Initial branches/leaves...

[Markass]

the first two branches and leaves that sprout out are dying off, and I was wondering if this commonly occurs?

[stinkyattic]

Leaves -cotyledons- yes, they sprout, fulfil their duty, and die off.
But first branches?
I'm not sure what you mean by that.

[delta9thc06]

How big are the plants.

[Markass]

a tad bigger now, but those pics were from thursday