Petra loves SonSpot

I lived in Maryland from 1995 to 2000 and during that time attended the SonSpot Christian Fellowship. I remember walking to the SonSpot, or driving and then walking from my car and feeling so hyper and excited! I would get butterflies in my stomach looking forward to being in God's presence and learning from His Word. It was such a phenomenal time of growth and healing. I could write volumes about the inner healing, knowledge gained, amazing friendships formed, etc. We are the light of the world- "here to bring out the God colors of the world." While in Maryland recently I was able to take the twins to the SonSpot for the first time. I was holding Petra as we walked in and she kind of lit up when we arrived. She was very alert, calm, and happy looking at everything and absorbing the place. It was very special for me to share that with her and know she will have many more special times in Him among the people.

On another note, Jude pulled himself up to a sitting position today! It was so cool to look over and see him sitting after I had laid him down on the ground. He is so close to crawling also. He gets up on all fours, rocks, moves knees, and will soon get the arms going.

I'm SUPER proud!

Wow, wow, wow! This afternoon all four of us got in the car just to get out of the house and go for a drive. Had the windows down enjoying the warm breeze and wind in our hair (well, I'm the only one with hair long enough to wisp). Drove to a sandwich shop around 5 pm but it was closed. I was bummed because I was trying to get out of cooking. On a whim, we decided to try using my birthday coupon at Margaritas restaurant- and actually eat there with the babies. We said, "hey, if they start to cry and loose it, we'll just leave."
We arrived at 6pm and got all set up in the outdoor patio with two highchairs and toys to keep them busy. They were in great moods after napping in the car and didn't make a sound for the entire hour! Amazing! We ordered, ate, and paid the bill without one single cry. Petra took one leg out of her highchair and put in on top of the rail with her arm out to the side like she was lounging in a college dorm. Jude tore up napkins and smiled to waitress and other customers. I love my kids! May it be the first of many outings with good behavior.

Tapping

The twins coordination is increasing week by week. Today I thought, "I'll really miss the tapping when they grow out of that." Jude started the tapping a few weeks before Petra. I see it in several situations; while sitting in bumbo chair they will tap a toy, or when holding them they go tap, tap, tap with their little fist on your arm. It's so cute to see and feel this primitive coordination bloom.
Today we returned the breast pump to the medical supply place. I still nurse 2 or 3 times a day but my pumping days are over. Jude continues to eat three meals a day with gusto but Petra shuns the spoon. I'll keep trying!

Nic's 34

This is my first birthday as a mommy! It sounds corny, but the babes are my presents that I get to unwrap every day! I unwrap them, clean them, wrap them back up, squeeze them, feed them, play with them, and tuck them into bed. They are so adorable at this age- 6 months- less fragile and very cuddly. Petra just melts into you and she wants to be held a lot. But she is also very happy to watch and laugh at her brother. They are interacting so much now with smiles and laughs.
My birthday was good. Jordana and I took the babes to twin class this morning. They're usually the youngest kids there and the 1 and 2 year olds try to touch them and watch them drink bottles. Thanks to all of you who called, I felt like the phone rang off the hook today.
What is my favorite gift? Other than Chris and the bebes of course, I got a dress yesterday that I love. But my friend Karen feels it is too big and not flattering. I'm going to visit a tailor to see if he can make it fit~ I'm determined to wear it! It was on sale and no more sizes available. If not, I have a tall friend somewhere who will get it for her birthday...

With love, from Vovo

The twins received a very healthy dose of love from vovo and vovo in Maryland last week. By the way, that's Portuguese for grammy and grandpa! Mr. and Mrs. B were so thrilled to see Jude and Petra and showered them with love and attention. The Vandanator has transformed her attic into a mini toys-r-us for the babes! We won't be needing any toys for them for several years! Doll houses, shopping carts, pony's, work benches, school desks, you-name-it! Thank you Help Association thrift store!
I love my job of meeting their needs every day. I can't say that enough. I work for their smiles and strive to give them happy experiences. Today we went swimming at Jordana's house. Petra smiled and splashed, Jude just chilled out in mommy's arms- maybe too cold for him?
They are adapting to their helmets with no problems! And I see progress on Petra's head after just one week. Grateful for this answered prayer.