Mr. Obamas Progress!

Naive- Showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment

(What most people are)

I saw on the news today that officially all of our troops have left Iraq. But it is not the end, so many troops are still serving in Afghanistan...Kuwait...and other places. This may be what you call "progress" but it still isn't over. "Cheers" to Obama and his minions for keeping one promise he made.

But wait...this coming from the goverment who many times in the past year almost didn't pay their MILITARY but was going to make sure they recieved a pay check. This coming from the goverment who thinks we don't deserve benefits. This coming from the government who was trying to slash our militaries retirement!

Yeah...that's some damn progress for you!

I actually made something off Pinterest!

Homemade Laundry Detergent!It looks weird but it really does work. They say use 1 tbs per load but I use 2 on my bigger loads. Makes me feel better. :) If you want the recipe go onto google I am sure you can find it. But it requires everything in the first picture but (3) of those bars of Fels-Naptha. I know the Walmart here in Peachtree City, GA has all of this stuff lined right up together in the detergent aisle. Pretty handy.

Also I heard other people use 2 small things of oxy clean. I may do that when Daniel gets home, but for now... I don't really need that. But for y'all with kids, might not be a bad idea.

P.S. My house ( well my parents house) smells AWESOME right now because of this stuff.

Snapshot

I thank God for skype every day. It is probably what will be my saving grace for the next year.
I get to see his face every day and know that he is okay and make him feel like he is still apart of life here in the U.S.

He was trying to get ready for the day and I was bugging him...(as usual). But hey what else are wives good for?


He loves me...not more than I love him.

I will love this face until my dieing day. As fake as that smile is...I still love it. I wouldn't trade it for the world.

I am blessed to see his face every day. I think back to my grandparents and when my grandfather was in Korea...they didn't speak for 18 months. I can't imagine that. They are amazed by the technology me and my husband share on a daily basis. I can see the happiness they have for me as well.

So during this holiday season I am going to say a few prayers for the creator of skype...and I am sure a few other military spouses will as well. We are forever in debt to you.

Love!

Here is a few more pre-deployment pictures I didn't add on facebook, I like to make y'all work for them :)I love these pictures!
This is actually my favorite because it catches Daniel so naturally. His laugh is contagious. I am blessed I still get to hear it over Skype.

I just want to plug our awesome photographer here. Ladybug Mugs Photography owned by Danielle Avery is amazing! She does amazing work and I highly suggest you check out her facebook page and website. She is super great to work with and I personally think she did an amazing job! Thank you Ladybug Mugs Photography! We love our pictures!

Tis The Season

Daniels Company During Basic- Hooah!Daniel during Basic Training on one of his last weeks!

Daniel getting ready to go into the gas chamber...he looks thrilled right?

This Christmas will be drastically different than my last. It is amazing to see how life changes in 1 year. This time last year I was getting ready to welcome Daniel back from Basic Training. Now we are in the first few weeks of our first deployment...like I said...crazy!

I am doing my best to enjoy this holiday season. I can't be a total grinch...My soul can never deny the happiness I find at Church on Christmas Eve or seeing my grandparents every Christmas day for the past 21 years, or driving to Gaddys to see the Christmas lights. That is what my Christmas is, not the presents...not the hysteria that surrounds it. It is the people, and the love they give.

Once again, every day I am amazed at the extended love I recieve from people since this deployment has begun. You are all amazing. You are the reason I am not a total grinch for Christmas. I know Daniel wouldn't want me to not enjoy Christmas either. Like other wives have told me...it is only another day, it to shall pass.

So in my mind the season for Christmas officially begins DECEMBER 1ST! haha So tomorrow I will really get into the swing of things.

But I hope everyone has a VERY Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I hope they are both filled with blessings and good times.

argh.

Tonight is one of those nights that are just a debbie downer for me. I've held myself together pretty well in the past 2 weeks...but for some reason tonight is just getting to me. I am already tired of going to bed alone and waking up alone. I am tired of trying to force myself to be happy and enjoy all the Christmas excitment when I could care less.

It is helping being home this first month of deployment...I am not getting any time to really think about how much I miss him. But I am waiting for it to hit me like a ton of bricks...

I've always heard these first deployments are the worst, they will either make or break you. I can now fully understand why they are the hardest...because I have no bloody idea what the hell is going on or what to expect. I like to know. This whole Army life hasn't left much in my control and I will admit I am still not a huge fan of that.

I have never wanted to rush a year of life before...I just want this next year to be over with like a week ago. But I keep telling myself you aren't the only woman that has gone through this and you won't be the last and I am not doing it alone...I have all of the other wives of Daniels unit going through the exact same thing. I applaud all of them, the ones that have kids...I don't exactly know how I would handle having to explain to kids why Daddy won't be there. Hats off to you ladies...you are my heroes.

It's funny how life stands so still for you but outside of your bubble keeps magically going...your world seems to have come to a complete hault and before you know it days...weeks...and months have gone by.

All in all...I have been very lucky and will be very lucky during this deployment. I have got a support system that is like no other. From Texas to Georgia I know I have someone that is supporting my husband and I during this year. It is humbling to know that.

1st Care Package(s)

Well...first week means first care packages are completed and on their way to the sand box. It hasn't really set in yet. It seems like yesterday we just moved to Fort Hood. Now we are thousands of miles apart. It is surreal. Luckily our internet connection is far better than we expected. Also...much cheaper than I expected.

My emotions are in check for now...i've told many people that I kind of scared myself how well I did after he left. I get sad and down when I realize he isn't coming home after 5:00 or when the dogs jump up when they hear a car door slam thinking Dad is home. That stuff does break my heart. But what can you do? You put on your big girl panties and you move on.

A year is a long time but then I think about where I was a year ago...and it kind of shocks me. It has gone so fast. But then again I wasn't counting the days.

So the prayers will be appreciated and the love and support has been amazing. I've had people come out of the wood work to give me their support. It is inspiring. It makes me have hope for the human race when people become so compassionate. I thought some people would become very distant, but they haven't.

It is only the beginning but I have things planned and to look forward to. That keeps me motivated. My husband is my biggest motivation. I miss him but he is safe. THAT is what is most important to me, his safety.

I have the best family and friends in the world. I have been blessed beyond belief. Thank you Thank you Thank you.

Happy Veterans Day!

Thank you to all Veterans but especially to my favorites my grandfather and husband! You both are my heroes!

Why should you use coupons?

Lately there has been a huge hype surrounding extreme couponing. I am not into that. I am in the couponing thing to save a buck in my household. So here is my spill on the whole thing!

Coupons=Free Money!

So why wouldn't you use them? Ever wanted to have a tree that grows money...well instead your newspapers does that in the place of coupons, every Sunday morning too!

Now the trick to using coupons is not to use them just because you have them...wait for a sale on something or if you ACTUALLY need the item. My husband has this issue in the grocery store with junk food, he thinks just because we have a coupon we can buy a $10 bag of chips ( hang with me here). Not happening.

Now the whole issue with stock piles, I think it is brilliant. Kind of... Well it would be brilliant for me, but since it will only be me and the 2 mutts for a whole year, stock piling isn't going to work for me right now. But I do have an endless amount of shampoo for the next year...and toilet paper. I may stock pile on dog stuff...it goes quick here and if theres a deal I am going for it.

ANYWAYS I have probably saved over $200 since I have started couponing. Some may think well...that isn't that much. BUT it is. Because you have to think, they don't rarely EVER give coupons on fresh meat or vegetables, that bites a lot out on a grocery store trip.

But there are ways for you to do it and not dedicate ALL of your time!

1. How many times do you check facebook a day? While you are checking facebook check couponing websites, something is always bound to be new and something you need. It takes 5 mintues...seriously.

2. How many husbands OR wives read the Sunday paper or how many of our parents/grandparents get a Sunday paper? Ask them to save the coupon inserts for you! Every Sunday their is new coupons waiting for you, it becomes like a treasure hunt. I am a nerd, do not judge me. ( I now have my parents and grandparents in on it, so I should be hitting the jackpot on my arrival back to Georgia, woot woot!)

3. LOOK FOR DEALS! I track on facebook all kinds of different couponing websites and blogs. They do the hard work for you and when they post the good deal, happy shopping! They even do store to store matches for different coupons...it is intense stuff and more than I can explain in one blog post.

4. If you are super super super lazy...There are websites that you can buy all of the inserts from, since you are this lazy I will let you find those on your own...I don't use them because I don't have a need for them. Hehe!

**Here is some of the websites/blogs/and other things I use!**

On FACEBOOK:

Coupon Divas- LOVE THIS ONE! She also has a website. Google people.

SmartCouponing

Coupon Queen

WEBSITES

http://www.coupons.com/

http://www.smartsource.com/

http://www.redplum.com/

http://www.couponnetwork.com/

REWARDS

Anyone that knows me knows that I drink a TON of Coca Cola Products...more than I should yeah yeah...shut up. BUT for all those that do this as well. USE-----

MyCokeRewards

*You can get free stuff just by entering the code under the cap!* I have over 200 something points!* I am saving mine up, but you can donate them to the USO and support our troops, HOOAH!

PRODUCT WEBSITES

ALWAYS check out the websites of the products you use! Sign up and get emails! They send stuff to me all the time and I have gotten numerous freebies that include AMAZING coupons.

As ive said, this doesn't consume my life...but I enjoy it! I also save a buck everytime I go out. It allows me to enjoy other things that I don't always have a coupon for!

My Passion

When I was in high school and even in middle school I was always asked "What are you good at?" I never really had a great answer for that. I always just bs'd them with a great smile. (Har Har)

But as time goes on and time started to move a lot faster...funny how it does that, I think I have found it. The one thing that makes me smile on a daily basis...is my love for any breathing animal. I have always had a passion for them but never did know if that was my "thing". I am sure I annoy the hell out of all of my friends when I sometimes pay more attention to their pets and not them (please take no offense).

But their is something so effortless about loving an animal, probably because they never stop showing you love even on the worst of your days. You can't say that for most people...

I am excited to pursue this whole animal thing at risk of looking like the crazy dog or cat lady. But hey it is my passion. You can't deny it right?

So pursueing my veterinary technician degree is coming along...slowly but surely...medical math never played into my passion, hmph. Anyone want to be a math tutor for a lovely Army Wife? Please...

Besides that, I know starting in January I am going to foster or volunteer as much time as possible. The shelters around here use cold weather fosters for those nights it is just to cold for the pups to sleep in their cages. Would you want to sleep on cold concrete when its 30 degrees outside? Didn't think so. For all of those who have an opinion...NO I am not going to adopt another animal. But what is so wrong in helping when I have time?

(Also for anyone thinking of fostering, you can count that on your taxes :) Just saying! )

I love my dogs and they are great to me...except when they chewed my favorite vera bradley...I may have threatened to put one of my dogs on craigslist... I won't name names (QUINN)!

They do a lot for me...mostly provide me with a lot of happiness, and I feel as if I should give back for what they have done for me. And for all of my past pets that have done nothing but been my fury shoulders to cry on during some of my darkest times and been a reason for immesne happiness during the good times.

So you can say I found my passion...

“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs, ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who are alive.” – Howard Thurman

Civi vs. Military

I was asked on one of these Army Wives facebook pages "What is the thing that annoys you the most about fellow civilian wives?" I could go and name probably 1o major things right off my head...but I won't be that mean to you lovely civilian wives.

I think the thing that boils my blood the most is when civilian wives miss their husbands and act as if their world is going to end if he is gone for a couple days, 1 week, or even 2 weeks. I am sure you miss him a ton, but really?

Now I am in no way saying us military wives are better wives than others. BUT I wish that some people could spend a month or even a year in our shoes when some of us don't get to lay eyes on our husbands for months or years at a time.

So next time you miss your spouse...think of a military spouse. Is your husband/wife being gone for a couple days on a business trip in any comparision to a military spouse being gone for a year fighting for your freedom?

The "D" Word

Life is about to dramatically change for me. The "D" word is about to determine my next year in life. BUT in light of this next year I have some plans, and I would like everyones help.

I have a couple of things I need from you or more less suggestions.

1. I want to read a ton in the next year...suggest to me some books I can't miss out on this year.

2. Movies! I have found some lists of movies for must see's but...I want to hear it from you!

3. Recipes I must try to make ( with the help of Gina Pulido, yes I volunteered you lady).



Thanks to http://www.pinterest.com/ I have enough craft and DIY things to last me the next year or more. I want to keep busy as possible, and I know all of my family/friends will have suggestions.

Also if anyone knows of any military/deployment books I can read that would be great.



This is going to be a year full of sadness, joy, laughter, and tears. Hopefully more of the good than the bad...

I want to say a big thank you to everyone who is going to carry my burdens on their shoulders for the next year. You mean the world to me. I may not say it as much as I should or when I should, but again thank you. It will be a challenge...but I am ready for it. I am treating it as a learning experience and as a oppurtunity.

But I plan on getting back to the school thing very soon and getting that finished and hopefully getting a job that will carry away some of this time. People do not recognize how hard it is to find a job here. There is so many women here trying to do the exact same thing. Plus I haven't stayed in the state longer than a couple months at a time. I can't avoid that.

So this year will finally allow me to get into a routine, and I miss a routine very much. I don't think I have been able to have a routine since my senior year of high school. You never appreciate normality until it has escaped you for so long.

But for all of my Georgia family I will be home for Christmas for sure and more than likely thanksgiving so humor me and lets make plans. I miss all of my friends and family.

Also if you haven't figured out what the "D" word is by now....bless your heart.

Bring it on!

Life has been crazy lately...so "blogging" hasn't been at the top of my "to-do" list.

Well lets see what I can update you on...well we are still in Texas...it is still hot as hades. For all you east coast people. I indirectly hate you for the cooler weather you have recieved. I want to wear jeans and not pass out.

Deployment keeps on creeping closer. But it will be okay...great family and friends make a hell of a difference. I can't put exact dates on here, so if you want to know any specifics, feel free to ask.

The "village" we live in on base is supposedly going to be updated. We are getting our homes painted and we can sign up to recieve shrubs. Woo-hoo. Oh what I live for...

For all you Georgia creepers Daniel and I will be home October 29th- November 4th. Give us a call...we would love to see everyone. But don't cry I will be back soon after Daniel deploys for Thanksgiving and I will be staying until Christmas. (Don't cry Gina.)

Fort Hood is feeling like home now. It will never be what Georgia is to me and the comfort it provides. But I have to make myself feel at home or I will never survive here. When me and Daniel talk about going home we have to distinguish between our Texas home and our Georgia homes. So it is getting easier to be 800 miles away from everything you know.

But anyways...

I have a bucket list I plan to start while Daniel is deployed...more like my Deployment List...I will be creating lists of movies to watch...books to read...( Finishing school!), places to visit, things to try, foods to try, and many others. And maybe if I get my crap together I will share my experiences on here. Even if no one else reads this I know my momma will...and hey all it takes is one person correct?

So if you have anything I should read or watch...let me know. I have Netflix so bring it on! I am all up for trying anything once. Twice if you talk me into it...

Oh! and I want to foster animals for a year...no cats...Quinn doesn't tango with the feline kind (unfortunately). So I will be hooking up with a local shelter hopefully soon, probably come January.

I want to be as busy as possible so that I don't have time to worry or fret or be upset...thats the kind of busy I want to be. Bring it on deployment...I will kick your ass.

Oh and any part time job would be great. I would go for the full time...BUT considering I want to travel back and forth to GA a good bit...not thinking it is going to happen.

Thanks for reading my rambling :)

Newnan vs. Northgate Highschool

Today I was checking in on the Times Herald. I always do this time to time to just stay informed of what is going on in Newnan or the whole county itself.

Today I read an opinion article it was titled Newnan versus Northgate. Basically it highlighted the reasons why Northgate parents/students/faculty thought they deserved more and how Newnan didn't think we did and that we are selfish and it was because we are a smaller school...etc etc. Also they hinted that Northgate does get recognized in the paper, just not as much as others...

Well dear Newnan High School parents/students/ faculty...

As a former student of Northgate I am very proud of that school. I don't think we deserve anymore or less than any other high school. Yes every parent will scream about how my child isn't getting enough yada yada..but are you seriously going to make your arguement over some sort of staduim lights?

Also on the point of our test scores...lets make something clear. If Newnan and East Coweta High School were up to the bar of what the state held for them, why were there so many Newnan and East Coweta students transferring to Northgate for a "better" education? Make that clear to me. Why was that happening? Also WHY do parents move into the county only to send their children to Northgate High School, not Newnan. SO riddle me that...

On the issue of the Times-Herald, Northgate barely EVER gets recognized in the paper. If they do, it is some small blurb, nothing much more than that. Northgate seems to be not be recognized because Newnan seems to be the better sports school. Well lets recognize something...lets count the state titles held at Northgate in other sports OTHER than football. We don't pride ourselves JUST in football.

So no Northgate doesn't have the best sports teams in the county but let me say I would MUCH rather go to a school that is more focused on the education of the students than the athletics.

The comment made about a pecking order...for real? I hope you aren't a parent...because there is no pecking order. I think if a school needs the money they should get it. It either being Newnan...Northgate...or East Coweta. I don't care when what school was built, if one school needs something not wants...then they get it.

As far as hard work going on at Newnan...are you that naive? Go on over to the Northgate campus and see the teachers that are there until 8 or 9 o'clock, or the coaches that are sitting and watching tape for an upcoming game until 9 o'clock at night. You aren't the only ones working hard.

You can say that opinion got under my skin!

Bucket List

I was watching the movie bucket list the other day and it made me think of how much I haven't done...yes I am only 20 but some of my friends have done amazing things by now...and well I haven't really stepped outside of my comfort zone, at all. So here is a few things I want to do...not neccescarily my top 5...just 5 things.

1. Go to a foreign country...yes I've never left the country, not even Mexico. Considering I am so close to Mexico, I might want to try that out at this point. Any country would be fine with me...but Italy is my dream. Actually it is mine and my bestfriends dream destination.

2. Learn how to cook. This dream may be filled. My lovely neighbor Gina went to culinary school! I feel that I could learn a lot from her, and as far as I am concerned, anything will be a big step for me. She posts all these beautiful pictures of what she has cooked, and I just drool and think "when I grow up I want to be just like her".

3. I want to own horses. I love them. My dad says they are a large animal with a brain the size of a walnut. But I disagree. An animal with that much grace can't be that stupid. Ive ridden a little but I would love to enjoy them for myself. And this horse pictured above, would be just right for me :)

4. Build my own house. I have this idea in my mind of what I want my house to look like. It hasn't ever really changed. But I would love to be able to give my kids and grandkids the feeling of they can come home to the same house for the rest of their lives. If me and Daniel can provide it, it would be something I would want to do.

5. I want to own a classic car. I really don't know anything about cars except when to change my oil and that it needs gas to run. But my husband is different. He knows a lot about cars and I just like the way they look and sound. Thats all I need. I would like to rebuild one with my husband...or well watch him rebuild it and reassure him he is doing a fantastic job.

Hot Hot Hot

So...in Texas it is hot...really...really...hot. I've head it's just as bad in Georgia, then add their humidity. I am sure Georgia wins in the heat race. But ive learned I love one thing about these hot summer days and thats about 7:00 at night. It feels like beach weather here...minus the lovely beach. But the breeze is wonderful and it seems to draw me and my neighbors outside so we can actually enjoy Texas (somewhat). That is the time of day I love the most...it brings the people and our dogs together to enjoy the night. But I know for sure that I will probably enjoy winter a little more this year...

Besides the weather being hell like, Texas is alright. I can only say alright because ive only really been to two places in Texas... the Dallas -Plano-McKinney area and here in Killeen...oh and Wacky Waco, so that makes three. I haven't really found any restaurants or toursit spots that stand out to me. Daniel and I both agreed we really need to go exploring. There is endless oppurtunities in San Antonio and Austin, so there is much to be done.

We are hopefully going to back to Georgia for 10 days sometime in July. ANY of my family that reads this, DO NOT tell my grandparents...I am going to attempt to suprise them :) Which I cannot wait for.

It is going to be a long drive home...I do not like that drive but oh well. I feel like I haven't even settled here yet and I am already going back home. Just a lot going on! I am going to enjoy being home though, nothing like being home.

Well Daniel has night shifts now...so I am alone at night, so I will probably be on this more, maybe.

I think I am going to head to Ross and indulge a little bit, don't tell Daniel ;) Just kidding!

Pound Puppy

For my entire life every pet I have every owned except for maybe 2 was either a stray or from someone who didn't want it and even the pound.

I've always liked pure bred animals, they are great but...we've never had much success with them. I've owned a basset hound and a britanny spaniel...both had health problems, maybe not serious but always something that wasn't much fun.

Now I have had health issues with our mix breeds as well...skin issues being the number one. But beside any health or behavorial problem I think an animals biggest issue is sometimes the owner.

Since I have been in Texas I have adopted a dog and she has slowly become my number one companion especially when my husband is at work.

But what I do not get is why so many military families adopt an animal and then as soon as the husband/wife deploys they become to much work or when you PCS to another base...there is no room for the pet any longer.

Animals are a huge commitment, and I don't think people realize that. It flusters the hell out of me to see people so easily give up their pet after so called "much consideration". I've been on craigslist and many shelters websites lately looking for a play mate for my new dog, considering the options and those words were used many times.

If you aren't fully committed to your pet, do not get one. It is not something that is going to stay small and baby like forever. They become adult dogs or cats very quickly. It is a shame to watch great pets being sent to the pound to look for new homes because someone didn't know what they were getting themselves into.

Especially to military families...you know what life you live! You can be in one place today and in another tomorrow. If you can't handle it why put a pet through the torture of having to shuffle it around to different homes? Would you enjoy that? I didn't think so. Neither do the animals...

Pets are like family to me...they are my family and I treat them as so. So if you cannot give an animal the right home or time...please don't get one.

"Are you already trying to burn down my house?!"

Well last night was eventful...or that may not even be the right word.

I was cooking dinner for myself before Daniel comes home Friday, something only I eat and I don't have to hear him whine about it, ( love you hunny). I was actually kind of excited about it because lets face it I haven't had a solid meal in a week or so just because I have been so busy.

Well I am half way done cooking and all of the sudden the fire smoke detector goes off...so I go try to fan it thinking its just mal functioning...well I see that a tiny red light where the carbon monoxide detector is, is blazing red...detecting carbon monoxide. So I freak out, go get my trustee neighbors, they don't know what to do.

So I call housing, line is consumed with "mass amount of callers" due to storm damage that happened...last Wednesday. So they suggested if serious enough call 911. So I debated...so 911 looked like my best choice. Because that alarm can mean serious business if accurate so I didn't want to mess around.

So hear comes the fire truck...all dressed up in uniform...sirens blazing...embarassing doesn't even touch it.

BUT to my defense there WAS a problem. I have a faulty oven that wasn't properly lighting (it's gas). So instead of lighting properly it was putting out unsafe amounts of carbon monoxide. So it was a good thing that I called, and I didn't feel like a total idiot after all.

So all is well this morning...my oven is fixed, I have a new smoke detector and carbon detector and I feel safe again.

I told my neighbor to send a picture of the fire trucks to Daniel....he calls me like any good husband and says" Are you already trying to burn down the house?!"

Well as I said all is well and my house is all in one piece and so am I :)

The Great Place

Well the trip has been made, we are officially in Fort Hood. People keep asking me how I am liking it..if I even like it all and my only response has been...it is hot...really hot. Heat has never really bothered me but I must say its a whole new breed of hot, and I know it will only get worse.

The guy that put my cable in today warned me that August is considered hell month around here because it is so hot. Joy.

But for the most part I do like it, this base is big, really big. My neighbor and I have done some exploring and errand running and I am slowly learning my way around here. What I do like is that everyone has been so nice. Anytime I have needed a question answered someone is always willing to answer it and in a positive helpful tone. You don't always find that. A lot of people don't want to bother with newbies like me...because I literally don't know a darn thing im doing. So patients is a virtue for me. So thank you Fort Hood for being so nice to me.

The housing is nice. The people before us have really taken care of the place, so we got lucky. I am trying to decorate, one thing at a time. We finally got internet and cable today, woo hoo! I have been missing my usuals..or my usual, Sex and the City.

Daniel is out in the field for 2 weeks so I am all by my lonesome...well not really I have my new puppy. Well she isnt really a puppy anymore. But I called my 12 year old dog a puppy until the day she died, so she's a puppy. She is part australian cattle dog and well we don't know what else. She has a heart of gold and she is house trained...winner! I went to do some research on the breed and supposedly they become your shadows, and I have had her since Saturday and she is definitely my little shadow. I like that. Makes me feel not so alone.

I have a lot of "new" going on, it is exciting...and scary. I know many people don't usually read this but I thought this would be a good way for people to keep up with me in some way, and feel like they have some insight.

But as they tell me at the gate everytime I come on base..." Welcome to the Great Place!"

First Big Move

I don't even know where to start...

Moving to Texas is total chaos. We have a lot to pack in a short time, plus trying to find a place to live, plus paying to get out there...

We have decided to do a DITY ( Do it yourself) move. We've found out we can pocket more money this way and since we don't have as much stuff as others, we figured this would just be smarter, and lets be honest, I want to handle my stuff. I am weird like that.

So this next week I will spend endless amounts of time on the phone trying to find a place to live...renting moving trucks and the worst thing that haunts my being ( dun dun dun)... packing.

But I am trying to concentrate and get it all done, I will get this all done, after I pull my hair out...or Daniels. Even if he doesn't have much of it.

My mind tells me go go go...I just want to get out to Texas and get settled, I feel like ive done my time in being away from my husband. I know most military wives would not agree..6 months is really nothing, and ive seen him a bunch, but theres nothing like having him home...or nothing like living with him. I mean...ive been married a month and a day and haven't lived with him for one of those days, kinda rough.

I feel like ive done my part for at least a couple months until I have to give him up again. Don't cha think?

14 hour trip is looking like a monster to me right now...but we will get it done, one way or another.

Oh boy!

personal recession

Anyone want to give me a second job? I would love to have it! Only problem is I am moving in a month! Makes it almost impossible to find that 2nd job. I know I know you don't have to tell them you are leaving in a month, but I like to stay on that honesty path...I think honesty is the best policy.

So my answer to my own personal recession?
1. I don't leave the house unless necesscary. E.X. grocery store...grand parents house.
2. No more eating out/ fast food. Can't keep doing it.
3. Learn to say no. Now, I am the person that usually doesn't mind paying for other people when they can't do something...but I can't afford to now, I just can't. Also I am the person people look to fill the financial gap sometimes...when they need that 4th party or something. Can't anymore!
4. Keep myself as busy as possible in the house, and in this house it shouldn't be to hard right? But it does get old after awhile.

So this is my new daily routine...I still am broke but oh well. I am not spending money either.
If being apart of these bad times does me any good, its taught me to be smart...very smart. But unfortunately for our economy its taught me not to spend because I can't afford to.

Back to the routine I go...wish me luck.

To My Husband

I really am never this cheesy, but I think you deserve to know how much I love you...

I never thought I would meet that perfect man, but I did.

I never thought I would give my heart away, but I did.

I never thought at daycare I would find Mr. Perfect, but I did.

I never thought I would be so in love with someone, but I am.

I never thought I would want to grow old with someone, but I do.

I said "I Do" to the man of my dreams. Through the ups and downs, the smiles and the tears, I love him no matter what. He is the ONLY man that one minute I want to murder and in the next be in his arms happier than ever.

I've been married as of a week yesterday, and its already had its moments. Getting married and being instantly 300 miles away hits hard at the heart. But I know one thing, God always had this plan for us, and honestly, that is comforting. I married my other half...as cheesy as that sounds its the truth. I am a lucky woman that God picked us to be husband and wife.

I wouldn't have it any other way.

Whirlwind

That is the one word to describe my life right now...a "whirlwind".

I am getting married on Saturday. After many tears and fears of not getting the chance to marry my best friend, God answered our prayers. I get to marry the man I love.

The other big news is we are moving to Texas! Anyone have a cowboy hat and cowboy boots they want to loan me? Daniel found out almost a week ago we are being stationed at Fort Hood. Many people know of Fort Hood because of the shooting that happened some years ago.

Texas...almost 14 hours away from gool ole' Georgia. I never lived anywhere but Georgia, it will be a very big adventure for both me and Daniel, we need all the prayers we can get! I am excited and weary. I never was one of the kids that wanted so badly to get out of Georgia. It is home, always will be. But the other side of me is excited for something new. New territory I guess you would say.

The thing that has hit me is that I am leaving my very good friends behind. I know all of them will always be my friends, but it will stink knowing I can't hop in my car and go over whenever I want. I know I will make new friends and never will replace the ones I have here...but it still wears on my emotions. I don't have brothers or sisters so my friends have always fufilled those spots, and they are my blood as far as I am concerned. People usually ask well aren't you going to miss your parents? Well of course, but my parents are constant in my life...friends sometimes can't be and thats what I deal with. It isn't my fault or theirs, it just is simply life.

Everything is happening fast...but I've handled it. Suprisingly. I use to be one who hated change, but I am realizing change can be and is good. I need it.

I guess I will need to change the top of my blog this next week from Army Fiance to Army Wife, how crazy is that?!

I am excited, hopeful, and happy. It all is a whirlwind but I am in love with this crazy ride God is about to take me on! Hope Texas can handle a Georgia girl!

Wedding Bells

Being engaged means a lot of talk about your upcoming wedding day...

I have realized everyone wants their opinion and wants to it to be heard. Everyone has their own style and everyone has their ideas they want to throw in. Now as a new bride I am very ready for new ideas. I have learned to not ask for them though, not anymore.

Because then people think that you want their opinion all the time...this is not true.

Now if anyone knows me, they will say I am probably pretty determined and very stubborn. I have my own ideas and my own opinions. The great thing about getting married in the end of the day, the wedding is for me and Daniel, not everyone else. The power of saying no is wonderful, oh so wonderful.

Now I am usually pretty confrontational. I am always going to tell you no or that I don't like something or the opposite I love it and yes go for it. I never vary much.

But in wedding planning I have become quite less confrontational because i've got more important things on my mind, like Daniel and our future besides this wedding.

Now, I think today is a new day, no more pushing me around and trying to tell me what I should do or what "we can" do. Nope, our wedding...not yours. Our big day...not yours.

If I want your opinion...I will ask for it. If I ask and I still don't agree, so what, get over it. I am just needing people to learn their place in this whole experience.

You can get all huffy and catch an attitude with me, I really don't care, it just makes me want to X you out of all the planning and if you do give me attitude I will probably do just that. So be prepared.

I never had this problem, but apparently I do. Trust me people...I don't need your attitude or millions of opinions about my wedding day. I would hire a wedding planner if I really needed it that bad.

Chasing Acceptance

The question I ask is...

What is it about Christians that make non-Christians dislike us with such a passion?

I think I have an idea. We make it difficult...plain and simple.

I started to go to Church heavily when I was in 8th grade. A friend in a class asked me to join her and go to youth group one Wednesday night and there my story began as a Christian. I did not become a Christian until my senior year of high school and I cannot lie, I haven't hit that same intense high I use to in awhile. I know it is not because I don't trust in my Lord or what his plans are for me, but I question his people. I question them heavily. I question myself as well.

One thing i've realized is that, if you aren't a Christian or you aren't heavily involved or work at a Church it is hard to find your place. Now many many people may disagree with me because maybe they've been going all of their lives...have a family that won't give them another option.

But from my experience it is tough. I was heavily involved in middle school/high school. But i've found in my 20's/ college years that is difficult to find my place. It seems my only place is on Sunday morning. I feel that is not enough.

It is diffcult for me because sometimes I cannot be there every Wednesday...or every Sunday. Especially on Wednesdays, I work...which makes it difficult to make any kind of thing going on. So I feel as if I am not there every Wednesday on the dot I do not get the same acceptance as others. Maybe its not fair...maybe I should work harder...I am in between on my thoughts.

I feel as if some people get in their certain clicks and they have no desire to hear anyone elses opinions or thoughts which really pushes people away and quickly. Which makes them seem as if they don't want new people...makes them seem like they don't want new Christians or even existing Christians that just want some tiny piece or taste of what is going on.

I am the existing Christian that wants my taste of what is going on, is that so much to ask? I want to be apart of a group that does nothing but chase God. I want that again. It has been gone out of my life for to long now. But now I find myself chasing acceptance and not God, and I cannot lie...it breaks my heart. It shouldn't be that way.

Sitting... Waiting... Wishing...

I didn't know stress until I got engaged. It is suppose to be the most beautiful time, and it really...just isn't. I love my fiance, no doubt and my stress has nothing to do with him. But, my stress lies with everyone else. Sometimes people just do not understand that yes I am marrying a man in the military...yes I am on his time, not yours or my own.

Also, everyone has their nose in everything, or they want too. The line I have used most frequently is "It is my wedding, not yours". As offensive as it may be to some people, it is the truth. The plain truth. Yes I need help, but when I don't ask for your help...most likely I don't want it. Also, if I don't ask for your opinion...I most likely don't want it. So that should be your biggest hint. You do your thing I will do mine.

I've seen some of my own friends stick up their nose to my decisions about my wedding or ideas I may have...like what in the world is your deal? I do not criticize your ideas or your plans...I could honestly care less. I am simply just happy for you and whatever you are doing.

I am sure most brides go through this...they deal with opinionated friends,family, and etc.

I want the same thing everyone else wants to know....I would like to know the date of my wedding, I would love to know if Daniel is getting deployed of if hes staying in the states..I would love to know all of these things. But I don't, sorry! Your guess is as good as mine.

Yes I will probably have a month to plan a wedding, yes I will need help. If you think its to last minute...don't come, problem solved. I know people that love me and Daniel will be there to support us, and I love you all for it.

On the upside of my venting...I bought a wedding dress. I am in love with it, and I cannot wait for Daniel to see me in it. It is timeless if I say so myself.

I hope everyone has a good day and will learn to just keep their opinion to themselves for once....or maybe twice.

People that despise our President

Okay, I come from a very republican home through and through. I did not vote for Obama. I voted for McCain. People think it is in bad taste sometimes to talk about who you did and didn't vote for. Well, hey I have no problem telling you.

The thing that puts a horrible taste in my mouth is the bad mouthing of the President on certain occasions. No I don't like him, no I didn't vote for him. But he is our leader whether you like it or not.

For example, last night President Obama spoke at a memorial for the people who lost their lives in Tuscon. Now I do not care what he said in his speech but that he was there speaking on the behalf of those people that lost their lives. Now to go and post on your facebook belittiling what he said is down right shameful. I believe it brings dishonor to the people who died. But for once that isn't about politics. It is about those people. I am sure many people could sit here and argue with me about how he brought up gun control...and other things of the sort. I don't care. Put all that aside for once.

But for once in your life, have a little respect for what that whole thing was about in the first place. Those innocent people that died. Republican or Democrat...they died. So if you would please step off of your no good political ladder for 2 seconds and give some thought to those people that did die and ones that rest in those hospital beds trying to survive.

Instead of getting all hot about the Presidents little speech, why don't you change your attitude and be grateful instead. Be greatful that your family is by you or that you aren't sitting by a hospital bed with a loved one trying to fight for their lives.

In all honesty, it makes me shameful of my fellow Americans that they do not look at the bigger picture sometimes. For once, take your mind off the politics and say a prayer or two for those families.

But what do I know?

Let it Snow...Let it Snow...Let it Ice?

Well 2011...started off with...a Winter Storm? Yes people, Georgia got a winter storm! Well more ice...not snow. After 2 days I finally braved it today. For McDonalds...I was dieing to breathe some air. Roads weren't nearly as bad as I had visioned, but I can see that some of the side roads could be terrible.

I have been eating non stop and watching movies non stop. Actually I have been watching one of my fathers favorite movies, Lonesome Dove...and some of the spin offs of it. Thank you Netflix!

The start of 2011 also brought us some heart ache. One of my fathers dearest friends Tony Banks passed away. He was a very dear friend to my father and so is his family to ours. I know Tony got the better end of the deal this year, Heaven. Death is always scary to people...but I hope when my time comes I shall not fear it. I know Tony is throwing one huge party there in Heaven. So please say your prayers for the whole Banks family as they go through this. Rest in Peace Tony Banks.

** Hope you enjoy this picture. Despite us being iced/snowed in, me and Daniel have tried our best to amuse ourselves even if hes 350 some odd miles away.**

Vent Vent Vent

Why is it when I just need ONE encouraging sentence they only thing people can tell me to do is "get use to it". I don't need to hear that, I need a support system. Just for everyones info, I will get use to it, in my own damn time.
But until I get use to it...I could use a little encouragment on the home front here. That is all I am damn asking. I don't know what is so hard about that.

You know it never fails when people really get down and want advice and need an encouraging word they look to me...because they know I will give it to them, like everyone should. I believe you should always be honest, but be as positive as possible. But why is it when I need an encouraging word or some advice, it always is harsh and never really caring. I don't understand that.

Basically right now I could crawl in a hole and stay there for awhile. Thinking it might not be a bad idea for the moment...maybe people will just shut the heck up.

If anything I am glad I have one encouraging person in my life...love you Daniel.

Back to the Grind

Well Christmas and New Years have come and gone. It went by entirely to fast...didn't like that part, but I soaked in every other part.

Daniel was home for Christmas and New Years, made it all wonderful.

Unfortunately, January 3rd came even faster and he is already back at Fort Jackson. It won't be even half as tough as the first time, he has his cell phone and computer. Thats definately a blessing.

Luckily I have an amazing bestfriend who lets me shack up with her in her dorm for 2 days so that I am not all alone. The best recipe to make me happy after Daniel leaves...bum it out and watch seasons of friends and eat fast food. Cheers me up every time. I appreciate her more than she will ever know.

When Daniel was home, I didn't work for almost 3 weeks, I thought he deserved my attention not work. But I finally went back to work the day he left, felt good to make some money again. My banks account was getting rather low...I also missed the baby I babysit...in the 3 weeks I haven't seen him it seems hes learned a whole new vocabulary and is potty training...good gosh. Where does the time go? I am saying that and I don't even have kids yet!

But it is a new year and I know some wonderful things are going to happen...I get to marry my bestfriend and start a life with him, and I hope that is only the tip of the iceberg.

I hope this new year brings everyone happiness and good health.

Hello 2011, nice to meet ya!