

Bruce got ready in his spiffy gown. I started what I termed “labor shakes.” I don’t even know if there is such a phenomenon. I’m sure it was some sort of adrenaline rush. Still, I felt completely calm and at ease. I somehow knew that things would be fine. The doctors and nurses soon began rushing around. I gave Bruce a quick kiss as they wheeled me away.

The operating room was chilly and very bright and white. Someone sat me up. They told me to hold onto a rickety looking equipment tray. The anesthesiologist told me to hold still. Easier said than done there, Mister Man! The doctor barked, “Get the spinal block in or knock her out NOW!” It was then I worried a little. Had I been knocked out Bruce would not be allowed in. I was so worried he would miss seeing the babies he had wanted for so long being born. The spinal block was inserted thankfully. Before I knew it, someone asked where the father was, and then I heard Evan cry. 5:54 am. Bruce got to my side as Bobby was pulled out screaming. 5:55 am. Bruce commented that they had good strong cries and that it had to be a good sign. William was pulled out last crying. He was rushed out of the room. 5:56 am. They were all out. I heard their cries as the doctor began sewing. There were no words. I longed to her them talk about something inane-their golf games, their new BMW’s, the show they saw in NYC last week. They seemed too serious for nothing wrong with me.

The nurses brought Evan over. I studied him. They told me there was no time. I told him we loved him and that his Daddy would be with him soon. Then they brought Bobby over. I again had no time to absorb how tiny he was at just 12 inches long and 2 pounds 4.5 ounces. I told him the same thing I told Evan. William was not going to be brought to me. They said that the room had been too small to have all three babies in and that he was fine. I wanted Bruce to go with them. I was encouraged to have Bruce stay with me since he’d be in the way while they were being settled in.

Finally, the doctor told me that they “hated” me because I had lost about 30 pounds on the table and looked about ready to get into skinny jeans right then. I was happy and doped up with morphine. Everything seemed fine. As I lay in recovery with my parents (Bruce was running back and forth between me and the babies calling everyone he ever knew to announce their birth), I even talked to several people on the phone. I felt great! Morphine can be a great thing. My parents said that they saw the boys being wheeled into the NICU from the operating room. I was touched that the teams stopped briefly so that they could see their grandsons.

So our life with triplets began. I learned so much about medicine and about me in the next 8 weeks until we got Bobby home. I didn’t realize that I had it in me to make major medical decisions and to sometimes literally fight for my boys. Mostly, their stay was great in terms of the level of care they got. The nurses who took care of them were the best. I mean that whole-heartedly.

Now onto cute stuff! Today, Will and Evan were up earlier than Bob-not the norm. Every time Will or Evan heard a noise coming from upstairs, they would walk over to me and say, “Bob” pointing to the stairs. At one point, Will even called up the stairs something that sounded like, “I’m coming.” Then, he practically dragged me to the stairs, pointed up and said, “Bob!” He was still for all intents and purposes asleep. Needless to say, they were happy to see Bob this morning and included him in their play as soon as he was ready.

The Eve of Their Birth

2006-08-21T16:36:00.000-07:00

Today is one of those days when I need to be reminded about the blessings of motherhood. I’m tired, I’m aggravated, I’m stressed! They were continually underfoot or defiant today. However, there were moments of pure sweetness from my babies.

This afternoon we were outside and the boys were all playing together with their climber. All of a sudden, there was a big brother love fest! They were all kisses to each other. Then, Bobby, who said “bark” as in the bark on a tree for the first time today, made two pieces of bark kiss. It’s moments like that when I think that we must be doing something right to have such loving children.

Anyway, as I promised Bruce (and you for that matter), I figured I’d begin the story of their birthday today since the action began 18 months ago today. It was President’s Day. Mom and Dad had the day off from work but Bruce didn’t. I had a doctor’s appointment scheduled, and Mom and Dad came with me to see the babies. It was something they often did. So, off we went, a camera in their hands and my pregnancy wedges in mine. As a side note, the wedges were wonderful for both sleeping and ultrasounds. They really helped the nausea I would feel after laying flat for a while.

The ultrasound was taking an unusually long time, but then again all those measurements took a while if the boys were uncooperative. At some point, the tech left the room. Mom broke out the camera. My head practically spun as I directed her to NOT take a picture of my face only my tummy. I was indeed feeling queasy. A doctor I didn’t know entered the room. This wasn’t unusual as the group was very large. She announced that the babies were going to be delivered because Baby B- “Bobby” I interrupted- was “shunting” or bringing all his blood away from his vital organs to his brain. I asked if I could use the bathroom. I had to pee in the worst way. Everyone looked at me as if I was losing my mind.

On the way over to the hospital just over a walkway, I asked if we could just deliver Bobby. They said no. I still don’t quite understand why, but fine. Dad just kept saying, “I can’t be having babies today! I’m just here for an ultrasound!” Those were his exact words. I called Bruce at work to tell him the babies were going to be delivered that night, the next day or by Wednesday at the latest. He was on his way. Everyone kept asking if I was okay. I felt surprisingly calm. I was, I thought, prepared for my little preemie babies to be born 10 weeks early. After all, I spoke to the mother of a preemie several times, and she told me what to expect. I read as much as I could. I was ready.

When we got to the labor and delivery wing, they hooked me up to monitors to watch the babies. It turned out that I was having contractions but thankfully didn’t feel them. After the nurse had to come in twice to help me use the bedpan, they catheterized me. It ticked me off because I constantly felt like I had to pee then. Some flunkie came in to “check” me. I told them before they did that I wasn’t dilated, but what did I know? They weren’t satisfied until I informed them that they were touching my tonsils from the inside when they proudly pronounced that…I wasn’t dilated at all! I also got my first steroid shot. It hurt like hell! I winced trying to be brave for my already very nervous father. He left the room to get something, and I confided in my mother that it burned badly. Still, I hoped to be able to have at least one more for the sake of the babies.

It was getting late; I had signed every consent form imaginable, some three times. There were forms to admit the boys to the hospital, to treat them, to have my tubes tied, to perform an emergency hysterectomy, and then there was my living will to contend with. My parents were getting more and more nervous. I found it more and more ridiculous. Each time they came in, there was an “oops, we forgot” form to fill out, and each time there was something more grave that they had to say. Each person told us different odds of baby survival, and as the night wore on the numbers got lower. I sent my parents home promising to call them the instant we knew the babies would be delivered.
To Be Continued tomorrow.

Dedicated to my FF pals

2006-08-20T17:03:00.000-07:00

Coming up on the boys’ 18 month birthday, I found myself thinking about the whole process of having them. I kept remembering how painful the journey was at times, and how the only people who seemed to understand were my online Fertility Friend buddies. I felt broken at times, and I know that when I tell you that they did too that I’m not breaking any unspoken confidences. They honestly kept me sane, and for that I will never, never forget those amazing women-some of whom are still on their journey.

If you never dealt with infertility as one in every four couples does, then this post is for you more than those of us who have. Maybe it will help clarify things, or maybe it will stop just one person from saying, “It’ll happen when you stop trying.” Please keep in mind that everyone’s experience is different and that treatments depending on the medical reason for the fertility issue(s) are different. Bruce and I went through a relatively short process.

I had to go for blood work and an internal ultrasound at least twice a month. I can still clearly remember seeing a woman get called in to have her blood taken and greeting the tech by name. I assumed that would not be me. I wondered how long she had been going there to have such familiarity with him. A few cycles later, he and I were indeed on a first name basis. I actually found it funny in a weird way. I ended up having so much blood work done that my arm looked like I imagine an IV drug user’s arm might, and I bore a mark of dubious honor-a constant bruise. It was a symbol of what I was going through-at least outwardly.

We started with a drug called Clomid, which basically gets a woman to ovulate (sometimes more than one egg). My little ovaries went into production and would pop quite a few of those little suckers. That was two cycles. Then we went into the inseminations. They lasted three cycles with two cancelled cycles. The fun part of the insemination cycles was a lovely injection in my stomach! The first one was done in the doctor’s office. The next two were done at home-by Bruce. Remember that I mentioned he’s not a doctor, nurse, or anything medical like that? He was so good though. He always worried that he was hurting me. Those shots burned.

After six cycles on Clomid, apparently you cannot use it anymore. So, we were introduced to the next step-injectible drugs! We got to go to a “class” for these injections. The nurse told us that there weren’t many spots to do some of these, and that the best was on the upper outer thigh. I still got to have stomach injections, too, but those didn’t hurt at all. The thigh shots caused so much pain and bruising that I began to have trouble walking and sitting. I lied to curious co-workers that I had injured my back. I felt bad, but it was such a personal thing at the time that only those who were true friends knew about it.

Unfortunately and fortunately, my body went into hyper-drive and produced 18 eggs. I got a call in work telling me that I had about 15 minutes to decide whether to cancel the cycle or to turn it into an in vitro cycle. Bruce and I discussed it as thoroughly as we could in 15 minutes and decided that if we could put the “down payment” on our credit card, then we’d go for it. Turns out you can pay for your kids on time, folks, so in vitro was what we did.

The next day I was at the doctor’s office. I was placed in a chair that can spread your legs a full 180 degrees. It looks like something that they’d use in a torture chamber complete with arm straps! I was knocked unconscious, the eggs were “harvested,” and I was sent on my way. Then they were mixed with Bruce’s donation and left to grow. We were told that 10 eggs were harvested and that 8 survived the long three day wait. That left us only one more decision-how many to put back. In an earlier discussion, the doctor said that they do one per decade of life. I was 29-was it to be 2 or 3. He left it up to me after offering the following: by putting 3 back I would increase my chances of having a baby by 40%, there would be an elevated chance of twins, and there was a 1% chance of triplets. I went with three. Obviously, you know what happened.

At first, I was in shock. I said, “I can’t have triplets! I don’t have enough of anything! I have two arms, two legs and only two breasts!!!” I calmed down soon enough and basked in the pregnancy knowing that it was a true blessing. I loved carrying the boys! I loved feeling them move! I loved talking to them and planning things and rubbing my growing belly. I loved maternity clothes-bring on the bows! I hated people’s stupid comments. I still hate people’s stupid comments.

So, in closing, please remember that each person has his or her own unique and special journey in life. There are tremendous gifts that come along with sometimes tremendous sorrows. When offering comments like, “It’ll happen when you stop trying or worrying/thinking about it?” trivializes the sadness and loss that the couple is dealing with. What can you say? I’ll offer this: “I’m here if you want to talk about it.” Please just listen.

A Broken Family

2006-08-17T19:03:00.000-07:00

I’m hoping that we are all finished breaking ourselves! Last week Bruce re-injured his back saving Bobby from falling down the stairs. Bobby apparently had attempted to dive down the stairs, and Bruce went through several motions that would make any contemporary dancer jealous. Since he’s no spring chicken, this caused his back to go out of alignment.

William decided that he hadn’t caused too much chaos lately, so he hurt his foot. He had followed Bruce to the door and attempted to close it. When Bruce tried to stop him from crushing his fingers in the door, Will got angry and swung the door open catching the top of his left foot. It was a minor bloody that got two days of band-aids and anti-bacterial cream.

Bobby followed up two days later. He was walking along, tripped, and bit quite a little gash in the middle of his little tongue. It bled a short while but fairly quickly stopped. I called the doctor worried about infection. She told me to give him something cold and then give him Tylenol, which I had already done. It was just enough to make me feel ill.

Not to be outdone by his brothers, Evan tripped today and smashed his head on the toy box. It was very close to being a gash instead of a small bump and scrape. If it had, then we would have been in the hospital.

All are doing fine now. Of course, it wouldn’t be right if I didn’t do something, too. So, tonight while looking for my cell phone under the couch, I cut my hand on a piece of metal under the couch. It took a bit to try to act as if I had no cut, but I managed. Evan kept looking at the band-aid and saying, “boo.” I told him that Mommy had a boo boo just like him. He gave me a hug.

Our Trip to the Cape May Zoo

2006-08-15T16:29:00.000-07:00

The day started out pleasant enough. The boys woke up pleasantly, although Bruce probably could have slept a little longer than 4:30 with Bobby getting him up. Barney was a repeat and aggravatingly so was Sesame Street (re-airing yesterday’s new episode introducing the very cute Abby Cadabby). They didn’t eat breakfast very well, but I think they sensed that there was excitement surrounding our trip to the zoo.

Well, they started to nap on the way south, but then Will woke up after about an hour screaming. He screamed for almost an hour. I’ve surmised that it was because he didn’t want to be in his seat because the second I took him out he stopped crying. Too bad we had such a long way to go. We finally got to the zoo, gave a small donation and went on our way.

The Cape May Zoo and Park is quite large and nicely kept. On the way to the zoo we noted two playgrounds-a pre school and a “bigger” kid playground- both with a nice amount of mulch for padding. There is also a small gift shop and a food stand with standard amusement park fare (hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken nuggets, pizza, French fries, etc.) along with plenty of picnic tables. They even rent strollers and wheelchairs. The zoo was a little disappointing for us, though. It is clearly not set up for the stroller set. The boys had a hard time seeing the animals from their strollers. Most times, they would have had to be picked up. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t possible for us to do that. They are getting heavier and they never would have gotten back into their strollers; it was impossible to carry them through this rather large zoo. I’m really glad that admission was free.

The boys had a nice time playing in the pre-school playground. They each got their own swing, which almost never happens due to high volumes at most area parks and the lack of baby swings. They also played with the equipment. Bobby met a bigger boy while playing who jokingly blocked his way. Bobby shoved him and then climbed over him. Normally, I am not a fan of that kind of behavior, but it is so funny to see such a little guy be so tough and unintimidated.

I’m happy to report that the ride home was uneventful with only a minor fussing on Will’s part. When we got home they played outside for a while having another nice time before dinner. As a side note, they all drank from straws today! Apparently, this is a milestone sort of thing. They also enjoyed new juice bottles we bought them called “Tummy Ticklers.” They are spill proof reusable bottles featuring all different characters. We have Barney, BJ and Baby Bop from Barney and Friends and we also have Charlie Brown, Snoopy and Woodstock of Peanuts fame.

Get them started early

2006-08-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

I was always slightly spoiled, but never spoiled rotten. There’s a distinction to be made there. My mother definitely would not have allowed it. That being said, I never did housework. Mostly, it was due to a variety of craftiness. I figured out that if I “did it wrong” then I wouldn’t be allowed to do it at all. All I can say is that really taught me a lesson!! Actually, it did because I wound up being a less than worthy housekeeper. So, Bruce and I have sworn that the boys will have chores and will do housework. After all, what good is having three kids if you can’t put them to work? (WINK!) That being said, Evan loves to sweep. So, his grandparents bought him and his brothers brooms at the dollar store and cut them down to baby size. The boys really enjoy sweeping, and one of their new words is “broom.”

Now that I’m mentioning the boys talking, I have to say that Early Intervention is going quite well. Evan and Will get developmental intervention twice a week to work on their speech mostly as well as to get them caught up on the other skills. Bobby gets physical therapy once a week and developmental intervention once a week. They are all trying to talk a lot now. They love to point things out in books or stores or the park. Sometimes they repeat the names of things and sometimes they totally spontaneously identify something. William pointed to a blue truck in the mall parking lot the other day and said “da da.” When I acknowledged that it was a truck like Bruce’s, he responded with “boo” which is Will talk for blue. Bobby is starting to follow his brothers around. It’s something that I never thought I’d see considering how long it took him to even crawl. He’s catching up so nicely.

In other news, I’m taking the boys to the Cape May Zoo tomorrow along with my parents. It should be a nice day and the zoo is free! Evan especially loves animals. Will and Bob seemed to enjoy Popcorn Park Zoo when we took them in the beginning of July, so it’s not an “Evan” trip. I hope that I won’t be too wiped out tomorrow and I’ll be able to post something about it. I’m now off to pack up for it.

The next trips in our plans are to see an air show in Atlantic City (they’re flying over the boardwalk) and back to Thomas the Tank Engine in Strasburg, PA.

It's Crying Time Again....

2006-08-12T16:48:00.000-07:00

Picture it: 3:30 am, a quickly aging Italian mommy is awoken by the shrieks of her youngest being brought into her bedroom by her loving hubby (no flames for the hubby). William decided that he wanted to be awake and wanted ONLY me. It wasn’t quite as bad as Evan’s antics two nights ago when he insisted on sleeping across my throat. Bruce brought Will downstairs by 4 and got him to sleep after a little while. Unfortunately, it hurt Bruce’s back because Will did not want Bruce to lay down.

Anyway, I got to go out today sans babies! Woo Hoo! Mom picked me up this morning, we went out for a nice, leisurely breakfast at Turning Point, and then did some much needed/dreaded bra shopping for me. Due to a potentially mixed audience and knowing not too much has to be said to the ladies, I’ll just say I eventually bought something. This afternoon, though, we were treated to super cranky babies for unknown reasons.

Bruce wants me to write about the actual birth of the boys, their hospital stay and our crazy foray into opening our own company. I’m looking to do that maybe for their 18-month birthday next week.

Oh, Bobby is identifying up and down and doing a ton of “talking.” His walking is getting more and more steady, too! Will and Evan are practically running and are chatting away as well. I’m also happy to report that they can identify some colors now.

Finally, a Real Intro!

2006-08-10T17:10:00.000-07:00

Life with triplets is, in one word, crazy! We love it though, and we find ourselves daily amazed by our quickly growing up family.

For those who don’t really know us (this is a public blog after all), I’m the mommy of our now 17 month old triplet boys, Dana. I’m 31, and I used to have a fairly well functioning brain and a full time outside of the home job as a geologist. I met my husband, Bruce, while trying to get out of school for the day. I was a college junior, and Bruce was an actual living, breathing, working geologist putting in some wells that anyone interested could go and view. If you’re anything like me, you are picturing Jack and Jill and a brick circle that you can look down into. I walked onto a property covered in mud with a hole in the ground with mud coming out of it. Hmmmm…. Anyway, at that point, I told him that he was very impressive but I would never be a geologist (famous last words from the former President of the Geological Association of New Jersey). Fast forward a bunch of years to 2002 to make a long story short as they say. We got married that December.

Bruce and I had discussed having children. We had even discussed waiting a year to start “trying.” By May, “Baby Fever” hit me hard. Needless to say, that’s when the trying started. After about eight months with nothing happening, we visited a specialist and began the journey that apparently befalls 1 out of every 4 couples-infertility. The blood work, the ultrasounds, the drugs, the injections in my stomach, the injections in my thigh that caused me to limp and not be able to sit comfortably because of the bruising-they all added to the feeling of absurdity. I mean, I hated getting shots and blood work done, and there I was volunteering to do it several times a cycle! I really wasn’t all that sure about letting Bruce do the injections that we had to do. Don’t people normally go to school for stuff like that???? Oh, we went for a one hour class, but I kind of assume that people who give people injections normally spend a little more time on things like that.

Luckily for us, one in vitro cycle after 18 cycles of “trying” worked. About 10 days after my positive pregnancy test at the doctor’s office, we had our first baby ultrasound showing three sacks-one empty. Ten days later, all three were full. The boys were delivered by emergency C-Section at 30 weeks. Evan spent 5 weeks in the hospital. Will came home two weeks later, and Bobby joined us in our now over crowded home at 8 weeks old. It’s been a real experience to get us all to this point.

Evan is the oldest. He has been in the Terrible Twos from around 9 months old. He has full scale temper tantrums when he doesn’t get his way and bites. However, he can be so sweet and has the most adorable little laugh!

Bobby is the middle baby although he is the smallest in size. Don’t let his tiny stature fool you though, he is a real tough little customer. Bobby is our little chatterbox. He spoke first, and he started to move last!

William is the baby. He is a very sensitive little soul. He is also very confident in his cuteness! Will has the most beautiful little smile and a contagious laugh!

So, I will try to post more about them now later. Right now, it’s time for a little quiet with the Mr.

Our First Posting

2006-07-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've finally gotten the time to start my very own blog. I have to admit being inspired by another blogger/online buddy. For those of you who don't know us, my hubby and I have 3 boy triplets who are now almost 17 months old! Ack!!!
I've been kind of out of it lately, so this is more of a test post than anything else. I promise that I'll try to keep up and post as often as possible.