November 18th- I am thankful for cooler temperatures. If finally happened. It started getting cooler around here. It has been heavenly here the last few days. I have been wearing jeans and long sleeves all week. Kara is finally getting use of here little hoodies and warm outfits! It is WONDERFUL!!!
November 19th- I am thankful for opportunities. The opportunity to be a mother, wife, friend, ect. I have been so thankful lately of the things I have been able to experience in my life. I've had the opportunity to go to college and get a degree, to travel to foreign lands, to meet different types of people. In the end, I have come to appreciate these things and what they have taught me.
November 20th- Conner's 3rd birthday. I can't think of anything I am more thankful for than to have given birth to a perfect soul (as my mother in law would say). He was too perfect to stay on this earth. He didn't have any work to do it had already been done by the time he took his first and last breath. I miss him so much and will post soon about how we celebrated his 3rd birthday.
November 21st- I am thankful for good food. I am a lover of food. I love to eat. It is enjoyable to me, probably too much. There's nothing I love better than some good country cooking. Lima beans, cornbread, pot roast, mmmmmmm! However I have come to realize that enjoying food can be done without over indulging. Which brings me to what I am thankful for today.....
November 22nd- I am thankful that I am now 5 pounds lighter than I was when I got pregnant with Kara. I am down to 120. It finally happened on the scale this morning. I know it sounds silly, but I was always a small girl. In high school, I never got over 103 pounds, which was probably too small. I am happy at the weight I am now. I still need toning, but overall I am happy. My goal weight is 118 so I am only 2 pounds away. It is awesome that I have got my weight down without feeling deprived. I still eat most things I want I have just found alternatives in things like baking with whole wheat flour. I also limit my treats. If I want chocolate I eat 3 Hershey kisses and it usually fills that void rather than eating 8 chocolate chip cookies like I use do to. I am thankful that I have the will power to get myself and keep myself at a good weight.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
20 reasons I know I live in Japan
You know you live (or have lived) in Japan (on or off base) when:
1. You know that someone saying hi (Hai) doesn't mean hello, but yes.
2. You bow when greeting people, even after you have left the country.
3. You have rushed home to beat the 5pm national anthem that makes everyone stop on the side of the road.
4. You have stood up for the National Anthem before a movie.
5. You show your ID EVERYWHERE you go. So much that when you are on leave you still accidentally pull it out at Walmart.
6. You own something with Kanji on it.
7. You know what Konnichwa, Arigatou gozaimasu, and Dou itashimashite mean.
8. You know how to count to 10 in Japanese: ichi, ni, san, shi, go, roku, shichi, hachi, kyu, ju
9. You have used a toilet that is in the floor.
10. You have eaten teppanyaki.
11. You have come to hate small parking lots, unless you bought a tiny car.
12. You have a mink blanket as does everyone in your family.
13. You have mailed everyone you know either a Japanese doll or some type of china.
14. You have at least one child with Japan as the birthplace.
15. You think Vonage is the greatest thing since sliced bread.
16. You have to count the time difference in your head almost every time you call home.
17. Driving on the left side of the road is no big deal, after you've hit a couple curbs, been on the wrong side and someone waves you to the correct side of the road.
18. You know that you can get an array of different foods in Japan to include: Mexican, Thai, Chinese, and Mongolian (and they are awesome!).
19. You've been to a beloved 100 yen store and end up spending 2000 yen before you know it.
20. While the experience of Japan is cool, you can't help but miss the little things like Walmart, Target, and Arby's!!!
This is a list I made up all on my own. I was just thinking about it the other day and came up with the list. I could probably have added way more but I am about ready to hit the sack. Happy blogging!!!
1. You know that someone saying hi (Hai) doesn't mean hello, but yes.
2. You bow when greeting people, even after you have left the country.
3. You have rushed home to beat the 5pm national anthem that makes everyone stop on the side of the road.
4. You have stood up for the National Anthem before a movie.
5. You show your ID EVERYWHERE you go. So much that when you are on leave you still accidentally pull it out at Walmart.
6. You own something with Kanji on it.
7. You know what Konnichwa, Arigatou gozaimasu, and Dou itashimashite mean.
8. You know how to count to 10 in Japanese: ichi, ni, san, shi, go, roku, shichi, hachi, kyu, ju
9. You have used a toilet that is in the floor.
10. You have eaten teppanyaki.
11. You have come to hate small parking lots, unless you bought a tiny car.
12. You have a mink blanket as does everyone in your family.
13. You have mailed everyone you know either a Japanese doll or some type of china.
14. You have at least one child with Japan as the birthplace.
15. You think Vonage is the greatest thing since sliced bread.
16. You have to count the time difference in your head almost every time you call home.
17. Driving on the left side of the road is no big deal, after you've hit a couple curbs, been on the wrong side and someone waves you to the correct side of the road.
18. You know that you can get an array of different foods in Japan to include: Mexican, Thai, Chinese, and Mongolian (and they are awesome!).
19. You've been to a beloved 100 yen store and end up spending 2000 yen before you know it.
20. While the experience of Japan is cool, you can't help but miss the little things like Walmart, Target, and Arby's!!!
This is a list I made up all on my own. I was just thinking about it the other day and came up with the list. I could probably have added way more but I am about ready to hit the sack. Happy blogging!!!
A little of this, a little of that...
November 13th- I am thankful for fresh air. Sounds kind of crazy but it's it nice to go outside and get some air? I love this time of year when the temperature is cooling down and it feels so nice out in cool air. Love it!
November 14th-I am thankful that I get along with my in laws. I have several friends that despise their in laws. I am so lucky to have a nice relationship with mine. I couldn't be more pleased with mine. It makes for an even happier time when we can all get together without drama!!
November 15th-I am thankful for pictures! Yes pictures! I am thankful for them because they are our link to the past to memories. Isn't if cool to look at pictures of yourself as a baby and then see the comparison in your children? On Saturday we did pictures with our friends on a cool beach here in Okinawa and it was so much fun. I will post some later....
November 16th-I am thankful for fresh produce. We went to a little store off base and bought some fresh lettuce and a few other things. It was so nice. We came home and had a salad for dinner. That was the first time that I have ever bought food off base that wasn't in a restaurant. I know, I've been here almost 3 years so that's kind of crazy, but I will be returning to do it again once we get back from the states. And if I remember I will try to take pictures in the grocery store to let you see what stuff looks like. :)
November 17th- Wow Kara turned 7 months old today. I can't believe it. Time is just flying by. On reflection of today I will say I am thankful for a routine. No just in my everyday life but in things that you always know are going to happen or something you are going to do. It's a little comfort that we all have. Most people have their morning routine that feels comfortable. I enjoy mine and am thankful for that.
November 14th-I am thankful that I get along with my in laws. I have several friends that despise their in laws. I am so lucky to have a nice relationship with mine. I couldn't be more pleased with mine. It makes for an even happier time when we can all get together without drama!!
November 15th-I am thankful for pictures! Yes pictures! I am thankful for them because they are our link to the past to memories. Isn't if cool to look at pictures of yourself as a baby and then see the comparison in your children? On Saturday we did pictures with our friends on a cool beach here in Okinawa and it was so much fun. I will post some later....
November 16th-I am thankful for fresh produce. We went to a little store off base and bought some fresh lettuce and a few other things. It was so nice. We came home and had a salad for dinner. That was the first time that I have ever bought food off base that wasn't in a restaurant. I know, I've been here almost 3 years so that's kind of crazy, but I will be returning to do it again once we get back from the states. And if I remember I will try to take pictures in the grocery store to let you see what stuff looks like. :)
November 17th- Wow Kara turned 7 months old today. I can't believe it. Time is just flying by. On reflection of today I will say I am thankful for a routine. No just in my everyday life but in things that you always know are going to happen or something you are going to do. It's a little comfort that we all have. Most people have their morning routine that feels comfortable. I enjoy mine and am thankful for that.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Catching up on thanks....
Nov. 8th- I am thankful for travel. Thankful that I am getting to see and experience things that I never dreamed that I would. I never knew I would live on another continent or that I would be there for 4 years. Sometimes ( more like, most of the time) I complain about living here, but overall it's been a cool experience.
Nov. 9th- I am thankful for my home. A place to be warm and cozy. The place I feel the most comfortable in. I see people that live on the streets and pray for them to find jobs and homes. How awful must it feel no having a place to call home, a safe place to lay your head down. Yes, I am certainly thankful for my home.
Nov. 10th- I am thankful for my time with Kara. We spent all day on the 10th shopping and just spending time together. I was thinking how cool it will be when we have mommy and me days when she's older. We can talk about boys, clothes, anything. It is awesome.
Nov. 11th- I am thankful for my husband and the service that he gives to our country. I can't tell you the times he has told me he has volunteered because it's his duty. He can't face the thought of something happening to someone going in his place on missions. I joke (not entirely true) that I will run him over if we ever have a bad war break out so that he can't go. He then tells me that's not right. He says he would rather go than someone else go. How selfless is that? Also I am thankful that he's a good husband. Most of the time, he acts sweet and tries to make me feel special. I am thankful for the things he does for me.
Nov. 12th- Today I am thankful for my mother. She is and always has been there for me. I know so many parents that have ran out on their children or mistreated them. My mother never did. She always put me first and made me top priority. I can only hope to be as great of a mother as she has been.
Nov. 9th- I am thankful for my home. A place to be warm and cozy. The place I feel the most comfortable in. I see people that live on the streets and pray for them to find jobs and homes. How awful must it feel no having a place to call home, a safe place to lay your head down. Yes, I am certainly thankful for my home.
Nov. 10th- I am thankful for my time with Kara. We spent all day on the 10th shopping and just spending time together. I was thinking how cool it will be when we have mommy and me days when she's older. We can talk about boys, clothes, anything. It is awesome.
Nov. 11th- I am thankful for my husband and the service that he gives to our country. I can't tell you the times he has told me he has volunteered because it's his duty. He can't face the thought of something happening to someone going in his place on missions. I joke (not entirely true) that I will run him over if we ever have a bad war break out so that he can't go. He then tells me that's not right. He says he would rather go than someone else go. How selfless is that? Also I am thankful that he's a good husband. Most of the time, he acts sweet and tries to make me feel special. I am thankful for the things he does for me.
Nov. 12th- Today I am thankful for my mother. She is and always has been there for me. I know so many parents that have ran out on their children or mistreated them. My mother never did. She always put me first and made me top priority. I can only hope to be as great of a mother as she has been.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Friends and being a step-mother
As always I am a day behind on my thankful post!! Oh well. So anyway. For yesterday I will say I am thankful for friends. Real, true friends. Ones that are there for you no matter what. I only have a handful of these type of friends, but they are the BEST!! They are so great! My trip home is going to be awesome. I am staying the first week with my BESTEST friend in the whole world, April. She has been so sweet in trying to make us feel at home when we arrive. She has offered to stock up on baby food for Kara and anything else I ask for. Last year she had all my favorite foods (including a welcome home cake) waiting on me. What a comfort to have a friend that in tune with me. My other group of friends are arranging a baby shower for one of them while I am there so I will be able to attend and see everyone in one place. How cool? I am so excited. I can't wait to see everyone and to show off my baby girl!!!
Today in the states is Maddy's birthday. She turned 9!! Wow. She was only 2 when Nick and I started dating. Crazy how quickly time goes by. I am thankful that she and I have a good relationship. You know several step-parents have trouble with their step-children. I have been fortunate in that Maddy and I haven't had any problems out of the ordinary. Sure there have been times I have frustrated her or vice versa, but overall we get along great. Therefore I am thankful for my relationship with Maddy, my step-daughter. Happy Birthday silly girl!
Today in the states is Maddy's birthday. She turned 9!! Wow. She was only 2 when Nick and I started dating. Crazy how quickly time goes by. I am thankful that she and I have a good relationship. You know several step-parents have trouble with their step-children. I have been fortunate in that Maddy and I haven't had any problems out of the ordinary. Sure there have been times I have frustrated her or vice versa, but overall we get along great. Therefore I am thankful for my relationship with Maddy, my step-daughter. Happy Birthday silly girl!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
My Sunshine
Almost every night while I rock Kara to sleep I play her lullaby CD. She usually falls asleep by the 4th song on the disc, "You are my Sunshine". I have always liked that song but didn't know all the lyrics until I started listening to her CD. After hearing the lyrics, I came to realize that it reminded me of my son, Conner (My Sunshine). I cry every night I hear it. It's kind of surreal holding Kara asleep in my arms, while I am thinking of him. I can't explain it, but it's weird and comforting at the same time. His 3rd birthday would have been next week and I guess that's why I am writing. I want to talk about him to make myself feel better, if that's even possible. I keep thinking I should be planning a party right now rather than feeling sad. I should be putting my almost 3 year old to bed right now rather than typing this out. I have come to realize these are things I will always think about. He is in my thoughts every day. Oh how I miss him and wish he was here. If you were wondering the lyrics that play on her CD they are as follows:
You are my Sunshine,
my only sunshine.
You make me happy
when skies are gray.
You'll never know dear
how much I love you
Please don't take
my sunshine away.
The other night, dear,
As I lay sleeping,
I dreamt I held you in my arms.
When I awoke, dear,
I was mistaken
And I hung my head and cried.
Repeat chorus.
( It only plays that part of the song, a condensed version, I guess. I realize this song was written for torn apart lovers, but I think this particular verse fits for my situation.)
You are my Sunshine,
my only sunshine.
You make me happy
when skies are gray.
You'll never know dear
how much I love you
Please don't take
my sunshine away.
The other night, dear,
As I lay sleeping,
I dreamt I held you in my arms.
When I awoke, dear,
I was mistaken
And I hung my head and cried.
Repeat chorus.
( It only plays that part of the song, a condensed version, I guess. I realize this song was written for torn apart lovers, but I think this particular verse fits for my situation.)
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Thankful post for yesterday and today....
As of yesterdays' happenings, I was having a hard time being thankful. Sounds horrible, but it's true. So yesterday the thing I was thankful for was rest and sleep. Rest that lets your mind be at ease and not worrying. I was thankful to go to bed no longer wondering who our next President would be. I was thankful for sleep that let my mind and body rest and not be in dismay. Yes, sleep was the highlight of yesterday for me (I took a long nap with Kara!!).
Today I will say I am thankful for hope. I am thankful that hope lives in me. I am thankful that I have hope for tomorrow, next year, and the future beyond that. I am thankful that I can rise above being scared for our nation and can hope that good will come to us all. Hope is a wonderful thing. Today I am very thankful for the hope in my life.
PS. I have a few pics of the monkey to share. She's such a little doll.
Laying on daddy's shoulder at the Halloween party. Aww!
Sitting with mommy in front of the Halloween display.
Trying her first taste of funnel cake at a festival!
She wrapped herself up in the blanket. Recognize it Aunt Sandi?
Kara and me at a castle ruins.
Just the three of us! 
Daddy and Kara at the castle ruins.
She and Chloe are becoming friends!
Pure class
First let me say that I am saddened by Americans choice in President of the United States. I feel that they way he got elected was wrong and uneducated. However I am willing to put my bad thoughts aside and pray for Obama, that he will go to God for guidance and will bring a change that is good for our country. My fingers are crossed and my hands are at prayer almost constantly now with that in mind.
As I watched John McCain deliver his speech yesterday, I wept. I wept for him, for our country, for my friends and family, and for myself. It was truly heartbreaking to me. I watched a man that was a true American hero speak with such class. He was so kind in his words about "his new president, Obama" and the passing of Obama's grandmother. Several times he tried to hush the boos that were being done. I've always respected him, but that respect grew so greatly yesterday. He proved to be far better person than me. I couldn't have been more proud. I was saddened that America won't get to see what John McCain could have done for them. I know many people will disagree with me but he would have put the "Country First" no doubt about it! I will be honest and tell you that I didn't' watch Obama's speech, I couldn't bring myself to do it. I was angry because a friend of mine (an Obama supporter) called me all excited that he had won. She knew that I didn't vote for him. She called to gloat, something I would have never done if the tables were turned. I can't tell you how disappointed I was in her actions and felt that many other people probably did the same. I found it appalling and disrespectful. I never once argued with her on her choice. Oh well, I at least know that I handled the situation with grace. I pray that I have been wrong about Obama and that he will treat our country right. God be with us all.
As I watched John McCain deliver his speech yesterday, I wept. I wept for him, for our country, for my friends and family, and for myself. It was truly heartbreaking to me. I watched a man that was a true American hero speak with such class. He was so kind in his words about "his new president, Obama" and the passing of Obama's grandmother. Several times he tried to hush the boos that were being done. I've always respected him, but that respect grew so greatly yesterday. He proved to be far better person than me. I couldn't have been more proud. I was saddened that America won't get to see what John McCain could have done for them. I know many people will disagree with me but he would have put the "Country First" no doubt about it! I will be honest and tell you that I didn't' watch Obama's speech, I couldn't bring myself to do it. I was angry because a friend of mine (an Obama supporter) called me all excited that he had won. She knew that I didn't vote for him. She called to gloat, something I would have never done if the tables were turned. I can't tell you how disappointed I was in her actions and felt that many other people probably did the same. I found it appalling and disrespectful. I never once argued with her on her choice. Oh well, I at least know that I handled the situation with grace. I pray that I have been wrong about Obama and that he will treat our country right. God be with us all.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Pets and clothes
I guess I will be doing post every other day due to my clingy baby. She's been pretty grumpy lately and only wants to be held, talked to, or played with. She drifted off to sleep so I have to get going on this....
I am thankful for my pets. While they get on my nerves at times, I am so thankful to have them in my life. They provide me with entertainment and love. The best thing about pets is that you are never alone. They are always there with you or up under you (as mine are) 24/7. Anakin is my sweet dog that loves to lick (sometimes too much) and be played with. Chloe is our temperamental cat that has a very sweet nature. Tinkerbell is a feisty little tyrant, but loves to cuddle. Leia our chipmunk is just so cute and funny. Their personalities are all so different. I can't imagine my life without them.
Today I am thankful for clothes that fit just right! I have been trying to figure out what outfits I am taking with me to the states so I tried on almost all my clothes today. In my amazement all my pants fit. It feels so great to be able to get in them without having to squeeze or pray that I am having a "skinny" day. I have such a broad spectrum of clothes now. I didn't realize they would all fit so I have been trying to not put them on lately. I am overjoyed over it! I love winter clothes the best. I feel most comfortable in a pair of pants and a sweater. Cold weather come my way!!!!
Just for your viewing pleasure:
Kara in her cute pigtails today!!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Behind already but that's me these days.
So I wanted to post everyday on the things I am thankful for, but it seems I am already running behind. Figures. Anyway first and foremost I want to say I am thankful for my faith. These next few days are so important to me. With the presidential election coming to an end, I find myself praying throughout the day that God will provide us with a leader that will not only help our country but will be under his hand. I am going to be a wreck on the morning of the 5th for me (Nov. 4th for the US). However in saying that I am trying to keep optimistic about it. I have to at this point. The so called polls are all pointing the other way and I am trying my best to not believe them. I know I am getting off track. Point is I love God and am so thankful that I have him in my life. I can't remember a time that I didn't and that is so very comforting. I have faith in him and what he has in store for our country.
Secondly, I am thankful for the gift of motherhood. I always knew I wanted children. I grew up playing with dolls. I am thankful that I was able to have my children. So many people miss out on the opportunity to have babies. I feel so blessed that I was able to do so. To be able to feel their little arms and feet moving around in my belly. It was the coolest feeling EVER!! I wouldn't change that for anything. Kara brings joy to my life everyday. She's so amazing, wonderful, and awesome!! I wish that I could have enjoyed these times with Conner. Everyday is something new and it's so much fun. I always knew it would be cool but I didn't realize how great being a mother would truly be.
Secondly, I am thankful for the gift of motherhood. I always knew I wanted children. I grew up playing with dolls. I am thankful that I was able to have my children. So many people miss out on the opportunity to have babies. I feel so blessed that I was able to do so. To be able to feel their little arms and feet moving around in my belly. It was the coolest feeling EVER!! I wouldn't change that for anything. Kara brings joy to my life everyday. She's so amazing, wonderful, and awesome!! I wish that I could have enjoyed these times with Conner. Everyday is something new and it's so much fun. I always knew it would be cool but I didn't realize how great being a mother would truly be.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Homemade Pumpkin Patch
So as you know I live in Okinawa, Japan where there seems to be a lack of a pumpkin patch. Or there is one that I am fully unaware of and need to be informed. Any takers??? So anyway, being that I love fall and have so many wonderful little pumpkin scrapbook embellishments, I decided to get creative and make one on my own. It couldn't be that hard, right? At first I thought of getting a few different families together and we could all bring our pumpkins. ( We may still do that this weekend??) It would have been a win win situation. Everyone could use the pumpkins for family pumpkin patch pictures. Unfortunately I came up with this idea last weekend, which was a little late to start. By now most people have carved their pumpkins being that it will be Halloween here tomorrow. So this morning I could wait no longer. I got Nick to drop Kara and me off (we now share one car)at the park up the road with all of our pumpkins in tow. I know I must have looked like a loon having a stroller full of pumpkins, but I didn't care. So we found what I thought was the perfect spot and I set up the pumpkins. I changed Kara's shirt, sat her up, and went to snapping. It was so much fun. I was overjoyed at how well she sat up. She hasn't sat up at home by herself since she fell a few weeks ago and hit her little head. She was so into the pumpkins that I couldn't get her to smile but I think she still looks adorable. Don't you think? I wish I had thought of this last year when Maddy was here. It was also nice that I got my morning walk in. We walked over to the shoppette where a woman commented on all the pumpkins. So I showed her the pics on my camera and she was like, "Wow that's a great idea!!" I really love taking pictures but just need people to take them of. I know I will never catch up on my scrapbooking with pics of Kara. I already have over a thousand pictures of her!!! Truth is even if I had other people to take pics of I would still take as many of her as I do now. I am an addict. LOL
PS I want to thank all of my readers for stopping by. I know some of you leave comments and I don't leave them on yours. I apologize. Kara has been a very clingy baby lately. Therefore I want you to know the even though I don't comment I am still reading your blogs. I am lucky now if I can even get the time to post these days. I read in a baby book yesterday that at this age she should be taking at least 2 naps a day at an hour each. YEAH RIGHT!! I am lucky if she gets 20 minutes in the morning and 45 minutes in the afternoon. She dislikes sleeping. However I am going to be thankful for an active baby, it's going to pay off one day, right?? Speaking of thankful. I am starting my thankful post on the 1st this month, like I did last year. Let's all post one thing we are thankful for each day of November. Happy posting to you!!!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Ready for sweaters!
I am so ready for sweaters, jeans, jackets, comfortable clothes. Luckily it seems the weather is cooling down. But it isn't happening soon enough for me. Kara has all kinds of little long sleeve outfits that she fits in now, but can't wear because it's too warm outside. Back home in Florida it's 44 degrees right now. No fair!!! I know I should come to realize that I live on an a tropical island. I am just so thankful that we will be in the states for the holiday season and will get to enjoy those cooler temperatures. Now my friends it's off to make a homemade pumpkin patch!!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Pageant girl
A few weekends ago Maddy was in a pageant. Unfortunately she didn't win anything but it was only her second one and they seem to be fixed around that area. My mom got to go and took these lovely pictures. I love the color of the dress. She said Maddy looked scared to death, poor thing. She had some stage fright, but overall had a good time. I wish we could have been there to cheer her on, but at least we got to see pics. No matter what she's a beauty queen to us.
She's famous!
Remember the pictures that I had to get done a few times before it finally worked out? Well this was one of them. I think it's adorable and wasn't the only one. Apparently the photography place thought it was so cute that they blew it up and have it on their wall of children. How cool is that? Even better you can see her bracelet with her name on it. She was so tired taking the pictures that by the end she had fallen asleep in my arms. It was a sweet moment and I am glad they were able to capture it. Oh and luckily for all the hassle I had to go through they gave me double my order of prints for free!! The story is actually a little longer but I am tired and want to get one more post in before bed!! The other pics will have to be a surprise.... :)
Thursday, October 16, 2008
BEWARE of Vacuums
So there I was trying to catch up on my cleaning. I had vacuumed the whole livingroom and had decided to get out the attachment so that I could get all the little spaces clean too. I
got down on my hands and knees to vacuum under the couch and it happened. My hair somehow got sucked into the side of the vacuum, into a little hole I had never seen before. It twisted, it pulled. I finally got my senses and turned the machine off. At first it felt like a dream. Surely that didn't just happen in real life. My hair couldn't possibly look like that. I began to panic because it WOULD NOT come out. I tried untwisting it. I tried to unknot it. The damage was done. I luckily had a phone in arms length. So I called my neighbor to come help me. I was thinking, "I can't cut it, it's in the front of my hair". She walked in and helped me get it out and began to laugh. I realized at that point that it was quite funny. I mean what are the odds right? We came to the conclusion that it had to be cut. So I did it. I cut a big chunk of my hair out. If you click on the picture it will get larger and you will see how messed up it was (although I used my old not- so-great camera to take the pic). So there it is another crazy off the wall thing that would only happen to me. I know you must be laughing. I don't blame you, I find it quite amusing myself. :)
Saturday, October 11, 2008
The monkey is growing up
I
She exhausted herself in her Jumparoo! We have already had to lift it three notches since we got it not even 2 months ago.
She likes to dress up. Of course I think she's the prettiest snow white I've ever seen!
She holds her own bottle.
She rolls over.
See how long her hair is getting? It's almost in her eyes.
She can sit up all by herself now!
Always has to be hugging a doll or stuff animal at nap time.
She eats cookies!
She loves the beach.....
and playing in the water!!
She exhausted herself in her Jumparoo! We have already had to lift it three notches since we got it not even 2 months ago.
She likes to dress up. Of course I think she's the prettiest snow white I've ever seen!
She holds her own bottle.
She rolls over.
See how long her hair is getting? It's almost in her eyes.
She can sit up all by herself now!
Always has to be hugging a doll or stuff animal at nap time.
She eats cookies!
She loves the beach.....and playing in the water!!
Carrot face
I just wanted to share some pics of Kara tonight after she ate her carrots. She was being so silly and had me laughing out loud. These pictures make me smille from ear to ear. Enjoy!!
Beautiful
Before I start my actual post I want to say that I haven't really been in the blogging mood. I have been a negative, stressed, and busy with a clingy baby (let me note, she's not the reason for the negativity). Therefore I can't promise that any post that I do in the near future are going to be lively or even interesting, so don't say I didn't' warn you.
So for my actual post:
Have you ever done something different to your hair or got a new outfit in hopes that your husband will find you more attractive or in the hope of getting his attention? Then after he doesn't notice or say anything about it you feel frustrated. I believe all women at some point and time have been there. Sometimes I believe it's intentional and other times not (you do have to get your hair cut every once in a while). So this has been me for a few weeks now. I haven't really done anything different with my hair or anything like that, but I have managed to lose a few pounds. I am down to 121 pounds, which is the least I have weighed in over 3 years. So I have been excited and wanted that little bit of extra attention from my husband. Sure it's hard to notice a few pounds being shed, but as a woman, any pounds lost is a victory. So anyway I have been thinking that maybe if I dressed cute or left my hair down (rather that up in a messing bun) that he would say those little words I've been wanting to hear....."You look beautiful", "Don't you look pretty today?", or something really nice like "Wow!" Well, you know how men can be. They don't seem to realize that sometimes their wives, girlfriends, or significant others may need to hear those things. Sure they think them, but they don't seem to say them enough, at least my husband doesn't (for me). Don't get me wrong I know he thought I was beautiful on our wedding day (he brings that up often). Being that was just over 5 years ago, I don't look much different now than I did then. And I'm not saying he hasn't told me sweet things about my appearance since then, because he has. However, here lately he's been slacking. So today he had to leave yet again for another TDY. I had mentioned this whole not saying the sweet stuff a few days ago so he was in tune to my frustrations. Being that he was leaving I put on a cute little dress, kept my hair down, added a little blush and mascara in hopes that he would comment on my appearance. Nothing, Nada, and at first I was depressed. What the heck's the point I thought silently to myself as he left. I was just getting frustrated and mad when I realized that he had told me that I was beautiful today, this morning to be exact. We were laying in bed playing with the baby and I said something about how she stares at me all the time. He replied with, "because she sees that you are beautiful" and told Kara "you have a beautiful mommy don't you." When this thought came into my head it made sense. There I was in the morning without my hair brushed in a tank top and no make up and he said I was beautiful. I have a husband that thinks I am beautiful with out all the glitz and glam. He sees me at my worst and still manages to find me appealing. He says that I am one of those girls that doesn't need make-up to be pretty it just comes naturally. He thinks that I am pretty no matter what. He may not say it as often as I wish he would but I realize that I don't have to hear it everyday. All I need is for him to still see my beauty when I am plain and simple, natural me. That my friends is what I call love.
So for my actual post:
Have you ever done something different to your hair or got a new outfit in hopes that your husband will find you more attractive or in the hope of getting his attention? Then after he doesn't notice or say anything about it you feel frustrated. I believe all women at some point and time have been there. Sometimes I believe it's intentional and other times not (you do have to get your hair cut every once in a while). So this has been me for a few weeks now. I haven't really done anything different with my hair or anything like that, but I have managed to lose a few pounds. I am down to 121 pounds, which is the least I have weighed in over 3 years. So I have been excited and wanted that little bit of extra attention from my husband. Sure it's hard to notice a few pounds being shed, but as a woman, any pounds lost is a victory. So anyway I have been thinking that maybe if I dressed cute or left my hair down (rather that up in a messing bun) that he would say those little words I've been wanting to hear....."You look beautiful", "Don't you look pretty today?", or something really nice like "Wow!" Well, you know how men can be. They don't seem to realize that sometimes their wives, girlfriends, or significant others may need to hear those things. Sure they think them, but they don't seem to say them enough, at least my husband doesn't (for me). Don't get me wrong I know he thought I was beautiful on our wedding day (he brings that up often). Being that was just over 5 years ago, I don't look much different now than I did then. And I'm not saying he hasn't told me sweet things about my appearance since then, because he has. However, here lately he's been slacking. So today he had to leave yet again for another TDY. I had mentioned this whole not saying the sweet stuff a few days ago so he was in tune to my frustrations. Being that he was leaving I put on a cute little dress, kept my hair down, added a little blush and mascara in hopes that he would comment on my appearance. Nothing, Nada, and at first I was depressed. What the heck's the point I thought silently to myself as he left. I was just getting frustrated and mad when I realized that he had told me that I was beautiful today, this morning to be exact. We were laying in bed playing with the baby and I said something about how she stares at me all the time. He replied with, "because she sees that you are beautiful" and told Kara "you have a beautiful mommy don't you." When this thought came into my head it made sense. There I was in the morning without my hair brushed in a tank top and no make up and he said I was beautiful. I have a husband that thinks I am beautiful with out all the glitz and glam. He sees me at my worst and still manages to find me appealing. He says that I am one of those girls that doesn't need make-up to be pretty it just comes naturally. He thinks that I am pretty no matter what. He may not say it as often as I wish he would but I realize that I don't have to hear it everyday. All I need is for him to still see my beauty when I am plain and simple, natural me. That my friends is what I call love.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Clarity
Maybe in my previous post about my choice for President I didn't post enough reasons why I choose McCain. Therefore I want to add that I am not voting for him based on being in the military. I would be voting for him regardless of what my husband does for a living. I have heard that McCain isn't for all of the military. He voted against this and that or didn't support certain things. I never claimed that I agree with everything he's ever done. I just feel he's the better choice for President. One of those reasons is that I am against abortion and stem cell research on embryos. Obama supports both of these things, which was a big strike against him in my book. I have always been VERY against abortion. I have heard several reasons why people validate abortion: rape, down syndrome, being too young, not having financial security. While I haven't been in any of these predicaments, I still don't agree they are good enough reasons to end a life. Yes, I believe that at conception life begins. No one will ever change my mind about that. I have posted before that I had a mentally retarded brother. Had my mother believed in abortion he may have been here for 15 months. While I know it was a hard time for my family, I know my mother would not have given that time up for anything. I would have never had a brother, my precious sweet little brother.
My feeling is that you should give your child up for adoption if you don't feel you can handle raising them. I have several friends that don't have the luxury of having children biologically. As a matter of fact, one of my friends is going to be adopting a baby boy in a month and a half. She and her husband were never able to conceive. The lady that is pregnant with him already has 5 children. She and her husband don't have enough money to raise the baby so they are giving him up. She said she didn't believe in abortion so she decided to give him up to family that can support him. My friend is over the moon that she finally gets to become a mother. Why should a child be killed because their biological parent can't or doesn't want to support them. So many people out there want a baby (yes even the ones with disabilities). My husband and I are still considering adoption in a few years. I just don't understand how you can support abortion or the use of embryos for stem cell research. Yes I know that stem cells can help save people from diseases, but why should it be at the expense of another life. An embryo is a life. It makes me so angry when people say that life doesn't begin until a baby is born. My son was born and only took 3 breaths. In his death paperwork it states he was stillborn. I still believe the hospital was wrong for labeling him that way because as far as I know taking a breath means you are alive, right?? Well since he was labeled stillborn, he was never given a birth certificate. Therefore to some people he was never considered to be alive. If that is true then how did he kick and move around in my belly? A plant is considered alive and it doesn't have that ability. How does that make sense? Like I said no one can change my mind on this subject. In truth it is one of issues I look at first before choosing my candidate each election year. I know there are bigger issues on the table, but to me it matters a lot, a whole lot. There are other reasons I am voting for John McCain, but I don't' feel I need to label each and every reason I feel that way. I just wanted to state that I have more than one issue that agree with him on. And that's all for today.
My feeling is that you should give your child up for adoption if you don't feel you can handle raising them. I have several friends that don't have the luxury of having children biologically. As a matter of fact, one of my friends is going to be adopting a baby boy in a month and a half. She and her husband were never able to conceive. The lady that is pregnant with him already has 5 children. She and her husband don't have enough money to raise the baby so they are giving him up. She said she didn't believe in abortion so she decided to give him up to family that can support him. My friend is over the moon that she finally gets to become a mother. Why should a child be killed because their biological parent can't or doesn't want to support them. So many people out there want a baby (yes even the ones with disabilities). My husband and I are still considering adoption in a few years. I just don't understand how you can support abortion or the use of embryos for stem cell research. Yes I know that stem cells can help save people from diseases, but why should it be at the expense of another life. An embryo is a life. It makes me so angry when people say that life doesn't begin until a baby is born. My son was born and only took 3 breaths. In his death paperwork it states he was stillborn. I still believe the hospital was wrong for labeling him that way because as far as I know taking a breath means you are alive, right?? Well since he was labeled stillborn, he was never given a birth certificate. Therefore to some people he was never considered to be alive. If that is true then how did he kick and move around in my belly? A plant is considered alive and it doesn't have that ability. How does that make sense? Like I said no one can change my mind on this subject. In truth it is one of issues I look at first before choosing my candidate each election year. I know there are bigger issues on the table, but to me it matters a lot, a whole lot. There are other reasons I am voting for John McCain, but I don't' feel I need to label each and every reason I feel that way. I just wanted to state that I have more than one issue that agree with him on. And that's all for today.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
My ever shrinking family...
So the last week I have been feeling really down about my physical appearance. I am sure most people know that having a baby changes your body in so many ways. In most cases, your hips grow wider, your chest begins to sag, your feet may grow, you get stretch marks, love handles form, and your body feels and looks like something you don't recognize. Not to say all these things happened to me but some I can relate to. So now when I look in the mirror all I think is "UGH!" Truth is that I was so excited after I had Kara because I lost all most all of my weight in the first 3 weeks. I felt at the rate I was going, I would look awesome before I knew it! I just knew that my skinny jeans were a few weeks away. Then after returning to my pre-pregnancy weight, I realized my body isn't as toned as I want it to be. I have been having a hard time making it to the gym being that we only have one car now. Also, Kara is on a schedule that I don't dare try to change. She gets grumpy with change. They have a mommy and me room at the gym that I want to go to, but Kara doesn't like just sitting in her car seat anymore. I was going to start walking a few miles every night but the rain has been hindering that also. So what's a girl to do? I have been eating healthier and luckily that has been paying off a little. Up until today I had only lost 2 pounds under my pre-pregnancy weight of 125. I was so frustrated that I hadn't lost any weight in the last three weeks. Finally today I dropped down to 122. I am pretty happy about it, but still have a lot of work to do to get where I want to be. I don't think I would mind being this weight if I was more toned.
Most of my family has changed their way of eating and are all doing great with it. Nick has lost a total of 19 pounds in the last 3 months. I am very proud of him because he too has been feeling down on himself. I never saw a problem with his weight but he did and now he eats healthier and works out 5 days a week. My mother-in-law has joined Weight Watchers and has lost a total of 41 pounds this summer. She has really changed her life around with her new diet and having quit smoking. My mom is eating healthier also and is about to start walking a few nights a week. I don't know her weight loss, but she's been working hard to keep herself healthier. I am so proud of my family for their accomplishments. It seems like everyone I know is trying to better themselves. It's kind of motivating to hear about everybody's accomplishments. I am still going to do my best to get myself the way I want to be. Nick and I went walking last night and I plan to keep it up as long as the weather will allow it. At this rate we may all be skinny minis next year!!
Most of my family has changed their way of eating and are all doing great with it. Nick has lost a total of 19 pounds in the last 3 months. I am very proud of him because he too has been feeling down on himself. I never saw a problem with his weight but he did and now he eats healthier and works out 5 days a week. My mother-in-law has joined Weight Watchers and has lost a total of 41 pounds this summer. She has really changed her life around with her new diet and having quit smoking. My mom is eating healthier also and is about to start walking a few nights a week. I don't know her weight loss, but she's been working hard to keep herself healthier. I am so proud of my family for their accomplishments. It seems like everyone I know is trying to better themselves. It's kind of motivating to hear about everybody's accomplishments. I am still going to do my best to get myself the way I want to be. Nick and I went walking last night and I plan to keep it up as long as the weather will allow it. At this rate we may all be skinny minis next year!!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
It's here, it's here!!
A few days ago when I checked the mail, I was surprised to see my absentee ballot had arrived. I had just sent out the paperwork to get it two weeks ago. I was surprised that they would mail it out so soon, but I guess they want to make sure that you have enough time to send it back before they begin counting the votes. I was so excited about it. This will only be the third time that I have voted, but I believe this may be the most important one I have done so far. Things are so crazy with this presidential race and to be honest it has me all rilled up!
I talked to an old friend today on the phone that I haven't talked to in over a year. It was so nice to catch up with her. She asked me plain and simple, "Who are you voting for?" So I told her McCain/Palin. She was very excited to hear my choice because she too is voting for them. Usually I try to stay away from talking politics with ANYONE because I am not one that likes to argue. However this year I have so many opinions on the subject and could care less whom I may offend with my thoughts. Sorry if you don't agree with my feelings on the subject. I am really going outside of my comfort zone by posting this but I need to get it out. Anyway, my friend and I began discussing the presidential race and luckily we're on the same page. I was going on about how important it is to vote, when she admitted to me that this will be the first time she's ever voted (she's a few years older than me). I think she was kind of afraid I was going to question her on it, because she told me that she never really cared about it before. While I believe everyone should vote, I will admit that I think it's dumb for people to vote without being educated on who they are voting for. So I told her that I thought she was smart for not voting before since she had no idea what the candidates stood for. It really pisses me off when people vote for someone they don't know anything about. For instance, I know someone that's voting for Obama because they want to see an African American as president, not because of what he stands for, but on that reason alone. She wants history to be made. She also jokes that he's probably going to be assassinated a few days after being elected. But anyway, that's a whole different crazy post. Either way you vote we are making history. If you vote McCain then we will have our first female vice president. I know people are really excited about making history, but I just wish people would look at the facts before going to vote. Being a military wife I can't understand how anyone would vote Obama. The man won't even say the pledge of allegiance. He's got to be one of the most unpatriotic men in America. He refuses to wear anything with the flag on it. The thought of him coming into office scares the crap out of me. I fear he will get us all blown up before it's over with. You may not agree, but that's how I see it. As I said I am a military wife and therefore have to think about how this election is going to effect my family's life. (Not that I am saying the military is the only ones that matter, I would NEVER be like that). It's just that we live in a foreign country, not too far from North Korea might I add, because of being military. We can't have someone in office that thinks we can just pull out of this war without consequences. No, I am not all about the war. In truth, I hate it. I've had to send my husband over there more times than I ever imagined. But I do believe it needs to be settled somewhat before we pull out all of our troops. It is very important that we have someone in office that's willing to protect our country and what it stands for. I do not feel that Obama is that man. I have been researching on both McCain and Obama's official websites as to what they believe in and what their plan is for our country. I have heard a lot of people saying they want a change in America. Somehow they seem to believe Obama's change is going to be a good one. I am not that optimistic when it comes to him being our president. Something about him really freaks me out. Am I alone in this? What do you feel on the subject? I am not trying to tell anyone how to vote in November. I just want people to be informed before they make their decision. I don't believe you have to vote someone only in your party of choice. I don't believe you should vote someone based on their age, race, sex, or looks. However, I do believe you should vote for the candidate that's going to do their best to keep our country safe and make our economy better. Get educated people and then get out there and vote!!!!
I talked to an old friend today on the phone that I haven't talked to in over a year. It was so nice to catch up with her. She asked me plain and simple, "Who are you voting for?" So I told her McCain/Palin. She was very excited to hear my choice because she too is voting for them. Usually I try to stay away from talking politics with ANYONE because I am not one that likes to argue. However this year I have so many opinions on the subject and could care less whom I may offend with my thoughts. Sorry if you don't agree with my feelings on the subject. I am really going outside of my comfort zone by posting this but I need to get it out. Anyway, my friend and I began discussing the presidential race and luckily we're on the same page. I was going on about how important it is to vote, when she admitted to me that this will be the first time she's ever voted (she's a few years older than me). I think she was kind of afraid I was going to question her on it, because she told me that she never really cared about it before. While I believe everyone should vote, I will admit that I think it's dumb for people to vote without being educated on who they are voting for. So I told her that I thought she was smart for not voting before since she had no idea what the candidates stood for. It really pisses me off when people vote for someone they don't know anything about. For instance, I know someone that's voting for Obama because they want to see an African American as president, not because of what he stands for, but on that reason alone. She wants history to be made. She also jokes that he's probably going to be assassinated a few days after being elected. But anyway, that's a whole different crazy post. Either way you vote we are making history. If you vote McCain then we will have our first female vice president. I know people are really excited about making history, but I just wish people would look at the facts before going to vote. Being a military wife I can't understand how anyone would vote Obama. The man won't even say the pledge of allegiance. He's got to be one of the most unpatriotic men in America. He refuses to wear anything with the flag on it. The thought of him coming into office scares the crap out of me. I fear he will get us all blown up before it's over with. You may not agree, but that's how I see it. As I said I am a military wife and therefore have to think about how this election is going to effect my family's life. (Not that I am saying the military is the only ones that matter, I would NEVER be like that). It's just that we live in a foreign country, not too far from North Korea might I add, because of being military. We can't have someone in office that thinks we can just pull out of this war without consequences. No, I am not all about the war. In truth, I hate it. I've had to send my husband over there more times than I ever imagined. But I do believe it needs to be settled somewhat before we pull out all of our troops. It is very important that we have someone in office that's willing to protect our country and what it stands for. I do not feel that Obama is that man. I have been researching on both McCain and Obama's official websites as to what they believe in and what their plan is for our country. I have heard a lot of people saying they want a change in America. Somehow they seem to believe Obama's change is going to be a good one. I am not that optimistic when it comes to him being our president. Something about him really freaks me out. Am I alone in this? What do you feel on the subject? I am not trying to tell anyone how to vote in November. I just want people to be informed before they make their decision. I don't believe you have to vote someone only in your party of choice. I don't believe you should vote someone based on their age, race, sex, or looks. However, I do believe you should vote for the candidate that's going to do their best to keep our country safe and make our economy better. Get educated people and then get out there and vote!!!!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Pretty Little Pixie
Being that Halloween is almost here, I decided to do a test run with (one of) Kara's costume. I think she's the cutest little Tinkerbell. I got our dog Tinkerbell a costume to match but it hasn't come in the mail yet. I wanted to get Anakin the Peter Pan costume but it didn't come in extra small so I am still on the hunt for something cute for him to be. I can't wait to take their picture together, assuming that Tinkerbell with calm down long enough for me to do so. I tried playing a little with my photo shop yesterday but being that I am a rookie at it, I was only able to do a few things. I guess I need to invest in a b
ook to help me. I also got a few of her in her monkey costume:
ook to help me. I also got a few of her in her monkey costume:
After about 2 minutes in it she was screaming her head off. It is a pretty hot suit so lets just hope it's cold Halloween night. If not I have reserves with the Tinkerbell costume and the Snow White Costume that my BFF is sending her in the mail. I know, I know why all the costumes? Well, I really like dressing her up and wanted her to have different outfits for the Halloween party and Halloween night. She must be in style at all times. Ha Tell me what you think of her pics.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Some new pages to share
It's been a while since I shared some scrapbook pages so I decided to add some today. I have been trying to get at least one page done each day, which unfortunately doesn't always happen. Some of these I have done recently, some a few months ago. Tell me what you think of them. I am really trying to use more than one pattern sheet on each page. It has been a real struggle for me but I am getting better at it. Scrapbooking is my FAVORITE thing to do, besides playing with my sweet baby girl. I will try to post some new pics of her soon. Have a good weekend!!
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