THE MOONEY FAMILY

Summer Fun!!

2011-06-14T21:13:00.002-04:00

Here's a little about our summer. I am working a Summer Bridge program for struggling rising freshmen. If they do not complete this 8 week program or pass they will go back to 8th grade. It's from 8:30-1:30 and it's good money. Ben works from 4-9 or 6-9 most nights. We get to see each other a little more. But that's OK. It's what we have to do for our family. My parents got an above ground pool and now Abby has decided she wants to stay there the entire summer!! She is going to stay there this week and says she won't miss me or the boys but will miss her daddy. No surprise there!!! She has become the little swimmer and I'm thinking we might get her into swimming. She seems built for it. She went to Camp John Knox for a week of Day Camp and absolutely loved it. She wants to go to all of the camps she can- too bad we can't afford them all. We are blessed that someone from church wants to sponsor her and send her to the overnight mini-camp. Unfortunately it is the week that I am off, but Abby is really excited. Maybe that week we will be able to work A LOT on our house. I am so ready to move and sell it's driving me crazy. The boys are starting to talk more and LOVE to be outside. Blaine is trying to swim without in assistance and wants to be under water. He is hilarious in the pool. If we have enough people around I hope to take some video of the boys. It is challenging to get videos when you have 2 toddlers!!!! I need a helmet camera!!! I won't tell Ben because he might make one. Christian is not as fond of the water but he is our little track star. He runs so fast- we can barely keep up. Well- hope to report more and with some pictures and/or video.

Ok- I'm behind!!!

2011-05-17T21:59:00.002-04:00

Well, needless to say it has been a busy few months. No major happenings- just busy day to day life. Abby finishes school tomorrow and then will be officially a 2nd grader!!! I can't believe it. She has done so well. We cannot be more proud of her. She is growing up into a beautiful young lady. She helps so much with the boys, I can't even express how lucky they are to have such an awesome big sister. She is playing the piano and is advancing quickly. Her first piano recital is May 25th. She will be playing 'Over the Rainbow' with me and then 'Under the Sea'. She is sad that she will be leaving 1st grade and will miss her friends and teachers. She has not moved her 'clip' at all this year (for bad behavior)!! Now on to the boys. They are finally saying words!!!! Christian has been talking first- mama (with help of froot loops- but now on his own!), moo, meow, hiss (for Piper), woof woof, and Abby. Blaine called me mama for the first time wanting me to pick him up- of course it worked!!! He also does hiss for Piper- and was the first one to say Abby (more like Abba). So cute!!! I can't believe they are actually trying to say words now. If only we can stop them from squealing so high pitched and much we would be doing great. Poor Ben has probably lost some of his hearing from the boys. We need to find more constructive outlets for the boys rather than destructive. I've been extremely busy and will continue that through the summer. I have accepted a position for 8 weeks of the summer teaching the Summer Bridge program for at-risk upcoming 9th graders. Basically, they have to pass this 8 week course if they want to 'graduate' to 9th grade. It will be a challenge but I'm excited about it. Well, hopefully I can post more frequently so it won't be so long!!!

January 10, 2011- Snow Day!!!

2011-01-11T21:31:00.003-05:00

When we woke up this morning there was about 5 inches of snow!!!! It was fun to wake up, find out both school systems (Maryville and Knox) were out and go back to sleep. When we woke up again to get the day started we enjoyed pancakes- blueberry, pecan and plain (for Abby). I think the boys ate at least 3 pancakes each (plus half a container of blueberries)!!!! They LOVE food. We then decided to get ready to go out and play in the snow. After about 45 minutes we were dressed and ready to go!! and mom and dad were sweating after getting everyone ready!! Christian was the first one out followed by Abby. He ran into the snow and fell down- Abby chased after him. He was running around like a wild man laughing and smiling. Blaine followed but just stood at the front door watching. He was not as sure about running in the snow as brother. Christian then began eating the snow by picking it up which was later followed by putting his face in the snow and eating it. Blaine finally decided it looked like fun and joined his siblings. We could tell them apart easily because Christian was covered in snow and Blaine wasn't!!! Abby started to sled on a laminated poster and cookie sheet (homemade sleds). Christian thought this looked exciting and joined her. He smiled the whole way down. Blaine was next. Abby took them down one at a time several times. Then the boys wanted to venture on their own. Christian was first by himself and he just laid down on the cookie sheet and went down the hill, even backwards. He just smiled and laughed. Blaine loved it also. By now it was difficult to tell them apart because they were both covered in snow. It was finally time to go inside for the boys who were not happy about it all!!! Luckily, I started the nice warm bath which made them forget about the snow outside and Abby and daddy still out there. After their bath, I lotioned them up and decided they should have a yogurt snack before their nap. About halfway through the yogurt they crashed!! During feeding they both had their eyes closed and I would tap their lip with the yogurt and they would open their mouths but not their eyes. Too cute!! I put the boys down and Abby and Ben came inside after sledding on an innertube that Ben remembered we had. I made them tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches!!! What a fun snow day!! Hopefully I'll put more pictures and maybe even a video soon. We had another snow day today (Tuesday, Jan 11) and they all went sledding again. The boys were so excited to go back out that they helped us get ready and brought everybody their shoes!! I think they were trying to make us get them ready as quickly as possible!! Too funny. Lots of fun during these snow days. I've enjoyed being lazy and spending time with the family. Abby and I have had a fun girl time playing on the Home Depot site 'decorating' rooms. She takes after me!!! Hope to post more soon!!

Almost Christmas!!!

2010-12-19T22:25:00.003-05:00

I definitely need to do a better job at keeping this up to date. Here goes a brief synopsis. The boys are getting their molars which has been difficult for them. Christian has two on the bottom and is working on the top. Blaine is still working on all four. They love playing with each other and wrestling!! They are very rough and tough boys. I must say these boys love to eat also. Their favorite has to be fruit- any kind- bananas, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries are at the top. Blaine is less picky than Christian. If Christian doesn't like it he gives it to his brother!!! They are so much fun to watch. This past week I have got to watch them a lot due to weather and school being out. Unfortunately, we all have been sick this past week too. I only went to school one day last week and was pretty wiped out. Abby finished on Wednesday because school was out Thursday. She was excited to start her Christmas break a day early. She has been learning lots of Christmas music on the piano and has had a blast playing it. Ben has been wonderful in taking care of us this week while we (including him) have been not well. We are blessed as a family!! Today was our Joy Gift program at church. Abby was an angel and did magnificently. We also played We Three Kings as a duet!! She was perfect. We were very proud of her. She is growing up so much into a beautiful little girl!! We are very anxious for Christmas, but I have 2 days left of school. I have been told I will be tenured which is wonderful news!!! Whew!!! So much going on. I wish I could remember it all. We hope to go see Santa this week and make Christmas cookies with Nick and Shanae as is our usual tradition. I am seeing it is harder to find time to accomplish everything when you are both working (different shifts) and have 3 kids (2 being 16 months old). When we finally sit down to try to do something I find myself falling asleep!!!! But it is all so worth it- I love the chaos and continuous excitement. It never is dull around the Mooney household and I wouldn't have it any other way!!!

Is it already November?

2010-11-02T20:34:00.002-04:00

I can safely say that the Mooney family is one busy household. This is evident on the lack of updating I've been able to accomplish. Unfortunately, I cannot think of all that has been done since the last update. I know there is a lot. Here it is in a nutshell.

During Abby's Fall Break I took a personal day and we had a family fun trip to the aquarium and watched them feed the sharks. My hernia was hurting me so bad that I ended up hurting my back. But the family time was worth it and much needed. On my Fall Break I volunteered in Abby's class for the first half of the day and ate lunch with her. I had an absolute blast and was very proud of my wonderful, smart daughter. I witnessed how terrific she is in school and how she excels (not that I didn't already know this) it was good to see for myself. Ben got to go to her school the following week for First Grade Celebration Day. He took the boy and ate lunch with her and watched a video of her class. He brought home a painting she did in art class that was unbelievable. I know I couldn't have painted it that well right now. She also had her Halloween Piano Recital and did a fabulous job. We are so proud of her.

The boys are getting big too!!! It is fun to watch their personalities develop. Blaine is more laid back and easy going while Christian doesn't stop for too long at a time. They are running, climbing and jumping!! They love to push the laundry basket up to the couch, door, chair, gate, etc. and try to climb over or onto. Christian loves to put the laundry basket over Blaine and then sit on top so Blaine can't get out. Blaine does not love this. The boys had a twin moment. Christian had his fingers smashed in the door and Blaine grabbed his own hand (the same one) and started screaming. It was crazy!! Poor babies.

Hopefully I can do better about updating!!!

It's Been Way Too Long

2010-09-21T21:26:00.003-04:00

I honestly don't even know where to begin. Time is getting away from me. Let's see- the past month. The boys had their first birthday which was a hit. They went to a football game on their birthday, we spent the night at Rada's and had the party there. We kept it small with just the immediate family. It was so much fun and the boys had a great time ripping their presents open. They really loved their cake and decided to wear a lot of it. After cake time they enjoyed a dip in the baby pool to rinse off the cake!!! We all had a great time and I can't believe they are one. They are both almost 22 pounds and love to eat big people food. They both have 7 teeth which they choose to bite each other with. Blaine always has marks all over his arms from Christian. Boys will be boys!!! Christian is enjoying the grass a little more while Blaine loves it. Not sure where Christian gets that.

Abby update- she is reading the Magic Treehouse Books for the AR (accelerated reader) program at her school. It is a national program where the students take tests after they read a book and earn points and it also 'grades' them on what grade-level they are at. She is at a 2.8 (2nd grade 8th month) level!!! We are so proud of her!!!!!! I had a parent- teacher conference and she said Abby is at the top of her class in both reading and math. She is growing up!!!

For my big 30th birthday- we went to Metcalf Bottoms (in the Smokies) with my mom, Rada and John. We had an awesome picnic and all the kids played in the creek. It was wonderful!!!! It didn't take long for Abby to get wet- I always like to make a bet to see how long it will take!!! She is my outdoor girl!!! I hope to post more pics later on.

School is somewhat stressful due to the fact that I have 3 preps!!! Also- Ben has started working evenings as soon as I get home he leaves for work. We will make it though!!! We just keep thanking God for all that he has blessed us with!!!

A Brief Update

2010-08-10T22:14:00.002-04:00

Abby has completed her first week of 1st grade. We are so proud of her!!! She made a 100% on her spelling pre-test yesterday and is learning more challenging words this week. I think the funniest thing is the 1st grade drama!! Girls- what can I say. Abby tells me all about how her friend has 3 boyfriends and she tricked them into talking with each other. She also told me that she doesn't think anybody likes her. She spent 30 minutes talking to my mom about all of the drama!! She doesn't spend that much time talking to us. I guess I'm going to have to pry it out of her. She has already gotten something out of the treasure box and really LOVES swimming during gym. She will be sad when tomorrow is the last day. This brings us to the boys and some stories.

Both boys are walking a lot and can bend down to pick stuff up and stand back up. The really enjoy breaking the fence down- the fence is obviously not working like it did. Ben was doing something in our room and the boys broke the fence down and went into the kitchen because they were hungry. One funny story that happened tonight- Abby had finished her shower and we were all in the living room. (on a side note- the boys are scared to death of the vacuum cleaner and loud noises) Anyway- Abby was sitting in Ben's lap so he could dry her hair. When he turned the hair dryer on Blaine turned with wide eyes, a worried look and ran towards Ben screaming with his arms up. He kept looking at Abby and Ben yelling at them. I grabbed him and held him telling him that Abby was OK. He was so worried about her (I'm not sure what he thought the hair dryer was going to do) and when they were finished he walked over to Abby. She bent down held him and told him she was OK. He then sat with her and laid down beside her. She quietly thanked him for worrying about her and that she was OK. The whole time this was going on Christian was scared of the hair dryer and didn't look like he much cared what was happening to his sis!!!! It was so sweet!!!!!! We love these precious moments with the kids and wouldn't trade them for anything.

Boys wave Bye-Bye

2010-07-29T14:05:00.002-04:00

Today the boys waved bye-bye for the first time. Ben was going back to work after lunch and both boys waved bye-bye to him. They are growing up so fast. Blaine has figured out to move the fence and go behind to the no-no zone where all of our dvd's are. He lets his brother go too. I asked Abby if she was watching the boys while I was doing something and she said 'yeah I am'. I asked because I saw Blaine on the other side of the fence smiling so big!!! She jumped up and said 'Oh my gosh' and got him. That's what happens when a six year old watches the boy and the TV is on. She is an awesome helper though, and I have to keep reminding myself she is only 6. Well, I need to go watch the boys and hopefully someday I can get all of this down in their baby books!!!!

Where has the time gone?

2010-07-23T11:36:00.003-04:00

OK- I know I have not done a good job at keeping the blog up to date. If I could function without sleep, I could do so much more. Anyway, that's not going to happen so I will do the best I can. Here is an update- now I need to get these updates in baby books!! Ahhh!!

Abby- she has been great this summer. Her piano lessons are going wonderfully and she is excelling!!! We do have our moments with practicing, but overall she is amazing. We went school supply shopping the other day (my most favorite thing to do). I can't believe she is going to be in the 1st grade!! She picked out a grown up backpack that I absolutely love (and it was on sale too!!!). She is so excited to go back to school and be in first grade!!! She is swimming a lot better than last year which is great. Hopefully by next summer she will be an awesome swimmer and bike rider. It is difficult trying to do so much!!

Boys- Now the boys!! They are getting so big so fast. Blaine is walking with an average of 5-6 steps, the most being 10!!! Christian is not far behind, with an average of 4 steps. It would not surprise us if Christian starts running before Blaine!!! They both have 6 teeth now!!!! Their fangs are disappearing because the top 2 are starting to come in :( They love chasing each other still!! Blaine makes lots of funny faces while Christian loves to talk and almost scream!!! Christian is our 'worm in hot ashes' while Blaine likes to cuddle. Overall Christian beats up on Blaine, but every once in awhile Blaine stands up for himself against Christian. They love their morning nap at around 11:30am after waking up around 8 or 9!!! Of course they don't go to bed till around 10 but that's OK. They are really GOOD boys and LOVE to PLAY hard.

Us- Ben is still working hard at Village Pharmacy and will stop when I go back August 2nd (which is when Abby starts also). I believe he will have to work part time in the evenings when I go back to work!! Not much time for us, but at least the boys and Abby will be with their dad in the day and mom in the evenings!! We will see how this works. I am definitely not ready to go back to school and have not done a lot!! I will be teaching Ecology and Anatomy only- no Bio!! (at least that is what I knew when I left). I have a lot to do but all I want to do is spend the last of my summer with my family!!! AHHH!!! We will see what happens!!

Boys and the Pool

2010-07-01T15:40:00.003-04:00

We have been staying at Rada and John's because our AC was out. Thanks to them for letting us crash!!! We had a blast. The boys and Abby loved playing in the sprinkler and the baby pool. Christian is our little water dog. He loves putting his whole face into the water. He doesn't even get choked. I think he has learned how to hold his breath!!! We are going to have to watch him- he reminds me of his big sis. On Wednesday, the water was chilly but they went swimming anyway. I put both boys in and Christian got down and started playing immediately; however, Blaine just stood there and would not sit down. He was so funny!! I think he reminds me of someone (myself who does not care for cool water). He just kept looking at me like 'do I have to?'. He finally got in and started playing some. Christian loves to splash and goes wild- Blaine is more laid back. Eventually, Blaine just leaned over the side and started picking the grass. He was so cute!!! I looked at his hands and he had 2 huge fists-full of grass. He would lean real far and try to get different types of leaves and grasses. He then attempted to eat some and throw it all in the pool. It was time to get out!! All the time they were playing Miss Abby-do was running in the sprinkler and laying out getting a tan. They boys are very busy and are extremely fast crawlers. It's about time to tie them together so at least they go in the same direction!!!! They both have 4 teeth- 2 front bottom and 2 fangs (that's what I call them). So much fun!!! I wish I had more time to update things and put things in their baby book. Maybe I can take a few days just for that. Now- more laundry to do.

John Knox Center

2010-06-15T15:40:00.005-04:00

Beautiful Sunset!!! God's work.
The boys enjoying the ride. They like the gravel and to listen to themselves bounce around.

Little Miss Attitude!!
Percy the Opossum
View from the Dining Hall
Last Friday we took a spontaneous trip to Camp John Knox (John Knox Center) in Ten Mile, TN. Most everyone knows that is where Ben and I met as camp counselors. We had been missing it so much and hadn't been down in a long time- too long. So we packed up and went down to camp as a surprise visit. We got down there and surprised Barbara and then Rachel (EE Director). We had so much fun. We visited the nature center and the boys liked Monty (the ball python). Unfortunately we did not have enough time or hands to get the animals out like we wanted to, but it was still great to see the animals. Abby did get to hold the new opossum, but we didn't get a picture. We had to stay in Abel Lodge for several hours waiting for the storms to pass. We then went out to eat with Rachel and some other staff to the newer restaurant of Kingston- RedBones. It was fun. We had a long wait which is always nerve racking with babies; however, we decided to eat out on the patio. They had live music (a guy on a guitar) which was really great. The boys did awesome and Abby sat at the other end of the table and ordered like a big girl. She decided on cherry coke, pasta, cole slaw and an ice cream sundae. I guess that is what we get for not sitting by her. She had a blast!!! Can't wait to go back.

Abby Update

2010-05-27T19:00:00.002-04:00

It's been too long since I have done an update on anyone. So- 'll start with an update on Abby-do. Her last day of kindergarten was May 14th and the teacher recommended her for 1st grade and said she will need to be academically challenged in both math and reading!!! Yay for her. She has big plans for the summer. Here is her list- piano lessons (with mom), summer school with mommy (I thought I was getting a break!), learn to swim, ride her bike without training wheels, plant a flower bed and water them every day, read the Dorrie witch book series and I'm sure there is more. She told me this list when I told her we would have to work in her room. She informed me she has a busy summer scheduled. What a mess!!!! Some other funny Abby stories-

1. Today she bought flowers for our flower bed with my mom. I was asking her what color flowers she bought. She then asked mom what they were called- I heard mom say 'impatiens' in the background. Abby then told me that they were impatient because it started to rain on them so they just bought some flowers. What a funny girl.

2. She told mom she would like to go to Target or the Mall and shop and that she likes them equally the same. Boy does she like to shop- more than any child I have ever seen.

3. The night of mom's piano recital we were dressing up for it. Abby looked me up and down and said, ' I'm glad you know how to wear fashion now'. Thanks I thought- apparently I'm not fasionable enough for her tastes.

She says so many funny things we can't keep track of them all. We never know what is going to come out of her mouth. We will post more stories as we remember them. She is getting so big and growing up so fast. She is a beautiful girl and we love her so much.

8 Months old!!

2010-04-22T13:50:00.006-04:00

Two days ago the boys became 8 months old! So we need to do a little updating. The 7th month in review:

Teeth: Christian has two teeth(bottom middle), Blaine has none so far. They both chew/gum everything they can get in their mouth and drool like crazy!

Crawling: Both boys are army crawling well, Blaine is better and faster at it. Both can crawl on their hands and knees but seem to prefer army crawling.

Eating: Both will eat anything you give them but like to scream about it. Not sure if they feel they need to scream because they are afraid that we will feed the other more or what, but they are not easy to feed! They are eating meat now and seem to like it, but they like the sweet stuff more of course. Of course Mamaw(Beths mom) has been letting them try tea on the end of a straw and they like it. They have also been given various other things from the table have liked all of it! Daily feeding goes like this(time may vary by an hour or so): 6am-Breastfeed, 10am-1/2 jar of fruit + 4 tbs of cereal + 8oz formula, 2pm - 6-8oz formula, 6pm-1 jar of meat +1/2 jars of 2 veggies and fruit, then 10pm-8oz of formula. (yes all day is spent feeding and changing diapers)

Sitting/standing: Both boys have started to sit, but mostly on their knees! Its funny to watch them. Christian will sit on his bottom some though. We have a fence keeping them in the living room. Both use it to sit up and now as of this week Blaine started pulling up to a standing position! and is now doing it against everything else. Christian will not be far behind. Both also figured out quickly with the fence they could both push it over together!(fence is now bigger and strapped to a table!)

Talking: Christian baby talks a lot more than Blaine. Both can do it and do it very loudly when the want to! Christian started a couple of weeks ago to form Dad da and Momma in various forms but we are pretty sure he is doing it on purpose! Blaine has possibly said momma but nothing consistent.

Various others: The boys interact together a lot more now. Mostly to take a wanted toy away from the other or of course the others passy is always better than their own! Also crawl over the other or pull on his hair. They can both get their passy and put it in their mouth and hold their bottles(when they want too). They are extremely curious about everything! Both really like being outside and going for rides in the stroller! They are outgrowing their car seats quickly!

I think that covers it for the most part I will have Beth review and add if I have missed anything. It has been a busy month of development!

Abby's Imagination

2010-04-15T21:29:00.002-04:00

I can't make this up- Abby just told me that the Wicked Witch of the West, her sisters, the witch from Hansel and Gretel, and the flying monkeys (I think that's it) have a party in her room every night at midnight. She told me she once woke up and asked them if she could join them and join their club. Apparently, they also have a 5 layered cake that says "Happy Witch Day" on it. She asked me if I want to join Tuesday at midnight. I said sure. She said she was going to ask them if it was OK.

That girl has an imagination!!! WOW!!

The boys are crawling every where and joining forces to knock down the fences that keeps them out of trouble. They are sitting up on their knees and getting into everything. They are definitely double trouble. They love grabbing each other paci's and either putting them in their own mouths or throwing them. It is so much fun watching them interact with each other and with Abby. She is the only one that can get them to really laugh hard. They are both very busy boys!!!

Some everyday Pics

2010-04-03T13:42:00.001-04:00

Boys Baptism

2010-03-30T18:51:00.003-04:00

Well- it finally happened. The boys were baptized Sunday, March 14, 2010. I thought it would never happen. You might recall their baptism was scheduled for January and then the boys and Abby had RSV. Which I might add the doctor said that they sent more kids to the ER this winter than in the past and luckily we did not have to go. God has blessed us with strong, healthy children. Anyway- the week before Abby did get the flu so we were so worried about the having to cancel once again. Blaine had a fever then I got it. Luckily, we recovered and could go on with it. One thing I didn't think about till too late was the time change- Spring Forward. Abby spent the night with mom mom which helped tremendously, one less body to get ready. That morning the boys ate at 8am which was different then usual. I was afraid they would start getting fussy as soon as they were to be baptized, but they did wonderfully. The service was beautiful. The introit had the children singing Jesus Loves Me- and they were angelic. The sermon was thought provoking and created lots of conversation, which was great. I missed most of it because I was getting the boys ready downstairs and they were a little fussy. We brought all of the children up so they could witness the baptism which was important. The boys sat and watched Dave speak at the pulpit with such attentiveness. They knew it was for them (not really- they were just interested I guess). They were so cute and observant. They really wanted to play with the water!!! It was beautiful and the boys were little angels!!! The gowns they wore were my grandfathers- Crockett Kincer's when he was an infant. They were 90 years old and Nick and Abby both wore them being baptized. They are very special to our family. Then after the service we had a great reception with family and friends. It was so meaningful to share this sacrament with those we love and to see how much our children are loved. Those present included- Pastor Dave, Dawn, and Jeremiah Webster; Aunt Sylvia and Uncle Steve Babelay; Kristy Krebs Thornton, Tracy Krebs Faber, Cindy and Scott Krebs; Rada and John Rolison; Cleta, Randy and Nick Kelley; Shanae Nunez; and of course us!! What a wonderful day. Here are some pictures from it.

The Flu!!

2010-03-11T13:07:00.002-05:00

Well, last Saturday Abby started coughing and then got a fever. We took her Sunday afternoon to the Walgreens Take-Care clinic (which I have been impressed with twice now) and they said she had the flu. Probably H1N1 since they haven't seen the seasonal a lot. Well- also that weekend we had to get the Saturn fixed, which Ben rode his bike to go pick it up. I'm glad we are close enough that he can do that. We also had been to a 'multiples' consignment sale Saturday morning and got some good stuff. We also bought a 'new' jogging stroller that is pretty nice and hopefully it will work great. Anyway- I decided to take off Monday to help Ben clean and decontaminate the house. He went and bought a Shark Steam Pocket Cleaner- which is awesome!!! We cleaned all day long and tried to keep Abby in her bed (which is a hard thing to do). She is taking Tamiflu and Motrin to keep the fever away. Blaine got a fever Monday night and I went to school on Tuesday. I wasn't feeling all that great, but I thought it was because I was tired. Well, that night I ended up with a fever and called in for a sub for Wednesday and Thursday. Luckily, I had made 2 days of sub plans- somehow I guessed I was starting to get sick. Well, Abby had no fever and Blaine's fever is gone too!!! My fever is gone as well!!! I hope we stay well and can still have the baptism like planned. What a crazy week so far. It's going to take a lot to get our house back in shape, at least Abby has started Spring Break- which she will be off for 2 weeks since she has been out all of this week. Hope to make an update with the Baptism next!!!

My first post at my new job!

2010-03-02T12:12:00.016-05:00

Christian

Blaine

It is hard to believe that it has been two months already since I switch from a full time Pharmacy job to a full time stay at home dad! Beth has adjusted for the most part to working again, well other than getting up in the morning to get ready on time. I will get a routine in

place and then the boys will decide to change theirs again. We have now started vegetables at supper with them along with rice cereal and fruit. Since starting this they have started sleeping from 10pm ish until we wake them up around 6am for Beth to feed them before leaving for school. They were waking up around 4:30-5am. So we are developing a new routine again.

I knew that this would be a hard job and it is. I start the day hoping to accomplish a lot and

then the boys wake up! Sometimes it works out and most of the time is doesn't but i am

learning to shorten the to do list to a more manageable size.

I have gotten a lot better at cooking dinner every

day and have been learning to cook more than spaghetti and hamburger helper! Things like

Manwich, macaroni and cheese, and chicken nuggets! Just kidding, those where actually on the

previous list. I have made fried chicken, breakfast(pancakes, bacon and eggs) and hibachi

chicken which includes making the fried rice and the sweet and tangy white sauce!

(aka Kobe sauce, Hibachi sauce, shrimp sauce etc.) I also gave fried

pickles a try,... they need some work. Youtube is great for learning pretty much anything.

I will continue to increase my cooking knowledge.

The laundry and dishes seem to occupy the rest of my time during the day. Between bottles

and our dishes the dishwasher runs almost twice everyday. That will improve some with the

boys eating more than just formula.

The laundry, however,...well that will just get worse I imagine. It was just about endless without

the boys and is now always behind. Most 6 month olds, drool.......a Lot! Add spit up and the

ability to pee out of what is still a dry diaper and you get a lot of dirty clothes, then multiply that

by 2! You get the picture.

All in all it is a daily adventure that I would not trade for anything in the world. Even when

they are both screaming bloody murder, and boy can they, it beats any other job out there.

The boys are becoming more and more interactive and coordinated every day. Everything in

hand automatically goes to their mouths of course. Both get up on their hands and knees and

rock, Blaine more so than Christian, but no actual crawling yet. Blaine will put one hand forward

and then roll over, which is fine by me. They roll all over the place and usually in opposite

directions of course! Each can scooch forward a little. If they see something they want they

will get it by rolling or creeping.

Each of the boys found their feet about a week or so ago. They will grab, play with and chew on

them some. They both try really hard to sit up and can from a slightly inclined position but lack

the balance to stay upright still. They both giggle and laugh especially when Abby is acting for

them! They love their big sister.

No new milestones yet though. No teeth, or full crawling, but on the verge of both and they will

be the next ones I imagine. I will let you all know when they do.

I will try to keep the blog updated more often than every two months. Beth did a great job

with it and will probably still post. I will probably write about more than just the babies and

Abby. I may actually start a different blog for other things since this is The Mooney Family Blog.

Sorry this has gotten so long. Catching up a little and if it seems unorganized I have started and

stopped typing this about 50 times over 3 hours or so.

March, March!!

2010-02-22T20:57:00.002-05:00

Here is a video of the boys. Blaine is marching in the jumperoo which he loves so much. Christian prefers the jumper that hangs on the doorway. They both love to jump- Blaine likes to march while Christian jumps with both feet. Christian also loves to play with his feet and toes!!! These boys never stop moving- just like their big sister. We are in trouble when they start walking (running). I guess I'll be getting my exercise. The boys are 6 months old now, which is incredible. We are so blessed with such healthy strong boys. They are so cute and happy. They do however have a little temper when it is something they want and they are not getting it!!!! They let us know when they are upset with us. Blaine loves to talk to animals- Sadie, Bailey and the cats. It is really cute. He is our strong brute that can rip is toys down with ease. Christian is our talker. He talks to us all the time especially in the car. He is also our little smiler- who loves the morning.

The boys Feb 2010

2010-02-14T21:18:00.000-05:00

Abby's 6th Birthday

2010-02-14T20:48:00.001-05:00

These are some pics from the family get together. Lots of fun!!!

Abby's b-day bowling 2010

2010-02-14T20:13:00.002-05:00

On Abby's actual birthday Wednesday- Abby got out of school early for snow- that actually melted away as soon as they got home. I was let out early too because of 'snow' which was great since it was Abby's birthday. Ben made spaghetti at the request of Abby and we just hung our. She also got balloons and a teddy bear sent to her from a couple from church. She was so excited. For her birthday party we decided to do it small since money is tight and it's hard with the babies. We asked her what she wanted to do and she decided she wanted to go bowling. So Ben and his sister Marrion took Abby and her 2 BFFs (as she calls them) to Thunderworld and then to Mr. Gattis. They had a great time- except for some minor girl drama which is pretty usual for them. Other than that- they said they had a lot of fun. I stayed home with boys since the bowling alley isn't a great place for two little babies. That afternoon we went to Ben's mom's house for the family get together which I will post a second batch of pics of that. It was great fun. We had Wii bowling tournaments, lots of good food and family fun. We also looked at Ben's babies' pictures and compared him to our boys. They are little Ben's!!! Just like Abby- although she was a lot prettier than handsome. What a day.

Sweet Abby

2010-02-02T19:26:00.002-05:00

Last night Abby asked Ben (at about 9:45pm) what mommy was teaching in her class tomorrow. Daddy said he didn't know. She then preceded to tell him if I was teaching about the inside of the body she had a book about the body that I could read to my students. Well, this morning Abby woke up by herself and got dressed without us telling her too (a rare thing by the way). She then came and told me that she put the book in my bag to take to school and I could read it to my class. I did read a page to my Anatomy students- they loved story time. What a sweet smart little girl- who is about to turn 6!!! She amazes me all of the time.

Snow!!!

2010-01-30T14:04:00.002-05:00

Yesterday afternoon we went to Corryton in hopes that there would be a great snow. It started snowing some which was exciting. It was hard to get Abby to bed because she was hoping she could go sledding last night. The boys slept in their Eddie Bauer travel beds all night long!!! Well at least till 3 for Blaine, but Christian slept till 6- I think. It is hard to remember sometimes. The boys love those travel beds!!! They are great. Anyway, after breakfast Abby, Ben and Papa John went out to play in the snow. Abby and Sadie were playing hard together. Abby kept throwing snowballs at Sadie and Sadie was running wild. They tried to sled but it didn't work too well. Mom mom, the boys and I stayed inside and enjoyed watching from the house. We had some hot chocolate, tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches thanks to the request of Abby. It's been a fun lazy day, even though I have lots of stuff to grade.

Update on the boys- the boys are getting bigger and stronger. They are rolling over both from back to belly and belly to back. When we put them in their crib Christian ends up on his belly sideways where Blaine ends up kicking him. We are going to have to put them in separate cribs, probably this week. It will be interesting how we will arrange the nursery for 2 cribs. Our house in not big enough for twins!!! Blaine is really pushing up and almost getting on his knees!! He is all over the mat when we lay him down. He is going to be so mobile I'm afraid. They both are giggling and love watching their big sister. Christian is the happiest baby in the morning, while Blaine is more like his mommy- it takes him a little bit. We are having lots of fun.

Some pics of the kids

2010-01-15T00:18:00.000-05:00

The start of a New Year

2010-01-14T22:38:00.003-05:00

What a way to start 2010!! Started out that I had an ear infection and had to go on amoxicillin the Wednesday before New Year's Eve. Then Blaine started feeling sick and I thought he had what I had. By Saturday both Blaine and Christian were sick and Ben took them to the doctor that morning. He found out they both had RSV and their respiratory rate was up. Blaine also had an ear infection and was started on amoxicillin. That Sunday, Ben was going to put gas in the Saturn for me to take to school and the car would not start. Ben had to take the boys to the dr. Monday morning (after rescheduling it from 11 to 8am) so I could take the van to school after he got back. So my first day of school I arrived 2 1/2 hours late. When I got to school I found that all of my files were not on my computer any more so I could not do any work because my back up was at home. I also learned that I was to be evaluated on Thursday which is the 3rd day of having students. I got home and Ben went and got a new battery for the Saturn so I could drive it to school. We were up most nights with the boys watching them and making sure they were ok. We kept them in the living room on boppies and Ben and I sept on the couch and recliner for about a week. Luckily, my evaluation went well.

The following Sunday, Ben went out to the van to go get our Christmas boxes from storage. (We have yet to take Christmas decorations down.) The van would not start and once again we were down to one vehicle. He spent most of the afternoon trying to get the van jumped but it wouldn't. Luckily my parents could pick up Abby from school otherwise she wouldn't have been able to go because Ben could not have picked her up. On Tuesday, my dad fixed our van and we had bought another battery in a span of 1 week. On Wednesday, I started losing my voice and it is still gone today (Thursday) and we had open house. Thankfully the boys are better and Abby has gotten better too. She had developed a cough too but we kept her hydrated and she has gotten over it. Ben was also sick- so we had a house full of sick people. This has definitely been a crazy way to start the year and the transition of Ben staying home while I go to work. I keep saying that God will not give us more than we can handle. I am very thankful for our family, church and friends. We are truly blessed and we will get through these rough times.

On the mend

2010-01-09T20:37:00.002-05:00

We are finally getting better. The boys have defeated RSV on their own without a trip to the hospital, which we are totally grateful for. Unfortunately, Ben and Abby are now sick too and I feel that my ear infections have come back. At least the boys are better.

It has been a rough start for me working. The car would not start last Sunday and the boys had a dr's appointment that Monday which was my first day back. That morning we rescheduled the boys appointment for that morning at 8:15am and I went to work late. I got to work at around 10:30am and found out that my computer files were lost. I had a back up, but it was at home which did me no good. I did not get much accomplished at school that day. I was flying by the seat of my pants on Tuesday. Ben got the Saturn fixed Monday afternoon (which was a new battery). Abby and I had our first morning of getting up early Tuesday and I took her to school then went to work. I had a great first day making stuff up as I went along. I am so glad God gave me that gift. I also found our I was going to be evaluated/observed that Thursday. Only 3 days in with the kids and it has been 7 months since I have worked. Talking about jumping in feet first!!! Might as well get it over with. Luckily I have the best department head who helped me out and it turned out to be a great lesson which I will continue to use. My students seem pretty decent so far. Then we got out early Thursday and were off Friday for snow/ice. What a week. Not to mention we have been sleeping in the living room all week with the boys and up almost every 2 hours with them. Exhaustion!!! Glad we have had a long weekend to relax and recover. What a week!!!

RSV

2010-01-02T16:13:00.002-05:00

Today Ben took the boys to the doctor because they were coughing pretty badly and sounded congested. I have been sick all week and thought I gave it to them. We are glad he went because it was worse than we expected. Both boys ended up having RSV and Blaine also has an ear infection. We just have to watch them closely to make sure they are breathing OK and not breathing too rapidly or turning blue. Blaine is real fussy and he talks to us telling us he doesn't feel well. It is so pitiful to hear him. Christian isn't as bad and hopefully he won't get worse. It is tough taking care of two sick babies, especially when we have so much to do around the house. I start work Monday and have nothing ready yet. Whew!!! It's going to be a long week. I just hope they get better before their baptism next Sunday, plus I just want them better. We don't like sick babies.

Christmas 09 Part II

2009-12-29T19:20:00.001-05:00

Christmas 09 Part I

2009-12-29T17:28:00.002-05:00

Here are some pictures of our first Christmas as a family of 5. Hopefully I will write more about our Christmas later. Lots of good stories to share, especially of Abby.

Identical Twin Boys!!!

2009-12-22T17:56:00.002-05:00

Today (December 22) we found out the exciting news I have been waiting for since they were born- the boys are IDENTICAL TWINS!!! That question has been haunting me because I could never answer it when asked. I think the science nerd in me and working in Human Identity for 4 years got the best of me. Here is how it went down:

Yesterday morning I e-mailed Joellen (my friend still working at MPL) and asked her how much it would cost to get the DNA test done and when I could get it done. She e-mailed me that it was my lucky day and Dr. Miltenberger was out of the country and Patsy was going to ask Dr. Hubbard. She then e-mailed me that Patsy asked Dr. Hubbard and all I would have to pay is the supply cost!!! Love Dr. Hubbard!!! That evening Patsy came by with the collection kit and I collected the boys (brought back lots of memories) and she took it back to MPL the next day. I was hoping to get the results back by Christmas but Joellen had e-mailed me saying she was leaving tomorrow for vacation and it would be New Year's when I would hear something. That was OK- I told her not to feel rushed. Well, this afternoon around 2pm Joellen called me and said she had some free time today and ran the test. She said 'they are identical' that she had just pulled the data off. I would get an official report next week but she wanted to go ahead and call me!!! I am so excited because that was my Christmas wish. It would cost a little over $1,000.00 to get the results in one day!!! It's great to have connections!!! I did not care if they were fraternal or identical, but I just wanted to know either way. We are so blessed.

Basketball Practice

2009-12-20T23:22:00.002-05:00

Abby has started Basketball on Saturday mornings. It is an instructional league, so they do not play games against each other. They have one main coach and then they have local high school players teaching the kids the different skills. It is so much fun to watch all of the kids and the high school age kids interact with the little kids. Abby looks right at home with the teenagers because she is so use to Uncle Nick and playing with him. This league just teaches them the basic skills and next year she will be on a team.

Merry Christmas!!!

2009-12-20T23:08:00.001-05:00

Drama Queen!!!

2009-12-10T00:01:00.002-05:00

Here is our story of our little drama queen. The other day I had to get after Abby for not doing what she was told. She then proceeded to get an attitude and mouth off to me (yes, she is not perfect by any means). Anyway I got after her and she started crying and crying. Here is some info you need to know for this to make sense. Apparently Abby believes she has a heart for everyone she loves inside of her (I don't think she thinks they are real). Anyway, she opened her door and said the heart she has for me has broken into pieces, caught on fire and is now ashes. Ouch!! She then told me all of her other hearts are whole and listed who they are for. The list ranges from Mamaw, Mom Mom to Piper and every pet and family in between. I quit talking to her and that drove her nuts, but it worked. She then came in and picked up what she was supposed to. That evening she told me 'my' heart was whole again. Yay!!! Too bad the next day it was in pieces once again. Some day it will hopefully stay whole. What a drama queen.

She has also started talking about her BFF's (best friend forever). She has 2- they are the twin girls at church Anne and Lydia. Abby and Lydia are real drama queens and are a lot closer together. One day Abby told me she had hoped that her BFFs would like her shoes and purse. Well, tonight she told Lydia that she was no longer Abby's BFF. Lydia was crying and so was Abby. I had to play mediator between the two and the hugged and made up while still crying some because they were glad to be BFF's again. Whew!!! I was worn out.

One last story. Tonight in the car we were listening to Christmas music and a song came on from Polar Express. Abby started crying saying that it reminded her of Mamaw Kincer. She then told me she decided she was going to ask Santa to bring Mamaw down from Heaven and that was all she wanted for Christmas. She said she didn't need a toy just Mamaw coming down from Heaven. That broke my heart!!! What a sweet little girl. I love her so much.

Let It Snow!!

2009-12-09T23:42:00.004-05:00

This is a little late, but better late than never. It snowed last Saturday and luckily Ben was off work. He and Abby went out and played in the snow and made two snowmen. One was Ben and the other was Abby (at least that is what Abby said). They had so much fun together. The past times it has snowed Ben was at work and wasn't able to go out with Abby. Here are some fun pictures from the snow.

Our Little Monkeys 15wks

2009-12-09T16:57:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T23:03:00.002-05:00

Our first Thanksgiving with the boys. Too bad they were a little sick. It was crazy trying to get out of the house Thanksgiving day. All 5 of us had showers/baths (what's it going to be like when they are in middle/high school?). Ben made some delicious sausage balls and we gathered the food, tea, baby stuff and kids and headed out to my parent's house. Whew!!! As many of you know, this time last year is when my grandmother past away. She past away the morning after Thanksgiving. Abby still talks about it and remembered this. She said she was going to cry all day Friday (thanks to mom for distracting her by taking her shoe shopping and buying her lots of shoes that she needed!!!). Bless her heart, she really loves her Mamaw Kincer as do I. It was a bittersweet Thanksgiving this year. The first Thanksgiving with the boys but also the first without Mamaw Kincer (eventhough last Thanksgiving she was not there either but she was still with us). I was very thankful that Abby got to know Mamaw Kincer. Abby and I hope to go by her grave and put flowers this weekend. We really miss her tremendously.

This is a wonderful time to be grateful for all that we are blessed with. I know I am truly blessed with family and friends.

My husband is wonderful and the most patient man alive (some say he has to be to live with me- I don't see it that way!!!!). He works hard and is the best daddy to our children. He helped so much while I was in the hospital and recovering from the C-section. He had to take care of all 4 us which was a difficult job. I am so grateful to him and love him more each day.

My parents have also helped so much. They take Abby and keep her occupied when she needs some one on one attention and I need a little break. They gave Ben and I our first date night since the boys were born, which was much needed. I can't thank them enough for all they do, especially all of the meals we bum off of them.

My mother-in-law- she has helped tremendously along with Papa John. They also take Abby and helped a lot when Abby was sick and the boys were new. I am blessed to have such great family and in-laws.

I am thankful for the help that Papa Dan and Nana Lou gave me while they were in town. I actually got the house in decent order, too bad it has slipped again.

I am so glad that my children have such grandparents that they adore. I am also so thankful that God has blessed me with 3 beautiful children (the most beautiful in the world).

Preparing for Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T22:39:00.003-05:00

For Thanksgiving this year I was planning to cook more for the family; however, the boys and I got sick. This did not allow me to cook like I had planned. Thank goodness Ben was off Wednesday which allowed me to go shopping and do the cooking. I decided to bake a Glazed Chocolate-Pumpkin Bundt cake from scratch. I am not much of a baker (to be honest I have never tried a cake from scratch). Abby helped me and we had a blast. It turned out pretty well. I made that and my traditional sweet potato casserole. Maybe for Christmas I will be able to do more.

Advent Chain

2009-11-27T22:33:00.002-05:00

Abby and I made an Advent chain together. Abby wrote the date on every link and then wrote something she was thankful for. Starting December 1st we will tear off a link and thank God for whatever is on the link. The things she wrote down ranged from the stars, moon, God's love, presents, and herself. She was real excited about it. A tradition I would like to continue.

Hanging of the Greens

2009-11-27T22:00:00.002-05:00

Last Sunday, November 22 was the annual Hanging of the Greens at the church. I really can't believe we are starting the Advent Season already. Our church is beautiful this time of year with all of the decorations. Unfortunately we do not have a 'final' picture of the sanctuary, but I hope to post one sometime. Better yet, you can come visit the church and see it in person. This is my favorite time of year, celebrating the birth of our Savior. My favorite service is the Christmas Eve service, it just isn't Christmas without the Christmas Eve Service. Back to Hanging of the Greens. We had a delicious lunch of vegetable soup then got busy decorating the church. We had a great group and it was a lot of fun.

11-19-2009

2009-11-23T16:38:00.001-05:00

Nick's 18th Birthday!!!

2009-11-23T15:40:00.002-05:00

We all got together for Nick's 18th birthday, November 13th. We had some homemade crab cakes, meatballs and spaghetti. It was yummy. Shanae painted his car windows and mom, Shanae and Matt decorated the living room. It was lots of fun. I can't believe he is 18. WOW!!!!!

3 months old

2009-11-23T14:51:00.002-05:00

The boys are 3 months old. I truly can't believe it. Time if flying and it is already the week of Thanksgiving. I'll be back at work before I know it (which will be hard). The boys are growing big. I have not had them weighed lately but I can tell they are growing. They are getting more and more responsive. They are smiling at us and trying to talk. Blaine seems to be our little talker. Christian has become a little more demanding of our time. It will be interesting to see their little personalities develop. They love to move A LOT. They move their legs and arms constantly. They sometimes like tummy time but fall asleep during it. I'm afraid they won't learn to turn over. Sometimes they scream a lot when they are on their bellies. They like their bouncy seat and love to hit at the toys. They are so cute and adorable. I really hope to get some pictures of them. It seems like they just get bigger and older every time I blink. We are feeling a little sick today. Christian is full of snot and Blaine seems to be a little congested. It is making for a fussy day, it doesn't help that I feel pretty yucky. I just hope it passes before Thanksgiving. I am supposed to start cooking soon!!! AHH!!

Abby is doing well. We are starting a new reward system. Let's hope this one works. She made 1/2 hr TV coupons that she has to earn enable to watch TV. She can turn 3 in for a Movie Pass which then she can watch a movie. It seems to work pretty well. I think it helped that she made them herself. The first night she was fixing me water without me asking and sweeping and picking up. It was great. Unfortunately, that lasted 1 night. But she is still doing pretty well with it. It is difficult trying to find something to work with her. She wants Clean House to come in and clean for her and doesn't mind when we take her things away because she doesn't have to pick them up. She is too smart for her own good. We are going through her stuff and will be selling or donating a lot of her toys that she has out grown. We have too much stuff in such a little space. We also rearranged her room to give her some more floor space where she can play. Well, that is an update. Hopefully I will do better and have some great pictures. We are thankful for our beautiful family.

Our big helper!

2009-11-18T14:44:00.002-05:00

The other night it was time to give the boys a bath. Abby really wanted to help me. I got the bath ready for Christian and she came into the bathroom. I told her she could wash his arms and belly. She did a great job. When it was all done Abby drained out their bathtub and filled it for Blaine. I was getting Christian into his PJ's and came into the living room to put him in his swing. I saw Abby sitting on the couch talking to Blaine telling him it was his turn for his bath. She had picked him out of the swing and walked over to the couch with him. She is so big. I then put him on the changing table to get him ready for the bath and she wanted to change his diaper. She wiped his little dirty bottom and was talking to him so sweetly. I then carried him into the bathtub and she helped wash him. She then emptied the tub and washed everything out. She was such a big help. I am so proud of her.

Funny Abby Stories!

2009-11-16T14:44:00.002-05:00

I have debated on putting this story on the blog and I have decided to share it to make you laugh. Abby has already asked me if I put it on Facebook (smart little girl). Here it goes:

Last week Ben and I were sitting on the couch each holding a baby. It was about 9:30pm and Abby had been asleep for maybe 45 minutes, which is great for her. (Thanks to the time change). We were watching TV and just had fed the babies. I heard Abby coming down the hallway and watched her head into the kitchen. I asked her what she was doing and she told me she was going potty!!! I told Ben that he better get up quick because she was heading into the kitchen, NOT the bathroom. He got up and headed into the kitchen and I saw him pause and about to bust out laughing. I got up and went into the doorway. The image I saw was the funniest thing ever. I was half expecting her to be peeing in the floor but nope that's not what happened. She had pulled the dishwasher door down and sitting on the door peeing into the dishwasher!!!!! I have not laughed that hard since in the hospital. Ben and I were laughing in the hallway and I grabbed the baby he was holding (it is sad when I can't remember who was holding who). Ben talked to Abby and she woke up and was really confused as to why she was peeing in the dishwasher. The next morning she did remember what had happened and that is when she asked if I had put it on Facebook. I will not forget that image of Abby sitting on the dishwasher peeing asleep!!! It still makes me laugh so hard. Poor little girl!!!!!!

I think that is the only funny story I have right now. She never ceases to amaze me with her wittiness.

Long Day!!

2009-11-08T22:08:00.002-05:00

Today was a very long day out and about. We gave the boys a bath and went to church this morning. Then we went to our first sit down restaurant as a family of 5!!! We ate at Red Robin and the boys slept the entire time and Abby ate pretty well. We then did a bit of shopping. I stayed in the van with the boys though, feeding them. Then we went back to church to wrap shoe boxes and fill them full of fun things to send over seas for Christmas time. Abby was so excited to do this. She has been talking about it for a couple of weeks. We were in Walgreens buying stuff for the shoe boxes and Abby told the cashier we were going to a 'pack and wrap' party at church. We wrapped and packed the boxes and ate chili. We got home around 8pm. Abby kept asking us if w were going to take the boxes to the poor tonight or next Sunday. We had to explain to her that we send them overseas to kids in a different country. She really wanted to take the boxes to the kids herself. I was proud of her that she didn't want to take the stuff for herself. All of the kids did well. I was half expecting for some to 'pocket' some of the things for themselves or at least ask us for the stuff, but they did great. I just can't believe we are entering the holiday season full force. I am not ready!!!! It was great to get out and do some normal activities that we haven't been able to do in such a long time. We are getting a hang at this twin thing and family of 5!!! God has truly blessed us.

10-29-09

2009-11-05T11:59:00.001-05:00

Pics 10-30-09 (10 weeks old)

2009-11-04T14:12:00.003-05:00

Here are some pictures of the boys. We tried to recreate the pictures after their bath at 4 weeks to see the comparison. Blaine's face stays roughly the same, but Christian's is different in every picture. This is only a fraction of the pictures taken and Christian had a different face for each. It was very amusing.

Tummy Time!!

2009-10-31T13:54:00.002-04:00

Blaine really likes tummy time but Christian does not. I finally turned Christian on his back while Blaine slept on his tummy. They were too cute. It's neat to see the differences already. Their personalities keep changing. As soon as I think I know one, their personality change and they usually switch. Blaine used to be so impatient, but now he is more laid back and Christian is becoming more impatient. They keep going back and forth. It will be so much fun watching them grow up together with their big sister. They both love her and love to be held by her.

Girlfriends!!!

2009-10-29T15:35:00.002-04:00

The boys went and visited their girlfriends for the first time on Wednesday. The boys are 5 weeks older than the girls. Melissa and I were 2 weeks apart on our due date, but she went further than me. Poor thing!!! It will be fun watching them grow up together.

Cades Cove/Papa Dan and Nana Lou Visit

2009-10-27T16:03:00.000-04:00

10-18-2009

2009-10-26T22:03:00.001-04:00

2 mo check up

2009-10-22T21:28:00.002-04:00

The boys had their 2 month check up on Tuesday. Ben couldn't get off work so my dad went with me. I'm still not up to taking them to the dr by myself and also having Abby. The boys got a great report. Blaine weighed 10 lbs 13 oz and was 22 inches long. Christian weighed 9 lbs 11 oz and was 21.5 inches long. Both circumcisions looked good, which is a relief that ordeal is over. The NP said they both looked great and are growing good. She did not hear a heart murmur on Blaine this time. She said last time that it was so faint it could be his breathing. I still can't believe my boys are 9 weeks old. They are definitely showing their personalities which keep changing as soon as we think we are figuring them out. Christian does not like his formula the least bit cool, he will not drink it at all no matter how hungry he is. Blaine will eat anything all the time (hence his weight I guess). Blaine loves tummy time and fell asleep on his tummy tonight while Christian likes his side or back. Blaine is talking a lot more than Christian while Christian smiles more at us. It is a daily adventure with these boys and a little girl.

Abby went on her first field trip and rode the school bus for the first time. I think that was her favorite part. It is funny how neat it is to ride the school bus until you hit a certain age and it becomes uncool. She went to the pumpkin patch and picked her out a pumpkin. She had a great time. Wish I could have gone too. We got our heat fixed, even though it is warming up this weekend. At least it is done and we got a new thermostat installed (which we didn't have to do ourselves). What a busy week. This weekend is the Apple Festival at Washington Presbyterian Church. Life is wonderful!!!

8 weeks old!

2009-10-22T17:16:00.001-04:00

After Bath at 4 weeks old!

2009-10-22T16:17:00.000-04:00

8 weeks old!!

2009-10-17T00:38:00.002-04:00

Well, the boys are 8 weeks old. Time is flying by. It is funny how I miss being pregnant now, even though this pregnancy was a lot tougher than with Abby. Here is an update on me. I don't think my body will ever get back to normal. My stretch marks are hideous (especially since I didn't get any with Abby). I will never wear a bikini again. My uterus is still shrinking (too much info I'm sure) and my joints haven't gone back to normal. I can't sleep on my side at all because my hips don't line up (or something) and I get 'stuck'. My knees can't bend like they used to and it's hard to get on the floor with Abby and the boys. Not to mention the lack of sleep and how crazy I get sometimes. I don't want to complain because it is all worth and I would do it again. Now that's craziness.

The boys are getting bigger, especially my chunky monkey Blaine (or big boy Blaine). Little man Christian is trying to catch up and eating more frequently. They are getting more alert and 'talking' more. It is so cute and adorable. I will admit that I feel sometimes like I do not keep them together enough and they won't create that twin connection. I hope I am wrong about this. It is hard to do and I am trying to make more of an effort. There is more stuff I would like to get done also but haven't. It will come together some day.

Abby and I had a fun time at the Foothills Fall Festival today. It was very cold though. We ate a lot, walked around and she played on inflatables and a trampoline thing. It was nice to have just Abby-mommy time where mommy could actually do something unlike over the summer. Thanks to Papa Dan and Nana Lou for all of their help over the past 2 weeks. Abby had a blast and it was some great relief to have help and get stuff done around the house. Life is easier with some extra hands and help. We can't thank God enough for all of his blessings on the Mooney Family.

7 weeks old!!!

2009-10-08T23:11:00.002-04:00

It's been awhile and very busy. The boys are 7 weeks old today, which makes me sad how fast they are growing up. They had a traumatic day yesterday. We had an urologist appointment for their epispadias. Well, the urologist looked at them both and said they did not have it. I then asked him how we went about getting them circumcised. He said just ask him so I did. They got circumcised there in the office. Poor things. It was real hard on mom. They are doing a lot better today and don't cry when we change their diapers. I wish this was done in the hospital in the beginning. Oh well. At least they do not have epispadias. Makes you wonder what the doctors saw in the beginning. These boys are spoiled rotten, which I'm not sure how since I don't feel like I have time to do much except feed and change them. Sleeping, eating, drinking, housework doesn't seem to be happening a lot in my world. They are so cute and sweet though.

Abby is doing great. It is her Fall Break this week which has worked out since Ben's dad and step-mom are in town. They have spent lots of time with Abby taking her to Ijams and to the movies. They also have helped greatly with the boys. I have had a shower almost every day this week. WOW!!

I had a parent teacher conference for Abby last week and it went well. She is above average in all subjects and testing and is doing wonderfully. She will be in the accelerated reading program in the next few weeks. We are so proud of her.

Funny Abby Stories!

2009-09-23T21:07:00.002-04:00

Abby has said a couple of funny things yesterday. First story- She was drawing pictures in the hallway for me, Ben and my parents. (the pictures are really good and I hope to post them). She came in the living room and told me she made a big decision. I asked her what that decision was and she told me she decided to become an artist when she grows up. I told her that would be great and that she is a wonderful artist now. She sounded so grown up (like usual).

Second Story- After her making her big decision she was holding Blaine and looked down at him and said it might be the last time she will see him. That concerned me and I asked her why. She told me 'it was time for her, mamaw, and mom mom to move to the cabin in the mountains'. I guess 5 weeks was her limit of living with the boys.

I never know what she is going to say. She is getting better and better at reading.

More updates to come!

Update

2009-09-15T17:04:00.002-04:00

Well, it's been awhile and extremely busy. For my birthday we all went to my parents' house and ate supper. My mom fixed me lasagna, salad, homemade bread, and cheesecake!! Yum!!! It was wonderful to get out of the house and be with my family. The boys went outside for awhile which was nice. It was a nice day to hang out and get out of the house. The Friday before that Dawn took me out to eat supper for my birthday which was wonderful also. It's just nice to get out of the house that I have been stuck in for so many months.

Friday we also took the boys to the doctor for their acid reflux problems. The doctor looked at them and said they were doing great and she prescribed medicine for them. Blaine weighed 7 lbs and Christian weighed 6lb 1oz. They are growing great and getting so big. I can't believe they will be 4 weeks old in 2 days. Thanks to mom mom for going with me with the boys. Ben had to drop Abby off from school with us at the dr's. It's difficult trying to manage everything. It was also the first time I drove the van since having them and the first time driving it without being pregnant. Wow, my tummy didn't reach the steering wheel!!! Amazing!!!

Things are going well. I'm doing pretty good and feeling a lot better. I'm not hurting except for an occasional tightening, cramping and sometimes my incision if I twist weird. Abby is doing well at school and adjusting pretty well at being a big sister. She likes to hold them and burp them. She also sings to them which they seem to love.

The difficult time of day seems to be between 3-7am. The boys fuss a lot at the same time and I can't get them satisified. I'm not sure what is going on, but it tends to wear me out and try my patience (especially on going with such little sleep). We will get through it though and it is totally worth it. I love to look at my family and feel how complete it is. We can't be happier with such a beautiful family that we have. God has truly blessed us!!!

18 Days Old!!!

2009-09-07T21:03:00.002-04:00

It's been awhile since an update. I can't believe it but my boys are 18 days old. The older they get the more alike they look. Blaine is still bigger which makes it easier to tell the difference. They are getting more alert every day which is fun. Blaine is really strong and holds his head up like a strong little baby. Christian likes to push on my stomach or lap and stand. They both are strong little boys. They take turns at night being fussy. They smile a lot in their sleep, and Christian almost giggles while he smiles sometimes. They are too adorable and spoiled already. Blaine likes to go from quiet to screaming in 1 second. He has learned that we get worried and tend to pick him up. As soon as we pick him up and quits!!! Smart little boy. Christian has learned the same but he does not scream like Blaine. We can definitely tell their cries/screams apart. They are our squeakers still. They have been squeaking since day 1. It's too cute!!!! Blaine's umbilical cord has already fallen off but Christian's hasn't yet.

Update on the parents. We are exhausted (understatement of the year). I'm not sure if I've ever been so tired. I know we were not this tired with baby Abby, but it doubles with twins. I feel like by the time I feed them, we get them changed, get them settled- we might have an hour to sleep before we start all over. I do feed them at the same time sometimes, but it doesn't seem to matter. It's all worth it.

Abby update. She was sick again this weekend. Luckily, we have family that she stayed with all weekend. She just had a low grade fever that went away after 1 day. She did not have any other symptoms but Ben's mom took her to the doctor for us to make sure it wasn't the flu since there is so much of it going around. She did not have the flu thank goodness and the fever has yet to come back. The doctor thinks it might be left over from her respiratory infection from when the boys were born. I just hope we can keep her well to keep the whole family well. It is a challenge with a kindergartener. I think she had a great time at Ben's mom's having some one on one attention. It was definitely good for her eventhough she was 'sick' somewhat.

We will see how this week goes. I will be by myself more often this week than last. We should do OK, but it is difficult trying to get things done around the house when I am by myself and not sleeping a whole lot. Everyone knows I don't do well without my sleep. Hopefully Abby will continue to be a big help.

Abby and Kindergarten

2009-08-31T21:44:00.003-04:00

Here is an update on Abby. She brought home a special 'book buddy' bag with 2 books in it. It had her name written on the outside with instructions that she is to read those 2 books to us as much as possible throughout the week and return them on Friday. I think she is supposed to get new books each Monday. One book was 'way too easy' (those were her words) and it really was too easy for her. The other book was a prett good level for her. She told us that she and only 1 other student received those bags to read. I'm so proud of her reading and how fast she has excelled in it. She loves to read and we have started reading the Magic Tree House series to her which she loves. I told her she will have to start reading to the boys. She has been a big helper and a great big sister. It has been a big adjustment for her as well as for us. She helped us a lot with their first bath at home and many other things. She loves to hold them and to sing to them. I know they recognize her and always look for her when she is talking to them. She has her moments where she wants attention and it's not always positive, but we are trying to work through that. I am just so proud of my big school girl and hope she does well. I don't want to be the 'braggy' mom who says her daughter is the smartest, but I'm afraid she might get bored. They are learning (reviewing) colors, letters, counting to 20 (which she can do in Spanish and she can do the alphabet in sign language). She doesn't really say she has learned a whole lot yet, but that time will come a little later in the year I'm sure. She is so big and smart. We are just so proud of our little girl.

10 Days Old!

2009-08-30T23:49:00.002-04:00

I can't believe the babies are 10 days old already. Time if flying by. They went to the pediatrician for a very quick weigh in on Friday. They were one ounce off their birth weights. Blaine was 5.8 and Christian was 4.14. The doctor said it was great and they are looking good. We have had 1 pretty long night the other night. Blaine was real fussy all night and Christian liked to go through the diapers. Speaking of that- we are definitely going through the diapers and wipes.

Abby has been doing pretty good with this change. Of course she is desperate for attention and really tries to get it. Sometimes not in the best of ways. She is a big helper picking out outfits for the boys and helping with the baths. It's been hard getting back to the routine of getting her to school, but Ben has been doing a great job. One funny story about that was last week the first night back and getting Abby to school that Tuesday Ben had to wake her up. He was missing and I didn't know what was taking so long to get her up. It had been almost 45 minutes. I went back to our room and bathroom and he was not there. I went into Abby's room and he had fallen asleep on her bed while trying to wake her up. I think it was the first time in a real bed since we had left for the doctor about 5 days before. I thought that was really cute.

It's been so fun with the boys and Abby. Last night we let Abby sleep in a tent and sleeping bag with us in the living room. It's going to be fun when we all can really go camping!!! One day at a time though. I don't want time to go by that fast.

New Pictures Posted Finally!

2009-08-28T11:50:00.001-04:00

Blaine and Christian Slideshow!

1 week old!!!

2009-08-27T23:09:00.006-04:00

Going home!!!!!

Blaine on the left, Christian on the right. (Top and Bottom)

I can't believe my baby boys are 1 week old already. It has flown by. I can't even begin to sum up the week. Very busy and exhausting. It has been hard getting Abby to school and managing everything. I think we are doing a pretty good job though. It has been difficult for me to move around since I had the c-section. I'm doing a little better about moving than I did when I had Abby. Pain medicine helps and knowing what to expect also helps with that. Ben has been wonderful and doing most everything. I don't think I have changed but maybe 1 or 2 diapers this entire week. He's amazing. I'm not sure what I'm going to do when he goes back to work. Hopefully I will have recovered more from the surgery. I think having twins has put a lot on my body and blood pressure issues and so forth. I'll get through it though. It is definitely worth it. We hope to get more pictures organized and posted. Again, trying to figure out managing our large family is taking some time. I thank everyone who has brought us food so far. That really helps, one less thing to remember or have to do. We definitely want to thank our moms because they cleaned our house on Monday before we brought the babies home. We weren't entirely prepared to deliver on that Thursday and be gone for the entire weekend. Our moms have been wonderful at helping us. We have the best families. These boys are getting cuter each day if that is possible. Abby is enjoying it more because she can be around them now and can hold them. I hope to get more pics of all 3 together. Maybe even getting birth announcements out! Who knows.

The Big Day!!!!

2009-08-25T05:08:00.003-04:00

Here is a run down of the big day. Of course Abby had a fever the night before, Wednesday night. We already had the hematologist appointment and OB appt scheduled for 9 and 10 Thursday morning. I had been joking that I hope the Dr. would send me over to have the babies. Who knew!!

Thursday, August 20, 2009
8:00am- Leave to take Abby to my parents house since she was sick and could not go to school. We stopped by McDonald's for breakfast and dropped Abby off. (That was all I got to eat that day, bacon egg and cheese biscuit).
9:00am- Arrived to get my blood drawn at the hematologist. I started to feel real crappy. Couldn't decide why. My platelets were at 96,000 when I left. We had to hurry downtown to see Dr. Tsaltas because appt was at 10.
10:00am- Arrived at St. Mary's. I was feeling REAL crappy by then. They took me back and did the ultrasound. Both babies were head down again. Blaine had once again flipped. I was feeling so sick on the table. They then went and hooked me up to listen to the heartbeats and monitor contractions. My least favorite thing to do, except I like to hear the heartbeats. I was so sick I thought I was going to throw up. They checked my blood pressure and it was high for me. I always have to convince people that it is high for me (it was like 133/82 or something). The nurse practitioner came in while I was hooked up to take a look at me. I had never met her, but she said I looked pretty bad. She went to get Dr. Tsaltas. He came in and said, 'You look like hell, let's go talk'. The nurse practitioner told me she never said hell just bad. That's Dr. Tsaltas for you. Pretty much he told me I had preeclempsia (sp?) and I was going over to the Women's Pavilion. He said unfortunately he had a big meeting or something and the C-section would have to be at 7:00pm since I had eaten at 8:30am. So we headed over.
11:30am- (or so) I had been admitted to the hospital and got a room- Room 25. They hooked me up to be monitored and took some blood for testing. They hooked me up to 1 IV. I was not looking forward to being hooked up till 7 that night.
1:00pm- They got my blood work back and my platelets had dropped to 77,000. I told the nurse I was concerned and she was already talking to Dr. Tsaltas. They had mentioned to me they may have to do general anesthesia. I knew the anesthesiologist working and he came to talk to me. He said he could do a spinal and wondered why I had to wait till 7pm. He talked with Dr. Tsaltas and the c-section got bumped up to 4pm. Lots of phone calls going out and craziness.
4:00pm- They were ready to wheel me back. It was more like 4:15. Dr. Broussard (anesthesiologist) did the spinal (he is the dr that I have known for awhile) which I trusted him completely. I also had a nurse anesthesist in the room. It was reassuring to have so many people in the room. Ben was in there taking pics which the nurses said Dr. Tsaltas doesn't like that. They were talking cameras as he was cutting me open. HELLO!!! Anyway, I will always remember him taking Blaine out, it was my first deep breath in I don't know how long. Then I heard Dr. Tsaltas tell Ben to come take a picture of this. I had no idea what he could be taking a picture of. It was Christian's hand pushing through the sac where you could see it as plain as day. Blaine was born at 4:46pm, 5lb 9oz, 19.5 inches. Christian was born at 4:47, 4lb 15oz, 19inches long. They were both crying beautifully. Dr. Broussard kept coming to me and asking how I was doing and was watching the boys. He then told me he had to run out and tell my mom about the babies. (My mom has taught all of his children piano). It was amazing. I then got wheeled out holding both of my babies in my arms. What a miracle!!! God has truly blessed us.

What a day!!!!!! Happy Birthday to Blaine and Christian!!!!!!

36 Weeks!!!!

2009-08-17T14:25:00.002-04:00

I made it to 36 weeks!!! That was the magic number. Now it should be anytime. I went to the doctor today, my last appointment with Dr. Peeden and nurse Sharon. The boys heart beats looked good, like usual!!! Then Dr. Peeden did an ultrasound. Christian is head down and pretty low. He is practicing breathing and looks good. Blaine, being himself, has flipped once again. I think every ultrasound he is in a different position. What a little stinker. He looked good too. My amniotic fluid looks good as does my placenta. I have not dilated any at this time. Dr. Peeden has been very proud of me. I mentioned a few times that I was ready. She told me she is thinking next week. She also told me when I see Dr. Tsaltas (the guy dr who should deliver them- he delivered Abby) I should produce some big tears to encourage him on setting a date!!! I will be practicing my soap opera tears for this Thursday. I also have to go to the hematologist before I go to Tsaltas. It will be a busy day. I will miss seeing Dr. Peeden and Sharon, they have been wonderful, they are the best. I will be sending them pics and running by there to show the boys off. They both gave me a great big hug and wished me luck. You get kind of close when you go so often like me. I proud of my boys, and I will hang in there for them. It is reassuring to go to the dr and get good news. I do have Strep B (of course, this pregnancy has been so different and opposite of Abby). I will have to tell the pediatricians about that. I don't think it is anything to completely worry about. Can't wait to see those little boys!!!

Abby's Cousins Visit

2009-08-15T20:59:00.012-04:00

Abby's cousin Max came and visited last weekend from Louisiana (also with his dad Brian). They had not seen each other for about 4 years or so. They had a blast though. They played so hard and hung out talking about Scooby-Doo. They were fun to watch play for hours. It was great to see them and hang out. I think the 'older' kids had fun playing with Legos also and with their cameras.

Brian, Max, and Abby playing with Legos. Abby had never played with real Legos before. She had a good time.

Abby, Max and Brian playing with this spinning thing for a LONG time.

Abby and Max were playing a 'basketball' game they made up. Abby had a jump shot.

Again, playing with the spinning thing which they did off and on all night.

Abby concentrating on a puzzle they were working on.

Abby and Max playing at the Maryville Greenbelt together. I didn't go but they had a good time.
Still playing at the Greenbelt.

Max and Abby saying goodbye with lots of hugs.

More hugs!! So sweet!!!

This was a different day at the Greenbelt with Abby and her daddy. She really wanted to climb a tree.

Abby was playing king of the rock.

2009-08-11T21:46:00.002-04:00

34 Weeks!

Abby's First Day of Kindergarten!!!

Abby's First and Second Day of Kindergarten!!

2009-08-11T21:35:00.004-04:00

Abby had her first day last Friday. She was so excited. She was the first one there and just started talking to her teacher, telling her she can read big books now. When she came home, she was skipping down the sidewalk with a huge smile and carrying her tote bag that they give every student. She started showing me what she did and telling me about eating in a cafeteria and she got chocolate milk!! I asked her if they talked about anything or learned anything. She told me they learned about people and animals. I asked her if she raised her hand to answer any questions. She said she did and the teacher said yes Abby and Abby told her that turtles have a spine. A little while later she told me she was lying and made that whole story up!!!! She was afraid I would be upset if she couldn't remember what she did. I told her I was more upset that she lied to me!! Crazy girl!!

Second day- Today was her second day. All girls again (it was only the girls on her first day). She was more tired today. She kept saying it was too dark outside to get up. I told her that's how it's going to be. When we picked her up today, she was skipping with her daddy down the sidewalk of the school. She saw me and started waving and was smiling so big. Then she saw one of her classmates get in a car and was waving to her. She told me it was Caroline she thinks. She told us she got to visit music class and play the triangle, art, and library. She also got to punch in her lunch code by herself and not even look at her number. She has already memorized it. (Her mom might be a little bit of a school nerd). She loves eating in the cafeteria and punching in her code. Maryville City schools have pretty good lunches (coming from experience). She is so big. We are so proud of her. She had not been the list bit hesitant or apprehensive about not knowing any students. She is well adjusted!!!!

Our baby is in kindergarten and making us so proud!!!!!! Tomorrow she starts full time with the boys. We will see how that goes!!!

35 Weeks!!

2009-08-11T20:34:00.002-04:00

I had a rough weekend this past weekend. My rash flared up, I started hurting in my uterus where I could barely walk, and the boys weren't moving like they usually do. I went to the doctor yesterday (Monday) and everything checked out OK. Pretty much I'm carrying a lot of baby!!! The babies checked out OK, they started moving like crazy when we got there. Go figure.

So I went to the doctor today downtown at St. Mary's. It is the doctor that delivered Abby. We had an ultrasound done. They also checked the babies umbilical cord blood flow. Blaine was being difficult and wouldn't let the technician hear it. He kept moving all over (like usual). Finally she got it. Christian wasn't practicing breathing, but she kept pushing on him and he started. I think she kind of woke him up. He seems to be the laid back one. Christina was 5 lbs 3 oz and Blaine was 5 lbs 13 oz. I'm carrying 11 pounds of baby and that is why I can barely walk. We then monitored there heart beats and they were great. Dr. Tsaltas then met with us and said I was cruising. He told us he did not want to plan a date because it probably wouldn't happen on that exact date due to it being twins. He is wanting me to go pretty long. He said I will be having another C-section since I had one with Abby. I will start going downtown twice a week starting next week. That will be difficult arranging with Abby in school, Ben's work and the hematologist. We will see how it works.

34 weeks!!!!

2009-08-03T17:51:00.001-04:00

I made it to 34 weeks!!! I had another dr's appt today. They monitored their heartbeats (which I am getting over that pretty quickly). They did great. Then we had an ultrasound. The boys measured 5.1 pounds and about 5.4 pounds!!!! They are growing great. We can't be happier. My fluid looks good and everything else looks good. This was a big turning point. Now she wants me to get to 36 weeks!!! I can do it. The boys move A LOT! They are busy right now as I am typing this. They change positions all of the time. They are always in a different position each ultrasound. Silly boys. I still have to go to the hematologist Thursday and the OB Thursday. They are just going to monitor my platelets and they think they will go back up once I have the babies.

Abby starting Kindergarten this week!!!!!! Ben is with Abby at her school right now for orientation. Then Wednesday morning between 8-10 we can take the paperwork and go meet Abby's teacher and find her room. Then Friday is her first full day of Kindergarten and it's just for the girls. Kindergarten is from 7:50-1:20. It will make the appts harder to arrange, but it will work out. I can't believe my baby is starting Kindergarten. She is so excited, which is wonderful. She will be the best little student. This week will be a busy week. I think every week will be busy from here on out!!!!!!!!

What a Day!

2009-07-28T22:44:00.004-04:00

What a long day. Here is a summary of the day:
11:30pm- Ben went to the store to get me Crunch n Munch (I have never sent him out for anything before). He's so wonderful.
1:00 am(or so)- Benadryl kicked in and I was out, for a little. Ben was awake a little longer.
5:00am- I woke up because of my rash and made an oatmeal bath for my itchy, burning feet. Ben also woke up to help me. What a wonderful husband.
8:45- Ben woke up late for work (probably because he was helping his wife earlier), which ended up being a good thing.
9:00- I received a phone call from my OB- Dr. Peeden. You know it can't be that good when the doctor calls you. She told me that my liver levels were fine and that was not the cause of the rash. (I had gotten blood drawn yesterday to rule out a liver back up being the cause of my rash). She then proceeded saying that my platelet level was low and she had called the lab to make sure there wasn't a mistake. She had also talked to another OB- Dr. Tsaltas (he delivered Abby) about my levels. She told me they wanted me to be admitted to the Women's Pavilion so I could see a Hematologist quicker. It would have taken a few weeks to get a referral and appt which we did not have.
9:30- My dad came over and got Abby as we packed the rest of my bags and Abby's. Thanks to my parents for coming and getting her and watching her.
10:15-12:00- Admitted to the Women's Pavilion and hooked up to monitors in the triage room. The nurse faxed the request to Dr. Avery(Hematologist). He called and said he couldn't be at the hospital till about 7pm tonight. He then said I could come see him at 3 if I was able. I was able and left. While being monitored, the boys looked good and I had several contractions recorded.
3-5- At the Hematologist office. They took 15 tubes of blood (no exaggeration). Bottomline- I have thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) and they are not sure of the cause. I started out at 250,000 count at the beginning of the pregnancy and right now 96,000. You want the range to be about 150,000-350,000. He's not sure of the cause because I have no other symptoms. I go back Thursday morning to check my platelet count and then go to Dr. Peeden's to have the boys monitored. They will go from there. I'm just going to be closely monitored.
Please keep praying for us. Abby was worried all day about her mama and kept asking mom why I was taking so long. Then when we got there she asked why I wasn't spending the night at the hospital. I think she wanted to spend the night with mom and dad. So tomorrow I am putting myself on bedrest!!

33 weeks!

2009-07-27T22:12:00.005-04:00

I had another dr appt today. The boys have been extremely active this weekend!!! I figured they had moved a lot, which they had. The heartbeats looked great for both which is wonderful and a relief. We also had an ultrasound and she said they looked great. They were practicing breathing (a big milestone), they were positioned strangely (they have been most of the time anyway), and you could definitely tell they were boys!!!! The dr said these boys have been exceptionally busy the entire pregnancy!!! They are preparing us for when they come out. She is estimating them to be about 4.5 pounds each, still growing like singletons which is awesome. She will measure them next Monday. God is really taking care of these babies!!!
Now for me. I have a horrible rash that is on my feet, between my fingers and toes, on my hands and arms, and my upper legs. It is driving me crazy. I slept about 4-5 hours last night because of it. I asked the dr about it and she said it could be a pregnancy rash. I did not know that existed. She did take some blood to make sure it is not a liver backup, which she doesn't think it is. She said I can take Benadryl which I will tonight. I took 2 this afternoon and was very loopy and drowsy. My blood pressure looks good and my feet are not swelling like they were. Probably because I haven't done all that much!!! I go back to the dr on Thursday to monitor the babies. I thank God for taking care of all of us!!
Abby Story- Abby was talking about Mamaw Kincer on the way home tonight. She really misses her, as we all do. She asked me if God made the rain (which I said yes) and she asked if Mamaw helps. Then she said she wished Mamaw would float down in a rain drop to come see Abby. Abby said that would make her happy. Abby amazes me!!!!

Last Baby Shower!

2009-07-27T22:08:00.002-04:00

We had our last baby shower yesterday evening. It was thrown by Ben's work family at Springbrook Park in Alcoa. There was a big turn out and the kids had a blast playing on the playground and playing basketball. It was pretty warm and sticky, but I survived. They planned ahead and had a great box fan and seat ready just for me. It felt great. There was a lot of delicious food- hamburgers, hotdogs, different salads, beans, desserts, etc. It was awesome. We got some great presents and had a wonderful time.
I can't believe we have had 4 showers!! We are so blessed to have wonderful work families, friends, and family!!!! It is amazing at the outpouring of love for these boys and Abby already. We can't thank everyone enough for all they have done so far. We are truly blessed!!!!

8 Year Wedding Anniversary!!!

2009-07-21T22:19:00.002-04:00

It's our 8 year wedding anniversary. I can't believe it has been 8 years. We actually have been friends for 10 years, dated for 9 years, and now have been married for 8 years!!! We went out to Chili's to eat and got a dessert to split with all 3 of us. Not the most exciting anniversary, but it was real nice. I was glad I felt good enough to go out. I love my honey!!!!

32 weeks!!!

2009-07-21T21:57:00.002-04:00

I am 32 weeks, which is so hard to believe. I have to go to the doctor twice a week now, every Monday and Thursday. Each Monday I should have an ultrasound, but not on Thursday's unless she feels it is necessary. The babies are monitored for 20 minutes each and then I have a quick ultrasound. The doctor is looking for the heart rate to have peaks (pretty much spike up ever so often). The heart beats would stay around 140's but then spike up to 170's and almost 180. The doctor said it was perfect. One boy was definitely more active than the other, which is normal. Then I had an ultrasound. The doctor said they looked good and they were both head down at the time. We saw their hearts which looked good and everything else looked good. The doctor said they looked gorgeous. She wants me to get to 34 weeks which is when the babies have developed a good swallowing reflex. Then she wants me to get to 36 weeks when their lungs should be mature enough. Then after that she said whenever it happens it happens (I guess). It was a long appointment, which I should get used to. Thanks to mom who went with me and kept me company. I am so glad she went with me, or it would have been very long and boring (but exciting to hear the babies). It was funny to hear it when the babies would move because it would make a loud sound, which one time the doctor came in and said you could hear them through the door and they sounded good from there!
I can't wait to see these boys. I will say they have given me some horrific stretch marks which I didn't get with Abby. They actually hurt and itch real bad. I didn't realize they would hurt so much. Oh well!!! No pain no gain right.

Baby Shower!!!

2009-07-21T21:51:00.002-04:00

I had another wonderful baby shower Sunday, July 19th. It was so much fun and had a great turn out. Thanks to Tracy, Becky, Wendy, and Mom for throwing the shower. They had such a cute cake, balloons and awesome food. We played some fun games which had wonderful prizes that went to me and the boys. It was so great seeing so many people I hadn't seen in awhile. It was a great mix of friends and family which means so much to me. It's neat to see how much these little boys are already so loved. We are blessed as a family. We received some great gifts that we really needed which is wonderful. Hopefully we can post some pics when I get them.
Again, thanks to all who were part of the shower. It was a blast!!

Funny Abby Stories

2009-07-17T13:06:00.002-04:00

Abby spent the night with Mom Mom (Ben's Mom) Wednesday night. Mom Mom woke up at around 1am and caught Abby watching the Disney Channel. Little sneak. They went shopping on Thursday (which has to be Abby's favorite thing to do, especially shoe shopping which they were doing). They were at Target in the check out line. Abby was sitting in the cart with her legs stretched out. She was looking at her legs and said, 'oh man, I forgot to shave my legs this morning!'. Mom mom was trying not to laugh so was the cashier. That's my girl.

Another story that happened this morning. Abby was asking me about Webkinz. Then she asked if I had Webkinz when I was a little girl. I told her no because they did not have the Internet or fancy computers like they have now. She asked me if I was born when the dinosaurs were alive!!! Thanks Abby!!!!!

She is getting worried about the attention she will not receive when the babies are born. It will be a big change for all of us.

Baby Shower!!!

2009-07-14T14:13:00.002-04:00

I had a wonderful baby shower this past Saturday, July 11th. I can't thank everyone enough that helped and attended. The hostesses were Erin McCarty, Dawn Webster, Rebekah Page, and Teri Berger. It was beautifully decorated and also had the coolest letters (A,B,C- for Abby, Blaine, Christian) hanging on the chandelier over the table. They had the most delicious food, muffins, fruit, potato casserole, quiches, and petifores(?). It was a diaper pounding which is so exciting for us. Who knew you could get so excited over diapers and wipes. Not only did people get us diapers, but they also gave us some great gifts which included adorable outfits, sterling silver fish bowl and spoon sets, diaper bag, the nursery decor, and more. I couldn't believe all the stuff we got. I am so blessed to have such a loving and supportive church family. It was an awesome shower and I'm so grateful for everyone. It did wear me out, but it was worth it. Again, thanks to all that attended and their gracious giving.
I still can't believe that it could be 4 weeks from now. It's getting closer and we are getting getting ready. I just hope Abby had at least one week, if not 2 weeks at Kindergarten before the boys come to get that routine down.

30 weeks (almost 31)!!

2009-07-13T00:38:00.003-04:00

Abby's cake she made and decorated with Mom Mom.

Nursery!!! Thanks Mom!!!!

2009-07-13T00:27:00.007-04:00

Here is the valence with new rod and their names on the wall. The nursery looks awesome. My mom also did a dustruffle with the pennant flags, which you will be able to see more when the bed gets lowered. Thanks to mom and Cassie for working so hard on this. It's perfect.

What a Day!!!

2009-07-08T20:15:00.002-04:00

Today has been extremely busy and exhausting. To start the day, I had a dr's appt this morning. Ben dropped Abby off with my parents and came to the appt with me. I am 30 weeks, which I can't believe. The boys looked wonderful as usual. They are still growing like single babies which is terrific. They are both about 3.5 pounds each. The fluid, placenta and everything looks great. I start going every week now where they will just measure and listen to heart beats. She measured my tummy and I'm measuring at 40 which should be like I was due about last week!!! She also said that September 13th was not a factor at all and it will probably be more like August teenth!!! Who knows, maybe about 5 weeks away. Whew!!
So after that, Ben and I went van shopping. Thank you to my parents for watching Abby because she would have been so bored today since we didn't get home from van shopping till 6:30pm. Oh yeah- We got a 'new' minivan. I am now a minivan mom. WOW!!! It is very nice though and we needed it for our growing family. It's an '06 Honda Odyssey. Pics will be up soon I'm sure. Well, we are tired, exhausted, and a little in shock. At least Abby has been having a good time with Mamaw and Papaw.

Busy Weekend!

2009-07-06T11:24:00.002-04:00

We had a great fourth of July weekend. Abby was able to go swimming both Friday and Saturday at our cousin Becky's house. Saturday she swam without her floaties with her daddy. She is doing better at that. Getting so big. We had supper at Becky's and then they watched some fireworks. I was worn out by then and stayed inside laying on the couch. I went in the pool Saturday which was great. The weight lifted was nice except for when I got out of the pool. That was difficult.
Sunday we did not make it to church. We overslept and I don't move fast enough to get ready. So, we actually went minivan shopping. Pray for us as we make our decisions, this is so difficult.

I am 30 weeks this week!!!! I can't believe it. I go back to the doctor this Wednesday. I'm not sure if I'll have another ultrasound or not. Counting down the weeks now!!!! Unbelievable.

Drama Mama

2009-07-03T21:11:00.003-04:00

Funny Abby story-
Today Abby and I went swimming with my mom at our cousin's house. We saw baby goats (which are so cute, I really wanted to keep one). Anyway, Abby was so excited to swim and she swam hard. She's doing pretty well, but I keep her floaties on since I can't rescue her. We got back to mom's house and were eating sandwiches. I kept getting after Abby to finish her sandwich instead of getting up and down and running around. All of a sudden she said- "OK Drama Mama". Not sure where she got that, she told us she has heard Drama but she already knew Mama. Then she told my mom, "Tell Drama Mama to calm down". What a sweetheart!!
I wish I could record everything she said (sometimes I don't want anyone to know what she says), but she is very witty and cracks me up.
I must say, being pregnant has shorten my patience and Abby-do is realizing it and making sure I know it as well. What a character.

Crib Shot and Abby's Bird

2009-07-02T15:49:00.005-04:00

The Vol Mobile!!!! They will be Vol Babies!!!

Mountains!!!

2009-07-02T15:35:00.007-04:00

We went to the mountains late Tuesday afternoon. I figured it might be the last time I get to go for awhile. It wore me out, but it was nice and relaxing at the same time. Abby and Ben had fun looking for crawdads in the creek.

Vacation Bible School

2009-06-26T08:16:00.002-04:00

This is the last day for Vacation Bible School. Abby has had a blast. It is weird since I have not been involved like I usually am. Today is water day, so I hope to make it early enough and see them. On Sunday, the children will be doing most of the service and a special program during the sermon. I can't wait to see it. We have had a great turn out and the kids are loving it.
Last night we had a fun time laying in bed and watching the boys play. Abby loves to feel them kick and move around, which they do a lot. It was nice just hanging out together with Abby and Ben and watching the boys.

28 weeks!!!

2009-06-24T14:46:00.002-04:00

I am 28 weeks and I can't believe it!! I went to the doctor today and had another ultrasound!! Yippee!! Baby 1- weight 1334 grams (almost 3 pounds) and the dr says he is probably 15-16 inches long from head to toe. Baby 2- weight 1282 grams (only about 52 grams different which is not significant at all for twins) and he is about the same length. They are staying the same in the weight difference which is great. The dr is extremely pleased with the boys. She said that they are taking care of themselves and will do whatever they want. They are positioned kind of weird again like last time, one with his head down going vertically and the other is almost horizontal with his head at the feet of the other one. They move a lot though which is wonderful. She said they are perfect and you can't get any better with twins. They are still growing like singles which is a great thing. As for me- my BP was 110/62 and I have gained 25 pounds so far, which the dr says is right on target. I have plenty of amniotic fluid and I look great, especially for having twins.
I am relieved and excited. The boys are growing great and the dr seems really pleased with our progress. I go back in 2 weeks!!!

Fathers Day 28 weeks

2009-06-21T18:21:00.000-04:00

Father's Day

2009-06-21T18:20:00.000-04:00

Cruise!!!

2009-06-20T11:37:00.002-04:00

Mom and Nick are leaving today to go to the Bahamas and then Disneyworld with some couisins!! Lucky them. They will come back next Sunday night late. Please think about them on their trip. They should have a blast. Wish I was going.
Abby and I got out yesterday and went to my mom and dad's. Abby had a fun day with her papaw playing the My Little Pony game and doing lots more. I had fun with my mom and our family friend Kathy Semore going out to eat and then we went to the Relax the Back store and I bought Ben his Father's Day gifts. I already gave them to him, I can never wait to give gifts. Then I helped Nick and mom pack. It was a busy day and I was really tired by the end.
Today Ben is grilling hotdogs at his work for their Re-Grand Opening. Poor guy, I hope he drinks a lot of water. Tracy is coming over to visit and we might try to buy wedding stuff.
Lots going on.

More Fun at Mom Mom's and Papa John's

2009-06-17T14:17:00.010-04:00

Abby having fun on the swing.
Aunt Marrion making bubbles for Sadie to chase.
Sadie and Abby chasing lots of bubbles!!
At least Abby didn't eat them like Sadie did.

Abby playing in the cold sprinkler!
Abby making one of her infamous faces and gestures.

Fun Times at the Rolison's

2009-06-17T14:07:00.006-04:00

27 weeks!
Beth as a table!
Ben having a good laugh!
so in love!!
playing with bubbles
27 weeks

26 weeks ultrasound June 10th

2009-06-10T12:19:00.004-04:00

26 Weeks!!!

2009-06-10T11:42:00.003-04:00

I am 26 weeks now!! We just went to the doctor to see the little guys. They are both about 2 1/4 pounds each (so I am carrying 4 1/2 pounds of baby). I'm not sure how long they are but they are where they are supposed to be. They are actually measuring at 27 weeks 3 days. They are growing like single babies which is great. There is only about 60 grams difference between the two which is nothing. The doctor commented and said that she has never seen two babies beat each other up as much as ours. I told her they are preparing us for when they come out.
I have gained 22 pounds so far, I'm the heaviest I have ever been and still have 2 months left. I'm feeling pretty good. My blood pressure was 110/60 and I haven't started swelling yet. I have some days where I do real well and others where I just want to sit around and do absolutely nothing.
We are still working on the nursery and house. It is a major endeavor. Lots to do!!!!

Abby and I went swimming and she had a blast. I will have to get a good picture of her in her new bikini to show off her pretty new belly button. She is beautiful!!!!!

Pictures!

2009-06-02T11:44:00.007-04:00

The kids playing soccer at Mamaw's and Papaws!
Nick and Shanae!
The kids watching a movie!
The kids at Mamaw's and Papaw's
25 weeks!!!

25 Weeks!!!

2009-06-02T11:18:00.002-04:00

First, here are some cute Abby stories. First, we were laying in bed and out of nowhere she asked me if our eyes worked in Heaven. I told her yes. Then she asked me if that means we can see God and Jesus. I said yes. She got so excited. It was real cute. Another one- we were at church getting ready to leave. There were 2 other pregnant women there and we were all talking about pregnancy and babies and all that stuff. Abby then asked me, ' how do you find out you are pregnant'? I said you pee on a special stick. She then asked me if you have to do that once a year. I asked her what she wanted for lunch. Couldn't quite come up with an answer for that one.

Well, I'm getting close to my 3rd trimester. I am getting really tired and worn out. Just taking a shower and drying my hair wears me out. Yesterday, I didn't end up doing much of anything. I am definitely slowing down, even though there is way too much to do. I'm stressing like usual. I guess it will get done somehow, some way. The boys are moving a lot. Especially starting at around 6-7 at night and going all night. I am feeling them everywhere. It is quite interesting. I go back to the doctor next week, which I then get to drink a lovely drink to test for gestational diabetes. After that I will start going every 2 weeks!!! We are going into the final stretch (almost). Just keep praying for us.

School Is Out!!!! Finally!!!

2009-05-27T15:09:00.002-04:00

Yeah, school is out. Yesterday was my last day, which is hard to imagine. Especially thinking I won't be back to work for 7 months!!!! I had both of my brothers come to school with me yesterday and help me move my stuff. I finally get my own room and won't have to float!!! I couldn't have done it without them moving my stuff. Two of our science dept teachers are moving so it was hard saying good bye to them. Thank goodness for e-mail and facebook. I'm glad to be of so I can focus on the house and getting everything ready.
It was also Abby's last day at Kindercare. It has been great and the teachers were awesome. Abby cried when I picked her up, but she will be OK. We let her take her camera so hopefully she has some good pics we can post.
This weekend has been crazy busy. Ben worked Saturday, Abby had a birthday part at Ijams Saturday, then had 2 friends spend the night and we took them to church. After that Matt's kids came over Sunday and we spent all day with them. On Monday mom came over and helped with the house and the Tuesday was the last day of school and was crazy busy. So unfortunately today I have been lazy and extremely tired. I have started cleaning out the linen closet, but I really just want to sleep or lay down. I probably will after awhile.
That's been our crazy weekend and start of week.
On a side note, I am 24 weeks and the babies have been busy too.

Abby's Dance Recital!!

2009-05-23T18:03:00.006-04:00

School Is Out (almost)!!!

2009-05-23T17:50:00.002-04:00

Well school is almost over. It is for the students but we have to go back Tuesday after Memorial Day. A lot happened last week. Abby became registered for Kindergarten and had her test and screening. She did well on her test, so they say and scored perfect on her speech (no surprise there) and hearing screening. The teachers said she is definitely ready for Kindergarten. She is so excited and was real excited to see her big school. I can't believe my baby is going to Kindergarten. Oh by the way, Abby told me she needed a cell phone for Kindergarten in case she became lost at school and needed to call me. Can you believe it?
The PHS Faculty threw me a surprise baby shower last Wednesday!! They are so awesome. I got a pack n play, diapers, onesies, pacifiers, blankets, burp cloths, and lots of gift cards!!! It was fantastic. I could not believe it. Like I told them, I am blessed to be a Powell Panther.
I found out that I get my own room next year so I won't have to float anymore!!! I'm so excited. Nick is going to come to school with me Tuesday to help me move everything since I can't.
Abby also had her dance recital last Wednesday. She was wonderful!! Some pics are on Flickr, but I'll see if I can post some on the blog.
Again, Lots going on but at least school is pretty much over then I can focus on the house and getting ready for 2 babies!!!!