Twin grand babies arrived, and we moved

So much has happened in the past six weeks and we haven't come up for air yet!   

Kaela's twins were born at 34 weeks last month, somewhat earlier than expected!  She and Joe are proud happy and very tired parents! 

Amelia Anne, and Eleanor ("Ellie") Marie 

They needed help with breathing and feeding and spent several weeks in the hospital (first in one high level NICU in Chapel Hill, then transferred to another NICU closer to home), which was an education for all of us.  Capable wonderful nurses. Each day brought highs and lows.  They were never in danger, but it was a daunting few weeks, with Kaela and Joe trying to balance time at the hospital with time home with big sister Charlotte.  

When parents are visiting their babies, they are encouraged to handle as much of the babies' care as they'd like to.  I think this helps with the transition home. 

Kaela taking a photo before leaving for the night.  This was a few days before the babies came home! 

Once the babies were breathing and feeding on their own, we knew they'd be coming home soon.  The nurse showed Kaela a good way to give the babies a "swaddle bath" -  They look so much bigger in photos! 

It was all hands on deck for the first couple weeks.  Feeding, washing bottles, burping, changing, laundry, meals.... big sister Charlotte, the two dogs.... it is just such a busy household and Kaela and Joe are doing great.  Joe has a lot of parental leave which is such a blessing. 

Amelia all wrapped up in pink: 

Their neighborhood, together with the Relief Society at church, organized a "meal train" - which was so very much appreciated!  They also got delicious meals from cousins and aunties;).  

Southern hospitality, truly! 

Then, Tommy and his darling girlfriend Camille came in to town from Utah, followed by Joe's Mom.  Meanwhile there were helpful visits from aunties and cousins too. 

During this same time, David and I moved from our rental into our townhome.  If you have ever moved, you know how exhausting it is.  

Before moving in, we had the interior freshly painted, and new carpet put in.  New fridge delivered.  New washer and dryer delivered.  All of these purchases required research, decisions, coordination.  I'm real happy with the paint.  It's the first time that we've had professionals paint rooms. 

It has been a challenge to figure out where to put things in our cozy space.  I have happily brought several boxes to Goodwill, and I have three more ready to go on Monday.  My last frontier is the bonus room upstairs - half of which will be my sewing area!  Did I mention I just have TOO much stuff? 

I will say it's been really fun to open up our sea shipment boxes from Japan!  This pretty much sums it up: 

I was just finishing writing this blog post last night and we lost power!  Remnants of Hurricane Ian.  We got out our portable phone chargers, ate crackers, fruit, and peanut butter by candlelight for dinner.  Listened to a fun Mindy Kaling Audible memoir.  Opened a window for fresh air and slept under three quilts.  This morning, power went back on!  We now have a better idea of what's needed in a hurricane situation.  

Now it's Saturday morning, we have power again, and we are doing a toddler-proof scramble so that Kaela and Joe can bring Charlotte and the babies here (they are still without power). 

Will I ever quilt again?  I hope so.  :)

xo

Cynthia 

p.s.  I have to mention this - my Grandma name was Marmee..... but let's face it, it sounds exactly like Mommy in a toddler's voice.... so.... Gram it is;).  I feel awkward about changing it AGAIN  but it just didn't seem right to continue with Marmee!