O'Donoghue's Blog

2009-04-28T19:55:00.006-04:00

I haven't posted in a long while! Things have been really crazy for us the since the beginning of the year. January, Sarah was in the hospital for three days after having two seizures. After all of her tests the have found nothing which make us really happy! They say that it was a random thing due to the fact that she was sick the week prior to her seizures. February, Michael had his final surgery on his ear. All went well there but they did have to remove his eardrum. His recovery has been longer but he is doing really well! March, I was in the hospital, I got up in the middle of the night and thought that I was having a heart attack. Turns out that it was a anxiety, I guess the stress from the prior months had finally caught up to me. I am doing well now!

We are doing well but my Gram is not! I don't even know where to begin to describe whats going on but we know now that her time is coming to an end. We all really just her to be at peace. I just want her to take of Abby and Morgan for me!

Super Bowl Sunday!

2009-02-20T20:16:00.007-05:00

Superbowl Sunday was soo much! Sarah had her game face on! Her personality is really starting to shine!

Playing in the Snow!

2009-02-20T20:08:00.013-05:00

The weather here hasn't been that bad recently but there were a few days in January that were really bad. One afternoon when Michael was out shoveling the driveway I brought Sarah out to play in the snow. She was really unsure at first but loved being outside. It was a really cold day, as you can see by her red nose so we didn't stay long.

Christmas 08

2009-02-20T20:02:00.005-05:00

Here are some pics of Sarah around Christmas time! Sorry these are better late than never!

Happy New Year! 2008 in Review!

2009-01-09T18:31:00.031-05:00

Michael had to work this New Years Eve, so we packed up and Sarah and I went with him. Well, we didn't actually work. Michael booked us into the hotel, in a lovely 2 bedroom suite, where I ate Chinese food with my family and Sarah ran around like a loon until 12:30am. Getting her to bed was a test of wills. I eventually won, but not after a long hard fight. Michael came up about 25 minutes before midnight and rang in the new year with us, then he was back to work keeping crowd control. Michael finally came to bed about 2:30am, his absolutely adorable dream of having the three of sleep in the same bed came to a bitter reality as he was kicked and shoved by Sarah for the 3 hours he had hoped to sleep. It would figure that 15 minutes after he got out of bed, Sarah finally got comfortable with her head on his pillow and slept until 10:30. New Years Day, we went to Great-Grammie and Marsha's house for the traditional meal of pork and sauerkraut. When we got home Michael and Sarah crashed early!

I saw this on another blog (Thank you, Debbie!!!!) So here is 2008 in review!

The Holidays

2009-01-06T20:54:00.019-05:00

Where do I begin? I guess I should start off with Christmas Eve. Sarah slept in that morning until about 9:45. It was amazing! Our morning starts with a ritual of snuggles, a diaper change and breakfast (we learned that Sarah likes French toast sticks.) By then it was 11:03am and the morning rush to get started was underway but my thoughts were on Abby and Morgan. This was the first year that I didn't do anything at the cemetery. I felt really horrible about, like I was letting them down, like I wasn't being a good parent. I know that you are thinking how can you let down children that aren't even alive but I felt that way. It was just too hard this year in many ways. Although, my mom and dad went to the cemetery and put a beautiful wreath with angel's wings there.

Anyway, this was the first year I had Christmas Eve dinner at our house. Michael wanted turkey, so that is what we had with all of the trimmings. We decided that we wanted to start a new tradition for ourselves and Sarah. Something that Sarah could count on every year, so that no matter where we are she knows that family will be at our house for Christmas Eve dinner. This year it was my Mom, Dad, Becky, Stacy and us. (maybe next year Michael's family will be able to be with us too.) I want to Thank my family for being so willing to change tradition and start a new one with us. I know that 30 years of tradition is really hard to move on from, I missed it too, but I am happy we made the change. After dinner we exchanged gifts and it was a mad house. My parents went crazy buying for Sarah and I don't think that she knew where to begin. She would tear open the paper and then just stare at the boxes. It was crazy! After we put Sarah to bed, Michael and I went to 10pm Mass. (We didn't leave Sarah at home by herself, my parents watched her.) Michael really disliked the choir, they were really bad. I know that isn't the point of being at mass but it made it really hard to concentrate, so I think next year we will try a different church.

Christmas morning, the same morning ritual, snuggles, diaper change but no breakfast. We brought Sarah into the living room and she ran to the tree with an immediate halt. She opened her mouth in a wide "O" and pointed to the Christmas Mickey Mouse wrapped gifts. Then came the delayed "OOOHHH." Her face was so precious. I have to admit that I didn't get many pictures of her that morning, I was paying so much attention to her reaction that I forgot about the camera. It was a little overwhelming for her but I think next year will be alot more fun. I have to say Christmas is so much better with Children. Don't get me wrong, I know plenty of people that have great Christmas's without children, I was one of them for many years, but watching Sarah and interacting with her is better than any other Christmas' I have ever had.

After a breakfast of monkey bread and taking turns to get ready, we were off to Great-Grammie and Marsha's house. We had an early dinner there and exchanged gifts then came home to a nice quite evening. I have no idea what got into Sarah that night but she was so funny and goofy, she had Michael and I in stitches all night. It was fantastic!

I don't know how to explain how great Christmas was this year and to think how much better it will be next year when she really gets it. I can't wait! I think I may even start a countdown!

I know that it may appear to some that I can not or have not dealt with the loss of Abby and Morgan due to several things expressed to me this holiday season, but I want to make it clear that I have dealt with it and will be dealing with it for the rest of my life. And I say "I", but really, Michael deals with it too. Its just that he does it in a more silent way. I choose not to be so silent because I refuse to tiptoe around it. I will never deny myself the gift of being a mother to "3" beautiful little girls. Each one, no matter how short of time they were with me, have graced my life with pure joy. Being a mother to them has been my greatest accomplishment and I feel that by not acknowledging them all is denying them all the pride that I feel for them. I thank God everyday for each and everyone of them. I do not know why only Sarah is here with me today, but I have come to terms with not asking why for I know that God has a reason for everything. But I am human, so I am not void of feeling sad and missing them. I hope that as my family and friends, you can understand and though this blog is mainly to keep you updated about Sarah, it is also to remember Abby and Morgan.

3 Years Today!

2008-12-24T11:10:00.001-05:00

It was three years today that my angels were born. At 11:03am, Abigail Ann was born still into this world. At 11:08am, Morgan Sarah was born. Those moments were so bittersweet. I was filled with such joy to see their beautiful faces, but I also knew that those moments would be our last with our girls. I remember the feel of their skin and the weight of them in my arms. My arms long to hold them again. The house is filled with the scent of the candle that burned through the apartment the night they were born. I have that same feeling I did that night, anticipation of waiting for them to come home from the hospital, but it would be weeks before I realized that they would not. I wish that the world could have met my heavenly angels, because though they seemed like a dream, they were real.

Morgan Sarah

2008-12-24T11:08:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Morgan! We miss you so much and think about you everyday! We are sending you lots of Hugs and Kisses in Heaven!

Love,
Mom, Dad, Sarah
XOXOXOXOXO

Abigail Ann

2008-12-24T11:03:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday Abby! We miss you so much and think about you everyday! Sending you lots of Hug and Kisses in Heaven!

Love,
Mom, Dad and Sarah
XOXOXO

Names in the Sand

2008-12-19T14:00:00.005-05:00

Thank you to Sam and Carly for helping us remember Abby and Morgan in such a beautiful way! They would have been 3 this year. I often wonder who they would be today, what would they have asked Santa for, would Abby have been more like me and Morgan more like Michael. What would they have been like with Sarah. We miss them so much but I know that they are with us everyday watching over us. I just wish that we could hold them one more time.

We Love and Miss you so much!

1st Haircut!

2008-12-02T14:57:00.011-05:00

Sarah had her 1st haircut! And it was a family affair. Both my sisters (Becky and Stacy) and my mom were there. Yolanda has been cutting my hair since, well for as long as I care to remember. She didn't really need much cut off, she just shaped it. It looks so cute!

This Fall!

2008-12-02T14:33:00.008-05:00

These are the pictures that I took this fall of Sarah. The first set of pics are from the pumpkin patch. We went with Wendy and Kaleb. It was fun watching Kaleb and Sarah run around after each other and them running Michael. We also spent a Saturday morning at Zoo Boo with the Urban cousins. We spent the morning walking through haunted houses, trick or treating and looking at the animals. Sarah really liked the monkeys. It was so crowded and crazy! I think that the next time that we go back she will have to be walking around with no need for the stroller. The last set were from Halloween. She loved her bear costume and still puts it on. She loved seeing all the kids in their costumes.

Bath time pics!

2008-12-02T14:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Turkey Day!

2008-11-27T19:45:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! I am updating this via Becky's computer because there seems to a be lots of problems with ours at the moment. So until I can get our computer fixed I will not be able to post. I promise that I will try to get some new picture of Sarah up as soon as I can.

Today we are at my Gram and Aunt Marsha's for dinner. We had a great day with the same spirited debates, naps and football on the TV. Sarah refused to eat anything of nutritional value today only the sweet stuff which drives Michael and I crazy. I guess tomorrow is a new day.

Since today is a day of thanks, I have to say how thankful I am Sarah and Michael. They fill my life with so much joy and happiness. I am thankful for family and good friends, they have been such a great support through trying times and a good laugh through the good times.

I hope that everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving!

Sarah at 1 year!

2008-11-09T18:25:00.003-05:00

These are a few picture that I took of Sarah on her birthday right around the time that she was born. Our little girls is growing so fast!

2008-11-09T16:31:00.003-05:00

I haven't posted in a while for several reason. 1.) I am just way too busy lately. I have been working alot more and when i am home I am making up for lost time with Sarah and Michael. And lets not talk about the cleaning and laundry. Michael has been working so much lately, we saw Michael a total of about 5 hours this week, up until Friday when he was off. 2.) I have been thinking about Abby and Morgan alot lately and I am not sure if this is the right outlet for all of that. And before anyone starts thinking I need to get over it already, I say, until you have walking in my shoes do not pass judgement. Last year at this time I was still basking in the glow of my newborn baby girl, Sarah. She needed me for everything and I needed to be needed. Though she still needs me, she is becoming more independent and there is more time to think. Think about who is not here with us.

I have been watching my cousin Desi's little girls Nina and Giulianna. Nina is 3 almost 4. Guilianna is 1, only 4 months older than Sarah. When I look at the three of them playing (or not) it just makes me wonder if this is what it would have been like if Abby, Morgan and Sarah were here. How exhausting it would have been. But I love watching how they interact with each other. I love that every minute is filled with something. When they are gone, I feel sad because my house is quieter and I am able to hear my thoughts more. My thoughts are of the girls and I re-live the day that they were born. The only time I truly had with them. I am starting to forget things about them. Isn't it bad enough that they aren't here with us, do my memories have to be taken also.

My heart is constantly at war, sad that my world is less beautiful without Abby and Morgan, but overwhelmed with the joy that Sarah gives my everyday.

Baby Gabriella!

2008-10-10T09:08:00.002-04:00

Our very close friends Brian and Anna welcomed Gabriella Renee to this world yesterday. She was 6lbs 14oz and 19 inches long. We think that she was born around 5:30pm but not exactly sure, I am still waiting for confirmation. (I will let everyone know later for all of you who like to play the numbers.) Anna and Gabby are doing well. We are soo excited for you Brian and Anna. You are blessed with a beautiful family! Brian, as of yesterday you are "officially" out numbered (3:1), October 8th was the last day you had of ever being right about anything so I hope that you are ready. Brianna is going to be a great big sister and we can't wait to hear how she takes to having Gabby around. We love you!
Congratulations,
Beth, Michael and Sarah!

Nat'l Pregnancy and Infant Loss Rememberance Day - Take Action

2008-10-07T22:38:00.008-04:00

Thank you to Busted Babymaker for bringing this to my attention. Now I am bringing it to you...

October 15th is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day in the United States. More than 25,000 children are stillborn in the United States every year leaving mothers, entire families and communities devastated. Estimates of the rate of occurrence of stillbirth make it at least as common as autism.

Stillbirth is not an intractable problem. Greater research would likely significantly reduce its incidence, but good research requires good data. H.R. 5979: Stillbirth Awareness and Research Act is under consideration by Congress. This proposed bill would standardize stillbirth investigation and diagnosis, thus providing more data for the needed research. Better research means fewer children born still.

On October 15th, remember the thousands of unfinished children lost and the families who remain to grieve them. Honor them by taking action. Let's help pass H.R. 5979.Action

Steps:

Step 1. Use Your Blog to Enlist Others-Copy the contents of this entire post and publish it on your blog immediately.

GOAL: Enlist 10 of your readers to spread the word

Step 2. Use Your E-mail to Enlist Others-E-mail 5 bloggers and ask them (nicely and in an unspammy way) to publish these action steps on their blog. Consider contacting celebrity bloggers, political bloggers, medical bloggers, or bloggers who are not part of your reading community.

GOAL: Enlist 3 bloggers outside of your normal blog sphere to spread the word in other online communities.

Step 3. Help Pass the Stillbirth Awareness and Research Act-By October 15th, publish a post on your blog supporting H.R. 5979 Stillbirth Awareness and Research Act. For maximum impact, title your post: "Stillbirth Awareness and Research Act."

GOAL: 1,000,000 Google results on October 15th when that term is searched for. Currently, Google only returns 20,400 pages - most of which have nothing to do with the bill.

"An Ugly Pair of Shoes"
I am wearing a pair of shoes.They are ugly shoes.

Uncomfortable Shoes.

I hate my shoes.

Each day I wear them, and each day I wish I had another pair.

Some days my shoes hurt so bad that I do not think I can take another step.

Yet, I continue to wear them.I get funny looks wearing these shoes.

They are looks of sympathy.

I can tell in others eyes that they are glad they are my shoes and not theirs.

They never talk about my shoes.

To learn how awful my shoes are might make them uncomfortable.

To truly understand these shoes you must walk in them.

But, once you put them on, you can never take them off.

I now realize that I am not the other one who wears these shoes.

There are many pairs in the world.

Some women are like me and ache daily as they try and walk in them.

Some have learned how to walk in them so they don't hurt quite as much.

Some have work the shoes so long that days will go bybefore they think of how much they hurt.

No woman deserves to wear these shoes.

Yet, because of the shoes I am a stronger women.

These shoes have given me the strength to face anything.

They have made me who I am.

I will forever walk in the shoes of a woman who has lost a child.
Author Unknown

Happy 1st Birthday Souza Sisters

2008-09-30T23:39:00.008-04:00

Today was the birthday of my friend Debbie's twins Charlotte and Maggie! They are celebrating their birthday with Mickey Mouse in Disney World. I sooo wish that we could be there to celebrate with them. These two beautiful little girls are walking miracles just like Sarah. I hope that they are having a very Happy Birthday!

Patrick and Ber's Wedding

2008-09-26T22:38:00.006-04:00

These are a select few of the picture that the photographer took. I wasn't able to take as many picture as I would have liked due to the fact that I had Sarah. It's really hard to carry Sarah and use my camera at the same time. Besides these are far better pictures than I can take.

Just to let those of you that were not there know, how proud of our baby girl that we were, she walked down the aisle. And she only fell once but thanks to Marie who quickly swooped her up, she continued on with ease. I wasn't able to watch the whole thing because I was walking on the outer aisle just in case she decided she wasn't up for it. (Here is where I beg that if anyone has any video or pictures of her walking up I would love to have a copy. PLEASE!!!!) The best part of the whole thing is that the last little bit of her walk turned into a cute run when she saw Michael at the end of the aisle. Michael then brought her around to me and there are no words to express the look of pride and love that Michael had on his face, it brought tears to my eyes.

I just want to say to Patrick and Ber:

Thank you so much for including me in your special day. It was the first wedding I had been to in years that I truly was able to have fun. The last few years for Michael and I have been really hard. The year, September 2007 to September 2008, has been one on the best years of my life. It started with the birth of my beautiful baby girl and ended with your wedding and Sarah's 1st birthday! Ber, you were one of the most stunning brides I have ever seen! (Patrick you weren't too bad looking either.) Patrick, you were such a little brat when I first met you 8 years ago and you have grown into a responsible man. I am so proud of you! Continue to make each others dreams come true and fill each day that you spend together with more love than the day before. Marriage is not always easy so continue to fight for each other. I hope that you are having fun on your honeymoon!

Love you both,

Beth

Here is my favorite picture from the whole day! This is the best family photo I have to date and I already have a copy displayed in my living room!

Photo by Anthony O'Donoghue (using my wonderful Cannon Rebel Digital Camera)

Visiting "More" Nan

2008-09-26T01:00:00.003-04:00

Four Generations:

Nan and her grandsons:

Nan, grandson and great-granddaughter:

Father and daughter:

We visited Michael's "More" Nan our first free day. He called her "more" nan growing up because she was another (more) nan. Unfortunately she was not truly able to grasp that Sarah was her great-granddaughter and that Michael was her grandson. She is still in great humor which made the visit very enjoyable. I think that it was important for John to introduce Sarah to his mother and just as important to Michael.

Sarah's Irish Birthday Party

2008-09-24T22:16:00.010-04:00

Day two was Sarah's Birthday party! Patrick and Ber had everything under control and I felt like there was nothing I could do but enjoy the day. It was weird not doing anything for my daughters birthday but it was nice to be able to watch everything and watch Sarah react to everything going on. Patrick and Ber rented a bouncing castle for the big day and we had a Mickey Mouse theme. As you can see from the pictures above that the adults had just as much fun on the bouncing castle if not more. You may also want to take another look at the pictures and count how many grown men have Mickey Mouse ears on their heads and how many kids did.

There was one point when everyone was singing "Happy Birthday" that I started to tear up. It was very overwhelming to think that a whole year had past. This little girl that was in my arms needing me for everything a year ago is now becoming more and more independent everyday. I just can't believe it. I think by the time that it all sinks in it will be her 2nd birthday.

I added some picture below that the slide show wouldn't let me add. Enjoy there is more to come.

Our first day in Ireland!

2008-09-23T23:37:00.006-04:00

Uncle Anthony and Sarah on the trampoline:

Laura and Sarah:

(Very proud) Grandad and Sarah:

So we ended up arriving in Ireland 24 hours later than we had planned. Thank you to the very crappy US A*$%#ys, they delayed our flight leaving Pittsburgh to Boston by two hours. And after I asked and asked the "I D 10 T" at the gate if we were going to make our international flight and he assured us that we would...so, we finally got to Boston and US crappyways, let us run to the international terminal only to be turned away and told to go back to US horribleways to have them fix the problem. Anyone that has traveled with an infant, in 85 degree weather knows that this is not something that you say to a woman holding her exhausted daughter. Oh and did I mention that they had NO air conditioning on the flight from Pittsburgh to Boston. I think that there is something illegal about that but we'll find out when the better business bureau gets my letter. Anyway, we spent the night at Hilton Boston Airport and took off the following day.

When we got there Sarah was extremely tired considering that she only slept about an 1 1/2 hours of our 6 hour flight. But that's okay because when we got to Patrick's house we visited over breakfast and then took a 4 hours nap. When we got up we headed to Breeda's for dinner. The above pictures were taken at her house. Laura is Breeda's daughter (Michael's first cousin).

Michael and I are still in shock how much Laura has grown and it is hard to believe the little girl that I met 8 years ago is now holding (and babysitting) my daughter. Here is the little girl that I first met, this taken at Disney in 2001. She has grown up so much! I can't believe it!

So that was the first 48 hours and I will have more pictures once I get more time to got through all of them.

Happy 1st Birthday Sarah!!!!!

2008-09-17T22:44:00.003-04:00

It is my baby's 1st birthday!!! Sarah was sick today and trying to catch up on all the sleep that she missed traveling home from Ireland, so it wasn't a very eventful day. It was the perfect day for me though because all she wanted was for me to hold her and cuddle her all day so that is what I did. It is so hard to believe that she is one. A whole year has past and she has changed so much in that year. She is our everything! Our dreams come true! She amazes us everyday with all that she is and all that she is becoming. It is hard to imagine who she will be next year at this time but I am looking forward to watching her grow. I will say that I have been blessed beyond words to have been able to be a stay at home mom. I know that in today's world it is becoming harder and harder for moms to be home full time and I do not take this for granted. This is the hardest thing that I have ever done, but it is the best and most rewarding thing I have ever done. I am thankful to have a husband that stuck by my through all of the hard times and works so hard everyday to let me live my dream of being a stay at home mom. I can't believe that this little 7 lb baby that I gave birth to a year ago is now walking, talking (well, as much as little one this age does), laughing, calling out "mama" and "dada", pointing to things that she wants (throwing a temper tantrum when she doesn't get it), dances, has like and dislikes. She is a little person now! I am in awe.

Sarah,

We love you so much and we are so happy you where sent to us by our other angels! Happy Birthday baby!

We love you with all of our hearts,
Moma & Daddy

PS...There is so much that I need to fill you all in on but I have little time to it so I will fill you in on more over the next several days.

HiHo, HiHo, It's off to Ireland we go.....

2008-09-04T00:17:00.003-04:00

So we are off to Ireland for the much anticipated wedding of Patrick O'Donoghue to Bernadette Murphy! Michael and I are soo excited but extremely nervous. This is our first "big" trip with Sarah and we have no clue how it is all going to go. This could go one of two ways:

1) Sarah sits on our laps, plays nicely, waves to all the people around us, goes through her normal "adorable" performance and then falls asleep....

or

2) Sarah sits on our laps, plays nicely, waves to all the people around us, goes through her normal "adorable" performance, falls asleep for an hour, then realizes that its going to be a while before she gets off this airplane. Then starts to scream and yell until we let her down, she goes up and down the isle disturbing everyone from their sleep, throws a huge temper tantrum when we go to pick her up and then the pilot will threaten to ban us from all air travel till she is 18 and responsible for herself.

Not much to say....

2008-08-29T21:39:00.005-04:00

So, there is not much to say. We have been getting ready for our big trip to Ireland. I have been working LOTS of extra hours and I just realized that tonight was the first night in 5 days that I have been home to put Sarah to bed. I really hate it because Michael, Sarah and I really had a great routine. Tonight we did part of the routine (without Michael because he wanted me to have some time with Sarah) but only half because I learned tonight that she has started to completely self soothe and didn't need me. I love that she is becoming independent but I am also sad because I want her to need me like she used to. I knew that this day would come and I am glad that I had the time that I did to cuddle her. I cannot believe that she is growing up so fast, it feels like yesterday that she was born.

Tonight a friend of ours, Sylva, brought her baby boy, William over to meet us. Sarah did the cutest thing. Just after William had his diaper changed, he was crying and Sarah tried to give him her Monkey. She was trying to comfort him with her lovey! It was just too cute.

I hope that everyone has a great last long summer weekend!

POOP, POOP EVERY WHERE!

2008-08-25T20:02:00.005-04:00

While I was changing Sarah this morning, she decided to grab her extremely poopy diaper, just after I opened it and swing it around like it was her new favorite toy! On me, on her, on the changing table...this is not good for a woman that has a slight OCD problem! I thought that I was going to completely melt down! It is hours later and I still haven't decided to laugh or cry about it! I know that my mom is laughing soo hard right now because I truly have gotten the child that I was, but 3000 times worse. I think that my Pietrone trait grey streak has fully come in the last few hours. Watch out O'Donoghue family not only does she sling poop but she clinches her fits and growls.

Does thIS little girls look like she could even hurt a fly...this is what reels them in so that she can crush them.....

Sarah and Monkey

2008-08-21T12:00:00.001-04:00

I think that this says it all....

Sarah is 11 months!

2008-08-18T14:29:00.002-04:00

OK, I know that I just posted about Sarah being 10 months a few days ago and what could I possibly have to update, but in the life of an infant things are ever changing. So, in addition to her monkey and snuggle bear, Sarah has been attached to a Mickey Mouse plastic figure. She has just not let it go and not only is bathing with it but sleeping with it. She was playing with it at Wendy's house last weekend and has had a death grip on it since. It doesn't belong to her but I can't get it out of her hands without her throwing the biggest temper tantrum ever. So, Wendy I think that I am going to have to get Kaleb another one. She goes nuts when she hears the theme to "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" or sees anything resembling Mickey. I hope that this continues because I can't wait to take her to Disney next year. Michael and I were talking last night about what a joy it's going to be for her to see him in person for the first time. I can not wait!!!!! The pictures above are one of her at 3 month and one at 10 months. I can't believe how much she has changed.

My little snuggle bug!

2008-08-16T13:48:00.000-04:00

These are pics of Sarah just after a nap. Look at that hair! She took her nap in the guest bedroom which I honestly believed that up until two weeks ago she thought that was her bed and her room. She still takes naps there but she is actually using her crib. Oh and please ignore the bruise on her forehead, she is forever hitting her head.

Ian and Ella....

2008-08-15T22:16:00.000-04:00

Last month,we meet for the first time our new twin cousins, Ian and Ella. They live in South Carolina and were back in Pittsburgh to meet their extended family. They were 6 months in these pictures. Ella was very outgoing and while Ian was a little more reserved. It was really great meeting them and we hope to see them again soon.

GO Team USA!!!!!

2008-08-14T23:11:00.002-04:00

These pictures are from 4th of July, but since I didn't post any of them then I am posting them now in support to USA in the 2008 Olympics. GO USA!!!!!

Sarah is 10 months...Almost 11

2008-08-13T20:35:00.006-04:00

So Sarah is 10 months and at the end of this week she will be 11months. I almost missed a whole month. She was at the Dr's a couple of days ago and she was 19 lbs. The reason I don't get to blog as much recently is because she is consistently on the move. She has been walking for almost 3 weeks now and everyday she is getting better. Michael is hoping that she will walk down the isle for Patrick's wedding. I don't know but I guess we will have to see. She is saying "all gone", "bye bye", "moma", "pap pap" (which she has been calling Michael and my dad, so we are working on that). She loves her stuffed monkey and won't go to bed without it. Now she is starting to carry it everywhere. She also has been getting attached to a "Snuggle" bear, so recently both her arms are full. Bath time is our favorite time of the day. She splashes, kicks her feet, and laughs as Michael and I get wet. We are two weeks into her self soothing at bedtime. This is the longest stretch of time that we have gone that I haven't had to get up several times at night. This month has been a huge developmental milestone month. Here are a few of the picture...

Summertime fun!

2008-07-29T18:29:00.005-04:00

So, I hope that this is the beginning of me starting to blog more again. Sarah went to her first "Big" pool today. We sat in the baby pool all afternoon. She laid her head on my shoulder for the first half hour and then she slowly became more and more comfortable. She was walking between me and Aunt Stacy. She was splashing around and kicking. I think that we are going to do this more often. She really enjoyed herself. I just have to look into baby swim lessons.

In other news....Sarah is 10 months! I can't believe that in 2 months she will be 1 years old. I will be downloading more pictures of her from the last month and some video.

You will be glad to see that Sarah is beginning to walk! OMG!!!!!!!!! I thought that I had to lock everything down before.

Long time no see...

2008-07-02T14:45:00.007-04:00

It's been weeks since I last posted and for Sarah 9 month B-day there was barely any update. Lets start by saying that things have been really nutso here. We have been sick sick sick. The week after Helen left, Sarah got a tummy bug that lasted a week before we started to see any signs of normallacy. Then came a really crappy flu-like cold for me, which I am still not over but feel better. Now Michael and Sarah are both showing signs of a cold. Will this ever end?

Sarah had her 9 month appointment last week and she weighed 18 lbs 2 oz. and she is 27.5 inches long. I can't believe how much she has grown. She is learning the different parts of her face. She can point out her nose and mouth and we are working on the eyes. She is all over the house. My mom bought her a "gated community" but she hates it and cries after about 10 minutes of being in there when she realizes there is no way out. So I let her go and we are constantly chasing after her and saying "no no Sarah." She now shakes her head "no" when you tell her "no no." It is really cute. Our friend Debbie sent Sarah a little bear that says the "Now I lay me down to sleep..." prayer and when you press it and it starts to say the prayer she lays her head down. It is the most adorable thing ever. Thank you, Debbie and the Souza Sisters. She is still cruising but now that she knows how to crawl and if she gets scared she just plops and crawls instead of trying. Although she has been standing alot more on her own with no support.

Big upset at our house - Sarah doesn't like to sleep and when she does it is not a good sleep. Actually this has been going on for 2 months now but it has been worse lately. There are several schools of thought on why. One, she is just an active baby that relives her days in her sleep. Two, she has major separation anxiety and when I go to work on the weekend she gets all out of sorts waiting for me to come around again. When people are here there is no such thing as a nap, she loves to perform and she is way too nebby (a pittsburgh word for curious) to go to sleep. Every Monday after a long weekend of work and lack of sleep it sucks because I work at getting her back into a routine. Only for Friday to come again and that sucks.

Now we are in July! Thankfully, my last weekend of over nights is this weekend. YEAH!!!!!! I will be working day shifts, well, I should say during the day sometime. Michael's cousin Sandra is coming to visit next week for a few days and we are very excited about having her. We have not seen her since September 2005. The week after that Michael is having ear surgery. Yes you read it right. It turns out that after years of ear infections and a history of polyps, it has lead to this. Don't get me wrong, I know that everything is going to be alright but I hate the fact that he is going under the knife. I think that we are all a little nervous. In all the times that Michael has taken me to the hospital for procedure after procedure, it has been nothing like what they are going to be doing to him. They are going to remove the polyp and try to fix his hearing. They actually have to move his ear to get to the area that needs to be worked on. EWWWWW!!! This time I get to baby him. Whatever he needs I am there. Or not there if that is what he wants. After every procedure that I went through, Michael was so gentle, loving and key to each of my short recoveries. I feel bad because the worst of it is that he will probably be really dizzy after for a few days and we don't know how long it will be before he can pick up Sarah again. How do you keep a hands on father away from picking up his daughter. Anyway, I will keep you all posted!

Well, that is the big mess that we have been up to for the past few weeks. I don't have any pictures to post right now or videos but I promise to have some soon.

Sarah is 9 months!!

2008-06-21T21:09:00.004-04:00

I haven't posted in a few days becuase Sarah has had a tummy bug and then I have been at work! Here are some picture of her from the past month.

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T21:20:00.004-04:00

Happy Father's Day Michael! I am so happy that this year you have Sarah to put your arms around. I know that you will be thinking of Abby and Morgan today and wishing that they were here; wondering what it would be like to have all three girls playing in the living room, sitting on the bed with us while you opened your cards and gifts. I know that you will never tell me how much you heart hurts for them, you have always stayed strong for me, but I know. You are the father that I always dreamed that you would be and more. When Sarah is grown and she talks to her children about their grandfather she will tell them about all the fun she had playing with you, all the things that she learned from you, how you helped her with her home work, how you taught her to ride a bike, how you stood at the front door when her first date brought her home, how you held her when she was sick or scared and made her feel better. She will tell them how you loved her mother, how we are best friends, how we still flirt with each other, how we argue and then laugh, how you were her mother's one true love.

You are everything to Sarah and I. I hope that you had a good day! Sarah and I enjoyed spending the day with you and I know that Abby and Morgan did too.

We Love you!

Nan's Visit

2008-06-11T00:12:00.006-04:00

So Sarah's Nan, Helen, was here visiting this past 7 days. The weather has been soo hot, I think that it almost hit triple digits yesterday. All we have been doing is hanging out in the air conditioning, shopping, and playing with Sarah (and some more shopping). Anyway here are a few photos from her visit and a video.

Sarah at Kennywood for the first time:

Shopping at Babies R Us:

In her pool:

Tired from shopping all day:

This video is from her at dinner, I thought that the people around us were going to kill us because she was so loud and silly but it didn't help that Michael and I kept laughing...

OMG!!!! Sarah is crawling!

2008-05-31T03:45:00.005-04:00

Tonight before I went to work Michael and I were playing with Sarah in her bedroom, she saw the monitor on the floor and wanted it so Michael moved it away from her. She was determined to have it so she crawled to it. She doesn't have it down pat but she is trying. She has been trying and trying for days but she wasn't really on the go until she surprised us tonight. I guess I have to finish baby proofing the house sooner than later. Here is a video of her:

Happy 30th Andy!

2008-05-27T23:49:00.015-04:00

Ok, I am a little late in posting this one and I don't meant to post all at once but Sarah actually went to bed early tonight and I have a little time. Actually alot of time, Sarah hit her head tonight (really hard). She was walking with Michael, fell and hit her head off the wall. So, I am waiting to up a little so I can wake her just to make sure that she is alright. I am going to be totally gray by the time she is done learning to walk. No wonder my blood pressure is threw the roof.

Anyway, last weekend was my cousin Andy's surprise 30th Birthday party. It was really nice and we had a great time. Here are the pictures:

Andy and Sarah:

Michael fed Sarah baked beans:

Andy and Jen:

Chris (Andy's roommate) and Sarah:

Nina Marie:

Sarah a bully?

2008-05-27T23:39:00.004-04:00

Anna is in town for a week and she was at the house yesterday. It was great to see her daughter Brianna, 10 months, and Sarah playing together. The last time that they were together they just looked at each other. Here is a video of them playing. My question is: Is Sarah going to be that bully on the playground? Or that little girls that doesn't want to share?

Thank goodness that she doesn't know any better or you would really think that she took her down on purpose. I feel bad for Brianna but we got a kick out of this video.

8 months!

2008-05-19T23:35:00.007-04:00

Sarah is 8 months! She is learning so much and she is willing to show off as long as it's on her terms. She waves, puts her hands in the air and say "up," and she calls for "mama" and "dada." She is clapping. The other day we were watching Dancing with the Stars and after Kristie and Marks dance she started clapping. I t was like she knew that the dance was good, but it was because she saw the people on TV clapping. She loves to stand and that is all that she wants to do, and this past weekend she has been trying to do it more on her own, she pushes Michael and I away. She has been pulling herself up. This has lead to many head bumps and my blood pressure going through the roof but she is fine. She has been attempting to crawl but she is not on the move as of yet. She still only has two bottom teeth, but her gums are hard as rocks. I joke that she is going to wake up one morning and she is going to have a full set of teeth. I feel really bad because I know that her teeth are really bothering her but there is nothing that I can do to take away the pain. Her teeth have lead to many problems with her eating. The only thing that she has had in days is her bottle, sweet potato puffs and mashed potatoes. I hope that these teeth come in soon.

Everyday has been a joy and its hard to believe that in 4 months she will be a year old. I added a few videos of her below.

2008-05-11T18:31:00.006-04:00

Here are some pictures of Sarah from yesterday. It was a really beautiful day! My mom and dad took these pics while they were watching her.

So far the day is exactly what I expected it to be...bittersweet. When I got home from work Michael had the steps from the garage up to the living room lined with cards. They made me cry! Sarah woke up just in time to give me big hug and kiss before I went to sleep. Michael gave me that foot rub that I wanted. Yeah! My heart hurts for Abby and Morgan, but playing with Sarah has eased it. We were suppose to go the cemetery today but I just couldn't. I think it would have made it harder. The day is shaping up to be a good one. My Mother's Day is everything that I wanted, hanging out with my husband, my daughter and my family. And Abby and Morgan in my thoughts.

Mother's Day...

2008-05-11T01:21:00.000-04:00

Today will be my first "official" Mother's Day, even though this is my third. The last two years were days of fury over the fact that it was forgotten that I was a mother of two. There are few people that would think about how hard it was to know that there are millions of mothers out there celebrating their "motherhood" and you weren't allowed because your babies aren't living. So does that make all of the women out there that lost their children to accidents, decease, or other reasons not mothers anymore? Do you lose the title once your children are no longer living? I know that there were people that may have thought about it but didn't want to hurt me by saying anything and then their were people that just didn't think about it at all. It would have been nice to hear "Happy Mother's Day," because it was going to hurt even without hearing it. Then I find myself thinking has everyone forgotten about Abby and Morgan?

I don't know how today will be, I don't know if I will feel sad or just be happy to have Sarah to celebrate with. I imagine that it will be bittersweet; amazed that my dreams of having a child to hold in my arms is real, but sad that there should be three children in my arm not just one.

Well see how today goes but the best Mother's Day would be just spending the day with Sarah and Michael laughing and having a good time. And maybe a foot rub considering I was on my feet all night. (HAHA) I'll have to let you know how it goes.

Happy Mother's Day to all!

Update...

2008-05-04T19:37:00.009-04:00

I had off this weekend and it will probably be my last for a long while. Just another reason why I hate being back at work. I will be spending our family days sleeping so that I can go to work that night.

Saturday was raining all day and the three of us had a really hard time getting started for the day. We all stayed in pj's until after noon. Before Sarah, Michael and I used to laze around one weekend day and just enjoy each others company but the greatest feeling came over me when the three of us were playing and I realized that it's not two us anymore there are three. I still find myself looking at her and thinking "she is ours and she is not going anywhere." Michael says that he findshimself thinking the same thing. I can't wait until she is older and comes into our room in the morning to wake us up. Yes, I said I can't wait now and may even regret saying that, but there was a time in my life that I thought the only thing ever waking me up in the morning was going to be my alarm clock, now it's the sound of a childs voice and there is nothing better. We had the best day cuddling with Sarah and relaxing.

Sarah going crazy trying to move. She doesn't want to sit and play, she wants to stand up, roll on her belly, trying to get on her knees, or even trying to pull herself up. She is not a happy camper if you try to leave her to play on her own, she wants you there and she want you to help her get up. It's not going to be long before she is either crawling or walking. I need to get gates. She is starting to wave, well her version of a wave. She is also starting to clap and sing when you sing. I can't believe all that she is trying to do all at once.

Sunday, Michael ordered us out of the house. He wanted to clean and didn't want to be bothered with be interrupted by Sarah or I. So I met Becky at the mall and I got a little shopping out of the way. It is really sad we can't get any real cleaning done when Sarah is around. She demands our attention and we give in. I know that sounds really bad and I know that I have to get away from this habit, but I am a sucker fer her crying and Michael is no better. I offered to let Michael take her and I would do the cleaning but he wanted to do it. I am blessed to have a husband that would even offer.

Well tonight I am back to work. I pray everynight that my mom hits the powerball so that I don't have to work anymore.

2008-05-04T19:04:00.001-04:00

Due Date

2008-05-01T23:33:00.004-04:00

Today was Abby and Morgan's due date...and the day went on like normal. They would have been two. I stopped by the cemetery today. Sometime it is so weird to see their names on the headstone. It is like a slap of reality. My arms hurt to hold them again. I wish that I could remember what it felt like to hold them. I do anything to go back and commit it to memory. I find myself holding Sarah more when my arms hurt, sometime it feels better, sometime the hurt just stays. Today was hard but I got through it.

I miss you my sweet angels and love you so very much!

Debbie, thank you for remembering me, Michael and the girls today!

Debbie

2008-04-24T21:53:00.002-04:00

Two years ago today was Debbie's due date for her twins Brian and Lillian. I just want you to know that we are thinking about you always but especially today! Friendship is a gift from the angels...our angels!

Already 7 months

2008-04-23T01:08:00.005-04:00

Make a slideshow - it's easy!

So Sarah is now 7 months, I can't believe how time flies. I haven't posted much because it is harder to find time now that I am back to work. When I am home it is all about Sarah! She is learning so much everyday. She loves walking so anytime we need to move from room to room she wants to walk. She is now saying "mama", "dada", and "baba." And if she is not saying those sounds she is just talking away. Sometime she talks so seriously that it make me wonder if she is really a 40 year old in a babies body. I am trying to teach her to give kisses and wave. I am having better luck with the kisses. She LOVES mashed potatoes (she is irish) and bananas. Gosh, there is so much that has changed I feel like I don't know where to begin or end. I just know that everyday with her is an adventure and it is the best one that I have ever been on.

Back to Work

2008-04-16T23:37:00.004-04:00

So tonight was my first night back to work in over a year. In the last 7 months, I have only left Sarah a hand full of time and never for 8 hours. I don't think that it really bothered her but it bothered me. Michael will tell you that there was a lot of tears this afternoon and this weekend will not be any better. I know that this is the best thing for her and for me but I hate leaving her. I know that this will not make sense to most people but after losing Abby and Morgan it is harder to leave her and not be afraid that something is going to happen to her when I am not around. Now before you say it...I know that I can not protect her from every bad thing and that all parents want to protect their children but that doesn't take my fears and worry away. Especially when I know how it feels to have a child and then have it taken away.

I am also afraid that I am going to miss something really big. Yesterday she started to putting her hands in the air when you say "who is big...Sarah is SO BIG." It is so cute! (I will download pics very soon!) And she is doing it non-stop. Michael has her walking up and down our hallway (not on her own yet but holding our fingers) and I can't imagine how much it would hurt if someone else was there to witness her first step on her own and I wasn't. Everyday she is learning something new, I just don't want to miss out on any of it. I keep telling myself that this is for the best, I am earning extra money for Ireland, getting adult interaction, Michael is getting more one on one time with her and Sarah is getting some independence away from me.

Well my first day wasn't that bad and I think that I am going to like it. The people are nice and they seem like a lot of fun. This definitely isn't like any of the other hotels that I have worked in before. I really did miss Sarah, I wish that I could just bring her with me. I better be going to bed the sooner I get to sleep the sooner I get to play with Sarah.

Good night all!

Play time!

2008-04-13T10:27:00.005-04:00

We just love her giggle!

Missing the girls

2008-04-12T00:51:00.008-04:00

I know that I haven't posted in a while but the last week has been hard. I have been spending my time reading the blog of a woman that just lost her twins several weeks ago. She was 23 weeks pregnant. I admire the fact that she can write what she is going through, putting her heart on-line everyday for anyone to read. Reading it brings me back to just after Abby and Morgan were born. It is like she is in my head. It still hurts just like it was yesterday. Someone recently told me to "let it go and start living your life for Sarah." I got really angry and started to defend myself when I realized that this person obviously has no idea what it is like to lose a child let alone two and there was no reason for me to make myself more upset. I do live every minute of every day for Sarah, but Sarah is not and never will be a replacement for Abby and Morgan. So while I Love her with everything in me, there is a part of me that belongs to them, and what I have to do is learn to live my life without them.

Reading that blog made me think about how much I miss the girls. Life has gone on without them and though that is the way that it is meant to be, it makes me wish that they were here playing with me, Michael and Sarah. I can only imagine how crazy this house would have been. If I would have gone to my due date the girls would have been 2 years old this May.

I miss you Abby and Morgan, I love you with all of my heart!

I just need to say thank you to Debbie for bring this woman's blog to my attention. You are right she needs our prayers and to know that people are thinking about her and her twins. So I ask that everyone please say a prayer for this woman, her husband and her twins. And Debbie, thank you for being there for me. I am so blessed that our twins brought us together. And I am twice blessed that our children will grow up together.

Just want to chat....

2008-04-12T00:39:00.005-04:00

Sarah just wants to chat! There are three minutes of her chatting away and it might be boring to some but for those that don't get to chat with her that often, here she goes....

They are back....

2008-04-04T09:14:00.003-04:00

How do I explain to my husband for the last 20 years I have been secretly married to Donnie Walhberg. And that I have two other children and they live in LA. Not to mention that my older sister Becky is married to Jonathan Knight, my younger sister to Danny Wood, Anna to Jordan Knight and my cousin Desiree to Joey McIntyre. Do you think that Micheal will like the queen sized New Kids sheet I put on our bed? I was wondering if I still get life size posters from Teen Beat or Bop Magazines or do I have to create my own at Ritz. Don't worry Michael I will only hang them on my side of the bedroom. And move over for my life size Donnie doll is sleeping with us tonight. Mom pull out the old videos, I need to show Sarah who her real father is...

Someone download thier tour schedule we are hitting the road.

Kaleb's 3rd Birthday Party

2008-03-27T23:42:00.017-04:00

The Birthday Boy!

Over the holiday weekend we celebrated our cousin Kaleb's 3rd Birthday. Days like this one make me happy to be home. For almost three years I missed out on all the family celebrations and it made me really miss home. When I would hear of a gathering that I couldn't be part of, I was starting to feel like a stranger to my family and the youngest members of our family had no clue who Michael and I were. I am so glad that Sarah has so many cousins to grow up with. I would have hated for her to feel like these people I hold so dear to my heart, be like strangers to her. Being at the party made me excited for her first birthday party. She will be having two birthday bashes, one in Ireland and one here in Pittsburgh.

Addyson hugging Sarah!

Mikayla, Sarah and Ben

Addyson

Owen

Skylar and Sarah

Aunt Nancy reading to the kids.

Sarah hates peas....

2008-03-26T15:16:00.005-04:00

Michael and I laughed so hard we had tears in our eyes! I think these pictures say it all.

6 month check up!

2008-03-25T21:25:00.004-04:00

Today was Sarah's 6 month check up. She is now 16 lbs 4 oz and 26 inches. I can't believe how big she is getting and to think that she has doubled in weight since she was born. People don't lie when they say kids grow so fast. I have to keep stopping myself from life's craziness and remember to savor these moments. The doctor said that she looks good and she is very happy to see how well Sarah is doing. Her shots went well and she has been taking little naps all day. I think that she is a little whipped out (who wouldn't be).

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T20:36:00.006-04:00

Today is Sarah's 1st Easter! The Easter bunny brought toys, music cd's (thanks mom for the light up ducks and 120 kids songs) and a new stuffed rabbit. Michael got up early with Sarah today so that I could sleep in and they played with her new toys. When I finally got up Sarah had fallen asleep watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Yes, she watches TV. She loves the colors and the music. She is a huge fan of Miss Spider! Anyway, by the time Sarah got up from her nap and we got her ready we missed the beginning of mass. We visited Gi-Gi (great-grammie), Aunt Marsha, Grammie, Pap Pap, Aunt Stacy and Aunt Becky. Uncle Denny, Andy and Jen all stopped in while we were there. I can't wait for next Easter when Sarah can hunt for Easter eggs and her basket! After dinner we watched the Bee Movie, which was cute and my favorite part is when they took out Pooh! (Stacy, I told you there was something wrong with that bear! HAHA) It is definately a cute must see at least once movie! Well, I better get back to Michael and Sarah. Sarah is getting fussy and it is bath time. I hope everyone had a great Easter!

It's official....

2008-03-17T22:22:00.005-04:00

Sarah is saying "Mama"!!!!!!!! About three weeks ago Sarah started to say "da" but it wasn't "dada" and we couldn't get her to say it again and again. Yesterday I was in the kitchen getting Sarah's bottle an I heard her call "Mama". I almost jumped through the floor I was so excited, but I didn't want to get too excited. Then last night as Michael was getting Sarah ready for her bath she said it again and he heard it. Today we were getting her pictures taken and while we were changing her she said it again and then later this evening! I know that Michael was hoping that she was going to say "Dada" first and I know that he is a little upset. (whatever upset is for Michael?) Mark my words she may have said "Mama" first but she is Daddy's little girls and he will always be her favorite. Besides, 21 days make a habit (as Michael would say) so well see hw long this lasts, but for now....Sarah's first word was "Mama"

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2008-03-16T22:58:00.005-04:00

As an Irish girl, she has to represent.

Teeth and Blowing Bubbles

2008-03-16T01:04:00.001-04:00

Our visit is over...

2008-03-16T00:47:00.005-04:00

Our visit with Patrick and Ber was soo nice. Sarah got to spend alot of time with her aunt and uncle. They jumped right in just like they see her everyday. I think Sarah really missed them once they were gone, she kept looking over my shoulder as if to see if anyone was coming. We only wish that their visit could have been longer. Saying goodbye was hard on everyone. We are looking forward to traveling back to Ireland for their wedding in September.

Pa & Ber's Visit

2008-03-10T21:44:00.005-04:00

Well, Sarah's Aunt Ber and Uncle Pa are here and we have been shopping like crazy. Last night we had all my family out to the house to celebrate our 7th wedding anniversary and today is Ber's birthday. These videos sum up the whole trip......

February 28 - March 7

2008-03-03T23:46:00.011-05:00

We took Sarah on her first weekend get away. We went to Reading, PA to visit our friends Anna and Brian. They have a daughter, Brianna, who is two months older than Sarah. It was so cute to see them together. Brianna took Sarah's hand right away, I don't think Sarah knew what to do. Sarah was trying hard to keep up with Brianna. I like that seeing Brianna do things pushed Sarah to try more. I only wish that we lived closer.

We started Sarah on her first vegetables on Sunday night when we got home. Her faces were the best. Michael and I never laughed so hard. She had carrots everywhere. When I gave them to her this afternoon, she looked horrified, but after the third spoon she started to enjoy them.

This is a big week for Sarah not only did she go on her first get away, have her first vegetables, her Uncle Patrick and Aunt Ber are coming to visit on Friday. I am interested to see how she is with them. We had my parents over tonight and Sarah cried all night unless she was in my arms. I hope that she doesn't do that the whole time that they are here.

More pictures....

2008-03-03T00:05:00.001-05:00

Sarah at Christmas time.

Sarah at 4 months, she is getting so much better at belly time.

She discovered her feet.

Grammie and PapPap bought her a new toy.

Just chillin out and relaxng.

Sarah's Baptism

2008-03-03T00:00:00.000-05:00

Sunday, October 28, 2007

Our journey to Sarah....

2008-03-02T22:58:00.001-05:00

After about 4 years of trying to conceive, in August 2005, we found out we were pregnant. I was about 7 weeks when we found out that we were having twins. I always wanted twins. I thought it would be great to have that unique duo, to watch that unbreakable bond grow. Don't get me wrong all siblings have a bond but I always looked at the twins bond as something incredible, beyond words. I was 16 weeks into my pregnancy when we found out that we were have at least one girl, that was baby b. Baby a was a little more stubborn and wasn't ready to let us in on the secret. We knew at that moment that baby b was more like my husband Michael, laid back and willing to do what was asked of her without question. Baby a was like me, wanted to challenge everyone and keep them guessing (basically wanted to be difficult). We couldn't wait to get these babies into our arms. On December 23,2005,at 22 weeks, I was admitted to the hospital. I was dilated and my membranes were bulging. I was literally turned upside down and my OB told me it was a waiting game. We would pray that my water wouldn't break and that we could get to 24 weeks or beyond. But things took a turn for the worst and at 11:03 am, on December 24th, Abigail Ann was born still. At 11:08am, Morgan Sarah was born and lived in our arms for 30 minutes. The year 2006 brought a lot of grieving, healing and steps toward living our new life without Abby and Morgan. In January 2007, to our surprise we found out that we were pregnant again. Our angels sent us a sibling. On September 17, 2007, Sarah Ann was born at 6:51pm and our lives have forever changed. She looks just like her sisters.

First time...

2008-03-02T22:13:00.000-05:00

It's my first time doing this so be patient and look for more to come.