The life and times of an Army wife and SAHM

I've moved!!!

2008-09-21T15:37:00.000-07:00

I moved my blog to another site....To visit me, click here

Everybody is getting OLD.....

2008-09-19T14:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my youngest sons birthday. I am still in awe that my lil guy is now.....5! Holy crap how time flies. Back on the 6th of September I turned 27 and yesterday my lil man had his big day. On March 1st Jonathon will turn 8 (gasp!!!) Its totally unbelievable.

Some you may remember the problems I had with Jonathon last in school. We found out the problem was a hearing problem. Over the summer he had ear surgery and was given the all clear! Well, now we're onto our next problem. Not at school though, so far everything is going great at school! He loves his teacher, and the classmates. But our new problem, I took Jonathon too the eye doctor the other day, and guess what? He has eye problems, not just a simple eye problem that getting him glasses is going to fix. No, this problem is warranting us to a Pediatric Ophthalmologist Specialty clinic. Not exactly sure what the problem is at this time, but we'll be getting to the problem about this soon.

I've nominated myself for the worst mom of the year award.

Anywho....back to homework time for me.

What was I thinking???

2008-09-12T06:31:00.000-07:00

I've been asking myself that question quite a bit lately. I love going to school, and love the fact that I am furthering my education, but shesh it's not easy at all. I figured with the boys back in school, I'd have plenty of time to work on schoolwork. Which I do, but at the same time, I feel like I am constantly working on homework when I'm not running the boys to and from school, or AJ to and from soccer practice.

The whole time Rob was deployed all I could think of was it would be really helpful if he was home to help with the boys. Even though he's home, he has so many schools coming up, that I'm slowly sinking into the mindset that he isn't around, just so I don't rely on him.

Recently I've been given a great opportunity to go to Washington, D.C. When I was first nominated to go, I didn't really think much about it, but now that I have all the details, I am truly honored to be able to go and represent Rob's unit. I have a meeting with the Lieutenant Colonel coming up, so I'll post how that goes after the meeting.

Updates...updates....updates

2008-08-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

Wow so many updates, so little time. Okay well really I have all the time in the world to post my updates, but really who wants to read hours worth of whats been going on in my life?

Well here's the skinny about whats been happening in our lives.

Rob has gone back to work (woooohoooooo)
We went on a week long marriage retreat to a Younglife resort in Canada called Malibu
The boys have officially made me a soccer mom (no minivan for me!)
I'm now in week 5 of my 10 week courses, midterm week
4 more weeks and then I get a 3 day break from classes just to start back up again
I am looking into a volunteer position at the JAG office here
I have to find a legal professional to interview for my final paper for one of my classes
The boys start school next week!!!!!!!

Ok I think thats about it for now, although I'm sure I can keep naming things! On a serious note, we had an awesome time on our retreat in Canada. I'll be posting more about it over the next few weeks, because I have so much to share.

I encourage anyone with middle school or high school kids to check out Younglife. And for those in the military, on most military installations they actually have Younglife on posts worldwide. I hope that when my kids reach middle school that they will want to get involved with Younglife. Its so much more than just being preached to about God. But I'll stop here, if you have any questions feel free to comment and I can help you find out the answers you're looking for.

Well that time has come for me to get Austin ready for soccer practice....I'll be back blogging on a regular basis from here on out.

Here are just a few pictures from our retreat

Here is the boat we rode on for 3 hours....

The group that was at Malibu before us, they were chanting...USA...USA....USA

I have so many more to post but I'll spread them out over several posts.

What do you do when the electric is out?

2008-08-08T12:04:00.000-07:00

Yeah, we had the unpleasant pleasantry of dealing with a power outage yesterday. It wouldn't have been so bad if it was only an hour or two, but no, it was well over 8 hours! The worst part? They teased us...it came back on around 4:00 for about 10 minutes or so, then bam! Right back out again.

Really it didn't bother me, I had planned on cleaning out the boys' dressers yesterday. So I just put some batteries in my radio and got to work.

The boys were insanely weird about it though. Normally they'd be outside playing at the park or in the yard with their friends. But not yesterday, they wanted to stay inside and watch cartoons. Of course this could not be accomplished, so they decided to stay inside and play in the playroom, most action that room has seen it quite a while!

The only downfall to the power being out? I couldn't participate in one of my weekly seminars for college last night. Wasn't to bad, I just had to go back and read the archives from the seminar and write a paper on the topics discussed.

My mom is talking about taking a job in NC, which by the way my parents live in GA. So anywhoo...I said thats great how long before you'll all move up there. She then proceeded to tell me that my dad and sister would stay in GA for two years and then move up after my sister finishes high school. I am highly against this. The biggest reason? My dad has heart problems, and his last heart attack came out of no where, what happens if it happens again? My mom won't simply be 20 minutes away. There's more to the reason I'm against it, but I just won't go there.

Moving along now. AJ will be turning 5 next month. Holy hell where has the last 5 years went??? I can not fathom that my little baby is turning 5, it honestly doesn't seem possible. Heck my oldest will be 8 in March, still a good ways off, but not that far. It just amazes me how time truly does fly.

1 week down......9 more to go

2008-08-05T13:31:00.000-07:00

I completed my first week of classes...woohooooo! Last night I even took my first test and got a 100...go me!!! go me!!!!

Anywhoooo..moving along now. Rob went back to work yesterday, its insanely quite around the house now...HA who the hell am I kidding. I have two wonderful active boys running around. No really though, it was completely awesome having Rob home for the last month. We did things I never thought would be cool, like crabbing. Its insane at the amount of times we have been crabbing. I think its because we get to be near the ocean that smells oh so wonderful (can you sense the sarcasm?) look at the pretty boats, and above all, the other people who are out crabbing are the nicest people. I'm not kidding, everyone is nice and respectful of others.

On Sunday night we went to a meeting about our upcoming marriage retreat. We are going to a resort called Malibu. It was cool seeing pictures of the activities that we get to do. The downfall? We are leaving here at midnight...YES midnight. We get to take a bus, then onto a ferry, then onto a cruise ship. Oh yeah and we get to cross the border. Fun stuff! I'm actually very excited about going, never the been on a ferry, or cruise ship...or heck never been to Canada for that matter.

The boys are eagerly awaiting school to start back up. What weirdo's! When I was kid I dreaded the end of summer, not my kidlets, they wish they were back in school now. I have to admit though, I am looking forward to them going back to school. I love helping them with their school work, and volunteering in their classrooms.

We recently added a new addition to our family...and here he is....Everyone meet Smokey

Is he not the cutest thing ever?

Ok now I'm off to do some chores. Hope everyone is having a great week so far!

I'm really doing it.....

2008-07-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

A little over 2 years ago I was in school full time, and had a 4.0 GPA. When my father in law passed away I had to travel to Virginia for two weeks to help Rob and his step mom get everything done. Since I was gone for two weeks, I failed out of two of my classes and in the end couldn't catch up, so I ended up dropping out.

I was extremely sad about it, I really enjoyed going to school. For the past two years I've been saying I was going to go back, but timing was just never right. Well, starting next Wednesday, I will be going back to College to get my Associates in Paralegal. After I get my Associates, I hope to get a job, and then continue my education to get my bachelors. I'm doing all my classes online, so really I have no excuse not to be able to finish. When we travel, and move, I'll still be able to do my school. I'm extremely excited about this :).

We've been so busy here lately, I finally told Rob last night that I didn't know if I was coming or going. So we're taking things a bit slower. Today we haven't really done much, I've done some cleaning and laundry, and the boys have been fishing most of the day.

Last Saturday we went to a cookout that a church in a local town had to welcome home Rob's company. It was nice, the church had several dinners for the spouses while the guys were deployed. It was good to go out there, eat some good food, and actually interact with other adults.

Then on Sunday we went to the McChord Air Force Base Air Expo. We had a blast! Every time they had the Expo, we always said we wanted to go, just never did. So this year we made it a point to go. I took lots of pictures, some didn't turn out so well, but hey....I tried.

Here are a few of the pictures I took.

The boys looking at some displays

The Thunderbirds

Another picture of the Thunderbirds

Our new favorite pastime

2008-07-19T11:43:00.000-07:00

So, we have found a new hobby. Its quite an odd hobby if you ask me. However, I can assure we are not the only people doing it. The coolest thing about it, the kids can even do it with us! Nothing like being out near the cool ocean breeze trying to read a book.

So I'm sure that you're wondering what exactly our new hobby is....

Yes, we have taken up crabbing. I figured at first it would be quite boring, but it is very refreshing and a lot of fun. Our first couple of times we drove down to Westport, WA. Such a beautiful little town with lots to see. Recently we found a spot much closer to home. Much easier to drive 30 minutes to do some crabbing vs. driving over an hour. So we have decided that Westport trips will be mainly on weekends.

The boys seem to enjoy crabbing just as much as we do. It would be much better if it wasn't so darn windy and chilly though.

Here is Austin enjoying the nice sunny chilly day down at Westport.

And here is Jonathon being grouchy because he is tired and cold.

If you live near a place you can go crabbing, and like eating crab, I highly recommend trying it.

I'm back!

2008-07-12T15:09:00.000-07:00

Well really I have been back since the 1st, I've just been too busy to write on here. I flew out of Seattle on Saturday the 28th of June, and arrived back at Fort Lewis on July 1st at 6:30am. It was an interesting trip to say the least.

My sister came back with me, which was a big help. We didn't leave Little Rock until Sunday afternoon. I drove as far as I could Sunday night and then pulled over in Russell Kansas and got a room. I really wanted to be back at Fort Lewis by the 1st because 4th Brigades redeployment ceremony was that day, and I was asked to be their to receive an award.

The award isn't much, but to me it means a lot. I'll have to get it and post what it says on it later.

Anywho, my sister and I got up at 5:00am Monday morning, and together we decided we were going to drive all day and night so we could be back here for the ceremony. And we did it! I was one hell of a long trip, but so much fun at the same time.

I got to see my parents, I hadn't seen my dad since we moved out here over 3 years ago. Here is a picture of my dad and I at the airport.

And here is a picture of my mom, dad, sister and myself. First time we have all been in a picture since my wedding, over 6 years ago!

I'm leaving on a jet plane.....

2008-06-25T23:36:00.000-07:00

So much going on around here lately. Jonathon had his surgery this past Monday, things went well, and he is getting better each day.

It was rough when he latched onto me and didn't want to go into the operating room, and then when he was waking up, it was so irritable, but that was totally to be expected.

The deal on the car we were buying fell through. The sales man and sales manager were trying to pull a dirty deal on us. Not sure why they tried, when we were all talking, I told them I worked in the car business for over 6 years, I know how things work.

But at any rate the deal went south, and we actually ended up buying a 2009 Subaru Forester. Which brings me to the title of this post. We actually bought the car from a dealership I used to work at in Atlanta, and we were going to have it shipped out here to Washington. However we are impatient, and I was going to fly to Atlanta and drive the car back out here. My parents are actually going to be in Little Rock, Arkansas this weekend for my sisters' karate tournament, so they are going to drive my car (along with theirs) and I'm flying into Little Rock to pick it up and drive it out here.

I am beyond excited about this. I haven't seen my mom, dad and sister in 3 years. My sister is going to drive back out here with me and spend a few weeks, so the boys are really excited about that.

Its funny, I've never flown by myself, always had family, or Rob and the boys with me. This will be a totally new experience for me! I have to admit, another reason I am stoked about this trip, I seriously need a break from my kids. Don't get me wrong, I love them more than anything. But, after 15 months of being a "single" parent, I desperately need a little vacation.

Well, I'm off to read some more of my book, "Moment of Truth in Iraq" It really is an awesome book!

It still feels like a dream

2008-06-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

Rob has been home for almost 3 weeks and it still feels like a dream. Its like I keep expecting to wake up, and him not really be here. Its a weird feeling, sometimes my brain keeps saying don't get to close he'll just be leaving again. Yet in reality, I know this isn't true.

Things have been great so far with him home. The boys are becoming less stuck up his butt. We expected them being attached at the hip to him though, I think they keep wondering when he'll be leaving again as well.

We got all of Jonathon's pre-op appointments out of the way, now we just have to wait until Thursday to get the actual surgery time.

Oh and I have a cheese....We bought a new car over the weekend! We were driving a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500, but the gas prices were straight killing our checking account. So we went out and got a 2007 Subaru Tribeca. Ours is gold, with beige leather interior. We love it! Went out driving yesterday, and was getting 27 MPG, big difference from the Dodge, in the truck we would have only been getting 16 MPG. I have some pictures, I'll post them later.

I have been reading a lot lately. Currently I'm reading "The moment of truth in Iraq" by Micheal Yon. I really suggest this book to anyone, its a great read.

We are going to Canada!

2008-06-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

We have been busy busy busy around here. Making plans for July, since Rob is on block leave for the entire month. We're going to go over to Spokane, WA for a couple of days and do some camping, sightseeing, and hit up SilverWood Theme park thats over there. Other than that we don't really have to much planned aside from doing local stuff. We are totally doing to the "staycation" thing this summer.

But we get to go on a really cool trip this summer. Back in April the boys and I went to Ocean Shores for a spouses retreat.

Well the Chaplain offices here on Fort Lewis got grant money to be able to hold several retreats over the summer. I had signed Rob and I up for one of the Ocean Shores retreats, but I received a call from the Chaplains assistant and she told me that we had been selected to go on a retreat to Canada. I was beyond excited about this. The trip, for a family of 4, would normally cost $5,000 dollars, but because of donations and such we (and 17 other military families) are able to go on this retreat with no out of pocket expense. Now I just have to wait until August to go.

Tomorrow we have Jonathon's pre-op appointment, and on the 23rd is his surgery. I'm so excited his surgery is around the corner, and grateful that Rob is able to be home for it.

A True Hero

2008-06-06T15:25:00.001-07:00

Unless you are living under a rock, I'm sure most of you have heard of SPC Ross McGinnis. I have been following this story closely, and watched the video of his parents receiving his Medal of Honor.

Here is the video of the ceremony to induct Medal of Honor recipient SPC Ross McGinnis into the Hall of Heroes.

Also while searching around on some websites reading about SPC McGinnis, I came across this website. If you click on profile you can read about SPC McGinnis. Also on there are links to photos, his myspace page, and a video of his parents speaking of Ross.

I've sat here for about the last hour or so just reading over different websites about him, and reading his myspace page. A few of the guys that Ross saved, have left comments on his page, that will truly bring tears to your eyes.

Every fallen hero has a story to tell, and I encourage everyone to read about them, and remember them.

I am truly grateful for being able to learn about this True American Hero.

He's home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-06-04T08:41:00.001-07:00

I am a few days late in posting this, but Rob made is safely home last Saturday. When I got the call from Rear D Friday they told me the plane was expected to land at noon and the ceremony would be at 2:00. Well at 5:00am Saturday morning I get a phone call from Rear D again saying that the plane is ahead of schedule and will be landing at 8am! I was shocked to say the least, and actually said to the Sgt on the phone "No shit" LOL, and chuckled and said yes ma'am.

I jumped out of bed, because of course I had so much to get done due to my bad habit of procrastinating. I remember I called my mom and was all excited telling her the plane was landing 4 hours early. The I hopped in the shower and started getting ready. Got the welcome home banner I made hung up, got the boys up and got them dressed, and off to the gym we went.

They had a live feed going, that showed the plane landing and all the guys getting off the plane. We spotted Rob a few times, it was surreal knowing that in about 2 hours we would be face to face. The boys kept giggling all morning. Then about 10am, we were told the ceremony would begin in about 5 minutes, my heart started racing, I was beyond ecstatic!

It was so amazing watching all the soldiers walking into the gym, people erupted into massive cheers, and tears were flowing from just about everyone in there. The boys and I even managed to spot Rob, which I might add is not an easy task when at a distant, they all look the same in uniform, luckily for us, Rob is quite short!

The ceremony last about 13 minutes total, and bam they were released. I thought for sure Rob had seen us, I mean we were literally in front of him at the top of the bleachers. But he didn't so as the boys and I made our way down to the floor he was standing in one spot looking for us, after making it down and going to were he was, he was gone! I was like oh crap, we're standing in the middle of a see of families and tons of soldiers, but I happened to look to my right and spotted him, he wasn't looking our way so I ran over to him and about tackled him. I honestly can't even begin to describe the emotions that were running through me at the moment.

He latched onto me, as quick as I latched onto him. We both didn't want to let go, but I finally broke the hug and the boys jumped right in. I have only seen Rob cry a handful of times in the 7 years we've been together, and it kind of shocked me that he was crying, but I understand the emotions he was feeling.

Things have been going good so far, he's adjusting to a few of the changes I made over the last 15 months, and we're taking it easy, not rushing our reunion.

Anywho, here are a few pictures.

Rob hugging the boys for the first time in 9 months

Our family is complete again!

I'm a horrible blogger

2008-05-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

So I'll admit it, I'm horrible when it comes to actually keeping up with this blog. There are so many things I want to write, but time just slips away, and I find that I neglect my blog.

I'm really trying to get better, and I promise from here on out, even if just for me and no one reads it, I'll make a post at least every other day.

I have so much to catch up on.........

Jonathon is doing well in school, had a few problems here and there, but not like before. His surgery is scheduled for the end of June, we're all excited to get it done so we can find out what is going on with his hearing.

Austin is also doing well in school, and has increased his vocabulary incredibly. Rob won't know what to think about him talking so much now.

Speaking of Rob........He'll be home before next week! I obviously can't go into to many details due to OPSEC reasons, but I'll be sure to post when he has made it home!

As for me, I'm doing well. Lost 20 pounds since November, and I really haven't even been trying. Just watching what I eat, portion control, and of course I'm very active with the boys and things. Been really busy with the FRG, and preparing for homecoming.

So there is my little update for now. I'll try and post again later tonight or tomorrow and post some recent pictures.

Beyond upset

2008-04-17T21:19:00.000-07:00

Last week baseball practices began, and the first night the coach wasn't even there, his wife was. Well we were told that Thursdays practice would be held on Saturday so the real coach could be there. We get called Thursday morning saying that practice would take place Thursday instead of Saturday. So I take Jo to his practice, all is fine.

Well as most of you know, I was out of town last weekend, something that had been scheduled weeks in advance. So, Friday night, I get a phone call from the coaches wife saying they will be having a practice on Saturday, and I told her "well Jo will not be there we are out of town for the weekend" and she hung up on me.

This past Tuesday my neighbor took Jo to practice because I had a meeting, but from what I hear, everything went fine. Then tonight, the coach wasn't there again. Now when I signed Jo up I specifically asked for a male coach. Jo just seems to listen better to a male coach over a female. But the real coach is hardly ever there, and to be brutally honest, is wife has no freaking clue what she is doing. The boys had not been taught thus far the rules about "outs."

Jo is up to bat, and the "fake" coach has some parent out there pitching, and this man couldn't hit the broad side of a barn if he tried. But Jo finally managed to hit a poor pitch and he ran to first. On his way to second, he was tagged by the 2nd base man. Now Jo doesn't really know the rules really comes to "outs" and when ~~the coach~~ starts yelling at him telling him he's out, he got upset because he thought he had done something wrong. Jo then asks the coach why he was out, and instead of answering him, she just replies with "because thats the way the game is played"

WTF?!?!?!?!!?! are you kidding me? He's 7, up until now, he's played t-ball, they don't outs in t-ball, and she just expects him to automatically know????????? Needless to say I was livid. Then, she decides to make a smart ass comment, "well I'm glad to see the ones who couldn't make it to Saturday's practice decided to show up tonight" Oh heck to the no she did not.

I'm sorry that we have a life outside of baseball. I'm sorry that we had these plans for almost 4 weeks. I'm sorry that my 7 year is not a pro at baseball and know all the rules.

Needless to say, I will be making a trip to CYS tomorrow and making a HUGE complaint about this.

Sorry for the vent. Just had to get it off my chest.

How do you know its almost time for your soldier to come home?

2008-04-16T08:04:00.000-07:00

You start cleaning your house like crazy, and redecorating, and reorganizing stuff. The house really isn't dirty, not much decorating I can do, but I'm finding little projects to occupy my time. Luckily we are into baseball season, and I have a lot going on with FRG, so I am staying extremely busy with those things.

When I talked to Rob yesterday, I told him, I really don't know if I'm coming or going half the time, but I love being this busy, its making time fly by!

The boys and I at Ocean Shores

What a great weekend!

2008-04-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

The boys and I made it back from Ocean Shores. We had such a great time. The reason for our trip was for a spouses retreat for spouses of deployed soldiers. The other 34 wives and I, were first group of wives to be offered a retreat in the lower 48 states, that was paid for by the Army.

The retreat itself was very nice, and the Chaplain was very informative. I loved the fact that he was straight forward when he was talking to us.

He covered many topics ranging from reintegration to commitment to his needs/her needs. The basic concept was stuff that is covered on marriage retreats, so he bounced around on certain topics. Rob's unit is planning on holding 3 marriage retreats a month starting in August and going through October, so I really hope we get the opportunity to attend one. Not that we have major problems, but it can only benefit our marriage to attend one.

Not all of our time was spent in workshops. The resort we stayed at had an indoor water park that normally isn't open this time of year, but they opened for us so the kids could have some water fun. We went walking along the beach, and even though it was really cold, I let the boys roll up their pants and play in the water a bit.

Here are a few pictures I took over the weekend.

Laundry done..Check..packing done...Check

2008-04-11T07:22:00.000-07:00

Just finished folding the last load of laundry, over the past 2 two does I've folded about 6 baskets of laundry (yes I was major procrastinating). Got our clothes packed for the weekend.

I was even lucky enough to get to talk to Rob last night! Wasn't expecting to hear from him until next week, so it really put me in a good mood, I love the unexpected phone calls!

Anywho, Rob send me this picture, and I just thought I would share. I love sunset pictures.

Hope everyone was a great weekend!

A weekend getaway

2008-04-10T12:29:00.000-07:00

Things have been busy around the house lately. For one we are less than 2 months away from Rob coming home, so things have been very busy with FRG. Still working on getting Jonathon's surgery set up, we meet with the specialist next week. Last week the kids were on Spring break. The weather was actually nice, and we got out and did some things. I took the kids to the Olympia Hands on Children's museum. This weekend we are going over to Ocean Shores.

Hubbies unit is doing a spouses retreat for the spouses of deployed soldiers. I figured this would be something really nice to do, and would give me a weekend break. The Army is providing lodging, meals, and childcare while I am in the workshops. So on top of getting a break from post, I'll get a few hours away from the kiddos. I'm actually very excited about the retreat, as I have never been on one.

I know that Rob's brigade is planning on doing a few marriage retreats after they get back from deployment, so Rob and I talked about probably signing up for one. Over the course of this deployment we have both realized we need to communicate better with each other. No major problems in our marriage, but a retreat would be nice, and can only benefit us.

Anyways, here a few pictures from the Children's museum.

My future Radiologist

Perhaps he'll work on the barges?

Just the 3 of us (they never cooperate for pics)

5 hours and 24 minutes later

2008-04-09T08:15:00.000-07:00

So the the other day I was trying to open Microsoft word, but kept receiving an error message. So after playing around with troubleshooting the program, I discovered that I needed to download the service pack for 2007 Word. So I download the service, which says it will correct the problem I was having. Well it didn't help.

Yesterday I drove to Portland with my friend to pick up her kids, and after we got back, I decided to call Microsoft to get help with the problem.

I called them around 3:30 pm, and after being on the for 5 hours and 24 minutes, we have temporarily gotten Word to work, only problem now, I can't have a printer on this computer. Basically my printer spooler program rewrote itself, so we had to remove it. Rahul from Microsoft informed me that I needed to put in the original XP disk that came with my computer so we could basically restore my computer without having to lose everything I have on here. Well, after much searching, either we didn't get the disk when we bought the computer, or I have misplaced it. Really unlike me though, I still have disks from college courses I was taking 3 years ago.

So I guess for the meantime, I'm just lucky that our other desk top has the printer installed on it.
What a big head ache!

6 years later

2008-03-30T19:24:00.000-07:00

I almost can't believe it, we have been married 6 years today. Last year, Rob left 2 days before our 5th anniversary, and of course he isn't home this year. I told him yesterday that perhaps next year we will actually be together for our anniversary.

Anyways here's a picture of us on our wedding day.

And here is one of us back in September when he was home on R&R

Its amazing to see how much we have changed in looks over the years.

Should Arlington honors go beyond rank?

2008-03-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

I was flipping through the Army Times on Friday and came across this article, and I have to admit, I found myself angry at it. You can read the article here

I think this upset me the most

An enlisted service member killed in battle and posthumously awarded the Silver Star for heroism is rendered lesser honors at Arlington National Cemetery than an officer who dies in a car crash the day after being commissioned.

I, of course, don't really know who should and shouldn't receive full honors. In my personal opinion, all Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, and Airmen killed while in Combat deserve a Full Honor Funeral.

I'm sure there is nothing I can do myself to get this changed, I do however plan on writing my Congressmen about the subject. I really don't think rank should determine who gets what honors.

FALLEN HEROES PROJECT

2008-03-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

Michael Reagan, an internationally recognized portrait artist, is on a personal journey to sketch each of our fallen service members. His prints bring the person back to life and have made a great impact to many family members. To date, he has drawn 925 portraits for family members. Michael is a Vietnam combat veteran (Marine) who is now retired and totally focused on this incredible project. His goal is to insure our fallen are never forgotten. He is asking for all of us to let our families of fallen soldiers know about this free gift and that he is a reliable and creditable man. Please visit www.fallenheroesproject.org/ to fully appreciate his work of arts.

They are more than just a number

2008-03-27T23:39:00.000-07:00

A few days ago this article was posted on a Military spouses forum I visit. I can honestly say I was a blubbering mess while I was sitting here reading it. I wish the news put more into the fallen soldiers, instead of just a number. These people have names, and families, they are more than just a number.

Six of the Fallen, in Words They Sent Home

I really think the blog excerpt from Ryan Wood's myspace page is something everyone needs to read, and really think about

He really isn't a problem child

2008-03-26T13:32:00.000-07:00

Well some of you may remember I posted about Jo having behavior problems.

Yesterday we had his appointment with the Audiologist. Ok, let me back up a bit. Back in January I noticed Jo was having problems hearing things. At first I just thought he was being a typical kid with selective hearing. Then after a week, I figured maybe it was water in his ears.

He had his sports physical the end of January, and they did the hearing screening on him, and he failed it. Not just a little bit, but a lot! So his PCM put in a referral to see the audiologist. So yesterday we had that appointment. Jo has 30% hearing loss in his right ear, and 40% in his left ear.

When he seen the counselor she picked up on the fact that he was having troubles hearing, so she gave me some suggestions to tell the teachers. They had him sitting in the back of the classroom, now bless his heart, we found out yesterday that unless you are within 3 feet of him, odds are he can't hear a thing you're saying.

It's all making sense, and yes at the same time I'm beating myself up over it, because I didn't catch it sooner. Loud sounds will sound like a buzzing muffled sound to him, so it really does explain why he was acting out at school. Sitting in the back of the classroom, at least 20 feet from the teacher, he was getting upset because he couldn't hear her, and acting out. Yes I know him acting out wasn't right, but he just didn't know how to tell us that he couldn't hear things.

They did quite a few tests on him, and one was to see how much noise his ear drum picks up. His picks up nothing, nothing, I was shocked. The audiologist thinks its only a temporary loss, and that surgery can correct it. So our next step is too see ENT, so they can check him out and decide what actions they want to take.

Lets just hope and pray that we don't have to wait a month or more to see ENT.

More people need to remember

2008-03-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

It seems that so many people don't care, or just don't pay attention to what is going on in the world. Ignorance is not bliss. I found this video, and thought I would share it with whoever reads my blog. It brings more of a perspective of what is happening, rather than just seeing gruesome pictures.

Arlington West Video <-----Click on me to see video

What a great weekend

2008-03-03T00:02:00.000-08:00

We had a really great weekend! Friday night Jo went shopping with neighbor, they took him out to get his birthday present. Well they ended up getting him a few things. Baseball season is fast approaching, and they bought him some baseball stuff.

Saturday morning the boys and I went shopping. I told Jo he could get a new bike for his birthday or get more baseball stuff, well he chose more baseball stuff. So we went out and got him a helmet, bat, and shoes. He was on cloud nine all day long!

Today, we got up and just laid around most of the morning, until the afternoon, then we went bowling. The bowling alley here on post does a deployment special, 3 free games and free shoe rentals if you have a family member deployed. We had a great time, and I think we are going to go back again next Sunday. Maybe we'll make that our weekly event to use as a countdown to when Rob will be home.

Tomorrow AJ and I will be doing some cleaning, then probably some grocery shopping. I'm hoping it will be nice so the kids will be able to play outside. I am loving the nice weather!

Haven't heard from Rob, but I knew I wouldn't. I honestly don't know how we'll be able to talk when he gets home. Perhaps we'll just make a schedule that will only have us talking to each other for 30 minutes every 2-3 weeks. LOL I really wouldn't do that, I can't wait to actually carry on a conversation wit him face to face.

Well I should get to bed, 6:00am will be here before long, yet for some reason, I feel like I should do something productive.

I just want to give up

2008-02-28T22:55:00.000-08:00

I really would never give up, but today, I just really felt like giving up. Out of no where, my oldest son has started having behavior problems. Only the problems are not at home, they are at school. Out of the blue, he has started refusing to do his work, crying, screaming, crawling under his desk, kicking the desk, just all around acting out.

I have been working with the teachers, principal and school counselor to try and figure out the problem, and they have been great on working with me and Jo, but we have reached a point that we have no clue why this has come about.

I made Jo an appointment to go see a counselor, so I'm really hoping that they will be able to help us sort this out.

Last night, Rob called again, and Jo talked to him for about 25 minutes, thats the most they have talked since Rob was home back in September. I was in the kitchen doing dishes and I heard Jo tell his dad that it makes him sad they he missed Christmas, and that he is missing is birthday(its on Saturday) that he'll probably miss his 1st grade graduation, and he missed his whole first year of being in Cub Scouts.

I felt really bad for Rob, Jo just really gave him a guilt trip. Yet at the same time, I know Rob understands that Jo just really needs to vent about this deployment. Which leads me to think, that although I don't think this deployment is the root of all the problems Jo is having, I think its a big part of the problem.

I stop and think how much this deployment has wore me down, and gotten the best of me on more than one occasion, I can only imagine what it does to kids, and especially mine right now. I mean I see how it effects my kids, but most times they won't open up and express what they are feeling, I on the other hand will give you an ear full if you ask me. We are only about 11 months into this deployment, with less than 5 to go, but to the kids, its still an eternity to them.

At any rate, I really hope putting Jo in counseling will help him, I feel so helpless as a mother, because I don't know what to do.

I'm over it

2008-02-26T22:42:00.000-08:00

I am seriously over this deployment! I got to talk to Rob the other night for 51 minutes!!! That is the most we have talked to since he was home back in September for R&R. It was amazing, yet sucked all in the same time.

I really miss being able to lay in bed at night talk to him, I miss sitting across from him at the dinner table and talking about our days, I just really miss everything about him. There have been days, where things are so hectic, that I temporarily forget I'm married, how freaking sad is that?!?!?!?!

15 months is just too long! The most Rob had ever been gone was 9 months, which wasn't so bad, on long weekends he would drive up from Georgia to Virginia, or I would drive down there. I mean there were field exercises along the way, and I suppose if you added all of them up then he was probably gone about 5-7 months out of the year or so. But 15 months, of not living together, and only get the occasional 10-15 minute phone call here or there, going 2-4 weeks with no communication what so ever is finally starting to wear me down. I'm tired of handling all the problems at home, I'm tired of being the only one here for the boys.

I would never ask Rob to leave the Army, I know its a job he truly loves doing, I just wish the job was more family oriented. I'm extremely proud of Rob for having the courage to do the job he does, and although at this moment I really hate it, deep down I love being a military family.

Okay I think I'm done bitching for the night.

Here's a picture I found of Rob on a friends myspace page. (Rob is on the left)

Almost a year.....

2008-02-21T15:01:00.000-08:00

Next month will bring many celebrations to our house. Our oldest son Jonathon will turn 7 on March 1st, Rob will turn 33 on March 25th, our 6th anniversary is on the 30th of March. All that aside though, on March 28th, we will celebrate 12 months down. Is that really considered a celebration though? I mean do I throw a party and on the cake have "woohooo we've made it 12 months"?

We are getting so close to the end, yet it still seems so out of reach. Like the end of this deployment will never get here. Its rather hard for me to fathom having Rob home again. I'm already worried about what reintegration will be like. After all he has had to see and do while in Iraq, how will that affect our family after he returns?

Rob and I have seen many ups and downs in our marriage, and we've always gotten through anything that was handed to us. I know deep down we'll get through this, I just can't help but worry about it.

Holy Crap! Its been awhile!

2008-02-20T23:21:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how long its been since I posted a blog. WOWZERS! I am major slacking. But, to my defense, I have been incredibly busy.

Who would have thought that being the co-leader of a Family Readiness Group would be so much work? I'm not complaining at all, it has been helping to pass the time, just can be very time consuming.

The boys are doing great! Rob is great! Things are going good around here.

I just really need to get better at keeping up with this blog. I enjoy writing, just sometimes I don't know what to write about. But I will get better!

Its been awhile.....

2007-12-12T20:19:00.000-08:00

I promise I haven't forgot about my blog. Things have just been so busy around here, and truth be told, the holidays are really getting me down. I have been trying to keep myself extremely busy to get through the holidays. I do good up until the boys are in bed, and I'm alone.

So anyways, the boys are doing good. Anxiously awaiting Christmas day. I'll just be glad for it to get here, and be gone. Once it's over, just means one day closer to Rob being home.

I came across this video, and thought I would share it with anyone who reads my blog.

A Great Surprise.....

2007-11-22T22:32:00.000-08:00

No Rob didn't magically appear on the doorstep today, although secretly I was wishing he would have. However, I'll settle for what I got. Rob and his guys are out at the patrol base so none of us were expecting a call. Well around 3:30 I was walking to my neighbors house when my phone rang, I figured it was just someone in Rob's family calling to tell me Happy Thanksgiving. Much to my surprise, it was Rob! I was on cloud nine. The boys got to talk to him and I put him on speaker phone so everyone could tell him happy thanksgiving and he could tell them.

It was such an awesome thing, especially since I was kind of feeling down with Rob not being here.

Speaking of Rob's family, not one of them called, not like I'm totally shocked or anything. They really haven't called in the past 8 months, not sure why I expected them to. But when I stop and think about it, its quite sad that my husband, who is umpteen thousand miles away called me, yet they couldn't? Eh....whatever.

I had planned on doing this well thought out blog about everything I am thankful for, but if you knew me, you'd know that I'm not quite that type of person. But I will share a few things I am grateful for.

• God allowed me to wake up this morning
• My kids are happy and healthy
• My dad survived his massive heart attack last year.
Without him, I would be lost
• My husband was able to call me
• My husband is healthy and thus far is unharmed
• I have a great and understanding family
• I have a great set of friends who are there for me no matter what

I have plenty more to be grateful for, but I'll share those later, after all, today isn't the only day I have to be grateful for things.

Wrapping Christmas presents in November....

2007-11-19T21:12:00.000-08:00

I guess it could be worse, at least its almost December right? I'm getting ready to go wrap Rob's Christmas presents so I can get them boxed up and shipped out this week. Its quite funny though, each year we usually have a limit on how much we can spend on each other. Well this year, I spent more than I have the entire 6 years we have been together. In total, I spend about 600 dollars on Rob. *Insert shocked smiley here*

On a more serious note, I am putting off wrapping the presents. When I put them in the box, I know it'll hit me hard. He really isn't going to be here for the holidays this year. Don't get me wrong, I'm thankful that I still have my husband, so many others have lost their loved ones, Rob is alive and healthy, but I still wish he were going to be here.

Well I guess I should really get the wrapping done. *insert dreaded smiley here*

See I can lei Rob even though he is 6000 miles away. Wow I'm good!!

Dreaming of brown paper bags.......

2007-11-12T13:01:00.000-08:00

I hope every had a great weekend! And remembered to say thanks to our current and past Veterans. I don't even think I could begin to say just how grateful I am to our vets. I suppose being a military wife, it allows me to have a bigger glimpse as to what they have gone through or will go through.

On Veterans Day, I was stuffing brown paper bags. The bags were being stuffed full of goodies to send to my husband brigade. 701 bags! Most of them were decorated by local schools. I couldn't help but admire some of the artwork the children drew. Some were very touching, they were all good though. A few of them even made me tear up.

The bags just sort of reminded me that the holidays are fast approaching. It scares me, for lack of a better word. This will be the first Thanksgiving and Christmas that Rob hasn't been home for. After almost 6 years of marriage, and this year my best friend won't be here. There are parts of me that just want to "cancel" Christmas. But in reality, I can't do that to the boys'.

I have some great friends that will help me get through this hard time, most of which are going through this deployment with me. My family wants me to go "home" for Christmas, but honestly, I just can't do that. I'm already home. Not to mention that since we have been married, we don't travel on Christmas.

When Rob was growing up he was drug from one house to the next on Christmas, thus never allowing him to really enjoy being with his family or enjoy the presents he was given. I, on the other hand, was raised totally different. My parents never would take my sister or I out on Christmas. When we lived close to family we would go to their houses on Christmas Eve and exchange presents.

Shortly after we were married, we made the decision to not drag the boys around, but allow them to stay home, and just play until they passed out. I just hope my family understands that even though Rob isn't here, I can't and won't change the rules. Not to mention the fact that I've been in Washington for almost 3 years, and the only person who has visited was my sister, but thats a whole other topic.

Here's a picture of Rob, just wanted to share with everyone, he was writing me a letter. Have a great day!

Where the heck did all my free time go?

2007-11-03T20:38:00.000-07:00

It seems as though lately I have been extremely busy. Don't get me wrong, I like being busy, and having stuff to do, but at the same time, I think back to just 2 months ago, and I was bored out of my mind. Between cub scouts, and FRG stuff, it seems as though my life as now become busy busy busy.

The boys and I went to Michael's today to get some craft stuff to make homemade Christmas ornaments. Its one of Jonathon's projects to do for scouts, but I decided to make it a family event. We got some really cute emblem's to decorate them with, so after we get them done, I will post pictures for everyone to see what we came up with.

Speaking of pictures, when Rob was home a few weeks ago, we went and had family pictures done. So I will share them with all of you, hope you enjoy. I'm off to figure out what the boys are into, they are being awfully quiet.

Family Picture

Jonathon

Austin

Jonathon and Austin

Rob and I

Army Families- Army Strong

2007-11-02T16:33:00.001-07:00

Well if this doesn't get you a little teary eyed, I don't know what will.

Almost Half Way

2007-10-28T21:32:00.000-07:00

Yup, its true, we are almost half way done with the deployment. Some days, the end seems so close, yet it's still sooooo far away. Since Rob has left from R&R, the boys and I have had to get back into our routine, which has not been an easy task at all.

We have been really busy lately, with scouts, school, and hanging out with friends. Although here lately, I'm discovering that some people I thought were my friends, are not. I used to think I was such a good judge of character, but it seems I've lost that somewhere.

The boys and I went to two different pumpkin patches. The first pumpkin patch we went to was actually at a apple mill. It was fun, we all got covered in mud thanks to the awesome Washington rain. My friend Sara and her daughter went with us. Then this past weekend, we went to another pumpkin patch with the scouts. It was fun, the boys had a great time at both, picking out their own pumpkins.

We are not on the hunt to find a church we enjoy. We attended a church on post today, and while it was nice, it just wasn't for us. So we are going to pick another one, and try it next Sunday, and we'll keep going to new ones until we find the one that we feel comfortable in.

I've also started working on the "better Amie" I've got out all soda (ok so yes I did cheat once) and I'm cutting back on sweet tea, which is quite difficult, so I've slowly been making it with less and less sugar. I'm also going to start working out soon. I was going to start tomorrow, but I am working on steam cleaning the carpet in the house, and I really want to get that done, get the house back in order and make sure the boys and I stick to the routine of cleaning.

Next month, I get to go Christmas shopping for Rob. Its kind weird thinking about what to send to him. Not like he really has that many luxuries. Before he left after R&R, I asked him what he wanted for Christmas, and he whispered in my ear "To be home with you and the boys" Talk about breaking my heart.

I also need to start working on shopping for the boys. I really have no clue what to get them. I like Rob being here to help me shop for the boys. But it will be okay, he'll be here next year, and we can have a good Christmas.

Cub Scouts, Popcorn....OH MY!

2007-10-17T20:55:00.000-07:00

Ever since Rob left back for Iraq, after our 18 wonderful days together, I have been down right busy. For starters, I had to play catch up on house cleaning and laundry. The whole time Rob was here, I really didn't clean, aside from just picking things up and making sure the kitchen was clean.

Then Cub Scouts got started, den meetings, completing tasks, and selling popcorn for the fund raiser. Jonathon is really doing great with the scouts so far, and he really seems to enjoy it. I'm glad that he has found something, aside from video games, that he really likes. Selling popcorn has been fun, this last time selling, the boys sold $315.00 in popcorn and made a little over $100.00 in donations. That was a big night for them, and they boys were so proud of themselves.

In school, they have started sending homework home. Oh yay! That is so much fun. Actually its not to awful bad. Jonathon just has the problem of not wanting to do it. He doesn't understand why he does work at school and then the teachers send home more work for him to do at home, that took some time to explain. On a different note, he is learning to read. Such an amazing and wonderful thing, yet torture all at the same time. He tends to get frustrated rather quickly when trying to sound out the words.

Austin has even been having "homework" as well. In his pre-k 4 class they have been working on writing their names. Now for Austin this is a big thing, considering this time last year his vocabulary only consisted of about 5 words, now he is doing sentences. Sometimes it's still really hard to understand him, but he is getting much better.

I have recently taken on two volunteer positions in an attempt to keep myself active. I am now co-leader of the FRG in Rob's company, and the co-leader of the den for cub scouts. So far so good, but its still fairly early, so we shall see later on how its all going.

Well off to finish the FRG leader course.

After 18 wonderful days.....

2007-10-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

The time came for the boys and I to put Rob back on a plane bound for the Middle East. I'm not even sure how to describe what I'm feeling right now. I think with the holidays coming up, it is really going to be a trying time. Although we are a military family, and separations happen quite frequently, Rob has some how always been home for the holidays.

I guess the only positive thought I have right now, the next time we see Rob, it will be for good, we won't have to give him up 18 days later.

R&R was wonderful, yet awful at the same time. It is such a tease, "here ya go, have your soldier, get used to him being around, but you have to give him back up so he can go back to Iraq and put his life back on the line." Yes I know, this is what he chose to do, but it doesn't make it any easier.

Jonathon asked me when daddy would be home again. I asked him if he wanted the truth or lie, he of course wanted to know the truth, so I told him sometime after 1st grade is over, thats when daddy will be back home. His reply was "holy smokes mom thats a long time"

I managed to snap a few pictures among the hugs, kisses, and I will miss yous'. That and trying to have our "alone" time in the airport. All the people waiting to board the plane were just watching us, really kind of made me feel weird, seeing people, men and women watching us, and wiping tears away from their own eyes as Rob was saying "see ya later" to the boys. Then came the last set of hugs, and the boys latched onto him and didn't want to let go. I must admit, I did the same thing. I even offered to break his legs so he didn't have to go back, he kindly objected to my idea, can't say that I blame him. Anyways, here are two pictures I got this morning.

Rob pointing at us and he telling us he loved us before walking down the ramp

The boys watching as daddy's plane was backing up and going toward the runway

Wordless Wednesday

2007-10-10T13:00:00.000-07:00

The boys a few hours before we left for the airport to pick up Rob for his 18 days of R&R

For more Wordless Wednesday photos, go here

♥ My Soldier is home ♥

2007-09-24T09:37:00.000-07:00

Rob made it in on Saturday. I woke up that morning, and was doing the rest of my chores that I put off on Friday. I was afraid that if I didn't leave myself some stuff to do, that come Saturday I would be pulling my hair out waiting for 5pm to finally get here. Well he called at 10:30 to tell me that he got on an earlier flight and would be in at 3. Not to much earlier, but totally threw a wrench in my plans. Not a bad wrench, just I had to start hustling.

The boys and I got the airport around 1, and went to the ticket counter of the airline he was flying on and got a pass to go through security and wait on him. The boys were on cloud nine. After some playing in the airport play area, and drinking some Starbucks, it was time to go the gate and wait on his plane. When the plane pulled up to the terminal, we stood back out the way and was watching everyone get off the plane. Of course he was nearly the last person to come off the plane.

When we seen it, it was so surreal. The boys immediately latched onto him. Then it was my turn to hug him. It was unbelievable. I kept whispering "I can't believe you're really here."

The passengers that were waiting to board the plane were just starring at us. Most of the people had seen the shirts I had made, and were asking the boys if their dad was coming home, of course they were like yes. It was amazing walking through the airport while waiting on him, we had so many people telling us to thank him, and enjoy our time with him.

Austin, our youngest son, just kept smiling and giggling at Rob. Before Rob left, Austin was quite the mommies boy, but now, not any more, he isn't letting Rob out of his sight. I think its awesome!

We have been enjoying our time together, and he is really enjoying being home. Not sure of everything we are going to do while he is home, but it won't be any wasted time!

In earlier posts, I had mentioned that I was worried it would be awkward with him being home, but honestly it hasn't been, its like he never left. Even though we have a few weeks, I am already dreading when the time comes for him to have to go back. It is defiantly going to be more trying times. But we shall get through it, just like we have up until now.

And my middle name is...Procrastination

2007-09-16T21:14:00.000-07:00

Yup, its true, I think I am the worst procrastinator of all time. I have less than two weeks and rob will home, and my house looks like a tornado recently went through it.

The boys and I had a pretty good weekend. Saturday we went to Enchanted Village, which is an amusement park near Seattle. Had a great time, the boys had a blast! We get to go back in 2 weeks for Fright Fest. When I told the boys that daddy would be here to go to Fright Fest with us, they were joining me in bouncing off the walls. They are getting so excited to see Rob, I really can't wait until we get to pick him up from the airport.

Then today, my friend and I went to Costco and did some shopping, and then to the toy store so I could pick Austin up a birthday present. My lil man will be 4 on Tuesday, but we are waiting to have his party until Rob is home. But I wanted Austin to have at least one present to open on his actual birthday.

Speaking of his birthday, I'm seriously debating doing his 4 year old pictures due to a little incidence today.

I've been a mommy for over 6 and 1/2 years now, and never once had to visit the ER due to cuts, we've been there for everything but stitches and broken bones. Well that changed today. Austin decided to run in the front door and hit his head on the latch, so off the ER we go to get 4 stitches, and this was the end result.

Even with stitches down the middle of his forehead, he's still one of the cutest lil boys I have ever seen. Yes, I am a bit biased.

Now I'm off to bed, so I can get up bright and early to get started on my cleaning. No more procrastination for me!

A Withdrawl? I think not!

2007-09-11T15:06:00.000-07:00

"President Bush will tell the nation this week he plans to reduce the American troop presence in Iraq by as many as 30,000 by next summer, but will condition those and further cuts on continued progress."

You can continue reading the story here

Seriously, does the President think we are stupid? In reality, that is not a withdrawl, the 30,000 troops he is talking about, are the 30,000 sent over as a part of the "surge." So how can them coming home when they are supposed to be, be considered a withdrawl? They are just not going to have replacements.

When the 30,000 come home next summer, like they are supposed to, the troop level will be back at 130,000, the same amount it was before the "surge." So how is this being considered a withdrawl? A withdrawl will happen when the levels drop below 130,000, and our guys start coming home for good.

Basically after the so called "withdrawl" we are in the same place as we were before and 130,000 soldiers have been away from their family and in harms way for WAY to long.

Ok, on to a different subject, before I go spaztastic on the last subject. Of course, I'm sure everyone knows what today is. 6 years ago, my oldest son was just 6 months old. We had just woken up that morning, and as I turned on the TV, the first thing I heard was "OMG OMG a second plane has just crashed into the second tower."

What a terrifying thing to wake up too! I will admit, I was scared, scared of what was going on, scared of what was going to happen, basically scared of the unknown. I sat there and just hugged my son and began praying, and thanking my lucky stars for everything I have in my life.

The boys and I, are getting ready to go the Freedom walk

I will post some pictures of their first day of school, and pictures from the walk later.

Now I would like to share with you a few of my favorite 9/11 tributes

America Attacked

Heaven remix

Yup, I'm boring!

2007-09-08T23:24:00.002-07:00

So its Saturday night, can you guess what I did tonight? I went Grocery Shopping Yup thats right! I went shopping with my neighbor and her husband, and about half way through he proceeded to say "man Amie you are really getting old, shopping on a Saturday night, welcome to the old people club" Ummm excuse me, I'm only 26, that is soooooooooo not old. But that is a way to sink me into depression! Shesh, if Rob were here we probably would have been hanging out at home, or would have taken the boys to dinner or something, anything aside from grocery shopping.

This weekend really hasn't been that bad, however I am bouncing off the walls! Well not really, that would hurt, and the last thing I want to do is spend umpteen hours in the ER for a broken bone or something. Before this month is over, I will have my husband in my arms! I am beyond ecstatic! Of course its the Army, and we don't have an exact date just yet, but its getting close! Very close!

This afternoon, I went with my neighbor and her family to her uncles cookout. We had a good time. Her uncle is in a band, so there was live music, good food, and some cool people. The boys were excited as well, they had horses and dogs, and a go cart thing that I got stuck driving with about 8 kids sitting in the back.

Tomorrow I am going back to my neighbors(can you tell I spend quite a bit of time there? Yeah they keep me company while Rob is gone) and we are grilling out and she is making a cake, because tomorrow is her youngest sons birthday.

Speaking of birthdays, my friend got me an ice cream maker! I was totally stoked when she gave it to me! Also, tomorrow when she makes the cake, she is putting my name on it as well...I told her I wanted my own cake, but nooooooo, I have to share a cake with her son. I'm totally kidding, well not about the sharing the cake thing, but I really didn't want my own.

Then on Monday, Austin(my youngest son) starts school. Jonathon(my oldest) started last Wednesday. I will have a whole two and half hours all to myself each day And for the next few weeks until Rob gets home, I will be using that time to clean, clean, and clean some more to get everything ready for him.

I've been trying to do things to keep the boys and I busy, so on Tuesday we are going to do the Freedom Walk. I am really excited about participating in this, and I really think the boys and I will enjoy ourselves.

Lately, its been all about keeping the boys and I occupied for the next couple weeks till daddy gets home, but I'm really not used to all this running, and sometimes feel like I'm running us ragged. At least, we are having a good time, and doing stuff for good causes.

Yet Another Birthday Alone

2007-09-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well, Rob and I have been together for 7 years, and hasn't been here for my last three birthdays, I personally think the Army just likes keeping him away on my birthday, cause he is always home for his own.

So, anyways, 26 years ago today (6 September) my parents brought home this bundle of Joy

Just some thoughts

2007-09-04T00:48:00.000-07:00

"The reason it hurts so much to separate is because our souls are connected. "

This is the quote I have on my myspace

This morning when I was talking to Rob on Yahoo IM, he must have been looking at my page, because he said "it is so true what you have on your page." In March, we will be celebrating our 6th anniversary, and I have always felt like he was my soul mate.

But then I was talking to a few friends, and they stated they didn't believe in soul mates. I have to admit I was kind of shocked, but then I just wondered if its like a fairy tale? I mean is there really people out there that don't think someone in this world is their perfect match? I personally think that there is that one special person we are meant to be with, but then I stop an think, I have seen to many movies? I really don't think I have.

On a different note, I made reservations for our weekend getaway. My neighbors have graciously offered to keep the boys for a weekend while Rob is home, so we can have our alone time. I am so thrilled. I did a lot of homework for romantic getaways in the area, and I think I found a really good one. I really can't go into to much detail on here, because Rob likes to read my blog, and I'm trying so hard to surprise him.

In my own head, I am pretending this is our honeymoon as well, since we didn't get one we got married. Nothing wrong with a honeymoon almost 6 years into the marriage, right? LOL

I think I figured it out

2007-09-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Well part of it anyways. I think I have figured out why my emotions are going crazy as all get out right now.

Rob will be home for R&R in less than 30 days. And while I am thrilled about it, at the same time I am dreading it. Part of me wishes he wasn't taking leave, but I know in the end, I'll be glad he did. After leave, we'll have about 9 more months to go, I was so hoping he would get leave later in the deployment, like after the holidays. Thing is, the boys and are used to him not being around, as sad as that sounds, but since he'll be home before the holidays, I'm afraid we'll be right back in the funk of trying to get our schedule going after he has left, yet again.

And the second part of why I think I'm going a little crazy. All the wives in my neighborhood are preparing for homecoming. Now, why I know they have done their time, its just going to be weird being the only wife on the block still having a deployed husband.

For 18 days, Rob will be home, and we'll be a family again. But it will be short lived. I'm no more going to get used to being able to sleep next to him, and cuddle with him, smell him, then it will be ripped away from me.

I'm just really ready to throw in my deployment towel, and give up.

Lost

2007-09-01T06:19:00.000-07:00

Lately, I have felt more alone than I have ever felt in my life, I think I keep things pent up for so long and then I just snap. Today has been the worst day, as bad as the day he left, and I don't know what to do, I feel so close to the edge of a mental breakdown.

I hate this feeling and I feel like I have no where to turn.

Soap Opera's

2007-08-30T12:10:00.000-07:00

I used to watch my soaps like they were all that mattered during the day, but now, heck all I have to do is walk outside, I'm living in my own soap opera.

I will admit, I am one of those nosy neighbors. Not so much that I have to be up in everyones business, I guess I could be more considered a neighborhood watch.

Like for instance, the guy across the street, I've only seen his wife one time, and that was when they first moved in. He stated she was in Germany for school, but I have my suspensions that he killed her. Okay, so maybe, perhaps I watch just a bit to much TV. Its just weird that they have lived there for a year, and she's never came to visit.

Now the other one across the street, she is currently getting ready to go on a month long vacation, but without her hubby and kids. I thought it was quite odd to go on a month long vacation without your family, especially considering her hubby comes home in the middle of her vacation. This one struck me as completely odd. Why on earth would she leave for a month when her hubby, who has been gone for over year is coming home. I couldn't even begin to think about going away, and not being here for my hubbies homecoming, but to each their own I guess. And don't even get me started on the kids. I actually made a comment to her on that one, yeah she didn't like it so much. But really, what kind of mother would just leave her kids for a month? Ok, so maybe there are some out there that do it, but I never could. I've always had the thought, they are my kids, an no one should raise them but me. I can see sending them away for a weekend, or maybe even a week, but I could never send my kids away for a month, while I was off doing lord knows what.

Continuing on with the other one across the street, I think I figured out why she's going. She's planning on leaving her husband for another man Said other man used to live down the street from her, and she cheated on her hubby with him. It was quite funny when she told me this. She was like I love my husband more than anything. All I said was "Do you feel guilty about doing it?" Her response "No, not at all" My response to that "Then you really don't love your husband as much as you think you do, or you would feel extremely guilty about it" I personally think said other man is just feeding her a line of BS because he is deployed and wants someone to send him stuff, and piece of you know what when he gets home.

Ok, on with the other neighbors. There is a group of women at the other end of the block. These 3 women really trip me out. One of them was running a brothel out of her house, and the other two were working with her All three husbands have found out about it, so I'm thinking as they start arriving home from deployment in the next couple of weeks, there will be quite a bit of action. But the husbands really don't know that half of what they have been doing. One of the women is currently out of town visiting her fiance! Yup, she's married, got a boyfriend in this state, and a fiance in another state. She admitted it to me, I was like WOW!

Its so funny, all these women around here just admit stuff to me. I don't really care about their business, and stay out of it as much as possible. I guess they just figure that I keep to myself so much that I'm not going to tell anyone. Which I don't, well I guess now I have, but really its not like I'm running up and down the street with a sign in my hand with their business on it.

There you have it, some of the drama that goes on around here. It just amazes me that grown women act this way. And people wonder why I just keep to myself

Wordless Wednesday

2007-08-29T08:06:00.001-07:00

I know this is posted on the side of my page, but felt it was appropriate for today, I will be attending this young mans memorial later today.

To see more Wordless Wednesday pictures go here

#1 Reason I hate deployments

2007-08-27T23:24:00.000-07:00

So here I am trying to do my first video email to Rob, and Austin walks in pouting. I just happened to catch it on video, his dad found it hard to believe that he acts like this, since he as always been a moma's boy. I know others have it just as bad, just wanted to share.

Sorry the video isn't the greatest quality.

Dear Deployment

2007-08-26T00:13:00.000-07:00

This is a Dear Deployment I wrote shortly after my husband first deployed. I know that there are few military wives, girlfriends, and parents who read my blog, and I thought by reading my letter, perhaps it will help them write their own letter to help them.

Dear Deployment,

Well Mr. Deployment, we have only been together for almost 12 days now, on some of those days I wasn’t liking you at all, oh heck who am I am kidding, I don’t like you on any day. But, let’s face it; we are going to be spending a lot of time together over the next 15 months, so its time that we set some ground rules.

You have gotten me down in the dumps on more than one occasion so far, but I’m here to tell you, I will not let you put my life on hold!
I am not going to allow you to make me stay in bed all day, when all I want to is hide my face in the pillow and cry it out, I will get out of bed and prove to you that I can do this!
You’re not going to ruin any of our holidays! I will send Hubby letters, and presents, and the boys and I will make our holidays special even though you have decided to make a stop in our lives.
You are not going to interfere with my marriage. Rob and I are growing closer together even though you are around, and that’s not going to change. We have a strong marriage, and not even you can break that.
I will not take my anger toward you out on anyone in my family (unless they ask something stupid or say something stupid) including Rob.
I’m not going to let you mess with my friends either, go ahead and try, cause we will kick your butt together!
Also, I will not allow you to keep me from sleeping. I value what little sleep I do get, and you are not going to ruin that by making we wait up on a phone call, or IM, or email.

As you will see Mr. Deployment, I am ready to take you on, and I think these rules are pretty reasonable. You just have to remember, I am not some little girl you can just kick around and make me get down all the time. Yes I know I will have days when you get the best of me, but I will overcome you, I will tackle, I will kick your ass!!!!

Sincerely,
Amie

P.S. I can add rules as I see fit, and no matter what rule I decide on, you will abide by it.

I plan on writing deployment another letter soon, and I will post it when I do. I really hope my somewhat childish letter will make a few of you laugh, and hopefully help you write your own letters.

My awesome tip for today

2007-08-25T19:53:00.000-07:00

I learned this from a forum I visit, and thought I would share it with all of you who read my blog.

Its called cake in a jar.

1 package box cake mix of your choosing
4 pint size mason jars
cooking spray

-wash (some people boil) the mason jars and let dry.
-preheat oven according to box.
-make cake mix according to recipe on box.
-spray the inside of mason jars with cooking spray.
-fill mason jars no more than halfway.
-bake 30-35 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
-take one jar out at a time put lid then ring on tight while still hot.
-you will hear a ping sound as the jars cool. If no ping then after jar cools push down on center of lid it should not give at all. This means that it has sealed.

*send a can of frosting with the cake they can frost their own.

This is great to send to the sand box. I sent some to my husband, and he really enjoyed it. It made enough so that he could share it with some of his buddies. I've even make bread in a jar and sent it.

Seriously not cool!

2007-08-23T12:55:00.001-07:00

I would just like to start off by saying, the scariest thing for a wife or the parents of a deployed military member is a knock at the door or government vehicle diving by or parked out front.

So this morning I was up in my bedroom folding some laundry when I heard the doorbell ring. I really didn't think anything of it, because about the time it rang is typically when the boys friends knock on the door. So I just continued on with folding the laundry.

My oldest son comes running up the stairs yelling at me "Mom there are two army men at the door" My heart literally dropped to my feet. So I walk into the toy room and look out the window, sure enough there sits a government car. By this time I am starting to freak out, awful thoughts running through my head.

As calmly as I can, I walk downstairs and open the front door. "We are sorry to bother you Mrs. H" I'm standing there shaking as one of them talk. "I just wanted to introduce myself and let you know that my wife and I would be moving in next door"

Why on earth did you find it necessary to ring my doorbell in uniform with your buddy?????????? And they were in their dress uniforms, which just really made it worse. I mean seriously! Over half the guys on this post are deployed, so to knock on a door all decked out in uniform is really, really not funny not to mention parking a government car in front of my house

Now that my heartbeat as finally slowed back down, I can kind of laugh about it, but really that was scary.

Wordless Wednesday

2007-08-21T22:10:00.000-07:00

My kids, said they were thinking about daddy as they starred off into the lake

To see more Wordless Wednesday pictures go here

This and That....

2007-08-21T21:15:00.000-07:00

Today was a fairly good day. Got up early, not by choice though. But the plus side to getting up at the crack of dawn, I got my chores done before noon. The boys and I went downtown to a produce market to get some more zucchini. I am going to shred it and freeze it that way I can make zucchini bread over the winter months.

After we got home, I started dinner. I tried a new recipe tonight, and oh my gosh was it good and simple! Just took boneless, skinless chicken breasts and put them in a pan, put quartered red potatoes around it, then 1/2 cup of Italian dressing, 1 tbsp of Italian seasoning, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, then cover and bake for an hour.... So simple and tasty! I plan on making it for Rob when he comes home for R&R.

Speaking of Rob, today is the 146th day I've gone without my him. On a positive side though, I got an email from him last night, he gave me his tentative dates for R&R, a little over a month to go, and I will have my husband in my arms I am beyond excited! This deployment has made me realize just how much I take for granted, including him. I'm working on bettering myself, and our relationship. Its weird, but this deployment has made us stronger, not only as individuals, but as a couple as well. I truly believe after this deployment, we can do anything!

I was going through some pictures and I think this one is one of my favorites.

All three of my boys are just to darn handsome!

A fallen Soldier

2007-08-19T23:35:00.000-07:00

The Department of Defense has announced the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Willard M. Kerchief III, 21, of Evansville, Ind., died Aug. 16 in Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire during combat operations in Taramiyah, Iraq.

Continue reading the story here

I had the pleasure of knowing PFC Powell-Kerchief. (He legally hyphenated his last name before deployment). He often visited my neighbors on Sunday afternoons to watch NFL football games and have dinner. We would all get together and have dinner and talk. He was a kind young gentleman, and always respectful. He will be missed dearly. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends, and the soldiers who served along side PFC Powell-Kerchief.

It saddens me that one so young has paid the ultimate price for our freedom. We are proud of Willard that he would stand between us and those that wish to do us evil. In his short life he has accomplished more for the greater good than most can hope to do in a lifetime, and for this he is a role model for us and for his generation.

Relaxing Sunday

2007-08-19T20:44:00.000-07:00

Well our Sunday was great. The boys had a friend sleep over Saturday night, so they didn't crash until around midnight. Then of course after I got them to sleep, I got my second wind. So I was up surfing the web until 3ish. Then up at around 7 to let Sallie, our chocolate lab out, then back to lay down for two more hours. Then the boys decided to get up. So around 10:00 I was making French toast.

Then around noon I decided to get dinner on the stove, yes, I started dinner at noon. Today I made a cabbage casserole, very similar to cabbage rolls, but without the hassle of actually rolling the cabbage leaves. I had intended on putting it in the crock pot and just letting it sit on low all day, but due to the fact that I was still half asleep at 7, I decided against that. So I just threw everything in my cast iron dutch oven and let it simmer all afternoon. I found a great recipe online for the casserole, but added a few of my own ideas to it, and it turned out really well. I think next time however I will use sausage and hamburger.

Around 1400 I started shredding zucchini for my zucchini bread. Finally got the bread all mixed up and in the oven around 1530 (I took quite a few breaks). Then around 1730 we sat down to dinner. The casserole turned out great and the bread was excellent. I can't wait for Rob to get home, and I can cook all these wonderful things I have been learning how to make.

The boys had fun, Jonathon headed out the door shortly after lunch and spent the greater part of the day outside. He did run inside every time it started raining, which we had quite a few showers today. Austin never even got dressed today. He sat in the papasan chair all afternoon playing the X box 360.

Then after dinner they went to one of their friends house to play and I cleaned up the kitchen. After that I got them in and bathed them, then off to read a story, then bed. Speaking of reading stories, around here, we don't read stories per se, we read the letters daddy has written them. Rob has been really good about writing a letter to each of them, and they really enjoy mommy reading the letters to them. The boys also write daddy back. Jonathon of course is better at the writing than Austin, but Austin loves to draw daddy pictures.

Now I've got the boys in bed, and I'm just going to work on my cross stitching and watch Army Wives on Life time, then I'll probably head to bed, so I can get up and start laundry.

Here is a picture of Austin having his lazy Sunday.

He learned from the best

My new project

2007-08-18T22:38:00.000-07:00

Well, after a few weeks of watching movies every night after the boys go to bed, I have decided to get back into cross stitching. When I was younger, my mom and I would sit in the evenings and cross stitch. After finally picking a cross stitching project to work on, and briefly starting on it, I totally forgot how much I thoroughly enjoy cross stitching.

I chose this one for my friend, he is decorating his apartment in an Asian theme. He even has a Bonsai tree, so I thought this was really appropriate.

The Army Wife Seal

2007-08-17T01:33:00.000-07:00

The eagle at the top of the circle represents the Army Wife, who in protecting her nest, also protects the flag and the future it represents. Alert and poised, she is ready to defend either when the need arises.

As the ultimate goal of her husband's profession is peace, so it is hers. The olive branch held by the eagle represents this peace; her hope for an end to wars for her husband and her children.

The lyre, symbol of harmony, gentility and romance, surrounds the four phhases of her life that she holds dear.

	The cradle represents her children, her Mother - her own Motherhood.
	The sheaf of wheat represents the staples and stability she provides for her family - her duty.
	The grapes represent the social life, the wine, fun, sense of humor - her lighter side.
	The open book represents her individuality and personal self-fulfillment thru knowledge and wisdom. The person she is and becomes - her personal self.

The double circle enclosing all is her wedding band, symbol of eternity and never ending love. This circle is broken only by the eagle, here a symbol of her duty to country. For the Army Wife, the break in the circle represents the many separations and the possible ultimate sacrifice.

Armywives.com

Alone

2007-08-15T20:38:00.000-07:00

Do you ever just feel alone? In theory, I'm never alone, not with the boys running around. I mean "friend" wise. I'm surrounded by people, most of which are going through this deployment right along with me. Yet I feel alone.

There are only a few people I would ever really talk to, and when I say talk to, I mean indulge feelings and deep thoughts to. I suppose I put on a good show for most of them, appearing to be happy, and having it together. However, when I close the door at night, I take off my "happy face."

Most of them come to me for advice and help, which I am honored that they have chosen me, but at the same time, if they are coming to me, who do I go to? I tend to keep to myself most times, I only know a select few of my neighbors. I've lived in this house for almost 3 years now, and in those 3 years, I've said goodbye to some good friends. But now, the neighborhood is slightly run down, by other women whose husbands are deployed and they parade around acting like sluts.

Even lately, I feel like I am being shit on by a few of the neighbors I actually do know. Their kids are at my house most of the day, and end up being here for dinner. I know the one neighbor rarely cooks a good meal for her kids, so in a sense, I feel obligated to feed them. They are not my responsibility, yet how can I tell a kid who is hungry that he/she can't have any food? Then the other neighbor, her and her hubby have gotten home from work, and just left. I guess they just assumed that I would watch their child. Don't get me wrong, they have all helped out in their own little ways, but not nearly as much as I have. Yes, yes, I know we shouldn't expect anything in return, but it never hurts to wish someone actually would.

I am surrounded by people, yet all I see is blank faces. They all seem so "empty" which leaves me feeling alone.

It finally happened

2007-08-13T15:44:00.001-07:00

Well the Video Teleconference with Rob actually happened We got to the VTC center around 1045 on Saturday morning, I was so nervous that he wasn't going to be there, but he was! The boys really enjoyed being able to see daddy on the T.V. screen and be able to talk to him.

Seeing him gave me butterflies, just like 6 years ago when we first started dating. Its amazing how his voice and his smile can bring back that feeling. Anytime I get to see him or talk to him, he just reaffirms every reason I feel in love with him.

Then Sunday morning I went and picked up a fellow Cincster (www.cinchouse.com) from the airport. Her husband was out here at Lewis for the ROTC program and she needed a ride from the airport and a place to crash. My daddy always told me to lend a helping hand when ever one was needed, so I really had no problem helping her out.

Today was the ceremony, and Jamie and Brandon invited us to join them for the ceremony. It was a very nice ceremony, and we got to see Jamie pin Brandon with his 2nd Lieutenant bar. The boys enjoyed the ceremony as well, especially when they fired the canons. What can I say, I truly do have two military brats.

Next month Rob will be home for R&R, so the boys and I are getting extremely excited about that. Granted we will have longer to go before the end of the deployment, but it will be awesome to see our soldier.

Many people ask me how I deal with Rob being "over there." Honestly, I just take it day by day, heck some days are minute by minute. Deployments are not an easy thing to go through, no matter how long it is. I hate the fact that Rob had to go, but I have complete faith in my husband, and I know he'll do whatever it takes to come back home to us. To be completely honest, I couldn't be more proud of my husband for doing a job that he loves and protecting everything he believes in.

Shall we try again? Sure why not

2007-08-09T22:13:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I got another email from my FRG leader. Saying that Rob and I had been selected, yet again, to have a VTC. I called her and asked if it was really going to happen this time Then I emailed Rob and asked him if he was going to stand us up again. I know it really wasn't his fault, but I can still pick on him. So my FRG leader was just asking if I can make it on Saturday, and I was like yeah, I only live like 2 minutes from the VTC center, so its not like I have to go out of my way or its an inconvenience to go up there. Supposedly they are going to check and double check tomorrow that he can be there, so before I get to excited about it, I'm just going to keep the mindset that he isn't so I don't get disappointed again.

This lil guy here, is kind of what I looked like last weekend walking away from the building.

On a side note, my kids are driving me insane. My friend always says "why drive, its a short walk" HAHA. It just seems that no matter what I do, they are constantly at each other's throats. We are only a little over 4 months into this deployment and I am seriously tired of being a "single mom" yes I know I'm not, but right now it just really feels like it. I hate being the only one disciplining, bathing, putting to bed, cooking, cleaning I mean don't get me wrong, I love my kids more than anything, it would just be nice to not have to be the only one raising them 24-7.

Meet my Family

2007-08-08T22:29:00.000-07:00

Well I wanted to post some pictures of us.

First we have Austin. My youngest, he's 3, he'll be 4 in September. Austin is getting ready for his 2nd year of Pre-school, and he loves it. He loves the typical boy stuff, games, riding bikes, fishing, GI Joe's, and getting dirty, well aside from his hands, he can't stand for his hands to have anything on them. Oh and he royally hates bugs. He gets that from his daddy, Rob is terrified of spiders.

Here is my oldest, Jonathon, he is 6. He's getting ready to go into first grade and is super excited about it. He enjoys doing stunts on his bike (scaring mommy half to death), playing with swords and guns (fake of course), playing with his friends and playing video games.

Now we have me, I'm 25, will be 26 in September. I enjoy reading, surfing the web, blogging, designing web pages, cross stitching, walks, watching college football, camping and spending time with my hero and family.

Last but least, we have our hero, Rob. He is 32 and serving in the Army. He has been in for 10 years now, and loves what he does. Rob enjoys playing video games, fishing with his kids, reading at times, camping, and spending time with his family. This picture was taken while he was eating his dinner in Iraq. Yummy

Rumor Control

2007-08-06T23:49:00.001-07:00

Well it appears that some of the spouses in our battalion have become obsessed with starting rumors about others. I personally thought they would be kind of busy worrying about their husbands and families, but it seems they have become bored and decided to start rumors.

So I heard that Rob and I are getting divorced. WOW that is news to me, I would have thought that we would have been the first ones to know, but apparently not. And according to the rumors, its a good clean divorce, no fighting over who gets what or how much.....So I suppose thats a good thing.

While I will be the first to admit, our marriage is FAR from PERFECT, but we are not having problems.

Disappointment

2007-08-06T16:03:00.000-07:00

Well I had a big disappointment over the weekend. Last Wednesday my friend and I were driving back from Spokane, and I got a phone call from my FRG leader stating that Rob and I had been picked to have a VTC (video teleconference). I immediately got a gut instinct telling me it wasn't going to happen.

The last time I had talked to Rob, he was getting ready to leave the FOB (forward operations base) and go out on missions for an extended period of time. And I knew that he wasn't due back yet. But still I woke up Saturday morning and got the boys ready to go, I never told them where we were going though, I didn't want them to get disappointed.

We arrived at the VTC center here on post, and when I walked in the 1st Sgt was there. I told him I had a gut feeling that Rob didn't know about the VTC and that I didn't even think he was there. Well after sitting there for about 20 minutes he came out "Amie, I'm so sorry but Sgt Hodgin isn't there" and all I could say was, yeah I really figured that, but I thought it was best I show up just in the slight chance he was there.

While I never really got my hopes up, I have to admit, I was still disappointed. I emailed Rob and asked him if he even knew about it. This was the response I got from him.

"Yeah, I was told that it was canceled before we came out here. I never told you about it cause I was told that it was canceled. I was also looking forward to it. I hope that the boys were not too disappointed.

We only have a few more weeks and I will be home, yeeehaw. I hope that the boys will be too busy with school and holidays to miss me as much as they have the past few months. I think that the time is longer but will go bye faster.

Well I have to go for now.
Love,
Rob"

If everything goes as planned (which we all know with the military planning sucks butt) then my husband will be home for R&R soon, really soon! I had shirts made for the boys and I to wear when we pick him. I really hope he likes them.

You can see the shirts here:

http://www.cafepress.com/silentranksshop.152926120

Just getting started

2007-08-06T00:47:00.000-07:00

Well, my husband as been gone roughly 4 and half months so far. And I am just now getting around to starting a blog. He was ADVON, so he left a few weeks earlier than the rest of his company. While it sucked for him to leave early, his was a great thing for him to do for his career.

Over the last 131 days, we have had some good times, bad times, and just some really really crappy times. Having kids has really made the deployment that much harder for us. While we knew that Rob would eventually get deployed, it was surreal when it finally came time. Our kids, Jonathon (6) and Austin (3) have handled the deployment like little troopers. There's been nights when the 3 of us have sat and cried because of missing daddy so much, then there are other times when we just talk quite a bit about him. I have pictures everywhere of him, and they write letters and draw pictures for daddy all the time.

Not even a month into the deployment Robs company suffered a few losses. A few of the men I knew personally, others I just knew names. One of the soldiers lost, happened to be someone really close to my husband and I.

We have been at Fort Lewis since March of 2005. And every year for the holidays my house was filled with soldiers who couldn't make it home. Actually this year I am worried about what I am going to do for Thanksgiving, not having 20+ guys to cook for has me feeling a bit depressed. One of the soldiers we lost had spent many times with us over the last two and half years, and his death really hit me hard. I actually found out about his death on Memorial Day. My neighbor, whose husband was also deployed with mine, came over and asked if I had seen the DoD release of names, it was then that she told me about the death of Cpl Mathew LaForest. He was a good kid, and his death affected many of us.

Well, I think this is enough for now. I plan on posting another blog later to catch everyone up on things to get my blog up to date.