Life in the Herd

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

2010-11-25T17:35:00.002-06:00

HELLO!!!! I'm back...I know I can't believe it either but I am! Rick and I talked about how many things we are not going to be able to remember if we didn't write them down some way...so I got to thinking and thought...IT'S TIME!

We went to Papa and Nana's house for Thanksgiving today and had a great time. Papa, Nana, Rick, myself, Parker, Preston, Griffin, Carson, Claire, Rich, Robin, Mason, Taylor, Jason, Amy, William, Alex, Rachel, Mom, and Keren were all present. Rick had us play a game that was so funny. We had to put a word by our names and then the group had to guess who was who. Well you'll get a kick out of this...the word was STRONGWILLED...the group said Rick and then they said Jennifer. We laughed at that one...it was me :) Rick's word was LOVING...which he definitely is almost all the time. All the kids were so cute! They love getting together and having fun. I'll be sure to post some pictures. You will not believe how they all have grown! We hope all of you are having a wonderful Thanksgiving and we are so glad to be back in touch with all of you!

By the way...Parker was Squancho in a school Thanksgiving play and he said his line to us today. So cute...we couldn't get him to sing the "Turkey Trot" or "Over the Hills" but I'll get him to do that and post it here for you to hear.

Love, Jenn

"GRIFCO" Update

2009-09-10T09:14:00.002-05:00

Hi guys! It's been a WILD time but I think we are beginning to see the end of this experience! The doctors think that Griffin can be discharged Friday or Saturday. YEAH!!! He's doing great! He's going to get his TPN IV reduced today. His appetite is still poor but he is beginning to get interested in food again. His lab values are looking good. His kidney function is almost back to normal and his blood counts are improving every day. The doctor said that it will take some time to get his blood levels back. Preston and Claire continue to improve every day. They will return to the doctor tomorrow for another check up. They are giving our mothers a run for their money. They were a little spoiled up here at the hospital so you can only imagine how they are at home. Thank all of you for your prayers and support. We'll keep you posted. Love, Jenn

Prayers are being answered!

2009-09-01T21:34:00.002-05:00

Hello! I just wanted to let all of you know that Preston and Claire were discharged today!!!! We are so EXCITED!! The doctor came in this morning and felt like even though the blood levels on the kiddos weren't great the were slowly improving. He felt that maybe their appetite would improve if they were at home. We got them out of the hospital around 5:00pm. Betty (my mother in law) and Rick took them home. Rick said they acted really glad to be home and went right into play mode with their toys. Carson was a little startled to see them and wasn't quite sure about it. Parker was really happy to have them home but still misses Griffin. I stayed at the hospital with Griffin. He's still not feeling well, although he enjoyed today. One of our dear friends, Mark came this morning and stayed until after supper to help out. Griffin loves him...and loves to go on wagon rides with him. They will draw lab on Griffin at 4am and the doctors will go from there. They are considering doing a kidney biopsy to check the damage of the kidney. They want to wait to see what the lab reveals tomorrow. Pray that he will turn the corner. Preston and Claire will follow up with our local doctor on Friday. If there is a problem with any lab they will notify the neurologist. It's nice to be on the road to healing. I'll keep you posted on Griffin's progress. Love Jenn

Update

2009-08-31T21:29:00.003-05:00

Just thought I would give you guys a little update. Preston and Claire had a really good day. They act like they should be at home. They are LIVE WIRES!!! Especially Preston. He has been all over this hospital...talking with people, flirting with the nurses, showing off and playing. He wears me and everybody else that tries to keep track of him out. Today he wore a shirt that said "ME for President" All the nurses LOVED it and of course stated that they would vote for him. Total Mess...but I'm so glad he is doing better. His blood levels are better. He is receiving platelets tonight but that's it. Many of you are thinking...that's it? That's a pretty big deal. Well, from where we've been...receiving only platelets in a day is GREAT! Preston still has a poor appetite but I think it is slowly improving. Claire is also doing really well. Her Hgb dropped today, but they decided to wait on the blood and see how she does. She has had two different nose bleeds today because of her low platelet count. I look for her to receive platelets tomorrow. She is still pretty irritable and short fused. Sad to say...the nurses kinda fear her. They always have another nurse go in with them if they are planning on touching her. I heard in nurses report this..."OH and WATCH OUT for HER she is a B I T E R and she'll try to bite you every chance she gets." So EMBARRASSING...but I always knew she was a fighter. Her appetite has greatly improved. She ate really good at lunch but she wasn't able to keep it down. Supper she kept down with only a few gagging experiences. Hopefully, these two will get to go home SOON. Griffin...poor Griff...He's still my little sick one. He's taken this really hard...maybe even worse than Preston did. Griffin's kidney function is still really poor but today they gave him a diuretic to get some of the fluid off. It took him awhile but he finally had a wet diaper. He's dumping a lot of blood in his urine which is normal but it also tells you that he is still in the active phase of HUS. We're just trying to take one day at a time. Thank you for your prayers. We'll let you all know if anything changes.

SICK SICK SICK

2009-08-30T06:21:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone. Who would have thought that everybody getting sick would bring me back to the blog. Life at our house is always crazy and there is never enough time keep up with the things you would like to...like the blog. Anyway, now that I have some sick babies and I'm struggling to sleep...I thought it would be a good idea to make a post. Preston, Claire, and Griffin are all currently in Oklahoma Children's Hospital. Preston was admitted on Aug. 21st. He was admitted with a problem called HUS. You'll have to look it up and read about it...to sum it up in a nut shell...it's a problem that occurs when you come in contact with E-coli. We still are not sure where or when that happened and if Preston actually got it and gave it to Claire and Griffin or what. The toxin that E-coli produces attacks your red blood cells causing them to burst. This causes your blood level to go down and it also causes your kidneys to fail. The kidneys can't filter busted up red blood cells very well and therefore the kidneys tend to get plugged. It's a terrible cycle. The kids have received numerous blood transfusions and platelets. Their kidneys are hanging in there. All their kidney levels are elevated but no one is in need of dialysis. It's a long process. It can last for a week or up to two months. I really feel Preston has turned the corner. If we can keep his blood levels up and get him to eating again then he'll be able to go home. Claire is just holding her own right now. She has a way to go but I think she'll be quickly behind Preston. Griffin...is another story. He has really taken this hard. His blood levels are poor and his kidney function is down. He's unable to keep anything down...even water. All of the kiddos get meds for nausea and meds to keep their blood pressure down. They are currently receiving TPN. This is a IV nutrition to help build their strength and to keep them nourished until they start eating again and holding food down. Carson is still at home. He's doing great so far. He has lab drawn every other day to monitor his levels. So far so good. Physically he's great..Emotionally he's a WRECK! He doesn't have any idea where everybody went and he has no clue as to why he's at home alone and wasn't able to go. Parker has been staying with some friends of ours and Friday he came up here to stay the weekend. He's feeling fine too. If you have time...please say a prayer for us. We could really use it. This has been a crazy adventure...one that I never expected and one that I never want to REPEAT! For those of you that are already praying...THANK YOU! Rick and I both want to say "Thanks" for all the prayers, support, hospital visits, food, work at the house, and goodies. The kids love the toys and we love all the snacks. We will keep you posted on our progress. Love, Jenn

The Crazy Picnic

2009-06-23T08:45:00.003-05:00

Go ahead...I'm listening...what did you do with your brother Griffin?

Get back here...no...you can not go..."Sit Down"

Yes, I am crazy. We ended up staying after the pool at the park to eat supper. It was a little difficult to feed and keep track of everybody. As you can see...I was spent. When we got home we all took showers and fell into bed. Not a peep from any of us all night! Love, Jenn

THE GREAT SWIM DAY!

2009-06-23T07:47:00.008-05:00

Watch how far I can swim! - Parker

I Love diving for these things! - Parker

Mr. Parker showing some of his swim moves!

Preston - "I'm thinking about getting in but I kinda like soaking my feet!"

Who likes the pool? - "ME!" Carson and Griffin

Okay...maybe I'll get in for just a little bit. - Preston

Swim Swim Swim...nope...I'm still swallowing half the pool! - Claire

Yes...I love this - Please let me stay longer. - Carson

On the count of three...everybody dive in! - Carson

Play Time!

The kiddos with my good bud Crystal and her daughter Kodee

I'm good right here on Crystal's lap! - Preston

So...you really like it that much? - Carson and Preston

How cold is it? - Claire

That's pretty funny...Claire

Watch me go under momma! - Parker

Girlfriends just hanging out! - Kambri and Claire

I'm surfing! - Carson

I'm only getting in with goggles! - Preston

Pool...look out here I come! - Preston

Ha Ha!! I LOVE this! - Griffin

What...no I'm not ready...I've got a lot of playing left to do! - Griffin

OFF WE GO!!! - Parker jumping off the diving board!

Preparing for another dive! - Parker

Last Wednesday, after the kids got up from their nap I decided to take them swimming. Well, actually my bud Crystal talked me into it. After all...it was the quads 18 month birthday. After I found swim trunks and a swimsuit for everyone we loaded up. We really had a good time! The babies loved it. Crystal, Kodee, Kambri, Nick, & Parker all helped me watch the little guys. WOW...can they move. Parker got to show me all his swim moves that he's been learning at swim lessons the past few months. That's the most amazing thing...he used to be TERRIFIED of the water. I was exhausted by the time we left but it was well worth it. I learned a few things...Next time...I'm bringing more toys, a few snacks, drinks, and floaties for everybody. Oh and... a water-proof bag for Crystal's cell phone. (Love you Crystal!) Shhhh....she dropped her cell phone in the POOL when she was trying to catch one of the quads from going under. CRAZINESS! Like they all say...it takes a village to raise kids and I'm taking advantage of this village! Love, Jenn

Happy 18 month Birthday!!

2009-06-19T07:22:00.007-05:00

Parker - My "Right Hand Man" Parker is such a great big brother. He loves his babies and he'll help you in any way. (Well...the bad diapers still bother him a little). Parker is good about playing with them, teaching them about everything...good and bad, and disciplining them. He knows and tells the babies often...NO NO...Now go to the CORNER. We really couldn't have asked for things to work out any better with Parker and the babies. Parker's favorite food is spaghetti and frozen popsicles. He loves his farm toys and scooter. His favorite past time is working with his dad. His favorite word??? I don't know...he talks all the time! If you want to know, learn, or need help working out a problem...Parker will tell you about it. I told him the other day, "Okay, Parker you're going to have to be quiet for a little bit...he said, "Okay, but you're going to miss me talking to you". I had to laugh and say...yep you're right! Thank you Parker for being such a GREAT BOY and BIG BROTHER! YOUR Daddy, Momma, & babies LOVE you!

Happy 18 months!

Preston - Baby A - He still lives up to his name and his position. Preston is in charge. If Preston isn't happy...nobody is happy. He has the ability to point and grunt at things and you'll find yourself getting it for him. (Or usually you're sorry you didn't) :) Preston has a great smile and is full of laughs and we love it when he decides to share those with us. He Loves affection...but only on his terms and time. He's independent to a point but would rather not have momma out of site. He likes to stretch you any time he has a chance to. He is the one that will test his limits and boundries. He requires little sleep and can't stand it when his brothers and sis don't wake up when he wants them to. His bed is now on a wall by itself, due to the fact that he can't leave anybody or anything alone. He's frequently on a mission and has lots to show and give you. He's a good meat, bread and fruit eater and tends to slide his peas and other vegs. to the left or right. His favorite word is NA-NA! His best time of the day is 10 am and his favorite toy is Parker's toy gun and a plastic bottle.

Griffin! - Griffin has turned out to be a very Happy Boy! He loves adventure and you will usually find him climbing or crawling on or through something. He is the reason Parker's playset no longer has a ladder and the slide is blocked. He loves climbing up on the playset and going through the tunnel and looking out. It's about 12 feet off the ground and I'm just not ready for that heart attack. Griffin loves to dig and play with trucks. He walks around the house making that "Brmmmm Brmmm" sound. He still has a dimple on each cheek and lights up the room when he smiles. He wears his feelings on his sleeve and is crushed when you get on to him. He loves to nap and his favorite time of the day is right after his nap - around 4:00pm. Griffin plays well with his brothers and sister, but still has his moments when he feels the need to breakdown because he's been "Wronged" He loves water but would prefer not to be next to Claire in the bath. He loves to eat. His favorite foods are grilled cheese and peas. His favorite toys - a tractor and a push popcorn popper...and...anything of Parker's. Griffin favorite word is MOMMA.

Carson - This is a very passionate boy. Carson is black an d white. Hot or Cold. On or Off. Extreme. He loves to look at books but it's a little too much for him to let you read them to him. He likes to jabber and listen to himself squeal. He loves to tickle his brothers and sister. He has a sweet giggle and plays peek a boo and hide and seek all the time. He can't stand for someone to take a toy away from him or have something he doesn't. He is a good "fit thrower" and "fighter" when it comes down to it. He is a paticular eater. He usually is the one that stays clean at all meals. He loves bread and fruit. His favorite toy...hands down...a toy flip phone. Touch it and get ready for a fight. His favorite word is Da Da. He's also very good at directing everybody to "Sit Down". His best time of the day is 6:00 pm and he loves chatting with his brothers and sister in bed. His favorite past time. Shaking his crib! WOW...can he shake that thing! Carson loves to be held and snuggled with.

Claire - What can I say? She's really ending up being a LOT of Fun. Claire is pretty independent and likes to play by herself quite a bit. She struggles with her brothers at times but is very capable of holding her own. Claire still tends to pinch, pull hair and bite if needed. She's spend at least a few minutes of every day in the corner for biting one of the boys. She's even been known to bite Parker because he wanted to pick her up and she said "NO" She has a very high pitch scream and you have the chance to hear it if things don't go right. She loves her "Ride On" toys and loves when her brothers push her around on them. Claire's favorite time of the day is in the morning. She loves her snacks and is crazy about Cheetos. She'll skip all meals for green beans and fruit. Her favorite word is "Boo" or "Mum". She is easily excited and expressive when playing. She is a very cautious person...I think that comes from being around her brothers. She can walk and will do so, but only if her brothers are not around and she can take the time to make sure she's safe. This cracks me up...because she is also the one her flips herself over the back of the chair to get in the toy box when the boys are in the way. Are crazy life would not be complete without little sister.

Well, that's far from being it, but I wanted you guys to know a little bit about each of these guys. Several people tend to wonder if my kids are similar. My answer is no. Parker, Preston, Griffin, Carson, and Claire are so different that you will never have a dull moment! Happy 18 month birthday! WOW!! I can't believe it's been that long...I also can't believe we've made it! (Ha Ha!!) Believe it or not...I STILL wouldn't trade ANY ONE of them off or change the experience for anything. We are the luckiest and most blessed people I know! Love, Jenn.

My "FOUR" Cool Boys!

2009-06-19T07:16:00.004-05:00

Preston

Griffin

Carson

Parker

The boys found the sunglasses and had a blast playing "Joe Cool" with them. Thought I would pass them along! Love, Jenn.

Who came up with SHARING?!?

2009-06-05T08:06:00.005-05:00

I'm a happy person...normally. - Carson

All Smiles! - Griffin

Give me that...it's mine!

NO IT ISN'T...IT'S MINE!

I got it!...OH NO...NO BITING! OUCH!!!!!!! MOMMA!!

The boys are perfect by themselves. They love to play and show you all kinds of things. HOWEVER, you put them together and WOW they can't stand to share anything. All four of the kids fight over toys...well actually five because I've even heard Parker say, NO THAT's MINE! I try not to intervene. I kinda think if I do that, at this age I'll be doing that for the rest of my life. So, if there's no BLOOD...I just try to hold tight until the smoke clears. Thought you might enjoy the pictures. Just for the record...no I was not sitting around trying to take pictures of them fighting...I was trying to capture a few sweet smiles and it went down hill. Love, Jenn

Preparing for BATTLE!

2009-06-05T07:59:00.002-05:00

Claire loves going outside to play. She is perfectly content playing by herself, however I noticed the other day, when the boys come around she puts on the little play helmet. She loves it! I always crack up because I think how appropriate is that! So...Claire go on and play! At least your head is protected when your brothers knock you off something. Love, Jenn

Getting Ready for Harvest

2009-06-05T07:44:00.003-05:00

My two farmers (soon to be six someday) are getting ready for harvest. Parker is so excited! Everytime we step outside with him, he always says..."That wheat's sure lookin' good, I think it's startin' to ripin' up! It won't be long now...till we'll be cuttin' us some wheat! It always makes me laugh and I think back on my childhood when things...big or small were so exciting. With all these kids, I think I can still look forward to A LOT of exciting times! - Jenn

The blurr

2009-05-31T15:49:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone. We've been busy with the business of raising 5 kids. Thanks for your kind inquiries as to our wellbeing. We're all doing OK. Mostly we're doing a lot of growing as evidenced by our picture below:

Lately we've all been playing outside on the grass and in the garden. The 3 boys are walking circles around us and Claire is still crawling and spider crawling. Bottles have all given way to sippy cups. The schedule consists of breakfast at 7, playtime at 7:30, baths at 9 followed by more play, lunch at 11:30 followed by naps. Play time at 2, snacks at 3:30. Supper at 5:30, Play time at 6:00 and bedtime at 7:30. This evening after supper everyone danced to "Do-wah-diddy-diddy-dum-diddy-do". It was a blast. We are open for circus bookings in the backyard. Please call for available dates. Seating is limited. Must be willing to participate.

Quad Update

2009-03-01T14:27:00.006-06:00

Hi everyone. I'm helping Jenn out with a blog update so you can see how much everyone is growing. We haven't had much time lately for communicating. To the left is a typical meal time for the quads.

Below: Parker showing Griffin the remote control tractor.

Below: Griffin checking the tractor.
Left: Happy Griffin.

Left: Parker excavating the front schrubs.

Left: Preston looking pretty normal.

Below: Griffin trying to ride the horse. (almost)

Below: we wondered what happened to the TV

Below: Claire swigging water. Below: Claire looking happy.

Left: Carson finishing supper ;) Actually, I think

he's resting.

Below: Carson in the toy pen.

green up

2009-02-11T21:43:00.003-06:00

Hello everyone. We are looking forward to the spring green up. Its a time of renewal for me. I hope it is for you too. Yesterday here in Oklahoma, we experienced the awesome power of nature. With this show of nature's power, come that life giving rain we all need to help this year's crop of wheat to grow. We haven't gotten our share yet, but we will soon. We always get what we need when we need it.

Matt

2009-01-01T08:06:00.002-06:00

One of the blessings we had for Christmas was a visit from Matt. We got to know Matt this past summer when he came and helped with harvest. He lived with us for about a month. We didn't know him before that encounter, but believe me when I say we know him now...HA HA! He has actually become like another kid of ours. He fits right into our big crazy family. This time around he stayed with us for just a few days leaving on Christmas Eve. Parker and the babies take right to him and love him. Thanks Matt for sharing in our crazy life. Love, Jenn

Happy 1st Birthday!!!

2008-12-31T14:54:00.011-06:00

We are ONE!!!!!

Two of my LIFE SAVERS - Bridget and Crystal

The Kliewer Family

Lois helping the babies out!

Another one of my LIFE SAVERS - Charity and Miss Claire

Bridget & her guy - Griffin

Our good friends Maxton and Verdella

Pat and Randall helping out with the celebration!

Nathan and Lacy - just like family!

David and Phillip came to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

This is our preacher and his family - Jeff, Amanda, Emily & Casey

Aunt Candy having fun at the party!

Uncle Mike taking a break!

Papa is ALL smiles!!

Rick and his buddy Grant overseeing everything!

Daddy is helping Claire out with a drink of water!

Miss Claire

Preston

Griffin

Carson

Gifts, Gifts, Gifts

and MORE GIFTS!

Me and my big guy GRIFF!

Carson giving momma the "LOW DOWN"

Still SMILING after a YEAR!

Carson was a little picky about the cake and a little emotional about the whole thing!

Finger Licking Good!! - Griffin

This is SOOO GOOD! Claire loved her cake!

Preston ate ALL of his cake....I REPEAT ALL OF HIS CAKE!!!
Believe it or not...he did not get sick. I know...we were shocked too!

Our sweet neighbors/lifesavers - Eddie and Beth Perkins

They are ALWAYS willing to pitch in and help out!

Aunt Keren, Billie, & Lucille

One big Party setup!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the HERD!!

Rose & Little Miss Claire

Nana & Preston

Retta & Griffin

Grandma & Carson

HELLO...ARE YOU GUYS STILL OUT THERE???? We're back from our LOOOONNNNGGGG vacation from the blog. I thought one the best things to start blogging about again would be the quads turning ONE and Parker turning FOUR. First, the Quads. We had a great time celebrating their first birthday. Thank you guys for such a nice turn out. We are very blessed to have such great family and friend support. Enjoy the pictures! Love, Jenn

2008-11-11T16:59:00.002-06:00

FRIENDS & FAMILY FOREVER!

Alex, Taylor, William, & Parker!

On Saturday we had a BIG day! First, we went to Sharon, OK for my nephew's (Alex) birthday party and then ended up at Fay, OK for Parker's buddy Kambri's birthday party. WHEW...what a day. I'll post more pictures of the big day later. Love, Jenn

Aren't we PRETTY!

2008-11-11T11:14:00.004-06:00

Sometimes you have to resort to food in order to get a picture!

Preston, Griffin, Carson, Claire, & Parker

Too serious for words! - Preston

I'm a "Doll" - Griffin

"CHEESE!" - Carson

I'd smile but I'm busy! - Claire

When we got ready for church on Sunday I thought it would be a good idea to get some pictures of the kiddos, but the kids were in NO mood to take pictures. I tried again when we got home from church and the only way I was able to get pictures was to give them food. I thought you guys might enjoy seeing everybody dressed up. Parker wouldn't stay long enough to take an individual picture. I guess that's the life of a 3 almost 4 year old! Love, Jenn

Hands Hands & More Hands

2008-11-05T08:00:00.003-06:00

Preston's Hands

Carson's Hands

Griffin's Hands

Miss Claire's Hands

8 Hands and 40 Fingers!

I thought it would be neat to get a picture of the babies hands. WHAT WAS I THINKING? Anyway, this was the best I could do. Trying to get 4 BABIES & 40 FINGERS to cooperate is asking too much! Love, Jenn

Rub a Dub Dub

2008-11-02T20:03:00.001-06:00

Preston - Griffin - Carson - Claire

Three boys & a girl in the tub! Do you think we are growing? Momma has quite a time trying to keep us all in the tub! We LOVE taking a bath, but for some reason all the water and toys always end up on the outside of the tub? We are still trying to help momma figure that one out!

WOW!!!

2008-11-02T17:36:00.003-06:00

We LOVE spaghetti!

I'm still holding on to my baby food peas! - Griffin

Really? That's it? - Preston

Hmmmm....I guess the fun is over...it sure was good! - Preston

No...I don't need a bath! - Griffin

My brother did that to my face! - Claire

This is TOO MUCH FUN!!! - Carson

I think there's something on my head? - Carson

As you can see we had spaghetti the other night for supper. The famous meal to serve for the best pictures! I loved it! Do you want to know the best part??? I gave this to them and let them have a blast and then I left! Yep, I had sorority and Rick was left in charge. I'm so MEAN! But I couldn't pass up this opportunity. I tried to look innocent when he walked in. He asked, "Honey, couldn't you have picked a different night for THIS?!?" I said, well they really like spaghetti! He such a great guy...but I'm not sure I should try this again any time soon.

Love, Jenn

Orange Glow!

2008-10-29T11:56:00.005-05:00

Do you think I"m pretty? - Preston

Is that more food I see over there? - Griffin

That was SOO GOOD! - Claire

Pass some of that over here!

We've got this COVERED and everything else too!

I'm ready for seconds!

Finger Licking Good! - Claire

Cover my other eye and I could pass for a Pumpkin! - Carson

I dropped a little on my bib! - Carson

Okay...what did you do with the rest of the food? - Griffin

We're venturing out and letting the kids feed themselves more often and believe me...it's more of an "ADVENTURE" than what you can ever imagine! I used to think...WOW Parker you really can make a mess, well WHAT WAS I THINKING? I wandered like you are right now...did they actually get anything in their mouth? Well, believe or or not...YES. They did really good about that...it was just all the things they had to do with their food before they got it there. I keep telling myself...they've got to learn to feed themselves sometime...right??? Love, Jenn

We're Prepared for a COLD winter!

2008-10-29T11:42:00.002-05:00

The natives were restless so I decided to take them for a stroll while we were waiting for Big Brother to get home. It's been a little chilly around here so I thought I would go ahead and bust out the winter clothes. Aren't the hats PRECIOUS!!! I know...I know...they are going to KILL ME when they are older and have to endure these pictures. BUT...why not enjoy the laughs now. Claire loved her hat and just looks precious in it. Carson (in front of Claire) felt like his hat was a little small, so between that and the issues he had with STATIC his hair and nerves were sticking straight out! Preston...(in front of Carson and behind Griffin) well as you can see...he was just "PUT OUT". He didn't really care about what he had to wear...he just thought it took entirely to long to get the beast (stroller) moving. He fell asleep before I even got down the driveway. Last but not least, Griffin (front and center) well...I left him for last because I had to stop laughing so I could actually type. I know...you don't have to tell me...he has a BIG head! We've known this all along...off the growth chart for head circumference. Anyway, the hat accentuates the OBVIOUS and I LOVE IT! He on the other hand HATED the hat and tried desperately to get it OFF! Parker got home and said ..."My babies all have hats on...neat! Ummm...Momma...why's Griffin look like that?" I don't know what he was referring to...but I was cracking up! Hope you enjoy! Love, Jenn

"Hair Wolf" Fun!

2008-10-28T08:31:00.008-05:00

My two "Life Preservers" - Crystal & Bridget

They are so good about keeping me connected with the outside world and keeping me sane!

My buddy aka Griffin's girlfriend!

Griffin & his girlfriend Bridget!

My Scary Crew!

We never leave home without the beast!

Nothing is better than hot dogs and cheese puffs

Maddie trying to keep the rowdy bunch under control!

Jaxen and Maddie looking too cute!

How do you like my spiders I made?

I like that pumpkin!

I'm thinking I could win a contest with this beautiful pumpkin! - Parker

Give me all of your CHEESE PUFFS and nobody gets hurt!

I've never seen these things before...they're kinda neat! - Preston

The world's best ring tosser - Parker

One cute little "Mummy" - Claire

Games, Games, and lots of fun!

Parker was quite the bean bag thrower!

This was our big rowdy group! We're missing two that came a little later.

Charity and Little Miss Muffet (Carrington) and her spider (Remington)

Our adorable scarecrow - Zavery

Lyndee or her little rooster - Harper!

I think Crystal may be at the end of her rope with me...I'm thinking she's going to give me up if I don't dry it up and that would be REALLY BAD! - Griffin

Batman aka Parker

This is my best friend Shandelle and her little buddy (son) Wryland

Claire and her much older boyfriend Konner

This past Saturday my sorority got together and had a little Halloween party for the kids. We had a great time and the kids loved it! They played games and painted pumpkins. They also got a jump start on all the junk food and candy that comes along with Halloween! I have to admit it was a little crazy to get everybody dressed and loaded. I'm starting to perspire again just thinking about it! I put the hitch thing that holds the stroller on by myself and also loaded the stroller. Are you IMPRESSED?!? Yes, I'm bragging and trying to convince myself that I can do this on my own. Some of you may be asking...where was RICK?? Well, he had to work the cattle Saturday along with Rex and Betty. And YES, he would of put the hitch and stroller on if he had known I wanted to take it. He was a little shocked and bewildered as to how I did that. It's my little secret...but I'll just say...you can get pretty creative when you're required. I was sure glad we made the venture because we all had such a great time. Thanks girls for helping me with the herd when I got there. It truly does take a village to raise the little guys. Love, Jenn

Fun Fun Fun

2008-10-24T23:48:00.004-05:00

I know...I know...I hated this thing when you used to put me in it...but now I LOVE IT!

All the babies love to play with the bouncer, especially Griffin. I'm not sure it will be something we can pass down to somebody else after the kiddos get through with it!

I prefer my stomach! - Griffin

It's hard to see, but Griffin's belly usually is brushing the carpet!

WHAT??? WHO SAID I WAS TOO HEAVY FOR THIS THING???

I thought it was supposed to recline like this.

Momma...Griffin is stuck in the bouncer again!

Griffin is notorious for getting stuck in the bouncer. He does one of two things...FLIPS OUT OF IT or SCREAMS until you figure out a way to pull him out of it.

Actually, I have 8 teeth! - 4 on top and 4 on bottom!
LOTS OF TEETH AROUND THE PAYNE HOUSE!

Let me think...NOT counting Rick's, Parker's or my teeth we have 28 teeth!!! AND we still have a TON to go! Our furniture, decorations, fingers, toes, and arms are never going to be the same!

Yep! That's right...I have the "World's Greatest Dad" - Preston

The kiddos love to go into Rick's office and spend time with him. He likes it too...well most of the time. He feels it's a little overwhelming when he has Parker cutting on the latest bank statements and telling him what bills need to be paid on the farm, Griffin pulling all the pens out of the drawer and trying to eat the calculator, Preston rearranging the decorations and eating the artificial plants, Carson getting into the trash and chewing on unopened mail, and Claire getting stuck under his chair and trying to push the buttons on the computer! BUT...he is still able to laugh about it. I think that's pretty good...don't you?

You wouldn't believe how long it took me to get this toy...

so NO I'm not sharing! - Claire holding on for dear life!

I've been right here to entire time...no that wasn't me momma that just flipped the planter upside down and made a few bite marks in the Styrofoam pumpkins!

Parker and Momma have WAY TOO MUCH FUN!!

My little PURPLE HIPPO!

2008-10-23T16:11:00.003-05:00

My Happy Little Hippo!

Am I cuter or what?

On the move!

Rawwwwwww.....moooooo....what EXACTLY does a Hippo Do?

I think they just look GOOD!

Parker is so funny after his bath...well usually...when the bath is his idea. Anyway, he puts on his Purple Hippo towel and runs out to the living room to entertain us and the babies if they're still awake. It's too much fun! Love, Jenn

You do it like this!

2008-10-22T09:01:00.003-05:00

Okay...watch your big brother!

He's a little FUNNY looking momma!

I can do it! - Carson

I'm thinking this surface might hurt my head! - Carson

You go ahead and do that...Carson...I'm out of here! - Griffin

Parker has been working with the boys to teach them to do a somersault. Carson has a natural talent for it. He crawls around and stands on his head all the time. He just hasn't figured out yet how to go ahead and get on over. We've had several people ask...ummmm...is that normal for Carson to ALWAYS be doing that? I just laugh and say...THERE IS NOTHING NORMAL AROUND HERE! Love, Jenn

We FOUND the PUFFS!

2008-10-21T16:21:00.007-05:00

Well...we don't really remember whose idea it was.

You're not really mad...are you momma?

How can you be mad at this face? - Preston

Thanks, Griffin...I'll take some more.

I'll never tell how we actually got them out of the cabinet! - Griffin

The BOYS made me do it...and eat them too! - Claire

HELLO MOMMA...we're just hanging out! Ummmm...no that's not really a PUFF in my mouth...it just looks like one! - Preston and Carson

Let me just get rid of the evidence for you! - Preston

Here...I'll take the lid...you take the bottle...hurry get the puffs!

Is this safe...I'm thinking there might be a better way.

We had a NICE & NEAT plan...SERIOUSLY.

I'm not saying a word...they keep giving them to me - Claire

Preston...you are not in CONTROL...I didn't get ENOUGH!

It looks like you did GRIFFIN...there is just a few left.

Yep...that's how it went...I tried to tell them not to do it...but they did it anyway. - Preston

I didn't eat ANY of them...I just watched! - Griffin

Here...let me take some pictures of the situation. - Preston

I know who did it!

Carson stuck them on my face...it wasn't me. - Griffin

Well...I'm just trying to help clean the mess up!

Hurry quick...grab them!

Are you being FAIR?

I don't think I got as many as you guys did.

It was the CRAZIEST thing! - Carson

I PLEAD the 5th

No...we didn't know you were still here momma.

Are you kidding...you're going to put them where? We'll never be able to reach them then!

When Momma wasn't looking...we got into the cabinet and found the puffs. We all knew what the plan was, but it didn't quite work out the way it was supposed to. We were going to divide them up equally between all of us but we got a little greedy. AND THEN Momma showed up!

WHAT A MESS! It was too FUNNY to not get some pictures of this CRAZY MESS. When I came out to the kitchen after putting up clothes, this is what I found. You wouldn't believe the looks I got and the FAST SHOVELING that took place. I still laugh when I think about it!

Love, Jenn

What a Weekend!

2008-10-19T17:38:00.003-05:00

The boys LOVE to hang out together!

We're not planning anything momma!

Hmmmm...I'm not sure how that would work...but anythings possible!

Okay...how did SHE get in here?

It was Griffin's idea and Preston did it...I'm innocent! Carson bailing out!

Saturday, Carrie came around 10:00am to watch the babies for the day. Rick, Parker and myself took off and did a little shopping, attended one of our very special friends 99th Birthday Party, (HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARL) & then headed to Quartz Mountain. Quartz Mountain is a state lodge/resort that is a little over an hour from here. Nana kept the babies Saturday night and today until we got back. It's so GREAT that we have NANA!!! Anyway, we had a great time at the lodge. Last night, after supper we went on a hayride and then had a campfire. The weather was so nice and the stars were amazing. Our host even provided us with entertainment around the campfire singing old "Cowboy Songs". Parker was captivated to say the least. This morning we ate breakfast and then went hiking. After that we took the back roads home. The trip was just what I needed. Some really great R & R. Can't wait to do it again. I'm trying to psych myself up to take the babies next time. I'm thinking if I could get them all walking it would be a "Piece of Cake" Rick...of course...thinks I'm INSANE, but he's willing to try it. With a willing person like that...how could I resist. :) :)

Oh, I have tons of pictures that I haven't got posted, so I thought I'd go ahead and stick a few on here. Love, Jenn

Daddy's "HOLDING DOWN" the fort!

2008-10-18T07:24:00.004-05:00

Momma...we're good!

Griffin...you're going to have to come to me...I've got my hands a little full!

Wait a minute...where are you going?

Wait a minute...watch out...get off her foot...

Preston...you've been on daddy's lap long enough! - Griffin taking Preston OUT!

One big CRAZY family!

My sister came down this past week and I went in Wednesday night to spend a little time with her. Rick...the sweet guy that he is...stayed home with the babies. He told me that he had everything under control. I laughed! I snapped a few pictures of the "CONTROLLED SITUATION" as I was heading out the door. I went ahead and took Parker with me...I thought that was the least I could do :) :) :) Love, Jenn

Doctor's Check-up!

2008-10-17T14:58:00.007-05:00

We're as ready as we're ever going to be...

has anybody seen my shoe?

Yep...that's right...HOME GROWN and PROUD of IT! - Preston

WHAT???? Where are you taking me...??? - Carson

Yes...I like to eat...and wear it too! - Griffin

100% adorable - Claire being her SWEET self!

Momma...don't make me do this!!! - Griffin pulling on my heartstrings!

Seriously...Can't you just check out my SHOE!!! - Carson

Yes...that's cold...and you're taking a little too long! - Griffin

No...you can't make a run for it! - Carrie holding down Claire & Carson

What in the world...Doc...do you see anything? - Preston

If he only knew what I'm planning on doing when I check his throat! - Preston

Has anybody seen our clothes?

I'm prepared for the worst! - Preston

Nope...I have no final comments...let's just do this! - Carson

Don't look MOMMA...I think I just got MOONED!!! - Claire

Ummm....No...it wasn't that bad...
can I have my clothes before he decides to check me out again! - Griffin

Last Friday, October 10th we had our 10 month check up. Carrie went with us and we had a great time! SERIOUSLY! The babies were so good! Dr. Stephens and his staff are really great and love our babies! I tried to snap some pictures this time, but I'm not going to lie...that's harder than what you think. Trying to keep the babies happy, out of things, and dressed is just about impossible! Okay....so for the LONG AWAITED HEIGHTS AND WEIGHTS. YES...YES...YES...we GROW THEM BIG HERE ON THE FARM!!!!

Claire - 27 inches & 18# 3 oz

Carson - 30 1/2 inches & 24# 12 oz

Preston - 30 1/2 inches & 25# 5 oz

Griffin - 30 inches & 25# 14 oz

Go ahead LAUGH...LAUGH OUT LOUD! The boys are around the 95% percentile on the growth chart for height and weight! That is with NO...I REPEAT NO...adjustments for prematurity. So...for those of you that don't know about the growth chart. In a "nut shell"...that chart tells us that there are only around 5% of the general population that are this age and are BIGGER than my BOYS!!! WOW! Dr. Stephens just laughed and said they look great and are in proportion. I just shook my head...and then said to myself...GOD IS GOOD!!

Claire by the way is around the 25% percentile for her height and 50% percentile for her weight. She is doing such a good job at growing too!! All the babies are healthy other than that cold stuff we had and have no serious problems so far. Blessings upon Blessings! Hope you enjoy the pictures! OH...by the way...we took them out to eat after their doctor's appointment and they loved it! I wasn't quite sure about taking them out to eat because the only other time we did that was when they were really young and they spent the entire time in their infant carriers sleeping. Well, this time was totally different, but went really well. I thought I had the right thing in mind. I chose a table by the door because I thought that if the babies started acting up and making a scene we could just BOLT right out the door! Well, I didn't think about the other side of that idea. We were on DISPLAY because we were right by the DOOR! It was a little embarrassing but the kids LOVED being out and seeing all the people that I totally forgot about the craziness and just enjoyed the moment! We had some really nice comments made to us as different people left and it really made me realize that the MAJORITY of people LOVE BABIES! Isn't that a BLESSING...YOU GOTTA LOVE BABIES WITH ALL THESE BUNDLES OF JOY! Love, Jenn

Happy 10 Month Birthday & Momma Too!

2008-10-17T14:43:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday!

Pictures are so much fun to try to take!

Let's try another picture...well you be the judge!

HELLO! HELLO! HELLO! We're ALIVE and WELL!!! Can you believe it!?! We're still teething but the colds are over and I'm feeling better too! The pneumonia has just about left! SO....that leaves us with LOTS of SMILES and LOTS of ACTIVITY! WOW...keeping up with everybody is a FULL TIME JOB! 10 months old! I'm having a hard time believing it! Time is going by so FAST! (Well, except for the past month...I was thinking it was never going to end :) :)! ) So today is a HAPPY Day. I'm celebrating my 33rd Birthday with the Quads. It's been an enjoyable day and really a day of counting ALL of my PRECIOUS BLESSINGS! (Literally!) Parker is such a joy to have around and LOVES his babies so much. I used to worry that he would grow tired or jealous of them but he continues to amaze me with the LOVE he has for the little curtain climbers. Everybody is on the move...some (Preston) faster than others (Claire), but all of them move at their own pace! (Griffin & Carson). Growing? YES!!!!!!! I'll do a post of doctor pictures and weights. YOU won't believe it! Anyway, we're back! Thank you for all your great comments, prayers, love and support. Love, Jenn

HELLO OUT THERE!!!

2008-10-09T21:52:00.002-05:00

YES...WE ARE STILL ALIVE!!! WOW...it's been rough at the Payne Farm. We've had this "BUG" that keeps hanging on and on and on and on...you get my drift?!? Anyway, I think MAYBE we are getting better. Claire had a temp this morning but is feeling better tonight. Griffin "TOSSED" his COOKIES tonight, but I think feels better after getting THAT off his belly. Carson is a little friendlier now since his teeth went ahead and popped through. SEVEN TEETH!!! WOW is right! Preston...well he's just Preston. GETTING INTO EVERYTHING!!! He pulls up and walks around the furniture and nothing is OFF LIMITS. I'm trying to teach him BOUNDARIES but the kid just laughs at me. I'm thinking it might take some time. Parker still has a cough, but he refuses to let that slow him down. He's been helping daddy plant the wheat. Rick is worn out...and coming down with that cold again. And me??? Well, I finally went to the doctor and was diagnosed with pneumonia. GREAT! I got a nice BIG shot in my "Hind End" and I was good to go. I think I'm feeling better. That annoying cough is still hanging on, but maybe I lose it sometime soon. We're off to the doctor tomorrow for their check-ups. I'll let you know how that goes. I have pictures and I WILL get them posted. THANK YOU for thinking about us and praying for us! Talk to you soon. LOVE, Jenn

Welcome to "SICKVILLE"

2008-09-24T15:42:00.002-05:00

Just thought I would type a quick note and let you guys know what's going on here at the Payne house. We've all (Rick, Parker, Babies and myself) have been fighting a virus that's going around. It's been pretty intent on hanging on here. Rick, Parker, Rex, Betty, Mom, Carrie, Carson,...the list goes on...still have a cough. Now, Preston, Griffin, and Claire are pretty sick with fevers. It's been pretty CRAZY around here. Lots of crying, no sleeping and holding babies. We're praying for it to pass quickly! Not only for the kids well-being and our sanity, but we're still TEETHING too! GOOD TIMES! If you don't mind send up a few prayers for us. Thanks! Love, Jenn

Happy 9 Month Birthday!

2008-09-17T15:59:00.003-05:00

Happy 9 Month Birthday!

I'm trying to keep an eye on him momma...but he moves fast! - Parker & Preston

Let's just make a deal that you always PLAY with ME! - Parker & Griffin

We're not telling what we've been up to! - Parker & Carson

Nobody LOVES you as much as YOUR Big Brother! - Parker & Claire

Yep 9 months today! The quads are now 275 days old! I remember last year at this time I was TRYING to behave and do bed rest. WOW...things have REALLY changed! (I'm thinking some of that bed rest would kinda be nice sometimes!) The babies are on the move and we're all trying to keep up with them and keep track of them. Parker is such a big help. He LOVES his baby brothers and sister and he loves to play with them. There is a connection there that is so amazing. When Parker walks into the room all the babies just LIGHT UP! I sure hope it always stays that way. Tonight, Rick told Parker that it wouldn't be long and he'd have to take his brothers and sister outside with him to play. Parker said, "That will be okay daddy...tomorrow I will take them." He's already looking forward to it! Thank you guys for your continued love, prayers and support. We really appreciate it! If you ever get bored be sure to give us a holler we'd love to entertain you with some of our exciting times! Love, Jenn

Mornings at the Payne House

2008-09-10T22:15:00.006-05:00

Good Morning Momma! - Preston

What...I'm too EXCITED too relax my tongue! - Preston

Is it time to get up yet? I've been waiting. - Claire

GREAT!! - Yep...I'm ready...I LOVE mornings! - Claire

Hi Momma! Yes...I have "2" Lovies now!

You won't believe what went on last night! - Griffin

Hurry...Hurry...Get me OUT! - Carson

Look at this Smile...are you sure I have to wait!?!

Bath Time!

Just let me be...dress the boys first...I'm good!

Oh...Not the pants!

Where are my pants? - Griffin

This is hard work...I'm feeling restricted! - Claire

Nanna...is this my diaper or does Preston have it? - Carson

I don't want to get dressed right now. - Griffin

I love my Momma! - Griffin

I told you I didn't want to get dressed! - Preston

Let's listen to my heart now...GIVE it to ME! - Preston and Carson

Ummmm...I'm really needing to see what the boys are doing...Can this wait? - Griffin

All dressed up and no place to go! - Claire

PRESTO...Don't we look CUTE!!!

Preston...not happy, Griffin...on the move, Carson...contemplating, Claire...jury is still out!

Let's get this party started!

What's your plan?

It can't be that bad...Can it?

Oh...No...I'm FALLING!!! HELP!!!!

CRASH!

OUCH!!! GET AWAY FROM ME!!!

Ummmm...What just happened? Are we done taking pictures?

Hey guys! I just thought I would give you a little PEEK at the mornings around our house. The kiddos LOVE mornings, but they are also temperamental too. Maybe...TOUCHY is a better word. I love mornings with the babies because they never fail to make me laugh and give me joy! I'll get you guys some more pictures posted tomorrow. Hope you had a good day!

Love, Jenn

Hello!!

2008-09-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Everybody! I'm sorry about not posting for so long. I have to be honest with all of you. I was a little taken back and sad about the bad comments we received awhile back and it's taken me a little longer than what I thought to get over it. BUT...I'm back and we're back to blogging again. Life has been CRAZY around here. Preston, Griffin, Carson, & Claire have all been TEETHING and recently got their TWO TOP TEETH! Nothing like trying to deal with those little ones busting through two teeth all at once! Griffin had to show off and go ahead and get another tooth on the bottom too. WOW!! Nothing is off limits around FOUR TEETHERS! Toys, Clothes, Furniture, Parker, and Mom & Dad are FAIR GAME as far as the quads are concerned. They LOVE to CHEW on YOU! The boys are all crawling now and I'm thinking gates are VERY close in our future. I'll post pictures later today to give you a little peak at the CRAZINESS and FUN around here. Love, Jenn

Community BATH!

2008-08-25T23:04:00.002-05:00

It's tight and cozy, but it's also very quick and efficient. The babies love to take baths...especially together. Thought I would share our bath time with you. Love, Jenn

I'm the Clown & the Joker? - Carson

2008-08-25T22:55:00.007-05:00

Aren't I CUTE!

But momma...Griffin is the clown & Preston is the Joker!

Okay...Okay...maybe I'm the clown!

Maybe I'm the Joker!

You're right...I'm both!

But...I'm pretty Lovable too!

We got the perfect little onesie from my ol' best friend Shandelle. It fits Carson to a "T". The only problem is...HE'S the CLOWN & the JOKER! He is ALWAYS cracking us up! He is so full of energy and he has a smile that can't help but make you crack up. We're thinking he's going to keep us on our toes and always keep us laughing. Love, Jenn

"Sittin' Pretty" Claire

2008-08-25T22:47:00.003-05:00

I love my turtle...boys...don't even think about touching it!

Griffin...Preston...Carson...BACK OFF!

Trust me...I have a way with my daddy...you'll be in trouble!

Okay...well maybe that didn't work...but there's always more time!

Claire loves her "Tummy Time" now. It's her favorite position. Isn't it crazy how time changes things. Claire loves to scoot and roll all over the place. She'll be crawling soon. A funny thing we've noticed about Claire. She loves to give the boys a hard time. She'll pull on their hair, kick them, chew on them, and pull their ears and nothing happens. The boys don't say a word. BUT...the moment they touch her...WOW...the SCREAMING FIT starts. I watched her and Carson the other day. He put his hand on her arm and she screamed and threw a fit. She does that every time and then looks around to see if one of us notice. I don't know...but I'm thinking she could be a MESS! Love, Jenn

Johnny Cash aka Griffin

2008-08-25T22:35:00.004-05:00

You'll want my picture!

Oh...Come on...I need a break...PICK ME UP...I'm good but I can't be good all the time...Even Cash wasn't good all the time!!!

Yes...Cash...Johnny Cash!

Are you serious...you don't think I look like him?

Well...You gotta Love Me anyway...right!

I was just trying to fit the shirt!

I was able to get some pretty cute pictures of Mr. Cash. He has so many expressions. Griffin loves music and loves it when you sing to him. Nana put him to sleep tonight just by singing. How sweet is that. Love, Jenn

I "Crawl the Line" - Preston

2008-08-25T22:26:00.003-05:00

You won't believe where I can go!

Get ready...I'm on the MOVE!

What???...Nope...I wasn't in there...ha ha!

You won't believe all the things I saw on the way!

Let's go again!

Preston is on the MOVE! It's been pretty crazy trying to keep up with Preston lately. He's able to go from one end of the house to the other. He really enjoys visiting Rick in the office. Rick is amazed he can crawl that far. I'm thinking gates are in our NEAR future! Love, Jenn

Teething "Bites"

2008-08-23T17:06:00.003-05:00

Let me keep that spatula!

This is a great teething stick!

Nothing like a good spatula!

My mouth is on fire! - Griffin

I'm exhausted from all that teething! - Claire

Personal Note

2008-08-21T22:56:00.002-05:00

If anyone has any more parenting suggestions to give us, please email me personally at rickpaynecpa@yahoo.com and we will listen to you. However, do not post them on this blog again. Most respectfully, Rick Payne.

Pictures of Fun

2008-08-20T13:00:00.003-05:00

Griffin getting some one on one with Dad

Wow! That's kinda interesting.

This is making me a little sleepy.

Okay...maybe I should go now.

Well...on second thought...I kinda like this!

Daddy is still SMILING!

We have our toys...we're ready!

We took off early Saturday morning. We thought that since leaving early worked so well coming down to Beaver's Bend, we'd just try it going back. Sure enough, the babies and Parker were GREAT! We made it all the way to Oklahoma City and then we had to stop for gas and a bathroom break. The babies hung in there and waited to get out until we got home. It was a great trip, but it was good to get back home. Thank you guys for all your prayers for our trip and while we were gone. We couldn't have asked for a better time. Love, Jenn

Parker's Pool #2

2008-08-20T09:47:00.004-05:00

Wanna Come Swimming?

Watch...I can hold my breath!

Yep...it's my pool!

Daddy & Parker just taking it EASY

Parker was IMPRESSED by this hot tub. When he wasn't exploring he was in the tub! It was hilarious to watch him! Love, Jenn

Finger Foods are Fun!

2008-08-20T09:39:00.003-05:00

You mean...this is ALL ours?

These are my weenies...do NOT touch! - Griffin & Carson

Wow! This is FUN!

Hey mom...I got one in my mouth! - Preston & Claire

On vacation, the babies tried some finger foods. This is just one of those times. YIKES! What a mess! BUT, they LOVED those little weenies and couldn't pick them up fast enough. I ran up the road to pick up our food that night and left the babies with Rick and Parker. When I got back...Rick said...hey...if you're going to feed them that kind of stuff...at least snap up the bottom part of their bib so it can catch a few THINGS! I guess the clean up job was CRAZY!!! Love, Jenn

Cabin #3

2008-08-20T09:27:00.004-05:00

Cabin #3 - Country Star

This is the kitchen and dining area.

This is looking upstairs to the crosswalk. Two bedrooms up.

We made room for the famous quad table.

Living area...oh yea...we had t.v. too.

This is where we ALL stayed. Downstairs. Rick, Parker and myself in the bed...the quads all the way around the bed.

On Thursday, we moved again to another cabin. Country Star. I bet you're wondering why we moved. Well, the lady that rented us Cabin #2 could only rent that one until Wednesday, but if we were willing to move again (just down the road) we could stay in another one of her cabins. Believe it or not...we didn't mind. This cabin was just as nice and even a little bigger. We were NOT roughing it by any stretch of the imagination! Love, Jenn

Paddle Boats

2008-08-20T07:05:00.008-05:00

Beaver's Bend

Isn't it beautiful.

Paddle Boats...here we come!

Okay...Load Up!

Are we ready?

And...we're off!

We've lots of things to see!

We'll be home for supper!

Notice how Parker is helping his daddy row since he can't peddle.

How sweet!

Having Fun with momma!

Corralling the babies on the shore

For one of our outings we went paddle boating. No, the babies didn't get on the paddle boats. Rick and I took turns taking Parker out on the lake. I quickly realized that when you don't have TWO people who are able to pedal, it gets tiring pretty quick! Rick and Parker loved it and I know they had a blast! They went all over that part of the lake. I hung out on the shore with the babies. I had planned on kicking back and reading a little but I spent the majority of the time trying to keep the dirt, grass, and rocks out of their mouths. Let me just say...THAT was impossible! I'm not going to gross anybody out...because you don't want to know about all the treasures we found in their diapers that night! LOL - Jenn

The BIG Train Ride

2008-08-20T04:56:00.007-05:00

Ready or Not...Here we Come!

HOW MANY KIDS DO YOU HAVE??? FIVE...ALL UNDER THE AGE OF THREE!!!???!!! WOW!!!!!

Patiently waiting.

I'm READY! - Parker

Daddy is as ready as he's ever going to be! Claire and Preston are trying to prepare themselves!

WHOA!!! HOLD UP!!! I'm FALLING! - This is Carson trying to get some body's attention! Claire's in the back saying....ARE YOU FOR REAL??

WOW...that was a jolt! Ummm...could you help us out here...we weren't quite ready. - Carson and Griffin trying to hang on!

We're going on a train ride!

I'm a little nervous about all this momma! - Carson

Life is GOOD! - Griffin

Are we done yet?

I'm thinking I could drive this thing..."You think so?"

I think the train ride is Great...now you're not planning on taking my daddy are you? - Claire making sure everybody knows Rick belongs to her!

I'm feeling a little sick! - Preston

I LOVE this! - Griffin

I could do this every day!

Lot's of Deer

Choo...Choo!

I'm just saying...I think he could drive a little faster.

That was fun! Let's do it again!

Parker is still smiling!

The babies are still smiling!

Mom and Dad are trying to as well!

One of our favorite outings was the "Train Ride". It was quite interesting how we got everybody on the train and off the train, but it was well worth it! Everyone enjoyed meeting the quads and getting a good laugh out of our adventure with all the kids. Parker was such a big help with the babies...he even tried to help tell the guy how to drive the train. :) :) After we got done with this...we called it a day and headed back for the cabin. We're getting better about getting them out, but WOW it's a LOT of work. Love, Jenn

Parker Loves Vacation!

2008-08-20T04:30:00.006-05:00

I'm just going to watch the fire daddy!

I'm thinking it's not big enough - I'm just going to add a little more wood

Nope...not quite enough Fire.

Wow...now I've got it going pretty good!

UH...OH...Hurry Quick...BIG FIRE...Grab the HOSE!

Hmmm...what is this....is it dead or alive?

Let's just kick and stomp on it just to see what happens.

You wouldn't believe it if I told you.

Which way should I go?

Momma...are you out here?

I've seen quite a few things!

I'm SERIOUS it was BIG!

I'm not UP TO anything!

I'll be back later! Parker is OFF again!

Parker loved everything about vacation, especially the freedom to ROAM. We spent a lot of time sitting outside watching him explore the woods. You wouldn't believe the stuff he found and had to come back and tell us. I think he'll have some memories from this trip he'll for sure treasure. Love, Jenn

2008 Vacation - Cabin #2

2008-08-19T20:35:00.006-05:00

Cabin #2

All settled in our cabin

New bathing technique - Now that's a MESS of babies!

Griffin getting HOOKED on cheese puffs

Carson was convinced I was going to take his!

Parker had to check out a few "Combine Pictures" just to make sure we understood want he wanted for Christmas.

Parker having fun in his "Personal Pool"

Just leave me here...I'm good!

Preston checking out a different place to sleep

I didn't get to sleep long enough - Claire kicked me! - Carson

More "Make Shift" beds

Okay...so where did I leave off. We packed up all our stuff after an enjoyable morning in Cabin #1 and headed for Cabin #2. We visited Beaver's Bend Resort and went to the gift shop and museum. After that Rick and Parker went to the nature center for a visit. They got to see all kinds of birds, reptiles, and other varmints. I asked Rick if he got any pictures, he said..."Honey, I'm sorry I sure didn't...it SMELLED so BAD in there that all I could think about was getting through it and trying to keep a smile on my face." I had to laugh! It started to get a little hot so we headed for the cabin. It was beautiful. Parker's favorite thing of course was his PERSONAL swimming pool. It was actually a hot tub but he had no idea. This cabin was very spacious and the babies immediately made themselves at home, along with the rest of us. The evening was spent hanging out, cooking steaks and roasting S'mores. We actually got back in our routine and it seemed like the babies kinda like vacation.

Love, Jenn

2008 Vacation to Eastern Oklahoma - Cabin # 1

2008-08-18T15:53:00.008-05:00

Cabin #1 - Isn't it Neat!

The Payne Family has landed and taken over!

This is upstairs looking down at our "Make Shift" Bed/Play Zone

My two best friends - This black COOL couch and that Fan

This is Parker (sweating) and wanting me to explain why I think it's HOT outside!?!

Canoeing down the Glover River - Momma and Parker

Daddy and Parker off for some BIG ADVENTURES

You take care of the little ones...I got Parker under control!
Isn't that sweet :) :)

Ummm...Mom...this is a little TIGHT! - Preston

Are you sure you can get me clean? - Griffin

This isn't bad at all - I'm enjoying this - Claire

I'm a little nervous about falling on the floor! - Carson

The BOYS - Griffin, Preston, & Carson

Naked is Best when it's HOT! - Parker

I'm happy no matter where we're at! - Rick enjoying his morning.

Getting ready for bed - Carson with Rick, Griffin on the other side, Claire in one pack/play and Preston in the other.

Wow...where is everybody?

Hanging out!

Where's the toys?

I can play anywhere - Preston

BOO! - Carson

This is fun - Claire

WOW...it's the long awaited blog about our trip. We had a Great time...exhausting at times but relaxing at other times too! I know...it doesn't sound like much of a vacation, but we had a GREAT time considering we have FIVE kids all under the age of THREE!

We left bright and early on Saturday morning (Aug. 2nd). We got the babies up, bathed them dressed them and gave them their bottles and were on the road by 7:00am. Like I said earlier it's a five hour trip, so we had planned on stopping at least once, maybe twice. Believe it or not, we made it ALL the WAY! Can you believe it? We couldn't! We even got lost and were in the car an extra 30-45 minutes. I was driving and Rick was reading the map! I told you that females are better navigators. Anyway, the kids were sooooo good. We got to our cabin and unloaded everything. We immediately starting feeding the little ones because they were STARVING! Then we made "Make Shift" beds and gave them their bottles and put them down for their naps. I went into town and grabbed us a pizza for lunch and some sandwiches for supper while Rick manned the fort. There is one store in Battiest, but it's pretty cool. It's a gas station, grocery store, restaurant, souvenir shop all in one. The people were really nice and were glad we came. I got back and Rick and Parker were famished! We gobbled down the pizza and then Parker and Rick headed out to EXPLORE. They went all over. Up and down trails, across a huge walking bridge, and also went up and visited the neighbors cows, chickens and goats.

****NOTE****
Rick and I have stayed in this cabin a couple of times before. We loved this place. It was so QUIET, REMOTE, & QUAINT. Well, that was before I had kids and had a flucutation in my hormones. This time around I found it to be very REMOTE & pretty HOT outside (104 degrees with 90% humidity).

The first night we slept fairly well. Okay, I'm LYING. Parker slept with us in a full size bed and he was all over the bed. The a/c FROZE up and stopped working because I demanded on putting on the coldest setting. In order to hear the babies, I went into the next room where the babies were and tried to get some rest on the couch. Parker woke up and wanted to sleep their with me. Rick wanted to know if we all needed to move in there. I said NO...we all went back to bed and tried to make it through the rest of the night. Let's just say, I was glad when morning came.

Sunday...we awoke to the birds singing and it was so nice. We had a nice quiet breakfast outside and then Rick and Parker took off to do some more exploring. I bathed the babies in the sink! Don't you guys love those pictures! After that, we had play time and enjoyed the swing outside. Rick and Parker got back and we ate lunch and took off in the car to go exploring! We went down to Idabel and picked up some much needed groceries and made the good ol' Wal Mart run. On the way back to our cabin, Rick mentioned that if I wanted to stay in another cabin, we sure could. That sounded pretty good to me, I was missing central air condition. We toured the lake and looked around for another cabin. I made a few phone calls and found one. We went back to our cabin and enjoyed the evening! We read, talked, played games and visited with the owners of the cabin. Believe it or not, our last night there was really enjoyable and I felt kinda of bad for throwing in the towel and leaving...but I needed more space and air!

This is Part One aka Cabin #1.

Love, Jenn

Happy 8 Month Birthday!

2008-08-18T15:39:00.003-05:00

Yesterday...the Quads turned 8 months! Yep! Preston, Griffin, Carson, & Claire are already 8 months old. Time continues to FLY at our house. To celebrate their 8 month birthday we all (Dad, Mom, Parker and the kiddos) went fishing at Canton Lake. I have only ONE picture to show you of that experience and that is when we got home and they were stripped down to their diapers. WOW...that was a wild outing. When we got there it started to rain and so everyone and everything got wet. The babies got hungry and we made due with feeding them in the stroller...what a MESS! Parker had some serious problems with his fishing pole. Let's just say, Dad spent the majority of his time trying to get Parker's pole untangled and then back in the water. I casted my pole one time and got my lure hung up in some rocks and lost it! First time we ever used that lure! I'm thinking I've lost the touch! Rick couldn't get his new pole to work until he pulled out half the line and his old pole had some problems of it's own. I looked up at one point and noticed the reel was open and laying on the ground. I guess the whole thing came apart somewhere between Rick trying to keep Parker out of the water, his line in the water, and Rick putting a new lure on mine. We were trying to enjoy ourselves, but I have to admit it was a struggle. The babies kept eating all the dirt and grass they could find and so we kept needing to stop and clear their mouth out. Finally, I needed to call it quits. Rick said he didn't have a problem with that at all. We made record time packing everyone up, but we were once again such a spectacle that we had to spend the next 20 minutes explaining to a group of about 10 people how our family began and then got so BIG! We got home around 8:00pm with everyone screaming and we stripped them and cleaned them up. We lost their bottles for about 15 minutes so we listened to some major melt-downs until we found them again. We gave the babies their bottles and they finally went to sleep. We then got Parker in bed and Rick and I took some Tylenol and called it a night! I think we're going to wait a little while for our next fishing trip or maybe even find another hobby! Ha Ha! Believe it or not...we're STILL LAUGHING! Love, Jenn

Going on a Trip

2008-07-31T08:31:00.002-05:00

Hey Guys! Sorry its been a little while since I've posted. We're going on a trip and I've been trying to get ready for it! WOW...it takes a little preparation. We're going to be gone for a week and we're going to need the following. Baby Food - Meat - 32, Vegetables - 16, & Fruit - 32. Formula - 6 Cases - 36 (32 oz) Bottles, Diapers - 196 - We're taking 200 just to be safe. Pack/Play - Two - we're just going to make them battle it out during the sleep time. Bibs - Four - they're washable and we're going to do just that. Baby Spoons - Two - we may lose one. Wipes - Two Containers and then a sack of replacements. Outfits - 10 - I'm hoping they will be on their best behavior, I put those in Ziplocs. 4 to a bag. Just pull a bag out and dress. Shoes - 4, Socks - 8 - We're thinking barefoot might be the best way. Medicine, Blankets - 4 Heavy & 8 Lightweight ones. Toys - a bag full, Quad Table, Car Seats - 4, and last but not least the HUGE Quad Stroller. Now, I'm sure I'm forgetting something for the babies, but I'm thinking I'm just going to have to deal with it BECAUSE we almost have a car full and I still need to pack for Parker, Rick, and myself and include all of Parker's fun stuff! Oh...where are we going? We're going to Eastern Oklahoma to stay in a very remote cabin. It's in the middle of nowhere. No Phone, No TV, No Radio, No People. Just us. We're looking forward to it...at this point. Now, I don't know how it will actually go...so be sure to send up a prayer for us when you're sending up those LAUGHS of yours. I'll keep you posted. Rick left my camera at a restaurant about a week ago so I've been a little behind in the picture taking department. Mom is supposed to pick it up today, so maybe I can get some pictures posted before we leave. Saturday is the day of Take-Off! Love, Jenn

Summer Fun!

2008-07-23T22:20:00.003-05:00

Things are looking up...way up!

I love this...I even crack myself up! - Carson

Sometimes this sitting up thing gets a little old - Preston

You can't catch me...I'm a fast roller - Griffin

Can you believe all the things I have to put up with from my brothers? - Me either! - Claire

We're still enjoying the summer and our time together. We have some good times playing together on the floor with momma, daddy, Parker, & Carrie. All the attention around here never gets old! We all have two teeth now...well except for Preston. Hurry up brother...we're going to start giving you a hard time before too long. Hope you enjoy the pics. Oh...for those of you that don't know...Griffin got two teeth at the same time on Sunday night and believe us when we say this...EVERYBODY KNEW THAT GRIFFIN'S TEETH WERE TRYING TO POP THROUGH! Love, Jenn

Griffin & Preston's Wrestling Match

2008-07-23T21:56:00.004-05:00

Don't touch me...He's touching me!

Here...let me see your ear...it'll only hurt for a minute!

Ouch...not my eye!

I told you...NOT my eyes!

I'm telling you bro...I'm not going to take that from you!

We're totally innocent - nothing going on here mom
Preston & Griffin

I've got this completely under control!

I'm ready if you actually believe you can take me!

Momma...Griffin scratched me! - Preston

Okay...Okay...Griffin you win...now get off me or I'll scratch you in the other eye...

That's right momma...I wasn't doing anything! - Preston

I've got to keep up my precious disposition for momma!

Griffin and Preston like to wrestle each other any chance they get. It's so cute watching them. They'll sit up by each other and then start touching each other. First on the arms and then the head and before you know it...they are on the floor rolling over the top of each other. You can't help but laugh. There's all kind of squealing going on and giggling. It's priceless. I'm going to have to get it recorded. I'd show you more pics but I don't want to bore you. I think from these pictures you kinda get the point. Love, Jenn

Momma Mada a MESS!

2008-07-23T21:47:00.002-05:00

WOW!

Life is a "Mess" sometimes!

Look at the mess I made. It was a little CRAZY around our house last Sunday morning and I was trying to get everybody ready in a hurry. Well, I accidently stepped on the brand new bottle of lotion when I was taking one of the kiddos to the bath. We had a good laugh at the big mess. Rick had to get a picture so we'd have something funny to look back at...on that stressful morning!

Happy 7 Month Birthday

2008-07-17T09:56:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to us!

Anyway you look...we're GROWING!

We LOVE our time with Big Brother

There is no place I'd rather be than with my big brother Parker

Yep...it's hard to believe but the "Quads" are 7 months old today! WOW! They are growing up way too fast! Lots of people ask me how I do it...well to be honest it goes by so fast that I really don't even notice that its hard. My goal is usually to make it through the day and to remember this stage of Parker's life and the babies. I learned with Parker that their first year goes by so quick, so I'm trying to slow down and really enjoy all the new things each one does every day. Hope you enjoy the pictures as much as I do. I'll try to find time to post what they are all doing and learning later. Have a great day! Love, Jenn

What's Parker Been Up To?

2008-07-09T17:01:00.005-05:00

Now let's figure out who's running what!

Uh-Oh...had some header difficulties

You can learn a LOT from me...just watch!

How's your wheat?

How long does it take you to get everything done?

Farming is my Game!

Boy...lots of work to do!

We need to get those fields sprayed!

Farming is ALL serious work!

More fields to cover!

Whew...that's a lot of Work!

Naps are nice sometimes!

Some of you have been wondering what Parker's been up to. Well...after he helps daddy with his tractor work, momma with all the diaper changes, feeding times, and play time...he works. Yep...just like his daddy. He says he has lots of wheat to cut, ground to spray, and fields to plow. So...after that full day he's EXHAUSTED! Hope you enjoy the pics. Love, Jenn

Feeding Time - Any WAY you can do it!

2008-07-09T14:20:00.003-05:00

One BIG happy mess!

Is there more? - Carson

Take your time...just don't miss my turn - Preston

Is there anything on my face? - Griffin

This is GOOD - OH...Do you see my TEETH!?!

We've had to make a few adjustments with feeding time. Claire is having a hard time with the quad table because she is just not big enough for it yet. So...we've started using the walkers for the boys and the bouncer for her. AND a little red stool for me - ha ha! It's working pretty good so far. I think we'll just bounce around between this set up and the quad table. It gives us all a little variety! Love, Jenn

College Days!

2008-07-09T14:11:00.003-05:00

Carson loving all the attention from Hesper

I'm thinking if you were a little younger...or I was a little older we could get into some trouble - Carson and Rhett

Yep...he likes me I just know it...Griffin's take on Wyatt

There is nothing like a "Grandma's Arms" - Claire enjoying Joy

Griffin and Preston ensuring that Grandma is not going anywhere!

My best friend from college was able to come by for a visit the other day! Hesper and her two kids - Wyatt & Rhett, along with her grandma Joy came up to meet and love on my babies in person. We had such a good time together. It was fun to see how much her kids have grown! The only problem we have...is that we live way too far apart now! She lives in New Mexico! BUT...the one nice thing about our friendship is we can pick up right where we left off! Isn't it nice to have friends like that. Thank you Hesper for taking time to come for a visit.
Love you! Jenn

4th of July

2008-07-07T16:14:00.008-05:00

Aunt Charity having fun with the kiddos and the smoke bombs!

Grandma, Nana, & Papa enjoying some "down time"

Aren't we cute! - Parker, Taylor & Carrington

Our good friends!
Tom, Bridget and one of their sons Conner

Carrington, Conner & Corbin (Bridget & Tom's other son) trying to decide what to do...bad mitten, squirt guns, or fireworks - so many decisions!

Hey dad...how 'bout I light this one myself?

Wow...that's dangerous - Parker and his fireworks

Richard and Robin enjoying the 4th and all the company - smile Richard the kids are really NOT going to set the house on fire!

Wow...are you sure they should be doing that? - Aunt Keren

I LOVE this - Cousin/Nephew - Mikey

Van & Amy having fun on the 4th and trying to stay out of the kids way!

Now...what's our plan about getting the adults distracted?

Rick - aka dad & uncle - trying to make sure all fires are to a minimum!

Aunt Keren doing her favorite thing...feeding the babies (Preston)
Fire...Fire...Come On...Start - What they don't see is us ADULTS watching!

Uncle Mike and Aunt Candy reviewing the crazy situation with Uncle Grant and Daddy Rick!

Hey Hey...hand one of those rags over here they're trying to take our picture!

Parker trying to explain to Daddy and Tome all the reasons he needs a lighter

I CAN NOT believe that I WASTED that much FOOD - Griffin trying to cope with the food loss!

Wow...I'm kinda liking this "Eating Out(side)" - Carson

You can have your fireworks...just don't mess with my food - Preston

What do you do when you have FIVE KIDS on the 4th of July? Bring the party and fireworks to you! And...that's just what we did! We invited our family and friends to our house for a backyard cookout and fireworks show! It was a BLAST and I think we might just have started our very own "Family Tradition" We all had lots of fun! We had more food than any of us could possibly eat! Thank you guys for bringing all that "GREAT STUFF" Grant - thank you for cooking the hot dogs and hamburgers oh...and the brauts! They were delicious! After the big meal we enjoyed homemade ice cream with all the fixins' (Thanks Aunt Candy for making that extra special!) We finished the evening with SMORES and a GREAT fireworks show. Who knew how much Uncle Mike LOVED fireworks and how much fun Mikey would be as our entertainment host!! We were all so glad he did because we enjoyed some beautiful ones! Once again...we are amazed and truly THANKFUL how our family and friends are so willing to come to our rescue and make our lives so special! Love, Jenn

P.S. THANK YOU Crystal for helping me "Weed Eat" the entire yard for the party! I'd be LOST without you! I Love You - My sister, my friend, and my neighbor for life...remember our promise...ha ha :) :)

Sunday Stroll

2008-06-30T16:50:00.007-05:00

Okay...now what do I have to look forward to?

...and we're off!

Everybody look at the view!

Daddy I'll race you on my bike! - Parker

One ROWDY crew!

Down the hill we go!

We're rolling along!

The race is on!

We need a break...what about you daddy?

Whew...that was some stroll!

2008-06-28T00:08:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure who this belongs to?

I'll holler SWITCH and you give me that TOY!

Claire and Griffin having fun!

Yep...I got this FAIR & SQUARE! - Carson

Bird's Eye View

Let me have that for just a minute...Griffin and Preston

So many toys so little time!

I don't think brother is going to like that - Claire telling it how it is!

Yep...I have to keep everybody in line!

Yes...mom we're sharing
Play Time is the Best Time!

2008-06-27T23:24:00.006-05:00

I'm learning to like it! - Preston

Whew...are we done yet? - Carson

Finger Licking Good - Griffin

Yummmmm....Yuck!!!!!! - Griffin

This is FUN - Griffin

Oh...this is BAD! - Preston & Griffin

Do you want some of OUR baby food? - Claire and Carson

A day in the life of the "Herd" - Claire, Carson, Preston, Griffin

I LOVE THIS! - It's fun to get MESSY! - Preston

How much more? - Carson

You have got to be KIDDING me! That is really BAD! - Griffin

Yes...I can just politely SPIT IT OUT! - Claire

More Peas Please - Carson

Please...no more I'm done! - Preston

Okay...I'm better...I'll take it some more! - Preston

I'm thinking...yep its good! - Preston

Ooooooo....GET IT OFF! - Griffin

I think I'd rather have this toy! - Griffin

H..E..L..P..

Yucky!

After our six month check-up we've decided to start food. SLOWLY! We've started on cereal and vegetables. We're having so much fun. The looks and responses to the food are priceless! The babies even made Parker laugh with some of their hilarious faces.

Hope you enjoy the pics as much as we do! Love, Jenn

Daddy's Little Girl

2008-06-27T23:11:00.002-05:00

What time did you say Daddy is getting home?

I LOVE MY DADDY!

Claire is interacting more and more every day and she LOVES her Daddy! When Rick picks her up she always smiles. I don't know...but I think she might have one up on the boys. Love, Jenn

Daddy's Boys

2008-06-27T23:03:00.004-05:00

Daddy's Main Squeeze, Daddy's My Hero, & My Daddy Rocks!
Carson, Preston, & Griffin

Yep...Daddy Rocks and I'll tell ya all about it! - Griffin

He'll always by MY HERO - Preston

Yep...I'm his MAIN SQUEEZE - Carson

We got these "Very Cute" onesies from my Bud Shandelle and I just had to get some pictures of them. Aren't they CUTE! The boys LOVE their daddy! Hope you enjoy them! Love, Jenn

HARVEST 2008

2008-06-27T19:17:00.014-05:00

Cool Mike Sigg - Great Combine Driver/Mechanic

Cuttin' that Wheat

We Love those "Wide Open Spaces"

Dumping on the Go!

Back behind our house!

A GREAT "WAY OF LIFE"

No...you can't drive the combine!

Seriously...I only need one to drive the tractor. Richard trying to convince Parker and Taylor that he has the tractor driving covered.

No...daddy...you can drive the combine I get the tractor!

Cool Picture...Ready for take-off!
Mr. Gleaner

Rex, Daddy, Papa, & Big Daddy - We couldn't do it without him!

Yep...I think that will work for me! - Papa & Parker

Taking a much needed break and having a little dinner.

Payne Farms - Rex and Rick Payne

We LOVE Harvest! There's nothing like it!

I'm not kidding it was THAT BIG!

Wake me up when its over - Richard getting a quick nap!

Hauling more Wheat

Rick off to cut some more wheat!

Matt and the herd - Griffin, Preston, Carson, & Claire

Matt & Me - Leaving us to head north to cut more wheat!

Our "adopted" kid is "Leaving the Nest!"

Matt - Mr. Cool saying his goodbyes!

Off with the header!

That's one sharp combine!

We only have a few minor problems! - See we're still smiling!

Rick and his combine

I'm gonna get you!

Heading out for more wheat!

My dirty...filthy little husband...Rick...still gotta LOVE him!

The Reel on this Combine goes ROUND AND ROUND!

Are you sure you want to eat all of that? Parker and Taylor checking out and hoping that Willie is going to share some of that great food!

Willie - aka - Truck Driver

We LOVE Willie and his great smile!

I keep Rick busy even when he tries to get a short nap during a rain storm!

Well...Yes I Love Harvest! Are you recording this? :)- Richard

Mr. Parker Payne supervising the situation and making sure everybody is doing what they are supposed to. Daddy would be lost without him!

This is my brother Richard aka Mr. Grain Cart driver

Rick and Rex busy getting that WHEAT cut!

Ready for the FUN to begin!

Maintenance is a MUST!

Mr. John Deere and our little Grain Cart

Here's our Wheat Trucks waiting to haul some WHEAT!

Rick getting ready for the "Craziness" to begin!

For those of you that don't know...we've been pretty busy around here. Okay, that's an understatement. We've all been SUPER busy! We had some great help this year. A thanks goes out to Phil Blahut, Mike Sigg, Matt Stanford, Willie Jarman, Mike Taylor, Mikey Taylor, Richard Palmer, Conner Kippenberger, & Carrie Zoschke. We (Rex, Betty, Keren, Rick and myself) could not have done it without you guys. We've had a great run this year and the Lord is blessed. We're just about done...Rick's telling me that he thinks we'll finish up tomorrow. I can't believe its almost over...even though it's a lot of work and a lot of craziness we all love this time (well pretty much) and its kind of a let down to see it come to an end. So...if any of you out there have questions about harvest and what we actually do...be sure to let us know. Rick would LOVE to answer any of your comments. Love, Jenn

2008-06-20T14:40:00.003-05:00

We are on our way! Don't think for one minute that we didn't get some very CRAZY looks!

Grandma trying to hold down the "Herd" - Wow! We're packed in!

My CO-PILOT aka Parker

Head Up and Move'em Out!

I LOVE this...especially the part about being on the "TOP" - Claire

Well...I like this a little bit better than not being HELD

but...NOT MUCH!! - Carson

I'm ready for a trip! THIS is GREAT!!! - Preston

Just call me - "Joe Cool" - Griffin (taking it VERY EASY)

The "Herd" is ready - Oops...Griffin passed out on us!

My "Rough & Rowdy" Crew!

Griffin, Preston, Carson, Claire, & Parker

HELLO!!! Well, yesterday was our 6 month appointment and it went GREAT! I can NOT believe how much they have GROWN! WOW...you won't believe it either.
Claire - Length 25" Weight - 12# 4 oz
Preston & Carson - Length 27 1/2" Weight - 19# 9 oz
Griffin - Length 27" Weight - 20# 6 oz
As you can see we've made BIG progress! Dr. Stephens was so IMPRESSED! Shocked to say the least. As far as the "Growth Chart" goes the boys went from the 25th percentile to the 75th percentile and Claire went from the 3rd percentile to the 25th percentile. We were ALL so AMAZED! He also said that all of them are right on target as far as a 6 month old goes. AND...get this...he believes Miss Claire will be getting her teeth first! All kiddos are rolling over front to back and back to front. All are bearing weight on their feet except for Carson. He doesn't think that's necessary right now. All are sitting up but only for a few seconds. Carson sits up the best. Claire is the most limber! Preston is scooting on his stomach. Carson and Preston both are doing that "bucking thing" and trying to attempt to move across the floor that way. They are all "babbling" now and spitting as well as making very strange noises. The giggling is contagious and I'm going to have to record it for you guys. You'll LOVE it. Anyway, lots of FUN stuff! Our next venture is FOOD! YEP! GET READY! LET THE MESS BEGIN!
Lots of you have asked how the trip went for us yesterday with the stroller and everything. Well, first...we want to say "THANK YOU" to the Dobrinski's from Okeene for the stroller. They have quads that are 12 now and they let us use their stroller. Its works great! About the trip...well it was a little CRAZY and a LOT of WORK! I only thought we got a LOT of LOOKS when we were carrying FOUR BABIES around. WELL...we actually stopped traffic in the stroller. People stopped at the intersection by the doctor's office to look at us and laugh a little. In the doctor's office we had a little bit of a hard time maneuvering around but we made it. People just watched and were pretty much speechless. Dr. Stephens just laughed. The babies were so good and so was Parker. Mom and I were worn out but we had a good time. My conclusion...I need to get them out more so I can get used to the work and the stroller. Because I think we have years of fun ahead of us and we don't want to miss a thing! Love, Jenn

HAPPY 6 MONTH BIRTHDAY ! ! ! ! ! !

2008-06-16T20:27:00.006-05:00

Preston Payne - Baby "A"

Griffin Payne - Baby "B"

Carson Payne - Baby "C"

Claire Bernice - Baby "D"

Happy 6 Month Birthday - GOD is so GOOD!

Birth Order - Preston, Griffin, Carson, & Claire

Preston & Griffin born on 12.17.07 @ 11:05am

Carson & Claire born on 12.17.07 @ 11:06am

Some of our FAVORITE TIMES!

Big Brother Parker LOVES to play with US!!

We LOVE PARKER!!!

A WHOLE LOTTA FEET - 8 Feet & 40 Toes

I really don't know where to start but to say this - Isn't GOD good! God continues to richly bless our family and Rick and I still stand in amazement! We are so blessed and truly grateful for all the blessings He continues to heap on us! Parker has adjusted so well to his new brothers and sister and is absolutely great with them. He's such a helper and entertainer. Everybody needs their own three year old. (Ha Ha Ha) The quads...well what can I say. As you can see they are getting bigger every day and doing something new each and every day. They now giggle, coo, and interact with each other as well as roll all over the place. Preston is the best at learning the army crawl. Carson is the best talker/squealer. Griffin is the best at staying put and encouraging everyone to snuggle with him. Claire is the best roller. She can go from one end of the living room to the other. We will be traveling to the doctor on Thursday for their 6 month check up so I'll post their new weights when we get home. I know that will be exciting! Some other info...let's see. We're still going to bed around 8:30pm and sleeping until 6am. Now...that's not always the case. Miss Claire seems to think she needs an extra bottle sometimes and can really get to screaming, which ends up waking EVERYBODY up. When that happens I usually end up fixing bottles for the boys too. It's just easier that way. After that, they all fall back to sleep. We have been so fortunate with their sleep pattern. They really like staying awake and interacting with you during the day. It's been a little crazy lately because all four of them are teething. Yep...isn't' that wonderful. I've learned really quick to keep teething rings, oragel, clean fingers for chewing, Motrin, and Tylenol (for ME) close at hand. Some days tend to get a little...well let's just say...LOUD! Rick and I both say it's still worth every bit of stress those little crum crunchers cause. We were just talking about how much we LOVE our family and how we can't imagine it any other way. A lot of people have asked what's the best time of day for the babies and for us. We both agree that its in the morning. When the sun is peeking in through the window and they are all opening their eyes and waking up. Each one looks up at you and smiles the biggest grin you'll ever see. It warms our hearts and lets us know that no matter what we will face in the future with raising this little herd of ours that without a doubt there is nothing else we would rather do. I'm still in awe at the miracles that God chose to give us! We want to say "THANK YOU" for your continued prayers and support. A big "Thanks" goes out to you loyal ones (you know who you are) that continue to come and help out. It means so much to us and we would be lost without you! We love you all! Jenn

PICS! PICS! PICS!

2008-06-12T21:58:00.003-05:00

Griffin and HIS LOVEY - Can't leave home, sleep, or function without it!

I LOVE this BOUNCER - even if I'm almost bouncing on the floor - Carson

Matt and Parker just hanging! - Matt helps us with harvest and everything else too!

I thought I needed a picture of Matt with the babies since he helps out so much!

Matt - Gotta Love Him!

I think our legs are getting a little STUCK momma! - Preston, Claire, Carson & Griffin

Still SMILING after 11 YEARS! - He's still "THE ONE!"

Nate - our friend that we wish was our other son and Preston enjoying each other

You (Preston) are TOO Funny - I'm not getting what's Funny! - Preston and Claire

Read to us some more momma - You're pretty FUNNY! - Griffin and Carson

HELLO STRANGERS!!

2008-06-12T21:19:00.004-05:00

Snug as two bugs in a rug - Look at that LOVE! - Claire and Preston

I'm too CUTE! - Carson

We've ALWAYS liked "Tummy Time" (not) - Carson & Preston

Tummy Time is a piece of cake - Preston

I'm Cute...you know I am! - Griffin

Carson and Griffin hanging out...yes I do think they look similar

Miss Claire and Preston - her protector

So Cute...I caught them talking to each other...Preston & Carson

Are you sure momma is wanting us to do that? - Preston and Carson

This is NOT STAGED - Normal Sleeping Arrangements - Carson & Griffin

We LOVE our BUMBO'S

Some days are a little "ROUGH" - Claire

HELLO STRANGERS!! I'm SOOOO SORRY it's been so long since I updated you guys on what's happening at our house. WOW!!! Where do I begin. We've been super busy. All the kiddos are teething right now...YUCK and that makes for some FUN times! Parker also got sick a couple of weeks ago and I thought that I (being the nurse I am) could treat him myself. Well, a little virus turned into pneumonia and I had one sick three year old on my hands. It was pretty bad for about a week. Then, you guessed it...the quads ended up with the sniffles too. I was on top of it this time and called the doctor and got medicine for them early on...which was a good idea because they are still trying to get over the cold stuff. Teething and colds...it can't get any better than that. Along with all of that...Rick and I celebrated our "11 Year Anniversary" on May 24th. We still can't believe we've been married that long. It seems like just yesterday. We actually got to go out for dinner on our anniversary and it was so nice. Along with that, we've been trying to get ready for harvest and it has been WILD! Memorial weekend we had a guy show up to help us with harvest and he has been staying with us since Memorial Day. His name is Matt and he has become part of the family and we have already formed an attachment to him. He's great and loves our kiddos too! Phil, Mike and Willie along with my brother and Rick's brother in law, nephew and neighbor are also helping us out with harvest. During harvest we take turns...Betty, Keren, and myself and cook meals to take to the field. So, that takes quite of bit of planning when you have five kids to think about. So, I've kinda been in survival mode...taking care of babies, harvest, cleaning, cooking and laundry continues to keep me busy. Anyway, I won't try to bore you guys any more. I know you guys are really missing the PICTURES. So enjoy and I'll try to keep in touch a little better. Love, Jenn

2008-05-19T10:53:00.002-05:00

Crystal & Kambri hanging out with the babies

Kambri and Claire having "Girl Time"

Parker entertaining the boys

Conversation Time - How Cute!

How "Adorable" are we?
Good morning! How are you guys? Our weekend went by really FAST! WOW! I know every body's month is flying by - but I still can't believe how fast our little ones are growing. They are really at a fun age right now. Lots of squealing, giggling, and cooing. They are interacting with each other more and more every day and are also developing such personalities. Claire, still likes to be wrapped/swaddled when she is tired and if she's not she doesn't hesitate to tell you about it. Her HIGH PITCH screams will raise the roof and your hair. Now, don't think she doesn't have a sweet side because she does...her cooing and smiles will melt your heart. Carson talks (babbles) all the time. If he doesn't have somebody to talk to...he'll talk to himself and make himself laugh. He's such a "HAM". Preston loves to smile and he has a little giggle that will crack you up. It starts out really slow and then gradually gets going. I'll have to record it for you guys. You'll laugh. Finally, there's Griffin. Well, what can I say...he smiles whenever you walk in the room and acknowledge him. Those chubby cheeks love to show off his dimples. Another, funny thing about him...is at night...if he's not ready to go to sleep...he'll stick his leg through the rails and scream. Now the first few times, I thought no...he's just accidentally doing that...but now I've watched him and he works really hard to get that foot tangled up and as soon as he knows its stuck he yells at the top of his lungs. I say...Oh Griffin...OUCH...and he smiles and giggles. Now...you tell me? I'm thinking he's figuring something out...don't you? Parker, is still by baby. He's growing fast...but he still lets me love and rock him when no one is watching.

I take advantage of that any chance I get.

Love, Jenn

HAPPY 5 MONTH BIRTHDAY!!!

2008-05-17T08:57:00.005-05:00

Preston - Mr. Precious/Mr. Laidback

Griffin - My LOVABLE TEDDY BEAR

Carson - Mr. Smiley/Mr. Needy

Claire - aka Claire Bear, Clairiece, Clara Bell, High Maitenance

CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?!? It's been 5 months today! WOW...it's going by so fast. I looked back at the pictures and I really could not believe how much the babies have changed. It's truely amazing. God is so Good! I was going to do comparison pictures, but I thought I would wait until next month for their 6 month birthday. Well, I hope you enjoy the pictures. I still enjoy the time I get to spend with Parker and the babies. I feel so blessed. I want to take this time to say "THANK YOU" to ALL OF YOU...for your prayers, your visits, and your support. I'm still believing that it takes a village to raise these little guys so I'm sure glad we have all you to help. Love, Jenn

2008-05-15T23:04:00.002-05:00

Preston and his new LOVE

Mr. Smiley - Carson

My legs are a little "Chunky" for this Bumbo - Griffin

The 3 Amigos - Don't look at the purple Bumbo

Carson, Preston, & Griffin