Halloween Throwbacks

 Hendo as a Pumpkin in 2009

Elmo in 2010 

 Sheriff Woody in 2011

Hendrix as Captain America and Roscoe as Buzz Lightyear in 2012 

Must Haves for Moms of Two

I had a friend of mine ask me about becoming a mom of two. She asked specifically for suggestions on what to buy and have around the house. I thought I'd share with y'all! 

Little presents (or candy) on the reserve for the older sibling. As incentives or rewards, having little toys at the ready can be a life saver. In the first few weeks of Roscoe's life, Hendrix had a LOT to get used to. Being able to tangibly reward expected behavior helped a lot. I had a ton of toys (that my mother and mother-in-law had won in a Goodwill auction) hidden in a closet, and when Henry did something nice I would get one out. In the months leading up to baby, you could build quite a stash for not a lot of money.  Not to mention, a new toy in the hands of brother equals a little hands free time, or time with baby.

I am such a huge fan of bins. BINS. BINS. BINS. Having a place for everything just makes life easier. If you know where to go for all things baby, there's less frustration for everyone. 

This rocker is AWESOME. It transitions from infant to toddler, and it holds up to 40 pounds! My mother and father in law bought this for Roscoe, and it is BY FAR the baby device that gets the most use around here. Also, it's nice to have something for baby that Hendrix can climb in as well. 

Arts, crafts, coloring supplies. During feedings, it's nice to have SOMETHING for big bro (or sis) to do. So, I try to have all that type of stuff on hand near my feeding station. You can find great big coloring books for cheap at the dollar store. Also, then you get some awesome artwork you can hang up to give big bro a little boost of self esteem. :)

ERGO. ERGO. ERGO! There is no better or more comfortable carrier out there. And trust me, you need a good carrier.

In the interest of planning ahead, keep a ton of fresh produce around. The more fresh fruit and veggies you have around, the more likely you are to keep big bro and you eating things that are healthy, instead of all those chips you have calling your name. :)

Say it with me: DOUBLE STROLLER!!!!!! I did a ton of research, and put off buying this until I got a close out color for 100 dollars off the normal price. Ultimately, this stroller goes everywhere with me. It's a lifesaver.

Well mamas? Anything else to add? What are your must haves?!

my boys

5 months!

It seriously looks like I took the same picture with different camera settings. My boys. Twins, born 2 and a half years apart.

Roscoe's Rollin'

Roscoe started rollin' over. We're well on our way to crawling. This "screaming" is him on a daily basis dealing with anything that is even remotely challenging. Such a funny lil' dude.

Rain Dancin'

 "Tears of joy are like the summer rain drops pierced by sunbeams." -Hosea Ballou

It doesn't rain much in Texas, but when it does, you better believe we're outside dancing in it. Hendrix reminds me to get out and be a part of what is going on. Sometimes, it's tough for me to put aside what I am doing and go along with what he has planned, but I'm always glad I did. Yes, that means my house is a mess, and I am usually pretty tired. But, when Henry lays down at the end of the day, he sighs the most perfect sigh. He still curls up into my chest and breathes, "I love you" in half sleep perfection.  I live for those moments, and my days are filled with them. A clean house has never made me feel so fulfilled. 

Tears of joy for miles. 

a few things

Roscoe is almost 16 weeks old. That can't be right, but it is. He's the sweetest human being I've ever met. Absolutely magical. I still stare into his face and can't believe it's real.

Henry is becoming this true kid, all full of grit and fun. He's creative, explosive, fascinating and kind. He's started sleeping in his own bed-- all night, by himself. I feel like that is some sort of miracle. He'll tell you stories, if you ask him. They're usually full of Avengers, bad guys and righted wrongs. This stage is so much fun.

As always, I feel like time is slipping through my fingers. I need to slow down; I confess I'm not doing a good job of doing that lately. Breathe. Pray. Forgive. Move forward. Get better. The usual.