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You are here: Home / Birthdays / Our 3rd NICUversary

Our 3rd NICUversary

August 4, 2015 By Shann 155 Comments

What is a NICUversary?

Even though August has come to an end, it will always be a special month for us. August 1st and 3rd are particularly special because they are the dates of my boys 3rd “NICUversary.”  What is that crazy made up word you ask?  Well, it’s the anniversary to the dates that my boys came home from the hospital.

nicuversaryA Long Journey

 

My twins were born at 25 weeks, 5 days, due to Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) and Selective Intrauterine Growth Restriction (SIUGR,) both which are conditions/problems with the placenta during a twin pregnancy. To explain these conditions in very simple terms, since my boys are identical, they shared a placenta in the womb. Their share was very unequal, and my smaller twin only had about 10%. Also, the blood vessels connecting them in the placenta did not function correctly, again upsetting the balance of the nutrients they were receiving.

When my smaller twin ran out of nutrition and was going into heart failure, it was time to deliver. Luckily, I had been in the hospital since 24 weeks for constant monitoring. The twins only weighed 1 lb 7 oz and 2 lbs 2 oz at birth, and were very sick, so they had a long journey ahead of them in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU.) My bigger guy stayed in the NICU for 91 days, and my little guys was in for 93 days.  It was a long three months, filled with many ups and downs. It really took a physical and mental toll on our entire family. But, we survived! And it’s been 3 years with no re-admittance into the hospital!

To celebrate this year, we’ve decided to take the boys on a special trip.  The first year, however, we threw a big party, and called it their NICUversary party.  I’m going to take you back, and share that special day.

3 years ago

We’re decided to throw a big celebration for the twins to make up for the small first birthday party they had.  I was too nervous to have a lot of people over to celebrate, since their first birthday was right out of cold/flu season at the beginning of May (May 4th to be exact.) Since the twins weren’t really supposed to be born until August, the NICUversary party would be the perfect idea. This way, not only would we celebrate them being 1 years old, but we would also celebrate them being out of the hospital for ONE WHOLE YEAR.

In addition to celebrating, we finally got to catch up with all of our friends!  A lot of the people at the party hadn’t even met the twins yet!  We haven’t been hiding them or anything, but with their prematurity and the severity of cold/flu season, we’ve been keeping them pretty isolated.  Up until now, most of their excursions have consisted of doctor visits or a quick trip to Grandma’s house.  We did take them out to a neighborhood party for the 4th of July, but other than that, this was the most people they’ve seen at one time.

It was a Zoo themed party and I did most of the planning/work myself.  I made collages with their pictures, a “Zoo” sign, and got animal print balloons, streamers, and even a rug.  I also found some super cute zoo animal beach balls to hang from our tree.  The party was from 2pm to 4pm, so I made cupcakes, cookies (well, grandma made them, but I decorated!) and assorted snacks.

collages

My mom also helped me make a healthy cake for the twins to dig into themselves.  It was banana bread made with whole wheat flour, applesauce instead of oil, and frosted with cinnamon cream cheese.  They seemed to enjoy it!  I don’t think I’ve ever seen my little guy eat so much in one sitting.

Healthy Smash Cake

I also found really cute zebra and giraffe sand buckets to give the kids as party favors, along with animal bubbles.

Nicuversary decorations

I have to admit that I really enjoyed the planning and decorating.  Maybe when the twins are older, I can try out a little party planning business.  I will NOT, however, be making any of the food for those parties.  Shopping and decorating = FUN  Baking and decorating cupcakes = Big Mess.  I can save money  and find unique decorations like nobody’s business, but baking and making food, not so much.  At least I know my limits!

If you’re interested in any of the products I used, here are the Amazon affiliate links. Just click-through the picture to get to the product. No additional charge to you…just a few pennies for my piggy bank, if you decide to purchase.

                                                                   

 

The party was just the right amount of time, and I think everyone had a good time.  The twins didn’t cry or fuss at all, and really liked watching all the people.  We had invited many of the people who were really supportive both during my pregnancy and during the twins NICU stay.  It was a really rough patch in our life, and to find people who can stick through that with you is pretty amazing.  We even had one of our primary NICU nurses come to the party.  She was still able to tell the twins apart!

We didn’t open presents at the party because it was such a short time, and we wanted to spend it visiting with everyone.  It actually worked out really well because it gave us something to look forward to on Sunday.  Everyone was really generous and thoughtful, and many of the cards brought tears to my eyes.  We have some really special friends that stuck with us through a very difficult time.

We look forward to celebrating their NICUversary every year, even if it’s not with a huge party like this.

If you like what you just read please click to send a quick vote for me on Top Mommy Blogs- The best mommy blog directory featuring top mom bloggers

Filed Under: Birthdays, Blog, NICU, Twins Tagged With: animal theme, balloons, beach balls, birthday, collages, first birthday party, identical twins, NICU, NICUversary, party, placenta, siugr, streamers, third birthday, TTTS, zoo

Comments

  1. Julie Smith says

    August 4, 2015 at 9:40 am

    We had two births with complications. One led to a year of intensive PT and a lifetime of (extremely mild) growth issues for my son (Erbs Palsy). The other was bad, bad, bad at first, but turned around very quickly. Those were bad enough, but 90+ days in NICU – I can’t imagine that. We were blessed with an extremely easy birth for our middle child, but the world evened it out by putting her on the Asperger’s spectrum. Life is a journey, isn’t it? I think it is wonderful that you celebrate the good and bad of the journey. There are so many Moms who would make themselves martyrs and teach their children to be the same way. Good for you for celebrating life!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 10:20 am

      Thank you so much Julie. Life is definitely a journey. Thank you for sharing your experiences too.

      Reply
  2. 1stopmom says

    August 4, 2015 at 10:37 am

    Happy Anniversary! The banana cake is such a such a cool idea and a great alternative to cake. You did a good job on the Zoo party too!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 11:53 am

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  3. Jennifer C. says

    August 4, 2015 at 10:43 am

    Happy NICU-versary! Your baby boys are just SO adorable! <3

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 11:53 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  4. Becky @ Disney in your Day says

    August 4, 2015 at 10:58 am

    What a great idea, and certainly something to celebrate! I love the theme of your party.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 11:53 am

      Thank you Becky!

      Reply
  5. Robin Rue (@massholemommy) says

    August 4, 2015 at 11:28 am

    What an amazing story! Thank you so much for sharing it.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 11:53 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  6. Sara Strand says

    August 4, 2015 at 12:43 pm

    Best party ever!! I absolutely LOVE throwing parties. I made it a point to make each kid’s 6th birthday be the last “party” because it just gets to be ridiculous once you deal with school age kids. Instead we just do a family thing and maybe have one or two friends over for movies and junk food. 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 2:23 pm

      That’s a really great idea. I think we will have to do that too 🙂

      Reply
  7. Dina Farmer says

    August 4, 2015 at 1:46 pm

    Oh wow how fun!!! I’ve never considered a celebration about graduating from the NICU. I’m glad you had or they had such a wonderful day! haha

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 2:22 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  8. Candia says

    August 4, 2015 at 1:48 pm

    Awww very cute party. This was a wonderful story. You have a beautiful family.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 2:22 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  9. momonthemove35 says

    August 4, 2015 at 1:53 pm

    What a cute party! Great idea to celebrate! I love themed parties. I love the decorating and the cake making. I’m nothing close to a professional but it’s good enough for my kids!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 2:22 pm

      Yes! Thank you.

      Reply
  10. Yanique says

    August 4, 2015 at 2:00 pm

    Wow! That is quite the milestone! I can’t imagine what it was like for your family ro go through having them in the NICE for over three months!!! I’m glad the boys are well and happy nicuversary to you all. Wishing you many more in the future 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 2:21 pm

      Thank you Yanique 🙂

      Reply
  11. Britney Hannaford says

    August 4, 2015 at 2:14 pm

    I have quite a few friends that have babies that were in the Nicu and its a story I always love hearing with great success. Thank you for sharing your story, it’s absolutely fabulous to hear that they have reached their THIRD NICUversary! 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 2:21 pm

      Thank you Britney!

      Reply
  12. Robyn Proctor Hinkle says

    August 4, 2015 at 4:12 pm

    I’m sure that was a exhausting, scary time for y’all. But I know y’all were so excited to bring your precious boys home! I love what you did with their party 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 4:31 pm

      Thank you so much .

      Reply
  13. nmiller00 says

    August 4, 2015 at 4:39 pm

    So sweet! I love all of your stories and reading them just makes my heart so happy!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 9:09 pm

      Thank you 🙂

      Reply
  14. Mistle says

    August 4, 2015 at 5:00 pm

    Happy NICU-versary!!! That’s such an awesome way to celebrate. You should go into party planning because you always have cute posts about how you are decorating for their parties.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 9:08 pm

      Thank you so much! Maybe once they are all in school, I will have time. I’d LOVE to party plan.

      Reply
  15. Sicorra says

    August 4, 2015 at 6:01 pm

    Love the cake and all the decorations. Looks like your kids enjoyed their cake too.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 9:08 pm

      Ha! Yes, they did. 🙂

      Reply
  16. Fresh,Pure,Sweet says

    August 4, 2015 at 7:12 pm

    Congrats! Beautiful party and perfect boys!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 9:07 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  17. Nicole Lutzy says

    August 4, 2015 at 7:49 pm

    Definitely a reason to celebrate – those a super long hospital stays! I love the animal them, super cute!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 9:07 pm

      Thank you Nicole!

      Reply
  18. Cynthia @craftoflaughter says

    August 4, 2015 at 8:01 pm

    what an incredibly cute party, the boys are just as adorable now as they were then

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 9:07 pm

      Awe. Thank you!

      Reply
  19. Jessica says

    August 4, 2015 at 9:51 pm

    This turned out SOOOO cute! Love the safari theme.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 4, 2015 at 9:54 pm

      Thank you Jessica!

      Reply
  20. Curtis Joseph says

    August 4, 2015 at 10:01 pm

    What a cute idea for a party, love all the little animal decorations.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 2:09 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  21. Claudette Esterine says

    August 4, 2015 at 10:49 pm

    Happy anniversary! My granddaughter was a preemie as well and like your children she’s a bundle of joy!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 2:08 pm

      Thank you, and congrats on your preemie granddaughter too 🙂

      Reply
  22. shobelyn says

    August 4, 2015 at 11:22 pm

    your boys are very cute

    Reply
  23. Shannon P says

    August 5, 2015 at 2:04 am

    This totally deserves a celebration! I love the theme!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 2:08 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  24. Megan VW says

    August 5, 2015 at 6:28 am

    What an adorable part! I love the zoo theme! I’m glad you can find joy and happy moments to celebrate. Your boys looks so happy!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 2:08 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  25. Liz Mays says

    August 5, 2015 at 8:57 am

    Now that is an anniversary definitely worth celebrating! I love how you made the cake healthy too!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 10:38 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  26. Jaclyn Kent says

    August 5, 2015 at 9:56 am

    Ahh I know twins are usually born super early; I’m so glad to see them healthy and strong! I loooove the idea of a NUCIversary! 😀

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 10:36 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  27. Stefanie (@LexieLooDylan2) says

    August 5, 2015 at 11:00 am

    Happy NICUversary! What a great idea!

    Reply
  28. AlmostSexyMommy says

    August 5, 2015 at 1:59 pm

    Your party looked so sweet and fun! I kind of suck at party planning, I admit it. I’m a little jealous of how awesome this looks!

    Happy NICUversary!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 2:03 pm

      Awe. Thank you Trish. Let me know if you ever need help 🙂

      Reply
  29. byecomparison says

    August 5, 2015 at 4:07 pm

    It looks like everyone else has said it all, but great party! I love the elephant candles and you SHOULD plan parties for others. Not everyone (is good at it or) likes it! Mostly, I love the reason for the party itself. What a perfect combination of reasons to celebrate 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 6:33 pm

      Thank you so much Brooke! 🙂

      Reply
  30. Elizabeth O. says

    August 5, 2015 at 9:27 pm

    Happy Anniversary. Your boys are adorable. I love the photo where they were playing with their cake.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 10:27 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  31. Ourfamilyworld says

    August 5, 2015 at 9:29 pm

    Woohoo! Happy Anniversary! Looks like a really fun party. So glad to hear that there’s been no re-admittance into the hospital since then.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 10:28 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  32. patranila says

    August 5, 2015 at 9:40 pm

    Congratulations! When I read nicuversary I thought your kid had been in the nicu for three years. Glad I got that wrong! LOL

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 10:27 pm

      Yes! Me too!

      Reply
  33. The Trophy WifeStyle says

    August 5, 2015 at 9:56 pm

    Your boys are all too cute!!! Happy anniversary!!!! You did such a fabulous job with the decorating ❤️?

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 5, 2015 at 10:26 pm

      Thank you 🙂

      Reply
  34. Shannon Hall says

    August 5, 2015 at 10:30 pm

    Oh my, SO cute! You are a master at party decorations. I will definitely be using this as inspiration for my future children’s parties!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 6, 2015 at 6:29 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  35. Ros Emely says

    August 6, 2015 at 10:53 am

    Happy NICUversary!!! Love that your baby boys are healthy and well. The birthday party decorations are beautiful ad fun!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 6, 2015 at 10:30 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  36. Holly @ Woman Tribune says

    August 7, 2015 at 2:12 am

    Aww, what a great way to celebrate the health and well-being of your babies.

    Reply
  37. Neely (@Neelykins) says

    August 16, 2015 at 1:35 pm

    What a beautiful way to celebrate!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      August 16, 2015 at 5:39 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  38. Tasha says

    September 4, 2015 at 1:21 am

    Congratulations on your 3rd NICUversay! Our first baby was born at 29 weeks, 3 days, and had an 84 day stay in the NICU. I never would have thought to celebrate her NICU graduation day, but it’s such a cute idea! We ended up doing a Dr. Seuss theme for her first birthday because we noticed that it seemed to calm her when we read his books to her in the NICU. I’m so grateful for every moment we’ve spent with our daughter, and I’m glad to need another NICU mom who obviously shares those feelings of gratitude where her little ones are concerned. Doesn’t that seem to be a characteristic that’s shared by a lot of NICU moms?

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 4, 2015 at 2:00 pm

      Yes, I completely agree. How old is she now? That’s so cute that you did Dr. Seuss since those books calmed her in the NICU. My boys all love Dr. Seuss too. 🙂 Thank you for your comments and for reading 🙂

      Reply
  39. thejohnsonplusdog says

    September 4, 2015 at 10:59 am

    What a great way to celebrate the end of a rough time in your life. I loved the zoo party, so cute! Look forward to co-hosting with you at the #HomeMattersParty

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 4, 2015 at 1:56 pm

      Thank you! Me too!

      Reply
  40. satrntgr says

    September 4, 2015 at 5:12 pm

    My son was in the NICU for only a few days, but I still cherish those sweet nurses that helped us all during the time. That’s an important part of life and being able to have a good experience is wonderful. I love the cake pictures…those are always priceless!! 🙂 #HomeMattersParty

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 4, 2015 at 8:22 pm

      NICU nurses are so amazing! Thank you!

      Reply
  41. Audrey@That Recipe says

    September 5, 2015 at 12:57 pm

    I love smash cake pictures! And I like your positive attitude to celebrate the NICUversary.

    Visiting from #HomeMatters Party.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 5, 2015 at 7:52 pm

      Thank you so much! 🙂

      Reply
  42. alaynascreations says

    September 5, 2015 at 3:11 pm

    Happy Anniversary! It’s a great idea to celebrate one of the big milestones in your life – and that’s a very cute zoo party!

    Looking forward to a great month of #HomeMattersParty fun with you!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 5, 2015 at 7:50 pm

      Thank you..and great co-hosting with you too!

      Reply
  43. Sarena @ Teal Inspiration says

    September 5, 2015 at 10:23 pm

    Happy NICUversary! Thanks for sharing your story and your adorable party ideas. Glad to be co-hosting the #HomeMattersParty with you again this month 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 5, 2015 at 10:25 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  44. Life With Lorelai says

    September 6, 2015 at 10:42 am

    Congrats on the NICUversary! I can totally relate, Rory’s NICUversary is July 11th. Oh, the memories… Thanks for co-hosting at the #HomeMattersParty – we love having you on the team! 🙂

    ~Lorelai
    Life With Lorelai

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 6, 2015 at 3:29 pm

      Thank you so much! I love being on the team 🙂

      Reply
  45. imqueenin says

    September 6, 2015 at 10:53 am

    Happy NICUversary! Loved this post. What a great way to celebrate something that was so difficult for the family. And those party decorations are to die for. Thanks for the idea. I’ve been searching for a theme for my boy’s 3rd birthday. Having fun co-hosting with you at the #HomeMattersParty

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 6, 2015 at 3:29 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  46. Enzie Shahmiri Portraits and Fine Art says

    September 7, 2015 at 12:10 pm

    What a beautiful party decor and what cute babies 🙂 Visiting from the #HomeMattersParty #53.
    Your Co-Host Enzie

    Reply
  47. sahana says

    September 7, 2015 at 3:33 pm

    Your boys look great Shann !! Love the way you celebrated the party. It’s great to be co-hosting with you at #HomeMattersParty.

    Reply
  48. mmgmom says

    September 7, 2015 at 8:59 pm

    Thankful that your boys are okay now. And congrats on your anniversary. Thanks for being such a great cohost on #HomeMattersParty.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 7, 2015 at 9:46 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  49. Michelle James says

    September 7, 2015 at 9:21 pm

    NICU stories like your are so great to hear. My son’s fiance’s sister works at the NICU in Iowa City, Iowa and some of the stories are sad but I think most have a happy ending like yours. Congrats on that! They look and sound like great boys and they grow up sooooo fast. Enjoy these fun parties!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 7, 2015 at 9:44 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  50. Callie Carling says

    September 23, 2015 at 4:18 am

    Awwwwww Shann, what a wonderful story – wishing you all a very happy NICUversary! Sounds like a celebration that MUST continue each and every year *yayyy* always an excuse for a party. Your zoo-theme was gorgeous, and I love the smash-cake with its vibrant decorations. Wishing you and your family an everflowing tub of abundance, health and happiness … and paaaaarty on!

    With blessings, Callie (CreaTEAVity), London, UK #blogelina

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 23, 2015 at 2:14 pm

      Thank you so much Callie!

      Reply
  51. Toiia L. Rukuni says

    September 23, 2015 at 1:41 pm

    Happy Anniversary! Having a child in NICU can be an overwhelming experience and hearing stories like yours is very inspirational and a true blessing! Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 23, 2015 at 2:06 pm

      Thank you so much for reading!

      Reply
  52. stacey (@staceyloring) says

    September 23, 2015 at 1:45 pm

    such an amazing story, and two beautiful boys!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 23, 2015 at 2:06 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  53. Patti (@RedHeadedPatti) says

    September 23, 2015 at 3:54 pm

    Congratulations on your NICUversarry. It looks like a fantastic party and such a gorgeous pair of little fellas you have there! I can’t imagine what it must have been like with two littles in the NICU for 91 & 93 days.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 23, 2015 at 7:30 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  54. Donna says

    September 23, 2015 at 10:17 pm

    Hello. I am so happy to hear about the celebrations…especially of the anniversary. Your boys are beautiful and I am so happy that they are healthy and thriving. The cake looks fabulous and sounds delicious. I am very fond of making cupcakes and decorating cakes so this was a great post to see. Wishing you well with all your future decorating and many more NICUversaries Have a beautiful day! #blogelina

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 24, 2015 at 9:10 am

      Thank you!

      Reply
  55. Charli says

    September 24, 2015 at 8:10 am

    Such a great idea and the boys are so cute! Congrats on the NICUversary and your boys being home and healthy! 😀

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 24, 2015 at 9:09 am

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  56. eamundsen says

    September 24, 2015 at 8:19 am

    Congratulations on your NICUversary! My son spent 90+ days in the hospital after his stroke when he was 2. It’s definitely hard on everyone! He’s 10 now and had many more hospitalizations but he’s still here so we are grateful! We call Aug 7th his Survivor Day but we’ve never thrown a party. That’s a great idea. You did a fantastic job on the party!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 24, 2015 at 9:08 am

      Congratulations on your Survivor Day! Thank you so much for stopping by and reading.

      Reply
  57. Raquel C. says

    September 24, 2015 at 11:21 am

    Happy NICU-niversary!! Your story is inspiring and your little ones are perfectly adorable. Your party was spectacular. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 24, 2015 at 7:56 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  58. Kari @The He Said She Said Experience says

    September 24, 2015 at 5:42 pm

    Happy Nicuversary!!!!! It looks like a beautiful party and I’m crazy about those balloons! I’ve never seen such cool balloons before. Now I want to throw our little man a jungle themed party!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 24, 2015 at 8:01 pm

      Awesome. Thank you!

      Reply
  59. ericax235 says

    September 24, 2015 at 6:51 pm

    What a great reason to celebrate! I love hearing stories like this.

    Reply
  60. Ms. Katrina says

    September 25, 2015 at 10:45 am

    Aww. How preciuos! Happy Nicuversary! I am always giving thanks that my I had very few complications in my birthing experiences.

    Reply
  61. Shauna S says

    September 25, 2015 at 11:26 am

    And what a wonderful thing to celebrate! They are adorable. The zoo theme looks so fun. I love that idea.

    Reply
  62. Tracy says

    September 25, 2015 at 12:35 pm

    Awww.. happy Nicuversary for sure! The babies are adorable! So happy they’re doing so well now. My daughter is due in Mid November with my grandson and his head is already down and she’s worried he’s going to come sooner than he’s supposed to – I’m hoping he stays in and continues to grow, he’s 4lbs. already, thankfully. Thanks so much for sharing! Love the jungle themed party and all of the photos! 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 25, 2015 at 6:41 pm

      Thank you! I hope your grandson waits to make his appearance, but it’s good to hear he’s already 4 lbs 🙂

      Reply
  63. Tina Collins says

    September 25, 2015 at 12:36 pm

    It’s really good to hear your boys doing well after their difficult start; I’m glad that they enjoyed their birthday, they deserve it!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 25, 2015 at 6:40 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  64. Dash Kitten says

    September 25, 2015 at 5:34 pm

    I am not usually a Mummy blog visitor as I don’t have a ‘human’ family of kids but your lovely and loving post positively glows with pride in your sons! I know you have have had so many moments of anxiety and stress while they were small and this event will have been all the sweeter for it. Those cakes look delicious and you have a real eye for creating an event to treasure. Many an harassed Mum would come running to you for help if you set up as a party planner!

    Good luck to you and your wonderful family.

    Marjorie

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 25, 2015 at 6:37 pm

      Thank you so much! I really appreciate your comments!

      Reply
  65. Karen says

    September 25, 2015 at 10:52 pm

    My daughter was a preemie and stayed almost a month in the hospital. It was tough at times. I am glad that your boys are doing well 🙂 I loved your party theme 🙂 and think you will do great starting your own business 🙂

    Reply
  66. Jeryl M. says

    September 26, 2015 at 1:22 am

    I’m glad everything turned out okay, and the party sounds great. My daughter had an animal song themed party when she was 3.

    Reply
  67. Relaxed Thairapy ッ (@relaxedthairapy) says

    September 26, 2015 at 10:08 pm

    Happy NICU-versary! Adorbs overload!!

    Reply
  68. Denise Murray Wong says

    September 27, 2015 at 10:03 am

    The pictures are beautiful and your celebration was with good cause. It is amazing that the boys have overcome so much and everyday is a celebration of their strength and well being. The animal theme is so age-approprate and fun!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 27, 2015 at 5:38 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  69. Jenni@DitchingOurDebt says

    September 27, 2015 at 1:19 pm

    Your party looks so cute! It’s so funny, though, because I hate the shopping and decorating part, but love the baking and food! 🙂

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 27, 2015 at 5:34 pm

      We should get together and start a party business 😉

      Reply
  70. Ashley says

    September 27, 2015 at 4:30 pm

    I’ve never thought about premies being kind of younger than their age. Three months in the hospital holy moly. Its one of those things that I think to myself no way I could do that, how do people do it? But here you guys are, you did it! Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 27, 2015 at 5:26 pm

      Thank you for reading. I appreciate it.

      Reply
  71. Lindsey says

    September 28, 2015 at 6:22 am

    What a fun party! You should go into the party planning business;)

    Reply
  72. chaitali says

    September 28, 2015 at 8:41 am

    I liked all the party decor. Your boys look adorable! Wish your family health, happiness and many more NICUversary parties ahead.

    Reply
  73. Karen (@KappaVelvit) says

    September 28, 2015 at 5:55 pm

    Happy Anniversary, I love the idea of a party to celebrate! I have a few friends who had babies in the NICU also, one with twins, and it’s such a joy to see the babies thrive!

    Reply
  74. Natalie Gallagher says

    September 28, 2015 at 8:01 pm

    How very sweet your boys are, and what an inspiring story! I think some of us who had typical pregnancies really take it all for granted. I applaud you for persevering through the 90+ day NICU period. The party for the boys was awesome…I especially like the “healthy” smash cake! Don’t see too many of those! #commentathon

    Reply
  75. Pamela says

    September 28, 2015 at 9:46 pm

    Cute party and lovely family. Looks like they enjoyed themselves. Happy NICUversary!

    Reply
  76. thegypseafoodie says

    September 28, 2015 at 11:26 pm

    I do not have children, but you are one strong Mama! I am so happy that your boys are doing well and that you are able to celebrate and make lasting memories with them. Well wishes to you and your family.

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 29, 2015 at 8:12 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  77. Marissa (@PracticalMommy2) says

    September 29, 2015 at 9:27 am

    Aw, what adorable boys! I’m glad everything turned out well for them. I can’t imagine having to deliver at 25 weeks (right now I’m 25 weeks 3 days with Baby #4). The party turned out great!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 29, 2015 at 8:12 pm

      Thank you! Congrats on baby #4! Sending good thoughts for a healthy delivery and baby.

      Reply
  78. karabayleaves says

    September 29, 2015 at 9:37 am

    I think celebrating their NICUversary was a brilliant idea. Your boys are adorable – I’m so glad they are doing well!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 29, 2015 at 8:11 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  79. Jess says

    September 29, 2015 at 12:52 pm

    This is such a beautiful post to read on a Tuesday evening 🙂 Thank you so much for sharing, I learnt a lot and I wish you many more happy NICUversaries! xxxx

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 29, 2015 at 8:10 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  80. Yona Williams says

    September 29, 2015 at 7:45 pm

    As someone who goes wild over the zoo, the party decorations are incredibly cute, and that table spread just makes me want to smile. So happy to read that your boys are happy, healthy and hospital-free!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 29, 2015 at 8:09 pm

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  81. milesforacure says

    September 29, 2015 at 9:48 pm

    A friend of mine had her baby at 25 weeks. It can be so scary. I love that you celebrate every year. What a cute party.

    Jen
    http://www.conversationsattheironingboard.com

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 30, 2015 at 2:34 pm

      Yes, definitely. Hope her baby is OK. If she ever needs support, please let me know.

      Reply
  82. Cher says

    September 29, 2015 at 10:51 pm

    So adorable and glad everything worked out for you guys!

    Reply
    • Shann says

      September 30, 2015 at 2:33 pm

      Thank you!

      Reply
  83. Bizzy Mom's Corner says

    September 29, 2015 at 11:20 pm

    Your baby boys are very adorable! I love the zoo themed party idea. 🙂

    Reply
  84. Brooke says

    September 30, 2015 at 8:08 pm

    What cute little guys! Thank you very much for sharing your story. Our younger daughter was life flighted to the NICU for a short time due to jaundice. It was a scary time and I can’t imagine how hard that time must have been on your family. Happy to see your healthy boys. 🙂

    Reply
  85. alwaysreiding1029Nicole @ AlwaysReiding says

    September 30, 2015 at 10:11 pm

    Congrats, and I think that this is a great post celebrating a very wonderful day.
    Happy to hear they are doing well.

    Reply
  86. Kari Ann says

    September 30, 2015 at 11:03 pm

    What beautiful boys you have! Glad that they are happy and healthy.

    Reply
  87. hzajac13 says

    July 12, 2016 at 11:22 pm

    This is great to hear they have not had to return. Unlike you though, I try not to think about my boy’s time in NICU. Maybe it is till too fresh.

    Reply
  88. Theresa says

    July 16, 2016 at 5:34 pm

    Aw, that’s so sweet that you celebrate the day that they came home! I love the cake picture. It’s so cute!

    Reply
  89. Shann Eva says

    August 11, 2017 at 1:19 pm

    Thank you so much Mary!

    Reply

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Meet Shann

Shann Hi! I'm a mom, writer, and dancer. I love sharing my parenting experiences, my healthy living tips, my money saving ideas, and our travel plans. My passion to help other women inspired this blog. I hope you'll stay a while and come back often.

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