Rebekah's Reality

Valentine's Day happenings - 2010

2010-02-26T10:02:00.007-05:00

So I didn't get a lot of pictures (ok, none of Valentine's day itself) but I do have a few from some of the festivities that I'd like to share with you.

It started with their school Valentine's Dance on February 5th, where an adult had to be there with the student (the whole time). Thankfully Brian was able to make it so we had some fun all together.

(There's a couple more pics if you go here)

Here we have Brian trying to show Vincent how to do the "Y" for YMCA

Brian holding Karah's hand so she can twirl around in a circle - she loved it!

Vincent sitting down for a minute with his classmate, Lily. I couldn't resist the cuteness factor :)

Karah with a couple of her classmates all getting in on the picture action

Vincent & Karah ~ they do love each other! :-D

The class parties were the Thursday before Valentine's day and the kids were excited about their goodies.

Karah with her Valentines

Vincent and his Valentines

And what did they give out, you ask? Well, they each had the little cards, but wanted to give out a treat too. I had first seen the idea for these treats at Little Birdie Secrets (love their site!), but hadn't seen the tutorial link - until after I had already made these. So we grabbed some Wilton's chocolate pieces (blended 2 parts milk chocolate & 1 part dark chocolate), sticks, bags w/ties, and mini candy canes (on sale @ Walgreen's for $.39/pack of 40).

The kids enjoyed helping to make them. I melted, stirred, and placed the chocolate onto the stick laying on the parchment paper and they took turns laying the mini candy canes onto chocolate to form a heart. Mint & chocolate are a yummy combination! Sure it was different from the tutorial, but I really like how these turned out. I love the contrast of the red & white "heart" against the dark, chocolate background. Plus, there's some substance to it as well. We ended up being able to use all 60 sticks in the package, making enough for both their classes plus a few extra. The kids also dipped some candy canes & pieces into the chocolate to have little yummy bits to munch on.

Notice the one I made for Brian in the bottom right corner? :) I had also tried sprinkling some crushed candy canes on one of them, but didn't like the look very well, so that one became mine on Valentine's day. The kids each got one as well and everyone was happy - and loved!

a year ...

2010-02-15T17:11:00.004-05:00

It's been so. very. long. Almost a year, in fact. It has never been my intention to be away for any amount of time. Many things have happened in the past almost year so I'll try to keep it brief. I could add so many pictures, but then it would take forever for the page to load so please enjoy the pics here and I'll try to stay more up-to-date ... on a regular basis :)

Last year these three got older. I don't know who said that could happen, but it did happen and now Karah is 10, Brian Lee is 9, and Vincent is 8

Karah, Brian Lee, & Vincent chillin' in the backseat

During this past year, Brian got selected for recruiting duty. We packed up the house & put it all in storage, since we wouldn't know where he was going until closer to graduation. Recruiter's school was in San Diego, CA and we decided to make it a driving trip. We visited his parents in Mississippi and managed to squeeze in a couple of day trips - one to the USS Alabama, a battleship in Mobile, AL, and the another to the NASA Stennis Space Center in Mississippi.

After our visit in MS we continued our journey West, dropping the kids off in TX and Brian & I arriving in CA on July 3rd. We spent the 4th together and rented a paddle boat - really enjoyed our day together. On our way back to the motel that evening, we were able to see 12 different fireworks displays - very beautiful. After almost a week in Cali, I went on to spend the next six weeks in Colorado visiting my sister.

I arrived at Ella's on July 9th with 2 suitcases, 1 garment bag, and 2 boxes full of baby goodies that I'd shopped for before leaving. It was so cute to see her with a big baby belly, but he didn't stay in there too long after I arrived. On July 18, 2009, at 8:24am my nephew, Noah David Blickenstaff, made his entrance into the world. He weighed a whopping 8lbs 9oz and was 20 1/2 inches long. (to read the birth story, click here) While I have given birth twice myself, I have never witnessed it, and it was amazing. Ella did great going all natural, something I've never done - gimme drugs LOL.

Noah resting on Mommy - about 12 hrs old

While I very much enjoyed my time in Colorado visiting my sister and enjoying my new nephew, all good things must come to an end. I drove back to San Diego to see Brian graduate recruiter's school and then we headed back to Camp Lejeune. We picked the kids back up in Texas, visited his parents again in Mississippi, then finally made it back to North Carolina.

We didn't stay there too long, just enough to load up a HUGE truck with our belongings in the storage units (yes, plural), found out the truck wasn't big enough, got a trailer hitch installed on the van and rented a trailer to fill it with the rest of our things. We then started our journey to Valparaiso, Indiana, where we are now living in an apartment. For an apartment, it's very nice. Three bedrooms, 2 bath, laundry room, attached 1-car garage isn't bad, but the kitchen is TINY. Oh to live in a real house again - lol. Honestly, it is a very nice complex and the price is great for us.

Being in a new area, we got to go to a new place for the Marine Corps Ball this year. It was at the Conrad Hilton in Indianapolis and had the most motivating & interesting speaker I've ever heard. We don't usually stay for too much dancing, so after we left we changed and ran across the street to the 4-story mall (huge!!!) to the theater to see New Moon. Since the kids were with Brian's grandma, we were able to actually have a date :D

Brian & the other recruiters from his station

Since we moved to NW IN it has put us living closer to my mom than I have in the past 12 years. For Thanksgiving she, Ron, & Randy came out to spend the holiday with us. We enjoyed a good meal, and then she went shopping with me early the next morning :) After we returned, we made pancakes for breakfast. Here, Karah is helping Grandma Gwen make pancakes.

See the family resemblance?

Seeing as we now live in a snowy area, I'm the only one in our family with any experience in that. Brian is not such a big fan of it, but the kids really enjoy it. They've loved playing in it and always try to look for ice or slippery snow to slide on :) I think the snow is beautiful, especially when it's freshly fallen, driving at night seeing the sparkle from the headlights.

Brian shoveling some snow off our front walk

Karah & Vincent "skating" on the layer of ice covering the walk

Recently, the childrend started attending a local school, and on February 1, 2010, they participated in a school music program. It was patriotic, entitled "This Is America", and their music teacher was impressed that they were able to learn the songs in such a short time. Unfortunately, Brian was unable to make it since he had to be at another high school for work. Not wanting him to miss the performance, I recorded all the songs Karah & Vincent sang plus one from 4th grade as it was a song thanking veterans. I'll post the links so you can also enjoy - just click the song title.

Vincent - in the middle row, 2nd from the right

Karah - in the front row, on the right end

We Celebrate America

The Spirit of America

God Bless America

All-American Me and You

Karah & Vincent at home after the program

While we're not huge football buffs here, Brian has his favorite team, the New Orleans Saints. We watched them over the season and Brian just kept getting more and more happy. He was thrilled when they won the NFC Championship and ecstatic when they won their first superbowl! I love seeing him happy, so I bought him the t-shirt, hat, and superbowl XLIV official hologram program. I also bought him the t-shirt, hat, towel, & dvd when they one the superbowl, but we're still waiting on all the items to arrive.

Brian happily showing off his new goodies

On February 5th, the kids' school had a Valentine's dance that was free, and an adult had to be with them. We were thrilled that Brian was able to get off work early and come along. They even had a couple of songs for the adults to dance with their students so we took advantage of that time together. We followed the dance with pizza and a tv show and had a great evening together - something that is rare these days (due to his workschedule).

Karah happily dancing with Daddy :)

Vincent not-so-happily dancing with Mommy

(he wanted to play with his friends - lol)

Bullies on Base

2009-03-29T17:06:00.006-04:00

Today as we were getting ready to eat lunch (pizza) I realized we didn't have anything to drink to go with it. Sorry, I just can't drink water with pizza. So we drove over to the c-store to get a quick drink. I was dressed for church except I was wearing comfy flip-flops instead of my cute heels. Karah was dressed for around the house fun, and Vincent was mixed (dress pants, t-shirt, and flip flops). I sent Karah in to grab us drinks while I waited out in the van with Vincent.

It's not like it's huge and it wasn't super busy at the time. After a few minutes she comes out with the bag of drinks and we head home. As we're leaving the parking lot, Karah tells me some kids talked to her on the way in. According to her, it was a couple girls and a boy. Well, one girl told Karah "pay me a quarter and you won't get hurt" . Karah told me this and I was like "what?!?" She said that another girl started talking and Karah just ignored them and went inside. *good girl!* They weren't there when she came out.

Obviously nothing happened or else I'd have more to write about, but still. Always be mindful of where you're at, even in a relatively "safe" place. I'm glad that Karah kept her cool and ignored them, though I'm sure it could have gone differently. Thank God He had His hand of protection on her. God is so good!

Thank you all ....

2009-03-27T18:17:00.004-04:00

I have enjoyed your participation in this giveaway and I hope to be able to do more in the future. Since it was a small number, we just did it by hand. I was the photographer while Vincent got the lucky job of drawing.

All the names entered in
In the box waiting to be drawn
Vincent is ready to draw
Mixing it up
He took his job seriously and didn't peek
And the winner is ....
DEBIJOT
CONGRATULATIONS!!!

The past week in shopping

2009-03-26T07:25:00.007-04:00

I was able to get some pretty good deals lately and thought I would share what I was able to get.

Target shopping trip - 3/19

Okay, so I can't find the receipt for this one, but I know I didn't spend much. For the buddies bars I used (1) $3/3, (1) $2/2, (1) $1/1 coupons. The puzzle was $1 and I got it to cover the overage since they were 97c each, and was something I wanted anyhow. I don't know the exact price, but I know it was less than $2 for all, including tax.

K-mart shopping trip - 3/23

I took advantage of the double coupon event this week and while I didn't get as good a deal as Hip2Save, I think I did pretty well since I've only been getting the paper (& thereby coupons) for a couple weeks now. Everything I bought I had a coupon for that I was able to get doubled, except for the dog food (not pictured) because it was a $3.50 coupon but that's okay. :-)

Overall, I bought 18 items, saved $15.70 because of sales, saved $18.24 in coupons, for a total of $31.18 + tax.

(If the V8 looks a little deformed it's because the kids each had one before we came home.)

Walmart shopping trip - 3/24

Not a bad trip this time. I attempted to use the self checkout, but it wouldn't take the coupons so the cashier was gracious enough to take me up to hers and I was able to use them all. They all went through for the full amount resulting in: $20.61 before coupons, $20 in coupons, 61c + tax for a total of $1.63 oop.

The A-Maze-ing Giveaway

2009-03-20T18:02:00.008-04:00

Welcome to my first giveaway! To tell you the truth, I was a little nervous about doing one as I'd rather have something I made up for grabs, but this is a bit of a last minute decision due to the Ultimate Blog Party :-) Hope you all enjoy it!

Up for grabs are 2 books of mazes.

1) The Amazing Alphabet Maze book - filled with 52 mazes, one maze for each letter - both capital and lower case

2) The Amazing 50 States Maze Book - filled with 50 mazes, one maze for each state

To enter, just leave a comment with a way to get in contact with you. Drawing will be held March 27, 2009 @ 6pm EST.

Thanks sis for pointing out my earlier mix up! :-)

Visit Sweeties Sweeps for winnable contests and sweepstakes.

Time To Party

2009-03-20T09:23:00.003-04:00

Well, it's time for the Ultimate Blog Party 2009! I remember briefly coming across it last year, but was still fairly new to the blogging thing so I passed on it. This year I think I'll participate!

For those that don't know me, I am married to my wonderful husband of 5+ years - Brian - and between us we have three children - Karah (9), Brian Lee (8), Vincent (7). My husband I met because of the Marine Corps when I was still in. He has remained active duty while I am now a stay-at-home mom. (By the way, how come no one warned me it wouldn't be easy!) We currently live in Camp Lejeune, NC, though we will be moving later this year to Who-knows-where.

I love music! Listening, singing, playing piano, flute, or the occasional violin or trumpet - doesn't matter, I love it! I also enjoy crocheting, sewing, reading, crafts, and spending time & having fun with the family. I enjoy going to church and participating there as well as fellowshipping with like-minded believers.

Initially I started this blog looking as it like an online diary of sorts. I then decided to post a little more regularly and share with family in order to keep them updated on things around here. A military lifestyle usually revolves around frequent moves, and those are almost never close to where we grew up. I love to post about my family, good deals I've been able to get, and really just about my life in general.

Let's party!!!

***UPDATED***
I have decided to do a giveaway. The A-Maze-ing Giveaway will run until March 27th, so get your entries in now!

Our needs

2009-03-19T01:09:00.003-04:00

On Saturday, March 7, 2009, the five of us had breakfast at Golden Corral. After leaving around 11am we went to a carwash and vacuumed & washed the Rendezvous. We were at the dealership by noon. Three and a half hours later we are driving off the lot in a 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT. This is such an answer to prayer! Sure it's blue (I wanted black), but I do like the blue, and it came with features I wasn't planning on. The stow 'n' go was a must for me, along with the dual DVD players (for the trips we'll be making soon). It also came with remote start (YAY!), tri-zone climate control (driver, passenger, rear), push buttons to open the side doors, side door windows roll down, SIRIUS satellite radio, jacks & outlets in order to hook up a video game system or other video system. The other day I was actually able to use all the seats as I took myself & the 2 kids and my friend with her 3 children. We were able to talk to (and hear) each other relatively easily as the kids were all watching a movie. What a blessing!

It was something we had been praying about because we really needed a new(er) vehicle. (This is actually the first time either Brian or I have had a brand new vehicle before) Two of the tires really needed replacing along with the registration renewal / vechicle inspection coming up soon. We hope to be able to enjoy this for many years to come yet.

This is my only picture for now, but I will try to get more soon.
Matthew 6:8

"...for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. "

CVS trip

2009-03-17T20:18:00.002-04:00

Today I went to CVS and was able to take advantage of some of the deals they had going on there. My first stop I used my card and had two transactions. I had it all planned ahead of time what I was going to do and how I was going to do it, but when I got there they didn't have a couple things. So I modified and here's what I got.

Transaction #1 (my card)

1 - Hershey's Bliss Milk Chocolate on sale for $3.50 (from $4.79)
used $1/1 printable coupon

3 - Cadbury Mini Eggs on sale for $2 each (from $2.99 ea)
used $1.50/3 printable coupon

2 - Hershey's Kisses on sale for $1.88 ea (from $2.99ea)
1 - Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs on sale for $2 (from $2.99) (thought it was supposed to be $1.88 though)
used $1.50/3 printable coupon

Total of items - $15.26 (originally would have been $22.73)
Total coupons - $ 4.00
Total OOP - $11.26 + tax
Paid with $10EB from last week and $1.26 cash
Received $5EB for purchasing $15 of Hershey's (before coupons)

Seven bags of candy that after sales and EB received averages to $0.89 per bag!

Transaction #2 (my card)

2 - Progresso Soup on sale for $1.25ea (from $2.99ea)
2 - Progresso Soup on sale for $1.25ea (from $3.19ea)
used $2/4 printable coupon

1 - Colgate Max White on sale for $2.99 (from $3.29)

1 - Xtra laundry detergent on sale for $1.99 (from $2.79)

1 - Irish Spring hair & body wash for $4.99

Total of items - $14.97 (originally would have been $23.43)
Total coupons - $ 2.00
Total OOP - $12.97 + tax
Paid with $10EB and $2.97 cash
Received $4.99EB from Irish Spring, and $2.99EB from Colgate

Seven items that after sales and EB received averages to $0.71 per item!

Transaction #3 (Brian's card at a different location)

4 - Progresso Soup on sale for $1.25ea (from $3.19ea)
used $2/4 printable coupon

2 - Dry Idea deodorant on sale for $2.99ea (from $4.49ea)
used $2/1 coupon x2

1 - Irish Spring body wash for $4.99

Total of items - $15.97 (originally would have been $26.73)
Total coupons - $ 6.00
Total OOP - $9.97 + tax
Paid with $9EB and $0.97 cash
Received $4.99EB from Irish Spring, and $2EB ea from Dry Idea

Seven items that after sales and EB received averages to $0.14 per item!

All three transactions

Total sale price of all - $46.20 (from $72.89)

Savings from coupons - $12.00

Total OOP (out of pocket) - $34.20

Paid with $29EB and $5.20cash

Total Extra Bucks Received - $21.97

21 items after sales, coupons, and EB received averages to $0.58 per item!

This wasn't from CVS, but I had to include it since I got it today for FREE using the coupon in the ALL YOU magazine. The magazine is full of coupons and can get it at Walmart for $2.24 + tax. Even if you got it just for the FREE item (which I'm told it usually has at least one of) it more than makes up for it right there. The coupon was good for one free (up to $6.47) Rimmel Sexy Curves mascara - wouldn't you know it cost $6.47. Totally FREE! Yay!

My Old Man

2009-03-16T23:03:00.013-04:00

Last Thursday my dear, wonderful husband of just over 5 years turned ... 30! There, I said it. He is officially an "old man". :-) (I have to enjoy it while I can for I will soon be joining him!)

Not that either of us really consider 30 old. The balloons (which used 2 small packages of crackers as the weight) were sent to him from his parents. You'll notice in this next picture that he seems to be in bed still (at like 1pm). Since it was his birthday, he wanted to sleep in and then be able to watch tv or play video games and still be in bed. He was entitled, so we had a sleepover on the pullout bed and relaxed most of the day.

Brian on the phone with his parents as he opens his card. It says:

Hey, I know where you can get a hot, steamy shower and a nice rubdown on your birthday ...

[open card]

Car Wash! Have fun! [while it plays "Car Wash" by Norman Whitfield]

They also sent him a $25 gift card for Olive Garden

We did the rest of the cards & presents on Friday night when Brian Lee would be here to see as well. This is the back from the card I gave him which talks about The Truth of Turning 30

Here he is with the card from the kids. It says:

Dad - At last! There's a talking action figure for people your age!

[open card & hear "OOOOOOWWWW! My back! Oh! Oh man! I gotta lay down"]

Try not to think about it, and have a happy birthday!

Brian as he's opening his presents. These are actually pics of the first three he opened. If you're wondering about his facial expression, it's the fact that I double wrapped his presents. hehe

Wrapped inside these were Star Wars The Force Unleashed for DS, Lego Star Wars The Complete Saga for DS, and the NCIS Official Soundtrack. (We love NCIS!)

The kids during a brief intermission as I go to grab more presents

Inside a Pirates of the Carribbean gift bag he found a Transformers bubble bath (hey, Optimus Prime's arms move!), and a Love Monkey webkinz.

(Give ya three guesses who chose those items)

The final present! He had to close his eyes for this one while we prepared to give it to him. Upon opening his eyes he joked that it was probably a party sub. lol

Not a party sub! An Anakin Skywalker lightsaber!

He couldn't wait to get it open. He is using his engraved dogtag to open the box because he didn't want to wait for scissors or a knife. (The dogtags were another birthday present given from me along with a more personal card - I have the matching dogtag).

The happy birthday boy!

It's open!

A stand that came with it in order to display it. It is also wall mountable, so he was looking up at the wall, thinking about replacing the candle display we have there.

(Thinking was all that was done)

Yes the batteries are in and it is turned on...

Here's a better picture with the overhead lights turned off. It's pretty bright, that's for sure.

Daddy had his lightsaber so the kids got theirs in order to "fight back"

Nope, I don't think he likes it at all ... :-)

Had to include this pic - just because!

So after it's all said and done, yes I'm married to an old man, but that's okay. As long as he doesn't act old, he can be as old as he wants :)

Happy 30th Birthday Brian!!!

I'm Still Here!!!

2009-03-11T15:58:00.002-04:00

Wow, has it really been almost 2 months since I last posted anything? Yikes! Much has been going on during that time frame, though my mind is a bit fuzzy on everything. I will try to post what I can on separate posts otherwise this would be super-duper long.

The reason for this post is that I have recently been introduced to CVS via a blog here & there (mostly here) and am quite excited about the possible savings options. Now that I'm getting a feel for how it works, I'm all giddy!

So here's what I got today...

3 for $10
1 - Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Shampoo (13 0z)
(originally $4.29, sale $3.34, saved 95¢)
1 - Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Conditioner (13 0z)
(originally $4.29, sale $3.33, saved 96¢)
1 - Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-in Conditioner (10.2 oz)
(originally $6.29, sale $3.33, saved $2.96)

3 for $10
1 - Lucky Charms (11.5 oz)
(originally $4.49, sale $3.34, saved $1.15)
1 - Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal Bars (6 bars)
(originally $3.99, sale $3.33, saved 66¢)
1 - Nature Valley Oats & Honey Granola Bars (12 bars)
(originally $4.19, sale $3.33, saved 86¢)

1 - Palmolive Oxy Plus (10 oz)
(originally $1.59, sale $1.49, saved 49¢)

1 - Dial for Men (3 bars)
(originally $2.79, sale $1.99, saved 80¢)

1 - Oral-B floss (55 yds)
(originally $3.99, sale $2.99, saved $1.00)

1 - Always Infinity Regular (18 ct)
(originally $5.99, sale N/A, saved $0.00)

1 - Aquafina water (20 oz)
(originally $1.49, sale N/A, saved $0.00)
[the kids were thirsty :-) ]

- Semi-totals
originally $43.39, sale $33.95, saved $9.44

Coupons used for ...
- Dial 35¢/1 (paper maybe? I don't remember)
- Lucky Charms 55¢/1 (printable)
- Nature Valley 60¢/1 (printable)
- Always Infinity $1/1 (coupon came with free sample)
- Extra Bucks from last week $4.99
Total coupon savings - $7.49

-Totals
originally $43.39, sale $33.95, coupons $7.49, spent $26.46, saved $16.93

Extra Bucks received from this transaction

- General Mills (includes Nature Valley) spend $10, get $5eb
- Maybeline (includes Garnier) spend $10, get $5eb
- Crest (includes Oral-B) buy 1, get $2eb
- Palmolive buy 1 get $1eb
- Always buy 1 get $2eb
Total - $15 eb to use on future purchases

Final
$26.46 spent
-$15.00 ebs received
$11.46 equivalent

Thank you, Hadias, for your wonderful posting!

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

2009-01-21T15:13:00.008-05:00

Yesterday we got some snow which - from what I hear - is rare around here. We had a lot of fun in it. This is the sign coming on to base early afternoon. It snowed more later that evening.

Our house and yard was covered in snow when we came home.

Karah (on the left) & Vincent made snow angels first thing

Having a little romp in the snow with daddy. Vincent attempting to throw a snowball at me
(it wasn't a little powdery)
Karah taking her turn trying to get me with a snowball

While inside warming up, the kids & Penny look across the street at the ensuing snowball fight.

Penny loved the snow and kept wanting us to throw snowballs so she could catch/fetch/eat them.

I've been hit!

(by Brian)

What else was I to do but get him back? ;-)

We ended up on the ground and somehow got all tangled up with Penny's leash.

Today the snow started melting making it stick together better so the kids took advantage of it and decided to make a snowman. Here they are getting a good base.

Lift with your knees, not your back.

(Actually, I had to help them lift this one because they couldn't get it up themselves)
Here's the head

Vincent adding a personal touch - he couldn't have a bald snowman :-) Karah adding her personal touch - didn't want it to have cold hands :D
Voila! Snowman complete!

And in case you're wondering, we used a baby carrot for the nose, and some Rubik's cube pieces for the eyes and buttons.

Going Places

2009-01-13T15:02:00.004-05:00

And where exactly am I going? Well, on Saturday morning I walked with Karah while she let others know that it's cookie time again!

She did very well considering only 15 people ordered anything. Her goal this year is to sell more than 1,000 boxes. (She's aiming for the Ipod shuffle) I know she would be happy with getting over 500 though. The past 2 years she has come within 30 of making the 500 mark. Cookie time is a fun time for the girls but it teaches them as well. They have goals individually, but also as a troop. They voted on going to Myrtle Beach, SC and after the math was done (they had to account for transportation, food, lodging, event expenses, etc) they learned they need to sell about 4,000 boxes as a troop. It will be nice for them to reach their goals and have that sense of achievement and to see their work pay off. Me - well, I love girl scout cookies but by the time cookie season is over I know I'll be happy to be done with it. (I'm usually the one with Karah standing the cookie booths 2 hrs at a time).

Just a week!

2009-01-06T12:37:00.002-05:00

Well I am no longer on the front page at topmomma.com which is okay. It was fun while it lasted! Thanks for those that clicked!

Popping out for a min ...

2008-12-31T18:22:00.003-05:00

I know I have been absent for a while, but don't worry - I shall soon return to the blogging world.

The reason for this post is that a few months ago I had signed up with a website and pretty much forgot about it until a recent email which said ...
Hey Momma!
You are now on the front page of TopMomma.com!!!! Time is of the essence, so make sure that you tell all your friends and readers ASAP to get the most clicks possible. Your referral url is: http://www.topmomma.com/mommas/referal/2126 So spread the word- and good luck!

There is no need to sign up or anything, but if you could click that way once it'd be great! (FYI - Currently my picture is on the front page but not sure how long it will stay up there)

I hope everyone has had a good holiday season!

See you next year!

A Break

2008-11-21T08:15:00.001-05:00

Sorry for my absence ... things have risen up that must be taken care of.

I will be on a break for a while yet.

He's Back!!!

2008-10-24T10:20:00.003-04:00

After almost 7 months, Brian is now back. He returned yesterday at noon, and we have been enjoying some wonderful family time since. We are off to go take care of somet things, and I will post more pictures later.

Creepy Crawlies

2008-10-11T01:47:00.003-04:00

Children seem to be attracted to them. Or it could be the other way around. I don't remember being as interested in little creatures so much when I was younger - then again, my memory isn't always the greatest.

Last Saturday I was at my friend's house doing some planning for our girl scout troop. When we left, her neighbor was finishing up a yard sale. I was able to pick up "The Incredibles" for Gamecube for only $3, and while I did that Karah managed to pick up a little gecko. It was bright green, and it seemed to like her. Now, the kids know that bugs or similarly small creatures do not get to come in the vehicle with us, so imagine my surprise when I find out while I'm driving that it's in the truck with us. Thankfully, we only live a few blocks away, but it still made me nervous. When we got home and it got out, I took a picture of Karah holding it.

I love this picture!

Of course, once we got home and took the pictures, I told her she had to let it go. I was done with little creatures for the day - or so I thought. While they were out back playing, Vincent caught this little guy. He came to show it to me and I screamed when it jumped towards me. A sure sign of getting old, I think. Anyways, it was this teeny little frog, smaller than a quarter. And no, it's not dead in the first picture, though I wonder if it was trying to play that way so Vincent would leave it alone :-) Eventually it did hop into the grass and I told the kids to leave it alone. Finally, I was done with little critters for the day!

Cowabunga!

2008-10-10T23:41:00.003-04:00

That's the word the kids were debating over earlier today as they played TMNT on their Gamecube. Vincent said it was "Calibunga" while Karah argued that it was "Califunga". After getting a few laughs out of it and sharing it with Brian via Yahoo messenger, I informed them of the correct way to say the word.

This past week was spent working on schoolwork in the morning and housework in the afternoon. The day is fast approaching when Brian will return home and we are so excited! We want everything to be perfect for his return. Though I've found that there's a lot involved to achieve perfect - *sigh* Good thing he's worth it :-)

As for my previous post about Karah, I think it was just a fluke. She never had anything after that day, and I think she was imagining it. *WHEW!* Still ended up having some of the talk with her, so when it really happens it shouldn't be so much of a shock.

Here are a couple pictures from this past week.

Karah & Vincent at Books-A-Million looking at an "I Spy" book

Vincent on Sunday selling popcorn for cub scouts.

Karah helping out at the popcorn table

Oh, for those that were wondering how many skittles really did fit into the little water bottle ...

the total is - 895

But she's only 9!

2008-09-30T23:04:00.003-04:00

Today, my little girl told me that she had seen a little blood when she was in the bathroom. She said it was teeny, so I told her to let me know if it was still there the next time she went. Yes, it was and there was more of it. It seems like only yesterday she was this teeny little thing, and now she's growing up so fast! I hadn't planned on trying to explain these kinds of things to her for a couple more years yet. I didn't expound too much on it, just barely skimmed. For those of you that have had the talk with your daughter, got any advice?

Karah on the phone with daddy yesterday morning, sitting in her new chair.

She bought it last week with her allowance at the thrift store on base for only $5!

Vincent took a self-portrait when playing with the camera.

He's always had blue eyes, but they seem especially blue in this picture (at least to me).

How Many?

2008-09-30T02:15:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I put this little goody together for my girl scout troop. It's a guess-the-number thing, and it will be one of the activities towards the Math Whiz badge. I decided to use a water bottle instead of just a jar, in hopes that it could actually get some use after the candy was enjoyed. Each badge has 10 activites, and they have to complete any 6 of the activities to earn the badge. This year, I decided to implement badge work in the start up activity. Since math whiz is a lot of activities, it will cover the start up activities for the next six meetings, and then I think we'll go to puzzles! :-)

So, how many skittles can you fit in the water bottle?

I'll give the answer in a later post! :=)

It's all about Him

2008-09-29T02:19:00.001-04:00

Ps19.1, originally uploaded by musicalgem79.

Due to some physical ailments, I was unable to go to church today. I very much missed it, so the kids and I read some from the Bible and sang some songs. Not a replacement, I know, but I didn't want them to think we were just "skipping" church.

While I was sitting here (unable to do much else) I played around with my photo editing software. I took this picture a few weeks ago on the way to church one evening. (I was actually driving at the time, so I'm glad it turned out pretty good!) The verse just jumped out at me, so I took the time to put them together. I hope you enjoy the beauty that God gave us!

Flickr

2008-09-29T01:54:00.001-04:00

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Fun Run

2008-09-28T00:02:00.003-04:00

Well, I didn't run, but I did walk a mile with the kids & Penny today. They had a Dog Day at the Park for a few hours this morning, starting with a fun run/walk. I thought it'd be good to get Penny out and around some other dogs. She did very well for being her first time. On the walk the kids took turns taking pictures (which I will post later because my laptop doesn't like to read the memory card) and overall had a good time. Vincent was sad that we didn't get any medal, as they had some for the top three finishers in the classes of women, men, & children 16 and under. I reminded him about who was being pokey because they were throwing a fit (it was him). After the walk they had some water bowls for the dogs to get a drink and there I found out that I have a picky pet. Penny sniffed at practically every bowl (about 2 dozen) and wouldn't take so much as a lick out of any of them.

After looking around for a bit longer we decided to go home. When we got to the truck I got out the travel water bowl I had brought with and put it down and she took a nice, long drink. Go figure! ~lol~ Anyways, we had a good time with her today. She did well on the ride and around the other dogs. AND - I didn't have to clean up any messes! :-D

I should mention that I have noticed that at places where animals can roam free (like Petsmart, or today's dog day at the park), the kids are more excited than being in the toy aisle at a store! They see a dog, and they just run up to pet it, especially Vincent. I tell them they need to ask first because it's not their pet, and some pets aren't so friendly. They do pretty well, but reminders kept coming out a lot today :-) They enjoyed seeing all the different kinds of dogs, and Karah informed me that she wants to save $100 so she can buy a little dog and all it's supplies. She wants her own to run with next time. We'll have to wait and see on that.

Art Class

2008-09-24T02:03:00.002-04:00

Personally, I find the title pretty funny as I don't consider myself very artsy. Anyways, the other day for art class they decorated some steno notebooks for use at church. I helped a little and kept it from getting too cluttered, but they did most of it themselves. They really liked them as you can see from the pictures. I think they did a really good job. Karah chose some great sayings for hers, and I absolutely adore the tie on Vincent's. Stay tuned for further art class projects (for better or worse!)

The inside front cover

In a crafty mood

2008-09-24T01:17:00.005-04:00

I bought the kids a new Bible each a few weeks ago since their old ones were in pretty rough shape. Karah wanted a Bible cover, but the ones they sell are so expensive it seems. So, I thought I'd make one. I measured the Bible, cut out a pattern 1/2" larger on each side, used some quilt batting in the middle, and some ribbon on the edges. It turned out okay, for the first time - especially considering as I'd never made a pattern before! Since there was enough material left, I was able to make her a dress to match, and a scrunchie too! She was thrilled! (Aren't all girls happy when they get new clothes?)

Class is in session

2008-09-24T00:26:00.003-04:00

On September 8, 2008, we started our first day of homeschooling. This was an answer to prayer and something I have looked forward to doing for some time now. Both Karah and Vincent were also excited about the prospect as well. We went with a fairly easy (to me) , curriculum since it was new to everyone but me. So far, we are about 2 1/2 weeks into it and are enjoying it. Sure, Vincent isn't always happy when I actually make him do his work, but I have seen such an improvement in him - in just the first week alone - that it is so worth it. He is reading and writing better, and was SO happy when on his first test he got a 100% :-) Karah is also doing well, although she had a rough start. All her work required cursive writing, and she had only learned a few letters last year so on the first day, it was a crash course in cursive writing. She has since improved as well, and is doing much better (and I only have to correct a letter every once in a while, as opposed to a letter per page). All in all, it is going very well so far, and I am looking forward to the rest of the school year. I so enjoy spending time with them and watching them learn and grow.

Karah & Vincent on the first day of school

(still gotta have a first day pic!)

Vincent took it upon himself to look up the verse in his Bible when reading through his goals.
Karah reading how to sit in order to write properly before tackling cursive writing.
Vincent picked this cute little flower for me at recess.

(It didn't last too long, but it was a sweet gesture and I got a picture!)

Just playin' around

2008-09-23T23:57:00.005-04:00

While trying to walk my sister through how to make a slideshow / video, I was doing it myself so I could tell her right. Here is the result. I ended up using the pictures from when Brian left and I think it turned out alright. I know with some tweaking it could be better. Still - enjoy!

Too Precious

2008-09-14T21:55:00.007-04:00

This evening it was my turn to sing special music before the service, and I had narrowed it down to this song. I've been practicing it for a little while now, but something happened when I got up there and started to sing. It was as if the Lord opened my eyes - really opened them -to the words, the message, for the first time. This sense of overwhelming came over me, and it took quite an effort to not bawl right then and there. (That happened later) As it was, my eyes got a little watery (but not to where I coudln't see the music) and I was able to sing with a real conviction.

The song is "Too Precious" with the music written by Dan Whittemore and the words based on Psalm 49. In between the two verses, I read some verses from Psalm 49. Please enjoy these words (written how I sang/said it) and I pray they touch your heart.

TOO PRECIOUS

Verse 1

All my life I dreamed of good fortune,

And there were times I sought to be honored by men;

Yet, if I owned the richest of kingdoms,

Still I could not save myself from my sin.

Chorus

Too precious, by far, to be sold

Or ransomed for mere earthly gold.

If wealth were the way,

All earth could not pay

The price that could save a man's soul.

Psalm 49:6-15

They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;

None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:

(For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:)

That he should still live for ever, and not see corruption.

For he seeth that wise men die, likewise the fool and the brutish person perish, and leave their wealth to others.

Their inward thought is, that their houses shall continue for ever, and their dwelling places to all generations; they call their lands after their own names.

Nevertheless man being in honour abideth not: he is like the beasts that perish.

This their way is their folly: yet their posterity approve their sayings. Selah.

Like sheep they are laid in the grave; death shall feed on them; and the upright shall have dominion over them in the morning; and their beauty shall consume in hte grave from their dwelling.

But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah

Verse 2

Tho' I speak of life everlasting,

I know my life is only as long as the day;

For it is only the love of my Savior

That redeems me from my sin and its grave.

Chorus

Too precious, by far, to be sold

Or ransomed for mere earthly gold.

If wealth were the way,

All earth could not pay

The price that could save a man's soul

Tag

If wealth were the way,

All earth could not pay

The price that could save a man's soul.

A little update

2008-08-11T23:30:00.003-04:00

Just a quick update on how things are going on around here. After my sister left I was a bit down again, but I was able to keep busy which helped. Last week we had VBS at our church, and I was in charge of crafts for our class. It was a fun time and also a blessing seeing the visitors join the others and really get involved in memorizing verses and answering questions.

Later this morning, I will begin the journey to get the kids. After looking into prices for planes, trains, bus, and gas (driving), Greyhound was the winner. With military discounts, the total came to $417.60. Had I driven, it would have been about $800-$900 for gas alone. This way I don't have to drive and I save money, but the downfall is it's a 2 day trip there and a 2 day trip back. But I am just happy to be getting the kids back. It's been way too quiet and lonely around here.

So I am off to get a nap before this long trip. When I return, I'm sure I'll be worn out but extremely happy!

Sisters Getting Along

2008-08-11T21:37:00.009-04:00

As I write this I realize that it's been almost a month since I last posted. Although nothing really much happened around here until my sister came out for a visit. She was here from July 23-30.

From the beginning it was bound to be interesting. Her flight in Atlanta got delayed, so instead of going to pick her up after church, I went home to eat and kill time for a couple hours. Being a bit sore, I stretched out on the couch for a minute, or at least that was my intent. Next thing I know, my phone is ringing and she is wondering where I am at. Uh oh! I live about 30-45 minutes away from the airport so I shoot out the door and input the airport into the GPS while on the way. Now she came into a small airport that is not open 24/7, they usually close at 11pm, and at this point it is midnight. I rush out there as fast as possible and pick her up. After the hugs and hellos, she mentions as we're driving home that she thought it was mom driving at first. I still don't know how to take that one, so I "just smile and wave".

I took the scenic route home (if you can call city lights scenic) and then we talked for a bit before finally settling in for the night. The next day I showed her around base and we did a little shopping. We didn't really do a whole lot, just spent a lot of time together. It was good for both of us as it was a bit lonely out here by myself, and she needed a break from work and a chance to rest. On Saturday we went to the beach for a little bit and walked along the water's edge, but we hadn't brought our bathing suits. We still got wet though! We went again on Tuesday ready for some water fun. Note to self: *bring and use sunblock next time!*

I had some but forgot when we went, and we both got baked pretty good. I don't usually burn too much, maybe get a little pink, and then I tan afterwards, but I got really red this time. Ella got even redder than I did and we were both groaning and "ow"ing the rest of the night and the next day (which is when she had to travel back). Even though, we still had a good time and it ended all too soon. And amazingly enough, we were still on talking terms with each other! (Growing up we were known for our constant fighting/bickering with each other and even in past adult get togethers, we still couldn't be around each other for more than a few days). We've really grown closer over the past few years, and I couldn't be happier!

So please enjoy these pictures of me and my little sis (who is 6 inches taller than me!)

These are the shoes I talked Ella into getting. Aren't they cute?

Ella at the beach

Us sisters at the beach

We had a mini Mary Kay makeover on Monday. It was fun!

The two of us going out to dinner after the afternoon at the beach

(see all the red?)

The half-way point

2008-07-14T19:48:00.007-04:00

Well, it is now half-way through the deployment, based on 210 days. Of course that could change a bit, but not by much. It's hard to believe he's been gone for 3 1/2 months already!

Things were going by pretty fast when the kids were here, but they've been gone for 3 weeks now. It's been awfully quiet and boring around here so I got myself a puppy :-) The kids and I went to visit her before they left (needed to make sure she'd be good with the kids) and we liked her, so I picked her up the Friday after the kids left. Her name is Penny, she's about 6 months old, was already house broken, came with food, bed & a kennel, and - she was free! (Pictures down below!) I found her on Lejeune Yard Sales, which I have become a little almost addicted to. Luckily for my bank account, I just mostly look!

Also, today, after some talking and debating with Brian (which, as he's deployed, has taken longer than I anticipated), we have finally come to a decision to home school the children this year. This is such an answer to prayer for me, as it's something I have thought about since I got out of the Marine Corps, but have felt especially drawn to do within the past year. We will be using the ACE cirriculum - I thought it best to break Brian in gently :-)

So far this summer, since the kids have been gone, I have found myself not doing as much as I had planned on. It's a little hard to get myself motivated with no one around to see. (I usually do better under pressure, anyways). Over the next couple of weeks I plan on really delving into the garage. The goal is to have a massive garage sale to get rid of stuff so I can actually use the garage to park the truck in. What a concept! :-)

Also, my sister will be here from July 23-30, and that will be fun. It's been a couple of years since I've seen her, and she gets to visit a new place, too. We are both looking forward to the visit!

Just a few pics to share ....

Here are the kids at Books-A-Million, where we had gone for Vincent's birthday(June 21). We also later that day went to a Toys R Us grand opening, and walmart, where the boys got to spend their birthday money. This is the last day they were all together. Left to right, oldest to youngest, Karah - 9, Brian Lee - 8, and Vincent - 7. They grow up way too quick!

Here are Karah & Vincent having some fun when we were at the airport in Raleigh. We had gotten there in plenty of time, and then a plane blew a tire when it was landing, causing the airport to shut down for a bit. Originally we were to have an almost 2 hr layover in San Antonio, but because of the delays our would be plane took off just minutes after we landed. Thankfully, we were able to make the next flight a couple of hours later.

Karah & Vincent playing "I spy" at the airport

Here's Penny! She's a shepherd/lab mix and very loveable!

I just love this picture of her!

2008-06-25T08:07:00.001-04:00

After spending most of the day at RDU & IAH yesterday due to delays, I am finally on the return journey. I can't wait to get home!

I know it's been sooo long...

2008-06-23T09:53:00.006-04:00

But things have been crazy busy around here lately. Last week was a mostly relaxing week except for the two birthdays. Brian Lee turned 8 on the 19th, and Vincent turned 7 on the 21st. My baby is 7 already! This week will be emotional as tomorrow I fly the kids to Texas for the summer, which means it's going to be a very long summer for me!

I hope this update helps some. I will post more when I'm not trying to pack 2 suitcases & 3 carry-ons. :-)

Here is Karah with a large size waffle cone from Ben & Jerry's - she bought it with her first allowance!

Vincent with his huge waffle cone - June 2, 2008

June 6, 2008 - Here are the kids at the Cherry Point Air Show. We went to the night showing - missed the Blue Angels, but got to see fireworks and had a lot of fun. Will post more pics of it later.

June 19, 2008 - Brian Lee got his first webkinz on his 8th birthday. It's the elephant, the pet of the month, and he named it "Squirt". How appropriate!

June 20, 2008 - The kids on webcam with daddy (I'm holding the webcam so he could see all 3 of them). I am so thankful for technology. Brian now has internet in his room so we're able to chat online. :-D

June 21, 2008 - Vincent opened his birthday presents at Books-A-Million, and then proceeded to spend some birthday money on another webkinz. As you can see, here he is with his Lil' Kinz Black Lab (Black-E) and the rest of his presents. Can you believe he's 7 years old?

June 21, 2008 - One last pic of the children together for a couple of months. Brian Lee - 8, Vincent - 7, Karah - 9

Has it been 9 years already?

2008-05-27T00:31:00.006-04:00

It seems like just yesterday she was this tiny little thing ... a mere 6lbs 6oz with her black hair & black eyes. It's amazing to look back and see how she has grown into a beautiful, young girl. She's a perfectionist, very loving, sings well, and wants to learn how to play some instruments. She also is not a big fan of mommy doing her hair :( unless it's for something special. She takes pride in what she does and loves to spend time with her family. That's my wonderful daughter, Karah!

Karah on her birth day - May 22, 1999 - Okinawa, Japan

Karah approx 1 yr - Fallbrook, CA

Karah at 2 - Fallbrook, CA

Look at me, I'm 3! - Fallbrook, CA

Dora was her thing at 4 - Twentynine Palms, CA

All her presents at 5 - Twentynine Palms, CA

Rising star at 6! - Twentynine Palms, CA

Pretty girl at 7 - Twentynine Palms, CA

Lovely at 8, almost 9 - Camp Lejeune, NC (will update when I can download my pics)

Memorial Day

2008-05-26T12:13:00.005-04:00

As today is Memorial Day, most people think about that extra day off work. Fewer think about the real reason why it's a "holiday". I was raised in a family with a big military background. My dad was in the Army and his dad was in the Air Force. On my mom's side, my grandma was in the Navy and my grandpa was in the Marine Corps - they met at Parris Island, SC. Their oldest son went into the Navy, and 2 of the other boys went into the Marines, where one of them stayed in until retirement. I have some cousins that were in the Army, and I myself was in the Marine Corps. I have married a Marine whose brother is also a Marine, his mother is retired Air Force, and his dad is retired Navy. To say we're a military family is a bit of an understatement. I wasn't raised in a military family, but I was raised very patriotically by my grandma. My children are being raised as a military family. A life that was chosen before they were conceived.

We are in a place nowadays where there is arguments over whether we should still be in Iraq. They want "our boys" to come home. Know one knows better than the families left behind how much we our boys (and girls) to come home, but we know why they're there. My sister once asked me, "How can you be so calm about it?" (referring to Brian having to go to Iraq). I replied, "It could have been me." I was still active duty when 9/11 happened. I re-enlisted that December, although I was going to anyhow, even if the tragedy hadn't happened. Because of my job, I had to go back to school for more training. When I was done with that, I stayed as an instructor. Being in the training environment put me in a non-deployable status, so I was never with any unit that went. I am glad to have not gone, but I would've if it had been needed. It is very hard with Brian being gone, but I am not sorry he's serving his country in this manner. We both knew what could happen when we signed up, although the threat at this level wasn't there at the time. I am very proud of Brian and everyone else that is currently serving. They are there for us.

Just like those who have been there before. With all the military in my family and all the friends/acquaintances I've made because of the Marine Corps, I can only think of one that I personally knew that has died in a war. I also know of my aunt's first husband who was killed in Vietnam (my mom was only 10 or 11, so I was not yet born). Other than that, all I can say is that I've been blessed so far, and Lord willing it will stay this way. Although I know the longer we're in, the more people we know, the more that chance increases.

The other day I was in class, and as it was the first day we did the introductions. It's a resume class, so I did mention that I was in the Marine Corps (gotta put something on the resume, right?). They all said "thank you for serving", and honestly - I don't feel the need to be thanked. I didn't join for the fame or recognitions. I joined because this is my country. As those who joined before me, knowing what could happen - and did happen.

To them I give my thanks. Without them, our country would be in a much different place.

Thank you

The older gentleman in this video is a real Medal of Honor recipient.

I'm glad I know that I'm saved!!!

2008-05-22T01:04:00.003-04:00

Praise the Lord!

Tonight at church, I had the privlege of leading Vincent to the Lord. He had me go with him down to the altar and I asked him what he wanted to pray for. He said he wanted to get saved. I asked him if he knew what it meant and if he realized he was a sinner. He said yes, so I said a little prayer first, then led him through the sinner's prayer. Everyone was very happy, especially Vincent. On the way home, he was singing along with the cd that was playing and one of the songs went "I'm saved, I'm saved, I'm saved" sung in different parts (each part being held out) but Vincent sang them all. What a blessing to know that he now has Jesus living in his heart, and will one day live forever in Glory! What a Great Saviour we have!

The Past 2 1/2 weeks

2008-05-22T00:15:00.002-04:00

have just flown by! My memory stick extender is still MIA and I have no clue where the original box is that probably still contains the cord we've never used. *sigh* So eventually, I will have pictures to put on here.

To continue from the last post, the weekend of camping with a bunch of girl scouts went really well. The ticks were out in full force, and thank the Lord they didn't like me! Or maybe they just didn't like the bug spray/repellent I was wearing. Either way, I am quite thankful. Karah escaped the weekend with only having 3 on her. When all the girls in my troop had been picked up, we went and picked up Vincent from my friend's place, and then went home where I did a full body check for ticks on Karah. That's when I found the 3rd one in her hair. She took her shower while I checked myself for ticks, then had Vincent look in my hair since I obviously couldn't. After her shower, I took her to a birthday party for one of her fellow girl scouts. Vincent & I came home and I got to take my shower. Oh, it feels so good to take a shower after 2 1/2 days without one! After I got dressed, we picked up Karah from that birthday party just to take her to another girl scout's birthday party. This time when we went home it was Vincent's turn for the shower. Another trip to pick up Karah, and when we got home we all got ready for church.

On Monday (May 7th) Vincent had boy scouts. They did their things, and afterwards Vincent ran around in the rain - and lost his slide. The second one. So we had to buy him a new one.

Tuesday (May 8th) I was doing some things around the house. Due to the change in weather, some rather undesireable insects kept getting into our home, plus we had a sudden outbreak of fleas (we don't have a pet anymore so they were getting us!), so I bug-bombed the house. I stopped by the school to drop off some paperwork, and I see Vincent in the nurse's office. She was just trying to call me, so I checked him out early (I was going to anyways, this just made it excuseable). He had a temperature of 101 degrees. They had gone to the farm for a field trip earlier to pick strawberries. I obviously couldn't take him home, so we went and picked up Karah and then went to the px and then out in town, looking at/for webkinz stuff. The kids really like their webkinz. Then we came back and I did my girl scouts, went home to open the windows so the house could air out, then went and had Subway for dinner. Once we got home, Karah helped me strip and remake the beds, I gave Vincent some medicine and got him in bed. The next day he still had a fever in the morning, and in the afternoon he started losing his water, so needless to say, we didn't go to church that night. I kept him home from school on Thursday just to make sure the virus/sickness was gone and then he went back on Friday.

Friday evening we spent 5 hours at a carnival here on base. Admission and rides were free, which was great (because you know they usually have just outrageous prices). I have lots of pictures that are still stuck on the memory card. They went on the Magic Carpet Ride (a HUGE slide that they slid down on burlap sacks - oh, and they pur armor all the slide to make it easier to go down), the DragonWagon (kiddie roller coaster), swings (all 3 of us), the zipper (me & Karah - she screamed my ear off, but had fun), the Super Shot (you go way high up in the sky, and then it drops you - they liked it). They also went on the Sizzler, Ferris Wheel, and a several others whose names are alluding me right now. We had a good time that evening and finally made our way back home. The next day, there was a swap meet in the building next to the carnival. We went to it, then decided to stay and do some more rides before it got too crowded. They also had an area with bouncys set up by the USA and sponsored by Disney. It was pretty cool b/c we wre able to get a free Disney movie that we didn't yet have. They also had practically every bouncy imaginable. They first went on a couple of the reguar ones, then they headed for the water inflatables. The one they liked the best was the one that the slide ended into a pool. They went down a few times before it was time to go.

My girl scouts were meeting to play laser tag and go roller skating with some of their money from cookies sailes. Since the laser tag din't start for a couple hourse we just rollerskated. It was fun and by the end Vincent was starting to get the hang of it. This past weekend we took it easy and just stayed home.

On Monday, it was time for boy scouts again, and ths time thye got to do learn how to play tennis and ultimate frisbee. Thursday, Karah's troop is meeting at the roller skating rink. She'll have a fun time, I know.

So there's a bit of a rundown over our past couple of weeks. Soon I hope to have pictures up her.

Preparing for the weekend ...

2008-05-01T23:26:00.004-04:00

camping! This weekend is Camporee for all the girl scouts here on base. We're going out tomorrow evening and coming back on Sunday morning. My troop will be myself and my co-leader and 6 girls. The theme this year is "Pirates" so the girls voted and our name this weekend will be "Dutchman Divas". Very cute and girly, kinda like this picture.

Once we get back, we'll get to take a shower (finally) and then Karah has 2 birthday parties to attend. Later, we'll go to the evening service at church. Vincent should have fun having a sleepover with his friend this weekend. I think we'll all be ready for sleep by the time this weekend is over. Wish us luck!

Has it really been that long?

2008-04-26T16:49:00.002-04:00

Since I last posted? I have been meaning to. Last week (Apr14-18) the kids had their Spring break. We went to Brian Lee's first baseball game, had fun painting at the ceramic hobby shop, went shopping where the kids used their own money to buy a webkinz each. We were able to pick up our completed projects on Saturday after they'd been glazed and fired.

This week, I had a Mary Kay party, Karah went to Chuck E Cheese's for girl scouts, had church on Wednesday, and a pack meeting for Vincent on Thursday. Yesterday was pretty uneventful, leading to today. There were so many things available for us to do today, and some we had/have to do. There was an Spring festifal at a local high school from 0900-1530, a unit potluck picnic in the park from 1100-1400, a "Funtastic" (festival?) on base from 1300-1600, Girl Scout Father/Daughter Dance from 1830-2030, and Curious George was supposed to have been at the exchange at some point in time today. Needless to say, we didn't go to all of those. We went to our unit potluck picnic, and are now getting ready for the dance. I tried to opt out of it, but Karah really wanted to go and we did already pay. So we'll go and as long as she has fun, I'll be okay (even if we aren't dressed up as nice as I'd like us to be.) Next time!

Well, time for me to get on out of here or else we'll be late. I do have pictures of the past few weeks, but in the process of straightening up the house, I have misplaced the extender for my memory card. Hopefully I can find it before I run out of room! (It is a 1GB card, but I have run out of room before) Toodles for now!

It's all about nature

2008-04-12T23:51:00.005-04:00

The other day I had to take the trash out to the curb (the kids usually do it but had forgotten that morning) which wasn't a really big deal until I was on the way back in the house. There was dew on the ground which was no big deal, but then I actually looked down. I saw a little spider web ... but not just one. They were all over the yard - and I was in flip flops! :-s I was not very keen about that, but I carefully watched my step and grabbed the camera. The webs were small, about as big around as my fist so here's a close up of one of them. See the dew drops still on it?

Today as I was outside, I saw a couple of wasps flying around and then I looked up. And I see this ... a wasp trying to build a nest on my porch light.
After shooing the kids inside, I took a can of roach raid (it was either that or flea raid) and got as close as I dared and sprayed really quick. It flew away and didn't show signs of coming back, so I got closer to spray better. Then I took this picture of its wannabe home.

Recognition

2008-04-12T21:35:00.006-04:00

This past week a couple special things happened with Vincent at school. On Thursday, there was the Author's Recognition - children write their own story, get it "published" in school where the PTA puts it together in a hard cover, then the children illustrate it themselves. He waited patiently for his turn as his was close to the end and after it was done read his book to me.

The paper sticking out of the book is a certificate with a coupon on the bottom. It is for a free meal at Golden Corral. I think it's great because Karah just got one last week for being the VIP in her class for the week. Since they're good until the end of the year, we will probably save them for when Brian gets back, since I know he's gonna want to go. :-)

Later that evening we built a model dinosaur. He had come home with the assignment on Monday, but we had been busy all week so we just got started on Thursday (the night before it was due!). His dinosaur was the Hypsilophodon. I had some modeling clay that one of the kids gave me as a stocking stuffer at Christmas, so I let him use it (not like I was using it or anything). The only thing I didn't realize - until after we had created the model - was that is was NON-hardening clay. So even though we used some toothpicks to put part of it together, it never hardened. The neck/head kept falling down. I tried baking it ... that didn't work. So I put it in the freezer for the night. It didn't harden, but the cold kept it from moving.

Here is the video of Vincent giving his report. He did the research at school and they had a desk set up like a reporter's desk. All the kids had a different dinosaur that they did their research & model on. I love the video, but it is kinda hard to hear - he wasn't speaking very loud. Yes, I know, very unusual for him :-)

After all the reports were done, the teacher handed out certificates and dinosaur wall stickers because she was so proud of them and how they did their research.

Vincent with his Research Award certificate.

Stay tuned for scenes from next week's episode

2008-04-08T23:51:00.001-04:00

It was great to hear those words tonight at the end of NCIS. NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) is a show on CBS that Brian & I first saw when we were in 29 Palms, but never really watched regularly. When we got here, we watched an episode and it almost seemed like the first time we had seen it, but we got hooked. Don't know if it was the mystery aspect, the character interaction, or the military association, but we loved it! From then on, it's something we have watched together. And while we like watching the CSIs, NUMB3RS, Criminal Minds, etc, those days are filled with other activities. But NCIS days have become "our thing". Usually bed time is 8pm for the kids, so after tucking them into bed, we'd settle down on the couch to watch it. We have since bought the seasons as they came out, and it became our lunch thing. He'd come home and we'd watch an episode during lunch, working our way throug the series. Because of the writer's strike, there hasn't been a new episode in quite a while, and tonight was the first new one since the strike. At the end of the show, we know if there will be a new one the following week or not based on if they say to stay tuned or not. So, it was very exciting to hear it said tonight ... that'll be two new episodes in a row! :-D The only thing missing is him. Guess that means we'll have to buy season 5 when it comes out so we can watch it together when he gets home!

Letter from God to Women

2008-04-08T11:55:00.003-04:00

I received this in an email from my uncle, and thought I would share. While I was searching for a picture to accompany this post, I came across this blog entry with a great post about being a Helpmeet. Please click here to enjoy it!

Letter from God to Women

When I created the heavens and the earth, I spoke them into being.

When I created man, I formed him and breathed life into his nostrils.

But you, woman, I fashioned after I breathed the breath of life into man because your nostrils are too delicate.

I allowed a deep sleep to come over him so I could patiently and perfectly fashion you. Man was put to sleep so that he could not interfere with the creativity.

From one bone, I fashioned you.

I chose the bone that protects man's life. I chose the rib, which protects his heart and lungs and supports him, as you are meant to do. Around this one bone, I shaped you ...

I modeled you. I created you perfectly and beautifully. Your characteristics are as the rib, strong yet delicate and fragile.

You provide protection for the most delicate organ in man, his heart.

His heart is the center of his being; his lungs hold the breath of life.

The rib cage will allow itself to be broken before it will allow damage to the heart.

Support man as the rib cage supports the body.

You were not taken from his feet, to be under him, nor were you taken from his head, to be above him.

You were taken from his side, to stand beside him and be held close to his side.

You are my perfect angel ... You are my beautiful little girl.

You have grown to be a splendid woman of excellence, and my eyes fill when I see the virtues in your heart. Your eyes ... don't change them. Your lips - how lovely when they part in prayer. Your nose, so perfect in form. Your hands so gentle to touch. I've carressed your face in your deepest sleep. I've held your heart closet to mine. Of all that lives and breathes, you are most like me.

Adam walked with me in the cool of the day, yet he was lonely. He could not see me or touch me. He could only feel me. So everything I wanted Adam to share and experience with me, I fashioned in you; my holiness, my strength, my purity, my love, my protection and support.

You are special because you are an extension of me. Man represents my image, woman my emotions. Together, you represent the totality of God.

Another year has passed

2008-04-08T01:12:00.007-04:00

On April 7th, some years ago at 2:00pm Central time I came into this world. Sometimes it doesn't seem like that long ago when I was just a young girl with not so many worries; other times it already feels like a lifetime has gone by. Sometimes I wish things had gone differently as I look back, but I know that everything happens for a reason. So while my life hasn't been perfect, I do know that "The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me..." ~ Psalm 138:8

Here are some pictures (that I have on this computer) of me at various stages in life.

Here is a 4 generation picture of me (in the stroller, in case you couldn't tell!), my mom, Grandma White, and Great-Grandma Skaggs.

A few years down the road. The top picture is my sister and I with my Grandma & Grandpa. The other pics are me :-)

This is me and my friend around April 2002 ... we were waiting for the field op to start.

Here's me, Karah, and Vincent also around April 2002. This was such a fun shoot.

Here is Brian & I on our wedding day - December 18, 2003

And here we are present day - well, "present" being March 24, 2008, with Brian & myself, Karah, Brian Lee, & Vincent.

Brian was able to call me today (my birthday, I should say) - twice as a matter of fact. Once was a little befor 2am and then again at about 10:30am (EST). It definitely made the day go much better. Along with a couple from church that were kind enough to take me out to a birthday lunch at Cracker Barrel. Of course, what fun is it to go to a restaraunt on someone's birthday and not embarrass them? None at all! So I got sung "Happy Birthday" to and had a chocolate cobbler (Oh my goodness! Soooo yummy!). So I did have some birthday cake and ice cream and a good time of fellowship.

The simple things in life

2008-04-04T21:23:00.004-04:00

Today I actually went out of the house - by myself - for a little while. I went to Books-A-Million to look around and talked to some of my former co-workers. It was a good visit and a nice break away from the house. Later, I let the kids each choose a packet of Kool-Aid to make ... they had fun!

Vincent made invisible Watermelon-Kiwi

Karah decided on Lemon-Lime

The rest of the evening is being spent watching a movie (or two) together. While I was checking my email, I got an email from my uncle with a great link in it. The video says a lot to me ... what does it say to you?

cricket, cricket

2008-04-03T22:03:00.003-04:00

Well, that's not really what I hear, but it's close. The tv is off, the kids are in bed, and (most) all is quiet in the house. Usually about this time I'd be talking to my sister via messenger, but she had to work tonight so I am all by myself. Which does give me time to update my blog :-)

Not too much has been going on these past few days. On Tuesday, I picked the kids up from school early, since I was pretty sure they would've beaten me home otherwise. I had to run to the px to pay my cell phone bill and then to the commissary to grab the groceries we desperately needed. When we were walking to the px, we heard a chirping and finally found where it was coming from ... the "R" in this sign. Yes, it's a bit hard to see unless you make it bigger, but as I was zooming in with the camera the bird flew away! But the kids really enjoyed seeing it!

After we got home, we put away groceries and then ate real quick before heading to the bowling alley. My troop was meeting there, so Karah & Vincent came with me and were able to bowl as well. Although you may not be able to tell from this picture, Karah actually bowled almost a game and a half. She was (and still is) small enough to fit in this little cubby for coats. Guess I'd better enjoy it while I can before she hits another growth spurt and outgrows all her clothes again!

This picture is from yesterday. In between getting dinner prepared, I looked over and saw this. I just couldn't resist. Karah was being the big sister reading to her little brother. (I had to get a picture because you know it's hard to come by these types!) :-)

Today was a bum (ie lazy) day, which was good since Karah came home telling me she got sick at school. She fell asleep almost right away and took a nap. When she woke up I gave her some tylenol, and then started on dinner of chicken nuggets, baked beans, & chicken noodle soup (for Karah). She's feeling better now, and while we ate dinner we watched "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe". I love that movie! A day or two before Brian left, I saw a trailer for the next one coming out - in May! :-D I think that will be a late birthday present for me, early present for the kids. Might as well do them all at once!

Well, I suppose I should try to get some sleep at a decent hour for once (since Saturday night) ... at least enough so that I can hear the phone if it rings. :-)

I must tell it to Jesus

2008-04-02T10:36:00.004-04:00

No, I didn't get the title mixed up ... it is just a good combination of two songs that just keep coming to my mind right now: "I Must Tell Jesus" and "Tell It To Jesus".

So why do I keep thinking of them? Without a doubt I have been through worse things, although for me, I do know that I wasn't right with the Lord at the time. Could that be the difference? Maybe. And it's not like I have anything to be really sad for, he's alive and well and in the Father's care. What better place could he be? (don't answer that!) I would say it's a mental thing, since I wasn't quite this upset when he went to Louisiana, but that doesn't make it any less so. So what's a girl to do?

I must tell Jesus all of my trials; I cannot bear these burdens alone;

In my distress He kindly will help me; He ever loves and cares for His own.

I must tell Jesus all of my troubles; He is a kind, compassionate friend;

If I but ask Him, He will deliver, Make of my troubles quickly an end.

Tempted and tried, I need a great Savior; One Who can help my burdens to bear;

I must tell Jesus, I must tell Jesus; He all my cares and sorrows will share.

O how the world to evil allures me! O how my heart is tempted to sin!

I must tell Jesus, and He will help me; Over the world the victory to win.

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus! I cannot bear these burdens alone;

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus! Jesus can help me, Jesus alone.

Are you weary are you heavy-hearted? Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus

Are you grieving over joys departed? Tell it to Jesus alone

Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus, He is a Friend that's well known

You've no other such a friend or brother, Tell it to Jesus alone

In the end, that's all we can do ... tell it to Jesus!

I did some searching in the Bible and came across a few verses that touched my heart, and I hope they are a blessing to you as well.

John 14:18 ~ "I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you."

II Corinthians 1:3-4 ~ "Blessed be God, even the Father of ourLord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."

2008-04-01T11:07:00.000-04:00

This is a test of the mobile blogging system. This is only a test. In a real blog, this would be followed by detailed events. This ends the test.

One day at a time ...

2008-03-31T22:15:00.014-04:00

and eventually he'll be home.

On Sunday, March 30, 2008, Brian started his journey to Iraq. The day was wet, cold, and windy. They were to leave at 1000, so we got there a little after 0800 to unload and get ready for the luggage truck. Since he was leaving so early, we were all dressed for church, as we'd be able to make it to the morning service afterwards. Dressed for church means dressed nice, but doesn't mean it's the warmest ... as you can see!

Here, Brian Lee & Vincent are using these trees as a windbreaker, and Karah is huddled up in her blanket trying to keep her feet warm. (We went through and got rid of the things that were too small for her, so she doesn't have any warm church clothes or shoes now :-s )

The kids huddled around daddy and smiled for a picture. Notice the blue blanket Karah has now? One of the wives let her use it to stay warmer.

Me with Vincent in hand after he ran off - again. Yes, I know my coat is open and it's so cold out, but unfortunately, the zipper broke a few months ago and will not stay closed when zipped. brrrrr

We found out shortly before 1000 that the flight was pushed back so the truck & busses weren't going to be here until 1500 & 1600 respectively. After loading his stuff back in the vehicle, he helped get the other luggage put in a dry place (remember, it was wet and sprinkling). By the time we left it was almost 1100 so we went home and the first thing we did was change into some warm clothes! Sweats and long sleeved shirts kept us warm & comfy.

After eating, Brian finally decided to open his birthday presents. The first one he opened was the Transformers Monopoly. There he is with the board, then the children were looking intently as he was reading some of the special rules for this version.

The next thing opened was the Transformers chess.

The kids were very curious to see what the pieces looked like.

Decepticons (which I played)

Autobots (which Brian played)

Let the battle commence!

And the outcome of said battle? Stalemate. In this picture, it is Brian's turn to move. He's got a pawn and his king on the battlefield. The king is not currently in check, but any move he makes will put him in check as my queen and bishop(black) are guarding the area. It was a fun game.

Before anything was played, Brian gave the kids a choice: A) we can all play Transformers Monopoly for a little while or B) they can play Guitar Hero III while he & I play chess. They chose option B since they'd been begging us for some time and Brian had promised them he would let them play before he left. It wasn't my first choice for a game, but when we were at an MCCS warehouse "yard" sale, they had one for $10 (they retail for $90) - game & guitar. We were buying bedroom sets for the kids and figured why not. Brian had been wanting one and even if the guitar was broken it'd still be cheaper than buying the game by itself. Here's some pics of the kids playing.

After we were done playing, I traced Brian's hand on white cardstock and then outlined it in black marker. He then colored them in and wrote a little note for the kids. They had done the same thing on the back of the cards they made for him.

Here are the kids with their very own DaddyHand, so if they miss him, they can "hold his hand". We got sheet protectors to put them in so they'd stay nicer. See how Brian personalized each one? Karah's is a pink palm with purple fingers and a flower (very girly just like her), Vincen's is green fingers and a brown palm with hexagons (he's on the turtle team at school and is all about turtles), and Brian Lee's is a red palm w/black spider and blue fingers (a long time fan of Spiderman). The kids absolutely loved them!

Well, playtime was over, it was time to go back. A few minutes after we go there the luggage truck arrived.

While the bags were being loaded, our truck was being unloaded - of children. They climed over the back and got out via a daddy hug. It actually started with Vincent, but you know if one does it they all want to do it too. And they did!

Vincent with a nice smile and big hug for daddy

Brian Lee got to be taller than daddy!

Karah looking very cute with her arm around her daddy

Once the bags were loaded, it was time for formation to do roll call and find out what bus they'd be on. Now with all these guys in desert digis, how do we know which one is Brian/daddy? By the Mountain Dew bottle, of course!

While Daddy was in formation, I was able to get a good picture of the kids. Notice the hats? We were smart this time around and dressed much warmer (layers, hats, coats, gloves, closed-toe-shoes)

After the formation, Brian got bombarded with hugs (not that he was complaining). I was able to get the kids to turn around for a last smiling picture with daddy.

We were able to get one of his Marines to take a few pictures of us saying our goodbyes.

And the walk to the bus starts ...

One last quick hug before he gets on the bus (Vincent is on the other side of Karah)

There he is, getting on the bus (I know it's blurry, but it's all I have)

I took several, but this one turned out the best (with the least reflection of the trees in the window). He's waving goodbye

While waiting for them to leave, this lady from the USO was handing out stuffed animals to the children that were there.

Here they are with their gifts. When we got home, I sprayed them with Brian's cologne so they now have their snuggle buddy that smells like daddy.

The final wave as the bus pulls away ...

Yesterday (3-31-08), Brian was able to call us from a stop in Ireland. We were at walmart at the time, so the kids were able to talk to him too. There were some delays initially, but so far it seems that everything is going okay. This morning(4-1-08) he called from Kuwait and said they should only have one flight left to get to their final destination. That could always change, of course. His biggest complaint? - he'd really like to take a shower! He's always been one that likes to stay clean ... and he's been in the same clothes now since Sunday morning (minus a 3 1/2 hr break).

If you would like his address to send him anything, please feel free to email me and I will give you his mailing address.

Precious in His sight

2008-03-29T23:17:00.006-04:00

I am so thankful that God saves any who believe in His name, no matter the age. Karah accepted Christ as her Saviour a couple of years ago close to Christmas time. Brian Lee made his profession of faith a couple of weeks ago at church. Today, they both followed Christ's example by being baptized. Since I knew the camera wouldn't be quick enough I just recoreded it instead. Please enjoy the videos, and also please pray for them that they would grow in Christ and endeaver to be like Him.

Karah's Baptism

Brian Lee's Baptism

The past few days

2008-03-29T22:19:00.006-04:00

As we've been trying to enjoy these last few days with Brian, life has been going on as usual. Here's a few of the things we've been doing.

Here are the kids on the way home after church on Wednesday. It was a late night, can you tell?

Vincent receiving his marbles beltloop at his pack meeting on Thursday. They were having something special for the Webelos aftwerwards, hence the Indian chief?

After boy scouts, we had dinner at Fuddrucker's. Here the kids are raising their hands, agreeing to clean their rooms if I let them stay home from school the next day. And they really did cean their rooms!

Friday's snack they had fruit roll ups that had designs for the tongue. Here they are showing them off.

Today, Karah's girl scout troop went to the ceramic hobby shop to work on a try-it. She painted a welcome sign that will be really pretty one ist's been glazed and fired.

Here are the kids making cards for daddy to take with him when he leaves. They had fun designing them.

Things that go bump in the night ... er, evening

2008-03-25T22:57:00.004-04:00

I did have a different title until something happened to make me change it. Here's what I had before that event.

Today at Girl Scouts, they had a mid-year awards ceremony. Karah earned five try-its (they did more but she already had them), got a patch for caroling and Operation Cookie Drop, a certificate for perfect attendance, and a certificate for being the 3rd top cookie seller in her troop. The girls also all got a rose, and the little yellow box was for the parents (chocolate!). Afterwards we were able to eat the goodies the parents brought.

Now on to that title. I was on here attempting to write on my blog and Brian was channel surfing. The kids were in bed. All of a sudden, we heard a strange noise, almost like something popped and/or fell down. Well, I jumped, grabbed his arm, and held on for dear life! We got up, and he peered in the kitchen, but left the lights off, then he went on the back porch and looked out. Nothin'. So I went and locked the patio door (which he later laughed at me for) and then locked the back door. I noticed the lid of the trash can was up and thought maybe the cat had reached up and hit the button. He's a big cat, after all. "Nope", Brian said "'cause it would've made a different noise."

Well shucks! Then he said it sounded almost like ice breaking / falling. So I open the freezer. Nothin' again. I open the fridge ... AHA! But what was it? At first it was hard to tell, because a couple of McDonald's cups had fallen over, but here it is ... the guilty party.

It was a can of Caffine Free Diet Pepsi, leftover from when Brian's parents were visiting. It had gotten moved to the back, and thanks to one of the children (probably Vincent - he has a track record) the temperature setting was on "coldest". As you can tell from the picture, the can exploded. Hence the popping sound and breaking / falling ice sound. Do you like how it just split the can in half?

Now I had planned on giving the house (fridge included) a good cleaning once Brian was gone. For one, I want to spend as much time with him as I can, and two, I'm going to need something to do to occupy my days! Guess fridge cleaning came a few days early.

So what is the moral of this story?

Send your parent's drinks with them when they leave? OR Tell your children to keep away from the temperature control? OR Keep canned drinks away from the back of the fridge?

It's a Blogiversary Giveaway!

2008-03-25T22:45:00.002-04:00

but it's not mine. It is my friend's one year anniversary with blogger today. Feel free to visit and participate if you like. She's been such a blessing to me, and I am happy to know her.

oooh, I can't wait!

2008-03-24T22:25:00.003-04:00

Today we had our family pictures taken and they turned out so well! I'm really looking forward to them coming in so I can put them up. Originally, we were going to have them at the beach, but today it was overcast, windy, and a bit chilly. So we did them in the studio, which gave us more backgrounds to work with. It also kept us out of the cold air which is good, since Brian has been sick since Saturday (he hardly ever gets sick), and I didn't want him to get any worse ... although I must say he's starting to get back to normal. He's getting hot again (he likes it cold but the past couple of days he's been the one turning the heat up).

As for the past few days, we have been okay, kinda busy. On Saturday, we had a barbeque and invited Brian's Marines & their families, and his former Marines who will be getting out before he gets back. We had a house full for sure, about 20 guests in all. Brian cooked the hot dogs and hamburgers, and I made mashed potatoes and 2 batches of these Apple Dumplings. Let me tell you, they were easy and delicious! Each batch made 32, so I had a total of 64 to start with ... by the end of the day there were only 8 left. Eight! Which was perfect for the next day, Easter Sunday.

After church, there was a candy hunt on the front lawn (like they needed any more candy). They had a fun time and got a decent amount each.

When we got home, we had ham, [leftover] mashed potatoes, & baked beans for lunch. It was so good! And I am so thankful to have a husband that can cook really well - even if he didn't notice the thin layer of plastic covering the ham! ;-) It turned out alright. After our food settled and we had room again, we had the rest of the apple dumplings for dessert / snack. Yum!

Today I took Brian Lee out for a little bit. We stopped by the exchange and he tried out this guitar. Just about the right size for him.

The rest of the day was pretty uneventful, except for the family pics. After we were done with the pictures, we went to Taco Bell and had dinner. Enjoy these pics of the kids!

Great things HE hath done!

2008-03-23T23:32:00.006-04:00

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,

The emblem of suffering and shame;

And I love that old cross where the dearest and best

For a world of lost sinners was slain.

O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,

Has a wondrous attraction for me;

For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above

To bear it to dark Calvary.

In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,

A wondrous beauty I see,

For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,

To pardon and sanctify me.

To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;

Its shame and reproach gladly bear;

Then He’ll call me some day to my home far away,

Where His glory forever I’ll share.

So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,

Till my trophies at last I lay down;

I will cling to the old rugged cross,

And exchange it some day for a crown.

Although I do have pictures of the kids and Easter items they received, they will be in a different post. This one is for the reason we celebrate this time of year - and a celebration it should be. Last week, the puppets sang "He Didn't Come Down" and it makes you wonder ... where would we be if Jesus had come down from the cross? Lost and dying with no hope. But praise God He stayed on the tree to die for you and me - and even greater - He rose again the third day. And that is a reason to celebrate!

Also, if you get a chance, stop by my friend's blog ... I love the words to the song she has. She sang it this morning and it was very pretty, too. She's also has the music on there as well.

Moments to remember

2008-03-19T10:56:00.013-04:00

Well, I really hadn't planned on doing so many posts in one day ... guess that's what I get for not getting on here more often in the past few weeks.

Things have been going alright. I'm not sick anymore (but I am trying to keep another cold from coming on), and we are enjoying the short amount of time we have left with Brian before he leaves. Last week Brian's parents were here and we enjoyed a good visit with them.

Please enjoy the pictures and I will get on here more often so I don't have so many posts on one blog in one day. (Was that a run-on?) :-)

Moments over the past few weeks (that didn't get their "own" blog)

Karah enjoying "Thinking Day" with her troop. Each troop has a country that they research and then they all get together and look at all the countries. The countries they research have their own version of Girl Scouts, and that is what they learn about - what the girls in that country do. (Feb 24th)

We had rain one afternoon (February 26th) and the kids were enjoying it. They really liked splashing / running through the puddle on the sidewalk.

All three, wet and happy!

Part of enjoying some fun times with daddy, we roasted marshmallows to make smores after an earlier barbeque. (March 1st)

Well, it was taking too long for some people (Brian) so he decided to speed things up a bit. Don't try this at home! - oh wait, we were home

Nice fire going now so let's see how many marshmallows we can catch on fire!

Valentine wasn't missing out on the fun, he was enjoying munching on what was left on the grill!

The kids after opening up their Valentine's Day stuff from us (yes, a little late). Since Brian wasn't here to do it on Valentine's day, we did it this day (March 2nd). They liked their stuff

This little thief took my bear when he went to wake up daddy on his birthday (March 5th). Brian got me the bear when he went to staff academy so I would have something to sleep with. He even sprayed it with his body spray so it would smell like him. It's not a very small bear, as you can see, Vincent is doing a good fireman's carry with it!

Also on Brian's birthday we went to Texas Roadhouse. This first picture was after the kids heard the volume of the song go up, and they just started looking ... guess they knew what was going to happen. In case you don't know, when the volume goes up, the workers get together and line dance.

The kids also had big mouths and told the waitress that "it's daddy's birthday today!". It was pretty uneventful until the plates were cleared away, then a few of them came over and sang their birthday wish to Brian. He was so embarrassed, but the ice cream was good ;-)

When his parents got here on the 8th, we went to the commissary and got a birthday cake for Brian. We had saved the celebration for when his parents and Brian Lee would be here.

We know he loves Transformers, so we got him Monopoly and Chess, both Transformers edition. I think he liked them (they have yet to be officially opened!)

Brian's favorite band is Aerosmith, so his parents got him a 3 disc collection

Here he is showing Karah the "empty" bag. It wasn't really empty - it had another present from his parents. (He didn't wait for the picture on that one)

This picture is a pretty good one. Yes, it shows all three children together AND smiling at the same time, but take a good look at what they're wearing. I knew what Karah and Vincent were wearing earlier, but it didn't occur to me that they matched (must've been the short / long sleeve thing plus Vincent's layered shirt). We had just picked up Brian Lee earlier that afternoon (March 12th) and had no idea what he'd be wearing. They were sitting on the couch waiting to watch one of the "new" movies that Grandma & Grandpa had brought with them (a lot of Disney on VHS) when I noticed they were all pretty much wearing the same thing. I just couldn't resist getting a picture of it. (Do you have any idea how hard it is to match them when you're trying to?) Nevertheless, it turned out to be a really good picture. Definitely a moment to remember.

These pictures were taken after the Pinewood Derby. (March 15th) We had to run some errands and ended up having lunch at Arby's. Just look at what you can do with the fries!

One of the things we got when we were out were lightsabers for the kids. The boys had some but they were pretty much done for. Karah had never had one, so she was all excited. It's really nice when they can all play together - nicely!

Later that evening, there was a flashlight Easter egg hunt that we went to. Here they are before the hunt.

Here they are on the hunt for eggs. The boys stayed together and are circled in blue, but Karah listened to daddy and is circled in pink. Brian had told the kids that when it was time to go, head straight for the back part of the field since most would start from the front. When it was time to go, she went and didn't even look back. As you can see, it doesn't look quite dark enough for flashlights and the flood lights are on. It started on accident. The helpers were lining some kids along the fence and some kids were running and so other kids started running and before you knew it, everyone was running! Oops!
*Note: You can click on the picture to make it bigger for easier viewing.
As you can see, they had a good time and got a lot of eggs in their buckets.

And the contents of those three buckets of eggs fit into this pretty big bowl ... all candy!

(March 16th) Church day, can you tell? This was after the evening service. If he falls asleep, he will usually wake up at the end or right after. Not tonight, he was gone. He didn't wake up for a little while after, and even then didn't seem awake until we went in to take Brian his dinner (he was on duty). At which point he ran in and plopped himself down on the (very dirty) floor and watched TV. Although I must say he is much more manageable when asleep! :-)

(March 18th) Vincent had a bit of a clumsy moment. No biggie, happens to us all from time to time. This time it resulted in his half full cup of milk being spilled all over the table and floor. The cat really enjoyed it! Notice the puddle on the table (circled in red)? When Valentine was licking the milk in the first picture, the puddle was dripping on his head, resulting in the second picture once he moved. I tried to get a close up, but he ended up shaking it on me! lol :-)

It started off as good, "clean" fun ...

2008-03-19T10:32:00.004-04:00

... but as you'll see from the pictures below, it didn't stay that way.

It was a nice day out (March 13th), so I let the kids play with some water guns.

They had fun trying to get each other ... Brian Lee getting Vincent

Vincent chasing Karah

Karah going after Brian Lee

But then ... I caught them! I guess they got bored with the water guns because they got the hose and proceeded to fill a little trench (which was made by water running off the edge of the house when it rains) and make mud.

And not just mud ... a gigantic mud pie! Anybody want a piece of pie?

Let's all jump in the mud now (they kept refilling the trench when it was getting too dry)

Jumping just wasn't good enough ... everybody sit in the mud now (and yes, Brian Lee was wearing practically white shorts - before the mud)

The kids with their mud pie - and dirty hands!

They've all got a hand on it

All in all, they had a pretty fun time ... until it was time to go inside. Y'all know what that much dirt could do to a washer, so I thought I'd help with the cleaning process. I used the hose to spray them down and get as much mud off of them as I could. The boys weren't too bad. They ran because of the cold water but were pretty much okay. Karah, on the other hand, was very upset that I wouldn't let her go inside until she dried off a bit. I tried to get her to run in the sun and enjoy the breeze but she wouldn't have it. After a while I let her go inside to strip and wait for her turn in the shower.

Maybe they'll think (and ask) next time before they do - maybe!

My Latest Creation

2008-03-19T10:19:00.004-04:00

A couple of months ago, we found out the date for Brian to leave for Iraq. It has since changed (of course), but at the time his boss was trying to see about flying out with a different unit. You see, the day were to leave was the earliest his wife could be induced. Granted, this isn't their first child ... they have a 12 or 13 yr old boy, and an 8 yr old boy. They are having a girl this time, after thinking they would never have one.

Well, when they went to Louisiana for their training, I thought I would make something for the baby. Some of you that know me know that I like to make personalized blankets. (Some of you have even received one :-) Since I didn't have a name, I just did a pretty, girly design. Here is the finished product.

Here is a close-up of the border and design. I went in with Brian last week to deliver it, and the boss was really excited about it. (They hadn't gotten any blankets yet). I was so glad he liked it. I always get nervous about it because I am always afraid they won't like it. I'm glad he (and his wife too, I found out later) liked it and I hope they get a lot of use out of it.

Boy Scout Fun

2008-03-19T09:37:00.008-04:00

Since my last post, we have had a couple of special Boy Scout events that went on.

This first one was the Blue & Gold Banquet which was on February 28th. Brian took the pictures as I was sitting in the back (this was when I was sick and I didn't want to pass it on). We had pizza for dinner, the awards ceremony, followed by a magician that was very funny. He was entertaining and had quite a bit of crowd involvement. The kids enjoyed it.

Here is Vincent with his good friend, Carson. They were having a great time, can't you tell? ;-)

Vincent getting his Tiger Cub patch

Vincent being silly while the other cub scouts were getting their awards.

This was for a regular den meeting, but I had to get a picture of his face. It was from school. Since it was Dr. Suess day, they painted the kids' faces, and it just so happened it went really well for being a "Tiger" cub!

Ahh, yes, preparing for the Pinewood Derby, which was March 15th. Mind you, this picture was taken March 15th. By the day of the race, Brian had been back from Louisiana for about 3 weeks. He didn't get the car cut out until Thursday, and then painted it Friday. So Saturday morning wheels were being hammered on, stickers placed for decoration, buttons glued for headlights, and some change grabbed to add/use for weights.

We had a little trouble keeping some of the weights on it, as during one of the races, the dollar coin fell off :-s Vincent had fun, which is good, even if his car didn't win any races. (I circled his car so you can see his)

As you can see in this pic, he got 3rd place! (The best he did all day)

Here's Vincent getting his ribbon. (They all got one ... really important for the little ones)

Vincent proudly showing us his car, with ribbon dangling off his finger.

This next set was taken just this past Monday (the 17th of March) at a regular den meeting. I wasn't there so I get to interpret the pictures Brian took. This first one is just Vincent, but notice the non-uniform green pin? It was St. Patrick's Day, so I figured a little pin would look better than the green derby hat he wore earlier :-)

On the hunt for the perfect pinecone ... and he found it!

Now to put some peanut butter on it. (I found out later from Brian that after putting the pb on the pinecone, Vincent proceeded to lick the popsicle stick ... :-s )

After being rolled in birdseed and hung in a tree, we have a nice, little bird feeder!

Also at this meeting they planted seeds.

I don't know what kind, but he planted them. :-)

Here he is with the finished product. Now if it would only start growing ...

Just gotta say it ...

2008-03-04T15:29:00.002-05:00

I really dislike being sick.

Granted, I'm used to getting colds, but what I had this past week was just terrible. Wednesday I didn't feel so great, Thursday was worse. I took some Tylenol and hoped I'd feel better. Nope. Thank God Brian was home to be able to take care of me. I was so sick. I felt like I was freezing, so I was wearing sweats & socks, under the sheets, comforter, & another thick blanket folded in half. Brian laid on top of me to give me a hug and he could feel me shivering .... mind you I had a temperature of 104! That was the highest it got (and that was with Tylenol) and then I ran out of medicine. I went to the doctor's office on Friday for a walk in and finally got seen. After taking my vitals, the nurse said that the doctor would be in to see me in a few minutes so I texted Brian and I guess my symptoms caught the doctor's attention because all of a sudden he was in the room. I was expecting more like 10 - 15 minutes as opposed to 1. He checked my ears (no major comment other than that I was really hot, as if the 102.7 temp hadn't given that away), throat (said it didn't look so good), lungs (couldn't believe I could hardly take a breath - my chest was really tight). He diagnosed me with a not-so-mild case of Upper Respiritory Infection (URI). He prescribed me some antibiotics, cough suppressant & expectorant, & sudafed. He left so I texted Brian about it and then the doctor came back with 1000mg Tylenol and a cup of really cold water. It helped a lot and I was feeling a little better by evening time, but my fever didn't really break until yesterday. I was going to go to church, but I didn't really want to risk getting other sick, plus the medicine I was taking (the cough suppressant) has codine in it, and I didn't really want to be falling asleep in the service! ;-)

While I still have a cough and slightly runny nose left, the majority of the symptoms are gone, thank God! Now to get rid of the rest and I'll be myself again!

What have I gotten myself into?

2008-02-21T08:40:00.004-05:00

Last week, Karah auditioned for a part in her school's talent show. She did well, just needs to memorize the words. She's singing a patriotic song, so they said that more than likely she'll be the first one (or one of the first few) to sing after the opening ceremonies. She needs something to wear, obviously, so I went online to do some searching. I found this pattern that I thought would do really well. I was consulting with my sister back and forth and we liked this one the best. Then we had to decide colors. Red, white, and blue were the obvious choices, but trying to figure out what color to go where was the hard part.

Brian had Tuesday off and the kids had school, so we went in search of the fabric store. (I didn't know there was even here until I went to Walmart and they didn't carry Butterick anything!) We found the pattern, and chose the materials we needed (satin, lining, and ruffle). Based on the picture above, we are making the pink dress with the short sleeve jacket. The dress will be royal blue with white straps, and the jacket will be red. Think it'll be patriotic enough? I figured I'd go ahead with the ruffle, might as well make it nice. However, my sewing has been pretty basic since I've been out of high school. I don't have a clue how to install a zipper, nor have I ever done anything this advanced before. Yikes! If you could please pray for me so I don't mess it up. When we got the materials, I was a little worried about the price, since you know the nicer the material = the higher the price. Praise God, they were having a sale on all prom fabrics - 30% off! So all the satin and the linings were 30% off, and the netting (for the ruffle) was marked down from 99¢/yd to 79¢/yd. The pattern was marked down 40%, so all in all, I was able to get the materials for Karah's dress for under $50. Whew! Now the hard part ... making it :-s

Where did the time go?

2008-02-20T09:01:00.009-05:00

Okay, so I realize it's been almost 2 weeks since I last posted. Two weeks! My, how time does fly! Well, I think it will show up best in pictures what we've been up to. Things have been pretty busy lately, keeping all of us on our toes.

2-5-08 ~ Karah & Vincent with their Mardi Gras stuff from their grandparents. They enjoyed wearing it, even if they have no idea what Mardi Gras really is. I'm not an expert on it, either, but I married into a family that is - at least more so than me! :-)

2-7-08 ~ Here we are on that long day. Karah got her blood pressure checked and the nurse was kind enough to bring some crayons for her to color with on the paper. She was nice enough to share with Vincent.

2-7/8-08 ~ Here are the hats they made for the 100th day of school, and them wearing it the next day.

They each designed their own and picked out their own buttons, enough to total 100, after counting the letters.

2-9-08 ~ We went to a local flea market on Saturday. We went in with $60 and came out with $15. I think we did rather well. Out of Vincent's 7 items, he only paid for 4. Everything else was "Can I have this?" - the question being directed at the seller. :-) That's how he got the truck, shell, and little transforming items. The other things only totaled up to $7, so he averaged $1 / item. Not too bad!

Karah found lots of stuff that she liked. The wooden window/shelf is now hanging in her room with the little bobble-head kitty on it. The picture frame (in front of the shelf) actually has a girl scout stamp in it, so she keeps it on her desk. She was pretty excited about that one. The fan and silver basket she is also using for decoration in her room. She likes decorations ... hmmm, I wonder if that is the start of a career choice? :-) The cheerleading outfit and veil were bought for dressing up. I actually had a hard time deciding which picture to post on here, since she was just so pretty in all the ones with the veil. (They were taken separate because we'd forgotten about it until after she had put her other things away!) She really enjoyed her finds!

Me, I spent the most, BUT I don't think $25 for a flute is that bad. It's a Gemeinhardt which is the same brand as I already have. All it needs is a little silver polish, it works just fine. I was sooo happy, since I know the kids are interested in learning to play, so now we have more than one! I got this doll because it reminded me of Scarlett from "Gone With the Wind" (my most favorite movie of all time!). I found out when I got home that it was supposed to - it was a limited edition "Scarlett" doll, and I only paid $2 or $3 for it. :-D I also got the pretty little teacup (no saucer) because it was pretty and only a quarter. I'im sure I can find somewhere to put it so it looks nice! All in all, I think we did rather well!

2-11-08 ~ It was a Monday, can you tell? Church nights we end up staying up later than usual, and Vincent is one that really needs his sleep. This was taken after he got home from school and had been throwing a fit about doing his homework (writing a couple of sentences). He fell asleep during his pouting and I just couldn't resist taking a picture. He wasn't happy when we took the picture and complained, but then he went back to sleep. LOL! After his impromptu nap, he finished his homework pretty easily. Re-instate Nap Time!!! :-D

2-13-08 ~ Ahhhh, the night before Valentine's Day. I used premade, pre-flattened cookie dough with an icing recipe I found online. They had fun decorating the cookies for their classes. Karah stopped after her first batch because she was tired (church night, we got home late), so I finished the rest of hers. Vincent was a trooper though, and wanted to do all of his himself. So I let him. They had a blast, and the cookies tasted really good.

2-14-08 ~ Happy Valentine's Day! Here are the kids with their teacher's gifts. Karah got her teacher some pampering goodies, chocolate, and a candle rose. Vincent got his a little glass turtle (from the flea market), a turtle keyring, chocolate, and a candle rose. (His class is part of the Turtle team at school, hence all the turtle stuff). Why I didn't get pictures of their school Valentine's I don't know, but they really enjoyed them! I was solo this Valentine's Day, so my neighbor brought me some chocolate covered strawberries & cherries that she had made to help the evening pass easier. It was really sweet of her. Brian told me today that he would NOT be coming home this Saturday as was originally planned, but on Monday instead. So much for the weekend plans!

2-17-08 ~ We had an absolutely wonderful morning service. We had the men's quartet from Amassador Baptist College (5 men in all) and in Sunday School, they played music while in the morning service they sang and one of them preached. In the evening service, Bro. McIntire preached as the Pastor was home with his father. His dad had stage 4 colon cancer and other medical problems as well, but did not appear to be in any pain. Pastor felt that he didn't have much longer to be with us in this world, so he stayed home with him. (The Pastor's wife called me the next day to say that he had passed away that night, and is now with the Lord. Please pray that they would be comforted by the knowledge that he is now in a better place and in no pain.)

2-18-08 ~ HE'S BACK!!!!! :-D We were so happy to finally have Brian back home with us. It seemed to take forever, and the thing that sucks is knowing the next time he leaves, it will be for 7 - 8 months! :-( We will enjoy the time we have with him for now and will make many good memories that we can hold on to until he returns.

After dinner, Brian played Guitar Hero III for a little bit before we watched a movie. Here, Brian was checking the alignment (although I don't know why ... it's plastic!) and Vincent got down and pretend to "evade the enemy's sights". He was having fun playing with Brian :-)

Seems like now that daddy is home, the silliness is back! And I am not complaining at all. It's good to see the little ones happy and smiling!

Brian playing Guitar Hero III and getting a multiplier (causing the blue flames along the edge of the tv guitar). Brian had wanted Guitar Hero for a while, but it costs money so we didn't buy it ... until we went to the warehouse yard sale. At the same time we got the kids new bedroom furniture, this was there (guitar w/game) for only $10. So we got it and he has enjoyed playing it. I must say, it is a bit easier to play than a real guitar (well, it doesn't hurt your fingers so much, anyhow!)

Sorry for the reallllly long post, but now I'm caught up so it shouldn't be so bad in the future. :-)

2008-02-07T21:33:00.000-05:00

VOD:
"Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun. For wisdom is a defense, and money is a defense: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it." ~ Ecclesiastes 7:11-12

What a long day

2008-02-06T22:43:00.000-05:00

I had a PTA board meeting this morning. All I wanted to do was sleep. And since the kids missed the bus, they had to wait for me to finish getting ready, so 'round the board we were all late. *sigh* Then a 2 hour meeting for me followed up by a little yearbook planning. During the meeting I get a call from the nurse next door saying that Karah's ears were really red. So I decide I'll take her to the doctor (which is out in town) and do a walk-in. Knowing how long I waited before for one, I went ahead and took out Vincent, too, just in case I wouldn't be able to make it back in time. Good thing, too, since we were there until just after 5pm (after getting there right around 1pm). Turns out she has a double ear infection.

They gave me a prescription and we left to go to walmart to grab a couple of things. It was just across the street, and would save me a trip later. After walmart, we went to the Naval Hospital on base to get Karah's meds, where we got a double whammy. 1) the pharmacist was gone for the day 2) they didn't even carry this particular medication. great.

So off to walgreen's we go, after a quick stop by the house. It's a 30-45 minute wait, so we go back out to the truck to work on the 100th day of school hats. We glue on letters and count out buttons and then it's time to pick up her meds. You know, the Lord is so good, even in the little things. I've never had to purchase any prescription medication .... it's always been on base. I was really worried about the price, 'cause I've heard some can be pretty high. Well, with her meds and some sudafed for me (on sale) my total came to just under $10. I knew that the sudafed was $6, so that put hers around $3. When I got home and looked at the paper, it said her medication retailed for $103. But because of the insurance, all I had to pay was $3. Thank God! I was really worried, but He had it taken care of.

So with meds in hand we were finally able to go home (and stay there!). The kids got ready for bed and Karah took her medicine, then we finished gluing buttons to the hats. I read our Proverbs for the day and then we prayed and I tucked the kids into bed. Yeah, a couple hours past their bedtime, but I think most of their stuff will be ready for tomorrow. Now to take my meds and get some rest!

Oh, and I do have pictures, just haven't downloaded them yet. I'll do that tomorrow when I have more time!

VOD:
"And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor." ~ Ephesians 5:2

Just a quick note ...

2008-02-05T21:39:00.000-05:00

Today's post will not be long. Just long enough to say it won't be long! :-)

I know I am due for a post, but I have started to get sick, and am not feeling so well. Coughing, sneezing, runny nose - a cold :-(

I promise I will update (with pictures) as soon as I feel better. I'll post the verse of the day (for yesterday and today) and then get my self to bed. I'm sure rest will help...and medicine. And with a little luck, I won't end up looking like Rudolph, :-)

VOD (Monday)
"Thou drewest near in the day that I called upon thee: thou saidst, Fear not." ~ Lamentations 3:57

VOD (Tuesday)
"For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name." ~ Luke 1:49

Superbowl Sunday ...

2008-02-03T22:48:00.000-05:00

... but I didn't watch the superbowl. (Football's not really my thing). Instead we went to church this morning. Earlier in the week, both Karah and Vincent recieved a letter from their Sunday school teacher that had a paper puzzle piece in it. They were encouraged to come back to Sunday school this week and bring the puzzle piece with them so they could have the picture for the lesson. All the children got one. Pretty cute idea, actually. Since they brought their puzzzle piece, they got a prize ... a Hershey's kiss. In the adult Sunday school, was a continuing lesson on our sins. The Sunday morning service dealt with the church's theme for the year, "Striving for the Mastery" focusing on prayer today.

After church, we went to the new walmart to pick up some bleach and grabbed a snack to eat on the way home. I had decided to grill since it was such a beautiful day (doesn't it just figure I'd pick today to wear a sweater and a long, wool skirt!) so I knew it'd be a little while before we ate. While I was taking care of the food, the kids rode their bikes and scooters for a bit, then decided they would "help" mommy at the grill - supervised of course. Mostly they were just playing with the tongs and spatulas, but at the end, I let them each take off three hot dogs from the grill. They were a great help! ;-) We took the food (hot dogs, steak, & pork chops) inside and I was just putting the butter & milk into the potatoes to mash them when the door bell rang. It was my friend with my charges for the evening.

Karah & Vincent helping take off the hot dogs.

Since her kids would be eating here as well, she brought over some mac & cheese so they could eat. I went ahead and fixed it so there would be enough food for everyone. In the end there was steak, pork chops, hot dogs, corn, mashed potatoes, and macaroni & cheese . Karah is the only one that had a little of everything. I am pretty sure her eyes were bigger than her stomach, and sure enough, she was full but she did eat most of it. Although it's funny, about 10-15 minutes later I ask if she's really full. She says yes. I said, "not even any room for dessert?" "Oh, yeah, plenty of room for dessert" was the reply I got. hmmmm

We went out to the grill and toasted marshmallows the right way this time, instead of like last time. Then the kids played outside until it was too dark to see anymore and I had them go inside. They played pretty well for the rest of the evening and I got a chance to play the keyboard a little :-) That always helps me relax. And now that I've had my evening dose of talking with Brian, I get to go to sleep. Yea!

All the kids roasting marshmallows

VOD

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." ~ John 10:27

"A Lovely Marriage" Giveaway

2008-02-02T23:31:00.000-05:00

Ok, so this is my first time with this; hope I don't mess it up.

There is a contest going on here... so I get to do a post about it. :-)

She's got some great stuff up for grabs.

Please feel free to go and visit her and see the wonderful goodies!

(Do I do anything else now? :-s )

Is Your Daddy a Recruiter?

2008-02-02T22:18:00.000-05:00

That is a question that was asked of Karah earlier. We were at our first cookie booth (Girl Scout Cookies). As a little background, Karah's first year of Girl Scouts was last year. She was unable to attend cookie rally and therefore did not have her supplies to go door-to-door selling. Brian took the order form to work and got about 30 orders. By the end of cookie season, she had sold over 450 boxes of cookies, mostly from cookie booths. Let me tell you, the girl is a natural salesman. It came out again today after a year of not using it.

Here she is next to her cookie booth

The booth where we were at was Karah and another girl from her troop. It was the other girl's first time, so Karah was teaching her the ropes. By the end, the other little girl was actually going up and asking people if they wanted to buy cookies. But Karah has a knack. She doesn't always get a cookie sale, but a good majority of the time, she'll get a donation. Last year, the leader said it was okay to ask for donations. This year she has a different leader who doesn't want the girls to ask for money. They can, however, ask if they'd like to buy / donate a box of cookies for the troops (Operation Cookie Drop). We started off with one or two boxes of cookies in the clear plastic tub. By the time we were done, we had over a dozen! The other mother and I couldn't help but laugh (not at her, she was just amusing), because even though people would say "no" she'd ask about the donation, and if they still said "no" she would say "ok, thanks anyways" and turn around and find someone new to ask. She's resilient! Which is how the title question got to be asked by one of the customers. :-)

Like the marketing technique?

She makes me proud. And I must say that I am in awe of her sometimes. I wonder how she got to be the way she is. I've never been like that. I'd have died at the thought of actually having to go up to people and talk to them when I was her age. It is amazing to see how our children grow up and become their own person, even if it isn't just like us.

The rest of the day was pretty much just a bum day. The kids got to play their DS until dinner, which is probably more than they've played it all week. It's good for them, even if Vincent doesn't agree! :-) Although, on the way home after picking up Vincent, I found this interesting sight. You may have to click on the picture to make it big enough to see, but take a close look at the right side of the bumper. Notice anything unsual?

I bought a page-a-day calendar the other day that has KJV Bible verses on it. I think from now on, I will post that verse at the bottom of my posts. Enjoy!

VOD
"The LORD is nigh unto all that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth." ~ Psalm 145:18

Excuse me ... does anyone know where I can find some "Taffy Glue"?

2008-02-02T01:30:00.000-05:00

That's right. Taffy glue. Welcome to my world.

I had picked the kids up early (5 minutes) from school so we could run some errands out in town. After getting some gas for the truck, books from Books-A-Million, a couple small things at Michael's, and some dinner at McDonald's we were finally at Walmart. I had to find a hat that could be ruined, in a manner of speaking.

The 100th day of school is on February 7th, and Vincent's teacher wants the kids to come in that day with a hat that has 100 items on it. Naturally, I didn't want to put stuff on a perfectly good hat that is used regularly, but I was able to find a ball cap on clearance for $1. Yea! Naturally, Karah wanted to do one too, and she was in luck. There was one more hat that was exactly the same as Vincent's. We went over different things trying to decide what to put on there. It's got to have 100 after all, so it can't be too big. We got a thing of 200 buttons (88¢) and a couple of foam puzzle letter pieces (pkg of entire alphabet and numbers for 88¢) and some Tacky Glue to attach the items with.

So we were going down an aisle, looking for shirts to match the kids' for family pictures, and they were talking about their hats and Vincent asked if we were going to sew the stuff one the hats. Karah in all her infinite wisdom declares that "No, we're going to use 'Taffy Glue'". Yup, she said it. After I finished laughing, I corrected her and showed her the bottle. Tacky glue, not "Taffy" glue. She's so funny sometimes. I needed a good laugh though, because Vincent was really being a bit of a pain this evening. Listening and obeying was not on his list of things to do, and then he wondered why he was getting into trouble and losing priveleges. One of these days he'll learn ... I hope!

Here's a few pictures from our evening.

Karah & Vincent enjoying a sample of Frozen hot chocolate at Books-A-Million while mommy enjoys a Mocha frappe - yum!

Enjoying a treat - McDonald's for dinner (I love dollar menus)

Here is the playplace. I took some pictures of them in it, but none of them turned out. :-(

After changing into PJ's, Karah decided to do a little coloring.

Vincent, on the other hand, decided to lay down on the couch and go to sleep. Odd how he's not really that heavy until you try to move him sleeping ... gotta love "dead" weight!

It's 8:30pm and the kids are in bed ... for the first time this week!

2008-01-31T20:18:00.000-05:00

Ok, to clarify, they're in bed at a decent hour for the first time this week. The rest of the week has been 9:30pm or later. Yesterday I did a lot of reminiscing. I forgot to mention that we did go to the Wednesday evening service and heard a good message by the pastor. Of course we didn't get home until late, so bedtime last night wasn't until close to 11pm for them. Yikes! We also put up some Valentine's Day decorations when the kids got home from school.

Yea! I have a flag!

Here's Vincent putting up a conversation heart

Karah putting up a conversation heart. She had some issues with the first one.

The house from the front after the decorating

Now if only they would be this happy all the time! :-)

Today we had a bit of a late start so I ended up taking the kids to school. I came home and did a little on here (made a new blog to keep track of my sermon notes) then went to watch a performance by Karah during her gym class. I guess they have been working on gymnastics lately, and the parents were invited to come and watch. Of course I came! They were warming up / practicing when I got there, so I was able to get some pictures before recording her. It was pretty cute as they planned their own routine.

Here is the video of her performance.

The rest of the afternoon was pretty uneventful until the kids came home from school. A box from my mother-in-law came with Valentine's Day and Mardi Gras stuff for them. They got a sweatshirt, some beads, a box of chocolate, a box of conversation hearts, and a card. (I also think that some silliness was packed in there with it ... thanks, Mom!)

I had planned on grilling for dinner, but it was a little too cold to do so. We ended up having leftovers, then I get the question. "Can we still roast marshmallows?" <:- Sure! Did you know that marshmallows don't have to be in fire to catch on fire? We found out, and how to put it our really quick, too! LOL Enjoy the pics!

We also found that cooking marshmallows over the stove works just about as well as over a grill / open flame. (And yes, mom partook in some, too! :-D )

We finished with a story, Proverbs 31, prayers, then tucks into bed. I love it when they're happy!

*Editor's note: I just realized I wrote Psalm 31 when I meant Proverbs 31. Ooops! I have now corrected it.*

Reminscing - My life as a Marine

2008-01-30T23:30:00.000-05:00

Today I didn't do a whole lot. Got the taxes done and grabbed some fruit from the commissary. Then really didn't do anything else except do stuff online. I ended up spending most of my afternoon at this site and looking through a yearbook ... so to speak. It is my memory book from when I was in boot camp. It all seemed to go along with Heather's post this morning, which you can read here. I guess it was just one of those days where my mind went back .... back ... back ... ... ... ... ...

I joined the Marines in July 1996, where I was sworn in to the Delayed Entry Program (DEP). I went to boot camp in June 1997, a month after I graduated high school. I was a little scared going, but I had been away from home before living with other girls, so it wasn't too bad. I had fun, for the most part. My biggest thing was being loud. Anyone that knew me prior to being in the Marines for some time knows I was not big into talking or being loud (unless I was fighting with my sister). I had always been shy and quiet. In boot camp you have to be loud. "MA'AM, YES, MA'AM" and "AYE MA'AM, ON THE WAY, MA'AM" for example. And I did what I could to not stand out. And though I had a few issues (I couldn't swim ... had to learn; and never shot a gun before in my life!) I did enjoy boot camp and gradutated with my original platoon. From there it was MCT followed by MOS school.

While I was in MOS school, I met and married a fellow Marine. I liked him, loved him even. But it was a young love and not grounded on a good foundation. I was away from home, away from parents and rules, I could do what I wanted and no one could stop me. And I did ... everything that I could think of to do and still be (mostly) legal. Wish I hadn't sometimes, but it's turned out I've been able to help others avoid a similar situation just by telling them my story, so it ended up working for good.

After MOS school, we both ended up with orders to Okinawa, Japan (1998). I found out about 2-3 weeks after I got there that I was pregnant. Thankfully, they didn't send me back to the states, and I had my beautiful Karah while I was over there (1999). After Oki, we were stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA. There is where I had Vincent (2001). While we were there, our marriage was on the rocks, we both did things we regretted, and it eventually came apart. I re-enlisted at the end of 2001, as I had always envisioned myself doing the full 20 years. I ended up with orders to 29 Palms, CA, while my soon-to-be ex went back to his home in IN with the kids (long story, maybe later).

When I first got to 29 Palms, I knew I needed to get myself back into church. By happenstance, there was a tract at the company office and I picked it up to read through. Seeing as all the verses were KVJ, I decided I'd give it a try. And that's how I ended up at Calvary Baptist Church. A choice I will forever be grateful for. I continued with my career progression course and ended up meeting the love of my life, although he wasn't in the beginning. He ended up getting a divorce while we were going through class, and he started coming to church with me. Eventually he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour and became a member of the church. We didn't date for some time, as I was determined not to rush things the second time around, especially as his was newer than mine. I didn't want to make the wrong choice. During this time, we finished class and we both stayed as instructors at the school. We did end up seeing each other, as we spent a lot of time together and had a good friendship. He proposed when we were at the ball. He had written a poem and everything, and had the DJ read it while we were slow dancing. It was so sweet! Of course I said yes, and we were married a little over a month later at the court house (2003). :-D

Due to chronic medical problems that couldn't be fixed, the Marine Corps decided it was time for me to leave them. As I said earlier, I had every intention of doing my 20, and I probably would have been very upset if my mind hadn't already been set on getting out at the end of my term. Being a Marine is a tough job. It is very demanding, both physically and mentally. Add to that being a wife, being a mother, being active in church, something had to give. As a wife, I really didn't do a whole lot ... I was tired at the end of the day and didn't feel like cooking or cleaning. As a mother, after dealing with students all day, the last thing I wanted to do was look after more kids. As a Marine, I had to be at work on time, looking my best, giving my all, ... be a Marine. The toughest decision for me to make at the time was to get out. And in the end (2005), the Marine Corps made it for me, and paid me for it. (Can't complain there! ;) )

It took some adjustment to being a stay-at-home mom. What did you do with a 4-yr old all day? Karah was in 1st grade by this point, so she was gone most of the day. I was (and sometimes still am) flabbergasted on what to do with them. After getting used to being home, moving, being a hermit, then breaking out of the shell, I realize that sometimes the best things you have are right in front of you. Sure, I knew it before, but it took me being around it for more than a couple hours a day to really enjoy and appreciate it.

There are days when I miss it. I miss it a lot of days. I miss the paycheck, too! :-)
But then I look at my children, and I see how much they've grown. I think about how much of their young lives I missed when I was still in. I can never get that time back. I had many good memories of being a Marine, ... and a few not-so-good ones as well. I don't regret being a Marine, and I do wish there was a way for me to do all ... Marine, wife, and mother. I'm glad I'm out so I can spend time with my family and enjoy them.

When Vincent was younger, he was having problems constantly. No matter where he was, (daycare, church nursery, Sunday school) I would almost always get talked to about him. He's been a bit of a trouble maker from the beginning and I know I am mostly to blame. Even in kindergarten he was a bit of a handful. Thankfully, he has shown much improvement and is doing so much better this year, both at school and at home.

Karah I haven't really had any problems with, but I know she is thriving on mommy's love and attention. She's a wonderful daughter and is growing up beautifully. I can't imagine what either of them would be like if I were still in. If I had had to go to Iraq.

I know the Lord was leading me from being a Marine to being a mommy, and I am ever thankful. It's amazing how He will work in our lives if we just let him. Sorry for taking so long, and thank you for letting me share. There are so many memories after 8 1/2 years - some good, some bad - but it was time for me to do something different. Looking back, would I do it again?

In a hearbeat

A good day

2008-01-29T23:43:00.000-05:00

Yes, today was a good day. Vincent didn't really throw a fit, just a couple small ones. He's definitely improving. He got a little upset with me when I wouldn't let him take his DS with him to Carson's house. (Like he would have shared ... and if so, it wouldn't have been for very long.) Thought I'd give Joey a break since he was watching the boys while us girls went to Girl Scouts.

Karah had a tea party at girl scouts today. They were working on their manners try-it. They also practiced their phone etiquette. She had a blast, and had her candy bracelet gone before it was half done!

After picking up Vincent we headed home to get some food. Vincent hopped in the shower while I fixed dinner and Karah finished her homework. After he was done we ate, and then Karah took a shower while Vincent and I made his bed. He can be a good little helper when he wants to be. Once Karah was in her pj's, we sat on the couch to read The Trellis and the Seed. What a good book. We then read Proverbs 29 and knelt down to pray. It was late, so we had to hurry so Vincent wouldn't fall asleep, 'cause he was trying. We said our prayers, and then they went to brush their teeth. Well, wouldn't you know it, Brian called so he was able to say goodnight to them after talking to them for a moment. Karah had daddy do the "wiggly thing" (In person, he places one hand on either side of her on the mattress, then presses up and down really fast, making her jiggle like a jello jiggler. She loves it!) Obviously he couldn't really do it, so he made the sound that she usually makes when he does it to her, and she started giggling. So cute!

After tucking them in for the night, I finished talking to him on the phone, telling him about my day. I didn't really do a whole lot that would seem productive (a load of towels and Vincent's bed covers washed & dried. Oh, and the outside Christmas decorations taken down - finally!), but I did updated my blog. By update, I mean made it pretty and added some doodads. I'm sure there will be more, but I like what I have right now. We hung up, but shortly thereafter we were able to "talk" for a few more minutes online. Gotta love the internet. I was also chatting with my sister and helped her make her blog pretty. The joys of being the big sister! :-)

All in all, I say this was a very good day!

Out of the mouths of babes

2008-01-28T22:33:00.000-05:00

Children can say the cutest things sometimes. It happened this evening. On the way there ...

The day was pretty uneventful until the kids came home from school. Then Vincent started throwing a fit, so we went into his room and had a nice, long talk. He got into a better mood and went to do his homework. Karah was done by then so I checked her homework and then sent her to do some chores. She took care of the cat's food & litterbox, put her bedcovers in the wash (with mom's help), and made her lunch for tomorrow by the time Vincent finished his homework. Then I had Vincent make his lunch while I gave Karah a piano lesson. Vincent was next. Once that was done it was time to get started on dinner. I started the oven and put water on to boil while Vincent got out the game "Sorry!" for us to play. We got a little immersed in it, but we were having fun. Brian called a few times - he was able to use his phone since he had to run out in town and get some parts - and then I got a phone call from a friend's husband, because they were lost on base. :-) They were trying to find the boy scout hut, and if you don't know where they are, it's easy to miss them, especially in the dark. That's when I realized we had boy scouts tonight. Uh-oh! Vincent, time to change into your uniform real quick while mommy changes. We made it out in record time and got there, but I was a little late. oops. The time had been 6:30pm since it started, but it was changed and I wasn't there for the change (and it was in an email, but I forgot to write it down). Granted the meetings usually run for an hour, but it was sooo cold in there, that they just did a couple of things and left. Well, guess we'll make it on time next time! We came home and I fixed dinner while Karah took a shower and Vincent put the game away. After eating diner, Vincent took his shower and I helped Karah make her bed with her now clean sheets. After it was all done we settled in on the couch to read a storybook, The Princess and the Kiss. We took turns reading, even Vincent. It has a Bible verse in it which is a different translation than we use, so I told them to get their Bibles so we could look it up. Vincent read the verse and then afterwards we read Proverbs 28. This is where it starts to get good.

It's already over an hour past bedtime. They're pretty tired. After we finish reading our chapter, we kneel on the floor and take turns praying. I started, then Vincent decided to go. It was so cute when he said "Lord, please take care of my dad and don't let him die. He's a great man." He also went into "and help me not to throw fits". AMEN! (from me)

Karah also prayed for Brian that he wouldn't die and that he was a great daddy. She also prayed that he would be able to contact us more, 'cause we missed him. I finished up the praying and then got them some water while they put their Bibles away. While they're drinking their water, lo and behold the phone rings and it is Brian. Talk about an answer to prayer! (at least I hope it seemed that way to Karah, which it appeared to do). They both lit up when they realized it was daddy on the phone. Vincent had just mentioned before we started reading that he missed his daddy. What a great good-night treat!

And a treat for me when I'm on here writing this and Brian shows up on im. :-D Yea! What a wonderful day it has been!

A Special Lord's Day

2008-01-27T23:13:00.000-05:00

As some may or may not know, I haven't been to church in some time due to my work schedule. As I no longer work, I was actually able to wake up (myself and the kids) this morning. And not just wake up. I woke up in enough time to make breakfast (eggs, sausage, and toast), eat, clean up afterwards, have the kids brush their teeth then get dressed, then take my own shower and get dressed, load up, and get to the church before Sunday school started. Wow! Happy day from the start!

When we first got there, Vincent was super excited about going to Sunday school and started running up the steps and I had to call him down, since we had to go into the auditorium first. We went in and sang a song once Sunday school started, then the little ones were dismissed. At this, Vincent decided he wanted to stay with mommy, so mommy had to pick him up and explain to him that Karah would be going with him, that she was a good big sister and looked out for him, and he would be just fine. Well, something worked, because he finally said okay and they went to class. I went back with the adults, and I thoroughly enjoyed the lesson. It appeared to be a continuation from the prior week, but it was about Drawing Nigh to God. It was a very good lesson and something I needed to hear. The final question was "What do you expect from God?" Something to think about.

The children rejoined me for the morning service and they behaved pretty well. Vincent has come a long way than when he first started sitting in a church service. Must come with age ... haha. During the sermon, I would find the reference and point to it in the Bible and have Vincent follow my finger. He seemed rather interested which made me happy. The message was about what parents need to do in order to reach their children {for/to the Lord}. With the initial verse of Proverbs 22:6, the summary is Parents need to be consistent, dedicated, and spiritual. "How do we want our children to turn out?" Once again, something I really needed to hear. It's funny - in a good way - how the Lord has things turn out sometimes. I am so glad I made it to church today.

And then there was lunch. Didn't do much for lunch. Vincent had leftovers and Karah & I had ramen soup. After that we finished up their valentine's for their respective classes. The only thing left for them now is to put in some hugs & kisses (of the Hershey's variety). :-) The rest of the afternoon was just relaxing.

We left at 6 so we could stop by Books-A-Million. I wanted to find a Bible for me, but they were a little expensive for what I had on me at the time. I ended up getting one for Vincent so he could have his own and he loved it! He didn't let go of it the whole time except for right before we left and once in the middle of the service (he had fallen asleep and it fell out of his lap/arms at which point he woke up, picked it back up, cradled it, then fell back asleep). It was good fellowshipping with others after the service. When we finally left, I got to the truck and realized I had missed Brian's call. I was so upset I started crying right away, then tried to call the number back. It's not his phone, as his doesn't get service down there, and there wasn't any answer so I checked my voicemail since it said I had one. grrr. Technology nowadays. I got on and was going to listen to it and then it said the message was erased. ERASED?!?!?! I checked the phone to make sure no buttons had gotten accidentally pressed ... nope, all good. Well, whatever it had been was long gone now. Great, I didn't even get to hear his voice via voicemail. Talk about devastating. Well, I start driving but still ended up crying most of the way home. The kids didn't notice because they were engrossed in their DS games. (They had a choice at breakfast: they either got to play them at the house or in the truck, not both. They chose the truck.) I didn't want them to know I'd been crying so I stopped - crying that is. After we got home I ran to the answering machine thinking maybe he called the house phone and left a message. Nope. Rats. So I check the email. He had written saying he was going to call around 9:30/10. I replied saying I had missed his call and hoped he would call back. And in the middle of the email he called! YEA!!!!! It made me SOOOOOOO happy. Now I can go to sleep easier.

Well, since we didn't get home until almsot 10, the kids were kinda hungry - hadn't eaten since 2 except for a small snack around 5. So I heated up some pot pies and got them to eat, change, brush teeth, and be in bed by 10:30, which actually worked. So now they're tucked in and I'm writing this blog. Guess I'd better not stay up too much longer. I need to stay on this day schedule I seem to be on. It's nice being awake when everyone else is, too!

My First Saturday ...

2008-01-26T22:42:00.000-05:00

without having to work. Just a week ago I was at work, cleaning and getting ready to close the store. I think Brian was even trying to stay up for me (and he did if I remember correctly). Then comes today. Yes, I was up a little late last night, but not too bad. I slept in a little this morning, then got up around 1030. After having a bowl of cereal, I joined the kids on the couch where we changed the game they were playing on the Gamecube to Mario Party 7. We set it for 15 turns and commenced to play. Things went pretty well until the end. It's set up so there are 4 teams playing - since there was only 3 of us we had to have the computer playing the 4th one. We also have it to where bonus stars are awarded (randomly) at the end. During the game, Vincent managed to get 3 stars, the computer 1, me 1, and Karah none (she had one but during a game lost it to Vincent). He also had 60+ coins, comp had 12 coins, I had 5 coins, and Karah had 50+ coins. His last turn landed him on a Koopa Kid space where he ended up getting his coins switched with mine. At the end we had the bonus stars awarded. Karah ended up getting 1, I ended up getting 1, and the computer ended up getting 2 (he tied me for one). Because of the bonus stars and the coin switch, the computer ended up getting first place, since he had more coins than Vincent. Poor thing, he started crying because he didn't win, and Karah and I were quick to point out that he was the winner in our book; that the bonus stars was the only reason he won. He calmed down a bit after that.

Since the game was done, we got dressed then made lunch. While I was making lunch they helped to load the dishwasher and clear off the table. We ate lunch - finally - and then after it was done got ready to go. We went out through the garage (which is something we don't normally do) and left ... leaving the garage door up. I didn't realize this until I was already down a few roads so I turned around. Granted it was raining and I didn't think too many people would be about to want to try to take a bike or scooter or anything else in there, but why leave it open for temptation? (plus, the door to the house was unlocked!) After finally getting the door closed, we went to the movie theater. We went to go see "Alvin and the Chipmunks". I really think I like the cartoons better, personally, but it wasn't too bad. The kids enjoyed it, and I enjoyed being able to spend time with them on a Saturday afternoon and not have to worry about rushing to get ready for work.

After the movie we stopped by the exchange. Looked around for a bit and happened to find out about a sale on February 13th. I love sales! We then went into the little arcade and played for a few minutes. After that, we stopped by the picture place to make an appointment for family pictures. We're only going to have a small window in which to get them done in. We made a quick stop in the music store where I played for a few minutes. I love being able to play on a full keyboard. Brian has mentioned maybe getting me one when he gets back from Iraq. It is a digital keyboard, and though I don't like it as much as a regular piano, it would probably work better for us while we're still in the military.

We finally made it home where Karah jumped in the tub, while I cut Vincent's hair. Afterwards, I started teaching him a song to sing. Him and Karah, actually. I asked him if he wanted to sing higher or lower and he said lower so we went over the lower part of the song (at a level he could reach) and he did rather well. When he hopped in the tub, I went over the melody of the song with Karah. Once he was out, I had both of them singing, and they were doing rather well. Vincent stayed on his part ... and Karah kept trying to join him - lol. They'll get it, but I was impressed for it being their first time singing together like that. Maybe they'll learn something yet! ;-)

Brian finally called at around 2200 and we talked for a little bit. He was getting ready to go to bed after he was off the phone with me, and I was too (and will when I finish this). We are going to go to church in the morning, which is something I haven't really done since I was working nights. I miss it. I know it will help me a lot. The kids have their clothes out already and I can't wait. I love to see them dressed up! :-)

Well, time to get my beauty rest so I can wake up to the alarms in the morning. Happy New Week!

Internal debate

2008-01-24T03:54:00.001-05:00

Do I go to bed or stay awake? That doesn't seem like too hard of a question until you see the surrounding facts. It is a few minutes before 4am; the kids have to catch the bus at 8am; I don't hear alarms very well - especially if I'm tired. Why am I up at 4am? Well, I've only been home for half an hour. Yesterday, after lunch, Brian found out he had to show up before midnight to go to Cajun Viper. He was originally supposed to leave Friday. Well, that made us get everything together much quicker. Granted, he had been planning on packing last night, but with the thought of leaving Friday instead of Thursday. So after the kids were done with their homework and Brian got some stuff together, we went out to grab a few small things and dinner. We went to Walmart and Target to try to find a small box of laundry detergent but to no avail. Since we were out that direction, we had CiCi's for dinner. (For those of you that don't know, CiCi's is a pizza buffet.) On the way back home we saw the Dollar Tree and figured "why not?" We didn't find a small box, but we did find a small bottle of detergent and it was only a dollar :-) So we finished up and came home and commenced with the packing while the kids took their showers and made their lunches for school. When they were done, I let them make Brian a card to take with him so he'd have something to remind him of home. Vincent fell asleep at the desk, the poor little thing. Thankfully, he had most of it done, I just woke him up enough to get him to sign his name, and then let both of the kids take a nap on the couch until we were ready to leave. Last minute packing leads to rushing, but it all got done (including the brownies which I'd made for him when we got home). He made it to formation on time, and then the kids (who were sleeping) and I stayed in the truck while Brian went to the armory to get his weapons. I was a little bored, then I started playing Karah's Nintendo DS - Super Princess Peach (pretty cute game). It kept me occupied until my sister got off work and then we started texting back and forth until she got home where we switched to instant messaging. When Brian got back, he came and sat with us for a bit and warmed up. Then the busses came so he joined the rest of the Marines after giving the kids and me hugs & kisses. The kids woke up for a brief moment, then went right back to sleep. After a little while, they finally started to board the busses. On the way to the bus, Brian stopped back by real quick for another hug & kiss and then he was gone. Off for a few weeks to Louisiana :-( He should be back shortly after Valentine's Day. We'll do our Valentine's then. After his block leave, he won't have much longer to be here before he heads overseas.

Well, maybe I will try to get a nap in. Brian said he'd try to call before he got on the plane. If I don't get any sleep, I know I'll never hear the phone ring...or alarm go off. :-s

It begins

2008-01-18T01:16:00.000-05:00

We had our pre-deployment brief today. Even though we knew it was coming, it seems to make it more final now. Even though it could have been me, it doesn't make it any easier. Sometimes, I think it's harder, since I really do know what goes on, yet I still can't do anything about it.

I also found out that my friend's husband just deployed for a year. And another friend's husband is going to be deployed soon. Deployments have been going on for some time now, but it's happened with very few people that I knew.

Guess I'm going to find myself on my knees a lot. hmmm, maybe I'd better find a good pillow!

just a little bored ...

2008-01-16T01:29:00.000-05:00

so I thought I would write a bit. And I did. And somehow in the process of selecting it all, I deleted it. Maybe it was for the better. I'll not expand now, but for any that happen to read this, all I ask is please, will you pray for me? That is what will help the most right now. There are several things that I need to take care of in my personal, spiritual life so I can be of (better) help to my family. There must be something better to do than sit up late at night bored and crying. Oh my...I'd better stop now while I still have the chance.

Work

2007-12-21T02:09:00.000-05:00

So many feelings that come from one little word. I used to work full time and then stopped. I really missed my paycheck! Then this past summer, I started working part-time in the evenings. The purpose? To have some "play money" that could be used for fun stuff (like Chuck-E-Cheese or the recent HSM on Ice event). Well, it looks like I may not be having that job too much longer. Not because of getting fired, but because I won't be able to work the hours they want me to much longer. Starting in mid-January Brian will be here and there and everywhere, but in no particular pattern. He's got a field op in Jan for a week, Cajun Viper in February, then leaves for about 7 months in March. When he's gone, I won't be able to work my usual evenings because there won't be anyone here to watch the kids, and who wants to watch children until 12 - 1 in the morning? I really like where I'm working and I've made some new friends as well. I'm hoping that I'll be able to get a job that I could work during the day (mostly during school hours to save on childcare), and on base would be a plus. I did get a call back about one job, but I am not sure how that is going. It is an instructor position, and I've got plenty of instructor experience, however, I don't know the subject they want me to teach. It would pay rather well (about $50 - $60K / yr) but I'm wondering if it would be worth it. I'm starting to doubt myself. I could always stay home, but since the kids are all in school I find myself rather bored a lot. I need to have something to do to keep myself occupied, otherwise I'll just become a couch potato. (computer potato?) Well, something to think and pray about.

Four years and counting

2007-12-20T03:59:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe that Brian & I have been married for four years now. By this time next year, he should be back from Iraq and we'll probably be in Mississippi visiting his parents for Christmas. They say time flies when you're having fun. We have a lot of fun, usually. Sure we have our down times, but I'd take down times with him anytime as opposed to good times without him. After a good, long talk earlier today (Wednesday, that is) I've come to the realization that I do not function well without him. Not that I'll fall on my face when he's gone, but more recently, due to job scheduling, we haven't spent as much time together. We're together, but not talking or enjoying each others company. We're back on track and I am feeling so much better. Last week was an off week on its own due to the store being on extended hours, and add us not really being together really made it an off week for me. I love my husband so much, it is really going to be hard when he's gone. Oh, last night we went to Olive Garden for our Anniversary dinner. Since it's still new (just a month old), we had to wait a little while, but it was worth it to spend some time together without the kids. Thanks to Brian's parents, as in our anniversary card from them, they tossed in a gift card. They're so sweet!

It's been awhile ...

2007-12-17T02:50:00.002-05:00

Well, it sure has been awhile since I last posted. Things have been pretty constant around here. Constantly busy, that is. By Thursday evening, all 3 kids will be here at the house for the winter break. Fun times for me! I wonder what I can do to keep them occupied throught the day? hmmm

We started our extended hours a couple weeks ago at work. Extended it by an hour in the morning, then last week we extended them another hour in the evening so now we are open 8am - midnight every day of the week until December 23rd. Oh, I forgot to look at the schedule tonight to see when I work next week. Thankfully, since I close, I shouldn't have to worry about opening the day after Christmas. I want to go shopping! :-)

Last Tuesday, Karah's (brownie) girl scout troop went caroling

with my girl scout troop (I'm a co-leader of a junior troop) around the neighborhood. I managed to get a picture of her and her friend, Krissy, singing. Krissy is the daughter of my co-leader and was in the same troop as Karah last year.

They had a lot of fun and then had cookies and hot chocolate
afterwards. Karah's troop leader got them all Santa hats and

used glitter glue to write their names and troop number on it. They were so cute!

These two little brothers (of Karah & Krissy) got to tag along and hopefully it got them somthing for cub scouts. I'll have to check the book and find out. They really enjoyed their hot chocolate, can you tell? Vincent and Carson are both in 1st grade and go to cub scouts together. Since Carson's daddy is in Iraq, Brian takes both the boys to cub scouts for their den meetings and also watches the boys when the girls to go girl scouts. The roles will probably be reversed when Brian goes over. In any case, they have a lot of fun together. :-)

Last weekend, we went to Raleigh, NC, to see High School Musical on Ice. It was arranged by Karah's troop leader, and since there were more than 10 attending, we were able to get a group rate for the tickets. All five of us went and we enjoyed ourselves. We got a surprise, when after the show was "over" they said it was going into intermission and that HSM2 would be starting in a few minutes. I thought we were only going to see the first one. We had a blast! We got the kids snow cones in souvenir sports bottles so they could have a drink and souvenir in one, and also got a souvenir program, and a picture of the kids with the cutouts of "Troy" & "Gabriella" (the main stars of the show, although there are several). If I can get my scanner to work, I'll scan the picture. Until then, I'll just put up this picture of the kids with their souvenirs. I had them dress warmly because it had been rather chilly, but it really wasn't to bad that evening. It did keep them warmer inside, though, since it was a bit cool in there.

Well, I guess that's a pretty good update for now. Brian just woke up, so I'm going to go snuggle.

Scattergories

2007-10-09T21:15:00.000-04:00

SCATTERGORIES...it's harder than it looks! Copy and paste into a new email. When you are done, send it on, including to the person who sent it to you. *Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following...they have to be real places, names, things...nothing made up!

Try to use different answers if the person in front of you had the same first initial. You CAN'T use your name for the boy/girl name question.
You're up!!

What's your name? Rebekah

4 letter word: rage

Vehicle: Rendezvous

City: Rockford

Boy Name: Roger

Girl Name: Renee

Alcoholic drink: Rum Punch Occupation: Realator

Something you wear: Reeboks

Celebrity: Rachel Ray

Food: rigatoni

Reason for Being Late: ran out of gas

Cartoon Character: Roger Rabbit

Something You Shout: Rah! Rah! Sis-Boom-Bah!

Subject: "The Few, The Proud, The Marines" - Marine Corps Recruiting Commandrequests your support completing a slogan survey

2007-09-13T17:07:00.000-04:00

I don't forward much stuff on usually, but this was worth it. Please take a moment of your time to vote! The Marine Corps means a lot to me, and I know quite a few of you as well. ~ Rebekah

Dear Marine Corps Family,

"The Few. The Proud. The Marines." is more than just a slogan. These three sentences represent who we are, epitomizing the challenge of becoming (TheFew), and the reward of being (The Proud), one of the elite (The Marines). Suffice it to say, Few slogans convey such a Proud tradition. Our tagline has been a foundation in the Marine Corps for over thirty years. Now we have the opportunity to immortalize these words into America's civilian culture as well. "The Few. The Proud." has been nominated BEST SLOGAN for the Madison Avenue Advertising Walk of Fame. The Marine Corpsjoins a list of 26 other brands that will compete for entry based on total number of votes received online at http://advertising.yahoo.com/advertisingweek_07/slogan_poll.html

Whether you are one of the few and the proud, or simply one of the faithful to those who bear the title United States Marine, we ask that you browse to the URL: http://advertising.yahoo.com/advertisingweek_07/slogan_poll.html to vote for the slogan that has meant so much to so many. If you have Internet access in more than one location, you can vote more than once, so rememberto vote from home, work, the library, and anywhere else you can find acomputer! With a dedicated constituency of active, former, and civilian members of the Marine Corps, strength of message, and patriotic nature of our institution, we are confident a concentrated effort will deliver "The Few. The Proud." into the hall of fame, establishing it in its rightful place among elite American brands. We thank you for your support!

Marine Corps Recruiting Command
(703) 784-9433
MCRC Advertising Department
3280 Russell Rd, Quantico, Va 22134

Rebekah's Reality

Valentine's Day happenings - 2010

a year ...

Bullies on Base

Thank you all ....

The past week in shopping

The A-Maze-ing Giveaway

Time To Party

Our needs

CVS trip

My Old Man

I'm Still Here!!!

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Going Places

Just a week!

Popping out for a min ...

A Break

He's Back!!!

Creepy Crawlies

Cowabunga!

But she's only 9!

How Many?

It's all about Him

Flickr

Fun Run

Art Class

In a crafty mood

Class is in session

Just playin' around

Too Precious

A little update

Sisters Getting Along

The half-way point

I know it's been sooo long...

Has it been 9 years already?

Memorial Day

I'm glad I know that I'm saved!!!

The Past 2 1/2 weeks

Preparing for the weekend ...

Has it really been that long?

It's all about nature

Recognition

Stay tuned for scenes from next week's episode

Letter from God to Women

Another year has passed

The simple things in life

*cricket, cricket*

I must tell it to Jesus

One day at a time ...

Precious in His sight

The past few days

Things that go bump in the night ... er, evening

It's a Blogiversary Giveaway!

oooh, I can't wait!

Great things HE hath done!

Moments to remember

It started off as good, "clean" fun ...

My Latest Creation

Boy Scout Fun

Just gotta say it ...

What have I gotten myself into?

Where did the time go?

What a long day

Just a quick note ...

Superbowl Sunday ...

"A Lovely Marriage" Giveaway

Is Your Daddy a Recruiter?

Excuse me ... does anyone know where I can find some "Taffy Glue"?

It's 8:30pm and the kids are in bed ... for the first time this week!

Reminscing - My life as a Marine

A good day

Out of the mouths of babes

A Special Lord's Day

My First Saturday ...

Internal debate

It begins

just a little bored ...

Work

Four years and counting

It's been awhile ...

cricket, cricket