Jason and Lauren

Mum Mum

2012-01-31T13:08:00.000-08:00

Awhile ago, my children started to say Mumumumum.

I was ecstatic! Yes, they finally call for me!

For the longest time they would only say Dada. I would try to get them to say Mama but they would just stare back at me with a spaced out look in their eye.

I tried to convince Jason that they didn't say my name because I am always around...and hey, I should start going to the movies every night. Preferably around bedtime -slash- complete meltdown time at home. He didn't agree.

Well, my ecstatic feeling lasted only a day or two...I started to notice that they only said Mumumumum when they were hungry and they would stare at the pantry.

UGH...are you serious my children? You don't want me your Mama but a Japanese Rice Cracker snack shaped like a Oblong that tastes like Bananas.

Yep!

Don't worry they can say Mama but they don't say it very often.

See...Mum Mum in hand.

And I swear this child isn't homeless!

The poor child was born with my exact hair...thin and fine.

On top of that he also inherited my crazy cow-licks.

Jason's 30th Birthday Party

2012-01-30T09:12:00.000-08:00

Jason shares his Birthday with his nephew Cole, they are a day apart. On Saturday we celebrated Cole's birthday by going swimming at the Rec Center. The boys were so funny. They were terrified of the water and it took a good 15 minutes for them to warm up to the idea of playing in it. After that we couldn't get them out. They loved it!

Here in Utah, we have these great indoor water parks that are geared for little ones. Kellie, my sister in law, rented out a room to open Cole's gifts and eat cupcakes. Unfortunately, we weren't able to give Cole his gift at his party, so we gave it to him on Sunday night. I think I have resorted to just give the nephews cash for their birthday! So much easier and they love it...especially when its a bunch of Ones (insert some kind of inapporiate stripper joke).

Van and Seth were having a blast with this dishtowel. They loved putting it on their heads and chasing each other around in the basement.

Uncle Ace is still the favorite.

Happy 30th to my amazing hubby! You are so old!

See you at 30 at the end of the year :)

Great Grandpa Russon and Van

2012-01-30T09:09:00.000-08:00

Van and Great Grandpa Russon playing together at Jason's 30th Birthday party at his parent's house.

Seth's 1st Shiner

2012-01-29T20:15:00.000-08:00

AGH! I have no idea how Seth received his first shiner!

There are two possible scenarios...

One: I had put him down for a nap, and 15 minutes into the nap he started to cry. I figured that he was just fighting the nap. When he woke up from his nap, he had the shiner. I thought maybe he bumped his face on the crib?

Two: Van had a mysterious red area on his forehead. There just might have been a collision!

No Yelling

2012-01-28T20:37:00.000-08:00

Source: http://mckensiesmith.blogspot.com/2012/01/sighs-in-relief.html

No Yelling

I came across this saying while on Pinterest.

Well...

As a Stay at Home Mom (or as I recently put on a Medical form "Homemaker"), I take this quote as a great reminder of what I want my household to be like. Is everyday like this...um NO!

However, I am not much of a yeller. More of an under the breath exasperated sigh or "REALLY"...or a common phrase in my household "You are going to make Mommy go to the Looney Bin". Of course, my children just stare back at me like "I want food, give me food, I don't care if you have to chomp it in a million pieces so I don't choke...just give me food"

I am already having to discipline my children. At this point, it is more of a repetitive "don't hit your brother, we use soft hands" which really doesn't have much effect on a one year old. But hopefully, one day soon it will click and they will understand that this is a house rule. We don't like to hurt our brother. I try to validate why they are hitting "I know that you are frustrated that Seth took your toy but we don't hit". For me, it doesn't matter who started "it", just matters how they handle the situation. I try to be calm in these situations, and try to communicate why we don't do something.

I know that there will be yelling in my household...but yet, I feel sometimes it just creates more confusion and tension. I just want to help eliminate that by trying not to yell.

I guess this post is more a rambling and just some personal thoughts. I know not everyone will agree with me.

Ace look a likes

2012-01-28T20:09:00.000-08:00

More Look a Like Pics

2012-01-28T20:01:00.001-08:00

I was talking to my sister in law about baby pics, specifically mine and how much Van looks like me. Since, I don't have any of my baby pictures printed, I thought I would share them on the blog.

Seth a ROO

2012-01-26T13:42:00.001-08:00

He is just the cutest sweetest boy! I just love him so much (as with his brother!).

Look at those Chompers...

his two bottom incisors? are coming in!

Seth also loves his brother and loves to wrestle. Luckily, Van enjoys it too. I will hear Van just cackling and sure enough Seth will be on top of him, either laying on him or sitting on him.

Look a Likes

2012-01-24T20:51:00.000-08:00

Van

Lauren

I feel that we each have a look a like child. Van closely resembles me and Seth looks so much like Jason. What do you guys think?

Jason

Seth

Seth making Van laugh

2012-01-23T19:46:00.000-08:00

Van's Spoon

2012-01-23T19:13:00.000-08:00

Van has become quite the little chef the last few weeks.

He is constantly walking around with his spoon in his hand. His favorite thing to do is make us soup in his red bowl. Van will stir the soup and then bring over the spoon for you to taste test. And by taste test, we usually go "Npnpnpnp...hmmmmm" which Van will repeat. It is pretty darn cute. But yet, my day is filled with constant meltdowns from Seth taking said Spoon.

Playing on the Couches

2012-01-23T19:03:00.000-08:00

We rarely let the boys play on the couch because they think diving head first off the side arms is a great idea! Luckily, it hasn't happened yet! They just love to dangle off the side while I am grabbing a leg.

The boys love playing on the couch, especially because they can find cool loot like remotes. Today we watched an episode of Yo Gabba Gabba, while hanging out hence the reason why they aren't even paying attention to me.

The boys have had a cold for almost a week now and I am so sick of snotty noses! Let's hope we are at the tail end of this cold.

2012-01-22T19:08:00.000-08:00

Just hanging out in our lego tub watching Baby Einstein. This has been a hard week with the boys being sick, so we have watched lots of Baby Einstein and Yo Gabba Gabba.

It's all fun and games until someone's spoon gets taken.

Races

2012-01-16T19:57:00.000-08:00

Every night the boys like to have races. Of course, Jason helps them out! The races are pretty hilarious considering they really can only go backwards on their own.

Van Seth

Old Pictures

2012-01-15T19:47:00.000-08:00

Jason's Mom recently let me go through all of her pictures and pick my favorites...

Here they are...

I was about 8 weeks pregnant in this picture...Jason is probably already sick of hearing about my morning sickness. Unfortunately, he had about 12 more weeks of me complaining about it!

Jason and I with two of our nephews.

I was only 18 weeks here! I didn't know at the time that I was pregnant with twins.

I felt huge and obviously looked huge! I can't believe I didn't suspect anything.

At my Russon Baby Shower.

I was about 7 1/2 months pregnant here.

The night before my surgery. You can't see how huge my belly was because Jason's shirt is in the background...but trust me, it was huge!

Right before my c-section.

The most terrifying thing about the c-section was separating from Jason for 15 minutes, while the inserted my epidural. Also, the IV hurt 20 times worse than the epidural. The whole experience was surreal. You can feel them shaking and moving your body but you don't feel pain.

Meeting my two boys :)

The happiest moment of my life!

Taking the boys home.

Do you see that ridge on Seth's skull...that was from being wedged up in my ribs...he can thank his brother for that!

4 weeks old.

Chair

2012-01-15T19:39:00.000-08:00

How quickly a fun activity of playing under the chair can turn...

Guess what Seth can do...

2012-01-15T19:35:00.000-08:00

The kid can't walk yet but he can CLIMB!

Both boys love to climb onto Jason's parents fireplace...yep, not dangerous at all!

Holding Hands

2012-01-13T09:52:00.001-08:00

This is what makes it all worth it!

Playing with Friends

2012-01-13T09:45:00.000-08:00

Van and his buddy Trey

With Winter being a long 6 months here in Utah, we have been getting out and having lots of fun. My old work friend Ashley invited us over to play.

Trey is only 3 weeks younger than the boys and he is such a cutie pie. At this age though, it seems like all 3 of our kids don't really have any interest playing together. They kind of just do their own thing. That is basically how it is at home.

75 % they play nicely by themselves

20% they are fighting/whining over the same toy

5% they are playing nicely with each other

This will probably change as they get older.

My Current Project

2012-01-12T19:24:00.000-08:00

I am currently in the process of starting a Family Meal Planning binder...

Jason thought it was ridiculous that I was taking a picture of this. I didn't even bother to explain the reasoning behind it...

My Project so far:

1. Made a list of all our regular meals. Meals that I just make by heart...no recipe really. Examples: Spaghetti, Pot Roast

2. Printed off all Recipes that I think look good. Most of these came from Pinterest.

Our house

2012-01-12T19:20:00.000-08:00

On any given day...this mess would be called our living room!

Mean Mom

2012-01-12T19:15:00.000-08:00

Dramatic

Would be an understatement when it comes to my boys.

The neighbors probably think we are torturing the boys half of the time. They cry when we change their diapers, change their clothes and when we feed them. Yes, I said feed them! I guess we just aren't as fast to get the food on the plate as they shove in their mouths.

I am hoping this is just a phase.

day in the life

2012-01-03T18:53:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be fun to write what we did for the day every so often...

6:45am Van wakes up

7:00am Seth wakes up

Both boys enjoy a sippy full of milk

7:45 am Breakfast: Eggs with leftover ham, bread, applesauce and bananas

Watch Yo Gabba Gabba, and move the bucket full of Mega blocks around the house

9:00 am Naptime

I workout for 15 minutes on the elliptical...the first time in almost a year and a half (I am currently sore) and then take a shower.

10:00 am Seth wakes up early. We cuddle on the couch watching its a Brad Brad World. Seth loves Brad's doggies.

11:30 am Van wakes up

11:45 Eat Lunch: Easy Mac, ham and white bean soup, applesauce

We play with our Little People Barn, blocks, trucks. There was minimal fighting today (which is shocking!).

1:30 pm Naptime

2:30 Van wakes up from his nap early. I let him play on the couch (which is both boys favorite thing to do). We watch The Back Up Plan with J.Lo and it kind of pissed me off! You would think that someone who carried and delivered twins would do a better job of acting like it...but no...it was a cake walk in the movie...so completely bogus!

4:00 pm Go to Costco. I actually really enjoy going to Costco because they have double seats in their grocery carts...plus, people are just so dang nice there! Sometimes I just walk around random isles because the boys are memorized and are entertained.

5:00 pm HOME. Jason was already home to greet us! Van was not happy to be home for some reason and cried for a good 5 minutes.

5:15pm Dinner ham and bean soup, cheese, applesauce and peaches. We usually eat as a family but it was just ruckus today.

Bathtime...this is Jason's special time with the boys.

6:00 Dinner for Jason and I Chicken from Costco, Bagged Salad and Costco's Mac and Cheese...it was DELISH! The boys just ate of our plates.

Playtime with Dad while I blogged :)

7:30 pm Bottle and then bedtime!

2011

2011-12-31T17:49:00.000-08:00

January 2011

The boys were so small and tiny...our days were spent mostly in the house. We would cuddle them all day long!

Best Memory: For the majority of this month the boys slept with us in our room. I remember that Jason and I would take turns feeding the boys in the middle of the night. Boppies were our best friends! We would set them up in front of each of us and feed the boys at the same time. My schedule was to feed the boys at 7 am and then we would all sleep in until 10 am. I would get up early to take a quick shower.

We also introduced the fridge to the boy's room. Formula was stored there for all of the overnight feedings. A total of 10-12 bottles. We also stored Clementines, graham crackers and Capri Suns

Regret: I didn't take a ton of pictures. I was so overwhelmed that I just didn't think of it.

February 2011

Best Memory: Going to California for a Mid Winter break. My Mom and I packed up and headed down South It was a long drive but well worth it.

March 2011

We spent the month mostly hanging out inside! Both boys were smiling and gibbering.

Downside: Van was suffering from Acid Reflux

April

Best Part: Grandma and Opa came to visit. We had our first outdoor adventure to the Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point. The boys met the Waldram Extended Family. And the Easter Bunny came to visit :)

May 2011

Starting to get warm!

Van started to get his first tooth!

June 2011

First time to the cabin. I actually feel really guilty about this picture. We set the boys out in their car seats on the front deck as we were unloading the car. Nothing where we left them alone for more than 15 seconds...just going back and forth from the house. A week later, there was a bear spotted at the cabin near this spot!

We also took a fun trip to St. George.

July 2011

Second trip to California.

The boys had their first plane ride! It was easy and hard at the same time. Easier because less entertaining but hard because you were stuck in an airplane with 200 people that would not want to hear a child screaming. On the way back, our plane was delayed for over an hour and that just added to the fussiness!.

August 2011

We spent the majority of our Friday Nights at Thanksgiving Point. We would eat dinner at the Deli, head over to the Dino Museum or Farm and then get ice cream before heading home.

Fact learned this month: Van HATES ice cream...Seth LOVES ice cream!

And seriously, isn't this the most hysterical picture ever?

September 2011

Visits from Grandma and Opa. We visited Big Cottonwood Canyon and American Fork Canyon. It was a beautiful month and we tried to enjoy as much as we could.

Seth would say "what's that".

October 2011

First Halloween. The boys dressed up as Sharks!

Van started to walk.

November 2011

Third trip to California...another car drive. This time it was awful! On the way home Van cried from Scipio to home. I think we will be flying for the next year.

First Thanksgiving with Grandma, Opa, Great Grandma and Grandpa Purdum and Aunt Shell.

December 2011

The boys turned ONE!

Second Christmas but first time opening presents and being able to enjoy the day!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T20:15:00.000-08:00

My three crazy nephews.

I can't believe how much Jason's family has grown since we started dating. Mitch was 6 months old, and Michelle was pregnant with Tyler at the time. Over the years we have added Cole, Makenna, Van and Seth. In March, Michelle and Joel will be adding another Baby Girl to their family. I can't wait to hold a teeny tiny baby...but be able to get more than 3 hours of sleep at a time!

Christmas Morning

2011-12-25T19:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning

Christmas morning is about a thousand times better with kiddos! The boys woke up around 7 am and they had fun playing with their wrapped toys. We invited Jason's parents over to watch the boys open their gifts and it was so much fun!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T19:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve 2011

We had a blast at Gary and Wendee's. The night was filled with great food, fun games and general ruckus!

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

2011-12-16T12:39:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas

We have had quite the year in the Waldram Household! And what a year it has been!

Our twin boys bring such a joy to our lives and we enjoy spending all of our time with them.

Highlights of 2011

Hanging out ALL WINTER LONG with the boys (it was a very very long Winter :) )

Taking a trip to California in February...a great break from Utah's Winter

A screaming 4 month old WILL get you out of a speeding ticket

St. George trip with Jason's family

First plane ride

Spending time at the pool in the Summer

Halloween and Thanksgiving

the boy's 1st birthday party

I wish everyone a safe and fun holiday season!

Love,

Jason, Lauren, Van and Seth

They are ONE!

2011-12-13T20:25:00.000-08:00

This was as close to a picture together as I could get...they just don't have the patience to sit still and take a picture.

The boys spent their first birthday playing at Grandma and Grandpas. We played kitchen and answered the phone.

Birthday Party

2011-12-11T12:19:00.000-08:00

I can’t believe that Van and Seth are ONE!

Jason and I survived!

The year went by all to quickly…I wish I could tell you how many hours of sleep were lost, how many cans of formula we went through, how many bottles were made, and how many diaper changes we had but during the frenzy of raising two healthy boys I forgot to keep track. Honestly, it doesn’t matter. We have two very healthy happy boys and we are so grateful. The word LOVE can’t even begin to describe what you feel for your children, it is so much greater than that!

Van (our first born by a minute)

Has been walkly since 10 ½ months and has begun to really pick up his pace. He’s fast, especially when a gate or the pantry door is left open.

Will reply to a question with “Yep”…I really don’t think he understands but it is still pretty funny to hear it.

Loves his Mom…Van is usually so busy exploring and playing but he always take a minute to run up and give me a hug.

Van said his first word over Thanksgiving…Dog. In the middle of the night, I can hear him from his crib calling out “Dahhh Dahhh”.

Seth

Has begun to cruise around the furniture…he has his older brother to catch up with.

Our little cuddle bug. Seth gives the greatest hugs.

He loves his big brother. He is always giving Van a big bear hug.

Seth has said the following words “Dog”, “Pretty” and “Button”.

The frenzy of opening gifts. We had plenty of help from their cousins.

We had a Dr. Seuss party and it was so much fun to decorate!

Appetizers

Brushetta

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Dinner

Lasagna

Caesar Salad

Garlic Bread

Fruit Salad

Dessert

Thing 1 and 2 Cupcakes

Mint Chocolate Brownies

Vanilla Ice Cream

Tyler, Makenna, Clint, Cole and Mitch

Ventura Marina

2011-11-27T09:47:00.000-08:00

What would a trip to California be without going to Ventura Harbor and Andrias.

My boys and I. They are pretty dang cute if you ask me!

Santa Barbara Zoo

2011-11-23T09:25:00.000-08:00

Growing up we always went to the Santa Barbara Zoo. It was a smaller zoo, with not as many animals but it is in a gorgeous setting. It is located right next to the beach and the landscape is so pretty.

The flamingos smell horrible but we captured this baby flamingo. Look at its little leg!

I love this picture of the boys. Van is like "we are here" with the map and Seth is just chilly snacking on some yogurt melts.

Seth really enjoyed the train ride.

Funny story...we went to the zoo with my sister. On the way home we were stuck in traffic for about 2 hours (usually an hour car ride)...When we returned to my parents house, my sister disappeared for 3 hours. She was so exhausted by hanging out with the boys that she had to take a 3 hour nap! I wish I could take a 3 hour nap.

Beach Trip

2011-11-22T12:31:00.000-08:00

We visited the beach on our latest trip to California.

Seth wasn't so sure of the sand at first. But pretty soon he was shoving it in his mouth.
Our Van man has no fear...I have a feeling that we will have to watch out for this one. When Jason picked him up, he got so mad!

Our two handsome boys!

Jumping on the Couch

2011-11-21T12:41:00.000-08:00

This was one of the boy's favorite activities at my parents house. Jump on the couch while looking on to everyone in the kitchen.

Bottles

2011-10-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

Finally, they can hold their own bottles...it seems like this milestone has taken FOREVER!

We have received the go ahead from the Doctor to start Whole Milk.

I think I am going to make it a very slow transition. I like the fact that they are getting plenty of vitamins and minerals from formula. I was thinking of starting to switch their lunchtime bottle with a sippy of milk.

My everyday life

2011-10-10T08:25:00.000-07:00

Every single toy is dumped out on the floor.

They have learned how to dump their toy basket out...and it is so much fun to hang out in it.

Even though my house is a mess, I wouldn't trade it for anything :)

The boys are 10 months old and they are just so much fun.

Van

He is almost walking...he has taken a step or two. We are just waiting for him to take off one of these days.

Van has 7 teeth and one on the way. He just looks so grown up with a mouth full of teeth.

Loves to have babbled conversations with his brother.

Loves to climb...mostly on his toy basket, walker, dishwasher and Grandma's picnic table.

Seth

Seth is now crawling on all fours. For the past month he has been doing an army crawl.

Stood up all on his own. Which is big accomplishment because he doesn't like the feel of weight on his legs. (He is fine we have had it checked out by our pediatrician).

Loves to hang out and follow his brother around.

Loves to play with our blinds. We will tell him no and he looks at us, and then keeps doing it :)

Seth is our big talker...he just talks and talks!

Seth also loves to play in the mirror.

The boys have started to take a bath together in the big tub. Van loves to eat the bubbles and Seth loves to splash around like crazy.

Lasagna!

2011-10-10T08:21:00.000-07:00

The boys love lasagna! We had a great lasagna meal at Pat and Kathy's...Thank you Stoffers! (it's my secret family recipe;) ) I actually make a pretty mean lasagna but it takes way too much time! Pat and Kathy just got back from St. George and wanted to see the boys, so we brought them dinner.

The boys figured out how to feed Windsor! And Windsor figured out that there may be an advantage of two babies chasing him around :) Double the food!

Car Rides

2011-10-04T08:16:00.000-07:00

The boys love it when their Dad gives them car rides...well, at least Seth does. Van is on the fence about it:)

Van and Seth Photos

2011-09-21T08:15:00.001-07:00

Family Pictures

2011-09-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

We had our family pictures done by my cousin Maria (http://www.mariawoodphotography.com/) and they are amazing!

Silverlake

2011-09-18T08:05:00.000-07:00

We have been taking advantage of the great Fall weather that Utah has decided to bestow upon us (which is really weird to have nice weather). One of our favorite things to do is hike (more like walk) around Silverlake. It is up Big Cottonwood Canyon. It is a great walk because it is paved or a really beat down trail.

On this hike there were 3 other twins. It's kind of funny how you approach other parents of twins, especially in a public setting. You already have a hundred people approaching you with this conversation:

Are they twins? Yes

Are they Identical? No

Really? uh yeah

Do they run in your family? Yes (even though we were on clomid, they do run in my family so I just answer yes)

Gosh, you must have your hands full! haha yeah

My Mother's sister's mailman's brother had twins...that's awesome

It just gets really old sometimes...So, when we see other parents of twins we kind of have a telepathic conversation. We make eye contact and just give this look of "we have been there and the last thing you want is to have a conversation with a perfect stranger...you just want to enjoy your time with your family".

This doesn't always bug me just sometimes or if it is the hundreth conversation of the day.

Ute game with Dad

2011-09-17T07:54:00.000-07:00

I just love my boys! One of our favorite things to do is hang out in Jason's parents basement. It is a controlled environment ;)

Seriously...isn't this the cutest picture of Van? I don't think he was putting Jason's shoes on purpose...they were just in way of the VHS tapes (which he loves to take every single one down).

9 Months Old

2011-09-16T08:03:00.001-07:00

Taking pictures of these boys (more specifically Van) is becoming impossible!

The boys are now 9 months old. I can't BELIEVE it!

Here are the stats!

Van

28.5 inches long 60th percentile

18 lbs 13th percentile

Van is starting to stand up all on his own.

He will move from the TV cabinet to his exersaucer.

Seth

29 1/4 inches long 82nd percentile

17 lbs 11 oz 9th percentile

On 9/14 he said his first word. We were at Grandma's house and Windsor walked by and he said Dog! And then repeated it several times.

He has done this waaazzzzthaaa sound and we would repeat "What's That" while pointing to a light/bird/whatever was around. Today 9/16, the garage door opened and he clearly said "What's That"...we will see if he repeats it :)

Here's a preview for Halloween!

Messy Eaters

2011-09-14T07:37:00.000-07:00

The boys are just so messy! Mostly because they think they are big and want to feed themselves.

Recent Happenings

2011-09-07T11:51:00.000-07:00

Van

Has started to clap
Says Dadadada
Van has been getting up in the middle of night and just wanting to cuddle. I had been up with him for about 45 minutes and decided to go to bed. He screamed for about 10 minutes until Jason went in there. Jason picked him up and Van gave him the dirtiest look like "I don't want you... I want Mom". I am perplexed on how to stop this madness of waking in the middle of the night.
Van is quite determined...if he doesn't get his way he likes to let off this very high ear piercing shriek. I guess I am not a "fun" Mom since I don't let him play in the street, with the dishwasher, crawl up the stairs, etc.

Seth

Says Dadadada
Claps and waves when you say Hi
Seth loves his binkie and he is getting to be quite a pro with it! Our favorite game recently is when I put his binkie in my mouth wrong. He likes to correct it. He thinks it is hilarious and will laugh like crazy.
Has started eating finger foods

Van's First Haircut

2011-09-03T07:43:00.000-07:00

Van had his first haircut. He has ruckus hair and from now on we will pay someone to cut it :)

Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-03T07:27:00.000-07:00

My parents came to visit over Labor Day Weekend. We had a ton of fun with them. My parents love the boys so much and are constantly spoiling them. On their visit we went up Big Cottonwood Canyon, American Fork Canyon, ate at Porcupine Grill, and hung out at Thanksgiving Point.

"What the Crap"

2011-08-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful visit to the cabin in August.

The boys had a ton of fun playing with their cousins and taking walks and four wheeler rides.

For lunch one day we had the boys right next to each other and across the table was Ty. Van was just cracking up over Ty. I said to Ty "I wonder what he is thinking".

Ty replied back

"He's probably thinking WHAT THE CRAP"

He said it with the straightest face...I couldn't help but laugh!

Baseball shirts

2011-08-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

My everyday life with these two boys....Seth has something that Van wants.

Van takes it away! Seth has finally figured out how to hold on tight to stuff he wants to play with.

Trying to get the boys to sit together. Van thought the camera cord was all too entertaining.

The best shot of them together...it may be blurry but they are together

Pacific Ocean

2011-07-17T15:19:00.000-07:00

The boys first time in the Pacific Ocean, or any ocean for that matter. As you can tell from the picture below, it was a success...ugh well maybe next time!

Andrias

2011-07-16T15:09:00.000-07:00

It has become a Waldram tradition to eat at Andria's when we visit California. This was the boys second trip. Luckily, this time there was no crazy lady pestering Jason.

"Are they twins"

"Can I see them"

"Can you take them out for me"

"My mailman's brother's sister in law has twins"

Every single time he answered no...finally the crazy lady asked

"Do you mind that I am talking to you"

uhhh.....

Also, remember this...

Plane Ride

2011-07-15T15:04:00.000-07:00

In July we took a trip to visit Opa, Grandma and Aunt Shell in California. We decided this time to fly! I was really nervous...what if my kids scream the entire way????? It actually turned out awesome! The boys mostly slept and they were great!

I love the bottom picture of Seth, he looks terrified.

Seth and the Boppies

2011-07-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

We have been trying to work with Seth on sitting up. Jason came up with the idea of using the boppies stacked on top of each other. It was a brilliant idea for a minute! I love how Van is just hanging out in the background. And look at this picture of Seth! His classic Deer in the Headlights!

Seth and his Binkie

2011-07-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

Seth loves his binkie.

Van doesn't take a binky but he loves Seth's. His favorite game is to retrieve it from Seth. It's funny because even if he just catches a glimpse of it in Seth's mouth it becomes his mission to get it. He doesn't use it but just fumbles around with it in his hands. We have nicknamed him "Van aka the Binkie stealer". In the past week or so, Seth has been fighting back and getting it back.

Getting into Trouble

2011-07-05T09:48:00.000-07:00

I think I am doomed with these two boys. I was busy in the kitchen and when I went to check in on the boys they were working together to get the baby gate out from under the couch.

Van discovered the gate hidden a few days before and must have enlisted Seth's help to get it out.

My wish for my boys is that they will always be best friends and work together.

Fourth of July

2011-07-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

We had lots of fun watching street fireworks with cousins. Seth really didn't care for fireworks. Maybe next year will be better.

Our family of four

My cute boys and I...I think its going to be a long time before I get a picture of them both looking ;)

Our fourth of July was very laid back and not too exciting. We didn't do fireworks this year, we figured sleep sounded way more exciting!

Seth and Windsor

2011-07-03T09:42:00.000-07:00

Seth has always been a little hesitant of Windsor (My in law's dog). On this day he warmed up to him and even put his arm around him.

Van on the other hand loves Windsor. When we walk in the door he is always searching for Winds. Van's little eyes will just follow him around the room and he just smiles so big when he sees Winds. He has started to pet him. And by pet, I mean grab a handful of Wind's hair and not let go!

Party at Mitch and Cole's

2011-07-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

Kellie threw a great BBQ on July 2nd. The best part of the night was the Blackberry Cobbler with Vanilla ice cream that Kellie made! I have been craving it ever since.

Van just cracks me up! He just gives the best facial expressions.

Oh Seth...he is my little cuddler. I just love this boy!

Van is sitting up!

2011-07-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

Van is sitting up. He is still a little unsteady but he almost has it!

First Trip to the Cabin

2011-06-24T12:02:00.000-07:00

A walk with Dad.

The cabin was so much fun. It was nice and cool and because of the rainfall this year there was so much foliage. Things have changed though now that we have the boys...more stroller rides and less 4-wheeler rides.

Father's Day

2011-06-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

This was Jason's first Father's day.

The boys wore their Daddy onesies.

Jason is the best dad these boys can have. He loves to play with them and take care of them. For the first week of their lives...Jason changed every single diaper. He always wants to go to every Dr. appt. He just loves the boys so much. He sings this song that he made up about the boys. It's not really a song but mostly a saying that he just yells "I've got the big boys. I've got the big boys". Van and Seth just love it and smile every time Jason sings it to them.

Hanging out in Grandma's Backyard

2011-06-17T12:28:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here! It was a long and cold Winter.

The boys love to be outside and hang out on the blanket.

Van

2011-06-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

Van is almost crawling. He does a little scoot so far but he now is mobile!

St. George

2011-06-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

We headed to St George for a long weekend and it was a much needed break. We had a blast and enjoyed our time relaxing and spending time as a family.

Ready for the Pool

Things that I LOVE

2011-06-09T08:47:00.000-07:00

Things that I LOVE

Van's two adorable front bottom teeth

Seth loves to feed himself

They both will search for me whenever I enter the room

I can always get a smile out of them

When they look at each other they smile...they love each other

Van is moving around like a crazy man. He now can get on all fours

Seth rolls over all stealth like...super fast

My niece calls Seth, Baby Schleff (and he is her favorite :) shh don't tell Van)

My two boys

2011-05-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

they are just getting too big!

Van's Two Front Teeth

2011-05-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Van's two front bottom teeth emerged in May. They are quite adorable but they are sharp!

Easter

2011-04-24T17:14:00.001-07:00

Makenna loves her two cousins

This is the only picture I have of Seth smiling

Look what the Easter bunny brought...

Tulip Festival

2011-04-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

New Pictures

2011-04-17T14:35:00.001-07:00

Warm Spring Day

2011-04-16T14:58:00.000-07:00

Mom and Seth

The boys in the stroller aka "the bus"

Seth

Our poor little Seth man suffers from Ezxcema and it is just awful. Luckily, we have gain some control with it.

The Utah winter was very long this year. I don't know if it was because I had two newborn babies to take care of and couldn't easily go outside or if it was just really LONG. This was the first warm day and we packed up and headed to Jason's parents house to enjoy the time outside.

Van Rolled Over

2011-04-14T15:20:00.000-07:00

On April 14th Van rolled over in his sleep.

Wrestling Matches

2011-04-14T15:06:00.000-07:00

Boys will be boys, huh?

My favorite weekend moment is when the boys wake up in the morning and we have cuddle time in the big bed! This are the moments I treasure.

Cute Outfits

2011-04-13T14:55:00.000-07:00

My cousin Kristin and Aunt Diane gave the boys the cutest outfits. I hate how they grow so fast!

2011-03-26T19:57:00.000-07:00

Swaddle Time

2011-03-26T19:48:00.000-07:00

Smiles

2011-03-24T20:13:00.000-07:00

2011-03-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

3 Months Old

2011-03-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

My cute boys! I seriously have no time but here are a few recent pics of the boys :)

2011-02-05T14:37:00.000-08:00

Van

Seth

Cute Sayings

2011-01-16T10:06:00.000-08:00

So not only do I have the cutest boys ever but I have the cutest nephews and niece. My nephews absolutely love my husband and think the world revolves around their Uncle Acey. So we were all curious to see how they would react to our boys. Well, they love them!

Mitch

Kellie and Michelle (my sister in laws) have been awesome and have let us borrow a ton of stuff...which really really helps with the cost of buying everything in twos.

Kellie first started going through her stuff to give us, Mitch was really concerned about her giving away his things. Until she let him know that it was for "Acey's babies". The other day Kellie was dropping things off at the DI (like an old rug) and Mitch freaked out! He jumped in the back of the SUV and laid on top of the rug and screamed "I only giving this to Acey and his babies...I don't care about anyone else, only Acey and his babies"...I guess Kellie had to secretly give the stuff to Kathy (my Mother in law) to drop off at the DI because Mitch would not have it.

Another funny story that just recently happened. Mitch lost his first tooth and he kinda of freaked out when it came out. According to Kellie he went and hid under the bed and was having a little meltdown. Kellie asked if he wanted the tooth back in and he stated "Only magic will put my tooth back and Heavenly Father is not coming down anytime soon"!

Loves the boys...especially Van. Van and Ty have the same look when they were newborns. The other day Kathy asked him how he can tell the difference between Seth and Van. Ty stated "Van has hair and looks like me". He also spikes his hair up and asks "Do I look like Van?"

Cole

He stills asks where the babies went in my tummy. I don't know if he understands that the babies in my tummy are the same ones crying and wanting milk :)

Makenna

Mak is the cutest of them all! She is absolutely in love with her two cousins and is the biggest helper. If one is crying she will pretend cry with them. She has two little dolls that she totes around the house.

The Boys are here!

2011-01-06T20:04:00.000-08:00

It has only taken a month to get around to posting this!

My two cute boys arrived on December 13, 2010.

Van Dale

Born 12:38 pm

6 lbs

17 inches long

Van is named after his two great grandfathers. My maiden name is a very long dutch name that starts with Van...and for the longest time I have always wanted to name my first born son VAN. My grandfather passed away when I was only 6 years old but he left a lasting legacy. Growing up I would constantly hear about my grandfather and what a great man he was. Dale is Jason's grandfather and a great role model and example. Grandpa Dale is such a true example of what a kind and generous person.

We joke around that Van is our little VANDAL!

Seth Mark

Born 12:39 pm

6 lbs 6 oz

19 inches long

When we found out that we were having not one little boy but two we had a difficult time coming up with a second name. We had lots of names jumping around from Miles to Max but we decided on Seth. It just seemed fitting. Mark is my father who is a proud Opa and so proud of his two little grandsons!

the next part is very long and boring...but feel free to read on :)

Before the delivery my doctors gave me the choice of how I wanted to deliver the boys. We decided to go with a scheduled c-section because of multiple reasons. The earliest the hospital would let us schedule a c-section for twins was 38 weeks. Full term for twins is 37 weeks but most twins come around 35 weeks. I thought for sure that I wouldn't make it to my scheduled c-section date and would go into labor before than.

The day of my c-section came and we headed off to the hospital at 10:30 am. By this time I had been visiting the hospital twice a week for non stress tests so I knew most of the nurses pretty well. The set me up in my Labor and Delivery room and started my IV. I was pretty nervous for the surgery and just kept watching the clock waiting for my time for surgery. At 12:15 am they rolled me into the surgical room and started my epidural. That part was a little scary because I was all alone...luckily I had a really sweet nurse that help distract me. When the epidural kicked in Jason was able to join me. We also had a staff of about 25 join us in the room. My doctors, my nurses and a whole set for each boy.

It took about 5 to 10 minutes until I heard the most wonderful sound ever...my little Van boy screaming his head off. The doctor asked Jason if he wanted to witness becoming a father. Jason at first declined because he can because quesy at the site of blood but it took about 15 seconds before Jason changed his mind and stood up and watched Van and Seth be delivered about 1 minute apart from each other. I can remember Jason telling me things about the boys...such as Van's head full of hair and Seth's long fingers and toes. When they were finishing up my surgery Jason went and took pictures of the boys and watched them get cleaned up. At this point I had become very sick from the medication and was not really with it. I remember them showing me one of the boys but I was so sick that I could really remember anything.

At this point they needed to take the boys to the floor below to the nursery. We decided that Jason would join the boys and walk with them downstairs and I would go into the recovery room. Unfortunately, we forgot to tell my parents, Jason's Mom and my Aunt Dana and Uncle Alan of this plan. They were in the waiting area looking forward to hearing some good news. I guess while they were waiting to hear something they saw a Dr walk down the hallway and he was teary eyed. My mom and Jason's Mom both commented something to the effect of "That must not be good". That is when my Aunt commented that was my Dr...well you can guess that my Mom freaked out a little. Luckily not much time passed by and my Mom was able to meet me in the Recovery room and I was doing okay at this point.

I had to wait in the Recovery room for about an hour before I was able to join my boys! It was quite the day. We were joined by my parents, Jason's sisters and his parents.

34 Weeks

2010-11-13T20:09:00.000-08:00

34 Weeks

We are officially in the "Safe Zone"...if I go into Labor the Doctors will let me deliver!

But I am still crossing my fingers for after Thanksgiving. I am still feeling great and looking forward to meeting the boys!

Halloween

2010-11-03T09:02:00.000-07:00

Batman

Snow White

Woody

Iron Man

We had a great Halloween.

32 Weeks

2010-11-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

My mom keeps begging me to put up a new picture...so here is the torture for the week :)

I am having appointments every week now and having to go to the hospital to do a Non Stress Test. Of course, my boys like to play hide and seek during this time so I simple 20 minute test becomes over an hour with two nurses holding down the monitors! I think I am going to be in trouble with these two :) But other than that the boys are checking out great!

I feel extremely blessed that everything with this pregnancy has been going so smoothly. I feel so fortunate to not only be pregnant but to be pregnant with two boys!

The Boy's Room

2010-10-20T15:28:00.001-07:00

My parents helped us out so much with the Boy's Room! We seriously couldn't have done it without you guys! We choose the colors of bright blue and charcoal...and the furniture is a birch color from Ikea (huge thanks for the wonderful gift from my parents!)

Here is my Dad (soon to be Opa) painting

The bumper for the crib that my Mom made! I love the colors...I wanted something anti nursery babyish and I think this is perfect! There is another crib but we will not be putting it up until we actually need it.

The dresser that will double as a changing table

The chair and bookshelf

Shower with Jason's Family

2010-10-20T15:10:00.001-07:00

We had another great shower with Jason's Dad's side of the family. His Aunt Shellie went all out and it was adorable...unfortunately, I didn't get any pics...hopefully Kathy my Mother in law did.

Luckily with this shower boys were invited so Ty was able to come...As you can tell from the pics he really enjoyed himself (it looks like Jason did too :)

Ty actually posed with this expression! I think it's his Deer in the Headlight pose

Van Shower

2010-10-20T14:38:00.001-07:00

My Mom, Aunt Dana and sister threw me a great shower. It was just a small get together with my family up here in Utah. I have the greatest family and friends and Thank you to everyone that came!

My Mom had this cute idea of a shower line to hang up all of the clothes! I wish we could have taken a picture of all of the double clothing.

I had two great little helpers to help me! My little nephew Ty wanted to come to this shower with my Sister in law Michelle and was quite bummed that it was for "girls only"! (I think it was more like Mom wants a break ;)

2010-10-04T08:24:00.000-07:00

28 Weeks

We had our first hospital visit this weekend. I was experiencing some back pain and occasional abdominal pain and to be on the safe side we took a trip to Labor and Delivery. Everything is great and there is no need to worry. I guess with multiples it is common to have very slight contractions because you are growing at such an astounding rate. Jason is great and was so supportive...I think he rather be at the hospital at 5 at night instead of 5 in the morning :)

Our boys decided to have a little fun with us during the check! It took about a half hour for the nurses to get the monitors hooked up. They are already causing ruckus!

I just wanted to give a shout out to my wonderful husband. He has been so supportive and amazing during this pregnancy. When we came home from California I was so exhausted and I made the choice to quit my job. It was a really hard decision but it was for the best. It is hard not to be able to contribute to the family income for the next month or so but I really need to be concerned about my health and the boy's health.

This next week will be a little crazy. I have two baby showers, and my parents and sister are visiting and we are finally getting the baby furniture (as of yet all we have is diapers :)and nursery set up!

California

2010-09-27T13:44:00.000-07:00

26 Weeks

We had planned a trip to Hawaii with my parents for one last trip before Jason and I became parents. When we received the news that we were having 2 children and not just one, we cancelled the Hawaii trip. But we had already bought our tickets to California so we decided to stay at my parents while they went and had fun in Hawaii. It was relaxing and we didn't really do much except hang out and eat.

Highlights of the Week:

Andria's
Santa Barbara
Eating at a Deli where the average age of everyone there was about 75
Hanging out with my cousin Kristin

Sorry no pics except of my huge belly

23 Weeks

2010-08-29T16:06:00.001-07:00

The boys and I..

23 Weeks

2010-08-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

The boys and I..

21 Weeks

2010-08-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

21 weeks along

This picture was taken right before I found out that we were expecting 2 children not one :)

I couldn't decide whether to LAUGH or CRY!

2010-08-18T15:55:00.000-07:00

So I did both!

Today Jason and I had our 21 week ultrasound to determine the sex of the baby. Our Dr comes in and asks a few questions and then starts the ultrasound. Our Dr office has a huge big screen where we can view the ultrasound. He starts and points out the placenta and then he starts to get up and you can just tell that he is a little lost. He goes to my medical record and reads it really quicky. He then states "I have a surprise for you guys"...Jason asks "Are we having twins?"...YEP! That is right there are two babies and we just found out today. However, my nephew Ty has been telling us all along that we are having two babies but howI am in shock and Jason is just beaming.

The Dr then asks "Who did your first 8 week ultrasound?"...uh you did but it was at the other office with a different ultrasound machine (our ob/gyn office meets once a week in office where Jason and I live and the ultrasound machine that they have there is a lot older). The Dr just states " I hate that machine"...All a long we have been going to the Dr office and they have only detected one heart beat but then they were only look for one heart beat!

So...we are having TWO BOYS!

Bear Lake 2010

2010-07-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

Jason and I at Bear Lake. I am 18 weeks along here.

Mitch and Ty

Jason, Ty and Mitch on the Ski Doos

My cute little niece Makenna (or Maks, Makkers, Macaroni, Maccaroon and so on)

Cole and Mak playing in the sand and puddles.

12 Weeks

2010-07-31T13:52:00.000-07:00

Here I am at 12 weeks along.

26 weeks and 3 days

2010-06-22T17:06:00.000-07:00

Til what you ask? CHRISTMAS...

Christmas is a far way off but I can't wait. How can anyone be so excited for Christmas when it is just barely getting warm and we are just breaking out the sunscreen and beach towels?

Well one very great and joyous reason....A CHRISTMAS BABY!

Jason and I found out that we are expecting on December 26th and we are just so excited...it is going to be a hectic holiday season but one filled with JOY, HAPPINESS, and FAMILY. Everything that embodies the Christmas Season.

We have been trying for a little while to have a baby and after a few blood tests my doctor decided that it might be best for me to start on fertility drugs. It was a time of anxiety and waiting and hoping. I thought for sure that I would get a positive pregnancy test on my first try and was a little disappointed that it didn't happen. One night we went out to eat with Jason's family and my nephew Tyler was sitting in between us. Out of nowhere he asks me if I have a baby in my tummy and I had to tell him no there is no baby. He then very adamantly states..."Yes you do... you have a baby in your tummy!" and he stated it several times. How do you explain this to a 3 year old that there is no baby in your tummy!

Well, I decided to take a pregnancy test several days late and saw the very faint pink line...well actually several faint lines since I took about 10 tests :) So Ty called it...Luckily he was not right about it being twins. Even though he is convinced that one is just hiding...

Thanksgiving 2009

2010-02-13T15:14:00.001-08:00

Unfortunately, this year we weren't able to make it to California for Thanksgiving. But we had a great time with Jason's family. We held Thanksgiving Dinner in his grandparent's ward house and we had a great time. Complete with a pinata and noodle hockey. Even though I missed our Disneyland tradition it was still a fun time being with family!

St. George

2010-02-13T14:58:00.000-08:00

We went with Jason's family to St. George in November. We had a blast and a great time enjoying the warm weather.

Birthday Weekend

2009-12-12T13:05:00.000-08:00

For my birthday we decided to spend a weekend up in Park City. It was a great way to relax and spend time together. We stayed at a new resort up there and it was gorgeous. I may just design our bedroom to resemble the resort. The bedrooms had black moldings and great black and white pics of Aspen trees and the mountains. Romantic looking but with a masculine touch!