The Michaels' Quad Squad

Long Over Due!!

2009-03-25T20:38:00.006-05:00

We have had a wonderful month!! I am so sorry it has been sooo long for an update!! We had a couple of nice days last week so we went outside!! YAY!! It was so nice to get the babies out of the house!! Here we are enjoying the outdoors.

Reese waving
Gavin riding his fire truck

Gavin enjoying the outdoors

Here is our out door play area. I have to say the day before I tried to let them do their own thing in the front yard. They were everywhere. It was like fireworks. Maggie went to eat the neighbors rocks, Lauren went to eat the other neighbors mulch, Gavin headed for the street and Reese went to ride her car. I talked with a neighbor and the next day, they played in the "jail".

Lauren and Maggie

"let us out"

Lauren driving her car

Lauren in the neighbors yard

Maggie

Gavin

Reese

I have great news Gavin is WALKING!!!! Reese is getting very close!

Have a great rest of your week!

1st Birthday!!!

2009-02-25T13:46:00.015-06:00

We had the best day on Saturday! We celebrated the quads birthday with our families and it was so special!! We can not believe how time flys ( I know everyone says that but it is sooo true!!) I was Dr. Marshall's today for their one year check ups (I only take two at a time otherwise it is just to much for me to be able to really focus on each baby) and we were talking about how blessed we are! I look at these babies and can not believe how well things have turned out. We give God the glory every single day!!!! The only thing Dr. Marshall mentioned was Lauren's weight. She wants her to gain a pound this month. I know that does not sound like much, but the month before she only gained an ounce. Other than that, they look great!!!

Current Stats:

Gavin: 19 lbs 7 oz. 29 1/2 inches

Reese: 18 lbs. 7oz. 29 1/2 inches
( I don't think this is right because she is def. not the same as Gav and Maggie)
Maggie: 19 lbs 6 oz. 29 1/4 inches

Lauren: 14 lbs 27 inches.

We have a ton of birthday pics. We had to capture every moment!!!! The theme was "Our sweathearts are turning one" I can't say that Jon loved it but they are only one and do not know the difference.

Lauren

Maggie
Reese
Aunt Risa and Gavin

I love this picture!

Maggie and I

Look at all of our presents. I think we are a little spoiled!!

Maggie looking for her gifts!! What a cute little bottom!!
Lauren showing off her new Emu's from Aunt Risa. She is very loved!!!

Lauren is saying "get back this is mine"

The Cake

Thanks Russ Ann!!!

Everyone had their own cake with their initial!!

Our entire fam!! Sorry the picture is a little blured.

Gavin eating his cake
He loved it!!!

Lauren mostly checked hers out.

She is the one I was hoping that would eat it!! :)Lets pack on the pounds!!

Maggie looking at every piece very carefully!

Reese enjoying it just like her mommy!!

Grandpa Michaels feeding Maggie

We are looking forward to this year and being so much more active!!

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY Gavin, Reese, Maggie & Lauren!!!

2009-02-19T15:10:00.001-06:00

Lauren

2009-02-17T09:45:00.009-06:00

Lauren is doing great!!! She just started crawling about a week ago and she is everywhere!!! I love it because now she can follow her siblings everywhere and she does!!! It is so sweet to see this little 13. 8 lbs crawling so fast. She def. has her own personality. She lets people know what she wants!

February

(1 day old)

March

April

May

June

July

August

(Lauren is on the far right)

September

October

November
(we love this sweatsuit :) )

December

January

February

Thank you God for Lauren!!!

Maggie

2009-02-10T14:05:00.005-06:00

I am so sorry it has taken forever to do Maggie!!! I coach cheerleading and it has been a very busy time, Competition season!!!

Maggie is doing great!! She is getting closer everyday to walking. She just got over a cold and so kindly gave it to Reese. I can't complain because we have had a very healthy winter.

We also had a wonderful visitor today. Our infertility doctor came to visit us along with a few of our favorite nurses!!! It was so great to see them. You would have thought the president was coming the way I was cleaning and getting everything ready. Dr. Jarrett means the world to us because without him we would not have our sweet babies!!!

February

( one day old)

March

(Maggie is on the left)

They put the girls together after a week of being in the NICU. They loved being together!

April

May

June

Maggie is on the right.

After looking back I took more group pics of Maggie instead of individuals on a few of the months.

July

Maggie is on the right

August

September

October

(2nd from left)

November
(Maggie on the right)

December

January

Thank you God for Maggie!!

Reese

2009-01-29T20:03:00.011-06:00

Her is Reese!! She is so funny. Her new thing is to laugh out loud. She loves to make herself laugh. She puts a smile on my face several times a day!!

Feburary

2 Days Old!!

One week old

March

April

May

June

I did not have an individaul pic of her. She is on the far right.

August

September

October

November

December

January

Thank you God for Reese!!

Gavin

2009-01-29T09:14:00.008-06:00

Today I thought I would highlight a baby every couple of days since they are almost 1!!! I can't believe how much they have changed and grown into such healthy little babies. We give the glory to God every day!!! I started with Gavin since he is the oldest!!

February

March

April

Gavin came home!!!

May

June

Notice we were on monitors- We were so excited the day those left our house!!!

July

August

October

November

December

He is in a very random outfit.

January

Holding his bottle with one hand! What a stud!

Trying on his new hat from Grandma Michaels.

11 Months!!!

2009-01-22T20:07:00.007-06:00

I can't believe the quads are almost a year!! Where does the time go? It seems like just yesterday I was laying at Carle Clinic watching every minute of the Australian open. What a difference a year makes!!!! We are truly blessed with how well our babies have done over the past year.

Here is what we have been up to the past week!!! First we all watched as President Obama was sworn into office.

Second, Maggie was so tired she fell asleep sitting up. She is sooo flexible!

Around bedtime it can get a little crazy around here, so to make everyone happy Jon and I strap one baby on and then each hold another. Everyone is happy!!

Jon with Lauren
Reese and I

Everyone playing this morning in the kitchen.

Maggie pushing Lauren around the family room. She is such a good sister!!!

We started taking baths together. All I have to say is this is an experience. Gavin acts like he is swimming in a pool by himself. He is swimming, splashing, and drinking every bit of water he can. He is doing all of this as if he has the place to himself. Gav is so funny, he just has a blast!! They all love the water, the girls are just a little more dainty and calm.

Gavin started on the other end of the tub right before this pic was taken :)

Reese and Maggie

For a second we had all four in the tub. Gavin is just leaving:)

Gavin is getting his two upper teeth. This is his new favorite toy!!

Have a wonderful weekend and please remember to keep Kayleigh in your prayers!!! They are deciding whether or not to use a trach.

2009-01-10T20:30:00.003-06:00

We have had a very busy week!! Monday we went to Urbana to see Dr. Lowery to follow up on their eyes. The babies did great! We left the house around 1:00 so they could sleep in the car during their second nap time. The eye appointment took around an 1 1/2 because they had to dilate their eyes 20 mins. before seeing Dr. Lowery. The first set of drops went great, but they knew what to expect the 2nd time and needless to say they were not as happy. They did great, though!! It was just hard because there was no where for them to go. I was not about to let them start crawling around on the ground, YIKES!! Jon and I took turns holding them and trying to keep their attention. Reese and Lauren do not have to come back!! Their eyes are doing great! I was nervous for Lauren since she was on the vent for so long that there could be eye trouble. (A severe side effect can be blindness) Thank you God!!! We are truly blessed everyday!! Gavin and Maggie both are a little far sided. Dr. Lowery believes they will outgrow this, he will see them back in a year.

We went back to Urbana on Thursday to see Dr. Morton to follow up on their development. This appointment was in the morning. There was no way our babies were going to be able to sit in their car seats for another two hrs. So this time I disinfected the room completely and laid down a huge blanket. It worked out so well. I am sure the nurses probably thought I was crazy for setting up camp, but our babies were much happier. I have to say Jon is the best dad!! Not many dad's could keep three hungry and tired babies busy while I was with Dr. Morton during each babies checkup. Everyone at Dr. Morton's office was so impressed with how well the babies are doing. The Pt thought they would just be starting to sit. Reese and Maggie checked out with flying colors. Dr. Morton would like to see Gavin gain a little weight to keep up with his height. He would like for Lauren to see a nutritionist. She also has a little low tone in her trunk that he thinks she will out grow. I am still doing extra exercises with her to increase her strength!! Please pray that area will get stronger!!!!

I have also added another link to blogs we follow. It is Kayleigh's story, she was born at 1lb 1oz. and is 6mos. old and still in the nicu. Please keep her in your prayers at night!!!!! She seems to be quite the little fighter.

Here are a couple of photos from today:)

Gavin riding his bear. He is a tough one to catch smiling!!
Now Reese will always smile for a picture!

Gavin just took Maggie's pacifier

Lauren, she is so sweet. She is trying soooo hard to crawl. She gets so frustrated because her siblings are everywhere and she wants to keep up! It breaks my heart!!!

Maggie got her first bruise today. She was looking out the front window and fell. It is hard to see here, but it is on her left cheek.

Pray for the King Family

2009-01-05T12:18:00.003-06:00

I have just come across this wonderful family. They just had 25 week old quads a couple of days ago. PLEASE pray for the King family and their sweet babies. They are just getting ready to start a hard journey in the NICU.

You can send them thoughts and prayers on their blog at

http://treverjennaeva.blogspot.com

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-03T07:22:00.005-06:00

The Michaels family had a wonderful Christmas!!! We spent Christmas eve with Grandpa and Grandma Michaels, Aunt Kassie and Great Aunt Ginny. The babies did great!!!

The girls sitting at Grandpa and Grandma Michaels house with their new stocking caps. Thanks Miss Wilson!! We love them!!

Gavin crawled into Grandma Michaels' basket with the Apple to Apples game!

Here is the entire gang at Christmas with the Michaels, minus Aunt Kassie.

Christmas Day we took off during their morning nap and went to Grandma and Grandpa Samuels house. We stayed for several days!! I have to say the quads adjust so well to staying at new places, especially since they never do it.

Reese climbing on her gift from Aunt Kassie and Uncle Clint. Gavin is on his way!!!

My sisters and I in our Christmas pajamas. Yes, our mom still gets us matching pajamas.

The babies in their Christmas pajamas. Thanks Aunt Risa!!

It was so nice on Saturday we took the babies outside to see the geese. I think we might have scared the geese away.

Jon and Gavin walking around my parents backyard. Notice the geese are gone :(

Aunt Risa reading a bed time story. They love listening to books. Notice Gavin is out of sight. He usually takes off during book time

Reese and Maggie looking out the front window.

Lauren looking at herself in the mirror. She loves this game!!

We went to the Dr. on Wed. for their RSV shots. Our current weights are:

Gavin: 18 lbs 3 oz

Maggie: 17lbs 12 oz

Reese: 17 lbs 10 oz

Lauren: 13 lbs 4oz

They are growing very well!! We are so blessed.

Happy New Year!!!!

10 Months Old!!

2008-12-19T11:09:00.006-06:00

Where has time gone??? We have had a busy last couple of weeks!! Reese and Gavin are crawling everywhere!!! They are new best buds, it's so cute. Maggie is starting to chase after them, but also enjoys hanging back with Lauren. They have been exploring new parts of the house and love looking out the window!! There's been a few times when they've tried crawling through the windows:) We also added another feeding to the day!!! We are at four bottles and two meals. They're all doing so well and seem to love all foods, I know that will change!

M,R and L playing by the back door

L and R by the window. Lauren has really started talking up a storm. She and Reese have the best conversations!!

Gerber was so generous to give us 50 coupons for free 12 2-packs of baby food. I was having trouble getting it all myself so a few friends helped me out. Here are the boxes of baby food sitting in our kitchen. Reese is so excited!! THANKS Janan, Karin and Brenda!!!!

Gavin loves crawling to the front window and licking it. He might be the next Ralphie :)

Reese and Maggie

Gav and Reese looking out the front door. Jon ran out and took this pic.

M,R and L trying to get the bag of wipes!

We have gone from two stocking's to six!!! We LOVE it!!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-12-02T19:19:00.005-06:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We spent it at grandma and grandpa Samuels' house. That is the quads first road trip. They did awesome!!! They adjusted like pro's!!! It was so nice to get away and for the babies to see something else besides our house!!! RSV season can get us a little couped up.

Lauren and Gavin doing a little reading before the big road trip!!

We are loaded up andready to go! We left on Wednesday and Jon came on Thursday so that he could clean the carpets. It was LONG overdue with four babies.

I love the angle of this picture taken at grandma's house. Jon and Lauren are watching Gavin.

Grandma and Grandpa Samuels

Happy Thanksgiving!!

(Reese, Gavin, Maggie, and Lauren) The girls watching Baby Einstein before bed!

They are so cute!!

Today we received the best early Christmas present. Our dear friends Mr.and Mrs. Hurliman made this shelving unit for us!! It is so nice to be able to organize everything and get if off the floor, since everyone is becoming very mobile!!!!

THANK YOU MR. HURLIMAN!!!!

What a 48 Hours!!

2008-11-21T14:38:00.004-06:00

Things have been happening around here!!! We are so excited because the quads have reached some huge milestones!!!!

1. LAUREN IS ROLLING OVER!!! She can roll over her right and left sides. She can also get her legs up from underneath her to begin crawling!! Yay!!

2. Gavin started crawling, actually army crawling. Reese smiled at him so he decided to go toward her to grab her face, but much to his surprise she got him! He turned right around. It was so funny!!

3. Maggie and Gavin have become great eaters. They started off pushing their tongues out but now can't wait to eat!

4. Reese is talking up a storm. She has such an outgoing personality!!!

This video shows everyone in action!!!

Have a great weekend!! Jon and I are going on another date night!! Aunt Kassie and Uncle Clint are going to babysit!!!

2008-11-16T20:49:00.003-06:00

We have a had a great week!! Aunt Kassie has been begging for an update so here it is! Our days fly by.
Here is a typically day at the Michaels:
6:00-6:30 Wake up
6:30 Morning bottle
8:00 Breakfast (oatmeal and a vegtable)
8:40 Baby Einstein
9:00 Morning nap
10:30 -11:00 Wake up
11:30 Bottle
12:00 - 1:00 Play
1:00 - Afternoon nap
3:30 - Bottle
4:00-5:30 Play
5:30 Bathtime, Books and Bottle
6:30 - All are in bed :)

We are so blessed. Jon and I have great sleepers!!! Love it!

Lauren started wheezing last week so we took her to Dr. Marshall. Everything looked great (of course I was totally thinking RSV) she just put her on a nebulizer, as needed. We started at four times a day. Lauren does awesome with it!! She is such a trooper!

I love playing on the floor with my babies!

Grandma Samuels with Maggie and Reese

Gavin is working on sitting up. I thought this pose was so cute!

Aunt Kassie and Jon getting ready for bath time. This is one of our craziest times of day. As you can see they are all over the place.

Grandma giving Lauren a bath. All of the babies LOVE their baths!

Here is Gavin trying to sit up. Here you go Aunt Kassie!

Halloween

2008-11-05T07:28:00.005-06:00

We had our very own pumpkin patch!!! It was so nice here, Jon and I were able to take the babies outside for a wagon ride. They LOVED it!!!! We had our own little Halloween party with both sets of grandparents, Aunt Kassie, Great Aunt Ginny and our friend Kori Gettel!!! We had so much help Jon and I were able to have a date night while Grandma and Grandpa Samuels, Aunt Kassie and Gettel put the babies to bed. Thanks guys!!!

Jon in the backyard pulling the little pumpkins all around for their first Halloween!!! The wagon was a gift from the Broach's, our babies love to ride in it!!!!

Maggie fell asleep on Gavin during the ride.

This is Gavin at the end of the evening. It is so hard to be the big brother!!

Reese enjoying her time!!

I love this picture with Gavin's arm around Maggie while she is taking a quick nap on his shoulder.

Jon and I with our four little pumpkins!! They look so excited:)

2008-10-31T14:17:00.003-05:00

The quads had their well checks this week. They are doing so well!! Dr. Marshall said today again how well the babies are doing. We are just sooo blessed!!!!!

Their current weight and height:
Gavin: 16 lbs 4.5 oz. and 27 1/2"
Reese: 15 lbs 10.5 oz and 27"
Maggie: 16 lbs 5 oz and 27 1/2" (yes, she has finally passed Gavin)
Lauren: 12 lbs 5 oz and 25"

They started their RSV shots!! Yay!!!! They will get those every month until April.

Last weekend my best friends came to visit. We had so much fun!! Here are some pics from the weekend! They brought them the darling outfits they are wearing. Thanks Misti and Megan!!!!

New Update

2008-10-15T13:20:00.007-05:00

The quads are doing just great!! I can't believe how time flys. I took some 7month pictures a few weeks ago. I still have not had them professionally taken. I need to get on that. We have a good family friend who has offered to take them, I just need to get on the ball and contact her. Here they are:

Maggie
Lauren

Lauren is off of her oxygen!!! We are so proud of her. She is just doing amazing. She is so much happier without it!!!! Thank you for all of your prayers. They have def. been answered!!!

Reese
Gavin

Gavin before a bath.

Lauren playing the piano.

We are trying to finds lots to do around the house since we are home bound now that it is RSV season. I am still coaching cheerleading, so I get to get out a few times a week for that. Sorry it has taken so long to get pictures up!!! I am really going to try and do better!

Getting so Big!

2008-09-12T13:49:00.004-05:00

The quads are doing so great!! They are getting so big!! Gavin is rolling all over the place and Reese rolled over for the first time today!! Yay!!! I love getting to know each personality, they are so different. Here are a few updated pictures. Enjoy!!!

Gavin's first time in the exersaucer

Gavin playing with Lauren
Circle of friends :)
I love this one of Gavin and Maggie holding hands.

We love our shirts Mrs. Bree and Mrs. Roehrig!!! Thanks so much!!

(Gavin, Maggie, Lauren, and Reese)

Mug shots

2008-08-24T07:23:00.005-05:00

Ok, so you are most likely thinking Tiffany goes from never blogging to now everyday! We are getting to such a wonderful schedule at home. I have to thank Katie Fulton for this awesome book she introduced me to. It is called Healthy Sleeping Habits, Happy Child. It has been amazing!!!! We now have a sleeping schedule!!! Yay!!! The quads take two naps a day in their cribs and one down stairs in the living room. We do our last feeding at around 6:30-7 p.m. and then put them to bed!! It totally works and they are much happier babies. We were trying to keep them up longer so that they would sleep later, man we were wrong. They still sleep until at least 6:00 a.m. !!! We are usually waking up Reese and Gavin at 6:30!

Yesterday we had a thunderstorm, here are the babies watching the rain and lighting from the living room window. I ran outside to catch this pic. It might be hard to see but we thought it was so cute.

We also decided to take a few mug shots. We had a few minutes to kill before story and bath time:)
Lauren

(She is off her oxygen while she is awake and during feedings)

Reese

Gavin

Maggie

Lauren Loves cheerleading!!

2008-08-23T16:01:00.005-05:00

WE have been having such a great time these past couple of weeks. They are really showing their own personalties. Gavin is so layed back and loves to play and roll around on the ground. Reese has a mind of her own. She loves to have your attention. Maggie gets her feelings hurt very easily, but is constantly smiling at you. Lauren knows what she wants and if she is not getting what she wants she will let you know. Jon and I have also noticed they are really starting to notice each other. They will smile and laugh at each other. This morning Reese was trying to hold Lauren's hand!! It was just so sweet. They just love each other so much!

Gavin loves rolling around!
Watching Baby Einstein
Reese does not love getting her picture today, she is so cute!
They are cheering on the USA during the olympics! They loveing watching it on TV.

Last week Aunt Risa came to visit and we discovered that Lauren loves cheerleading!!! Yay!!! Aunt Risa would do cheers and Lauren would laugh and at the end she would say "again!" Here is a video of it.

Celebrating 6 Years in Chicago

2008-08-03T21:55:00.009-05:00

Wow! What a weekend Tiff and I had. I have to say I have the sweetest wife in the world. On our anniversary (7/27)Tiff suprised me with 2 Cubs tickets vs. the Pirates for this Saturday. It gets much better than this, Tiff's friend, Andrea, works for the Cubs and was able to get us on the field to watch batting practice including a few snapshots in the dugout. During the middle of the 5th inning a message popped up on the scoreboard: "Happy Anniversary - Happy 6 Years Jon & Tiffany Michaels." Talk about a dream day for me! I can't forget to say "Thanks, Andrea!"

Also, thanks to my parents, my sister Kassie, and our great friend Kori Gettle for watching the quads while we were gone. You guys helped make everything possible for us this weekend.

Okay, after the game we traveled to downtown Chicago and bought tickets for the Sunday showing of the play Wicked. We were lucky enough to get 9th row. From downtown we went to the suburbs/Oakbrook and had dinner/dessert at the Cheesecake Factory followed by some shopping. To wrap up our perfect day we went to the Westin to relax, swim, and get a good nights rest. Our rest was so good we slept in until 10 a.m. Sunday. Something neither of us have done for a very long time.

On Sunday we made our way back downtown for a little more shopping and watched the play Wicked. Very cool musical/play. One of the best we've seen! From there we traveled home to see the kids. I think they grew over night!

In the dugout at Wrigley Field

Batters circle

We made it on the scoreboard!

Tiff just looks like a Cub fan!

Hanging out

2008-07-24T14:53:00.005-05:00

Hi!! Well it has been FOREVER since our last post! The babies are doing great! They had a couple of shots yesterday. We have decided to spread them out, so it feels like we are at the Dr. Marshall's constantly. They love going to see her and her staff!!!!

Our current weights:

Gavin = 11lbs 8.2 ounces
Reese and Maggie = 10 lbs 13.2 ounces
Lauren= 8lbs 13.2 ounces (she is getting so big:) )

The quads getting ready for bed! (this was a couple of weeks ago)

Gavin and Maggie getting ready for their bath! They love each other!!
A quick photo shoot with their new outfits from their best buddy Miss Gettel!!

Good news we are off our Monitors!!!! Yeah, we gave them back last week!!! What a relief!

We don't think Lauren is going to be a Cub's fan much to Jon's dismay!

Here we are getting ready for bath time!

Fathers Day/ Jon's Birthday

2008-06-23T17:45:00.004-05:00

We had a great Father's day which happened to be Jon's birthday! We went to Jon's parents for a cookout. It was Lauren's first time to Grandma and Grandpas!!! She loved it!!!

Reese and Maggie relaxing on the coach

Daddy and Lauren watching the Cubs game

Gavin and Lauren holding hands, they are best friends!!!

Reese hanging out at Grandma and Grandpa's on father's day:)

On our way home from Grandma and Grandpa Michaels!

Lauren is Home!!!!

2008-06-02T17:32:00.004-05:00

Lauren is home! She came home last Friday. We have just been a little busy so sorry for the late post. We just love having the entire family under one roof!! Yeah!!! She is doing great and loves being with her sisters and brother. Lauren, as you can tell from the pictures, came home on oxygen. She is on the lowest settings and already trying to prove that she can go without it. We're anxious for the doctor to agree. None-the-less, Lauren remains very laid back and takes everything in stride. .

We have had such tremendous support since we have been home. Our "Loving Arms" group has been coming every other night to help with the 1:30 and 5 a.m. feedings. This allows Jon and I the opportunity to get a little shut eye during the night. On the nights where it's just Jon and I we are getting more and more efficient at feeding two at a time! Thank God for Boppies.

I would say, on average, we go through about 40-45 diapers a day. One can of formula will generally last us about 3-4 days, mixing in breast milk for every other feeding. While it sounds like a lot, were really enjoying every minute of our days. Jon is now back to being at work, instead of working virtually from home. My parents, Jon's parents, and several friends have been helping out during the day/evening. There is not enough time for this blog to express what these people mean to us. We will give them the proper introduction in our blogs to come.

Leaving the NICU for good:)

Maggie, Reese, and Lauren sharing their bed together. As usual, Mild Manner Maggie has her eyes open, exploring the world without a fuss.

Our nurse Laurie checking Lauren out of the NICU

Take me home Mom!!!

At last we're back together!

So cool to finally take this picture! Long awaited!

Neat Article/Video for us to look back on

2008-05-18T19:02:00.002-05:00

Almost forgot to mention that on Mother's Day our local paper did a nice write up/video. It will be neat for our family to look back on! We really appreciated Paul Swiech, from the Pantagraph, for doing this story. He was so patient and courteous as he discovered our life journey over the past several years.

Feel free to check it out: http://www.pantagraph.com/articles/2008/05/11/news/doc4825ab0c59c2d174582064.txt

Happy Belated Mothers Day!

2008-05-18T07:54:00.008-05:00

What a week! Last Sunday we celebrated Mothers Day with both of our parents. They were gracious enough to join us at our house since we are a little less mobile than most:) We had a nice dinner, a few gifts, and a few photo's. While it was a great day, it just wasn't complete without Lauren here. Grandma and Grandpa Samuels were able to stop by Urbana to see Lauren which made Tiff and I feel much more at ease.

Last Wednesday we took Gavin, Maggie, and Reese to Urbana to have their eye appointments. Reese had already been cleared for 6 months, but decided to come along for the ride. Gavin and Maggie both had good appointments and won't have to come back until Reese does. After the appointment we went to see Lauren for a few hours. Lauren had her eye appointment later in the day and was also cleared for 6 months. Tiff and I have to take turns to see her since one of us has to stay with the G,M,&R. They do not allow any babies to enter the NICU after they have been released. Needless to say were ready to get here home! Lauren is on the lowest settings for her nasal cannula, .05. She still needs that little flow:( If she is not off this by next week we will be bringing Lauren home on oxygen. She currently weighs 5 lbs 14 oz.

Big time Congrats to our Kassie's!! We are so proud of them!

Jon's sister Kassie just graduated from Illinois State University! She completed school in 31/2 years and already has her job lined up. What an over achiever!

Tiff's sister Kassie just received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis and accepted a job offer! Hard work is really paying off. Unfortunately, we were not able to attend her graduation since it was in St. Louis. We missed you this past weekend, Kass, and are so proud of you!

Maggie, Gavin, Reese, and Mommy on Mother's Day

Aunt Kassie (Wash. U grad!), MiMi Samuels, Tiff and babies on Mother's Day

Aunt Kassie + Reese, Gavin, & Maggie on I.S.U. Graduation Day

Maggie is so happy to see her Dad.....not so much!

Our first walk in the neighborhood with the babies!

Photo Shoot

2008-05-08T18:23:00.004-05:00

We are having so much fun at home. Who needs sleep!! Brenda (Jon's mom) and I decided to have a photo shoot yesterday. We had a blast! Here are a few of the pics.

I love this one!! Gavin is thinking what is wrong with Reese and Maggie has a sweet smile on her face as she leans on her brother!!!! I love it!!! We cant wait for Lauren to join these pictures!

Reese and Maggie are best friends!

Maggie resting on the coach

Tonight loving arms is coming and Jon and I cant wait! Those special friends have been a huge help!!!! THANK YOU!!!! Thank you Amy for putting so much time and effort into organizing this, we could not do it without them!

Maggie's Home!

2008-05-04T12:52:00.012-05:00

Hello All! Things have been so busy for us the last couple of weeks! Most importantly, we brought Maggie home on Wednesday. She is adapting so well to "home" life. She has proven, thus far, to be the mild manner of the bunch. Very patient with just about everything.

It was very difficult to leave Lauren behind on Wednesday. Since Wednesday she has made unbelievable progress. For one, they have removed her feeding tube. She is taking her bottles at every feeding. She only has a low flow cannula remaining in which she is on the lowest settings (.1). We are praying for Lauren to come home before the quads normal due date of May 13th (if not sooner:)

For now we are keeping a tight feeding schedule with Maggie, Gavin, and Reese. Every three hours (11:30, 2:30, 5:30, ....) If we didn't we'd spend our whole day feeding and changing diapers. I've noticed that our organizational skills are really shaping up:) Amazing what a few babies at once can do to you:)

We had some great help this weekend. Aunt Kassie S. and Aunt Kassie M. came by to help with the overnight feedings. We are looking forward to having family and close friends get us through the night beginning this week. We are so blessed to have the support that we do!

Hope all is well with everyone out there! We appreciate all you prayers and support. We love to read your blogs on our site! Keep them coming.

Maggie taking a mid afternoon nap.

Miss Maggie

Mom & Lauren

Mom & Gavin

Gavin (left), Maggie (bottom right), & Reese

Reese being Reese

Gavin comes home....

2008-04-22T21:46:00.012-05:00

Everything is going well here at Camp Michaels. Reese and Gavin have been a blast! We don't get a ton of sleep at night, but really don't seem to care (we must be rookies:). We're just enjoying being parents! Tiff absolutely loves staying home with the kids!

We're starting to think that Reese goes to sleep easier when she hears her brother upset. Crazy, huh! Gavin has no problem sleeping at night and doesn't seem to get to concerned with what mood Reese is in. We're hoping Maggie will be joining us by the end of this week, then Lauren not far behind. Lauren continues to catch up to her siblings. She's taking most of her bottles and is on the lowest settings or her cannula. Absolutely amazing!

Tiff and I want to thank everyone for their continued prayers and support. We couldn't be in a better place in our life right now!

Here are some recent pics of Reese and Gavin!

Gavin says "Bye Bye NICU"

Gavin loves his blanket from the Moore's

"Dad, could you get the camera any closer"

Reese with a chuckle....or was it gas???

"Give me Five Gavin!"

"Okay, seriously Mom! You've put me in a pink boppy! Wait till Dad gets home and finds out about this!"

" Pssss....Reese.....Wake up!"

How cute are we?

And They Start to Trickle In......

2008-04-15T11:27:00.010-05:00

Only a two week delay on the blog:) Sorry about that, but things have been really busy for Tiff and I. We've been put in a unique situation of our babies being split up!

Last Thursday was a great day for the Michaels' clan. I had dropped Tiff off at the hospital, parked the car and came upstairs to the NICU. I went straight to see Lauren in her bed and she was gone! I turned around to find she had joined her siblings. All four in one crib! What a huge blessing!

Lauren (2nd from bottom) joined her brother and sisters

4 Amigos: L-R: Maggie, Reese, Lauren, and Gavin

Lauren has been doing so well. She is off the ventilator, on a low flow cannula, and took her entire first bottle the other day. What a difference a couple of weeks can make! We were able to get a quick pic of Lauren and her siblings before we TOOK REESE HOME!

Reese saying goodbye to the NICU.

We've enjoyed every minute of Reese being home. While it's been difficult to have our babies in two locations, it's been nice to transition into parenthood with Reese being home. Even spending awake time in the wee hours of the morning has been so cool for us! We have determined that Reese will be the "squeaker" of the bunch. She's a very affectionate girl and loves arms more than her moses basket! I would be doing Reese an injustice if I didn't mention how much she loves her pacifier too.

Reese just arriving home for the first time with Mommy

Current Weights:

Lauren - 4 lbs

Maggie - 5 lbs

Gavin - 6 lbs

Reese - 4 lbs 8oz

Tomorrow (Wednesday) will be twice as nice. We are bringing Gavin home. We're halfway there:) I can't wait to see Lauren, Maggie, and Gavin. It's almost been a week since I've seen them! Here are some more pics of the kids getting their baths:

Reese (left) & Maggie (right)

Gavin in his bath

Lauren is off the ventilator!

2008-04-01T22:39:00.002-05:00

Lauren went off her ventilator on Monday! She has been doing really well without it so far! We'll update this blog later, but we are just so happy everything is going well for Lauren. You can just tell she is already less agitated than this weekend!

Pray for Lauren to Get Off Her Ventilator!!

2008-03-30T22:31:00.002-05:00

Either Monday or Tuesday Dr's are going to take Lauren off of her ventilator. We are just praying she does well without it!! This will be the third time they'll attempt to see how she does without it (one planned attempt, one Lauren pulled out herself). Lauren's weight is now 3lbs 3oz so were praying she has the strength to sustain life without the support of a ventilator.

How the others are doing:

Gavin = 5 lbs Reese = 4 lbs Maggie = 4 lbs

All three are working on their bottles and coming along really well!

2008-03-23T19:20:00.011-05:00

Happy Easter!! Sorry it has taken so long to update. We've had a very busy Easter week. Jon's family (aunts, uncles, and grandfather) came in to celebrate Aunt Erma's 100 year birthday on Thursday. Friday they were all able to come and see the babies for the first time. It was great having them in town for the weekend! It was really neat to see Grandpa's expression as he saw all the Quads.

The Quads have been making great strides in just one week. It's amazing to see how much they change on a daily basis. They are continuing to gain weight each day, about 1 oz. a day! Here are their current weights:

Lauren - 2lbs 9.5oz

Gavin - 4lbs 5 oz

Maggie - 3lbs 11.9 oz

Reese - 3lbs 9 oz

Lauren has been doing so well. Since she has outgrown her first vent tube they have increased the size of the tube which has seemed to have made a huge difference for the better. They have her on the lowest vent settings, which means she doing most of the work on her own. Dr. Stratton would like to see her gain a little more weight before they try to take her off the vent again. She has been such a fighter over the last week and is determined to get off her vent! We just love watching her grow every day!

(Daddy changing Lauren's Diaper - She's so cute!)

Gavin now has a little company in his bed! Maggie and Reese have crashed the party:) This is great news considering Maggie and Reese are now in a crib. They have done great in room air with very few problems. Gavin, pretty reserved, seems to be taken things in stride.

All the grandparents have had an opportunity to hold their grandbabies. Once Lauren is in a crib, they will have the opportunity to hold all the babies. They look so cute together! We just need Lauren to jump in the middle to make this slumber party complete!

(from the left: Maggie, Gavin, Reese)

(Mom, Maggie, Gavin, & Reese)

4 Generations! Dad, Jon, Gavin, and Grandpa Mike

We continue to be blessed with a great NICU staff here at Carle! They are unbelievably patient with us and are so detailed with every question they answer! We can't imaging being anywhere else!

Easter Sunday with Our Great NICU Staff ! - Linda, Tiff, Valerie, Jess, and Brittany

Gavin Graduates To A Crib

2008-03-15T21:07:00.006-05:00

We are so excited that Gavin is in a crib. He is such a big boy:) Jon and I can now pick him up and love on him anytime we want. It just makes it so real. The only thing left for Gav is to eat on his own, then he is ready to come home!! Eating can take weeks to learn, he will start trying the bottle at 33 weeks. Now that he is in a crib he can wear big boy clothes!!

Here is Jon and I holding Gavin!

Maggie and Reese are doing well! They are being held for the first time like big girls by their daddy:)

Sweet Lauren is still doing great on her ventilator. She continues to stay on the lowest settings. We just pray for her lungs to develop, that she continues to get bigger and stronger.

Tonight Jon and I were visiting the quads and I went to say goodnight to Maggie and Reese and in their bed was a gift to mommy. I was so surprised! The babies decided to get me a ring with their birthstones in it (which is amethyst). I just love it!!! It has four amethysts representing each of our little blessings. I bet it was Lauren's idea:)

2008-03-13T21:27:00.005-05:00

Sorry it has taken us so long to update, but we've had a pretty good week for the Quads.

Last Monday they attempted to take Lauren (2lbs 2oz) off her last ventilator. She was quick to tell us and the doctors that she's not quite ready. She lasted about 10 minutes until they put the ventilator back on. It was at least worth the shot! She is still on the lowest settings for the ventilator, which is a good thing. Our doctor would like to see her put on another 8 oz (1/2 lbs) before they try taking the ventilator off. The weight should translate into more strength.

Maggie (3lbs 1oz) and Reese (3 lbs even) are back together again. They started co-bedding again on Wednesday. They are so cute together. Reese appears to be the affectionate one, always putting her hand or leg on Maggie. As we left tonight Reese was trying to suck Maggie's hand.

Gavin (3lbs 11oz) has been his same old self. He's enjoying his own bed, stretching out and opening his eyes a lot more as of late. Today they officially took him off the oxygen pressure. He's doing everything on his own and doing great. It's nice to see them slowly take away the tubes.

We are seeing our prayers answered daily and even hourly!!! This road is a long one, yet God's grace has made this journey all worth while. Jon and I would not trade this for the world!!!!

First Times....

2008-03-07T21:36:00.017-06:00

Everything has been going so well this past week. Since we've last blogged Lauren has been taken off the jett ventilator. She is still on one ventilator, which she receives 26 breaths per minute. This is already decreased from 50,which she just had two days ago. On top of this, she officially reached the 2lbs mark! To add to this great news Tiff was able to hold Lauren for two hours yesterday. She responded so well to being with Mommy. Heartbeat was great, she slept the whole time, and they lowered her oxygen levels during this two hour time frame.

Gavin, Maggie, and Reese are all doing great as well. Gavin is 3lbs 6oz, Maggie and Reese are 2lbs 10oz each. Maggie's stomach was a little more expanded than they liked a couple of days ago so they put her in a different bed than Reese. They thought she might of had an infection in her intestine, but turned out it was just gas:) They may put them back together soon.

On Wednesday, Aunt Heather, my sister, surprised Tiff and I by flying into town from Dallas TX. It was so good to catch up with her! Even better to see her visit the babies!

Thanks to the help of Becky Huizer and Snyder Reality Tiff and I are hanging out at Eastland Suites in Urbana this weekend. We are very thankful to be staying right down the road from the quads and nice accommodations.

Lauren's first cuddle with Mommy!

Aunt Heather's first peek at Maggie and Reese

Tiff getting the morning quad updates from Nurse Deb

Reese's little behind

Grandpa Samuels first touch - with Maggie

Roomies!

2008-03-02T12:53:00.003-06:00

Well everything is status quo here in Champaign.

Gavin - 3lbs 2 oz. Doing really well!

Maggie - 2lbs 8 oz. Doing really well!

Lauren - Stable from last blog. They think her PDA may have a slight opening still. We are waiting to hear what the doctor thinks tomorrow. Numbers aren't as high as last time and could require medication if anything at all. She is up in weight. Yeah! 1lbs 12 oz.

Reese - has some bouts with apnea, but otherwise doing well. 2 lbs 8 oz.

Reese and Maggie are just so much alike.......

...that they've become roomies! ...and from time to time roomies must share!

I'm a little biased, but it's got to be the cutest thing you've ever seen!

We continue to ask for your prayers for all the quads, especially Lauren! We have met a wonderful couple here in Champaign, Dave and Helen Leverton. Their son Austin is going through very similar phases as Lauren. Please pray for them as well. I know there are a lot of prayer warriors our there and we appreciate you very much!

Here are a couple of the prayer quilts from 2nd Presbyterian Church. We love them and what they represent!

One week, One day

2008-02-27T14:55:00.010-06:00

Yesterday we celebrated the quads one week birthday! By far the quickest week in our lives. Hopefully every week won't be this quick once they are home.

Updates:

Gavin: 3 lbs "Chunk". He is receiving photo therapy for jaundice, will come off the photo therapy tomorrow morning. Otherwise, he is doing spectacular.

Maggie: 2 lbs 6 oz - Doing really well overall. They increased her oxygen levels a bit today. A few bouts of apnea last night, but have been pretty stable today.

Reese: 2 lbs 5.7 oz - Doing really well overall. A few bouts with apnea over the last 24 hours, but stable since Tiff and I have been here today.

Lauren: 1 lbs 11.5oz - Having a pretty good day thus far, but continue to ask for prayers. She still remains on:

* Jett Ventilator - assists in 420 gentle breaths per minute. Used for peak inspatory pressure (how big her breath is).

*VIP Bird Ventilator - gives her 4 "big"breaths per minute. Almost like big sighs. Helps open up the lungs.

*Nitric Oxide- used for pulmonary hypertension. Essentially this makes it easier for Lauren to breath.

*Fentanyl - all the short breaths aren't to comfortable for Lauren. The fentanyl is a pain medicine. They did decrease her dosage by 15 % today. Good news.

*Vitamin A - helps lung development.

We are praying for Lauren to come off this assistance. So much going on for our little peanut.

We want to thank 2nd Presbyterian Church for the prayer quilts! Rev. Deckert came and prayed with Tiff and I over all the babies and their new quilts. A special thank you to all those that tied a prayer knot! Very cool idea! I didn't have the opportunity to take pictures of all of them, but look forward taking some tomorrow evening and posting them.

Just to let you know a couple hours after Rev. Deckert left Lauren took a turn for the better on her VIP Bird Ventilator. They are decreasing the amount of big breaths per minute to 2! This means Lauren is not needing the assistance she did when I began this blog earlier today! A true testimony to the power of prayer!

Tiff has this favorite song since she was 16, "God is in control", by Twila Paris. Her favorite line is the opening line, "This is no time for fear, this is a time for faith and determination". Words we are living by daily.

Below are some pictures we've taken over the last couple of days.

Aunt Kassie M. with Gavin

Tiff with Gavin

Aunt Risa and Aunt Kassie S. first visit with Reese

Our Little Lauren

Jon's first hold with Maggie

Update on Lauren!

2008-02-25T15:05:00.003-06:00

God is good! Lauren's Payton Duct (PDA) closed! Thank you for the prayers everyone! They are being answered! I'll update this post later, but just had to share the news with family and friends.

Tiff held Maggie and I held Gavin for the first time yesterday. Gavin and I took an hour nap:) Talk about being at peace with the world! I'll try to post our pictures later today. I'm debating if I want my harry chest plastered over the web. I have a few best buds who would have a field day with that one (Matt R ;)

Love you guys!

2008-02-23T08:27:00.012-06:00

Good Morning! It's check out day for Tiff. She is progressing so well they are ready to give us the boot:) I speak for the both of us in saying it will be an adjustment not actually sleeping here. We are very fortunate there's a free guest house, across the street, we're able to stay at for the first week. We'll move in later today.

Babies are doing well. I'm going to act like I know what I'm talking about, but still have quite a bit to learn. I found it easier to take a notebook with me to take detailed notes. Our nurses have been very patient with me as I try to understand everything that is going on.

How they're doing:

Gavin - breathing on his own without assistance. Taking his milk in, just loving life. He's a bit spoiled however. What's new? He's the only one we can hold at this point. Watching him and Tiff cuddle up is so cool! His flow of assisted oxygen is down from a 3 to a 2.

Reese - She's catching up to Gavin! She's off the ventilator, but requires a little more oxygen. We're thinking we'll be able to hold her within the next couple of days if not sooner.

Lauren - She is on a new ventilator called a "Jett Ventilator". The ventilator pumps 420 short breaths and helps the lungs exchange O2 and CO2. It's been very effective and already decreased her O2 levels. Her blood gases have shown improvement since being on the jett ventilator as well. She is currently under the lamps (phototherapy) for her jaundice.

There are some concerns with her PDA (payton duct) which, in full term babies, closes following birth. Lauren's didn't close. So I avoid acting like a doctor and describing something wrong...the PDA needs to close. They are giving her some medication, which is similar to ibuprofen to help close this duct. If not, we may be looking a procedure which would be in Peoria IL, not Champaign. We're not there yet though! We've been given numbers indicating this medicine will work 70% of the time.

Maggie - She's off the ventilator and on a c-pap. She has a few episodes where she gets a little lazy and forgets to breath, but has been pretty good the last 24 hours.

I have a lot to learn so hopefully will be better with my details as we go along, but wanted to let everyone know things are going well, just need a few more prayers for Lauren at this point.

Here are some more pictures:

Reese gripping Jon's finger. Strong Grip!

Tiff's First Touch - with Maggie

Grandma and Grandpa Michaels first visit - with Reese

Grandma and Grandpa Samuels first visit - with Reese

Birthday!

2008-02-21T22:02:00.021-06:00

Here's how the biggest day in our lives transpired:

Happy 28th!! - Our parents came up to celebrate 28 weeks of the Quads staying in Tiff's belly.
Then, around 8 p.m. Lori, our nurse for the evening, and the rest of the staff on duty, surprised us with a 28 week party. We popped some Grape Welches bubbly and celebrated.

About 10 minutes after this picture was taken Gavin's sac broke and there was a pretty good feeling from everyone that this could be the moment we've been waiting over three years for!
Dr. Wagner was on duty and took Tiff back to the Operating Room , on our floor , to examine Tiff's cerclage. Results - one stitch had already come apart and the other was not too far away. Dr. Wagner came back to our room and gave us the news and told me to scrub up and get ready - TIFF's GOING TO DELIVER!! She indicated if they attempted to remove the second stitch Gavin would be heading down the Panama:) Myself, our parents, and Dr. Wagner all prayed together and I headed back to the OR with Tiff.

I know it sounds cliche for us, but everything was so smooth. God truly blessed us through the next two hours. There was so much going on behind the scenes, but Tiff and I were at peace with everything! We had previously requested, when the time comes, we wanted our nurses, Vanessa, Lori, Maggie and Tina (left to right below)to be there. They all made it in time to scrub in. This was such a calming factor for the two of us. We've loved them like family over the past month!
The only other person we still needed was Dr. Kehl. He later informed us that he got "the call" just after bringing his daughter home from a performance she had. He high tailed it from his home about 20 minutes away and was there for the delivery. Another calming factor for us! (Below: He and Tiff just prior to the c-section.)

Okay ..........

Gavin Christopher (above)

Reese Suzanne (above)

Maggie Ray (above)

and last, but not least: Lauren Kay

All babies are doing well. Gavin is breathing on his own already. Maggie, Reese, and Lauren are on ventilators, but doing well and holding stable. Reese and Maggie are getting real close to being off the ventilator...just a little ways to go. Lauren is so active and opens her eyes more than all four. She will probably be on the ventilator longer than her sisters, but it's already evident she's going to be a feisty little thing!

Tiff is still healing from her c-section, and has already been doing some walking today. Hard to believe that until yesterday she hadn't taken more than three steps in over a month. Just a small walk to the bathroom puts her out of breath.

We've been able to be around the quads in the NICU as long as we like. Tiff and I have been able to touch them. In fact, Gavin is doing so well Tiff was able to snuggle up with him for an hour today

While everyone is doing great we still appreciate all your prayers! Our babies are still just little tykes with possibly a couple of months to go before they can come home. We are expecting some up and downs, but have complete faith in God's plan.

We are reading your blogs, texts, and e-mails. Thank you and keep them coming!!

Quad Squad has Arrived!!

2008-02-20T21:10:00.002-06:00

Hi All,

As of 10:31 p.m. Tuesday night (2/19/08) our family of 2 became 6! We are so blessed! Everyone, including Mom, are doing well. I will blog more tomorrow with pictures/details, but wanted to give you names and weight:

(A) Gavin Christopher (2 lbs 13 oz) 10:29 p.m.

(C) Reese Suzanne (2 lbs 3 oz) 10:30 p.m.

(B) Maggie Ray (2 lbs 8 oz) 10:31 p.m.

(D) Lauren Kay (1 lbs 7 oz) 10:31 p.m.

Everything went soooooo smooth after Tiff's water broke (Gavin's sac). Our team here at Carle are absolutely amazing!!! Thanks for all your continued prayers!

Growth Sonogram

2008-02-18T10:41:00.003-06:00

Here were our results from the growth sonogram today:

A (boy) = 2lbs 14 oz (gained 10 oz in 2 weeks)

B (girl) = 2lbs 8 oz (gained 9 oz in 2 weeks)

C (girl) = 2lbs 4 oz (gained 4 oz in 2 weeks)

D (girl) = 1lbs 6 oz (gained 2 oz in 2 weeks)

Dr. Kehl vistited after and is happy with the progress. All babies are growing and heart and fluid look good. We would like to see baby D grow more, but Dr. Kehl didn't express any concern with her. Tomorrow is 28 weeks!!!

Tiff looks great and is doing well!

2008-02-17T11:19:00.009-06:00

I wanted to give everyone a quick update! Friday night/Saturday morning we were pretty confident the Quads were going to be here. It started early Friday afternoon with Tiff noticing some bleeding. This eventually subsided, but then her contractions became more and more frequent that they kept increasing her medication. At this point Dr. Kehl decided to go ahead with the second round of steriod shots just in case. He liked to space the steroids a month apart and we were just a day or two away from a full month, so he decided to go ahead a couple days early. As Friday progressed Tiff was contracting so frequently they maxed her dosage of magnesium to a level 4. All of our parents were here throughout the night ready to be on hand should the delivery take place. Thankfully, Saturday late morning things started to stabalize and the babies are still with Tiff. Awesome! They completely took her off magnesium since her mag levels were to high. She is back on her typical oral medicine and things have continued to remain stable. Huge blessing.

We spoke with Dr. Kehl this morning and he is taking it a day at a time. We will have to live with the fact that Tiff is a contractor. As long as she is not feeling the contractions (which she isn't) we'll continue to plug along. We set our goals on reaching week 28 (Tuesday - 2/19) at this point. Every day we can get is huge in terms of development. Tomorrow is our growth sonogram so we'll be able to see how much the babies have grown in length and weight. We're still praying for baby "D" and her weight to of increased from 1.4 oz.

Tiffany and I would like thank everyone for their prayers, texts, blogs, e-mails, phone calls, and cards! We apologize if we haven't gotten back to anyone, but please know we are reading and listening to all your messages!

Also! - Thank you Kristy and Pam for calling me ASAP and staying calm while I was still in Bloomington Friday!

God Bless! We appreciate all your prayers!

2008-02-13T21:28:00.003-06:00

Tiffany's contractions increased today so nurses gave her a few shots of terb, which didn't solve the problem. At about 6 p.m. this evening Dr. Kehl decided to put Tiff back on magnesium. I'm looking at Tiff's charts as I type and everything looks really good. If everything goes as planned Dr. Kehl would like to have the magnesium weened off by Friday morning. He really believes that Tiff has just been going through a big growth spurt the last few days. Even more importantly, Dr. Kehl feels she could go at least another week or two before delivering. We don't have a "due date", but as long as the babies aren't in distress and Tiff is doing fine we'll keep moving forward.

We did have a sonogram today and all babies are doing great. They all scored 8 out of 8 for breathing, sac fluid, movement, and heartbeats! Very Cool!

Thanks everyone for your prayers! Hope everyone has a Happy Valentines day tomorrow!

27 WEEKS!!!

2008-02-12T21:45:00.003-06:00

It's been a great day thus far. What an accomplishment for Tiff to reach 27 weeks. I attribute this to her being such a rule follower and following every instruction the doctors and nurses have given her. There is nothing more Tiff could be doing that she isn't already. That being said, contractions have slowed down, it has been a much better day emotionally, and Tiff has not had a terb shot since 2 a.m. this morning. We like to think that the last couple of days have just been a big growth spirt!

Tomorrow Tiff will have another sonogram to look at breathing, fluid, heartbeats, and movement of all the babies. Hope all is well with the world outside of Hotel Carle!

2008-02-11T19:47:00.000-06:00

Well, Tiff didn't have the best day today:

Contractions were pretty constant this morning (every two/three minutes). The nurse had to administor a "terb" shot which has seemed to calm things down somewhat. This is the third day in a row for this shot.
She was weighed and lost weight. We are thinking the babies are taking most of the food, but something we didn't want to hear. As a side note, I weighed her myself this evening and she was 10lbs heavier than the morning measurement. Her bed is a sophisticated bed in that it can take a weight, but maybe to sophisticated. We're thinking a stand up scale may be more accurate
The sonogram this afternoon showed that all babies are doing well! However Tiff's cervix has decreased in size a little (.78), which the doctor's will need to keep an eye on.

Tiff is still Tiff! She is very positive and upbeat as usual. We didn't see Dr. Kehl this evening so we're hoping to see him tomorrow. As I speak all the nurses are in the room signing a pillow case for Tiff and chatting. Lori one of the nurses brought the pillow case in knowing how fond Tiff is of her pillow cases. What an amazing, supportive staff here!

We continue to be specific with our prayers. We appreciate everyone continueing to pray for us and the babies. We truly feel blessed to have each and every day that God keeps these babies in Tiff's belly.

Things are going great!

2008-02-07T20:44:00.002-06:00

Last few days have been wonderful and there have been hardly any contractions at all. We had some exciting news on Tuesday. I got to move to a bigger room with a better view! Thursday we got a call from Dave Taylor, CEO of Dorell Juvenile Group and close friend of Dr. Jarrett, stating his company wanted to donate two double strollers with four matching car seats to Jon and I. I was so excited I started crying and just couldn't get over Mr. Taylors generosity! I know we keep saying this, but we are truly blessed.

Tonight our good friends, Patrick and Christina Vance, brought us Olive Garden and joined us for dinner. It was so good to spend time with them!

Tomorrow we are 26 weeks/3 days and things continue to go well!

"They Met, They Married, They Multiplied!"

2008-02-04T19:32:00.000-06:00

What an amazing weekend for Tiff, myself, and our family to come! Saturday night I attended a "baby shower" at Entourage in Bloomington which my sister, Kassie, and good friend Kori Gettel put together on our behalf. (Kassie and Kori in the picture above)

I was absolutely shocked to show up and see over 300 close friends and family. Most everyone was wearing T-shirts (pink or blue) which had on the back "They Met. They Married. They Multiplied."
Merge, an amazing band, played all night. There was a silent auction in which several local business and friends donated packages and a diaper drive at the door.

(Picture to the right - The Doran's, Fletcher's, and Jon's parents)

Everything went so smooth and we both feel so blessed for everyones attendance and generosity.

Unfortunately, Tiff had to stay behind in Champaign so there was a definite void Saturday night. Jan, Tiff's mom, stayed with her while we were at Entourage. Sunday Kori and Kassie brought the video, pictures, and details of the shower. Tiff loved it all!

Today was our target sonogram which gives us the weight of each baby. A (boy) = 2 lbs 4 oz

B = 1lbs 15 oz C= 2lbs D= 1lbs 4 oz.

Weight gained in the last two weeks: A 4 oz, B 8 oz, C 7 oz, D 2 oz.

All heart beats look good, remaining sac fluid looks good, and all are active. Dr. Kehl seems please with the progess of the babies. Tiff and I were a little concerned Baby D has only grown 2 oz, but Dr. Kehl alleved some of those concerns by indicating that sometimes the smallest babies are the healthiest. He's not worried now, but we do need her to gain weight!

Tiff continues to be amazing, always positive and high on life. As a matter of fact, she went the whole night without contractions Sunday evening/Monday morning.

A great example of prayers being answered: Her cervix has remained stable, no change in size! We thank everyone for their generosity, e-mails, texts, phone calls and most of all prayers.

Tomorrow brings 26 weeks! Just one more milestone complete!

Love you all! Jon & Tiff

January 31, 2008

2008-01-31T20:05:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone is enjoying the wonderful winter weather. Tiff & I are enjoying the snow from the 10th floor of Carle Hospital. Great day to be indoors and covered up with blankets! This fits right into Tiff's day:)

Everything here is going wonderful. Tiff has been feeling great and (knock on wood) has had minimal complications over the last week. Yesterday Tiff had a sonogram and the babies are already working on their breathing, which is great news! On a scale from 1-8, 8 being the healthiest, all babies are measuring an "8" in terms of practicing breathing, sac fluid, heartbeats, and movement. We are both anxious for tomorrow to see how Tiff's cervix looks. Last cervix sono, on Monday, showed the cervix had actually grown 1cm in length. Any growth in length is a blessing! Thank you for your prayers for Tiff's cervix. Brad Boll, a friend of mine at work, cracked me up when he said he was having a difficult time explaining to his wife that he was praying for another womans cervix:) Needless to say, those prayers are being answered!

Next Monday (2/4) brings our growth sonogram. This sono only comes every other Monday. We are praying our little peanut (baby D) has continued to grow with her siblings. We are confident she is just going to be a little smaller than the rest and have to remember that each baby will have it's own unique characteristics. These are not identical quads so could be quite different in their appearance.

Next Tuesday we will celebrate the babies 26th week birthday!! Lori, one of our nurses, brought in a cake for the 24th week b-day and 4 baby bottles (3 pink caps and 1 blue cap) filled with candy for the 25th week b-day. We can't say enough about the support the staff has given us since we've been here.

Here's a picture of me putting together our last crib. About two hours later Tiff went into preterm labor. Just in the knick of time;)

Oh, as for the pole to the left, those who voted "Tiff didn't let Jon finish" were correct. A special "thanks" to those who voted I was able to finish in two minutes!

Thanks to everyone who has visited, been praying, sending cards, texting, calling and sending e-mails. They mean the world to Tiff and I!! We'll continue to keep you posted!

"Showered"

2008-01-26T19:44:00.000-06:00

What a busy day! Tiff had a good day health wise. A few minor contractions this afternoon, but otherwise quiet. Last night she pretty much slept all through the night.

Today was a great day visitor wise! Judy and Mark Hutti, Tiff's family and my family came up for a "mini" baby shower. The shower was originally planned for Mattoon, but since we are here now, the shower was brought to Champaign. We were blessed with many nice things!!

A little later in the evening Matt Ashmore stopped by for a surprise visit. Tiff was elated to see him! Matt - I apologize for leaving you in the room with 6 women while we left and ate pizza. You probably got more than you bargained for:)

Kori Gettel and my sister Kassie surprised us today with the amazing news of the "baby shower" they are putting on for us next Saturday at Entourage! Absolutely amazing! We can't believe all the hard work everyone put in to this shower to make this work. It just blows us away people want to do this just for our family. Everyday we are reminded we're so blessed with amazing family and friends. I look forward to attending for Tiff and I, but know there will be a definite void without my better half being there:( Thank you Kori and Kassie and all those that helped to organize this! Tiff is excited to get a full report/video next Sunday.

Yesterday our mailbox at home was filled with card, after card, after card for Tiff. Tiff's best friends from college, Shanna Combes and Jenny Hunt, organized a "ZTA gift card" shower. Tiff was absolutely ecstatic to read all the cards from her ZTA sisters. Tiff sends a big "THANKS" to everyone for their generosity!

Also, yesterday, Pete and Megan Martin came all the way from Indianapolis to see Tiff. Tiff spent a couple of hours visiting with them before they had to return home. It was really good to see both of them! Pete - Thanks for the Golf Magazine! I'm getting tired of reading Us and People Magazine!

I wanted to thank Amy Moser for coming to spend last Wednesday with Tiff. It was so good for Tiff to spend time with her and just hang out. Amy was such a great help!

Alright, another day and the babies are still cooking in Tiff's belly! We just take it day-by-day and continue to pray from our prayer list. God is so good!!

2008-01-24T20:41:00.000-06:00

Hello All,

Tiff had some contractions this morning and later this afternoon so I worked from the lobby on our floor. Jan (Tiff's Mom) came up to keep Tiff company as well. To remedy the contractions nurses gave her a shot this afternoon that isn't near as strong as the Magnesium she was on when she was first admitted. Since the shot contractions have subsided. In the words of our nurse, Vanessa, Tiff is just going to be a "contractor". As long as they aren't big ones, we can live with that.

Tomorrow Tiff will have a sonogram so it will be exciting to see how much the babies have grown. I think we're even more intrigued by the size of Tiff's cervix. Continue to pray for the babies health and that Tiff's cervix lengthens.

I thought I would take a minute to talk about our accommodation's here at Carle. This portion of the hospital is one year old in February. We are blessed to have our own room, own bathroom (with shower), and nice flat screen T.V. Floors are all wood. They have rolled a bed in for me to sleep on as well:) The accommodation's are similar to a hotel room to be honest. All of this is a blessing considering we are considering this home for as long as possible. Security is pretty tight on our floor; nurses have to let you in and out. Food has been really good.

The nursing staff here is great. Everyone has been really helpful and personable. We are going to assume that they will be like family by the time we leave here. In my humble opinion you can start to see all the nurses rallying behind Tiff. It's Tiff's outgoing personality that is so infectious! Dr. Kehl came in around 7 p.m. this evening and is still encouraged by Tiff's progress. He keeps it simple - one day at a time, one week at a time, one month at a time:)

Tiff wants me to make sure I don't forget to thank everyone for their prayers, texts, e-mails, and phone calls. We love you all!

HAPPY 24th WEEK B-DAY!!!

2008-01-22T10:39:00.000-06:00

It is now official, the babies are considered viable! This is something Tiff and I have felt from day 1, but medically speaking they are viable. Tiff didn't have the best night last night since contractions acted up a bit. They increased her level of medicine (Magnesium Sulfate) which, in her words, made her feel "drugged up". She was able to get some consistent shut eye after 8 a.m. this morning though.

We saw Dr. Kehl this morning. He has a positive outlook on things, which is good news for Tiff and I to hear. He would like to take her off the Magnesium and get her on something oral (I can't remember the name of the drug :). Depending on how her body reacts they'll determine if she needs get back on the Magnesium, but we plan on saying "bye-bye" to those drugs for a while! Dr. Kehl did prescribe her another steroid shot today which she had done about a half hour ago. The best prescription today though is TIFF GETS TO TAKE A SHOWER!!! She is so pumped.

They did a sonogram on the babies this morning and the heartbeats still look good. Her cervix has gone down in size from a 1.8 to a 1.6 cm. Please keep praying for her cervix to stay as long as possible!!

As I type this nurses are doing a monitor on all the babies heartbeats. It's so cool to hear four babies heart beats all at once! Words really can't describe it. They'll keep a monitor on each baby for 1/2 hour. It takes two nurses to find all the heart beats at the same time. Picture above: Here are two of our nurses, Marilyn (left) and Mindy (right) monitoring heart beats!

Alright, time for Tiff and I to eat some lunch. I'll say it everytime....Thank you so much for your prayers, e-mails, blogs, and texts. Tiff loves to read/hear them!

Great Night!!

2008-01-21T10:47:00.000-06:00

Everything went really well last night. Tiff's contractions subsided and, at one point, were down to 2 contractions in one hour. Excellent! Tiff got plenty of sleep (even though she has to turn over once every hour) and is feeling good this morning. Since she's been awake contractions have been about 6 per hour. We met with our RN, Melissa, who was encouraged by Tiff's progress. Since she had such a good night they have taken her off the catheter and allowed her to start eating food! Before this morning Tiff hadn't eaten anything or been able to get up since Saturday.

Tomorrow will be the babies 24 week birthday!! Awesome! Dr's consider this a great milestone to achieve! To celebrate the occasion Tiff was injected with a steroid shot:) around 10 a.m. to help with the development of the babies lungs, etc. In the same visit Tiff had a sonogram. Babies heartbeats still look great. They have sufficient fluid in their sacs so far. The cervix is measuring 1.80 cm, which is a little lower than what we'd love to have, but stable from where it was yesterday. Please pray for Tiff's cervix to remain as long as possible!

Well, I realize this entry is short, but everything is going as well as possible. I can't tell you how great it has been for Tiff to receive the texts, voicemails, e-mails, and blog entries. She loves to hear/read them all!! God is good!

Tiff and Jon

Just arrived at the hospital....

2008-01-20T12:06:00.000-06:00

Hello Everyone!

12:00 p.m. blog: Well, last night Tiff's body just didn't feel right and after speaking with the nurse, Veronica, we headed out to Carle Clinic in Champaign. Upon arriving at the hospital we came to find that Tiff was having contractions on a pretty frequent basis. The doctor has put her on Magnesium Sulfate to help eliminate the contractions. The good news is the contractions are not near as frequent as they were last night. Bad news is the side effects are crummy for Tiff. She also is dealing with blood in her urine which they think can be attributed to a bladder infection. We will have to wait a couple of days for the cultures to come back. They are treating her with an antibiotic for this. To top all this off Tiff has to deal with a catheter, which, at first caused a great deal of discomfort. No food either for the time being.

I can't tell you how big of a fighter Tiff is. She is absolutely resilient to deal with such a tough situation. Going off little sleep and not feeling well she still stays so positive! We have yet to meet with Dr. Kehl, he will be in later today or tomorrow. At first glance it appears that we will be here in Champaign for the remainder of Tiff's pregnancy. We did have a sonogram this morning and all the babies are growing well and heart beats look great. God is sooo Good!! Our little peanut has put on just as much weight as the others, which we are really encouraged by. She is weighing 1lbs 2oz. On the flip side, our boy continues to put on the pounds. He is weighing in at an amazing 1 lbs 14 oz. The other two girls are right on target for their age, weighing around 1lbs 8 oz.

10:40 p.m. blog - What a difference a few hours can make. Tiff continues to look and feel better with each passing hour. Tiff's family arrived early afternoon which really lifted her spirits. The contractions are now 13 minutes apart. This is a great stride considering she was around 6 minutes earlier in the day. There is not as much blood in her urine and they have lowered her dosage of Magnesium Sulfate; both positive signs. She has slept a lot today which is perfect. Relaxing her uterus so it can expand is the number one priority. Keep the cervix long! For now we are just sitting and waiting for more details. Probably won't know much until we see Dr. Kehl in the morning since he didn't make it in today.

We have received a ton of "we're praying for you" phone calls today. God is definitely answering these prayers. Tiff and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts! We both feel so blessed to have the family and friends we do! I'll try to keep everyone up to date as we move forward.

God Bless,

Tiff and Jon

22 weeks

2008-01-09T20:41:00.000-06:00

Today we had our 22 week doctors appointment. It went great!!! The babies look good, our little guy is huge. He is measuring 25 weeks and 1 1/2 lbs. Babies b and c are measuring right on target (1lb 3 ounces). We do have a little peanut. She is the one right under my right rib cage. The doctors are not worried because she has the same amount of blood flow and fluid as the other three. She is just going to be the smallest. Everything else looks really good, my cervix is over a 4 which is great!! I will start steroid shots next visit, which will be at 24 weeks. This is to help their lung development. Jon and I thank you for all of your prayers, they are definitely being answered!!!

Here I am at 22 weeks, measuring 34 weeks!

We were able to have some of our sonogram pictures in 3-D. Here is one of our little girls with her right hand under her chin. She is probably thinking "How can I get more room in here:)"

This is a picture of our little guy bearing it all!!!

21 weeks.......

2008-01-02T21:07:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone's holiday went well!! I'm back at home after spending a week with my parents in Mattoon. It was nice to get away from our house.

Here I am at 19 weeks. We just had our 20 week appointment last Friday and everything went really well. The babies continue to be healthy and growing as any 20 week old baby would. The doctor is happy with the progress thus far. In fact, things were so good I got to take one last trip to St. Louis for Pam's (my second Mom) 60th Birthday! Unfortunately Dr. Kehl is telling me this would be the last trip I can take and then I must stay close to home....but it's totally worth it!!! We go back to the doc. Wed. the 9th. We will have another sono to check the babies measurements. I love seeing them. They are always so active ( I wonder where they get that from:) )

I was 21 weeks as of yesterday. I am still feeling great!!!

2007-12-20T12:44:00.000-06:00

It is another great day! I am getting really used to not working, and just taking it easy!!! Kassie (my sister) has been here all week. She has been awesome!! Any time I start to get up, she quickly asks "What are you doing?" She has been cooking, cleaning and keeping me company. I have just loved having her here. We will all go home for Christmas on Saturday. I am going to stay at my parents house for a week. Jon has to come back Christmas night because he has to work the next day. It will be nice to stay there and relax because everyone will be home!!!

Today Kassie and I went and picked our her wedding invitations, don't worry I was sitting the entire time. It is nice to get out of the house once in a while. This afternoon we are going to celebrate Christmas with the Michaels. I just love Christmas!

I continue to feel great! I can feel the babies move more and more everyday. I just love it, being pregnant is the best thing in the world!

Jon and I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

Our Bobsled Team

2007-12-14T16:05:00.000-06:00

Three heads in one picture. 2 girls (C&D) and 1 boy (A). We can not say enough how blessed we are!! Thank you for your constant prayers!!!

Thursday's Doctor appointment

2007-12-14T15:54:00.000-06:00

Thursday we went back to the doctor for my 18 week appointment. It went really well, except for the fact our appointment was at 10 and I thought it was at 9. Needless to say we had to wait a little bit. When we went back to do our sonogram we quickly found out we were having our target sonogram. This is where they measure every part, of every baby, and check for birth defects. This appointment was supposed to be at 22 weeks. It was nice it was a surprise so I did not have time to worry about it. The sonogram took 1 1/2 hrs which is actually very quick considering you're checking on four babies! Monica (our sono tech) said our babies were so good it made it easy for her! Way to go guys! We are also excited because they did not find any birth defects!! Thank you God! What an answer to our prayers!!! Three of the four babies are measuring a week ahead, so that is awesome! The little girl under my right rib cage is the smallest and is measuring right on target. It is so cool since I can feel her the most (probably because she's kicking my rib cage, but I just love it!!!)

Oh, in case you were wondering, we are having 3 girls and a boy!

Picture above: Our little guy sucking his thumb at 18 weeks!

Rainy Day

2007-12-11T11:23:00.000-06:00

Hi! I am enjoying another day of relaxing at home. I am starting to get a routine down. It consists of a TBS movie from 8-10, Little House on the Prairie 10-11, Murder she Wrote from 11-12 and Matlock from 12-1. As you can see I am really busy!!!! Oh ya, I also try to eat all day to get my 4,500 calories in!!! It's not as easy as you would think.

I had an interesting morning, I went upstairs to get my computer out of one of the nurseries and shocked myself. I called the doctor and told them I had electrocuted myself and she said if that was the case you wouldn't be talking to me. So... I guess it was just a little shock, but she reassured me everything is OK with the babies. I hope everyone has a great rainy day. It is a good day to stay inside:)

I am still feeling really good! God is good!!!

17 Weeks

2007-12-09T21:42:00.001-06:00

Here is Tiff showing at 17 weeks. Time is flying by! Our doctor indicated that Tiff is showing 27 weeks already! Everything is going really well and Tiff has been so amazing throughout! Tiff has done a great job of taking it easy and relaxing this weekend. Exactly what she needs to be doing!

Today Rick (Tiff's Dad) and Jon began working on the first of two nurseries. We added a bead board and painted the walls red. Still another coat to go, but we are happy with the results so far! Jan (Tiff's Mom) helped us get organized by cleaning out a couple of closets that were in disarray! Huge help to us!

We will be back to the doctor this Thursday to see how our "kids" are growing! This Tuesday (12/11) will be 18 weeks. We'll keep you posted .....

First day of Blogging

2007-12-07T09:47:00.000-06:00

Hi!

Jon and I decided to start a blog to keep our family and friends up to speed on our pregnancy. It might take me some time to get it going so bear with us:)