In 500 words or less

So, kids finally in bed. Kitchen cleaned. Time to relax and surf the net. Then I see one of my favorite blogs mentions that a company that makes baby safety equipment is having a contest. All you need to do is tell them why your house needs a baby safety makeover ($2500 VALUE). So, I MAKE Sam write our entry. I kindly remind him that the website says 500 words or less. He works hard on it. Types it up in Word and emails it to me. When I go to post it on the site I realize it says no more than 500 CHARACTERS ! It will not let me post even a third of what Sam wrote. I am special.
Anyhow, here is his original 500 WORD entry. The 500 character one is not nearly as good.

“What in the world have I got myself in to?” This thought rattled through my head as I wandered the baby safety aisle at my local baby megamart. I had (too enthusiastically) agreed to pick up a few safety items during my lunch break. And as the store was a bit further from headquarters than I’d anticipated (are you sensing a theme here?), I was both confused and hurried. I’d planned for a relatively straightforward “grab and go,” and it was fast becoming yet another example of how acing Parenting Logistics 101 isn’t easy . This is doubly true (well, more than that; keep reading) when you have not one, not two, but three lovely, amusing, precious and occasionally (okay, regularly) troublemaking babies at home.

At the time of my safety aisle adventure, our triplets (2 boys; 1 girl) were 9 months old, and they were just beginning to pull themselves up onto our entertainment center and so on. The thought of them bonking their heads on the exposed shelves prompted me to offer to pick up some safety related items. “Sounds good. Whatever you think we need,” my wife said. “Great!” I thought. “Great!” I said. “Lunchtime tomorrow!” Little did I realize how many products were available: Anchors for your TV, foam table liners, anti-finger-smashing toilet protector devices and, of course, doorknob covers. Oh, the doorknob covers!

I couldn’t comprehend buying all these things. I had no idea how to anticipate what we’d need and when. What if we didn’t need an anti-finger-smashing protector device for another year? Hey, that money could have been earning interest! Or we’ll lose the device. Fingers will be smashed in a tragic (and likely unsanitary) toilet incident! Feeling lost and out of time, I left with only the foam table liners, hoping they’d work for the entertainment center.
Fast-forward a few months, and we have one full-blown cruiser with siblings close behind. My crowning achievement was rearranging the living room furniture to create a bottleneck in the path to the kitchen – home of many worth-a-trip-to-the-emergency-room dangers – and block it with plastic gates held in place by two cheap end tables we bought right after we got married. “Classy” is probably the adjective I would use to describe the aesthetic.

Look, all these safety products can be confusing to anyone, so we’re not special in that regard. But on most days, we’re lucky to keep these kids fed and clothed, make it out of the house for our own full-time jobs, survive the office and make sure the babies get hugs and kisses before bed. We are so not prepared for significant amounts of cruising and walking. Oh my, how we could use your help. We’re outnumbered! We need to know that while two of them are creating a diversion, the one who gets away isn’t busy smashing his/her fingers in the toilet. Please, set our minds at ease!

Ready for a winter outing. Thanks for the coats, Aunt Jaime!

Brandon is worn out!!

Lila begins to scale a mountain of presents at Nana's. Merry Christmas!

Eating puffs off of a platter at Great Uncle Rick's house -- happy holidays!

Lila on the baker's rack

Holiday card

Back in November, Abby, Nana and I conducted a photo shoot in preparation for our holiday card. Abby had also tried earlier in the day on her own, but hadn't had a ton of luck. I ended up putting the camera on continuous mode while Abby and Nana tried their best to entertain the kids and get them to smile. I counted all the pictures later that night. All told, we took about 250 (on continuous, you're grabbing a few each second -- but still). About 5 had the kids smiling at the same time, and I think only 2 had them smiling and looking in the same direction. Wow. So the first picture below is the one we actually used. Then I put together a little slideshow of some of the outtakes. Enjoy!

Brandon thinks sneezes are hilarious

Thanksgiving

It's been nice to have a few extra days off with the kids. I'm sort of looking forward to the relative predictability of the office, as opposed to the complete unpredictability of... kids chasing the dog, kids pulling each others' hair, kids eating paper, kids not napping, dogs eating bottles, dogs eating toys. On the flip side, I haven't had any meetings since last Wednesday, and I can tickle the kids. I can't tickle my co-workers. I mean, I can, but I probably shouldn't. If I do, this blog will likely take a clear, "I'm looking for a job" slant.

Also, having another adult in the house is like a drug. Abby's mom was here for a full week. She headed back to Florida on Saturday. So now we're in withdrawal. I'd write more if my eye wasn't twitching so much. Abby's dad and brother are coming this weekend -- heads up gents, guests get first watch with Alex and Brandon, and those boys like to haze the house guests.

So, Thanksgiving was great. Nana and Papa hosted a whole host of guests. The kids got to try pretty much everything. I think pumpkin pie and persimmon pudding (a family tradition on my dad's side) seemed to go over the best. Here's a recipe you can try. It's probably not exactly my family's recipe, but it looks pretty close.

Here's a pic of the kids in their Thanksgiving outfits :-)

Alex's marathon crawl

We have been a bit busy....

Hi, so sorry for the lack of posts. We had a busy few weeks, but lots of fun. First, Aunt Jaime came to visit for a few days.

One of her nurses made us these totally groovy shirts. Thank you!

Then my friend Kathryn came to visit. Thanks to Nana and Sam I even got to go out shopping and out for sushi on Saturday night.

Of course, even when we do not have visitors, things have become a little more chaotic. We now officially have 3 crawlers. So, nothing is safe. And if you turn your back for even a second, you never know what they will get into.... or what they may decide to crawl onto and take a seat.....um... Alex....

Happy Halloween!!

Alex illustrates why the stereo is no longer safe in its present location

What sounds good to you?

Triplet Bear Cubs seen in Indiana

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Also, watch out for the bees. Brandon saw some around his feet.

Busy weekend!

Below are a few pictures from our trip to the pumpkin patch today (actually called the Country Market, in Zionsville up on 421). In addition to pumpkins, there were animals to look at, music to hear, delicious apple-cinnamon donuts (for Daddy) to eat and many other activities, most of which the kids will have to wait a few years for... hayrides and such. Usually that kind of trip would be enough excitement for one weekend, but we also took the kids to Gymboree on Saturday for a class. Grandmom Deb was in town for a quick weekend visit, and her assistance was much appreciated. There were probably 10 other kids there, all 6 to 10 months. Everyone was so nice... we played games, sang, interacted, etc. This was a trial class for us, but it was a good experience, and I think we'll go back. That's all for now, have a good week!

Hoosier apparel

It's pretty much impossible to get 3 babies to smile at the same time. Or at all. Or look at the camera at the same time. Or not yawn. You get the idea. So I decided to just embrace the chaos.

See, Nana was nice enough to see that Big Ten justice was done -- she bought IU outfits for the kids so that they could represent both Mom and Dad's alma maters. Take that, Michigan! (See, the kids wore IU today, so Michigan lost; we'll see if their influence holds out to see IU beat Ohio State.)

Anyway, here's a quick slideshow of their kids and Daddy all decked out to cheer for the Hoosiers. And, as you'll see, even flawed photos are pretty darn cute!

Well, now we just have to go to Olive Garden

Brandon loves to hear Mommy talk about pasta. Don't try to understand it. Just accept it.

Post-Picnic

We had a great time at the triplets and more family picnic. We have come a long way from last year's picnic. You can read about last years event here. It was great to see all the other families, get so much advice and even be able to give a little advice; how cool. It was held at one of our members' houses. The babies did great in the car. Beautiful property. It backed up to the woods and unfortunately the mosquitoes and bees were around. I had an allergic reaction to a bee sting 2 years ago, so I was a little nervous. Well, the bees didn't get me, but the mosquitoes did.... and my face blew up and so did my lip. So, we had to leave a bit early. We stopped at CVS and got me some Benadryl on the way home, and I was okay. How come Sam and the babies did not get bit?

Sam and Brandon are pooped... even before we left for the picnic!

See the welts on my forehead and lip? Yuck.

Ready for the triplets+ picnic!

Live United. Give United.

Many of our loyal readers know that Daddy works for United Way. Last week was an exciting one, as our office kicked off our Annual Campaign, as the organization has done every year since 1918. Think about that. 90-some years of community service. It's a little weird working for an organization that's been around that long. I mean, considering that until I came to United Way, the oldest company I had worked for was founded in 1984. So, World War I on one hand -- Orwell on the other. But I digress.

I think about all that's come and gone in that time: Elvis, moon landings, The Beatles, Vietnam, Star Wars (well, it's still being dragged out on display now and then, but you know what I mean), Just Say No, Air Jordan, Seinfeld, 9/11 and, of course, in the blink of an eye, 7 months of pregnancy and 8 months of triplets (today, that is... Happy Month 8, kiddos).

And United Way has changed a lot during that time. In more ways than I could imagine -- more than I could understand, even if I spent a year digging through the archives (note to self: there are archives, right? is it like that scene in Fellowship of the Ring where Gandalf is looking for the history of the One Ring? must investigate further.). One way we're changing is by trying to reach out to new audiences. So, last week, we launched a special Web site to help spread the word: www.LiveUnitedGiveUnited.org. We're asking all our connections -- our staff, our supporters, our friends and family, you name it, to check it out and pass it along to all their friends, family, etc.

Now, hang on, because here's the part where I (try to) pull this all together. For several years now, I've been able to easily (and, in theory, convincingly) talk the talk about how United Way touches all of us -- if you've been to the Y, or have a daughter in Girl Scouts, that's United Way -- all that good stuff. But after having the kids, those United Way connections have become apparent in more personal ways.

For example, 2 of the kids are getting physical therapy thanks to a state program called First Steps. Their physical issues (muscle tone, etc.) are basically all a result of being preemies, having gravity start to impact their bodies sooner than it should have (seeing as how they were floating before; they liked floating). There are probably a lot of other families of multiples whose kids have the same challenges. Well, in many cases, the physical therapists referred by First Steps work for agencies like Easter Seals Crossroads and others; agencies that are supported by United Way. It's just one small way that the connection between United Way and the needs of our community has emerged, thanks to my own life-changing event.

There's a lot more that United Way does in Central Indiana. It supports a hundred more agencies than the one I mentioned. It has programs that help kids start school on the right foot. I could go on, but then it would start to feel like I was working on Labor Day and, well, that's just not cool.

I really encourage all the Central Indiana readers out there -- and even all you ex-pats living who-knows-where, to check out www.LiveUnitedGiveUnited.org. Watch the video, share the site with your own networks, and if you can afford to donate this year, please do. You don't have to give a lot to make a difference for a child or family in need. If you can give $5, do it. Heck, give $50 if you can. No matter what you can afford, I promise it will -- in some way -- make someone's life better. A meal, a class, a mentor, a pencil, a flu shot... it ALL MATTERS.

So, right now, our kids are ASLEEP UNITED (haha, get it? LIVE UNITED... ASLEEP UNITED) and... okay, okay. I can feel your eyes rolling. Remember, every donation matters. Thanks for your time -- Happy Labor Day!

Ready to cheer for Mommy's alma mater!

Lila found the toys

Abby accuses me of of Lila videofavoratism, so I just want to note for the record that it wasn't until we put both boys down for a nap that she went searching for the camera!! See, it's not just me!

Alex wants to crawl

Lila and her bear

Lila is still a messy eater

Grandmom Deb was here

Sometimes you just need a break

I swear to you, we do not bust out the Einstein that often, but there are times when you just need a few minutes. In this case, 2 of the 3 were getting cranky a little too early -- they need to hold out a bit longer before the last bottle of the day. Well, from to spazzing to serene in less than 60 seconds. The video is the proof.

NICU reunion

We took the kids to Lyon's Park in Zionsville today for St. Vincent's annual NICU reunion. It was quite an event. Lots and lots of families, doctors, nurses, staff, etc. We did get to see a handful of staff that we had met earlier this year, but the amount of people and the heat (Daddy, in particular, tends to melt in the sun; not to mention Alex) made staying in the shade a somewhat more attractive option.

I think the event is something that the kids will really look forward to as they get older, because there were tons of games and activities. Nana and Papa (who is on staff at the hospital) were invited as well and joined us, as did Grandmom Deb (who we had to smuggle in; she's in town for the weekend).

Personally, I would not be entirely opposed to Mother Nature turning the temperature down by 5 to 7 degrees next year. Nope, not opposed at all. One bit. It was hot. I kidnapped the family and took them to Dairy Queen afterwards. Their meek resistance was no match for my desire for ice cream.

Here's a picture we took before loading up the car. I don't think there are too many pics where all 3 kids are smiling, so I'd say this one's a keeper.

Here's a picture my Dad (Grandpa Dave) took on his phone on Saturday. Look how happy Lila is!!

The triplets go to a party

Yesterday, the triplets attended their friend Aiden's 2nd birthday. He had an Elmo theme so I was in charge of bringing cupcakes. These were my second attempt at Elmo cupcakes (the 1st round went to Triplet Fest 2009). I think they turned out well -- they were a hit with the 3-and-under crowd. The triplets did well at the party, but ended up a bit off schedule... let's just say ZERO babies sleep well last night.

But as tired as we are today, we though it would be good to try out our new baby pool. Alex was not a fan. But Brandon and Lila liked it. Here they are in their swim diapers (we left our bathing suits at Nana's house).

Other than swimming, we have been keeping busy. We have been trying our best to find time to do some of the things we love. In fact, Sam has found the Baby Bjorn very useful. Here he is with Brandon, Baby B style and making biscuits.

Oh yes, and here he is rocking out to Guitar Hero (the babies really like this, but we do try to keep TV exposure to a minimum).

Anyhow, I highly recommend the Baby Bjorn. They are a little pricey so we got ours used.

Lila is a superstar

Abby and her boys

babyfood making

Things have been mad crazy busy in the Perry house lately. Sam has been busy with his new job role and I have been in meetings downtown all week for a new drug my company will be launching. Plus, Grandmom Deb left Sunday so we are on our own at nights again. Nana Bonnie has been nice enough to be here most evenings to help out these 2 sleepy parents.

Last Sunday our friends Kathy, Ryan, and Andrew came for a visit. If you have not yet, please feel free to check out their blog Kathy and Ryan . We met them in the NICU as their Andrew's isolate was right next to our Lila's. NICU parents share a special bond, that is for sure. We spent sometime Sunday reminiscing about how scary it all was, all the beeping monitors, and all our favorite nurses. Then, Kathy and I made baby food. Fun and not to hard, I would like to do it again, but am finding it hard to find the time.
Below is our mess (thank you Leila for the baby-cook, very easy to use and little clean-up, hurray)

Also, a few weeks ago my cousin Rebecca got married and I got to leave the triplets at home and see some family members, including my 97 year-old grandfather. We had fun taking him out of the nursing home and boy did he have fun.... Plus, he told everyone he is 100! But, I guess when you are 97 that is allowed. Anyhow, I promised him I would put his picture on our website.

From L to R - Abby (me), Papa Hyman, Grandmom Deb, my brother Brad, and sister Jaime. What a good looking bunch :)

Alex holds a bottle for the first time

And we caught it on camera!!

Busy Weekend and My Birthday

What a great weekend and it is not even over yet. First, Friday afternoon we went to Daddy Sam's office picnic and I must say that the triplets were a big hit. Sam's office was so supportive after the babies came home from the hospital. They made us a month's worth of meals, had a huge baby shower for Sam, and held a diaper drive. So, it was nice to be able to say thank you in person. Also, Sam got a promotion last week. He is so modest, so he will probably be mad that I post it. By we are so proud of him.

This picture is the kids getting ready for the picnic.

On the baby front, Lila and Alex are working very hard to crawl and are starting to scoot. In fact Lila can basically roll/scoot across the room. So, we are going to have to baby proof soon. In the mean time, we bought this baby jail, oops I mean play yard. Sam got in trouble so he went to baby jail.... see pic below.

Also, Grand mom Deb has been here all week. So Sam and I have gotten some extra sleep and the triplets have gotten some new toys. Check out Alex Bear and Lila Bean with their new cookie jar.

Also, today is my Birthday so Grandmom Deb and Great-Grandmother watched the kids while Sam and I slipped out to the Melting Pot. YUMMY. It has been a great birthday. And last year's birthday wish came true. I made it through the high risk pregnancy and have 3 healthy happy babies. That is all a could really ask for, but Sam and his parent did get me a present. I got a Cricut . A little background on this gift, over the past 6 months Sam and I have been up between the hours of 3 and 4 AM way to often to count. When we were feeding the babies in the middle of the nights all that was on T.V. was infomercials, and we saw the one for the Cricut machine every night. I became obsessed with it and wanted it so badly. Seriously, I used to know the commercial by heart. Well, I finally got my Cricut, now if I only had a few extra minutes to use it :) Anyhow, here I am at my favorite, the Melting Pot.

Alright, Brandon says "peace out all, my Mommy needs to get some rest."

Hanging out at Daddy's work picnic

No one told us it was going to be this messy

Lila loves cereal. And sweet potatoes. And, apparently, her hand.

More Tripletfest 2009 video

I took another little bit of video once everyone had arrived. There are 5 sets of not-yet-crawling kids in the middle, and then near the end of the clip (upper-right) you can see the fully mobile veterans of the group. All in all there were 6 sets of trips and 4 older siblings. Thank you so much to our hosts for letting us invade your home. We had a great time seeing all of you and comparing stories!! Oh, and in case you couldn't tell (I can't imagine why...), the Perrys are in the lower-left.

Triplet gathering

This video only shows about half the kids in attendance.

Sleepy, rainy Saturday

6 Month Weigh in

I can not believe the babies are over 6 months old. We had our 6 month check up and the babies got measured, weighed, and of course some shots too. Not surprisingly Brandon is the largest.... and to believe he was the smallest at birth. He is over 5 times what he weighed at birth!
Brandon - 16.2 lbs
Lila - 14.8 lbs
Alex - 14.8 lbs
Mommy - um, we won't post that here, but I am back at weight watchers :)

I guess this is what my kitchen is going to look like for awhile.

We all saw the video and know Brandon like his first taste of food :)

Alex was not a big fan, we will have to work on this.

Um, Daddy what is this strange stuff..... I want Ice Cream!!!