31 weeks (And Merry Christmas!)

Belly at L&D triage this week, where we were sent for monitoring because of high bp and contractions





Belly at 30 weeks 6 days

Wow, to think that last year I was so heartbroken to not be pregnant. Life surely has changed in the last year, and I imagine it will change even more in the coming year! DH and I had a quiet Christmas, we were able to go to see my family for a few hours, it was very nice to get out of the house and feel like a normal person. Unfortunately, I got a cold for Christmas, and am feeling particularly miserable, but such is life.

As DH read the Christmas story to me last night, I couldn't help but think of Mary in a new light. I think riding across town in our minivan is uncomfortable, I can't even imagine riding for days on a donkey. Or giving birth my very first time in a barn, or laying my new little baby in the animals food dish, or wrapping him in yucky stable cloths. I am so thankful for modern conveniences that make even my complicated pregnancy easier. But I am most thankful for God sending His Son, no matter the un-ideal circumstance, to this world to provide salvation for all of mankind. What a precious sacrifice and beautiful picture He has provided us in the Christmas story.

And now for the 31 week part of this post.

How far along: 31 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of four navel oranges each to the size of large jicamas (say what?). They are going from 16.18 inches to 16.69 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 3.31 lbs to 3.75 lbs. (but last Monday Xander was 3lbs and Max was 2 lbs 11 oz)

Symptoms: cervical incompetence,terrible hip and back pain, LOTS of contractions, nausea, hemroids, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: +13 lbs

Maternity clothes: pajamas. Except for going to the doctor, then I wear real clothes. Some of my maternity shirts no longer cover the maternity panel in my jeans though.

Stretch marks: My underbelly is pretty disgusting, tons of dark stretchmarks. The rest of the belly is not too bad.

Sleep: DH slept in the other bedroom all week, so it had been good, but I got a cold, so it was bad last night, and imagine it will be tonight.

Best moment this week: getting a reprieve from contractions for a few hours in Christmas eve. Best Christmas gift ever. Unfortunately, they came back.

Movement: This week I discovered they like music, usually when any is one the move a lot. They seem the most active around noon, 4-6, and then 11pm.

Food cravings: different things all the time. Usually they go away. This week I HAD to have a hamburger and some broccoli with cheese,peanut butter fudge, and home made pizza

Belly Button in or out: Out for the most part, still a hole, but with a ridge that sticks out all the way around.

What I miss: not having contractions, it's been pretty bad for the past two weeks.

What I am looking forward to: hopefully getting some new meds on Tuesday for my bp (which has been as high as 167/115) and to stop these darn contractions.

Milestones: Getting to 3 lbs seems pretty big

How is daddy? he had his first cold ever this week, but is over it now, and trying to take good care of us.

How are the grandparents? Not much has changed with any of them since last week. DH's dad had a 5 day delay, so I'm really thinking he won't be here in time for the birth. My dad has been grumpy. Both of our moms have been supportive and trying to take good care of me.

30 weeks

How far along: 30 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of heads of cabbages to the size of four navel orange (each). They are going from 15.71 inches to 16.18 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 2.91 lbs to 3.31 lbs. (but we'll see how much they really weigh tomorrow)

Symptoms: cervical incompetence,terrible hip and back pain, LOTS of contractions, nausea, hemroids, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: +10 lbs

Maternity clothes: pajamas. Except for going to the doctor, then I wear real clothes. Some of my maternity shirts no longer cover the maternity panel in my jeans though.

Stretch marks: My underbelly is a breeding ground. Every time I dare look under there it seem at least 2 more show up.

Sleep: A little better at night, usually from 12-3 and then 4-7 I sleep ok. I make myself stay in bed longer than that though, and between contractions and having to roll over again and again not so much sleep after that.

Best moment this week: going home from L&D on Wednesday night, I was pretty sure they were going to make me stay since the monitor was showing contractions every 3-5 minutes. The contractions still have not completley gone away. I have been having them at least every 15 minutes (sometimes 10, 8 and even 5) since Monday afternoon.

Movement: Very active little boys. They seem the most active around noon, 4-6, and then 11pm.

Food cravings: different things all the time. Usually they go away. This week I HAD to have a cherry slushy and mint oreos (not together)

Belly Button in or out: The right side pokes out a bit, and the bottom is starting to join it. If I push on my belly at all, or have a big contraction it all sticks out.

What I miss: being able to sit up in bed more. This week I have had to cut back even on my sitting in bed, because of the contractions. Lots of laying on my left side, which gets pretty old. Fast.

What I am looking forward to: Seeing my little guys on the ultrasound tomorrow. Also, I am really hoping to get some answers from my peri, and *fingers crossed* something to make these darn contractions stop!

Milestones: 30 weeks! We're in the thirties! Since the beginning 30 seemed like a big number. Just 28 days until my doctor's goal of 34 (and 56 until my goal of 36!)

How is daddy? good, happy to be done with school for a little bit. Mommy is going to put him to work in the nursery this week.

How are the grandparents? Ok, my mom has been injured, but is starting to be more mobile and come around more often. My dad is busy with hunting season. DH's mom washed all of the baby clothes and organized them on Friday. She has been such a great help. I am beginning to realize that she thinks I will need this level of help once they come. It has been really hard for me to watch someone else set up my nursery and take care of my house, but because it was the best for my boys I have accepted it and been thankful for it. But one these boys arrive, I will be their mom. It was too much of a struggle for us to get here, I am going to be taking care of my boys, I am the mommy! And that is what I plan to be to them, hope this goes over okay when they get here. DH's dad is on my last nerve. He just embarked on a supposedly 3-4 week sailing adventure to the Baha.mas. It will realistically be about 5-6 weeks. He didn't want people at church to know that he went, because they might think poorly of him doing this with me so close to delivery. But he didn't discuss it with my hubby or I at all. It hurts that he would leave, knowing he will most likely miss their birth. He can't get that back. Just makes me mad.

29 weeks

How far along: 29 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of butternut squashes to the size of heads of cabbages. They are going from 15.2 inches to 15.71 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 2.54 lbs to 2.91 lbs.

Symptoms: cervical incompetence,terrible hip and back pain, contractions, nausea, hemroids, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: +6 lbs

Maternity clothes: pajamas, dresses and sweatpants,maternity leggings. It has actually been really cold here lately.

Stretch marks: six on the underbelly, and two getting darker near my bellybutton.

Sleep: OUCH! My legs go to sleep, or my hips hurt so bad, I get about 3 hours of good sleep, and then wake up every 30 minutes or so and stay awake for 10-20minutes each time. UGGG. Last night I was awake for almost two hours with what I think were contractions.

Best moment this week: being able to get out and go to my family baby shower

Movement: ALLLLL the time, especially Xander. They are so active. They make my whole belly shake.

Food cravings: something different every day. Really have been wanting some conversation hearts, guess I'll have to wait a few more weeks!

Belly Button in or out: Pretty flat, but they like to push against it and make it poke out.

What I miss: cooking, I am so ready to get out of this bed and do some Christmas baking! Before this I was all over being a home-maker and cooked all the time. I haven't cooked anything since probably 8 weeks when the morning sickness kicked in.

What I am looking forward to: My next appointment with my peri. Get to get weights on the boys and see their sweet faces. DH gets to go with me, it will be his first time going to this doctor with me and seeing their high-tech ultrasound.

Milestones: 29 weeks. The last week in the twenties seems like a big deal. Our goal date is only 36 days away (although I'd love to make it about 50 more days)

How is daddy? good, studying for finals which he has tomorrow.

How are the grandparents? They've backed off some since DH has been home, I have appreciated being able to rely on him for more.

27 weeks! (with pictures)

How far along: 27 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of heads of cauliflower to the size of Chinese cabbages . They are going from 14.41 inches to 14.80 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 1.93 lbs to 2.22 lbs. (over two lbs yay!!)

Symptoms: cervical incompetence,terrible hip and back pain, contractions, nausea, hemroids, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: +1 lbs

Maternity clothes: pajamas, dresses and sweatpants.

Stretch marks: I was so bummed to discover four hiding under my belly! They are dark and spreading, Boo.

Sleep: I finally got a pregnancy pillow, and it was helped with the turning over, but am still in lots of pain.

Best moment this week: spending the weekend with DH! It's been so nice to have him around.

Movement: They are always partying it up in there. Their new favorite it to stretch out with their heads or bottoms up by my ribs. I push them back down. Funny boys.

Food cravings: something different every day. Today, chili dogs and a peppermint patty.

Belly Button in or out: In, but getting flat.

What I miss: mobility. Bed rest is driving me crazy, there is so much to be done around here, it is hard just to sit and not do it. (But so worth it on Sunday when we reach another week.)

What I am looking forward to: My showers this weekend and next, praying we get things we need like mattresses and baby monitors as opposed to tons of clothes..... don't get me wrong, I love clothes, but we still have things we really need.

Milestones: 27 weeks, the last week of the second trimester!

How is daddy? stressed with school and work.

How are the grandparents? Wonderful, I know they are looking forward to it being time for the little boys.

25w6d (25-26 wk update)

How far along: 25 weeks 6 days

Growth: The boys are supposedly going from 13.62 inches long at the beginning of week 25 to 14.41 inches long at the end of week 26. And from 1.46lbs to 1.93 lbs. (but I think they weigh more, as at 24 weeks 3 days they measure 1 lb 6 oz and 1 lb 9 oz already)

Symptoms: cervical incompetence, contractions, nausea, hemroids, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: -3 lbs lbs

Maternity clothes: pajamas and when I see people dresses, not bothering with pants these days

Stretch marks: yes, on either side of my belly button there are several.

Sleep: It's really hard to get comfortable, my hips and back hurt so bad that I have to turn every hour or so, but I am so big turning is hard..

Best moment this week: spending Wednesday night at home with my husband (he called in sick)

Movement: All over, all the time. They poke body parts out, and I can see them kick from outside my belly all the time now. Might they be running out of room soon?

Food cravings: I want a red starburst, but no one will get me one :-( Other than that not really. People have been bringing food, so I eat whatever they bring.

Belly Button in or out: In.

What I miss: my friends. Ever since the cerclage, most of them have been MIA. Anna has been awesome, along with older people from church, but gosh, it really hurts that people who I am always there for are not here for me.... at all. No phone calls, texts, or fb mssgs. A few friends who have kids have sent short mssgs, I guess if you don't have kids you don't really understand, but I would think they would at least be in some kind of contact...... it hurts.

What I am looking forward to: my first shower tomorrow. People from work are bringing it to my house. I am excited and nervous, hoping I am up to the excitement.

Milestones: making it another 2 weeks since the cerclage!

How is daddy? still very stressed and sleep deprived.

How are the grandparents? My mom kind of lost it there for a while, she hurt her foot and is in a lot of pain. My dad has been trying to be there for us and my in-laws have also done a lot. Most of the drama has died down.

24 weeks 1day

How far along: 24 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of ears of corn to the size of rutabagas. They are going from 11.81 inches to 13.62 inches long (big growth). Also, they are increasing in weight from 1.32 lbs to 1.46 lbs.

Symptoms: cervical incompetence, contractions, nausea, hemroids, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: +3 lbs

Maternity clothes: pretty much hospital gowns

Stretch marks: haven't really seen my belly in the mirror, I assume things haven't changed.

Sleep: With all the drugs they have me on I've been sleeping a lot.

Best moment this week: hearing the cerclage was successful.

Movement: The boys don't seem to realize we are sick in the hospital. They are little party animals. And just a note, a baby dancing on your bladder when you have a catheter, not cool at all.

Food cravings: still want an eggroll. Everyone has been super nice and willing to give me anything that I wanted, unfortunately I have been to miserable to take advantage of it. Hospital food is not all that great.

Belly Button in or out: In.

What I miss: my house, my puppy dogs, my bed.

What I am looking forward to: going home. Also 25 weeks. Each week is going to be a blessing.

Milestones: being 24 week, viability!

How is daddy? very stressed and sleep deprived.

How are the grandparents? worried,and awesome, they've all been taking care of me.

23 weeks

How far along: 23 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of large mangoes to the size of ears of corn. They are going from 11.38 inches to 11.81 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 1.10lbs to 1.32 lbs.

Symptoms: nausea, hemroids, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: -5 lbs

Maternity clothes: Yes! When I go out, which is not very often these days, I wear maternity clothes. However, since I am home all day everyday I hang out in pjs, which are not maternity, but are very comfy!

Stretch marks: Two on my belly, and two I noticed under my belly. Boys are stretching me out already, can't wait to see the road map they'll have created at 34 weeks.

Sleep: Except for last night I've slept well this week. Been super tired.

Best moment this week: Feeling my little men more this week. They do some pretty crazy stuff in there.

Movement: constantly! I like to think I can tell who's kicking, based on positions. They're getting stronger and stronger.

Food cravings: Got my dounuts and meatballs. Now I want an eggroll and cherry cheesecake.

Belly Button in or out: In, and stretching out, getting flatter.

What I miss: being able to leave the house. I spend almost every day home alone. Today I got to go to church though.

What I am looking forward to: Viability next weekend, baby showers, hubby getting a few weekends off this month.

Milestones: making it through this week feels like a milestone. Awfully lonely.

How is daddy? too busy. I know he misses us. Mommy misses him too.

How are the grandparents? Good. Excited. Overstepping, but helping.

22 weeks

How far along: 22 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of spaghetti squash to the size of large mangoes(which are in fact smaller than squash, but whatever). They are going from 10.94 inches to 11.38 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 15.17 oz to 1.10 lb. (seems like a big growth spurt this week)

Symptoms: nausea, hemroids, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: -6 lbs

Maternity clothes: Yes! When I go out, which is not very often these days, I wear maternity clothes. However, since I am home all day everyday I hang out in pjs, which are not maternity, but are very comfy!

Stretch marks: Yup, this week I'd say they are for sure stretch marks, not scars.

Sleep: Have been very tired this week, even took a few naps. Sleeping is uncomfortable, major pains sometimes when I turn over, both in my stomach and hips.

Best moment this week: Daddy got to feel Xander kick last night :-)

Movement: lots of moving going on in there! My little ones are so active. On Thursday Anna brought her little man over. I had him on a pillow between my legs with his feet against my belly, he was using his feet against my hard belly to scoot himself up, and Xander kicked him back, LOL! Picking on somebody 10 times his size!

Food cravings: I would do anything for a Krispy Kreme doughnut or some meatballs.

Belly Button in or out: In, but getting shallow. Now I say it's flat by 30 weeks.

What I miss: work. As of Wednesday I am not going back to work. If I get to feeling miraculously better I can pick up hours, but I really don't see that happening. I miss my boys, and it breaks my heart to think about how much they are going to change between now and May. Will they even remember me?

What I am looking forward to: Viability, and doing more work on the nursery- right now its got cribs, the desk we're going to turn into a changing table, and the stroller. Also, a ton of junk in the closet. We (well, DH and whoever wants to help him) need to clean out the closet, put down new floor (the carpet is gross from before we bought the house, we've already re-done the floor in our bedroom and living/dining room, all that is left is the nursery and spare room) and paint. Trying to talk DH into getting some paint samples today so we can pick a color.

Milestones: DH feeling a kick, and being done with work.

How is daddy? Wonderful. I feel so guilty that he is doing so much, but he doesn't complain and takes such good care of me when he can. I think it is getting more and more real for him. He already loves the boys so much.

How are the grandparents? Controlling but helpful. Since DH works and has school, he's not really home at all except to sleep and on the occasional weekend off. And I am not allowed to drive since I am still so dizzy. So if I need to go anywhere or get anything they have to do it for me.

21 weeks

How far along: 21 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of carrots to the size of spaghetti squash. They are going from 10.51 inches to 10.94 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 12.70 oz to 15.17 oz. (almost a lb each!)

Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: -7 lbs

Maternity clothes: Yes! A pair of maternity pants I bought just a few weeks ago are causing the boys to kick the waistband. I keep telling them "Mommy has to wear pants!" but they don't seem to care.

Stretch marks: not any dark ones yet, but the stretch mark scars I have from PCOS weight gain are getting more pronounced.

Sleep: Sleeping ok most nights, turning over hurts, but not as badly as staying on one side, so waking up about 10 times to turn over.

Best moment this week: feeling somebody kick from the outside!! Can't wait till Daddy feels this too.

Movement: Feeling flutters, pokes, and what I assume are rolls. Sometimes it feels like my entire lower belly is moving, thinking that's them fighting. I often feel body parts sticking out, it's cute.

Food cravings: Feeling nauseated this week, so not many cravings that last more than a few minutes.

Belly Button in or out: In for now, more shallow than ever, I still say it's flat by 24 weeks. DH says it's getting wider/flatter.

What I miss: feeling ok, this week has been a really hard one, lots of dizziness and weird bp issues. I'm worried I will be put on bedrest soon.

What I am looking forward to: viability at 24 weeks, Daddy feeling his boys move around, and hopefully finding out what's wrong with me soon.

Milestones: Two strangers noticed I was pregnant. One asked what I was having, and a little girl at church said "It looks like you have a baby in your belly" Lol. Also, the nursery is started! We have the cribs and stroller.

How is daddy? Busy, lots of tests this week, but he is off this weekend and next, so that really helps.

How are the grandparents? Excited about the boys, but worried about me. Too many health issues.

20 weeks

How far along: 20 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of bananas to the size of carrots. They are going from 6.46 or 10.08 inches crown to heel to 10.51 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 10.58 oz to 12.70 oz.

Symptoms: insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, anemia, lots of fetal movement (the only fun symptom)

Total weight gain: -11 lbs

Maternity clothes: Yes! Even my stretchy pre-pregnancy sweat pants are too tight, unless I wear them under my belly. Even then, the boys kick the waist band if it puts any pressure on them.

Stretch marks: not any dark ones yet, but the stretch mark scars I have from PCOS weight gain are getting more pronounced.

Sleep: Sleeping well at night. Until around 4 am, then I am awake about 30 minutes every hour until I get up.

Best moment this week: finding out who was in there!

Movement: Feeling flutters, pokes, and what I assume are rolls. Sometimes it feels like my entire lower belly is moving, thinking that's them fighting. This week I started feeling hard little round spots in different parts of my belly, guessing bottoms or head poking out? Daddy hasn't been able to feel them yet, hopefully soon.

Food cravings: brownies, baked potatoes, nuts, broccoli.

Belly Button in or out: In for now, more shallow than ever, I still say it's flat by 24 weeks. The other day I looked in the mirror and it was lopsided, someone was poking half of it out.

What I miss: Still energy. It's like having mono. There is so much that I want to do, and yet, here I sit, in bed. Found out Wednesday I am very anemic, and started iron supplements. I'm hoping they start to make me feel better soon. I have been so weak and dizzy this weekend, and even with the bp medicine my bp has been high. They are having me collect a 24 hour urine sample. My mom thinks it won't be long until I am put on bedrest.

What I am looking forward to: viability at 24 weeks, Daddy feeling his boys move around, and starting on the nursery. My inlaws already ordered our cribs, and we bought our crib sets on Friday.

Milestones: Mommy has very big bo.obs, this week is the first week that when she looks down, she sees her belly poking out under her bo.obs!

How is daddy? Busy, working very hard for us. Mommy misses him very much, but she tries not to cry, because it makes him sad. He goes to school all day Mon-Fri, then works Mon-Fri 3-11 pm, and works 48 hour shifts most weekends.

How are the grandparents? Very excited. My mom is still being overprotective, and my MIL is usurping my role. She announced our names on FB before I could! I know it's just because she's excited. If it weren't for the pregnancy hormones I might think it was cute.

19 weeks :-)

How far along: 19 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of heirloom tomatoes to the size of bananas. They are going from 6.02 inches to 6.46 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 8.47 oz to 10.58 oz.

Symptoms: insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure, headaches.

Total weight gain: -11 lbs (I gained two more this week- yay for no more metformin!)

Maternity clothes: Yes! We finally made the maternity jeans, and I just want to live in them!!! Also, bought some maternity clothes, because I am not really fitting in my pre pregnancy pants at all.

Stretch marks: Yup, I can see them coming, not dark yet, but starting for sure.

Sleep: Been having horribly vivid dreams. Still with the insomnia, usually around 5 am.

Best moment this week: seeing the littles. I hate going to the dr so often, but it is nice to see them each week!

Movement: Feeling flutters, pokes, and what I assume are rolls. Sometimes it feels like my entire lower belly is moving, thinking that's them fighting.

Food cravings: chick fil a sandwiches, baked potatoes, key lime pie, berries.

Belly Button in or out: In for now, more shallow than ever, I still say it's flat by 24 weeks.

What I miss: energy. It's like having mono. There is so much that I want to do, and yet, here I sit, in bed.

What I am looking forward to: finding out the genders Wednesday!!!!!!!

Milestones: last week in the teens!

How is daddy? Busy, working very hard for us. Mommy misses him very much, but she tries not to cry, because it makes him sad.

How are the grandparents? Grandfathers are fine. Grandmothers are getting annoying. My mom is worrying too much. My MIL is giving me far too many opinions, and I don't want to be rude, by my decisions are very well researched, so I am not going to change my mind.

18 weeks

How far along: 18 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of bell peppers to the size of heirloom tomatoes. They are going from 5.59 inches to 6.02 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 6.70 oz to 8.47 oz.

Symptoms: insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, heartburn, high blood pressure.

Total weight gain: -13 lbs (I gained two this week- yay for no more metformin!)

Maternity clothes: Yes please! Still fitting in non-maternity clothing, but am much more comfy in maternity.

Stretch marks: Yup, I can see them coming, not dark yet, but starting for sure.

Sleep: Better this week, my hips hurt though, which keeps me rolling over again and again.

Best moment this week: seeing my little ones on Thursday, and knowing baby B was fighting back :-).

Movement: Yes, I used to feel them maybe once per day, but now it's all throughout the day.

Food cravings: Chocolate pudding, chips and salsa and chick fil a sandwiches!

Belly Button in or out: In for now, more shallow than ever, I say it's flat 24 weeks.

What I miss: mobility, I'm starting to waddle a little, and with the dizziness I have had to be pretty docile.

What I am looking forward to: finding out the genders next week. I really really can't wait!

Milestones: we are halfway to my goal, I'd really like to make it to 36 weeks, so either the very end of January, very beginning of February.

How is daddy? Busy, working very hard for us.

How are the grandparents? Excited, both moms are planning showers.... they are only a week a part. Anyone else seeing drama here?

17 weeks

How far along: 17 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are theoretically growing from the size of turnips to the size of bell peppers. They are going from 5.12 inches to 5.59 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 4.94 oz to 6.70 oz. However, at my appt on Thursday the both weighed 6 oz.

Symptoms: vomiting, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, and heartburn.

Total weight gain: -15 lbs

Maternity clothes: Yes please! Still fitting in non-maternity clothing, but am much more comfy in maternity.

Stretch marks: Yup, I can see them coming, not dark yet, but starting for sure.

Sleep: I have been so tired lately, but still having trouble staying asleep

Best moment this week: seeing my little ones on Thursday.

Movement: Yes, more and more the past few days. They are moving right now!

Food cravings: No cravings, but fewer aversions.

Belly Button in or out: In for now, more shallow than ever

What I miss: my DH!!!! He is always gone it seems.

What I am looking forward to: finding out the genders in 2 weeks

Milestones: we are halfway to our goal that DR. D set, of 34 weeks. It's going so fast!

How is daddy? Very tired. And he misses us. Today when I saw him he touched my belly before he even kissed me!

How are the grandparents? Excited, and I think starting some grandparent rivalry. Good things there's two of you in there!

16 weeks

How far along: 16 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are growing from the size of avacados to the size of turnips. They are going from 4.57 inches to 5.12 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 3.53 oz to 4.94 oz.

Symptoms: vomiting, insomnia, braxton hicks contractions, round ligament pains, and heartburn.

Total weight gain: -13 lbs

Maternity clothes: Yes please! Still fitting in non-maternity clothing, but am much more comfy in maternity.

Stretch marks: Not yet, but my belly is growing so I expect them soon

Sleep: New work schedules for DH and I have me staying up late and sleeping in. I feel better when I don't sleep the day away.

Best moment this week: knowing the littles were okay after the scare on Saturday.

Movement: Yes, especially if I lean against something or if my lapdesk with my laptop is in my lap

Food cravings: I ate a lot of cookies.

Belly Button in or out: In for now, I dreamed it was flat last night

What I miss: energy

What I am looking forward to: finding out the genders in 3 weeks

Milestones: Finally got to see our DR this week.

How is daddy? Very tired. He just took a 3-11 job, on top of his school which is 7-3, and his 48 hour weekend job. Your daddy is working hard for us little ones!

How are the grandparents? Excited, and I think after the ER visit starting to worry. It all gets more intense from here. My mom is going with me to my maternal fetal medicine appointment on Thursday.

15 weeks!

How far along: 15 weeks! Seems to be going faster and faster.

Growth: This week, babies are growing from the size of apples to the size of avacados. They are going from 3.98 inches to 4.57 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 2.47 oz to 3.53 oz.

Symptoms: other than increases vomiting, feeling generally better.

Total weight gain: -13 lbs

Maternity clothes: Yes please! Still fitting in non-maternity clothing, but am much more comfy in maternity.

Stretch marks: I started with the cocoa butter last week, because I thought I saw one starting on the bottom of my belly.

Sleep: A little better, still not getting much. I took a heavenly 3 hour nap today though!

Best moment this week: feeling the flutters. I am 99% positive that I have been feeling both babies, especially Mr. B.

Movement: See above. :-)

Food cravings: none this week. I actually ate meat a few times, which was a big accomplishment!

Belly Button in or out: In for now, it becomes more shallow each week. I think it'll be flat by 26 weeks.

What I miss: being able to eat when I'm hungry, and not puke after!

What I am looking forward to: our appt. Tuesday, hopefully will actually see my Dr!

Milestones: We bought a minivan this week. Getting there!

How is daddy? Excited about the babies, and trying to get things done before they arrive.

How are the grandparents? Excited, moms are planning showers. My dad, is telling me "take care of my babies" and FIL asked to feel my belly the other night.

14 weeks!

How far along: 14 weeks! My ticker moved me up to month four :-)

Growth: This week, babies are growing from the size of lemons to the size of apples. They are going from 3.42 inches to 3.98 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from 1.52 oz to 2.47 oz.

Symptoms: headaches almost every day, but that may be due to all the rain. Some nausea/ vomiting, and of coarse the "round ligament" issues.

Total weight gain: -13 lbs I've got to stop loosing!

Maternity clothes: Yes please! Still fitting in non-maternity clothing, but am much more comfy in maternity.

Stretch marks: I started with the cocoa butter, because I thought I saw one starting on the bottom of my belly.

Sleep: Still not all that good. Because of the headaches I have been using tylenol PM most nights.

Best moment this week: seeing my little ones at my doctor's visit. They are getting big, and are so cute already.

Movement: Pretty sure I'm feeling little baby b on the left. Earlier I had my laptop over my belly, and I felt a flutter. It had to be baby.

Food cravings: Still mostly aversions, but every once in a while things sound good. Like tootsie pops or turkey sandwiches on sourdough.

Belly Button in or out: In for now, it becomes more shallow each week.

What I miss: sleep, and the energy one derives from a full night's sleep

What I am looking forward to: finding out the sexes, knowing the flutters I'm feeling are babies.

Milestones: being in the second trimester is still feeling pretty surreal. Also, tomorrow we are going to look at a minivan. I am so becoming a parent.

How is daddy? Well. I think he's getting tired of taking care of everything around here!

How are the grandparents? Excited and very supportive. Everybody is so looking forward to these little guys!

13 weeks

How far along: 13 weeks! Second Trimester!!!!!

Growth: This week, babies are growing from the size of shrimp to the size of lemons. They are going from 2.91 inches to 3.42 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from .81oz to 1.52 oz.

Symptoms: less tired this week! Still nauseated (even puked a few times)and starting to feel more uncomfortable.

Total weight gain: -12 lbs

Maternity clothes: I wore my baggy jeans (the ones that fell off before pg)and had to go to bathroom to unbutton them! So after church we went to Motherhood and bought two belly band things that were only 6.99! I plan to cut up a few pairs of jeans and make my own maternity pants. Two pairs of maternity jeans for under 20$. Oh yeah!

Stretch marks: not yet, but my belly is definitely growing, so I won't be surprised when they start coming.

Sleep: Touch and go. Good with Tylenol pm, because even though I wake up 15 times, I'm able to drift back to sleep quickly instead of staying awake for 15-20 minutes each time.

Best moment this week: seeing the grandparents start to really get excited! We let them listen to the heartbeats with the doppler. I think it's becoming real for them.

Movement: i know it's too early, but either I've had some weird gas, or I've felt a few flutters.

Food cravings: I've been wanting panera bread broccoli cheese soup. Finally got some on Friday. Also, milky way bars and apples.

Belly Button in or out: In for now, it becomes more shallow each week.

What I miss: not feeling guilty about loosing weight! Lol. to be honest, although pregnancy has not really been my friend, I am thankful for each and every sign, symptom and tingle.

What I am looking forward to: finding out the sexes, and our next appointment.

Milestones: 13 weeks! Done with the first trimester!!!

How is daddy? Good. He goes back to nursing school tomorrow. He's been looking at mini-vans.

How are the grandparents? So excited. DH's parents were going around telling people they heard the heartbeats at church today. And my dad, who is usually not sentimental at all is being sentimental. My Mom is excited too, calling them her twins.

12 weeks!!!!

How far along: 12 weeks!

Growth: This week, babies are growing from the size of limes to the size of medium shrimp (odd, shrimps seem much smaller than limes). They are going from 2.13 inches to 2.91 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from .49oz to .81 oz.

Symptoms: nausea and fatigue, also, some weird twinges/ pains. Thinking these are the babies moving?

Total weight gain: -11lbs

Maternity clothes: I can still fit in some non-maternity clothes, but am much more comfortable in maternity bottoms, or really stretchy bottoms. And maternity shirts go better with maternity bottoms. I read that with twins, my uterus should measure between 6 and 8 weeks ahead of what I am. Makes me feel better about the baby bump, which is very noticeable.

Stretch marks: no new ones yet, my neighbor gave me some cocoa butter

Sleep: Oh my, for being so tired, who knew sleep would be so impossible to get. My changing body is making me so uncomfortable! I wake up almost every hour, and have a terrible time getting back to sleep each time. I really want one of those pregnancy pillows!

Best moment this week: seeing my little ones on the ultrasound! They are such characters already.

Movement: Thinking the pains I have been feeling are the babies stretching or something. Have also felt a few unidentified flutters. I know it's way tooo early, but with twins, I've heard you can feel them earlier.

Food cravings: Food is rather odious to me this week. I vomited for the first time on Thursday. So much for things becoming better as time goes on.

Belly Button in or out: In for now, it becomes more shallow each week.

What I miss: having the energy to do things.

What I am looking forward to: finding out the sexes.

Milestones: 12 weeks! We are half way to viability and 1/3 of the way done!!!!

How is daddy? Stressed and excited. The same as mommy.

How are the grandparents? Very excited. 12 yo auntie goes back and forth from being excited to being jealous. Lol. I know she'll love them.

11 weeks

How far along: 11 weeks!

Growth: This week, babies are growing from the size of figs to the size of limes. They are going from 1.661 inches to 2.13 inches long. Also, they are almost doubling in weight from .25oz to .49 oz.

Symptoms: nausea and fatigue

Total weight gain: -10lbs

Maternity clothes: I can still fit in some non-maternity clothes, but am much more comfortable in maternity bottoms, or really stretchy bottoms. And maternity shirts go better with maternity bottoms. I read that with twins, my uterus should measure between 6 and 8 weeks ahead of what I am. Makes me feel better about the baby bump, which is very noticeable.

Stretch marks: no new ones yet, guess I should start with the cocoa butter

Sleep: Oh my, for being so tired, who knew sleep would be so impossible to get. My changing body is making me so uncomfortable! I wake up almost every hour, and have a terrible time getting back to sleep each time. I really want one of those pregnancy pillows!

Best moment this week: listening to the babies' heartbeats each night.

Movement: None that I can feel yet!

Food cravings: Still more noticeable food aversions, although I did crave peach cobbler and dill pickle ships this week.

Belly Button in or out: In. It's truly becoming more shallow. So who knows.

What I miss: Energy. Working a six hour day is already becoming too much.

What I am looking forward to: Seeing the babies on Tuesday!

Milestones: The belly bump really popped out this week. And it's hard. Craziness.

How is daddy? Good. He just finished his first semester of nursing school. He's possible more excited than I am about seeing the babies Tuesday.

How are the grandparents? excited, and bossy. Already telling what to do and how to feel. Things are going to be interesting.

10 weeks

How far along: 10 weeks

Growth: This week, babies are growing from the size of kumquats to the size of figs. They are going from 1.22 inches to 1.61 inches long. Also, they are increasing in weight from .14oz to .25 oz.

Symptoms: nausea and fatigue

Total weight gain: -9lbs

Maternity clothes: I can still fit in some non-maternity clothes, but am much more comfortable in maternity bottoms, or really stretchy bottoms. And maternity shirts go better with maternity bottoms. I read that with twins, my uterus should measure between 6 and 8 weeks ahead of what I am. Makes me feel better about the baby bump.

Stretch marks: no new ones yet, guess I should start with the cocoa butter

Sleep: Sleep at night is illusive. DH wakes me with his snoring, and then I have an awful time getting back to sleep. An hour later I'll wake up and have to pee. Afternoon naps are my friend. DH was gone this weekend, and I still tossed and turned all night. I really want one of those pregnancy pillows!

Best moment this week: finding the babies with the doppler

Movement: Yesterday when I used the doppler, I noticed the numbers going down dramatically, when I moved it across my stomach, they went back up. I think the babies were "running away" from the doppler. LOL. Can't wait to feel them moving about.

Food cravings: Phish food ice cream, cheese sticks, and bread.

Belly Button in or out: In. I think it will stay that way. However, I have noticed it becoming more shallow.

What I miss: feeling up to doing things. After a few hours of anything I am so tired!

What I am looking forward to: I'm still really looking forward to my next appointment, in only a little more than a week!

Milestones: This week someone asked me if I was pregnant.

How is daddy? Excited, but busy between school, work and taking care of me.

How are the grandparents? Both sets are so excited and supportive.