The Bergs

winter shminter

2012-02-05T20:37:00.000-06:00

Am I the only one who thinks that the more children you have, the more winter sucks? Wow am I anxious to be able to let the kids run around outside! We have five thousand toys, and we're sick of them all. So instead of playing, you can be sure that the twins are busy finding something to get in to. Last week they focused on vaseline and this week I'd say it was markers. In fact, now that Everleigh is really mobile, she makes her way to the dog food and water any chance she can get. OH, and for real...trying to keep small things away from Ever might be harder than nursing twins!! Well, a close second anyway. Wow she is fast, and wow do the kids leave a lot of crap laying around that she can get to. Today alone I pulled these items out her of mouth: (and these are the ones I saw!) a sticker, a bandaid (I'm not quite sure if it was used or not), one mac n cheese noodle, dog food, bead, rock (from one of Paisley's many rock "aclection's") and a magnet. Yep. I'm pretty proud of the fact that we diverted a potential disaster a few hundred times today. Whew! I wish they made stilts for babies. I would totally buy those. That way she could just crawl above the disaster that IS our house!

This week, the kiddos did get to play outside once, we went to the mall to play, and had a play date. We colored, played tag in the house and watched Elmo movies too many times! Paisley got her hearing re-checked (she failed twice at her 4 year old check up) and her tests came back just fine! I actually think she was scared of the nurse who administered the test...so we're glad she can hear. Now listening, that's a different story. :)
Paisley and I also attended Amy's family baby shower...and we cannot wait for baby Reiter to arrive!! 9 weeks, but who's counting?!

And...some photos from our week...

Madden is so gentile with Everleigh, and is always trying to help!

Paisley has been joining Craig in some jam sessions. If H&M begin to play soon, I may find myself in the basement...and that's where the exercise equipment is...which is saying a lot. ;)

Not only is Everleigh crawling everywhere, she is trying to stand up--she wants to so bad!

Paisley and friend, Avaya had a blast together. They started off with an intense game of air hockey and finished the night off with the best session of Just Dance you've ever seen. Picture a 4 year old, 3 year old and 3 almost two year olds trying to follow the moves...it was SO funny!

And there she goes. Poor Oscar isn't safe from anyone anymore.

Paisley and Amy at the shower...

Fact about me. I am not a breakfast eater. Nor am I a breakfast cooker. It's only a few times a year that Craig is home on the weekends with us, and when he is...he cooks. Good stuff like pancakes and bacon and hashbrowns and stuff. But today, I made pancakes for the kids...and even Everleigh ate them! She's so big! She's been eating little pieces of cheese, green beans, toast, bananas...and can dominate an entire graham cracker in no time. Time, please slow down now.

As I finish writing this blog, I just have to brag a little...Paisley said, "what are you writing? I wish I could type fast and I wish I could read." So I said, I'll write a word and we can practice reading it. Then I wrote "cat"-- and Paisley said, "that says CAT"...so I wrote "bat"...and she sounded that out too. And then did it with "sat" and "fat" too! She then asked for more!! To which I obviously said....I'm typing the blog hunny...I'll help you read in a bit. Does that make me a terrible mother? I think I just chose writing my blog over helping my just 4 year old learn to read. Hmmm. The truth is, she was just stalling bedtime, right?!

Thanks for checking in! Also, a little warning-- I am having a major itch to write a new blog. Stay tuned. :)

~Brook

Four on the GO

2012-01-29T20:12:00.002-06:00

We've got FOUR children on the move. Yep, Everleigh Calla is crawling. One day, she crawled up to the DVD player and turned off the Elmo movie the twins were watching. They screamed and cried. So, I turned it back on. Two minutes later, she was back at it, and turned it off again. I'm not so sure I am ready for her to be this mobile!!

We've got lots of pictures to share. I guess when I said last week that I would try harder to take some pictures, I followed through!

If you follow my 365 blog, you've already heard....Madden took my bronzer and dumped it on our bed, and pretty much bathed in it. Good times. The next day, the twins got into a tub of vaseline at G&G Berg's, and the following night, the canister from the vacuum.

G&G Moe took the whole fam, minus mom who was working, to the Children's Museum! Fun!! Then Miss P had a sleepover with Grandma and Grandpa too!

I'm not kiddin' when I say Evers is growing TOO fast. She's starting to stand on her own too! Leaning on something, of course!

Well, that's it. I know, just basically pictures this week. I'm tired. Really tired. By the time the kids are in bed I want to collapse. Unfortunately, the house doesn't clean itself, and every night I have work to do for the college courses I teach. Blah.
Here's hoping I have more energy to write more next week. Or maybe you're thinking, thank God she didn't ramble on and on this week! :) Whatever the case...see you then.
~The Bergs

seven months

2012-01-22T20:55:00.001-06:00

Everleigh Calla is growing faster than we can even keep up with. Our tiny baby just isn't so tiny. She's already 7 months old! Before we know it, we'll be celebrating her first Birthday! Everleigh is SO close to crawling. She already has it down, moving backwards--and can move forwards in an actual crawl a few inches. I'm sure within the next few days she'll be a crawler. And like Paisley says, "then we're in trouble!"
Our big girl eats three meals a day, with bottles in between. She is getting pretty good at a sippy cup, and her pincer grasp is great. She has eight, yes, eight teeth. And as you can see here...she can even eat crackers on her own now! As long as she can see us, she's happy!

Once and a while she puts on a show for us, just to fit in.

The twins have been attached at the hip lately. I mean, they always play together, but lately, they go no where without each other. We've been talking more and more about the potty. They don't yet have all of the readiness signs, but we're getting there. They think they're pretty cool sitting together, even when fully clothed!

They are both really good eaters. And even though it looks the opposite from the pictures, Madden is much messier than Hudson. At the end of this meal, Hudson had mixed his fruit smoothie with his stir fry and ate it like that. Sick.

And nothing much is new with Miss P. She still wears dress up clothes 75% of the time, loves playing her leap pad, drawing and dancing. And lately, she also loves to take whatever her brothers have...and stir up trouble. A few Paisleyisms...

After hearing "mommy, mommy, mommy, mommy, mommy...I yelled, UGH, I don't want to be mommy right now. Paisley says, "do you just want to be Brook?" I said, "yes. yes I do, just for one day." So when Craig got home from work, she proceeded to tell him, "daddy, mommy just wants to be Brook for one day. Okay?!"

Grandma Bonnie came to spend the night so that I could go to a girls weekend get-a-way for one night (Craig had to work at 2am)-- Grandma was going into the bathroom to change and Paisley said, "Grandma, can I come in there with you? I promise I won't laugh!"

When leaving the Lokkens house after a play date, we had this conversation" "Mommy, was daddy in your belly?" No, Paisley, he was in Grandma Bonnie's belly. "Oh. Well mom, I wish I would have been in auntie Melissa's belly and then you and daddy and hudson and madden and everleigh could live close to us and I could drive to visit you in uncle Cal's truck." (great. so basically you wish you lived with the Lokkens and that Melissa was your mom.)

"Mom, just so you know, I am totally prettier than you. You are pretty too, but I'm the prettiest. I even wear vaseline on my lips."

I've been terrible at snapping pictures of the kids lately. Typically, I have a hundred or so to choose from each week. For the last couple of weeks, what you're seeing is what I've taken. The twins are on the move and run from the camera, Everleigh blinks with the flash and just rolls all over, and Paisley gives me the most "cheeeeeesiest" face ever that very few of hers turn out. Right now, Oscar the best chance of me getting a good picture!

It's cold here. Really cold. The older I get, the more I hate winter. I cannot wait for life without coats, mittens or hats, warming up the van or cabin fever.
~Brook

Out of the mouth of babes

2012-01-15T20:43:00.000-06:00

Just a few captions by kids today...

Yah. I know I'm wearing my undies on the outside. I just wanted Brobee to see I match him. So what.

Eh, so what's up? Nah, just sitting in my baby sister's exersaucer, callin up some ladies.

Warm water and bubbles make me soooooo happy.

And BOOM! There's nothing better than crashing into the cushions on a cold, winter day!

You can't see us. Mom? Dad? Nope, they can't see us. You're right, dude!

It takes hard work to dominate this.

I just want to be like my grandpa Mike...goatees are cool.

Tilt my head. Bat my eyes. Look at the camera. CHEEEEESE.

My monchichi means more to me than you'll ever understand. Kisses all around.

Don't you wish you were a twin?!

Smile One...

Smile Two...

Smile Three...

Just Playin'

2012-01-08T20:57:00.000-06:00

My role in my children's lives consists of so many things. Disciplinarian, boo boo kisser, cook, maid, round the clock snuggler, and now, blogger. I hope some day they appreciate it and aren't like, "seriously mom?! Why would you do that to us?!"So...until they are old enough to tell me to stop; I'm going to keep on keepin' on.

Throughout all of the pushing and screaming and crying and fighting, the kids really do play well together.

Good news! Craig forced Hudson to go outside! And...he actually liked it! Weird! :) I love this next picture of the twins. They were loving them some snow-food.

We've only seen the beginning, but it's starting already...Everleigh is able to move juuuuust enough to snatch up the twins toys. And they do not like it one bit. Reason number 527 not to have your kids super close together. The twins just don't understand. So until they do, this should be fun.

Nice. All I can say is, nice, Paisley.

It was time for the boys to get hair cuts, so Craig and I tag teamed. What this means, is that Craig did most of it and I criticized the way he did it the entire time. And then I'd take the scissors and take a few snips, and then he'd go back to cutting, and I'd go back to telling him he was doing a terrible job. Isn't that nice? But in the end, the boys ended up with decent hair cuts (I know you're dying inside, Mary...sorry!). I'd prefer to just take them somewhere next time, but free tastes so much better.

(and no, this isn't the finished product. I promise, it looks pretty good. :) )

Hudson hates haircuts. After he sat on my lap and ate a sucker he did better, but still isn't a fan.

It's quite dry here in the Midwest, so it's a good idea to lather up in Vaseline from time to time. You might as well use up the entire extra large container over the course of two days as well. And if you miss your actual skin, and get it like, all over the floor, chairs, counter, garbage can, etc...it sure does lube everything up. Stinkers!!

Enjoy your week,
~The Bergs

Twenty Twelve

2012-01-01T21:18:00.000-06:00

2012. Wow. It's 2012! Happy New Year, blog followers!

This week's post is ~~all~~ mostly about Miss P. The big 4 year old celebrated her big day...but first...

Everleigh does really well with food. But here, I think the food won.
(Also, my 6 month old now has 6 teeth. And is scooting and turning all over. She's too big!)

Thursday night we (all) went to cheer Paisley on at her very first half-time performance! I cannot explain how much she's been looking forward to this. She was so proud of herself, and we were proud parents too. Thanks to those who came to watch, it meant so much to her!

Just about to head out on the floor....

There she is...way on the left hand side. The one whose shirt looks like a dress because she's so small! :) Her class is the 4K/5K class, so she the youngest by several months.

Makyah also performed at the same game!

Like I've mentioned before, Hudson loves to dress up. He also loves to do my hair. And I guess he likes it when Paisley does his too. He just kept saying, "pretty"! :)

And smiles from Ever...

The twins, OH, the twins. It's always something. And I really mean always. I know, toddlers are a lot of work. But these two, they make me tired the second I get them up in the morning. They also make us laugh more than any other boys we know. I mean, who doesn't love a nice, warm bubble bath??!!

Miss P celebrated her 4th Birthday this weekend!! Before we get to the pictures...let me tell you about our Paisley Rian.

At her doctor appointment, we learned that Paisley is 35 pounds (53 percentile) and is 39.17 inches tall (36 percentile). She is off the charts for development, as I am positive she would have passed that developmental screener when she was 3! We did however find out that she didn't pass her hearing test. So, we'll be going back for further testing. I've never ever questioned it before, so we'll see....

Paisley is also still receiving speech services through the school district. On Wednesdays she visits Miss Jackie for 1/2 hour. And the best news, Paisley's speech is now developmentally appropriate! The errors she makes are now common for kids her age. She still has troubles with certain sounds, but has made significant improvements and is understood by others about 80% of the time! A far cry from the 30% just a year ago!

Paisley loves: singing, dancing, drawing, writing, dressing up, and doing pretend play.
Her favorite foods are: Mac n cheese, edemame, hard salami and cottage cheese.
Her favorite saying: "How do you know?!"

My conversation with Paisley this evening:
What kind of kid are you? A big kid and I can do jokes now.
What are your favorite things to do as a 4 year old? Play dress up and easy bake oven.
Who are your friends? Lydia, Cambree, Makyah, Cody, Payton and Izzy.
What are you good at? Drawing, Dancing, Playing Easy Bake Oven, Playing Games and Playing Dress Up.
What do you want to be when you grow up? A blue flag girl dancer.
Who do you want to marry when you grow up? You, mommy!
Who is our president? Izzy my pretend dog.
What do you think about our family? I love it.
What do you want to work on by the time you are 5? Just Dance 3.
What are the major issues facing our society? I don't know what that is mom.
What do you love most about the twins? Playing together in their cribs.
What do you love most about Everleigh? Playing with her.
What do you love most about me? Cooking, that's it. You get one thing.
What do you love most about Daddy? Rocking with him when I can't sleep and that's it.
Tell me about yourself- I'm a four girl.

Celebrating her Birthday...

Her first time cooking in her easy bake oven....

And that wraps up 2011. And to be honest, I'm glad. 2012 is a new year, and hopefully a fresh start. If I think back hard enough, I believe that my resolution was to judge people less...and I think I've done a pretty good job. Still plenty of room for improvement, it's not as easy as it sounds. This year, I need to get healthy. All around. Find some healthy ways to handle my stress. Get more sleep. Exercise more. Blah blah blah.

Another goal of mine....to take one picture every single day for the entire year. The picture will be of whatever I want. Whatever I am feeling. Whatever I am into. Whatever my day brings. I know, I know....my resolution was to get more sleep, NOT do another blog. But, here goes nothing. Follow my 365 here or visit the tab at the top of our family blog.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope that whatever you're dreaming of for 2012 comes true. And my new favorite motto that I'm living by.... Dreams don't work unless you do.

~Brook

Paisley is 4 | Christmas

2011-12-26T21:12:00.000-06:00

Six month appointment, check. Everleigh weighed in at 15 pounds 12 ounces (42nd percentile). I thought going in to the appointment that she would be our chunkiest. I was wrong. Hudson beat her by a pound! :) She is 25.9 in long (53 percentile) and her HC was 42.5 cm (46th percentile). She's a healthy, happy baby!

I've mentioned before that I totally despise rough-housing. I still do. The boys, however, love it. Thank goodness for daddies!

Paisley had her last dance practice this past week. She will be performing her routine this week at a Blugold game! Here she is with her friend, Lydia. Paisley even went over to Lydia's house for a play date last week-- her very first play date at a friends house without mommy there. When I went to pick her up, she acted like she owned the place, so I think she warmed right up. We're looking forward to having Lydia over to our zoo sometime soon!

And then...we went to visit Santa Clause. Just enter a big SIGH right here. We stood in line for 45 minutes. The kids were actually really good...except when Madden ate someone else's snack off of their stroller (LOL)....

And then it was our turn. Poor Santa. It took extra enforcement to get the kids near Santa. And this is how it went. The girls loved him. The boys...not so much.

And then the Christmas celebrations began!!!

Christmas Eve we spend with my side of the family, Christmas day with Craig's. This year I ~~asked~~ forced my family to all be in one picture! Sad that all of the pictures are blurry though!!

Really what my family looks like...

Knowing I have 4 squirrly kids, I wasn't expecting a good picture. But I was expecting a picture. First we got Madden on the couch....

...but he got down. So, we put Hudson up there....

...and ended up with Paisley and Everleigh. :)

December 25th is a pretty special day in every ones house....but even more special in ours. It's Paisley's Birthday too!! We woke up, opened gifts from Santa, played, had breakfast, played, and then headed over to G&G Bergs for more celebrating!! We topped off the day with Paisley's Birthday gifts and celebrated her 4th Birthday!

Our little guy, Oscar Miller isn't the only doggy anymore! My Grandma recently got toy poodle, Boo and the Lokken's got a Maltese named Izzy. There isn't anything cuter than a teeny tiny puppy!!

Oscar, the wise old dog...

Boo, the shy poodle...

Izzy, the fluffy white pup...

And more pictures from Christmas/Birthday...

I love that Ever and the new, talking, dancing toy are having a stare down. Pretty sure Everleigh won.

Paisley LOVES "Just Dance 3" --Sleeping Beauty, Tinkerbelle and Cinderella have all participated too.

We are looking forward to celebrating Paisley's birthday again next weekend...but Happy birthday, big girl. I hope that you always know how much you are loved!

We had a really nice Christmas. Each year, I try my best to focus on what really matters. Don't get me wrong, I want to buy my kids whatever I can...and I love the silly traditions that go along with Christmas. But. The last two months have been especially hard on our family. We've been facing lots of challenges. It's really hard being a grown up. It's hard to know that when life has its downs, it too, will have it's ups. Over Christmas, with every hug and kiss, I thanked the Lord for my family. I really did. Every single time. Because in the end, that's all that matters. I'm thankful that Christmas has forced me to believe that he has a plan. I'm ~~kind of~~ a control freak, and for once, I'm going to let him take the lead. There is so much I don't understand. And again was reminded of that a few hours ago when we got a devastating phone call that at just 59, Craig's Godfather, Marv passed away. We are so sad...and we will never forget. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but we're left with memories that no one can steal.

Faith makes things possible, not easy. Merry Christmas, with love, from the Bergs.

Naughty List

2011-12-18T20:52:00.003-06:00

That's right. Put me on the naughty list. I hardly took a single picture this week. Bad mama.

The good news...Everleigh Calla is now 6 months old!!

Some fun facts about Everleigh:

Everleigh rolls from tummy to back and back to tummy.
She sits on her own for really long periods of time. No need for pillows or a boppy behind her anymore!
She has 4 teeth (two on top, two on bottom)
She is beginning to use her pincer grasp a bit and can pick up small objects (but usually misses her mouth)
She gets so excited to see mama and daddy!
Everleigh loves to laugh and squeal.
Has started to use a sippy cup a bit.
Everleigh gets up around 7:30am, naps again from 10:00-11:00, again from 1:30-2:30 and sometimes takes a short cat-nap around 5. Then, she hits the hay for the night at 7:30. She doesn't get up to eat in the middle of the night, but we do have to go in to give her the nuk about 5 times a night.
She has a mean grip and can pinch cheeks and pull hair like no other!
Ever eats a fruit and cereal for breakfast and veggies for dinner. Mmmm. She loves baby food!
She still has blue eyes! :)
Ever loves to snuggle, rock, eat toys and play peek-a-boo!

Personally, I (and have since the beginning) do not think that Everleigh looks like the other three kiddos. Everyone thinks she looks like Madden. They do have the same nose, but beyond that...I can't see it. If anything, I think she looks like Hudson. But...see for yourself... Paisley, Hudson and Madden at 6 months.

So I didn't lie. The only other pictures I took the whole week are here. Ready, set, GO.

The twins taking a bath. Splish splashing until everything is drenched!

Haley came to watch all four kids, ALONE! Something we only typically put Grandmas through! :) BUT, she did great! The kids were happy, fed, and my house was cleaner than when I left. We <3 Haley!

And for the first time in, oh... nearly a year??? ....Paisley let me do her hair in something other than a bun!

The end. Of the pictures. Sad, I know. However, read on for 30 Random Berg-facts

1) Paisley will not sleep with a blanket on her.
2) Madden and Everleigh have noses that produce a ton of buggers. Paisley and Hudson do not.
3) Paisley was born with a hemangioma on her cheek. The doctor said it would likely be gone by kindergarten, and it's hardly visible anymore.
4) Craig randomly sings songs from the past and nobody (not even he) can understand why he was thinking of that song. The most common ones are: "This is how we do it" and "Chang Gang".
5) Hudson is obsessed with anything related to diapers.
6) Everleigh was the one to sleep through the night the fastest. Paisley was 10 months old before she slept through the night even one time.
7) Whenever we turn on to Londa's street, Hudson yells, "Nonda!"
8) Brook sits with a space heater on her lap anytime she is in the living room. She burned out two last winter alone.
9) Hudson is very sensitive.
10) Craig does 75% of the laundry in our house.
11) Paisley is sounding out words in books already.
12) Everleigh's first name has meaning while the other children's middle names have meaning.
13) Paisley freaks if she thinks someone is going to eat all of the edemame.
14) We change over 20 diapers a day.
15) We have a king size bed. Oscar takes up 80% of it.
16) Craig hates talking about work when he gets home from work.
17) Brook needs to talk about work to unwind when she gets home.
18) Madden's obsession with Elmo has escalated every single day for the last couple of weeks.
19) We run our dishwasher 1-2 times every day.
20) Paisley has saved approximately $6.00 to go to Disney World.
21) Hudson prefers fruit over anything.
22) Paisley is particular about how many ice cubes she has in her water. But it's never the same number.
23) When we sing songs to the kids, Craig always starts with "Take me out to the ballgame" and Brook always starts with " 6 Little Monkeys".
24) Madden is deathly afraid of DJ Lance from Yo Gabba Gabba. And Hudson pretends to be.
25) Music and dancing always make us smile.
26) Brook dreads cleaning up on spaghetti night.
27) Hudson loves to wear high heels.
28) When you're 100% sure that Everleigh is poopy. She isn't. The girl is tricky.
29) "Put it up, mom, this is our favorite song!" is what Paisley yells no matter what song comes on the radio.
30) These thirty random facts will likely no longer be facts come 2012. Life changes in a blink of an eye here. It keeps us on our toes and life interesting.

Happy 6 months, Everleigh. Happy Birthday Makyah. Happy Random Thoughts. And Happy Blogging.

~ Brook , Craig, Paisley, Hudson, Madden, Everleigh & Oscie

Also, it's really fun when your oldest childhood friend has an amazing talent, and she photographs your best friend's wedding. Check out the life & style blog post titled 'Amy and Matt' to see how beautiful and talented my friends are!

Picture Happy

2011-12-11T19:23:00.001-06:00

My camera was pretty much in my hand all week long. Lots of stuff going on and lots of pictures to prove it. Here we go!

We got a sneak peak of Paisley's routine. She loves going to dance class. And I love going too. :)

After dance class, Paisley and I buzzed over to watch Makyah and Cambree's Christmas program. I'd have to say the triangle sounded amazing and the dancer was wonderful!

This week we also did a little "in the house ice skating". Yup, we put wax paper on our feet and skated around the living room! We only had one digger (to no surprise it was Hudson)...and all had fun skating indoors.

Everleigh loves to eat faces. Especially cheeks. Maybe it's because I kiss on her cheeks and neck all day long. Here, Madden was for dessert.

And Evers is sitting aaaaaalll by herself now! She's rolling all the way across the living room, turning herself around and is too much my baby to be this mobile already!

They say twins have a bond unlike anything you will ever know. Unless, of course you are a twin. Hudson and Madden look out for each other, help each other out and love playing together. And even though their personalities are very different, they are best buds.
But this is what it looks like when one of them is in the rocking chair and doesn't feel like sharing.

And in an instant...the pushing, screaming, crying and whining turns into pure laughter and happiness. They rock and rock and rock together.

Watching these two is one of my greatest joys in life.

And the giggles continue. I think Miss P is like her mama...when she is tired, everything is funny!

Not growing up with any siblings myself, I am so fascinated by the relationship brothers and sisters have. Sometimes I feel like I'm playing house-- it seems unreal that I have four children. I can't really even explain how fun it is for me to watch them interact. And even thought they fight. A lot. They also love each other to the moon and back.

The three big kids worked on a little Santa project.

And while the kiddos cut, colored and glued, the munchkin ate some puffs. :)

And although you can't see it here, one of Everleigh's top teeth popped through! 3, 3, we've got 3!

The twins are more and more into coloring and less and less into eating the crayons. I heart coloring, so I am looking forward to sitting down to color with everyone without constantly monitoring the counter tops and teeth for traces of crayon. We're getting there!

Today we celebrated our God daughters 9th, yes 9th Birthday. She is such a kind hearted young lady! Happy Birthday Makyah Grace!

Celebrating means all the Berg cousins are together! Yay! I think it's pretty good that we were able to set the kids on the couch, stand back, and shoot a few pictures before they ran off! From the left-- Hudson, Makyah, Madden, Paisley, Everleigh, Cambree, Payton, Cody.

And Ever just loved playing with the paper and bags. Never fails.

Whew. We had a really busy week and it doesn't look like it's slowing down in the near future! So, until next time...
Bergie. Out.

Winter Wonderland

2011-12-04T15:48:00.001-06:00

Another week has come and gone. The kids are growing, the snow is falling and I am becoming more and more behind on Christmas shopping. Oh, you don't care about that? Just the kids? Okay...

Little Everleigh Calla isn't so little. At 5 1/2 months she's sitting on her own for a minute or so, eating lots of nummy baby food and even chewing on some apple. She loves when her sister and brothers talk to her, and she wants to eat anything and everything. Her favorites at the moment: mommy and daddy's cheeks, her hands and feet, toys, and bibs.

Hudders....oh, Hudders. Lately you will find Hudson typically wearing high heals, a headband and jewelry while carrying around his babies. He's getting in touch with his feminine side. :) Both he and Madden are also taking their clothes off on their own now--which really isn't fun. It takes me long enough to get everyone in the house dressed. So when I turn around and see that I have to do it all over again (and be at daycare in 10 minutes) I'm not real happy.

This weekend, Paisley and I made some cookies. Hudson and Madden sat at the counter and "helped". And by helped, I mean I continuously yelled at them to stop touching the melting chocolate, to put down the knife, to get their fingers out of the peanut butter and to stop picking the sprinkles off! Finally Craig said from the other room, "Brook, you should hear yourself!" --- deep breath, deep breath. They are only cookies. Who cares.....right?!!?

As you can see, Paisley was sure to get enough chocolate on, and sprinkles too! Wowzers!

In our household, the kiddos hit the hay around 7:30. It's that time when we pick up the tornado that had been powering through the 12 hours before. It's the time that we prepare for work for the next day, check facebook, and sometimes, Craig and I even get to mutter a few words to each other before one of us heads up to bed. Sometimes. But it never fails, whomever is the first to head to bed says to the other, "when you come to bed, look at ____". Number one, the kids are just SO cute. And number two, they sleep in the weirdest positions and have the silliest things in bed with them!

And from the next picture you will notice Madden's obsession with Elmo has not slowed down. He literally whines to watch Elmo movies all day long. It's terribly annoying and cute in the same manner.

This weekend, winter reared it's ugly head. And really, it's only ugly when you are a parent. It's SO much work to get kids bundled up, just to get into a warm car. And it's so ugly when the kids have played with every toy in the house and they (and you!) are dying to run around outside. BUT...this weekend, the snow fell perfectly on the trees...and stuck. It was anything but ugly.

The kids were really excited to see it in the morning. Paisley just kept saying, "wow, it really is beautiful out"

So with the first snowfall comes the first time gearing up to play in it!! Yay!! Well....Yay for everyone except Hudson. After a 10 minute struggle, Hudson's parents decided it wasn't worth it, and he stayed inside with his mommy and baby sister.

But Madden absolutely loved every last second of it.

Hope your home is beginning to resemble a winter wonderland too!

G'Night,

Brook, Craig, Paisley, Hudson, Madden, Everleigh & Oscie

Give Thanks

2011-11-28T20:43:00.001-06:00

We have so much to give thanks for...

Thanksgiving day we spent eating, chatting, laughing, watching the Packers win and eating. And, we ate. Hudson and Madden both wanted to cook with Grandma.

Everleigh was just happy being held. See her teeth?! :)

Paisley and Aunt Karen dominated the Tinkerbell puzzle...

And we played outside (notice how Grandma has the kid's names painted on the play fort)

Ever smiled...

And for dinner, ate her fist...

Paisley snuggled with Uncle Larry...

And with cousin Joel...

It was a wonderful thanksgiving! On the way home, we stopped by G&G Bergs house to see them. We stayed to chat, took some leftovers, packed up and headed home. Just as we pulled in the garage, my phone rang. I saw that it was Craig's mom...I was like, oh no, what did we forget?! And she said, "do you mean, WHO did you forget?"---- OH CRAP. We forgot OSCAR!! Poor guy. Thankfully, Grandpa went to put the garbage out and saw the little guy. Yep, it happened. Hey! At least we didn't forget a kid!

Hard core playin' can tucker a girl right out...

And when I ask the kids to get Everleigh a few toys to play with, they take it pretty seriously...

As quickly as Thanksgiving came and went, that means it's almost Christmas! Time for a freshly cut, yummy smelling Frasier.

Decorating...

It didn't take long before Hudson threw a big bulb like he was pitching in the world series. Crash. Glass everywhere.

And Christmas time also means Birthday time in this household. And so the countdown begins! For Paisley's Birthday tree, her 4 year ornament is a pair of ballet slippers! (year 1 was a sock monkey, year 2 was Dora, year 3 was Tinkerbell)

Big sisters are great. Except when they teach your not quite two year old how to get out of his crib!!!???!! UGH. Now what???!!

The weekend ended by celebrating my very best friend, Amy's wedding! We are so happy for you and Matt-- Congratulations!!

Thank you for stopping by to read our family blog, even if it is a day late! :)

~The Bergs

You may have noticed

2011-11-20T19:57:00.001-06:00

You may have noticed...That in many of the pictures we post, our house is messy. Yup, it's like a daycare center that never closes around this joint. I got home from work one evening, went upstairs and saw this... gulp. Everleigh had fallen asleep in Craig's arms so he just let the kids play in their room. Alone.

You may have also noticed that Paisley loves to dance. So last week she was more than excited to join Danz Kraze-- a pom and funk style dance studio. She's the youngest in the class, so I hope she can keep up! (She's in the baby blue leo)

You may have noticed that we have twin boys. Boys who are almost two. They fight. A lot. It seems totally crazy and unrealistic to have two of everything...but wow, 99% of the time I wish we did!

You may have noticed that I talk about Miss P being ~~slightly~~ strong-willed. This week Craig went out to hang Christmas lights up. We all bundled up and joined him outside. Except Miss Paisley Rian had her own agenda. She was insistent on wearing a skirt, flip-flops and no jacket. It was, oh, about 40 degrees out. I begged and pleaded, and then...did what any mom who uses natural and logical consequences did. Yep, I let her wear it. About 2 minutes after being outside, she was huddled up on the grass tugging at her skirt. Weird. She was cold. I'm shocked she lasted as long as she did, but about 15 minutes later she went in and got some tights on.

Thankfully, my children still have a father and I still have a husband. Ugh, I don't know why I watch...scary!

You may have noticed that in several of the pictures I post of Paisley that she has "red stuff" around her mouth. Since the poor thing was 2 months she has suffered with severe skin issues. This, is just one of them. We have prescription medication for it, but it flares up at least once a week. I so wish I could rid of her of all of her skin and allergy issues.

You may have noticed that my children climb on everything. There isn't a surface they haven't climbed on. Here, I walked in to two dogs panting on my counter top.

You may have noticed that we have a fourth child who is growing up extremely fast. She is squirming out of her bumbo seat already, nearly sitting on her own, eating sweet potatoes and green beans, and holy is she drooling a lot. I am confident she is getting ready to sport some new teeth...ah teething...~~love~~ hate relationship!

That's it for tonight. Mama had a night out with the girls last night, and my bed is yelling my name! Nothing like a night out to remind me of my age.....

~ Brook & fam

Random

2011-11-13T18:48:00.001-06:00

Just in case you were wondering...

This is what a weekly trip to the grocery store looks like in our household. Lots and lots of groceries. Don't judge me because I have plastic bags. I promise, we reuse them over and over.

As the title promises, this blog post is very random. Just a few snapshots of our week...

Our happy-go-lucky Evers...who is now sporting TWO pearly whites. Her sleep time is proof of those cute toofers too. Craig and I are in and out of her room a good ~~500~~ 20 times a night. But...she sure is cute!

I am absolutely in love with watching sisterly love....

Paisley earned enough reward rocks and chose to have a special day with mommy at the Children's Museum. She is seen here, climbing through the mouth--something she's been talking about for weeks!

Today we celebrated our niece, Payton's 2nd Birthday! Happy Birthday sweetie!!

And at the party, Madden played with great grandma. If she didn't laugh when he pressed the button, he hit her until she did.

And Hudson was just concerned with picking up everyones trash and throwing it away. He is also obsessed with this at home. It's a great obsession to have. The minute we change a diaper, Hudson scoops it up and throws it away...comes back and yells, TA DA!

After the party we stopped over to see baby Layla again! Here is my attempt at getting a picture of 5 BERG kids under 4 (no relation, just good friends with the same anniversary who both married Bergies)....

So instead, we go with the default, the oldest cheezin it up and the youngest along for the ride....

Thanks for following the randomness of our blog tonight!
Much love,
The Bergs

Halloween '11

2011-11-06T20:23:00.000-06:00

Our Halloween was fabulous. Minnie Mouse was more excited than you can even imagine, Bert & Ernie did surprisingly well and were content eating a sucker, and Lil Punkin loved the warmth of the house in her grandpa's arms...

Halloween 2011 was a success!!

Miss P is always making us laugh. Three of her recent Paisleyisms...

1) During our nightly dance party she says with her Berg-like scowl, "UGH! Mom, don't dance so rough!" (umm, okay?!...I was just dancing like I normally do!)

2) As she is eating breakfast I hear her singing, "Ring around the rosy, pocket full of asses."

3) Madden was crying--she says, "Madden, maybe you have a kangaroo sore on your butt because those really hurt!"

Gotta love her!

Last week I shared with you how obsessed Madden has become with movies. Now, it's just Elmo. Today I let him watch an Elmo movie...he begged to watch it again, so I gave in. The third time...I wasn't about to be that mom...so he cried and cried and cried at the TV. Paisley and Hudson were playing tea party in their "tent" that you see below. Poor dude, just wouldn't let it go...

And...our number four, as she was called for so long...is eating rice cereal. Pretty big girl! She wasn't very fond of it the first couple of days--and although she's a pretty messy eater, she's getting the hang of it now. Isn't blogging fun? You get to see all of the "firsts" too!

When I say that the twins get into everything, I promise you that I am not exaggerating at all. With Paisley, we could say "no" one or two times, and she usually got the hint. These wild n crazy guys were born without the ability to hear the word NO and they were also born with an innate trait to trash anything and everything possible.
I stand up to begin cleaning up dinner, turn around literally seconds later, and this is what I get....

Yup. Looks like a great idea to smear my yogurt all over the chair next to me. And it looks like a good time to get away with it too, because my brother is climbing on the counter and is about to start throwing things off....or dig in the drawers. I should be in the clear for a few more minutes...

And Everleigh Calla's very first tooth popped through this weekend!! Yay for teething!!
And she has also become very fond of her feet!

Hope you've enjoyed your play back montage of life at the Bergs!

Talk to you next week!

~Brook, Craig, Paisley, Hudson, Madden & Everleigh

Rolling, Rolling, Rolling...

2011-10-30T21:07:00.001-05:00

Houston, we've got a problem. Hudson and Madden have learned how to open doors. Those two now have access to pretty much everything. They've figured out the locks on the cabinets and drawers, know how to climb on to the counters, and now they know how to open doors. Dear Lord, can you hear me? Yes, it's me...again...yelling, HELP! Even though the twins are still into everything, life with them is getting a little easier. A little, friends, a little. They are understanding so much more, and using a lot of expressive language skills. It's not quite as frustrating, and now when we yell it's not because they don't understand, it's just because they aren't listening.

Madden has become completely and utterly obsessed with movies. I remember about 4 months ago, just after Everleigh was born I thought to myself, I just wish they (the twins) would sit down and watch tv, just for 10 minutes so I can go to the bathroom or feed Everleigh. Now-- I regret ever thinking that. From the minute Madden gets up until the minute he goes to sleep he wants the tv on. He's been carrying around this Elmo DVD case BEGGING to watch it. The bad news...he lost the actual movie. Can't find it anywhere. Poor thing just doesn't understand. He's slept with the movie case for three nights now. And of course, with Halloween upon us, we had to carve some pumpkins! (Or paint in Hudson and Madden's case. I don't even trust them near carving tools!)

Our baby isn't so babyish anymore. She's joining us in the high chair whilewe eat, and soon will be eating something herself! We are just switching toformula, so once her tummy has adjusted, we'll be scooping up some good ol'rice cereal!

And...she's a rolling machine. The stinker doesn't stay on her back at allanymore. The problem...she's not that fond of her tummy. She'll stay there fora short period of time, but then she lets us know that's not where she wants tobe.

All of the kids had colds this week-- Hudson is still hanging on to his abit. Nothing a few pounds of candy won't fix tomorrow though. It wasEverleigh's first time having a little bug. No fun for anyone.

Sunday, Haley came to hang out. She was missing the kiddos, and we weremissing her too! Paisley looks up to her so much...and honestly, if Paisleyturns out anything like Haley we will be so proud!

And late tonight, Grandma Brenda came to the rescue. Many nights (mornings,really)...Craig has to be to work at 2am. Therefore, he has to get to bedearly. I had groceries to buy, costumes to make, a party to prepare for, theblog to write, and still after all of that...a class to prepare for tomorrow.It was looking like I was going to head back to my college days and pull anall-nighter. And then...Grandma came to the costume rescue. What would I dowithout her? love you, mom! (and can you guess from the picture what Hudson'sgoing to be?)

I'd like to congratulate my good friends Emily and Scott on a healthy baby girl, Layla Louise! I got to hold little miss Layla when she was just a day old...precious!! We are so happy for you guys! XOXO

Well...time to run. Not literally, but run on to the next task. I mean, really. Do you think I have time to exercise?!! Happy Halloween, everyone! Check back next week to see what the Berg FOUR dressed up as!
~Brook

4 Fast Months, that's 4 sure.

2011-10-23T20:53:00.000-05:00

Happy 4 months, little Everleigh Calla!

At Everleigh's checkup, we learned that she weighs 13 pounds 7 ounces (41%) and is 22.83 inches long (5%).

Ever loves to be held and rocked. She can hold her own bottle now, and typically drinks 4-5 ounces every 3 hours. She goes to sleep around 8:30, and gets up once in the night to eat...somewhere between 3 and 5. She smiles every time she sees Paisley, loves playing with toys and batting at them over her head and most of all, loves chewing on everything! She has no interest in just laying anymore---she wants to be looking around and moving!

Hudson and Madden...they LOVE to rock. Actually, Hudson's lucky that Madden has been sharing with him, because if you are sitting there and get up...Mad Mike will jump up and steal that seat from you! I swear, he would rock all day if we let him. I'm just hoping that this is his soothing method, and that he grows out of it...

Getting a decent picture of any of the kids these days can be challenging. I'm researching some new cameras...maybe that will help?! :) Because this is what I've been getting lately...

While I had Everleigh at the doctor this week, I also spoke to him about Paisley's asthma attacks. They've been keeping her up, and causing day care to be concerned too. So, she now has an inhaler, as well as the nebulizer. Ugh. Stupid asthma and allergies. I feel just terrible for her. Constant skin issues, coughing, wheezing. I only pray she grows out of this junk!

Evers tipped over, but was totally okay with it. What a sweetie!

My almost four year old has been asking when dance is going to start up again for weeks now. I don't have the heart to tell her that it already started...but that my work schedule doesn't allow for me to take her. :( We're hoping that it will work out next session so that she can get back to her one true love (and maybe it's mine too?! :) ) ...because really...who just looks out the window like this? Toes pointed and everything?!

Most days our home is full of screaming and yelling and giggles and screaming and crying and giggles. This morning, the twins helped each other with the shape sorter. It is moments like these when having twins is amazing. This is also why I capture these moments...because we all know that 2.2 seconds later they were fighting over the circle.

Off to prep for another week. Thanks for stopping by...
~The Bergs

I am learning...

2011-10-16T20:49:00.002-05:00

Last week I failed Everleigh, this week, I fail the twins...especially Hudson. Sorry! I promise I do my very best to snap shots of all of the kids, but it's really difficult some weeks! In fact, I don't have many pictures at all...I do however, have lots to say. :)

First of all-- Mr. Madden. This lovable guy is giving us a run for our money. He is our, let's say, "active" one. And by active, I mean he's getting into trouble 50% of the day. But when we tell him NO, or try to do any type of discipline, he laughs and does it again. We've. Tried. Everything. SO...we now have a gate that separates our kitchen and laundry room. This is where Madden will go for 2 minutes when he --most likely-- pulls hair. We haven't had to use it...yet. We'll see if this affects the little bugger.

And the other strong-willed one in the family... She is now "earning reward rocks" ---which basically means that she has been a terrible listener, and we needed to implement something to encourage good behavior. So, when she listens well, she earns a rock. When the rocks get to the pink ribbon...she gets to choose to go to the movies, children's museum, library, water park, or something else she's dying to do. However...when she is not listening, bub-bye rocks. So far, it's worked like a charm!

Friday night, Craig and I participated in a scavenger hunt with our friends. It was SO fun! We broke into three teams and went around the town checking things off our list. I wish I could show you the pictures of the things we had to do, but, uh...this is a family blog. However, we do have team photos...my team, the Brewers, 2nd place...

And Craig's team, the Badgers...coming in dead last. Sorry, babe. (maybe)

There are two things miss Everleigh Calla wants to do these days. 1) Be held 2) Suck on her hands

I can't believe that tomorrow, Ever turns 4 months old!! In fact, just as I am writing this....she rolled over from her belly to her back for the first time! Of course, I missed it, as I a typing away--but Craig yelled from the other room. Yay, Evers!

Paisley and I went to a family fall PJ party at my work...

and Sunday, I had a baby shower to attend, so the Lokkens babysat all four kiddos for the first time. THANK YOU!!

Although the best part of our blog is catching up with the family, I kinda have a few things to say.
In my short 4 years of being a mom, I am learning so much...

I am learning... that the work/family balance is really hard. Pursuing a career and doing all you can to grow professionally doesn't work that well when you are thinking about living room dance parties and reading books with your children. I love making a difference in the lives of struggling families-- but not when my own family needs me too!

I am learning...That I cannot keep up with the groceries in the house. As I was shopping one week, the cashier said, "So, are you shopping for some special occasion?" I responded, "Nope, just our weekly trip to the grocery store" and then I was quick to say, "but I have four children at home."--- However, I purposefully didn't say that one of those four only drinks breast milk and that the other kids are 3 and under!" Hopefully she was thinking...wow, she looks young for having teenagers in her house! :) Which then makes me think about taking out a second mortgage to pay for groceries when the kids really are teenagers!

I am learning... That I never want dance parties in our living room to end. I will always, always, always remember how 5 out of 7 nights a week we crank the music, sing and dance. Sometimes the lights are off and we use flashlights for strobe lights, and sometimes if we don't "dance right", Paisley storms off in a tizzy...but that this is my favorite time of the night and will cherish it in my memory (and on video!) forever!

I am learning...that boy clothes are still really ugly. Someone, please design inexpensive boy clothes that do not have animals, trucks or cheesy saying on them!

I am learning...that I have a very helpful husband. Period.

I am learning...That I can't imagine my life without diapers. Diapers, diapers and diapers-- that's all we do!

I am learning... that it's really hard when people you don't want to influence your children, do. If only I could be in control forever....

I am learning...That I feel really lucky that I am educated on child development and positive parenting practices. This does not mean that I am a perfect parent, nor that I know everything there is to know. However, I am learning that most days I am really proud of the way I am raising my children.
I am also learning... that no matter how proud I am of how I am raising my children...someday they will blame me for everything. They will likely relate who they are to what I did. And that is scary!

I am learning...That I miss going out to eat. Being waited on is awesome.

I am learning...That I am really lucky. On the worst days, when my jobs are stressful and I can't seem to get a handle on life-- I have to think that we are all healthy and that we all love each other. It could be so much worse. I'm learning to keep myself in check.

I am learning...That the reason Craig takes so long in the bathroom is because that is the only place you can have respite. Sometimes that comes with banging on the door or hearing me yell, "UGH, what is your dad doing in there?!?!" but that it's the only place to have a moment alone.

I am learning ... that wresting and rough-housing irritates me, but that I'm going to have to get over it. It never ends well, so why even begin it?

I am learning...that raising children is the hardest job I will ever love. It's the most rewarding too. To watch Paisley become so caring--always asking, "how was your day, mom?" or saying, "I love my whole family" makes me so proud. Watching Hudson and Madden offer each other some of their snack-- or hearing them yell "MAMA" when I get home from work will never get old.

I am learning.... "It's not only children who grow. Parents do too. As much as we watch to see what our children do with their lives, they are watching us to see what we do with ours. I can't tell my children to reach for the sun. All I can do is reach for it, myself. "~Joyce Maynard

Good Night
XOXO,
Brook, Craig, Paisley, Hudson, Madden & Everleigh

Anniversabirthday

2011-10-09T20:34:00.000-05:00

It's Sunday. The weekends go by all too fast. Monday morning means back to work, back to the grind and back to missing my kiddos.

As I was uploading pictures today, I realized that I have one picture of Everleigh for the week. One. Isn't that terrible?? I try really hard to make the pictures of each child somewhat equal. This week--FAIL. So here is the one picture of my oh-so-big baby girl who brings toys to her mouth to chew on, drools, tries to hold her own bottle, loves to sit up and look around, and....zonk...

One very special guy in our lives had a birthday this week. When Paisley asked him how old he was, he said, "32". And in an excited voice she said, "and in one more year you'll turn 43!" :) We surprised Craig with a yummy guitar cake (no, I didn't make this. I cook, but I do not bake) and sang Happy Birthday to Daddy!!

We enjoyed the b.e.a.utiful weather and enjoyed the apple orchard.

We also have enjoyed bringing the kids to a nearby school's football field and saying, RUN, RUN, RUN!! They chase each other, tackle each other and best of all, tire each other out!

This is where Hudson's belly is...

And Maddens...a little more tricky to find, I guess.

Hudson loves some tickles. And here he is trying to tickle his lil bro.

And what would fall be without playing in leaves?

And as I sign off tonight, I'd like to wish my wonderful husband a Happy Anniversary! This time 7 years ago we were dancing and laughing with friends and family, celebrating our marriage. Never in a million years did I ever imagine that I would love you more today than the day we wed. And I do. As each one of the children were born, I literally fell in love with you all over again. We are all so lucky to have you, and if the last 7 years are any indication of what the next 7 will be like...crap...I'm hanging on for dear life. :) Just kidding!

Always~
B. Bergie

What is there to know?

2011-10-02T21:09:00.000-05:00

What's there to know about....
Hudson Koehler...

Hudson laughs. A lot. He is happy most of the time. Although, if you yell at him, he does cry. He's a sensitive little guy. Hudson has a lot of words, and is putting two of them together. My favorites are "hi, baby" and "all better". He loves jumping and doing whatever Paisley tells him to do.

What's there to know about...

Madden Michael...

Madden loves to rock. And by "likes", I mean he is completely obsessed with rocking. He begs for the tv on and then RUNS to the rocking chair, hops in and rocks and rocks and rocks. He also loves telephones. Mine. Craig's. Pretend phones. Whatever, he just likes phones. Tonight we tucked him in holding on to three phones for dear life. Madden is also quite mischievous. And if you scold him, he laughs and does it again--no matter how mad you are.

What's there to know about...

Paisley Rian...

Paisley loves to write and draw. Her three favorite things to do are: write/draw, dance and pretend play. Hmmm, she's not my daughter, is she? She is really into pop music and trying to sing the lyrics. We usually hear, "Every day I'm shufflin'"...but one day she sang to Craig, "I'm sexy and I know it" (might be time to monitor the music in the house/car!) Paisley is very interested in reading and already showing some pre-reading signs. She also promptly lets me know when I skip a sentence in a book. Shoot. We're there already! And Paisley is also obsessed with what the day of the week is, and often answers like this-- (I say...)"Paisley, you need to eat your peaches." "Mom, what day is it?" "It's Sunday." "Umm, Mom, I don't like peaches on Sundays."

What's there to know about...

Everleigh Calla...

Everleigh is a drooly little thing. She sucks and chews on anything and everything she can get to her mouth. She is finally in a sleeping routine. Ever giggles when she is ticked by her neck. She loves being outside and she loves kicking her legs. She is so close to rolling over and sits assisted.

What's there to know about...

The Bergs....

The Berg's life is crazy, fun, tiring, and full of love and laughs. The picture above was an attempt to get a family picture. HA. A family picture with 1 1/2 year old twins and a dog--see, it's the boys that are trouble-- isn't easy. Thanks, Emily for trying! And an even more accurate depiction of our family will be in your mailboxes in oh, about 2 months.

A little Blog-Bragging....So I hear Paisley saying her ABC's from the kitchen. She then yells out, "mom, how do I make a "J"? " So, I said, an "I" with a hook on the end. A few minutes later she says, "mom, how do you draw a "U"? So I showed her how to make a U, V and Z. Otherwise, this work is totally unprompted...all the work of my bright 3 1/2 year old. Pretty good if I do say so myself!

Maybe you read this blog every week. Maybe this is your first time here. Maybe you are a family member and see us every month. Whatever the connection to us, it's likely that you understand that we try our very hardest to keep a close eye on our children. However. It's simply just not possible to be with all of the kids at all times. Saturday, Everleigh was fussy. I was rocking her to calm her down. I was in the living room for, oh, about 5 minutes. It was somewhat quiet...as we know, never a good sign...so I went to check things out. This is what I saw. Hudson standing on the stools watching cartoons...and Madden, bouncing away on the counter, in Everleigh's seat. Seriously, Madden???!!!!

A special shout out and big THANK YOU to Great Aunt Ann for watching the kiddos two days this week! It's not an easy job, and we sure appreciate it!

Oh...and how great is it to be a WI sports fan this weekend?! Yeah, baby!!!

Thanks for checking in!

~Brook

The Blogless Blog

2011-09-25T20:37:00.000-05:00

A worn out and sick mama means a blogless blog this week. Here are pictures from our week...

(Girl's Party! All the boys were sleeping!)

(Can't get much cuter in jeggings)

(Ride Daddy, Ride)

(On a walk)

(Biking)

(After an up-all-night coughing fit and unable to breathe...a not so quick doctors visit confirms that Paisley has asthma.Typically stems from lots of running...or in most cases...crying fits. So, now we have a nebulizer 4 times a day for 10 days. )

(Celebrating our good friends, Kari and Ryan's wedding! It was our first night away--thank you Haley and Heather for watching the kiddos. Our first night out since Everleigh was very much enjoyed!)

Always,
Brook, Craig, Paisers, Hudders, Mad Mike and Ever

3 months already!

2011-09-18T20:21:00.000-05:00

This week, Paisley and I went to the public library. She was beyond excited to get very own library card! I think she was a bit overwhelmed...and quickly chose 5 books to take home. She didn't quite understand that we could take our time and look through several books, even if they weren't the ones we would take home. I'm looking forward to taking her back soon to get new ones!

And even though it's so hard to believe, our little Everleigh Calla turned 3 months old yesterday! She will hardly sit still anymore, lifting her head to see what's going on around her! She even gave us her very first giggle this week....which melts a mama's heart every single time! She's reaching for objects, grasping toys and bringing them to her mouth and is getting close to rolling over. She's a pretty big girl! :)

Everleigh eats every three hours during the day and typically sleeps from 10:00pm to somewhere between 3-5 to get up to eat, and then goes back to sleep for a couple hours.

She LOVES it when Paisley talks to her. She smiles every time. It's SO cute!

Everleigh...3 months old!

The twins have been lots of fun lately--they are getting a little bit more under control. A little. They got the "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" from a garage sale and are loving it!

I went to check on the boys...I guess Hudson was too tired to even make it to his pillow...he'd rather just sit and sleep. :)

Today we made play-doh...which was fun...but I think I miss summer already!

I'd love to write more...but the space bar is broken (thanks, Hudson)...so this has been painful to type!!Thanks for checking in...Brook and Fam

It's fun because...

2011-09-11T20:47:00.000-05:00

Are you wondering why it's so fun to hang with the Bergs???

Because Everleigh gives the worlds biggest smiles that could melt anyone's heart.

Because if you ever wanted to quickly become deaf, you just hang with us for about 2 minutes and the screams will do it.

Because you are fed pretend food nearly every 10 minutes. It's not what you request, because "we don't have that" (even when it's on the menu!)...but you will never go hungry.

Because watching Paisley say, "shhh, it's okay honey" to Everleigh makes her the best big sister ever.

Because the cushions are never on the couch. They are usually a swimming pool or a bed, for your jumping enjoyment.

Because hearing Hudson say, "all better" every time he gets hurt--which is every 4.5 seconds is so cute.

Because every single night we have a dance party in the living room. You hear some pretty awesome things like, "mom, should I shake my money maker?" (yes, Paisley, you should.) and "Go Madden, Go Madden!" as he spins himself around and around and around.

Because if you think pushing a swing is fun, you'll love it here!

Because we have a very very very strong-willed little girl who can chant certain phrases such as: "headband", "mama" or "scratch my back" literally for an hour or longer.

Because when you check on the kiddos in bed, you never know what you'll see (pictures below to complement this fun fact #10).

Because the laundry is never complete, the floors never clean and the dishwasher is always running. The diaper genie however, is always full.

Because what you find in the garbage can is always a fun surprise, like yesterday when I found two pairs of pajamas. Weird.

Because it's like a constant game of simon says--except if mom or dad is the leader.

Because even though this house is extremely loud, messy, crazy and did I mention loud??....it's always full of L.O.V.E. and it doesn't get any better than that.

(seriously, Paisers?? Leg warmers, slippers and socks on your hands in 90 degree weather.?!)

And two people who know a thing or two about love....Bonnie and Mike, who are celebrating their 40th anniversary today!! Congrats! We love you!!

Until next time...
~The Bergs

How do you do it all?

2011-09-05T20:09:00.006-05:00

We start tonight's blog with the oh-so-beautiful, Everleigh Calla.

Everleigh LOVES sucking on her hands, sticking her tongue out and for about 2 minutes today...sucking her thumb!
Her eyes are still blue! I'm not convinced that they'll stay blue, although I'm hoping they do...but whatever color they are, they are big and beautiful!
Ever's head is pretty strong now. She can handle a few minutes in the bumbo seat. And as you'll see in pictures to follow, her brothers love the bumbo seat too!! She is a happy baby, and overall, really good! She continues to make lots of noises and loves to "talk" to us while she's in her pack n play and we are trying to sleep! :)

This week, we said farewell to our summer babysitters, Carly and Haley. I'm sure we'll see more of Haley...but Carly left this weekend for college! We will really miss her! To see them off...we took the kids to watch them perform and ski in the Ski Sprites show! Ummm...I'm not so sure that the girls would want to claim that we were there to see them....to make a long story short, we had to leave before the show was over due to two 18 month olds who took it upon themselves to run through the sand, and up on to the show stage....oh, I'd say...about 20 times. And no, I'm not exaggerating. I'm pretty sure we put on our own show chasing them down. Oh, Hudson and Madden....life would be boring with out you. And that's all I'll say about that!

With school back in session-- we get LONDA!! The kids will only go a couple of days a week, but they love their Londa!
Don't let Hudson fool you. He loves Londa too. He just loves his mama a liiiiiitle bit more. :)

Paisley has been having a really hard time listening lately. We actually feel really bad for her-- she is a great helper, and neither Craig nor I have the time we use to have to play with her. Because of that, she's been spending her time antagonizing her brothers and trying to do the opposite of whatever we ask of her. BUT, luckily, this weekend...Miss P got to have a play date with her new friend, Lydia!

Hudson and Madden always making us laugh.....

Craig worked and had his fantasy football draft, so I took the kids up north to visit family and go to Booster Days. I had to explain to Paisley that life in a small (REALLY small) town is much different. You can walk down the middle of the street, and it's okay. You say hi to everyone, and even if you don't know them...they somehow know you. It's okay that people pull their vehicles up on the grass to watch the parade and that small towns throw the best candy (and have really good aim as somebody CHUCKED a piece of candy and it went straight down my shirt!! HAHA) And that nobody wanted to believe that Brenda could have a daughter old enough to have four children. :)

Nothing is off limits for the twins...they get into whatever they feel like it. And fight about it.

OH--- and after a slight mix up with leaving their nuks at day care....we are nuk free!! Madden has screamed for 30 minutes with naps for the last 3 days, but other than that...we're getting through it! It can only get better, right?!!

...and... a sneak peek at their 18 month pictures....

~The Bergs

A note from the author:

I can't tell you how many times a week someone says to me, "wow, how do you do it?" And I usually smile and nod, and say something about how it is difficult, but we're surviving. And the truth is...lots of days, I can't do it. I'm not gonna lie...there have been a couple of days that I have just broken down, cried, and thought....I seriously can't do this. And then of course, I get a few hours of sleep and the next day comes, and everything is okay. But when your house is in shambles every single day, when you literally cannot go get groceries because you cannot fit your children and groceries in one, or even two carts, or when you just can't be the type of mom you used to be...it's really, really hard. There are days that I can't remember a single thing. It's like I'm running on auto-pilot, but I don't remember a thing. I just do whatever I can to make it through the day. I miss so many things about the way I parented before I had four children....it makes me sad that I don't spend hours gazing into Everleigh's eyes...and it makes me sad that I yell at the boys more than I should because I'm in the middle of feeding Ev and can't properly discipline them. And even with all of the things I miss...I love these kids more than life itself. They ARE the reason I get up every day and the reason I work so hard. I just hope they someday understand how very hard I am trying--how I have the best intentions...and most of all, how much I love my family.

Because I have been struggling to find some balance in my life....(I just picked up a part time job.... yes, I know I am crazy...I work full time and now am teaching a course at a local college...) I picked up a book that was uber clearanced called, "Just Let Me Lie Down- Necessary Terms for the Half-Insane Working Mom". And I'm pretty sure that I could consider myself a fully-insane working mom, but nonetheless, I started reading. Now...I've only had time to read two chapters, but they were two very good and very reassuring chapters. I'm not alone. Do I actually know anyone else who works two jobs, has four children 3 and under and writes this dang blog so that people don't send her threatening emails on Monday mornings??....nope, I don't. However, I have to remember that life is good. I have been blessed with so many things--and so many little people, ha ha ha!

Anyway (people didn't call me babbling Brook for no reason).... I'm excited to read, little by little, and know that this too shall pass. And if you are reading this blog, just know that there are some days, I suck. And then there are some days that I think I'm pretty good at pretty much everything. But for the most part, life would be better if you just didn't ask me how I do it all. Because then I feel like I have to. And chances are...if I do it all, it won't be done well. So...I'm going to do my best at the things I choose...and the rest, will be okay. And so will I.

Bloggity Blog Time

2011-08-28T15:54:00.007-05:00

First, a picture of the twins-- banging on the fireplace. This week I got very few (two to be exact) pictures of the boys. They are always on the go and getting a picture is nearly impossible! So here is what they look like while getting into trouble. I am not kidding when I say that whatever one does, the other does too. It's unreal how they watch the other one get in trouble, laugh, and do the same thing. And it's quite frustrating too, if I do say so myself.

Everleigh had a good week. We're getting some big smiles from our baby girl, and lots of noises too!

This weekend Grandma took us all to the Festival in the Pines. Ev sported her rock princess outfit. I mean, really. Can you get any cuter?

Grandma bought the boys Elmo balloons. They were deathly afraid of them. They screamed every time one came near them. Now that they're (I should say "it"...since one didn't even make it to the car :( ) is in our house, they love it!

Thanks for a fun day, Grandma Bonnie!

I know what you're thinking. That's it?? Yup. That's it. I'm really sorry...I didn't take many pictures this week. Bad mommy. In fact, it was Oscar's 7th Birthday on Saturday--and I didn't even get a picture of him. Terrible. Funny how the first few years of Oscar's life he had his own birthday party complete with dog themed food, gifts and a cake with his picture on it. We still love him the same, we really do...just not enough time in the day to do it all.

~Brook, Craig, Paisley, Hudson, Madden, Everleigh and Oscar

Milestones

2011-08-21T20:22:00.007-05:00

This week, Everleigh turned two months old!

She weighed in at 10 pounds 15 ounces (49th percentile) and 21.65 inches long (22nd percentile). Everleigh loves to smile, coo and is starting to squeal a bit. She's been requiring a bit more attention lately and has been a bit more fussy. Not Paisley or Madden type fussy, but like, normal baby, fussy. She can grasp a toy and hang on to it for a while, and her head is getting less bobble-like by the day! Everleigh really doesn't have a schedule yet during the day-- which means I need to get her on one! I've been hoping she would fall into some type of a routine as far as sleeping times, but so far she hasn't. She does eat every 3 hours and both nurses and takes a bottle really well. She's been going to bed around 11pm and sleeping (knock on wood) until about 5:00! She is by far my best night time sleeper!

(showing off her grasping and talking skills at the same time!)

Hudson and Madden are now 18 months old !! I'd love to tell you the story about me taking them to their 18 month check up-- are you ready?? SCREEEEEEEEEAM. The end. Yup, they screamed for 1 hour straight. Hudson hit the doctor and Madden drug the diaper bag to the door and banged on it. Then when Madden was being examined, Hudson decided to hit the doctor again! And then came 4 shots each, and the screams continued. Overall it was quite the visit. Needless to say, Craig had the easy job staying home with the girls!

Hudson weighed 23 pounds 4 ounces (16th percentile) and is 31.69 inches long (31 percentile). Hudson loves anything electronic. He likes cords and outlets and is obsessed with the computer. He also has an amazing arm and throws everything. Hard. Hudders loves fruit, mac n cheese, yogurt, chicken nuggets and corn. He also shoves more food that you can imagine in his mouth at once. He loves reading books, hitting and running in circles screaming "a-da da, a-da da"!

Madden weighed in at 21 pounds 11 ounces (5th percentile) and is 30.51 inches long (7th percentile). Madden likes anything musical. He's always dancing and trying to play guitar. Madden loves to pull hair, read books, point and say "that?" and laugh when you tell him NO! His favorite foods are french fries, apples, yogurt, hard salami, and mac n cheese.

Milestone wise, both boys are doing the same things--- throwing a ball overhand, brushing their own teeth, stacking blocks, "helping" around the house, using a spoon and fork, taking their shirt off, walking up stairs hanging on to the rail, scribbling and are pointing to about 10 body parts.

The twins had their first, in the salon, hair cuts. It actually went very well!

(Hudson trying to play on the computer)

This weekend, we attended the wedding of my cousin, Olivia and her new husband, Mike! Paisley had a blast dancing and dancing and dancing. And dancing some more! Congrats, Olivia and Mike...we are so happy for you!

When it was time to get a family picture-- I decided we didn't have enough hands for all of our kids. Well, to be exact, we have the same amount of hands as children, but it's just not that easy. So...this is the best we could do. At least Craig and I are looking, right?!

At the end of the night, the twins snuggled with Grandma and each other. It was so sweet!

~The Bergs

The Bergs take over Blue Harbor Resort

2011-08-14T21:05:00.014-05:00

Once upon a time, there was a family of 6. There was Craig, the dad, Brook, the mom, and four children named Paisley, Hudson, Madden and Everleigh. The family of 6 decided to take a mini vacay with Craig's family to Blue Harbor Resorts on Lake Michigan. One might think that the Bergs were crazy. They do in fact, have four children three and under. And those who questioned their sanity were likely correct in their thinking. Keeping the Berg children in order at home is one thing, but in a hotel for a couple of nights sounds, well, awful.

To the surprise of many, the Berg family joined their extended family on Friday morning, and had a splendid time the whole weekend through. The entire family, including Craig's sister, Melissa and her family, and his brother Randy and his family-- along with Grandma and Grandpa Berg helped Craig and Brook the whole weekend through. They were very thankful for the help they received, because one can be sure that they would probably still be getting ready for the first day of swimming if the family hadn't helped out.

The eldest Berg child, Paisley, had her own agenda throughout the weekend. It was titled, "mission lose mom and dad". Paisley tagged along with anyone but her parents, and wanted nothing to do with them the whole weekend through. She went down water slide after water slide, chased her cousins around the condo, ate plenty of junk food and didn't stop moving from morning to night. At the end of the trip she did however engage in conversation with her parents asking them when their next "acation" would be.

The Berg family of six played on the beaches of Lake Michigan one morning, while still sporting bed head and jammies. The morning sun just peeked through the clouds as the kids splashed in the waves and dug in the sand.

As the days turned to nights in the villa, the family gathered to play games, talk and laugh. The laughter continued after sister in law, Sabrina said, "I think a bird just hit the window" The family questioned her claim with disbelief, the noise was likely a crazy toddler running about. But then, the people heard the noise again. It was then that they realized that in wasn't in fact a bird, but rather a size 10, black flip flop. Sure enough, Craig had been locked out of the villa in the pouring rain for an undetermined amount of time. And by undetermined, one can assume it was a very long time. Once the family let him in he shouted, "Didn't anybody notice I was missing?!?!" The family tried to hide their giggles but it was nearly impossible. One can hope that Craig will soon find humor in this story as well, but until then...we will focus on the laughter with others, rather than at others.

Paisley, Hudson and Madden enjoyed their time at the water park. They zoomed down slides, stuck their faces in the water, jumped off the sides of the pool and relaxed in the lazy river. Little Everleigh laid in the arms of Grandma Berg and slept away.

When the fun had ended for the Berg family on Lake Michigan, they headed north to the father's dream-home, the mecca of football, Lambeau field. They tailgated with sandwiches, cookies and juice boxes. Likely not the traditional tailgating menu, but a delicious one nonetheless.

A great time was had by everyone on this all-family vacation. The wee little ones were tuckered out and ready to get home to their own beds, toys and their puppy. The adults too, were anxious to resume to a bed in which they didn't have to share with a little girl who slept horizontally, feet in her mothers face. And so the drive home continued...(with a straw as a microphone taped to Paisley's face)

And so the story ends. The family of six was so very thankful for the wonderful people and the wonderful memories.

THE END.

And next week... the twins are 18 months old, and Everleigh turns 2 months!

I seriously think time really does fly

2011-08-07T20:06:00.005-05:00

It's been a long time since I've had to get myself ready to get up and go to work. And tonight, that's all I can think about. Tomorrow I return to work. Everleigh has been crying most of the evening...I think she knows that this is it. It's moms last day of leave. So sad.

The past week was full of ups and downs. Lots of laughs, books, songs, tickles and snuggles. Of course that also comes with the screams, tantrums, hitting, and purposefully doing the opposite of whatever I say. But, the kids and I made it through just fine!

A quick update on each of the kids and some pictures....

Everleigh is smiling lots and doing more cooing. She loves to be outside and to walk around. I've also laid her down and come back to her in a different position. She scooted or kicked herself almost all the way in a circle! She has her longest awake period in the evenings and doesn't actually go to sleep until about midnight. However, she's been (knock on wood) sleeping a good 4-5 hour stretch! She's eating about every 2 1/2 to 3 hours during the day.

Paisley, aka, my wonderful helper is still into pretend play. She's also been telling me, "mom, I am bored!" She's totally to the stage where she just wants to be off playing with friends. It will be nice for her to get back to day care a couple of days a week in September to see her friends again! I also have to document that as we were jamming in the good ol' mini van after getting groceries today she says to me, while bobbing her head to hip hop music, "yup, mom...I am pretty amazing." :) At least the girl doesn't lack self confidence!

(Everleigh Calla, 7 weeks)

(Madden playing with his very favorite toy, which is actually Paisley's. He carries it around and yells, "GABBA GABBA"...as it is a "Yo Gabba Gabba" toy.

(And I love the picture above. Imagine a very high pitched scream coming from Madden as he just tries to get across the "bridge". Paisley is too busy cheeeeeeezin it up to let him through.)

Paisley finished up swimming lessons and passed level 2 parent/child. I believe the next lessons she will not have to have a parent in the water with her. Thank goodness! Although...we've got 3 more children to swim with! She jumps off the side of the pool and goes all the way under the water! She mastered her "scooping swims" (front crawl) and her "Star" (swimming on her back). She can also blast off the side of the pool with her face in the water.

(Everleigh at swim lessons)

(Blasting off the wall)

( 1-2-3 JUMP)

(Blasting off backwards)

Hudson and Madden have been cute little stinkers. Hudson is finally coming out of his shell and standing up for himself. He's been stealing toys back from Madden...and even tackling him!

They both love climbing on any and everything. They love building with blocks and playing with pretend food. Hudson steals food from Madden's plate, and Madden steals toys from Hudson's hand. They almost always play together--once and a great while they will each find something to do on their own, but most often they are finding trouble together! :)

(Everleigh needed to eat at the same time as the big kids, so I got their lunch ready and went into the living room to feed Ev. I came back into the kitchen to this. Gotta love them. Gotta hate cleaning up over and over and over. )

Well...I'm off to pick out clothes, get my pump ready (ugh) and gather everything for work tomorrow. Craig is off Monday and Tuesday, and then our regular babysitters, Carly and Haley will be watching all four kiddos for the rest of August. Then in September the kids will go to Londa's two days a week, and my mom will take them 1-2 days a week as well. Craig usually has at least one day off during the week, so it should work well.

The last 7 weeks have been a blur. I have never loved so much in my life. I've also never been so purely exhausted in my life. Everleigh Calla was the best surprise we have ever gotten-- it's going to be really hard to leave her tomorrow morning. I have truly enjoyed every snuggle and can't believe it's time for me to share her!

I will do my best to post next week but am not promising anything. We will be going on a mini vacation with the Berg's...all of them (!!!) and I'm not sure what time we'll be back.

Until next time...

The Bergs

Smiles, Swimming, Screams and Surgery

2011-07-31T21:36:00.005-05:00

Sunday-Funday with the Bergs...This week was literally the most hectic week of my life. I'm confident I wouldn't win mother of the year award...we had 5 million things to do. Monday, Paisley and I went to the dentist. She did great, and no sugar bugs!! Then that night, Paisley started swimming lessons!! Daddy took her Monday night, Uncle Cal Tuesday night, we had to miss Wednesday, and I took her Thursday. (Thank you, Cal!!).....because of the craziness of the week, Miss P got a different swim partner each night! She loves swimming and has even dunked her head several times.

Tuesday, (the reason uncle Cal had to fill in at swimming)....Craig had sinus surgery. Everything with the surgery went well, and hopefully he will be able to breathe through his nose for once in his life! But since then...this house has been seriously hectic. Let's just say I'm not cut out to be a stay at home, single mom of 5! :) It also means I really value all Craig does around here to help this household run! Having him out of commission is not fun!

We hope Craig is feeling back to normal soon!!

So, even when Craig is feeling up to par, our house is crazy. The twins have been into everything and not listening to anything. They don't play--they destroy. I feel like all I do is yell NO! I can't keep up with the house work or laundry. Actually, there are really no words to describe the noise level and mess that's in our house. I thought I better document what our living room looks like on any typical morning. And I promise you...this isn't even bad!

Now Paisley has been telling me, "I'm too tired" or "It's too much work" when I ask her to clean up. Ummm....yah, me too!! I'm tired and yes, it is SO much work. It never ends here. I love it. I love it. I love it. :)

Hudson and Madden fight every single day over Paisley's electric toothbrush. When we give them their "normal" toothbrush, they chuck it across the room and scream. So, today I bought them their very own electric toothbrushes. They were quiet (besides the humming of the toothbrush) for a good 30 minutes. I so wish I would have purchased those sooner! It was amazing......until Madden tried to hit Everleigh over the head with his....so it got taken away. Then Hudson succeeded in hitting Everleigh over the head with his...so now these awesome "toys" are up high. Maybe tomorrow they will behave. Maybe.

And Baby Everleigh Calla-- she's just been smiling away! She and I have been spending lots of quality time at night together. But the smiles make it all worth while!!

And the newest addition to our home....some new baby birdies who have been making their home on top of our garage door opener. We've kept the garage door open a few inches every night for their mama...and today, two were born!

This week, Craig heads back to work. I'll be alone with all four kiddos this week. I'm actually not even nervous! I'm looking forward to spending my last week off doing lots of playing and snuggling. I don't care if my dishes are piling up, if we are wearing dirty clothes or if toys are everywhere. It's my last week of maternity leave, ever. And even though this past week just about did me in...I'm going to hope and pray that Hudson and Madden take it easy on us all this week!

A special congratulations to my very best friend, Amy...who has a sparkly new ring and a husband in her near future!! I'm really happy for you, Amy and Matt!

G'Night,

Mama Bergie

Hmm, what to say...

2011-07-24T19:58:00.007-05:00

Some Sundays I sit down to write the blog and wonder if I have anything to say. Will people even want to read this? Is our family that interesting? Then I realize, you are probably reading this because you are our family and friends, and it really doesn't matter, right? You likely just want to see some pictures of the kids! So...that is what I give you...

Everleigh had her 1 month check up last week. She weighed in at 9 pounds 9 ounces, in the 56th percentile! She is 21.26 inches, the 54th percentile. By far the largest of the kids thus far! She is growing well and healthy! We did address the acid reflux and Everleigh is now on Ranidadine (Madden was on this too). She's projectile vomiting only once or twice a day now, so we have seen some improvement. She still has some fussy times and has to be moving, but that's nothing new. Look how cute she is snuggling in her daddy's arms....

The best news....on Saturday, July 23rd, soon after we woke up, Everleigh smiled at her mama!! You know, the real smile. The one where you finally know that it's not just gas and that they see you...and smile. It was simply amazing. It's my last first smile. So I'm trying to soak up every second. I haven't captured it on camera yet, but I'm trying!

But with the quiet and happy times also comes a lot of this....

Everleigh has a very strong head and tolerates tummy time fairly well. She is still keeping us up until about midnight (this should be fun when Craig goes to work next week, and me the following!)...and sometimes sleeps a 4 hour stretch which is awesome! Otherwise, she's up about every two hours to eat.

Friday, we had a play date with my friend Brianna and her kiddos, Avaya and Graeden. Graeden is just one month younger than the boys, so we were nervous to basically have triplets running around. AH, it was no biggy. With that many kids, it doesn't seen to matter. However, I'm not sure Bri and I ever got to start and finish a conversation the entire time!

Paisley has really been into "jumping into the pool". We have to watch her dive about a million times a day. Luckily, she really does start swimming lessons tomorrow, so maybe she'll give up the pretend pool for a while.

A visit from Aunt Mary and family gave way for a switch-a-roo. Instead of Mary doing our hair, Paisley did hers! And wow was it ever beautiful when she was done. Although it would have been a good laugh, we didn't take any "after" pictures!

Paisley went to the dermatologist last week for a flare up of her bad skin. She now has a skin regiment of: prescription cream 2x per day on her face for 3 months, a different prescription medication on her "bad" areas 2x per day for 3 weeks and then Cera Ve lotion on her entire body 2x per day. OKAY. I am lucky if the child gets dressed before noon!! But, the poor thing complains of her skin hurting so much, so we have to do it! He also said no pools--- which realistically just isn't going to happen, like I said, she starts lessons this week. But, he did give us some tips to help, so I hope she can handle the chlorine for the next two weeks. I sure hope she outgrows this yucky atopic dermatitis!!

Today we celebrated cousin Cody's 4th Birthday!! It was beautiful weather and we all had a spidey good time!

(Classic look from Hudson. He always has his mouth hanging open!)

(Madden and Auntie Melissa doing "this little piggy")

(Cody taking Paisley for a ride on his tractor!)

(And the beautiful, Miss Everleigh Calla) ....who got held and loved up by grandmas and aunts all day!

This week we have lots going on. Craig is having surgery...nope, not that kind (yet!) :) ...sinus surgery. We have swimming lessons, dentist appointments, my work's annual fundraiser (which means a babysitter for all the kids. gulp.), doctors appointments---whew. And it's Craig's last week off. Time goes too fast.

Enjoy your week...

C,B,P,H,M,E & O

Busy Bergs

2011-07-17T20:25:00.011-05:00

Everleigh is 1 month old today! I can say that was the fastest month of my life, wow. Even though I can't imagine life without her, it seriously feels like we've been home for a week.

(Everleigh Calla, 1 month old)

Everleigh continues to have some serious acid reflux issues. We head in for her 1 month check up tomorrow and I sure hope the doctor can give us something to help. She just screams out in pain...and typically once she throws up, she relaxes. She still has her fussy time in the late evening/night...but even her daytime awake periods are mostly filled with crying. She will just look around if we are walking or outside, but don't you dare sit still.....WHAAAA!! The good news....after her really fussy period from about 8-11:30....she's been sleeping a 4 hour stretch!! Isn't that amazing?!?! I can't get her back to sleep after those 4 hours, but boy it feels good during it!

Let me just tell you what we've been dealing with the past few days-- teething twins who are in transition to no nuk. That means that they only get it at nap and bedtime. Even though Hudson is more attached to it, we've had more issues with Madden (strong willed!!)! He stands next to the "nuk basket" and screams....the first day, it was almost an hour!!! In addition to teething, and limited nuks, we have also just transitioned to one nap a day. Some mornings can get a little rough! Throw that in with some serious sibling rivalry and some throw down tantrums, and you've got life at our home. OH WAIT. That's only two of them. Now add a crying newborn and a sassy, bossy 3 year old. Ahhhhh....sounds great, doesn't it. :)

But look how cute they are in their matching duds....

One of my goals while on maternity leave (besides painting the front door) was to take the kids to Como Zoo. The last time Paisley was there she was just 6 months old. So...we went. It took us a while to just get out of EC and the van was filled to the brim, but we made it and had a really good time!

We watched this little guy forever. The truth is, I couldn't get enough of him!

So-- we encouraged Paisley to go on this ride. She got in, smiling from ear to ear. It was so cute. Meanwhile, Craig and I were hoping and praying that she would actually like it. If not...we were sure that would be the end of the rides.

.....And then the ride started.....

We laughed SO hard. She wanted to smile, but would scream with every up and down of the ride. We kept waving and clapping as if our excitement would make her love the ride. There were people standing next to us who said they would have paid over and over to watch Paisley's expression. At the end of the ride, she said she loved it. By the look on her face, I'm not sure "love" was the right word, but she sure was proud of herself. And we were too.

Everleigh enjoyed the Zoo tucked in the shade of the stroller, snoozing away.....

Meal time at our house is dreadful. The mess that the twins make is unreal. They still throw their food, wear their plates on their heads, and make the high chairs and floor super messy. So, we've decided they can join us at the counter now. They still make a mess....but now most of the time when they throw their plates, it's on the counter. And.....they look like such big boys!

On one of the rainy days this week we went to the Children's Museum. The kids had a lot of fun, and we had a blast watching them!

Saturday night, Paisley joined Makyah and Cambree for a sleepover at G&G Bergs! She said she had a great time. Actually she said, "Grandma let us stay up really really late. Are you mad?" :) I think she needed the time with Grandma and the big kids! And while she was at her sleepover, we did finger painting with the boys!

And today, with the heat, the kids and Craig turned the hot tub to cool and went for a dip. It was so hot that I could hardly get a picture because the camera would fog up!

I want to congratulate our friends Heidi and Ryan on the birth of their third son, Nolan! Heidi and I have been pregnant together every time, and have now promised each other that this is it. :) We are really happy that Nolan is here and look forward to hearing about how big brothers Spencer and Easton adjust to their little bro! They also have a blog, listed on the right, check it out!

That's it from the Berg's. Have a great week. Stay cool!

Our joys and blessings

2011-07-10T19:36:00.012-05:00

Tonight we are starting backwards. The youngest child and the most recent event first. This morning we joined at Sacred Heart Church to see our baby girl receive the sacrament of baptism! Our regular priest is off for the summer, so things were a bit different than with the other three children, but then again, Baby E hasn't done anything the way her sister and brothers have!

You might notice Everleigh's dress. It's Craig's mom's wedding gown, remade into a baptismal gown. All of the girl grandchildren have worn it and have their names embroidered on it. Everleigh is the last to wear it. I think. (and no....another won't be coming from us! :) ) Anyway, it's such a special part of the day!

Everleigh's Godmother is our friend (and my co-worker), Lisa. Everleigh is so lucky to have Lisa, as she is the perfect fit to help raise Everleigh in the Catholic church. We are so grateful that she could share in this day with our family!

And the Bergs family of six--- in a 90 degree church, with crabby and over tired 1 year old twins and a three year old who just wants to run around the church with her cousins! I have a feeling the family pictures will only get worse before they get better!

And the grandparents too....

And the great grandparents....

We are thankful and blessed to have Everleigh in our family. We are reminded on this day what a privilege we have preparing her for the special plans God has for her!

So now that Everleigh is 3 weeks old, she definitely has a "crabby" time. She typically wakes up from about 9pm-12am just to hang with her good old ma and pa. I think she likes the alone time. Which in a way is good because she doesn't have to compete with supper and the other kiddos....however, her parents would appreciate a little bit of sleep once and a while!

She also continues to spit up, a lot. It's something I will be talking to our pediatrician about when we go next week. The poor thing can't eat at all with out puking it all back up. She just stiffens out and you can tell she's in pain.

She does have some awake and non-crying times though. She enjoys her play mat and being outside walking around. Lots of people have asked how she compares to the other kids. At this point, I'd say she's not the best and she's not the worst, in terms of crabbiness.

The TWINS, Dun dun Dun.

Both Hudson and Madden are teething. They each have 4 teeth coming in. It makes for tons of drooling and some crabby 1 year olds. You can often see them both in the pretend kitchen cooking you up something to eat. Then they shove the fork in your face and say, "BITE". You politely take a bike of plastic mashed potatoes or a rubbery apple, and do it again and again and again. They also love looking at books. They point and say "THAT?" to every. single. thing. I love it. I can just see them soaking in every word and object. The twins have recently really started to communicate with each other, just the two of them. They will sit in their cribs and giggle. I'm not sure what Madden does...but I can hear banging around and then Hudson hysterically laughing. It's SO cute! You might also find them chasing each other around the house just yelling and laughing. They are becoming thoughtful of each other and will go find the other's nuk or blanky if they are sad. So sweet.

A couple of pics of the boys....

Madden Michael

Hudson Koehler

And BIG Sister (and BOSS!)

Paisley can finally touch the pedals on the bike that she got exactly one year ago!! Whoo hoo!!

She also finished up her last class of "tot-nastics" this week. Even Hudson and Madden got to watch! Paisley said her favorite part was the uneven bars, even though she always chose the beam or vault over the bars! Here is a recap of her last day....

When I said big sister and boss, I wasn't kidding. The best part, Paisley loves her sister to the moon and back. She helps us by grabbing diapers and wipes and burp rags and whatever else we need. And when I went into work for a meeting this week.....she was in heaven.....!

Paisley has also been talking NON STOP. Like literally....she is never quiet. I know, I know...those of you who know me, I already know what you're thinking. SHUSH. :) But really....the child can talk! She asks "Why?" about everything. And whatever your answer is.....it's not good enough, and you'll get about 10 more "but, why". She is into extreme make believe play and goes on and on creating scenarios around the house. And the phrase we hear the most often--- "You know why I need this?" (No, Paisley, why?) "Because I just need it." ----okay, good. Glad we cleared that up!

Paisley is a great kiddo! She would draw for hours and is very thoughtful. She makes us shake our head, and then smile. :)

And here she is with her second cousin, Jaclyn, today at the baptism.

Well....that was lots of typing for this gal. Hope you enjoyed your update on the kiddos....

Love,

Brook and gang

Fun, Fun and the Fourth

2011-07-05T16:06:00.011-05:00

The past week has been lots of fun! We got out of the house a lot and enjoyed the warm summer days!
(Hudson and Daddy shoving orange slices in their mouth!)

(Paisley showing her sisterly love, while picnicking)

(H Bomb)

(Mad Mike)

The boys were in need of a haircut. Poor Madden....still sporting the mullet. The front of his hair just will not grow! Craig has been cutting his own hair and thinks he's Mary Wojtyna :) so he went ahead and cut their hair! I was a nervous wreck...but he did just fine!

We also took the kids to a water fountain to swim in! They LOVED it!

This is what Everleigh did the whole time....

So, you are probably wondering how Baby E is doing?!?! She has her days and nights mixed up, which means we are running on empty here. The no sleep is so hard to deal with, especially when we have to keep up with Paisley and the twins-- and the messiest house ever. I swear, these kids can trash the house in literally 2 minutes. We are never ahead! Everleigh (so far) is a pretty calm baby. She has her moments of crabbiness, and has a terrible tummy....she projectile vomits after every feeding. We burp her, and then just wait. Because it never fails that her outfit (and ours) has to be changed! She is looking around and gaining more focus. Her head is getting stronger by the day. She is still wearing mostly newborn clothing, but should be able to move into 0-3 stuff very soon. I still think that she looks like a combination of all of the kids--however, she still has blue eyes, which is a first for the Berg kiddos! I'm sure they will change to brown or green...but for now I love looking into those big blue eyes!

Over the weekend we joined our friends for boating and swimming. Hudson screamed and whined for a long time before finally calming down and playing in the mud and swimming. Madden warmed up to the water faster, and loved it. That child is fearless. We swam, ate junk food and got totally filthy. It was awesome!

And the fourth of July..... first we had Cambree's 6th Birthday to celebrate!! Then we enjoyed more food, swimming, family, friends and of course....fireworks!! The kids (and Craig and I!) were completely exhausted last night. Well...all the kids except Everleigh. She stayed up past midnight and was a stinker all night!

OH, and the best part......Grandpa Mike is home for 3 months!! His first time meeting his newest grandbaby. It's pretty cool when you never had children, but gained 4 grandchildren within 3 years! :)

And Happy Birthday to the left-over firecracker! We love you Grandma Brenda!

Paisley's first time tubing!!

(Madden zonked!)

All of the kids have really adjusted nicely to Everleigh! Paisley is a wonderful help, and the boys have learned how to do nice touches (most of the time)--- although I'm confident if we weren't watching, the touches would be anything but nice! She fits right in with our family-- and even though when we go anywhere it looks like we are leaving on vacation for 2 weeks...life wouldn't be the same without her, and we are so blessed!

Hope you all had a nice 4th of July!

Talk to you next weekend!

~The Bergs

It's all about Everleigh

2011-06-26T15:47:00.013-05:00

The story of Everleigh's arrival...a few pictures...and a lot of love....

On Wednesday, June 15th, my due date.

Friday morning around 2am I woke to go to the bathroom, as usual. This time, I was afraid I didn't quite make it to the bathroom in time, and that I had accidentally gone! I thought, "could that be my water breaking?" hmmm. I waited and waited...and slowly but surely, about every 20 minutes a bit more would leak out. So I called L&D and they assured me it was likely my water...not that I was peeing my pants every so often. :)

My mom came to watch the kids and Craig and I got to the hospital around 6am. I still wasn't having any contractions, so it was weird heading in, knowing I would have a baby in the next 24 hours. Shortly after I arrived, they started me on pitocin, to jump start my contractions. It didn't take long, and the contractions were strong and not very far apart. By this time, Grandma Bonnie took over "big kid" duties and my mom joined me at the hospital.

My contractions continued to be very strong and very close together. I asked for an epidural. They put it in...terribly. And it didn't work. So, they took it out and tried it again. This time...ahhh...pain relief! It wasn't long after my epidural started working that the baby's heart rate continued to drop. They would move me from side to side--but nothing seemed to help. All of the sudden, nurses started running everywhere. They threw Craig some scrubs and said, "put these on!" I knew exactly what was happening, even though the nurses tried to stay calm for me and assure me that everything would be fine. I may have been numb, but I wasn't deaf. The scurry of the hospital room was really nerve wracking. As they prepped me and gave me a shot to stop my contractions, the only thing I could think of was my poor little babies at home. I knew exactly what this meant. With tears running down my face I turned to the nurse and said, "I can't have a C-Section. I have 16 month old twins at home and I have to be able to take care of them." The nurse looked at me and said, "Honey, if we don't do the C-Section, you won't have a baby to hold." That totally put things into perspective...and I just did what they told. It was just minutes later that they were literally running me down the hall, banging into walls and doors to the operating room. I wondered where Craig was, and I wondered what my mom was doing too. Shortly after we got into the operating room, my doctor yelled, "I have to start cutting!" and the anesthesiologist said, "I can't find a vein!" (at this point, several people were yelling back and forth). My doctor said, "Brook, can you feel this?" I responded, "No"....and she began cutting. Craig still wasn't in the room, but I could see him standing outside the room, peering in the little window with his hands forming "I love you". And thankfully, shortly after that, they let him in. I actually don't remember him being by my side at all, because before I even knew it, our beautiful little girl was here! Craig met her at the warmer, and I could hear her crying. She was perfect. The little stinker was wearing her cord like a backpack, around both shoulders. So every time I had a contraction, it cut off all supply in two areas of the cord. We are so lucky that she was fine (and are so thankful for modern technology!)...she weighed 7 pound 7 ounces and yes....she came out with a bit of a scowl! :)

I hate this next picture...but for the sake of my children seeing this when they are older...it's the reality of Everleigh's birth.

Mommy meeting Ever for the first time!

And a VERY proud Daddy...

Craig and the nurses took Everleigh back to the room while I finished up surgery. When they wheeled me back in the room, my doctor came in to let me know that I had actually lost a great deal of blood (3x the normal amount) and I needed to have a blood transfusion. So, 4.5 hours later, I was pumped full of blood and my blood pressure and hemoglobin counts were in the low/normal range again.

Overall, it was a really scary experience. I mean....who has 7 pound twins naturally...no epidural, no stitches.....and then has her fourth child via c-section and needs a blood transfusion?! ME. Of course I do.

However, I am not complaining. I am home, almost one week later...healthy, with a beautiful healthy baby. Life is amazing.

Big sister Paisley is simply in awe of "the new baby" (as she still calls her). She begs to hold her every minute of the day, mimics whatever we say to Everleigh, and loves her up SO much!

In the hospital, Hudson and Madden gave her kisses, but otherwise, just trashed the hospital room. :) Hudson was scared to death of me in the bed and screamed when I tried to kiss him. Talk about breaking a mother's heart!

Our stay in the hospital was just about 4 days. A HUGE thank you to both Grandma's for taking wonderful care of Paisley, Hudson, Madden and Oscar while Craig helped me at the hospital. With the C-Section came a whole bunch of not fun rules! No picking up anything over 15 pounds for 6 weeks. Yes, 6 weeks. That means I cannot be left alone with my own children....I am not able to put the twins in their high chairs, cribs, car seats....nothing. Thankfully, Craig is off for 6 weeks and has been doing all of the work with the boys. And my mom has been the best. She's grocery shopped for us, helped with baths and bedtime...and been at our every beck and call. SO grateful for her!!!

(Everleigh, heading home from the hospital- 3 days old)

And the fam (missing the boys) heading home!! Whoo hoo!

A few questions we've been getting----

How are Hudson and Madden with her? Well...curious. They try to hit her about 75% of the time. Sometimes they sneak in a "nice touch" or a kiss, but not often. They are having a hard time not understanding that I can't pick them up-- and I am having an even harder time with it. I've cried a few times out of pure sadness and frustration...and a lot of guilt, that I can't help them.

Are you getting any sleep? If you are a follower of our family....DUH...Nope. Some nights are better than others of course, but we are running on very low fuel in the Berg household!

How is it having 4 children, 3 and under? Well, so far, Everleigh isn't much work. She eats, sleeps and poops. So right now, not too bad (except the lack of sleep). However, this will be short lived, I'm sure...and as crazy as our household is, it's only bound to get worse. And by worse I mean that in the nicest way possible. :)

How long are you off work? I am off for about 6 weeks...give or take. Work is going through some major changes right now, so I may be putting in a few hours here or there--but I'm going to take as much time as I can. It's hard knowing for sure that this is the last one. And I know I said that just 16 months ago. But for real now. :) This is it.

How did you come up with Everleigh? And Calla? I saw the name Everleigh in a magazine when we were pregnant with Paisley and have liked it since then. Also, my bff read a book in which the character's name was Ever...which I liked. Calla I came up with from various things. I liked the name Callaway, Calla for short--- and I also like Calla Lillys. So Calla it is.

P.S. Nobody has asked me this.....but let me just say-- C-Sections SUCK. Period.

As you know...the twins are into everything. We can't lay Everleigh down anywhere. We thought we'd borrow a pack and play (ours is in our room) for the living room. WRONG.

Instead it became a fun place to throw toys and climb on. So for now, if she's not in our arms, she's in a safe place up high. Oh, boy!

We already can't imagine our life with out Everleigh Calla. She is a blessing in so many ways.

Thank you to all who have visited, sent cards, called, emailed, dropped off food--- even if I haven't responded, I promise, I appreciate all of the congrats and well wishes so much!

Looking forward to sharing our weekly stories with you all....

Love,

Brook, Craig, Paisley, Hudson, Madden, Everleigh...and Oscar too!

Also...be sure to check out the post below.....

The Big Kids

2011-06-26T15:16:00.010-05:00

It seems as though Baby E has been here forever-- but I haven't yet posted all of the fun things that the big kids did the week she arrived.
So...let's take a look...

(Hudson hamming it up for the camera)

(And a BIG Cheeeeeese face from Madden)

Thursday night we joined our friends at Phoenix park for the summer concert series. We brought a picnic, listened to the music and the kids danced! It was really fun and something we look forward to doing more of!

(Madden put on his own show for some pretty lucky peeps)

(Paisley, Madden and Reese)

Paisley also got to have her cousins sleep over!

We attended Large Vehicle Fun Night at Family Resource Center. The kids had fun running around the parking lot. I swear, we could drop them in a wide open space and yell, run run run...and they would have tons of fun. Madden and Paisley liked the big vehicles a lot. Hudson...not so sure of them all.

Carly and Haley came to babysit too! Paisley was in heaven! Here she is getting ready for her first "Tot-nastics" class and she was eager to get her picture taken with the girls before she went!

And...enjoying tot-nastics. Paisley attends twice a week and they have been working on the balance beam, uneven bars, rolls, somersaults, and also fun games and exercise stuff!

(She's in the black, being a froggy)

Thanks for checking in on our last post with three kiddos! It was a fun and exciting week...and ended with the perfect addition to our family.

Introducing...Everleigh Calla

2011-06-19T20:57:00.004-05:00

We are proud to introduce our beautiful, healthy, daughter...
EVERLEIGH CALLA !!

Everleigh was born on Friday at 8:13 pm via emergency c-section. She weighed 7 pounds 7 ounces and 19 1/2 inches long.

Everleigh is doing well. Many people thinks that she looks like Madden; I think she looks like a combination of all the kids, and is just Everleigh. The kids adore her, and Paisley has loved her up like you wouldn't believe.

Happy Fathers Day to Craig...the kids are so very lucky to have you...and so am I!

Obviously I will post about the L&D, more details...and more pictures very soon. We are still in the hospital for two more days. Thank you for all of your thoughts, prayers and visits. We appreciate all of the love and care---and thank you to our parents for helping with the big kids. :)

We are so in love with Everleigh and can't wait to show more of her off....

~The Bergs...family of 6!

"While we try to teach our children about life, our children teach us what life is all about"

2011-06-12T19:56:00.007-05:00

Our sweet little boys are 16 months old today! They are learning to say more words by the minute and each can say about 15-20 words including: milk, bite, bed, backpack, poptart, nuk, sock, butt, book and more! They never, ever stop running and make us smile from ear to ear.

Wow, WI weather this week. On Tuesday we were at 102 degrees...and by Thursday, back down in the 60's! But, while the weather was warm, we got out the kiddy pool and the kids splashed, drank and swam in the water!

(Madden, Hudson)

(Hudson)

(Madden)

(Paisley surfing---or skateboarding as she calls it)

And we can't forget our four legged friend. Most nights he sleeps with us, especially when I am pregnant. He's attached to me! But one night, he found himself a comfy little spot rolled up in the kids play tunnel. So cute!

This week was the kiddos last day at Londa's house...for the summer anyway. We will sure miss her over the summer! I think I sometimes take for granted how lucky we are to have Londa. I never worry...I know the kids are in the best hands and are having fun! Thank you for a wonderful year, Londa! We can't wait to really fill your household up next year with 4 Berg kids. Wow. Poor Londa!

So, one recent accomplishment of Paisley's has been buckling herself in her booster seat! It's been great. She sits way in the back of the van...so for me to try to get my big belly back there and buckle her was not fun. Anyway, about one month ago...she got it! So from then on...I hadn't really gone in the back of the van. This week, I did. And this is what I found......

Several "P"s, a few "Y"s and "L" or two...and some scribbling. NICE, huh?? So...Miss P got out the rags and began scrubbing. Unfortunately, it's not all gone yet. Tonight we were in the van and she said, "mom, my coloring is still here." I said, "I know...that wasn't a very good idea, was it? Now we can't get it off." And Paisley said, "yeah.....I didn't think." Well...at least she realizes it! :) It's one of those times when you want to laugh but can't!

On Saturday, Grandpa Mike picked Paisley up to help him throw candy in a parade!!! She got to sit in the front of his truck and throw candy, smile and wave to everyone in the parade. From what I hear, she had a blast! After the parade, she watched a softball game with Grandma Bonnie and Grandma Marian. (Craig was working and I was home with napping boys)

What a fun day spending time with grandparents!! And....we also need to wish Great Grandma Marian a very happy birthday....as tomorrow she will be 92!! We love you lots, Grandma! (And maybe this baby will decide to share your b-day?!?!)

Speaking of baby. She says hi. Apparently she's just not quite ready to come out yet. I know, I know....I'm not due for 3 more days! :) BUT.....we are seriously ready for her to come now. Everything is ready at home, I'm ready at work, Paisley is counting down, we have a house full of groceries for babysitters....and the best part..........

My thesis was approved!!!!!! I am done. Done. Done!!!!! I was so worried that the graduate school would make me revise something in my paper, but nope!!! This means that I now have my masters in Education....and ummm...I'm smarter?!?! :) No, what this really means is that for the past 2.5 years, I have been working on homework almost every single night when my kids went to sleep. And I don't have to do that anymore! This means that until I decide to go back to school again....I don't have to worry about homework!! AHHH..... SUCH a good feeling!!!

I do need to thank my girls at work for putting up with me through the process and to the Lokken's for lending out their basement office so I could write in peace! SEE--- NOW, I can have this baby!

BABY Update: 40 weeks.

On Wednesday, the 15th, I will technically be 40 weeks pregnant! My original due date was the 6th, so since then, I've been waiting and waiting....but nothing. At my last appointment, I was dilated to a 4!! Okay...it took me 27 hours of hard labor to get to a 4 with Paisley. Not this time. But, the bad news...not enough regular contractions to go with it. Which means here I sit, typing the blog on this Sunday night with 3 sleeping kids, 1 sleeping husband and a very active inside baby. Baby's head is lying on my cervix...so the pressure is unreal. I'm just hoping it turns into labor before I have to be induced. I have an ultra sound scheduled for the 16th if I need it....they will check babies weight, position, my uterus and everything to make sure all is okay. Of course, I'm hoping we never make it to that appointment...but you never know.

I sure hope this is my last post as a family of 5! Thank you to everyone who has been checking in on us and saying extra prayers!

I also have to say a quick "I love you"...to Craiger.....as today, we have been together for 15 years! Exactly half of my life!! Who would have ever thought that when Scott Wolfe was driving us home in his blazer...that we would be preparing for the birth of our fourth child exactly 15 years later....and still in love. (and we didn't name any of them Samuel or Walter :) )

Love,

Brook

Water & Waiting...

2011-06-05T20:08:00.006-05:00

Another week has come and gone. I am still the mother of three outside babies and one inside baby!

Miss P has been anxiously awaiting the arrival of her "best friend", baby sister! We made a paper chain so that she could see how many days until baby arrives--at least let's hope it around the due date! There are 10 paper chains left as of today! We are getting near the end! I can only hope that the new baby will be this sweet...........

Because the weather was so beautiful, we did lots of playing outside! The kids loved the crazy sprinkler that G&G Berg got Paisley for Easter. Well....I guess I should say that Paisley and Madden loved it. Hudson...he liked it, kinda, some of the time, maybe.

One evening this week I had a late work meeting. So, I came home, made dinner and then had to get ready to go back to work. I left Craig and the kids downstairs in the living room so I could go change clothes and freshen up. While Craig was sitting RIGHT NEXT to the twins.....they got a TUB of Desitin open, and in about 2 minutes had a hay day with it. It was rubbed into the floor, on two chairs, on their rocking horse, and of course....on them. Sorry to say, I had to get going to my meeting just as this happened. Shoot. Craig was left to clean it up all by himself. ;) (No, I really did feel bad...that stuff is a pain to clean up!! )

(Hudson)

(Madden)

(Hudson)

Friday night we celebrated one of our very favorite babysitter's high school graduation!! Congrats, Carly! Luckily, Carly will still babysit for us once and a while this summer before she heads off to UW-Oshkosh to become a nurse!

And Saturday, we had some friends over for dinner, drinks and games! A few of the couples brought their kiddos....look how cute they are eating like big kids!

(From the left: Hudson, Madden, Paisley, Reese, Carter)

The twins also got to have their first, very own ice cream cone!!!

Before...

After...

(You should really click on this picture to make it bigger to see how absolutely c-u-t-e they are!)

BABY UPDATE: 39 Weeks

YUP. 39 weeks!! It's pretty much time for baby girl to make her debut. I am exhausted at the thought of moving. And by moving I mean, turning over in bed, walking...you know, the usual. My appointment this past week was good. Everything is normal. I am 2 cm dilated and the doctor could feel the baby's head pushing on my cervix-- so...she's gettin' ready! She did strip my membranes, but as you've already figured...it did nothing.

I'm trying to be patient, as I clearly know that inside babies are much easier to take care of than outside babies. However, that doesn't mean I'm not going crazy with anticipation of the whole thing!

I am convinced that she will share a b-day with someone, since all of the kids do. And June is FULL of birthday's in our family--- and we narrowly missed Auntie Melissa's B-day on Saturday...HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MEL!!....but we've got several others in the next two weeks we could hit! I'm hoping for a June 9th baby...my grandpa's b-day (and friend jodee's too!)...so if you could all do your magic tricks, that would be fabulous!

Until next Sunday...

The Berg family of 5 (plus Oscie)

Out Numbered!

2011-05-30T19:49:00.007-05:00

Happy Memorial Day!

So...Craig and I are totally outnumbered! The kids have gone crazy and we are at their mercy! The twins don't stop for one second, and chasing them at just about 38 weeks pregnant isn't the most fun. :)

So, what are the kiddos in to??? (everything!! But to be more specific....)

Paisley: Writing, playing with friends, swinging--she can pump all by herself now, playing baseball, riding her scooter, drawing, playing games on the computer

Hudson: Hitting, swinging baseball bats and golf clubs at everything, eating dog food (still), singing songs, playing with cars, pulling hair, reading books, throwing things, playing in the toilet.

Madden: Biting, digging in the garbage, singing songs, playing with musical toys, dancing, begging for food, reading books, going for rides in the wagon.

And this past week, this is what we were up to....

Planting flowers!!!

After we were done planting flowers, Paisley said that she was going to sit outside and pretend that she was our neighbor, Tom. Tom parks his lawn chair in his driveway and people watches. So, Paisley did just that. And then....it started pouring. She sat out there with an umbrella for a long time!

And again....if it's a chair, they stand on it. If it's dirt, they dig in it. I will be really happy when I don't have to say "No No", "Yucky", "Owies", "Come On!", etc a million times a day.

One night this week we packed a picnic supper and went to Irvine park.

....and then we had a bedtime snack...

Sunday, Craig rode the bike with all the kids stuffed inside to his parents so that I could have a couple hours to finish my thesis. He did make it there, against the wind, but I don't think it was much fun for him!

And today we celebrated our veterans by attending the parade, and then hanging at Lokkens! The kids even went swimming, given the warm, humid weather!

BABY UPDATE: 38 weeks

As I mentioned last time, I didn't have the results of my lab work back. Well....I am anemic again. Ugh. I thought I could make it through this pregnancy without taking iron supplements, but nope. The good news....I'm strep B negative, so no antibiotics for me while in labor! (I was negative with Paisley but positive with the twins).

I toured the new birthing center at our hospital, and wow, it's really nice. It seems unreal that soon I will be there! I think about all of the yucky stuff that comes with giving birth...yeah, not gonna lie...not too excited about actual labor...and the aftermath of it. However, I am so anxious to see what baby B looks like....and smells like...and if she has hair....or Craig, Paisley and Madden's scowl :)

I've been having lots of contractions, sharp shooting pains and pressure. At my appointment this week, my doctor said that I am dilated to just 1 cm and that the baby is still high. Shoot. In just a few days, she'll check again...and probably strip my membranes too...but who knows if that really does anything.

Until then....I will enjoy being a mommy of three---as my biggest fear (...and puts me into tears every time I think about it)...is that Hudson and Madden will have to grow up too fast and will miss out on having their mommy available for them. I'm so scared that they won't get what they need and that I won't see them as my babies anymore. Of course I will do my very best, but it's still nerve wracking!!

So really, I'll try not to worry...and for real...until then... I will continue to eat green beans like they are running away. That's all I want, day and night....mmmm....

~Brook, Craig, Paisley, Hudson, Madden and Baby

Our Shining Star

2011-05-22T19:35:00.010-05:00

It's Sunday, again...and here we are! We are loving the nicer weather and have spent as much time outside as possible. Hudson and Madden are just a tiny bit too short to ride their motorcycles, but they try!

(Hudson 15 mo)

(Madden 15 mo)

When the weather wasn't cooperating with us, Paisley and I did some baking...

And Hudson and Madden did some eating....

The twins sure do love their Grandma! It's funny, because the two boys have such different personalities--Madden gets scared of certain people really easily and screams bloody murder. And then there are some people (even strangers) that he clings to. If you pick him up, he's yours for life. :) Hudson is more cautious of all people...doesn't freak and doesn't want to sit with you either. Luckily, they both cling to Grandma.

And....Madden made a friend. Our friend Matt came to hang and brought his new puppy! Madden clung to him and that was that.

This week we went to see cousin Cambree's T-ball game. She did great! The kids also got some playtime at the playground!

THE RECITAL!!!

Our little Miss P made it through 7 weeks of "Dance Buffet" at the Indoor Sports Center. Each Thursday evening she stretched, played freeze dance, learned ballet and jazz dance moves and learned two routines. Thursday was her recital...and we were all so excited to watch her!!

Words honestly cannot describe how excited Paisley was. When she saw her daddy, brothers, both grandma's, uncle Cal and her cousins...she beamed with excitement. See....

They waited in a line and each child took turns showing off specific dance moves that they've been working on.

And then they did their Ballet routine. Paisley did excellent! She will tell you, " I did so well, that's why I got a balloon!"

Didn't have time to edit the video of the routines, so maybe next week. We are SO proud of Paisley...and she is already begging to be in dance again. This summer she is signed up for "tot-nastics" and swimming lessons, so she will be plenty busy, but we plan to get her back into dance in the fall.

Her dance class!! They started with 12 kids...only 8 made it all the way through. The class is made up of 3 and 4 year olds (their might be one 5 yr old in the group). So yes, Paisley is probably one of the youngest...but obviously the shortest by far as well. :) During dance, all the kids would run to get a drink at the fountain....poor Paisers would have to find me because she couldn't reach to get a drink...even with the stool! :)

BABY UPDATE: 37 Weeks

Well, this week I am considered full term!! Really...she could be here any day now! She has been flipping and moving like crazy--to the point in which it's painful at times. I've had more contractions with this pregnancy than ever before, but they are all random and are just practice. Like I need practice!!

I had an appointment last week, but couldn't finish it because they were running so far behind and I had to get to Paisley's recital. So, I had to go back to finish up my lab work and the end of the week and haven't heard the results yet. Her heart beat was 145 and I measured at 36 weeks.

Otherwise, now it's just a waiting game. This is the hardest part. I am kinda crabby (Craig might say more than kinda). I can't bend over well, and it's really painful lifting the kids in and out of their cribs. But...the end is in sight. It's nothing compared to the end with the twins, so I'll take it. And soon enough, I am going to be holding a beautiful baby. I cannot wait!

36 weeks pregnant with baby #4

I also wanted to thank several of my friends who have all volunteered, so generously, to take "a week" and deliver a meal to our home-- starting in mid June through August! I was insistent that I didn't want anyone to do anything for us--but I have the best friends, who are all so thoughtful....so thank you all...especially Emily!! Love you all!! XOXO!

Well...enjoy your week. It's only a short time before this blog will be filled with newborn pictures again...so fun! :)

~The Bergs

15 months/ 9 months

2011-05-15T19:55:00.009-05:00

(Fighting to sit in the tote together)

Hard to believe that the twins are already 15 months old!! The pictures above and below are indicative of what you will see the boys up to. Either getting in trouble...or getting in trouble together! :) As far as their relationship goes...they love giving each other hugs and kisses, making each other laugh and chasing after whatever toy the other one has! They share food from high chair to high chair and giggle the whole time they do it. The fight over who gets what sippy cup, even when they are the same color and the same thing is in it. They copy whatever the other one is doing, even if the first one to try it gets in trouble.
Milestones....

Hudson: Says these words-- Uh-oh, mama, dada, Londa, water, baseball, ball, ni-night
Hudson follows some two step directions, is attached to his munch-chi monkey, signs "all done" nuk and blankie, helps clean up, throws a ball--and rocks!, can run, stomp his feet, dance, laugh at funny things, point to his eyes, nose and hair.

Madden: Says these words-- Uh-oh, mama, dada, Londa, milk, backpack, block, sock, book, and said his first combo, "bye-bye mama" the other day!
Madden follows two step directions, loves watching tv, is attached to his blankie, helps clean up, signs "all done", throws stuff, laughs at funny things, can run, stomp, point to his hair, eyes, nose and tongue, loves to dance and be held.

(Pulling the plants...stinkers! They laughed SO hard while doing this!)

This week we spend getting ready for the annual thrift sale. Once again, we (Melissa and I) had more stuff than you can imagine. It was exhausting getting ready for the sale...but worth it in the end! I got over my sentimental-ness (if that's even a word) about having twins. The first person who came to me to purchase ONE of the boys outfits I was like, "um...you don't have twins?!?!?!"....like I seriously didn't want her to buy it because it wasn't going to a "twin family". BUT...really...what am I going to do with 6 totes of twin clothing sitting in my basement??...nothing. SO, I got over it...and sold lots and lots of stuff. And yes, I did sell some things to moms of twins, which I was really happy about!

Both Cambree and Paisley had a couple of issues with things that they accidentally found in the "sell" pile. Cams is a stuffed animal lover, and convinced her mom to keep just a few more. Paisley followed quickly behind with her sad eyes, and I gave in to the 2007 beautiful Christmas bear that she has NEVER played with. Next year, next year!

Even Oscar jumped in with the stuffed animals and claimed one as his own!

Paisley had her last dance class this week....which means this week we are preparing for recital. I saw through the window that they were learning moves up until the minute class was over...so I'm not sure how 3 and 4 year olds are going to actually perform, but I'm sure it will be cute anyway. Paisley had a blast all week playing with Cambree as we set up for the sale. She also spent more time playing with her neighbor friend....and now is constantly asking to play with somebody. She has also been into making up stories...some of which are lies. Excuse me, many of which are lies. She is also really into saying "SEE, I TOLD YOU SO!" ...whether she did or not! :)

Saturday, we had the pleasure of watching cousin Makyah in her dance recital. She performed a pom, funk and a duet! At the end, Paisley got to join in on the "krazy finale"...she was so excited to dance...and then just stood there watching Kyah! :) (We are so proud of you, Makyah Grace!)

Baby Update: 9 months!! 36 weeks

AHHHH.....in exactly one month from today, the baby "should" be here! The good news, I feel really close to being ready! I washed and organized the bottles, did a little shopping, cleaned and organized the girls room, got diapers set up near her crib and did all of her laundry! Now...I just have to set up the pack n play and wash up the breast pump...and then yes...we are prepared!

The baby weighs about 6 pounds and is about 18 inches. At the last appointment she was head down, and I'm sure that she still is. I can often feel her butt....and she's been getting hiccups like mad! My back is dunzo--which isn't fun when you are lifting babies in and out of cribs and highchairs and stuff. And some days, I'm almost sure that one of her limbs is hanging out of me. Pleasant image, huh?!

I have been laying in bed (not sleeping--with a major case of restless leg) dreaming about baby girl. I am so anxious to hold her and kiss her and eat up her cheeks. I can't wait to introduce her to Paisley...(oh great, now I'm crying)...because even though she isn't here yet, Paisley has been in love with this little girl for so long now. Every day she kisses her and says, "we are best friends". I just know that Miss P is going to be the best big sister in the world. The pregnancy has gone so fast, and I know that life is going to be more than hectic...but it's also going to be the best feeling in the world to welcome baby B into our home.

31 days and counting....

~The Bergs