The Adventures of the Carter Twins

It is nice to be home!

2010-07-10T14:36:00.000-07:00

The favorite thing about being home is that I get to see all my friends, especially my closest friend in the world Jessica and her son, Landon! Isn't he adorable, and I can see the boys being such great playmats in the future.

Other Twins on the Block. . .

2010-07-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

A couple down the street from my mom has 6 month old twin boys, and we have been passing each other everyday on our walks, that we decided today we should just walk and talk together to the park. It was actually nice to talk to someone who has experienced some of the stuff I am going through. Aren't they just as adorable too. . .

Evan & Ethan

Kyran Ryder & Kyran

Maybe I should unpack some of their toys!!!

2010-07-01T13:02:00.001-07:00

I have slowly started unpacking the main things at my mom house. I am kind of in a frenzy right now, because we are moving again in November, and don't want to have to repack a lot of stuff again, so right now I am being picking and choosy lately. That supposebly all the toys that I picked for boys, they would rather play with the stuff in the cupboards. That yesterday, my mom and I walked into the kitchen to see that Ryder got the lid off the a bottle of oil, and was all shiny, and of course I had to take pictures before I cleaned up the mess !!

Finally some down time . . . in the middle of the ocean no less!

2010-06-17T15:52:00.000-07:00

This is going to be short and sweet, since I do not know how long this conncection is going to last, we are officially on Day #7 of our cruise, if you can believe it, June has just flown by. . . but here is a quickie.

June 1st: My babies turned 1.

June 2nd: Had first ultrasound of Baby #3.

June 4th: We packed up and strted our drive to Nashville

June 7th: Arrived in Nashville. . . we were driving with two babies.

June 10th: We flew to England.

June 12th: We boarded the Disney Magic and are on there till the 24th.

We will return home on June 26th, say goodbye to Daddy for two weeks.

Here are some pictures that a friend took of the boys and me, of our final days in LA.

And of course we could not forget the new little one. .

Twin Bond

2010-05-31T11:59:00.000-07:00

Ryder and Kyran share a bond that will last for life, they are identical twins, meaning they have the same DNA. As Aaron and I welcome Baby 3 into the world we hope that the bond will be shared between all 3 of them.

To Aaron and I Ryder and Kyran may look the same but they are two very different children. Ryder is our boy, boy he loves his dump truck, climbing on things, getting messy, he is also our adventourous one. Kyran likes to check ot the situation before he joins in, he loves snuggling and watching movies, and bathtime. They are two opposite children but love to be together and play together, they bring out the best in each other.

As Baby 3 enters this world, Aaron and I believe he or she will be a little bit of both Ryder and Kyran, ands since there is only 16 months age different that the bond will extend to this Baby.

Its been a crazy week. . .

2010-05-30T15:31:00.000-07:00

What a busy crazy week!!! Aaron and I are busy getting ready for the boys 1st birthday. . . the whole family is coming out to LA to celebrate, for a fun birthday bash on Tuesday. The following weekend Aaron's brother Nick, my parents, Aaron, the boys and myself will be driving back to Nashville (aaaaah), where we will living until Baby #3 is here, which will be around the end of October. Aaron will spend the month of June with us, every other weekend, then the month of October until the baby is born. The boys will also spend two weeks out in LA with Aaron and his parents as I prepare for us to move us to Florida. Wow, I'm tired thinking of it.

Back to now, I have been busily packing for our move and trip in August. I just could not pass these picture of Kyran and Ryder being goofballs as I pack their beach toys.

THE BACKYARDIGANS

2010-05-16T18:23:00.001-07:00

(P.S. No we did not get a new dog. . . it is our neighbors, his name is Cooper)

1st Mother Day

2010-05-10T10:27:00.000-07:00

Was absolutely amazing. I got to sleep in till 10:30 AM. (I don' think that has hapeened since I was pregnant), then when I got up Aaron and the boys made bisuits for breakfast (yummy).

Ryder trying to share with Mommy

Ryder's first bite.

It was really Yummy! (Kyran)

After breakfast we just hung around the house all afternoon.

Ryder and I stop for a picture moment. We were on are way to grab a toy from downstairs.

Taking a rest, playing all day is hard.

Kyran practicing his push-ups, just like Daddy.

Aaron even made dinner and it was delicious, and I never expected so many wonderful gifts. I am truly blessed.

Yellow Daisies and a Macy's Gift Card from Aaron.

Photo and Handprint of Kyran

Photo and Handprint of Ryder.

I have the most wonderful family in the world !!

The Count Down Begins. . .

2010-05-02T21:58:00.000-07:00

and I am a day behind, as usual. The boys will be 1 years old in 29 days, can you believe it. It has gone by in a heart beat. I will post their 1 year photos after our trip back home from very hot and sunny Florida. For a preview those check the new title and side bar.

Theme of 2010 . . .

2010-04-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

UNEXPECTED SURPRISES . . . Aaron all the time gets jobs offered to go work at Music Studios across the country, especially since he is highly trained both in Engineering and Consulting (he took both in college, because he did not know what aspect he actually wanted to go). He just loves music in general. Anyways, while most of the time he politely turns them down because he loves the firm he works with now, they are very flexible with his work schedule (as long as he puts in the hours), he does not have to travel much (which this mommy enjoys), and they are a good bunch of guys.

While, with baby #3 on the way, we have been talking a lot about our concerns about raising 3 kids surrounded with no family, out here in LA. When on Wednesday one of the guys from his company approached him and said there is a great opportunity in Florida (Gainsville to be exact), at first we were like no, no changing company's not an option. Then we went out for supper with him and his wife, and he talked so highly about them, and it was like these two studios worked close that the transition might not be as bad, and there would be no hard feelings if he left this company for another.

To make a long story short, we are going to spend 5 days in Gainsville (Aaron is actually), I am headed to Walt Disney World with my mom and dad and the boys, while he checks it out, but where I stand know is that it is 10 time closer to our families then LA, it is only an hr. away from my favorite vacation place, and to top it all off their 2nd studio is Nashville, which means when he / we travel it means we will be heading home.

Wish us luck, and I could not leave out cute pictures of my favorite little men. Enjoy!

In six short months. . .

2010-04-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

Aaron had the evening off last night, so we had a delicious meal at home, and were able to sit back relax and talk. Of course, that talk led us to the big conversation that in 6 short months we will be parents to 3 little ones under the age of 2. We are both exicted and nervous at the same time. We know we do have to make some changes in our life, having both our families live so far from us is really hard, we did agree that we want to have the baby at home in not in LA, so after our trip with my parents I will be moving in with them, and Aaron will travel back and forth until about August where he will work at the company quarters in Nashville until the baby is born. Will this move be permanent I don't know... we like the idea, but I also know Aaron loves his job out in LA, so we do not know what the future holds from there.

I know for certain that I will need more help, let that be a family member or a nanny ( I like the idea of a family member better), but with 3 kids in diapers, two of which are high energy boys, and another little one, it would be tough on your own, for the 1st little while at least. Aaron knows that, and he is a fantastic farther and does everything he can with the boys. I am truly blessed, but at the same time he is the one that brings money into our household and supports all 4 of us, therefore he sacrifices a lot of his time to make us happy.

Just to let you know how crazy our life can be sometimes, Aaron was home last night, so instead of me doing dishes along with the bottles from the day, I let it slide to this afternoon, so we could spend some time as a family which left me this chaotic mess at lunch time. . .

Now add one more baby on a bottle, and there goes half my day. (My mom did point out that I could probably wean the Ryder and Kyran onto sippy cups so it would not be that bad, and they could be put into the dishwaser, I might just do that). I don't know how moms of triplets do it.

Another suggestion I got from a friend, was get the boys to help out. (She joking of course)! Could you imagine them helping out at 16 months. Then again they do love playing in the dishwasher, so might as well train them young.

At the end of the day, I know the best thing for our growing family will be, and that I am truly exicted for whatever the future may hold, and this little one on the way :))

Home Sweet Home & Loving our new Trucks !!!

2010-04-23T12:32:00.000-07:00

We finally made it home (or back to LA). I decided to extend our visit by a week since Aaron had to fly to New York, and I did not want to fly back home with the boys by myself, so more visiting we did.

The first thing we did was open the boys new dump trucks, that I would not let happen while we were in Nashville. They would of been to difficult to bring home on the plane, if they were not in their box. I know I am a mean mommy, but they do love them, and especially riding in them!!!

To Great Grandparents House we Go....

2010-04-12T10:17:00.000-07:00

Growing up my Grandparents were very much involved in my life, so coming home for Easter it was very important that we spend some time with them at their place. The boys just loved them as you can see from the pictures.

Identical yet so opposite . . .

2010-04-07T10:22:00.001-07:00

We were at Aaron's Mom's yesterday, where she made us some delicious homemade Lemonade. Aaron thought it was perfect timing to introduce the boys to Lemons. Let me say it was interesting....

Ryder attempting to pick up the slice.

Ryder wondering what this yellow thing is?

Ryder Taste Test #1, mommy could not bear the reaction, she took it out of his mouth.

Ryder what this strange yellow food is?

Taste Test #2 resulted in same reaction.

Ryder giving the look, What is this thing?

Kyran on the other hand, knew better and just gave us the puppy dog eyes the whole time, refusing to pick it up.

Happy Easter

2010-04-05T14:02:00.000-07:00

A Birthday, 10 months and another little one on the way!

2010-04-02T13:50:00.001-07:00

Well we officially made it home, and our excited to be home for a whole 2 weeks, to catch up with family and friends.

My moms, first order of business was to celebrate my birthday (ahhhh 26), which I could not complain since she makes the best chocolate cake in the world. ( Yummy!)

Opening up my presents! I got two perfect gifts. A homemade apron that my mom made herself, and yes.... wait for it. My first pair of elastic pants (well I guess not my first), but my first with this baby. Yes Aaron and I are expecting another little one at the end of October (just 1 this time), meaning Ryder and Kyran are going to be big Brothers. We are all very excited!!!

Ryder and Kyran also turned 10 months yesterday. . . can you believe it! Where has the time gone. We decided to celebrate at ranch just outside of town. We got some really adorable pictures.

Chillin'

2010-03-29T13:05:00.001-07:00

The boys were very hyper last night, Aaron was pulling another late night, and I knew that they would not go to bed easily for me, but I had to finish packing to head home to Nashville for Easter. I decided to turn on Baby Einstein and see if they would relax enogh to lay on their bobby's. It worked like a miracle !!

Future Pianists

2010-03-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

Our neighbour's from across the street are moving ;(( and asked us to help store some of their belongings while they work on getting their new house settled, and we were glad to help, especially their piano, which is an antique and gorgeous, and don't the boys absolutely look adorable playing at it.

Never a dull moment in our life!

2010-03-23T11:18:00.001-07:00

Well, life has returned to normal in our household. Aaron is putting in 12 hrs days again right now, the boys have been becoming more mobile by the minute (growing up too fast), which leaves this mommy with very little time. At least Aaron has been going into work later, so he gets to spend all morning with the boys, which frees up some of my time, but he is not getting home till about 11:00 at night. At least he has stated he is not working Saturday and Sundays anymore.

It will eventually, slow down, he calls it vacation catch-up, but then again we are packing again, to head home for Easter and visit the family, which is long overdue, so who knows when it will slow down.

On a happier note, I was out shopping with the boys yesterday, and found the perfect bookself for them. Just see for yourself:

We're Home!!!!

2010-03-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

We got home yesterday! Which most of you know already, thank you everyone for all the e-mails, during the trip, Aaron and I really appreciated all of them, considering all the highs and lows of this trip. Most of you know already I was doing my best to post a live trip report on my favourite disney site. DISboards, if you haven't already read it here is the link:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2409769

I got up to Day 6, so far, and I am going to post Day1 pictures right away, but DO NOT expect a lot of the pictures of the boys, I am waiting till Easter when I get to see you all, to show you all 596 photos of them ( I might throw in a few).

Until then the boys have been ever so kind to help me with our loads of laundry.

9 months ... how time flys

2010-03-01T19:26:00.001-08:00

9-month accomplishments:

They love to feed themselves and pick out what they really like at the table, but will eat mostly anything. There favourite finger food is Cheerios (which mommy loves because they are so much cheaper).
We are working on the sippy cup. Ryder is more consistent. We are hoping to say goodbye to the bottles once they are a year old.
Both boys are crawling at full-speed these days, and getting into EVERYTHING!
Ryder pulls up to stand these days like he has done it forever. He "cruises" around a lot while up there too. He never goes long distances, but will move around the coffee table or a square toy, with no problems.
Kyran pulls up to stand too these days, but is extremely leary of how off balance he feels when up there, with only taking a few steps.
Both boys can now pick up things with a pincer grasp and put it straight into their mouths.
They are both interested in playing with toys that you take things in and out of it. I can even give them a container and they have fun putting stuff in it and taking it out.
Ryder has started communication through tantrums these days.
Teeth: Kyran has his two bottom teeth. Ryder top teeth broke through about a week ago.
They have learned to make noise while covering and uncovering their mouth.
say and waving 'bye-bye'
crawling to someone and hanging at their feet when they want to be held

They are turning into such big boys, I can hardly believe it. I have such mixed emotions on that matter, as I am sure most of you can relate!

Funky Hair....

2010-02-25T10:52:00.000-08:00

Mommy was having too much fun last night during bath time, trying to create funky hair-dos to my handsome boys.

They are officially crawlers....

2010-02-24T11:03:00.001-08:00

It is too soon....

2010-02-18T10:37:00.000-08:00

Well in my opinion this happened far too quickly! Ryder and Kyran are both crawling and pulling up. Which means they are into EVERYTHING! So this morning, we started baby-proofing everything. I even had to get a baby gate to block the cat's litter box, so Kyran would not get at it.

This morning, I was making bottles & Kyran came to visit me, next thing I know he has poured the cat's water all over the floor and is laying in it, and he is soaked & laughing!

We just finished attaching the child locks on the computer armoire & microwave cart, & I can attest they work. It took two adults 7 minutes pushing, pulling and sweating to open it up. I was not thrilled to lock it up again, especially since Aaron is at work. What a pain.

Look what I can do!

2010-02-16T13:41:00.000-08:00

The boys have been learning a lot of new tricks lately, especially Ryder, who thinks it so much fun to grab his pant legs, and pull them up. Aren't his chubby little legs adorable. I also, officially have a crawler in the house, Kyran is also definately crawling now. Time to put up the baby gates.

The Perfect Valentines

2010-02-15T08:43:00.000-08:00

Aaron made this the perfect Valentines. In the morning his Sister and I went shopping. Then we returned home to a dozen roses for each of us, and a little extra something for me. BJ baby-sat for us this evening while we went for supper, at a little Italian Restaurant. It was perfect.

Baby Einstein

2010-02-11T11:04:00.000-08:00

Aaron has been working some crazy shifts lately.... I mean 12 hour days, but there is reasoning behind his madness, we have our upcoming trip to WDW (the boys 1st), then we are headed to Nashville for a couple weeks (Aaron has to make some trips to the east coast a couple times, so I thought it would be perfect time to visit our families), and then to an unexpected surprise (I don't want to say it out oud until its confirmed), we might have to change around some of our vacations (I'll tell you later all about it.)

With all those late nights Baby Einstein has become my hero... I sit those boys in their bouncers turn him on and the are content sometimes for a whole hour, which allows me to get caught up on some house work and get organized for the next day.

Our new favourite activity...

2010-02-09T19:40:00.000-08:00

Watching our tower CRASH!!!!

Toys???

2010-02-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

The boys in the last little while have become very interested in toys, they don't spend a lot of time with one, but with lots, which makes for a very messy living room. Also, Kyran has learn to dump the basket of toys to get to them quicker, which makes for an equally greater mess.

8 months!

2010-02-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

Oh wow, how times flies, I feel so bad for not updated lately, January seems to have flown bye, with our vacation to see my parents, Aaron's crazy work schedule, getting ready for our first WDW trip with the boys it is all very exciting, which leaves to a lazy mommy at night, hoping for a quite week and a lot more of this....

Basket Fun

2010-01-25T08:20:00.001-08:00

Hanging with the Boys

2010-01-21T13:29:00.000-08:00

Aaron invited one of his co-workers over for dinner last night, when I went to tell them dinner was ready, all the boys were watching TV nicely until I brought the camera.... the pictures tell the rest of the story of what happened next.

Ryder became more interested in the camera that Mommy had. While Kyran was more interested in sitting nicely for pictures.

I thought it was suppose to slow down after the holiday???

2010-01-20T13:52:00.000-08:00

Wow, it has been a crazy last 10 days. Aaron picked up a huge contract here in LA, and has been working non-stop in the last 10 days. That I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to take the boys to see my mom, with a little help of course. Aaron, sister Bobbie tagged along for the long 30 hours car ride (lots of stopovers let me assure you) and boy we were glad. I think I would have flown otherwise.

We are home now, it was a wonderfully trip and got to catch of with a lot of friends and families, but it was hard being away from Aaron this long, and you could tell the boys sure missed their Daddy.

And glad it is just over a month until our family vacation, to Disney World.

Here are some pictures of our arrival home...

Major Computer Problems

2010-01-07T05:51:00.000-08:00

This should not of been a big problem, but for some reasons it is. Well I was on the computer late Monday night trying to catch up on some e-mails, while when this stupid Anti-Virus Live 2009 shows up on the computer, telling me I have a virus and need to buy this product. With a quick google search I find out it is a Trojan Virus, and it will be a pain in the but to get rid of. While I start the computer scan (which takes 2 hours long), and let it run and finish, which y then I am exhausted. Aaron even made it to bed before me, not a good thing since he had a 7:30 AM appointment on Tuesday, which means I had to get up with the boys....

While at 2 AM the scan finishes and I restart the computer, it loads up with no icons and then eventually logs off, and it keeps repeating, and repeating, and repeating.

Needless to say I had to take the computer in to get fixed. . . thank you that I did not lose anything important especially the boys pictures (external hard drives), and I get to use Aaron's work laptop... which by the way my hands are too small for, so if there is lots of spelling mistakes I apologize now.

I did find two old cute pics of the boys on Aaron's computer... for me to share with you. One is his wallpaper. Hon, I think it is time for an update.

HAPPY NEW YEAR & 7 MONTHS OLD

2010-01-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

This was the picture we captured of the boys at midnight last night! All smiles and giggles to bring in the new year! I think they are taking after their parents, as being party animals. Us parents those are paying for all the partying they did last night those !!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! ALL THE BEST IN 2010.

Six-Month Appointment

2009-12-29T12:21:00.000-08:00

Today the boys saw Dr. B for their 6-month well child check. More shots (5 each!), more yucky "rotavirus juice", and all during naptime! The doctor was very impresed with their motor and social skills again, and they'll be back in January for part 2 of their flu shot.

The Stats...

Ryder
Length: 26 3/4 inches
Weight: 18 lbs. 4 oz.

Kyran
Length: 25 1/4 inches
Weight: 16 lbs. 12 oz.

Playing together

2009-12-28T09:41:00.000-08:00

This is such a fun age to watch the boys the play. No matter where we place them down on the floor they always end up together. Playing so nicely together. I am truly blessed :))

Christmas 2009

2009-12-26T09:11:00.000-08:00

Ryder & Daddy with his new Jack-in-the box toy.

My boys were the perfect present this year.

Aaron and I opening our gifts from my mom.

Our family 2009

Grandma loves her boys.

Kyran won this staring contest.

I love it when they are smiling.

Daddy I want some food please. (Ryder)

PLEASE!!!!!!

My little elves

2009-12-23T18:00:00.001-08:00

Real Food

2009-12-22T19:44:00.001-08:00

When we travelled this past month on our favorite cruise ship the Disney Magic, we used the Babies travel lite program and it supplied everything that we would need for the boys (food and diapers) on our seven days travel on the open seas. We are hoping that when we return in March to visit Mickey and Friends home, that the boys can enjoy their meals with us at dinner and experience some real food that WDW has to offer. We thought there was no time like the presence, with the holidays fastly approaching that we should give real food a try. Tonight was our first attempt with Rice and Squash...

As you can see from the pictures, I think it was an overall success :))

Baking from morning to night....

2009-12-20T17:14:00.001-08:00

Christmas card Photos

2009-12-17T09:47:00.000-08:00

Hope you enjoy a glimpse of our Christmas Card photos this year...

We're HOME !!!!

2009-12-14T10:26:00.000-08:00

What a amazing trip, for the most part. We got home early this morning with these crazy flights, that Aaron book. Not complaining... promised I would not!

I will try to give you a trip report, but it will probably come after the holidays, because right now I am anxciously getting ready for the boys first Christmas :)) Which means decorating the house, baking cookies, and wrapping the hundred of presents I bought on this trip... but most importantly wait for our luggage to arrive!!!

Yes, our Luggage got lost in transition.... but at least for the most part it was just our clothes and non-important amenities. Thanking Aaron for packing our new purchases in our carrying-ons. It has me in panic mode, but the airline now has safely said our luggage is in Atlanta, GA and will be arriving in LA later today, so we should have it by tomorrow. At least, they did not lose the car seats and stroller. I don't know how we would of got home.

Our Next Great Adventure Starts Today :))

2009-12-04T05:08:00.001-08:00

It is approximately 5:00 AM, as I sit at LAX waiting to board the plane for our big adventure on Mickey's Boat. The boys quietly sleep in their carseats, which we are glad because when we woke them up this morning at 3:00 AM, they were all smiles and giggles, just as excited as mommy and daddy are about this vacation.

We hoped they would fall back to sleep, and sleep as much as possible before we land in the most magical place of all Orlando, FL. Well they fell back to sleep a little sooner then expected...

We don't arrive to Orlando until 4:30 PM, due to a connection in Denver, can't complain those we got the airfare at a really reasonable deal, for the four of us.

Our big plan for the day; once we land at MCO, get our luggage, pick-up rent a car at Budget, head to our hotel (Residence Inn Cape Canaveral), meet Auntie Leslie for supper at 7:30 PM at Papa Vito's Pizza(hope we are not cranky), put the boys to sleep, go shopping at Wal-Mart for last minute essentials, go to bed and get up nice and early to board ...

Our cruise itinerary looks like this:

December 5th: Port Canaveral

December 6th: Sea Day

December 7th: Sea Day

December 8th: Tortola - excursion: island tour, beach and lunch

December 9th: St. Thomas - excursion: Butterfly Anytime

December 10th: Sea Day

December 11th: Castaway Cay

December 12th: Port Canaveral - hopefully Sea World

December 13th: Come home

Well that about covers it, they are about to call us up to board, I just hope I have everything...

A Snapshot of what they are up to....

2009-12-03T18:45:00.000-08:00

- Ryder can sit. We even walk away from him (assuming he is on a soft surface!).
- Kyran is working on it and can sit fine when he wants to (for several minutes at a time even, if it's convenient for him to play while doing so), but doesn't often want to. He continues to prefer rolling across the house to get where he wants to go.
- Ryder gets into the most beautiful, textbook crawling position -- up high on straight arms, hips up, knees even tucked under him -- and then, when faced with something he would like to "come and get", he throws all extremities up in the air behind him, and "swims", quite ineffectively.
- Kyran continues to inchworm his way to things in front of him, but has recently started assuming a more crawl-friendly position. It won't be long now...

- Both boys are transferring items from hand to hand as they "should be", without difficulty. They even do so with such a purpose as to get a toy farther away from their brother because, yes, they are seriously already fighting over whatever toy the other one has in his little hands.
- Both boys are chattering with consonants now, but usually just when they're upset -- "maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaam.....". Raspberries and spit bubbles still continue, of course!

- They continue to take 6 ounces of formula per bottle, 4 times per day. They also eat 2 ounces of Stage 2 baby food (if you recall, we skipped stage 1) and have made it through all of the "single ingredient" foods with just the one incident (Ryder's reaction to the squash).

- They both still absolutely adore Thea, and will usually prefer her over human faces now. Ryder gets incredibly excited and lunges at her, whereas Kyran will sit with a gaping mouth and just stick his hand out while Thea smothers him with wet kisses.

- They continue to sleep wonderfully at night, but naps are a different story. Apparently, for the last 2 weeks, they've had this notion that after one 45-minute sleep cycle, they don't need to fall back asleep. Aaron and I (and their temperaments) completely disagree. We're crossing our fingers that it's a "time of rapid development", as Dr. B put it, and they'll be back to normal in no time. My laundry piles will thank them!

We are so excited to share Christmas with them, and will be sure to take plenty of pictures!

We made the halfway point...

2009-12-01T10:16:00.000-08:00

Ryder Nikolai Scott

1 week old

1 month old

2 month

3 months

4 months

5 months

6 months

Kyran Alejandro Reid

1 week

1 month

2 months

3 months

4 months

5 months

6 months

This year I am Thankful for...

2009-11-30T10:50:00.000-08:00

... that I am a Mom

... for the kind of father Aaron is

... that both my babies came home from the hospital

... for my healthy happy boys

... that I am no longer pregnant

... for my grandparents

... for my marriage

... for the joys these precious boys bring into our life.

Black Friday Success

2009-11-28T09:47:00.000-08:00

We got up at 2:30am after just an hour or two of sleep, and headed out! We were in line for our first item at 3:00, where I left Aaron and headed out to a few places opening at 4. By 7am, we had hit 9 stores and were back home as our boys were waking up!

We got a car full of stuff, but my favorite is a gorgeous cashmere-wool blend peacoat (MUCH needed to replace my old ratty one!) for $49 that was originally over $200! We got a new digital frame for $30 ($70+ off), Webkinz Lil'Kinz for $3.50, a few gifts for others (that I'm not sure what to do with, considering I'm already "done" with shopping and most of it is already wrapped... might end up keeping some :)), some picture frames and things for around the house, and a small (22") HDTV for $250 (was $550). There was more, but it's all piled in the living room downstairs and my brain is fuzzy.

We got great bargains for sure, but I was mostly impressed with our efficiency! ;)

I hope you had a great Black Friday!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-25T12:35:00.001-08:00

This time last year....

2009-11-21T14:57:00.000-08:00

I was getting my "headcount" ultrasound, because of my ridiculously high beta and it revealed.... it's twins! Weren't they cute :))

Baby A

Baby B

This is the life...

2009-11-19T13:23:00.000-08:00

We just got back from getting holiday portraits and running some errands. The boys are due to eat, but are surprisingly just opting to play instead of freak out.

Ryder is on his belly, leaning 'over' Kyran, who is on her back. Ryder blows raspberries, Kyran cracks up at him. Ryder looks at Kyran sweetly, Kyran talks -- telling him to do it again? He does so, spraying spit all over his brother's face, making him laugh even harder.I in turn laugh at them, out loud, causing them to look quickly in my direction. I get on the floor with them and laugh some more... they laugh at me... we all erupt in giggles at one another.

I am so blessed.

We are Happy to Be Home!!!

2009-11-17T13:24:00.000-08:00

We got home Sunday night from Tahoe. It was a fun, relaxing trip. Bobbie and the boys had a blast while we were gone, and I was glad to have these next two days to catch up with her, as Aaron heads back to work.

Right now, Bobbie and I are experimenting with the boys, with sweet potatoes.

It seems to be going over very well, what do you think???

My Hubby is so full of surprises!

2009-11-13T20:40:00.000-08:00

The day started off perfect today, with Aaron whispering in my ear, sleep in today. I will get up with the boys. I was not going to complain, and fell back to sleep. I must of been exhausted because the next time I looked at the clock it was 10:30 AM. I paniced and freaked and jumped out of bed, Aaron and the boys were no where to be found. This was odd, he had to be at work 2 hours ago, and definately could not take two 5 months old with him.

I called his cell... no answer. I called his work the secertary said he took the day off (HOW COME I DIDN'T KNOW!!!). What could those boys be up too??? Well 20 minutes later, they walk through the door, with none other then his sister Bobbie. I was delightly and estatic. We have not seen family since our move. I was overwhelmed with joy that I started to cry.

She politely informed me those, that she was here on business, to give Aaron and I a weekend away, because we have not had much time to ourselves and that it was our 17th anniversary from the first time Aaron kissed me, we were 8 yrs. old and it was a joke.

Aaron thought it would be great to go to Tahoe for the weekend, just the two of us and celebrate. As Aaron gets the snacks ready to watch a movie, and I read my e-mails, I have to share this picture I received from Bobbie tonight. I know the boys are having way too much fun, and our in the perfect hands, while Aaron and I get some R & R, before I big trip with Auntie Leslie.

I should of slept at the airport!!!!

2009-11-12T20:51:00.000-08:00

Aaron had his first business trip since we moved to Los Angeles in New York City today. We would have went as a family if a) they boys were feeling better b) we were not going on vacation in less then 25 days and c) if he would of been gone longer than 24 hours.

Yes, my wonderful Hubby flew to New York at about midnight last night and returned home around 6:00 tonight.

Since there was no way, I was going to allow him to take a taxi to or from the airport. We as a family, took him down, which is about an hour away from our house. Therefore, the boys and I did not get home to about 2:00 AM, I will tell you that they slept through most of this. They are getting very good at falling asleep anywhere (We are practicing for our upcoming trip). We left our house again 4:00 PM, to pick him up.

I have seen too much of LAX today, and I hope that the next time we all leave as a family.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-11T18:09:00.001-08:00

My poor baby! :(

2009-11-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

So Ryder has been sick for a while now. About 13 days ago, he had a bit of a stuffy nose. Nothing special. A few days after that it started draining, but still nothing special. On Tuesday, I called his Pediatrician because he started these AWFUL coughing fits. As per evidence the AAP has, we wouldn't start antibiotics until the 2 week mark because it's more likely viral. I totally get that.

Today, the cough sort of subsided! Ryder most certainly was not better, because he is a different child than I have ever seen today. Sleeping non-stop, clingy as all get out (crying if left down for even a second, and usually even crying in my arms), not eating (what?!) and... spiking fevers left and right. After Tylenol, it was 102. It was 103 and climbing quickly when the Tylenol faded after an hour or two.

Ears looked "pink but not 103 pink". Throat looked "pink but not 103 pink". Lungs sound ok, but per our (brilliant, I think!) pediatrician, sometimes kids "hide" pneumonia. "Let's just rule it out", he says.

Or, let's just rule it in. He has pneumonia! :( I'm glad we caught it fairly early, and praying that it's bacterial and responds to antibiotics quickly, because he's miserable. He had a terrible day as it was, then went to the doctor and had stuff stuck up his nose and on his fingers, then to the hospital for xrays, IV blood draws and heel sticks.

Please keep him in your prayers, and Kyran as well -- he's about 7 days behind in symptoms but following the same path. The good news is, that likely just means he has the same virus that started it all. The odds are in his favor that he won't also have it settle into pneumonia, but at least we know what we're dealing with.

We'll see Dr. B again tomorrow to make sure he isn't getting worse. I'll keep you posted!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-04T13:20:00.001-08:00

Los Angeles Haunted Hayride

2009-11-03T12:28:00.000-08:00

The boys are still way to young to understand Halloween or go Trick or Treating. Aaron and I decided to get into the Halloween Spirit and check out the Los Angeles Haunted Hay Ride. Well I have never been so SCARED in my whole entire life.

The main event is the Hayride, it is about 20 minutes long. You are pulled by a tractor which is driven by a friendly neighbourhood zombie, through the forest. Spiders fall from the trees, insane asylum inmates greet you at every turn, and creatures that don’t even have a name threaten to jump into your trailer. I was so frightened that I was clinging onto Aaron for dear life.

We also purchased tickets for the Ghost Stories event (which is more up my Halloween speed ). On our given night we were presented with stories called Halloween old and new. These stories included the ones of urban legends and mystery that everyone swears is true. I was content to sit around the fire and drink my hot chocolate, and ease some of my nerves from the thriller hayride.

The last attraction was the Haunted Carnival, which is more family friendly. I would never take the boys on the Hay Ride until they are teenagers, but give them another year, and they would enjoy the Carnival. We tested out the Hay Maze (not very difficult), painted a pumpkin (I am a child at heart), and Aaron tested his skills at Carnival Games. While I had another Hot Chocolate.

All in all, it was nice to have some alone time with my hubby, but was more excited to get home to my sleeping boys.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T20:26:00.001-07:00

Never Let the Boys out of the House... Unsupervised

2009-10-30T12:04:00.000-07:00

Aaron and the Boys went to run some errands (will call them errands), while I got things organized around the house. Well they came home with...

A 2009 Volkswagen Touareg. I have been complaining for a month now, how much gas we are wasting, idling in this LA traffic. That I wanted a cleaner version vehicle. Well this vehicle runs on 97% less sulfur content reducing emissions. I have till Monday to decide but it has a lot of safety features (immediate crash response) and other fun gadgets that I love, I think it is a keeper. I was just in shock. Aaron said the sale guy was awesome, remember he did this with two 4 month babies in tow, you should of seen the shock on my face when I pulled up.

The next item, had a no return policy.

I did not expect this one either, I have always had a dog in my house since I was little, but with Aaron coming from a big family (5 sisters and 2 brothers), it would be the last thing I would expect him to bring home. Especially since my last dog passed away 5 years ago, and we really had not talked about getting another one. Aaron said they wondered into the pet store, and they had this little dog in one of the run, and Kyran went gaga over him. The owner let the boys pat him, and play with him. Aaron said he could not leave without him.

He does not have a name yet, the boys are crazy about him, they call him bubba ( I don't really like the name, but it is really all they could say).

Halloween Carnival ... Hollywood Style

2009-10-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, Aaron and I decided that we should start getting into the Halloween Festivities, now there is no better way to do it in Los Angeles then Hollywood Style and for a good cause.

Ronald McDonald Halloween Carnival fundraiser, on the Backlot of Universal Hollywood seemed like the perfect choice. Not only did it have many celebrities attend the festivities with their family, it had really good family entertainement and carnival games, which all proceeds go to the Ronald McDonald house right here in LA.

Here is just a glimpse of the festivities.

The Boys in their Halloween Costumes before we left home.

Halloween Friendly Atmosphere

Even the Celebrities dressed up

Charlie O'Connell & Jerry O'Connell

Sheila

Ronald McDonald

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-28T19:03:00.001-07:00

A Day with the Pumpkins...

2009-10-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

Aaron and I decided to leave busy LA for the day, and head to the country side of California with the boys. We headed to Faulkners Farm Pumpkin Patch for the day, to find the perfect pumpkins.

While there, we decided that it would be fun to take pictures of the boys with the pumpkins. While that did not turn out so well, and mommy and daddy learned they prefer tummy time now, over laying on their backs. While pictures with pumpkins did not turn out to be a success, at least we got one good picture of them together.

The Top 5 things I can't live without???

2009-10-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

Having twins is the most difficult thing I've ever been through in my entire life. I'm not going to paint it all roses and sweetness. There have been some things that have been instrumental for me, in these first 4 months that have kept me from running off to Mexico.

1. An Amazing (and Handsome) Husband
I've said this about 1 million times in my life - my husband is my rock, and I have no idea how I'd make it through this world without him.

Aaron is incredibly patient, selfless, and my never failing cheerleader. He is such an incredible father, and took excellent care of me during my pregnancy. I credit hime with a huge portion of our relatively healthy, just shoy of 38 week pregnancy. He made sure I got enough restm fed me (endlessly!), and took over the household when I just couldn'y get things done anymore.
Even though, he is working 10-12 hours a week right now. He makes sure to get up every morning with the boys, schedule lunch days, and plans fun family events when he can.

I love you more everyday.... and you're the only man I want on my team. EVER.

2. A Solid support System
Being pregnant with twins is scary enough without having to listen to folks tell you that you'll certainly be on bed rest, that there's no way you won't have a C section, you'll never make it till June, and that you won't be able to work. (yes, I heard all of these, and more!)I was absolutely blessed to have a very strong support systems, not just from Aaron, but our family and friends. Having people that support your decisions birth / health care decisions was a lot of help, and I made it till June and gave birth natural because of all of them.

It also, helped that the boys were the third set of twins in our family. Aaron is a twin, so when we found out I was pregnant with twins, it helped him reconnect with his mom, it is still a work in progress, but we know she supports us. Also, Aaron oldest sister has 3 year old twin girls, and we are really, really close. Having her around all the time helped ease the nerves.

3. Food, and lots of it
For those who know me in real life ... starting from the day I knew I was pregnant (even before I knew I was cooking two babies!), I can pack away some food. I was ravenously hungry right off the bat with the twin pregnancy.When pregnant, I see that as a chance to start fresh .... in other words, here's 9 months to eat healthy, and give your baby a great start. When I found out I was pregnant with twins, I read Dr. Barbara Luke's book, and tried to focus on lots of water, protein, and calcium. I ate eggs for breakfast 5 times a week, and drank protein shakes every day.

Once the boys were born, this pattern of eating continued .... still lots of protein, calcium and water. Most days, I still have a ravenous appetite, and I don't get to take the time to eat and actually enjoy my food. Most of my eating is on the run.

One of the greatest gifts I received was food ..... in the form of home cooked meals, provided by my circle of friends. For over a month, every other day, a group of wonderful women brought me and my family meals ..... some women, I had never even met before. I can't tell you what a wonderful blessing this was for all of us.

4. Boppy pillows
I had 2 regular boppies and 1 double boppy. The individual ones worked out well for seperate propping feedings when I wasn't by myself. And the double boppy worked out nicely for when I was feeding them by myself.

5. DVR
Having twins I don't get to watch a lot of TV these days, except if you count Baby Einstein. After the boys go to sleep at night, and I am waiting for Aaron to get home, this is what keeps me sane. I'm a TV watcher and it is nice to be able to catch up on all my shows when I have the chance.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-21T09:43:00.001-07:00

As Seen on TV

2009-10-20T13:10:00.000-07:00

Before we moved to the grander city of LA, I decided that the boys needed an area in the basement to play in,for various reasons - like when company comes over, or when we are working out, etc. As I was watching the Extreme Makeovers about a month ago, Ty and the gang used these SoftTiles Foam Mats 2 x 2 to create a soft cushion flooring. I thought it would be perfect for the boys to play on. I found the website, and I purchased them right away.

Well, because we don't really have a play area for say, in the two bedroom apartment we are housing in right now. My big plan is to move out all the furniture in the boys room, and place them underneath there. Then Aaron, said that would be a waste of time, because the boys never crawl around in there. Then the idea was to give them an area, in the living room (they are hardwoods), but it did not really go, and ended up looking very awkwards. With all the big ideas they ended up back in the box, waiting until we find our new home... which I hope it is soon!!!!

Here is a picture of these wonderful tiles, so you have an idea of what I am talking about

Aids Walk!!!

2009-10-18T17:28:00.000-07:00

Aaron office annually does the Aid Walk every year, in support and memory of one of their collegues that passed away from Aids. Neither Aaron and I formally knew this person, we decided to partake in the event, because it was for a really good cause.

We arrived at West Hollywood Park around 8:30 AM, the race began at 10:00 am and it took us south on La Brea Avenue and west on Beverly Boulevard , heading north on San Vicente Boulevard then back to the park for a post walk reception.

About 30,000 people showed up for the event, and it was nice to meet some new friends from the office, and the boys even made a new friend named Erwin.

Here are some pictures from the event:

The boys are ready to stroll (I think I over dressed them):

Ryder and Kyran's friend Erwin:

The silent auction prize I so wanted to win for the boys:

Aaron's co-workers:

Daddy works too MUCH!!!!

2009-10-16T16:44:00.000-07:00

Aaron job has been keeping him really busy lately. He probably puts in approximately 10 to 12 hours a day right now. Which means that there has been only a little amount of Family Time.

He does get up every morning with the boys around 7 AM, I call it boy time, because I sleep in until he heads to work around 10 AM, but these days I feel like we are more of a split family, therefore I scheduled in a Family Lunch at his office.

The boys and I went grocery shopping this morning, and I picked up grocery items to make a chicken cesear salad, but more importantly, I went down the Baby Food aisle and bought the boys their first box of Gerber DHA rice cereal (yum, yum).

Dr. B gave us the go ahead yesterday to start feeding the boys some solid food, and since Daddy has been ever so busy, I didn't want to miss this big milestone in their lives, we will just fit it in where we can.

Well, it was a lunch to remember for sure. They were a bit bewildered by the sensation, they didn't hate it. Except that mommy, was running a little behind schedule (she usually is), so by the time that we were ready to feed them, they were quite ticked that we were shoving something in their mouth "instead of feeding them"! :)

Ryder before even started to feed him was crying... we totally should have heeded his warning! (Patience is CLEARLY not his strong suit!)

They took several tablespoons though (made from 1oz formula), as well as their bottles. The funniest thing, in my opinion, was definitely when they'd latch their lips onto the spoon and try to suck the cereal off! :)

They actually both did very well, and didn't really spit the cereal out at all! They didn't exactly know WHAT to do with it, but most (if not all) of it that made it in, stayed in! :-P

Well, lunch went by real fast and Daddy had to get back to work. I hope these crazy hours slow down a bit and we can find more opportunities for Family Time.

Four Month Appointment

2009-10-15T19:59:00.000-07:00

Today we, met our new doctor out in Los Angeles, Dr. B. for their 4 month well-child check. Well everything checked out great! He was thoroughly impressed with Ryder rolling in both directions (which apparently is a 6 month milestone, not even a 4 which we had thought . . . the boy is crazy). He absolutely loved making Kyran talk and smile his giant, open-mouthed toothless grin. Everything checked out well and we were told to keep on as we have been.

The vital stats:

Ryder
Length: 24.2 inches
Weight: 14.3 lbs.

Kyran
Length: 23.9 inches
Weight: 13.3 lbs.

They were both troopers with their shots again.... and we'll go back for more in 2 months!

And in other news, we have decided to make LA our new permenant home!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

Why start a blog????

2009-10-13T21:05:00.000-07:00

I am a mother two adorable 4 month old boys. They are growing up right before my eyes, faster then I could ever imagine. I love journaling, scrapbooking, and keeping ever precious memory I have of them safe in a book.

Then one day as they were napping I began reading my journal from our most recent move from Nashville to Los Angeles. I got startled and spilled Cream Soda all over the book. I was devestated none the lease, that I had wrecked all these precious memories. I did not know what to do.

Then at one of my mommy and me gathers with the boys, I brought up the subject of how I had lost my most recent journal to a freak accident. When one mom suggested why don't you blog. So here I am, blogging for my boys so they can look back and remember the good, and they bad days, on a place that is not covered in Cream Soda.

Who am I??? My name is Ayden, I am married to a wonderful man named Aaron and we have identical twin boys named Ryder and Kyran. We just recently made a big move from Nashville to Los Angeles. It was due to work, and we do not know how permenant it is, so we are kind of in limbo right now, on what to do with the house.

The boys were the best surprise of our lives. Aaron is a twin, so I was not surprised we ended up with one. They keep us busy, and our the growing so fast that I do not want to blink an eye.

Other then the boys and work, our favourite place in the world in Walt Disney World. Both Aaron and I spent our summers there and our excited to share it with the boys.

Thank you, for reading all the Adventures of My Handsome Boys the Carter Twins.