I Hit a Wall (Metaphorically Speaking)

Most of my day was great. I got up, Skyped with my bestie again (thank God for summer break!), had breakfast and got a text from my husband! This is what he said:

I know it's going to cost, but I wanted to say we made it safe...last night, trained all day today, more tomorrow. I'll try to get a calling card...tomorrow [i]f I get time. I love you so much, and miss you too:*

Isn't he just the sweetest?! =D I honestly don't care that it's going to make our bill go up this month. I'm sure it's going to hurt, but knowing he's ok is so much more important. {The ellipses are info I felt needed to be left out.}

I managed to clean off the desk in the living room, rearrange my bookshelf a bit, and unpacked some in the office/craft room/spare bedroom. I was looking for Joe's SD card reader, but I couldn't find it. I opened at least 4 boxes - probably more - and it was nowhere to be found. I was not happy with the way we had the furniture set up in there, so I took it upon myself to move it. Maybe not the best idea... I moved boxes out of the way, put a couple things in the hallway, and I was on my way. I moved our ginormous TV off the desk and onto the dresser we moved in there. I did not pick the thing up. Oh no. I moved the dresser up next to the desk and slid that sucker over. =) I was proud of myself. I moved the desk over where I wanted it to be, and then I took on the big undertaking - the file cabinet. The movers felt it appropriate not to unpack the things we had in there, so it weighs a ton. I thought it was smart to push the thing from the back...with the drawers unlocked. Oh yeah, that was smart. All of the drawers came open and the cabinet tipped forward with little 'ole me behind it, trying to keep it from tipping completely over. Somehow - by the grace of God, I'm sure - I was able to get one of the drawers shut and then the rest of them. Whew!

It took me forever to move the thing a total of 10 feet. I'm pretty sure I'm going to be regretting that tomorrow. But, hey, at least the room is set up the way I want it now. =) I just have to figure out what to do with night stand #2... I'm thinking of painting it some sort of light blue color and moving it to the living room to use as an end table. We have no end tables to speak of in this house. At one end, we have Joe's "toy chest" and a piano bench. {I'll never know how we ended up with a bench and no piano...} So, what do you think? Can I turn my night stand into a cute end table?

After my very productive afternoon, I finally showered and sat down to relax. Then my dad called. If you knew my dad, you'd know how weird it was to see "Dad" on my caller ID. He proceeded to give me some bad news about Papa. {I'm thinking that Mom was either upset or too busy to call.} Today they did an angiogram on Papa. The test showed that his aneurysm had been there for so long that it had actually begun to clot on the tail end. I think that Mom had told me previously that he had a clot as well, but I'm not sure. Not being there and getting information handed down is kind of confusing.  Anyway, he also has a tumor that is attached to the wall of his brain. I don't know if it's stage whatever, and I'm not sure if they've even determined that.

Tomorrow, the doctors are going to place a balloon in the left side of his brain by running it up through his neck. They will inflate the balloon to stop the blood flow to that side and see if Papa can function without blood flow to that side. If it works and he can function, they will place a stent in on Thursday. I'm not 100% certain, but I think their goal is to cut off the blood supply to the aneurysm and tumor. This is all if the test is successful. If not, I'm not sure what they will recommend. It's quite possible that even if their planned course of treatment works, he will still have double vision.

Mom said that Papa seems very positive. She said he told her that I didn't need to fly in, but that I needed to stay here where I could talk to Joe. I seriously started crying. My Papa is so sweet. I think that this tumor/aneurysm thing has caused him to have uncharacteristic mood swings and actions for the past few years (the doctors said it had been there for at least 2 years, possibly more). Papa also told Mom that he was at peace and that he knew God would take care of him. She thinks it's the drugs talking, but I know better. God will take care of him. I just hope that He doesn't take him home. Not yet.

This is when I hit a wall. Talking to Mom - who was clearly upset - and wishing Joe were here to hold me... I'd even take a phone call right now. Just hearing his soothing voice would help. I'm really hoping to hear his voice before I go to bed. Even if it's just for a few minutes. The song "Need You Now" by Lady Antebellum is creeping into my mind right now. Gotta love country music and its sometimes-sappy/lonely lyrics.

{I've never embedded a video before so I'm sorry if it doesn't work.}

I did manage to make myself dinner (chicken quesadillas). I think I'm going to give myself a little bit of medicine (the kind made by Ben & Jerry) and see what's on TLC. I think I have an addiction...

If you would take a minute and pray for my family, I would really appreciate it. My mom is trying to hold things together for Nana, who is refusing to eat. {Gotta say I don't blame her, but it's not good for her.} Mom's dealing with everything, Papa is sick, and I'm sure Nana is just about heart broken. I'm barely hanging in there with a husband halfway around the world. My brother just went through a rough breakup and the death of a close friend. I think we're all about to go crazy. Dad, on the other hand, is Mr. Tough Guy. I love my dad, but he's not the sympathetic kind. So, I'm not sure how much support he's going to be for Mom. Please, just pray for us. I know it's probably killing Joe that he's not here for me. So, say a prayer for him too.

 Thank you so much for your sweet comments and support. I hope you know how much it means to me.

Wow...

I honestly can't believe how well I'm doing. Maybe something is wrong with me? Or maybe I cried so much when he left and the day after that I'm done for a while? I know there are still going to be the "omg I miss him so incredibly much" moments, but dang! Today has been awesome. {It almost feels wrong to enjoy myself...}

I got up and Skyped with my bestie for a bit. Seriously, she's amazing. She makes me eat breakfast...lol! She also motivates me to do laundry and other household chores that need to be done. Thanks, Melissa!!

After Skyping, I got dressed and headed to Mrs. C's house. I picked her up and brought her back here after picking up some lunch at good 'ole McD's (pronounced Mickey Dees in my mind). We had a great time! After lunch and watching What Not to Wear (hee hee), we ran to the PX for some nails and hooks for some picture-hanging fun. We got a lot accomplished and had a pretty darn good time doing it! We decided that women have a knack for hanging pictures. =) And many thanks to my hubby who conveniently wrote measurements for the hooks on the back of the pictures. Gotta love that guy! I'd so forgotten that he did that. Anyway, we had a great time. Usually, we only hang out with our hubbies around so it was nice to have some girl-only time. {I'm pretty sure I'm not going to be feeling this way in a few months, but oh well.}

I also decided today that I'm a little on the crazy side. Before Joe left, I thought it would be weird to hang out with Mrs. C and her hubby. You know, the whole third wheel thing. So, I tried to find other semi-single Army wives to hang out with. As much as I like them, I think that that mentality was just ridiculous given the good time I had with Mrs. C and her hubby [and his friend] last night. Especially because I have way more in common with Mrs. C than any of the women I've met in the last week. I think God is kind of laughing at me for that one. Last night after my first reading in Faith Deployed, I prayed that I would meet good Christian women. Well, let's think, Sarah....you've already met one! *smacks forehead with palm* I really think I need help sometimes, lol!

Now, I'm going to make a paper chain. Thanks to Mrs. GI Joe for giving me the idea! {Hope you don't mind if I share it!} The idea is to make a link for every day/week he's gone. At the end of the day/week, you cut the link, and write on it why you missed him that day. So, you see the progress you're making and you can give it to him as a present when he returns home! Isn't that a great idea? I think so. =)

Thanks so much for your sweet comments yesterday. =) They really encourage me and keep me going. Keep praying for me, Joe and Papa. We all need it. I haven't heard from Joe today. =( I suppose I should get used to that... Papa is doing ok, considering. The doctors are going to try to shrink the tumor and aneurysm by giving him steroids. {Not sure how that's gonna work, but whatever.} The steroids could either make it better or worse. If it works, they'll send him home and have him come back on Monday to use a coil (???) to remove the aneurysm. As of right now, I guess it's just a waiting game. Mom still sounds positive, so that really helps me. 

I also need to download some positive and encouraging ("More music, KLOVE!" Sorry, it just popped in my head...) music to listen to. Any suggestions?

Day #1: Surviving

Joe left last night, after many, many tears from both of us. Whoever said "real men don't cry" has never left their spouse/family for a year to go to war. Just sayin'. Last night was the hardest night of my life. I took pictures, but my computer isn't cooperating with me. {Any tips from a Mac user? iPhoto isn't recognizing the pictures.} So, in an attempt to stay positive and not end my day by crying, I'm gonna leave it at that.

Today was hard, but somehow, I just got through it. I've mostly been feeling numb and empty. I haven't been eating much because my stomach just hurts. Not like bad hurt, just nervous/anxious hurt. I've also been nauseous on and off, probably from worrying so much.

Joe was able to call me twice today. =) That made things much easier, but I know that I really cannot expect that anymore. It does help to ease the initial pain, though. He did the same thing when he left for BCT. Plus, just hearing his voice makes everything so much better.

I only got about 5 hrs of sleep last night, but I suppose that's to be expected. If it keeps up, I'll drug myself to sleep. Lol! I had a friend come over and help me clean today. Her husband is in the same company as mine, so we're in the same boat. I spent most of last night at her house because I just didn't want to come home to my empty house and bed. My kitchen is now clean, thanks to her. =) Then, her friend (who I didn't know previously) invited us to the beach. I didn't really want to go at first, but I'm kind of glad I did. It was more relaxing than I thought it would be. Weird, huh?

On the way to the beach, though, I got some really bad news from my mom. Nana had taken Papa to the hospital for a CT because he'd been sick and started having double vision. It turned out that he had a mass in his brain, between his eyes. After an MRI, they concluded that it's an aneurysm. He's being taken by ambulance to UAMS in Little Rock to see a surgeon - I'm assuming. With all of the things that I've been worried about, this one just freakin' adds to the pile. I broke down after my trip to the beach, which turned into an emergency phone call to my bestie. I honestly don't know what I'd do without her. 7,000 miles away and she's still calming me down, reminding me who is really  in control. And who knew this was going to happen all along. *sigh* She's the best.

I went to dinner and a movie with Mrs. C, her hubby and his friend. We had such a good time! I was soo glad to hang out with them! We've only known them for 2 months, but I think we've bonded. ;-) Plus, it doesn't hurt that her husband and mind share the same name and really close MOS's. Lol. We ate at Chili's and then went to see Toy Story 3. It was so good! I didn't get to see the end though. Joe called me from a wacky European number, and I jumped up and ran out of that theater! I got to talk to him for 20 minutes. Bless his sweet heart, he bought a phone card so he could call me. His voice is the best sound in the world to me! I'm sure you ladies understand. =) It was a blessed 20 minute conversation. Ever since I got the news about Papa, I'd been dying to talk to him. It was good to know that he's ok...even though I know he's only been on a plane since I last saw him. I'm hoping that I can get through tomorrow without a phone call. I have a feeling it's going to be a while before my next one.

So, after my awesome night, I heard a song on the radio. {Praise the Lord that KLOVE has a station here, even if it's not always clear!} At first, it made me cry. Then it made me remember that no matter what God is always with me. Even when it hurts, even when it sucks, even when I think I just can't take it anymore. He's here. He can handle my burdens, my problems.

"Always" by Building 429

I was standing in the pouring rain one dark November night
Fighting off the bitter cold when she caught my eye
Her face was taught and her eyes were filled, and to my surprise
She pulled out a photograph and my heart just stopped inside
She said, “He would’ve been three today
I miss his smile, I miss his face”
What was I supposed to say, but

CHORUS
I believe always, always
Our Savior never fails
Even when all hope is gone
God knows our pain and his promise remains
He will be with you always

He was living in a broken world, dreaming of a home
His heart was barely keeping pace when I found him all alone
Remembering the way he felt when his daddy said goodbye
Fighting just to keep the tears and the anger locked inside
He’s barely holding onto faith
But deliverance is on its way, cause

CHORUS
I believe always, always
Our Savior never fails
Even when all hope is gone
God knows our pain and his promise remains
He will be with you always

Friend, I don’t know where you are and I don’t know where you’ve been
Maybe you’re fighting for your life or just about to throw the towel in
But if you’re crying out for mercy, if there’s no hope left at all
If you’ve given everything you’ve got and you’re still about to fall
Well hold on, hold on, hold on, cause

I believe always, always
Our savior never fails
Even when all faith is gone
God knows our pain and his promise remains
Always, always, He will be with you always

Doesn't that song just have an awesome message?! I was blown away even though I've heard the song countless times. I love the way God uses music in my life. I love the way God uses people in my life. People like you, who read my blog and pour out love even though you've never met me. My husband may be halfway across the world, but I am blessed. And He's with me through it all. I just have to keep reminding myself of that. I'm also planning on starting Faith Deployed by Jocelyn Greene tonight. One more thing to keep me plugged in.

So, this is me...surviving this deployment one day at a time.

Up Again, Down Again

I am oh-so aware now why so many women refer to this Army wife life as a roller coaster ride. I'm totally on it. Have I mentioned that I hate roller coasters? No? Well, I do. So, I'm hating the current roller coaster that is my life and emotions.

Joe deploys way too soon. I'm freaking out. I had reason to actually hope that Joe wasn't deploying yesterday, only to find my hopes slashed as per usual.

I met a new friend today, which I'm totally excited about! There's a very good chance that she's going to be my deployment bff. =) Our husbands are in the same company, which is not only great for being friends but for vital information too. Yay!

I was reminded today that there's a bigger reason my husband is leaving me for a year. It's called freedom. Freedom that was trampled on by terrorists. My husband is leaving me to fight for yours, mine, and all Americans' freedom. For our ability to sleep safe and sound in our beds at night. Who am I to be distraught about that? My husband will come home a hero. He told God and our country "Here am I, send me!" and they're sending him. I know that God called him to serve. The man definitely has a servant's heart. How can I tell God not to send him? I can't. I can't do that and claim to believe that God is in control - that He has gone to the battlefield before my husband and prepared the way in which he should go. I would not be the woman God made me to be if I asked God to keep him here. No doubt about it, I'd love for my husband to be able to stay here, in my arms where I know without a doubt that he's safe.

It's hard. It sucks. I don't like it. But I will get up every day. I will believe that God has us in his hands. I will believe that God has bigger plans for my husband and I than I can even begin to imagine. I will trust God. I will.

I will also cry. I'll be mad. I'll be upset. I may throw things. I may yell as loud as I can just to get it out. But, I will survive.

I will watch him get on that bus. I will kiss him goodbye and say a thousand "I love you"s and even more "be safe"s. I will go home to an empty house. I will sleep in an empty bed.

I will live with my cell phone attached to my hip. My computer will be on more than it will be off. Skype will never be a program that I 'quit' on my computer.

I will send letters and packages. I will take a thousand pictures.

I will miss him like crazy.

I will never stop loving and supporting him.

I will welcome him home.

I may be a complete mess for the next 12 months. But,  I will survive.

So, now you see the "up and down" of my thoughts.

I may not be back for a few days. But, rest assured that I will be spending that time hugging, kissing, loving, and cuddling my husband.

How Did I Not Know...

That I was nominated for an award?!

Sheesh. I must really be out of it these days!!

Anyway, moving on. I was My blog was nominated for Best Theme/Layout over at Navy Doll!! Since I didn't know about this, I have a feeling very few of my readers knew! So, while there's still time left, please head over there and vote for me!

I'll be back with a real post later. =) I just had to post this one real quick.

Love and hugs!

Deployment and Such

It's getting closer every day... And every day I have a breakdown. Ok, maybe not every day but for the last several days in a row. I'm really trying not to, but it seems like I just can't avoid it no matter how hard I try. It's right there in front of me, taunting, teasing me. The more I think about it, the more I think things like "it's not fair," "why me? why now?" "how can they take him and we've only been here for 2 months?" But, those thoughts aren't productive and they certainly do not help my state of mind.

So, in an attempt to think productively, I'm blogging. =) And I have some questions for you more seasoned military wives. As I'm sure most of you have noticed {if you're not new}, I'm a deployment virgin. This is all new territory for me, as are most things military.

First, I know that I need goals. I'm going to try to do weekly goals. Kind of a start small thing. Week #1's goal is to unpack our spare bedroom. So, there's that. Week #2 is the week my bestie will be here, so the goal that week is to have fun. =) I think I can handle that! Especially with her around! That's pretty much all I've come up with so far. I do need to find a church...and that one is still proving to be difficult. We visited another one this past Sunday and I kind of liked it, but it wasn't *the one*. Ya know? They're also waiting on their new pastor to arrive and take things over, so I may go back when he gets here. Anyway.

I'm planning on volunteering a lot of time at ACS. I finished the paperwork and now I just need to turn it in. I'm really excited about having something to do! Yeah, I won't be getting paid, but that's not the important thing. Plus, I have a feeling I'm about to learn a whole lot about military life. And that is definitely a good thing. Not to mention, I'll actually feel like I fit in somewhere on this island. This place has been culture shock central for me. Not always in a bad way, but I prefer to stick to doing things on post a lot of the time. So, there's volunteering.

Honestly, I don't know what to expect from deployment. I've learned so far to expect very little so that my poor little hopes don't get crushed. I've heard that things are going to be changing "over there" so that doesn't help me know what to expect. Some of Joe's buddies that are there now are on facebook all the time and I don't know if I should expect the same or if I should expect very little contact. Any advice for the newbie? =)

So, here's my big question for the moment: cooking, yes or no? While Joe was in BCT, I pretty much lived off of Lean Cuisine. No lie. I only cooked for myself twice while he was gone. The rest of the time it was sandwiches, Lean Cuisine, Chick Fil A, Taco Bell, my microwave version of a cheese quesadilla, and several dinners from Chili's [because I worked there so why not?]. So, do you cook while your hubby is deployed? If so, I'm gonna need some recipes for me!  I don't think I'm gonna be able to handle a whole year of frozen dinners...

Right now, I can only think about two things. 1) how much I'm gonna miss my hubby when he leaves... Coming home to a completely empty house is going to suck so bad! 2) how much I miss my Jasper. Things were so much more bearable when I had my puppy to come home to...

Any more suggestions/advice you have I will be glad to hear...er, see. =) And I'm sure I'll have more questions later.

Deployment sucks. The End.

Get To Know You Sunday

 The questions..

1. While at the beach, pool, etc..Do you cover up your assets or show them off?
I cover it up! I will say that I didn't always... I mean, I was a teenage girl at one point and boy did I love the attention. Now? Notsomuch. =)

2. Road trips or Plane trips?
Road trips!!!!! I absolutely hate flying. I only hate it because it makes me nauseous, though. I'd much rather be in a car for an entire day and chill than be sick on a plane for an hour or two.

3. I can't stand it when...?
People don't use their blinkers!!! Especially when they're changing lanes and effectively cutting me off. It ticks me off more than anything! I mean, how hard is it to turn your blinker on!? Uh, not that hard. Seriously people.

4. Have you ever gone topless at the beach?
Um, NO. Never have and never will. My hubby is the only one that gets to see that pretty picture.

5. How many blog carnivals do you do a week?
Ummm usually just one.

6. My favorite thing about the weekend is...?
Sleeping in and being lazy with my hubby. =( No more being lazy with the hubby on the weekends though... He's leaving way too soon.

7. Pancakes or waffles?
Pancakes. I do like waffles, but there's just something about pancakes...

8. Water Park or Amusement Park?
 Definitely water park. I totally prefer water parks and rides to roller coasters. I'm a wussy. =)

And, for the record, it is still Sunday in Hawaii so this totally counts!

Hope everyone had a good Father's Day!

Makin' Progress

Is it just me or does moving into a new place take forever?! It seems like the boxes - no matter how many I open and unpack - are multiplying! Not to mention, when you actually unpack a box - or two or three or four - it looks like the room exploded. Even then, you're left with the packing materials and cardboard boxes. *sigh* We opened 5 or 6 boxes in the bedroom today and oh. my. word. You would have thought that the boxes just exploded in the room! It took me forever to clean the mess up and I still don't have places to put everything that came out of those boxes. Will someone please tell me how this happened?

After I got most of the mess cleaned up, I finally feel like we have a nice room. Sure, we had decent furniture before but it was mainly functional and not so pretty. I totally love our new look. Today, we went out and bought a new comforter. I'd had a different one in mind when we took the trip to good 'ole Target (pronounced tar-jay in my mind... ;-)), but we ended up with this one and I think it looks pretty good.

Before:

After:

 

Much better, right? Well, except for the dresser in the corner with the TV on it. I haven't decided what to do about that yet. It looks sort of out of place and I can't quite figure out what it needs. Any ideas?

The rest of the house is coming together... The living room is basically done, except for pictures that need to be hung. The dining area - which is sort of in the living room - is not so good looking. I've got stuff piled on the table, pictures resting on one of the chairs, a box on the floor and pictures on the bar along with papers and junk that needs to be put away. *sigh* The kitchen looks like it was hit by a tornado. And let's not even talk about the spare bedroom right now. It looked manageable before we put the [now] extra bed in there.

So, we're making progress...but it's really slow. Which sucks because we're in the single digit countdown. =( I really wanted to have this place spic-and-span before he leaves, but at the point I'm not sure if that's going to happen. I'll take some pictures of the place and post them later so you can really see what I'm talking about.  I took some a couple days ago, but we've moved furniture since then.

I'll leave you with this picture for today. We were sitting on the couch and I saw this when I looked out the window and just had to step onto the patio and take a picture of it. =)

Rainbows are so clear here! I've never seen them so bright before moving here. Probably because it mists while the sun is shining. I totally understand why they put rainbows on their tags and license plates now. =)

Happy Saturday!
 

Lovely Randomness

I realized earlier that I haven't been on my computer all day! Scary. Anyway, I have a lot to talk about and I'm really not feeling like putting everything into one coherent, flowing post. =) Sorry.

The reason I don't feel like being all coherent and stuff is because of the allergy situation. I don't know what the deal is, but ever since they mowed our grass I just haven't been the same. First it was a scratchy throat. Then it was sneezing. Then it was a combination: scratchy throat, sneezing, runny nose, watery eye. Yes eye. For some reason, only my left eye likes to water. Again, I don't get it. So basically, I feel like crap. Oh, and my ears are stopped up. Today has been better - no runny nose or sneezing. But, my head still feels all...foggy and junk. Bleh.

***

Single digits until D day. I had a total and complete breakdown this morning. It just hit me and I don't feel good anyway. Plus, Aunt Flo totally isn't helping things. Hrmph.

***

After nailing slats in our bed the other night, Joe finally decided it was time we got a new bed. *insert choirs singing the Alleluia chorus here* =) So, this morning we ventured out to the furniture store. We decided to visit the one on post again since no taxes are involved there. No taxes is a big seller for us. Lol. Anyway, we walked in and fell in L-O-V-E with this baby:

{If you couldn't tell, this was taken at the store not at our house.}

King size sleigh bed by none other than Ashley furniture. *Swoon* We searched around the rest of the store, but it was love at first sight for us. The thing was a freakin' steal too! The bed itself was 50% cheaper than the queen size version we'd seen in an Ashley store before we left GA. Needless to say, we were sold. We bought the bed, a mattress of course, 2 night stands and the dresser you can kind of see on the right. =) I was a happy girl.

And then it got delivered. Yep, same day. There's a local guy that will deliver for you for a decent price. We were told that the company AAFES uses here in Hawaii takes a while to call you back and - obviously - we don't really have that kind of time. So, we called Mr. Delivery Man. He only takes cash though, so I went about running to stores and ATMs to try and get cash. After about 45 minutes of doing just this, Joe calls me to tell me that our dresser was damaged and that I needed to go back to the furniture store. Grrr.

Off I go to the furniture store. I get there, and Joe is on the phone with one of the clerks. Uh? Ok. The managerial person came up and informed me that I needed to go home, get the receipt and come back so she could do a refund-rebuy process. Meanwhile Mr. Delivery Man is on his way from my house [where the receipt is] to the store. So, after running all this by Joe we decided that I would wait for Mr. Delivery Man to bring me the receipt so they can do their thing with it. Le sigh. I waited. While I was waiting, apparently a shift change happened and no one informed the incoming shifters what in the H was going on. Mr. Delivery Man comes, they pay him and he goes on his merry way telling me he's going to go get the new dresser. So, I ask the older more experienced-looking clerk, "So, you don't need anything else from me?" She looks at me like I'm an alien and says, "I'm sorry?" I began to tell her the whole she-bang and she asked me if I had the receipt. "No I don't have the receipt, Mr. Delivery Man brought it with him!" After 10 minutes of trying to find him and get the UPC codes she needed, the problem was solved. She apologized and all I said was, "Well, I understand you have a process you have to go through. But, it'd really be nice if the day/night shifts would communicate with each other." She looked at me like I was speaking a different language. Tough cookies, woman.

After all that, we now have a room full of gorgeous, new bedroom furniture. =) We've been married 2 years and this was our first big purchase as a couple. I told Joe that we had "adult" furniture now. He told me that we weren't adults and that we were still young. I compromised and told him we were young adults. ;-)

***

I'm so gonna miss Joe. Even more so now that I have this HUGE bed to sleep in all by myself. *sigh* Anyone wanna come stay with me? I've got plenty of room! Lol!

***

As further proof that I have serious baby fever, I informed Joe tonight that a dresser that was previously in our bedroom would look good as a changing table/dresser in our [future] baby's room. Of course, I'd have to paint it to match the decor, but it would most definitely work. =) 2011, you better hurry up and get here!!!!

***

We went to ACS today also. I got a Blue Star Card {and the guy thought I was weird for applying for one and we don't have kids. Thanks a lot, jerkface!} and why did no one tell me they take your freakin' picture?! I soooo looked like crap. Grr. It's only good for a year though...right? I also got some info about volunteering. While Joe's gone, I'm going to be helping out at ACS. I had no idea they needed so much help here! They're on a hiring freeze, so I have a feeling I'm going to be pretty stinkin' busy while he's gone. YAY!!!! I felt a huge relief when I left there feeling like I actually had a purpose. =)

***

I think we're going to go see Toy Story 3 tomorrow. =) It may be kinda cooky but hey, those movies came out when we were kids! Plus, who doesn't need a good laugh in the face of deployment every once in a while!?

Alright, enough of my rambling randomness for today. =)

Hope y'all have a good weekend!

 

Moving In...Again!

Today has been a very long day and I am soooo tired!

I got up at 7 this morning which isn't exactly early, but it isn't late either! The ACS furniture people came at 8:10 to pick up their oh-so crappy furniture. Never in my life have I been happier to see furniture walk out the door. =) Then, I proceeded to sit on my toosh on the air mattress, watch tv, and Skype with my bestie while I waited for the movers to show. I felt like booty this morning too. I think my allergies are acting up because - for the first time since we've been here - they mowed our grass yesterday. Shouldn't this be a bi-monthly sorta thing? Anyway.

The movers showed up just after 11. I was pretty shocked too. The time frame they gave me was 11-1, so I figured they'd be here noon-ish. I'm not complaining, but I was shocked. It took them 2 loads to get all of our stuff here. Not exactly sure how that happened, but whatev. The first go-'round, they brought 2 of our 5 crates. After they unloaded those [onto my driveway], the driver went back to pick up the other three boxes. It took them no time to unload the first 2 crates. Actually, I felt like it didn't take them long to unload anything. Probably because one of our Hawaiian fellows was a hoss. I was pretty impressed because I've seen a lot of, er, large men around here but I never really expected them to be that strong. =) Lol! He had some serious personality too. I suppose, though, if you don't have fun doing your job it could make your day long and tiring. He was nice. It took them a total of 3.5 hours to unload everything, including the time they waited for Mr. Driver to get back with our last 3 crates. Again, I was pretty impressed.

You wouldn't think that watching 3 guys unload your stuff would be tiring, but I'm seriously wiped out! We did manage to unpack the kitchen and set up our TV and entertainment center, so I suppose that's something. =) Oh, and I cooked dinner. It wasn't much, but hey, it was dinner. And my hubby never has a problem eating pizza for, well, any meal.

As proof of my tiredness, I leave you with these awesome mini-conversations Joe and I had tonight. =)

Me: What time is it? {Trying to set the time on our microwave}
Joe: Looks at his watch. It's 1915
Me: Trying to decode military time in my head. Ok, so it's 1715.
Joe: Laughing hysterically
Me: What?
Joe: Military time doesn't translate into military time. Still laughing.
Me:What did I say?
Joe: You said 1715.
Me: Now laughing at myself because I'm so tired Oh! Well, I'm tired! Crap! What time is it?! ... Oh, 7:15, that's what I meant!
Joe: continues to laugh at me...

Then...

Me: Ugh, where should we put these knifes?! Nothing looks right over here.
Joe: laughing at me again
Me: doesn't understand why he's laughing...
Joe: It's knives not knifes.
Me: I know...
Joe: That's not what you said.
Me: Well what did I say?
Joe: laughing You said knifes.
Me: Oh. I'm tired! Leave me alone! =P

Yup. Moving is so much fun.
 
I'll try to take pictures of the house [even though it's a mess] tomorrow so you can see what it looks like with our furniture instead of the 70s Hawaiian furniture. =)

This and That

Today, I had my second trip to the local DMV. If I didn't mention it last time, I seriously hate that place. I have never seen such a lack of organization and control in my life. Even in Oklahoma, when you get your license, it's a much more structured experience. Not in Hawaii, though! Walk in to a hot, crowded, poorly ventilated room, get in line and wait. For 2 hours. Yes. I waited in line to take a test and get my driver's license for 2. whole. hours. I even went early! I got there at 8:20 and left at about 10:30. I'm not even kidding.

So, I said goodbye to this one [sadly because it was my first one with my married name and I really loved living in NC]:

And I said hello to this very fruity, I mean ridiculous looking one:

Despite, the look of the card, I think I took a pretty darn good picture! Don't you?! Well, except for the part that I look like a brunette. Seriously, I even said that to the lady who handed it to me. =) Lol. She probably thought I was crazy. I think my hair looks darker because they took it in a dark corner of the room. Whatev. I look hot. Lol! ;-)

***

Now that I've informed you of the oh-so exciting highlight of my day, I think it's time I take care of those blog awards I received this weekend!

First up is this award from Jess Raquel at Mo Shíorghrá. Thanks girlie!!! =)

Since I've already received this award once, I'm going to let you - yes you - take some of this sunshine and spread it to other bloggers who you think could use a bit of sunshine in their life today!

Next up is this award from The Sawyer Bunch at Confessions of a Sailor's Wife. Big, huge thanks, girl!

This one actually has rules! *gasp* Oh no! Haha! =)


1. Thank the person who gave you the award -- check!
2. Share seven things about you
3. Nominate 15 newly discovered blogs that you think are fantastic {probably going to be breaking this one...}
4. Let your nominees know about the award

Alright, so 7 things about me...

1. I miss the psycho weather in Oklahoma. I would love a good thunderstorm right about now.
2. I'm dying to plant flowers in the flowerbed near the house.
3. I think I'm addicted to blogging. Me and my computer spend way too much time together.
4. I ♥ Glee. I'm not sure why, but maybe because I love to hear them sing! Which is weird, because I was never really one to watch musicals (unless it's performed on stage, then I'm game).
5. I love Chinese food! Actually, I think I've just been on a Chinese food kick lately. Just thinking about it is starting to make me hungry, lol!
6. I really hope the people who elected our "fine" president are kicking themselves. (More on that later...)
7. Ben & Jerry's Double Fudge Brownie is my best friend on a depressing day. =) Sooo yummy!

Holy cow, that was hard! Who knew saying 7 things about yourself could be so hard?! Unless, of course, I went with obvious things like my hair color, eye color and that sort of thing. But, how fun is that?

Now, for the lucky bloggers (totally not gonna be 15):

1. A @ ACU's and ABC's {p.s. she just started blogging so pop on over to her blog and say 'hello'!}
2. Cheryl @ Boots in the Doorway
3. Jessica @ {Mis}Adventures of an Army Wife
4. Ashleigh @ A Deployment Diary {in Hawaii}
5. Sarah @ Diary of a Navy Wife

There is no possible way could have nominated 15!!! It's just too hard!! So, congrats to the lucky winners!! =)

***

I have really tried not to criticize our president too much. Really. I have. But, I can't take it anymore. The man is just...ridiculous. I don't know if he's actually stupid - highly unlikely since he does have a law degree - or if he just listens to his poorly-selected cabinet too much. Or maybe - and this is more likely to be true - the man is simply a politician. He doesn't know the inner workings of our nation and how complex it really is. He was just nominated because he's a really good orator, knows how to spin things the "proper way," and he is the complete opposite of our last president.

I think he's taken things way too far with this oil spill. Since when does an accident warrant a Presidential Address? Maybe a natural disaster or monumental train accident I can understand. But an address about the oil spill. Give. Me. A. Break. It seems to me like our "lovely" president is more concerned with placing the blame and making them "pay" than actually finding out how it happened and how it can be avoided in the future. Accidents happen, people. Sure, it sucks. Yes, it harms the life around the area where the spill is located. Allow me to remind you that oil is found in nature. It's a natural - not man-made - product that we use and is also a non-renewable source. So, while this natural product may harm the life around it for a time, nature will take its course and all will be well. 

Meanwhile, let me remind you that BP isn't the sole company involved in the spill. They may have funded it, but they weren't the ones drilling. Like most energy companies, they hire actual drilling companies to drill for them. They hire geologists to inspect the area they want to drill in. Not to mention the enormous amounts of legal paperwork they have to do before they can even start the process.* Yet, accidents still happen. People are still people and as such are NOT perfect!

When will we stop believing that people aren't perfect? When will we realize that people will eventually let us down? And when will we stop relying on politicians and our government to solve ALL of our problems?

*To get more information on the oil spill and its related issues, check out JG's blog post. She did her research and can tell you a whole lot more about it than I can. You're welcome for the extra shout-outs, JG. ;-)*

Whew! That was a really long post!!! If you're still reading, thanks for sticking around for more of my randomness!!!

Happy Tuesday!

Good News!

I wanted to post about our silly weekend, but first I have to tell you the good news I got this morning!!

No, I'm not pregnant crazy people.

Our HHG finally made it to the island!!!!!!!!! Woohoo!!!

I called this morning to find out if they were here because that was the last date that transportation gave me. If they had told me that our HHG hadn't arrived yet, you can bet your boots that heads would have been rolling!! But, they didn't. After a couple minutes on hold the lady told me that our HHG had, in fact, arrived and could be delivered either this Wednesday or next Tuesday. I said, "Well, since we've been waiting for them for almost 2 months, let's go ahead and and schedule it for Wednesday." I was hoping to get a "wow, I can't believe you had to wait that long" or "I'm so sorry it took a while for your things to get here," but I got neither. This lady was all business. And why they could only schedule it one day this week or next is beyond me. You'd think they could do it any day of the week. It's not like they service a whole state. Good grief, this island is the size of a big city!!!

Anyway, our stuff is here!! And I called ACS and they are also coming to pick up our craptastic borrowed furniture on Wednesday. I told this lady that our HHG was coming that same day and she said, "Oh, you don't want to schedule it for the day after?" Uh, no. I want this furniture outta my sight as soon as possible! Plus, why on earth would I want to be stuck with two sets of furniture?? What is wrong with people? I swear.

In other news, I got a Nook this weekend!!! =D I'd been thinking about getting either that or a Kindle for a while. Then, I realized that Joe might want one while he's deployed. It'd be much easier for him to have one of those than carry around the potential 5 bazillion books I could send him. I also didn't want to wait 9 bazillion years for the Kindle to arrive in good 'ole Hawaii. I'm still waiting to receive a book I ordered almost 3 weeks ago. *sigh* Of course, it's the one book that I'm absolutely dying to read.

We did have an incident on Friday night with our prized Nook. Joe turned it on, got it all set up to charge and left it. A couple hours later, I was really wanting to play with it. I know, I'm like a kid with a brand new toy that Mommy said I couldn't play with. Lol! Anyway, we couldn't get the darn thing to turn on! It just kept showing the start up screen and wouldn't get any further. We tried everything. We Googled everything. Finally, Joe called the 1-800 number and after the help desk guy tried everything he knew, we were told to take it back and get a new one. Turns out that B&N gave us the older model Nook which needed an update as soon as we got it. It also had a dead battery when we got it. The guy that helped us Saturday said that it was probably DOA. Awesome. So, if you get a Nook with the hard casing tell them you want the new version! They're probably just trying to get those off the shelf - which I totally understand - but if they don't work why the heck would you even attempt to sell them?! Irritating. Long story short, we got a new one and they set it up for us in the store just in case we had any issues. =) And, for the record, I'm in love.

After our adventure in B&N, we headed home for lunch and then out to a movie with Mrs. C and her hubby. We went to see The Killers. It was a super-cute flick! It wasn't as Mr. & Mrs. Smith as I'd expected it to be, but it was great. It had some dry humor in it, too, and I felt like I was the only one in the theatre laughing several times. =) After the flick, we all traveled back to our house. We hung out for a while and then went off to dinner at my new favorite, close-to-home restaurant, Cholo's. It's a Mexican restaurant. It's super teeny, super cute, has fabulous margaritas, salsa and food. You can also sit outside and enjoy the breeze while guarding your chips from the dive-bombing birds enjoying your yummy margarita and food. So, if you're ever in my slice of Hawaii (Oahu), drive to Hale'iwa (located on the North Shore), eat at Cholo's and then do some shopping in the really cute shops nearby. There's my touristy advice for the day. =)

After our yummy dinner, we came back to our house to play some Wii. =) I beat everyone in 3 games of bowling. Yeah, I'm awesome. On the Wii. =) In real life bowling, not so much! Figures, huh? After that we played some golf, which all of us pretty much sucked at. Then we let the boys play tennis. I completely suck at tennis and I don't think Mrs. C was too keen on it either. Here are some fave pictures from the boys playing Wii Tennis.

{Don't you just love our set up?}

One of the many hilarious moves my husband did while playing. You'd think he was actually on the court or something. ;-) Too cute.

This was pretty much the extent of Mr. C's moves during tennis. What a bore! ;-) Lol!

Don't you just love it?!

This is what we did while our hubbies were battling it out. =) Much more fun, I think.

What a ballet-like pose. =)

Wii can be so cruel sometimes. ;-)

And just for the sake of being random, here's a picture of our frequent visitor, Mr. Gecko. Most of the time we find him in the garage, but this time he was chillin' on the screen door for our patio. 

We also found a teeny tiny gecko in the hall in our house a few weeks ago. I seriously thought it was a clump of dirt with some hair attached. I made Joe look at it and it turned out to be a baby gecko! It was sooo cute! Joe caught it and let it go in our almost-equally small backyard. I saw it hanging out on the patio a few days ago. =)


I also received two blog awards from two very fabulous ladies this weekend! I'll be posting them soon, I promise!


How was your weekend?

Get To Know You Sunday

It's Sunday - your favorite time of the week! Right? Right?! ;-)

1. If you could have one of Superman's, powers which one would you want? Superhuman strength..Flight..Superhuman speed..X-Ray vision..etc

Just one? Then, I'm gonna go with speed. I'm forever running late like good 'ole Clark Kent. Speaking of...I need to watch some more Smallville!

2. The best thing I ever won is....?

My Coach bag. =) Thank you, Mary Kay!


3. Have you ever skyped with a bloggy friend?

Yes and no. Yes because Melissa is technically my bloggy friend, but I also know her in real life...so no. I'm hoping to Skype with Mrs. S soon! =D

4. What is your favorite Summer month?

I have to say July 'cause it's my birthday month, and who doesn't like their birthday month [unless it's December or early January]?

5. Pool, Lake, or Ocean?

Uh, all of the above? I like the pool because I'm not a good enough swimmer to swim for very long in the ocean. I like the lake because of memories. I like the ocean because I love going to the beach and relaxing. There's nothing like watching the waves roll in.

6. One of my favorite Summer memories is.....?

Definitely my honeymoon. =) We drove from Western AR all the way to Sunset Beach, NC. Best road trip ever with a really great destination.

7. What's your favorite secret bargain?
 

Um? I don't usually keep bargains a secret... but I will say that every. single. piece of furniture that is in our house [excuse me WILL BE in our house] was given to us. Courtesy of my parents, family friends, and Joe's grandparents. We got incredibly lucky.

8. Do you plan on or have you been watching the World Cup?

Ha. No. I wouldn't even know what the World Cup was if not for the news and everyone on facebook talking about it. I don't get soccer. 

Head over to MannLand5 so I can get to know you too!

***

We tried another new church today. It did not go well. I don't know if it's just the church culture around here that feels so new and awkward or if it's me. I know part of it is that I was completely spoiled by our home church in NC and the church we went to in Augusta because of their resources (mainly worship music related resources). The 3 churches we've visited here just seem so...outdated. Yeah, now I totally sound like a spoiled brat. *sigh* A big part of church for me is worship music. It wasn't until we found our church in NC that I was introduced to a world of contemporary worship...and it captivated me. So now when I don't have that experience I feel cheated. I told Joe this morning that I felt like I was having flashbacks to the late 90s and early 2000s because of the music they were signing. It's not bad and it certainly still has its place and purpose, but it left me wanting something deeper. Am I making sense? Probably not. Next week, we're going to visit a baptist church in Kapolei. [Joe and I were both raised baptist, but we really try not to claim denominations because - for some reason - baptists seem to have a bad rep.] I've now had 3 people tell me we should visit and after this morning, I'm more than willing to go even though it's going to be a bit of a drive for us. At this point, I'm just eager to find the church where God wants us and where I can connect!

***

Thanks for all the dessert suggestions!! Y'all really got my brain working! I think I've decided on making Rice Krispie treats. Sweet, gooey, yummy...totally picnic-worthy. Now, what to wear...? I've already talked hubby into getting me some super-cute sandals and he seems to be ok with getting an outfit [or 2 or 3 ;-)]...  

Happy Sunday! 

To Bake or Not To Bake?

That is the question.

Joe's company is having a company-wide (I say that like it's a big number or something...) picnic on Wednesday! While I'm super-thrilled about meeting people in Joe's company (and when I say people I mean women who could be my bff while Joe's gone...), I don't know what in the world to bring! Apparently, there was a sign-up sheet for things to bring. Instead of texting or calling to ask me what we'd bring, he went ahead and signed us up for drinks and dessert. Oh, my sweet husband. =)

Honestly, I might have signed me up for that too, but I think it's just funny that he assumes I can whip something up in a jiffy. I like to plan these sorts of things at least a week ahead of time...call me crazy. =)

So, here's my dilemma: it's a "picnic" which means outside. If I make a chilled dessert, it could end up melted and runny. Chilled would be perfect for a picnic other than that. So, what do I go with? I'd love to make cheesecake or something like that because I'm just awesome like that, but I don't have any good pans here! Do I be all cheesy-like and bake cookies? Do I go against my domestic self and buy something? *sigh* I don't know.

Anyone have any good picnic-y dessert recipes I could steal?

And after we approach the baking issue, what do I wear?!

Things He'll Miss

I hate to beat a dead horse, but the D-word has been on my mind a lot lately. We try to avoid talking about it, but it does come up in conversation occasionally.

Last night, we were getting ready for bed and my left wrist starting hurting. Weird. I thought aloud, "Ow, that's weird my wrist is hurting like it did when I sprained it last summer." And then I remembered, he wasn't here for that. Just so you don't feel lost - because I wasn't blogging then - I'll give you the details on this lovely story.

Joe had been at BCT for 2-3 weeks. I had just gotten the form I needed to be able to get my military ID card. That Thursday, I took off work early to get this prized card. It was the first time I'd had medical insurance since we'd been married. It was kind of a big deal in my book. 2 days later, [a Saturday no less when most of our family was out of town] I had cleaned up the house and took a shower. I had bought more body wash the day before and set it on the dryer (our washer/dryer were in the bathroom at this place) so I'd remember to grab it before I got in the shower. Well, I forgot, but I didn't realize this until I finished washing my hair and reached for the body wash. So, I stepped one foot out of the shower to reach for it. {I really wish I could explain this shower better...it was one of those that's a shower only with a small lip about 3-4 inches off the ground.} I'd set a towel on the floor before I got in to soak up the water from exiting the shower. My right foot was on the towel and my left foot was still in the shower. I grabbed the body wash, attempted to pick my right foot up, slipped, tried to grab something to break my fall with my left hand and ultimately crashed on the shower floor. Right on my toosh and left arm. OUCH! 

After sitting there for a minute to ensure that I indeed had lived, I got up and continued showering. I was pretty sore, and my wrist hurt a little, but I didn't think any real damage was done....until an hour-ish later. My wrist looked a little swollen and it hurt. So, I did what any newlywed girl does - I called my mom. She gave me the "duh" advice: take ibuprofen, ice it, elevate it. Off to Wally World I went. I also called my other SIL who's a nurse to get her professional advice, which happened to be the same as Mom's. I got an ice pack, meds and a movie at WalMart and went home to baby myself. A few hours later, my wrist only felt worse. I was beginning to worry that I had broken it. From my mom's experience working in dr's offices and from being a pharmacy technician for 2.5 years (and from having broken a foot), I knew that letting a broken arm go untreated was not a good thing. I called Joe's grandparents' house. I needed to go to the ER and get it xrayed. If my wrist was broken and - God forbid - it needed to be set, I was gonna ask for drugs. Lol! I'm a weenie. It's ok. So, I would need someone to drive me home. And, I'm pretty sure Joe's family would have killed me for not calling them in the first place.

Joe's grandpa came to get me, and carted me to the ER. After 2 xrays, 3 hours of waiting, and some awkward "do you feel safe at home" questions from the nurse, it was determined a sprain. A sprain that hurt like hell and even caused my blood pressure to go up. I was sent home with an amazing brace, Darvocet (life saver!), and ibuprofen. I felt a little stupid, but how else was I supposed to find out?! I was only supposed to wear the brace for a week, but ended up wearing it for a month because it hurt so bad. I couldn't do anything with it and it was so weak. It would throb constantly while I was at work...even if I avoided doing anything with it. I even wrapped my wrist when I went to the beach a week later with Joe's family. Swimming definitely helped it though. Joe totally missed out on my whiny, klutzy self that month.

So, after the "wow my wrist hurts like last summer" statement, it got me to thinking what else Joe is going to miss in the next year that he's gone. He missed out on a lot in the 2 months he was at BCT and the 6 he was at AIT. What is he going to miss when he's gone for a whole year?

My birthday.

Family members' birthdays.

Thanksgiving.

Christmas.

New Year's.

Celebrating his own birthday.

Valentine's Day. (Not really a big one, but what girl doesn't like to feel special on that day?)

Possibly our 3rd anniversary.

Possibly my 25th birthday.

A lot can happen in a year. I love how the Army thinks that 2 weeks of R&R and a month of leave after deployment can make up for 365 days. You can't replace it. You can't stop it. What's a girl to do? I saw a deployment journal on Amazon once, and realized it was more for people who have kids and don't want their husband/wife to miss out on milestones with kids. Plus, it was kinda ugly. I thought of making one for Joe, but would that really be a good idea? I mean to hand it to him when he gets home and be like "Here ya go. This is all the stuff you missed out on while you were gone." Wouldn't that kind of be like a slap in the face? Or would he appreciate it? I mean, I can understand doing that for your spouse if you have children, but for me? I don't know.

Foxtrot Uniform Charlie Kilo, Deployment. You suck.

Sorry, this post was kind of Debbie Downer-ish. Maybe tomorrow's will be more "bright and shiny." =) {That was a Grey's Anatomy joke if you didn't catch it.}

P.S. Thanks for all the book recommendations from yesterday! Keep 'em coming!

Let the Countdown Begin

X number of days until this handsome, sweet Soldier leaves. *insert big huge sad face here*

I think one way I'm going to be coping with his absence is reading. I think I'm going to start a list of books to read while he's gone. I love reading, but I'm really picky about what I read. I like love historical fiction, good novels (my favorite author is Nicholas Sparks), anything by Karen Kingsbury (I'm still working on her collection of books), and good Christian devotionals. I'm open to just about anything, as long as it's not trashy. I have issues with books filled with sex scenes and 'language'. I'm ok with a little here and there, but I can't handle a book full of it. Anyway. I'm open to suggestions to add to my list! I just ordered this book after a random search on Amazon and reading all of the reviews on it. =) I think I'm going to soak this one up completely!

 28 days until my bestie gets here!!!!! Woohoo!!!!!!! I sooo can't wait for some bestie time! We barely get to spend any time together...not counting our phone and Skype calls, of course. ;-) The last time we did anything together in person was at Christmas. So sad. So, we're going to be busy, busy, busy while she's here! It totally sucks that Joe isn't going to be here, but I'm super excited that she's coming to see me. Does it show? ;-) This was taken the last time we hung out.

{Seriously can't believe how different I look and it's only been 6 months! Maybe it's just the hair?}

Before the picture above, I only have this picture of us. Melissa, maybe you have more? I don't... This one was taken about a bazillion years ago and brings back some...uh...interesting memories! Haha! =)

{We look like babies!!!}

30 days until my birthday! I'll be a whopping 24. 

{I know, it says 25. But isn't this cake adorable?!}

Then, we have about 3 1/2 months until this little guy [who I miss like crazy] arrives on the island.

So excited, yet so sad about the next few weeks. They will be bittersweet for sure.

Lucky Girl

We may not have had the typical anniversary day, but it was still pretty nice. Joe got to come home for lunch, which was surprising and nice. =) Turns out they were supposed to have the day off, but it didn't happen because the dude in charge didn't get the memo. It was ok, though because he got off work early too! I'd sent him to the commissary for some caesar dressing for dinner, and - among a few other things - he came home with these!

Yeppers, I'm spoiled! He's so sweet. =)

It was a low-key evening of chicken caesar salad and garlic bread for dinner, Season 6 of LOST for our entertainment, and a little bit of Mario Kart on the Wii. Simple, fun, perfect. =) It may not have been fancy, but I got to spend it with the love of my life. I consider myself pretty darn lucky.

Our rings still look pretty good after 2 years of wear and tear. I *heart* my rings. =D

 I love these kinds of pictures.

***

Well, since our HHG still haven't arrived, we're still using furniture from ACS. *big, huge sigh* I absolutely hate this furniture! When I thought of borrowing furniture, I pictured furniture similar to my own. Ooooh, was I wrong!! This is by far the ugliest, crappiest furniture I've ever seen in my life. And I'm stuck with it until our HHG get here. Don't get me wrong, I don't wanna be sitting on the floor but they could have picked better furniture for us. Seriously. I feel like I'm sitting in a crappy Hawaiian hotel. Can't picture it? Allow me to show you...

Oh yeah. Craptastic, isn't it? There's an extremely large, ugly dining table to the right of the picture that you can't see. It matches the furniture. As does the coffee table that we're using to hold up the TV. Doesn't it make you wanna vomit a little bit? Bleh.

This is the bed we're sleeping on. 

(Accompanied on either side by nightstands and then 2 dressers.)

It's actually pretty decent...until you sit/lay on it:

Yes, that's plastic. Yes, our mattress is covered in it. No, we can't take it off. Why? Because it's unsanitary. Ever slept on a plastic-covered mattress? No? Don't! It's annoying as all get-out! Every time you or your hubby moves, not only do you feel it, you hear it. *sigh*

Needless to say, I'm ready for our HHG to get here.

Before I go...remember me telling you about the little "accident" our car got into when it was shipped over here? I still don't understand how it happened, but this is what it looked like when we got it.

I can't figure out for the life of me how it happened like that. Whatev. It's fixed now. =)

Sorry for the complete randomness of this post! I've actually been meaning to share pics of our crappy, borrowed furniture for a while now. ;-)

Hope y'all had a good Tuesday!!

I Can't Believe...

That it's been 2 whole years since this day:

 Definitely the best day of my life so far. Though, seeing him after BCT does make a really close second. =)

Like our first year, this year was marked with its own happiness, sadness, ups and downs. Looking back, it's almost hard to believe that we made it through the trials of the last year. This time last year, I was getting ready to ship him off to BCT. This year it's deployment. Sometimes I wonder how many years we're actually going to be spending together. Despite the time that I'm most likely going to be husband-less, I wouldn't trade him for anyone else! He's my best friend, soul mate, the one I want to start my family with. It feels like we got married just yesterday...and then again, it feels like we've been together forever! I think that's the way it should feel, don't you? =)

1st anniversary at the same place we had our honeymoon: Sunset Beach, NC. Love [and miss] that place! {Please excuse my awful sunglasses. My good ones disappeared before this trip.}

Recreating the Jack & Juliet kiss from LOST [in the same place!].

Happy Anniversary, my love!!

 Now, I'm off to get this house cleaned up and get ready for a semi-romantic homemade dinner tonight!