Twin Type

2009-02-19T13:33:00.000-08:00

Finally a few more pictures... These are from Christmas and their birthday party in Maryvile. They are growing so fast! They are both talking so much now and doing really well putting sentences together. Maleah especially pronounces words very well.
They are really funny, too. Both of them are so goofy and fun to be with. Even when they are getting in trouble, we have to keep from laughing at them a big part of the time. They are already too smart for their own good!

2008-10-28T10:39:00.001-07:00

We have a few more pictures to share, and now many many stories to tell about the girls. They are so funny and fun to be with! They bring us daily joy and ...well, frustration. However after the frustrating times, we usually sit back and laugh at that too.
Maleah's favorite thing to say now is "No Way!" - which is actually more of a "N'Waaey". It was very cute and funny at first, but now - not so much! EVERYTHING is "No Way!"
Yesterday I took the railing off their cribs to make them into toddler beds. That was interesting. It took over 45 minutes before they fell asleep for nap time, but then at bed time they went right to sleep - which was a miracle. They each fell out of the beds a time or two, but thankfully they are less than 2 feet off the ground!
They are both very musical. Madelyn LOVES to sing. We can sing "lalalalala" in different pitches, and Maddie follows it very well. They both enjoy dancing, which is really cute!!
I'll stop with the stories for now. I know most people just want to see pictures anyway.
I'm currently having issues with the right pictures being selected, so I'm posting this in hopes that pictures will be soon to follow!

2008-08-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

I am terrible about posting blogs, I'm so sorry! Here are some of the latest pictures.

Walking and Talking

2008-03-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

So it's been a while since we've updated the blog... so sorry... These pictures are from the past couple of months, including some from today, Easter Sunday, (3/23/08).
Just to update you on the girls' accomplishments... They are both walking, Maleah is a little better and braver than Madelyn so far. They say the words: tickle, uh-oh, thank you, Momma and Dada (sometimes Daddy), ball, and their favorite - dog. (I think there are a few others, I just can't think right now.) --They love saying dog and patting their legs to call Sam over to them. They LOVE animals!

They also love the park. They have done the slides and swings and giggle the whole time on both.

They have been so much fun lately as they are growing and learning new things. I hope you enjoy the pictures!

...more pictures

2007-12-20T10:58:00.001-08:00

Girls' 1st Birthday Party

2007-12-20T10:49:00.000-08:00

For the girls' first birthday, we had a small party with family (which was not very small after all). Everyone seemed to enjoy the festivities, especially the girls. It took them a few minutes to get the hang of ripping open the presents, but they had a lot of fun exploring all their new and wonderful toys. ...now we just have to figure out where to put everything!
I hope you enjoy the pictures.

2007-11-27T12:24:00.000-08:00

These pictures are from our recent visit to Grove Park Inn for the National Gingerbread Competition. Megan was a competitor this year, so she, Mom, the girls, and I were able to take a short trip to Asheville, NC for the event. We had a great time, though it was a quick trip. As soon as the girls are old enough, they'll make a gingerbread house and win first prize! I just know it! -Enjoy the pictures!

2007-10-30T12:37:00.000-07:00

Finally...

2007-10-30T07:49:00.000-07:00

Once again it has taken me a while to post new stuff. The girls have been quite a handful lately. Maleah is now crawling, and of course goes everywhere she shouldn't. Madelyn has almost crawled, but every time she is about to, she opts for rolling instead. She gets around quite well by rolling.

They will be 11 months old on November 15! That can't be! In a way the year has flown by, but when recounting the nights of sleep in two hour increments, well... it hasn't gone THAT fast. After a few months of perfect sleeping through the nights, now they have learned the art of resisting sleep until they are so exhausted that they pass out, (and is also the point to which they push me).

Both girls are such a joy, though. Their personalities are coming out stronger all the time. Madelyn is my sweet baby who loves being held, however, she still has a feisty side. Maleah is full energy and into everything! She can be rather demanding, but that's ok. They are both so funny and make us laugh all the time. Maleah is always looking guilty, (even as she plays with her toys), or stealing Madelyn's pacifier, and then Madelyn is getting back at Maleah by stealing her pacifier and dangling it in her face just out of reach, (yes, she really does that).

The pictures on this post and the next (so I can add more pictures), are of the girls at Harvest Festival at the church, and the others are just from around the house. -You'll see one of Madelyn underneath the Jumperoo. She loves closed in spaces. Hope you enjoy the pictures, and I'll try to update more frequently!

(I'm having a great deal of trouble uploading photos, so those will come as fast as I can get them posted! -Thanks!)

2007-09-10T17:49:00.000-07:00

Here is another update of the girls... They are almost 9 months old!! That can't be! I don't even remember what pictures I chose to show you, I just started choosing, as my time is limited on the computer.

The girls now (obviously) sit up on their own very well, Maleah has one tooth, Madelyn has two as of yesterday... hhmmm... what else would you like to know?... They are both getting close to crawling (which I hate to encourage too much), but Maleah is just about to take off especially. Madelyn is doing excellent eating her stage 3 foods and other little snacks, however Maleah... well, when stuff hits the back of her tongue she gags. She's getting better about that, but it's still a lovely issue!

I guess that's about all that's new with the girls lately. Oh, and Maleah now finds joy in stealing her sister's toys! --Already! On that note, please pray for us as I'm sure that is just the beginning. :)

can't get enough...

2007-08-01T09:22:00.001-07:00

Blogger only allows so many pictures per posting, so here's a few more...

Pictures and more pictures!

2007-08-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

We all know that Alan is the reader between the two of us. He likes words -- I like pictures! So I've added a few more to show off my beautiful girls. They are now 7 1/2 months old. That sounds crazy to me. They are growing every day and they are so much fun! They are both FINALLY getting a tooth and Maleah sounds like she's about ready to say something... sometimes sounds sort of like "Dada", but I'm still pulling for "Mama" (we practice that daily). --Enjoy the pics! (Also featured are Aunt Megan and Uncle Matt, a.k.a. Uncle Bubba)

Hello, Kansas!

2007-07-19T06:40:00.001-07:00

Since Maranda and I have begun blogging the girls' development (even from the womb!), it's been so much fun to see visitors from all over. There's a feature we have that allows us to see where the 'hits' come from via Google analytics. And the results have been quite surprising.

We figured mostly family members would visit, but we have been noticing friends from as far as Sweden (Thanks, Jennifer!) visit the blog. We've been able to identify most repeat visitors, but some still remain a mystery. Perhaps these are from families where twins are prevalent (or expecting to arrive). We may never know.

One such hit comes from a faithful following from Olathe, Kansas. We don't think we know who you are, but we are certainly glad you visit. We also want you to feel welcome to leave comments, ask questions, whatever it is that drew you to the blog in the first place. We're always glad to help.

The rest of you can leave comments, too, you know. :-) It's just as much fun for us to hear what's going on in your lives and your thoughts on these little angels we call daughters. Thanks for visiting, and keep coming back! ~A

Update....

2007-07-15T17:47:00.000-07:00

The girls are 7 months old today! That doesn't seem possible. They are growing so fast and their personalities are developing so much lately. Both of my girls are such a joy to be with. I have so much fun with them - most days anyway. We do have some rough days here and there with two different sets of teeth working their ways in.

They are also looking more alike every day! I had to paint Madelyn's toenails this week because the distinguishing birthmark that Maleah had on the back of her neck has now faded. ...not good for Momma!

Happy Feet

2007-06-20T06:44:00.000-07:00

How beautiful upon the mountains
Are the feet of him who brings good news,
Who proclaims peace,
Who brings glad tidings of good things,
Who proclaims salvation,
Who says to Zion, “Your God reigns!”
--- Isaiah 52:7 (NKJV)

...and more pictures...

2007-06-12T11:41:00.000-07:00

Pictures!

2007-06-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share more pictures of the girls. Included are professional pictures made of them wearing their dedication dresses (made by their Yaya out of their Great-Nana's wedding dress), a few pictures of them playing together and just hanging out, Madelyn falling asleep while in her high chair and a few others. There are so many that are too cute, I just have to share!

5 Generations

2007-06-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

This picture was made when the girls were only a couple of months old, but it includes the girls' great great grandmother, great grandmother ("Great-Nana"), grandmother ("Yaya"), and me. I was able to know my great great grandmother when I was little, and I think it is such a blessing that my girls have also met their great great g-mom.

Hard Work

2007-05-16T09:57:00.000-07:00

Jumping is hard work for the girls! That's Maleah in the picture sleeping, (Madelyn is in the other picture). Both girls love jumping in their "Jumperoo". Maleah usually jumps - well, sort of sways back and forth and jumps at the same time, and will fall asleep, wake back up and repeat. She can entertain herself for hours in that thing.

Madelyn enjoys it too, but she jumps straight up and down, and after about 30 minutes of it, she's done.

Learning to like veggies!

2007-04-30T14:42:00.000-07:00

The girls started eating rice cereal a couple of weeks ago, and now they've moved on to green beans! Today was the first day of vegetables, and green beans was the first to try. Maleah loved the beans at first bite. Normally with the cereal the girls don't react so well with the first couple of bites until they get used to it, but the green beans were a wonderful new experience for Maleah. Madelyn however... it still took her a few bites to acquire the taste, but once she got going with it, she loved them as well. (Madelyn is in the first and third pictures down, and Maleah in the others.)

Also for another update... They went to the doctor for their four month checkup last week, and Madelyn weighs 13 lbs. 3.5 oz., and Maleah weighs 13 lbs. 7.5 oz! They are right on average for where full term babies would be at this point. I have prayed all along that there would be no evidence that they were premature, and they have been an answer to that prayer! They are not only on track for their weight, but also developmentally. I'm very proud of my girls!

Just a reminder...

2007-04-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

Don't feel forced or anything, but Maranda and I love getting feedback and stories of your own left on our blog as well. So please feel free to leave comments!

Easter Morning

2007-04-10T07:09:00.000-07:00

One of our first mornings back to church and it took about 2 hours to get us all ready! In the pictures, Madelyn is on the left in the sleeveless dress and Maleah is on the right.

We attempted to get pictures before church, and you can see our success... One would smile while the other pitched a fit, and by the time the camera would take the picture, they were both mad.

It was really cold here on Easter morning. Below is a picture of Maleah where we had to bundle them up.
We all had a great Easter day, and hopefully next year it will be much warmer so they can try their hands at hunting some eggs.

Anything You Can Do

2007-03-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

Not to be outdone, Maleah rolled over today right after I posted the last picture. So I snapped a couple more and updated again. She's still not so sure what to do with that arm, but she's determined to get the hang of it. ~A

Grin and 'Bare' It

2007-03-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

This picture was right after the girls' dedication ceremony, and they just shed those dresses. As cute as they were in them, they were much happier cuddling with Mommy and Daddy in the big chair.

We have been noticing lately that the girls have been looking for each other when they are not turned toward one another. They continue to wiggle closer together at night so that their heads touch. Not being a twin myself, it's hard to imagine such a strong bond at such a young age. It excites me to think how close they will be in months and years to come. ~A

The Nursery's Next Top Models

2007-03-24T17:01:00.000-07:00

Today was 84+ degrees in Tennessee, and it was time to take the girls out for their first springtime stroll. Finally the girls get to sport some of the clothes that have been waiting for warmer weather in their closet.

I just needed another excuse to show you how cute they were yet again. Again, it is getting more and more difficult to tell them apart. We may have to invest in the online DNA test that has been recommended to us by other parents of multiples.

I actually hear one of them trying to get my attention now. So I should go... ~A

Subscribe for Updates

2007-03-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the technologically savvy Christy Broxton, you can now subscribe to Twin Type for updates on Madelyn and Maleah. We really hope to update with more pictures and more stories as the girls do more than just sleep, eat, and poop.

Choose your best method to sign up for updates at the right of your screen. This will tell you when to visit the blog and leave comments whenever we update, so you won't have to continually check back only to see an old blog.

Let us know if you have any problems. I am sure Christy can tell me how to fix it! Thanks again, Christy.

~A

Roll over, roll over

2007-03-23T10:38:00.000-07:00

This is just a small update in the girls' development. The other day, Madelyn discovered that she could roll over! She does this now once or twice a day, depending on her mood. She has gotten really good at it. It's really funny watching her do it because she sometimes has a hard time finding the floor with her foot. She has to kick to find it sometimes.

Maleah has no interest in rolling over whatsoever. It's just so funny how two that are so alike can be so different. ~A

Dedication Service Picture

2007-03-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

The girls are actually in dresses made from their great grandmother's wedding dress... Truly the Bride of Christ will have a double portion. ~A

The Pair at 3 Months

2007-03-11T08:46:00.000-07:00

Maleah is on the left; Madelyn is on the right.

As of today, Maleah is 11 lbs, 4.5 oz. Madelyn is 10 lbs, 10 oz.

Discovering Each Other

2007-03-11T08:40:00.000-07:00

Recently, we have noticed the girls being able to interact with each other more and more. We were certain that they were aware of each other's presence, but now they seem to be looking for each other and knowing when they're apart.

While at Mom and Dad's, we tried to get them to hold hands, but they just wouldn't be coerced. However, as soon as we stopped, they did it on their own. When they take naps, often times they will reach for each other and be touching in some way. At night, when we lay them in the crib, they will start out about a foot apart, but they will slowly inch their way back together--either touching heads or being side by side.

Madelyn seems to want to kiss on Maleah. We've noticed that she will position herself to where her mouth is directly on Maleah's forehead or crown. The next morning, Maleah's hair is matted down with dried saliva...evidence of her sister's love. ~A

Over the river and through the woods...

2007-03-11T08:30:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I haven't been very diligent about posting new pics like I intended. Things have been a bit hectic in the Coulter home, but now hopefully we will have new pics as the girls begin learning new things around the house.

The girls are right at 3 months, and they have more than doubled in size. Madelyn is quickly catching up with Maleah, and they love trying to talk with each other and us. As time has progressed, we have started really noticing personality differences. Madelyn is much more demanding than Maleah, with Maleah sleeping a lot more. Both are sleeping well through the night, but of course, there are 'those nights' when they just don't seem to want to go to sleep.

We were able to go home and visit my family this weekend. This was the first time that my grandmothers have been able to see the girls. The picture above is the whole clan with my Granny--my father's mother. On Maranda's side, we were able to take a picture with five generations. It's neat the my girls will have pictures of themselves with their great-great-grandmother. All of the grandparents are thrilled to spend time with the girls, and of course, they always comment about how cute they are.

Baby Dedication Date Set

2007-02-19T12:14:00.000-08:00

Maranda and I felt that it was important to dedicate our babies back to the Lord on their first visit to church, and now that date has been set on the church calendar. Madelyn Rayne and Maleah Grace will be dedicated at Spirit of Life Church on March 18, 2007.

All friends and family members are welcome to attend. This is a very special and important day for us as a family, as we declare that we will raise our children in the fear and admonition of the Lord.

Immediate family members of both sides will be in attendance. We hope that you all will join us for an exciting day as Madelyn and Maleah meet their spiritual family for the first time. ~A

Sleeping Beauties

2007-02-02T09:24:00.000-08:00

I had to put this one up today. Nana and Papa (my parents) babysat last weekend, and they snapped this pic.

This is one of the miracles of Madelyn and Maleah sleeping at the same time. However, this is starting to happen a lot more than it was. They are beginning to eat more and sleep longer at night. At 7 weeks old today, three to four hours at a time is a long nap for them. ~A

Our Family

2007-01-22T14:03:00.002-08:00

On Display

2007-01-22T14:03:00.001-08:00

Sisters

2007-01-22T14:02:00.001-08:00

Maleah Grace

2007-01-22T14:01:00.000-08:00

Madelyn Rayne

2007-01-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

All Tangled Up

2007-01-22T13:58:00.000-08:00

Thanks, Danielle!

2007-01-22T13:57:00.000-08:00

A friend from church, Danielle Davila, has her own photography business—Beanstalk Photography, and she was kind enough to come out to our house last Saturday and wow us with some amazing photos.

Maranda and I were so pleased with the pictures that we asked Danielle for some digital copies to show you all. I will post them individually so you can leave feedback on the ones that you like best. There were many, many more photos—some of which you will be able to see in Danielle’s portfolio shortly.

Please visit Danielle’s website at: http://www.beanstalkphotography.photosite.com/.

Thanks
~Alan

FYI: National Geographic Special Airs Sunday

2007-01-12T09:12:00.000-08:00

In the Womb: Multiples will air on the National Geographic Channel on Sunday at 8 p.m. EST / 7 p.m. CST. You can visit http://www3.nationalgeographic.com/ channel/inthewombmultiples/index.html for more information.

This special will mimic the original special In the Womb that studied the birth of singletons with 4D technology. The first months for twins, this special shows, can be much different than the development and birth of a single baby.

The picture in this post is an example of the technology used in this special. Maranda and I will be watching on Sunday, and we encourage all of you who are interested in the development of multiples to watch as well. ~A

Mom's the Word

2007-01-10T04:56:00.000-08:00

Ya-ya (Greek for grandmother and Kim's chosen name) went home last weekend to take care of some things back East, so Maranda is having her first week alone with the girls.

She's been doing great--exhausted, but great nonetheless. She really is wired for this whole motherhood thing. She seems to always know what to do. Maybe she doesn't know, but I could never tell it. There are just small things that the father of twin girls just doesn't feel comfortable doing at first. We might want to help, but nobody can do it like Mom.

We've been trying to feel out the girls a bit more. The pediatric nurse practitioner told us that babies don't manipulate until 4 months of age, but I think we're already seeing it at 3 weeks. They will fuss and cry, but as soon as you pick them up, fast to sleep they go. We thought it was gas, but holding them shouldn't keep them from crying, should it? Other babies I've held with gas pitch a fit and don't stop until the pain goes away.

But maybe I should stop now trying to figure out the female mind. I haven't been successful so far with my wife, so why should I think that I could figure out the female baby brain? (he he)

But I just had to brag on Maranda a little bit. I know she's tired. I know she's constantly going. But she's truly amazing to watch.

Thankfully, Pastor Fran and the ladies at Spirit of Life Church have been helping out a lot. They cook us meals every other day, and now they plan on helping Maranda around the house and with Madelyn and Maleah while our families are not able to stay with us.

Hopefully Nanny will be coming soon. We expect her to be fully healed soon, so thank you to all of you intercessors who prayed for her. Keep it up!

More baby pictures soon! ~A

Identical or Fraternal?

2007-01-07T18:21:00.000-08:00

Everyone has been asking, "So are they identical?" And to our chagrin, we can only say that we have to wait and see. The placenta tests were inconclusive, but the girls do have the same blood type.

But that doesn't always mean that they are identical. They did have their own sacs while in the womb, but that still leaves a 40% chance of being identical.

So... now you tell us. I have taken two pictures tonight. Madelyn is in the purple. Maleah is in pink. By these photos, what are they--identical or fraternal?

We go back and forth, so we'd love to read your guesses... I mean your posts. hehe ~A

Have a Hand

2007-01-06T15:57:00.000-08:00

We were able to have the girls sleeping in the same bassinett for the first few weeks of birth, but now the girls demand a little bit more room.

They now both sleep in a Pack-N-Play at night, but during the day, one takes the bassinett while the other occupies the cradle Maranda's great-grandfather made for her when she was just a baby.

They get rather fussy when they aren't near each other. You can see in this pic that Madelyn is helping tide Maleah over until their next feeding. hehe ~A

~2007~

2007-01-01T18:21:00.000-08:00

2007 already! When 2006 ended, we couldn't predict that 2007 would look anything like being the parents of the best twins in the whole world.

But here we are, and it's certainly an adventure with each day that passes. Some days, the twins look identical, some days different. Sometimes I think they look like me, but almost always I think they look like Maranda.

If they are fraternal, Madelyn will probably look more like Maranda with Maleah looking more like my side of the family. It is fun watching them change. They look so different than when they were first born.

We have some new photos will be up on the website soon, we hope. But until then, please think about downloading Skype--a video/audio/textual messaging service (FREE!) from www.skype.com. The service is out of the UK, and we really like it. We started using it to talk with Pastor Dave and Crystal Anderson, the missionaries our church sent to Costa Rica.

It is very simple, and the quality is pretty good. We're still working out the minor kinks.

We hope to talk to you soon. Many of you have expressed wanting to call but being afraid to. If you wish to call, anytime in the afternoon is usually safe. If Maranda is sleeping, she will turn down the phone, so you won't be bothering her.

I should get back to my girls. Everyone, have a prosperous, safe, and joyful 2007.

Joy to the World...

2006-12-25T14:59:00.000-08:00

May you and your family be doubly blessed this Christmas.

Merry Christmas from the Coulter family.

Peas in a Pod

2006-12-20T20:15:00.000-08:00

These two are already teaming up. They are adorable apart, but together, they're just... just... amazing.

Already we're seeing slight differences in their personalities. If you notice, Maleah likes to burrow down into her blankets with her feet poking out; she's definitely a cuddler. As for Madelyn, she likes to be tightly wrapped and held--but not too close to her face. hehe ~A

Babies Coming Home!

2006-12-20T09:58:00.000-08:00

Just a few days after entering the world at 34.5 weeks, the Coulter girls are getting ready for their trip home. The pediatrician said today that if they continue to progress as they have the past few days, they will be going home on Saturday morning.

This truly has been a blessing--even down to the timing. Being so close to Christmas, I will almost have ten full days of being with the girls before having to go back to work. I could not have asked for anything more.

God is so cool! He has answered every request to the utmost. We did not like having our girls in NICU, but they have been on the fast track and have passed up babies that were born far later in pregnancy. Every child is different, and our girls are children of the Most High!

Thank you again for your prayers. Please pray for Madelyn, that she would maintain her strength. She has been getting more worn out than Maleah. Also, pray that their feeding continues to be good. They love food (just like their Daddy), but they have problems with the harder bottles. They seem to like to nurse.

Also, please continue to remember Maranda. She has been so wonderful, and she seems so at ease with the girls. I just want her to have the confidence in God and in herself that we all have in her. :-)

Life is good. ~A

The gang's all here!

2006-12-16T15:04:00.000-08:00

Madelyn Rayne and Maleah Grace Coulter began their lives outside of Maranda's womb on December 15, 2006, at 10:10 a.m. and 10:11 a.m. respectively. After having very severe contractions, Dr. McCullough decided to go ahead with the C-section, as she felt that was best in our situation.

Madelyn Rayne was born at 4 lbs, 15 oz and 17 " long. She was taken to NICU for observation, but she has had very little trouble breathing, having never had to be placed on oxygen. She is breathing on her own, and Maranda has even begun to breastfeed her in the NICU. She is doing exceptionally well, Praise the Lord.

Maleah Grace was born second at 5 lbs, 6 oz. and 17" long. She had a little more difficulty breathing on her own in the beginning, but she needed minimal assistance. Already she is off of the oxygen and is quickly catching up with her sister. She is now beginning to eat, but she isn't yet to the breastfeeding stage. This picture is more frightening than her actual status. She really is doing very, very well! The tubes were merely to help her, as she was breathing on her own.

It looks more and more like the girls will be identical, but nothing is definite as of yet. Their blood types came back as the same, which suggests they are identical twins, but it isn't impossible for them to be fraternal. We will receive the tests from the placentas back by Monday, which may give us a better idea.

Maranda is doing quite well, and she has been awesome during this whole experience. She is now a little sore, but she's very relieved and happy that the girls are now here. She will probably be able to go home Monday.

Doctors are very hopeful that the girls will be able to go home in 5 to 7 days, but nothing is for certain. We are very excited with their progress, as they have been "perfect" for babies born at this gestational age. The nurses are especially ga-ga over these babies, always telling us how cute they are and how excellently they are doing.

We praise God that He has watched over them so well and has set His angels around them while they get ready to go home. We are so overwhelmed. But now... I must go back to the hospital. I have just come home to get a few things. More pictures and updates to follow!

~A very proud Daddy

Almost There!

2006-12-14T16:57:00.000-08:00

It won't be long now until the girls will be here. Maranda started having very painful contractions a few days ago, and they haven't let up much since then. They got down to about a minute and a half apart, and they were very intense. She has started dilating, but the nurse practitioner says that her water will probably break before she dilates any more.

And that would be just fine with Maranda (as long as the girls are healthy). The ultrasound showed that the girls are at a very healthy weight. These may be slightly larger estimations than what they really are, but the ultrasound measured the girls a 5 lbs, 10 ounces and at 5 lbs, 7 ounces. That's over 11 pounds of baby!

Maranda has had extreme back pain (as one can only imagine carrying that much weight). Both girls appear to be head down, so vaginal birth is still an option. However, the angle of the babies are not as a singleton would be when he/she is head down. The bodies cannot simply be straight up and down to allow "easier" passage. So it would be at an angle, then down. For this reason, a C-section may still be order, even if Maranda goes into labor with both babies being head down.
We will be listening very closely to Maranda and to Dr. McCullough should water #1 break.

Yes, since the girls are in two separate sacs, Maranda will experience her water breaking twice. And from what the nuse practitioner said today, this could happen at any time. She could feel the head of Baby A (Madelyn , we think), and she was not fully engaged yet. But there was a tremendous amount of pressure on the membrane. She advised keeping towels and plastic nearby at all times...

So now we just wait, and Maranda gets checked daily at the doctor's office until the time comes. Thank you all for your prayers. Maranda has been truly a warrior when it comes to this early stage of labor. She is definitely uncomfortable and finds it hard to rest. Pain medications (from the doctor) do not seem to make a dent in the amount of pain she's in. She is learning to cope until water #1 breaks.

Please continue to pray that Maranda have strength and endurance. We also pray for rest and peace over her. Tonight she has been able to sleep for about thirty or forty-five minutes I would guess. This has been one of the longest periods of sleep for her in days. So please keep her in your prayers.

We're very excited and eager for the girls to arrive. We believe for healthy babies with healthy lungs and perfect deliveries. We believe that Maranda will heal quickly, and the girls will be able to breast feed (almost) immediately.

Thanks again, and I will try to post again soon. ~A

Beginning Week 35

2006-12-08T16:24:00.000-08:00

And that means that Maranda will soon stop taking the Turb, the drug that slows contractions. While we are excited that this means the twins will be here sooner than later, we want them to still hold off for another week or two. There's a huge difference between week 34 and week 36. It could actually mean the difference between having to stay in NICU or not having to go at all.

Maranda's mother is now living with us for a little while. She is helping Maranda throughout the day and has already been busy doing projects to keep herself busy. She had the wonderful opportunity to accompany us to Summit Hospital. We've now had to go to Labor & Delivery about 7 or 8 times now. We're beginning to know all of the nurses by name.

We'll be sure to keep more posts coming, as we haven't been posting as much lately. ~A

Update on Maranda

2006-11-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

After another fun adventure in Labor and Delivery (L&D) again last night, we go for another ultrasound today! This ultrasound was already scheduled and had nothing to do with the visit to the hospital.

Everything is going well though. Maranda hasn’t dilated any more than she was, and our favorite nurse, Gail, told us that she still seemed a long way from going into pre-term labor. That’s always good to hear.

Maranda is now 31 weeks and 3 days into her pregnancy, and we’re pulling for at least 2 and a half more weeks before the big day. I am pulling more for 3 or 4 weeks. 37 weeks would be ideal for me, but Maranda might not agree at this point.

She’s still very uncomfortable, as one can imagine. Just keep praying for her. She really has been a trooper during this whole experience. I know I couldn’t have handled it as well. It just makes me wonder how merciful she will be for pregnant women of singletons after this.

I imagine she will be wearing the shirt above in the very near future. ~A

Double Rainbows, Double Portions

2006-11-11T19:22:00.000-08:00

Some of you have may have heard others allude to the rainbow story, but it is far more than just a story. And many of you who do not live in Nashville probably have no idea what I'm talking about, but we feel it is important to share what the Lord is doing. I will warn you, though. This will be a LONG posting.

First off, Maranda and I, along with our church family at Spirit of Life, believe that God still speaks today and speaks to every individual who will take the time to listen. And we believe God spoke a special message to us in the early stages of Maranda’s pregnancy. This message has been spoken to others as well since then, only confirming God’s word to us.

A little after Maranda found out that she was pregnant, Pastor Fran Schaub at our church felt impressed by the Lord that the next pregnancy at the church would be a sign and message from the Lord. God kept telling her that she would receive a phone call about a baby. We already knew that Maranda was pregnant, so we never thought that it would be us.

Around this same time, we were driving home from work. I sometimes make Maranda a little nervous, so she was driving this particular day (which proved to also be of the Lord’s design). It had been raining that day, but the skies had parted. The sun was beginning to shine through. That’s when I noticed a tiny sliver of a rainbow in the clouds.

Something inside me became very, very excited—much like a child would be. “Look, Maranda… a rainbow!” I shouted. She saw it, but she didn’t get as excited as I did. Then, the rainbow began to grow, both in size and intensity. I became ecstatic! “Wow! Look!” I cried as I kept repositioning myself to see it better. Soon, a full rainbow was spanning the sky. It was so bright that it looked electric, as if God had plugged it directly into a light socket.

I was unglued at this point. But then, above the rainbow, another fainter rainbow began to appear. It also filled in across the sky until we driving right into a full double rainbow! (Much like the one in the picture above that I found from www.gdargaud.net. ) Being such a mighty man of God, I saw no spiritual significance at the time.

It was days later when Maranda told me that God had spoken to her. She said that the Lord was trying to tell me something about the rainbows. Maranda NEVER does this, so when she tells me that God told her something, I pay attention! So I began to think about provision and God’s covenant with us and what else He might have to speak to me.

And there was more. We went for our first doctor’s visit, and we discovered that we were having twins! Things began to make sense. We called Pastor Fran, and she began to laugh and laugh and laugh. And then, I began to laugh and laugh and laugh. She told me, “This is it! This is it, Alan! This is what God has been telling me about… God is speaking to us about a double portion.”

God began to speak mightily about these girls, giving us Isaiah 61:7, which says, “Instead of your shame, you will have a double portion. Instead of your humiliation, you will shout for joy over your portion. Therefore, they will possess a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs.”

This all happened sometime in early, early summer. Then in October, a Christian prophet by the name of Kim Clement gave an astounding Word of the Lord as confirmation to us. He said:

"Twins born rapidly through the Nation and through the world shall be a sign of the double portion and the multiplication. The statistics shall be known and factual, and they shall speak about the fact that there are more twins born in these few years, than have ever been born in the history of mankind. This shall be a sign that multiplication has begun," says the Lord. "There will be double rainbows. There will be double births." God says, "It is a time for My people to rejoice for certainly the season of multiplication has begun," says the Lord!

Yes, you are reading that correctly. Double rainbows. Double births. God is doing something, and He is doing something BIG. We are very excited and honored that God has already begun speaking through our children to us. We can only wait and watch what the Lord will do next! ~A

Trading Spaces: From Womb to Room

2006-11-11T18:44:00.000-08:00

I cannot tell you how pleased we are with the girls' room! The nursery is complete, and the only things we are lacking in there are babies! Obviously they won't be sleeping in there for a while. They will be in the cradle and bassinet we have in our room.

But still, we wanted to show you the craftiness of Maranda's mother--Kim. She did the painting (free-hand, mind you), and she even made the bedding, window dressings, and seat cushions for the room. Even though I thought that they nursery would look like a hippie haven, it really did turn out nicely.

God truly has provided. I don't know if we have even bought a fraction of what is in this room. We have been so blessed by people just giving us things, and it means so much to Maranda and me. Thank you to everyone who has given us ANYTHING for the girls. We deeply appreciate it. ~A

By Popular Demand...

2006-11-11T17:47:00.000-08:00

Many of you could not imagine Maranda having much of a waist, and you have demanded pictures to see her and her doubly pregnant self. So Maranda agreed to a little photo shoot here at Coulter Studios to show off her midriff one more time before becoming a mother.

This picture was actually taken a week or two ago, so she actually is a little larger now. She is 30 weeks tomorrow, and the babies weigh right around 3 to 3.5 lbs each. They are actually measuring a little ahead of schedule, which is more than okay with us. We're on track to deliver right around Christmas, according to the last nurse we saw at the hospital. Our prayer right now is to avoid the NICU, and we know that God has complete control over everything. He has ordained these little ones prophetically--which I will explain later in an upcoming posting on this blog.

Just as an aside, Maranda and I are attending child birth classes this weekend at Summit Medical Center where she will be delivering. Maranda isn't learning a whole lot, but I have found some of it helpful. I have learned some things that really aren't publishable here, but you mothers can only imagine the education I am getting firsthand.

And just to brag on Maranda a little bit, she is doing really well. She is taking her Turb regularly to ensure that she doesn't continue in pre-term labor, even though the medicine does not make her feel like herself. It makes her a bit jittery, and I know she would rather not take it. Already, she is sacrificing her own wants for those of our children.

And I might add that she looks beautiful. I am not just saying that because she is my wife. Many people have commented at how pretty she is, and they are shocked because she is so pregnant. That is not to say that Maranda always feels beautiful, but she is gorgeous nonetheless. I would even go so far as to say that she glows--as cliche as that sounds. ~ A

Sooner than You Think

2006-11-01T13:16:00.000-08:00

Maranda and I had another fun visit to the hospital the other night. She had done too much housework that week, and sure enough, the contractions fired up again. After four hours of them, we headed back to the hospital in order to get another shot of Turb. Thank the Lord that she didn't get as sick as the first time.

The next day she had an appointment with the doctor. The due date has still not shifted back from January 21, but everyone seems to know that the girls won't be waiting that long.

The nurse practitioner surprised us a bit by saying that if the twins would wait until 6-8 more weeks, they would be thrilled. ... For those of you who don't have a calendar in front of you:

Six weeks = December 10

Eight weeks = December 24

We might as well stick bows on their heads, as the odds are getting better and better that we will have Christmas babies. ~A

Ultrasound 10/24/06

2006-10-25T05:37:00.000-07:00

Well, we weren't as thrilled with this ultrasound experience as we were on the last ones. The tech did not seem to know exactly what he was doing, saying it had been a while since he had done an multiples ultrasound. But toward the end, he seemed to get the hang of it and took the time to explain some of the features we were seeing.

The girls definitely look the cutest they have ever been. They're already over 2.5 lbs, and there is a chance that Maranda is further along than we thought. We will check with the doctor next week since we have doubts about this tech. He estimated that she was around a week and half further along than was originally estimated. That moves the due date back to January 15 or so. So we'll see...

In the first picture, you can see a slight profile, but you can see she has her arms reaching up with clenched fists.

In the second picture, you can see the right side of one's face. She has her lips puckered up. Maybe she's giving kisses... or maybe she's just hungry. It was definitely past supper time.

They were extremely active in this ultrasound. They way they are situated right now, is one is head down and the other is a little higher and to the right of her. Dr. McCullough is very optimistic that if one is lined up to be delivered vaginally, that the second baby could flip to the correct position after the first one is born.

We're just praying right now that Maranda will deliver both the same way--either both vaginally or both by Cesarian. ~A

Just for Kicks

2006-10-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

The girls have been playing with Maranda in Dreamland. For the past two evenings, Maranda has dreamed that one of the girls stretches out so far that she can see the entire foot, complete with little toes. The only thing we can figure is that the girls must be awake while she sleeps and that they kick and play while she’s trying to rest. Hopefully their schedules will get to be more with ours before they arrive. …. Please, God?

Madelyn and Maleah are starting to respond to our voices now. I started talking to the girls last night, and one started kicking. At least we know that she hears us. I am sure that they can hear Maranda much more clearly than they can hear me, but Maranda was reading somewhere recently that around this point the girls will become more active at the sounds of our voices. Sure enough, they are.

Until we actually get to hold them, we’re looking forward to each doctor’s visit and ultrasound. Today was go for another to make sure everything looks good and to see if they are growing at the same rate. I don’t know how detailed these pictures will be, but they should be better than the last ones since we will be going to Labor & Delivery to have it done.I will keep you posted! ~A

2006-10-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

The nursery is really starting to look like the girls' room. Kim spent this weekend painting lilac walls and freehanded music staffs and flowers on the walls with lyrics to "Jesus Loves Me" and "You are My Sunshine." (Thanks, YaYa!) Hopefully we can get some digital pictures of the nursery up soon for you all to see.

God really has been good to us. People have been blessing us with gifts and hand-me-downs. Someone from our church actually gave us a crib, which means we only have to buy ONE! Let's just pray that I can actually put the thing together!

Maranda is now on home rest from work. She had another bout with contractions and had her first experience with Turb. Turb is a drug injection which helps stop contractions. However, the nurse described Turb as having the effects of twelve shots of espresso all at once... And I think that was pretty accurate. But you will have to ask Maranda for yourself. Her eyes got bulging and glassy, her hands and feet would not be still, and her ten-minute high slowly gave way to feeling extremely sick. Needless to say, Maranda does not want to have to take Turb again.

We go back for another ultrasound on October 24. So you know what that means.... MORE PICTURES!!!

Braxton Hiccups

2006-10-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

Maranda and I had a little excitement the other day when the wonderful Braxton Hicks contractions began full force. She had a little more contractions than we would have liked, and per the doctor’s orders, they asked her to come to the hospital to be monitored and to see if we could get the contractions to stop.

It took a little over two hours, and everything is fine. Maranda is still having a hard time sitting up straight without having some tightening. So please be praying that the contractions will ease up to a healthy level until the babies are fully developed and ready to be born.

But we actually did have a good time listening to the babies on the monitor while at the hospital. I had gone downstairs to get Maranda some dinner in the cafeteria (chicken tenders, of course), and when I came back, I could hear the heart beats from the doorway.

I also heard this really loud WHOMP every now and then. It sounded like the babies were actually hitting the monitor, but it didn’t sound like a kick or a punch. It sounded too soft for that. We didn’t ask Gail (our wonderful, wonderful nurse) for a while, but she said that it was probably one of the girls having the hiccups.

It's Raining Pink!

2006-10-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Right now, our living room looks like bottle of Pepto exploded all over our chair and spilled into the floor. But we're pretty happy about it.

This Saturday, our family in Sale Creek and Dayton threw us a baby shower, and we were amazed at how much people bought for us. Most outfits came in twos, and we received many baby blankets, diapers, bottles, bibs, and bottle brushes.

We also got the Pack-N-Play that we wanted, and the girls now each have a Bumbo seat each. There were also some toys, children's books, and lots of good food.

Maranda and I definitely appreciate everything that people gave us, and we look forward to putting each item to good use.

Spirit of Life Church is also throwing us a shower this month (14th). God truly is keeping His Word. He told Maranda that these girls would be fully provided for, and so far, He has meant that literally. ~A

Getting Stronger

2006-09-25T11:43:00.000-07:00

I finally got to feel the babies yesterday! Up until now, Maranda has been having all of the fun, getting to feel the little ones play around in there. Well, I’m sure it’s not always fun, especially since one of them seems to be quite the kicker.

But finally, when Maranda was sitting on the couch, one of the girls seems a little riled up. She asked me to come over and to see if I could feel it, and sure enough, she gave one big push against my palm. It’s not what I expected. I thought that the kicks would be sharper and quicker, but this one pushed outward slowly. It was really neat. Maybe she was stretching more than kicking. Either way, I am just glad that I get to finally feel my babies instead of having to ask all of the time if they are moving or not.

It’s still pretty early for me to be able to feel them. The readings we have say that fathers usually feel the babies around 28 weeks, but we are only at week 23! We still have a while to go, but for those of you who want to know… the babies are probably about 1.5 lbs each now. ~A

Face of One

2006-09-15T10:27:00.000-07:00

This one is a little bit harder to see. The baby is laying on her side, and she's facing toward you.The forehead is is the darker area on the left, and you can see her right eye really well. I think she has a hand curled up under her chin.

If you have a better understanding of what all is in this picture, feel free to leave a comment. ~A

Photo of Heads

2006-09-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

This picture is of the other end. Since they were in the same position, they were "spooning" in the womb.

You can see how close the babies' heads are together. I think this is similar to how they were before.

New Ultrasound Pictures!

2006-09-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

Another perk to having twins means more frequent ultrasounds. Even though the pictures from the ultrasounds done in the doctor's office are not of such high quality as the ones done previously at the hospital, we wanted to include some of them on the blog for people back home.

This picture is of the twins' rumps and thighs. The tech told us that this picture is very rare because it shows the twins in the exact same position. This hardly ever happens. ~A&M

Strong Women

2006-09-08T18:54:00.000-07:00

Right now, I’m still trying find time to finish The Tender Bar by JR Moehringer. Today I read about JR’s grandmother, an avid storyteller who was worn by an abusive husband. Moehringer paints his grandmother so vividly and so poetically, I could not help but draw parallels with my own grandmother—another woman who can tell a heck of a story and who survived an alcoholic husband (who thankfully changed his ways).

It made me think of a CD I have been listening to for almost 24 hours. Last night, a friend of mine gave me a copy of the CD Woman King by Iron & Wine. The entire CD sings stories about strong women, and I must admit the lyrics are amazing. (Thank you, Collin. I think I am already driving Maranda crazy with placing the songs on repeat.)

With my life surrounded by strong, amazing women and storytelling, I began to think about my daughters. I pictured myself telling them stories—but not about castles and princesses. I foresee myself telling them the true stories of the women who each had a part in birthing them, in one way or another. I want to liberate my daughters before society gets the chance to dictate weakness to them.

I want to tell them about Arsula Gravett, their great-grandmother who survived the depression, birthed five children at home, and still hears God as if He were drinking coffee with her in her house up on the hill.

I want to tell them about Loa Kendrick, a great-great-grandmother who still is a talented artist and craftswoman and still has plenty of fire left in her to warm the coldest of rooms.

I want to tell them about Mildred Coulter O’Neal, a great-grandmother who was one of the earliest female basketball players in Tennessee, who played Center when the Center actually stood at mid-court and each half had three-on-three under each basket.

I want to tell them about Kim McBath, their grandmother who never stops for a second and can practically do anything she envisions in her mind.

I want to tell them about Linda Isbill, their great-grandmother who can feed an army of relatives with her cooking, take care of the whole family, and still have time to enjoy the flowers.

I want to tell them about Angie Sharp and Megan McBath, their aunts who both were talented athletes, tough as nails, but have the tenderest of hearts.

I want to tell them about Kathryn Coulter, their grandmother who raised a brilliant son and taught him about God in a way only she could and who understands and values the importance of family—regardless of the miles between them.

I want to tell them about Maranda Coulter, their mother who was strong enough to deny her own wants and desires to help support their father while he finished graduate school.

But as a man, I want to be sure that the strength Maleah and Madelyn possess does not stem from a father who neglected them or caused them to guard against pain. I want their strength to grow from security in who they are, in freedom of expression, in hope that dreams do not have to remain distant goals. I want them to realize that they will become what they set their minds to and that their mother and I will do anything we can to get them there. ~A

The Labor Day before the Labor

2006-09-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

Because Maranda is pregnant with twins, we cannot travel past the last week of October. By travel, I mean that Maranda cannot go further than an hour away from the hospital where she plans to deliver.

Checking our schedules this week, Maranda realized that October is almost packed, so if are going to visit family and friends in East Tennessee, we would need to do so in September. So this weekend, we are heading back to Greenback and Maryville to see Maranda’s side of the family. On the last weekend of September, we’ll travel back to Sale Creek and Dayton for my side of the family and the baby shower Mom is throwing for us at White Oak Baptist. It will be good to see everyone.

After that, we won’t be traveling home until February or March 2007. It seems so odd not to be going home for Thanksgiving or Christmas. At least East Tennessee can come to us this year. We could be separated like many of the Armed Forces around the globe. In comparison, three hours doesn’t seem that far away. ~A

A Proper Upbringing

2006-08-30T10:14:00.000-07:00

For those of you who might be concerned, Maranda and I have committed to raising our children in the way they should go--as Tennessee Vols fans. Even though we now live further from Neyland Stadium and Thompson-Boling Arena than we did in our own childhoods, the tradition will remain a necessity for another Coulter generation.

And just a kindly reminder to the friends of ours who are not necessarily fond of Rocky Top and who insist on purchasing anything with a Dawg, Gator, or Elephant on it, please refrain. These gifts will quickly find their ways to the bottom of the nearest diaper bin. :-)

Scriptures to Pray

2006-08-27T15:55:00.000-07:00

Just as a side note for those of you praying for us, we are standing on Isaiah 61 and Psalm 91 during and after the pregnancy. Maranda is making a more complete prayer list, but if you would pray these Scriptures over us, we would be greatly appreciative. We know that prayer works, and we know the Word works. So praying the Word is only doubly effective.

God bless,
A

POTATO SALE

2006-08-27T15:43:00.000-07:00

The Nashville area has a great organization (some might call it a support group) for the parents of multiples. POTATO--Parents of Twins and Triplets Organization--meets once per month with a keynote speaker and then breaks off into groups to discuss the special moments, both positive and negative, one encounters when tackling to raise more than one infant at a time.

This past Saturday was the POTATO Sale, an annual consignment sale that is open to the public. The first day of the sale is open only to POTATO members (which we are not), and then, the second day is open to others; all parents of singletons, twins, and triplets are welcome to attend.

Maranda's brother Matthew, her sister Megan, and her mother Kim came over this weekend for the sale and to bring some items from back East. We were so blessed to have them come over. We were able to pick up a glider rocker, a bouncy seat that Megan took from under the nose of another prospective buyer, and a diaper champ--not to mention a ton of baby clothes. Most of the baby clothes came from a yard sale nearby. Twenty-five cents an outfit? Can't beat it.

As time goes by, it's definitely starting to sink in that the girls are real and are coming--ready or not. People seemed surprised that I am so excited about having two girls, but why not? I mean, they're my girls. Two pieces of me are going to be walking around on this planet, and I'm never going to be able to get those pieces back. It's settled: I will be a blubbering ball of mush for the rest of my life, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
~A

I like to kiiickk and streeetch and kiickk....

2006-08-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling the girls move sporadically over the past few weeks. Two days ago was the first strong kicks I have felt. We definitely have one with strong legs! I haven't felt too many strong kicks like that yet, but that first one was a little surprising. The kicks were up kinda high and felt like a sequence of syncopated thumps.

Yesterday I sneezed and apparently one of the girls didn't like that, so she gave me a hard kick or two for that.

I have discovered that they enjoy M&M Sonic blasts as much as I do! After having one yesterday, they moved around in there all afternoon. I'm convinced it was their way of letting me know I should eat more "blasts".

I'm looking forward to more thumps, and hopefully they'll go easy on me as they continue to grow stronger.

Ultrasound Photo #4

2006-08-23T06:34:00.000-07:00

This is probably my favorite picture from the entire ultrasound! You can see one of my baby girls with her hands up to her cheeks here, posing for the camera.

We tried to get a 3D picture at the ultrasound, but as soon as they were about to take the picture, the baby covered her face with her hands and turned away.

...So we know at least one of the babies doesn't take after Maranda. hehe

Ultrasound Photo #3

2006-08-23T06:31:00.000-07:00

This photo is obviously of an outstretched leg. While we were watching on the screen, the baby gave Maranda a hard, hefty kick. She must think she's crowded with another baby in there with her, but see all of that black space around the leg? That will be gone in a matter of weeks. She'd better enjoy that leg room while she can!

Ultrasound Photo #2

2006-08-23T06:28:00.000-07:00

Here is a frontal shot of one of the girls. The circular shape to the left of the screen is actually her belly. You can see the face a little bit in this picture, with the white of the skull highlighted and a darker circle where her right eye is.

Ultrasound Photo #1

2006-08-23T06:20:00.000-07:00

Here is a wide-angle view of the ultrasound from Monday, August 21. For those of you like me who need help in deciphering ultrasound photos, Let me help you out a bit.

The two large, white circles are actually the girls' heads. The doctor told us that many, if not most, women do not find out they are having twins until now. I'm glad we found out earlier.

M&Ms

2006-08-23T05:59:00.000-07:00

Maranda and I were fortunate enough to find out that we were having twins at 6 weeks into pregnancy. We knew right away that the grandparents, who all live in East Tennessee, would go crazy for the babies before they were born.

With family being over three hours away, I wanted to create a place where anyone could access pictures, stories, and tidbits from the lives of twins and from the crazy adventures their parents face. We know the transition may be a bit shocking, going from newlyweds to a family of four, but God would never give us more than we could handle.

The shock is beginning to wear off, and we're beginning to get excited. After a small panic attack or two, Daddy is doing well. I'm getting more accustomed to the thoughts of having two little ones to look after. Now, after Monday, my excitement has grown.

We went to the "big ultrasound" to find out the sexes of the babies. To our surprise, we will be having two girls! Of course, I looked over at Terry, Maranda's father, knowing that my life has changed forever. Two daddy's girls, who would eventually grow up and become as beautiful as their mother, were simply waiting to be born. A co-worker of mine has already offered to take me to buy a gun.

It's funny how this has changed my perception of what life will be like in the years to come. Aside from lots of purple and pink, there will be braids and Barbies, teapots and teaspoons. But still one (or both) might decide that a basketball uniform is more for her than the cheerleading outfit. We can only wait and pray.

As for their names, we have decided on Madelyn and Maleah. We've not decided on middle names yet, but Madelyn's will most likely be Rayne.