Alright, Alright...

I'm very delinquent in posting anything about the Hardeman Bunch. Here's a brief synopsis.

We're busy....

Okay, I'll expound.

The kids are doing well. Macey is our little momma. She enforces the rules. She'll even tell me when I need to get back in the kitchen with my drink. She also alerts me when one of the others is doing something he/she shouldn't be. "Momma, come here...." She still is my little people person; always concerned about other people and what they are doing. Her favorite color is purple and she loves to wear dresses. In fact I can't get her to wear anything but dresses. She also tells me how she wants her hair when I fix it. She's my little pack rat as well. She'll pack away a bunch of toys and it drives me insane! I think she knows it too. I am one of those "all the pieces of the toy need to be put back with that toy" cleaners. Forget that with Macey as she has stashed random pieces of toys in bags, shelves, in her room, under her bed, in her closet, in another toy. I let it slide and then I go on "toy piece" finding mission and get it back in order. Only to have it back in disorder in less than 30 seconds. Oh well. She's having fun!

Miles is all boy. He thinks he's a little funny dude too. He's always been one to crack up easily. I remember when he was just a baby (around 8 months or younger) and I would read a book and make the animal noises he would just crack up laughing. He likes to try to goat his sisters into his silly games, and he's usually pretty successful. He's definitely got a kind soul though. He's given up his special treat (food allergies) to his sister because she was having a fit over not getting any. He generally will share his things easily with others. Makes me proud to be his momma. He LOVES basketball. He's left handed and a strong little dude. He makes me play with him every day. He still sucks 2 fingers on his left hand, Lord help us as it's going to be fun to break him of that habit.

Camryn is my over the top drama/emotional/high energy kiddo. She is a screamer....loud screamer, ear piercing screamer. I think I see acting in her future! She keeps me on my toes. She is constantly getting into something. Lotion/soaps, spices and lipstick are her favorite things to get into. But generally if it's within reach or even out of reach, she will get into it. And child locks are fodder for her. She's figured those out. She's even opened the "child proof" medicine tops and took a swig out of the infant motrin (poison control was called, she was fine). But on the flip side she can be the sweetest, cuddliest kid; giving the sweetest kisses and hugs.

Mackinley is growing too fast. She thinks she's a big as her siblings. She takes the "abuse" her siblings give her in stride. I think sometimes she likes it when they hold her upright and make her walk. They have wrestled with her, pushed her down, stepped on her, fell on her, dragged her by her feet and arms, picked her up by her arms. Wow, no one call CPS. She's not been injured by any of this (well we'll ignore any mental harm for now...lol). Luckily we catch them before any harm is done and they are generally gentle with her. She's cruising all over the place now and standing alone (at 9 months old). I'm hoping I don't see any first steps until closer to her 1st birthday (or even after). She's suppose to the baby much longer than she's allowing! She gives me a big smile when I get home, followed by crying if I don't pick her up fast enough. She's given us the most trouble with eating. She refused to take a bottle for the longest time. She was doing well for a while, but now she's back to only taking a little bit while I'm away. I guess she's a little stubborn. Or just knows what she wants....either way, she's made her point. She may be small...

Sean and I hit the 5 year mark in our marriage this year. 5 crazy, hectic years. I wouldn't trade any of it!

Random bits of info

It's been a while, what can I say, we're a busy bunch.

Hmm, how to catch up on all that's going on???...

Mackinley Drew was born August 10, 2010. She stayed with the trend and weighed less than 7lbs, coming in at 6lbs 13oz. I guess I don't grow 'em big, but I sure do incubate well (40 weeks, 3 days with Macey, 38 weeks with Miles & Camryn, 39 weeks 1 day with Mackinley, and who knows how long I really would've gone with the last 2 pregnancies since those were scheduled C-sections). Mackinley's been a joy to have. Everyone loves her. Miles has to give her kisses on the head at least 20 times a day. He tells me "momma, unna (I wanna) kiss baby". He'll hold her, but in typical boy fashion he's announces he's done after only a few seconds of holding her. Macey loves to help with everything. She's helped me change a diaper and give her baths. She loves for me to lay her on her chest and hold her. Camryn gives Mackinley the sweetest kisses. She wants to hold her and doesn't want her turn to ever end (even when Mackinley is screaming). It's hard to find time for floor time for Mackinley since the other 3 can get a bit rough when they are playing. And when I do lay her down Miles usually lays on one side and Camryn on the other. Both of them usually get right in her face, so Mackinley get frustrated. They all call her Kinley. I think Macey started that trend and Miles and Camryn just followed suit.

I can see a definite friendship between the older 3. They watch out for one another and take up for one another. Macey made her first trip to Nana and Pawpaw's without us right after Mackinley was born. Miles and Camryn both asked about her while she was gone and Macey was ready to see her siblings by the time she got back home. Hopefully they'll continue to be close.

We made a trip to Sea World this summer before Mackinley was born. It was the first trip for the kids. They thoroughly enjoyed it. They were mesmerized by the animals. Macey was talking about it for days and wanted to go back the next day. I'm glad we made that trip before having Mackinley. I think I enjoyed watching the kids faces more than they enjoyed the experience.

Miles still refers to Camryn as "sister". He will call her Camryn, but I guess sister is his name for her. When Camryn says "Macey" she says it with an "f" at the front.

Each of them have a personality all their own. Miles is still my funny guy with a sensitive side. His laugh is contagious. Camryn is still my dramatic, sweet talking girl. Watch out for that sweet voice, she'll turn on you in an instant. And Macey is still my mothering people person. We'll see what Mackinley brings to the table.

4 kids 3 and under....4 kids in just over 3 years...4 kids in 3 pregnancies. I wouldn't have it any other way. I'll miss these days when they are older. When I brought Mackinley home it hit me how big my kids are getting. I have a preschooler and 2 toddlers, not a toddler and 2 infants....when did that happen???

What a week...

What have we been up to? Hmm, this week hasn't been the best week. Miles started running a fever last Saturday evening. He really only had a fever, until Monday when he developed a cough. We took him in on Tuesday and they tested for and ruled out pneumonia. He was prescribed an oral steroid and we were told to increase his inhaler usage. Back up a few months, Miles was having a hard time breathing, no fever, just wheezing and shortness of breath. I took him to his allergist and he gave him an inhaler. I suspect we are going down the road to asthma, but they typically do not diagnose this early, or at least his allergist doesn't. I think given his track record he'll be more susceptible for viruses to settle into his lungs. Miles's fever finally broke today. However, Macey and Camryn both started running a fever early Wednesday and continue to run a fever. They don't have any other symptoms yet and hopefully they won't develop any congestion in their lungs!

Miles got retested for his food allergies last Friday (he'll be tested annually to see if any of them are falling off the allergy spectrum). We got the results today and he still has the same allergies and the levels have actually elevated from last year's test. So not falling off, instead they are going the other way. I hope this isn't an indication that he won't grow out of these, but if it is we'll keep dealing with it.

Baby #4 seems to be doing well. I'm 30+ weeks along, it's going by fast. I forget how much the tiredness sets back in the 3rd trimester. As uncomfortable and draining it was to carry twins, one thing that was good about it was that there wasn't much room for them to do as many ninja-type kicks. This baby has reminded me just how much room there is to thrash around in. But I think the twins pregnancy was much more painful than either of the singletons.

Happy 3rd Birthday Macey!!!!!!

Macey,

We are very proud of the wonderful little girl you've become. You are very helpful and love to take care of your babies. You help me clean up and help me with Miles and Camryn. And sometimes you do this without being asked. :-) You love to make sure that your babies are well taken care of. You give them plenty of blankets, read to them, rock them, feed them, change their diapers, bathe them and give them books to read when you put them to bed. Sometimes you might forget to get them out of the car and daddy leaves with them still in the car. You get very upset once you realize that they are in the car that daddy took, but once we talk to daddy and daddy says he'll take care of them, you are ok. You are my little people person. You remember everyone's name and ask about them often. And you even want to know everyone's name when we are out and about. You ask who someone is in the grocery store, in the car next to us, at the gym, etc. I think you got the charming/politic-ing from your daddy. ;-)

Some of your favorite things:

1. Gum!!!
2. Ice cream cones
3. Spinach
4. Swimming or just generally being in water
5. Chasing Miles and Camryn
6. Helping me or daddy cook
7. Stuffing your "purses" with toys and taking them with us wherever we go
8. Playing with all the little people, animals, cars, and baby dolls.
9. Getting and Icee and a muffin when we go to Target
10. Helping put food in the grocery basket when we shop

We are so glad to have you as a part of our family!

We love you,
Momma and Daddy

3rd birthday (well technically taken 6/5/10)

6/6/09

6/6/08

6/6/07

What's it like raising twins plus one?

It is a very rewarding job. Hard at times, but worth it. As any parent would say about raising any child. However, juggling two toddlers and a preschooler is a task. Sometimes you do feel like a cattle herder, just trying to get them to go through the gate. This age has been the most demanding so far...and I say so far with an emphasis as we haven't even hit the demands of teenage years. But compared to when Miles and Camryn weren't so mobile (running, climbing, throwing, dancing, etc.) this is a challenging time. And I truly do think they plan their attacks. It's as if Miles tells Camryn, "I'll dump out the cereal while you go over there and get the batteries out of the remote." Or "I'll start screaming banana and you throw a fit over wanting some juice." I guess it's no different than when they were newborns and would be crying at the same time. Well, maybe a little different because now they can hold onto your legs as you try to get them what they want or follow you around screaming for that banana or juice. And my legs have become a source of entertainment. Miles and Camryn have some sort of game they play as one stands on one side of my legs and the other stands on the other and they stick their heads through the gap as I'm cooking or washing dishes, lots of laughter from them. Makes moving around a little hard. Going places where their freedom is allowed (where they aren't confined to a stroller or shopping cart) is a challenge. At home we've created a mostly toddler-proof, safe zone in every room. When we go somewhere that this hasn't occurred, it's not enjoyable for me. Life as a singleton mother is a breeze at this age as following one toddler around in a non-toddler-proof zone is not such a burden. Following two toddlers the same age in a non-toddler-proof zone is stressful. One adult chasing two running, hiding, climbing, prodding, toddlers in other environments is not ideal. I've now learned that I should bring my own toddler proofing kit wherever we go so as to eliminate some of the "danger". So if we visit and I put safety plugs over your electrical plugs, rubber bands on your cabinet knobs and put your curtains in knots, please don't take offense. I'm only trying to make my visit a little less stressful and more enjoyable and to keep your belongings safe from destruction (that's if I remember to pack everything). And for those of you that have scoffed at people who put their children on leashes, remember to never judge a book by its cover. I've never used a leash with any of my children. However, I can understand why some people would choose that type of confinement. Sometimes at this age they just want to walk around and strollers don't allow that. So walking+leash=happy child, happy parents. At least the child that is on the leash is getting exercise while her stroller confined peers are not. Again, I've never used a leash for my children, but I do not pass judgement on those that chose to do so as I can see how it is less stressful and less of a fight to put them on a leash and walk the mall. I don't think I could give up the confinement of a stroller for two kids the same age since I'd be having to watch what each one is getting into. Nonetheless, it is a choice that has a reason behind it.



Do they already have a close relationship? Definitely. As different as they are, you can see the bond they have with each other. Camryn may act independent, but she loves her brother. Miles points to Camryn every morning and says "titter" excitedly. Camryn is the last one to settle down at night and as I peek in to check on them she can be found right next to Miles, or laying on top of Miles with her feet in his face, or laying her chest on his legs and looking up at him trying to talk to him even though he's already asleep. They've been together since the beginning of their life. That's something us non-twin-types will never fully understand. They've shared a lot of tender moments before and after entering this world and also had their fair share of sibling fights, in womb and out.



When will I separate them? They still share a crib and until it becomes a problem I don't intend to separate them. Once they are big enough to move to a bigger bed I'll provide two beds for them, but I don't intend to split them into separate rooms unless they desperately request such a thing. Of course I recognize them as individuals and am not trying to make them be one. I feel that I'm being respectful of their special bond, one I will never fully understand. But I can imagine that it would be hard to be forced to be separated from someone that has been with you since you can remember and you weren't ready for that separation. So I will wait until it is a problem for them or they tell me they need to be separated.



How does Macey interact with them? Most of the time she has a blast with them. Chasing, laughing, wrestling, singing, dancing...she loves her brother and sister. Obviously there are times when it is annoying to have a brother or sister or both trying to play with the toy you picked out to play with. So, Sean and I provide a space for Macey to place her things so that Miles and Camryn cannot get to them. She definitely loves them and misses them when they aren't around. I hope they continue to be close and that Macey will not ever feel left out or like the third wheel. I know I'm going to make every effort to make sure that doesn't happen.



How are they different? Oh, this is easy. Miles is my little funny man. Prankster, funny little guy. He laughs so easily. He finds humor in so much. He always has. He loves to play games with you. He's also all boy. Throwing everything. He loves to throw things down the stairs, out of the bathtub, out of the door, into the trash, etc. And he mainly uses his left hand when throwing. Even when eating he puts his spoon in his left hand...so maybe we have a lefty. He's also cautious in new environments. He needs a little time to adjust with new people or new places. Once he finds his groove, he's good to go. He's kept up with being very vocal. He will be the first to let you know that he is hungry ("eat, eat") or that he's done eating ("un down") or what he wants to do. I'm just amazed at the conversations I can have with him at this age. Camryn is my very emotional, independent little diva. She wants to do it her way on her time. And if you interupt her time, big tears and loud protesting. She also doles out the sweetest kisses. Saying "mmuah" with each kiss as she tenderly pecks you on the cheek. She is also the most fearless kid I've known. Some of her feats include climbing into our bar height chairs and sitting as if she's grown. And climbing on top of the sofa table and standing very proudly. I truly believe that she thinks she can do it all. And strangers, what is that? She thinks every new place is a place that was anticipating her arrival and she makes her presence known. Two distinct personalities who happened to be born on the same day.



Lessons learned from having twins:

1. Never give one of them something different to eat or drink when they are young. They are perceptive to these things very early on. If they feel like the other one has gotten something "more enjoyable" a fight or fit will ensue. Miles still has food allergies, so you guess it, Camryn mostly only eats what Miles can eat. If you want to give Camryn something Miles can't have, you better do it out of sight of Miles. And if you give one juice and not the other, they know, they can tell what is in a cup. Boycotting their cup has occurred as well as stealing the other ones cup. I'm guessing that they'll grow out of this and want very distinctive things, but for now we try to keep it equitable to avoid meltdowns.
2. Always bring booster seats with you when having to eat out of the house. This is because many places don't have lots of highchairs or the likelihood of two of them that work (i.e. snap) being available may be slim. Being prepared for this is crucial. Even traveling to other houses. Feeding two 17 month olds at the same time, forget it if you can't confine them.
3. Don't be stunned when your son requests a hair bow be put in his hair because he just witnessed his sister get one put in her hair. We've not made it in public with it in his hair, but he's definitely had a few put in his hair before leaving the house.
4. Never underestimate the brain power of two toddlers. They've been found standing on top of a turned over large mixing bowl trying to open the bathroom door. I'm not looking forward to the day when they figure out that one can hoist the other one up to get something out of reach.
5. If you think you child proofed your house for a previous child, think again. Child proofing take on a whole new meaning when there's two to chase and keep safe.
6. There are many lessons we've learned and will continue to learn. Hopefully we don't make too many mistakes along the way.

We are glad we have each one of the children we have and raising twins plus one has been a fun and exciting (sometimes exhausting) ride. And I'm sure raising twins, plus two will be even better...I guess we'll find out in August!

Daily moments

Some sweet/funny moments around here lately.

As I'm dishing out food onto Miles' tray, Camryn gives him some peas from her tray. I guess she thought he needed a few more. And it could go the other way, they do steal food from each other, even though they eat the same thing. Grass is greener I guess.

As soon as I get Miles out of his chair, Camryn pulls it to her so that she can grab all the leftovers from his seat.

Camryn walking around holding her shorts, who knows what this kid is thinking. I wish we could find our camera charger to catch this one.

Macey doing some serious bird chasing expeditions. Our neighborhood walk is now all about locating birds so that Macey can chase/try to catch them. She's serious about this, it's no laughing matter to her.

Miles copying everything you say. One of my favorites is him holding up something and looking at me and saying "Dis" (asking what is this). To which I tell him what it is he's holding, then him trying to say what I told him it was. Another one is when he's done eating and I ask if he is full and if he wants to get up. To which he replies "up", holding his arms up to me. Yet another one is when I ask if he's poo pooed (when he has) and he looks at me with a sheepish grin and says "poo poo". That boy.

Camryn throwing her professional/diva style fits. I know, not so funny in years to come, but I can't help but laugh at her go crazy over the smallest things (i.e. when I take an unpeeled orange away from her to peel it so she can eat it, that was the end of the world to her, and there are LOTS more). Oh, and NEVER put her down first when putting them down for nap/bedtime. Diva style fit surely will ensure if you do. This girl has more attitude than any of the other Hardeman kids...Lord give me strength!

Camryn sucking her thumb and twirling/pulling her hair. When I hold her and she starts sucking her thumb she will twirl my hair. One bad thing about the hair twirling is that it's hard to keep her hair up. She's a pro at the hair twirl/pulling while sucking her thumb and she has no use for your hairstyle you did for her. Oh well, at least one of my girls allowed me to keep pretty bows in her hair.

Macey and Miles wrestling. They get pretty rough and Miles just laughs the entire time.

The conversations about her day I have with Macey as she's going to bed. Her telling me about Harley licking her on her hand, chasing birds, playing.

Macey with her babydolls. She rocks them, pretends they are crying, tells them not to cry, takes them on strolls, covers them with blankets, gives them baths, asks if they are okay.

Miles and Camryn walking around with whistles in their mouths and blowing them. Yes, can get a little loud, but the funniest thing.

The kid-cart derby that goes on in the kitchen everyday. Miles and Camryn pushing their push toys and Macey riding her cart. Enter if you are brave, they will run you over.

Getting on Macey's cart with her and having to hold Miles and Camryn and go for a few spins around the kitchen.

Macey helping me cook. She's a great stir-er and helps me measure and dump ingredients.

Macey telling us to leave the bathroom (usually only when she's got to go poo). Who knew privacy would start this early.

Miles and Camryn singing into the kid microphone (it really works). I think I recorded this one but can't download since the battery is down.

These are the moments...

A few birthday pictures

They are in reverse order. I didn't load them like this, but this is how they posted (and I'm not taking the time to move them around). Enjoy!

Went in two different directions

Started out together

I think she liked it.

Yummmm!

Savoring the flavor

This is F-U-N!

"Really, all of this is MINE!"

See what I mean, daring! She tried a few times to touch the flame!

"This is different"

Birthday Ride

How much they've grown

What a difference a year makes!

Happy 1st Birthday Camryn!

Dear Camryn,

BGB (Baby Girl B) is a year old! How did this year go by so fast!? We are blessed to have such a wonderful baby girl in our lives.

You took up your share and more while in my tummy. You loved to flip flop around and lay in every direction you could think of. I forgive you for poking me in my ribs those last few months. Even though it was quite painful, I understand you didn't have enough room to stretch out like you would've wanted. I think you and your brother came to an understanding early on that you needed your space and he obliged by staying low and not flipping around so much. I appreciate this understanding!

You have become such a little character. I'm constantly amazed at the things you do. My little dare devil. Climbing up on anything and everything and skillfully so. You can not only climb up, but successfully and quite masterfully get yourself down. Your balance and coordination is just amazing. I understand your need for a daring challenge, but I hope you remember that Mommy can't handle too many daring situations. No more trying to climb the dresser or trying to climb the baby gate? Please? And I will say it now; no, you cannot skydive, bungy jump, or drive a race car, not until you are 35! Please don't make me eat those words. ;-)

You seem to have the world figured out already. Maybe it's the daring explorer in you. You are very busy at that. Investigating one toy for a bit, then moving on to the next. You and your brother are very busy. You don't like it when someone denies you the ability to explore a toy or even food. You make it very known that they are hurting your feelings and continue to make it known to them; as if you think they forgot what they did.

You've been on the go for a while. Army crawling was your mode of transportation for many months. The army would've been privileged to have such a skilled crawler among their ranks. Fast, agile, and strong. I guess that mode of transportation got boring and you moved onto traditional crawling. But you can still be caught using your stealth army crawl every now and then.

You have been quite laid back this first year, despite your need for a challenge. You go with the flow. We appreciate you taking it easy on us here. You can say some things, but you are deep in thought a lot and mostly prefer to keep those thoughts to yourself. Some things you say are "daddy, bye, un uh, and cat". You also make noises for a dog barking, duck quacking, pig oinking, and a dog panting.

Your have a smile that will brighten any dark room! Just beautiful! Your little laugh is just the cutest thing. Tickling you gets the best laugh out of you. You and your daddy have a tickling game that is hilarious. Daddy just pokes you and you squirm/bend over while laughing.

You like to take your time waking up in the morning. The light hurts your eyes and you'd rather not be brought into it for a while after waking. I feel the same way many mornings.

Some things you do at 1 year old:

1. Taking steps, not preferred yet
2. Suck your thumb while pulling your hair
3. Climb
4. Wave
5. Bang toys
6. Steal toys and food
7. Play peek a boo
8. Give kisses
9. Take your diaper off
10. Carry on conversations with Macey

Your daddy and I love you "to the moon and back" and are happy to have you in our family. We look forward to the adventures we will share with you.

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

Happy 1st Birthday Miles!

Dear Miles,

It has been truly an amazing first year with you, BBA (Baby Boy A). You have brought so much joy, entertainment and love to our home.

Where to begin. You gave us a little scare before you were born with having such a high heart rate, but I'm thinking you were just getting so excited about getting to meet the rest of your family that you couldn't contain it. Thankfully you calmed down and you and your sister were able to grow some more before making your entrance. You've continued to add spice to our lives.

Despite your struggles with food allergies, you are such an animated, spirited little fellow. You speak with inflection and tone. Although many times you are saying gibberish, we completely understand what you are saying as your expressions and body language say it all. Just remember, inside voice is a good thing. The girls won't want to play with you if you stick with such a loud squeal. And if you could remember that Mommy may want some of her friends to watch you sometimes and your demanding tone can make finding a babysitter a bit harder, or um is that your plan? You also love to mimic what we are saying. Some of the things you say are hey, boo, yes, daddy, ball, bye, sister, bath, un uh, uh oh...just to name a few.

You wake up in the morning ready to tackle the day. We can hear you talking as soon as you open your eyes and when we go get you out of the crib you greet us with such a squeal. It makes us smile every time. "Good morning world, I'm up and excited about the day!" That's what I imagine you are thinking each morning. I wish I had your zest!

You are such a jovial little guy. When you first started crawling you would just laugh and giggle with each motion. You were so happy to be moving around I guess. You laugh when we are being silly, you laugh when Macey "plays" tackle with you, you laugh with Camryn when you are having your "twin" conversations... It brings a smile to my face just thinking of how you laugh and how easily you laugh.


You certainly do love hanging out with me a lot. I like hanging out with you too. One request though. When Mommy's trying to make your dinner, it makes it much harder to do that if you just want to hang out around my legs (i.e. holding onto them and wanting me to walk around while you hold onto my legs). I understand that it very fun to do and that you sometimes just want to tell me to hurry up, but it does slow Mommy down a bit. As much as I want to spend every minute hanging out with you and your sisters, I hope you understand that I'm just trying to make your dinner.

Some of the things you are doing at 1 year old:

1. Taking steps; not proficient at walking yet though
2. Sucking 2 fingers on your left hand
3. Waving
4. Climbing
5. Throwing
6. Banging toys
7. Playing peek a boo
8. Giving kisses
9. Fighting with your sisters (i.e. taking toys away or having toys taken away)
10. Playing cars
    

We love you so much and can't wait to see what else we get to share with you. We are so lucky to have you in our lives!

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

Little momma

We recently visited family a few weekends ago. Macey played with a babydoll that had a diaper on it and she was instantly in love. She loved changing the doll's diaper numerous times (i.e. taking the diaper off, using a wipe, and putting the same diaper back on). She had already been playing with her stuff animals and pretending they were her babies as well as playing with her dolls, but once she saw that babydoll with a diaper her love for playing babies intensified. I've had to put a diaper on a stuffed duck, elephant, and who knows what else as well as her babydolls. She also loves to put blankets around her babies/stuffed animal and rock them. Or she'll lay her babies down with blankets on them. I come home many times to find babies/stuff animals laid out on the couch with blankets on them. She's such a good little momma. She still worries about where her brother or sister are if both of them are not awake. I love how she will ask me "Where's sister", as if it's her responsibility to keep track of them. She loves them so.

Blessings

A friend shared this website on facebook a few days ago (warning, have many tissues when you visit this site). This family's story is absolutely amazing. I do not know them nor do I know if the friend who shared it knows them. There are so many times when we think we know where our life is going, but truly it is not up to you. If you look at your life in those terms then some of the things you may worry about or may fret over no longer seem that big. Everyday I get to spend with my family is a day I should cherish more.

11 months and counting

11 months old today. They are busy 11 month olds.

Camryn is a singer, climber and a foodie. She sings with the hairdryer, sings when she hears a song and sings with you. Even if it is just "ahhhhhhhh" really loud, she's singing. She's one strong booger. She climbs on everything. There are absolutely no limits to what she will climb or attempt to climb. Just today I caught her trying to climb the oven by hanging from the oven door handle and putting her feet up on the door. She also gets on one of Macey's riding toys by herself, that's coordination. She's getting closer to walking. She'll walk with just holding one of my hands. Eat, she loves to eat. She will be done with what I give her within minutes. I hardly turn around and she's already done eating. And don't even think about taking food away from her once she's got it in her hand, or face a professional 11 month old tantrum (screaming and writhing included). Eat in front of her and don't share, if you dare. She will hold a grudge as well. You hurt her feelings (i.e don't share your food) and she won't forgive you quickly.

Miles is animated, a talker, and a head hugger. He is so bubbly and passionate. He squeals in excitement every morning when Sean or I go get them out of the bed. He will be crawling or cruising and will laugh at every move. He still thinks I'm pretty funny. After I read to them at night I ask if I can have a kiss and grin at them. Miles will grin back with those charming eyes all while keeping his two fingers in his mouth. He won't take them out when I go in for a kiss and that cracks him up. I have to take them out of his mouth and he thinks that's funny too. He has always been my little talker. Now he's copying a lot of what he hears. He definitely knows "ball" and uses it correctly. His little face lights up as he picks up a ball and says "ball" over and over. He loves playing ball. He's also said several other words, my little parrot. He loves to give you head hugs. He will bury his head in you as that's his way of giving you a hug. Miles is getting closer to walking too, but thankfully he doesn't climb as much as his sister (I don't think I could handle two climbers at the same time). He likes to push around those push toys and any other object that will push easily. He's also been caught pushing Camryn around on the riding toy that she can get on by herself. There's one of many advantages of having twins, they push each other around instead of mom/dad having to break their backs bending over to push them!

Some cute moments we've been about to experience in these 11 months are Miles and Camryn giving each other kisses, them laughing and talking to each other, Macey, Miles and Camryn playing chase around the kitchen island, Miles/Camryn stealing food from each other, Macey being a little momma to both of them, Miles and Camryn reaching for and holding each other's hand while riding in their carseats in the car, Macey getting worried about her brother/sister as someone walked away holding them, all three of them "attacking" us when we lay on the floor to play with them...there are so many.

Update on Allergies

So I talked with Miles' allergist doctor today. Apparently either the lab made a mistake or he did when filling out the lab request because we were suppose to test for peanuts as well, but instead got the results for pecans. So we know Miles' isn't allergic to pecans, but I'm certain he's allergic to peanuts since he had a horrific hive experience just by coming in contact with peanut butter (on his skin, never eaten it). His doctor also referred us to some reputable websites. The food allergy website the kids with food allergy website. Lots of recipes for no egg, no milk, no wheat, no soy foods. I even found a recipe to make your own "flour" out of rice flour and some additional starches (potato, arrowroot and tapioca).

Our biggest challenge will be keeping Macey from sharing her food with Miles. She loves to give them food. I've started telling her that it will make him sick if she gives it to him. We'll see how that goes. That could backfire on us.

I asked the doctor if he felt we needed an epi-pen as he had mentioned that in our first visit with him. He said that he would call one in for us. We don't know what his response would be if he ingested eggs or peanuts. He also stated that by removing the items he's been eating from his system if he was to ingest some he could have a more severe reaction than what he has shown.

Good grief...

We took Miles to a pediatric allergist last week. We have witnessed some additional reactions with food that made us suspect he had some allergies. The blood tests came back today and we were right. Milk, eggs, soy, wheat and dust mites all made the list. I also think he's got an intolerance/allergy to peanuts. So what do you give a 10 month old that is allergic to milk and soy? The answer is Elecare. Where do you get it? You got me. Luckily the allergist gave me several samples of it. What is it made of? Good question. It's an amino acid based formula.

Photo shoot day!

Ok, I'm a little late in posting this. Saturday morning we met with an AWESOME photographer and had family photos done. It was an 8am shoot and we met her at Mayfield park in Austin. Lots of ironing, packing, planning, and more planning the night before and then getting a jump start in the morning enabled us to only be 5 or 10 minutes late! Daddy was dragging his feet a bit (got sidetracked playing with the babies, who can blame him) or we may have been a little earlier. But we did manage to leave the house around 7:20. We were hoping to beat the heat, but after we got there and unloaded everything, I was already sweating. It was really humid! The kids didn't seem to be so bothered by it though. Poor Christina, the photographer, she had the hardest job! She did so well with Macey, who was the most uncooperative. There are tons of peacocks at this park and she wanted to chase the birds instead of smile for the camera. Well, Macey wanted to do a lot of other things (exploring, picking up feathers, etc) than smiling for the camera. Christina was so great at getting Macey's attention and corralling her to get some good pictures of her. She got some amazing pictures of us.

You can view the pictures on her website. Click on either html or flash and then click on "client". Our password is "jones". She's loading them as she completes them. I can't wait to see more! She's awesome!

Summer events

Nothing much going on in the Hardeman household. Just chasing babies. Miles and Camryn are on the move. Miles loves to walk around and cries when you stop holding his hands. He's a little cautious about his moves, but he makes them. He has times when he shows no fear, but overall he's calculating about the things he's going to do. Camryn has no fear, NONE. She's a climber. I thought Macey was bad (and she is), but somehow Camryn has managed to top her. She tries to climb EVERYTHING. She's tried to climb up on the side of the tub while she's taking a bath. She's successfully climbed up on a little kid sized wooden rocker. Not only climbed up on it, but stood in it while holding onto the back. She's climbed onto the bench of the kid-sized picnic table and stood on the bench seat while holding onto the tabletop. She tries to get her legs up on anything. Her latest feat was accomplished while holding onto the window sill and trying to see her daddy who was outside, she stood on the baseboards to lift herself up. Yep, those 1/4 inch thick things that only tiny toes can get on, she stood on it. They both can climb the stairs, oh boy. They are both letting go with one hand and maneuvering around to the next piece of furniture. And Camryn will pull up on the wall/cabinet/dishwasher and bang on it, letting go with both hands as she's banging. Macey thinks that jumping and then throwing her feet out from underneath her and landing on her bottom is so much fun. Of course this is done on the couch, bed, anything soft. And a lot of times is done to dismount from said piece of furniture.

We took them swimming this past weekend. It wasn't so daunting of a task. They all loved it. I was a little hesitant at putting Miles in the water since his skin is so sensitive, but he did fine, no rash/irritation. Thankfully only one of the three is walking. Next summer should be interesting should we decide to take them swimming.

I don't have any recent pictures since Sean took control of the camera again.

More Marker Mania

Hmmm...is this an indication...

of what is to come. You can see the wheels turning as I caught her in the act.

Now you might understand why I call her my little billy goat!

Here's another one of Camryn. She can vibrate her tongue at the top of her mouth; like when you make the purring noise for a cat. She does it at the very beginning of this video.

Miles and Camryn are 3 months away from being 1 today! On our shopping expedition this past weekend there was a lady with what looked like a few day old newborn. She was in the baby section and was carrying her around. Seeing such a little tiny baby reminds me how fast mine have gotten so big! I can still carry both of them at the same time, but it definitely has gotten more weighty!

Recent pictures and video

The kids survived the stomach bug. Macey ended up laying around and sleeping all day Sunday. 5+ days of it. Whew. Hope it doesn't return for a WHILE.

Handsome Miles

Beautiful Camryn

Marked up Macey (with her toddler markers, so easy wash)

These next two pictures of Miles need explaining. So we're still splitting them up at naptime. Sure you think, just lower the crib. Sounds easy, but if you're really interested in hearing how our schedule doesn't allow for many "kinks" in it, just ask. Anyway, when we put them in their room for nap Miles and Camryn can see each other, but only if he stands up. Miles often starts falling asleep standing up, sucking on his fingers, with his head laying on the rail. Miles can't sleep like this and starts complaining, so that's our cue to go in and lay him down. He won't lay down on his own. I guess he misses his sister. The same can be said for Camryn as she's often on the end of the pack n play that faces the crib.

Miles snoozing

Camryn dreaming

Sweet sleepers (this isn't how they were put in bed, but this is how they were found; they get put down on opposite ends of the crib and this is Miles's side)

I guess I interrupted the fun

Talking

Hanging out

A glimpse of the fun. Sometimes I feel like the Pied Piper. All 3 of them will follow me at times. I usually have at least one following me and the most frequent being Miles.

The camera battery died as I was recording so it got cut short. But they just crack up at each other. Don't ask me what's so funny, only they know that.

I went on an extended shopping trip today with them in tow. Usually when I go it alone I go to one store, get in, get what we need, and get out as soon as possible. Today we went to THREE stores, just me and the kids. One of those was a pet store. This was the fun store. When it's a thousand degrees outside you have to improvise. Pet store=air conditioned fun viewing of loads of animals. I used the double stroller, so Macey walked around the stores. She was so good at listening to me and staying with me. At our second store a woman with a toddler in her basket commented on how well she was listening. Proud momma moment (but of course I'm not kidding myself...she is only 2, so at any moment things can change). I kept giving her tasks to do, like "okay, we need to find the syrup, will you help me find the syrup." When we found it, she took it off the shelf and loaded it into the bottom of the stroller. Miles and Camryn were great as well.

I have to add a "pat on the back" to Sean and I. Potty training a barely 2 year old with 8 month old twins=big undertaking. If we didn't have such an easy participant we might be singing a different tune. God definitely knows what he's doing...if you ever questioned that.

Oh and Camryn now has 3 teeth through and the other front top tooth is about to come through. If you look closely at the smiling picture of her you can see one of the bottom teeth.