Daddy's Our Hero

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-10T17:42:00.001-07:00

I woke up to breakfast in bed!! My older angels made peanut butter toast and banana. It was yummy! They also showed up with flowers and cards Thursday evening. Of course, I waited until today to open the cards. Ashlyn also made a card for me while at school. It was really cute! I'll try and post pics later!!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL MOMMIES.

UUUGGGGHHHHH!!!!

2009-05-05T12:20:00.001-07:00

Dayden is sick...AGAIN! For the love of GOD! Not only do I have to miss work again, but this little girl does not deserve to be sick all of the time. While I totally understand this is just part of the "starting daycare" process-it seems to be a little much.

I'm told it's viral again. So her strep/flu swabs were negative. (Thankfully!)

One thing is for sure. She had better not miss a single day of Kindergarten with all of this exposure!!!!!!

Sock Hop

2009-05-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

Bailey and Ashlyn had a sock hop at school today. There were contests for each grade level and.....(drum roll please)

Ashlyn won for best costume in 3rd grade and Bailey won the 5th grade dance contest!!!!

I like this quote...

2009-05-01T09:53:00.000-07:00

“I am still determined to be cheerful and happy, in whatever situation I may be; for I have also learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances.”

~Martha Washington

Swine Flu

2009-04-30T08:07:00.000-07:00

Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Our phones have been ringing of the wall (or desk) at work. Everyone is concerned about the pandemic. It's amazing how many people don't really listen to the guidelines set for by their physicians, local health department, CDC, WHO...

Now, I'll admit that I don't want the swine flu and I certainly don't want my children to contract the swine flu-but I'm not calling my doctor's office after every other news report!!

Sorry yall. I just needed to vent. I need to get back to my bizillion emails coming down from our infectious disease docs.

Hoping everyone steers clear of the swine flu-especailly those of us in healthcare who are most likely going to get it!!

David Pics

2009-04-27T17:23:00.001-07:00

Here are some pics of David and his co-workers.

David and Gary (owner)

David and Mike (BFFMF)

Another Sickly Update

2009-04-26T16:12:00.001-07:00

Well, despite the fact that Dayden has been on Augmentin for 7 days, she still started running a fever Friday. I have to believe this "whatever" is viral since she is on the antibiotics. She had fever Friday night, all day Saturday and woke up Sunday fever free. Let's see if she stays that way!!
Her daycare celebrated the "Week of the Child" last week. On Monday we donated toiletries for the Wylie community outreach center. Tuesday I can't seem to remember, Wednesday was breakfast on the go for parents, Thursday was the ice-cream social and Friday was pajama day. Of course, in my typical rush to get out of the house on time I totally failed to take pictures. Needless to say she was super cute in her new pj's and her favorite slippers from Granny's house!!
Bailey and Ashlyn were home for half of the weekend. Their grandmother was in town watching their cousins so we did a switcheroo in the middle of the weekend so they could spend some time with her. Unfortunately, their cousins were sick too. I really hope everyone gets to feeling better soon! I pray that I can continue to stay free of illness myself so Dayden and I can make to California healthy and germ free!!!!

Germs galore

2009-04-18T19:13:00.000-07:00

Well, Dayden is sick-again!! Since starting daycare 6 weeks ago she has been sick with something almost every week. Most recently she was diagnosed with Fifth's Disease just Monday. Now...4 short days later she has strep. Who knows the last time I worked a full week at work!!!
She's perking up today and hopefully she'll be well on the road to recovery by tomorrow. I have a mandatory, all-day-long meeting downtown and it's HELL making that up.

Where has time gone??

2009-04-16T09:11:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I admit that I haven't kept my promise of blogging on a regular basis. I have no exuses. Quite honestly-nothing has really changed in my life that can validate my behavior. David is no longer deployed, and hasn't been since August, but in November he moved to California for a civilian job and he is S-T-I-L-L there. So, basically eveything is the same, only I don't worry as much about him being mortared, shot at or the like. Nope! Now, I worry about him getting bombed, doing shots and the like...nah-just kidding.
But seriously, it's getting old. It's one thing to have your hubby deployed to a war zone and a completely "other" thing to have him in the states and not at home. When he is deployed there is an end date. There is his safety to be concerned with on a much higher level than your everyday concern, and there is a mindset that you go in to so that you can make it thru each day until the end date.
He isn't deployed on a military mission, but to me he is still deployed. Only this deployment isn't for 7 months or 14 months. It's open ended. There is no end date in sight. What's worse? The economy. So he'll have to keep his hiney right where he is until they move him home, or he decided to look for a job in Tx. Really-this isn't a good time to make any employment changes. The bills are getting paid...so I guess I'll just continue to suck it up. It's not forever...right??
On a happier note-his boss sent me a new laptop!! So, I guess I can hold out a little longer. AND I can try and blog more often...now that I don't have that computer excuse anymore!!
Ugh...at least Dayden and I are headed to Cali in May for about 5 days and we hope to take all the kids in July. Do you know how much it costs to fly all of our kids to Cali?? Jeez...I need to get my pilot license...

Ready or not..here I go!!

2009-02-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

Let me just start by saying...whew!

Last night was quite a mess.

Let's start with the drive home, which was quite entertaining because I had a great conversation with my BFF Helen. She always has me laughing about something. When we hung up I started to create a checklist in my head of all the things I need to do prior to my trip. Call the dog sitter, pack Dayden's things, copy insurance card, update medical consent to treat, pack camera (don't forget to pack camera), get nails done, tan, go by ATM for cash, buy new wall charger for cell (dog ate it), print out itinerary, pack list of items David has requested, pack camera (i really don't want to forget my camera), and the list goes on and on. I was well prepared with which items to tackle first once I got home.

Enter home.

OMG!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT is that horrific smell?? WHAT on God's green earth has died and decayed in my home in the last 9 hours??

Duece-the dog. Apparently he had some massive diarrhea that couldn't be held in. I have no idea why or when. But, I can certainly tell you where. He is kenneled during the day (THANK GOD!) and he was literally sitting in poop water. It was splattered all over my wall where his kennel sits. It had run over the floor of the kennel and had completely soaked my carpet. He was soaked and stained from it. He was hunkered down with his tail tucked because he knew the wrath was about to begin.

All I can say is...good thing David wasn't home...

It took almost 2 hours to clean it all. I had to clean the carpet, clean the kennel, clean the dog, clean the tub I washed the dog in. Clean the ENTIRE bathroom I washed the dog in. Threw away the towels used in the process and sterilized the ones I kept. I cleaned the vacuum that I used to clean the carpet. (Note to self-need more gloves.) Sprayed tons Woolite Oxy action Pet Stain remover on the carpet, Febreezed, Lysoled, Scrubbing Bubbles, Clorox bleach..you name it. I used just about every cleaning product I could get my hands on. (add Clorox wipes to grocery list).

And that, my friends, was just the beginning.

My neighbor came by at 9:15pm to let me know that some kids broke light bulbs in our alley behind our homes. So, I was outside in the alley sweeping fluorescent bulb matter up. My neighbor and her husband helped me get it up and they talked with the police. I went back inside praying that I could finally sit down and eat something.

Yeah-right. Not long after I finally settled down long enough to think about my checklist, the weatherman had breaking news about severe weather and it was headed in my direction.

FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!! I have things to do!! Dayden is fast asleep and the dog is back in his kennel and all I want is 10 minutes to relax!!!!!!!

Well, suffice it to say that Dayden and I were in the bathroom for about 20 minutes while the sirens went off, the TV went out, and the storm passed with little incident. (Thank you to Libby and Lisa who called to check on me!)

Okay, Dayden's back to bed. The dog is back in his kennel. The rain has stopped. The TV is working again and it's about 10:30pm.

Cue phone...it's David. "What's up, Baby?"

Really?! I cannot post the contents of our conversation as I'm sure Blogger will ban me from any further posts.

All I can say is that I am so thankful that I will be in California tomorrow and will spend 3 nights and 4 days with my husband and no kids and no dog.

Did I mention that the forecast for California is rain for 4 days?? Ugh. Oh well..

Jesus, Mary and Joseph!!!!!

Oh my...

2009-02-06T07:13:00.000-08:00

Ashlyn (9): "Hey Dayden! What did you do today?"
Dayden (2.5): "Umm, I tooted!"

And the laughter erupted.

Nice.

Valetines Trip planned

2009-01-30T06:03:00.000-08:00

So, it's official.

I will be heading to California for Valetines weekend.

This will be the first time, in almost 2 years, that I will have my husband all to myself!

He has several events planned already. Dinner here, sight-seeing there, meet co-workers, Valentine party on Friday night, boating on Saturday, dinner with friends Saturday evening, and the list goes on. What in the world will I do without my 2 1/2 year old on my hip telling everyone.."let Mommy do it!"

Ahh-I can hardly wait..

But then again, what on earth will I tell my baby girl?? Bailey and Ashlyn will be with their dad that weekend, so no worries there, but poor lil Dayden. I feel so guitly! Not only will I be away from her for 3 nights, she won't get to see her daddy until March!! Ugh! It's so hard sometimes.

But, on the other hand, I will be able to sleep in couple of days...NICE!!

Congrats to Mary Helen

2009-01-30T06:01:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Mary Helen who has reached her 1 year bloggiversary!! Thanks for sharing your beautiful family with us and all of the funny details! Keep it up-we LOVE the updates!

No BEANS about it...

2008-12-19T07:56:00.000-08:00

Ashlyn (9): Mom! Is it human being or human bein?
Mom: Huh?!
Ashlyn: Is it human being or human be-IN?
Mom: Oh! It's human being..with an eeeennnggg at the end.
Ashlyn: So..., it's not like human bean like pinto bean??
Mom: (laughing) No silly, it has a "g" at the end.

a few seconds later...

Mom: That is so funny Ashlyn! That is so going on the blog!
Bailey(11): (walking in from his shower) What girl is going bald??
Ashlyn: Huh?! Bailey-nobody said a girl was going bald!!
Bailey: Mom? What did you say?
Mom: (still laughing) I s.a.i.d. that is so going on my blog.
Bailey: Oh. I thought you said some girl is going bald. What is going on your blog?
Mom/Ashlyn: Oh...nevermind!!

A few more "Daddy's Girls"

2008-12-14T07:47:00.001-08:00

More pics from Thanksgiving compliments of Devin.

2008-12-14T07:39:00.000-08:00

Sutton and Krista

Sutton, David and Reagan

Girl cousins..

Boy cousins.. (Krista-we need more boys. You know I would try but my hubby is 0-4!)

Daddy's Girl

2008-12-07T17:24:00.000-08:00

Trying to get the perfect picture

2008-12-01T19:45:00.000-08:00

Well...we tried. I think we may have a couple of good shots to make our Christmas card with.

It's gone...

2008-12-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

I was so excited for the 4 days of "vacation" to get here and I swear they were all gone in the blink of an eye.

Thanksgiving was wonderful. We had the kids (minus Jo) and headed down to the country to see my parents. We left DFW around 11:30ish pm Wednesday nite as David was out of town and that was our only option for his return flight. There was hardly any traffic and the trip went quickly.
David got pulled over in Temple...but didn't get a ticket. In fact, he has never gotten a ticket since I've known him and he gets pulled over waaaayyy more than me. He doesn't speed tho. He usually rolls stops signs, doesn't signal, cuts of cops...oh yeah-he cut off a cop Wednesday (actually early Thursday morning) when he failed to yield to on coming traffic. Yep. I know the guy must have thought he was drunk or something. That is..until he flashed his bright flashlight into the eyes of our 5 sleeping children. At that point I think he was completely surprised to see that many kids in one car that belonged to one couple!! Not to mention that he conveniently flashes his military ID, and the cops always sees our military registration on the window, AND we have insurance thru USAA which reads...1stSgt Dyess on it. Honestly tho-since we are so close to Ft. Hood, I thought he would just write him a ticket anyway...but thankfully he didn't. Another reason to be thankful on Thanksgiving Day!!
The food was awesome as usual. I got to see my parents, all of my siblings and all of my nieces and nephews. The kids are at such fun ages now. Of course we still have Dayden(2) and Peyton(19mo) who have to be watched like hawks-but the others just go and play and do their cousin thing.
We came back Friday evening and spent the rest of the weekend just being with each other. Got the tree up, the mantel decorated and a few other things that needed some holiday cheer. We DID NOT go shopping. Mainly because we have too many people to coral in a crowd and I'm kinda fond of the kids so I didn't want any of them stolen before the holidays. Ask me after Christmas--I may be giving them away!!
All in all it was a great 4 days off. For now I'll have to settle for quiet evenings with the kids and a nice cozy fire. Oh, I forgot, my father in law bought me a ton of firewood, a rack to stack it on, and a tool set. He loves me!!
**Pictures to follow soon..

Almost here...

2008-11-25T13:42:00.000-08:00

I am so excited for Thanksgiving to get here I can hardly stand it!

I am very excited to spend 4 days away from work and with my family!! I plan to STUFF my face, take naps, gossip with my sisters, and soak up some much needed extended family time.

I'm sure Devin and I will have plenty of pictures for your viewing pleasure.

...(sigh) I just need to get thru now until tomorrow at 5:00pm...

While you are shopping this holiday season....

2008-11-17T14:08:00.000-08:00

...please consider Reagan's fundraiser (my niece and God-daughter) while you are marking through your list of purchases.

You will see the reason for this post on Devin's blog. Let's just say this young lady LOVES volleyball and has been selected to play on a top team in her volleyball club. Your part is really easy...so check out Reagan and let's get her fees paid for!!

Thanks in advance!!

Veteran's Day

2008-11-11T07:24:00.000-08:00

My family proudly joins the entire military community in tribute to those who have served — and those who serve today — to protect our freedoms and keep our nation great.

Oh..how my heart sinks when I look at this photo, but it also swells with great pride.

If you know/see a Veteran today-please thank him/her for their service and wish them a Happy Veteran's day. Also, say a prayer for those who won't get to thank their loved one, as they have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our great country.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2008-11-10T07:27:00.000-08:00

...to my two favorite men in the world!!

Today is my Dad's birthday. I sure wish I could be home to give him a great big birthday hug! Happy Birthday Daddy!!!

Today is also the Marine Corps birthday and they are celebrating their 233rd year. So, Happy Birthday to my Marine!!

I love you both and wish you both a wonderful day!!

Trick or Treat

2008-11-08T11:17:00.000-08:00

David and I took Bailey, Ashlyn and Dayden to the downtown Wylie Trick or Treat. There were so many people there. We didn't know there were that many people in Wylie. Anyway, the kids had a great time. We really enjoyed seeing how the other kids were dressed. We saw a little "Chicken Little" who was by far our favorite. Unfortunately, he was gone before I could snap a pic. We also liked the "Headless Lady"-altho she was kinda spooky too.

Devin's Lil Spell checker

2008-11-06T08:42:00.001-08:00

Okay, you just have to read this post from my sisters blog. This kid (one of my nephews) so-cracks-me-up!!!

"I'm sorry I painted Mommy!"

2008-10-30T06:49:00.000-07:00

O.M.G.!!!

What happens when you go to the restroom and leave your 2.3 year old to her Dora DVD???

She gets your purse off of the kitchen counter (which you strategically place to deter any little people from rummaging thru it for gum, pens, etc...) and decides to "paint" all over herself and your very light beige carpet with your LIPSTICK!!!

I really wish I had thought to take before and after pictures. But, I was so completely and utterly taken aback I didn't even think about it. I ran straight to the computer to google "lipstick out of carpet". Who cared about the "war paint" on her face? Or the lovely "painted" wallet and checkbook I now have?

...and Daddy? Oh! Daddy just thought it was funny! "Don't worry about the carpet-I'll get it out." Really?!? Did you happen to develop magic powers while in Iraq???

Thanks to Google I found out that nail polish remover has a pretty decent chance of getting it out. Who knew it would take 2 bottles!! Yep, that's how much she "painted".

Perhaps the overwhelming smell of the remover is why it never occurred to me to take pictures...

Needless to say, the "paint" is mostly gone. You can certainly tell where it was...but not like before. I would recommend the nail polish remover but definitely open a window!!

Just before I finished blotting out the last little bit Dayden runs to me and says:
"I sorry I paint on the carpet Mommy. I not do it anymore! (insert huge please don't spank me smile here.)"

**Did I mention that I HATE lipstick?? I only carry one color. I only use it for special occasions and it's a pencil. You can imagine how I cussed myself for even having it in my purse since I wear it maybe twice a year!!

Fence-before and after

2008-10-26T09:41:00.001-07:00

Patriot Pride

2008-10-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

The Patriot Pride assembly was last Friday, a week ago.

Welcome Home Gift

2008-10-23T19:29:00.001-07:00

I thought after his 3rd tour...he deserves it. So, here are some pics of what I got my Marine for his welcome home gift.

2009 Harley Davidson Road King Classic

Kohl's Trip

2008-10-16T06:47:00.000-07:00

Night before last as I was "assisting" David in his final garage clean up phase- I found a box of his clothes. ( The man has way too many clothes and wears the same few ones all the time!) Well, in this box was 4 pair of brand new slacks that we had bought from Kohl's as he had plans to start a new job. They were even still in the bag with all the tags attached.

(A little history: the day we signed on our new home David got a call that his unit was being activated/deployed. O.M.G. And just a few weeks earlier had been offered a job which would require training in California for only GOD knows how long. So, he was in the middle of making an employment decision, buying a house and being deployed. Needless to say, he decided to leave the post office and pursue this other opportunity. But before he ever got out there to actually get HIRED-he got called out on active duty.) **PLEASE PRAY FOR US!! My husband will be officially unemployed as of the end of the month!!

Anywho, we didn't have a receipt but we had all the tags attached so we went to return them. Why? you ask...because this deployment offered a full gym and an almost 24 hr chow hall...and how do I say--he--ummm-gained a little weight and those slacks just weren't gonna work.

Well, typically I let David work his magic on the ladies and he gets his way 99% of the time. But for some reason, he wanted me to do it. So, with a little weight gain humor and the use of my precious red headed yet didn't get a nap all day 2 yr old, we walked away with the 2 exchanges and credit for the others!! (He's still gotta have slacks that fit...for church ya know!) Yay Kohl's!! You are still my husband favorite store!!

Daddy's Lil Helper

2008-10-14T20:51:00.001-07:00

Maybe someday he'll get that boy-but she sure is the spittin' image of her daddy!! She follows him EVERYWHERE and loves to be messing with all his stuff!!

More kids

2008-10-14T20:45:00.001-07:00

Yep...every kid on this swingset belongs to us!!

Park with ALL the kids

2008-10-14T20:42:00.001-07:00

These are pictures from the weekend we had 5 of our 6 kids and we had April and Amy. They belong to a friend of David's from the Post Office. He and his wife were recently granted guardianship of these two girls. They have endured more in their 7 and 9 years than any of us will ever have to endure!! Until 6 months ago Billy (friend) didn't even know he had 2 great nieces and now he has them full time. He and his wife are wonderful people and quite loving. Billy's older kids are 30 something and 20 something so it's been a while since he was a full time dad. His wife hasn't had children of her own (and feels so blessed to have this opportunity) so we decided they could use a break!! Given their past history-they haven't let them out of their site so the were in desperate need of some alone time...

100 times

2008-10-14T09:02:00.000-07:00

What's better than hearing "I love you!" 100 times??

Being told that "I love you 100 times more than you love me..."

That's a whole lot of love..

(sigh)

Finally...

2008-10-13T13:30:00.001-07:00

I have downloaded pics and I have vowed to make time to post more often. The fence is finished, the garage is clean and we just downloaded like 500+ pics. I swear I won't bore you with all of them...stay tuned!

Target in Chicago

2008-10-13T13:24:00.000-07:00

So most of you know that my favorite store is Target and I certainly don't go too long without visiting one. Well, in Chicago, where they have way too many people and not near enuf parking...we went to a 2 story Target. Sounds kinda crazy, huh? Well, check this out. This is even crazier!!! You can park your CART on a CART ESCALATOR while you ride beside it on the PEOPLE ESCALATOR!! (Now I know I come frum the kuntry,but this here was jest toooo much fer my backwoods brain)

LOVE

2008-09-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

It's always difficult to be away from your spouse for an extended period of time. But it's always wonderful when you reunite and get to live day in and day out together and be reminded of all the reasons why you chose each other in the first place.

There are people in your life, that the minute you meet them, you know they are destined to be a part of your life. I'm so lucky to have found that person...

TAG! I'M IT!!

2008-09-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

Mary Helen, as I so lovingly call her, over at SuperMom tagged me for a meme. This meme is to consist of six random things about myself, so here it goes:

I HAVE to eat chips every day when I get home while cooking dinner. I get really, really, r-e-a-l-l-y upset if someone eats all the chips and I come home to nada!! I am starving by the time I walk in the door and I am super grumpy if I don't get a snack.

I do not keep ketchup in the fridge. I hate cold ketchup and my family uses it enough that it never has a chance to go bad. Most of my friends give me hard time about it...but they always remember to put it in the pantry and not the FRIDGE!

I always count the strokes as I shave my legs...don't really have any clue why...i just do.

I met Robert Van Winkle AKA Vanilla Ice at a boat show at Dallas Market Hall a few years ago. David kept singing "Dyess, Dyess Baby!" really load. Totally David. **And Mary Helen and I met William Hung on a girls weekend trip to California. Yes, we took pics with him!!

I believe that Snickers candy bars heal heartburn.

**And one more because I mentioned it above...if I know your birth name, I will most certainly call you by it and not your "nick" name. Example: Mary Helen-who typically goes by Helen. So, if you are using my phone to call her, you have to look under the "M's" not the "H's".

I would love to tag more people, but I have no more blogging friends. A lot of the people that read my blog have either already been tagged or they don't blog. Sorry guys. I'm really boring these days with my hubby home!! (WINK!)

Hope you discovered something new about me.

Kids Birthdays and update...

2008-09-15T19:56:00.000-07:00

Ashlyn turned 9 in August and Bailey turned 11 at the beginning of September. Daylee and Jordan share the same birthday in September and they are now 12 and 18. I missed the first day of school. (I was in Chicago) I think it was way more disappointing for me than it was for them. Libby took pics of the first day so I can post those later...maybe!!

We have been so busy since David got home. No, not running around seeing dear old friends and catching up with family. Not at all...we've been working!!

Since I took a week and a half off to go see him in Chicago I decided it would be best to spread out the rest of my days off with my work schedule. While I've been at work, David has pulled the oleanders out of the front yard since they are very toxic to children and pets. He has completely ripped out our fence and has started to build a new one.

Picket by picket.

He has worked in the yard and...last weekend we had 5 of our 6 kids. This was the first time he has seen Daylee and Dacie since Christmas so he vowed to do nothing but enjoy our children. On Saturday we added two more little girls to the mix so that made 7. David took us all to the park to feed the ducks and let the kids burn off some energy.

Those kids had a-lot-of-energy...

I have pics of everything I mentioned-so those will come later. (I promise!!..well, maybe.)

Baluga whales

2008-09-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Our favorite exhibit. You can go below the floor and view the whales thru windows. It's pretty amazing to watch them like you're swimming with them!!

Shedd Aquarium

2008-09-15T19:43:00.001-07:00

Here are some random shots at the Shedd Aquarium. It was a ton of fun for me and Dayden enjoyed most of it. David was ready to go before we even got there because you have to pay for parking EVERYWHERE you go in Chicago. So $20 later and a long haul to the aquarium he felt a lil better that Dayden was free and so was he with his military ID!! (Seriously--EVERYWHERE! He went in to Harley Davidson to buy his dad a shirt and did it in under 7 minutes...otherwise parking would have cost more than the shirt!)

Flower Garden

2008-09-09T20:10:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of a local flower garden near the Westin hotel where we spent the first 3 days while in Chicago...

The area was very beautiful. The weather was perfect and in the low to mid 80's each day. There were flowers like this all over the city.

Pics

2008-09-09T20:02:00.001-07:00

More Navy Pier

2008-09-09T19:56:00.001-07:00

Navy Pier

2008-09-09T19:51:00.000-07:00

More reunion pics

2008-09-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

A huge thanks to my mom for taking pictures. There is no way I would have been able to capture all of this on my own.

The last one is my favorite...

THE TIME HAS COME!!!

2008-09-04T19:22:00.000-07:00

Finally the announcement we had all been waiting for. I can only equate the cheering to a rock concert and the big act has just taken stage. There were tears, chanting, yelling, and cheering as the curtains opened and our heroes walked in. They marched in, in formation, and the crowd went nuts!! Dayden was none to pleased with the noise. I immediately found David as he was standing out in front of the Marines. The funny thing is, all I could see was the back of his head. From the bottom of his cover to the top of his collar. I knew immediately it was my Marine. He made an about face, and while waiting for dismissal, our eyes locked and that was all she wrote.

I cannot begin to describe the feeling one has when the love of your life returns from war. You spend day after day praying for their safe return. You push away the most unthinkable thoughts and you dream/daydream of the moment you are reunited and you can finally take a long, deep breathe.

Dayden Michaela was immediately in love with her daddy all over again. She hugged him so big. It was as if he was never away. He has missed 1/2 of her life, and yet you would have never known it by the way she embraced him. We feared she may not be too receptive. But, being the lil angel she is, she checked him out like a momma monkey grooming her young. She checked his hair, made sure he had both ears, grabbed his face with both hands and gave him the most loving looks you can imagine a daughter has for her father. She didn't let him go. Daddy was finally home...

(click on the picture for a better view-i don't have the ability to re size or edit photos right now)

ALMOST TIME

2008-09-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

The only way Mommy could dressed...

Hanging the banner.

Showing off her new toy!

The reunion was held at Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL. SgtMjr Carter sent a car for us and we were picked up at the hotel and driven to the arena. We arrived fairly early as we were told there would be many, many people. Each Marine was allowed 4 people on the arena floor. There were over 300 Marines that were returning to Chicago. About 1/3 of the number that were deployed together. (don't quote me on the numbers-not official) After what felt like hours and hours of anticipation, we were informed that one of the buses bringing the Marines in from Midway airport had broken down. (OMG! Are you kidding me?) So with an escort from the state police and the motorcycle vets, the freeway was literally shut down while the bus was repaired and the Marines were once again on their way. At this point Dayden had been just as good as she could be-so I broke out the DVD player. You would be amazed at the number of children who were suddenly quiet.

On the way there...

2008-09-04T18:04:00.001-07:00

Checking out the airplane.

I would kiss the person who invented the portable DVD player. This little contraption entertained her for the entire flight.

We were quite the sight. I had luggage hanging off me, a backpack hanging off me, I was pushing Dayden in her umbrella stroller and one of my arms entangled in her car seat. Mom had my bag (which weighed in at a whoppin' 64 lbs) and her luggage as well. Once we completed the self service check-in we had to check my one big suitcase. We were determined not to check anything else because paying for checked luggage is just plain wrong. Well, once I was told I had to either a) remove at least 10 lbs or, b) pay $50 extra dollars, I somehow found room in my carry ons. The gentleman at the counter was very kind, and waited patiently as I rearranged my way too many items.
Security was just a nasty nightmare. Thankfully some kind woman working security noticed I had a child in a stroller and informed me I could go thru a designated line-for strollers-which in my haste to get this trip started I completely missed. Can you say NIGHTMARE? I felt like what cows must go thru when being herded into a trailer. Constant yelling and tons of pressure. People just stared liked they had never seen a woman and child go thru security at the airport before. Jesus, Mary and Joseph!!
Once we made it thru we had to walk a bizzillion miles to our gate. Thankfully a couple was headed the same direction and saw the calamity that one man said was "quite entertaining" and offered to carry some of our bags and made the long haul to our gate much easier. (Shall I simply say that I spouted to the "one man", as he laughed and passed us up with his nice suit and little bitty girly bag, "chivlary is dead". My husband would never, ever just pass by without helping anyone in my situation.) Anyway, the couple was extremely nice and Dayden talked and talked to them the whole way to our gate.

Happy Anniversary

2008-09-03T19:21:00.000-07:00

David and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary on the 22nd of August. While we didn't get to celebrate it together-we were thrilled we would see each the next day for the first time in over 8 months! (and we made up for it ;-D)

I'm not going to go all mushy on ya. I have dealt with such a range of emotions lately that I'm keeping things simple...

I love my husband more and more with each passing day. He tells me daily how much he loves me, how beautiful I am, and how happy he is to be my husband. He doesn't ask for much and would move the world for me...who could ask for more??

I'M BACK!!!

2008-09-02T19:10:00.000-07:00

Wow!! Has it already been a week and a half? Time flies when you're having fun!!!

David's welcome home celebration was incredible. He is in good health and good spirits. Our time FLEW by and we have another week apart before he will be home...as in home-home. As in...in Texas, in our house, home-home. I have lots to blog about and some pictures to go along so I'll get started on those soon. I will have to go back to about the 22nd of Aug and catch up-so hang in there-you may be inundated with info!!

I must unpack the rest of my stuff now and in David's words: grab some chow, make a head call and hit the rack. (Man, I don't know how Devin travels with young kids...I'm D-U-N with hotel living for a while!)

Homecoming Reunion

2008-08-21T20:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm off. Off to the windy city of Chicago to welcome home my husband. I cannot tell you how excited I am this time is finally here. This deployment was much shorter than the last one but this time we have our lil Dayden. It has a slightly different feel to it with our little addition. I haven't truly slept in days. Well, the night David called and said he was safe and sound in California I slept really, really hard. But ever since I have been too excited to rest! You cannot imagine the sense of relief when your husband makes it back safely from the war. Our relationship continues to grow stronger and stronger and you realize just how much you love each other when you are separated by war and have to deal with the reality that you may never see the love of your life again. How lucky am I? I am married to the love of my life and he has successfully completed another deployment...

My mom, father-in-law, Dayden and myself will all be there to welcome him home and spend some much needed family time together. The older kids have school so they will welcome him home in Texas. I AM NOT taking my laptop-as I will be WAY to preoccupied getting reacquainted with my husband. We shall return in Sept-but David will most likely have to remain in Chicago for a short time to square the last few things away before heading home. I'll take as many pictures as I can and tell you all about it when I get back.

Man, I'm such a sissy la-la...the tears are already starting and I am SO NOT a crier!!

No Down Time

2008-08-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

Okay friends and family. Some of you have called or emailed asking why David hasn't called you yet. Well, the truth is-he is WAY busy. Unless you want a call at 3:00am (thanks Sweetheart!) you're probably going to have to wait until next week...

1.) He is on California time-after being on Iraq time-so he's a little "off"(and I mean that in the nicest way) and then there's the whole time zone thingy...
2.) He has tons of administrative duties..and if you have ever seen him type you would understand..
3.) He is working on about day 7 with about 12 total hours of sleep.
4.) He and the other Marines desperately want to leave California on time to get to Chicago as quickly as possible to be reunited with their families, so all the top dogs have them working round the clock to get everything squared away.

So-don't worry. I'm sure he'll call you when he gets a chance!!

Getting Ready

2008-08-19T20:19:00.000-07:00

Paula got Dayden this shirt and had Granny added a few extra touches...and Granny made the skirt!

"I'm ready to come to Chicago Daddy!!"

Libby, Chad, Bailey and Ashlyn got this travel treat bag together for the flight. Libby made the bag and had the older kids added some of Dayden's favorite things!! Thanks guys! Mommy will appreciate this more than you know!!

Mini vacation with Auntie Krista

2008-08-19T20:09:00.000-07:00

Bailey and Ashlyn went to visit Auntie Krista (my younger sister) and Cade (7yrs)for the better part of last week. They had 2 fun filled days at Sea World, an evening at the county carnival, and lots and lots of good ole country air. Ashlyn is a HUGE fan of the trampoline and Bailey is in heaven playing Cade's play station. Neither of them have either of these at home...

Naunnie was there too, hanging in like a real trooper in the heat. I hear they did LOTS of walking and rode some really fun rides at Sea World.

The kids had an incredible time and are already making plans for their next visit. I think it took 2 days for them to recover!!

One commin'-One goin'

2008-08-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

My sister, Devin, dropped her eldest child off at college last week...

I cannot imagine what she must feel right now. So many emotions must be swimming through her head. Now, I think I have had some tough good-byes, but I think this would have to trump mine. It's one thing to say good bye to your spouse, but another to say good bye to your baby. It doesn't matter how old your "baby" gets...they are still your baby. Now, I am very certain that Sutton went off to college with anything and everything she needs-and I'm not talking about dorm room decor and a map of the city. I KNOW this young lady is well prepared for this next chapter in her life and I KNOW that her mom and Jimmy have made every effort to prepare her for this next step. I wish I had all the right things to say to my older sister to help her through this "transition", but I don't, so she'll have to settle for just letting me listen if she needs me to. I remember when she left for college...and the pictures on her post take me back to that same day. I can still remember the somber ride home-and getting her room wasn't all that awesome after that good bye.

Sutton-I am so proud of you. You will certainly continue to do great things and I hope you spike it down their faces each time you go up to hit!!

Devin-I send happy thoughts your way and many, many prayers of strength to help you adjust to your changed home.

Sooo...our family has such a whirlwind of events happening! We finally get David home and the first grandchild heads off to college. Whew! Oh, and did I mention Sutton was born my senior year in high school?!? Getting old SUCKS!!!!!! Can somebody say "XANAX!"

Guess Who...

2008-08-16T20:05:00.000-07:00

is alive and well at 29 Palms??? David is back in the USA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sort of an update...but not really

2008-08-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I haven't heard from David since Tuesday morning at 7:15 when he sent an email that he has started the first leg of a long journey home. I do know he is no longer at the base where he has lived for the past 8 months and he was already at the "local" airport waiting for a flight to Kuwait. I assume the lack of communication is a good sign...

His email said he was sleeping in a tent and it was 137 degrees outside! Yikes! I'll update you when I know he is safe and sound on US ground!!!

Out of Office

2008-08-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

Question:
What is better than getting a reply email from your husband in Iraq?

Answer:
Getting this: "Out of Office AutoReply-I have departed for the USA."

PRESSURE, PRESSURE-PUT IT ON HER (from my cheerleading days...)

2008-08-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

Oh my, the pressure is on.

Sigh.

I have been in my house almost a year and David has never even lived here. He painted, he installed appliances, he mowed, he hung stuff up, he moved box after box, he cut down a tree, he programmed new garage door openers, he moved pieces of furniture that really should've been a 2-3 man job...

...and he has no idea where his underwear drawer is much less the silverware drawer.

I have slowly been able to make this house a home. Some things I put off because I thought I needed help, other things I put off simply because, well, why do it now when I have a year to get it together?? Well guess what? That time is now and I am way, way, waaaayy behind the power curve.

Is it sad that I haven't even unpacked most of his stuff? I mean-his shoes are still in a box. It started out being too hard to tackle the job. Not physically hard-emotionally hard. I guess I wanted as few reminders of his absence as possible. To unpack things that wouldn't be used seemed useless and such a slap in the face since he wasn't going to be needing them anytime soon... and now the poor man will have to come home to a box of shoes and "where did you put my underwear?"!! Now for those of you who know my husband, he wears the same thing every day. I mean it...e-v-e-r-y day. Just ask any of the kids. We give him such a hard time. But, the man has more clothes than most women I know. Thankfully most of those are on hangers and collecting dust just as they do when he is home.

Sigh.

So, here's a recap of my weekend. Woke up Saturday and drove to JCPenney to get Dayden's pictures, bought cute lil summer stuff for the kids for $1.97/piece. Went home and put the baby to bed. Put together the sofa bed in Ashlyn's room so her sisters have a comfy place to sleep. Hung more pictures in the kitchen. Hung shelves, mirror and pictures in Bailey's room. Hung chandelier, mirror, bulletin board and pictures in Ashlyn's room. Hung cute little decorations in Dayden's room. Stripped the border out of the kids bathroom. Washed the Expedition (outside only), and cleaned out and re-organized the linen closet. (Yes, I threw it all in there a year ago!) Not sure if I mentioned everything, but you get the idea.

All I hear in my rattled little head is..."Pressure, Pressure-Put it on her" over and over again.

Oh my, so little time...

...and I am so excited!!!

Good News From The Sandbox...

2008-07-31T07:48:00.000-07:00

David's homecoming celebration just got moved up 3 days!!!! I sure hope it doesn't change (again!)!

We are both so ready for this deployment to be over. I am a true believer in absence makes the heart grow fonder... We always joke about the fact that we get to have a "honeymoon" period every couple of years and it certainly keeps our relationship new. Of course, I would rather not have to be separated because of war, but nonetheless, we are really-really- r.e.a.l.l.y ready for this to be over.

Can't wait for my Marine to be home!!!

H & S Company Commander Message

2008-07-28T12:21:00.000-07:00

Families and Friends,

We have entered our last full month in Iraq. The Marines are motivated and excited to be nearing the end of our time here. With time running out, the men are still focused on mission first as the battalion is still actively engaged in our mission. It won’t be too much longer until the advance party for the unit relieving us is on deck and for our advance party to get things ready in the states for our redeployment and demobilization.

By the time you all receive the letter, our relief’s advance party will be a mere days away from arriving. As it is an exciting time for us to train our replacements, it is also an exciting time for your anticipation of your Marine or Sailor returning. I would like to reemphasize upon our arrival back in the United States that the Marines will be actively employed preparing to demobilize and return to the Chicago area or other parts of the country from where they came. It is not a good idea for any family member to come to 29 Palms and visit their Marine. We will only be there for 7-10 days and there will be a plethora of tasks to be accomplished. The Marines will not get a weekend or a day off upon their return to the US. Please save your money and spend it on the Marine/Sailor upon their return to you at home. See you next month!
Semper Fidelis

LtCol Donal Porter

**I only posted some of it. There were a ton of Marines that were promoted and a couple of pictures from the promotions. David is in the promotions ceremonies, but I couldn't get the pictures to copy.

Milestone Pics

2008-07-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

I took Dayden to have her 2 year pictures made this past Sunday. Here are some of my favorites...

Fimmin' Pool Time

2008-07-21T19:25:00.000-07:00

Mom! We need to test the water to make sure it's not too cold for Dayden...

Yep..it's good!

I can do it too!! Watch Mommy!!!

Swim Instructor

Lifeguard (he takes this stuff very seriously!)

Dinner Update

2008-07-21T12:27:00.001-07:00

So David got to spend about 3 hours with Gary. He chaperoned his tour of the base and while Gary gave out signed copies of CSI:New York Season 3 DVD's.

For those of you who know David...he was in true David form when visiting with Gary. He mentioned the "magic legs" and "Lt. Dan" which Gary was nice enough to entertain. Gary is a true supporter of the military and also has a charity known as Operation Iraqi Children. He currently plays/performs in a band while he isn't filming and invited David out to Southlake for a listen when he returns. Maybe we will go check him out...

While I was researching his bio I came across this quote that made me think of myself (and David too):

""Wherever I go for the military, they always call me Lt. Dan. They just can't help it."

Dinner in New York??

2008-07-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, not really...

David got to meet and have dinner with Gary Sinise about a week ago. He hasn't told me the "story" yet, but sent the picture to show proof! David and I are both fans of CSI:New York. But, all I ever think about when I see him is his character as Lt. Dan in Forest Gump. No-seriously, every time I watch CSI I say outloud...(gasp) "There's Lt.Dan!" in my best Forest Gump voice!!

I wonder if that's all David could think about-seriously-I say it every time!

Hopefully he got some of his own pictures. It appears he was getting the camera ready...

A WIFE'S PRAYER FOR HER MARINE

2008-07-17T10:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father,

Now the evening shadows gather, the lonely night is here.
This day which has been so empty is almost gone.
Oh Dear God, be with my husband who is so far from home.
Help him when the thoughts of his loved ones bring the awful heartache on.
Lord, let him know that with Your ever-lasting love, You are right beside himWith Your loving mercy from above.
Help him with his heartache, with the closeness of a friend, a smile of understanding.It will lift the burden from his heart.
Let him also be a blessing to one who needs him.
Let him feel the prayers of his loved ones whose thoughts are always with him.
And, Dear God, when the tide has turned against him,
His whole world seems upside down,
Let him see things more clearly.Show him how to love Thee more dearly.
Let his faith in Thee stay unbroken.
Inspire him with new courage every day so that he will soon be with us.
Make him strong to run the race.
Amen

Anticipatory Grief

2008-07-16T11:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, for those of us who have family members who serve, we all know that there are those dreaded moments where we envision the "what ifs?". For some of us, it's just a passing moment that we quickly shoo out of our heads and move on. For others, we use it as a reminder to say what we want others to know. We give all of ourselves, all of the time, so that if something awful does happen we can rest easy our loved one knew exactly what they meant to us.

For some, though, the thoughts can be overwhelming and even debilitating. The thoughts can consume you to the point that you can't drive in front of your own house because your afraid an unmarked military car will be parked outside. You can't answer the door if you aren't expecting anyone because you have played this moment over and over in your head and the outcome is always the same. Then, when you regain your composure, you realize that everything is fine and all the worry and anxiety was over nothing and then you question your sanity.

For me, it's a mixture of all these. I pride myself on being a strong military wife. But, I gotta tell ya. Some days it's pure hell. I go through the motions. I make it through okay and realize that I did make it through another day which means we are another day closer to having David home. But still, the thoughts are there and they are valid...

So, if anyone reading this has these types of experiences, check out this link. It's an honest to goodness condition called Anticipatory Grief. I don't think it's specific to military families, because I know myself that I suffer from this occasionally when thinking of my children, my parents, my siblings, and my husband even when he's right down the road at work. There are also families of police officers, firefighters and a whole slew of occupations that are equally as dangerous.

Well, enough of that now. Many of you ask me how I do it and how I stay so strong. To that I say...I give it all to the Lord. I know that He has a purpose for each and every one of us, and I am just lucky to have the incredible husband and family that He has provided me...

Another outfit for Daddy

2008-07-15T20:04:00.000-07:00

Dayden's daycare provider is so crafty and talented. Here is one of her latest creations...

If you can't tell what is on the fabric...it's the USMC insignia...of course!!

Thanks Ganny! (Granny)

Dayden turns 2!!

2008-07-13T17:02:00.000-07:00

Dayden turned two this weekend and she had lots and lots of fun. We celebrated at my parents house and we had a blast. Daylee, Dacie, Bailey, Ashlyn and cousin Cade O'Band Aid (O'Banon) were there and everyone had a GREAT TIME! My dad made the best hot dogs and wings and we topped it off with cake and ice cream. As you will see, she LOVES Dura (Dora the Explorer ). Hopefully Daddy will be here to celebrate next year...

Picture Perfect for Daddy!

2008-07-08T20:11:00.000-07:00

Have Ticket Will Travel

2008-07-07T20:17:00.000-07:00

The tickets have been purchased!! Not much longer..although it still feels like light years away most of the time. My heart and mind will not rest until I know David is safely in the states. Just to hear my phone ring with his personalized ringer will be music to my ears. I cannot wait for that moment when I can rest easy he is no longer in a war zone. Most of all, I cannot wait to throw my arms around him and our little girl and know that Daddy is safe and sound in our arms and we are safe and sound in his...

Weekend Update

2008-07-06T20:14:00.000-07:00

I thoroughly enjoyed the long weekend. Wish I could have more of those! Here are some pictures of our July 4th weekend. We spent Friday with my friend Helen. She and her family are incredible. They welcomed us with open arms! You would have thought we grew up together!! Then Saturday we went to PawPaw Dyess' house for good food and good fun.

Bailey and Ashlyn were with their dad out of state visiting family/friends and enjoying their SECOND airplane trip of the summer. They think they are such pros at flying now. We certainly missed them, but we know they had tons of fun.

HAPPY...

2008-07-03T14:05:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a safe and happy holiday.
Please take a minute to remember our men and women in the armed forces fighting to protect this wonderful nation. (Say a lil prayer for David while your at it!)

**Buckle Up and Don't Drink and Drive**

Thursday Thirteen

2008-07-03T12:33:00.000-07:00

THIRTEEN PLACES I WOULD LIKE TO VISIT:

1.) Hawaii - for obvious reasons. I love, love, love anything tropical.

2.) Germany

3.) Italy

4.) Bahamas

5.) San Diego Zoo

6.) Disney (either would be fine at this point-I've always wanted to go)

7.) France

8.) Hollywood

9.) The Oprah Show

10.) Ireland

11.) Alcatraz

12.) New Orleans at Mardi Gras

13.) Any of the states I haven't been to, which unfortunately, is most of them.

Pictures from the Sand Box

2008-06-28T20:29:00.001-07:00

A Trip to the Zoo

2008-06-28T20:20:00.000-07:00

Paula and Lauren took Dayden to the zoo Friday. She must have had a wonderful time because she is still talking about it and the tigers. Apparently the tiger exhibit is her favorite.

Thanks Paula and Lauren. Dayden LOVED her trip to the zoo!!

Thursday Thirteen

2008-06-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

13 reasons I am stressed...

1.) My husband is deployed.

2.) My taxes aren't filed only because the lady doing them is SO S-L-O-W and I could really spend some money on myself. (yes, I filed an extension)

3.) Time is standing still.

4.) I really need to get the A/C looked at in my car but I don't want to have to wait 40 minutes for him to run the stupid test.

5.) My husband is deployed.

6.) I need to decide on a birthday party for my almost 2 year old and I can't seem to make any adult decisions these days...

7.) I really want to get Ashlyn's room all designed up and I have no designer sense, patience, or skills in this area.

8.) I haven't transformed into a super model body while my deployed husband has been deployed.

9.) I have a ton of dental work that needs to be done and I need to wait 6 months so I can opt in for the better insurance plan and I really need to get some of the work done now.

10.) THE COST OF GASOLINE.

11.) Cost of retirement. I know, it's crazy, but I have increased my 401-K contributions twice in the last 2 months because I don't want to rely on Medicare and my children and I am afraid I will have to live in a nasty, run down nursing home because I won't be able to afford anything else.

12.) My life will turn upside down again in a couple of months. Even though I am so ready for David to be home, safe and sound, we will have to "re-do" our lives again to adjust to him being home. We quickly fell into a routine that works really well and it will be turned all catywampus when he gets home...but I know it's only for a little while.

13.) My husband is deployed.

CHEESE!!!!

2008-06-23T20:44:00.000-07:00

This little ham has totally figured out how to work the camera. Here she is for a few poses to send to Daddy. Check out the lochun (lotion) that she must have at all times. The kid LOVES the stuff and I HATE the stuff. Again, did I do anything except bake her for 37 weeks?? Where is my DNA?? (look closely at her lips...she loves the taste too-YUCK!)

Big Girl Rooms

2008-06-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

So Ashlyn (almost 9 going on 19) is getting a room makeover. Bless her little heart-she hasn't had much in the way of "decor" at all. Her choice is really teen like if you ask me. It's been a very s-l-o-w process getting her things all together, but we have finally made some progress. The bedding came in Saturday. We found her loft bed on Craigslist and Hobby Lobby has tons of pink, black and white stuff to accessorize. I spend a lot of time watching HGTV so we have decided to paint her existing furniture and even upgrade a few old things to look new again. I haven't decided if I am going to attack painting the room and furniture myself or wait until David gets back into town. We'll see how brave I am...

The picture from eBay...not her real room!

Zoomed in for detail...

Dayden's room got a tiny makeover too. I've been so undecided on bedding for her that I have decided not to decide until we convert her bed to the toddler stage (if I can remember where the instructions are...). I did do some rearranging and I bought her one of those really cute dollhouse bookshelves. I put it together myself I might add. It looks really cute and she LOVES to read and to be read to, so it's a perfect addition to her sweet lil room.

I'll update pics as we progress. Stop laughing...I will...eventually...

**As for B-man, his room was pretty much done when we moved it. It has a sports theme which is right up his alley. Hopefully we can get a few more things on the wall and all 3 kiddo's will be all set.

My New Motto

2008-06-23T06:42:00.000-07:00

Tough times don't last but tough people do.

Only a couple of months left!

I've been checking airfare lately. David and I have decided I should go ahead and book our flight since we know the fares will only increase. We have a pretty good idea of when he will be home as they have reserved the venue for the homecoming event. I guess it's better to pay the change fee than to wait until the last minute to buy?? Does anyone have any suggestions on low fare websites? Military rates aren't any help and we will have to buy Dayden a ticket since she will be 2 yrs of age at the time of travel. At least I won't have to pay to check her carseat...(somehow I don't see that as a wash...) I am not a seasoned traveler so any suggestions / advice is greatly appreciated!!

Also, Dayden usually sleeps in a pack-n-play when we travel as she has never slept with me. (Pat on the back, b/c the other two did!) I really don't want to check that because it's heavier than the weight allowed and will cost me even more. Do hotels offer cribs? Is that gross?? Should I just pay for it?

The Sweetest Thing

2008-06-20T07:37:00.000-07:00

Bailey and Ashlyn have been gone the past week spending some of their summer vacation time with their bonus grandparents. As you can imagine, Dayden has really missed them. She asked for them each morning after about the 3rd or 4th day of their absence. So last night, when I picked her up from daycare, I suprised her with Bailey and Ashlyn waiting for her in the car. She squeeled with delight when she saw them. I cannot begin to describe her elation.

This morning we were on our way to drop her off at daycare. It's typically a little more quiet in the morning (sleepy heads). Dayden decides to break the silence and says, "Hey guys!...Dayden is SOOOO happy!"

I guess she is still thrilled to have Bailey and Ashlyn home...and of course, Mommy is too.

2008-06-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Family and Friends of 2/24,

As we pass the halfway mark in our deployment, the Marines and Sailors of TF Mayhem continue to do a magnificent job in all areas. In fact, we are now planning for the arrival of the 1st Bn, 2nd Marines Advance party from Camp LeJeune.

We continue to move forward with the development of the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF). Their operational capability is improving on a daily basis and they are taking a leading role in the planning of and carrying out of operations. The Marines and Sailors of Task Force (TF) 2/24 have been instrumental in that development.

This past month has seen TF 2/24 conduct Operation Sargon in the northern part of our AO. Operation Sargon was carried out by both Weapons and Echo Company. The Battalion cleared
and accumulated census information along a 20 kilometer stretch of a critical seam that insurgents had been suspected of using to infiltrate into parts of our AO. A number of caches were found and we detained several suspected insurgents.

Fox Company provides security and tactical watch over the ISF in the area surrounding Camp Habbaniyah. As the Marines and Sailors make their presence known, they are building the trust and confidence of the people.

Golf Company maintains control of the Saqliwiyah area. Their partnerships with the Iraqi Police, Highway Patrol, Provincial Security Forces and the Iraqi Army are a model for the rest of the
CF operating in the area. The Marines and Sailors of Golf Company have cracked the code on ISF integration and operations.

All day, everyday, H&S Company supports the Marines of the Battalion by keeping the Battalion fed, supplied and equipped with everything they need to maintain the security of the AO. During
Operation Sargon, the Forward Command Post moved to support Echo and Weapons Company. Meanwhile the Marines and Sailors at Habbaniyah pulled double duty to keep Golf and Fox
Company in the fight.

“They never fail to deliver,” that is the motto of our Truck Platoon. They are the best support that can be found in Iraq. While the Combat Engineers have again demonstrated that there is no project too big or too small for them. Whether it is fixing a bridge, building a hut, or improving
the positions at an IP Station, they make the crew from Extreme Makeover: Home Edition look like rank amateurs.

I know many of you are anxious to see your loved ones. Everyone here is anxious to see family and friends as well. However, when we return to CONUS we must make sure that the emobilization process is complete. All of the Marines and Sailors will need to conduct medical and dental screens, some may require treatments. I want to make sure that every problem is
identified before we come off of active duty. Surely all of you want our Marines and Sailors to receive the medical and dental care they need and deserve. The time at the RILOC is short and a great deal needs to be accomplished. All Marines will be required to attend a variety of classes and briefs along with their medical procedures. With that in mind, please do not make any plans to come to Southern California where we will conduct our reverse ILOC. Our time in California
is still part of our deployment, respect that. Marines and Sailors will not be able to see any family while in California.

We ask for your continued support and prayers as our time in Iraq winds down. This remains a complex, dynamic and transitional environment. There is still an enemy out there that is dangerous. The Marines and Sailors of Task Force 2/24 remain strong, vigilant and ready. They are truly magnificent.

God Bless and Semper Fi,
Mayhem 6

Thursday Thirteen

2008-06-19T08:29:00.000-07:00

Thirteen things I remember about high school:

1.) My closest friends

2.) Backroads

3.) Friday night football games

4.) Tight rolled pants

5.) Tails / Mullets / perms for guys

6.) Being named Football Sweetheart

7.) Marching/Stage band ( and I am not a band geek)

8.) Trip to London

9.) Graduation

10.) Getting braces 3 days before senior pictures

11.) Missing my final basketball game against Rogers..which I believe we would have won if my mother hadn't told coach my ankle was too hurt to play.

12.) Our Fight Song

13.) Crushes on boys

Daylee and Dacie...

2008-06-16T15:10:00.000-07:00

...were here a couple of weekends ago...we had a great time!!

Weekend pics

2008-06-16T15:04:00.001-07:00

For whatever reason I don't feel like saying a lot. So, I'm not going to. I got to visit with Devin again this weekend and then I spent Father's Day with my pop-n-law and that side of my family. It was really nice. David called and got to talk to Dayden and his dad...

Richard gave a wonderful blessing over the incredible spread of food. I was just fine until he mentioned the "dads" serving our country and one in particular. Man! I love it that everyone remembers him but DAMN it's hard somedays...

Here are a some shots of Dayden swimming at the Father's Day celebration at Richard and Amanda's.

Someone PLEASE help me!

2008-06-13T14:48:00.000-07:00

As of right now there are 1,439 hours before David leaves Iraq.

Yep, this is my life on a Friday afternoon at quitting time. It could be worse I guess. I could be a drunk...which by the way...a nice glass of wine would probably do me some good right about now. He emailed yesterday that he had no time to email me. Yes, he really did. I love it that he can check in with me via email. But, I get really put out when it's just a line or two to tell me what's going on and that he's okay and that he isn't going to be able to chat. I want lots of words. Lots and lots of words. As I have mentioned before, I'm just losing patience. Don't get me wrong. I love the updates, but I really miss being his priority. Selfish, huh? Oh well, it's almost over.

BTW-I later found out he was in meetings all morning (our time) making their return plans. Now don't I feel like a jerk for being so needy??

Congrats Graduate!!

2008-06-10T20:27:00.001-07:00

My beautiful and talented niece, Sutton, graduated from high school this past weekend. She is an outstanding young lady and I know she will continue to impress as she moves on to her next chapter in life. Sutton is an excellent athlete and has worked very hard to achieve a FULL volleyball scholarship!! Not only does she incredibly talented, she is equally as smart. To read more about Sutton, check out Devin's blog. Sutton was born the year I graduated from high school. All I could think about was where have the last 18 years gone???!

I have a couple of pics from graduation that I took. That is, until my batteries went dead. I thought I was all prepared for the picture taking and grabbed my spare batteries...which were as dead as the ones in the camera. So to see pictures...you will have to go to Devin's blog.

She was also surprised with a NEW CAR!! You have to see her face in the pics...so for that-you will need to go to Devin's blog. ( Do you see a pattern here?)

Oh yeah! One of the funniest cards she received was from my brother, Ryan. It was all written in Spanish. He signed it..."hope you took Spanish!" It was TOO FUNNY!

A few pics

2008-06-10T09:25:00.001-07:00

Having Trouble

2008-06-03T09:50:00.000-07:00

Ugh! I'm still feeling like time is standing still.......

I talked to David on Sunday. It always makes me feel better to hear is voice. Dayden got to talk to him too-and this is always heartwrenching and wonderful all rolled up in one. She loves him to death and she knows his voice and his pictures. We talk about him ALOT...I just pray she is as loveable to him when he gets back as she is to his pictures. I have tried really hard to make sure she knows who her daddy is. She senses how much I miss him. When we have to hang up I guess it's written all over my face. She knows Mommy needs a hug and she always makes sure I get one. She is so intuitive for a 23 month old!!

Memorial Day Weekend Pics

2008-06-02T19:35:00.001-07:00

I have a very patriotic family. My dad has always been very proud of this country and the American service member and has made certain that each of us knew what America stands for. He has taken us to Ft. Hood a bizillion times to visit and watch their holiday fireworks celebrations. We celebrate all patriotic holidays. Right now, I find the ceremonies very hard to attend, so I didn't attend any. I am so proud of David and what he does for our country. I get very emotional when it comes to anything military. I wanted to post something great and wonderful about our servicemembers and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, but I cannot muster the courage to do so right now. Here are some pics of the kids proudly wearing their red, white and blue.

"Lewis"ville Sluggers

2008-06-02T19:19:00.000-07:00

Lynn, Jimmy, Nathan, Tina's man and Tina
Jim coaching 3rd base and Lynn leading off (illegal in this tourney!) and Steph on 2nd.
Gary, Nathan, Debbie and Tina
Steph playin' catcher

Over Memorial Day weekend Stephanie and her family asked me to play on their family softball team. Each year the Westphalia group hosts a softball tournament to raise money for the ball field for improvements and such. We finished 4th in the tournament. It was hot, sticky and a ton of fun. There are no pics of me because I was behind the camera...

No Excuses

2008-05-29T10:44:00.000-07:00

I have no excuses for not blogging other than I am dog tired and really busy. I'll put up pictures from my Memorial Day Softball tourney soon and some great pics of the little ones...

BUT! I found this today and I want to share:

Things NOT to say to a military Spouse or Girlfriend!

1. “Aren’t you afraid that he’ll be killed?”

(This one ranks in at number one on the “duh” list. Of course we’re afraid. We’re terrified. The thought always lingers at the backs of our minds —but thanks brilliant, you just brought it back to the front. Maybe next you can go ask someone with cancer if they’re scared of dying.)

2. “I don’t know how you manage. I don’t think I could do it.”

(This is intended to be a compliment. Though, its just a little annoying. Here’s why: it’s not like all of us military wives have been dreaming since childhood of the day we’d get to be anxious single moms who carry cell phones with us to the bathroom and in the shower. We’re not made of some mysterious matter that makes us more capable, we just got asked to take on a challenging job. So we rose to the challenge and found the strength to make sacrifices.)

3. “At least he’s not in Iraq .”

(This is the number one most annoying comment for those whose husbands are in Afghanistan. What do they think is happening in Afghanistan? An international game of golf? Guys are fighting and dying over there.)

4. “Do you think he’ll get to come home for Christmas/anniversary/birthday/birth of a child/wedding/family reunion, etc?”

(Don’t you watch the news? No! They don’t get to come home for any of these things. Please don’t ask again.)

5. “What are you going to do to keep yourself busy while he’s gone?”

(Short answer: Try to keep my sanity. Maybe there’s a military wife out there who gets bored when her husband leaves, but I have yet to meet her. For the rest of us, those with and without children, we find ourselves having to be two people. That keeps us plenty busy. We do get lonely, but we don’t get bored.)

6. “How much longer does he have until he can get out?”

(This one is annoying to many of us whether our husbands are deployed or not. Many of our husbands aren’t counting down the days until they “can” get out. Many of them keep signing back up again and again because they actually love what they do or they VOLUNTEER AGAIN and AGAIN to go back to Iraq b/c there is work that needs to be done.)

7. “This deployment shouldn’t be so bad, now that you’re used to it.”

(Sure, we do learn coping skills and its true the more deployments you’ve gone through, the easier dealing with it becomes. And we figure out ways to make life go smoother while the guys are gone. But it never gets “easy” and the bullets and bombs don’t skip over our guys just because they’ve been there before. The worry never goes away.)

8. “My husband had to go to Europe for business once for three weeks. I totally know what you’re going through.”

(This one is similar to number two. Do not equate your husband’s three week trip to London/Omaha/Tokyo/etc. with a 12-15 month or more deployment to a war zone. Aside from the obvious time difference, nobody shot at your husband or tried to blow him up with an I.E.D., your husband could call home pretty much any time he wanted to, he flew comfortably on a commercial plane, slept between crisp white sheets and ate well, paying for everything with an expense account. There is no comparison. We do not feel bonded to you in the slightest because of this comment and, if anything, we probably resent you a bit for it. Comparing a 12 month combat deployment to a few weeks business trip is like comparing a ford taurus with mercedes convertible.)

9. “Wow you must miss him?”

(This one also gets another big “duh”. Of course we miss our men. There are some wives who do not and they’re now divorced.)

10. “Where is he exactly? Where is that?”

(I don’t expect non-military folks to be able to find Anbar Province on a map, but they should know by now that it’s in Iraq. Likewise, know that Kabul and Kandahar are in Afghanistan. Know that Muqtada al Sadr is the insurgent leader of the Mahdi Army in Iraq and that Sadr City is his home area. Know that Iran is a major threat to our country and that it is located between Afghanistan and Iraq. Our country has been at war in Afghanistan for seven years and at war in Iraq for five years. These basic facts are not secrets, they’re on the news every night and in the papers every day —and on maps everywhere.)

11. “Well, he signed up for it, so it’s his own fault whatever happens over there.

(Yes, ignorant, he did sign up. Each and every day he protects your right to make stupid comments like that. He didn’t sign up and ask to be hit by anything, he signed up to protect his country. Oh, and by the way, he asked me to tell you that “You’re welcome.” He’s still fighting for your freedom.)

12. “Don’t you miss sex! I couldn’t do it!”

(hmmm, no i don’t miss sex. i’m a robot. Seriously…military spouses learn quickly that our relationships must be founded on something greater than sex. We learn to appreciate the important things, like simply hearing their voices, seeing their faces, being able to have dinner together every night. And the hard truth is, most relationships probably couldn’t withstand 12 months of sex deprivation.)

13. “Well in my opinion…..”

(Stop right there. Yo, I didn’t ask for you your personal political opinions. Hey, I love a heated political debate, but not in the grocery store, not in Jamba Juice, not at Nordstrom, not in a bar when I’m out with my girls trying to forget the war, and CERTAINLY NOT AT WORK. We tell co-workers about deployments so when we have to spend lunch hours running off doing errands and taking care of the house, dog, and kids, they have an understanding. We do not tell co-workers and colleagues because we are giving an invitation to ramble about politics or because we so eagerly want to hear how much they hate the President, esp. while we’re trying to heat up our lean cuisines in the crappy office microwaves.)

last but not least….

14. “OH, that’s horrible…I’m so sorry!”

(He’s doing his job and he’s a badass. Don’t be sorry. Be appreciative and please take a moment out of your comfortable American lives to realize that our service members fight the wars abroad so those wars stay abroad.)

If you want to say anything, say thank you. After all, we are sexually deprived for your freedom.

Update

2008-05-23T09:21:00.001-07:00

Well, I got to speak with David for a few minutes yesterday afternoon. He is really busy most days and is ready to come back home. Life is still better than it was the last time he was there but there is no place like home.
He got to talk to Dayden too. She was so cute. She grabs the phone and immediately says "HELLO DADDY!" The minute she hears his voice she lights up. She LOVES talking to him on the phone. This time she sang the alphabet and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. Actually, she sang the Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star four times and got louder and louder each time. It was the funniest thing ever. She was so proud to show Daddy what she can do. (It made us both ~~bawl~~ tear up though...it's hard for him to miss all this...) She will literally kiss the phone and try and hug it! She makes the "Hmmm-Uh" sound we all make when we hug. It's really funny.
Well, he gets to eat 3 meals a day and gets to sleep on a "bed" so he tells me he is "Good to go!" Guess they get used to no luxuries.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SISTER!

2008-05-21T07:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Devin! I hope you have an incredible day.

Growing up, I did everything in my power to do the complete opposite of you. I gave you the hardest time when we were younger and for no apparent reason (guess I was evil?). I know you dreaded the times Mom left you in charge because that's when I would really give you heck.

Man, I really wish I had paid more attention and listened to your sisterly advice.

You have accomplished so much from the day you were "dethroned" and had to share Mom and Dad. Thank you for always being there-especially when I made it so hard for you. I realize, now, that all I really wanted was to be just like you (but would have NEVER admitted it). Thank you for being the best big sister a little sister could ever ask for!!

p.s. Thank you for marrying Jimmy...because I still have nightmares of the 7th grade when he would kiss me on the cheek in the lunchroom and tell everyone that if you didn't marry him, he was gonna marry me!! I really believed that, you know!!

Happy Birthday Naunnie!!

2008-05-18T06:04:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Naunnie!! We love you and miss you!!

Table Talk

2008-05-16T08:54:00.001-07:00

At the dinner table last night...

Ashlyn (8): Mom, when you and David die...
Mom: (Gasp!) What!! Where are you going with this?
Bailey (10): MOM...she means like in 300 centuries.
Mom: Bailey, do you know how much a century is?
Bailey: Ummm...no.
Mom: A century is 100 years! We will all be gone in 300 centuries!!
Bailey: No...we will have everlasting life.
Mom: Well, I certainly hope so, but that's after our human bodies die.
Ashlyn: Uh-huh, Bailey. After.
Mom: As long as you continue to make good choices that is...otherwise it's gonna be H-E double hockey sticks...
Dayden (22 months): Momma-Dat (That) BAD WORD!!
Mom: OMG! How does she know that I spelled a bad word?? She's way too smart for this family!
Bailey (while he and Ashlyn are laughing hysterically): Our family is funnier than cable TV.
Mom: That's so funny Bailey. Where did you pick that up from?
Bailey: Hannah Montana
Mom: (sigh)

Mother's Day Treasures

2008-05-15T19:20:00.000-07:00

Bailey (10) and Ashlyn (8) did a wonderful job on their Mother's Day gifts. Dayden (22 months) also worked really hard on hers. Anita (we lovingly call her Granny) is Dayden's "daycare provider" during the work week. As you can see she is a very talented person and has such a creative mind. Granny and Paula ( Anita's daughter) always makes sure we are all taken care of. Thanks to everyone for an excellent Mother's Day!!

Birthday Wishes for David

2008-05-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday David!!

I wish I could throw my arms around you and give you a BIG birthday hug. I hope that you have a GREAT day despite the fact that you are fighting in a war!! I missed the first 30 or so years of your life but I can guarantee you that I won't miss the next 30!

The kids all send birthday wishes and are promising to carry out the birthday "spanking" tradition when you get home. (That should be fun to watch!)

Thank you so much for being the wonderful husband/father you are. I look forward to spending many, many more birthdays with you...

Stay safe and I LOVE YOU!

p.s. COME HOME SOON!!!!

My little author...

2008-05-09T19:40:00.000-07:00

His signed copy stays in the library.
Look at the crowd!

Yesterday we were able to celebrate with Bailey at the Patriot Press Authors Reception. The Patriot Press is a program at Bailey's school that allows students to turn in original manuscripts, then work with a volunteer parent editor through the editing/publishing process. The books are bound into hardcover & are actually available for library checkout until the student graduates from 6th grade.This was Bailey's first year to submit a manuscript....he wrote about a Foohy (which is a popular pencil top character). Super Foohy gets hit by a meteor shower & ends up with all kinds of super powers that allow him to help others! :) Yesterday at the reception all of the authors did a book signing & greeted their fans (for Bailey, it was Libby, Dad, Ashlyn & me). He definitely enjoyed having the spotlight & was very proud of his achievement! (Ashlyn did a book last year....but not this year....although she's FULL of stories!)