The Powells: 11/01/2007

Denim done right.....Elizabeth all smiles and drooling all over the place!

Little man did not know what to do when I put him in his Bumbo. He was a bit confused, at least he was able to hold his head up, unlike Elizabeth.

Maternity leave has ended and I am officially back at work. I returned to Newell Rubbermaid just over a week ago and it is certainly different from the past three months. I have amazing friends and co-workers in the office supporting me and providing encouragement. However, I am not going to lie, going back is difficult. Since August 6th, I have been there everyday, all day for Elizabeth and Tom and now I am with them for just a fraction of time. When I get home from work, it seems as if they have grown while I was away! So many working parents tell me it gets easier with time, but in my mind I keep asking, "When?" My heart aches and misses the twins each working day, but my head says working is the right thing. I have realized that my head and my heart feel differently, but I am learning to appreciate the precious time I have with my family.

I know this sounds bad, but previously, I never really spent a great deal of thought into Thanksgiving....other than having a couple days off, spending time with family and hitting the post Turkey Day sales! This year I realize there are so many reasons to rejoice and truly be thankful. So this post is dedicated to the blessing in my life and a prayer request for the less fortunate. Of the many things I have learned the past three months, living in the present and accepting God's plan are the two that top the list. A storybook beginning is not how my motherhood began, but that is no longer relevant. I have two children that just look at me and the wild roller coaster of pain, heartache, fear and anger is a far distant memory in the past. Why look back when I am surrounded with twenty little toes, four hands to hold, toothless grins, big brown eyes and so much more! I am thankful for

the gift of motherhood, it happens in an instant, but stays with you for a lifetime
the ability to have multiples - double the diapers and definitely double the love
friends that have motivated me to accept there are things I cannot change and supported me during the rough times
our new home - it took us awhile to find, but worth the wait
the amazing doctors that continue to monitor the twins and those that took care of us in the hospital
health, it is something you take for granted until someone tries to take it away
parents and grandparents who serve as role models and inspiration
my "mother of multiples" friends (& family) - I have learned enough tips and tricks to write a book
our extended family who shower us with love, words of wisdom and clothes!!!
our siblings who let us live vicariously through them
the new relationships that have come to us this year, they are always stopping by and usually have food or gifts in their hands.
everyone who is reading this post right now; you are loyal to our family, you have followed our story, you have prayed with us during the most difficult and confusing times and more importantly you have celebrated the milestones
my husband and best friend - he always knows what to say to make me laugh

Please pray for

our friends that have sick babies and loved ones, give them strength to fight for a healthy life and pray for a cure
those caring for the sick, that they remain strong and know their work does not go unnoticed
the individuals serving our country and their families, that sacrifice so much for the benefits of strangers
those couples anxiously awaiting two pink lines and those about to deliver
all parents, this profession is the most underpaid
the individuals looking for that perfect person to spend a lifetime with
the employees at Babies R Us, so they will learn better customer service and make shopping a pleasure (rather than a nightmare)

I hope all of you enjoy your Thanksgiving and are able to spend the holiday with those you love. We love you and Happy Thanksgiving!