Two weeks under the belt

"Hey Brooke, do you see all the cars going by?"


"Yeah, Luke, I do. I could sit here for a whole two minutes and watch them go by!"



The first two week of school, flew by. If they all continue like that, summer is going to be here again before I know it. I think everything is going well. Cheri, our babysitter is wonderful. The kids are doing great, the housework isn't getting finished, but ... that is okay. Our days start at 5:15 am with feedings, diaper changes, and getting ready for work. Chad is off to work at 7, me at 7:45. I get home around 3:30-4:00, play with the kiddos, do laundry, get supper ready, go through the mail and never ending hospital bills, eat, and by 6, we are feeding cereal to the trio. After cereal, it is bath time, then bottles and to bed. They are in bed around 8-8:30, and we are in around 9:30 and sound asleep by 9:32!!!

Today was a work day around the house. Chad and my dad were outside cutting down trees and pulling up weeds and stuff that has grown rampant since I found out I was pregnant, put on bed rest, brought the triplets home, and have been indoors most of the summer. We are slowly getting ready to put a fence around the yard and hopefully, one day, we'll add a pool as well! Oh what dreams we have! I figure, might as well dream big!

Like I said earlier, the kids are doing great. They are all weighing close to 15 pounds if not more. Luke is such a big eater and likes to roll all over the place now. Brooke started blowing raspberries yesterday and she is shrieking and laughing to herself all the time. Zach is one crazy kid and although he isn't rolling yet, he is building up steam. He is a crazy kicker!!! We went to church today and they all did very well, just didn't take a nap like we expected them too. They were in bed early tonight due to lack of sleep, but that is fine since Chad and I are extra tired tonight as well.

Just a few updated pictures.



Zach gets more on his face and bib than he does in his mouth and stomach.










Luke glares at the camera and say quit taking pictures and feed me - I'm a growing boy!













Brooke gets excited and tries to help by grabbing the spoon or cereal and then wipes it all over her face!!!

What has been going on...

Our babies are almost seven months and we can't believe it. Time is flying by...

To

day actually marks the date of one year ago which is hard to believe - we went to the doctor for an ultrasound and found out we were going to have triplets. Oh does that bring back a rush of memories! :)

Anyway...

In early August, we went to the pediatrician for another round of shots. While we were there, she gave us instructions for cereal. Great-we have finally gotten used to feeding three babies a bottle and now we are adding another twist!!!

School started on August 19th. The past two weeks have gone very fast for me. If they continue to go this fast, summer is going to be here again before we know it. And...by that time, they'll either be walking or be close to it and that brings on a new set of sweaty palms and wonders of...how are we going to do it!!!???!!!

Luke and Brooke have started rolling over. Zach is getting closer. Brooke starting blowing raspberries yesterday and oh did we laugh. We probably won't think it is funny when the peas and green beans come shooting back at us, but it sure is cute now!!!

Luke is quite the eater. He loves his cereal, and his bottle. If fact, he likes anything he puts in his mouth, including his toes!

Brooke has found out that she can make new sounds with her voice. She is still cooing, but every once in awhile she puts a little shriek or a fake cough into the mix and then laughs at herself - being the little drama queen she is!

Zach is a squirmer and there is no other way to put it. He is probably going to kick the snot out of someone one day. His legs are always on the move. He is always quick to smile and laugh out a baby laugh that is sure to bring a smile to our faces.

These three have brought so much fun and joy in our lives!!! We count our blessings each day - that we have these wonderful babies to love.

Back to the Grind

School officially started on Monday. We had teacher's institute all day and an open house that night. I was dead tired and it was just the beginning of work and mommy-hood! Tuesday was better or just less hectic. I was able to get so much accomplished in the afternoon, that I left feeling good about the up-coming year.

I got home on Tuesday and watched Brooke roll over from her belly to her back. I thought at first it was a fluke, but after three times of "practicing", I decided, she mastered it and knew how to do it! Shortly after that, Luke decided he wasn't going to be outdone and he rolled over too - only he went back to belly. I was so happy to get to see them do this. I really thought they'd do it during the day while I was at school! And, then there is my wild man, Zach, he just lays there and kicks as fast as he can. We already know, he isn't going to settle for walking...he is going to run!!!

Today was a blur at school. Lots of rules and setting up shop with each different class. I was ready to come home and relax. I think my three are feeling my stress level and vying for my attention. Brooke, who was so extremely tired, fought to the end to stay awake. I ended up rocking her to sleep - which we have never done. I needed some mommy bonding time with my little girl and I think she needed it too! I put her to bed 45 minutes ago and now, I am off to the same place.

A Few of my Favorite Things

I love my babies, I really do. I am getting ready to go back to school and am having a rough time thinking of leaving them at home with someone other than their mommy. I have a wonderful sitter lined up, coming to our house, she has four of her own children, has many of the same values, but...she's not me! I have spent the past 5 months with these kids and although it hasn't been easy, it has been a time I'll never forget. The love I feel for them is indescribable, but here are a few of the few things I love about my babies.

~I love the scrunched up faces they make when they are taking their bottle and I stop to burp them. It is the same face that they give when they stretch "SOOO Big!"

~I love the way they pull their blankets around their faces when they are tired and laying in bed ready to fall asleep.

~I love the oohh's and the ahh's I hear on the monitor in the early morning hours when they should be sleeping.

~I love seeing Brooke smile as she talks to me. Her big blue eyes light up so bright, just thinking of those smiles, brings a tear to my eye.

~I love seeing Luke's slow easy smile with his little dimple popping out. He finds amusement in the smallest things!

~I love seeing Zach's devilish smile as he turns his head like he is flirting with you. He can make me laugh out loud with his little smirks!

~I love rubbing my cheek over their baby hair - what they have of it.

~I love the smell of their skin after a bath and in the morning after a peaceful night of sleeping.

~I love watching them play with their toys and the discovery of new things that excite them.

~I absolutely love everything about being a mom to these three precious babies. (Even the laundry and washing the bottles!!!) And, I can't wait to see them grow and find more things I love about them!

Yummy Yummy Yummy in the Tummy Tummy Tummy

So, Tuesday was a day of shots at the doctor's office. I'm sure they dread seeing us walk through the doors. The screaming began immediately and didn't stop until we were on our way back out of the office. Twelve shots later, a weary mom, a frazzled grandma, and a calm collected 10 year old second cousin packed everyone up in the family van and headed home. Thank goodness we don't have to go again until November.

While at the doctor, she tried to explain solid foods to me over the screaming! I think I got the instructions. I guess we'll find out?!? We started food on Wednesday and I cannot wait to show them the videos as they get older! Brooke loved it! Zach and Luke weren't too sure about it at first, but are slowly getting the hang of it. Here are some pictures of the chaos!

And yet more ...

Thursday, March 20, 2008 12:07 PM, CDT

Tuesday, Chad and I took the car seats to the hospital for the triplets to "practice!" Each baby in the NICU has to pass the car seat challenge before being discharged. They have to sit in the seat for the amount of time it will take to get them home. They have to do this without any heart rate drops. Brooke has completed hers and passed!!!

Wednesday, I spent the afternoon with the kids. I fed them each and saw Brooke while she was sitting in her car seat. I'm putting a picture of that on the website - she looks soooo small in it! When I got home, we put the third and final crib in place and did some cleaning up around the nursery. Things are started to come together - all we need now is for them to come home!!!

Sunday, March 23, 2008 3:17 AM, CDT

Thursday, Chad and I went up to the hospital to give baths and the feed the triplets.

Friday, we went looking for a mini-van. I think we found what we are looking for as far as options go, now we just need to get it!!! (And, pay for it!!!) :) It took a lot longer than we hoped so our time at the hospital was cut short. We came home and hopped into bed for the last night of uninterrupted sleep for a long time to come.

Zach came home with us on Saturday evening!!!

After 6 weeks of growing and learning to live in the outside world, the doctors said he was ready to leave the hospital. It was a great feeling to be bringing him home.

We still have a lot going on between having him home now and running back and forth from the hospital, but we are thrilled to pieces to finally have a baby in the house with us. (Shadow isn't too sure about it yet - poor dog doesn't realize his world just turned upside down!)

Starting today/tonight, we are under a no visitor policy until the pediatrician lifts the ban. She spoke with me while we were being discharged and said it is still flu season and we have to be extremely careful with their immune systems. She said this would also help with us regulating our schedules around the house and being that I am up writing this at 3:30 a.m. ---I can see what she means!!! We are going to need a nap time throughout the days too!!! :)

Again, we want to thank everyone for your well wishes, thoughts, and prayers. Without that, this road would have seemed so much longer for us.

What a great way to celebrate Easter this year! We hope everyone has a great day!

Tuesday, March 25, 2008 10:43 AM, CDT

Things are going very well at home right now. Zach has been wonderful. We went to the pediatrician yesterday and he has gained 2 ounces in the days since he was released from the hospital. He now weighs 5 lbs 11.5 ounces. He is alert and smiles more and more frequently.

Chad and I went up to see Luke and Brooke on Sunday. We got to feed them and take a picture of them with Easter bibs on.

Monday, Kathy and Chad went up to see them. They are feeding Brooke on an ad lib schedule which means - every 3.5-4 hours when she shows she is hungary. After talking to the nurse practioner, it seems as if Brooke will be the next one home! :) We need to keep giving Luke pep talks to make him want to join us at home too!!!

Luke weighs 5 lbs 9 ounces and Brooke weighs 5 lbs 5 ounces. Their blood work done routinely on Mondays has all been normal. We are thankful for that and for the progress they've all made in the past 6 weeks!!!

Saturday, March 29, 2008 9:39 AM, CDT

Things are moving right along for us. The triplets are 7 weeks old and doing great! Zach has been eating and sleeping his way through the days and nights - probably spoiling us!

Tuesday evening, I went to the hospital to see Luke and Brooke. The night didn't go very well and left me frustrated. The nurse told me to be patient, but that is easier said than done. Luke didn't want to take his bottle for me and Brooke had a heart rate drop while I was there. Both things preventing them from coming home. I was so discouraged knowing Zach was home doing well while Luke and Brooke were still in the hospital. The nurse told me not to compare them, they are individuals and I do realize that, I just want them home with us!

Wednesday, Chad and Dennis went to visit. Chad fed Luke and Dennis got to hold Brooke for awhile since she wasn't due to eat while they were there.

Thursday, we got our mini-van :) and I broke it in by driving to my doctors appointment where he released me!!! While I was there, I spent the afternoon/evening with Brooke and Luke. I fed both of them and talked them into coming home with me!! I talked to the nurse before I was leaving and was told Brooke would probably come home this weekend (with or without the heart monitor - we are not sure).

Last night, we again went up to see them. We gave Luke a bath and a bottle and he did very well. He is getting stronger and building up his endurance!! He weighs 5 lbs 14 ounces and probably outweighs his brother at home!!!

We didn't hold Brooke since we again came at a time that she wasn't going to be fed. But...that is okay, because we are bringing her home today!!! The discharge papers have not been completed as of this writing, but she hasn't had any more episodes and is ready to see her new home! :)

Sunday, March 30, 2008 6:44 PM, CDT

We got the phone call yesterday around 1 p.m. Brooke's discharge papers were in order and we could bring her home with us. We made our way to the hospital around 4. We were there to feed Luke and give him yet another pep talk. We packed all of Brooke's things up and were on our way home by 7.

We had a good 1st night with Zach and Brooke at home. We fed them around 10 and tucked them in bed. At 1:30, I fed Brooke, at 2 it was Zach's turn. We were all back in bed by 3. Chad got up and did the feedings at 5:30 and 6! Hopefully when we throw another one into the mix, it will still work this well for us!

Grandma and Grandpa Salger went to the hospital today to visit Luke. They were able to feed him and play with him for awhile. He must have liked it, he took the majority of his bottle! He is getting better each day and we are thinking at this rate, he might be home by the end of the week! (Which would be wonderful. I had a very hard time leaving him behind yesterday when we brought Brooke home. Knowing that two were there together didn't bother me, but one by himself was tough!)

The home health nurse was here today. She weighed both Zach and Brooke. Brooke is 5 lbs 10 ounces and Mr. Zach has hit the 6 lbs mark!!! She said they are doing really well.

As far as feeding goes, Luke is taking 55 mL (close to 2 ounces). Brooke is taking 60mL or two ounces and Zach is taking 75 mL or two and one half ounces! We've come a long long way from just 10 mL through the tube in their noses when they were first born!!!

So many changes to see and be awed by!!!

Tuesday, April 1, 2008 11:41 AM, CDT

Yea!!! We got to the hospital yesterday and Luke's feeding tube was gone!!! That means we are one step closer to getting him home with us. We gave him a bath and fed him before tucking him in and heading home. He was in a very good mood. He also hit the 6 pound mark and it feels like it! :)

At home, things are still moving along. We are managing on a "doable" schedule and it is working so far. Hopefully that is still the case when we throw Luke into the mix. Shadow goes along with the flow as well, giving them a sniff over once in awhile and then ignoring them! We are also very glad that his barking doesn't bother them while they are sleeping!

Sunday, April 6, 2008 4:07 PM, CDT

After 45 days of baking the triplets in the hospital and 57 days of growing and learning to live in the outside world...our family is finally complete!!! Luke joined us at home today!

That is almost 4 months of a vehicle traveling to St. John's! And, what a relief it was today to hear the words - we're sending Luke home!

Backtracking to the rest of last week...

Wednesday, I went to So. county mall to pick up my wedding ring and when I got back to our van, I realized someone had backed into it. So, I spent 45 min-1 hour of my time in the parking lot waiting for the police to show up and write up a report. By the time I got to the hospital, Luke had already eaten and I had to wait until 7:30 to feed him again. He did okay with a new nipple and took the bottle fairly fast.

Thursday, Kathy went up by herself to see Luke. She fed him and held him for awhile and then headed home. She said he did very well for her also. Back at home, things were fine until Brooke decided she wasn't happy and fussed all evening long. She wore herself out though - she slept so good that night.

On Friday, I loaded Zach and Brooke up for a dr appointment. I picked Grandma up at work and she helped us in and out of the office and with the feedings which took place in the van! They are both doing good and gaining weight on target.

That afternoon, I went up to St. John's to see Luke. I fed him and talked him into please coming home with us sometime very soon. The drive was really getting to me, with having Zach and Brooke at home.

Finally, today I called to the hospital and was told that they probably were not going to send him home today but that we could come up to have their pictures taken. So...Grandma Bren and Grandpa Wes helped load Zach and Brooke up once again and we make our trek back to the hospital.

When we got there, I started getting Luke ready for the pictures and the nurse practitioner Helen said after doing rounds on Luke today, they decided he was ready and we could take him home with us. :)

I gave her a huge hug and thanked her for making my day. Grandma and I even got teary thinking that this was finally coming to a close! We took the pictures (1 hour) and came home. When we got home, I handed the pumpkin seat to Chad to carry in (it was Luke). I carried Brooke in and Grandpa waited and carried Zach in so that Chad didn't see him. We wanted to surprise him with our final addition. Chad unwrapped Luke and didn't say anything. Grandpa rounded the corner with Zach and it took a few seconds for it to click, but it finally hit Chad that all three were home and that he had carried Luke into the house himself! :)

They are all three sleeping right now. We need to get Luke on our schedule with Brooke and Zach's feeding times, but right now we are just so happy to have them home with us!

Tuesday, April 22, 2008 11:14 AM, CDT

We've all been together for over two weeks now and things are still going smoothly. We are trying our hardest to keep to the schedule and it seems to be working so far. We start each feeding with Brooke, then Zach, and finally Luke. (In order of the most impatient!) They each get 1/2 hour to eat and then a diaper change and on to the next one. It takes one and one-half hours to feed, then we have a break and start again in about two hours! The days have become a blur between all the feedings, laundry, and trying to accopmlish other household duties!!!

My due date was April 20/21 - so they should technically have made their debut by now. Thank goodness they came before their scheduled time, both boys are over 7 pounds and Brooke is closing in on them! That would have been a whole lotta baby!!!

Although they are two months old, we have to adjust their development for prematurity. Right now, they should be doing everything a newborn-one month old would be doing and I think they are! They are so much more alert, their cries are becoming stronger (not sure if that is good or not!), they are taking between 3-4 ounces every feeding, and they are more active with their kicking and playing!

It has been so much fun having them home! (Not having to drive to the hospital all the time has been great too). Even hearing them cry is a joy (most of the time!!!) because we know this long journey has finally ended in happiness. I don't think a day has gone by when I've not cried at some point - overwhelmed by emotions of love and thanksgiving that God has given us these three miracles. After never thinking this would happen for us, He has truly blessed us.

More History???

More from the time in the hospital:

Saturday, February 16, 2008 10:20 PM, CST

Our days are quickly passing with the trips up to St. John's. Thursday night we made our stay short since we were both so tired from Wednesday night. We gave Luke and Brooke baths, kisses, and then left for home. (Zach's body temperature wasn't high enough for us to get him out and bathe him.)

Friday night, we went out to eat for Valentine's Day and then spent a few hours with the triplets. We did a quick wipe down for baths and then I held Zach while Chad held Luke. It was good to see Zach again after not being able to hold him due to his body temperature. Brooke did very well with her bath and didn't even pitch a fit!!! We stayed much later than we thought we would and didn't get home until mid-night.

Today was a quick day. We slept in, did some work around the house and then made our way back to the hospital with my mom and dad. We were there in time to hold all three babies while they were being fed. I held Luke, grandma Bren held Zach, and grandpa Wes held Brooke. While I was holding Luke, Chad got nominated for diaper patrol with Zach. Too bad, no surprises were left for him! Chad gave up his turn for holding tonight and probably won't let that happen again! :)

Each baby is doing well. They have tested their billy reuben counts and so far, all are within a "good" range. They are all back up to their birth weights after a full week and we are very thankful for that. Their feedings have increased from 3.5 mils to 7 and hopefully they will all be digesting their food normally and stay at the higher feeding level and gain more weight. The nurses did have to move their IVs again and thank goodness, Luke's is gone from his head! We were told today that they could possibly remove them altogether in the next few days. (We're keeping our fingers crossed for that!) A few less tubes to work around would be wonderful.

We are going back tomorrow to spend the afternoon and praying for more of the same news tomorrow. We would again like to thank everyone for their prayers -they truly seem to help us through and the babies are doing awesome.

Sunday, February 17, 2008 8:03 PM, CST

We had another good day today! When we got to the hospital, the nurse told us that they had upped their feedings again! More food - more weight gained! :) As they continually up their feedings, the closer we get to removing their IVs.

Chad kangarooed Zach, who wiggled his way into Chad's shirt and down his stomach- was quite funny! I had Brooke who was very quiet and content. We stayed like that for a long time and then decided to head home.

More trips up this week and hopefully another quiet one with more good news. I'll be sure to update!

Monday, February 18, 2008 11:23 PM, CST

My mom and I went up to the hospital today to see Luke, Zach, and Brooke. Grandma and Brooke bonded today. Brooke heard about Goldilocks and the three bears over and over again! She was sleeping soundly after all that!

Luke had already started his feeding and it is best not to disturb them when they are trying to digest their food, so I held Zach today. He wasn't hard to entertain either. Once they put him on my chest, he was sound asleep and stayed that way the entire time.

I called up to the NICU around 10p.m. to see how the rest of the afternoon/evening went. Their nurse tonight told me that they had a good day overall. They've upped their feedings to 12 mils and if all do well, they will be upped again to 14 (around mid-night). At 14 mils, they will also drop their IVs down a notch (closer to getting them removed). She also said she weighed the boys tonight and Luke weighs 3 lbs 3.5 ounces!!! Zach is right behind him at 3 lbs 3.4 ounces!!! Yesterday, Brooke weighed 3 lbs 4 ounces so we are assuming her weight is increasing as well!

Tomorrow we are going back with Kathy and Dennis and hoping that they get a chance to hold someone! Until then....

Tuesday, February 19, 2008 11:24 PM, CST

Our goal for this evening was to make sure Kathy and Dennis got a chance to hold one of the triplets. We planned our night to give baths and then hold while they were feeding... everything went as planned until we reached the NICU.

We found out minutes after arriving that Luke, Zach, and Brooke were getting a new address! It took quite a long time for them to unhook everything and make the trek, but eventually all three were move successfully to NICU South! The location is truly all that changed, but being in the south unit is a plus because that is where the babies that are less critical call home.

After they were all adjusted, Mawmaw got to hold Luke for the first time and Pawpaw held Zach. Luke's oxygen level wasn't on target which meant the bonding session didn't last as long as we'd hoped. We are just happy that they finally got to visit with each other!

All three are still doing well and their feedings have increased again. Zach is still regulating his own body temperature. Luke's IV came out again and they were trying to get a new one in while we were there. (We are still praying for those things to be gone!!!) Brooke was just hanging out and continues to get stronger each day.

Thursday, February 21, 2008 7:46 AM, CST

Chad and I were able to hold Luke and Zach last night while we were visiting. We both kangarooed with the boys. As the nurse was helping me get Luke situated on my chest, he found my hand and grabbed my finger. He wrapped his little fingers around mine and stayed like that most of the time we were together. It was enough to melt my heart!

When my time was up, I turned to see Chad and Zach taking a nap together. Talk about peaceful! I was mush by that time!!! :)

No one was weighed while we were there, but their weights from Tuesday had Luke and Zach both weighing 3 lbs 4 ounces and Brooke at 3 lbs 7 ounces. All three are now regulating their own body temperatures and doing well with that. Their feedings have increased to 22 mils every three hours and that means if an IV were to come out now, it would stay out. (Zach's IV was out last night already.)

I was planning on spending my day today at the hospital with the triplets, but the weather ruined that plan! I have a follow up appointment tomorrow with my dr so Chad and I are planning on making an afternoon of it with all three!

Monday, February 25, 2008 10:04 AM, CST

My doctor's appointment on Friday went well. I am free to drive! But...still have to take it easy when it comes to house work!!! ;)

Chad and I spent the afternoon and early evening with the kids. They all had their IVs removed - YEA!!! Luke and Brooke had their oxygen removed and they were getting ready to remove Zach's. The nurse also told us that we were free to bring clothes to dress them in. The washing machine and dryer were running like crazy after we got home - I couldn't wait to put some clothes on them!!!

Saturday we went up with my mom and dad. We gave all three baths and dressed them. It was so wonderful not to have wires everywhere. They still have their feeding tubes and the leads that connect them to the monitors, but that feels like nothing to us! (The only thing to be removed now is the feeding tube and it will be awhile for that.)

Grandma held Luke, Chad kangarooed with Zach, and Grandpa held Brooke. Brooke was listening to Grandpa tell stories and I think she already has him wrapped around her finger. A few times, she gave him an open mouthed smile and laughed at his jokes!

At one point the nurse took all three babies and put them in Chad's arms. HOLY COW - - - we'd been holding one at a time and then to see all three together - - - kind of brought reality home! :) (I don't think Chad could have been happier.)

Chad had to work on Sunday so we went up later in the afternoon and were able to give baths to Luke and Zach. Zach didn't want much to do with his bath either night and let us know about it. He is also the one who surprises me each time I change his diaper! Chad laughs and thinks he is cool because they've never done that to him, but people tell me he'll get his fair share in too!!!

Chad kangarooed with Luke and I got to hold both Zach and Brooke. It was awesome to finally see them side by side for a long period of time.

The past two weeks, we've been trying to look for differences in the boys. We know there are differences, we just can't seem to pinpoint one way to tell them apart. As long as no one takes their name tags off their beds, we'll be okay. If not, we're in trouble!

Everything else seems to be going well. They are watching Brooke. She has been spitting up some of her food and vitamins. (I'd probably spit those up too!) They are not sure if she has reflux or if something is not agreeing with her, but as long as she doesn't lose weight, all they do is monitor her. Zach and Luke had high temps on Saturday throughout the night. After a blood count check, they decided to turn down their beds - they were probably just too hot!

We're going back again tonight to see all of them, and counting the hours until that time!

Wednesday, February 27, 2008 12:04 PM, CST

On Tuesday, Kathy and I went up in the early afternoon to see the triplets. MaMa held Luke for well over 2 hours and never complained once!!! ;) I kangarooed with both Zach and Brooke in that same time frame.

We ate dinner in the cafeteria and by the time we were coming back upstairs, Dennis and Chad were there. We gave Luke and Brooke each baths. Luke let us know that his little lungs are getting stronger - he really is laid back for the most part, he just hates getting a bath! And...Miss Brooke who we thought had an attitude has really calmed down and seems to just take it all in. That's not to say she doesn't make a peep, she does, she's just not as vocal as she was a first.

Chad kangarooed Luke, PaPa held Brooke, and MaMa got to hold Zach for the first time! It was a good day - a long one, but good!!!

Everyone is still doing well. Brooke's feedings have increased to every two hours, but decreased just a litting in the amount she is getting. They think this is helping her out and she isn't spitting up as much. Luke weighed in last night at 3 lbs 9.5 oz. Zach was 3 lbs 8.7 oz and Brooke was 3 lbs 10.6 oz! Each of them are gaining weight on target. Only a few more ounces until we hit four pounds! (One goal we have is: by the time they are 4 lbs - we want them to fully regulate their own temperatures so they can be taken out of the isolettes.)

Another visit tonight...

Sunday, March 2, 2008 8:47 PM, CST

Many new things to report on...

Thursday evening Chad and I were able to give Luke, Zach, and Brooke, their first real baths! We dunked them in their little tubs and they all really seemed to enjoy it. (We decided we need to build up our endurance though!) After bath time, we held all three! I got to kangaroo with both Luke and Zach. I have to wonder how they ALL fit in me just three weeks ago! It is still so amazing to think about that and what a miracle they are!!!

Friday my mom and I spent the afternoon up at the hospital holding all three. We weren't able to do too much with them besides holding, but it was still nice to be there with them. Grandma held Zach for awhile and Luke too. I got to kangaroo with Brooke who seemed as if she didn't have a care in the world!

Saturday was another quick visit and then we were off to our niece, Maggie's birthday party. I called up to the hospital to see how they were doing that night and was told that they were all out of the isolettes!

We were both excited to get to the hospital today to see them in real beds and not in the plastic houses they had been in! They all looked so warm and cozy in their new beds and we were thrilled to be looking at them clearly and not through plastic.

We were told their weights again. Luke weighs 3 lbs 14.7 ounces and Zach is at 3 lbs, 14 ounces. Miss Brooke decided to show both boys up by reaching the 4 pound marker first!!!

We held Zach and Brooke during their feedings today. Gave kisses to Luke and told them all we'd see them again tomorrow!

Monday, March 3, 2008 10:53 PM, CST

We made the journey to the hospital again tonight even though the weather was iffy. We were there to weigh Zach and Brooke and give them each their baths. Zach has bypassed Brooke in weight! (We'll see how long he can hold that title!) Brooke weighed 4 lbs 1.2 ounces and Zach was 4 lbs. 1.3 ounces!! He better keep eating to outdo his sister! :)

I held Luke for awhile, but with not knowing what the weather was like outside, we decided to cut our visit short and leave a little earlier. It was kisses and then we were heading home.

We are hoping to make it back again tomorrow night to try a bottle feeding! We're making progress!!!

Friday, March 7, 2008 10:52 AM, CST

Chad and I didn't make it to the hospital on Tuesday. We decided not to brave the snow storm. (And...we had a friend who forbid us to drive in it since she was having such a hard time getting home in it!) We ended up calling the NICU before bed and were told that they all had their first bottle!!! Zach and Brooke drank a little but were wore out. Luke drank all of his and let out a hefty burp! (We'll see if that was beginner's luck or if he is going to be a good eater.)

Wedesday, Kathy and I went to see the triplets in the afternoon. I attended a Premie Development class while Kathy held the babies. When I got back to the NICU, I was able to feed Brooke her bottle. She and I did very well for it being the first time together!

We ate dinner and then I was off to a CPR class. By the time I was finished, Chad and Dennis were there ready to hold. Dennis held Brooke and Chad gave Luke his bottle. (Luke didn't do as well as the first time, but he was happy Dad was feeding him!) I fed Zach his bottle, we tucked them all in, and then we headed home.

Thursday, I went to the hospital for the first time by myself. I met with a nurse who taught me how to do infant massage with Brooke. It relaxed her so much, we weren't able to finish due to her filling her diaper!!! (We'll try again next week!)

While I was there I was able to bottle feed each baby and bond with them! It is so amazing to see them changing. They are becoming so much more alert and aware of things around them.

We are watching a little infection Luke has on his face, but we've been told it isn't anything serious so medicine and baths will clear it up. Luke and Zach were right at 4 lbs 2 ounces the last time they were weighed. Brooke was 4 lbs 5 ounces and still gaining!

Thank goodness it is the weekend and we will be able to spend more time with them!!!

Sunday, March 9, 2008 11:11 PM, CDT

On Friday, we went up earlier than normal and got to spend more time with the triplets. We talked to a dr who explained some things to us, we talked about baptism, and some other events dealing with time and coming home. They really don't have a definite answer except ... as long as they are doing well it will be sooner rather than later.

Saturday we went up and gave them each their baths, held them for awhile, and then left. It had been a long day with having a shower and then with the time changing, we needed to catch up on some sleep (that we'll probably never get again!).

Today, we went up with my mom (my dad has a cold). We spoke to a dr again and were informed that their feedings have increased and the bottles can be given as much as possible instead of only once a day! That was great news to our ears - moving closer to coming home! Chad fed Luke his bottle and he did very well. I "tried" to give Zach his bottle but he wanted to play with it and faked being tired. When we gave up and decided to feed him through the feeding tube, he smiled at us. Ha - he thought he had us fooled - next time we'll know better! Grandma Bren got to feed Brooke, but .... not before she had to change a rather stinky diaper! Oh...did that make Chad and I laugh. She actually changed two diapers for Brooke. While she was feeding her, Brooke decided to go again! It was great. Chad told Gma Bren that she is hired when they come home! :)

We asked about height and weight again - We are thinking that the premie clothes are going to be outgrown soon! Luke is now 17 inches, an inch longer than at birth, and he weighs 4 lbs 8 ounces. Brooke weighs 4 lbs 7 ounces and is 17 inches long - 3/4 in longer. Finally...the stud for the day was Zach. He weighs a whopping 4 lbs 11 ounces and is 17.5 inches long, 2.25 inches longer than at birth. Someone didn't want to be left behind!!!

Hopefully we will have another uneventful "growing" week.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008 8:02 AM, CDT

Well...I learned rather quickly not to wish for a quiet week!

Last Monday we received a phone call from the hospital around 11:30 saying Brooke was severely anemic and needed a blood transfusion. Chad and I rushed to the hospital to talk to the drs. We saw the hematologist around 6:00p.m. He told us the plan was to transfuse blood and plasma to her to raise her counts. He was also going to order a blood test that was going to be sent to Wisconsin for further testing.

Tuesday, I spent the day with the triplets. I was there at 9:30 to do a massage with Luke! He was so limp and relaxed afterwards; I was ready to get one too!!! I was able to feed each baby and do their diaper changes all day. Chad got there around 5, we went to grab a bite to eat and then we met with the hematologist again. Brooke's blood levels weren't as high as they had hoped so another transfusion was ordered. Chad looked so tired and I was tired after being there all day so we didn't stay late that night. I did whisper a message to Zach before we left. I told him...Luke got the attention last week with the staph infection and now Brooke was getting the attention with her anemia. If he wanted attention from us, the best way to get it would be to get home!!! (I think he listened!)

Wednesday, Chad and I went up in the evening, did the feedings and again headed home. By this time, Brooke had 3 transfusions of packed red blood cells and 2 plasma transfusions. We were hoping and praying her counts would be better by the weekend and the transfusions wouldn't have to take place any longer.

Thursday, Kathy and I spent the afternoon with Luke, Zach, and Brooke. We were told that Brooke's blood counts were stable and that she would be retested again on Friday.

Friday morning, my mom and I headed up to the hospital. My mom gave blood for Brooke (in case it was needed), and I visited with the babies. I fed Luke and changed Zach's diaper, and by that time, my mom was finished and we were off. We made a stop at Babies R Us and then went to pick up the furniture for the nursery! We unloaded everything at home and then Chad and I went back up to the hospital to introduce Luke, Zach, and Brooke to Aunt Angie and Uncle Bryon! They were there to witness our bath time routine and to see them wide eyed and ready to eat!!!

Saturday, we went back up with my parents. We again did the baths and then fed them. My dad got to feed Luke his bottle! :) Chad fed Zach and my mom fed Brooke. The hematologist called the hospital to talk to us and basically told us that Brooke's bloodwork came back and that the tests were negative. He is going to continue to monitor her counts and going to inform the pediatrician of the events from the week, but other than that if her numbers stayed stable, nothing else was needed at that time! What great news to our ears!!! By that time, it was 10 and we were ready to come home.

Sunday afternoon, we headed to the hospital to let the triplets meet Uncle Blake and Aunt Sara. While we were there, Luke finished his entire bottle - a first!!! I fed Zach and he finished his as well. Chad was feeding Brooke and I made an off hand remark about her finishing her bottle. I mentioned that it had never been done that all three had finished their feedings at one time and if that happened, we would take Blake and Sara out to eat. I should have never opened my mouth!!! :)

Finally, (I've learned not to wait a week to update the journal - this is taking forever!) last night while we were visiting with Kathy and Dennis, we got to introduce Uncle Brad and Aunt Beth to the triplets. Cousins, Makenna and Maggie were able to "see" from the windows. We had bath time and feedings while they were there visiting.

Brooke's heplock from the transfusions was taken out! Luke is 18.25 inches long and weighs 5 pounds 5 ounces. Zach is also 18.25 inches long and weighs 5 pounds 7 ouncss. Brooke is right behind them at 18 inches long and 5 pounds 2 ounces! They are all doing very well and we are looking forward to having them home with us.

Some History III

The following excerpts are what I wrote while in the hospital and after our babies were born.

Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:58 PM, CST

Our ultrasound today went very well. Baby A weighed in at 1 pound 15 ounces. B followed at 1 pound 14 ounces, and C was right behind at 1 pound 13 ounces. They measure about the length of a banana and are doing well. Each baby is active and enjoying the space they each have to make flips and turns! We'll see how long that lasts!

Monday, January 28, 2008 7:08 PM, CST

My ultrasound appointment today was scheduled for 1:15. They finally came to get me around 2. But, the wait was well worth while! Everything is going well with me. There haven't been any changes since last week! Hopefully that continues. The babies are all doing well. Their heartbeats are all in the 150s. They are all active and fighting to find more space. I'm not thinking that is going to happen any time soon! They measured each of the "3 little piggies." The measurements are all +/- a few ounces. Baby A is definately a boy! He weighs around 2 pounds 14 ounces (two ounces from 3 pounds). Baby B is for sure a girl and she weighs around 2 pounds 15 ounces. And, finally, Baby C - who still is not cooperating is measuring about 3 pounds 1 ounce!!! We are very happy with those numbers. They've each gained about a pound in the past 2.5 weeks. We are hoping they continue to grow at this rate and will be a healthy weight when they are born!

• Chad is thrilled with the numbers but can't believe I have about 9 pounds of baby in me!!! :)

Thursday, January 31, 2008 9:02 AM, CST

Tuesday night was our first visit to the NICU. Chad and I were prepared for the tubes and monitors beeping, but I'm not sure we were ready for the hustle and bustle. They currently have 78 babies in the NICU and each baby has his/her own nurse. (They can hold up to 90 babies at a time - outrageous!)

We were able to see babies that were two pounds - teeny tiny little guys whose fingernails were smaller than small. We also saw a three pound baby who should be close in size to our three babies. The difference between the two pound baby and the three pound baby was very visible.

The nurse who gave us the tour handed us a diaper. Even after seeing the babies, I'm not sure how it is going to fit on a baby!!! It is sooooo small.

Now we have a lot to visualize and think about.

Last night while Chad and Shadow were here, I felt my first contraction. My nurse was in here and I asked her to feel my stomach, I wasn't sure what I was feeling, but she confirmed it. She said it isn't unusual at this point to start feeling them, my uterus is stretching and is probably thinking that nine pounds is enough! Well...we think it needs to hold off for awhile longer!

Tuesday, February 5, 2008 4:35 PM, CST

Another new experience today...

Apparently at the 29-30 week point, they start monitoring the babies' heartbeats and making sure they are responsive and active. (Being active is not a problem for these kids - I don't need a test to tell me that!) This is similar to a stress test - to make sure their heartbeats rise and lower like someone's heart who is exercising would rise and lower according to their activity level.

So being hooked up to the machine, I was able to watch all three heartbeats - and hear them moving. I thought finding Baby A's heartbeat would be tough considering he is smooshed at the bottom and is the one that I don't feel as often. Proven wrong again! Babies A and C were finished with their 20 minute test in no time flat. The nurse said for 29 weeks, they registered above the norm. Princess (B) took her time warming up and although she is a mover, she apparently is laid back and doesn't get excited to easily. (As soon as she is out, that will change - high maintenance drama queen!) Anyway, it took a little longer for her to demonstrate the appropriate heart rates but the nurse assured me that her response is typical for babies at 29 weeks.

So...I get to go on a field trip every Tuesday and Friday from now on - to make sure they are all growing and responding the way they should be! This time went well, and fairly quickly. I guess we'll see if they cooperate like this on Friday!

Thursday, February 7, 2008 4:09 PM, CST

Ok...so things are changing faster that we thought.

Yesterday I was achy and had a backache that just wouldn't go away. By the time Chad came, I was having a lot of pain in my back and they were giving me Tylenol. I explained everything to the dr at 11:30 p.m. (they never go home or sleep!) and he didn't seem too concerned. At 3:30 a.m. I was up pacing the room trying to make the pains go away. Early this morning, the nurse called the dr in. He said I am dilated to a 1 or 2, nothing major right now, but that I was probably experiencing back labor. He ordered another monitoring session of the babies' heart rates to make sure they were not in distress. I had 4 contractions in the time I was being monitored and each baby reacted fine to the test. With that few of contractions, and the babies doing well, they sent me back to my room. So far, so good, thank goodness, just some discomfort with the back pain.

When I got back to my room, my nurse was waiting for me to inform me that I also have an urinary tract infection. (Great!) Apparently this type of infection can cause some of the achiness in my stomach and back. This can also be the cause of contractions at this point in a pregnancy so....maybe once that is cleared up, the rest will all go away too. We hope!!!

We knew this time would be here one day, sooner or later, now we are just hoping to make it as far as possible and then let come what may!

Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers sent our way.

Thursday, February 7, 2008 9:45 PM, CST

It may be time. Chad is on his way. Labor has progressed and they are moving me to 2nd floor - Labor and Delivery. My body is shaking and my hands and feet are sweating. We'll keep you posted.

Friday, February 8, 2008 11:43 AM, CST

The babies arrived at 1:00 am on Friday, Febuary 8th. Check the photo page for pics of the babies.

Everyone is doing fine.

Saturday, February 9, 2008 9:25 AM, CST

We went to the NICU last night around 10 to see the babies. They are all doing so good! Brooke and Zach are only using oxygen to help them to remember to breathe. Luke still has a few more tubes to help him out, but he is doing fine. It was wonderful to be able to touch them. Hopefully today, we'll be able to hold them in our arms for the first time!

Chad and I were zapped yesterday and dozed off and on all day. After we went to the NICU, we crashed for the night and we both feel a lot better today! I am able to get up and down on my own now and am moving slow, but feeling good for the most part.

We would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers - we're sure that is what has gotten us to this point of having 3 little miracles!

Saturday, February 9, 2008 11:25 PM, CST

My epidural and IVs were removed tonight and after I got a refreshing shower in, we made our way to the NICU. Zach was just finishing with his bath and Brooke was getting ready to get hers. We weren't able to hold them tonight, but we were able to get up close and talk to Brooke.

All three are now being treated for jaundice. While the light is on, they have their "sunglasses" on. They each have lost a couple of ounces, but overall are doing well.

(We added the photos we took while we were down in the NICU.)

Monday, February 11, 2008 7:43 AM, CST

Yesterday, we made our way to the NICU for a visit and were told that we were able to hold the triplets during their feedings. We told them we'd be back at the 6 o'clock feeding! We got there around 6 but they had already started feeding the boys. I got to hold Brooke and I felt bad for Chad but he said he was fine with it, I was the one "itching" to get my hands on them! We began doing the "kangaroo care", which is skin to skin contact between baby and parent and probably the best feeling in the world!!! I held Brooke for about an hour and then we headed back to the room. Chad packed up some stuff and headed back home for some sleep and I made my way back to the NICU around 8:30. I was able to take their temperatures and change all their diapers and finally feel like I was able to do something for them. Luke and Zach were very laid back and just went along with my shaking hands! Brooke decided to throw a little fit while I was taking her temperature and changing her diaper. I'm sure she was demonstrating the fact that she has her daddy's attitude!!! :)

Chad is working today but coming back up tonight - hopefully he get his kangaroo care time in then! And...his diaper changes too!!!

Monday, February 11, 2008 7:34 PM, CST

While I was waiting for Chad to come up tonight, I spent some time in the NICU with the nurses. While I was there, I was able to hold Luke for awhile. They kept him swaddled and he had a hat on, so I really couldn't check him out, but was happy to be holding him just the same.

I did mention to him that his daddy would be back later to change diapers and if he wanted to leave him a "surprise," he could! We'll see what happens when Chad gets here!

Monday, February 11, 2008 11:00 PM, CST

When we got to the NICU, there was no diaper changing by Chad! Shoot...I was ready for a laugh!

I was able to change Brooke and take her temperaturewe and then we were able to spend time with Luke by giving him a bath.

After we tucked him in his isolette, we spent time with Zach and Brooke. Chad got to hold Brooke for the first time and was basically smiling the entire hour and a half that she was with him. I know he was filling her head with the wrong ideas about me, :) but at least they got their bonding time in!

Zach's respiratory rate was finicky today and I wasn't going to be able to hold him, but the nurse decided that it might be best to do the Kangaroo care with him to settle him down. I held him like that for over an hour and enjoyed every minute of it. He's a little cuddler!!!

At mid-night tonight, they are going to remove the phototherapy light which means we should be able to hold them more often. They are going to be tested tomorrow morning for the billy reuben count and if needed they'll go back under the light, and if not, no more "sunglasses"!

Now that we are back in the room, it is packing time!!! After 7 weeks, I am ready to go home - hopefully the weather holds out!!! :)

Thursday, February 14, 2008 12:23 PM, CST

Tuesday of this week was a very tough day to say the least. After 7 weeks of staying in the hospital, I was ready to go home, but...we had to leave our 3 little babies behind. Needless to say coming home was bittersweet.

On Wednesday evening we made our way back to the hospital with Kathy and Dennis. When we got there, we gave Luke and Brooke a bath and then were able to hold them. Zach's body temperature was a little low so we had to leave him in the isolette for the night. I wish Kathy and Dennis could have held one of them. :( I guess that will happen sooner or later.

They had all had a rough day yesterday and it felt good to hold them after all they went through. Their veins are so tiny, they aren't holding up well. Luke now has an IV in his head and that isn't easy to see. Brooke's IV in her foot caused problems which in turn caused her leg to swell - Kind of like mine I guess! Neither one of them was in pain, it is just hard for mom and dad!

They were going to test their billy reuben counts again this morning. We are hoping the counts are "normal." It is so good to see their eyes!

We are going back again tonight and hoping they had a better day today.

Some History II

So...we were pregnant and waiting for our first doctor's appointment. We went in and realized we were looking at twins. We were so excited! We told our siblings and patiently waited for the next appointment. We'd occasionally look at the ultrasound pictures in awe. Especially when my dad asked what the third spot was? We laughed and all joked about how funny he was. On August 31, we went for our follow-up appointment and for our final consultation, I was 8 weeks at this point in time and was ready to go on to an OB/GYN that would follow me throughout my pregnancy. My mom was floating in a pool with her friend, when I called and told her that my dad was right, there was a third baby! I called Kathy too. "We heard the first heartbeat and it is strong, then we heard the second heartbeat, and it is strong too." At that time, she interrupted and said, you're not going to keep going are you..."Yep, we heard the third heartbeat and it is strong too!" Her response was OMG!!!!!!!!!!!! We went on to call our brothers and sisters again to inform them and I think they were just as shocked as we were.

The first four months flew by without problems. We found out we were going to have one boy and one girl and a stubborn baby that didn't like to cooperate during the ultrasounds! With not having any problems, it was hard to think of this pregnancy as being "high risk" until week 23, when I was admitted to the hospital for monitoring and bed rest. I was in the hospital for six long weeks waiting for the babies to grow until they decided to make their appearance in the world!


My wonderful college roommates came down for a visit. They made door decorations for me, wheeled me around the hospital to get me out of my cell, I mean my hospital room, and really did cheer me up while passing some time for me!

Some History

The one year anniversary of Chad and I finding out we were finally, finally, pregnant!

Here is a partial history of how it all happened:

Chad and I married in 2001. We always knew we wanted a family, we just wanted to wait awhile and enjoy being newlyweds. Looking back, I am thankful for the time we had to be just "us"! After we had established our new house, gotten in a routine, traveled, and became who we wanted to be as a married couple, we got more serious about starting our family.

After a year of nothing, I spoke with my OB/GYN. He put me on Clomid and we cycled like that for 9 long months. After nothing occuring, he sent me on my way to SIRM. I was in denial. We attempted an IUI in February of 2006, without ever making it to the finish line. In August of 2006, we tried our hand at IVF. We were told this was a perfect cycle with two embryos. Two agonizing weeks later, we found out it didn't work. Months of depression followed suit. In January of 2007, we gathered up some courage and tried again. They took 67 eggs from me, causing me to OHSS which in a process that isn't fun at all, makes it even worse. We transferred another two perfect embryos and had three lower grade embryos left to "freeze". Two more long weeks passed and another negative blood test was confirmed.

In March, a very close friend lost her baby girl due to PKD. It was at that point in time that I began to realize that nothing in this life revolves around what we might want personally. God has a plan in store for each of us and it is in His timing that life takes place. I had always thought I had a strong faith, but until this point in time, I dont' think I truly understood.

In May, we started talking about adoption as our option. In June, we called lawyers, spoke with people who had adopted, contacted LCFS and set up an appointment. We paid our down-payment, began paperwork, and the process was official! We bought supplies to baby-proof our house, did more research, and were gearing up for our new addition!

In July, I started thinking about our three low grade embryos and wondering about them and what would happen if we adopted. Would we donate them, pay someone for storing them for however many years? We decided to go ahead and try "One last time." We made our appointment with SIRM, started all the medicines again, began the emotional rollercoaster, and all the while were still planning on adopting.

On our third and final IVF attempt, we transferred the three, grade three embryos at 3:33 p.m on August 3rd. Then we began the two week wait! God does provide. The following Friday, only three days before our scheduled home visit for the adoption process, we received our phone call saying I was pregnant! Andrea, my clinical coordinator was crying with me over the phone. I had to tell someone before Chad got home, so I texted a friend who had gone through the same process - "Its a BFP, BFP, BFP, please pray for me!" (BFP - big fat positive) Chad got home from work and I gave him a t-shirt in a size 2T that read, my daddy's a fireman. He really didn't get it at first, but suddenly the light came on!

We only told our parents that weekend - so we'd have the emotional support. We knew it was early, but we needed them now more than ever.

We told them that we needed them to take a picture for the adoption booklet we were putting together and as Chad went to take their picture, I said, "instead of saying cheese, say..."Jill's pregnant." The pictures say it all!

After being home all summer and reading different triplet blogs, I decided I too wanted to document the everyday happenings with my special babies. So many of life's joys are over and gone before we know it and I don't want to forget them. So...we are going to attempt to make something of this! This morning was an early morning as I woke to B cooing to herself in her crib, and although I was tired and wanted a few more minutes of sleep, I was so full of happiness knowing that upstairs in the bedroom was a little baby, happy and healthy, that I love so much. After the morning feeding, the trio napped. Around 9:30, I started laying them on the floor as I was going to change all three at one time. What a grand idea! I started noticing a certain odor and put my sniffer to the test. Yep, one stinky one there, and another one there, and another one there! Holy cow - three stinky babies. I don't think that has happened in the entire past six months. I had Z in the middle and he was fussing the most, so I decided to change him first. As I was pulling off his diaper, L decides to kick up his legs and throw them off to his right side - right into Z's dirty, stinky diaper! What!?! I couldn't help but laugh as this is just another one of the small things that make this house of three babies the zoo that it is!