Special Treat

We headed out to the Tides game last night (yeah... I know... I am crazy) for Military appreciation night. Where we sat next to a cross dresser (man dressed as woman) and my kids took about a million bathroom breaks. Even with the kids being kids we had a really good time. It was too bad my "honey" couldn't make it. The game was mostly uneventful, they lost (BUMMER)terribly, however... the night was redeemed when we had a chance to enjoy our first fireworks display this year (minus new years). Our seats were so close to the fireworks that the cardboard came flying down on top of us.
They had a Hummer out front for the kids to check out while we waited to get into the game. It was pretty fun watching the kids climb around in awe. Oh yeah, there were quite a few HUGE smiles as well. =) Get those terrorists!














These were from before the game. Instead of their normal uniforms, the Tides wore the camo uniforms in support of our troops! Go USA!








Treats the kids got for hanging in there half way through.






Julia got so sticky from her cotton candy, we tried pulling her hair up. Tara did a "Tinkerbell" do. LOVE IT!

Bike

Melanie finally earned getting her bike a month and a half early. I had to take pictures because she was so excited. Plus, she TOTALLY matches!! Check it....


oh and please ignore the small detail of me actually cutting the grass, but not sweeping it off the pavement. =) hey... hubby is deployed, you just have to take shortcuts sometimes!

Projects and a Book

There was a day last week that I was able to spit out quite a few projects (yay). Granted, they are small projects that don't take much time. However, when you are mother of 3 small children AND your husband is deployed, it makes for very little time to get away and sew/project. Here are a few pictures of what I have gotten finished lately.

Ok... so very primitive looking bunting. I made this for Hunter because it was annoying the blazes out of me when his blankets would get eaten up by the stroller on our walks. So, I just button him up in here, strap him in the stroller and off we go! No dragging blankets, and still the luxury of cozy toes.


The recipe holder I made for my craft swap. I always save the worst looking one for myself. (if you ever get something from me... know you are getting better than what I have) I like it, but I want to tweak it a bit too.



Lastly, the diaper/wipes clutch. I tried to applique the "C" on there and did horribly. I am pretty sure my bobbin was all messed up for this one. (not to mention off center...) I like it, I made a few more for some new mothers (like I mentioned above).




Now.... on to the book. I finished a book recently titled, "Don't Cry Wolf" by Clair Poulson. He is a mystery writer and his books are sold at deseret. I really enjoy LDS books. I recommend this book if you like a little mystery and a little bit of romance as well. I am grateful to the Bishop and his family's library of LDS novels. It makes for a great library check out - especially since we aren't blessed enough to live in an area where LDS books are available at the local library.

My lucky day..... sort of

Yesterday I had some dental work done. Long story, but to keep it short - a tooth I had damaged as a small child (bicycle accident) finally decided to cause more problems. Now I have stitches and everything, not to mention feeling the way that the godfather looks (saggy cheeks). I have swollen a little bit due to planning complications. I hope that goes down soon. It is hard to really want to eat anything that isn't super mushy.

The Lucky part of my day was when I went to walmart to get a big girl bike for Melanie. We weren't planning on getting it until her birthday - but we are getting ready to go camping and the people we are going camping with are all bringing bikes. So.... we decided to do it a little early. As I was walking down the bike aisle, I see the bike she wants (16" disney princess one) ON SALE!! I grabbed the matching helmet and knee pads and off we went. Saved at least $25 on the whole shabang. VERY excited. She got to test drive it today... pictures to be uploaded soon.


Overall, pretty impressive day.

Life.... happens

Little man and his FIRST Oreo!! LOVE IT!

Apparently, as the years have passed, I take less and less pictures of my children. Why? Have NO clue! I really wish that I had taken more... hmm... maybe a smaller camera purchase is in my future!? I sure hope so! I get so irritated with the flash on my canon (yet, it still is wonderful). Ugh. I think I will get myself a nice little portable one so that I don't have to make extra shoulder room for my camera strap. Just pull it out of the purse, click and go. Anyone have a money tree I can borrow? So wish money grew on trees..... or maybe that's just the US mint. I get a little confused these days.

Back on track. I needed to order (and i mean needed or I would lose what I paid for) some prints from snapfish and realized I don't have a bunch of documentation of little man's first 8 months of life! GASP! The HORROR!! I am making a new resolution to do better and take more pictures (no matter how silly). Maybe I'll get lucky and I'll even be able to be in a few. =)

Check it... whaddya think?

Apparently this isn't the first song this kid has done. Ellen apparently twittered that he will be on tomorrows show (for those of you who watch). It is truly great that kids these days actually still practice their instruments. Hallelujah!

P.S. My favorite part is the girls in the background, whispering in amazement, and looking at him like... hey... maybe music geeks are kinda cool! LOL

Down in the Mouth

I feel pretty stinking lucky these days with how things are generally turning out. Times like these truly make we worry about what is ahead. My life has just gone that way most of the time. Things will be really bad, then get really great, to then happen across something that puts a bump in the road. This bump in the road has to do with my "gimp" tooth. Why "gimp" you ask? Well, it doesn't really fill the normal job description of a tooth. I don't get to chew on it much since it didn't have the opportunity to come in the whole way. So, it just sits there and causes problems (different story entirely). The dentists didn't even really know what to do with it when I first came to them. "Oh, well, we'll keep a close eye on it and see what happens". Being it is EXTREMELY rare - so much so that my dentist had never seen something like it before, it is pretty much a learning tool. But, it finally did something. It decided to decay - but had this funky hole in it that goes the whole way down to the bone. Apparently there is some hope for it. I will have to consult a specialist to find out for sure, or else, it's my first trip to the oral surgeon and a fake (permanent) tooth for me! It's amazing how we get these teeth for free and then spend the next 80+ years spending 100s-1000s of dollars on upkeep and preventive measures. Plus... the way I got this gimp tooth was by falling off my bike nearly 17 years ago. BEWARE THOSE VICTIMS OF BICYCLE CRASHES - you may be in for some hefty dentist bills! I will keep you posted (not that you care.... I care mostly for posterity's sake). Maybe in the future dentists will finally realize that we all should have a full set of dentures, instead of paying out the wazoo to keep ONE tooth!

Finished the book

Finally finished the Guernsey literary and potato peel pie society (excuse the poor grammar.) Anyway.... the verdict





ya ready???





ABSOLUTELY



LOVED IT!! =) It was fantastic. I thought Juliet had the best sense of humor and a great love of life. She paralleled Elizabeth in so many ways. It is too bad that the author passed away before she could finish the book. I would have loved to hear how she would have ended it (not that the general outcome was horrible). Her writing style and ability to keep the readers interest in spite of just reading a bunch of correspondence letters was amazing. Thoroughly enjoyed it and would definitely lend it out to anyone who would love to enjoy a great book. Thanks again Jenna!

Poor baby boy

Doc appointment for my little man today. (6 month well baby for an 8 month old man) Life gets a little crazy around here. Anywho... found out the poor little man has nummular eczema. Pretty much a chronic thing, but will have periods of flare ups and where it is under control. We'll just have to figure out how to control his. I thought it was ringworm and had been treating it for about 2 weeks now - and it totally isn't ringworm at all. But... the doc said I wasn't too far off, because this type of eczema presents like ringworm but isn't. So... he now has special soap (which isn't soap) and topical steroids to help his break out disappear. I love him and hope that it isn't a huge problem for him throughout his life. Sorry bud!

LOVE Sister Hinckley

A friend emailed this to me today and I think that it is WONDERFUL! I have always greatly admired Sister Hinckley and feel she is a remarkable woman. Happy Mother's Day all!



"Be a Mother who is committed to loving her children into standing on higher ground than the environment surrounding them.
Mother's are endowed with a love that is unlike any other love on the face of the earth."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley

"The family is eternal. Love must be nurtured. It must be spoken. We must put away our pride, our haughtiness, our shyness, our misunderstandings, and with humility say, "I love you. Is there something I can do to help you?" You can never be completely happy under any other circumstances."
-Marjorie Pay Hinckley



"We women have a lot to learn about simplifying our lives. We have to decide what is important and then move along at a pace that is comfortable for us. We have to develop the maturity to stop trying to prove something. We have to learn to be content with what we are."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley

"Home is where you are loved the most and act the worst."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley


"Be kind. Everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley

"Think about your particular assignment at this time in your life. It may be to get an education, it may be to rear children, it may be to be a grandparent, it may be to care for an relieve the suffering of someone you love, it may be to do a job in the most excellent way possible, it may be to support someone who has a difficult assignment of their own. Our assignments are varied and they change from time to time. Don't take them lightly. Give them your full heart and energy. Do them with enthusiasm. Do whatever you have to do this week with your whole heart and soul. To do less than this will leave you with an empty feeling."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley



"The trick is to enjoy life. Don't wish away your days, waiting for better ones ahead"
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley

"We are all in this together. We need each other. Oh, how we need each other. Those of us who are old need you who are young, and hopefully, you who are young need some of us who are old...We need deep and satisfying and loyal friendships with each other. These friendships are a necessary source of sustenance. We need to renew our faith every day. We need to lock arms and help build the kingdom so that it will roll forth and fill the whole earth."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley




"I know it is hard for you young mothers to believe that almost before you can turn around the children will be gone and you will be alone with your husband. You had better be sure you are developing the kind of love and friendship that will be delightful and enduring. Let the children learn from your attitude that he is important. Encourage him. Be kind. It is a rough world, and he, like everyone else, is fighting to survive. Be cheerful. Don't be a whiner."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley

"As we got closer to marriage, I felt completely confident that Gordon loved me. But I also knew somehow that I would never come first with him. I knew I was going to be second in his life and that the Lord was going to be first. And that was okay. It seemed to me that if you understood the gospel and the purpose of our being here, you would want a husband who put the Lord first."
-Marjorie Hinckley



"The grand and the simple. They are equally wonderful."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley

"There are some years in our lives that we would not want to live again. But even these years will pass away, and the lessons learned will be a future blessing."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley





"With intellectual curiosity the world will always be full of magic and wonder."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley

"The thing about growing old is that when you wake up with a new pain, you can just about count on it becoming a permanent part of your life!"
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley





"I don't want to drive up to the pearly gates in a shiny sports car, wearing beautifully, tailored clothes, my hair expertly coiffed, and with long, perfectly manicured fingernails.
I want to drive up in a station wagon that has mud on the wheels from taking kids to scout camp.
I want to be there with a smudge of peanut butter on my shirt from making sandwiches for a sick neighbors children.
I want to be there with a little dirt under my fingernails from helping to weed someone's garden.
I want to be there with children's sticky kisses on my cheeks and the tears of a friend on my shoulder.
I want the Lord to know I was really here and that I really lived."

— Marjorie Pay Hinckley


"Elder Neal A. Maxwell once said, "We are here in mortality, and the only way to go is through; there isn't any around!" I would add, the only way to get through life is to laugh your way through it. You either have to laugh or cry. I prefer to laugh. Crying gives me a headache."
— Marjorie Pay Hinckley




Try a little harder to be a little better

Gordon B. Hinckley

Cinco de Mayo

and can you believe I didn't do anything "Mexican" today!? How awful of me! Instead, I got to go to a really disappointing free bread pick up (hey... it's free afterall) and try to clean this house....again. I promise, with time I will eventually get it right (and have children who help to maintain the cleanliness). I did find some pretty great deals on ebay today though - let me tell you that can take a chunk out of your day if you aren't careful! Here's to another great night of sleep (hoping). Goodnight!

Gotta see this!

Check out this bit of inspiration. What faith and struggle! Here's to hoping this gives you more hope and more strength for the trials ahead.

earplugs

I think I am in need of a great set of earplugs so that I can get some sleep at night. The heat is really messing with Hunter's sleeping schedule. Unfortunately the vent in my room just acts as a microphone for his crying. Thanks. When I finally get the plugs (or find Jeremiah's set somewhere around here....) I will let you know how I sleep.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Pie Society

I FINALLY was able to get through my super slow book so I could move on to this gem. Fortunate for me, I won this in a giveaway my dear friend had on her blog. (Thanks Jenna!) I am reading it now and although I am sure it could be a quick read - I am taking my time. I must admit that I really enjoy it. I will write my "review" of the book once I am finished and then let you know what other books I'll be sticking my nose in.

Ever wonder

Why in the world we even have weather forecasters? Yeah... me too. Especially today. Forecast: Sunny, high 80's or something. This afternoon arrives and clouds start coming in, definitely foreboding rainfall. Just dumped a bunch of rain and some thunder as well on this end of town. Was it in the forecast? No way. LOVE how weather is SO unpredictable. Not to mention those days it is supposed to be in the 60's and then hits close to 90. Last days, anyone?

Happy to Announce.....

Tada!! My hubby did it! Guess what came in the mail today!? Oh yes.... my registration sticker!!! Hoorah! I was so stinkin happy to see it lying there in my entryway this morning when I got home from running errands. It just made my day. I was going to start sweatin' bullets in a few days if nothing had come yet. That chapter in my life has now closed.... SO grateful.

Bone to Pick

**** Disclaimer... if you don't want to read complainin' don't read this*******

When you are personally handling a complaint/problem for someone, you call them. If I leave a message for you, you call back - you don't let ME get back to you. However, this is the problem with the government. THEY DON'T CARE. There is no "customer satisfaction guarantee" You got beef, they dish it back. They don't care how many people they help in a day... or even if they help ANYONE. Sad story is: members of the military give their LIVES to protecting freedom. In one form or another, if you make the military a career, you are giving your life for your country. A life without being at choir concerts, birthday parties, anniversaries, school graduations, church talks, missing potty training and first steps, teeth, etc. They miss a lot of it. Not every single one, but most. Instead of enjoying what most of us consider (and I guarantee you - the people who work at the government buildings (aka DMV) always get to participate in) LIFE, they are serving everyone. That is just as true of military families. They sacrifice just about everything to support their loved one in serving our country. You may think... poor soldier, sailor, etc. No.... poor families as well! To think my family is serving EVERYONE...including the ungrateful, going to treat you like crud because I don't care citizens (aka government employees). Basically, the government doesn't support itself! Only in America.

So, I have exactly 10 days to get my new registration in the mail. I have been working on this for OVER a month. 1) tried getting my registration renewal from the people who moved into our old place.... check 2) sent in the information after calling DMV about changing my address...check 3) got it sent back to me requesting more info (like the IKE stamp all over the paperwork wasn't enough proof he was military).... check 4)drive up to PA to redo my inspection, call them again - assured that indeed they do not need the additional info to process.... just send it in how it is... check 5) get it back AGAIN (this time with NO returned check) requesting more info..... check 6)Asked to fax information.... check 7) say they didn't receive information (after I called them TWICE to catch the lady in her office - she didn't return my previous call) 7) OVERNIGHT the crap (at $16)and after filling out two different envelopes with ALL three of my children in tow, of course with my mobile two causing a stir and virtually bringing me to tears.... check



BETTER GET MY STINKIN STICKER AND REGISTRATION CARD BEFORE THE END OF THE MONTH!!!!
YOU THINK I WANT A REFUND!?? STINK YEAH! (for a $36 registration, I have now paid over 50, plus stress and hassle) should be free as far as I'm concerned!
Again.... there are no "thanks" for the military - just more manure you have to drag them through to make YOU feel better. You really want to thank us? Give us a couple grand, because the government sure isn't!


Oh... and just you wait... you OBAMACARE lovers, you'll see just what I mean if this mess of a system is actually put into effect.

Trip to D.C.

We took a quest to try to visit the D.C. Zoo while visiting with family. Due to the high visitor volume, the day found us at Arlington Cemetery. We watched the changing of the guard for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers as well. We even found some of my ancestors that were buried there.




The popcorn tree we found while we were there.....


The granddaughters and my beautiful sister.




My sister and her beautiful family


My family connecting with our roots... well, sort of.

Easter Egg Hunt

During our visit with family (our mini family reunion) we had an Easter Egg Hunt between General Conference sessions on Saturday at the church.

Perrydell

Occasionally when we visit my parents in the great state of Pennsylvania, we visit a family owned farm called Perrydell. They make their own ice cream and everything! We used to get milk from there for a time while we were growing up. We stopped by with all the kids in tow to get some ice cream and see the cows. Destructo-girl was so excited about the cows, but was deathly afraid to touch one. Little Momma loved petting the babies and wanted someone to pet her when she stuck her head through the cow cut out that they have their for pictures. My least favorite thing was the bees. Yikes! I really dislike flying bugs of all kinds.

Lovin' Life

As I was driving the worst roads in this country, I was thinking on the last leg of how much I really love my life.

I LOVE:

* the way 64 looks in the Spring (minus all the red lights)
* The trees, the flowers, the blue sky. It's absolutely wonderful!
* my children (most of the time)
* that my life is mostly simple
* my husband and really hope he's coming home soon
* that the next 3 years may be the best we will have so far
* to hear the birds in the morning
* that it stays light out later
* the feel of new beginnings and the feeling of hope that accompanies this season
* Rita's
* all the awesome fruit available at the stores - and I also love watching the prices go down this time of year

Despite all of my trials and the continual trial of being the "lonesome" parent, I genuinely feel happy. I pray that it continues to be that way.

SPRING!.....well, sort of

Lately, we have been having some really crazy weather. Most days this past week felt like summer. I got back from my early spring break trip to PA to find everything (yes... everything) coated with a layer of yellow pollen. SO my least favorite thing in the world to see in this state. THANK HEAVEN for the rain last night that finally washed away that film so I don't walk around outside, then when I enter my house, leave yellow footprints of pollen on my tile.

On the up side, I am loving the sunshine and the breeze. The trees have known for about a half month now that it is most definitely Spring. Now that it's finally here... you know what else is?? Project time! I hope to get a lot accomplished and made this spring and summer. Couldn't be happier that the weather has finally changed.

Rita's Tribute

Boy o boy, I am truly slacking these days. I didn't get to remind all you wonderful people (all of you pretty much knew already) about free Rita's! It was this past Saturday. Sorry for those of you who missed it. If you mosey on in to see them on 21st street and sign up for their email list - they will send you an email each day of their flavors (or tell you when your favorite flavor is there). It's kinda handy when you are craving something truly fabulous. I hope you enjoyed your freebie. I think I'll have to just sample the PEEPS flavor just to say that I have tried it! hmmm... is it friday yet?!!
image courtesy of their website

Cake decorating with YW

Earlier this month, the Beehives learned some cake decorating skills. They did pretty well, don't ya think?

 

Of course we can't go without a BIG thank you to Tara - the talent that inspired all of this fun.

THANKS TARA!!

Lastly, here is my creation. I was stinkin proud of myself - thanks for showing me how to do it Tara! (and reminding me how un-crafty I am!)



VOILA!!

COUNTDOWN!!

guess what i put on this morning??? after seeing the change on my scale since i was sick, i decided... let's go ahead and dust off those 10's. whaddya know? they fit!! EVERY SINGLE ONE!! I just took a picture of the first one though. hey... stop drooling!! heheh just kidding. might i also add that i am wearing a medium shirt as well?! bring on the medium size range - lovin it up!

March Madness

For anyone who knows us - they know that March is kinda a crazy month for birthdays around here. Thank heavens all the birthdays belong to adults (that would be NUTS for birthday cakes). Yesterday was Jeremiah's mom's birthday (53), today is my sister - Jamie's- birthday (23), Tuesday is Jeremiah's (big 2-9), and my Dad's is the last day of the month (big 5-0)!! Happy Birthday everyone and I'm grateful you are in my life. I hope this year ends up being GREAT for you all!

Bubby is 6 months yesterday!

Can't believe how time has flown! Let me tell you though - he is the sweetest little man I could have ever dreamed of! I just love him up. If I would have known boys could be this fun... I totally would have had them first! (like I had a choice) Here's a mug of this handsome child of mine:
I think he may have a bit of those killer eyes his biggest sister has been blessed/cursed with. Whaddya think?

Freebie

I love it when people think of my little family to give things to. Yesterday we were outside enjoying the sunshine and a neighbor comes over and offers us this:

for free! Thank you to all the nice people who have thought of us and handed us down some clothes and fun stuff. I know that you are blessed!

Thank YOU TARA!!

Totally love bug bombs now. We got them awhile ago in hopes to get rid of the "water bugs" that thrive in this area. (knock on wood) So far so good as far as continuing to work. As much as bugs aren't fun... I would much rather come across a dead one than a live one. I've even found some itty bitty spiders dead as well!! Here's to hoping my house stays bug free until the next bug bombing.

First for everything

Friday was the first day that I consumed all of the water that I was supposed to in a day's time. That's 80 oz of water! Man... did my bladder hate me for awhile. That is what my new goal for myself is - to drink that much water everyday. Other great news... I lost almost 3 lbs this month (bad weight loss... good last week!). However.... I will totally be losing more weight this month. Hooray! By the way: congratulations for winning the month Brooke!

Projects on the brain

Yes... I've got close to MILLIONS of projects on the brain, just no time or materials to execute them! Yikes! I am getting excited though - nice weather + projects on the brain = completed projects and so much fun! Trying to keep the "spirit" of living alive. I think a lot of times, the women of the deployed get depressed and in a funk - well, here's to hoping that funk stays away!! If any of you have stumbled across some fun projects I could do (and maybe even finish)- tell me about them please! I have a craft swap that I am in right now and could use the ideas!

some of my "brainstorms"
* aprons (me and the girls - for cooking)
* paint and stencil bookcases
* Make some things to hang in the girls/Hunter's room
* jumpers for the girls (with the fabric I've had for months)
* car "trash bag"
* baby legs (all of them are almost done)
* door hangings for all the upcoming holiday's/seasons
* quilts for spring/summer
* bookshelves from the pottery barn catalog (I want to recreate them)
* a diaper bag
* magnetic spice rack stuff
* etc.

Got my Physique 57 videos!

I tried the 30 minute express video and I was TOTALLY feeling the burn! Holy COW! I am lovin' them though. We'll see if those "inches" melt off like they say. If anyone wants to come try 'em... give me a holler. You all are more than welcome to do them along with me. (I won't be lending them out any time soon - sorry)

Day 3

In a pretty great week so far. Despite the icky weather we are experiencing. I have been able to enjoy my kids this week so far and look forward to a really rewarding/enjoyable week with them come Sunday.

Not to mention I finally sent Jeremiah a package (it will be his one and only this deployment I fear) that will hopefully get there by his birthday (23rd). I took the box to a different Post Office this time... and guess what?? MUCH BETTER SERVICE! hooray! I was probably the 4th or 5th person in line... but I didn't stand in line longer than about 5 minutes. It was FABULOUS! yeah, I guess that word is sticking to me these days.

FABULOUS book store!

My sister lives on the west coast and stumbled across (aka... intentionally went after hearing about it) this gem of a store. She said it took up an entire block! The wonder store? POWELL'S BOOKS. Stinkin heaven on earth! I got online and made an order (by the way... you will want to order at least $50 worth so you can get free shipping - on qualified orders - otherwise you will pay an arm and a leg for it). I found books that were super hard to find around here (let alone... getting peace and quiet when there with my 3 hoodlums). The best part is: they sell used books as well! All of the books that I bought were used - so I ended up with a pretty great deal overall. I will post about their condition when I get my HUGE box full of books in 2 weeks! I am SO excited!

Clean Slate

I have finally decided (yeah... my skull is pretty thick) to wipe my slate clean. All of my "to do's" aren't "to do's" anymore. For the duration of the deployment, I am cutting back on my extracurricular activities. My priorities will be my children, the gym, and young womens. Nothing else will be added (of course grocery shopping is a must on occasion as well as the errands) to my list unless my priorities have been met and I have a) cleaned my house and b) spent quality time with my kids. I'm refusing to run around like a chicken with my head cut off. Done. Believe me, with 3 children to care for, shopping, laundry, cleaning, dr.'s appts, etc. I will have PLENTY to keep me busy!

Physique 57

Ok, guys. I gotta bring out the big guns. I finally ordered myself some physique 57 dvd's and equipment to help me on my weight loss challenge. If you haven't heard of them before, Kelly Ripa really likes their workouts and I think does them regularly. I am excited to try them and just know I will have a blast with them. SO MUCH FUN!!! I'll let you know how it goes. In the mean time... anyone have some really good de-stressing advice? I'd love to hear how you "unwind".

Kidding me, right!?

Just attended an AWFUL "get together":
- awfully chaotic
- awfully attended
- awfully few leaders
- awfully disheartening for the youth


Honestly, come one people! Our youth deserve more than that. If WE can't attend an activity and support them, you can guarantee that they are not going to want to be there. I just feel badly that there isn't enough guidance and support for them. They are our future. Sometimes I think, maybe we are what makes the youths' lives harder.... by not being there for them.

Bi-polar day

Today was quite an intense one. It started off with "I HATE YOU!!" repeated just short of a million times before school. My middle child followed it with "You are the best mom EVER!" upon returning home from taking said child to school. Then I was just told minutes ago that, "You are the best cookie chef EVER and EVER!" (by the girl who hated me this morning). Ugh.... it's been a day. As a young mother, you think that inevitably someday one of your children will say those words to you. I.....hate....you... I thought that I would just be able to shrug it off and continue about my day. I might have been able to do just that had I not continued looking at her as she repeated those words over and over with tears streaming down her face. Ouch... yup, that one hurt me.

Happy Valentines Day!

I hope that today wasn't too much of a bummer (since it is Sunday, and maybe your hubby isn't around either). My dad made heart shaped pancakes for us and the girls helped to make some heart sugar cookies for all of us for dinner. Since I made so much stinkin lettuce for the cafe rio stuff at the baby shower, I went ahead and did cafe rio for dinner tonight for the family (and in-laws). Everyone liked it. I'm still waiting to find out what Jeremiah did for me for Valentines. Due to slow internet and the fact the the ship just can't do anything without my husbands help, I haven't gotten the present yet, but I am WAY excited to find out what he did. I am so grateful for the internet and telephone technology to keep us in touch and make it seem as though he isn't as far away as he is. Plus, you can still receive gifts from them in time for holidays/birthdays/anniversaries! I love that all of you are my friends and I'm so blessed to have you all in my life. Thank you for your friendships!! To my family and husband, I couldn't have asked for a better bunch of people to spend eternity with.

Slaving away

Got myself on another organizing kick. Let me tell you though, it's kinda tough stuff, and a very slow process. I hope to be able to get rid of some of my girl clothes and send them to my nieces here soon. Just figuring out how many stinking books we have and trying to down size as much as possible. (No honey, I'm not throwing our books away) It's something I am really really really wanting to finally attain - organization!!! Let's hope it happens soon.


On a great note, Old Navy still had their clearance on clearance yesterday when I went. I saw a pair of pants in the size I hope to be by the time the weight loss challenge is over. For right around $5 for a pair of jeans, I figured it wouldn't be a very expensive bit of decor. I am going to hang it up in my room so I can see it everyday. WATCHING my goal. So yes, between trying to get organized, the gym, and my children, I am DEFINITELY slaving away at life. But... I have to admit, it's kind of fabulous (for now).

crazy week

I have most definitely had a crazy week. I do not wish to EVER visit this past week AGAIN!! Thank heavens most things in life are visited only once. Too much to even share really. The big highlights were: not being able to really get to the gym, taking julia to the hospital twice between Sunday and Thursday to FINALLY get that bead out, and getting sick this whole weekend. I must admit that I am grateful I took an absence from life the past few days because I think I will be all the better for it this week. I look forward to unwinding and hopefully getting a lot accomplished. For those ladies who are in the challenge with me, this month isn't going to look good for me on the scale. I have HIGH expectations that I will find myself only about 10 lbs lighter than I started earlier this month. I won't be the biggest loser this month. I have had a LOT of set backs. Good luck to you other ladies though.... I'm excited to see who gets it this month.

Which would you choose?

I've been kind of in a Jane Austen funk. Good kind of funk though. I watched a different take of Pride and Prejudice yesterday and came away thinking.... hmmm... which would I rather, Darcy or Bingley?? I am still trying to assess which one exactly I have married. I will update with my answer later. So, which would you ladies rather, Darcy or Bingley and why? Or do you prefer one and find you have married the other? (but are of course extremely happy)

Julia's operation

As an update to Julia's little "predicament" - she will be in an OR on Thursday if things do not change. Finally able to get the bead out of her ear. I'm not quite sure how many hours I will get to add to the 11 I have already spent trying to save her ear from further damage. I spent 4 hours at the hospital this morning and spent most of them waiting in the pre-op area to have a 30 second meeting. I had an epiphany while I was there. If the world seems to think this standardized health care thing is such a great idea, you should talk to a military dependent. If you want to wait for an average of 2.5 hours to get a prescription filled at the pharmacy, go on wild goose chases, or spend 11 plus hours trying to get a bead out of a child's ear - then Obama's health care is for you!!!

Lend me your ears.....

So, Julia somehow got something in her ear. Not sure when, not sure how. I just "happened" to be doing ears today and checked hers, noticing there was something in it. After 7 hours at the Naval Hospital - it's still in her ear. She will be going to an OR room later this week to have it removed by an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist. She had had about enough of people looking/poking in her ear and would not sit still long enough to get it out (about 3 seconds - according to the specialist). So, OR - here we come!! It better come out or else I think I will have a conniption fit! Ugh!! Due to all other circumstances, this was pretty much the only option we had left. Upon returning to the ER, the doctor that discharged us from the hospital was the same doctor that helped deliver Julia. Small world, eh? No wait... that's what happens when you never stinking LEAVE!! This next week looks pretty shot as far as my working out goes.... so ladies, you'll win the money this month... but next time - it's on like donkey kong!! (hehe)

Let's all keep our fingers crossed that Julia doesn't do this again... please????!!!

SALE SPOTTERS

on my latest adventure to find some sales, we (tara and I) found some good ones.


MILITARY MEMBERS - for this weekend only, you get 10% off your entire purchase at Old Navy, so if you aren't lucky enough to have an in store coupon, show them that ID!!

ALSO AT OLD NAVY - went to the one in Chesapeake, but the clearance sections (all over the store) are an ADDITIONAL 50% off lowest ticketed price. I didn't pay more than $3.50 for anything. (plus, if you are military you get an additional 10% - if you are lucky, you can get some AWESOME stuff CHEAP)

THE CHILDRENS PLACE - most of the store is $5. They have sweaters, jammies, shirts, pants, tights, etc. ALL for $4.99 (oh and brooke, don't get any accessories for that cute green sweater of Jude's - I bought a coordinating accessory for you)


GYMBOREE - they have their semi-annual sale going on and you can use your GYMBucks if you have earned any so far.

BATH AND BODY WORKS - their semi-annual sale is about to end. hurry in for your $5 wallflowers (which includes the aromatherapy versions that are NOT found with the other wallflowers. they have the same regular price listed, but are indeed $5) 4 for 10 soaps and a lot more.

I think that about sums it up for now, if you've found something great that we don't have posted, send us a line - we will put it up here AND we'll probably visit the store - we love a good deal. TTFN!

Blessing and Prayers

As a lot of you guys already know, my sister (not my youngest that most of you have met..) had to go in for an emergency surgery last night. She has two sweet little girls at home and a loving husband and was rushed to surgery last night upon finding out that she had an ectopic pregnancy that has been causing her pain for about a month. Unfortunately, she had an underlying symptom that caused the doctors to miss it at first. The pregnancy put strain on the fallopian tube which in turn pulled the appendix and moved her rectum as well which caused the intense pain she suffered at irregular intervals. They had to remove the fallopian tube with the pregnancy in it because it had ruptured and was completely irreparable. They also noticed that the appendix was under strain and therefore inflamed so they took that out as well to save her another surgery within the week. Her mother-in-law was blessed enough to fly out first thing this morning to be with her family to help with the girls. Her youngest daughter, Ella hadn't been able to take a bottle up until this time - but her grandmother worked her magic and she had her first bottle while her mother was still at the hospital. I know many of you have been thinking about her and praying for her - thank you so much! The power of prayer is an amazing thing and we are so lucky and blessed to have it in our lives and to be able to exercise and ask for His help. Once again, thank you so much to everyone! Those of you with younger siblings, you know how you feel as though you need to protect them - so naturally I was afraid for her to have to go into a surgery and basically have her life saved.

It's that time again......

Close to meltdown? Why? Oh, just because my husband is gone, that's all. It's amazing the things that will go wrong when my husband is gone (AND NOT EVEN FOR A WEEK YET!!). What broke down/went chaotic this time you ask? Oh, just my only mode of transportation. The "service engine soon" light came on on Friday night. Yup, way fun. The blessing of it all (and may I also add that with every crisis while my husband is away, there is a tremendous blessing that accompanies it) is that the problem isn't too serious. Unfortunately, it looks like the fix may be a bit involved which means that if that is the case, I will be donating some money to the Nissan dealership here pretty soon. Gotta love those forced donations, I really miss my wonderful "fix it" husband at times like these!! On a slightly nicer note, I still have been doing well with my exercising and weight loss goals. I'll have to weigh in on Monday to see how well I've done. Keep up the good work ladies, I know you all have been working hard.

Excited.... again!

More people have joined the group for a healthier 2010! I'm so excited. I just want to go run a 5K or something!! Ladies, we can do it! I hope that snow doesn't show up so that I can get to the gym tomorrow. Nighty Night!

Tooting my horn.....

Yes, sometimes in life, I believe that you need to toot your own horn. Why, you ask? Because I'm so stinkin excited!!! I have been faithful for a full two days so far on this weight loss journey. I feel amazing, I have stuck with it and I'm really proud of myself! Sadly, I'm even going to miss a special birthday celebration lunch because I don't want to go over my calories for the day. (sorry Deborah... hopefully I see you at the gym so I can give you your present). Yeah, pathetic huh? BUT... that's how I roll! I have to do it that way or I don't have a shot at winning. Well.... gotta hit that gym!

So excited

I'm extremely excited that you all are going to be seeing less of me very soon. I'm starting a "biggest loser" challenge with some friends tomorrow and I'm getting really excited. I think it will be a lot of fun and it will be awesome to achieve our goals together. I've been diving into quite a few books lately about eating and exercise and I have a few things that I want to try out. I've even gone so far as to print out some intimidating pictures of Jillian Michaels off the computer to put around my kitchen/house. Whenever you all come over, you're going to see all sorts of motivation up on the walls/cabinets. That's my defense to the wonderful (yet unhealthy) sugars and ice cream waiting to be consumed. I'm pumped to get pumped. YAY!!

I'm also really excited about the new YW personal progress program. Since they recently added virtue to the list, they have come out with some new books and guidelines. Now any woman can do this program! Mothers can do it with their daughters, non-members can do it, and I can do it! The medallions have changed a bit and are so exciting, that I HAVE to earn one! So, I will be working on my Womanhood recognition medallion this year as well. Oh... to achieve. I just have so much hope and look forward to this year. Clean slate, and I'm determined to stay on track! CARPE DIEM!!!

Happy New Year!!

Now to start our 2010!!! A new year, new beginning, better life. At least we are striving and hoping for a better life this year, after all, that is what I am constantly striving to achieve. I think 9-12 church will be a nice start..... ahhhh. Sunday naps.... here we come!

A few of my resolutions are:
* lose 30 lbs
* become more organized
* do better at saving $
* better at scripture study


Let's see if I can tackle these first - that will give me enough work to get the year started.

Patient Much???

Ok, I stumbled across this just now while trying to check that weather for the coming week. STINKIN HILARIOUS!!!! Be sure to notice the time in the bottom left hand corner of the video.

Merry Christmas!

After a day of hustle and bustle around our neck of the woods, we are VERY happy to be taking it easy today. A nice day at home, with family. I'm already up with Hunter (didn't I predict it?) and the girls should be up shortly to begin our present pandemonium. Last night's shepherd's dinner went well, even though it happened a lot later in the evening than I was planning. Most of all, I wish you ALL a very Merry Christmas. May you always remember the reason for this season and try to keep that with you all year long.

Christmas Eve Photoshoot

Our family had a quick photoshoot today to get some last minute gifts for grandparents and to make sure we have a family photo before Jeremiah ships off. If you want to see our mugs... click here. I know, my face doesn't look the best in some of them. I guess me and white don't get along much.

One more night....

Honestly, I don't know who gets more excited about Christmas time...me, or my kids. I think I'm going with me this year. Yes, they truly showed a bit more excitement this year for those "traditional" Christmas beliefs, but I sure do enjoy watching them open their presents and watching Jeremiah open his too - even though he usually already knows what they are. I love the Christmas Even Shepherds dinner, that really just makes it feel real (if you haven't heard about it already, you can ask me sometime). Then, sleeping that night is like the night before the first day of school or a Homecoming (Navy). You get all jittery, so stinkin' excited for what the morning will bring.
I'd like to say that the whole, matching pj's and robes thing is TOTALLY the picture you would capture on Christmas morning as we walk in our slippers (also matching) to open presents and have some REALLY AWESOME breakfast. However... that is still a big ginormous dream for me. One day we will look like a picture out of a Sears catalog, just not this Christmas. I foresee it actually going a lot more like: Hunter keeps us awake all night so we have black bags under our eyes by the time the girls drag us out of bed. Then, we hobble down the stairs and watch the girls open their presents WAY too fast, and end it bumping around the kitchen trying to scrounge up that really great breakfast. Sounds way too exciting, right? Well... I'm going to love it either way.

As a WAY awesome side note, I stayed on target today with my eating log. Hooray!!

Health Blip

My progress from my post awhile ago to lose weight after baby really hasn't gone anywhere. I'm pretty much stuck at the same weight from before - so I'm taking it a bit further by posting my game plan and maybe even starting an incentive for anyone else interested in losing weight with me.

Game Plan: I have my pieces of paper up in my kitchen to remind me to drink more water, eat more fruits and vegetables, and stop eating sugars. I need to remind myself that eating too much sugar leads to diabetes, that is something I definitely don't want to struggle with as an elderly member of society - so I'm going to try to pretend that I have it now. I will allow myself one SERVING of a sweet that I've been craving all day long. I am not going to give in to every craving I have throughout the day. Also, if I'm watching a movie with my kids/husband or just on my own....I'm going to do crunches while I watch as well as some other simple moves I can do in front of the Teley. I will stop eating foods at 7pm and only allow myself to have water. I am also sticking to a 1500 calorie diet to help me jump start my weight loss. I plan to burn a minimum of 500 calories at the gym 6 out of 7 days of the week. That way, I am burning close to 2 lbs a week. I am hoping to almost be completed with my weight loss goal by the time Easter rolls around. My goal is 140lbs - which puts my body in a size 8. I know for some of you that is bigger than you are - but for me that is a good weight/size. I envy those of you that are naturally thinner than that!! I wish I could have gotten a few of those genes =0)

As an extra incentive/push to stay on track - I am looking to enter the 14K run on February 13th for Valentines day in Virginia Beach. Yes, 8.67 miles. I am going to train (I know it doesn't give me much time - I am aiming to get as much training in as possible) Right now I have sick kids at home which doesn't allow me time to get to the gym - so I'm going to do my best with exercising around the house and then hopefully get a run in once Jeremiah gets home from work. I have two options that will still allow me to run wherever I have happened to train to by then.

My question for any of you that are on a weight loss quest. I think we should start a pool of money that someone NOT in the program holds on to for us in a jar - that is rewarded to the winner by the end of the period of time. For example: we go by body fat percentage lost in a 6 month period of time. Whomever has lost the most body fat will be awarded all the money. I think it would work best if we did an amount that most definitely is worth the work. I know 50 bucks is a little steep - but if 10 people do it, that's 500 in your pocket if you win! I like to think of it as a small wardrobe account for you to go buy some fabulous new clothes. Body fat percentage is the fairest way to measure progress simply because everyone is at a different fitness level. Anyone interested? We aren't stuck on the $50 investment...we'll talk about it if anyone wants to join in the fun.

These are our Devils Food Cake Crinkle cookies. Only one of the almost half-dozen cookies we baked this year.






Here's Melanie salivating over the peanut butter kiss cookies. YUMM! Yeah, we ended up having a TON of those!

December's Wagon

After 3/4 of a year of wanting to attend the Home Depot Children's Workshop, we finally got there for December's craft. The girls enjoyed making it - I think we may have to reinforce some of the pieces with real nails so that they'll keep for a bit. Mel whined at first but finally relented and joined in the building. Guess what their favorite part was?? The hammering of course! Hunter wasn't too fond of the outing and cried most of the time if he wasn't being held. Oh well. Hopefully we'll make it to more this next year!!