Parker's Fluttery Friend

While on an "adventure" at the hunting club, Parker found a new friend.  Despite his best efforts to put the creature on a nearby flower, the butterfly continually made its way back to Parker.

Twin Update: Week 35

At my last appointment (June 24th), the twins received another glowing report.  Their heartbeats were strong and both had gained weight - Addison was weighing in just under five pounds, while Carter was estimated to weigh a few ounces over five pounds.  Unfortunately, they are still breech, so I am currently scheduled for a cesarean section on Friday, July 15th.  Please join me in praying for a safe delivery, healthy babies, a speedy recovery, and a smooth transition for the entire family.

A New Hairdo

I've been growing out my hair for the past year and a half with the goal of donating it to Pantene Beautiful Lengths.  This organization uses donated hair to make real hair wigs for women who have lost their hair due to cancer treatments.  The wigs are then distributed for free through select American Cancer Society wig banks across the country.  What a wonderful blessing for those in need! 

I finally got my hair cut yesterday (July 2nd).  Here are the before and after pictures.

A Much-Needed Visit from Mom

Praise God for a mother's intuition.  My mom, who obviously sensed my anticipation about the coming of the twins, called about three weeks ago and told me she was flying down to visit.  By the end of the day, she had booked a ticket for June 23rd-June 27th.  During her stay, she was able to successfully juggle her time between the boys (via games, picnics, a trip to the movies, slip 'n slide fun, ice cream outings, etc.) and me, the "slave driver."  She worked diligently to help me hang curtains throughout the house, beautify the living the room, and decorate the nursery.  We finished the nursery just in time - these pictures were taken at 11:15 the night before Mom left.

 (This is Carter's side of the room.)

 (This is Addison's side of the room.)

I hated to see Mom leave the next morning.  In fact, I seriously considered kidnapping her and keeping her here in Florence.  I decided against it this time, but she may not be so lucky the next go-around.  

 

(Thank you, Mom.  I love you bunches!)

33 Weeks and Counting

Here's an updated belly picture for my friends and loved ones who live far away.

The Tooth Fairy Frequents Our Home

While attempting to eat corn on the cob on Memorial Day (May 30th), Parker realized that he had a loose tooth.  He was so excited about the prospect of losing his first tooth that he wiggled, pulled, and twisted it throughout the remainder of lunch.  After playing with the tooth for about ten minutes, he successfully twisted it out.  The tooth fairy left Parker ten dollars that night.  He/She must have been very impressed with the fact that Parker pulled his own tooth.

Parker, who was thrilled with the whole experience, became obsessed with losing more teeth and began wiggling a new tooth.  On June 8th, he tried to eat a hotdog at lunch and his gum started bleeding.  He refused to eat until the tooth was out, so the next 30 minutes were spent twisting yet another tooth.  Fortunately, it finally came out. 

The tooth fairy only left five dollars this time, but Parker was still delighted.  His newly acquired funds also motivated him to count his money.  After doing so, he used his coins to leave me a sweet message.

(Isn't he precious?)

Baseball Season Highlights

Parker thoroughly enjoyed the 2011 baseball season.  He was focused and determined both offensively and defensively.  Although he usually played third base, he also had the opportunity to play shortstop, first base, and pitcher.  On May 7th, Parker won the game ball for a job well-done on third base and strong hits while at bat.  I, however, would argue that his best game was played on June 2nd when he hit two homeruns, one of which was a grand slam.  Needless to say, I was so proud of him.