Life With My Soldier

2010-02-18T18:51:00.001-08:00

Well it's been 6 months since I last posted. I don't even know if anybody checks here anymore. Everything is going good here. The baby is growing and getting big. It's a GIRL! YAY! Her name is Alyssa Renee. I've had to get a few ultrasounds since I've had seizures, which was fine by me, cause we got to see her which is always wonderful. She's doing good though and everything is just fine. I had another seizure at the beginning of Dec so they put me back on medicine. I am almost 31 weeks and starting at 32 weeks I have to start getting no stress tests done twice a week until I deliver. I can't believe she's almost here already. They were a month off on the due date, they figured it wrong so I'm due April 25.

Eric is doing good. He started his new unit in December and he really likes it there. They are busy though with a change of command and that has taken up a lot of his time. Today was the change of command ceremony though so maybe it'll get back to normal. They are supposed to go for a while to another post and it'll be around my due date if they do end up going so I'm hoping they'll cancel that. We'll see, it'll all work out though.

Ryan is getting very big. He turned two at the end of last month. I just can't believe how fast time goes and how big they get so quickly. He's such a wonderful little boy though and I couldn't have asked for a better son. I love him to pieces. He's going to be a wonderful big brother. He gives my tummy kisses and gives his little I love you sign to her. It's so adorable.

Anyways, if anyone does read this sorry it's been so long. Life sure does get away from me sometimes and time goes so quickly it's ridiculous!

2009-08-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm not around much. Life is busy busy. Eric is in training now. It takes up a lot of time, as we all know :) Ryan will be 19 months this week. He's growing like a weed and he's so adorable. He's beautiful. I would post pictures but well my camera is broken and I haven't gotten a new one yet. He's learning like crazy and is the sweetest little boy I've ever come across. Not that I'm partial or anything. I got some news last week, I'm pregnant again. I went to the dr today and found out I'm further along than I thought even. I'm 9 weeks and 3 days and I'm due on March 26, '10, which just happens to be my brother's bday. We're super excited. Anyways, I hope everybody is doing good.

2009-06-25T06:55:00.000-07:00

Well I had a long post typed out and lost it. I'll boil it down this time.

We're good. Been busy. I'm ready to stay home. I haven't had any seizures since April and I have an appt the 2nd of July. I'm going to see if he'll take me off the medicine they have me on. One of the side effects of that medicine is if you get pregnant it can cause fetal alcohol syndrome systems to the baby. Ryan is doing good. He's getting so big. He's almost 17 months. He's been dusting this morning lol.

We went on a cruise to Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. I don't recommend Jamaica but would definitely go back to the Bahamas. We were chaperone's on my sister's senior trip.

I have a beautiful neice. She was born May 15. She was 6lbs 9oz 20 inches long. Her name is Makenzie Reece. She's absolutely beautiful.

Eric is now a 2LT. I'm so proud of him. He starts his training next month.

My brother with is baby girl. He's such a proud daddy. He's cute with her. She looks like a dot on his chest :)

2009-05-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

Time just flies by these days. Eric gets commissioned tomorrow, I'm so proud of him! He graduates from school next Friday. His brother will be in tonight. I just can't tell you how proud I am of him! He has worked so hard and has accomplished so much.

My baby boy is 15 months old now. He's growing like a weed. He had a checkup today and he's in the 82% for his height and the 48% for his weight. He's beautiful and I can't believe how fast he's growing. He talks up a storm and has the cutest little things he does. Eric whistles ALL the time (it's a joke with my family lol) and Ryan has picked up on that and tries to whistle. It's the cutest thing. He also folds his arms and snorts lol. He says bumma and bumpa for Grandma and Grandpa. Oh I love that little boy.

I had two more seizures on the 22. My mom stayed with me for about a week and took care of me. They have no idea what's wrong with me. I have to wait 2 months before the neurologist can get me in, so we'll see.

My brother's wife is due with their baby girl any day now. I can't wait to meet my neice! I'm kinda hoping that she waits until the 6th to come, that was my Dad's birthday, I think that would be neat.

2009-04-01T22:04:00.000-07:00

It's been a while but thought I'd post since KBUG was asking about me :) I've been doing ok, just busy taking care of my baby. He's getting so big. He's already 14 months old. Wow! His hair is super curly and oh so cute. He brings me so much joy. Watching him grow is better than I could have ever imagined.

We got good news, we will be stationed here at least 3 more years after Eric graduates next month and goes through his training. We are flying his brother in from AK to be here for his pinning and graduation. It's been 11 years since they've seen each other. My sister is engaged to marry her high school sweetheart. They are so wonderful together and he's just an amazing guy for her. I'm thrilled. My sister-in-law will be having my little neice the end of this month or the beginning of next. I'm so excited to meet her. Her name is Makenzie Reece. I made a couple cakes, one for my brother's bday and one for the baby shower last week. At the baby shower there was a lady there who does cakes professionally. The next day she asked for my number so she can give it to people to call for their cakes instead of her. I thought that was awesome. I love making cakes! I hope it works out.

2009-01-15T13:55:00.000-08:00

Adding to what I had to say in my entry yesterday:

On my Dad's anniversary my brother ended up coming down as well. He sent me a text and said, "I sure wish I could have Buffalo Wild Wings" I sent him one back "You could if you came down" He sent one, "OK" and rung the doorbell. It was such a nice surprise. So everyone, except his wife, were together for one of the hardest days in our lives. I just doesn't seem possible. Living a year without my Dad just doesn't seem possible. Also, Courtney, in case you still read the blog, THANK YOU so very much for your thoughtfulness! She did such an amazing thing for me. She sent me this on the anniversary:

2009-01-14T20:53:00.000-08:00

I went to the dr Monday, it's not my blood sugar or my thyroid. Who knows? I have to go Friday for all-day testing. I hope that test comes back good and then everything will be clear. Then I just have to wait 6 months to drive again.

My baby boy will be 1 year old in 14 days. Where does the time go? He's growing like a weed and he's the sweetest little boy. He loves giving kisses. He talks all the time. He loves helping his mommy. He says, mama all the time. He's started saying "uh oh", "bye bye", and "book" book sounds like boo. He's so laid back, he reminds me of his Grandpa Tommy. Oh I just love him!

2009-01-09T18:24:00.000-08:00

I've been very sick this week. On Monday morning I had a seizure. It was the first one I've ever had in my life. My sister and her bf were here. They called 911 and the ambulance came and got me. I was in there for two nights. I had all sorts of tests ran on me, thank God for insurance! Today I went and got more blood work done. Next Friday I'm supposed to have a prolonged EEG test done. So, I'll have to be at the neurologists office all day long. But, I think we figured out what it is. This morning I had a terrible headache and nothing was getting rid of it. I had a craving for m&m's, so we got some and my headache went away. Then Eric remembered that in the emergency room the nurse mentioned that my blood sugar was low. So I looked it up and it says that can cause seizures. My mom talked to the nurse that comes to her work and she said it sure can. She also told her that I've been extremely cold and tired for a long time and the nurse said that can cause that too. So, I'm going to call my dr on Monday and see if they'll test me for that and hopefully I won't have to have the EEG thing done.

Tomorrow will be a year since my Daddy passed away. I really can't believe it. I don't want to believe it. I miss him. I still haven't dealt with his passing. I don't want to. I miss him with every part of me. My mom, sister and her bf are coming down tomorrow. I wish my brother was too but I guess his wife's family is having a family reunion tomorrow too so he can't. Where did the year go? Why does he have to be gone? My only solice is knowing that he's in Heaven not suffering anymore. At least he's getting to roll down those big hills that he always dreamed of. So, to the best Daddy that ever did walk this earth, THANK YOU! You are such an inspiration to me and I love you more than words can ever express.

2008-12-18T18:21:00.000-08:00

My baby is starting to walk! He took his first steps last week, but he'll only walk when we make him lol. He's so cute. I have video of him, but can't get it to load up on here. He's such a joy. We have our Christmas tree baby proofed in a ghetto fashion. It's in the corner, behind a baby gate that has a big Army duffel bag and watering can behind it and a coffee table and stand in front of it. Whatever works! He's also getting his top two teeth, just in time for Christmas lol. He also jabbers constantly. My mom said I did the same thing lol. He said bye bye the other day and he says "up" for the puppy. He'll be 11 months in 10 days. How did that happen? I love him so much.

Eric's done with this semester of college, only one to go! One more semester and he'll be commissioned as an Officer and be back on regular active duty. I'm so proud of him, he's working so hard. He's still considered active duty and gets the regular pay right now, but I'm ready for him to be done with school. It's a lot of work. Right now, he's working on putting tile in our bathroom. I painted it yesterday and he's been putting the tile backer in. He's been wanting to do this since we moved in. It's going to be beautiful.

It doesn't seem like Christmas time to me. Not having my dad here to celebrate with makes it hard. Next month will be a year since he passed. On the 29th of this month him and my mom would have celebrated 30 years of marriage. I miss him. They say it gets better with time, but sometimes it hurts just as bad as it did the day it happened. Which brings me to ask, who says that and what do they know? Anyways, it's also Ryan's first Christmas which makes it difficult too. It's in the Lord's hands though, He'll lead us through.

2008-11-25T20:02:00.001-08:00

We adopted a dog, he's a Golden Retriever/German Shepard. He's beautiful and so laid back it's ridiculous. He's a year old, so he's already grown. He just lays there and lets Ryan step on him and pull his ears and fur. He's the perfect dog for a baby. We named him Copper from The Fox and The Hound. This is the first dog my husband's ever had, isn't that sad? I think it is.
I'm going back to school next semester. Lord help me.

Thanksgiving is day after tomorrow. It's our first holiday without my dad. I miss him terribly and today was one of the worst days I have ever had. I can't wait to climb into bed and forget this day ever happened. Thank God for a loving, caring, understanding husband.

My baby will be 10 months old on Friday. Wow.

2008-10-12T18:14:00.000-07:00

Today is our 6 year anniversary! It has been the best 6 years of my life being with the man of my dreams. I love him very much and look forward to spending the rest of my life with him. We went and watched the movie Fireproof, I definitely recommend it! It's a Christian movie and totally clean. First time they've come out with one of them for a very long time! Two thumbs up!

Today is also my Grandma Jean's 70th birthday! We had her a surprise party yesterday. She had never had one before. She enjoyed herself so much and it went wonderfully. We all pitched in and got her a digital camera and one of those printers that you put your memory card into and print your pictures. She's gonna have a ball! She's the cutest grandma, I just love her to pieces! I made the cake myself from scratch. I enjoy doing that, too bad it has to get eaten.

2008-10-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

My baby boy is 8 months old now. He's growing so fast, but I just love the age he's at. He's learning so much so fast. I just love it. Today he was running round and round the coffee table lol. I don't think it'll be too long before he's walking. I was taking his socks off and told him he had stinky feet and he just cracked up laughing. He laughed and laughed it was so cute! I even called my mom so she could hear since she was having a bad day, she definitely brightened up. I love how babies are so easily pleased and they don't need big fancy things to amuse them. Oh I love love love this age. He's such a joy.

My absolute favorite picture of my two favorites

2008-09-25T10:44:00.001-07:00

My sister is 18 now. We threw her a surprise party, I don't think she was surprised lol. It was kinda hard that day, to be expected. My brother had to work and couldn't be at the party. We surprised her again when we were at the restaurant when her bf brought her in. She was really surprised then and really appreciated it. Another surprise came for her when our brother was able to get off work and showed up to surprise her too. She cried. It was very special that he was able to be there. Eric, Ryan and I bought her a necklace with her birthstone in it. She loved it, so do I lol. I can't believe she's 18. I remember the day she was born. I was so excited. It was late at night and I was sleeping. My dad woke me up and we all loaded up in the car (which was new by the way and they stacked tons of towels in the front seat for reasons I didn't understand for a long time lol). We went over to the hospital that was 15 mins away. There was nobody to sit with my brother or I. We were so tired and started to fall asleep and this creepy guy came in and told us, "it's ok to go to sleep". Well that was enough for the both of us, we were wide awake then. I started bouncing off the walls and then my dad came in and told us we had a little sister. My brother was mad and sat there sulking. They brought her down the hall and he wouldn't come out and see her. I did though and she was so beautiful. I fell in love. She's been a blessing from the moment she entered my life and I couldn't ask for a better sister. I love her! She's the bestest Bisty never!

I made this cake for her, homemade I'm pretty proud of the way it turned out, hours of labor went into this lol

Oh, I'm so excited!!!! My baby boy said his first word today, "mama"!!!! I was hoping it would be mama. I was pushing dada more but hoping for mama lol. I love that little boy! He's a beautiful wonderful miracle and I thank God for him.

My brother and his wife are going to have a baby! She sadly lost the last baby. He/she is up in heaven with his/her Grandpa Tommy. She was about 5 weeks when she lost that baby. They never even got to go to the dr. They lost it before she could go to the dr. So, when they found out they were expecting again we all waited to tell people to make sure this baby would be ok. It was heartbreaking enough without having to go back and tell everyone. Well they went to the dr yesterday. The heartrate was 150 and she's due May 13. I can't wait! Hopefully she'll have it a little early and have it on his/her Grandpa's bday, May 6.

2008-09-17T11:36:00.000-07:00

My beautiful sister won homecoming queen last Friday. She's the most beautiful queen I've ever seen. I'm so very proud of her. The only downside to the evening was her bf didn't get king. For some odd reason people voted her as queen and not her bf as king. It doesn't seem right. I felt bad for her, she was torn. I don't blame her. But, she deserved it. She's doing everything she can this year. She's on the yearbook staff, secretary of her class, she's planning a senior trip, you name it she's involved this year. I'm so proud of her. A few years ago she was hanging out with the not-so-good crowd. The girls she hung out with were not good influences on her. She met her bf, Colter. He was the best thing that ever could have happened to her. God definitely put him in her life to get her away from the old friends. I love that guy for her. I couldn't have picked a better guy. While we were in WA he went over to my mom's house to make sure she was ok and ask if she needed anything, so sweet! Anyways, back to homecoming... The girls had to have their father/father figure walk with them to give them to their escorts. My brother walked with my sister. It was an emotional time for us. I felt sad for her. She has so many things coming up in her life that should involve dad. I'm very glad she has my brother, but it's not the same. It can't be the same. I didn't put a picture of the guy who won king because, quite frankly, I don't have one. I was in shock after Colter didn't win and I didn't get a picture.

2008-09-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

Well Jenn did this a while back and I just wanted to see if I could come up with 101 things about myself, so here goes:

1. My nickname given by my dad was Puddin' Shack
2. My nickname by my brother growing up was Thi's Thoul
3. My dad wrote me a song, it went as follows: "I love my Puddin' Shack, because she scratches my back, and that is why I love my Puddin' Shack, Smack, Snack, Shack"
4. I miss my dad more than anything in the whole wide world, he's been gone 8 months today
5. I listened to a song he wrote "My Family" last night, I cried
6. My nickname from my sister is Bisty
7. My husband and mom call me Chelle. Eric introduces me as Chelle, I have to tell people it's actually Michelle
8. I collect ink pens, I love them
9. I love folding baby clothes, they're so tiny and cute
10. I love the smell of a clean house
11. Clutter bothers me
12. I love being an Army wife
13. My husband and I met online
14. Next month we'll celebrate our 6 year anniversary
15. I have lost 110 lbs in 2 years, 105 before in a year, before I got pregnant and what I gained plus 5 lbs since I've had the baby
16. I've worked my butt off to do so, literally
17. I love working out now
18. I love 70's rock music, Bob Seger, Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, Jackson Browne ect.... My dad kinda ingrained that in our heads :)
19. Jackson Browne is coming to the state in Oct, I would like to go
20. I've seen Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top in concert--They are both AWESOME
21. I love seeing elderly couples holding hands, it's so cute
22. Growing up I always wanted a relationship like my parents, my dad always lit up when he saw my mom
23. I now have that kind of relationship, I love it!
24. I have an associates degree, I have started on my bachelor's but it's on hold until my
child(ren) are older
25. My goal in life has always been to first and foremost be a wife and mommy
26. I never quite got how much work babies really are until I had my own
27. I had a wonderful pregnancy and hope that any others to come are just as wonderful
28. There's nothing I love more than looking into my baby's baby blues
29. I have worked at 2 convenience stores and a newspaper
30. I really liked my job at the newspaper, except they were very biased and that drove me crazy
31. I love to write
32. I love to read
33. I live by my dad's motto, Family First
34. I haven't been able to sleep the past 2 weeks, Ryan won't let me
35. I have no idea why
36. I have noticed myself becoming more like my mom
37. I don't think that's a bad thing
38. My favorite color is purple
39. My birthstone is Emerald
40. I love that color too
41. Growing up I looked up to my brother
42. He was very mean to me
43. He has apologized several times, it's ok, I forgive him
44. I'm 5'7
45. I love spending time with my husband and son
46. I love baking
47. I'm going to be an aunt next May
48. I can't wait
49. My inlaws drive me crazy
50. They never call to check on my husband, I'm glad my family isn't like that
51. I don't tell my husband that they drive me crazy, that would be rude
52. I don't enjoy shopping
53. My middle name is Lee
54. Three of my cousin's middle names are also Lee
55. We named my baby after my brother and dad
56. I drive a Jeep Liberty
57. It's completely paid off, that makes me happy
58. I wish for nothing more than my son to be happy and healthy
59. I try my best to live my life for the Lord
60. He is my Savior
61. I like to fish
62. I was very clutzy as a child
63. I believe Tae Bo has helped me with that
64. I have many questions about the timing of my dad's passing
65. I know he's much better off
66. It still hurts
67. I used to have my tongue pierced
68. I took it out several years ago
69. What was I thinking?
70. I'm picky about the length of the arms on my tshirts
71. I hate my arms
72. I love sappy love stories
73. My sister is homecoming candidate, I'm so proud of her!
74. Drinking hot cocoa on a cold day is wonderful
75. I adore my husband
76. He never ceases to amaze me
77. I wish I could have found a solution for winged scapula for my daddy
78. I tried with ever ounce of me
79. Dad used to get sad everytime we would say we had to go home
80. We had to give him a day's notice
81. He still got sad
82. My family is very close
83. I love taking pictures
84. My husband and I went to Maui after he got back from his deployment
85. That was the longest year of my life
86. It made our relationship even stronger
87. I pray he doesn't have to go back
88. My mom is the strongest woman I know, I admire her so much
89. I went 4-wheeling at the river for the first time this summer
90. It was fun
91. I have a cat named Gizmo
92. He lives with my mom
93. I love the Americana decor
94. Watching as my son grows brings me so much joy
95. I have a hard time making close friends
96. I'm very shy and reserved
97. My best friend (outside my family) lives in GA now
98. I hope we're stationed together again someday
99. Our son's are almost 2 months apart
100. Nothing makes me happier than being with the one's I love
101. This was a lot harder than I thought it would be

2008-09-07T19:22:00.000-07:00

I'm frustrated with myself. I feel like I've not been myself for quite some time. I feel like I need answers. I need to open my heart and hear God. Ever since I lost my dad and had Ryan and everything else that's gone on in my life I just feel like I haven't allowed myself the opportunity to be. I have a serious addiction to the scale, I weigh myself approximately 6 times a day (yes, every day). I fear weight gain. I know it's not healthy to be obsessed with it. There's only so much a person can do. I exercise every day, I eat right, I don't drink pop, I usually rarely eat sweets (although that's another thing I'm mad at myself for lately, I've had a never-ending sweet tooth). In total since I began my journey when Eric was deployed I have lost 110 lbs. I have worked so hard to get to this point. I'm happy with where I'm at on the scale. I just know that gaining it back isn't an option. However, if all of that doesn't keep my weight down perpetually weighing myself isn't going to help now is it? So, I'm taking back control of myself, to include my mind. I put up the scale so it doesn't call my name every time I walk into the bathroom. I'm seeking the Lord's help. I believe that with His help I will find the answers I seek. I will find my groove again. I just have to clear my head and regain control of myself. With God ALL things are possible!

2008-09-03T11:29:00.001-07:00

Why is it that people in customer service jobs don't seem to realize they are in CUSTOMER SERVICE jobs? It's irritating to me to be "helped" by someone who is rude and acts like they could care less about their jobs and the people they are helping. The least you can do is pretend to be friendly for pete's sake. I've had my fair share of jobs that I haven't particularly liked, but I still slapped a smile on my face and greeted them with courtesy.

So the other day we went to my grandma's house. Mom mom needed her oil change. I offered to have Eric take it and get it changed. He would have bought the stuff and did it himself but there was no place to do it at my grandma's. We go to the store, drive around back give them the keys. Eric says to do just the basic oil change and to put the high mileage stuff in. They tell us it's going to take 3 HOURS! Well I wanted to leave but Eric really wanted to get it done for my mom so we waited, and waited and waited. When it was finally finished we go to pay. They charged us $52! They did the whole shabang, not the basic change. We both were mad and both tried to argue with them but the lady was so rude. So, Eric goes to pay and she looks up at me and says, "Next time tell him to change his own oil!" Are you kidding me?! Well, needless to say, they won't be getting our business any longer. Eric always changes our oil here at home. We simply needed a service provided that time. Neither of us asked for attitude.

So, if you're going to work in customer service, service the customer without attitude. Without being rude and hateful. Do your JOB, what you're paid for.

2008-08-28T11:38:00.000-07:00

My baby is 7 months old today. He's grown so much and I just can't believe that 7 months has passed already. I don't know where the time goes. He's already so independent, he wants to do everything himself and he's such a busy-body. Into everything he can get his hands on. He's laid back most of the time and everybody we come across says, "wow, what a good baby!" He's so handsome and I swear is a spitting image of his daddy. He's been the biggest blessing through the worst time of my life. I pray everyday that I am the mom that he needs me to be. The one who makes him feel better when he's hurt. The one who teaches him right and wrong and how to be a decent human being who grows up to be a productive member of society. The one who teaches him about Jesus and how to serve the Lord. He is the most wonderful baby and his daddy and I couldn't be more proud of him.

2008-08-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

I remembered, so here are the pictures. I do have to say that I didn't take all that many pictures for two reasons: 1. I didn't feel like it 2. My camera lens is acting up

Graduation ceremony

Reunited and it feels so good

The Space Needle, it really is a beautiful sight
A family photo at the Space Needle
My sister, she almost blended with this building
This is at home, but he's such a big boy in his high chair Ryan is also starting to crawl, where in the world did the time go?!

2008-08-18T20:33:00.001-07:00

It's late and I'm still very tired, but we just got our internet back working this evening so thankfully I've been able to get on here and catch up a little (very little, but still).

We made it back from our trip safely. It was definitely not a smooth trip and I wouldn't recommend flying with an infant to anybody. I mean, it's shorter than driving, but that's about the only pro I can think of at the moment. Ryan did ok, he slept that majority of the time but hauling all his stuff (to include a stroller that he refused to ride in) all over creation was taxing. Not to mention, my sister's afraid to fly. Our plane was delayed. By the time we got there I was so tired I went to the wrong rental car counter. We got lost. Ryan would not sleep when we finally got the hotel (I got 3 hrs that night). The next morning was ok, we went to the graduation and got Eric (YAY!). Our flight out wasn't until 11:30 p.m. so we went to Seattle and piddled around. We went to the space needle (I'll post pictures later, if I can remember). It's very pretty there. Well from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. is a long time to piddle and Seattle is expensive, so we went to the airport at 6:30. From 6:30 to 11:30 in an airport is an even longer time. It's even longer when the plane is delayed until 12:30. It's even longer when your sister complains about sitting in the airport for that long and it's even longer when she goes to look at magazines and ends up calling you telling you she accidentally left the secured part and can't get in until you bring her boarding pass and you get mad at her lol.

When we boarded the plane a guy comes running back and about knocks Ryan out of Eric's arms so he can get to the bathroom to throw up (he's drunk). Then the guy across the isle from us throws up all over himself. At least the first guy had the decency to go to the bathroom. Geez. So, the flight attendants put coffee on it (surprisingly it did work a little) and made him use his blanket to cover it. Oh how lovely. I really think they should have kicked them off the plane but what do I know?

We made it home safely though and Ryan only woke up once on the flight to Dallas. A long long long trip, but we're home and back together. I'm so glad. I'm still resting up from a long month but at least I'm getting to rest. It's so nice to have him home. It's so nice to be back together and to see my two handsomes interact together. I love it, it's the way it's supposed to be.

Looking on the bright side

2008-08-04T10:51:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't necessarily been doing this I thought I'd dedicate this post to things that are on the bright side of my life:

I just LOVE the song "In Color" by Jamey Johnson. It's wonderful. If you haven't heard it you should check it out at cmt.com. I'm just sayin' lol.

7 days til we see Eric :)

We had my mom a surprise party last Thursday. I made her a homemade cake, my first one. It turned out pretty darn good, if I do say so myself. (By the way, my baby boy hates the little birthday blower things, they scare him in a big way lol.)

Ryan's naps have been lasting longer the past couple days, giving me a little more time to rest.

I tried on pants Saturday, my size doesn't fit me, I had to get a SMALLER size! YAY!

I've lost 7 lbs since Eric left. (Stress, it does a body good dun dun dun lol.)

2008-07-29T19:20:00.000-07:00

I actually have a couple free minutes tonight. Ryan went to bed a little early and I was able to get a shower and fix my hair (which, by the way, I love having to take a shower and fix my hair at 9 p.m. so that in the morning it's all screwed up again). Ryan's 6 month appt is tomorrow. I'm very curious to find out how much my little guy is weighing these days and how long he is. He's already as tall as my brother's SIL's baby who is 6 weeks older than him and taller than my friend's baby who is 2 months older. His daddy is fairly tall though and there's tall genes on both sides of the family (Eric had a great uncle that was 7 ft). My dad was 6'2" and so the potential is there. I can't believe how quickly he's developing either. He is starting to scoot himself, he sits like a champ and today I was playing with him on the floor and he used my leg and pulled himself to his feet.

I'm so irritated. You would think that technology today would be a little more durable, but no. We were leaving my mom's this morning and I was carrying out the camcorder/camera bag. Well it wasn't closed, they fell out. I get home and find that the camcorder deleted everything off the disc that's in there. I had recorded everything Ryan's been doing since Eric left on there. I had also recorded Eric reading a bedtime story to Ryan that I've been playing for him. All gone now. It's so frustrating. However, since I can't do anything about it, I've been re-recording the things for Eric. Here's Ryan's 6 month picture and a picture of Ryan with his Uncle Matt.

I went into a Christian everything store yesterday with my sister to pick out my mom a birthday present (her birthday is the 31st) and the lady in there is the nicest lady I've ever met. I've known her forever and she used to work with my brother and adores him. I had Ryan and she held him while we looked around just adoring him. She told him he could stay and couldn't believe how laid back he was. Anyways, when we got up to the register she asked how my mom was doing and whatnot and then asked if Ryan had an uncle to spoil him. It breaks my heart cause you know most people ask if they have a grandpa to do the spoiling but she knew so rephrased the question. I sure miss my daddy. Well I guess I can quit rambling now. Keep a girl from the computer long enough and this is what happens lol. Sorry if I bored you.

2008-07-25T13:18:00.000-07:00

Well I have to make this fast. Ryan's down for a nap and his naps don't last long, usually 15 mins tops and I've already spent about 10 of them. I'm tired, exhausted actually. We have 17 days left til we see Eric again. My sister, Ryan and I are going to fly out and see him graduate. I'm excited/nervous. I don't know about flying with a baby but it'll be ok. We've spent some time with my family but came home today. I don't want to get on their nerves ya know? Of course my mom just can't get enough of her little baby boy. He's getting so big. He'll be 6 months this coming week. Where has it gone? Well, speaking of the little guy, he's up. So, I'm off.

Sleep, please give me some sleep!

2008-07-15T21:49:00.000-07:00

A lady I used to work with always quoted this verse when I was having a bad day: "This too shall pass". I've been saying that a lot this past week lol. One week down, 4 to go.

2008-07-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

Eric's gone. He left yesterday morning. Ryan is already keeping me occupied. Although time's going by extremely slow. It's only been a day but it feels like a month already lol. Oh geez. Sometimes the life of a military wife just isn't all it's cracked up to be. That's alright though, Eric's definitely worth it :) I was planning on going to my mom's house but Ryan's in a terrible mood today (thank God for naps) so figured it best to stay home and deal with it here instead of there. With Eric gone the house is so super quiet. I'm kinda worried that Ryan will get scared of people lol. Of course I take him around people but at the house there's nobody but him and me. I taped Eric reading a bedtime story to Ryan so that I can play it for him so he doesn't forget his voice. Last night he woke up and wouldn't go back to sleep so I played it for him and his eyes got really wide and he smiled real big and started looking around for his daddy. It was so cute. He loves his daddy. Boy do I hope this time goes quickly.

Today is also six months since my daddy passed away. Half a year without the strongest most wonderful man I've ever met. Just doesn't seem possible. I don't want it to be possible. I still find myself waiting on him to come back or looking for him every time we go to mom's. I miss him terribly.

2008-07-06T07:38:00.000-07:00

Eric, my sister, her bf, brother, sil and I went to the Lynyrd Skynyrd concert on the 4th. It was awesome. I sure wish my dad would have been able to be there with us. He seen the originals 3 times when he was younger. Afterwards they had the most beautiful fireworks display I've ever seen. It was awesome. I'm definitely glad that we were able to go and that my wonderful mom offered to babysit for us so that we could. I'm very thankful for my family. My sister and mom left this morning. Eric, Ryan and I have 2 more full days together before he leaves for a month. I'm not looking forward to this, not one little bit.

And just because I'm in love with this little boy...

2008-07-01T11:58:00.001-07:00

Please keep my brother and sister-in-law in your prayers. She lost the baby this morning.

2008-06-30T10:17:00.000-07:00

I'm gonna be an Aunt! My brother and sister-in-law announced yesterday that they are expecting their first baby. They just found out yesterday too. My brother asked if he could wake Ryan up but before I could answer he woke up anyways. So Matt took him outside and then next thing I know they're walking through the front door with Ryan holding pink and blue balloons with "gonna be a cousin" written on them lol. She went today and they said her expected due date is March 6. I'm very happy for them. Eric's brother has 2 daughters, but they live in Alaska and I've never met them. So this will be my first real nephew or niece. Funny thing is, we weren't even going to come down this weekend. Things beyond our control made us come, good timing I guess lol.

On another note, my baby is 5 months old now. Where does it go? I don't understand. I blink and he's doing something new. I turn around and he's grown another inch. Geez. My brother told me "call me when he does something real" lol. I told him after they found out that I wouldn't tell him that when his baby starts reaching out or sitting up or giving kisses, but I think I will lol.

2008-06-24T12:37:00.001-07:00

My baby boy started reaching his arms out for me yesterday. I was going to get him out of his walker and he held his arms up for me. Oh, so cute!!!! I love watching him grow. I love seeing him develop and learn new things every day. I adore his beautiful blue eyes, and his flirty little smile. I love him!

Eric has to leave in a couple weeks for a month. I'm really not looking forward to that. My mom and sister came down this last weekend. They're coming back for the weekend of the 4th. We're going to the Lynyrd Skynyrd concert!!!!!! Wooo Hooo, I'm so excited! I really love 70's Southern Rock. Now, I know it's cause my dad loved it, that's all we listened to growing up. Well, job well done Dad, we all love it! lol.

2008-06-17T07:08:00.001-07:00

I can't believe that my beautiful baby boy is getting so big so fast. He'll be 5 months old at the end of next week, where has the time gone? It's amazing how fast they grow. He's starting to sit up by himself now, I'm so proud of him! He's the apple of my eye, if you can't tell lol.

2008-06-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

I love my husband, he's such a wonderful husband and daddy. I couldn't have asked for a better person to spend my life with. I thank God for him each and every day. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone. He's such a hard worker, so loving, caring, and understanding. I have say I'm not the easiest person in the whole world to live with sometimes, but he just takes me in his arms and tells me he loves me. Seeing him with Ryan just melts my heart. He told me the other day, "I never thought I could love another guy this much" lol. Ryan is already his right-hand little man and I LOVE seeing that. I pray that I'm as good a wife and mommy as he is husband and daddy. I hope he has a wonderful Father's Day and knows how much we appreciate everything he does for us, both those that are expected and those that are above and beyond. WE LOVE YOU!!!!

On another note, this is the first Father's Day without my daddy. He was everything that I just mentioned Eric is too. They were two peas-in-a-pod. Eric called my dad dad, my dad called him son. Dad wanted to take Eric fishing so much, but sadly he never was up to going, so I know Dad's up in Heaven waiting at the fishin' hole for Eric. I miss him more each day it seems but life requires that you keep your nose to the grindstone. Ryan keeps me very busy, thankfully. I miss Dad with all my heart and I am SO VERY thankful that I had him for 24 years. I'm thankful that I got to spend the time that Eric had to be gone with him. I'm thankful for all the wonderful memories that I have of him and for all the stories I have to tell. I wouldn't be who I am if I hadn't had my dad in my life and I thank God that He gave me to him for the time he was here. So for those who still have their daddy's I would encourage you to call them or go see them and tell them exactly how much they mean to you. I sure wish I could.

2008-06-09T11:24:00.000-07:00

I'm tired, I need a nap. I miss my dad. For some reason my sister-in-law thinks that we all need to know when they are going to try for their kids. Just in case any of you are curious it's 23 days now. What is that?! I don't get it. I don't want to get it. I want her to realize that my sister and I are his sisters and that my mom is his mom and we don't need to know that info. It's strange and more than a little disturbing. People.

2008-05-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

We bought a little 2 ft pool today so we could swim with Ryan. He loved it! I bought him a pair of swim trunks, so cute!

I had to put a hat on his head so he wouldn't get burned. He's just maxin' and relaxin'. He was so laid back, he loves the water, YAY! He loves the outside, which is wonderful. Sometimes he starts getting fussy and if we take him outside he calms down lol. Silly boy.
His daddy couldn't be more proud. He's in love with his little boy.
He laughed for the first time the other day. He's been giggling but he laughed and it was the cutest thing in the world. Yesterday's tummy time he scooted himself some. Definite progress. He's even seeming to enjoy it a little.

2008-05-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

My baby will be four months old tomorrow, where has the time gone? I really can't believe it. His four month appt is Friday. He's grown so much. He's giggling a lot these days. He rolls over on the couch, he's even laying on his belly more these days without yelling right away (well, it really depends on the moment, but sometimes he does and I consider that progress). He's talking so much these days and my mom just loves to hear him over the phone while we're talking. She's in love. Me too. (His pajama's got stuck on his head when I was changing him lol)

Please keep my brother in your prayers. He has been looking for a job and things just keep falling through for him, poor guy. He's really getting down about the situation. He put in an application for the department of corrections so hopefully he'll hear from them. I REALLY hope he hears from them so he can stay out of the oil field. I HATE the oil field with a passion, that's where my dad got hurt. I don't want to see my brother in that field any longer. He didn't want to put his app in at the DOC but told my mom he felt that's what the Lord wanted him to do, so hopefully he'll hear from them soon. Otherwise he's going back. My mom and sister are supposed to go to Wyoming with my grandma, aunt and uncle to visit family. They were going up to my grandma's today but turned around cause it was hailing. Hopefully the storms will ease up so they can have a safe trip there and back. With all the tornadoes we've been having I sure hate to see them set out. Please keep them in your prayers too, I would appreciate it.

2008-05-20T12:05:00.000-07:00

My sister's junior prom was Friday. She looked so beautiful. Her boyfriend is so funny. He bought a camo tux to wear. My sister was fine with that, and they looked so cute together. I just love her boyfriend. He's so good to her, I told her if she ends up not staying with him I feel sorry for her next bf cause we all just love him. Last year he borrowed a 69 Mustang to take her in. This year he got a 08 Crossfire. He's so handy. He either has anything you need or knows where to get it lol. Anyways, they went out to eat and then came back so my brother could see her and we could take pictures as a family and it was sad cause she hugged my brother and started crying cause she was missing dad. I felt so bad for her. It was so funny though cause my mom planted a sweet potato under a tree and while we were taking pictures my sister's heels sank into the ground and when she pulled it out the potato was stuck on there lol. They went to the prom and after prom and had a good time though so I'm glad for that.

The next day we went to my grandma's house and we helped her move. Well, I didn't really get to help cause I had to take care of Ryan but Eric and my brother helped and they got everything moved from one town to the next and unloaded.

Sunday my mom kept Ryan for a couple hours (the longest I've ever left him and I was so ready to get back lol) while Eric, my brother, sister, sister-in-law, and I went to the river. We had a good time. We played baseball with imaginary runners lol.

Yesterday was my 25th birthday. It was a wonderful day. Eric and Ryan went and got me breakfast and then they gave me my presents. We went and had a picnic at the park for lunch. Eric made me a cake (the first cake he ever made and was so delicious) and for dinner they took me out to a steakhouse and bought me a rib eye (so good). We bought the game Risk and we spent the evening playing that. By the way, I kicked hiney in a big way! It was a wonderful birthday. Yes, that's my natural curl. I just don't wear it like that very often at all (it's such a pain in the rear).

Now it's back to work on the house. I do believe Eric and I are insane for starting to paint the whole house with a 3 month old.

2008-05-14T16:09:00.000-07:00

Well, no luck so far with tummy time, but that's ok. My mom is officially a college graduate! She graduated and then we had her bbq afterwards. She enjoyed herself and we all had a good time together. I'm so proud of her!

On Friday Ryan giggled for the first time! It was so cute and it was for me, which made it all the better. Eric had ran to the store so he missed it, but got to hear it the next day. It just made my day.

We are painting all the rooms in our house (minus Ryan's room, since we did that before he was born). We painted the livingroom yesterday and today and it looks so good. I love it! We now have 3 rooms left. I'll post pictures when it's completely done.

2008-05-07T10:56:00.000-07:00

Does anybody have any ideas on how I can get Ryan to like tummy time? I've read some things and tried them all. I've tried putting something under him to prop him up, getting down and trying to distract him, putting a mirror in front of him, putting him on my legs and letting him "fly", ect... and nothing works. He just despises tummy time. I know he needs it to build his muscles but I hate hearing him scream because he hates being on his tummy. Anyways, I'd take any suggestions you have.

Yesterday was my dad's birthday. It was a sad day. He would have been 51 years old. I miss him terribly. I simply wish I could talk to him one more time, and yes I know I'd want it again and again and again, but it doesn't stop me from wanting it this time too.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd participate in Wordless Wednesday this week too.

2008-04-29T11:40:00.000-07:00

Well, we got my mom talked into walking for her graduation. YAY! She deserves that and I'm so proud of her. We went to her dinner last week and it went well, minus the fact that they served us one-inch sandwiches and we were starving by the time it was over. Thankfully my sister's boyfriend is the nicest guy she could have ever found and he paid for all of us when we went out to eat at a Mexican restaurant afterwards. It was good, except for Ryan getting upset during the middle of dinner and me being a nervous wreck. So, a week from Saturday my mom will be walking across the stage and being handed her diploma for a bachelor's degree that she has worked so hard for. Yesterday was her last day of class, she has today and tomorrow left at her internship and then she's completely finished except the actual graduation. My grandma and aunt will be coming down to watch her graduate too. We are also going to have a party for her (she doesn't know that though). We also ordered her a necklace with my dad's thumbprint on it. We're getting it engraved with "Consented 12-29-78" because when my dad asked my mom to marry him she was 14 and he said "When you're old enough, would you consent to be my old lady?" lol...Yes, I know my dad was a total romantic. Mom is also talking about getting her Master's! I know that Dad is looking down from Heaven and is beaming with pride right now!

Also, my baby boy is 3 months old now! I really can't believe how fast time is going with him. He's wonderful and I thank God for him every single day.

2008-04-21T12:59:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love baby sounds and smiles. They are the most precious things in the whole world! We went to my mom's house this weekend. My brother and SIL were there too. We played Pictionary on Friday night, girls against guys. My brother is a cheater lol. The boys won. Eric mowed the lawn for mom and then my brother, sister and Eric went golfing. My sister is on the golf team for high school, my brother loves golf (he played 54 holes in two days) , Eric likes golf but stinks at it in a BIG way lol. It doesn't help that he's left handed and he has to use right handed clubs. He said he made a 75 on the first hole lol. Sunday Eric, my brother, sister and I went to the storage shed that my mom has. We took about 15 minutes trying to figure out the combination to the lock, opened it looked around for about 2 minutes, shut the door, locked it and went back to mom's lol. We need to take a whole day, a trash can and go through the thing. Maybe some day. My mom has a senior dinner thing for her college tomorrow. Eric, Ryan and I will be driving up to go with the rest of the family with her. I am SOOOOO very proud of my mom. She has two weeks left in her practicum and she graduates on the 10th of May. She has went through her whole schooling against all the odds. This semester has been the hardest ever for her, but she has kept her head up and went through it like a champion. I know she wanted to quit, she almost did, but we kept encouraging her and she went through it anyways and in only a few weeks she will have her diploma. She has said she's not going to walk, we are ganging up on her to try and talk her into walking. My aunt called while we were up there, I told her mom said she wasn't going to walk, she said let her talk to her cause it might be too late to order her gown if she waits any longer. Well, later I had a message from my aunt telling me mom already has her gown. I told my mom my aunt told me and she said, "that brat" lol. Well thankfully one of the ladies she goes to school with talked her into getting her cap and gown just in case she changes her mind. I sure hope she does. She deserves to walk across that stage and receive her diploma. If she doesn't though, we are going to have her a BBQ and a surprise party. I am just so very proud of her!!!!

2008-04-15T13:25:00.001-07:00

Well since yall asked for pictures of Ryan, who am I to deny the request? lol... He's getting big, I can't believe he's almost 3 months old already. He's a wonderful baby, I couldn't have asked for better. He is so sweet and just really laid back. Eric and I are so thankful for him and couldn't love him more. Before Ryan was born I cross stitched little I "heart" Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle, Daddy, ect.... things. Well, I kept them so that I could give them to the Grandma's and everybody after he was born. I still haven't given them to them, but my dad will not be able to get his, so we went to Hobby Lobby (I LOVE that store!) today and found a little clear box, made for a model car, but I framed the Grandpa thing and put a picture of Ryan in it so we can put it out at his grave. I think it turned out pretty good. It's not the best picture of it, but the container keeps putting off a glare. I just have to figure out what to put into the bottom of it to weigh it down so it doesn't get blown over.

2008-04-14T07:33:00.000-07:00

I hope that today is as beautiful as they say it's going to be. This weekend was pretty chilly and very windy. We went Saturday and visited with Eric's mom and sister. I didn't enjoy myself, I wanted to stay home and just spend time with Eric and Ryan, but Eric wanted to go so we went. We haven't stayed home in Lord only knows how long for a whole weekend. We are usually going to my family's house. I love getting to see them as much as we do but since we weren't going there I just wanted to stay home. I know, sounds selfish, I don't care, but it just really doesn't matter cause we ended up going anyways lol. So, turns out my argument is null and void. I planted some flowers last Sunday in my flower garden, turns out last night it was supposed to freeze. Eric covered them with plastic, so hopefully it didn't kill them. I sure wish it would make up it's mind and stay warm already. My beautiful baby boy is getting so big. He's holding his head up really well and will three months in just a couple weeks. So sad. He's growing so fast. I guess that's what kids do though. I love him very much and am so so very proud of him. He's a wonderful baby, and I couldn't ask for more.

2008-04-10T07:22:00.000-07:00

Three months ago today our lives were forever changed.

2008-04-08T12:54:00.000-07:00

Glo has tagged me for this Meme!

What I was doing 10 years ago:
I would have been in the 9th grade, so going to school and getting ready for my Freshman graduation

Five things on my to do list for today:
1. Help my Aunt figure out the myspace glitter images lol
2. Keep up with how my sister is doing on her golf tournament (by the way, she's doing awesome!)
3. Follow Eric to take his truck to get the transmission serviced
4. Cook dinner
5. Clean house

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
Tithe to the church, pay off our house and truck, buy my mom, brother and sister houses and pay off their debts, pay off my MIL's house and fix it up for her (or get her a new one), travel, put money away for Ryan's future, and buy my husband a Dodge Charger

Three of my bad habit:
1. Picking Eric's pimples lol
2. Trying to control the vehicle by pressing my foot to the floor board while other's are driving :)
3. Starting a story and then stopping in the middle and changing subjects

Five places I have lived:
Oklahoma, Arizona, Oklahoma, Kansas, Oklahoma lol

Five jobs I have had:
Cashier at 2 convenience stores, typesetter at a newspaper, Sonic car hop (that lasted a whole week)

Five people I want to know more about
Vanessa
Monica
Glo tagged everyone else lol

2008-04-04T12:49:00.001-07:00

Ryan had his 2 month well baby check today. He didn't like the nurse and doctor messing with him. He weighs 11 lbs 6 oz now and is 22 1/2 inches. The doctor said he looks great. He also had to get some shots. He did better getting those than he did with his actual appt. I'm very proud of him, I just can't believe how fast he's growing.

2008-04-03T08:39:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot about posting the family pictures we took, but here they are.

Ryan was 5 weeks when these were taken. He's two months now. He has his two month check up tomorrow. I'm curious to find out how much he's weighing now. He's smiling a lot now and starting to talk. He's so precious.

2008-03-31T11:49:00.000-07:00

Vanessa is so sweet. She sent me the most beautiful scrapbook for Ryan Tommy. It was so thoughtful and I appreciate it so very much. Thank you Vanessa! I can't wait to put pictures in it.

2008-03-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

I'm exhausted. Eric has to go out to the field tomorrow and spend the weekend out there. I'm not looking forward to that at all. I don't enjoy the thought of not having help. Ryan and I are going to my mom's, but it won't be the same as having Eric. I don't like asking for help, in fact I don't ask for help. It's a flaw of mine, I know.

We spent most of last week with my family, it was spring break for Eric. My Grandma, aunt, and cousins came down on Saturday so they could see Ryan. My cousin told me he looks a lot bigger in his pictures than in real life. He's a little guy, so cute and cuddley. Easter Sunday was hard for me. I went to the cemetary and they had put up my dad's headstone. It's as nice as one of those can be. We got our family pictures back, they turned out really good. I'll post them later. Today is my brother's 27th birthday. He working at a job where he has to watch the wells after the rigs have left, which means he has to stay out there 23 hrs a day, two weeks on one week off. So, he'll only have enough time to eat lunch with his wife and then go back to work, but I hope he has a good day. We had him a surprise party Saturday before last thankfully. My sister has another golf tournament today, I hope she does well. I really don't have much to say lately. I don't know why. Life is just strange these days.

2008-03-12T09:59:00.000-07:00

Monday our beautiful baby boy turned 6 wks old. Monday was also 8 wks since we buried my dad and two months since he passed. Life is strange. Monday also was when my sister played her first golf tournament and it happened to have been here where we live, so we were able to go and watch her play the last 9 holes. She did really good for her first time. She's only been on the team for a couple weeks and she scored a 125. I'm so proud of her. I was very glad we were able to go and watch her play. She's so beautiful and talented, I couldn't be more proud. My brother loves golf too, he's the one who encouraged her to join this year so he's ecstatic that's she's playing. While we were watching she was down at one hole and Eric, Ryan and I were above where she was. I told Eric I sure wished Dad was there, he would have yelled "yatta hey!" as loud as he could, not caring that he was at a golf tournament where you're supposed to be quiet lol. He was always proud of his kids and he always wanted them to know he was there supporting them, even if it did embarrass us to death. :)

2008-03-04T07:34:00.000-08:00

I'm very proud of my mom. She is in her last semester of school, she'll graduate with her bachelor's in May. She's doing her internship this semester, two days a week at a DOC and two days at a drug rehab. She's worked very hard to get to where she's at and I know that right now this is the last thing that she wants to be doing, yet she's still plugging along. She is definitely someone to look up to, and I do. I know that she would rather curl up and do nothing right now, but God is giving her the strength to get up each and every day and continue. She has more courage and strength than anyone I know and I hope that I inherited even a tenth of it from her. I love her and thank God for her each and every day.

2008-02-27T08:31:00.001-08:00

My baby will be a month old tomorrow. I can't believe it, he's growing so fast. Someone gave us a picture frame that has a slot for a picture of each month until he's a year, it's so cute and such a good idea. I'm glad we got it. My sister's boyfriend gave Ryan a rubber ducky that is just about as big as he is, it's so cute. I know he'll have a blast with it when he's big enough to play with it. He wasn't as amused as we were when we had him sit on it lol.

We had him dedicated at church this past Sunday. I thought it was really neat and I know the Lord will hold him in His hands as he goes through life. Ryan is almost as big as his Pooh now. I really can't believe how fast he's growing. I know I shouldn't be surprised, but I am. My sister is going to watch him for a while on Saturday so Eric and I can go out to eat or something. I asked her if she wanted to watch him for an hr or so and she said, "I would love to for more than an hour, for more than three!" lol. She's goofy. I really don't know if I'll be able to go though, I haven't been away from him for more than 30 minutes since he was born.

I think we might go visit Eric's mom today for a while. We haven't seen her since the day after Ryan was born. I really kinda dread going to visit her. She's nice enough, just thinks she knows everything and tries to tell me what to do. I hate being told what to do. I despise it with a passion. I'm a pretty stubborn person and so I tend to buck when people tell me what to do. I do believe I got that from both my parents lol. Also his whole family tends to think that everything is their business and it's not. There are things that they just do not have the right to know and they don't know their boundaries. You know the day that Ryan was born she says this since he was early, "Well, you must have been pregnant before your last period, that's why he came when he did." Um...no. First of all, my brother and everyone was standing there, thank you for blurting that out in front of everyone. Second of all, he measured exactly as he should at each appt and thirdly, he was smaller than he would have been had he been full term. Thank you. Why? Why do people think they know everything and think that it's ok to say whatever pops into their heads at any given moment? Who knows? Not I. Ahhh....deep breath. Anyways, hopefully it will be a good visit and I won't have my blood pressure rise lol.

2008-02-19T11:49:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a not so good day for me. I miss my dad so much and I believe that it's just started to really sink in that he's not here any more. I think that with being pregnant when he passed and then having Ryan 18 days after and having to adjust to a newborn at home, that I was able to keep it at the back of my mind and not really deal with it. I have lived in denial about as long as I could and now I have to deal with it. I don't want to. I honestly would rather live in denial. I do not want to have to face the fact that my dad is gone and he's not going to be there when we go to my parent's house. We went over there weekend before last and noone was home when we got there. My sister had given us the key to get in and it was the strangest feeling walking in and not seeing my dad there. He was always there, always. He was supposed to be there forever. I need him to be there. I need him to be a phone call away. He was always there to bail me out of whatever bind I found myself. He was there everytime my stupid car I drove in high school broke down. He was there everytime I needed a ride. Everytime I needed anything, he was there. He taught me how to drive. He let me steer the car while he worked the gas and brake. He would let us ride in the back of his pickup while he drove real slow and let us grab the branches on the trees as we passed by so we could take the leaves off. He would take us fishing and even though I always wanted to leave after about 10 mins he would take me anyways. He would catch a fish and put it on our lines so we would think we had caught it. When I was 16 my brother was 18 and moved to Nevada. He had a CD player in his car when he left and told me I could have it. Well apparantely I didn't realize that they made adapters so that they would fit into different vehicles, so my dad made me one. Granted it was uglier than homemade soap, it was wood and he painted it black (my car was gray), but he took the time to make it for me. When he taught me to drive he was so patient with me. I ran through a stoplight at a busy intersection and the only thing he said was, "you really need to watch that next time." Around the same time he was teaching me how to change a tire, I jacked the car up, we took the tire off, Dad had his leg under the car, the jack fell, so did the car, right on top of his leg. Thank God it had rained recently so his leg sank into the ground instead of breaking. I freaked out and was saying I was sorry. He was obviously in pain but said through clenched teeth, "it's ok, I'm alright." He was there for all of us no matter what. He was in pain 24/7, but anytime any of us needed him he was there. I need him to be there now. I need him to be there so I can show him my baby. I need to see his face light up when we walk in the door. I need to be able to get irritated at him when he says "Pud, you gotta minute?" Only to ask me to bring him a Pepsi. I need him so I can ask him who sang certain songs. I need him, only he's not here anymore. The Lord needed him more than me. It hurts so much. It hurts to know I'll never see his face as long as I'm here on earth. It hurts to know that I won't be able to see him hold my sweet baby. I miss him and as much as I miss him I know I have to go on. Life doesn't stop and the Lord doesn't want us to stop. Every day we have to get out of bed and do the things that life requires from us. I'm sure everyone is tired of me writing about this, but I needed to get it off my chest.

On the bright side, my baby is doing wonderfully. He's now 3 weeks and 1 day old, that's so hard to believe. At his last appt (last Wednesday) he weighed 6 lbs 12 oz. I'm not sure how long he was, cause at the time she was measuring him, he decided he was going to go to the bathroom (all over the room) and I was cleaning it up lol. Ahh, the joys of little boys lol. He's changed looks a lot already, and he's just as cute as can be. His little hands are exact replica's of his daddy's and it is so cute! The lines and everything are exactly the same. They are definite hand twins. I love him so much and am so glad the Lord put him in my life.

2008-02-14T08:10:00.001-08:00

Andrea started a Valentine's Day Lovefest so I think I'll join in and tell my story of how Eric and I met. Our story is a little more uninteresting than some, but nevertheless it's our story and I'm proud that we're together so it's special to me :)

I graduated in 2002, I was dating a guy who was a complete jerk and I was more or less headed down a path of destruction for myself. I moved out of my parents house into my own apartment. The guy I was dating lived 2 hrs away and pretty much would only come down if I paid his way. It was quite charming to say the least. I took him to meet my parents (boy I wish I hadn't done that now, they never should have had to endure that). My dad (who was the most protective of dads) nodded his head for me to leave the room, I did. He looked the guy in the eyes and told him simply if he hurt me he'd kill him. That was one of the last times I seen the guy lol. I was supposed to go see him one night and my car got smashed by a semi. After that it was over. So, I was broken hearted and was online one evening at my apartment. I came across this guy who looked like a guy I went to high school with. We talked for a while (of course he wasn't the guy from high school) and after talking several times we exchanged phone numbers. The first time we talked on the phone we talked for 7 hours. He was sweet and honest and cared about what I was saying. It was amazing, I didn't know that there were guys who still acted like that. From the time I was a little girl I wanted a guy who would treat me like my dad treated my mom. Someone who would light up when I walked in the room. I met that guy online. After talking on the phone for I don't know how long he drove to see me, he lived two hrs away (and he paid for it himself lol). I didn't have a car still (he ended up taking me to look for one and helped me pick it out), so he had to make all the trips himself for quite a while. He did and that was one of the ways I knew he was the right one for me. He treated me like a princess and when I took him to meet my family my dad gave me the nod for me to leave the room. I did and my dad told him "See that bat sitting over there? You hurt my daughter and I'll kill you with it." Eric looked dad in the eyes and said, "You don't have to worry about it sir." He never did either, and a few times after that dad was telling me to take care of his boy. lol Five years of marriage later, I'm happier than I've ever been with this man. Every day he lets me know how much I mean to him just by his simple actions. God has blessed us with a wonderful relationship and a beautiful son and I look forward to the years that we will share together.

2008-02-11T13:17:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was a month since my dad passed. It was a very difficult day. It doesn't seem to be getting easier. They say it doesn't for a long time, that's not very comforting. My grandma told my mom it took her 7 months before she didn't cry almost every day after losing my grandpa. We'll get through, we have each other. I just really don't understand why he's gone. I don't think I ever will. God has His reasons, I don't have to understand I guess.

My baby is two weeks old today. That seems impossible too. We took him to church yesterday for the first time. The preacher had us come up front with him. He had us come up the week after dad passed away too so that mom could say a few words. He had told the congregation about dad and how important he was to the starting of the church so many years ago. So this week he reminded everybody of dad's promotion to be with the Lord (I think that's a comforting way of thinking about it) just before Ryan's birth and had us come up so they could see the new grandbaby. I love that church and the Lord is really moving in there. I really wish we could make it there every Sunday though. I'm just glad we live close enough to be able to go every couple weeks now. It brings me lots of comfort. My sister also got a picture of him sucking his thumb. He doesn't usually do that and it was the cutest thing (ok, maybe I'm a little partial) :) I love him so much. He's doing really good. He has his two week check up on Wednesday. I love him with all my heart he's such a huge blessing in our lives.

2008-02-07T08:36:00.000-08:00

I got a little pick-me-up today. I went through my closet and tried on all my prepregnancy clothes. They all fit me! I was so excited about the jeans fitting. One pair was even a little loose. A couple of my shirts are to big too. I'm thrilled. So far I've lost all but 4 lbs! YAY! I was really worried about that. I'm so glad that I worked out throughout the whole pregnancy. I really needed this pick-me-up today!

2008-02-04T08:01:00.000-08:00

My poor little guy had to spend Friday night in the hospital. We had an appt that day for his first checkup and he had jaundice so they had to keep him and put him under the lights overnight. He got out Saturday afternoon and we have another appt today to make sure that his levels are still down. I sure hope they are cause I'm tired of that hospital and I hated seeing him under those darn lights. We couldn't take him out all day and night and the little guy did so good. He had to wear little goggles for his eyes and I felt so bad for him. It broke my heart. My mom and sister came down on Friday, they had been planning on it anyways, but they went ahead and came and stayed with us until Sunday. My mom was wanting to help us out and let me get some sleep. She said she felt like she didn't get to do much since we were in the hospital for one of the nights she was here but it was wonderful just having her here and I think she was an amazing help. She's such an amazing lady and I love her so much.

Yesterday was pretty rough for me. After my mom and sister went home we went to the store and I stayed in the car with Ryan. I was sitting there thinking and it hit me pretty hard that Dad won't be able to hold his grandbaby. I didn't have time to think this past week and yesterday it really just hit me. It really just breaks my heart. This Thursday he will have been gone a month. It seems unreal and I really would rather live in denial about that. I don't know if that's healthy but it sure doesn't hurt as bad.

2008-01-30T13:45:00.000-08:00

Monday was a very eventful day for us. Starting sometime either Friday or Saturday I started having contractions, but they weren't too bad. We rented movies on Saturday and Eric timed them but they were very irregular and eventually subsided. I was having pain around my lower back and front but it felt more like a bladder infection or something. On Sunday I didn't get any sleep I was in so much pain. On Monday I went through the day trying to find a spot that was comfortable for me. It felt like I had a really bad infection so I called my mom to see what I should do. She said to call and ask the people what I should do. It was around 6 p.m. when I called and they told me it sounded like one too and to either come in or wait until Tuesday and see if I could make an appt. I was in tears so I told Eric to take me up there so I could get an antibiotic. We went up there, they took me to an observation room and checked me to make sure everything was ok. The first nurse checked and said she thought I was at a 6. I was totally blown away, I had no clue. She said she wanted to make sure so she called in another nurse, that nurse said a little over a 6, so they called in the dr. The dr checked and said I was an 8 and 100%. It was so unexpected, I told Eric to call my mom. He called all the family, both sides. I felt really dumb cause I had no clue I was in real labor lol. So they took me to a room and got me set up. By the time we got to the hospital and got in a room it was around 7. By 8 I was to a 10. The dr said "well it must be nice to be in labor and not know it" lol. I would have been ready to push but they decided to go ahead and let my body get used to it so they told me to just work through it. I did and around 9 I started pushing. My family was on their way and even though Eric's mom had said she was going to wait until the next day she changed her mind and called and said she was on her way too. We all figured the baby would be born before anybody got there, but that was ok too. I pushed for about an hr and about 5 mins before he was born a nurse came in and asked if my mom could come in. I said yes so they let her in. I couldn't believe they made it and just in time! At 10:32 p.m. Monday 28, our little baby boy was born. His name is Ryan Tommy. We named him Ryan after my brother (Matthew Ryan) and Tommy after my Daddy. I think it suits him perfectly and mom said he looks like a Ryan Tommy. I think Dad would have loved to have his grandson named after him. He's so precious and I am so thankful that he came into our lives when he did. He was 2 hrs 28 mins away from being considered "full term", so 36 wks 6 days. He's perfect. He weighed 5 lbs 15 oz and was 18 1/2 inches. He's our little pride and joy and the whole family is so in love with him. Grandpa Tommy missed him by 18 days. He was born exactly 2 weeks after we burried him, but I know he's up there watching over our little guy and is the proudest Grandpa in the world.

Daddy, he was so wonderful the first night he stayed up so I could get a little sleep (very little, but still, such a sweet thought)
I couldn't be more proud
Grandma Peggy, she's so proud
Uncle Matt, he was asking me when I was going to bring him to see him right after he was born lol
Aunt Meagan, she's a wonderful Aunt

2008-01-28T12:34:00.003-08:00

They're a little late, but obviously for a valid reason. Here are some pictures from the baby shower.

They made the original cake too small so they had to order another one, they are both so adorable though

Me and my SIL seeing who could drink out of the bottles the fastest, neither of us won

My mom trying to figure out how many pieces of TP would fit around my tummy

All of our gifts, people were so nice, we got a ton of stuff

My sister's decorations were so cute, and creative, she's wonderful

Eric (yes, he came), me, my sister, and SIL

2008-01-25T13:54:00.000-08:00

My dad had a wonderful sense of humor, he was sarcastic but not in a mean way, just really funny. He wrote a poem a long time ago, both my brother and I were still living at home so it had to have been at least 8 yrs ago. For some reason when he wrote it I folded it up and have carried it in my wallet ever since. I thought it was halarious at the time, but now I'm so thankful that I decided to keep it. He wrote it about my brother, so I'd like to explain before I put the poem up so you can get it. My brother is a big fried chicken and potato salad fan. He always loves it when my mom makes that, it's his favorite meal. He can put it away for sure. We always had to grab ours first before mom called him or else we were very likely not to get any lol. My uncle read this along with stories that some of the family members had written about dad at his funeral. It just goes to show the kind of man dad was. So here's the poem:

Chicken

Chicken, Chicken, where did you go

Don't tell me, Don't tell me I already know

We all had a piece, except this one

He had 12, twelve this bum

Chicken, Chicken I cried last night

Just one more piece for my delight

But someone had 12, at least 12 I know

Cause all I can see, is the bottom of the bowl

Chicken, Chicken, what a horrible sight

God, he's in the kitchen we all cry

We had a piece and that's all we get

Cause Matt ain't through nope, he ain't through yet

Chicken, Chicken, Just one more piece for my delight

But Matt had 12 so I guess it's "goodnight"!

Cause the bottom of the bowl is all that I see

That, and one little punk who left none for me

P.S. I hope you get gas buddy

2008-01-22T20:17:00.000-08:00

We're back home, we got home yesterday. We stayed an extra night with my mom and sister since yesterday was Martin Luther King Jr Day and Eric didn't have school. It was so hard leaving my mom. I posted about it last month, but they celebrated their 29th anniversary only 12 days before Dad passed. I really can't believe that he's gone. I don't think it has hit me totally yet. I kept waiting for him to show up and say "Pud, you gotta minute?" the whole time I was there. Yesterday was very rough for me. I have been trying to stay calm for the baby so I think I've kinda put myself in denial about everything. I also want to be strong for my mom, she has been with my dad since she was 14 years old. I miss him so much and I can't imagine life without him. Everyone adored him, and for good reason. The funeral had a wonderful turnout and the community came through in a major way for my family. We had so much food we didn't know what to do with and people were just so generous, it was very heart warming. It touched my heart to know that people thought so highly of Dad, even though he wasn't able to get around much the past few years. We went to church Sunday and the preacher talked about Dad and how much he contributed to the start of the church and then he had us stand and asked mom and us to come up so mom could say a few words. It was neat that Dad got the honor he deserved. I just wish he were here to see. In the past year and four months I have lost 2 grandpa's a great-grandma and my daddy. Three of those were in the past 7 months. The only one I didn't really know all that well was my great-grandma, she lived in Wyoming. I'm ready for the birth of our baby, a new life and many blessings for the year to come.

I had a dr appt today, she said the baby is down and now I have appts every week until he's here.

Would you all please keep my brother in your prayers? He had to have a physical for a job that he applied for and (I know this will be hard to believe, but I kid you not) his blood pressure was 200/115. He carries his stress in a big way without releasing it in any kind of fashion. The dr told him if he doesn't get it taken care of he won't make it to 40. I guess his kidneys aren't processing protein right. He got some medicine for it, and he's started exercising daily so hopefully he'll get it down very soon.

In loving memory of my wonderful Daddy, Tommy

2008-01-15T07:53:00.000-08:00

My dad's funeral was yesterday. Since it had to happen, it went really well and it showed the person that my dad was. The preacher did a wonderful job at making it very personal. He knew dad for about 16 yrs and had lots of stories about him as well as the one's we told. My dad had a wonderful sense of humor, even in his all his pain, and with all the stories we were still able to have a laugh. So, Dad went out in the same style that he lived his life and that makes me very happy.

All of our family is still in town, they will be leaving tomorrow morning. I think that once they are gone it will really hit home that my dad is gone. I keep hoping and praying that this is a terrible nightmare and he will come walking through the door at any moment. The only comfort we have is knowing that this isn't the end, Dad is out of pain and with the Lord and he is waiting on us and watching over us. He promised he would be there for his grandbaby and I know he will in spirit. He told my mom not too long ago that nothing would keep him from his grandson, he doesn't break promises. I thank God that He put Dad in my life. Without Dad I wouldn't be me and my family wouldn't have turned out to be the wonderful family it is. He set a wonderful example of how to be a dad, husband and friend and we all learned a lot from him. Everyone has been so supportive and generous to our family and you can definitely see the impact that Dad had on everyone. I just wish he was here to see it himself, he wouldn't believe it. We are staying here until Sunday to be with my mom and sister. As I posted a few weeks ago, my parents were married 29 years. They were together since my mom was 14 years old (now 44) and my dad was 19 (now 50) so going on 31 years and the longest they had ever been apart in all those years was 5 days. Mom said that just a day or two before he passed she told him they still had to go out to eat for their 29th anniversary and Dad said "I'll be there Babe". So, she said she's going to go sometime and eat their dinner. My wonderful dad loved his family more than anything and there will forever be a hole where he was. Thank God this isn't the end.

2008-01-10T18:09:00.001-08:00

My dad passed away this morning, please keep my family in your prayers.

2008-01-08T20:49:00.001-08:00

The baby shower was Saturday and it went so good. My sister did an amazing job at putting it all together. I'll post pictures later.

My dad is very sick and needs all the prayers he can get. He has had a very difficult time the past 16 years and it's only by the grace of God that he's still with us. The short of it is that he got injured 16 years ago on an oil rig and ended up on disability. Throughout the years he has had many health problems but about 4 1/2 yrs ago he had liver failure and the dr sent him home and told my mom he wouldn't live more than 2 yrs. Well, obviously drs don't know everything and God has blessed him because he's still alive. Well last Thursday he fell, we went up to make sure everything was ok and ended up taking him to the ER that night. After some blood work and a LONG weekend, he had a dr appt yesterday. The dr said it's his liver again. He gave him some medicine and we are waiting on the blood work to come back (should be tomorrow). Eric and I had to come home today, I have a dr appt tomorrow. My mom is in her last semester at college (I'm so very proud of her) and was supposed to start her internship yesterday. Dad can't walk on his own right now and so she had to postpone it, she's now supposed to start next Monday. So, if you could all just keep my dad (and mom) in your prayers I would appreciate it so much. I know that God isn't through with him and that dad still has a lot left to do on this earth before he goes.

2008-01-07T11:09:00.001-08:00

Don't have much time right now, but would like to ask all of you to be praying for my dad. I would greatly appreciate it!

2007-12-31T19:51:00.001-08:00

My mom and sister were here yesterday and today. They painted the mural and I absolutely adore it! Baby Pooh is so adorable and I'm so thrilled. It turned out way better than the picture I showed them and I'm so thankful to them for doing this for us. The second one is my mom and sister by the mural.

2007-12-30T11:49:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my parent's 29th anniversary! I'm so proud of them. They have been through a lot in their many years together, and I am so thankful they have pulled together and let the Lord guide them through all their trials and tribulations. They have set a wonderful example for myself as well as my brother and sister. We couldn't have asked for better parents and I am so grateful that the Lord picked us to be their children. I love each one of them so dearly and it means so much to be able to say they have made it through so many years. I hope and pray that the Lord will help me to be the kind of wife/mom to my husband and children that my mom was/is is to me.

This picture is of last summer (2006), we spent a couple days at some cabins for a family reunion. They are joking around, really they're a couple of dorks lol.

This one is of them at my brother's wedding in Oct.

This was taken on my mom's bday in July of this year. My sister, brother, me, mom & dad.

2007-12-27T17:36:00.000-08:00

Well Andrea had her baby and on the 22nd my SIL's sister had her baby, so that means out of all the women I know who were pregnant, I'm the only one left. I can't believe I'm next. I was kinda taking comfort in the fact that I had a little while longer, but when they had their babies it hit me, I DON'T have much time at all. There is so much to get done and hardly any time to do it. Less than two months! In 4 days I can say my baby will be here next month! My mom is coming this Sunday to paint the mural in the baby room, I'll post pictures when she's done. Next Saturday is the baby shower. So close, I'm ready to have the little guy, but I need to get my rear in gear.

My MIL is wacko, seriously. We spent Christmas day with her and they were talking about my baby belly and how in one of the pictures I have it looked bigger than it really is. I said it depends on the time of day as to how far he's sticking out and for some unknown reason she says, "let me help you out," takes one hand puts it on my belly and takes the other hand and starts hitting the hand that's on my stomach. What in the world was she doing?! Nobody knows, but it made me mad and it didn't particularly feel too good either! Why do people feel they can do whatever they want to other's? Hello, boundaries! Boy I wish everyone knew what that word means.

2007-12-21T08:34:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that Christmas is only a few days away. I love this time of year. Eric and I went driving around the other night looking at Christmas lights. I love doing that with him. I'm so thankful that we are together this year and that we have a little bundle of joy on the way. I thank God for all that He has done for us and for the families that we have been blessed with. I hope and pray that everyone has a wonderful and blessed Christmas.

2007-12-14T13:36:00.000-08:00

I took my last final today, I'm done with school for a while. I am now a full time wife and soon-to-be mom again. I had a dr appt on the 11th. Everything went well, the dr said my weight gain is really good and all my tests came back really good. She said we have a wonderful baby and my next appt is my last 4 week one, then it will be every couple of weeks. We're getting close. My sister is planning the baby shower for the 5th of Jan, so that's only 3 weeks away! For Christmas I got Eric tickets to a hockey game on that day so he won't have to suffer through it. He came to the wedding shower, bless his heart, but didn't enjoy himself one bit lol. So I thought I'd spare him this time. I think he'll be very happy about that, hopefully :)

2007-12-10T10:55:00.001-08:00

Eric and I went to a dinner for the ROTC. They were commissioning two of the seniors for this semester. I was nervous, but it ended up being alright. I always get nervous when I have to go to those things. Eric was introducing me to people and he kept saying, "This is my wife, Chelle (he never calls me Michelle lol)," then he'd pat my stomach and say, "and this is our little one." lol. After a few times of doing that I kindly asked him to stop lol. I thought it was so cute that he's so excited about our baby, but I'd rather not have people stare and/or try to feel my belly. He's so sweet though, and I love him more with each passing day. I thank God that He put Eric in my life and that we have been able to develop the friendship and marriage that we have.

We have finals this week, starting tomorrow. It rained most of the night and so it's very icy here today. Eric said our tree outside is bent all the way over with the weight of the ice. I'm taking his word for it, it's too cold for me to go check lol. So, we skipped out on class this morning, I hate having to drive or ride when the weather is bad. If they don't cancel class tomorrow, I'll have no choice. Well, I guess there's always the choice of staying home and taking a zero on the test. I'd rather ride in the bad weather. I'm taking time off from school, since the baby will be here next semester, so this is my last week of school for a while. I was looking forward to graduating next to Eric, but being with our baby is much more important than a degree I won't be using for some time anyways. Family is my top priority, always.

2007-12-06T07:08:00.000-08:00

Update on little Austin:

They thought he might have pneumonia, but after running some tests everything came back negative. He gets to come home today! Thank you for the prayers, I appreciate it so much.

2007-12-04T07:08:00.000-08:00

My friend, Fawn, had a baby boy on Saturday. His name is Austin, and he was born with some sort of infection. I don't know the whole story (she's supposed to call me this afternoon so we can talk), but he's in the hospital and having to be fed through a tube. The drs are wanting his breathing to slow down, but he's making progress. Please keep him and his mom and dad (Jason) in your prayers. I would appreciate it so much!

2007-11-30T11:13:00.001-08:00

I didn't realize how much such a little person takes from the mom. I learned the hard way, you shouldn't try to rearrange your bedroom while you're by yourself. I had Eric rearranging the living room the day before and after moving the love seat about five times, I thought I'd give him a break on the bedroom and do it while he was gone. Not wise on my part, I know this now. I paid for it for two days. Eric got perturbed at me and I was sore lol. Oops. So, I know now, that's the main thing right? At least I was able to learn from my mistake.

The baby has also found my ribs, apparently he likes them very much. My sister is planning the baby shower, I guess around the beginning of Jan. She's not telling me many details, the one's I've gotten have been from my mom. She's not supposed to tell me, but I have to make plans to be there, right? We went and registered a couple days ago. That was neat. It just makes it that much more real that the day will be here very soon and it won't just be the two of us anymore. I'm excited, but also a little nervous. I've been around babies my entire life. I know the basics, but I've also never had the experience of the baby actually being mine. I could always send them home. I didn't have to make the big decisions. It's kind of overwhelming, but in a good way. I know God will lead me through, and He will definitely have to, cause I feel like I'm almost clueless.

2007-11-26T11:40:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving. We had a great one. We went to my parent's house and my brother and his wife came over too. They had three dinners to go to, but lucky for them, her mom had theirs the day before. That's one reason I'm so glad my inlaws don't live in the same town as my parents lol. We had a good time though. My mom and I made the dinner, and it was delicious (if I do say so myself lol). My sister's bf took Eric hunting a couple times while we were down there, he really enjoyed that. Although, they went Friday and Eric came home with a cut on his forehead. Turns out, he learned the hard way not to put a scope so close to your face when you're shooting. I really enjoyed myself, but I was wore out by the time we got home Saturday. I just can't believe that we're fixin to go into the last month of this year. Time is going so fast and I'm having a hard time keeping up. Here's a picture of Eric and me over the weekend.

2007-11-15T10:48:00.001-08:00

My great grandma passed away yesterday. Please keep my grandma (it was her mom) in your prayers. It was exactly 5 months, to the day, since we buried my grandpa (her husband). Thank you.

2007-11-13T08:11:00.001-08:00

I was talking to my mom this past weekend and we were talking about the baby. She said it's amazing how the circle of life goes. My sister is 17 now, so that means my parent's are almost done with the raising of kids, while I'm just about to begin. My great grandma is not expected to make it very much longer, they put her on hospice and gave her weeks, while a new life is just a few months from beginning. The closing of one chapter and the beginning of another, just another way of seeing God's work in progress. May God take my great grandma in his loving hands as he leads her out of this world, and guide our precious child when it's time for his life to begin on the outside.

2007-11-08T11:10:00.000-08:00

Today's one of those days. One where the alarm went off way too early, and time between getting up and having to go to start my day was way too short. I got about 2 mins with Eric between his class and mine and then another 8 mins from me getting home to him having to leave for the afternoon. The end of the semester is nearing, which means every teacher under the sun decides to lay it on thick. We have to go to Eric's mom's house tomorrow, and I'm not to thrilled. I would really just like to stay home this weekend. From his mom's (2 hrs away), we then have drive to my parent's house (another 2 hrs) because part of Eric's birthday present from me was him going to a hunter's saftey course (kinda ironic since he's in the military, if you ask me, but rules are rules...) so he can go hunting with my sister's bf. That starts at 8 Saturday morning and lasts until 5 p.m. Thankfully, my sister's going with him, and I don't have to :)

Little baby is getting bigger every day. He's getting very mobile for sure. It's really neat to see him moving across my stomach, I enjoy that so much. Eric reads to him every night and the baby reacts to Eric's voice, I love that. I can't wait to see him hold our little one for the first time. He's already such a wonderful daddy. I love them both more than words can say.

2007-11-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

My MIL drives me crazy! Yesterday was Eric's birthday (thank you all very much for the happy birthday wishes for him), we had a very good time together. We didn't do much, but I baked him a cake and made him a steak for dinner (his favorite). My parents, sister and sister's bf all called to tell him happy birthday. His mom? Never did. It broke my heart. While we were eating dinner he said he thought his mom would call, but she didn't call his brother so why should he be any different. That made me so sad for him and so mad at her! He said he was kidding, but... He ended up calling her around 8:30 last night, cause he needed his sister's phone number (I dropped our cell phone in a cup of water and ruined it and all the info in it lol). It's just so infuriating. Her birthday is next week, and Eric's already said we're going up there for it, and he let her know earlier in the week, and she can't even pick up the phone? It's kinda sickening. I'm so thankful for my family.

2007-11-01T11:43:00.001-07:00

My wonderful husband Eric's birthday is today. He's 25. I just wanted to tell him Happy Birthday and I love him so much!

2007-10-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

Eric had to go to the field this past weekend and I went and stayed with my family while he was gone. It was the first time he had been gone for more than 24 hrs since he got back from overseas last year. Anyways, my sister and I went to her boyfriends football game on Friday night and then had lunch with our brother on Saturday and we had a pretty good time. We don't get to see much of him, since he works on an oil rig and he works evening towers, 7 days a week. So, getting to spend a couple hrs with him was nice. I also went to church with my mom yesterday before I came back home. She took a picture of me before I left to get a shot of my belly lol. She said it's neat cause you can see it grow almost daily. Hopefully it's all baby and the stuff that comes with it. I'm trying really hard not to indulge too much and still get plenty of exercise so I don't gain too much weight. I definitely don't want to go back to where I started from. I think I'm doing pretty good though. I'll be 6 months tomorrow.

I can't believe it's almost time for Thanksgiving already. This year has flown by. It seems each year gets faster and faster. I remember when I was in grade school, I thought time would never go by and now it seems like I can't keep up with it. It's kind of sad too.

I would like to ask for prayers for my Grandma and Great Grandma. She's the one that just lost my Grandpa in June. Well, her mom (who is 87 or so) is not doing good at all. She lives in WY and the relatives there with her called and told Grandma that she needs to get there asap. So, my uncle is flying in to take her and my aunt there. I guess they're not expecting her to make it much longer. Grandma is trying to prepare herself, but I don't think you can, so if you could keep them in your prayers I would greatly appreciate it.

2007-10-22T10:42:00.001-07:00

*Clarification*-
rose_michelle left a comment on what I said and I realized I needed to clarify something. I don't have a problem with a teacher trying to make us think outside the box. I don't have a problem with them trying to make us think objectively. The problem is, this teacher does not do that. He puts HIS point of view out there and to those who agree with him he says, "good point", to those who disagree he says, "you gotta be kidding me". It's not a matter of making each student think objectively about what we are supposed to be doing. It's a matter of him feeding us what he believes, which I think is wrong on many levels. If he challenged everybody, no matter their points of view, I wouldn't have a problem with the way he acted towards me yesterday, but he doesn't. It's only when we disagree with him that he makes a point to make us defend ourselves and our beliefs.

My journalism class frustrates me to no end. Today in class the topic was "what is news?" The teacher brought up health care. Well, call me old fashioned (at the ripe ol' age of 24) but I think you should have to work for what you get in life. Things shouldn't be free. My parents raised me to work hard and earn what I have in life. My dad worked in the oil field for 15-20 years. He worked his butt off up until one faithful evening in July 1991, when he was swinging a sledge hammer and was permanently injured. Here we are, 16 years later, and he's still unable to work. However, he has never said that the government should take care of him or his family. He has never said that it should all be free. He is on social security for disability, but he worked for every cent (as few as they are) that he receives. He paid his dues up until he could no longer physically do so. Even after his injury he tried to get back out there and continue to work. He fought through the pain that he had as much as he could until he could no longer take it. He loathes not being able to work. If you ask him today he would say he would get out there in a heartbeat if he could at all manage to do so. Eric and I were the dd's for everyone at my brother's wedding. At one of the places we went to we ran into a guy that used to work for my dad. My brother says to me, "Watch this." He goes over to the guy and brings up our dad and that guy talked for 10 minutes on the fact that my dad was the hardest worker he has ever known, before or since. Even putting in all those years, pain, sweat and tears, to this day my dad will not say the government owes them anything. He loathes being on social security, if he had a choice he absolutely would do anything else.
So, the teacher talks about how the government should be responsible for giving everybody health care. My response, isn't it the individuals responsibility to help themselves? I'm not saying that those who need the help shouldn't be able to get it. I just think that you should have to give something in return. I brought up the fact that Eric's in the military, he works hard so we get health care. He tries to throw everybody in the pile by saying, "if your husband came back from Iraq without a limb, shouldn't the government have to help him?" Well, excuse me, I don't think that's the same thing as giving EVERYBODY free health care. Of course they should help injured vets, they worked for it. Of course those injured while working in any line of work should get some sort of help, they were WORKING for it. But don't say that ever Tom, Dick & Harry should get free health care just because they are Americans. It makes no sense to me.

Ok, sorry I had to get that out. I swear, if I make it to the end of the semester without high blood pressure I'll be doing good. I never thought taking intro to journalism would be so taxing lol.

2007-10-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

Today has been a wonderful day. It's our five year anniversary. I'm so thrilled to get to spend my life with Eric. His love has been such a blessing to me and I'm so thankful that God put us together when He did. He has blessed our marriage and I'm so grateful for everything. Last year we weren't able to spend the day together, since Eric was still overseas, but this past, almost, year that he's been home has been so wonderful. It's amazing how much a year can change things. This time last year I was planning his homecoming, making signs and getting the house ready. In the past year, my husband came home, I've lost both of my grandpa's, gained a sister-in-law, lost a ton of weight and got my dream of being pregnant with our first baby. Not all of the things have been good, but it's so wonderful to know that no matter what I have the Lord, my wonderful husband and a family that I couldn't imagine not having.

We had the ultrasound today, and everything looks good. The baby was very active and wouldn't hold still the whole time. The baby was so adorable and even gave us the thumbs up.
The radiologist said he's not allowed to tell us what the sex of the baby is because apparently somewhere someone was told they were having either a boy/girl and it turned out they had the opposite and so they sued the hospital, and won. They got not only the money for doing the nursery but also pain and suffering. So, he couldn't technically tell us. Instead, he said, "There's the umbilical cord," moved the thing a little and said, "and there's not the umbilical cord." We're having a boy! Eric and I are both thrilled. Of course we would have been no matter what was seen or not seen. The radiologist kept waiting for the baby to tire and quit bouncing around, but even though we were in there for an hour and 15 mins, the baby refused to settle down. The guy said he hopes he's not quite as active when he gets bigger or he's gonna hurt me lol. Everything looks good though, he has all his little fingers and toes, his little heart is working wonderfully and he's measuring exactly (to the day) what he measured in the first ultrasound. So, the expected due date stays the same, Feb 19, 2008. Here's a couple more pictures of the little one, one is of his face and he's got his little finger on his face and the other is of his little feet.

2007-10-08T07:57:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official, my brother's a married man now. That's the weirdest thing to say lol. Things went great though, it was a beautiful wedding. The rehearsal was long and a little sketchy, but the wedding went off without a hitch and everything was great. I put a slideshow together for them that they played before the ceremony started, and it went over well. I cried pretty much from the time I got to my place through the whole ceremony. Although my brother told me thanks for not blubbering like he did during my wedding lol. They couldn't get the unity candle lit, but they didn't let it bother them and we got a laugh from that. So, a word to the wise, make sure the wick is actually sticking out of the candle before the wedding lol. When the ceremony was finished, and we were walking out, the groomsman that I walked with said, "well you held it together good." lol... I said, "yeah I did, didn't I?" geez. Anyways, we had cake there at the church and then they had a dance reception at a opera house museum thing. It was beautiful. They had a dj there and they had a mother/son dance and a father/daughter dance. Then they had a $1 dance. I hadn't ever heard of that, but you pay $1 to dance with either the groom or bride. So, we did that and I don't know how much they made in total, but quite a bit. Plus, one of our cousins came in from Montana and was an usher, but he bought my new SIL a camcorder and my brother a guitar! Well that blew our gifts out of the water that we got them, lol. Anyways, I think they did pretty good and we had a good time. My poor baby was kicking me cause the music was so loud lol. I don't think he/she liked that very much. Several of my brother's friends had come down from where he used to go to college, so after the dance they went to the bar. Somehow, Eric and I got roped into being dd for my cousins, brother and SIL. I'm glad they asked though, because I'd much rather do that than them drive and something happen. So, I was exhausted by the end of the night. I don't think I've ever been so happy to see a bed. Things went great though and I'm just so thrilled for both Matt & Brandi (my brother and SIL). I wish them a lifetime of happiness together and may God bless their marriage.

This pic is me, my mom, brother, dad, sister

me, brother, sister

brother and new sil

whole wedding party, those in very front were ushers

new sil, I love this pic

brother and sil

mother/son dance

2007-09-29T21:35:00.000-07:00

Glo left me a message asking if I was feeling ok since I hadn't been on in a while. I am so appreciative that there are people who care, and I just love all you ladies! You've helped me through a lot, even though I've never met any of you in person.

I felt the baby kick today, which was such a neat feeling. I was so thrilled and can't wait until it's strong enough for Eric to be able to feel it too.

My brother's wedding is Oct 6, and I'm a bride's maid. I'm pretty excited about that too, just because I know that she makes him very happy and that makes me very happy. I wish them a lifetime of happiness together.

2007-09-25T07:07:00.000-07:00

Courtney is so sweet. I seen that she gave me my first blog award and I want to thank her very much for that! It means so much to me.

The awards says: "The thing that I love most about blogging is that I learn so much about a person just by reading their blog. I have met MANY wonderful people with wonderful stories to tell,and I am grateful every day for each person that I have the pleasure of crossing paths in life with.I wanted to create something special for ten people who have inspired me through their blogging; the stories they tell, and the lives that they lead with grace and dignity. I visit their blogs for inspiration and encouragement.Although there are MANY people I want to give this award to at this very moment, I am going to choose ten bloggers:Please grab your badge and wear it(with a smile) proudly, and pass it on because you inspire and encourage me, thank you.So, now it is my turn to pass it on. "

So, I know that most of these ladies have already received at least one, but they are very special to me and so I'll give it to them again. Thank you all for the support you've shown me. I couldn't have gotten through last year without you!

Courtney (Beside My Soldier)

Michelle (Learning How to Deal)

Charla (Standing By My Man)

Glo (Young At Heart)

Kbug

Andrea (Sgt and Mrs Hub)

Monica (Always My Soldier)

Vanessa (All That I Am)

2007-09-19T11:32:00.000-07:00

My little baby sister turns 17 on Friday (21st). It's the last year she's technically still a kid. I'm pretty bummed about all this "growing up" stuff. Seriously, next thing I know it's going to be Eric & my baby that's turning 17. My sister, Meagan, is 7 yrs younger than I am. We're really close. Actually, my whole family is close. We call each other Bisty, and she's so funny. She's really a cool person to hang out with. The night she was born, I was so thrilled. My brother and I were sitting in the waiting room at the hospital by ourselves, the rest of the family hadn't made it there yet, and I was bouncing off the walls (literally). I was so excited to have a baby coming into the family. We didn't know what she was, and when my dad came down the hall with the nurse and told us it was a girl I was beyond thrilled. My brother, on the other hand, was not. He wouldn't even come out in the hall and see her before they took her to the nursery to clean her up. He sat in the waiting room pouting. He wanted a brother. He even called her "It" for a while after she was born. Of course, they are best friends now too though.
Our whole family is super close and I'm so thankful for that. My sister completed the puzzle to that part of our lives and I thank God that she was put into our family. The age difference could have been one that separated us, but I think that it made us closer. I've always had the instinct to protect her first. As my mom has said, I was a very clumsy child, but even when I would be holding her and I would trip and fall (lol) I always made sure to land with her up, so she didn't get hurt. She's not just my sister, but a wonderful friend and I'm proud of the young woman that she's becoming. So, to my beautiful, talented sister, HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEAGAN! I love you!

2007-09-12T11:22:00.000-07:00

We had another appt yesterday. Everything is going good. The baby was moving alot, so she wasn't able to get a good heartbeat lol. What we did hear, she said was between 140-150 though. My next appt is Oct 17, but we are scheduled for an ultrasound Oct 12 (which just happens to be our 5 year anniversary!). I'm so excited, I can't wait to see our little one again. My brother is getting married Oct 6, so this weekend is their wedding shower. We are going to my parents this weekend so I can go. Eric's not even slightly interested in going (for some odd reason lol) so he's going hunting with my sister's bf. I even let him off the hook of going to our baby shower, he wants to go to an OU game since I did that. I figure I made him suffer through our wedding shower, I'll let him slide on this one. They don't seem to be geared towards the men anyways lol. Who knows when it will be though, my sister is planning it and won't tell me anything. She says it's a surprise. I think I should at least get time to plan when I need to be there lol. Oh well.

In other news, school is going ok. My journalism teacher is one of the most slanted people you will ever meet and his "teaching" leaves a lot to be desired. My economic geography teacher thinks he's teaching 3 yr olds (seriously, he stopped class after myself and another person sneezed back to back and said "I guess everyone has the sniffles huh?" and then he got irritated when a girl asked a question and asked if it would be on the test). I don't think he realizes that if we don't learn what's being taught, it's at our own expense. Oh well, I guess everyone can't be pleasant, otherwise we'd have nothing to complain about lol.

2007-09-06T12:21:00.001-07:00

Ok, I'm a little slow, but I finally took the time to take some pictures of our house. I haven't taken any of the outside yet though. I have some of before, but I'm just going to post the one's of now. I love this house, I'm already dreading the thought of having to sell it one day lol. We got some baby stuff the other day. We got the crib, changing table, and dresser. Eric put it together and it is so cute! I'm thrilled. It looks neat having it in the baby's room. We still have to paint and stuff, but I have no clue what color to paint, so that will have to be later.

Here's our cute little kitchen, I love the cupboards! My mom made the curtains for the kitchen. They are so cute!

And the living room

The spare room is a mess still, we have lots of work to do to get this one in order!

Our bedroom

And our cute little baby's room! The dress hanging on the dresser is something I had picked up for a friends baby. Turns out, she's having a boy lol. Oh well, it might come in handy if we have a girl!

2007-08-29T11:26:00.001-07:00

I came close to dropping journalism, but after thinking and praying hard about, I decided not to let an arrogant teacher run me off. Besides, I'll know better next semester! lol...

I've had a head cold the past week and I'm so ready to get over it. It makes things more difficult not being able to take medicine. A small price to pay though.

We have tickets to go see OU vs North TX this weekend. I don't want to go, I'm not a big fan of football, but Eric wanted to and my sister and her bf want to too, so I'm going too. We also get to go see my sister's bf play his high school football game Friday. So, as much as I don't like football, that's where I'll be all weekend, YAY!

I miss Hawaii. I want to go there again and just relax and do absolutely nothing but goof off for another week. Sounds so good to me right now! Too bad that takes money, and quite a bit of it. First, we have to fix the air conditioner and then eventually we need things for the baby. Vacation will have to wait. The baby is definitely worth it, and with the heat, the air conditioner is too, but if things weren't so expensive we could have all three and then I could forget school and be relaxing in paradise. Ahh, dreams.

2007-08-22T11:43:00.001-07:00

Classes started Monday, I'm taking Economic Geography, Intro to Journalism, Methods in Social Research and Social Statistics. You know which one I dread going to the most Monday, Wednesday and Friday? Intro to Journalism. Would you like to know why? On day one the teacher called us out on our political views. I am not an outgoing person, by any stretch of the imagination. I don't go around spewing my views, but I also won't sit back and let others bad mouth my side either. So, in answer to his question of who we supported, I was the only one to raise my hand. I felt out of place, sure, but also proud of myself for sticking up for what I believe. Then today, another dose of making a point to draw out those who oppose his views. Luckily there happened to be another lady in class today that shared my point of view, and she's a talker :) You know, I would understand the point to this type of teaching if the teacher wasn't so biased. If he drew out both sides to open a discussion for the students to choose their own beliefs, that's one thing. However, It's a completely other thing when the teacher puts his point out there and makes the student feel like they are totally wrong for their beliefs. He flat out said, "I'm anti..." and proceeded to name the things he hates. Isn't the point of teaching to teach all the angles and give the students the information to choose their own path, not to try and make them take the path already chosen by the teacher? Aahh, ok that's enough of a rant for today, and it's only the second day of that class. It may be a very long semester! Sorry if this doesn't make sense.

2007-08-15T19:11:00.000-07:00

I don't know why the picture wasn't showing up. I'll try again to post it. Sometimes blogger is frustrating. We had another dr appt today, and we got to hear the heartbeat! It was 156. It was amazing and so neat!

2007-08-10T14:44:00.001-07:00

Ok, sorry this took so long, but here's the picture of our baby. The cute little one even had it's tail still lol. I have another appt on the 15, so hopefully we'll get to hear the heartbeat then. I'm excited! Eric's mom bummed me out when we went and visited her this past weekend. She looked at the picture and just went on talking about her stupid cell phone. We might as well have shown her our big toes for all she seemed to care. Oh well, that's her loss if she's not going to be excited with the rest of us. My family is estatic and Eric and I couldn't be prouder parents already lol.

I know I referred to the baby as he in my post, but that's only because I've always figured I'd have a boy first lol. I always wanted to have the older boy so he could look after his little sister. Kinda like my brother, I guess. Although my brother was such a butthead to me for a long time. When it came down to it, though, he stood up for me and protected me when I was being threatened. My brother's rules were that I was to never look at him, or talk to him in public. The only reason I could talk to him was if something happened to mom, dad or our little sister. He was very adament about this, and in fact he told me if I seen him in school I was to look the other way and act like I didn't see him. I always complied to these rules, and I developed a very bad habit of starring at the floor, and playing with my hands. Anyways, we went to Falls Creek Church Camp one year, and I stayed away from him. Some of the people from our group were going to play in a volleyball tournament, and so the whole group went to watch. Well, one of my friends and I sat up higher and away from the rest of the group. These three guys came up to us, one had a camcorder, and stood in front of us. The other two sat down on either side of us and started putting their hands on us and saying stupid things like, "Hey baby, wanna go with us?" and just being really dumb. Well, we were both taken aback and didn't know what to do. Out of the blue, standing in front of me, my brother appeared. I didn't see him come up, but he was there. (He's always been very stocky for his age, and everyone was always intimidated by him) He was standing there, flexing his muscles and he said, "Michelle, are these guys bothering you?" I told him yes and he said, "Leave her alone!" The guys started stuttering saying, "Hey man, we were just playin around." My brother said, "Leave her alone!" The guys were stumbling all over themselves, and my brother wasn't backing down. Anyways, they left and left us alone. My brother turned to me and asked if I was ok, I told him I was, and he turned and walked back down to his seat. Everyone was talking about it, they said that as soon as he realized that the guys were touching us, he flew up the steps. From that day on I knew my brother loved me and would be there when I needed him. Up to that point, I had no clue, I figured he'd be the first to throw me to the wolves lol. Anyways, I've always wanted a little boy to give his little sister that kind of security. (Minus the whole making a rule where she can't look at him part)
On the other hand, though, my mom and grandma both say it's a little girl lol. It's kind of funny though, because my mom says things like, "They got a picture of her today," to my dad and my dad responds with, "You mean him?" lol. I guess only the Lord knows though, whatever we have, it's our little blessing and I'll be so happy to have him or her.

2007-08-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

Things have been hectic around here. We signed for our house last Thursday and our household goods were delivered yesterday. I had Eric deal with the movers since I had dealt with them when they took it lol. Gave me a chance to rest anyways and I even got a little reading done :) My mom and sister came down today and helped us get things unpacked. I was so grateful to them for that too. It made things go so much easier and faster than doing it alone for sure. They are definitely lifesavers. Thank God for good family! I wish they could have stayed longer, but mom said maybe in a couple weeks her, dad and my sister could come and stay the night with us. I hope so. I'll post pictures when I get some taken lol.

I also have to post our baby picture, I haven't forgotten, just haven't had the time.
You know, I never realized how tired a pregnant lady gets lol. Eric, my sister and her bf kept making fun of me for always being so tired. They were trying to get me to do something and I just wanted a nap lol. Eric even told me I could be tired when I was big and pregnant. I know he was playing, but I don't think that was the wisest thing to say lol. Men.

2007-07-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

We are finally back in our home state! YAY! We came down yesterday, and in the process stopped by and seen my grandma. She looked so lonely when we told her goodbye. I felt bad for leaving. She seems to be doing good though, but of course still has her good days and bad. We're staying with my parents until we sign for the house on the 2nd! I can't wait. Just over a week and we'll be put for at least two years! I haven't got to say that since we got married. It's so exciting to know that we'll be in one place for two years. Aaahhh, those are sweet words lol.

Ok, well I have a prayer request. One of my old high school friends', she was a year below me, brother died on Saturday. He was in my grade, and was only a year older than I am, so he was only 25. They're not sure what happened to him, they had an autopsy done, but won't know the results for 6-9 weeks. His funeral is Thursday, and I would appreciate it if you would all keep his family in your prayers. They're not taking it well, and I worry about the mom in the family. Please keep them in your prayers as they go through this difficult time. Thank you!

2007-07-19T16:08:00.000-07:00

Today was my appt. It went really well. I got my physical today, the dr said everything looks good. I was a little disappointed, because I didn't think they were going to do an ultrasound. But after the physical they took me to another room and did an ultrasound. It was so neat! They said the baby is still too little to hear the heartbeat, but we could see it beating in the ultrasound. It was the neatest thing! The little baby isn't even an inch long, but we could see it's little arm moving around. He's so sweet! I love him already. I'm 9 wks and 1 day, according to that ultrasound, which is only a day off from where they had me at the first appt. I'm so excited! We don't have any of our stuff, except the laptop really, so I'll scan the picture when we get to the new place and get set up!

2007-07-18T13:32:00.000-07:00

We've been living for a week without our stuff now. I hate it. It really stinks having to sit on lawn furniture and sleeping on an air mattress. They also took our microwave, so I'm having to do the old fashion warm ups lol. Oh, the joy. My mom finds it funny, I'm not in the mood to find it funny. I'm just ready to move, Monday can't here fast enough!

My dr appt is tomorrow at 3. I'm ready for it, although I'm not a fan of physicals lol. It's worth it though for sure.

2007-07-11T07:59:00.001-07:00

Eric called me while he was on his way to formation this morning for accountability, at 5:40 a.m. and said he had been rear ended. I guess the guy told him that he had just dropped his kids at daycare and was having a coughing fit and he didn't see him slow down. It took over and hr for everything to get squared away before Eric could leave. He called the cops, and when the cop got there they found out that where they were was not his jurisdiction, it was the forts jurisdiction lol. So they had to wait on an MP to get there. At least the guy has good insurance. I think State Farm does an excellent job when it comes to getting things taken care of. I got rear ended once too and the lady had State Farm and before I even got to my mom's house they had called to tell me what to do. It was awesome. Anyways, they've already called Eric too, and told him to take it wherever he wanted and it would all be taken care of. Awesome customer service. We leave on the 23rd from here, and the packers are coming tomorrow, the movers on Friday, so Eric probably won't be able to take the truck in until Monday. Hopefully the body shop will be able to get it done within the week. He's going to take it today so they can tell him how long it will take to do the job. He can't drop it off until Monday though, because we have to have the truck to put the things we don't want them to take in the move. Oh well, if they can't get it done in time, we can always do it when we get where we're going. At least nobody was hurt!

I can't wait to get out of here. It seems like these last two weeks will never end!

2007-07-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful 4th of July. Thank you to all those who have made sacrifices for us to be able to celebrate our freedom today!

2007-06-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

I had my first appt today. It was just us talking to an ob nurse. My first real appt is July 19. We told her we were moving next month, so she put us in before we have to leave. She said that she really wants us to get that done before we leave so that they can make sure everything is going good. So that's when I'll have the first ultrasound and what not. She said based on the dates I gave her and everything that I'm about 6 weeks already and that my due date will be around Feb 19. The did my lab work today, and took 5 vials and I had to do a urine test. Fun fun lol. It's still pretty unreal to me at this point, but I'm excited. My sister and her bf stayed the week with us last week, and she bought the baby it's baby book, first piggy bank and a cute little onesie already. She's already spoiling it and it's not even here lol.

We had our house inspection yesterday. I guess there were a few things wrong with it, but nothing major. So, we're requesting they fix a few things and then we'll get the rest. It's just a few things, so I'm excited about that. We also had it appraised and they said the asking value is very reasonable, so that's good too. Our closing date is Aug 1, so just over a month. My mom said she wants to paint the mural for the babies room, and I'm so happy about that. She's such an awesome artist.

Eric should be getting his orders in the next couple of days so he'll be able to start clearing soon. He has 24 hr duty tonight and on the 4th of July, which sucks, but what can ya do? Oh well, no big deal.

2007-06-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

Last week was pretty terrible, with my grandpa passing and everything. However, God blessed Eric and me in two huge ways, and I would like to share with you ladies :) We put an offer on a house down in OK Saturday, and found out yesterday that the sellers accepted out offer! YAY!!! So exciting, I love that house! Now, for the best news ever, I found out Sunday (Father's Day!) that Eric and I are going to have a baby! I took two tests and then that afternoon we told my family. They were so excited. I signed Dad's card Eric, Michelle & Baby, and while he was looking puzzled about that Eric laid a baby bib that says, "I love Grandpa" on him. They went nuts, they are so excited. My sister about busted our eardrums with her screaming. We went and told his mom yesterday, she's excited too. Then I went to the hospital today and they drew blood and about 30 mins ago called and told me it is for sure positive. My first appt is the 28th. I am SO EXCITED!!! The best news of all is that the last time I posted about our problems with getting pregnant I said that the dr gave us pills to help, well I took them for two months, but last month I told Eric I didn't want to take them anymore, I felt like the Lord was telling me to just put it totally in His hands and we would be blessed for it. So, I did, and the very next month, I'm pregnant!!! Thank you God! :)