See you about the decks....

Military medicine at its finest (insert sarcasm here)

2012-03-04T14:38:00.000-05:00

On February 29th, after calling the nurses line, I was advised to bring my daughter into the emergency department. We were called to the triage room approximately 20 minutes after check-in. I informed the civilian triage attendant of my child's symptoms (high fever and severe localized stomach pain). He asked how I acquired her temperature and I told him in the axillary (armpit) area to which he told me that I was incorrect for taking her temperature there as that is not an appropriate place to do so. Really dude? So you are trying to tell me that all these years, I have been taking not only my children's temperature wrong but any child I came in contact with when I was a Hospital Corpsman? Very interesting.....

He then told me he needed to take her temperature rectally. While attempting to do so, my child go very upset. After a few moments, the tech stated "that will have to do" even though the thermometer had not finished (he stopped at 100.6). I was then instructed to return to the waiting room and the tech left the room. When I lifted my daughter, she started vomiting profusely. After yelling for help THREE times, the tech returns to room, sees her vomiting then looks at me like I am suppose to clean it up. He leaves the room to grabs some towels and instead of handing me one to start cleaning up my daughter, he puts them on the floor to clean up the floor. My child then got very upset since she had vomit all over herself, on me and her blanket (my kids hate to be dirty but I think in this instance, most kids would be upset). I asked the ED staff if they had anything I could put on her, at first they said they had nothing that we could use. I said "are you serious? you have nothing I can put on her so she doesn't have to sit in her own vomit?" and they stated they could only offer me a thin sheet but I would have to return it when we left the ED. Then I asked if I could have some paper towels to clean her up and I was instructed to take her to the waiting room bathroom to clean her up.

While this was all transpiring, my son (who was with us because my husband is currently deployed and we rushed to the ED, figuring I would call someone to come get him if I needed someone to) was standing in the doorway, trying to avoid the vomit. A First Class Petty Officer came over and lectured my 5 year old son about keeping the door shut for patient privacy. However, the ED staff had little concern for the dignity of my 3 year old daughter and sent me to the waiting room with only a thin sheet to cover her now naked body with the exception of her underwear. The best was that when I stated to the tech that he could add vomiting to the symptoms, he informed me that my daughter only vomited because she got so upset when he attempted to take her temperature. I was livid about how we were treated. My friend came up and rescued me since I wanted to leave after being treated so terribly.

We went to the civilian hospital, where my child continued to vomit (remember, the tech said it was only because she was upset) and was eventually admitted to the hospital for possible appendicitis. We spent three days in the hospital and we eventually found out that my daughter had a kidney infection as well as being dehydrated and having strep throat. I have never been more upset about the horrible treatment of patients that tends to occur at military facilities. They are so concerned about numbers and have very little compassion for sick people. Everyone is on the same playing field and there seems to be no rhyme or reason as to how people are seen. Someone needs to be held accountable for their actions and this Momma is going to make sure that happens!!!

This will not go by the way side by any means!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

EPIC FAIL

2012-02-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

If you Google the meaning of "Epic Fail", it comes up with the definition of EPIC FAIL being "Total failure".....yup, that about covers it. I am immensely shocked to find, however, that if I scrolled down a bit, there was no picture of me when there very well should be!!

Today, after probably the worst, most embarrassing weekend I have had in a lifetime, I got the opportunity to reflect (during a VERY long 4 hour car ride) on the decisions and actions in my life to try to figure out why I can never succeed at anything I do. After hitting rock bottom, this is what I have come up with.....

I am meant to be a failure. I have spent hours and hours trying to figure out what I am going to be in my life and I finally figured it out because I am already it....a genuine, grade-A, can't get right Failure. I was put on this earth not to be a teacher, a mom or a wife but to fail at all of those things so others could model their lives around what not to do. This is the only thing I can come up with when I reflect on the situation.

As I reflect on my life, I can honestly say that there has not been one thing that I stand out in at all. Not sports, I was never very good. Just good enough to make the team and that is about it.
Not relationships, we do not even need to go there.
Not motherhood, my children are the most spoiled, selfish, whiney, evil children in the world and I am proud to say I created those monsters since after all "children are a reflection of their parents"
Not being a wife, my husband has his own special way of reminding me that his life would function if I wasn't in it (not intentionally or to be mean, he just is great at his own life and I pretty much weigh him down).
Not being a friend, this one I suck at immensely. I drop the ball on so much when it comes to my friends and to be honest I am shocked I even have one.
Not being a sibling, this one is very apparent since I rarely hear from my siblings and when I am home, I am the center of everyone's jokes. Out of sight, out of mind.....
Not at having a career. I gave up my career to have another "career" as a stay at home mom. As stated above, FAIL!!! Moreover, add another fail for giving up one career that I was so-so at to have another one that I suck major ass at!!
Not at being a daughter. One of my parents at all times has issues with the things I do in my life. What I do is never good enough, never meets their approval or is met with discouraging words (again not intentionally, it is just because I fail at everything and they are being honest).

I could add some more in there but I think I got my point across. Therefore, I guess I can end all of this foolishness of trying to get a degree and figure out who I want to be when I am older. I figured it out.....

I am who I am: MS. EPIC FAIL!!!!

Goals and Distractions

2012-01-26T00:46:00.000-05:00

So here it is Wednesday night (well technically early Thursday morning) and I just realized I never did my goal update and for this week, I am not going to. Why you might ask? Well, I have been too distracted from my goals to even attempt my goals. So I made a new permenant goal....

No More Distractions!!!

What kind of distractions do I mean? I mean the "my child is sick so I slack on everything because I feel that gives me perfect opportunity to do nothing but snuggle on the couch". While yes, I love to snuggle on the couch with my babies, especially when they are sick and need me so much, doing it for 5 days and letting everything slack is completely ridiculous. I lose all motivation and then I kick myself in the pants because I have to play catch-up with everything!! And if you are a mom, you know that playing catch-up is probably one of the worst things you can do to yourself.

I mean the "let me hop on Facebook to send my husband a quick note and then lose an hour because I have to read who hates their spouse, who is leaving FB because of drama (only to return in 24 hours asking if anyone missed them) or stare at my friend's/family's beautiful pictures, wishing I was closer to hug every one them!!" Taking a class in social networking has been an eye opener for me. I knew I loved Facebook but I have suddenly realized I am consumed with it, so not a good thing. So I am challenging myself to one hour of Facebook time a day and that is only if as much work as I can do for the day is completed. I even came up with a way to basically yell at myself.....

Surprisingly, it worked today. I got so much accomplished and feel good about myself as I get ready to head to bed.

So distraction tried to take over my life, let's see if I can kick them out or if I will get too distracted!! LOL

Goals Check In

2012-01-16T11:00:00.002-05:00

It's MONDAY!!!! The start of another week and time for this week's goal challenge update!!! How are you doing with your goals?

My goals and their status:

Daily:
1) Fill in the kids chore charts to help them earn their allowance. We did awesome this week. Noah is saving for a special toy and the chat has sparked a whole new level of helpfulness!!! Yay!!
2) Continue the "no video games" during the school week with the exception of Noah's use of Reading Eggs. A success this week!! We will be moving from Reading Eggs to a new program sent home from his teacher this week.
3) Limit TV time to no more than 2 hours per day (with the exception of sick days) Didn't do too well this week since I am on break from school. I am playing catch up on my DVR.
4) Work with Jordan one hour per day on educational activities Starting out slow with this but at least we have started. She does a workbook when Noah does his homework.
5) Spend one hour per class each day on my studies even if my homework is done for the week. Time to get started on this, break ends on Tuesday!!
6) Have Noah review his sight words 3 times daily. Up to twice a day, shooting for three!!
7) Read the Bible to the kids Going great and the kids are even more into than they were before
8) Read my Bible and devotional book (shooting for twice a day) Started reading my Bible again which is good

Weekly:

1) Stick to a cleaning and maintenance schedule for the house Got my schedule all printed out but didn't even touch it
2) Start working out regularly, at least 3 times a week I have my goal set to start on Tuesday. I can do it.....I hope!!
3) Eat out no more than once per week: Did great on this one. Decided to not include our ritual pizza night in with this.
4) Attend church Went Saturday night and missed it so much these last few weeks!!
5) Send something to Hubby: card, letter, picture, boxes, anything EPIC FAIL
6) Work on Noah and Jordan's handwriting at least 3 times a week Finally got this one going too!! Yay
7) Try to blog 3 times a week if not more Another epic fail!!

Monthly:
1) Try one new place every month, even if means driving out of town: Not looking promising this month unless we go someplace new when we go up to VA at the end of the month

2) Buy birthday cards for the month at the beginning of each month and address and stamp them immediately. I actually don't have any Feb. birthdays in my family so I am good on this

Short term goals:

1) Have family photos printed and framed

2) Print out picture for bedroom and frame

3) Send out TS business email about ending business I posted about this on my FB group page. I need to send out an actual email.

4) Have Little Man reading stage 1 books without help before the Hubby's return in the spring
~~5) Purchase new washer and dryer: Bought, installed and used several times already!!! Love them!!~~
6) Get the garage organized prior to Hubby's return Thanks to my awesome friend, this is closer to completion than ever before!!
7) Organize recipe binder
8) Organize household binder
9) Get DVD's situated (DVD case, labels and get rid of the boxes!!)
10) Purchase new vacuum
11) Start preps for Hubby's homecoming!! (So excited to write this one) Ordered the printed signs, now time to get the stuff to make the homemade signs. Anyone know were I can get the markers for the windows in our van?
12) Start planning our vacations for the year. Texas at the end of April (hopefully without kids if we can arrange it), Disney at some point and possibly a week in Gatlinburg!!
13) Plan Jordan's 4th birthday party (is she really turning 4???): She decided on the theme, now figuring out the venue

Long Term
1) GET OUT OF DEBT!!!! (The cards in the freezer is working so far...lol) Cards are back in the fridge!!
2) Complete my Bachelor's degree with a minimum of a 3.5 GPA
3) Start my Master's degree immediately after completing my BA. No break from school!!
4) Plan a vacation with my husband yearly, just the two of us. We tend to lose who we are when we become parents and I think it is important for us to recapture that. Even if it for a few days, it needs to be done!!
5) Learn to speak a different language. I am leaning toward French but think Spanish is the best bet especially if I plan on teaching someday.

Goals Completed since October 27th, 2011: 10 1/2

Getting my goals started again!!!

2012-01-09T10:25:00.000-05:00

Wow, I can't beleive I haven't done a goal update since the end of November!!! December was such a crazy month for us. By the time I got to NY for the holidays, I was literally exhausted!! I slept so much while I was there but it was nice to relax. But now it is a new year which means time to get focused again!! As you all know, I am participating in a goal challenge started by my friend at USNchic Goals. Every Monday, I will post an update of my goals and how much I accomplished. I would like to encourage you to set goals for yourself and keep track whether by a blog, a Facebook note or good old pen and paper. Everyone needs a goal or two in life, gives you something to work for!!

My goals and their status:

Daily:
1) Fill in the kids chore charts to help them earn their allowance. We were doing great with this before the holidays hit. We start again today and the kids are actually excited about it!!
2) Continue the "no video games" during the school week with the exception of Noah's use of Reading Eggs. This will be a struggle since Noah got used to playing on his DS a lot while we were in NY. I guess I will have to put my foot down about it.
3) Limit TV time to no more than 2 hours per day (with the exception of sick days) After today, we will be starting this again. The TV has been on a lot lately.
4) Work with Jordan one hour per day on educational activities She got a lot of school work activities from Christmas so we will be working on this one
5) Spend one hour per class each day on my studies even if my homework is done for the week. I am on break this week but I am trying to a least read some so I can stay ahead of the game.
6) Have Noah review his sight words 3 times daily
7) Read the Bible to the kids We slacked off on this on vacation but we are starting up again tonight.
8) Read my Bible and devotional book (shooting for twice a day) see above

Weekly:

1) Stick to a cleaning and maintenance schedule for the house Got my schedule all printed out. Starting it today!!
2) Start working out regularly, at least 3 times a week
3) Eat out no more than once per week
4) Attend church
5) Send something to Hubby: card, letter, picture, boxes, anything
6) Work on Noah and Jordan's handwriting at least 3 times a week
7) Try to blog 3 times a week if not more

Monthly:
1) Try one new place every month, even if means driving out of town

2) Buy birthday cards for the month at the beginning of each month and address and stamp them immediately.

Short term goals:

1) Have family photos printed and framed

2) Print out picture for bedroom and frame

~~3) Get Christmas cards done and sent out by December 10th~~ ~~I had them out by the 15th, 5 days late isn't too bad~~

~~4) Have Christmas shopping done prior to Dec. 17th this so did not happen!!~~

5) Send out TS business email about ending business I posted about this on my FB group page. I need to send out an actual email.

6) Have Little Man reading stage 1 books without help before the Hubby's return in the spring
7) Purchase new washer and dryer
8) Get the garage organized prior to Hubby's return Thanks to my awesome friend, this is closer to completion than ever before!!
9) Organize recipe binder
10) Organize household binder
11) Get DVD's situated (DVD case, labels and get rid of the boxes!!)
~~12) Write out Christmas lists for purchased gifts and gift ideas so I don't over-purchase or miss anyone!! I am working on this one. I swear I am missing someone!!!~~
~~13) Start working on reading list with Banana I started this over the holidays. We are both struggling to get through the first book.~~
14) Purchase new vacuum
15) Start preps for Hubby's homecoming!! (So excited to write this one)
16) Start planning our vacations for the year. Texas at the end of April (hopefully without kids if we can arrange it), Disney at some point and possibly a week in Gatlinburg!!
17) Plan Jordan's 4th birthday party (is she really turning 4???)

Long Term
1) GET OUT OF DEBT!!!! (The cards in the freezer is working so far...lol) Christmas did not help this goal what so ever!!
2) Complete my Bachelor's degree with a minimum of a 3.5 GPA
3) Start my Master's degree immediately after completing my BA. No break from school!!
4) Plan a vacation with my husband yearly, just the two of us. We tend to lose who we are when we become parents and I think it is important for us to recapture that. Even if it for a few days, it needs to be done!!
5) Learn to speak a different language. I am leaning toward French but think Spanish is the best bet especially if I plan on teaching someday.

Goals Completed since October 27th, 2011: 6 1/2

Ignorance is bliss.....or is it?

2011-12-01T10:00:00.000-05:00

Just a short vent post here, nothing that affects my life but more of an observation.

Are people so ignorant and lazy that they would spend significant money to go to an event/show/play without actually reading or researching about it first?

I am taking my kids to Disney's Dare to Dream show next weekend. It is one of their "On Ice" shows and I am very excited about it. I started to read the reviews about it and got very curious about the 11 of 1830 one star reviews. I was absolutely floored at some of the things people were complaining about.

First off, if you watch the "trailer" about the show and read the description, it specifically states that it is about Rapunzel, Tiana and Cinderella. People actually complained they didn't have all the princesses.

One person complained that the Princess and the Frog portion contained voodoo.....ummm, hello??? Have you ever even watched the movie?????? And the other person who complained that the soldiers had swords in the Rapunzel portion....again, watch the movie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Another person complained that it was geared toward girls.....yet again, read the show description before you buy the tickets!!

Yet another complained that they weren't allowed to bring in their camera. They actually gave the show one star for that reason alone. Pathetic....

The best one was the person who complained about the little kids around them being too loud!!! Seriously....seriously???? You are at a Disney show and don't expect kids to get excited!!!! Stay home you whiney baby!!!

I swear, people in the world have nothing better to do!! People amaze me!!!!

Goal Check In #5 and small update

2011-11-28T10:27:00.000-05:00

Well it is Monday again and time for our goal check in. I am not even going to bored you with the details since I only accomplished one goal this past week!! It was such a horrible week as far as sticking to the goals but it was an awesome week overall. I was so productive and so ahead on everything, it was very nice!!! I have noticed that as the weeks go by, because I am trying my hardest to accomplish these goals, I am a lot more organized than I normally am. I am not so scatter-brained, which is a wonderful feeling!!

With the Christmas holidays coming up and my term for school entering it's 6th week of 8, things are definitely going to get busier but that is ok with me. I am actually excited to get through the next few weeks since it means I get to see my Mom and family. I am beyond excited to see my nieces!!! We are all looking forward to being surrounded by family for the holidays especially with Hubby being gone. I imagine it will still be rough but it will be nice to be near people who can give me a hug when I need one!!

We made it past our 100 day mark and more and things are good. We have rougher days than others but overall it has been ok. Deployment sucks all around but we are getting by. Thankfully the last month went by so fast with all we had to do and this month will go by even faster!! I am looking forward to the Christmas holidays!! Let's pray though that things don't slow down once January comes!!!! LOL

Goal Check In #4

2011-11-21T00:06:00.016-05:00

It's goal check in time again!! As you all know, I am participating in a goal challenge started by my friend at USNchic Goals . I feel like I accomplished a lot this week but it looks like no many are goal related!!!

My goals and their status:

Daily:
1) Fill in the kids chore charts to help them earn their allowance. Actually completed a whole week this week and the kids enjoyed getting their allowance. It has definitely sparked a new level of helpful around here!!
2) Continue the "no video games" during the school week with the exception of Noah's use of Reading Eggs. Doing well with this despite Noah's protests
3) Limit TV time to no more than 2 hours per day (with the exception of sick days) Had a few extended TV days this week due to the sickies visiting but it was needed for my sanity!!
4) Work with Jordan one hour per day on educational activities I am trying to at least read to her more.
5) Spend one hour per class each day on my studies even if my homework is done for the week.
6) Have Noah review his sight words 4 times daily I am changing this to 3 times a day and it will be a perk if we hit 4. We normally successfully do 3 times!!
7) Read the Bible to the kids Doing this daily and we all really enjoy this!!
8) Read my Bible and devotional book (shooting for twice a day) I did horribly this past week. I still said my prayers and did my devotional book at night but other than the Bible reading with the kids, mine was only opened once.

Weekly:

1) Stick to a cleaning and maintenance schedule for the house Tried out the new schedule. Really liked it but it was hard having sick kids. I did what I could and plan on trying to be more consistent after our trip to ATL!!
2) Start working out regularly, at least 3 times a week
3) Eat out no more than once per week Did great with this this week!! Only ate out once!!
4) Submit one box a week to Thred Up
5) Attend church
6) Send something to Hubby: card, letter, picture, boxes, anything
7) Work on Noah's handwriting at least 3 times a week
8) Try to blog 3 times a week if not more I got two done this week, not counting check-in, so it is a start!!

Monthly:
1) Try one new place every month, even if means driving out of town

2) Buy birthday cards for the month at the beginning of each month and address and stamp them immediately.

Short term goals:

1) Have family photos printed and framed

2) Print out picture for bedroom and frame

3) Get Christmas cards done and sent out by December 10th

4) Have Christmas shopping done prior to Dec. 17th

5) Send out TS business email about ending business Why can't I bring myself to do this one?

6) Have Little Man reading stage 1 books without help before the Hubby's return in the spring
7) Join a women's group or women's bible study
8) Get the garage organized prior to Hubby's return Thanks to my awesome friend, this is closer to completion than ever before!!
9) Organize recipe binder
10) Organize household binder
11) Get DVD's situated (DVD case, labels and get rid of the boxes!!)
12) Write out Christmas lists for purchased gifts and gift ideas so I don't over-purchase or miss anyone!! I am working on this one. I swear I am missing someone!!!
13) Start working on reading list with Banana

Long Term
1) GET OUT OF DEBT!!!! (The cards in the freezer is working so far...lol)
2) Complete my Bachelor's degree with a minimum of a 3.5 GPA
3) Start my Master's degree immediately after completing my BA. No break from school!!
4) Plan a vacation with my husband yearly, just the two of us. We tend to lose who we are when we become parents and I think it is important for us to recapture that. Even if it for a few days, it needs to be done!!
5) Learn to speak a different language. I am leaning toward French but think Spanish is the best bet especially if I plan on teaching someday.

Goals Completed since October 27th, 2011: 2 1/2

Oh, the humanity!!!

2011-11-18T21:30:00.001-05:00

So I put up our Christmas tree on Monday....

Yes, I put it up 10 days beforeThanksgiving and man alive did that sparks some comments on Facebook. None ofthem bothered me but they did make me laugh, particularly when I was told thatevery tree lit before Christmas indicates an elf killing a baby reindeer!!!! Iknow all the comments were made in jest but it really got me to thinking....

Why do people make such a big deal out of someone putting their tree upbefore Thanksgiving?

Moreover, why don't they make a stink when people comment about how theystarted their Christmas shopping in June? Or how they are almost done withtheir Christmas craft projects and it isn't even December? Or how they alreadyhave their Christmas cards printed out, ready to mail? Can someone explain tome the difference?

Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for what you have, I am thankful allyear so why do I need one day to celebrate that. I thank God every day for theblessing he bestows on my life. My life has such an abundance of blessings andI have no right not to be thankful each day of my life.

One of the blessings I have in my life is an extremely busy schedule andwhen I get a break in that schedule, I am going to take full advantage!!Princess was sick, which forced us to be home, my house was clean so I thoughtwhat better time than the present!! The ironic thing is that my tree reminds meof all my blessings and all that I am thankful for in my life. Each ornamenthas a story, a memory, a reason for being on my tree. I do not have a"picture-perfect" tree with all matchy-match ornaments, bows, white lightsand perfection. I have a hodge-podge tree filled with fun ornaments that remindus of so much like the 1976 "Baby's First Christmas ornament" or theUSS Carney Ship ornament or the flip flop ornament from VA beach 2007 or ouradditions from last year, our three personalized Mickey ear ornaments from ourtrip to Disney.

I like to decorate for Christmas early for a variety of reasons but the mainones are to remember special moments and to focus on the importance of thistime of the year. It is a time of the year to go out of your way for people, tohave a smile on your face regardless of circumstances, and to bring as much joyand happy to others as you have been given in your own life. I am overlyblessed and I want to remind myself to share those blessings with others. Themost important reason is because my Savior was born on this special day and I believebirthdays should always be made extra special!!!

So for those “anti-Christmas before Thanksgiving” people out there, justremember this…..for every Christmas gift purchased and every craft completed beforeThanksgiving, that is one baby elf that dies…..LOL!!!

Happy Decorating all, no matter when you do it!!

Protocol

2011-11-16T22:40:00.001-05:00

So every November I take part in the great Facebook thankful status' adventure. Last week at some point, I remember being thankful for our health care but I am far from thankful for it this week!!!

On Sunday, Princess started to run a fever after a weekend of the runny nose, coughing yuckies. Since we have been dealing with ear infections a lot over the last several months and she told me her ear was bothering her, I decided to make her an appt. for first thing Monday morning. It worked out well since I had to be there for Little Man's asthma follow-up. Once we get there and see the doctor, we discover alas no ear infection, so they decide to do a rapid strep culture on her. 20 minutes later, it turns out to be positive so antibiotics here we come!!

At Little Man's follow-up appt, I ask the doctor if they could do a culture on him to be on the safe side. I have a busy few weeks ahead and I don't need sickness dragging out forever. She hims and haws but does one (I think mainly because she knows if she didn't I would turn right around and make an appt for him for one). She tells me if I don't hear from her by close of business on Wednesday, then he is good to go. I then ask her if I should get one done too and she said no, that he more than likely doesn't have it since we are both asymptomatic so not to worry.

So Tuesday rolls around and Princess is home so she can get her 24 hours of antibiotics on board. My phone rings and low and behold, it is the doctor's office telling me that Little Man has strep also. So I get off the phone with her and proceed to call my own doctor to get a culture done on myself. I go in to the Naval Hospital (again), get it done and again get told that I more than likely won't have it since I am asymptomatic!! While I am there, I grab Little Man's antibiotics.

Which brings us to today. I feel fine, no cold symptoms what so ever but wouldn't you know it, I get a phone call around 1:15 from my doctor telling me my culture came back positive for strep!! So off the the Naval Hospital we go (for the third time) to pick up yet a third antibiotic!!! Can you even imagine how annoyed I am????

So here are my thoughts....if a child tests positive for strep, wouldn't it be smart to test the entire family considering the close proximity they have with each other? And if a child or adult can't go to school or work with strep because it is so contagious until antibiotics are on board for 24 hours, why do doctors think that a family who lives in a small 1500 square foot home couldn't possibly pass the germs on to each other??? And when are doctors going to start listening to patients or parents versus what they learned in textbooks? This makes 3 times this year that I was told that either myself or my child couldn't possibly have something because we are asymptomatic!!

Seriously, if they would have done all three on Monday, it wouldn't have wasted so much of my time!!! Next time (hopefully there won't be a next time but if there is), I am going to be insistent about it!!!

Goal Check In #3

2011-11-14T11:33:00.001-05:00

So it is that time again....goal check in time!!! As you all know, I am participating in a goal challenge started by my friend at USNchic Goals . My last check in was better than the first so let's see how I did this week.I am going to steal USNChic's idea to better organize the goals so it is easier to keep better track of them.

My goals and their status:

Daily:
1) Fill in the kids chore charts to help them earn their allowance.
2) Continue the "no video games" during the school week with the exception of Noah's use of Reading Eggs. Doing well with this despite Noah's protests
3) Limit TV time to no more than 2 hours per day (with the exception of sick days)
4) Work with Jordan one hour per day on educational activities
5) Spend one hour per class each day on my studies even if my homework is done for the week.
6) Have Noah review his sight words 4 times daily
7) Read the Bible to the kids
8) Read my Bible and devotional book (shooting for twice a day)

Weekly:

1) Stick to a cleaning and maintenance schedule for the house We have the schedule up and working to stick to it this week
2) Start working out regularly, at least 3 times a week
3) Eat out no more than once per week
4) Submit one box a week to Thred Up
5) Attend church
6) Send something to Hubby: card, letter, picture, boxes, anything
7) Work on Noah's handwriting at least 3 times a week
8) Try to blog 3 times a week if not more

Monthly:
1) Try one new place every month, even if means driving out of town

2) Buy birthday cards for the month at the beginning of each month and address and stamp them immediately.

Short term goals:

1) Have family photos printed and framed

2) Print out picture for bedroom and frame

3) Get Christmas cards done and sent out by December 10th

4) Have Christmas shopping done prior to Dec. 17th

5) Send out TS business email about ending business

6) Have Little Man reading stage 1 books without help before the Hubby's return in the spring
7) Join a women's group or women's bible study
8) Get the garage organized prior to Hubby's return Thanks to my awesome friend, this is closer to completion than ever before!!
9) Organize recipe binder
10) Organize household binder
11) Get DVD's situated (DVD case, labels and get rid of the boxes!!)
12) Write out Christmas lists for purchased gifts and gift ideas so I don't over-purchase or miss anyone!!

Long Term
1) GET OUT OF DEBT!!!! (The cards in the freezer is working so far...lol)
2) Complete my Bachelor's degree with a minimum of a 3.5 GPA
3) Start my Master's degree immediately after completing my BA. No break from school!!
4) Plan a vacation with my husband yearly, just the two of us. We tend to lose who we are when we become parents and I think it is important for us to recapture that. Even if it for a few days, it needs to be done!!
5) Learn to speak a different language. I am leaning toward French but think Spanish is the best bet especially if I plan on teaching someday.

Goals Completed since October 27th, 2011: 2 1/2

Goal check in #2

2011-11-07T14:47:00.001-05:00

So it is that time again....goal check in time!!! As you all know, I am participating in a goal challenge started by my friend at USNchic Goals . My last check in was so-so Check in #1 so let's see how I did this week.

My goals and their status:

1) Come up with (and stick to) a cleaning and maintenance schedule for the house: It is done, typed up and I am starting it today. I hope it works out for me!!!

2) Start working out regularly, at least 3 times a week: Making my chiropractor appt. this week. I need to stop putting it off!!!

3) Spend one hour per class on homework or my studies daily: Still maintaining the two hours per day but I do need to allow myself a "break day" or I am going to burn myself out.

4) Utilize Facebook during the morning and at night IF ALL THE WORK IS DONE!!!!: I am getting a little better with this one....

5) Spend 1 hour per day doing learning activities with Princess:Honestly, haven't worked much with her. Things have been crazy busy so I need to refocus and set time aside for this.

6) Continue the no TV before school/daily activities and focus on making after dinner no TV time also: Life without TV is becoming more commonplace in our house. The TV was only on yesterday to watch Wizard of Oz last night and we didn't even finish the movie (only watched about an hour of it). My DVR is like 97% full, that is how little I watch TV.

7) Have Little Man reading stage 1 books without help before the Hubby's return in the spring: So proud, we are doing really good with this. He is getting to where he can sound out words too!! I hope I have at least one reader on my hands!!

8) Send a card or letter to my closest friends and relatives on their birthdays rather than just wishing them a Happy Birthday on Facebook or sending them a text message. And actually mail it on time!!!!: Yea, another epic fail this week. I got a little further though....they are addressed. LOL

9) Eat out only once per week (not including pizza night). Since the Hubby has been gone, it has been easier to eat sometimes then cook: Did pretty decent with this last week. Grabbed some Wendy's one night because of another fundraiser for Little Man's school and went to lunch yesterday but other than that, we have bee eating at home. It is a start!!

10) Stop being sporadic with the kids chore chart. Hold them accountable and ensure they receive their reward for doing a good job (10 cents per covered box): Another epic fail!!

11) Read the Bible nightly and my devotional book twice daily. Still having a hard time getting up early enough to read. I need to go to bed earlier....

12) Join a women's group or women's bible study: Still trying to find one that fits for me

13) Submit one box a week to Thred Up. We have way too many clothes in bins in the garage!!: Still haven't touched this one

14) Get to garage organized prior to Hubby's return. Anyone want to help with this? This one is still extremely comical every time I read it!!My cheesehead said she would help me out with it but I don't think she has an idea what she is getting into.

15) Try one new place every month, even if means driving out of town Well technically we are trying a new place this month. We are headed to Atlanta in a few weeks to go visit one of my besties!!

16) Work with Noah daily to improve his handwriting: Still working on it!!

17) Mail Hubby something once a week until he returns. Even if I don't have boxes to send him, send him a letter, card, picture, something tangible!! Mailed out 3 boxes this past week and already started on the next ones!!

18) Try to blog every other day even if I don't have much to say (do I ever have not much to say?): Didn't even think about blogging until today. I need to set a reminder for myself!!

19) ~~Fold all the socks in my sock basket. For those who know me, if I achieve this, it is a major coup!!~~ I am so proud that I can cross this one off my list. I HATE folding socks but I got it done!!

20) Reorganize my closet an the kids closets. Things are getting pretty messy in there!! This will be done by next week. Mine and Princess' are done and I am working on Little Man's today.

My goal challenge check in

2011-10-31T14:33:00.000-04:00

Well last week, I posted about the goal challenge I am taken part in which was originally posted by my girl at USNchic Goals . We have agreed to do a check in on Monday's to see where we stand with getting our goals in place so here is my check in!!

My goals and their status:

1) Come up with (and stick to) a cleaning and maintenance schedule for the house: It is half-way typed up. Had hoped to start it today but plan on finishing it today and starting on it tomorrow.

2) Start working out regularly, at least 3 times a week: Since my back is still bothering me, this one is on hold until my chiropractor appt.

3) Spend one hour per class on homework or my studies daily: I have actually been doing great with this one. I realize I am spending more time too because I love the classes I am taking right now!!

4) Utilize Facebook during the morning and at night IF ALL THE WORK IS DONE!!!!: Still a hard one for me. I am such a busybody. Working on this one!!

5) Spend 1 hour per day doing learning activities with Jordan: We working together on Friday but not over the weekend. We will try again today.

6) Continue the no TV before school/daily activities and focus on making after dinner no TV time also: The one goal I have been successful in!!! YAY!! Music has been on more and more and the TV on less and less. Doesn't seem to phase the kids one bit. Moving my laptop to the dining room table has also prompted me to stop watching so much TV since I tend to feel I need the TV on when I am sitting on the couch with my laptop.

7) Have Noah reading stage 1 books without help before the Hubby's return in the spring: Working hard on this one....2 new sight words everyday!!

8) Send a card or letter to my closest friends and relatives on their birthdays rather than just wishing them a Happy Birthday on Facebook or sending them a text message. And actually mail it on time!!!!: First attempt, epic fail!! Bought a card for my friend whose birthday is today and not only is it sitting on my counter but it isn't even out of the bag!! Have a family member birthday on Friday, going to shoot for that one!!

9) Eat out only once per week (not including pizza night). Since the Hubby has been gone, it has been easier to eat sometimes then cook: This one starts today....

10) Stop being sporadic with the kids chore chart. Hold them accountable and ensure they receive their reward for doing a good job (10 cents per covered box): Getting much better with the charts. Noah got his allowance from his chart yesterday and he reminds me about it now.

11) Read the Bible nightly and my devotional book twice daily. Doing great with this one minus the devotional book in the morning. I need to stop hitting snooze!!!

12) Join a women's group or women's bible study: Looked into this yesterday at church. There is one I am interested in so I think I might check it out next Sunday.

13) Submit one box a week to Thred Up. We have way too many clothes in bins in the garage!!: Didn't even touch this one

14) Get to garage organized prior to Hubby's return. Anyone want to help with this? This one gets more and more comical every time I read it!!

15) Try one new place every month, even if means driving out of town Well technically we are trying a new place this month. We are headed to Atlanta in a few weeks to go visit one of my besties!!

16) Work with Noah daily to improve his handwriting: We work on it a little every day!!

17) Mail Hubby something once a week until he returns. Even if I don't have boxes to send him, send him a letter, card, picture, something tangible!! Just mailed out 2 boxes and have 3 more going out tomorrow!!

18) Try to blog every other day even if I don't have much to say (do I ever have not much to say?): Another fail.....will try harder before next weeks check it!!

I want to add two more goals also:
19) Fold all the socks in my sock basket. For those who know me, if I achieve this, it is a major coup!!

20) Reorganize my closet an the kids closets. Things are getting pretty messy in there!!

The Goal Challenge

2011-10-27T11:48:00.001-04:00

Have you ever caught yourself telling people about the things you hope to accomplish and about the only thing you end up accomplishing is putting that particular thing on a list somewhere, either deep inside your mind or a to-do list or an app on your phone. I am notorious for doing this!! I have so many things I would love to accomplish but then life gets away with me. I reflect on the week as it comes to an end and I realize I am just as disorganized and frazzled as I was when I started. One of my best friends decided to pose a goal challenge to her bloggers so I decided to take part in it. The idea is to write out both your short term goals and your long term goals and help each other keep track of accountability. Almost like a weight loss group but help each other keep on track with getting our goals accomplished. If you would like to join in, please list your goals in your blog and then submit a link in my comments. I hope we can all accomplish our goals and eventually allow our lists to become not so overwhelming!!

SHORT TERM GOALS:

1) Come up with (and stick to) a cleaning and maintenance schedule for the house.

2) Start working out regularly, at least 3 times a week

3) Spend one hour per class on homework or my studies daily

4) Utilize Facebook during the morning and at night IF ALL THE WORK IS DONE!!!!

5) Spend 1 hour per day doing learning activities with Jordan

6) Continue the no TV before school/daily activities and focus on making after dinner no TV time also.

7) Have Noah reading stage 1 books without help before the Hubby's return in the spring

8) Send a card or letter to my closest friends and relatives on their birthdays rather than just wishing them a Happy Birthday on Facebook or sending them a text message. And actually mail it on time!!!!

9) Eat out only once per week (not including pizza night). Since the Hubby has been gone, it has been easier to eat sometimes then cook.

10) Stop being sporatic with the kids chore chart. Hold them accountable and ensure they receive theur reward for doing a good job (10 cents per covered box)

11) Read the Bible nightly and my devotional book twice daily.

12) Join a women's group or women's bible study

13) Submit one box a week to Thred Up. We have way too many clothes in bins in the garage!!

14) Get to garage organized prior to Hubby's return. Anyone want to help with this?

15) Try one new place every month, even if means driving out of town

16) Work with Noah daily to improve his handwriting

17) Mail Hubby something once a week until he returns. Even if I don't have boxes to send him, send him a letter, card, picture, something tangible!!

18) Try to blog every other day even if I don't have much to say (do I ever have not much to say?)

LONG TERM GOALS:

1) GET OUT OF DEBT!!!! (The cards in the freezer is working so far...lol)

2) Complete my Bachelor's degree with a minimum of a 3.5 GPA

3) Start my Master's degree immediately after completing my BA. No break from school!!

4) Plan a vacation with my husband yearly, just the two of us. We tend to lose who we are when we become parents and I think it is important for us to recapture that. Even if it for a few days, it needs to be done!!

5) Learn to speak a different language. I am leaning toward French but think Spanish is the best bet especially if I plan on teaching someday.

That is all I can think of right now. If I complete something or need to change something, I will update as needed!! I hope you guys will take part in this too!!

Best Buds (Day #71)

2011-10-25T12:09:00.003-04:00

Well, I am going to do my best to get this blog up and running again. So we have made it to day #71 amazingly enough. We are all doing well and with the exception of a few stressful things, life is running fairly smoothly. I just really miss the Hubby and can't wait for this deployment to be over with. As much as I hope and pray we end up in Virginia next, I am not feeling another deployment for a while!!

This weekend was so much fun. One of my besties came down to visit us along with her two children. Her son and Little Man are best buds and have been for years. It is amazing to me how much they adore each other and are the topic of conversation frequently despite the 200 miles that separate them. Their friendship is one that will last through the ages and it is amazing considering how it started.

In July of 2007, I received a message for a woman on MySpace. She was moving to the Great Lakes area so she decided to do a search of people close to her demographics (married, mom, etc..) to send them messages to find out more about the area. She sent me a message after noticing I had a son close to her son's age. And that is where it all began....

We corresponded frequently and I invited her to be a part of a playgroup I was a part of. Our boys, it turned out, were only 5 weeks apart and they became fast friends. Her husband deployed shortly after they arrived and we slowly developed our friendship. At first I was reluctant because she is a lot younger than me and I had had several bad experiences in the past with younger friends but I soon realized that she and I were on the same wavelength with so many things. While our friendship was flourishing, so was the boys.

Soon it can time for the dreaded PCS. Her husband got selected for an Officer Program which meant they would be leaving us. Not only was I sad but Little Man was crushed!! His best buddy was moving away. It was a sad time in our household. Fast forward several months and we soon discovered that we would be moving 200 miles away from them!! 200 miles, about 3 1/2 hours....shoot, I could drive that in my sleep!! Easy peasy!!

Well, here we are....4+ years later and not only has she become a sister to me but the boys bond is stronger than ever!! And adding our daughters to the mix, they are slowly becoming little best buds also. Even though we do live 200 miles apart, we try not to go more than a month or so without seeing each other. If it gets to be too long, the boys start driving us crazy to see each other. It just impresses me how much their lives are connected. They are truly best buds and I think they will be for the rest of their lives.....just like their mothers!!!! I love ya girl, you are my sister from another mister and always will be!!!!

One month down....

2011-09-15T23:42:00.000-04:00

Well, we made it. We survived our first month. No one is physically hurt, the house is still standing and the kids are doing well. So now only how many more months to go????
This has been such a busy month. After the Hubster left for parts unknown, the kids and I took a little adventure up to NY to visit the fam and see Mommy's new crib!! It was a fun week, very busy but absolutely the best medicine to get through our first week as only 3/4 of a family. The Friday after we got back, Little Man started Kindergarten. Can you beleive it? My boy is going to school, full-time, all...day...long!!! Some days, it feels like he is gone forever and other days, I am so grateful he is there learning his day away.

Unfortuantely, his first day of school was cut short by a hurricane that decided to visit us. It was not as bad as originally projected and the kids and I made the best of it. It was a long 3 days without power but my Girl Scout skills came in handy when trying to make other food for my munchkins since they grew tired of sandwiches pretty quickly.
After the hurricane left and life started to return to normal, Little Man went back to school and within days, it was the Princess' turn to start school!! Wow, both of them in school, now that is a sad thing for me!! My babies are growing up and if I blink my eyes, they are going to be grown up and leaving the nest!!!! Maybe I can tape my eyes open so I don't miss a moment!!

I also started school right after the Hubster left and I will be honest, it is kicking my butt. I am doing my absolute best though and I will be satisfied with whatever grade I end up getting since I know I am giving it my all. I never knew going back to school after such a long hiatus would be so difficult. Hopefully I will get in the groove of it after this quarter and it will get easier as time goes by.

In addition to school and New York, we managed to go up to VA twice to visit with our favorite "L" family. We spent Labor Day and the following weekend up there. Ally and I have birthdays within 2 weeks of each other so we took turns celebrating each weekend. We had a great time both weekends and it was great to spend time with some awesome friends.
I have to say though, this deployment is making me realize a lot of things in my life. The first is that I really do have an awesome group of friends. Between cards, girls nights out and the general checking on me phone calls, my besties are awesome. Even though they all live in different states, I know if I need them, they will be here no matter what. The second is that I absolutely adore my husband. I knew I loved him but things between us haven't always been all moonlight and roses lately. Every second he is away, I realize more and more how truly, madly, deeply in love with my husband I am. It is like we are discovering who "we" are again, something that tends to get lost once you have children in the picture. I can not wait until he comes home and I can wrap my arms around him again!!!
So that is the last 30 days in a nutshell. tomorrow starts day one of month two.....will it be easier than month one? I certainly hope so!!!!

Catching Up

2011-08-07T12:36:00.000-04:00

Wow, I have become very sucky with the blogging thing, huh? Well I have made a vow to get better at it especially so I can keep the Hubby up to date on things while he is gone. So let's play a little game of catch-up....

Since we are on the topic of Hubby leaving, it is coming upon us very, very quickly. We are down to single digits as to when he leaves us and my heart feels very heavy. We are doing everything we can to spend as much time together and as a family as we can but it is hard. The anxiety takes over, we find fault in each other and we let the dread take over....not a pretty sight but unfortunately a common one in households with the dreaded "D" approaching. I have been doing my best to remind myself that I am stressed about him leaving and to not sweat the small stuff. I just hope he knows how important he is to me and that he is my rock in this crazy world we live in. I am going to miss him tremendously!!!

Anyways, on to brighter topics....the kids both start school in a few weeks. Little Man will being going into kindergarten and they go to school full days here. It will be weird not having him around for 8 hours every day and I know I am going to miss him so much!! Princess starts pre-school a few days after her brother and she is so excited!! She will be going 3 days a week for 4 hours. I am going to miss her also so much but I will get 12 hours all to myself every week!! And what will I be doing with that time, you might ask? Well I will be going to school too!!! YAY ME!!! I am so excited (and very nervous) about getting my BA done so I can start to work on my Master's. Provided they accept all of my credits, I will be able to start on my Master's in about a year and a half!! I have a goal and I am going to bust my tail-end to achieve that goal!!! Who knows, maybe once I get my Master's out of the way, I will aim for even higher!! You just never know!!

The kids and I have been enjoying a very relaxed summer with no schedule. After the year we had running all over the place, I wanted to relax as much as possible. It has been ridiculously hot here but we try to hit the pool daily and we have been doing some fun activities (like growing butterflies which will hopefully hatch any day now!!) Once the school year starts, not only will we have school for the three of us but the kids will both be taking gymnastics again, Princess will be in dance and Little Man will be playing soccer. And I am hoping to find a cake-decorating class somewhere. So we will be just as busy as usual!!! I am actually looking forward to being on a regular schedule again!! I know it is crazy, but I like having a busy schedule and with the Hubby being gone, it will make the time fly by!!

well, that is everything in a nutshell. My vow is to blog at least every other day while the Hubby is gone. Let's see if I can stick to it......

Please stop....

2011-06-06T21:34:00.001-04:00

growing up!!!!

My little man is 5 today. 5 years old.....why does that seem like so much when it is really so little. I feel like he is going to be graduating from high school and heading to college next week or something. I don't want to ever imagine my life without this little person anytime soon but it feels like it is right around the corner.

I wrote a long blog last year about how Little Man changed my life, our lives. You can read about him here: My missing piece

Today, I just want to write a small thing to my love....

Sweet Little Man,
I thank God every day for allowing me to be your Mother and allowing me the opportunity to show you life. I hope that I am everything you want in a mother. I may stumble along the way, I may yell too much sometime, I may get mad at dumb things but I love you with every ounce of my being. I am learning just as much as you are so we need to help each other. We will "grow" together. I will thrive in your accomplishments, cry with your pitfalls and always be here for you no matter what!!! Thank you for showing me how much I can love someone!!! I love you Little Man, thank you for being my sunshine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love you always,
Momma

Noah 5 years old

Reality Bites

2011-06-03T23:14:00.001-04:00

So my Mom sent me a picture text message today.......

The house is sold......the house I spent the majority of my life in. The house I "grew up" in. And I feel homeless. I haven't lived there in 15 years but I still feel homeless. I am worried about what this means. I worry my kids won't know what amazing times we had in that house....the laughs, the tears, the proms, the sleep-overs, the ice cream fights, memories, feelings, on and on and on.

But I am so happy for my Mom. It means one of the biggest burdens from her past is gone and now she can move on without that weight. But I worry about her too. Ever since she sent me this text, she seems to be in funk. I can't image the fear she has, moving on to a new adventure at a stage in her life she never thought she would have to do this in. But I have never known my mom to "hide" from strife, adversity or new beginnings. She has also taught me strength which is why I am able to be strong when my husband leaves me behind for his career. I just wish she could find that confidence she has a few short months ago!! I hate that I am so far away and can't help her out!! Maybe when we head up there in a few weeks, I can do what I can!!!

I just hope my Mom knows that no matter where she goes, no matter what she does, she will always have people in her corner, just like I will never be homeless as long as I have family to visit when I need a family fix. Life sure does throw you some strange curves huh??

Always remember "that which does not kill us makes us stronger"!!!!

Holy MIA Batman!!!!!!

2011-05-23T00:02:00.000-04:00

Wow, has it really been since November that I wrote my last blog????
What have I been doing in all that time....geez...you big slacker!!!

LOL, just kidding. I did fall off the blogging bandwagon but I have decided to hop right back on. When I was blogging before, I felt so good about my life even when it was crazy. It helped me to get things out and sort things out when things got hectic. So I am going to give it a go again but if I start slacking, send me a poke or something on Facebook, would you???

Well a quick family update.....Little Princess turned 3 in March and we had a wonderful time during her birthday weekend. She is doing amazing in both dance and gymnastics. She is very excited about starting pre-school in the fall, she even wanted to start now since she knew she could start when she turned 3. I have her registered to go to the same school Little Man attended this year and I am happy to know she will be around people she is comfortable with. I just can't believe she is already going to be in a school setting. It really makes me sad.

Speaking of sad, my Little Man is going to be 5 in two weeks....two week, ugh!!! Where have the last 5 years gone??? It makes me so sad to see him growing up so fast. He is in such a rush to grow up or so it seems lately. He seems to think he is going to start kindergarten right after his birthday. I keep trying to explain to him that he has to wait until the summer is done with but he is not feeling it right now. He wants to start kindergarten right away. He gets excited whenever we drive by the school that he knows will be his, it is really cute but makes me sad just the same. He is playing t-ball right now and played spring soccer, which he did great at. He was moved up to a more advanced class in gymnastics also. We are so proud of him.

As for the Hubby, well he has been working what feels like non-stop. He is doing his work-ups for deployment and will be leaving us mid-summer time frame. We are doing what we can to ensure we are on the right track before he leaves and that means leaning on each other as much as possible rather then push each other away as most couples do when deployment looms near. I am extremely nervous about this deployment but I know we will make it through, hopefully with no gray hair and very few bumps or bruises.

As for me, I am going through a transition in my life. I am thinking and praying on a lot of things but nothing I am prepared to share just yet. I will when the time is right and when I feel I have enough information to share. Let's just hope I stay on this blog a little bit better.....only time will tell!!

30DBC Day #7: Favorite movies

2010-11-03T10:10:00.038-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE MOVIES!!! I am an avid movie watcher and I don't think I could narrow it down to one or two favorite movies. So I will tell you my favorite movies for each genre of film.

Drama: It would be a tie between Beaches and Steel Magnolias

Love Story: The Notebook

Romantic Comedy: Pretty Woman

Musical: This is one of my catergories that I can't pick just one or even two or five for that matter. I love musicals especially Grease, Sound of Music, Jesus Christ Superstar, My Fair Lady....I could go on forever!!

Action: Anything with Denzel Washington or Samuel L Jackson in it. I also love the movie "Mississppi Burning". It is older but a great movie!!

Horror: I am not a blood and guts horror movie kind of girl, even though I will watch them. I like suspenseful type movies like the old Alfred Hitchcock movies. I love the movie Rear Window and The Birds

Sci-Fi: Hands Down would be The Star Wars movies!!! LOVE THEM!!

Holiday Movie: White Christmas and The Christmas Story. I could watch them both a million times during the holiday season and not get enough!!

As you can see, I love movies!! This doesn't even touch all the movies I love but it is a select few!!

30DBC Day #6: A picture of something that makes you happy

2010-11-02T10:01:00.028-04:00

Today's challenge is a hard one because there is not one thing that makes me happy. I have an entire list of things that make me happy. So I will do my best to keep it short and sweet.

Things that make me happy:

Laughing with my friends

Christmas

The smell of babies

Reading

Baking and the way my house smells when I am baking

Hot chai tea

Puppy breath

Seeing people happy after I have done something nice for them

Praying

Watching snow fall

Boy....this list could go on forever. But the one thing in my life that makes me the most happy over anything else is my family....my ENTIRE family!!! Husband, kids, parents, siblings, all of them. Any time spent with them is the happiest times of my life!!!

30DBC Day #5: My siblings

2010-11-01T14:23:00.034-04:00

So today's challenge is to write about my siblings however, that isn't really a challenge at all since I adore each and every one of my siblings!! We are a crazy bunch but they are the best group of brothers and sisters a girl could ask for. I have 4 brothers and 2 sisters, which make for chaotic holidays. The only thing I wish my siblings understood is how hard it is for me to be so far away from them. I frequently feel like the "outsider" and I hate that feeling. But I guess that comes with the territory of being away from home.

All of us at Corey and Leanne's Wedding. I think the only picture that has every sibling in it together!!

My older brother Jason was always my idol growing up. I always wanted to be around him and his friends, which I am sure annoyed the crap out of him. As adults, we are still pretty close. He is a great man and an awesome father to my beautiful niece, Riley. He was always there for me growing up, especially when I was trying to figure out the dating world and he is still there for me to this day. He is the competitive one amongst the kids and it is often quite humorous to watch him play games.

Jason and I

Corey is the dreaded "middle" child of my mother's 5 children. Everyone seemed to that their pairing, except for Corey. He always danced to the beat of his own drummer and rarely went with the pack. It has served him well being that way as he navigates the world of being a newlywed. Corey is the "chill" one in the group, always avoiding confrontation and trying to keep everyone else calm!!

Corey and his best friend Josh

Tracey is #4 and my younger sister. Despite the distance between us, Tracey and I always managed to stay close. We have helped each other in so many situations in life and I am very proud of the woman she is becoming. She is an awesome Mom is my gorgeous niece, Madison. Tracey is the outspoken one in the group and boy does that make for some interesting exchanges, especially between her and my mom!!

Tracey!!

Next in line is Philip. Even though he is not my blood brother, he is as much of a brother to me as the rest of them. He is too hard on himself and doesn't give himself enough credit. I wish he knew that he didn't have to try so hard to impress people and that when he is himself, the real Phil, he is really cool to hang out with. Philip is the athletic one. Despite my other brothers playing various sports and still playing them, he is the one whose life revolves around sports.

Philip

Timothy is the baby brother and he will always be my baby!! I laugh because he always says "he is living the dream"...what the dream is exactly, I have no idea but he seems happy. He has always been so "happy-go-lucky" with life and continues to be that way. Timmy is the "clown" of the group, always cracking jokes, always smiling. If you ever need someone to cheer you up, he is the person to turn to!!

Timmy enjoying his lobster

Finally, is Alecia (aka FeFe), the baby of the group. She is really coming into her own this year and I am so proud of her because of the steps she has taken to improve her life. She recently joined the Air Force after 5 years of agonizing over the decision!! It is a huge step in her life and I am so excited for her to start this journey.

Fefe!!

The whole lot of them are a bunch of crazy, loud-mouthed New Yorkers and I absolutely adore each and every one of them. They each bring something special to my life and I wouldn't be the woman I am today if they hadn't been a part of my life!!

30DBC Day #4: My parents

2010-10-31T23:56:00.000-04:00

Today's challenge to to talk about my parents!! Well this one might be a long one because I have been fortunate each to have several people in my life that had a hand in raising me.

My father, James, was the light of my mother's life. He was her first true love and to this day, had life gone a different course, they would still be married. When I was 9 months old, he was killed in a boating accident that left my mother widowed at 22 years old with 2 children under the age of 3. As I have gone through life, I have learned of the many traits I possess that are identical to him such as my passion for taking pictures, my love of playing basketball and my obsession with ketchup!!

Daddy Jim circa 1971

When I was between 3 and 4 years old, my mother remarried the man who became my Dad!! He is a Dad in every sense of the word despite not being my blood. He never treated my brother and I different from the children he had with my mother. He has been there through everything and even when things have gone sour in our relationship, we have still managed to find our way back to each other. He and my mother divorced when I about 13 and they both remarried. My step-mom has always been someone I can turn to, especially when I need an ear to bend or some advice that I wouldn't otherwise think of. It is funny how even though he is not my blood, I have so many traits that I learned from him such as my love of music (especially the Beatles) and my knack for electronics.

Dad and Mary August 2010

Last but most certainly not least is my mother!! It is so hard to put into words what I feel toward my mother.I have written about her before (Mom) but here is a little bit about her. I hate to use the old cliche of "my mother is my best friend" but it is so true and then some. She is my rock, my confidant, my adviser and my mentor. My mother and I didn't always have the best relationship. As a teenager, I wanted nothing more than for her to butt out of my life and to leave me alone. When I joined the Navy, I truly started to see my mom in a different light but over the last couple of years, our relationship is truly evolved. I can count on her for anything and I am so proud of the woman she is. She has taught me so many traits that I hope to pass on to my own daughter such as strength, independence and compassion. I absolutely adore this woman and I am truly blessed to have her as my mother.

Mom and I after a few too many jello shots!!

30DBC Day #3: My first love

2010-10-30T11:17:00.000-04:00

My first love.....oh, do I ever remember the day I met him. It had been such a long day and I was exhausted. There was so much hustle and bustle all around me but I could here his sweet voice screaming in the background. I longed to look into the eyes of that tiny creature making those sweet cries but first, they had to make sure he was ok. My heart did a flip and my stomach twisted in knots when they walked over and handed me the bundle of blankets. There, with a face like a tiny angel, was my sweet boy. I had waited 9 long months to look into those eyes and smell his sweet smell. It seemed like the whole world disappeared around us as we stared at each other. I fell in love that very moment and my love for him grows more and more with each passed day. Never have I felt like this and I know that I never will again!!! He is the first person in my life to fill my heart completely. He is and always will be my first true love!!!!


Little Man 12 hours after birth

Little man October 2010

30DBC Day #2

2010-10-29T23:17:00.000-04:00

Today's challenge is to tell about the meaning behind your blog name. "See you about the decks" was a common Navy phrase that my husband heard frequently when he was on the ship. I never had the fortunate pleasure of serving on a ship despite being in the Navy for 10 years. However, since we are a Navy family, I wanted a Navy term that would mean I look forward to meeting people and "seeing" people again as they visit our little world via my blog.

The Navy is more than a job for my husband, it is his way of life as it was mine when I was serving. We will be a Navy family until the Navy tells us we need to go home. I miss being in the Navy but I am happy that I can still be a part of it all by being a Navy wife. Everyone has their "horror" story to tell about the military way of life but for us, the good has always outweighed the bad. We get a paycheck every 2 weeks (there about), we have a decent roof over our head, the doctor bills aren't killing our bank account, we don't worry about him getting fired or laid off, and we get to see different places that we otherwise may have never seen. Yes, the deployments and time apart stink but who knows what kind of job my husband would have otherwise so several months apart doing something he enjoys is so much better than him being in a miserable job that he will dread every day. To me, his passion for the Navy is going to teach our children to strive for the things they love even if it makes their lives uncomfortable every now and then!!

We are extremely proud to be a Navy family and I hope I get to see all of you about the decks!!!!

Have a Fine Navy Day!!!!!!

30DBC: Day #1

2010-10-28T23:11:00.001-04:00

Well, here it is....Day 1 and today's challenge is to introduce myself, post a recent picture and to type out 15 random things about myself. Should be easy right? Well, we shall see.....

It all started on fine Tuesday back in 1976......

Just kidding, I won't bore you with the detailed version of my life story. I will just give you the short and sweet version. I am Jaime....who Jaime is, I am not too sure as of yet. I am going through a journey in life right now, trying to figure that all out. Somewhere along the way, I lost myself and while I hope to find me again, I don't want to find the old me, I want to find a "new and improved" me. My marriage needs work, I need work....heck, who doesn't need a little work, right (and I don't mean plastic surgery either). But I am hoping that while I try to complete this challenge, not only will it allow you to learn about me but it might allow me to learn some things about myself that I have forgotten about. Oh yea, the picture was taken about 3 months ago when I was on my way to my 16 year high school reunion (yes you read that right.....16 years)!!

Now on to the 15 random things.....let me see:

1.) My children are my heart and soul. They are the reason I walk this Earth, the reason I wake up everyday, the only reason for my exsistance (or so I think!!)

2.) I hope to get my Master's degree in Education one day and would love to go even further to get my Ph,D.

3.) My mother is hands-down my absolute best friend in this entire world. I can't go a day without talking to her and I cherish the awesome relationship we have. I can talk to her about anything.

4) I spent 10 years and 26 days serving in the United States Navy. That was the boldest and best decision I ever made in my life and I am very proud of my time served.

5) I miss being in the Navy a lot but wouldn't trade being home with my babies for anything!!

6) I am an ex-smoker

7) I would love to lose 15-20 pounds but I am not in the mind-set yet of getting my butt in gear to do it. I need to stop whining about it and get it done!!

8) I HATE RUNNING!!!!!! But love to chase after my kids!!!

9) I pride myself in being a strong woman who can handle almost anything that is thrown her way. I know that God will always see me through and will never give me more than I can handle. I just need to remind myself of that every now and then!!

10) I have 2 tattoos and I love them. I can't wait for my next one which I should be getting sometime next year.

11) I love to cook and wish I wasn't surrounded by such picky-eaters!!

12) I also love to bake but I don't bake every time I have the urge to. If I did, I would weigh 400 pounds!!

13) I tend to shop too much and typically using shopping as therapy. It is a bad, bad thing!!

14) I have 2 sisters and 4 brothers. I love them all so much and wish we could be closer. They will never realize how great they have it to be so close and get the opportunity to be so involved in each others lives.

15) I am one of the most loyal friends you will ever have. I may not pick up the phone to call often or send emails/texts/messages every day but if you need anything, I have your back, until you give me reason not to!! God has truly blessed me with some pretty awesome friends!!!

Compassion and the 30-day Blog Challenge

2010-10-27T10:27:00.000-04:00

Wow, I have been bad about blogging as of late. Between traveling, the move and life in general, blogging is always furthest from my mind but I hope to change that. I will get back to that in a minute.

First, I want to tell you about a proud Mommy moment I had yesterday and today. Little Princess was at gymnastics class and for the class, they had converted the gym into a huge Halloween maze for the kids to go through. She was having so much fun running, climbing and tumbling all over the place. At she was approaching one area, she came upon one of the little girls who had fallen and hurt herself. She was crying and my sweet girl went up to her and started rubbing her back, asking her if she was ok. She gave her a hug, told her it would be ok and even offered to kiss her "owie". She then took the little girls hand and walked with her to the slide area they were coming upon. I couldn't have been more proud to know how much compassion my Princess has....until this morning that is.

Princess woke up throwing up and was having a very difficult time with it. I was busy trying to get her cleaned up along with anything she threw up on so I had her lay in my bed with a bucket "just in case". Little Man woke up and was immediately concerned for his baby sister. I left the room to go get her some Pedialyte and came back in to find him lay next to her, rubbing her back and reassuring her that she would feel better soon. My heart bubbled with joy to know that amongst this chaos we call life, we have taught our children one of the most important qualities a person can have and that is compassion!! I am one proud Momma!!!

Now, back to my lack of blogging....I was reading my friend's blog (That Tattooed Girl) and came upon an awesome challenge which she got from a great blog called Katie's Journey I am going to join in the fun and use the original list which goes a little something like this:

Day 1-Introduce, recent picture, 15 interesting facts
Day 2-Meaning behind your blog name
Day 3-Your first love
Day 4-Your parents
Day 5-Your siblings
Day 6-A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 7-Favorite movies
Day 8-A place you've traveled to
Day 9-A picture of your friends
Day 10-Something you're afraid of
Day 11-Favorite tv shows
Day 12-What you believe
Day 13-Goals
Day 14-A picture you love
Day 15-Bible verse
Day 16-Dream house
Day 17-Something you're looking forward to
Day 18-Something you regret
Day 19-Something you miss
Day 20-Nicknames
Day 21-Picture of yourself
Day 22-Favorite city
Day 23-Favorite vacation
Day 24-Something you've learned
Day 25-Put your iPod on shuffle, first 10 songs
Day 26-Picture of your family
Day 27-Pets
Day 28-Something that stresses you out
Day 29-3 Wishes
Day 30-a picture

I hope some of my friends and readers out there join in the fun too!! But if you do, make sure your credit Katie with her amazing idea by linking to her blog!!! Stay tuned for Day 1 of the Challenge tomorrow!!

Happy Wednesday!!!

MilSpouse Fill-In #16

2010-10-08T16:57:00.000-04:00

Here are this week's Friday Fill In questions from Wife of A Sailor If you are a blogger, follow her and join in the fun. If not, please share your answers in the comment section of my blog. I would love to hear what everyone has to say!!

1. What is the longest road trip you’ve ever taken? It was one I took about 10 years ago. I drove from South Carolina to New Orleans for a family reunion. Spent 3 days there and then drove from there to New York for 2 days and then drove back down to South Carolina. It was a fun drive!!!

2. Do you collect anything? Tell us a bit about it. I collect Barbies and Willow Tree statues. I love Barbie, they remind me of my childhood. I have 94 of them as of right now. My Willow Tree collection started when I was pregnant with my son. Each piece has special meaning to me and I love them all!!

3. What is your favorite part about being an adult? Being able to do what I want. If I want to stay up late, I can. If I want to skip dinner, I can. I normally pay for bad decisions like staying up late but it is still a nice privilege.

4. What song brings a tear to your eye? Whiskey Lullabye. It reminds me of someone special from my past.

5. Describe your first plane ride (how old you were, where you were heading, etc). Ummmmm, I don't remember it but I know it because of pictures. I was 1 and I was going on a cruise with my mom and brother.

MilSpouse Fill-In #14

2010-09-24T07:30:00.000-04:00

Here are this week's Friday Fill In questions from Wife of A Sailor If you are a blogger, follow her and join in the fun. If not, please share your answers in the comment section of my blog. I would love to hear what everyone has to say!!

1. What characteristic about yourself has either been strengthened or weakened due to your experience as a Military Spouse? I would have to say my ability to "get the job done". I have always relied on having people around me to help me do things but being so far from home and having a spouse gone frequently has made me realize that sometimes you have no choice but to get the job done and to do it yourself.

2. What is your favorite vacation spot and why? I would have to say Sandbridge Beach, VA. My entire family rents a large beach house right on the ocean every few years. It is always such a great time. The house is amazing, the company is always a blat and the memories are plenty.

3. If you could have any fast-food restaurant in the food court on base/post what would you pick? Steak and Shake!!! I miss their burgers and milkshakes!!!

4. Where did you go on your honeymoon? My apartment. We never had a honeymoon. Heck, we have never even gone away just the two of us for a night!!!!

5. If you could have any job in the world regardless of money, degree or experience, which job would you have and why? I have always wanted to be an event planner. I would love to plan birthdays, weddings, showers, etc. I have so many wonderful ideas but never the capital to back those ideas!! It would be great doing that kind of job!!!

SAHM

2010-09-23T14:57:00.000-04:00

So for those of you who don't know what SAHM stands for, it stands for Stay At Home Mom, which I am proud to say I am.....or am I?

Who came up with that term anyways? Had they ever met a true SAHM?

I have been a SAHM for 4 years and in those 4 years, life has been pretty moderately paced between play-dates, appointments, outings and day to day life. My children and I enjoyed an occasional "pj day", complete with popcorn, movies and snuggles in our big bed!!

However, all that very rapidly changed in the matter of 3 weeks. My life as a true Stay at Home Mom went out the window. My days are now spent taxi-ing children to and from school, to and from dance, to and from gymnastics (2 different classes) and to and from soccer. Add in there various appointment for them, myself and even the dog plus other errands that round out our life and this Momma wonders where the term SAHM fits into her life now.

While I love seeing my children grow and excel at the various activities that they have chosen to participate in, I long for a "pj day" and wonder if I am setting a bad example by letting Little Man skip school one day, declaring it an official day of rest. I know he is only in Pre-K but am I setting the precedent for the rest of our school years. I guess only time will tell.....I think a "pj day" is in order very soon!!!!

Mamarazzi Monday: Soccer

2010-09-20T22:29:00.000-04:00

My Little Man had his first soccer game on Saturday and it was so awesome to watch him play. He doesn't really understand the concept of soccer yet but he will get there. He was having fun trying to get the ball away from the "bad guys" (as he called them). The league he is in is Micro and they don't keep score or anything. They play 2 quarter then take a break and then play 2 more quarters. He did so good and was so sad when the game was all done. I am so proud of him for trying so hard!!!


Heading out to the field to play

Waiting to play

Go get 'em Noah!!


Trying to get the ball

Playing soccer is thirsty work!!!

Cheering on her big brother!!!

Link up to the Mamarazzi

MilSpouse Fill In #13

2010-09-17T09:00:00.002-04:00

Here are this week's Friday Fill In questions from Wife of A Sailor If you are a blogger, follow her and join in the fun. If not, please share your answers in the comment section of my blog. I would love to hear what everyone has to say!!

1. How do you spend your deployment money, do you save, pay off bills or enjoy the extra money while it is there to buy the things you do not normally have? I save as much as I can so we can enjoy the money together when he returns. I do splurge on a few small things but nothing huge.

2. If you could relive one occasion or moment, what would it be? The moment my children were born. I would love to have more babies but it isn't in the cards for us. I would love to experience those moments again!!

3. What’s the worst job you ever had and if it was so bad why did you take it? My very first real job was at Burger King. It was an ok but the manager was a sexiest pig. I actually filed a sexual harassment charge against him along with 2 other females that worked there. He was fired shortly after I quit.

4. If you could play any character on TV, who would you be? I would have to pick Rachel from Friends. I know the show is no longer on TV but she was my absolute favorite!!!

5. If you could become the world’s expert in something, what would it be? I would love to be an expert on child-rearing because that would mean that I would have very well-behaved children.

Budgeting

2010-09-15T23:57:00.002-04:00

So I am really kind of nervous with this new adventure we are about to partake in. We have decided to go to an "envelope budgeting" system. I have done research, figured out how it would work best for our family and today was the official first day. So far, so good. I paid our household bills through web bill pay as I always do and then this morning, I went to the bank and withdrew the money I needed to fill our envelopes. The only money that is left in our account is the money allotted for gas. We have decided to not do our gas money in cash mainly for my convenience. I typically have at least one child with me when I get gas and instead of having to cart them inside, it is much easier to use my card right at the pump.

But I digress....I am hoping this system will not only prevent us from frivolous spending but enable us to build up our savings, which I am really focused on for our future. I am the biggest culprit of relying on my check card way too much. I personally think it will be more painful for me to put down five $20 dollar bills to pay for something rather than running my check card. I even went as far as taking all of my credit cards out of my wallet except for the one I need for gas. That was painful....LOL

So tonight was the first time in a long time I paid cash for something and it was kind of odd. I had to remember to grab money out of the appropriate envelope and remember to put what was left over back into the envelope when we got home. But I survived....now let's see how my family survives during our first month of our new budget system!!

To my friends who may have used this system or are using it, please share any tips you may have!! They would be greatly appreciated!!!

Wish us LUCK!!!!

Tasty Tuesday: Pomegranate Chipotle Sauce

2010-09-14T23:10:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite products of the standard Tastefully Simple line has been the Pomegranate Chipotle sauce and it has been since I started selling the products. I love taking it just straight out of the bottle and smearing on an awesome pork tenderloin to throw it in the oven for about 30 minutes and Voila! An awesome dinner that taste like it came from a gourmet restaurant. It has an amazing combination of pomegranate and mango with the smoky flavors of the chipotle chili. It tantalizes your taste buds with it combo of sweet and tangy and can take any meal up a notch.

A few serving suggestions for the Pomegranate Chipotle sauce are:
1) Spread on meats, fish or poultry while baking or grilling.
2) Spoon over cream cheese; serve with crackers.
3) Excellent on chicken wings or ribs.
4) Brush over bacon-wrapped cubed chicken breast; secure with a toothpick. Bake at 350˚ for 30 minutes or until bacon is crisp and chicken is cooked.
5) For a unique salad, combine 3 Tbsp. Pomegranate Chipotle Sauce with 3 Tbsp. white wine vinegar and 2 Tbsp. olive oil. Toss with torn greens and sliced peaches or mango; sprinkle with crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and pine nuts or pecans.

A few recipes found on the Tastefully Simple website are:

Pomegranate Chipotle Chicken Pizza

Pomegranate Pecan Dip

Fiesta Seasoned Hot Wings

The Pomegranate Chipotle sauce runs for $8.99 for an 8 oz. bottle. You can order this product and many others by visiting my website: Jaime's Tastefully Simple Website. I hope you try some today!!!!!

Mamarazzi Monday: Coming Out

2010-09-13T22:49:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone, I am Jaime and I am a Mamarazzi......

There, I said it....I am out!!! I absolutely love taking pictures of my gorgeous babies to point that I can't go anywhere without a camera!! You just never know what kind of cuteness will occur!! So I came across this awesome lady who does a spot every Monday called "Mamarazzi Mondays" and I am going to join in the fun!!! Want to check it out? Read Household 6 Diva blog and join the Mamarazzi!!


So excited about starting school!!


My little soccer player!!

The Ballerina

Avoiding the issue

2010-09-12T22:16:00.000-04:00

I am the world biggest procrastinator. I put things off and put things off until I am down to the wire and then have to scramble to get it done. I try so hard to not be that way but thus far, none of my efforts have been fruitful.

So the currently issue I am putting off is applying to school. I have the application all filled out, the requests for transcripts ready to go and the application fee sitting on the desk but the last piece of the puzzle is my "personal statement" which I am having a complete road block on in my brain. I can't figure out for the life of me why I can't just sit down and write it out but every time I do, I lose my thoughts and just stare at the screen.

Hubby has started to bug me about since I made a promise to both of us that I would try to start school in January. But instead of doing it, I have been avoiding the issue.

How have I been avoiding the issue? By cleaning my house. And not just regular cleaning, the kind of cleaning that involved garbage bags, boxes, Good-Will and a possible garage sale. Every time he asks me about it, I sit at the computer, try to write it, get frustrated and go to clean something. At this rate, my whole house will be cleaned up, packed up and ready for the curb if I don't get this written. Tonight, I decided to steam cleaned the carpets when he asked me about it (something that needed to be done but not at 7:30 at night!!).

Someone just needs to give me a swift kick in the behind or take my cleaning supplies away. Maybe my inspiration will come to me tomorrow when I clean out our closet!!!!

9/11: Never Forgotten

2010-09-11T20:52:00.002-04:00

Before I start my intended post, I want to send a huge THANK YOU to my girl USNchic for making my new header!! I am revamping the blog, what do you think? What should I change around? Any input in greatly appreciated!!

So today is September 11th, the 9 year anniversary of the terrorist attacks on our country. I sat this morning reflecting on my life at that time and what was going on in my life on that day. I was still active duty Navy and I was stationed at Parris Island, working at the Crucible Aid Station. I had just finished my morning coverages and was headed home for my 4 hour "break" before having to come back to work when my cell phone rang. I was in my car and had a CD on so I wasn't listening to the radio or even near a TV. My mother was the one calling and she was so panicked. She asked me instantly what this event was going to mean for both myself and my husband at the time. I had no idea what she was talking about but once she told me, I started crying. Not because it meant a possibility of war or anything like that but because of all the lives lost. I got home and immediately put on the television and laid there watching during my entire break. I think the 3 days after I got maybe 4 hours of sleep because every break was spent watching the coverage versus sleeping. Being a New Yorker (even though I am from Upstate), I begged to be sent up with the troops they were sending to help. Unfortunately, I was needed in my job since we were already short-handed. It was awful being there when they told the recruits who were going through the Crucible, as there were a handful who had family in or near both places that had been hit. The most emotional point of the week was when we went to the Crucible graduation and listened to the "Proud to Be an American" song that they play during every graduation. There was not a dry eye in the place and suddenly, what we have all been doing in our military careers, be it for 9 weeks, 9 months, 9 years or whatever, meant so much more. Never had I been more proud of my decision to serve in our United States military.

So today brings somber thoughts. It makes me miss being in the Navy, it makes me worry about my husband and what the current situation might bring to our lives, it makes me proud to know the friends and family who are serving, who have served or who are thinking of serving, it brings a wide array of emotions to the surface!!

Now the last thought I wanted to convey was that of aggravation. While I am so proud of the people who posted all over FB about 9/11, the emails I received concerning this day, even the text messages however I feel like we as Americans tend to forget the other days in history that caused us tremendous losses. Pearl Harbor day, D-Day, the Battle at Antietam, and even the Oklahoma City bombings. While none of these may compare to the losses we had during 9/11 (it still isn't statistically proven which had more deaths: 9/11 or the Battle of Antietam), they were very significant in our history and should be remembered also!! I hope when these days approach, we remember those who gave their lives for us and our country!!!

GOD BLESS AMERICA AND THOSE WHO SERVE HER!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mil Spouse Fill In #12

2010-09-10T11:09:00.000-04:00

Do you set goals for yourself during deployment? What are some of them? I have goals set for myself all the time. Currently my goals are to lose 10 pounds, get accepted and enrolled into college for January and to get my family moved into a new house. I have a few long term goals for myself that I have put on hold temporarily but hope to get working on them again soon!!
What would you say to someone dating a military guy or gal? I would only give my outtake on being a military SO which is that it is an amazing life and you get to see and do so many cool things on top of meeting the most amazing people. But it isn't for everyone and if you want your SO by your side 24/7 then this isn't the life for you.
If you have children, how do you prepare them to move to a new place? Thankfully I was able to take some tips from some awesome friends who has moved a few months prior to our last move. I showed Little Man where we were moving on a map and explained to him about the new friends we would make and how his life would change for the positive. I also made a picture board with pictures of his old friends and spots for his new ones. I am currently working on a scrapbook of his friends from our last duty station for him to look at whenever he wants and I will make one for here when we leave so he can enjoy it whenever he wants also.
Name one hobby that gets you through alone time. Reading, I love to read!!
What’s the one food you don’t ever get tired of? Sushi and Seafood, particularly crab and clams. I could eat them everyday, all day!!

Tasty Tuesday: Bountiful Beer Bread

2010-09-07T21:22:00.001-04:00

YUMMMMM-O.....that is the only way I can describe Tastefully Simple Bountiful Beer Bread. I have had countless recipes for beer bread but for whatever reason, I love theirs the best (and it isn't because I am a consultant). It is so versitile which is the best part. You don't have to make it as a beer bread or even use beer. The original recipe calls for 12 oz. of beer and 3 tablespoons of butter. However, you can make it with any carbonated beverage and every different beer or beverage changes the flavor entirely. It is the perfect thing to round out a meal or to even munch on as a snack with your favorite topping. And let's not even talk about how amazing your house will smell while it is baking!!! It is enough to make anyone's mouth water.

Here are some serving suggestions for the Bountiful Beer Bread:
1) For delicious French toast, dip bread slices into a mixture of eggs, cream and cinnamon; sauté in butter.
2) Make gifts by dividing batter among three foil mini loaf pans; bake 35–40 minutes. Cool; wrap in colored plastic.
3)Mix ½ cup chopped pepperoni, 1 Tbsp. Garlic Garlic™ and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese into batter before baking.
4) For spice bread, add 12 oz. root beer, ½ cup molasses and 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice in place of beer.
5) Makes excellent grilled cheese sandwiches.

A few recipes I have tried:

Cherry Chocolate Chip Bread
(My notes: I changed nothing!! It is awesome!!)
Little Italy Bread
(My notes: I added more cheese.....I love cheese!!)
Mimosa Bread
My notes: Again, I changed nothing. This is a perfect brunch bread!!)

The Bountiful Beer Bread mix runs for $5.49 for a single box and our special value pack box, which contains 3, runs for $14.49. You can order this product and many others by visiting my website: Jaime's Tastefully Simple Website. I hope you try some today!!!!!

MilSpouse Fill in #11 (and #10 since I missed it)

2010-09-03T06:00:00.001-04:00

What is a weird/funny superstition that you have? I never ever let the hubby get off the phone or leave without saying "I love you". I also make sure to say it to my children whenever I am leaving their side, even if it is nap time. You never know when it will be the last time you get to say it.
What are your hopes and dreams for the years AFTER the military? After all, we aren’t in it forever! I am hoping to be teaching high school Health and/or English. My husband is hoping to be teaching history and plans to be a basketball coach. I am not sure where we will be living but my guess would be either TN or FL.
Since [this] month is National Apple Month (no really!), I’d probably ask: What is your yummiest apple recipe? I don't really have any apple recipes. One of my faves is one my friend Marcy makes. It is a simple apple dip. Take the whipped cream cheese, spread it on a serving plate. Cover it with caramel and chopped peanuts. Serve with apple slices. It is apple heaven!!
How long have you gone as a military spouse without talking to your husband/wife during service? Probably only a few days. We are great about communication when he is deployed.
I occasionally watch When I was 17… on MTV. So, what was something that was significant about your 17th year of life? I'd have to say 2 things. I got my drivers license and I graduated high school. I was petrified of driving so I didn't rush at all trying to get my license.

Here is the week prior's also.

What secret indulgence do you act on while your spouse is away?
I would have to say eating Chinese food pretty regularly. Hubby isn't a fan of it so I eat it a lot when he is gone!!
If you were a spice, what would you be? According to the What Spice Are You quiz, I am Ginger. "Like ginger, you are a total shape shifter. You can be sweet, spicy, mellow, or overpowering. You are both soothing and unique. You are popular... yet you are often overlooked." Seems about right.
Where do you go for support when your significant other is deployed? My family or my awesome friends. I have been fortunate enough in my life to meet some amazing people and I have an AWESOME support system!!!
What is the oldest thing you own? My baby blanket. It is a shambles but I love it and it is safe in my hope chest!!
How did you vision your future pre-military? I thought I would be married by 25 and have 2 kids by 30. I also envisioned myself being a highly sought after interior designer. Got to dream big, huh?

Tasty Tuesday: Warm the Oven! Savory Chesse Dip Mix

2010-08-24T23:40:00.000-04:00

Wow, I haven't done a Tasty Tuesday in almost 2 months, I need to get on the ball!! I wanted to do this one on an item that will be discontinued when the Spring/Summer line goes away on August 31st. It is the Warm the Oven! Savory Cheese Dip Mix!!! This has been a favorite of mine since I first started selling Tastefully Simple and I have tried it in some many different ways but my favorite way to eat it is directly as a cheese dip. Just add 8 oz of cream cheese and bake to enjoy the flavors of onion, tomato, garlic and spices. Each box includes two packets and it is great served with crackers or some crusty French bread. Each package makes about 8 servings.

Here are some suggestions for using the Warm the Oven! Savory Cheese Dip:
1) Add 14 oz. can drained, chopped artichoke hearts before heating.
2) Spread prepared cold dip on fl our tortillas; top with deli meats or chopped vegetables. Roll; chill 2 hours. Cut in half for wraps or slice into pinwheels.
3) Stuff prepared cold dip into stemmed mushroom caps; sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.
4) Spoon 3-4 Tbsp. warm pizza sauce over baked dip before serving.
5) Spread prepared cold dip on pre-baked pizza crust; top with diced tomatoes, cooked chicken, artichoke hearts, peppers and a sprinkle

A few recipes that I have tried:
Game Day Bean Dip
(My notes: I served it with Doritos and it was so yummy!!)
Savory Crab and Pasta
(My notes: Use REAL crab, not imitation!!)

The Warm the Oven! Savory Cheese Dip Mix runs for $7.49 for a box that contains two .75 oz packages. You can order this product and many others by visiting my website: Jaime's Tastefully Simple Website Remember, this product will retire on August 31st, so order yours today!!!!!

MilSpouse Fill In Friday #9

2010-08-20T17:06:00.000-04:00

If you could be a fugitive from the law for whatever reason, what would your crime be?
It be for assault since I would love to beat the garbage out of every pedophile out there!!
How long do you think you will be a military family? I am hoping for only 11 more years since that is what hubby needs for his 20 year mark but more than likely it will be longer than that. Who knows where life will take us!!
What’s your favorite recipe? I actually have 2 and they are both for something sweet. I featured them both in the Tasty Tuesday section of my blog. The first is Banana Bread , it is actually a Paula Deen recipe and I make it at least every 2 weeks!! My other favorite is another Paula Deen recipe and it is Ooey Gooey Cake. I prefer the pumpkin version of this recipe and make it often, especially when I have a pot luck to go to!!
What would you want your last five words to be when you leave this life? Mom.....the Meatloaf!!! Just kidding and I know that is only 3 words. I think they would be "Always be good to yourselves".
Where do you hope to retire? My dream would be to retire anywhere relatively close to my family. However, I know that probably won't happen so we have been throwing around somewhere near the Smoky Mountains or somewhere in northern Florida.

Heartwarming Homecomings

2010-08-15T23:10:00.000-04:00

I am beat but I am trying to get back into my regular routine of blogging so I thought I would do a "quickie" tonight by sharing something special with you!!

My awesome friend USNchic started an awesome section in her blog called Heartwarming Homecomings. As military spouses, we all know that the best part of deployments, temporary duties or really any signifcant time away, is the homecoming. She is asking that people share their amazing homecoming stories as well as any pictures they have from that special time. She even created a Facebook page for it which you can find by click here: Heartwarming Homecomings Facebook Page.

If you would like more information on how to share, click here Heartwarming Homecomings. Thank you so much for boing this my awesome friend!!!

Bad Mommy...or am I?

2010-08-14T23:19:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I hate the fact that my Irish temper shines through and I get so angry with my kids about random things in life. I have been known to put my kids in the corner with their arms to their sides, give out a spanking or two and even once use a wooden spoon to get the point across. While my children mind very well, I hate that they flinch every time I raise my voice at them for being naughty. It hurts my feeling and it makes me feel like a bad mommy that my kids are basically afraid of me.....

Until tonight, that is......

Tonight, I got a true lesson as to why I am the way I am and why I discipline my kids as such. I have never kept my kids on an extremely tight leash. I like to let them explore the world around them and experience what life has to offer. If they get dirty, oh well, we have a washing machine. If they get a "boo-boo", Mommy will always be there to kiss it and make it better. If they have a question, I will always answer it. That is how I do things as a Mom but you can be rest assured that if you do something that will potentially injure yourself after being told not to do or how to do it the correct way, the "drill sergeant" is going to come out.

We decided to meet Nanny and Poppa for ice cream done by the lake. We have been spending a lot of time down there as the kids really enjoy all there is to do in that area. As we were saying goodbye, we were waiting at the crosswalk to cross an extremely busy intersection, when Jordan decided she wanted to let go of my hand and start trying to cross the street alone. I have never reacted faster in my life. I swiftly scooped her up in my arms and proceeded to lecture her in the middle of God and everyone, not giving a damn who stared, whispered or had something to say. The look of fear on her face was not of what she did, it was of Mommy's anger and she anticipated the spanking that was soon to follow. To be honest, had we not been in the midst of a police officer, I probably would have tore her hiney up right then and there. But I decided to wait until we got to the van.

However, by the time we got to the van, I was cooled off and had no desire to spank her. Instead, I took the opportunity as a teaching moment for both of my kids and had a conversation with them about the importance of holding Mommy's hand when cars are around (again). I am hoping that with how scared she made herself, me and even Noah, we can all learn a lesson from this.

After sitting and reflected upon the day, I find myself stuck on that moment and can't help but to wonder....is it a good thing my kids are so afraid of me? or is it something that will affect my relationship with them in the future? It worries me so much that I am going to screw them up somehow!! Lord, why didn't you send them with instruction manuals????

MilSpouse Friday Fill-in

2010-08-13T23:55:00.000-04:00

I have missed the last few weeks but I really want to get back into the swing of things. So here are this week's Friday Fill In questions fromWife of A Sailor If you are a blogger, follow her and join in the fun. If not, please share your answers in the comment section of my blog. I would love to hear what everyone has to say!!

1. What is ONE thing you’d like civilians to understand about being a military family? Being apart never gets easier no matter how many times you have to do it, for no matter how long the time apart is and what the circumstances are. Despite the fact that we "opted" to be a military wife, it doesn't make our time apart any less significant than your spouse being away for an extended trip.

2. What is your favorite mistake? Telling my closest friend that I has a crush on my husband (who barely knew me at the time). While I was away one weekend, they attend a get together and she blurted out that I liked him. It all went from there!!

3. What indulgence could you give up for a year? Gosh....I think probably chips. I have a huge chip "fetish" but I think I could give them up if I could have popcorn or maybe peanuts in their place

4. If you could be a winged animal, what would you be? I would be a Pegasus. They are such a beautiful creature despite being mythical.

5. What is one question you’d like to see asked in a future MFF? If you could have any job in the world regardless of money, degree or experience, which job would you have and why?

What's Up Wednesday

2010-08-11T23:20:00.002-04:00

Wow, it has been a while since I have blogged. We are still in NY and I find it difficult to sit down to blog, wanting to spend every moment I can doing things with or for my family. I have truly enjoyed our time here the last few weeks and while I haven't had a chance to catch up with old friends other than at the reunion, the bonding time that I have been afforded with my nieces has made me extremely happy. It has been so awesome to see the kids play together but in the same breath, it makes me sad that we live so far away and will probably never live close enough for them to be regular fixtures in our lives. Who knows what God's path will be for us though.....we shall see!!

The kids have been doing amazing here. Little Princess is speaking better and better every day and I frequently get comments from people on her speech in correlation to her age. She cracks me up with the frequent mix ups of who people are; calling all the boys Uncle Corey, calling my mom's Yorkie-Poo Beau "Zoe" (which is one of my best friend's yellow lab's name), calling my dad Nanny-Poppa instead of just Poppa. It is all overwhelming for such a little person. But she adores her cousins and has become a partner in crime with Matilda!! They are inseparable and always have to be doing the exact same thing!! It is like having a twin sister for both of them!!

Little Man has truly blossomed being here. He is becoming such a little person now, not a baby, not a toddler but a little person. He helps with chores around the house, looks out for the girls and generally keeps out of trouble. Of course we have had a few bad days here and there but overall, I have been really pleased with him and his behavior here. He has really taken to my older brother and wants to constantly spend time with him. It is ironic too because when Little Man was little, he was afraid of him. Every day with him makes me sadder and sadder that he is starting school when we get back home but it will do him a world of good and I look forward to hearing his stories!!

As for the Hubby, he is extremely busy especially now that E7 results are out. He is sponsoring someone this year so it will keep him busy. Between school, work and sponsoring activites, it is a good thing we are gone because we would hardly see him.

We head back to NC on the 30th and then busy life starts!! Until then, we have several plans made and I am still hoping to at least catch lunch with a few friends!! I will do my best to blog a bit more but I am not promising anything....LOL!!

Thankful Thursday: PJ-RARA

2010-07-29T10:48:00.001-04:00

So I decided to try to get back into my blogging and get back to my set up of days. So today is THANKFUL THURSDAY!!! And today I wanted to write about a special group of friends I have from our previous duty station, Great Lakes!!

For me, this little group happened by accident but it was one of the best "accidents" in my life. They have each contributed something in my life and have made it richer for knowing them. Despite the fact that all of us but two are scattered throughout the US now, we still keep involved with each other and we are even planning a PJ-RARA reunion for the spring next year (which I am so excited about).

Let me tell you a bit about the girls....

For me, it started with Anna. Meeting her was like meeting my soul-mate (friendship-wise). We happened upon each other purely out of coincidence. My friend ran a website for Navy partners and she told me about a girl who was moving to Great Lakes the same time I was. Anna was pregnant with her daughter and Little Man was about 4 months old when we first corresponded with each other. We met in February after moving to Great Lakes and our friendship blossomed from there. She is truly my soul sister and I can not imagine my life without her in it. We are opposite in almost every way but the funny thing is, we are so opposite that we compliment each other.

Next came Rose. Rose and Anna were neighbors so we met for the first time at a play-date. She, at the time, had a daughter who was 2 months younger than Little Man. She and I had a lot in common, having similar backgrounds with family and lives growing up, then spending 10 years in the Navy and lastly having toddlers close in age. I was so happy to meet her and she became my friend who kept me grounded. She prayed for me when I needed it, laughed with me when something funny happened and we were an ear for each other as we tread the waters of motherhood for the first time together!!

That summer, I received a message from a sweet girl named Ally. She was moving to GL, noticed I had a son close to her son's age and was looking to make some friends. I call Ally my "unexpected friend" meaning I never anticipated she and I being as close as we are. I am not sure how quickly she and I would have met if she hadn't contacted me (if at all) but I am so thankful everyday that she did. Our friendship has always been so easy, Ally is such a laid-back woman. She really reminds me that it is OK to let the little things go and that life is not meant to be so up-tight. I admire her so much because she really has it all together and doesn't even realize it. She isn't the type of person who brags about the things she does or seeks out recognition for everything. In my eyes, she really is Super Mom and trust me, if I had 1/2 of her patience, there would be a lot less yelling in my house...LOL!!!

I am not exactly sure who I met first between Robin and Pam but I will talk about Robin next. Robin is my friend who reminds me to have fun with my kids. She is always doing fun things like building forts, having slumber parties and playing imagination type things. She loves being a mom and she can laugh at everything (and with her boys, she really needs a sense of humor. They keep her on her toes!!)

And last but most certainly not least, is Pam. She happened upon our little group and became "Aunt Pam", the fun lady who had no kids and who loved to spoil all the munchkins. When she finally got pregnant, we were all over the moon with excitement for her and couldn't wait for her to join the ranks of motherhood. She and I now live right down the street from each other and she has become my lifeline. She is helping me survive a duty station that I am not too happy with but because of her friendship, it is so much better. She is my "tell it like it is" friend and I know if I have a problem she will tell me if I am being dumb or if I am right. I know that with her, what I see is what I get and I love that about her. There is no false pretenses and when we do have issues, we talk them out, which is awesome. She always has my back and I always have hers (and where we live, that is important!!)

I have been truly blessed to have each of these women cross my path and now share my journey in life. My life will always be different because of each of them!! Thank you girls for being my friend (cue the Golden Girls Theme song!!!)

Here is the last picture taken of all of us together. Ally and Pam were both pregnant and it was their "going away" picture!!

Update

2010-07-27T23:22:00.000-04:00

Wow, I need to get on the ball with my blogging. Things have been wickedly crazy for us between summertime fun and traveling. Currently, the munchkins and I are visiting my family in New York for the month of August. The visit, which we are on day 5 of, has shown me such an array of emotions!! Between what is going on in my family life and what emotions I have been experiencing, I am exhausted already. I am going to need a vacation from my vacation, LOL!!

On the munchkin front, they are great and really loving being around their cousins, aunt, uncles and especially their grandparents!! Little Man is sort of all over the place though and it is rather frustrating. It is amazing how manners got left back in North Carolina because I am constantly reminding him about them. He is spoiled by Grammy but it is all good. Little Princess is doing great here. She has not fought me for the binkie once and she even went wee-wee on the potty twice today!! I think being around MJ is a good thing especially since she sees her go potty and not have a binkie!! I couldn't be prouder of her right now!!

On the me front, being here has been a good thing and a bad thing. I love getting to spend time with my extended family. I hate that I am missing out on MJ and Ri-Ri's lives. But seeing them almost daily has been wonderful. It has made me wish at time that our lives were different. I wish we could be apart of family dinners, quick trips to the ice cream shop with everyone or hanging out with the entire gang randomly but unfortunately our life is not going down that path. I know I chose to be a military wife and I chose the lifestyle I have but it doesn't make it easier!! Oh well, I can always dream that one day we will get to do those type of things regularly!!

I hope I can get better with my blogging while I am here!! Only time will tell......

MilSpouse Friday Fill In

2010-07-16T19:14:00.000-04:00

I miss last week's edition but I didn't want to forget this week's!!

Here are this week's Friday Fill In questions from Wife of A Sailor.

What food reminds you of your spouse? Steak!!! I swear the man would eat steak every day of the week if I allowed it!! He is the only person I know who will go to any restaurant and order a steak!!
Who would you rather sit next to in a cross-country plane ride: an irritating non-stop talker, or a quiet stare-er? A non-stop talker. I am a talker myself so I would love to see who could get more in!! LOL
What are your best tips on how to save money? Don't go to Old Navy during Stuff n' Save....LOL. But seriously, get rid of the credit cards and only spend what you have. Make sure you put 10% of your earnings into savings every month before you do anything else!!
What is your favorite summer memory? Going camping with my family as a kid, especially when we went to Canada's Wonderland. I love camping and everything about it (and yes, I am a true camper...tent, sleeping bags, roast marshmallows, everything!!)
Do you believe in ghosts? Yes I do very much!!!! There is too much that happens that is unexplained!!!

I will try my best to do next week's edition. We are traveling to NY on Thursday so hopefully I will be able to blog on Friday!!

Earning it....

2010-07-14T16:34:00.000-04:00

My kids are inundated with toys. It seems like everywhere I look in my house, there are toys of some sort!! I spoil them, the grandparents spoil them, everyone who knows them spoils them but that is okay in my book. I enjoy seeing them play and using their imaginations with their various Little People, Matchbox cars and, most recently with my Little Man, Legos. Little Man has really taken to Legos which makes me extremely happy because I really think they are a great toy. It is interesting to see him take them apart, put them back together in different ways and be so proud of the creation he has made!! I love it but that is where my newest dilemma comes into play.

Little Man started receiving allowance several weeks ago and has been saving every penny without fail since then because he is saving to get a $50 Lego Fire Boat. I have been encouraging him, praising him for doing such a great job savings and I have even been "helping out" the savings by giving him a quarter here and there for being a helper around the house. However, at $4 a week, saving for the Fire Boat seems like an eternity in the eyes of a 4 year old.

So we came up with a deal.

We went through his room and picked out older toys he no longer plays with and then picked out things in the garage that were once his but have gone to the way side. I promised him that we could have a garage sale to help him earn the rest of the money since I wanted to have a garage anyways. I told him that he could have all the money that was made from the selling of his old things. I figured this was only fair especially since all of those things were not bought for me nor were they mine to sell so it was only right for him to have the money. He has been so excited about the garage sale and keeps asking when we can have it.

Which is where the problem lays......

I have run out of time!! We leave in a week to go to the "Roc" for the rest of the summer and there is no way I am having a garage sale in that time frame. I promised him he would be able to buy the Fire Boat when we got to Grammy's house but now, since we won't have the garage sale, what do I do? Do I give him the rest of the money he needs since it is my fault he is not having the chance to "earn" it himself especially considering I was going to cover the difference anyways if he didn't earn the whole $50 or do I tell him he has to wait even though he has been doing everything he was told to do to get the Lego set?

What do you all think?

Thank you with a Cherry On Top

2010-07-13T15:04:00.000-04:00

I just received the coolest award from my awesome friend Ally @Have a Great Navy Day. Thank you so much Ally for thinking of me!!!

The rules of this award are simple. 1) Thank the person who sent you the award (Thank you again Ally) 2) Post 3 things you like about yourself. and 3) Pass the award to 5 other people

So my 3 things:

1) I love that I have been devoted to serving my country in one shape or another for over 14 years now. I joined the Navy in May 1996 and ended my active duty service in June 2006 right before Little Man was born. However, I continue to serve in the "silent ranks" as a very proud Navy wife!! I love our country and am proud to live here!!

2) I love that I am devoted to my family and not just my husband and babies but my entire family. I come from a larger family and despite living so far away, I trying to remain involved in their lives as much as possible. Nothing in this world can replace family and I want to make sure that my children always understand the importance of family ties despite the miles between you.

3) I like that I am a strong woman and can survive just about anything. My mother showed me how to be strong not only by what she taught me but by leading by a good example. I see what she has gone through in her life and I see what it takes to be that kind of woman and I try to emulate it as best as I can in my life. I also know that my husband's job is stressful when he is away, especially on deployment. So I want to do my part by reassuring him that he has nothing to worry about when he is away and that I will do my best to "hold down the fort". Being a military wife makes you experience things you never thought you would and you realize that God is never going to give you anything you can't handle.

So the people I am going to pass the award on to are:

1)Kamryn @ All Pop No Corn
2) Amber@ The Cordero Family
3) Robin@ The Misadventures of Jack and Luke
4) "Mrs. P"@ A Little Pink in a World of Camo
5) Ana@ Sunrise on the Water

MilSpouse Friday Fill In

2010-07-02T23:38:00.000-04:00

Here are this week's Friday Fill In questions fromWife of A Sailor

1. Tell us about your dream job… one that you could do regardless of pay.
I would love to be an event planner. Birthdays, weddings, any party type event, I love to plan them!! If I had the money to back my ideas, I would be able to throw some kick-butt parties!!!!

2. What is your most prized material possession (kids and pets don’t count!)?
I have a few: 1) my parents wedding picture. My real father passed away when I was a baby so it is one of the few pictures I have of them together. 2) A collectors plate that was my grandmother's. It is of "Annie", which is one of my favorite musicals but more importantly, it reminds me of very happy times in my childhood because it sat in the same spot until she packed it up and gave it to me last year. 3) My family necklace my husband gave me for christmas.

3. What has been your favorite duty station and why?
I would have to say Jacksonville, FL (Mayport). There was so much to do there and I loved the area so much!! We want to go back so bad!!

4.What is your least favorite household chore?
Doing the dishes!! I hate how my hands feel afterward!!

5.If you could give one piece of advice to a teenager today (not specifically a MilTeen), what would it be? Make school your main priority. Friends come and go but your education will never leave you.

I hope everyone has a fabulous Fourth of July weekend. I know I have been non-existent this week but I promise I will update soon!! It was a crazy, busy week and I am in need of some rest!!! Be safe and have fun this weekend!!!

MilSpouse Friday Fill In

2010-06-25T15:48:00.001-04:00

As you all know, I am a very proud Military Spouse as well as a Veteran. I am trying to reach out to more MilSpouses and one my best friends had this on her blog so I decided to join in on the fun!!

So here are this week's Friday Fill In questions fromWife of A Sailor

How did you and your spouse/significant other meet? We were both stationed at Naval Hospital Cherry Point. I was the Career Counselor and he worked in the EMS department. One of my closest and dearest friends encouraged us to get together but we never thought we would end up married. He is the light in my life!!!
What is the best thing about being a MilSpouse? I would have to say all the amazing friendships I have made throughout the years. Most of them are the type of friendships that may not have daily contact but when we do talk or get together, it is like we were never apart!!
What is the hardest thing about being a MilSpouse? Moving!! I am so tired of moving. Just when I start to feel comfortable somewhere and have a great routine going, my husband comes home with orders. I can't wait for the day that we get to settled down some place!!
What is your favorite dish? Anything seafood!! I love crab especially!!! And sushi...I am a sucker for good sushi!!
If you could change one thing in this world, what would it be? I was going to say one thing but my sweet Ally (Have a Great Navy Day) already said it so I will choose something else. I guess it would be to have a cap on celebrities salaries. I think it is awful that military members, teachers, policemen, firemen, etc... are struggling to make ends meet but you can go on film or TV and have millions of dollars!! I think they should be required to donate a portion of their salaries to funds for the people mentioned above.

Pain

2010-06-23T16:03:00.002-04:00

Have you ever sat back and wondered what defines pain? I really thought about that a lot these last few days. I think these last few days warranted thinking about it after all the doctor appointments we have had and everything that I wasn't expected to happen at these appointments.

On Monday, I got to experience pain through the eyes of my child. Little Man had his 4 year check up which also entailed the start of an allergy/asthma work up. Stats for the check up are 40.4 lbs and 43 1/2 inches tall (80% and 95+% respectively). He had a chest xray done and he was so proud that he went in all by himself (I was equally as proud). Then we had to have some blood drawn and the pain of the day began. I have never heard my child scream like that, even when he broke his arm at 20 months old. After the blood draw was 4 shots, again more pain and more screaming. I had to hold back the tears as I held my baby, reassuring him that it will all be okay.

On Tuesday, it was my turn to go to the doctor. I anticipated some blood work as I am being followed for a pre-diabetic condition. What I didn't anticipate was a thyroid ultrasound and the discovery of a small mass next to my thyroid. My doctor recommended a fine needle aspiration (FNA) and a thyroid scan. The FNA was done right then and it was extremely uncomfortable. The scan is next week...I guess I will see what kind of pain it will bring.

Today, it was our new puppy's turn for the doctor. She is only 3 months old so she is going to the vet pretty much every three weeks to get her shots just like a newborn baby. The only time she even whined was when they stuck a thermometer up her hiney (I probably would have too). She didn't even flinch when they gave her a shot and the tech commented on how she could tell when had small children in the house because Daisy was used to "pain". We really did pick the perfect dog for our family but that blog is for another day.

I think out of all three, the most painful for me was Monday. Nothing hurts me more than watching or hearing my child in pain. If I could protect them from everything, I would but I guess they need to figure out what their definition of pain is too!!

Tasty Tuesday: Go, Go Asiago

2010-06-22T18:43:00.001-04:00

Tastefully Simple started doing a great thing a few seasons back. They started doing what they call "Returning Favorites" where they bring back a handful of items that were best sellers in the past but only for a limited time. These favorites come back typically in the middle of a season, just when people are starting to wonder what the next line will hold. This season's Returning Favorites are some of my favorites, especially the Go, Go Asiago!!

This amazing product is so good made just as a dip, I can sit and eat it for hours. However, it makes a great seasoning to jazz up just about anything. It tastes great on popcorn, in mashed potatoes and mixed into some buttery noodles. If you like the bite of asiago cheese, you will love Go, Go Asiago as much as I do.

The product comes in a box that contains 2 packages of the seasoning. If you make it as the dip, each package makes approximately 1 cup of dip. You can put it in a air-tight container to use as a seasoning though to make it last longer.

A few recipes I have tried with the Go, Go Asiago are:
1) Amazing Asiago Spinach and Artichoke Dip
2) Creamy Go! Go! Crab Dip My cooking note: I didn't use imitation crab, I used real lump crab meat. It gives it a better taste in my opinion
3) Go! Go! Asiago Potatoes My cooking notes: Do not peel the potatoes. The skins are the healthiest part!!

The Go, Go Asiago runs $7.29 for a box that contains two .75 oz packets of mix. You can order this product and many others by visiting my website:

Jaime's Tastefully Simple Website Or contact myself or your local consultant today to host a party to this fabulous dip mix for FREE!!!

Remember, the Returning Favorites are only available until July 31st so act fast and order today!!

Hide n' Go Seek Potty Time

2010-06-21T11:55:00.001-04:00

Potty training can be such a stressful time for both the parents and the child. I have adapted the "when she is ready, she will let me know" attitude as far as potty training the little Princess. I am armed with a Disney Princess Potty Seat, a Wonder Pets potty chart and Dora panties....all her favorite and all picked out by her.

And now I wait...wait for her to tell me she is ready to go on the big girl potty!!

The day finally comes where she asks to go on the potty and I get so excited. I put the seat on, plop her on the toilet and plop myself on the floor in front of her so I can encourage this momentous occasion!! I say to her "Let your pee-pees come out baby!!" I am so proud to have her on the potty!!

Then she looks down into the toilet and says in the loudest voice "Come out, come out wherever you are pee-pees" and then smiles up at me. I start laughing so hard, especially when she continues to repeat herself.

She and her pee-pees are still playing hide n' go seek but she still keeps trying. Every time she gets on the potty, she says the same thing. Maybe one of these days, the pee-pees will give up and come out of hiding while she is on the potty!! I hope she wins soon!!

Why don't they come with manuals?

2010-06-16T22:16:00.000-04:00

Have you ever gotten a product that you have been so excited to have and when you attempt to put the product together, the manual is missing? or better yet, it is there but all in a foreign language?

I swear, that is how I feel on a daily basis with parenting!! I think God thought he would test all parents sense of humor by leaving out the manual and allowing us to think we have it figured out quickly. But when we do think we have it figured out, the languages don't match and we screw it all up (or so we think). There are so many twists and turns, ups and downs that one might feel like they are on a constant roller coaster when they are parents.

Lately, things have been very frustrating around our house. I am convinced that Princess woke up one morning and decided that she was tired of being "the good kid" so she is doing everything in her power to fit the bill of being "the bad kid". I haven't figured out the most effective form of discipline on her yet but I will prevail eventually. We are fighting a binkie battle right now and I can't stress battle enough. It is not that I want to take them away from her completely, it is just that I want her to only use them when she is sleeping. She feels she needs them all day long and carries on whining, crying and throwing a fit when she doesn't get them. It is so frustrating. We are also having a potty training issue right now. She gives us every sign that she is ready to potty train with one exception, she is petrified of the toilet (and I mean ANY toilet, even the little kiddie ones). I am at a loss but I am not pushing it at all especially since it means another chapter of my life will be all done!! All I know is I sure hope I figure out my Princess' "language" soon before I lose my mind.

Little Man is actually doing OK. We have our moments with him but I am figuring him out. He is still figuring out how far he can spread his wings that is acceptable and I am still figuring out how to set those boundaries without being the mean Momma. I vowed to myself when I became a Mom that I would try to be the reasonable mom, that I would allow my children to voice their opinions and feelings and to help them rather than do everything for them. I had children to hear them, see them and experience them so I am trying so hard to find a happy medium for all of us.

The biggest lesson I am trying to constantly remind myself is that things don't always have to be perfect. I have learned that if housework doesn't get done, it is OK because I am relishing in the time I have to spend with my babies before they head off to school and everything else they will do in life and I no longer have them around me constantly. I am also learning that my kids are my kids and if they act out in a restaurant or at the store, it doesn't make me a bad mom or them bad kids. I am learning that it doesn't matter what outsiders think of my children because they only get to see a snapshot of who they are as people and not who they are 24/7. I am the only one who is privileged to know those 2 little rays of sunshine so I am the only one who has the right to determine if my children are bad or not. And the good Lord is the only one who has the right to judge me as a mom.

So these are the challenges, frustrations, and issues that I am currently facing as a parent. My kids may have not come with a manual, but I am slowly figuring them out. All that matters is that they are healthy, loved and that they know they are loved. The rest will come to me as the days go by.

Tasty Tuesday: Perfectly Potato Cheddar Soup Mix

2010-06-15T17:19:00.000-04:00

As I sat here trying to decide which product I would write about first, it came to me. Duh, why not review the product you used most recently which was the Perfectly Potato Cheddar Soup Mix. Last night I prepared an amazing recipe found on

Tastefully  Simple called Perfectly Potato and Pork Chop Casserole. Everyone loved it, especially Hubby who said I needed to make that again sometime!!

This soup mix is a great Tastefully Simple product. It comes in two different sizes, a single box and a value package which contains 2. Each package makes about 6 servings, 1 cup each serving. To make the soup straight up, you add 6 cups of water and let it cook approximately 45 minutes. However, there are so many different ways to make this soup and you don't just have to use it as a soup.

Here are some serving suggestions for the Perfectly Potato Cheddar Soup Mix:
1) Make a beer cheese soup by replacing 1 cup of water with 1 cup of beer then garnish with popcorn.
2) Make a bacon cheeseburger soup by added 1/2 lb browned ground beef, fried onions and 1 tbsp of Bacon Bacon
3) Makes a great base for your pot pies. Just add chicken and vegetables!!
4) Make a clam chowder out of it by added a can of baby littleneck clams
5) Make corn chowder by added a bag of frozen corn while cooking
6) Top with sour cream, green onions and Bacon Bacon to make a Loaded Potato Soup

A few recipes I have tried are:
Perfectly Potato and Pork Chop Casserole

(My notes: I omitted the onions and used 1 tbsp of Onion Onion since my husband will not eat anything with onions in it. Additionally, I would not use at much water. I would only use 3-4 cups since the mixtures was a bit soupy)

Perfectly Potato Quiche
(My notes: I cheated and used the Oscar Mayer Real Bacon Pieces. It is fabulous!!)
Perfectly Potato Hash Brown Casserole
(My notes: Made this recipe exactly and it is soooo good!!)

The Perfectly Potato Soup runs $7.49 for a single box and $13.49. You can order this product and many others by visiting my website:

Jaime's Tastefully Simple Website Or contact myself or your local consultant today to host a party to this fabulous soup for FREE!!!

Happy cooking!!!!!

Tasty Tuesday: Changes

2010-06-08T16:20:00.001-04:00

I love my Tasty Tuesdays and I love sharing recipes but what I love even more is being a Tastefully Simple consultant. So I have decided I would start using my Tasty Tuesday spot to feature one item each week out of the current Tastefully Simple catalog. I will tell you about the product, tell you how I have used it and give you some tips that TS recommends on each product. I will even put up a link or two up of some yummy recipes I have found using the products. I will start doing this next Tuesday, so if you have any requests on which item I should feature first, please let me know!! I figure this way I can tell you about products I love and maybe even get you interested enough to find a consultant near you so you can host a party and taste-test a few items in the comfort of your own home!!

Funkville

2010-06-07T11:19:00.000-04:00

Hello and Welcome to Funkville. I am the President of Funkville and I will also be your tour guide.

If you follow me down this path, I can promise you that you won't want to be a resident of Funkville so tread carefully!!!

On our left, we have the alley of missing motivation. Mine disappeared many moons ago and I can't seem to get it back. In addition to that, we have the homes that represent every piece of cleaning and organizing I have wanted to do as of late but they went to the way-side due to my motivation being missing.

On our right, we have the valley of great ideas never going anywhere. I come up with a ton of great ideas, some I even start but they never go anywhere. If I actually saw one idea through, I might get fired from this position of being President of Funkville and I apparently don't want that to happen.

Straight ahead we have the path that will lead us deeper into Funkville. It is lined with friends I miss, family I don't get to see enough, the overwhelming feelings of being an awful mother and various other issues I have buried deep within my heart without solving them.

In addition to the various sites you see around here, our streets are lined with fast food places, sweet shoppes and many other fattening places that will help you eat your feelings away!! Please, won't you join me for something tasty?

I would really like to be fired from my job as President of Funkville but can't figure out how. Maybe some answers will come to me....I hope they do soon!!

My missing piece....

2010-06-06T22:20:00.002-04:00

Four years....I can't believe it has been four years since my life changed so dramatically. I had so many people tell me how much my life would change but nothing prepares you for it until it actually happens.

Let's rewind a bit to September 28th 2005 "T" Day. This was the day we were to take our home pregnancy test after the most recent fertility treatments. I wasn't hopeful at all after not seeing 2 lines so many times but the Hubby said he had a good feeling about it. 0430, he had me up and peeing on a stick. ***Wait 3 minutes.*** Is that what I think it is? Is that 2 lines? Do I dare get excited??

It was 2 lines. My due date was June 7th 2006!!!

Fast forward through a long and eventful "9 months" to June 5th, 2006. Contractions started at about 0230 after trying only one tablespoon of Castor Oil. They continue without a pattern for the next few hours. When the Hubby got up for work, I told him something was off and we needed to go back to the hospital yet again (we had already been back and forth 4 times in 11 days). We get to the hospital, they check me out and were about to send me walking to see if things progressed when they noticed how high my blood pressure was. After 2 hours of monitoring my BP, they decided it was time for our baby to make his debut in the world. What organized chaos ensued after that. Pitocin, water breaking, contractions from hell, finally giving in to an epidural because I wasn't progressing and I feared a c-section but it was all done like a well-oiled machine. I had no complaints with the maternity ward, except of course my hubby and sister eating McDonald's in front of me while I was not allowed to eat.

2340 (11:40pm), I am checked again and they tell me it is about time to start pushing in a bit. They had to turn the baby a bit because he was stuck on my pelvic bone (Thank God for the epidural!!). 2350 (11:50pm) pushing commences. I couldn't feel the contractions so the Hubby has to watch the monitor while holding my leg up. I had to yell at him to pay attention to me and not the baby coming out. The sister refused to look down at first but suddenly changed her mind as the baby came out. 23 minutes of pushing and my miracle screamed his first scream. 0013 (12:13am) Little Man joins this crazy world and our little family expands.

I never knew I could love something or someone so much. I never knew my heart could grew so big with pride when he smiles because he caught a fish or learned to take off his own shirt. Every celebration, every tear, every hug, every kiss is etched into my heart forever. My little man is truly the miracle that made my life complete. It was more than becoming a Mom, it was more than creating a family, it was finding a piece of my soul that hadn't found its way to me yet.

So on this day, June 6th 2010, I want to wish my special Little Man a very happy 4th birthday and I want to say thank you for being everything I ever dreamed of having in a child. I love you so much my little gift from God!!!

WDYT: Allowances

2010-06-02T11:30:00.003-04:00

So I have been toying with the idea of giving Little Man an allowance but I am not sure how to go about it doing. I have done so much research on it but all it has left me is even more unsure then when I started. My original thought process came when I was trying to come up with a way to accomplish two things. The first is Little Man doing the daily chores that are expected of him (i.e., feed the dog, pick up his toys, make his bed, help set the table, etc..). The second is to break him of the habit of thinking every time we go somewhere; I need to buy him something.

Yes, I spoiled my kid. Yes, I am paying for it now. Oh well...it is my mistake and I am going to correct it. I am just not sure how.

I thought if I offer him a set amount for each chore he needs to do every day, he would see a "reward" for doing his chores and it would accomplish the first issue. He would get the same amount for each task and he would also have a "money taken away" list which would list the actions that would take his money away. However, I have been reading arguments supporting giving money for chores as well as being against giving money for chores. The arguments state that a child should not be taught to get money for doing chores because as they get older, they will always expect to be paid for doing their chores. They should be taught to do chores because they are a contributing member of the family. The other arguments state that giving a child money for chores teaches responsibility since we as adult get paid to do our jobs, it teaches a child that if they complete their jobs properly; they will earn their "salary". I am just not sure which argument I agree with so I am confused about which I should do.

The second issue needs to come to a halt. I am doing really well as far as not buying him anything but I would really like to make a lesson out of it and teach him that money just doesn't grow on trees or magically come out of the little card Mommy uses at the store. I figured he had to start getting the things he wanted with his own money, it would help teach him how to save and that money is not "just available".

I just am not sure which route to take. So if you give your kids allowance, how do you do it? Do you attach it to chores or just give them a set amount each week? Do they get to keep their allowance, does it go in the bank or do you have a jar/container for them to keep it in?

Just wondering what you all think!!

WOW...a whole month!!

2010-05-23T17:06:00.000-04:00

I can't beleive it has been a whole month since I last wrote, especially since I had been writing every day. Like has been so crazy around here. The end of the dreary weather as lead to amzing gorgeous days which has lead to the majority of our days spent outside. I have finally found a major perk to living in NC...the weather. It has been so nice going to the beach, playing outside with the kids and just getting the winter cobwebs out of our joints.

On April 29th, the family and I left for vacation in VA beach. We first headed to Williamsburg and spent two days there with my sister, her best friend, and my niece. We spent all day on the 30th at Busch Gardens, which was amazing fun!! Then on the 1st, we headed to Sandbridge beach (which is right outside VA beach) where my entire family had rented a beach house for the week. 19 people in one house, what a crazy week. But surprisingly, there were at most 2 or 3 disagreements. One of my favorite parts of vacation is the theme-nights and this year's were great. We had an 80's night, a Redneck Night, a Surprise Party and the "Maine" Event (a seafood night). As always, we all ate too much, drank too much and got too much sun but everyone left relaxed and happy which is always the goal for vacation.

Speaking of the 30th of April, that was Hubby and I's 6th wedding anniversary. I can't beleive it has been 6 years....truly amazing. So many people said we wouldn't last but we are still here, still going strong. Sure, we have had our ups and downs and there has been a time or two that I thought we wouldn't get this far myself, but we have and I am thankful everyday for having him in my life. Marriage is work and as long as you are always coming to work giving 110%, you can work through anything!!

Since we have been home from vacation, life has gotten a little hectic. Little Man is finishing up his "school" year and we finally have a preschool picked out for him for next fall. Princess is growing like a weed and I have been investigating different things I can start her in this fall also. One will be dance class for sure and pssibly gymnastics. I have an going to finalize things for school sometime over the next two weeks. I am going to start off taking a few classes until I can get into the full-time program I want. I figure that will be best for me to get back into the swing of school too. Hubby is extremely busy at work and some nights he isn't getting home until almost 7pm but thankfully we have the entire weekends to spend together as a family.

Life is getting busier now that the summer is getting started....I will do my best to stay updated as much as possible!!!

Tasty Tuesday: Banana Bread

2010-04-20T22:02:00.000-04:00

I love banana bread, as does my entire family. It is odd that I love banana bread because I don't like to eat bananas nor do I like banana flavoring. I had been a quest to find an awesome recipe and I finally found one, thanks to my favorite lady Paula Deen!!! Everytime I make some, Hubby brings some to work, everyone raves about it and I am always asked to make some more. It has become one of my favorite things to bake!! So here is the recipe....I hope you all love it as much as I do!!

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, room temp (preferably unsalted)
1 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
3 ripe bananas, mashed (if they are small, use 4)

Preheat oven to 350

Grease a 9 x 5 loaf pan

Combine the butter and suger. Add the salt, eggs, vanilla, flour, baking soda, baking powder, and bananas, and mix well. If there are lumps, that is ok. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick or knife comes clean in the middle.

If you want to make mini loaves, bake for about 30 minutes or so!!

Momma Monday: Slacker

2010-04-19T22:49:00.000-04:00

Man, I can't beleive I slacked on my blag the entire week last week. I kept meaning to sit down and write but just never did. Life is just so crazy right now, as I said in my previous blog. Some days, I feel like I have only an hour or so to myself and that is long after everyone is asleep!! I guess it is ok to slack every now and then!!!

Our busy season has officially started and it was started with an amazing trip up to VA beach to see some of closest, dearest friends. Little Man was so excited to spend the weekend with E-Ray, Princess loved playing with the boys and with little LuLu and I truly enjoyed visitng with my girl!!! We had such a great time hanging out and our fundraising event has been pretty prosperous. I am hoping it will earn a little bit more before we close out the event. I am so happy and honored that her group invited me up to do the event. It was a blast, plus I got to see some old friends too!!

As for the rest of our travels, next week we leave for our big family vacation at Sandbridge. 20 people, it will be crazy!! In June, we are hoping to have some visitors (Nanny and Poppa) and I am hoping to take a few short trips to visit some friends near by. In July, I think we have 2 short trips planned and then we leave at the end of the month for almost 4 weeks to go to New York. I am so excited about that trip. I can't wait to spend some quality time with my nieces and the rest of the crew!!! It promises to be a crazy few months but I need to get it out now before Noah starts pre-school!!

I started my new medication and it is so much better. My stomach hasn't bothered me once and so far, I haven't felt weird at all!! I am so glad I called the doctor. I can't imagine how bad I would feel if I had continued the other stuff!! Let's hope it stays going good when I have to increase the meds next week!!
I am just glad that right now, all in all, LIFE IS GREAT!!

Momma Monday: This and That

2010-04-12T22:05:00.000-04:00

Life is getting busier and busier. Somedays, it feels like there just isn't enough time to keep up with all I want to do. But I guess it is better than sitting and doing nothing. I had to look at my calendar for a few things today and I realized that between now and May 10th, I have something going on every day!! We have become quite the busy little trio, the kids and myself!!

I started my daily schedule and I love it!! I get so much done and I have actually been on time to almost everything (don't fall out of your seats!!). I have had my share of people telling me I am crazy to have such a set schedule but it is working for me and that is all that matters. Our schedule is as follows:

0600: Wake up
0615-0730: Workout
0730-0800: Shower & Dress, kids up and dressed
0800-0900: Breakfast, TV time for kids, computer time for me
0900-1000: Playtime (no TV) either outside or in bedrooms, Mommy cleaning time
1000-1300: Out for the day (either errands, park or whatever)
1300-1400: Lunch
1400-1700: Naptime, Cleaning time for me if needed
1700-1730: Up from naptime
1730-1830: Preparing dinner, Noah work book time and Jordie coloring or playing
1830: Dinner
1900: Clean up and kids playtime
2000-2030: Family TV time
2030: Bedtime routine starts
2100: Kids in bed
2300: Target bedtime for me

I know it is pretty specific but I spent a week writing down what we typically do during the day and that is pretty much how our life was with the exception of having more TV time and computer time. My goal was to cut those 2 things down to a minimum. So far, it has really worked. I am staying on top of my chores and getting things done much more quickly. I really recommend it to everyone especially with kids.

On the medical side of things, I have been terribly sick with my medication so I finally called the doctor about it. So we shall see what they say tomorrow when they call me back. As of right now, I won't be taking anything until the office lets me know. I hate feeling the way I do though. For a medicine that is suppose to make me feel better, mostly I feel like death warmer over!!

I guess I better get back to my busy life huh?

Letter of Intent Friday

2010-04-09T17:48:00.000-04:00

Every Friday Julie from http://www.myfourboys.net/ does Letter of Intent Friday. Basically the idea is to write a letter to a person place or thing and let it/them know how you feel. It is a good way to get some thing(s) off your chest!!

I have truly enjoyed the beautiful weather we have been having this last week. We have enjoyed not one, not two but several days at the beach. The kids love digging in the sand, chasing the waves and they absolutely relish in the sunshine!! However, I am amazed by the amount of inconsiderate people on the beach these days. Where are people's manners anyways? So here is my letter.....

Dear Inconsiderate Beach-goers,

Where are your manners? Is this how you want your children to act one day??

To the man who chain smokes right near a large group of children...I understand we are in the outdoors and there is no ban on public smoking outdoors however, it would be a lot nicer for everyone involved if you could take your second-hand smoke away from the public beach and the large group of children my kids are playing with. Did you really need to smoke more than 10 cigarettes in the 30 or so minutes you were there after we arrived? And who knows how many you smoked before we got there!!

To the woman whose new-born baby was screaming bloody murder....it is neither safe nor smart to keep a newborn baby in the sun for extended periods of time. Yes, you had a blanket over her carrier but in 87 degree weather, that is just not smart. If you try to feed, change, cool down, etc the baby and she continues to scream, that is the point you pack up and go home. The safety and health of your child should be your first priority not looking hot in your little bikini and trying to hang out with your friends!!

To the group of young adults who felt it was necessary to use a swear word in every sentence that came out of their mouth...all I have to say, is it really necessary? Can you not tell a story with out using such colorful language?

To the group of young girls who thought it was funny to give lap dances to their male group members...do you have no self-dignity? Do you know how trashy it makes you look when you act so foolish in public? Didn't your mother/female role-model teach you better than that? And if you had a daughter one day, won't you be embarrassed to know that is how she was acting? I know I would be if my daughter ever acted the way you girls carried on!!

And lastly, to the countless people in bath suits that were very apparently too small for them....do you not own mirrors? Where is the sense of propriety these days? A little left to the imgination goes a long way!!

Sincerely,

A disgusted beach-goer

P.S. Despite the things I see frequently on the beach, I will still go because the beach is one of the best places to people watch!!

Awesome Promotion for Deployed Military Families!

2010-04-08T21:50:00.000-04:00

I got this off my friend Ally's Blog. She encouraged us to pass it along to everyone, especially if you know anyone currently deployed or about to be deployed!!

Operation Hi Honey! and Operation Hi Mom! are two really great promotions offered by canvasondemand.com.

Operation Hi Honey! is a program that gives hundreds of our deployed military men and women a free fine-art canvas that will be presented to their spouse on their anniversary. Recipients are selected randomly each week, and the canvas is delivered to the deployed service member's Honey in time for their anniversary.

Operation Hi Mom! awards hundreds of our deployed men and women a free fine art canvas, printed from a favorite photo, which will be presented to their moms on Mother’s Day. Deployed soldiers can simply go to a specially-designed webpage to submit a request, write their mother an endearing message, and upload a photo. It’s a way for soldiers to say to their mom, I love you…and it’s a way for Canvas on Demand to say to our troops, Thanks for a job well-done!

Bravo Zulu to Canvas on Demand for remembering the troops and the sacrifices they and their families make to defend our country!

WDYT: Extreme Makeovers

2010-04-07T21:49:00.001-04:00

I love the show "Extreme Home Makeover". Every Sunday, I watch and shed a few tears for the families they feature on the show. Some weeks, I shed more than others but all in all, the show always manages to tug on my heart-strings. I always feel good that these families get a chance to improve their lives with a new home but I always wonder about what their financial picture looks like after the camera crew is gone.

Then today, I came across this news article:

Extreme Makeovers

It honestly doesn't surprise me that these families are having to foreclose on the gorgeous houses that are built for them even when the mortgage or land is paid off. Taxes go up with a bigger house, utilities get more expensive and costs in general go up. So is it really worth these people to get a huge new house?

I think the concept of Home Makeover is great but I think they went way off the deep end trying to help people and not thinking of the long road.

Should they continue doing the makeovers? Will they be able to scale the houses back and keep the current viewer levels? What do you think?

Tasty Tuesday: Capellini Caprese

2010-04-06T16:29:00.000-04:00

Since the summer is coming upon us, I thought I would share one of my favorite summery recipes. I made this for my friend's baby shower and it was a huge hit. I make it frequently for myself just to have on hand for lunch or as a side dish!! Enjoy!!!!!!

1/2 lb. capellini, angel hair or spaghetti, uncooked
1/2 cup KRAFT Tuscan House Italian Dressing and Marinade
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups halved grape or cherry tomatoes
1 cup KRAFT Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese
1/3 cup fresh basil, finely sliced

COOK pasta as directed on package.

MEANWHILE, heat dressing in large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Add onions and garlic; cook and stir 2 min. Add tomatoes; cook 5 min. or until heated through, stirring occasionally.

DRAIN pasta. Add to tomato mixture; mix lightly. Sprinkle with cheese and basil.

This tastes good hot or cold!!!

Momma Monday: Just Blah

2010-04-05T16:45:00.000-04:00

This weekend has been a pretty blah weekend for me. I have been moody and listless and I can't figure out why. I am tired and have no motivation to do anything. Yesterday we spent pretty much the whole day lying in bed. I think I was out of my room for about 3 hours total in the day. I don't know if it is because of I am just not used to the hot weather any more or if I am having a "hormonal" weekend. Whatever it is, I hope I can snap out of it soon because I have a busy month ahead!!

Snapshot of my month.....

This week is spring break which means no classes for us. We will spend the week at the beach, at playdates and doing fun things.
Next week, Daddy is in the field for a week so it is just me and the munchkins. I have a TS party on the 14th, and then we go to VA Beach on the 15th to visit Ally and the kids. Ally's TS fundraiser is on the 17th and we will come home on the 18th.
The weekend of the 24th, I have 2 TS parties and then I need to get ready for our vacation since we leave on the 29th!! I am so excited for it (but that will be a whole other blog entry...LOL)

Fill in the days with speech, playschool, Mommy & Me and playdates and you have a busy month!! But I honestly hope the month goes by super fast since I get to see my family at the end of the month!! I have been really missing my NY family so much and I can't wait to be hanging out on the beach with most of them!!

Come on April 29th.....HURRY UP AND GET HERE!!!

Letter of Intent Friday

2010-04-02T19:36:00.000-04:00

Every Friday Julie from www.myfourboys.net does Letter of Intent Friday. Basically the idea is to write a letter to a person place or thing and let it/them know how you feel. It is a good way to get some thing(s) off your chest!! I was doing this in the past and it was nice to get something off my chest so I decided I am going to start doing it again!!

Dear Cellular Phone Carrier,

I have been a "valued" customer for many years or so you say. My husband and I recently spent a nice amount of money purchasing newer models of your products and upgrading our service plans. As we have always been timely with our payments and have valued your business, I have not been impressed with your trouble-shooting techniques.

My new phone doesn't get calls randomly and we have discovered that my old phone is still in working order. If it is turned on, it will receive the calls. I am being told by people that my phone will go right to it's voicemail despite my phone being on and with full-service. When I went into your local office to have this rectified, the gentleman I spoke to was unable to unprogram my old phone, nor was the manager unable to do so. They remedy..."Just leave the old phone off". Well, that doesn't change the fact that I am randomly not receiving my phone calls.

Last week, I missed a total of 9 phone calls that I am aware of. One of them was from a friend on my daughter's birthday but because it was their child singing happy birthday, I have no idea who it was from. 4 of them were my husband trying to get in touch with me when he needed some information on our vehicle for his inspection. Today alone I missed 4 phone calls (again that I know of) and 2 of them were business calls!! It is so irritating.

So I will go visit your local office again tomorrow. I just hope for the people who work there's sake, someone can figure out why my brand new cellular phone is doing this!!! And people wonder why I insist on having a home phone too!!!

Sincerely,
An unhappy cell phone owner

Thankful Thursday

2010-04-01T14:55:00.001-04:00

Well today is thankful thursday and I had to really think hard about this one for this week. It is going to sound very superficial and materialistic but this week I am thankful for 2 things: my washer & dryer and the bed-liners they sell so mattress' don't get ruined.

These last few days, well week actually, have been pretty rough with Little Man. For some reason, he seems to be regressing with certain things. One of those things is potty training. He has been sleeping for a very long time without a pull-up or anything other than diapers. However, in the last week alone, he has had 3 accidents at night. We stopped giving him liquids at night after dinner and everything but he still has the accidents. I just don't know what to do and have no idea why he would be going through this since nothing has changed in our lives at all.

So I am thankful for my washing machine since it has been doing double duty this week washing the sheets and blankets every other day. And I am thankful I bought the bedliner so his mattress doesn't get ruined. Now if I could only be thankful that he stopped wetting the bed.

"WDYT Wednesday" Cell phones and Driving

2010-03-31T09:58:00.001-04:00

No Phone Zone from Oprah

So I was watching Oprah the other day, something I rarely do but this particular episode caught my eye. It was all about texting while driving and the crazy statistics of deaths that have been caused because of people doing this. The statistics scared me enough that if I could, I would probably stop driving now. They scared me enough that I am going to extremely limit the use of my cell phone while in the car. I have never been a texter while driving, I know I am not coordinated at all so I never tried but I am guilty of talking on my phone while driving without a hands-fee set. But since watching this show, if I use my phone in the car, I only use it while on speaker and it is the bare minimum. I will be purchasing a blue-tooth for myself and having a blue-tooth system placed in my car when I go home. It is scary to think that so many people out there are so distracted while driving and I was one of them. No phone call is so important that it can't wait until I have gotten to my destination.

Some of the statistics may shock you too:

Talking on a cell phone causes nearly 25% of car accidents.
At any given time during daylight hours in 2008, more than 800,000 vehicles were driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone.
4 out of every 5 accidents (80%) are attributed to distracted drivers. In contrast, drunk drivers account for roughly 1 out of 3 (33%) of all accidents nationally.
Texting while driving is about 6 times more likely to result in an accident than driving while intoxicated.
People who text while driving are 23% more likely to be in a car accident.
Studies have found that texting while driving causes a 400% increase in time spent with eyes off the road.
For every 6 seconds of drive time, a driver sending or receiving a text message spends 4.6 of those seconds with their eyes off the road. This makes texting the most distracting of all cell phone related tasks.

There are currently 6 states that have a ban on talking on cell phones while driving. You can use a hands-free device but can not be physically hold the cell phone. They are California, Conneticut, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and Washington. There are only 20 states that have a ban on texting despite the nation-wide law that should have been put into affect. If you are curious about which states they are, you can find that information here http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/cellphone_laws.html

So what do you think? Do you think it is the driver and not the distraction of the cell phone? And what about the people who put on make-up, grab a CD, shave, etc...while driving? Should they be punished the same way cell-phone users are punished?

Tasty Tuesday: Ooey Gooey Butter Cake

2010-03-30T09:17:00.001-04:00

I love Paula Deen!!! She is my favorite personality on Food Network and I am the proud owner of 5 of her cookbooks!! A few years ago, my mother suggested I try making her "Gooey Butter Cake" recipe for our holiday get together. I am the baker in the family so anytime a new baking recipe needs to be tried out, I am the one to do it. I fell in love with the recipe and have tried almost every version since then. My personal favorite is the pumpkin version!! I recommend everyone trying it at least once!!

**A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY AS THIS CAKE IS VERY SWEET!!!**

Cake

1 (18.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix
1 egg
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Filling

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 (16-ounce) box confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 13x9x2-inch baking pan.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine cake mix, egg, and butter and mix well. Pat into the bottom of prepared pan and set aside.

Still using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth; add eggs and vanilla. Dump in confectioners' sugar and beat well. Reduce speed of mixer and slowly pour in butter. Mix well.

Pour filling onto cake mixture and spread evenly. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Don't be afraid to make a judgment call on the cooking time, because oven temperatures can vary. You want the center to be a little gooey, so don't bake it past that point!

Remove from oven and allow to cool completely. Cut into squares.

Pumpkin Gooey: This variation has to be at the top of my list, especially around Thanksgiving. For the cake part, I have used a spice cake mix but I think I like it better with the basic yellow cake mix. Follow the original recipe, adding a 15-ounce can of pumpkin pie filling and an extra egg to the cream cheese filling. Bake as usual, remove from oven, and allow to cool. Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. I promise you'll never want pumpkin pie again!

Pineapple Gooey: Add a 20-ounce can of drained crushed pineapple and an extra egg to the cream cheese filling. Proceed as directed above.

Lemon Gooey: Use a lemon cake mix in place of the yellow cake. Add the juice (approximately 1/4 cup) and zest of 2 lemons to the cream cheese filling. Proceed: as directed above.

Carrot Cake Gooey: Use a spice cake mix, and add 1 cup chopped nuts and 1 1/2 cup finely grated carrots to the cream cheese filling. Proceed as directed above.

Peanut Butter Gooey: Use a chocolate cake mix. Add 1 cup creamy peanut butter and an extra egg to cream cheese filling. You can sprinkle the top of batter with 1 cup chopped peanuts if you like. Proceed as directed above.

Chocolate Chip Gooey: Use either yellow or chocolate cake mix. Sprinkle 1 cup chocolate chips and 1 cup chopped nuts on top of filling. Proceed as directed above.

Banana Gooey: Use a yellow cake mix. Prepare cream cheese filling as directed, beating in 2 ripe bananas and an extra egg. Proceed as directed above.

Nutty Gooey: Use a yellow cake mix, and add 1 cup chopped nuts to the cake mixture. Proceed as directed above.

Chippy Gooey: Stir 1 cup white chocolate chips, peanut butter chocolate chips, butterscotch morsels, Heath Almond Toffee Bits or Heath Milk Chocolate Toffee Bits into filling. Proceed as directed above. I personally like this one with the Chocolate Toffee Bits.

Momma Monday: Spring Cleaning

2010-03-29T22:05:00.000-04:00

So I heard back from my doctor's office with the results to my glucose test. The good news is that right now my glucose levels are ok, not great but ok. The bad news is my insulin levels are threw the roof. Basically my body is not breaking down any insulin at all and is just holding on to it all. So I have been put on Glucaphage again and I am going to be monitored every 3 months for now. I have to take one pill a day for one week, and then keep uping the dosage until I am up to 3 pills a day. The potential side affects are strong so the doctor wants my body to get adjusted to it. But long story short, I am basically one step away from being Type-2 diabetic so I would be lying if I said this doesn't totally freak me out. But at least we are catching it now and hopefully slowing things down a bit. No matter what, I will take what the Lord gives me and know that it will make me stronger!!

On another note, the spring cleaning in my house is in full force. I spent the entire day doing things and going through things, trying to figure out what needs to go and what can stay. I still need to go through Little Man's closet and have Hubby go through his stuff so I can take things to the Goodwill. I think this weekend, since it is suppose to be gorgeous out, Hubby and I are going to clean out the garage. I just want to get to the point where all I need to do everyday is minimal cleaning. I found a new "30 minute" clean routine that I am going to utilize once the house is up to my standards. It is basically 30 minutes to spot clean your entire house and have it always look nice (i.e., 5 minutes to wipe down the kitchen counters and spot clean the floor, 5 minutes to wipe down the bathroom sink and mirrors, etc...). I did a "chore list" for myself to have posted on my fridge and I will cross of each task so I can ensure I complete them all everyday. The hardest work will be picking up after the kids all the time. I feel like they are tornadoes!!!

So I guess all in all, not only am I spring cleaning my house but I am spring cleaning my body too. Time to get the bad stuff out and get the good stuff in!!!

Thankful Thursday: My Jordie!!

2010-03-25T03:17:00.047-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BABY GIRL!!! 2 years ago today, we brought the most precious creature into this world, our sweet princess Jordan. So on this Thankful Thursday, I have decided to write about her birth and touch on the last 2 years of her life.

On March 24th 2008, I went into the doctor for my regular check only to find me 1 cm dilated and not progressing at all. But my blood pressure was high just like it was with Noah so Dr Hartman decided I needed to be induced. Everything got set up for the next day. I picked up Noah from Anna's and headed home to prepare. After lunch and get the house situated, I decided to play some Wii Bowling. Then the pains started. They were mild but bothersome so I laid down to see if they went away but they didn't. By the time Lee came home from work, I was convinced I needed to go to the hospital. So we got Noah situated at Anna's and headed to the hospital. Once we got there, my contractions had slowed down but they discovered my bag of waters was bulging so they needed to get things started. The staff got some pitocin going and the doctor broke my water. And so my labor progressed.....

Around 1 am, the nurse came in to check me and said I was at about 8 cm dilated. She told me if I started to feel pressure to make sure to ring the call bell. 45 minutes later, she popped in to see how I was doing and I told her I was fine. Literally 5 minutes after that, I felt major pressure. Thankfully she had left some paperwork in my room and walked in just as I was about to call her. She checked me again and told me it was time to get the doctor. By the time they got everything all ready to go, I was really ready to push. It took less then 3 pushes and at 2:17 am, we welcomed Jordan with all of her might, prefect in every way and crying from the top of her lungs!! My life as a mother of 2 had begun.

It is weird because my whole pregnancy, I worried about being a mom of 2 rather than 1 but it came so easy to me. Yes, there were days that were exceptionally difficult but I always powered through them. Looking at both of my sweet angels always makes everything ok, no matter what the situation. The giggles, the smiles, the tears, and the snuggles make every second of every day worth-while. Even though I have been a mom for a short time, I am so blessed to have these beautiful beings in my life. Nothing will ever take away the love that I have for my babies!!

Jordan has been such an easy child. Even now in her terrible two’s stage, she really isn’t that terrible, just very strong-willed. She is very independent and likes to do things her way. Boy does she have my personality. She is constantly making everyone laugh though with her quirkiness and we say on a frequent basis that she is a strange kid. It is rather amusing!!!

I hope the future is always bright for my Jordan. I hope she has as much happiness as I have experienced in life. I know she will come across heartbreak, strife and tough times but I pray that she has the strength to power through and I hope I can teach her how just as my mother taught me. I hope she always achieves everything she sets out to do and I hope that she and I always have the relationship my mother and I have had throughout my life. I pray everyday that her life will be blessed in so many ways, just as my life had been!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET BABY GIRL!!! MOMMY AND DADDY LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!

Jordan 3 weeks

Jordan 3 months

Jordan 6 months

Jordan 9 months

Jordan 1 year

Momma Monday: Scape-Goat

2010-03-22T17:18:00.001-04:00

So I guess apparently I have scape-goat written on my forehead because that is what I have turned out to be. Long story short, an organizer of a group I was involved with was having some issues with some members and them not being happy with the way she was running things. I sent her an email in regards to an event that was coming up and she twisted my email and used it against me to take some of the heat off herself and onto me. But thankfully, I have learned from past experiences not to listen to "hear-say" and to go right to that source of evil. I kept the email that I sent and was able to rectify the situation which made the organizer look even worse. I am glad that I have learned from my mistakes in my past enough to know that if you want the truth, go right to the source and to fight for what is right. I guess growing up does that for you!!!

In other news, my glucose test is tomorrow and I am not looking forward to it. As least it is a step in the right direction to get my blood sugar issues under control. I just hope that a) the stuff isn't too bad and b) they actually get some results enough to figure things out. Here's to hoping right?

I am really missing my NY family right now. I won't see my mom's side of the family until our trip to VA Beach the first week of May and I won't see my Dad's side until we go home in August unless they are able to come sooner. I hate being so far away from my family and especially my nieces. I feel like I am missing everything!! I am so looking forward to spending time with them and I can't wait to see how the kids interact with each other. I think being so far away from everyone is the one thing I hate most about being a military wife but it is the life I chose and I do it with pride. But that doesn't mean it isn't hard sometimes!!

Well I better run and make some dinner!! Hope you all have a fabulous week!!!!!

Tasty Tuesday: Minestrone Soup

2010-03-16T21:29:00.000-04:00

I love Minestrone soup. It is such a great "warm you up" thing to eat on a cool night but it can also be good anytime of the year paired with a crusty bread like Italian or French!! Here is an easy recipe I found that anyone can make!!

2 cans (14-1/2 oz. each) reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 can (16 oz.) no-salt-added stewed tomatoes, undrained, coarsely chopped (Italian flavored works the best)
2 cups cooked kidney beans (prepared without salt)
1 pkg. (16 oz.) frozen mixed vegetables
1/4 cup shell macaroni, uncooked
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. dried basil leaves

COMBINE all ingredients except crackers in large saucepan. Bring to boil on medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low.

SIMMER 20 min. or until macaroni is tender.

SERVE with the crackers or bread.

Substitute 1 drained and rinsed can (16 oz.) red kidney beans for the cooked dried kidney beans.

I also made it one night and added some chicken to by cubing and brwoning some chicken breasts. I browned them with some Dried Tomato and Garlic Pesto seasoning from Tastefully Simple. It was so yummy and added a "meaty-ness" my husband looks for in a meal!!!

Enjoy!!

Momma Monday: Business & Stuff

2010-03-15T23:06:00.001-04:00

What a crazy busy weekend!! I spent the entire weekend working my business with a fellow Tastefully Simple consultant at a vendor fair at the mall. I was so excited for the oppurtunity and I also made a new friend in the process. Once everything was said and done, I got 8 potential parties and 28 contacts!! Plus we gave out a ton of business cards and I got a lot of information from the other vendors on how to get my business out there. On Wednesday, I am going to start my daily 5 and my goal is to book 8 parties between April, May and June!! I would like more but if I can get that many, it will be awesome for me!! I have a great party in a few weeks and I am hoping for both mine and the hostess' benefit, I get at least one party booked off it!!

On the health side of things, my endocrinologist office called and my labs look good. Thyroid levels are currently within normal limits but my Vitamin D levels were low so I have to start taking 2000 units of Vitamin D. So now we are onto the Glucose test which I am so not looking forward to doing. That stuff is so nasty!! Hopefully soon though, we will have some answers!!

Let's hope I have a busy and productive week!!!

Family Friday!!!

2010-03-12T23:31:00.001-05:00

Well things are pretty busy in our household!! The weather is warming up, we are settling into a good routine and we are finally meeting some great friends.

Little Man is growing by leaps and bounds. He is just too smart for his own good. He still goes to speech twice a week and is improving so much every visit. We are bummed though because his current speech therapist is leaving and we are really comfortable with her. But I hear her replacement is awesome so we shall see. He is also doing well in playschool and is very much ready for the structure of a preschool environment. I just need to get my tailend in high gear and get him enrolled into something for the fall. He will probably be getting new tubes in his ears soon. He had another ear infection so I need to make an appointment with the ENT to get the ball rolling. I am dragging my feet though because we have a busy few months coming up.

Princess is going to be 2 in 2 weeks. I can't beleive it. She fits her nickname very well and has entered the "terrible twos" with full force!! We have been having a hard time with her at night waking up and wanted to be with me but not sleeping. It is exhausting and a habit I hope to break soon!! She is such a chatterbox and I have countless people remark on how well she speaks. Most people are shocked when I tell them how old she is. She has taken to singing constantly too, especially "Twinkle, Twinkle", "Itsy, Bitsy Spider" and her ABC's. She loves to dance and sing and I have already found a place I can take her for dance but not until she tunrs 3...bummer!! She keeps us on our toes always but makes our world light up with her amazing smile!!!

The hubster is as busy as usual. He is working on getting his FMF pin and should be doing the boards for it soon. He has a few things coming up and will be pretty busy too over the next few months. Still no word on a deployment which we are ok with but part of me would rather him go sooner than later and just get it over with.

So that is our fam in a nutshell right now!! Busy, busy, busy....just the way I like it!!!

Thankful Thursday: Journey to Mommyhood

2010-03-11T23:33:00.000-05:00

Being a Mom is one thing in my life I am so extremely thankful for. I am so blessed to have 2 precious angels that enlighten my life daily. Even when they are driving me crazy, fighting like cats and dogs or keeping me up all night, I cherish every second I have with them.

The journey to Mommyhood for me was a long one. It took a total of 8 years and 4 months for me to finally get pregnant. Every month of trying, every month that my "friend" would show up uninvited, was a crushing blow to me. I just wanted to know what it was like to hold a sweet baby in my arms and show it all the love I had been building up deep in my heart. Being told that getting pregnant would be a long and difficult road was the hardest thing I have heard in my life but it made me more determined then ever. I read everything I could get my hands on about conceiving and the female problems I had been diagnosed with. My loving husband supported me every step of the way and even subjected himself to testing despite us knowing that my body just didn't work properly.

In September 2004, I was referred to an amazing practice and a doctor who told me that he would do all he could to help me get pregnant. Unfortunately though, the hubby was leaving on a 6+ month deployment so that meant baby-dancing was put on hold. During that time, my doctor ran what felt like a million tests and helped get things in somewhat working order for when hubby got home. In May 2005, he came home and baby-dancing resumed unsuccessfully. In August, the doctor proceeded start me with hyper-stimulation, which essentially over stimulated my ovaries to produce more eggs than usual. The first month didn't work so we moved on to September. We started the process and were well on our way when my husband told me he would be leaving on the ship due to a tropical storm the port was worried about. I am bummed that we would have to wait yet another month but thankfully, my hubby had an awesome Division Officer who fought for him to come home and allow us to finish our treatments to get pregnant.

September 28th was our testing day. We went out the night before and bought a test. If you know anything about my husband, he studied the directions back and forth several times. He then woke me up at 4:30 to take the test because he wanted to know before he went to work. It came up positive....so faint, but the line was there. I called the doctor's office when I got to work and they had me come in for a blood test. At the office, they too did a urine test and the line a barely there so they told me not to get my hopes up. I went home after that and laid down for a nap (I had duty that night). I was woken by the phone ringing and almost didn't answer it but I am so glad I did. It was the nurse calling me with my numbers!! I was pregnant!!! Just barely pregnant, but pregnant none-the-less.

The next 36 weeks were the longest of my life but on June 6th, 2006 we welcomed our first miracle, our son. Almost exactly one year later, my body started functioning again so we decided to leave having another baby in God's hands. We didn't want to go through the fertility treatments again and I had what I wanted, a baby to lavish with my love. Well, 2 month later, we were surprised with a very obvious positive pregnancy test!!! In March 2008, we welcomed our little princess into our family and thanked God everyday for our blessings!!

Being a Mommy was the one thing in my life I constantly thought would never happen but thanks to God plan for me, I have 2 sweet babies to hug and kiss and love on everyday!!!

Makeover Monday....written on Tuesday LOL

2010-03-09T21:28:00.000-05:00

So I decided to change my Monday blog to not necessarily a MakeOver blog entry but more of a "what's going on with me" only blog entry. Sometimes I focus so much on my husband and kids only that I forget to tell people when I am going through things too!! So I am going to switch it to "Momma's Monday". This way I can fill everyone in on things and they aren't surprised when I am having medical procedures (like I did yesterday), applying to school or things like that!!

These last two days were big days in my life in terms of medical appointments. Yesterday was my EGD (or Upper Endoscopy). Quick recap, 1997 I was diagnosed with severe GERD and a Hiatal Hernia. They also found some pre-cancerous cells so I had surgery to fix the hernia and help the reflux since the reflux could make the cells grow faster. After the first surgery, I started having a lot of complications and went through a lot of work-ups. They finally discovered they did the wrong type of surgery (there is 2 different kinds you can have done depending on your issues) because my pressure points in my esophagus don't work properly and the stomach wrap prevented me from swallowing food properly. So in 2000, I had surgery again on my stomach. I continued to have EGDs annually to make sure the cells never came back. In 2005, the doctor finally told me I could start doing them every 3 years but in 2008, I was pregnant and nursing so I couldn't have it done. I finally had it done yesterday and all looked great. No ulcers, no irritation or anything. They did discover my wrap is loose which would explain my recent heartburn issues so the doctor put me back on Nexium. I actually expected it because my previous doctor told me the wrap would loosen within 10 years and that would speed up with pregnancies. However, provided the Nexium works and I have no more issues, I won't have to have surgery again. But I will get more info on the biopsies they took and everything else at my appt in 2 months. I am just so excited that things look good!! I can handle a pill every now and then to help with the heartburn!!

The other appointment was today with the Endocrinologist. I don't know which one I was more nervous about!! Several years ago, I was diagnosed with PCOS and Endometriosis. I had been trying to get pregnant unsuccessfully. The doctors ran a gamit of tests and discovered the two diseases. I didn't fit the typical picture of someone with PCOS. Thankfully I found an awesome doctor who helped me get pregnant with Noah but my body has been so out of whack since having both of my children. My blood sugars have been going crazy and my hormones are all over the place. While trying to get pregnant with Noah, they discovered I am insulin Resistant which is a pre-diabetic condition. So off to the Endocrinologist I went. After a through history and physical exam, she seems to think my thyroid is enlarged and not functioning properly. But they took 5 vials of blood and we will know more in about a week or so. If my thyroid functions come back normal, she is going to start working me up for insulin issues. It will be a long process but I am confident she will be able to help me get my body back in control of itself. I am tired of always feeling so off and hopefully this will be coming to an end soon!!

Tomorrow I am going to a Nursing School session at the local college. I have to attend the session before I can talk to an advisor and get enrolled in school. I just hope I can get myself in school soon!! I miss it and I feel like I am not getting any younger!! LOL Here's to hoping I have something going in that realm soon!!!

My business is finally taking off. I have a vendor fair this weekend and I am really hoping to get myself out there. I have 2 parties this month and one in April plus I have 2 women who want to do parties but keep changing their minds as to when to do it (thanks to hubbies being deployed...go figure!!). My goal is to do 4 parties a month and I really hope I can get that way by the summer. I just need to keep working it hard!!!

Well that's about it with me.....if you read all that, thank you!! If not, I don't blame you......

Makeover Monday: Starting Over

2010-02-22T23:39:00.000-05:00

Weight: 162

Well after not working out for a few weeks and eating whatever I want in moderation, I gained 2 pounds back. I know that doesn't seem like much but I can tell a difference in my clothes. So I started my workout regiment again this morning and it felt good!!! I decided that until I can see the doctor about my blood sugar issues, I will hold off on the big-time diets since I was having a lot of blood sugar episodes while doing the low-calorie diet. I am sticking to my insulin-resistance diet and I am hoping that when I go see the endocrinologist, she will do a consult for me to see another nutrionist. Until then, I will watch what I eat and keep it as healthy as possible. I have made alot of changes in the household as to the amount of healthy food we are eating and so far so good. It is just a matter of adjusting our taste-buds. But we are definitely eating better, which is a good thing!!

As far as the family is concerned, things are ok. The kids and I have been sick but we are slowly on the mend. Jordan is still not feeling well and I am she gets better soon. We are very excited because we are having special guests this weekend. Anna and Grace are coming to visit. I have missed them so much and can't wait to see them. I am already trying to plan my trip up there to visit them. I am praying that Matt gets orders somewhere close and not in Washington.

Well I better run....I have a million things to do before friday!!!

Tasty Tuesday: Fiesta Chicken Bake

2010-02-09T14:13:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, I am a Tastefully Simple consultant and love the products. I have almost every standard product in my cupboards and have to replenish them often with the exception of one...the Fiesta Party Dip Mix. I just haven't been able to use it since it is rather spicy and I just can't eat too much spice. But I found a great recipe which uses it and my family loved!! I am going to post the original recipe and then tell you how I revamped it a little.

2 Tbsp. Fiesta Party Dip Mix™

10.75 oz. can cream of mushroom soup

2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 cups crushed Blue Aztec Chips

Directions

Combine Fiesta Party Dip Mix™, soup and 1 cup cheese; stir to blend.

Place chicken in a greased baking pan; top with Fiesta Party Dip mixture.

Bake chicken, uncovered, at 375° for 35-40 minutes.

Sprinkle crushed chips and remaining cheese over chicken; bake additional 5 minutes.

Makes 6 servings.

Instead of using 2 tablespoons, I used only 1 1/2 and it still had a significant amount of heat so you could get away with 1 tablespoon. If you don't have any on hand, you could always use taco seasoning but I would use probably 3-4 tablespoons to get the good flavoring. I also unsed Nacho Cheese Doritios instead of the Blue Aztec chips because I can't eat seasame seeds well. It was so yummy and a huge hit in my household which consists of the most picky eaters going!!

Enjoy!!!

Make-Over Monday: Eating Better

2010-02-08T22:24:00.000-05:00

So it is Make-Over Monday!!!! But I didn't exercise or weigh-in today. I am still feeling under the weather and trying to catch up from being gone on emergency leave. I decided I am officially going to start back on my routine on Wednesday...I know random day but it fits the best!! Plus it gives me one more day to feel 100%!! So Wednesday I will update. I know I gained weight while we were gone since it was so hectic and we ate on the fly most of the time. I am so tired of fast food and junk, it is time to make a huge change in our household.

I was watching "The Doctors" the other day and they were talking about processed foods and how America is so accustom to eating processed foods. What surprised me is the fact that 95% of the food carried in the grocery store is considered processed, even frozen vegatables and milk. So instead of cutting out processed foods, I am going to concern myself with being smarter about what is listed in the ingredients and what is better for my family. I am going to avoid things like "enriched flour", "partially hydrogenated" and "high fructose corn syrup" and the like. I am going to try to look for things that are as close to natural as possible. But the key is to not try to do it all at once, I need to retrain our taste-buds. I am the worst one in the family since I have a wicked day sweet tooth. The hardest part for me is going to be with Jordan who loves fruit but we have to limit it because it causes her to have awful diaper rashes. But I am hoping in the long run, this works for my family and we get to a better eating lifestyle.

Wish me luck!!!

Revamping my blog

2010-02-07T17:53:00.000-05:00

I am so behind on my blog and I need to catch everyone up but I decided I am going to revamp it a little bit. This way I can make sure I am writing most of the week!! I am stealing this from my dear friend Ally and I am going to make the majority of my blog themed through out the week.

Mondays will be Makeover Mondays, all about my journey of trying to lose weight and revamp my life.
Tuesdays will be Tasty Tuesdays, it will feature a favorite recipe of mine every week and how my pick-eaters reacted to the recipe!!
Wednesdays will stay What Do You Think Wednesdays since I enjoy hearing people's points of view as well as sharing mine!!
Thursdays....I am still thinking of what to write on Thursdays, maybe I will think of something soon!!
Fridays will be Family Update Friday where I will write about what is new and exciting with the family.
Saturday I am stealing from Ally's Fridays and I am going to call it Someone Special Saturday. I will talk about a person each week and why they are special to me.
Sundays will be open for whatever I may want to write about or to be able to skip a day if I need to!!

I hope you all enjoy what I am going to do with it!! Let me know what you think!!

"What Do You Think" Wednesday

2010-01-27T15:43:00.000-05:00

So I decided to make my Wednesday blog entries a "What Do You Think" entry. I would like to ask people about different things and get opinions, whether it is something you agree with or not.

So today's "What Do You Think" is.....

What Do You Think About Plastic Surgery?

I have always actually been against plastic surgery. After spending three years working in the surgery clinic and coordinating the plastic surgery clinic, I became very against it. I didn't see why women felt it was necessary to alter the body they were given. I only agreed with plastic surgery that was medically necessary such as repaired a cleft palate or reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy. It just seemed like so much pain to go through.

But my feelings have since changed.....

I have always been a thin person. I do everything I can to stay within a certain weight/size range. I exercise, diet and watch what I eat. After having both of my children, my middle had gotten a little round. So I have exercised and dieted to get the weight off. Unfortunately, there is one section that just won't budge. I have spoken to a doctor and they said that due to certain health issues I have, I may never be able to work it off and that surgery may be the only option for me. This section is causing me to have to buy a larger size of pants then what the rest of me fits into just so I can be comfortable. So I have been looking into having the surgery done but I am still not decided and I am going to give it a little bit longer. However, I think that is going to be my only option to get myself where I want to be. The doctor said that my stomach muscles have split so I need to get them repaired in order to be able to get the desired body image. That is what I get for gaining so much weight and having big babies!!

Then I look at certain "celebrities" who are addicted to plastic surgery and I think about the frequent comment made by people who have under-gone some sort of treatment.."Once you do it, you will be addicted to it". Could it be like getting tattoos? Or are people just that vain that they constantly feel like they need to change themselves? It just makes me wonder.

Whatever I end up deciding, it will be what is best for me and my self-image. What other people decide is up to them and what is best for them. What do you think?

Week #2 done!!

2010-01-25T15:45:00.000-05:00

Weigh-In: 159

I am so excited I am finally below 160. I have been feeling so good lately too. I look in the mirror and can actually see a difference. I have been working my hiney off!! I love being able to work out at home and I am grateful that if for some reason I can get my workout in at 6, then I squeeze it in during naptime. The only downfall for me has been my usual cravings that kick in once a month, if you know what I mean. I want chocolate constantly!! UGH!! I am keeping disciplined though and am sticking to my 100 calorie Skinny Cow Ice Cream bars which are so yummy!! Sometimes being a woman sucks!!!

Things here have been crazy busy like usual. Between Noah's school, Mommy & Me class and playdates, our days are usual full. I went out last Wednesday night to meet a new group of ladies and I love them. They are all so sweet and I felt so comfortable with them. Hopefully I will be able to get out more now that I am meeting new people. I need my mommy time, it keeps me relaxed. My quest for this week though is to start looking for a preschool for Noah for September and to get myself an appointment with the school counselor here to see what I need to do to start college in September. I hope I get some good news for at least one of us.

This weekend, I got to see an old friend that I haven't seen in probably 10 years. She was one of my best friends in high school but because of me being in the Navy and her moving away from Rochester, we haven't been able to catch each other. It was so nice catching up and it was like I just saw her a week ago. I love that I have people in my life that no matter how long it has been since I have seen them, they are still there and we will always be friends. I hope they all know how important they are to me!!

I am trying to figure out what to do Valentine's weekend since Lee has another long weekend that weekend. We have thrown around going to DC, Charlotte, Savannah or The Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg. I wish a good idea would just come to me. Any ideas would be so helpful!!!

Time to get off here and do some housework!!!! Have a great day all!!

Immunizations

2010-01-20T22:47:00.000-05:00

Since Wednesday seems to be my "Great Debate" day, let's keep it going with this week's topic.....Immunizations for children.

I bring this up today because I was watching "The Doctors" (which is my new favorite show) and they were talking about immunizations that children are required to have before they start school.They were saying that a lot of states require that children have these shots before they even allowed to start kindergarten.

What do you think?

What about the children whose parents have chosen not to immunize their children due to religious beliefs or medical concerns? And how do you prove that you avoided the shots because of religious beliefs?

I personally have had my children receive the required immunizations. I did it solely for the fact that I have a weak immune system and I was afraid that they may have inherited that from me. With my husband working around thousand's of students (who do not have the best hygiene practices always), I felt it was best that my children get immunized. We get the flu shot yearly also. But that was my choice as a parent. I felt that it was in my children's best interest to do that for them. I do feel that parents who don't immunize are doing their children, as well as other children, a disservice. Some children, even though they have been immunized, are still prone to catching things. But that is my opinion...Every parent has to make the best decision for their children and what you decide is your business.

To each his own as they say......

One week in!!

2010-01-18T18:06:00.002-05:00

Weigh-in: 162

That right...I lost 5 pounds in one week!!!

WOOOO HOOOO!!! Go me!! I have been doing my best to stick to my "diet" and have become anal about working out. I love working out and I love how I feel after I am done. I would love to be down to my goal weight by the end of February. If I keep at it, I should be there. I loosened the reigns about counting calories a bit. I just keep a watchful eye and try my best not to go over 1500 a day. The hardest part of it all is night time, especially when we are watching movies. But I have done really good discipline wise and have avoided snacks after 9 completely, not matter what. I hope I can keep it up!!

We have had a busy few days. We took the kids to the Battleship North Carolina on Saturday and had a blast. It was so neat to show Noah all the things from days past. After that, we went out for "linner" at TGI Friday's. The kids were so funny and being so silly. We laughed so much. Once we got home, I went out for a much-needed Mom's night out. I went to play Bunco at the SNCO club with Pam. It was so different than what we were used to but I had a blast. I met some really nice ladies and I think I am going to volunteer for them.

On Sunday, we decided to just go for a drive. In driving, we stumbled upon one of the aquariums around here so we decided to stop. It was small but we still had fun. The kids got to touch stingrays and see a scuba presentation. They really enjoyed themselves. While we were out, we decided to stop and see if we could find the new Super Mario for the Wii. We did and came right home to play it. It is an absolute blast and we laughed so hard while playing it!!! I can't wait until we play again!!

Today, we decided to take advantage of a gorgeous day and go fishing!! We found a great spot and settled in. Noah CAUGHT HIS FIRST FISH!!! I am so proud. He was pretty patient and got so excited when the bobber went down in the water. He actually caught the only fish between the three of us. I am happy we found a spot too. It is one we will totally go to again!!

We have a busy week ahead, filled with appointments, playdates and fun. I have lost my motivation to do my housewife duties and really need to get moving on cleaning my house. I have chosen to put family time first and it shows in my house. Time to get my hiney in gear this week!!!

The Great Mom Debate

2010-01-13T16:16:00.005-05:00

Is being a SAHM (Stay at Home Mom) better?

Is being a Career Mom better?

Who is to say exactly?

I am sure you are wondering why I am asking these questions. Yesterday a good friend of mine expressed her frustration of being a career mom (I refuse to say working mom as I believe ALL moms are working moms) in her Facebook status. She, in no way, bashed SAHM or Career Moms, she was just venting but it opened the flood gates. After reading some of the comments in regards to her status and other people's comments, it got me to wonder about some things.

When did being a SAHM become a bad thing? And who has the right to criticize a woman who has no choice but to have a job outside of the home? To me, being a mom has become a double edge sword in today's society standards. There are people out there that look down on SAH Moms, like they are pathetic for not having a career or helping provide financially for their family. There are also people out there who look down on Career Moms because they are not raising the children they chose to have and they are not "there" for their family.

So which is the appropriate role for Moms?

The answer lays within the four walls of your own home. People who criticize have no idea what your family situation is nor do they provide for your family so what gives them the right to say anything? I am blessed with the ability to be a SAH Mom. It is decision that my husband and I made together with extensive planning and many sacrifices. We don't have the flexibility that we used to have when we had 2 incomes coming in but to us the benefits outweighed the downfalls of not having 2 incomes. Being a military family, there is always the possibility that Daddy will be gone quickly and we are already unstable enough with the fact that we move every 3 years so we decided together it was best for our family for me to be home, to ensure my children have at least one form of stability they can always rely on. It is hard enough to find people you trust to watch your children but to have to do it every 3 years would be awful!! But to say I don't work is ridiculous. My job starts from the moment I open my eyes in the morning until the moment they close at night. I am always "on-call", I am a maid, a chauffeur, a mediator, a cook and a nurse among countless other hats I may have to wear. The only difference between myself and a Career Mom is that my "pay" is the privilege to be with the blessings God gave me all day long rather than having extra money in the bank. While having extra money would be wonderful, I wouldn't trade my life for anything in the world.

One comment that was said has me pretty irritated though and that was if you continue to stay home after your children start full-time school, then you are no longer a SAH Mom, you are a house wife. When I was growing up, my mother was home when I got home, was there to be a school volunteer, a girl scout leader, a den mother, a cheerleading coach, etc. I don't think this qualifies you as a housewife. I think the definition of a housewife is someone who has either no children or who is an empty-nester and is not working outside of the home. I see nothing wrong in wanting to "be there" for your children even when they start going to school.

I think instead of bashing each other, we as Mothers should band together because we all have one thing in common...that is the privilege to mold the future by raising our children to be the best children they can be!!! There is no right or wrong....there is only what is best for you!!

Day 2....the pain??

2010-01-12T22:17:00.002-05:00

Day 2 of getting up at 6 am. Got up just fine, got through the workout without a problem, took a hot shower and then the muscle pain hit!! UGH!! My gluts hurt so much!!!!! But no pain, no gain right? Tomorrow is a rest day but I think I am going to at least do some yoga or something. I need to stick to the routine of getting up at 6am. So we shall see. I don't want to kill myself the first week.

So watching what I eat has been going good, for the most part. I had a break in my willpower tonight when I ate 2 chocolate chip cookies but it is ok. The one thing the nutritionist told me not to do is deprive my body of the things it wants. Just do things in moderation. SO instead of eating the 4 or 5 cookies I would normally eat, I ate 2 of the smaller ones. I really need to work on the willpower....baby steps right?

I went to the doctor today for my 34000 mile check up. I had to get x-rays on my knee because it keeps locking. She is afraid I did something to my MCL so we shall wait and see. I hope not. She also put in my referral for GI and Endo as well as one for Derm to get my psoriasis under control. It has gone crazy in the last few months. Let's hope they can get it under control because I have spots that hurt bad!! We shall see....

Day 1 done!!

2010-01-11T22:38:00.000-05:00

Weigh In: 167

Yuck!!! I couldn't beleive that I actually saw that number when I weighed in. It disgusted me!! Lee swears up and down I don't look like I weigh 167 but I can tell I have been gaining weight. So that gives me 22 pounds to lose to meet my goal weight. Not too bad but not the original 15 I thought I had to go.

So I started the day at 6 am. Boy, did I curse myself out...what was I thinking? But once I got up and did my workout, I felt so good. I felt energized!! So I threw on some laundry, stripped our bed, hopped in the shower and started cleaning around the house. By the time Noah woke up, I felt I had accomplished so much!!

The day just got better from there and I got a lot done. While the kids were napping, I did the 30 minute clean routine. I did 3 rounds of that before Lee got home which made me so happy. I quit when he got home though because he needed some attention after having a bad day. LOL

The other goal I started yesterday (not on my list) was that we eat dinner at 6pm every night. If you know me, that is a feet in itself. We always eat so late and it was starting to frustrate me. So I have set out to have dinner ready by 6 every night and I made it tonight, only 6 minutes late!! Go me!! It was so nice to have dinner done and still have time to do something as a family rather than having to rush to get the kids bathed and in bed!!

Let's hope I can keep up this motivation!!

In a Funk...

2010-01-10T22:50:00.002-05:00

I have been in such a funk this week. While I was happy to get home from New York because we had been gone for a while and I hate living out of suitcases, I am so unhappy about being so far away from my family especially with all that is going on. Ever since it happened, I only have "helped" through the phone but being home and feeling the change of it all made it really hit home to me. It makes me sad and very angry that my mother has to experience this, especially at this stage of her life. Here she thought she would be spending the next few years preparing for life after retirement with her husband and now she is spending her time planning her life as a single woman. But she is actually doing really well for herself. She is really a different person now without him around and I love it!!! She is so much more relaxed and mellow and she is doing for her, which is the most important thing. But I digress...being home, seeing and spending time with my nieces, spending time with my family, everything....it has just made me feel so lost here and so out of place. At least in Great Lakes, I created a make-shift family for us and I felt like I belonged there. But I guess it will take time and effort on my part. So I have signed up for a few things and I trying to get us out there. We shall see.....

Tomorrow is a big day for me. I start my steps to my 2010 goals. First step, setting the alarm to get up at 6 am every day during the week and use that time to get my work out in, my shower and get my day going. I am going to start the 6 week challenge on the Wii Active (More workouts) tomorrow, I wonder how sore it is going to make. I hope I can stick to this one...I am really looking forward to it!! Wish me luck!!!

Food and Good-bye

2010-01-05T23:16:00.002-05:00

So one of my goals for the year is to get my family to eat better, more healthy. Another one is to get us out of debt and start building our savings up again. Well to kill 2 birds, I decided I would start creating a full meal plan instead of just dinner. Well I spent about 5 hours on it today. It is a lot harder than you think it would be especially since I don't want to eat the same thing for meals everyday. I want to make sure the kids have balanced meals also. I think in the long run though, it will help me not spend frivolous money at the grocery store which in the long run will cut our grocery bill. I even got on-line and printed out coupons from a few coupon sites I know of plus I think I am going to start getting the Sunday paper again so I can get the coupons out of there. We shall see how much my grocery bill will be affected by this when I go shopping tomorrow morning. Should be interesting!!

By the time I finished the list today, it was too late for my to go shopping on base since I would have gotten stuck in the "going-home" traffic. So I opted to "De-Christmas" our house on the inside. It was so depressing. Every year I love putting the decorations up and every year I get so sad taking them down. It makes the house look so bare to me. I wish I could justify having a tree up all year round. Hmmmm, maybe I should come up with a way. LOL. Until I do though, I guess it is good-bye to Christmas until next year!! :-(

School

2010-01-04T21:56:00.000-05:00

My baby started Playschool today and he loved it!!! I was actually ok dropping him off especially since I know it is only once a week and only for 2 hours. But at least I have him in some sort of school structure so in September when he starts pre-school for real he will be ok with it. I am still trying to decide if I want to send him 3 days a week or 5 days. I am leaning toward 3 days because I want to still cherish the few days a week we will be able to do things together. I am just not sure though. I guess I need to investigate the pros and cons.

The school front for me is a little frustrating. I am having a hard time finding somewhere that according to their information will accept my college already completed, my military credits and get me the program I want. I think I just need to go in and talk to an advisor because I would really like to start classes sooner than later. I have a goal to try to start in September so I hope I can achieve that goal. But only time will tell.

Right now, I am just trying to keep us busy and get us out there to meet some new people. I have joined a few meet-up groups and I found one that I like so we are getting involved with them. I hope I make some good friends here as I have done in the past.....it just seems harder this time.

Happy 2010!!!

2010-01-01T15:31:00.001-05:00

I can't beleive we starting another decade!! I hope that this is as amazing as the last decade was. Our lives have changed so much over the last 10 years. These years have made me and my family who they are today and I hope the next 10 years provides us with as many memories as the last 10 years did.

I decided this year, instead of doing resolutions, I am going to set goals for myself. Goals are something I tend to stick to rather than resolutions. So I thought I would share my goals here and maybe add to them as I think of things I want to accomplish this year.

My 2010 goals:

1) Lose 15 pounds (I would prefer 20 but let's stick to 15 for now).

2) Apply to nursing school

3) Start nursing school or some sort of classes

4) Get rid of our debt (with the exception of the car)

5) Start to eat healthier. I don't want to get rid of junk food completely (my nutrionist said I shouldn't deprive my body of the things it craves, like chocolate. It just makes it worse in the long run). But I want to cut down on junk and make more healthy choices.

6) Take a family vacation, just the 4 of us!!!

7) Improve my Tastefully Simple business

8) Investigate starting up my craft business, A Simple Knot

9) Start working out regularly

10) Reconnect with old friends who were important in my life at one time but have fallen to the way-side.

That is all the goals I can think of right now. I hope to have updates on them as I start to work toward them through out the year!! Wish me luck!!

Lessons learned....

2009-12-31T14:35:00.000-05:00

I wanted to end 2009 with a blog about the lessons I learned in 2009. It seems like there were a lot and I am sure I am going to forget one or 2 (or 10) but it is worth a shot!!

My lessons learned:

1) NEVER TAKE LIFE FOR GRANTED!!!!! You never know when tomorrow will not come.

2) Always kiss your babies even when they are naughty. You never know when you might not be able to.

3) Tell your family members you love them as much as you can. It never hurts to hear I love you!!

4) Always keep somewhat of a guard up. You may think you can trust someone but you just never know.

5) Always make sure you are able to care for yourself should something happen to your significant other.

6) The best friends in your life are the ones you don't have to make a huge effort to be their friend. It just comes naturally.

7) Relationships require work but should NOT exhaust you!! This includes friendships!!

8) Moving every three years sucks, especially when you have 2 small children. However, moving is such a fun thing especially trying to discover a new place.

9) Being a Stay at Home is hard work.

10) Never try to read some one's expression through the computer. If you can't see their face or hear the tone in their voice, you are going to read it wrong, no matter what!!

11) Don't take the time you have with your family for granted.

12) Family is what you make it, not necessarily blood bonds only!!

Tomorrow, I will go to set my goals for 2010!!! Let's hope I can accomplish a few of them!!