their names.

As a teenager and maybe even before, I would doodle the names of my future children on the back page of my journal. I have always wanted to be a mom and I don't ever remember a time where I didn't hope for a big family. Now I have almost a van full. God is good. Yes, 2 weeks in, I still want more! And yes, I now drive a minivan. I also still doodle names in the back of my journal. Dreaming of all the name possibilities for twins was so fun. Here is the reasoning behind the names of our double blessings.

Ellen: meaning light. In honor of my maternal grandmother Rosalie Ellen and my joke-loving, beautiful friend, Ellen, from Hillsdale.

Grace: meaning favor; blessing. In honor of Joseph's sister, Grace.

James: meaning supplanter. In honor of Joseph's maternal grandfather in heaven, James Holiday.

Valutis: last name of Greek descent. In honor of my maternal grandfather in heaven, Ronald Valutis.

under the table.

hide n go seek turned family time under the table. Reagan's idea. She is dominating at this big sister thing.

my valentines day.

One week ago this hour I was sitting in the hospital waiting for my doctor. I was at the 38 week mark and going to be induced but because I was dilated they tried breaking my water first. 30 minutes later I was in pretty intense labor. I had the most amazing nurse. She helped me through an almost enjoyable drug free labor. They rushed us into the OR (protocol for twins) around 10:40pm and Ellen Grace was born after only a couple of pushes at 10:45p weighing 6 lbs 7 oz. Literally my dream birth. When we found out she was a girl we both immediately thought the next would be a girl too. Not sure why. At that point they got out the ultrasound machines to see where my little guy was. He was transverse and coming down with one hand and one foot out. My doctor, known for performing many breach deliveries, tried her best to turn and manipulate James down the canal (ow!). When his heart rate dropped the quick decision of an emergency c section was made. I went completely under and woke up an hour later with a perfect baby boy. James Valutis was born at 10:59pm weighing 6 lbs 5 oz.

2 perfect babies. 2 unique deliveries. Wouldn't have it any other way.

we're home.

Taking it one day at a time but so far, TOO good. Amazed by this miracle that God gave us.

i am ready when you (two) are.

Didn't think I would ever really feel ready but I think I am now. Bag is packed, tiny little going home outfits are selected (in multiple sizes) and yesterday's ultrasound informed us that they are tipping the scales at 6lbs each. No wonder it takes me 10 min to roll over! I am just aching to meet them and name them and snuggle them close.

Right now I will enjoy a piece of red velvet cake, a sleeping 2 year old and this promise from my mother in law a couple days ago.

They shall not labor in vain, nor bring forth children for trouble: for they shall be the decendants of the blessed of the Lord, and their offspring with them.
Isaiah 65:23