Arnold Quads

Time with the Wilkinson Quints

2010-10-18T21:01:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun meeting and hanging out with the Wilkinson Family in August this year. Rachelle (quintuplet mommy) and I have been talking for a little while now and have always wanted to get together. Well the Wilkinsons live in Texas so that kind of seemed impossible but when she said that Jason's (quint Daddy) parents lived in Denver and they would be traveling to see them I got really excited. We are pretty close to Denver and decided to make a road trip! So here is our first meeting with the Wilkinson Family....(who we loved :) We decided to head to the ZOO (you know, we thought we would blend right in........9 three year olds??????????)

I love this picture. We got all the 3 year olds to stand and take a picture. I love how Maddox and Ryder are holding hands. Too cute :) He needs little guy friends to hang with!

My girls had so much fun with Riley and Kaiya (the older two of the Wilkinson Family). Riley and Brooklynn are the same age. It was so fun to hear them talk about living in a house with a bunch of little kids. Brooklynn thought it was great to have someone to talk to that has basically experienced everything she has in the last few years.

Alyssa and Kaiya are also the same age. They had a great time hanging out together.

Rachelle and Jason got these wagons for the quints. My kids thought they were the best thing ever. They were obsessed with pulling them.

Again the wagons were a great hit. My kids were so funny. All they wanted to do was push them.

This is another picture I LOVE. It is so amazing to me that all these children came from the 4 of us. Amazing!!!! Its also amazing to me that we got all 13 of them up there and they actually stayed for us to take a picture. Acutally I might call that one a MIRACLE :)

Lexie is having fun but Kassidy doesn't look to sure!

I just love Ryder's personality and his gorgeous red hair. He is so cute. Maddox was pretty excited to have so boys to pal around with!

Of course......more wagon pulling.

Both Families Together.

We had a lot of craziness....but we had so much fun and look forward to doing it again!

After we said goodbye.....this is what our van looked like on the way home!

Pure Joy!

P.S. Just wanted to tell everyone that they have a TLC show called Texas Quints. Head over to their blog and check out the details. They just had their premiere last Monday night! We are so excited for them :)

Backyard Visitors

2010-09-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

We wake up to these deer almost every morning. There are quite a few bucks that come around and then there is also a momma with her twin fawns that come and hang out in the backyard. (I have pictures of a really big buck that I'll have to post later). We watch them for a few minutes and then we have to scare them off because they have helped themselves to my garden a few times and I haven't been too happy about it :)

Grandma & Grandpas

2010-08-29T20:46:00.000-07:00

One of the fun things we did this summer was visiting Grandma & Grandpa Arnold. Most of Matt's family lives in the same town as his parents so we were able to get a lot of visiting in while we were there. His youngest sister was blessing their little boy that weekend so we were able to be there for that. Matt's twin brother lives next door to some people that own chickens, goats, and pigs. They were kind enough to let our kids burn some energy by chasing their chickens. I actually thought they were going to be scared of them but not so much........

They Jumped Right In :)

After chasing the chickens Lexie ended up with grass and rocks in her shoe. I just love this picture of her!

Brooklynn wanted her dad and uncle to push her really high on the swing. She's a brave girl asking those two to push her!!!!!

Uncle Cody was super nice and got the horse out so the girls could ride. He had been working all day and I am sure he was exhausted. Thanks Cody the girls and little kids had a blast.

Matt's mom has a beautiful yard. She loves to garden and has beautiful flowers every where. In the summer I love taking pictures of the kiddos there. These pictures were after church and the kids were so cute.

We had a lot of fun at grandma's.

There are so many other posts coming up about our last year. Stay tuned for posts about our trip to California, camping and the water park, the Denver Zoo (with some fun new friends), and our big move. We have been greatful for all of our opportunities this year. The Lord has truly blessed our family!

Back to School & Back to Blogging

2010-08-26T19:09:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone :) I decided that a 1st day of school post would be appropriate for our return into the blogging world. I have obviously not done a good job with my blog in the last year (in fact I think my last post was almost 1 year ago :( So here we go again.

School has come again (too fast I might add) and the girls were more excited to wear their new clothes than to actually go to school I think. Brooklynn is now in 4th grade and Alyssa is a 2nd grader. I can't believe how big they are getting.

We have definitely had a great summer together, I will miss my big helpers. But, the show must go on and there are many things to do and accomplish. It is nice to get back into a good schedule and routine. I am planning on catching everyone up on our summer adventures and hopefully there will be many more posts in my future :)

Spreading our Wings

2009-09-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

Since the babies were born I have been particularly nervous about taking them any where outside the house. Some people might understand, others might think I am crazy. Nonetheless we don't venture out to much. I know they are 2 and its time to let them explore the world a little more.

Over labor day weekend we had the opportunity to go and visit my sister in Colorado. We had so much fun. We took the kids to the mountains for a little river swim along with roasting hot dogs and marshmellows over a fire. The next day we took the kids to the childrens museum in Denver. Even though it was a lot of work, we had a BLAST! The babies experienced a little more freedom and their mother learned to let go a little bit.......just a little!

Here are some fun pictures of our Labor day weekend:)

Rylee "I think it's alive?"

Shilah is always ready to say "CHEESE"!

Lexie is just plain A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E!!!

"Don't park mom, we want to GO!

Matt and the girls made a couple of tractors at the museum for Maddox. The girls are always thinking of their little brother!

If only I could get them to be this happy when we go shopping.

"One spaghetti and eggs comin right up".

I love this picture of Matt and the kids. They loved playing trains with their dad.

Okay so Rylee loves to dress up. Every room we went into that had dress up clothes she was right there to try it on. This outfit was my favorite. She looks so cute as a little bunny. Hmm.....thinking Halloween. I guess you'll have to stay tuned to see what the munchkins will be.

4 little birds in their nest. Kind of reminds me of the womb....ok freaky lets move on.

Rylee is such a Cheeser!

This picture is kind of funny. While we were in the museum the lady in green looked very familiar. Eventually she came up to me and asked me if she delivered my babies (the quads). I finally realized that she was one of the doctors that saw me in the hospital during my stay and PSL in Denver. She was not my primary physician, but I did see her a few times. Very crazy....what a small world.

Alyssa is so cute. Her and Brooklynn were great helps on this little adventure.

Now this was about 20 minutes from my sisters house. It was the perfect distance. We were in the mountains but not to far from the house so it wasn't a huge undertaking. We loved every minute of it (oh, until the boys cut our time short so they could go and watch the football game. Boys will be Boys)!

2 Good lookin Boys

Gulp, Gulp, Gulp, Gulp!

Brooklynn had so much fun walking around in the river. For some reason it was really low, but it worked out perfect.

To my suprise, the babies jumped right in.

Brooklynn and her cousins trying to make their way back to us!

Alyssa fell down in the 1st 5 minutes of being out there. She was soaked.

"Daddy, I can I get a ride, its been a long day"?

All in all we had a great weekend. We even scored a backyard play fort for $25 off craigslist while we were down there. Once we get it all set up I will post pictures.

(Today my sister-in-law had her first baby. Congrats Erika and Jason, we can't wait to see the little guy. Now this is crazy, I have 3 nieces and 1 nephew that have been born on 9/11. So, Happy Birthday Kylee, Morgen, Kiera, and now little Ethan!)

Gotta L-O-V-E.... my Little Helpers

2009-09-08T22:39:00.000-07:00

As a mother to 2 year old quadruplets I am learning many things each day. Here are a few of those things......

*Patience is a Virtue

*My children tend to be smarter than me

*Messes just come with the job, and

*My floor can never be clean enough

Luv those Sleepin Kiddos

2009-08-27T05:28:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is about sleepin babies that I love so much. Maybe it means they aren't getting into any trouble. Here are some great moments I caught on camera.

Maddox Conner

Rylee Danielle

Alyssa Ashton

Maddox Conner

Lexi Britt

Recommitment

2009-08-04T22:06:00.000-07:00

Sorry for skipping out on everyone for so long. I have recommitted myself to keeping up on my blog! The past 4 months have been very busy. There is no way I will be able to catch everyone up on everything. But, I did want to post this picture of my Grandfather with Maddox. My grandma and grandpa made a special trip to the states (they are from Canada) to come and see us. It was a very special visit because I know they won't be able to make the trip any more. This is the cutest picture ever!

Just a Little Love

2009-03-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

I was just thinking about all the extra LOVE we have had at our house since the babies were born. Here are a few pictures that I have captured.!.!

Rylee & Shilah

Daddy & his BOY

Maddox smoochin on his sis Rylee

Mommy kissin on Lexie

Winding down for bed.......????

2009-02-24T20:22:00.001-08:00

A night at the Arnolds is nothing short of a lot of noise and a lot of LOVE! There is always piggy back rides, dancing, wrestling, and a lot of laughter! Here are a few pictures that I captured the other night!

Brooklynn sure gets her exercise giving piggy back rides

Alyssa loves doing summer salts and the babies wanted to join in the fun

And last but not least, they love tackling dad when he comes home from work! I think it's their favorite part of the day!

Love this Picture!

2009-02-18T21:02:00.000-08:00

I just love this picture of my kiddos. I'm not sure what Maddox is laughing at, but the others don't seem to think any thing is to funny!

Food for Thought

2009-02-13T21:19:00.000-08:00

After the loss of our friends child on Tuesday, I have really been thinking and pondering my own life. (It seems like this is always the case when we are faced with life's challenges).

I was so inspired and strengthened, spiritually, after leaving Joshua's funeral (the little boy that was hit by the school bus on Tuesday) that I wanted to share my thoughts. Although the week has been filled with much sorrow and sadness, I just couldn't get over the faith and strength that his parents and family have. Joshua's family is exceptional. What a beautiful family that really understands the plan that our Father in Heaven has for us.

I have to wonder if I was given that difficult life challenge if I would have the same amount of Faith and Strength as they did. I know at times I get so busy doing the things that have to be done every day that I get complacent in the things that really matter.

I just want to tell every one to hug your kids a little tighter tonight, be a little more attentive when they are telling you how your day is going, and kiss them a few more times during the day (if that's possible)! They are our greatest treasures! My heart goes out the the Ringer's and I thank them for their unwavering faith and strength! God Bless.

Terribly Sad News

2009-02-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

A Family that we know suffered a horrible loss yesterday. Their 6 year old son was hit by his school bus yesterday morning and passed away. I can't imagine what this family is feeling today and I just wanted everyone to keep them in your thoughts and prayers. I'm sure it would be appreciated!

MY GIRLS!

2009-01-28T20:09:00.000-08:00

Right before Christmas my mom and dad came down for the weekend to lend a little hand. My dad brought a truck load of insulation and sheetrock so that we could start finishing part of our basement to add a little room and my mom and I decided to leave the babies behind and take the older girls for a much needed girls weekend out. We left the boys, got babysitters for the babies and headed to a fun hotel about 2 hours away. They have this really fun water park that we had a blast at. We shopped, at out, and went swimming until our hearts were content. The girls had so much fun and I enjoyed my weekend with them. Matt ended up getting really sick so my dad and some friends ended up hanging most of the sheetrock. Thank you to everyone who made that weekend possible for me and the girls. And a special thanks to Mom and Dad....We love you! :)

Here are a few pictures of us at the water park.

Life as we know it!

2009-01-22T19:49:00.000-08:00

Well, this has been our life in a "NUTSHELL" for the past few months. Pure CrAzYnEsS....!!!! This picture sums it up.....(from right to left) Lexie is screaming, Rylee sucking her thumb, Maddox trying to escape, Alyssa posing, Shilah picking her nose, and Brooklynn playing her gameboy and ignoring everyone else. Don't you just love it?

MIssing In Action

2009-01-21T20:31:00.001-08:00

Okay... I have obviously been missing in action for a long time. So much has happened over the past few months and I have been super busy. I know, no excuses. I just wanted to let everyone know (if there is even any one still interested in our blog), that I am coming back and get ready for some fun updates on our family!

All 6 of my Trick-or-Treaters (Lots of Pictures)

2008-11-05T20:44:00.000-08:00

Trick-Or-Treater #1

Our Little Witch Alyssa. If you ask me she's the most beautiful witch we ever did see!

Trick-Or-Treater #2

Princess Vampire Brooklynn! Beware she's beautiful but,......she just might drink your BLOOD!

Trick-Or-Treater's #3, 4, 5, &6

we present Shilah, Rylee, Lexie, & Maddox as the 3 Little Pigs & the Big Bad Wolf!

Rylee & Maddox were pretty anxious to get the night started. They were the 1st out the door!

Alyssa fishing at the Halloween Carnival

Brooklynn was having trouble getting her candy off the string!

Lexie's Turn! She knew right what to do. Hold the bucket out and get treats! (Its funny how children seem to have a natural instinct for trick-or-treating....or maybe she's just good at imitating the other kids!)

Rylee seemed pretty happy with her loot at the end of the night!

Dad with Maddox & Rylee

Here is a picture of the babies and their good friends. Miss Lady Bug & Tinker Bell. Too Cute!

The night proved to be exhausting for everyone. The babies were asleep before we pulled out of our friends driveway!

Lexie and that darn thumb!

Yes that is Chocolate. When I put Shilah in her seat she had a candy bar in her hand. (I didn't know this and it still had the wrapper on it)! After we got the last child in her car seat I looked around and saw Shilah looking like this! Covered in chocolate and fast asleep. I love it!

The rest of the kiddos were also asleep! No more chocolate thank goodness. Everyone had a wonderful time and thanks to all our friends who helped us out on Halloween!

We hope everyone else enjoyed their halloween and have enjoyed looking at everyone's blogs and the pictures of their cute munchkins!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2008-10-31T10:10:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween Everyone. This is such a fun holiday around our house! The girls love dressing up and going trick or treating. We almost didn't get to carve pumpkins. Every store in our town was completely out of pumpkins. (Can you imagine) Thanks to some good friends they were going out of town and picked us up a couple. Thank You Kim & Craig! So, the kids got to carve their pumpkins and we will be off for some fun tonight. And yes the babies are dressing up! Stay tuned to see some incredibly cute pics!

Thumbsuckers

2008-10-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

Well I have ended up with 3 thumbsuckers. I started with 2 and Lexie joined the club about 2 months ago. (Not sure how that works but any way). As cute as it may be, I am not thrilled about it. I wish I could break them of it now! I know, I know, everything I have read says not to try and break them of it, they will break themselves when they are ready. I talked to their doctor and he said I could try if I want. Has any one had any experience? Any advice or help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks everyone!

Rylee

Maddox

Lexie

Shilah doesn't suck her thumb but I wanted to put a cute picture of her in any way!

Sad Sad Day!

2008-10-11T20:53:00.001-07:00

Well, this is what I woke up to this morning. I can't believe the warm weather has come to an end. I think it is a new world record for the worlds shortest summer. I think I am going to go insane. I don't think I can handle another winter like the last.

This is off my back porch.

This WAS my flower garden.

Someone built a snowman in our front yard today. He is kinda cute.

Even though I am depressed about the snow, we tried to make the best of it and have a little bit of popcorn. The babies loved it.

Lexie was trying to be sneaky...... but she got caught by mom! What a face!!!

Awesome Business Opportunity

2008-10-02T13:03:00.000-07:00

I have found an awesome business opportunity that can help all of us (especially stay at home moms) make a little extra income! If you are interested e-mail me and I'll give you more information! I love it.

neeniea@yahoo.com

Baby Weights & Heights @ 17 months

2008-09-26T19:52:00.000-07:00

I know I know, who has heard of a 17th month doctor's appointment. Well, I thought the babies go from 12 month to 18 month appointments. No one informed me there was a 15 month appointment (you would think I would know that having 2 other children. I tell ya I feel clueless these days). Any way, we compromised and did it at 17 months. So here we are.

The doctor said the babies all looked great. They all are growing perfectly. They have not been on an adjusted chart since they were born. They seem to be growing as if they were not born 6 weeks premature. I am so grateful for the health that these babies have been blessed with.

Maddox was up first.

"Quit tickling my feet!"

Shilah was so good for Dr. Fall

"Oh thank you for the tummy massage"

Lexie is not a Happy Camper
"Mommy please don't let them torture me!"

Rylee was having to much fun flirting with Dr. David

"I don't get out much, how about you?"

I thought it would be fun for you to guess who is the biggest and who is the littlest of the 4. Here are there weights and heights (in random order)! Check out the poll on the side and vote!

Baby #1

weight 21# 6oz

height 31 inches

Baby #2

weight 21# 5oz

height 31 3/4 inches

Baby #3

weight 24# 11oz

height 33 1/4 inches

Baby #4

weight 23#

height 31 1/2 inches

Have Fun Voting!

Maddox, Rylee, Shilah, & Lexie

A Few Cute Pics!

2008-09-21T21:09:00.000-07:00

Here are some Goofy Pictures we have taken of the kids over the past few weeks. I just thought they were really cute.

Rylee is my little "CLOWN"

Just look at those beautiful "Blue Eyes"! Watch out ladies he's a looker!

Very rarely do these 4 sit at the same time. It's there 1st time watching Elmo!

Rylee was so cute. She's holding a little chicken that would chirp when her hand would rub across the bottom. She couldn't figure out how it was chirping but she was laughing so hard. Too Cute!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

2008-09-18T20:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am now the big 30! Yes, the inevitable happened on Sept. 12. It is crazy to me. I thought I would stay in my 20's for ever. 30 came way to fast. Oh well, I guess 30 is supposed to be the new 20! So, here it goes. I will have to embrace this new age and start growing up.

Sometimes I feel like I am still in high school. Does any one else feel that way? It is hard to imagine that I have 6 children all under the age of 7.

I had a wonderful day. I spent it with my Mom and Dad and 2 of my sisters and their families. And of course my wonderful husband and my children. We had a great lunch and then had cupcakes and ice cream. The kids were happy about that. After we opened presents we headed of to Utah to go see the BYU-UCLA game. It was awesome. BYU killed UCLA 59-0. Pretty exciting. No one expected that kind of a blow out. Any way, it was a blast and I will post pictures of the game later.

I love my my husband and children and wouldn't have wanted to celebrate my birthday....LIFE...... with out them.

Just Thinking

2008-09-09T21:22:00.001-07:00

I know I know, 2 posts in one night CRAZY! I just wanted to share some of my thoughts. I have been thinking about the King's for the last couple of days. They just delivered their beautiful babies today. GGBG Quads. They are all great weights and they look so healthy. It has made me think back to the day I delivered my babies. I just feel so blessed to be the mother to 6 wonderful children. The Lord has blessed our life so much. I can remember the 1st time I saw the babies and how overwhelmed I was that I was chosen to raise these beautiful babies. They were all mine and I get to enjoy their sweet spirits forever.

I am also blessed to have Brooklynn and Alyssa. Alyssa is so cute. This is what she said to me tonight.... "Mom, the only time we can stick our tongue out is when we say Thank You.......(As she sticks her tongue out to pronounce THHHH) But we can't just stick it out at someone Right? Okay, so cute. Its the simple moments in life that make me stop and appreciate what I have. I love spending time with my family. I even wish sometimes I could go back to the day that all my children were born just to relive those special days.

Congrats to the King Quads, and Jenn you did awesome. We are all really excited for you and your new additions.

Our Last Summer Bang!

2008-09-09T08:50:00.000-07:00

It has been a very crazy summer for us, so to end it (and make things a little more crazy) we decided to take all the kids out to the lake for one last Summer Bang! After loading all the stuff we had to take just to go out for the day we finally got everyone in the car for the 45 minute drive. Before long we had snoozing babies! I thought this picture was so cute of Shilah and Lexie!

All the babies fell asleep but as you can see the older girls were to excited to get to the lake. (Just a quick side note: we used to own a boat before the babies were born. We would take the girls to the lake at least 2-3 times a week. It was one of our favorite things to do as a family. When we found out I was pregnant with quadruplets we sold the boat because we knew we would not be able to use it until the babies were older and, we probably need to get a bigger one now!)

Brooklynn and Alyssa love to tube. Here they are with their friend Sari having the time of their lives. Our good friends have a boat and a house out there. We all took turns watching babies and boating. It was so much fun. Thanks Chris and Lynn!

We didn't take the babies on the boat this year, but they sure loved the water. I couldn't believe how much they loved it. I thought it would be to cold for them. I was wrong. They were so comfortable in the water it made me nervous even with all the adults we had. They kept wanting to wander off. So, I pulled our trusty gate into the water so I could keep them in one place. It worked and everyone stayed safe YEAH!

We couldn't play on the beach without making a mess! Brooklynn and Alyssa had a blast playing in the sand and water. I think we could have stayed there for a week and they would have been over joyed.

Here is Brooklynn still playing in the water and the very end of the day. We sure love that lake and have a lot of wonderful family memories there. Thanks again to the Jacksons for inviting us and helping with the kids. We couldn't have gone without you!

WOW......It's Been A Long Time

2008-09-02T13:27:00.001-07:00

It has been a really long time since I have posted. My apology to everyone. This has been one crazy summer. At the end of June we left our home and went down to my parents for the summer. Matt was working there and helping my dad. I didn't want to stay here by myself with all the kids for 10 weeks, so we packed everyone up and left. So, to make a long story short after a long time being away from home we are now back and settled. The kids have started school and I am now at home alone with the babies all day..(I will elaborate later on that)! The summer was great and I will have to post a lot to catch everyone up to date. But for now I just wanted to post a few picks that I thought were kind of fun.

This is Dr. Marshall, me and the babies. He was my doctor here in town before I was sent to Colorado to deliver the babies. He took really good care of us and even came down to Denver for the delivery. He is really great. He took another job and will be leaving us. I wanted to say good bye and tell him thanks for the great care he gave us. Thanks Dr. Marshall.

I love this picture of Maddox and Shilah. They are so sweet!

Me and Rylee

Brooklynn is such a big girl now. She has started the 2nd grade and has informed me that she can't wait to be a grown-up so she can do whatever she wants....! (oh boy, I am sure I am in for it with her)

I have to tell you. This is my sister's dog Chloe. Alyssa is obsessed with her. She takes that dog with her every where. I am sure Chloe missed Alyssa when we left.

This is the Capitol Theatre in S.L.C. Grandma Arnold bought us tickets so we could take the girls to the production of High School Musical. We had front row seats and the girls were thrilled. They still talk about it to this day. They went with their cousins.

We had a great Summer and I can't wait to update everyone on all the fun things we did. Sorry for the wait on my posting! Until next time..........

Happy Anniversary "I LoVe YoU"

2008-08-07T09:09:00.001-07:00

Today is a very special day. It is our 10th anniversary. I can hardly believe it. Time has past so quickly. I have been reflecting on the past 10 years and looking back at what has happened. I would never have imagined my life to be the way it is and I am so glad I am as in love as I hoped I would be. I am married to such a wonderful man.

I haven't been at home for a while so I don't have my pictures available, but I did want to write a few things about Matt!

When I first met Matt, I thought he was very good looking. I had a crush on him for about 1 1/2 years before I even had the courage to talk to him. Our first date was a car ride in my mom's mustang through Yellow Stone Park. It was so beautiful and I was so nervous. I let Matt drive and I sat in the passenger side zipping and unzipping my jacket the whole time because I was so nervous. Silly isn't it. After that, Matt started to call me. We would talk on the phone and see eachother at church. (Everything happened pretty quick). I was pretty much smitten from day 1. He took me to dinner, called me on the phone, we went to a concert, and spent as much time together as we could. Okay, the rest of the story is history and were married about 3 1/2 months later.

I know, fast.............! But we knew we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together and here we are 10 years later with 6 kids. I love hime so much.

-I love the way he looks at me when I crawl into bed at night.

-I love the way he holds me in his arms and plays with my hair as if he could stay like that forever.

-I love how he plays with the kids as if nothing else in the world matters.

-I love how he wants to provide the best life for us.

-I love his passion for life.

There are so many things I love about Matt. I could go on forever but, I just want you to know Matt, that you are WONDERFUL and I wouldn't want to go through this life with anyone else but you. As cheezy as it sounds, the truth is that you COMPLETE ME! I love you and Happy Anniversary.

Our Summer so Far

2008-07-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

Finally I was able to get to a computer and put my pictures up. Sorry to everone who has been waiting to hear from us. We have had a crazy summer. Matt and I haven't been living at our home for over a month now. We have been in my home town helping my dad out this summer. It has been a little crazy not being at home, but I have loved the company of my family. It is always nice to have extra hands to help! At the beggining of July Matt and I went on vacation with the kiddos and my family. It was a blast. (A lot of work, but a blast)! Here is an idea of what it took to get ready for the trip. Packing List for 6 kids and 2 adults:

1. 2 tents
2. 4 play pens
3. 12 blankets
4. 8 bottles
5. 8 suitcases/bags
6. 1 quadruplet stroller
7. 2 double strollers
8. 4 travel highchairs
9. lots of formula/milk
10. laundry basket
11. 6 water floats
12. 8 swim suits
13. lots of sun screen
14. 4 baby hats
15. 1 large play yard (octagon gate)
16. 2 boxes of diapers
17. large bag of wipes
18. 22 shoes
19. 8 towels
20. lotion, shampoo, soap, hair things for the girls

Okay, there was probably other things I took, but that gives you an idea of what it was like getting ready for vacation. But nonetheless, we had a great time and the kids loved every minute. Here are some pictures from our trip!

Alyssa going down the big blue water slides by herself! I can't figure out when she grew up. It's so crazy.

Brooklynn kissing Lexie and taking her for a little swim in her floaty!

Me and the babies.

Rylee is loving the pool.

Alyssa was taking a break. She is a little fish!

All the babies and their cousin Gabriella going down the slide at the kiddy pirate pool.

We had fun under the waterfall with the babies. They weren't sure what to make of it!

Grandpa going down Cardiac Canyon with the older kids.

Brooklynn, Alyssa, and Issac miniature golfing.

We did have a wonderful time and I can't wait to go again. Its hard to get ready and take all the kids, but we sure did have a fun time!

I'm Back

2008-07-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while. We have been on vacation. Yes, I said it VACATION!!! We went on a week long vacation camping, shopping, and waterparking. I know, we are crazy, but it was so nice to change my scenery. We have been cooped up in our house for the last 13 months. It was so much fun. 2 of my sisters joined us, my parents, and my aunt and cousins from Canada came down. We had so much fun.
I have so many fun pictures to share but, I haven't downloaded them yet. Hopefully I will be able to post them soon.

A Little Bit of Sun

2008-06-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

Thanks for your comments and prayers. We finally got some sunshine! We all went outside and played in the front yard the other day. It was so nice to go out without having to put snow suits on everyone! I am so excited for summer to finally be here.

Alyssa loves helping in the garden!

Maddox thinks he is helping....!

Shilah is just worried about her little play phone.

Rylee is always up to something!

and Lexie is always smiling!

Crazy Weather

2008-06-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

Our computer is back up and running. Thank goodness. Its amazing how much I really rely on my computer.

Okay so I don't mean to complain, but the weather here just stinks. It has been such a long winter with keeping the babies inside and away from people (because we were scared about them catching RSV and ending up in the hospital). I was hoping by April or May we could start going out and enjoying the nice weather and fresh air. That has yet to happen and it is the middle of June. We have had snow, wind, and days of endless rain.

This picture was taken in the middle of May!

This picture was taken at the first of June. (Notice the babies are wearing their snow suits)

This picture was taken last week on the back of my porch! Yes that is really a Tornado.

VERY SCARY!!!

So, needless to say, we are so tired of the weather and have been cooped up in our house for a whole year. I think it is about time that the babies, and the girls and I see that there is a whole world that really does exist somewhere. So please pray for good weather for us so we can actually go outside!

Computer Update

2008-06-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

Yesturday a computer technician drove over here and looked at our computer. It seems as though he fixed it but when we hooked the keyboard up it didn't work. So I have a computer that works but no keyboard to go with it. So I am still working off our old computer. I still have to call Apple to get them to send us a new keyboard, but with all the "free time" I have that hasn't happened yet. Its amazing I even find time to blog. Any way, hopefully we will be up and running soon. Sorry everyone has to wait to see more pictures of our beautiful kiddos.

Computer Crash

2008-06-02T13:06:00.000-07:00

Well, our new computer just stopped working a couple of days ago. I went to work on it and it wouldn't even turn on. We had to hook our old computer up but, all my pics and things are on the other computer. This stinks. I am suppose to be getting it fixed this week, but the closest service place is 2 hours away. So, I can't just jump in the car and go hopefully they will send a technician out. Any way, I will try to post as much as I can without our other computer. Pray that my hard drive didn't crash and all my info is still on there. (Yes, I am stupid and I didn't back every thing up..... needless to say I have learned my lesson!)

Brooklynn's Song

2008-05-27T23:05:00.000-07:00

Not a lot has gone on this past week. My mom came up to visit and help with the little ones. It is always nice to have her here. I wish she could come more often. Brooklynn was in a talent show at school. Her and a boy named Victor sang a song called "Jimmey Picks Boogers"!

Nice, right...? That's my girl, making mommy and daddy proud. Any way they did an awesome job and all the kids laughed at their song. I was proud of her getting up in front of the whole school. What a cutie! (by the way it was Hawaiian day)

Before my mom left the babies were being so cute. We had to take a picture of them. They love crawling up by my fire place (don't worry, its impossible for them to turn it on) and standing up. They get in trouble all the time. That's probably why they do it. Any way, they were so cute so we had to take some pics. Love the diapers.

Alyssa cracks me up. Here is a funny picture of her. I love her so much!

So, it hasn't been that eventful here, (except for baby stuff that would probably bore everyone) but I wanted to post and let everyone know we are still alive.

Oh, and by the way. For those of you who know of the General Primary President Sister Lant, she is coming to my house tomorrow!!!!! I know its crazy. I am so nervous and excited. I can hardly wait. Any way I will tell you all the details later.

Trip to the Fire Station

2008-05-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

The weekend of the babies birthday we had a lot of family here and we thought it would be fun to take the kids down to the fire station. Matt and I have a really good friend that works there. He agreed to give us a tour and show us all the fire trucks. The kids had a blast. Thanks Dale & LuAnne!!!

We wanted to get a picture of all the babies on the fire truck. It was so funny, while we were getting this shot the alarms went of and all of a sudden a bunch of firefighters showed up and they were called to a fire. Within minutes this truck and another truck were gone to fight a fire. It kind of scared us all but the kids thought it was cool to see all the trucks and the lights and sirens go off. We watched all the firemen get in the trucks and off to fight the fire!

Brooklynn and Dale's hat. The hats are heavier than I even thought they would be.

Stop.........!! Its not what you think. It really is a fireman's pole! (HA HA)

Morgan (my niece) with the fireman's hat on!

Maybe we have some future firefighters in the bunch. These are my kids and my nieces and nephews!

Rylee Danielle

Maddox Conner

Matt holding Lexie, & Dale holding Rylee

Shilah Ann

Lexie Britt

We had so much fun!

1st Hair Cuts!!!(don't forget to vote------------------>)

2008-05-06T19:24:00.000-07:00

April 19th

Today is the day of the babies 1st Hair Cuts. I am so sad to be cutting off their baby hair, it means they are growing up. Aunt Melanie is a hair stylist so we drove over to Buffalo to have her do the job! She wanted to give the babies their 1st cuts.

Maddox

Ya I know, the Ladies are gonna love me!

Gotta keep smiling, even if Aunt Mel is taking a blade to my head! It's all for the ladies!

Oh ya, I'm lookin sharp with my new look! I'm ready to go out on the town.

Ladies here I come!

Rylee

Rylee didn't really need a hair cut. But, she amused us and was really good!

Oh sure, cuddle up before you take the scissors to my head!

(This is Aunt Melanie with Rylee)

I'll keep my eyes closed, its too scary!

Whew, its all over! I guess it wasn't that bad. Thanks Aunt Melanie.

Shilah

Okay, now its Shilahs turn. She had some crazy hair going on. Some pieces grew really long by her ears. It really did look kind of funny.

This is cool. We are finally out of the house. I don't know what I am doing, but I guess I'll smile pretty.

Okay, I'm not so sure about this. What is Aunt Melanie doing with a sharp object?

I survived, but I'm still not so sure about all of this.

Lexie

Lexie probably needed a hair cut the most out of all the girls. She had some funky pieces of hair growing at all different lengths.

What are we doing? I just woke up from a nap. Let me go back to sleep you crazy people!

When will this be over. I have beauty sleep I need to get back to!

If I give you a smile can I go back to sleep?

We got everyones hair cut, and I survived. I have this thing with hair. I am very attached to my children's hair for some reason. I don't like cutting it so this was a huge step for me! (I know Melanie is laughing right now as she reads this, but it is a known fact about me)! The kids definitely look better and Maddox is so handsome! I love his new cut. Thanks Mel!

BIRTHDAY BASH

2008-05-01T09:18:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Shilah, Lexie, Maddox, & Rylee!

Smiths Food donated the cake cupcakes, and $250 worth of baby supplies. Thank You SMITHS!

Who is that crazy monkey under our table while we are waiting for lunch!

(Brooklynn is playing with all of their feet)

Happy Birthday to you Happy Birthday to you

Happy Birthday to Shilah

Happy Birthday to Lexie

Happy Birthday to Maddox

Happy Birthday to Rylee

Happy Birthday to YOU!

Enough singing, can we eat our cake now?

Lexie was so cute eating her cupcake. She doesn't really like to get messy. She poked one of her fingers in the frosting and had her first taste. She is so "Dainty"!

Shilah on the other hand didn't mind getting messy!

Geesh, eating a cupcake can be exhausting. I think I will just lay down here. Do you think any one will notice I got the frosting in my hair?

Well, the babies sure had a crowd around them! Everyone wanted to get a peak of their first cake eating experience!

Once the party was over, we headed back home to open presents. It seriously felt like christmas. Everyone was so kind to bring the babies gifts! They got toys, books, clothes, diapers, and other baby supplies. Thanks to everyone. We love you and appreciate all the suport!

Rylee you've had your turn. Its my turn!

Maddox was not feeling good this weekend. He had a high fever and the chills. He just needed some extra love from his mommy!

I think I like it! Ask me tomorrow when I am feeling better!

We had a great weekend and again want to thank everyone for making the trip! We had family here that traveled long distances. Also Happy Birthday to my niece Kereston who is now 15, and my nephew Landon who is 1! (My parents have 6 grandchildren with the same birthday. d Landon was born just hours before the quads!) Happy Birthday!

The night Before The BIG DAY!

2008-04-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

(the babies like to sit outside and wait with Brooklynn for her school bus)

Well, tomorrow is Shilah, Lexie, Maddox, and Rylee's first birthday! I have no idea where the time has gone. It seems like just yesterday I was on bed rest in the hospital. I have been thinking a lot today about what the past year has been like. I can remember when I was finally told I was pregnant with 4! A lot went through my mind the weeks that followed the news. How was I going to carry 4 babies far enough to make sure they were healthy? Would my body be able to carry all 4 babies? Would any of them come out with major health problems? How would I have enough love for 4 babies? What have I done to Brooklynn & Alyssa? Would we be able to financially support 4 babies? (Believe me that was just the start!) I can remember calling my sister on numerous occasions to cry and reach out for support. I can remember it like it was yesterday! All we went through to get pregnant, then to stay pregnant with all 4, and then to finally give birth to 4 healthy beautiful babies has been one of the best experiences of my life.

There have been lots of ups and lots of downs. There have been days where all I could do is cry, and there have been days that all I have done is laugh. There isn't anything that could have prepared me for what the last year has been like, but I would not trade it for the world. I feel so blessed to be the mother of these wonderful children.

Here are a few things that I have done over the last year that I would never have imagined I would be doing:

being on bed rest 4ever
giving birth to quadruplets
trying to hold 4 babies at one time
breast feeding 2 babies and pumping for the other 2
spending over 1 hour just to bathe my kids
setting up 4 cribs
buying 5-7 packages of diapers in a week
feeding time consisting of 6-8 jars of baby food (at least)
going through 6 cans of formula in one week
washing 20 bottles a day
trying to keep 8 hands out of the toilet
watching Rylee and Maddox play chase
teaching Brooklynn to change a diaper
watching Matt feed 2 babies in his lap while watching the Broncos play football
seeing both sets of great grandparents hold 4 babies in their arms
we have really been able to see the love and support that people have for us
watching Alyssa play peek-a-boo with here little brother and sisters who love her so much
go for a walk with a quad stroller (funny story- Matt and I were out for a walk with the family the other night (we took the quad stroller) and 2 young guys did a U turn in the middle of a busy street to come back and take our picture. I think it is so crazy......any way)
being interviewed by a Denver news station, and being in the local news consistently
and last but not least, still being some what sane

Any way, as you can tell it has been a very eventful year. We have been filled with more love and joy that you could possibly imagine. People always ask us how we do it. I guess we just do it with LOVE! Happy Birthday to the babies tomorrow! We love them and are so blessed to have them as part of our family!

HOME ALONE!!!

2008-04-11T19:00:00.000-07:00

Well, sorry its been so long since I have posted very much. Matt was gone for 5 days and I was here by myself with all 6 kids. I needed a little extra help so I had Shilah and Lexie do their own hair.....

Then, Rylee decided to take it upon herself and have a treat. (She found some of the girls carmel that was left over from their apples)

Then, as you all can imagine I had lots of laundry to do, but I couldn't handle it on my own so Lexie stepped in and took the "load" off my back.....

Then it was time for dinner, Rylee who obviously loves food, jumped right in and wanted to help...............

Of course we had to make room for playtime! Brooklynn, "the BEST BIGGER SISTER" jumped right in and took control. Between reading them books, walking them around the house, playing with toys, and somehow squeezing everyone between 2 cribs, we survived another day.

Did I forget any thing? Oh, the babies need to eat, right! Well thank goodness for Alyssa, she kept me on my toes and told me she would feed the babies so I could do dishes. What a great helper.

We had a terribly busy week and were so relieved to see Dad walk in the doors tonight, I almost broke out into tears. I am grateful that I have such wonderful helpers that got me through the week. We also have good friends that stopped by to see how we were doing and lend a helping hand. I was actually shocked that I made it through the week without breaking down. But we survived and I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful family! I wouldn't trade my life for anything.

Alyssa is so Adorable

2008-04-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share this because for one it is adorable and two I didn't want to forget it! Yesterday Alyssa and I were out on the front porch while the babies were napping. She was so cute. She was pretending to be a butterfly (dressed up in her butterfly halloween costume) and was racing other butterflies in butterfly land. Oh my goodness. She was flittering across the front yard as dainty as she possible could. I just watched her in amazement and felt so blessed to be her mom. I know it sounds silly, but it was one of those moments that I haven't had with her in a while because I am so busy with the babies. Okay so it was just flat out adorable! Here is a picture of her in her butterfly costume on Halloween.

Aunt Emmy

2008-04-02T21:07:00.001-07:00

Here is Aunt Emmy with Shilah at Easter. Aren't they adorable. Aunt Emmy lived with us for the first 2-3 months after the babies were born. She helped with all the fun stuff. Changing diapers, feeding babies, burping, rocking, laundry, dishes, loving, and just playing. She has a special bond with the babies. We love her and are glad she is such a great aunt! This post is for you Emily!

Header & Layout!

2008-03-29T20:50:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to Hilary Keegan. Thank You Hilary for designing my Header & Layout. We love it! Your are awesome. I hope you don't mind us posting your sight so everyone can see the cool work you do! Thanks again.

scrapblogdesignsbyhilary.blogspot.com

Easter 2008

2008-03-28T20:21:00.000-07:00

Well, now that the kiddos are feeling a little bit better, I have more time to blog. This week has been crazy. We have been rocking sick babies, washing bedding, giving tylenol, and running humidifiers among other things. My mom left today and unfortunetly ended up with the flu. Sorry Mom! I am so glad you came to help this week. I hope you feel better soon.

Easter was a lot of fun. We went to Matt's parents house and had a great time. The girls colored Easter Eggs, had a Easter Egg hunt, and played with their aunts and cousins all weekend. Here are some fun pictures from our weekend

Uncle Cody is sneaking Maddox some Peeps!

Naughty! Naughty!

They found all the Eggs that Uncle Jade hid!

Alyssa found her basket that the Easter Bunny hid. It didn't take her too long. She was pretty sharp sunday morning!

Brooklynn got pretty comfy on the couch with her Easter Bucket.

Maddox and Rylee figured they better grab something before it all got eaten.

Shilah went for the bottle liners. We have trained her well!

The kids dyed all the eggs and then uncle Jade hid them for their Easter Hunt! What a good Uncle! We love you Jade.

Here is a cute video we took Easter morning! I love my babies!!!!

Thank Goodness for Mothers!

2008-03-26T21:30:00.001-07:00

I haven't posted anything lately because all the kiddos are sick. It started with Lexie Sunday night driving home from Matt's parents from Easter. She decided to bring up dinner as we were driving into town. Thank goodness she didn't get sick any earlier. The next day Shilah and Rylee decided to join her. And now little Maddox is joining the gang (he already had the croup). The older girls seem to have been skipped... Hopefully! So, we have been out of commission and hope we can get back on our feet soon.

I do have to tell you, today I was moving Maddox and Lexie's cribs in the other nursery with the other 2 (I have 2 nurseries). While babies were screaming and I was was taking down cribs as fast as I could, the doorbell rang. Alyssa ran to get it and I kept thinking please let it be Heather (a good friend) or someone that I knew that could come in and help for a minute. I turned the corner and my MOM was standing in the door. She drove 4 hours to come and surprise me. She had a feeling I needed help and drove up this morning. I fell in her arms and broke out into the ugly cry! Needless to say, I am so grateful she is here. Hopefully I will regain some sanity and be able to get through this rough week. Thank goodness for Mothers!

Catch Up!

2008-03-08T16:08:00.000-08:00

We just wanted to share a few pictures of our family over the last year. The babies are almost a year old and Brooklynn and Alyssa are growing up so fast. We feel very blessed to have such beautiful & healthy children. We couldn't ask for more and are looking toward the future and are excited about what is in store for us!

Maddox is such a cute guy!

The babies looked so beautiful (and handsome) in their blessing outfits!

The kids love standing at the gate and watching their older sisters entertain them.

The babies cousin Adam made these hats for the babies. He was so excited and did a wonderful job. Aren't they adorable

Shilah, Lexie, Maddox, and Rylee

The girls love putting the babies in silly positions! They are lucky to have such wonderful big sisters!

Bath time is always fun!

4 peas in a pod!

Dad, Alyssa, and Rylee

In Order Rylee, Alexandria, Shilah, & Maddox

Before & After

2008-02-24T14:10:00.000-08:00

The Big Day!

2008-02-24T12:59:00.000-08:00

Well, a lot led up to the day the babies were born. We had to move to my parents home for a while. Brooklynn had to change schools in the middle of Kindergarten and Matt had to find work there. I was expected to be in the hospital for a while. I was able to stay at my moms until I was 28weeks. The doctor said it was to risky to stay out any longer. (Especially because we were 4hours from the hospital.) So, on March 13 2007, Matt had to drop me off and head back to my parents and the girls. I was really upset. Not only did I not want to

be there, but this was the first time I was going to be away from

my girls for so long. I think I

cried for 2 hours after he left. The doctor said if I made it to 34 weeks he would deliver the babies. So, I did what I could to get there. On April 24, 2007 (34 weeks) we delivered 4 healthy babies.

Shilah Ann (Baby A) 4# 10oz

Alexandria "Lexie" Britt (Baby B) 4# 7oz

Maddox Conner (Baby C) 5#

Rylee Danielle (Baby D) 4# 15 1/2oz

It was a great delivery with no complications. I give all the credit to my

wonderful doctors and nurses, they were amazing. Now it is time for me to recover and try to figure out what I am suppose to do with these beautiful babies. Maddox

and Rylee were released from the hospital the following Wed. (Only 8 days later) and Lexie and Shilah were released on Friday (only 10

days after they were born)! The doctors and nurses must of felt pretty confident that we were all going to be okay. I was pretty nervous to walk out with 4 infants under 5#!

What really happened?

2008-02-23T20:40:00.000-08:00

Well, as everyone knows now, we have 4 beautiful additions to our family. How it all started.......well, that's the real question. About a year and a half ago, we took a pregnancy test that came out +! I had no idea what was in store for us. Our first ultrasound showed that I was pregnant with twins. I was a little nervous, but since Matt is a twin I figured we would be just fine. I was pretty excited. About 3 weeks later we had a another appointment for an ultrasound. During the ultrasound the doctor was very quiet and his eyes kept going back and forth on the screen. Matt and my mom were very quiet, but their eyes were huge as they were watching the screen. My mom asked the doctor if she was really seeing what she thought she was seeing. The doctor then broke the news that we were expecting triplets. This came as a huge shock. I instantly began to cry. All I could think of was how would I get through this, what about the older girls, and I was worried about the babies. (Multiples of course are higher risk pregnancies). Any way, the weeks passed by and Matt and I were able to deal with the news. By the third appointment I actually felt really good about having triplets. The doctor took me in and asked how I felt. I told him I felt pretty good as long as he didn't find any more in there. He jokingly said if he found any more I could beat the "____" out of him. He assured me there was nothing to worry about. But......... as he did the ultrasound, there was silence again. He looked terrified. I knew that something wasn't right. I pushed the ultrasound wand off my stomach and demanded he tell me how many there were. I was really scared. He confirmed that there was 4 sacks. He made me lay down so that he could count them again. I was in a state of shock. Before he could finish, the nurse came in and said he was needed at the hospital right a way. He left as Matt and I sat there crying in each others arms. I was a mess. I didn't know what was in store for us. When I got home I called the doctor office right away and told them to have the Dr. call me back ASAP! When he called I asked if we could come back and make sure that we didn't miss any. I don't think I could have handled another surprise in 3 weeks. Later that night we went back to the office and were pretty sure there were 4!

That is the story about how we found out! It is a little crazy, but are thrilled we were given the opportunity to bring these beautiful babies into the world!

Welcome!

2008-02-23T20:35:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I am really excited about our new blog. Hopefully I can keep everyone up to date with what is going on in the Arnold household. We are doing well and have so much to share. It has been a crazy year for us but one filled with love and joy.