tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18945879057792943192024-03-05T19:00:14.380-08:00Oh Baby 2010Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.comBlogger139125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-90302955967137103242012-08-07T18:59:00.000-07:002012-08-07T18:59:13.461-07:00WhoopsApparently I don't know even know my own blog address: Sorry folks<br />
<br />
www.moranschaos.blogspot.com<br />
<br />
There ya go!Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-88543746715938000242012-08-07T18:13:00.002-07:002012-08-07T18:13:47.116-07:00New PostNew post on controlledchaos.blogspot.comKristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-28954270313333079862012-05-19T19:09:00.003-07:002012-05-19T19:09:47.169-07:00Mary-Ross birthdayNew Post:<br />
http://moranschaos.blogspot.com/2012/05/go-mr-its-ya-birthday.htmlKristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-84301500912423304942012-04-18T18:49:00.001-07:002012-04-18T18:49:55.704-07:00New Post<a href="http://moranschaos.blogspot.com/2012/04/head-em-upmove-em-out.html">http://moranschaos.blogspot.com/2012/04/head-em-upmove-em-out.html</a>Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-45318229015093859262012-03-28T07:14:00.001-07:002012-03-28T07:14:20.398-07:00Diaper DutyNew Post<br />www.moranchaos.blogspot.comKristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-61395694055826672112012-03-28T07:04:00.001-07:002012-03-28T07:05:17.338-07:00New PostHere is the link to the newer blog with the newest post:<br /><br /><table style="width: 247px; height: 18px;" class="openid-data" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><th><strong></strong><br /></th> <td><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>www.moranschaos.blogspot.comKristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-63378349061689424062012-03-21T21:27:00.001-07:002012-03-21T21:27:26.398-07:00New Blog PostNew blog post at controlled chaosKristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-73394847865110410792012-01-20T20:58:00.001-08:002012-01-20T20:58:47.297-08:00New Post on controlled chaosKristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-88456449191926976062012-01-13T14:30:00.000-08:002012-01-13T14:32:42.235-08:00New BlogHey peeps. I started a new blog for the new year. I felt like this one was sort of dragging and well we aren't "Oh baby 2010" anymore.<br />the new one is <a href="http://www.moranschaos.blogspot.com">www.moranschaos.blogspot.com</a><br /><br />I will continue to update on that blog on what is going on in the girls lives as well as ours.<br /><br />love you allKristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-37404134880201142102011-12-13T19:17:00.000-08:002011-12-13T19:58:21.480-08:00Its been a longIt has been a long time...almost a month to be exact...since the last blog post. I would like to first off dedicate this particular blog post to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Merrit</span> M. She reminds me when my blog has lacked post<br />and reminded me of this today. I told you I would post just for you! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hehe</span>. So her ya go.<br /><br />I guess I could use this time to post a semi-newsletter of sorts. I originally thought I might put one in my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Christmas</span> cards but then Oh Yea...I remembered I had three kids that needed every moment of my attention and just couldn't get it written, printed, and folded in to those envelopes. Sorry kiddos...maybe if I start now there will be one next year. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Here's</span> hoping.<br /><br />Lets see now....where do we begin. Well Thanksgiving came and went. The air turned a little colder which meant I had to FINALLY put socks and shoes on the twins. Yes I know. I have been avoiding this for a while. They hate them #1 & #2 have YOU ever bought socks and shoes for 3 kids. 2 of which hate wearing them, don't go anywhere, and at the time couldn't even walk. Needless to say there are some advantages I imagine to livi ng in places where shoes don't even exist. Oh well it had to happen sometime. So got the socks and shoes and just in time. Palmer was walking a while back but now she runs at lightning speed and Blake finally came around. It is so precious to see her walking around. She stands so straight and pokes her belly out and toddles slowly through the house with a smile on her face. As if to say, "Oh yea, Oh yea, Oh yea". I am loving it. Well I am loving the fact that she has once again proven she is a miracle. Not so much loving that all things within tip toe reach are up for fair game, especially when her <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">mischievous</span> younger sibling provokes her to get it, touch it, throw it, etc. Oh well with the good always comes the bad.<br /><br />The twinks just had their 15 month well baby visit this past week even though we were a little late since they are now 16 months. Whoops.<br />Stats:<br />Blake: 30 inches tall & 19 pounds 10 ounces<br />Palmer: 31 inches tall & 19 pounds 4 ounces<br />Blake finally passed her sister in weight. Not sure how long it will last. Especially when I go through 2 dozen free range brown eggs A WEEK! Yes that is mainly just for the twins. Those girls eat like linebackers.<br /><br />Blake will have her next <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">AFP</span> in Jan. I am sure her levels are low just like they should be. Even if they are in the single digits (which is good) we will still have them checked every 3 months until her 2<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">nd</span> birthday.<br /><br />The girls are all really hilarious these days. Playing together (and fighting) more and more each day. Even AK wants her sisters to play. I just know they will all be big buddies soon. I am trying to teach the twins more words. They seem to be stuck on "uh oh", "bye bye", and "<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">dadda</span>". Which I think will eventually be the words he hears the most when they are teenagers. Uh oh <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">dadda</span>, bye bye. Mark my words!<br /><br />Can't wait to post Christmas pictures. I'm sure they will be fun.Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-69971084856890022192011-11-23T07:24:00.001-08:002011-11-23T07:25:42.434-08:00Pics<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0bNIyP3suu4dTAL6SPYxWEo_KQwd_FrO5YTdNgxDVd0YSW-n4fthKj-31RCXWyRTAF_kFDxNmz4rYBEwrH75ps0AV0aWxUXMwD4PzbIEpzvK_BDmO1w8zZdy2Apzy_K5Q0HYk53U2e7A/s1600/DSC_0776.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 154px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678212746751613922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0bNIyP3suu4dTAL6SPYxWEo_KQwd_FrO5YTdNgxDVd0YSW-n4fthKj-31RCXWyRTAF_kFDxNmz4rYBEwrH75ps0AV0aWxUXMwD4PzbIEpzvK_BDmO1w8zZdy2Apzy_K5Q0HYk53U2e7A/s320/DSC_0776.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5X0SG-Kv5Dj29NPZcFFdC5R8g6ziNxncCubJp_Sb0bPT4eXICjdSt76iNrJMVgM5aJLHqHPuHiAz7LFJOcUEH9N4v1iHtiMb9qVRmUuMvW0CwZQq229zjo3VN792pYTARWDvLgQyAfig/s1600/DSC_0770.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678212605496353922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5X0SG-Kv5Dj29NPZcFFdC5R8g6ziNxncCubJp_Sb0bPT4eXICjdSt76iNrJMVgM5aJLHqHPuHiAz7LFJOcUEH9N4v1iHtiMb9qVRmUuMvW0CwZQq229zjo3VN792pYTARWDvLgQyAfig/s320/DSC_0770.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-50009249894927044932011-11-23T07:01:00.000-08:002011-11-23T07:23:57.681-08:00its been a long timeI have gotten a few complaints about the lack of my blogging lately. My apologies peeps. I believe the last time I filled everyone in we had received Blake's last <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">AFP</span>. Which we won't get checked again until late December. Praying for a single digit number!<br />The girls are growing like weeds. I am not exactly sure how much they are weighing in at now, but I would approximate between 18-19 pounds. My little <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">teenies</span>. Palmer started walking about a month ago and she is QUICKLY picking up speed. Blake walks ONLY when she wants too. No one tells her when and where that is for sure. It is such a blessing <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">because</span> although she moves at her own pace we now know she is perfectly capable of getting around. She continues to amaze me.<br />Our sweet pea Palmer has well changed a bit. Her calm and quiet nature is now more like wild and loud. She can clear a room of all its contents in a matter of seconds! We now refer to her as the "Live Wire". Blake on the other hand is self entertained and calm. She minds well and doesn't bother much. Both are slowly but surely using some words and sounds. We will get there I'm sure.<br />Halloween was fun. The twinks went as monkeys (totally appropriate) and AK was a Jaguar. All of my jungle animals were precious as pie.<br />Otherwise our life has been pretty much uneventful-PRAISE THE LORD! Looking forward to Christmas with 6 little hands wrapping paper ready.Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-83288167171791927892011-10-07T05:16:00.001-07:002011-10-07T05:40:09.147-07:00Update of BlakeAfter our visit to Ohio in August our surgeon let us know we would continue our quarterly <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">AFP</span> blood work on Blake for another year. We were to have it done at Children's Birmingham (as usual) soon after the beginning of September. Not surprising our schedules just didn't permit. I either had all three kids. Which taking all three of them to Children's by myself isn't a option. Especially when AK says she wants to see the sick kids. Who knows where she would wonder off to while I am in the lab holding down the strongest 1 year old in the nation. I would find her in some kids room trying to play doctor. Finally, last week Olivia came in to town and I had a helper to tame the masses. BTW she was a wonderful assistant!<br />A day or so ago the nurse from Dr. Harmon's office called to give us our results. I had no reason to expect anything less than dropping numbers. Her last <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">AFP</span> in June was in the mid 70's (which is expected). Again we are still aiming towards 0-9 and for it to remain there forever. Typically it drops 20 or so points every 3 months. It had dropped to 28! Yippee! This was wonderful news. A dramatic drop in her level and a blessing. I couldn't believe it. I guess waiting those extra two weeks really paid off for her.<br />In other toddler news. Both girls have taken steps all on their own. Blake still is working on her balance and butt muscle strength, but has enough desire to go go go that she just might walk in a month or so. She has no issue with <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">climbing</span> that's for sure. I constantly have to keep a eye on her because one minute she is on the floor and the next she is on top of a chair. Quick little thing!<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Palmers</span> personality reigns true with her walking skills. She can do it but hey why walk when I can crawl or someone can carry me is her philosophy. She has the strength and the balance but just doesn't care. Just her way of life...easy come...easy go.<br />Both girls are chattering more and more each day. It will be no time before I will be out numbered on the who can yell loudest category.<br />The other day I was making a video of Miss P dancing away. She literally dances to anything with a beat and every moment is a good moment to dance in her opinion. She noticed Blake playing with a remote and bee lined it over....the rest is you tube magic. Enjoy!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWQ8ETKRgcY">www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWQ8ETKRgcY</a>Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-46598457846747566162011-10-02T05:26:00.000-07:002011-10-02T06:01:19.338-07:00Adios AmigosThere are few people in this world who completely understand me, put up with me, and most important love me for who I am. Obviously my family creates the bulk of this group, but there are a few others out there in the world who "get" the true Kristen Bass Moran. Oh, how I love them for loving me. Two of these people I have had to say goodbye to all in one week. How bad does this stink? Well one time in high school someone put a can of slightly opened tuna under someone else back seat of their car. You can imagine how that smelled after about a week? That is how bad saying goodbye to multiple good friends all at once stinks~ like rotting tuna!<br /><br />The first friend is a old high school friend of mine. Olivia was a exchange student in my high school my junior year. After a "fortunate for me" turn of events she ended up moving in with my family and spent her remaining 6 months in my house. It was wonderful! She then returned to Germany. In 1999 a friendship began and has continued to grow stronger over the years. 12 years later it is still going strong. We get to see each other on average every 3 years and through the wonderful world of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">FB</span>, text, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">skype</span> speak frequently. Recently her husband was transferred to Boston to work for 2 years. Her dream has always been to live in the U.S. and mine too. She moved to Boston in June. It has been so nice to be able to pick up my cell phone and dial "Olivia" and there she was! Because of a turn of events she is moving back to Germany on THURSDAY!!! So sad :( Thankfully she chose to take one of her last weeks in the states to come and visit with me and my sister and our bunch of kids. I had her for 5 days and it was wonderful! She and I gabbed about old times, new times, changed diapers together, laughed together, and ATE A LOT! She left on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">friday</span> and I will not see her for another year. I hate saying goodbye or even see you later. I will miss her!<br />You think that saying bye bye to a dear friend would be enough for one week, but oh no, I always feel the need to out do everyone. So I thought, "hey why don't we just say goodbye to someone else." I mean why not, right.<br />In 2003 Jeff introduced me to his good friend Grant <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Gilmer</span>. Shortly after that Grant met a wonderful lady named <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Lynlee</span>. Their relationship bloomed and were married in 2005. Shortly after our move to Birmingham in 2006 we began hanging out with the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Gilmers</span> frequently. A relationship began to bloom between <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Lynlee</span> & I. Pretty much we are the only two people that can stand each other. We are two of a kind (good and bad) and with just a sigh can tell how each others day is going. Food and wine are our cures for everything! It is a beautiful thing that we have going. A couple of months ago her husband had the opportunity to transfer to a town about 1 1/2 hours away from here. And here we are in October and its time for the big move. The movers will pack up their home on Monday and I will say goodbye. Yes, we will still see each other and talk EVERY DAY but its not the same. (Stomping my feet) I don't like it one bit. Too much change....makes....me....panic....<br />I am aware that one day the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Gilmer</span> family will return to Birmingham but one day isn't today and that is pretty much the only way I will be satisfied with this situation. Can anyone tell I am not big on change? Guess I better gas up the "submarine" and start making my plans for my first slumber party in Gadsden, Alabama soon because it is gonna happen. I will miss you my dear friend. Hurry back soon!<br />In conclusion I do not recommend saying goodbye to more than one friend in a week. Doing otherwise can cause moments of anger, tears, and binge chocolate eating.Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-14730655609058248052011-09-18T18:31:00.000-07:002011-09-18T18:55:26.446-07:001996<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJevKCt1Oae2EE1JXsSoWOoPN0qEJOQVqGZgbeYkgbIbRX6e_yLcMCn08m0fUxP-YpbMhk7-EYuJ-WRs4tC6VweLTaHV2ARMGSWRhYnZyrdfN2IHMLYEE_oDeblmNX3pvZdMF6JGanSzQ/s1600/idol+girls.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653883286896067810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJevKCt1Oae2EE1JXsSoWOoPN0qEJOQVqGZgbeYkgbIbRX6e_yLcMCn08m0fUxP-YpbMhk7-EYuJ-WRs4tC6VweLTaHV2ARMGSWRhYnZyrdfN2IHMLYEE_oDeblmNX3pvZdMF6JGanSzQ/s320/idol+girls.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>In 1996 I was just entering the 9<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> grade. My freshman year. High School! I couldn't believe it. I had finally made it to the holy land of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">WHS</span>! JV <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">cheerleading</span>, high school football games, and THE BOYS...oh the boys. What I wouldn't give to have 29 year old me to to hop in and out of my pocket at important moments to give me a little life lesson and look in to the future. I'm pretty sure she would have smacked me across the face those nights I spent with my face buried in my pillow crying or at least I hope she would. I think she also probably would have said take yourself to church, find a good quiet spot and pray you make it through alive. I didn't have 29 year old <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">polly</span> pocket version of myself and heaven knows how that would have worked out, but I made it and only by God's grace.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>I have always gravitated toward youth. I decided that I was going to try and serve with the youth this year in some way shape or form. A opportunity came about for me to be a "small group" discipleship leader for 9-12 grade girls. A friend of mine have a group of 10 9<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> graders. A hot mess! A good hot mess though. They are sweet, fun, and best friends. I look forward to getting to know them and bring Christ to the forefront of their minds. </div><br /><br /><br /><div>We chose tonight to do a study called "Idol Girls". It is about all of the "idols" young girls put before him. Boys, cell phones, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">FB</span>, school work, extra curricular activities, you name it! They seemed excited and anxious to get going. Last spring I did a study with fellow ladies about idols and it isn't one of those studies that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. At times it made me pretty angry that "Grey's Anatomy" was considered a idol to me. I mean hello, its Grey's! But I would put <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">tv</span>, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">fb</span>, email, sewing, aerobics, before Christ and well that was a idol and just not how I was to live my life. </div><br /><br /><br /><div>My hope is that these young women realize how unimportant everything is unless God is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">numero</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">uno</span>! Once they learn that life will be much more tolerable! I will keep you all updated. </div>Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-69232078985081390862011-09-07T05:27:00.001-07:002011-09-07T05:41:35.520-07:00PrayerIf you have ever had a child screaming from pain you will understand this post.<br />Blake has had a tummy issues for the past several days, well since Thursday of this past week. She made a visit to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Childrens</span> Birmingham emergency room on Sunday for dehydration and what we thought was a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">hemorrhoid</span>. The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">hemorrhoid</span> in question was what is called a prolapsed rectum. This is where the rectal tissue comes out. I have been told by both her surgeons this isn't uncommon when young children have chronic tummy issues. Blake's bottom is raw and has open sores due to the acid from the stool ( I know <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">TMI</span>). She screams <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">every time</span> she goes to the bathroom and it she is in pain. We have come to the conclusion it is a food <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">aversion</span>. The allergist switched her off of whole soy milk back to her old formula which is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">neocate</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">jr</span> and we are to cut out all dairy and soy products. It will take a little while for her system to get back to normal which means in the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">interim</span> I still have a child in pain. My heart breaks for her and my ears might not be able to take much more.<br />On top of that Palmer is having tummy issues too which has led to a bad bottom.<br />End result here people is two toddlers crying A LOT! I know this is selfish but if everyone could just say a little prayer for my sanity and for the girls to have a lightning quick recovery.Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-33104262192840062922011-08-28T17:15:00.000-07:002011-08-28T17:45:04.562-07:00Twice is Nice!There are many positives and sometimes negatives (enter sad face) to having multiples. One of the wonderful positives is being a part of the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">BAMOM</span> (Birmingham Area Mom of Multiples). One event that the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">BAMOM</span> club host twice a year is a ginormous consignment sale. Not everyone in the club sales but those who do pull items, wash, dry, enter, print, tag, hang, pin, load, unload, place items at building, work, work some more, eat, work some more, chat, laugh, vent a little frustration, tear down, grab your stuff and go home! Oh then sleep a ton. It is hard work but we have multiples so we are used to hard work 24 hours a day. Making a little or a lot of money and meeting some new friends along with sharing stories about our births and kids adventures is really amazing and special.
<br />While hanging and sorting some <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">christmas</span> clothes (and cute ones at that) I was chatting with two other moms. We all tend to ask each other these questions and in order...
<br />1. How old are your kids?
<br />2. Girls? Boys? How many of each?
<br />3. How many weeks were you?
<br />The last question tends to lead toward your story. Believe it or not there are more miracle stories than you can believe. It is truly amazing how God creates these tiny double, triple, etc. blessings in our bellies then grows them and helps get them in to the world.
<br />One mother told of her mono twins (which are babies that share the same sack and one cord). How one of her boys didn't have a complete cord and the doctors told her to terminate because it would eventually die. After leaving that physician she went to see the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">MFM</span> who I had seen as well when carrying the twins. Each week he told her the news and how it wasn't necessarily good but that they would keep keeping on. 37 weeks later the doctor amazingly chose to stop by her room to check on her and they did a ultrasound. One of the babies was in distress and they immediately took them. Now they are wonderful happy healthy boys. A God thing... YA THINK?
<br />As my shift was winding down I was signing out one of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">AAAAMMAAZZIINNGGG</span> mothers of multiples. She is battling and has been battling cancer for several months now. She has twin boys who are small. She goes back and forth between Birmingham and MD Anderson in Houston. She will be having a transplant soon. She came and worked all weekend like a hero then at 9:30 p.m. at night after working all day had to go home and flush her ports which take 1 hour. Wow! God is providing time, money, and ENERGY for her and her family. Can you imagine having twin boys and having cancer. You are amazing in my eyes.
<br />Another m.o.m. had cancer when her twins were a little over a year old and went through chemo and radiation while managing motherhood.
<br />With all this said the twice as nice sale is not only a way to rid your attic, garage, closet, etc. of items that are <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">collecting</span> dust you also meet wonderful women who truly define what a MOTHER is! Although my dogs were barking I enjoyed every minute.
<br />Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-24125237975991265182011-08-16T05:15:00.000-07:002011-08-16T05:48:58.677-07:00The wheels on the bus go round and round....The wheels on the Moran bus starting rolling at around 10 a.m. Wednesday morning heading to Cincinnati, Ohio. The trip started off well. We hit a few tantrum and crying bumps along the road, but in general it was okay. Stopping several times for diaper changes and bottle feedings and then once at a rest area where we threw out a blanket and let all three of our little piggies roam. Since Kentucky has decided to do road construction THROUGH THE ENTIRE STATE it literally took us 5 hours to get through it which is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">UNEXCEPTABLE</span>! This sort of put everyone over the edge. Finally we saw the cities bright lights and saw our sign for Mason, OH which is about 20 miles outside the city. The Bradley's were ready and waiting to unload, take kids, entertain, and feed! Pot roast and mashed potatoes did the trick for sure.
<br />Bright and early the next morning Jeff, B, and I loaded up and headed to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Children's</span> for her MRI. It always brings back memories walking in to a place you used to roam multiple times a day. You see staff that you used to encounter and those you just recognize their face. It is nice to be <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">entering</span> with a healthy baby.
<br />Once back in the radiology we waited a bit for them to get started. The nurse took Blake and paraded her around the nurses station as she showed everyone her many faces and smile. Then we said goodbye and off we went to our standard spot at the patio in the cafeteria. She was given gas then a IV and sedation. The scan took about 2 hours and another 30 minutes in recovery. When the nurse called us back she was holding her giving her a bottle of apple juice. She was in and out but dead weight. The scan went well and then we headed back to the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bradleys</span>.
<br />Blake slept most of the day so we hung out at the Bradley's, played outside in the nice weather, napped, and ate dinner. Oh and lets not forget yummy Raspberry Chip <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Graeters</span>! On Friday we again headed out to the hospital to meet with her surgeon Dr. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lim</span>. He met us up at the clinic and took us over to the Fetal Care Center where it all began. We made small talk and he seemed genuinely happy to see us. Commenting every so often about how her smile is illuminating and that she is so happy. The nurses and staff at the FCC all came out of their offices to see us. I had not seen them since I was large and in charge. She put on a show for them by clapping, smiling, shouting, and doing her "ta-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">da</span>" trick. They ate it up.
<br />Dr. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lim</span> showed us her MRI images and explained to us what we were looking at. He said her anus was still a little off but that was expected and that she had minimal scar tissue and everything looked nice. Her spine was wonderfully aligned (our chiropractor would be happy) and all organs looked to be in place. He then did a internal exam. He felt her bone and he said it felt smooth and that he didn't feel anything unusual. Our plan is to continue <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">AFP</span> blood work every three months and then we will head back to Ohio next August for another MRI. This routine will continue until she is 3, then we will re-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">evaluate</span>. Such a wonderful report and exactly what we wanted to hear!
<br />He said time will only tell about her bowel and bladder control. We will start to potty train her around 2 and see from there. I would like everyone to pray that she will be one of the rare few that are not <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">plagued</span> with these issues. When she is 3 we will meet with a plastic surgeon to examine her and give us a rough idea of when and how plastics will take place. More than likely she will not have any type of surgery until she is 5 or 6. It will be a long process from our understanding. Dr. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lim</span> said he would refer us to a world class surgeon which two of them happen to be at Children's Cincinnati right now. Jeff and I have decided we will go to any length to get her the best butt money can buy-ha!
<br />After a wonderful weekend of fellowship with old and new friends (especially at the celebrating healthy babies social), a little retail therapy, and delicious food we headed back early on Sunday morning. The trip home was much easier due to no road construction. Glad to be back in Alabama but I always miss my Ohio family. Can't wait to see them soon.
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<br />Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-50555454273063137192011-08-09T04:03:00.000-07:002011-08-09T05:44:08.465-07:00Birth DayIt has finally arrived. A much thought about and anticipated day has come without fail. Each <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">child's</span> birthday is a special day. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Whether</span> it is the 1st or the 31st. It was the day that they arrived into the world and stated a fresh moment in time. So, obviously with the twins birthday having arrived I am so happy. My babies are growing up. This year has flown by and I'm not sure that I am happy about it (insert sad face). I have enjoyed having babies around again. Their sweet hearts and cuddly little bodies is wonderful. I will miss this stage just as I miss each stage we blow through.
<br />Jeff & I stood in our kitchen this morning while the girls laid in their nap nannies drinking their morning bottle. He reminded me that we had JUST fallen asleep after having a long long night one year ago. The night I went in to labor was extremely long, tiring, and scary. We were placed in a broom closet for one and it was about 100 degrees in there. I was pumped full of medicine that made me feel terrible and then became <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">physicially</span> sick from the pain. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Vomitting</span> while pregnant is about as fun as having a splinter. I knew that I was thankful to see the sunrise! Then I fell asleep. I don't remember anything after that until my grandparents arrived which was about 8 hours later. Thank goodness for lack of memory, right. This day one year ago was the most emotionally exhausting day I will more than likely ever experience. Jeff & I would remind ourselves over and over again just to think of the future and how we would look back one year later. I have never been more confused of my emotions at any moment than the moment the doctors told me they were beginning to cut. It was a feeling of terror+peace+relief.
<br />Standing there with Jeff I stared at Blake in amazement. When you think back to the day she was born, knowing she was lifeless and broken, knowing she probably wasn't going to live one day past her birthday, dreading the 1 year mark if she hadn't made it, it <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">truly</span> is a miracle to see her even smile. More less crawl, stand, laugh, and play. They were so tiny and fragile. Looking at their 20 some odd pound chunky bodies now it is hard to imagine a once so tiny body that your fingers could wrap around their legs and your hand stretched almost the length of their body.
<br />I am so glad that I am singing happy birthday to a set of twins this year instead of only one and visiting the others grave marker. The Lord provided our family with a blessing two times over. He knew that we needed a deeper understanding of the value life, love, and true friendship from others. Instead of him teaching us a lesson he blessed us. Looking over it now, one year later, it is so obvious to see. Funny how that works,huh.
<br />I want to thank each of you for your kindness and prayers over this last year. I know some of you and don't know some of you but you all are precious friends in my book. Our family is blessed! Happy Birthday to my girls Blake & Palmer. You are little miracles.
<br />Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-27701189387088063222011-08-03T13:11:00.000-07:002011-08-03T13:29:57.084-07:00Grace's Kitchen<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnahxTiLuvUm98IdblXyZq3yz_yD_SX0IvrGxqbritEW5PDnu0VMNdxadC9dJj4qmPfIpmjAF93gndIVkrK7SMCONSy798ZGoUwH74IKEl9RJYVzrZaOfvCRrbvwlepi2mo0A6jVwvjHE/s1600/DSC_0537.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636729511262946114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnahxTiLuvUm98IdblXyZq3yz_yD_SX0IvrGxqbritEW5PDnu0VMNdxadC9dJj4qmPfIpmjAF93gndIVkrK7SMCONSy798ZGoUwH74IKEl9RJYVzrZaOfvCRrbvwlepi2mo0A6jVwvjHE/s320/DSC_0537.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div>As I posted earlier in the year, Grace's Kitchen is a food mission organization here in Birmingham. The founders are members at Hunter Street where I attend church. Every week on Thursday morning bright and early, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">volunteers</span> to to a nearby local park and feed the homeless who gather while also sharing the gospel. For the summer months instead of the usual turkey sand. we have been making yummy trail mix! </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>This is my week to make my share! I so enjoy doing it and it gives me a sense of pride knowing my efforts make a difference to someone. As a stay at home mom of three it is very hard to get out into the community as much as I would like too to assist others, so this is a great way. Plus the trail mix is super yum and I always have left overs that I tend to munch and munch and munch on until whoops its all gone. If you buy all generic ingredients from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Walmart</span> it will make 30 bags filled with about 1 cup each for around $20.00! That will feed 30 people. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>I am posting the recipe below for everyone. For those of you in the Birmingham and surrounding areas who ever feel led to make granola or turkey sand. for Grace's Kitchen please feel free to contact me and I can put you in touch with the right lady. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Honey Trail Mix</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>6 cups corn <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">chex</span> (half box)</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>1 1/2 cups roasted salted almonds (half of a 16 oz. bag)</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>1 1/2 cups cocktail peanuts (half of a 16 oz. container)</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>1 6 oz. package dried cranberries</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>1 1/2 cups golden raisins (half of a 15 oz. bag)</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>3 cups tiny twist pretzels (half of 16 oz. bag)</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>3/4 cup honey</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>16+ zip top <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">sandwich</span> baggies </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>**This amount of ingredients makes 15 bags** </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>1. Combine all dry ingredients</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>2. Melt butter</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>3. Combine melted butter and honey together</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>4. Mix honey/butter mixture with dry ingredients</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>5. spread on a parchment paper lined baking sheet</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>6. Bake at 300 for 30 minutes</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>7. Place on wax paper to cool for about 2 hours. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>8. Scoop 1 cup into baggies. </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Voila! </div>Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-55708339529280559602011-07-31T20:58:00.000-07:002011-08-01T05:11:37.033-07:0052 weeks<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjZljV_ffUsenqJ3WLlXaTcKZnAvCQSGqSlIzCje2Yvc32YatjXvyh7e33MMdzdFlkxM1VnmwrybOv_0ahM5O3iOwuFlpSzod1cf3s5duUIfwcm-PFInWj9btJ0rKd3Nv08SRyLGr_rw/s1600/lola.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 268px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635859041162748770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitjZljV_ffUsenqJ3WLlXaTcKZnAvCQSGqSlIzCje2Yvc32YatjXvyh7e33MMdzdFlkxM1VnmwrybOv_0ahM5O3iOwuFlpSzod1cf3s5duUIfwcm-PFInWj9btJ0rKd3Nv08SRyLGr_rw/s400/lola.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div>This time last year so many things changed forever. One of these things will always bring Jeff & I both to tears. Here is a little bedtime story.<br />On a October day in 2005 Jeff and I welcomed our first precious baby girl into our lives. She was brindle, would eventually weigh 60 pounds, and was a slobbery mess. Man did we love her! Lola Bear Moran was my gift to Jeff for our one year anniversary.<br />He had spoke to me several times about wanting his "own" dog and that he had dreamed of wanting a bulldog. So I searched and searched and found a breeder in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Prattville</span>. We drove over one night and looked at the new pups. They weren't ready so if we chose to buy one of them we would have to come back in three weeks. In three weeks we drove back over and took our pic of the liter. A bouncy, fun, energetic plump runt of the group. She was precious, sweet, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">snuggly</span>, and our new baby.<br />Over the next couple of years she grew in our hearts and into our family. She was ours! Jeff especially loved her so much. Lola loved for Jeff to hold her and rub her belly. She would grunt and groan with so much happiness and love. Lying around on the couch or on the cold tile was her hobby, talent, and past time. Lola loved <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ashlyn</span> Kay and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ashlyn</span> Kay loved Lola. Our family was complete.<br />Once the twins surprised us and we knew we were going to have to move to Cincinnati for a period of time we had to find a place for both of our dogs temporarily. Foxy would be staying in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wetumpka</span> with my uncle and Lola would be going to a home in Tennessee for a while. Unknown to me she would not be returning. I said goodbye to my dogs but with intentions that I would be returning to them. I, about a month later, found out that Lola had been adopted by a young couple in Nashville, TN. I was <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">devastated</span> and angry. Jeff made the heart breaking decision to let her go. With the unknown about the girls he felt that I would not be able to care for her properly while caring for three small children. Eventually I would realize he made a wise decision.<br />Today he reminded me that 52 weeks ago he dropped her off and said goodbye forever. He willingly will admit and he cried like a girl. He has contact with the owner via <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">facebook</span> and wrote her today. I had never looked at the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">message's</span> between him and the owner and he convinced me too tonight. After reading about two messages I broke down crying and didn't read anymore.<br />Although it was the right decision it still doesn't mean it doesn't hurt. I miss her big butt and sadly her toots <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">every night</span> at bedtime. She was always happy and welcoming. She loved us with all her body fat.<br />For those reading this that don't have pets or have never known the love of a cat or a dog it is unexplainable. They give you a warm fuzzy feeling inside that says, " You are amazing in every way." No other human can provide you with that feeling at any moment of any day and with a rub of the belly their life is complete and you were the one who completed it for them.<br />I love you so much Lola and I will always miss you and your snaggle tooth!</div>Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-84358869635893978542011-07-30T17:15:00.000-07:002011-07-30T18:05:19.753-07:00mommy momentYesterday a dear friend and her husband welcomed their two very healthy baby boys into the world. I was so happy and excited for them. As if I had the boys myself. I find myself feeling this way a lot lately or more so after I had kids. Maybe it is once you make, grow, nurture, care for, and mentally and emotionally love that beating heart before it even arrives that gives you a sense of entitlement to all joy experienced by new mothers of the world. As a mother you sometimes forget that <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">euphoric</span> joy the first time your babies face appeared in your line of vision. It is especially hard to remember it when your child <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">disobeys</span> every single command you have issued that day.<br />So when I found out that my friend was in labor I wanted to run outside onto my driveway and yell.."Hey people my friend is in labor". Then realizing that if anyone heard me they might ask. "Who are you even talking about Kristen and why are you yelling to us about it." I would obviously respond, DUH! don't you know my friend? she is the one having twins (thinking to myself that everyone should know everyone that is having twins). Despite my desires to shout with joy on my front porch I instead shouted to my husband. He promptly told me to calm down because I was acting as if I was having the babies. Well I sort of felt l was.<br />Which sort of brings me back to the reason I was writing this blog. Once a mommy always a mommy. You feel what they are feeling. You can almost hear those first small tiny cries. Everything rushes back to you and you wish you push a rewind button and experience that one moment all over again without the 9 months of pregnancy, labor, and sleepless nights to come. I am so proud of my friend who carried twin boys to 38 weeks, labored 24 hours, and pushed those VERY healthy boys out all by herself!<br />Congrats Amy & Adam! You have brought back a mothers memories and will now get to experience a wonderful double blessing!Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-3821774453713751892011-07-28T05:38:00.000-07:002011-07-28T05:58:40.515-07:00Looking backOne year ago today I was getting ready to board a plane and say goodbye to my friends and family and heading to Ohio. I can look back and remember feeling sad to say goodbye but I was ready to feel safe in Ohio with the doctors I was depending on to take care of my girls and myself. It was the beginning of another new stage in our never ending journey. Being able to look back now is such a relief. <br />Reading over my post from that day it was actually short and sweet. If you know me or read these post nothing is short and sweet for this lady. I guess I was much more nervous than I letting on. It could have also been God's arms tightly wrapped around me and constantly reminding me to take a deep breath and trust in him. For once I am glad I listened.<br />Knowing now that the next day would be a very hard one and probably the hardest atl that point I wish I could go back in time and prepare myself. Our first <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">appointment</span> once we made it to Ohio was not good.<br />First off I had to lie in a MRI machine on one side for over a hour. For those of you that have been pregnant lying in one position for any amount of time is never fun. Now imagine your body has two babies, entirely too much fluid, and its hot (good Lord it was hot). I can recall sweat running down all parts of that big body and crying. I finally had to tell them to get me out of there or I might go all "Wetumpka" on them and even though they didn't know it that is not what would "make their day". At the end of our appointments that day the doctors were not hopeful. They anticipated a delivery that week and both girls not surviving. Boy were they wrong!! It is moments like that when I am thankful I get to take by girls back one year later and say "told ya so!"<br />In 11 days our girls will be 1! 1 people. Oh my good gracious how far we have come. Grab your kleenex, snuggly blanket, and a open heart because on August 9th I will recall the most horrible, worst, no good, very bad, wonderfully AMAZING day of my life!Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-90248969854653661962011-07-25T10:11:00.000-07:002011-07-25T10:12:21.438-07:00adventures into manual modeJeff <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">ga</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX79x07CK6HS7U44ePJdZTtdu8Zqe6YffPTY6kF2xHn8_NxdoyvnVAN0L0gQmjInEYD9QN-tVsB0AYW-z-6E73NOYyKiNjLXu_SiJ_tk5tiSoBgPYplekY8BJGUXF9ZaC7D9BE_ceVJTI/s1600/DSC_0687-1.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; FLOAT: right; CLEAR: both" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX79x07CK6HS7U44ePJdZTtdu8Zqe6YffPTY6kF2xHn8_NxdoyvnVAN0L0gQmjInEYD9QN-tVsB0AYW-z-6E73NOYyKiNjLXu_SiJ_tk5tiSoBgPYplekY8BJGUXF9ZaC7D9BE_ceVJTI/s160/DSC_0687-1.JPG" /></a><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">ve</span> me a really nice, super duper, amazing, what <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDC54swYhT-Q8A7T5lkCrvrQ7QR4AUx2JteQ_0G2Ode8dDMScCmk1h6ATmD1qK9ZbVqoosL7o7OAOpv9KHNcud1WmwO8wqBJXwaz2otK1qjbnsui5YeFqq0AsRu6AlLCR1QuqWf6H2Qo/s1600/DSC_0694.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; FLOAT: right; CLEAR: both" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwDC54swYhT-Q8A7T5lkCrvrQ7QR4AUx2JteQ_0G2Ode8dDMScCmk1h6ATmD1qK9ZbVqoosL7o7OAOpv9KHNcud1WmwO8wqBJXwaz2otK1qjbnsui5YeFqq0AsRu6AlLCR1QuqWf6H2Qo/s160/DSC_0694.JPG" /></a> <br />else....oh camera for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">christm</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgf20TRwf8Opdb9ZRrli41li_uxkN0SwXtGdpbfAAbkptpSjSYLZ_Hx4EKdjnjc3vB4MQ_ktNIoXZw-AET0GJBwdHC_zH3V5ujMurxzOyK8gRYtBgPkw9SEW8t1vANhVzV8yteyuS8gk/s1600/DSC_0701.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; FLOAT: right; CLEAR: both" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgf20TRwf8Opdb9ZRrli41li_uxkN0SwXtGdpbfAAbkptpSjSYLZ_Hx4EKdjnjc3vB4MQ_ktNIoXZw-AET0GJBwdHC_zH3V5ujMurxzOyK8gRYtBgPkw9SEW8t1vANhVzV8yteyuS8gk/s160/DSC_0701.JPG" /></a>as in 2009. I literally got down on my knees and begged for it so I was very happy when it was presented to me. Over the last couple of years I have gradually and when I say gradually I mean two years later I am still learning how to use this darn thing. I have watched <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">DVD's</span>, read instruction books, and poured over you tube videos. I am currently saving up money to take a course at "click". From what I understand manual mode is where its at. I believe after much practice I might be on way to finally being able to take decent photographs. Here is mine and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">AK's</span> little session today! BTW I would pay big bucks to bottle up her hair color!<div style='clear:both; text-align:RIGHT'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1894587905779294319.post-21200487874051196452011-07-21T17:49:00.000-07:002011-07-21T18:23:42.552-07:00A birthday on a budgetIf you know me at ALL you know I go ALL out for birthdays! I live by the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">philosophy</span> that the day you are born is pretty special, so shouldn't we celebrate with coordinating paper products and amazing cake. I do believe so! Who wants to have a party where the paper products don't match the theme or for goodness sake there is no theme at all! THE HORROR!!!<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">AK's</span> birthday was Dora themed (sort of). Everything was planned down to a tee. I obviously intend to do the same for my precious twins. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ashlyn</span> Kay's first birthday was a extravaganza to say the least. There were about 50 people invited, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">hotdogs</span>, hamburgers, chips, baked beans, a wonderful huge cupcake shaped cake, coordinating paper products and a child who could have cared less. Ha!<br />Not wanting to skimp on the twins I wanted to do the same, but being a stay at home mom of three rather than a working mom of one I have no time, no energy, and have gotten a little more sense of reality. So in thinking of their party (which I started mentally planning in Jan.) I opted for a family party. It will include all of my family, Jeff's family, and some very close friends who should be family. I want it to be special though for several reasons.<br />The first which is obvious...its their 1st birthday. It only happens once.<br />Second, their birthday was a little bit, how do say, chaotic. Not really your idea of a happy occasion. I feel like they were <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">jipped</span> last year, especially Palmer. We were so focused on Blake she didn't get as much attention.<br />Third and final reason is because we have made it through the hardest year of our lives (so far) with twins and Blake has by far surpassed our expectations and she can now be considered a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">SCT</span> survivor!<br />I mean when I look back at all of those reason we should actually hold a town parade with a concert to follow. Note to self...find band, animals, floats, and beads to throw-ha.<br /><br />So with all this being said I want to make it perfect but economical too. This is where birthday on a budget comes in.<br /><br />Items needed: invitations, cake/cupcakes, paper products, food, decorations.<br />One good thing about having a family party you don't have to do party favors. So that is a budget savor right there.<br /><br />1. Invitations. These can be expensive or cheap but not tacky. I chose to look on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">etsy</span> for a invitation that came in a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">PDF</span> file then you can print off just the amount you need and buy plain white envelopes at a office supply store.<br />I purchased a custom invitation <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">PDF</span> from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-error">etsy</span> for $12.00 and printed them on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" class="blsp-spelling-error">cardstock</span> which I already had.<br /><br />2. Cake/cupcakes. Fortunately if you are having a one year birthday and have signed up for a baby club at a grocery store such as <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" class="blsp-spelling-error">Publix</span> or Winn-Dixie baby club, they typically send you a coupon for a free dozen cupcakes or a discount on a cake. I received two vouchers for two dozen cupcakes from Winn-Dixie. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_12" class="blsp-spelling-error">Yay</span>-cupcakes are going to cost me $0.00.<br />Every one year old needs a "smash cake". You can opt for a single cupcake or a small 5-7" round cake. These are easy to make and you can decorate them however you choose. I actually found someone here in the Birmingham area who makes cakes out of her home. She is doing the smash cakes for the twins at the reasonable price of $12.00.<br /><br />3. Paper products. I will purchase pink and green plates from dollar general or party city. You can normally find a coupon too.<br /><br />4. Also, to add a little flair I order cupcake wrappers from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_13" class="blsp-spelling-error">etsy</span> that coordinate with the color scheme. They were $8.00 for 24. You wrap them around your finished cupcakes for a super cute look. I also ordered a jar of sugar pearls which were $4.50. I will top each cupcake with one large sugar pearl. Just for cuteness.<br /><br />5. Decorations. Depending on where you are having it you can always do a vase of fresh flowers (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" class="blsp-spelling-error">gerber</span> daisies) are always great for kids or their favorite toys if its trucks/trains/cars. Add a small chalk board on a picture frame stand with their name and their age in fun colors. If you want some type of banner there are plenty of felt banner patterns online for free. So many cheap options.<br /><br />6. Food. Make sure to go kid friendly. For our party we are doing lunch. I have opted for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_15" class="blsp-spelling-error">bbq</span> chicken, baked beans, potato salad, and fruit. I will purchase these items in bulk from a wholesale club. Don't forget lemonade, tea, or water. Lemonade is pretty cheap.<br /><br />With all this said you should be able to come out $50.00 or less. I am going a little higher just because we have a large family and will have about 20-25 people here. I will post pictures on how it turned out!Kristen Bass Moranhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02800271323132263406noreply@blogger.com0