One Military Wifes Life

Fathers Day

2011-06-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

Jeff wanted to keep Fathers Day low key this year - so we ate breakfast a local hot spot then headed down to La Jolla Cove. The Cove has to be one of the best things about living in San Diego...the seals, the water, the sun, the kids and puppies. The views are incredible and it is just so very "California". Here are a few pictures from that morning...it was a perfect Daddy Day outing.

In Memory

2011-05-28T06:57:00.000-07:00

I can not let anymore time go by before I blog about my mother. She died September of 2010 due to cancer...she was the best - and I mean the BEST mother anyone could ask for. She was loving, giving, funny, kind, sweet silly and most of all a good friend all rolled into one. Our relationship just got stronger the older I got. It is a shame that her life got cut so short due to an ugly disease that there is no cure for. She lived 63 wonderful years and got to see 2 of her grandbabies be born. I miss her to this day - although as time goes by the loss gets a bit more distant - not a day goes by that I dont still think of her.

How Time Goes By

2011-05-28T06:48:00.001-07:00

I have been so negletful of this blog...and I am feeling a bit guilty about it. Mostly selfishly..as one day I want to look back and see how things in my life progressed over the years. I did such a good job at it when Jeff was deployed but as soon as Jeff came home - well, things faltered and life happened.

Here are a few pictures from the last year or so:

Pam and Julia making Christmas cookies 2010

Biker Boy - Spring 2011

Julia - Christmas 2010

Halloween - 2010

Mr. Juice Man - Spring 2011

Summer 2008

2010-08-12T06:54:00.000-07:00

Since my last post was a "then and now" post - I thought I would continue the theme. We have been in SoCal now for two years. I was looking back at some pictures and can't believe how much has changed. We came as a family of 3 plus a dog. We are now a family of 4 minus a dog. Julia has gone from a baby with next to no hair, to a little girl with long and beautiful curls - right before our eyes. Here is a small look back at Summer 2008.

Then and Now

2010-08-09T09:20:00.000-07:00

Here are two pictures of Julia and Jeff at the beach - almost exactly one year apart. The first one was taken right before Jeff deployed to Iraq and I took the new one just a few weeks ago. Both were taken at Carlsbad State Beach...

Today's Adventure

2010-08-05T13:25:00.000-07:00

Another successful Mommy and Julia morning! Today we went to breakfast at Denny's where Julia enjoyed a Jr. Grand Slam. I was actually disciplined and got oatmeal - AND surprisingly it was really yummy! We then trekked over to the Hobby Shop where we participated in Paint-Me-A-Story. My friend Joanna and her son Jackson met us there. Here are some pics of our morning....

Raspberry Face

2010-08-02T09:10:00.000-07:00

Generally speaking, I don't find pictures of children to be very cute when they have food smeared all over their faces. But seeing as he is mine - I find it adorable. :)

Pool Fun

2010-07-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about summer time is the afternoons spent poolside. OK, well, that makes it sound nice and leisurely - like it used to be pre-kids....book in hand, headphones on....warm sun on my skin...ahhhh, the memories....

These days, I still spend it poolside, but now being "poolside" usually just means me being around the pool and trying to keep Jake from crawling strait into it! While Jake is happy just watching from the side or - at most - sitting and splashing on the top step, Julia is a true water bug. She is as happy as a clam when she is in the water and she is becoming quite the little swimmer. She loves having her vest on because it means that she can be independent and "swim" on her own. She and Jeff have a few favorite games they play...dad being the dolphin while she rides on his back while choking him with her arms...throwing the dive sticks as far as she can and having dad go and retrieve them....jumping off dad's shoulders and into the water below...etc. She never wants to leave - at this rate, I wouldn't be surprised if she wants to spend her summers as a lifeguard at the pool.

Mommy Julia Day

2010-07-29T15:24:00.001-07:00

We have a new tradition...Mommy and Julia Day. This summer I have taken it upon myself to give Julia a morning spent with just the two of us. Just like the old days. We put Jake in Fisher CDC (which I feel he needs regardless in order to quell his mommy addiction) and we head out for 4 hours of fun. Today we started our day at Longboarder Cafe and had a huge and delicious breakfast. Julia chose french toast over pancakes today...and as much as I wanted to join her in her french toast endeavor, I opted for the "hawaiian scramble." It was delish...love that place! We then headed out to the Oceanside Farmers Market, which conveniently is right outside of the restaurant. I bought some local produce and Julia talked me into a balloon animal and a "baby cactus" (a kid-friendly one of course). Lastly, we made our way back to base and took advantage of the $1 bowling on Thursday at the alley. Here is a picture of my little one in action - you can't really make it out, but of course she chose the ORANGE ball. She actually bowled a 64 - which I think is pretty good for a 3 year old!

Jake's Baptism

2010-07-29T13:53:00.001-07:00

It was a good day when Jake finally got baptized at 9 months old (yes, I know that is late...but trying to coordinate everything with the base chaplin's office and with family far away, it took a bit of extra time). The Vandaveers came down for Jake's special day and Jake wore a baptism outfit that my mom handmade (she made Julia's as well). We got lucky because the base chapel only does baptisms one sunday per month and somehow we managed to be the only ones that day! We had the chapel all to ourselves...which was nice because Julia decided that she just HAD to go potty right in the middle of the ceremony! :)

Jake was a champ and didn't really fuss at all...he was a bit wiggly, but what else can you expect of a 9 month old boy, right? He sure was darn cute in that outfit though, huh?

More Pictures

2010-07-29T13:44:00.001-07:00

Yes, yes, I know....the blog is never updated. Yes, yes, I know.....I need to get organized. In the mean time, here are some other pics of our (now not so) new baby....

5 Months Later...

2010-03-18T06:52:00.001-07:00

Its been 5 months since I last posted and, wow, has alot changed. Baby came, dog died, husband is back, moved to a new house...it is no wonder that I have been so neglectful of my blog! I will dedicate this entry to our newest addition - Jacob. Born in September. I never thought I would have a baby alone - but that is exactly what I did. Jeff was deployed so there really was no other option. I did make a great decision however and hired a local Doula to help me out. She was fantastic and I dont think I my experience would have been nearly as good without her there. My mom was supposed to be there but her plane was delayed and she arrived at the hospital 20 minutes after the baby was born. That was probably for the best though - because my labor was NOT a pretty thing to behold! I tried to go "natural"...and let me tell you - I wont be doing that again. Been there, done that, not for me! Here are some pictures of our little man - these are pretty old though and I will follow up with another post with more recent pictures:

Trick or Treat!

2009-10-31T19:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween Eve

2009-10-31T11:24:00.000-07:00

Julia's school celebrated Halloween yesterday. Her entire class made raccoon costumes and showed them off in a parade around the school grounds. The kids were just too cute....she and her little friend Kai were like two peas in a pod - matching piggy-tails and all.

Proud Big Sister...

2009-10-27T07:49:00.000-07:00

A few pictures of the proud new big sister:

Welcome to the World Jacob!

2009-10-27T07:41:00.001-07:00

No time in the past month to update this blog...so I am going to do a few posts with pictures of our new addition. Jacob was born in late September, weighing 6lbs11oz and measuring 18 inches. Pretty much the same as his big sis!

Children's Museum of San Diego

2009-09-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

A few more pictures here of Julia at the San Diego Children's Museum. I cant say it was my favorite place...but it kept Julia entertained for a few hours. My biggest complaint is that the place is not air conditioned! Add that to a day that was over 90 degrees and me being 9 months pregnant and you get the picture of how I felt. I was told they didnt have A/C because they were a "green building". Whatever. :)

Quail Botanical Gardens

2009-09-12T14:47:00.001-07:00

I had never heard of this little gem down in Escondido until my friend Joanna introduced me to it a few weeks back. It is a great place for kids - they have a dino-dig, mini train, a place to plant their own little plant, a treehouse (which unfortunately was under repair at the time we went), and every tuesday they have special toddler time with songs, books, & play. Of course there are the actual gardens that you can walk around and enjoy as well. Looking forward to taking Mom here when she comes in a few weeks...

Disneyland w/Grandma and Grandpa

2009-09-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back my parents came in for a visit. We decided to head to Disneyland for a 3 day/2 night vacation. We stayed at the Disneyland Hotel which was just a short walk to the park itself - and all Disney, all the time. We all had a blast and Julia is still talking about it. She also still has "fairy dust" (i.e. glitter) in her hair...I cant get it out no matter how hard I try....thanks Tinkerbell.

"Sprinkle"

2009-09-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

I got a nice surprise baby shower from all my wonderful SLR friends. I totally fell for their trick and had no clue what was being planned. Even as I walked into the clubhouse, it took a few seconds to sink in. I thought my friend Beckie and I were just going to get a pedicure and then return home - hence my VERY casual outfit. It was great fun and I am so thankful for having such beautiful and generous friends out here in Cali. :) Thanks ladies!

Summer Days

2009-08-15T14:38:00.000-07:00

This past week we tried to keep busy with various activities...here are a few photos of Juila.

Feeding ducks at the lake.

Making Grasshopper Brownies with mommy - baking is one of our favorite activities because it involves licking batter and bowls full of yummy-ness.

Julia asleep after a long day - love this picture!

At Sealife Aquarium

Daddy Doll

2009-08-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

There are so many companies out there doing great things for us military families. One of them is the San Diego chapter of the Red Cross. They are providing "Hug a Hero Dolls" aka. Daddy Dolls for small children of deployed service members. Julia received hers before daddy left and there we also have one for the new baby when he arrives. Here is a picture of Julia and her daddy doll.

2009-08-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

My mother-in-law is in town for a nice weeklong visit. Yesterday we spent lying low and hung out in the backyard in what Julia calls her "tiny pool". After awhile Harley wanted in on the action and ended up looking like a drowned rat - but he had just as much fun as the rest of us - if not more! Then Julia decided that she wanted to be a dog too and fetch her toys from the pool as well....

2009-08-01T20:35:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to SeaLife Aquarium with Joanna and Jackson. Here are a few pictures from the trip. It is attached to Legoland and we tried to go enjoy a bit of that as well...but Legoland on a Saturday afternoon in the summertime is NO fun. So we went and ate at Rubios instead!

Last Days

2009-07-19T13:37:00.001-07:00

On our last days together before Jeff's deployment we went to Seaworld, the San Diego Zoo, Scripps Aquarium, La Jolla Cove and Carlsbad State Beach. Here are some great pictures of Julia and Daddy...

Day One

2009-07-18T21:17:00.000-07:00

Well, it was our official first day of Jeff's deployment. Unfortunately, our first few days somehow ended up being Saturday and Sunday - prime family days. Thank goodness for my friend Stacy who invited us to Legoland with her and her friend and their kiddos. Nothing like fellow wives with deployed husbands to pass the time.

Here are a few pictures of our afternoon.

2009-03-19T20:35:00.000-07:00

We were eating at Rainforest Cafe at Disneyland and every 20 minutes the elephants in the corner would turn on and make a bunch of noise. Here is Julia imitating the elephants...too funny.

"MINE"

2009-02-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Grandpa were kind enough to get Harley his own doggie bed after he was diagnosed with epilepsy last month. After a looooong wait, LL Bean finally sent it. Harley didn't even get a chance to try it out before Julia decided it was hers. :) She has since given it up to Harley.

25 Random Facts About Me

2009-01-28T08:40:00.000-08:00

This is all the rage on Facebook. I have posted my 25 things there and have gotten a nice response, esp. regarding the breast feeding problems and the fertility issues. Seems like I am by far the only one with problems related to these two things...enjoy!

1. I procrastinate ALOT. In fact, I am surprised I am finally doing this after getting tagged like, 5 times.

2. One day I want to go back to school and get my masters in either School Counseling or Marriage and Family Therapy.

3. I like the idea of School Counseling b/c I would get to do counseling but I'd also get my summers off!

4. I have wanted to be a therapist since highschool, during which I dated a very jerky dude who obliterated my self esteem (temporarily of course!).

5. I really love being a military wife and the fun and exciting life that comes with it.

6. My father was in the army when I was a kid and I lived in and visited more states and countries then most people could only dream of...I feel blessed for that.

7. The most exotic location I have ever visited is the Canary Islands, near Morocco.

8. My political views have changed alot since becoming a military wife...I was surprised by that.

9. I have fertility issues and think there is too much of a stigma associated with infertility - I wish it were talked about more.

10. As much as I know that Julia is a gift from God, sometimes I wonder if she is a TRUE miracle.

11. It irritates the hell out of me when I hear, (1) we got off the pill and it happened right away (2) my husband just looks at me and I get pregnant (3) you need to relax and it will happen (4) we planned our pregnancy so I'd deliver in _____(insert month here).

12. I am always happy for those who get pregnant - but always jealous too... especially when it comes so easily for them.

13. I think my difficult journey makes me appreciate and love Julia all the more.

14. I would love to give her a sibling and wonder how it will be for her if she is an "only".

15. I have always wanted a dog but have bad allergies and finally at the ripe old age of 29 I got my first one - Harley.

16. I am allergic to what seems like everything.

17. Breast Feeding Nazi women irritate me. Yes, BFing is a great thing, but not possible for everyone. It does not make you a better mother...your boobs just work better than mine! :)

18. I had a mild case of post-partum after having julia....I think it was tied to my BFing "failure".

19. I wish I had given it up sooner - I feel like I mentally missed Julia's first few months of life.

20. My husband will be deploying this summer. It will be our second deployment since 2003 and the first since we have been married.

21. I love living in SoCal....its no wonder people come here and never go back.

22. I miss my friends and family back on the east coast...I wish my parents were closer.

23. I feel so blessed with the nice friends I have made here...Im glad we made the decision to live on-base rather than out in town.

24. I love being a stay-at-home mom...and feel very lucky that I am able to be there for my daughter each and every day.

25. I love my husband...I can say he truly is my best friend.

One Of The Reasons I Love Having A Girl...

2009-01-19T21:01:00.000-08:00

...is the ability to do cute things with her hair! Julia was a great sport as I put in her piggy-tails today. It was a bit of a challenge since she does not have much hair. Its taken 2 long years but we were finally able to pull it off.

Independence...

2009-01-13T14:05:00.000-08:00

Julia has started to take an interest in dressing herself. She wanted to wear her horse shirt to the park but wouldnt let me help her get dressed. Once she put her shirt *on* she told me she was ready to head to the park. At least she put her head thru the right part of the shirt - albeit upside-down!

And the winner is:

2009-01-09T13:36:00.000-08:00

Here is the car I ultimately decided on to replace the Xterra. It is the Highlander Hybrid Limited and it is beeeeautiful! Just dont ask how much it costs because I am trying SO hard to forget the fact that we will be paying on this car forever and a day. The good thing is that I plan on keeping it until I run it into the ground. Hence the going "all out" on the limited edition. I will post actual pictures of the car when it comes in next week. Strait from the factory baby! Woooot!

Harley's Diagnosis

2009-01-07T13:48:00.000-08:00

As many of you who read this blog know, little Harley had a really difficult night last week. He endured 4 seizures in a 12 hour period. It was so frightening to see your beloved pet violently seize...it broke my heart in pieces. After having another round of testing done the vet does in fact believe that he may have Epilepsy. He has been put on Phenobarbitol, the most common drug for epileptic dogs. However, it does have pretty severe side effects, including liver failure, so I am doing all the research that I can to find alternatives to this medication. Right now it looks like Potassium Bromide might be a valid alternative...but it takes a bit of time for the body to get the levels high enough that he can slowly come of the Pheno. He is back to the vet on Friday to have a follow-up and we will talk about the short and long term treatment plans for him.

In the meantime, I have changed his diet which includes taking away the Science Diet and putting him back on the Blue Buffalo food. I have also decided to home cook some of his meals as well....I already made him a batch of "Healthy Adult Diet" which he devours in under a minute! I always used to joke that Harley was one of the most spoiled dogs in the neighborhood...but now with the home cooking, there is no doubt in my mind!

Also, upon the diagnosis, Harley's grandma and grandpa have ordered him this bed. This way we can keep an eye on him at night and know immediately when he has a seizure.

The "Routine"

2008-12-31T08:02:00.000-08:00

"The One With The Routine" has to be my favorite FRIENDS episode of all time. In honor of New Years Eve I have attached a clip of Monica and Ross's "routine" for all to enjoy.

Uh Oh....

2008-12-02T21:49:00.000-08:00

Julia has been a "jumping fool" ever since she first discovered how to jump a few months ago. Judging from the video, we have a little daredevil on our hands!

Funny!

2008-11-19T13:06:00.000-08:00

Quite Possibly the CUTEST Photo Ever!

2008-11-03T18:59:00.000-08:00

TRICK OR TREAT!

2008-11-02T10:42:00.001-08:00

We had a great time with our little clown this halloween. My friend Betsy had a fun get-together at the park and then we all ventured out to Trick or Treat. The kids looked so cute in their costumes! Being as that Julia is not even two - the actual trick or treating only lasted for about 10 minutes...about 5 or 6 houses. But she was having a blast looking at all the decorations and costumes around the neighborhood. These photos were taken after the fact - her red nose is pretty much wiped all the way off - but cute nonetheless!

Fire Photos

2008-10-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Now that I am FINALLY back online....I am able to post a few photos of the damage that the fire caused. I will write more about the fire itself at another time - but these pictures show the destruction that it left in it's path. You can see just how close the fire came to our homes. The patio furniture photo was of my neighbor's backyard.

Bates Nut Farm

2008-10-13T13:08:00.001-07:00

This morning we decided at the last minute to go to Bates Nut Farm - they have a pumpkin patch every October....this will definately be a new tradition for our family!

Take Inventory

2008-10-10T13:18:00.000-07:00

I didnt know much about car insurance before Jeff's accident. I never really paid attention - in fact, I could not have really told you what our insurance covered if you had asked me a few months back. No one ever PLANS on an accident - they just happen so suddenly. One thing that I am SO glad we already had was "Uninsured/Underinsured Motrist" coverage. Because the state of California only mandates that a driver be covered up to 15,000 dollars - and if your medical bills are over that amount - this coverage can be vital and save you some headaches.

Read this to learn more about it - and then verify with your insurance company that your policy includes it.

Wildfire

2008-10-08T23:08:00.000-07:00

One of the few downers about living in CA are the wildfires, I guess. We have a huge one blazing on base not too far from where we live. Here are some pictures...very, very scary indeed. Over 1000+ acres burned so far.

Our Other "Baby"

2008-09-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

I talk alot about Julia on this blog...she is everything to me. Quite honestly, as a stay-at-home mom, my life pretty much revolves around her.

But I have not yet talked about my "other baby"...Harley. We got him a few months before I found out I was pregnant. The draw to be a mommy was so strong at that time, I needed SOMETHING to take care of. So along came Harley. He quickly became one of the most loved and spoiled dogs of all time (as most of you who read this blog are well aware of).

Juila's arrival was really hard on him at first, after all, he was our "one and only" for almost a full year. He was a bit of a mope for a long while...and it is only now - 21 months later - that he is starting to play with her. This is not to say he has completely warmed up but things do seem to be getting better. Harley could probably do without Julia most of the time...but his little sister loves him to pieces...she thinks he is the best thing on earth - her very best friend.

Harley loves going to the park with Julia and I - the picture above was taken today as he was lounging in the cool grass.

Bath Head

2008-09-19T20:30:00.001-07:00

Sale Tomorrow!

2008-09-18T20:06:00.000-07:00

Just discovered this...starting tomorrow you and a friend can save 20% on your entire purchase from Old Navy You have to use the phrase "BFF" as you are checking out. I know, cheesy, but hey - it is worth sounding lame in return for saving some serious cash!!

Oh Boy - Its My Birthday - Again....

2008-09-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

Well, another quick year has gone by - I'm 32 years old today. I just cant believe just how quickly the years are flying by...and every year seems to go more quickly than the last! We were at church this morning and they were calling up the children for CCD. When they got the the third grade - I watched the kids come up to the alter. I could not believe just how small they all were, as I still can remember 3rd grade as clear as if it were just yesterday. The years just dragged on back then - but now they just zip by - it is absolutely incredible.

Today will be pretty low key. Jeff still is pretty limited in what he can do. So, tonight we are going to go pick up some sushi at a local restaurant and bring it home. We will have a great meal without having to worry about Julia...she is at that age when going out to eat just is not fun at all! So we'll eat it here - nice an relaxed - and most importantly not having to wolf it down when Julia decides to pitch a fit. :)

My wonderful and beautiful friend Betsy was thoughtful enough to make me a birthday cake too...A big thank you to her on that one. Otherwise it would have been a Happy Birthday oatmeal bar for dessert. :)

Above is a picture of Julia in one of her new Gymboree outfits that I bought at their Baby Sale. Isnt she just darling? This cutie is all I'll ever truly need for my birthday.

Patriot Day

2008-09-11T11:40:00.000-07:00

Today we are meant to remember those who lost their lives during the terror attacks on 9.11. The world changed that day - and it has not been the same since. Lets remember those who lost their lives on that fateful day as well as those who defend our country each and every day to protect all of us from having to live through another 9.11.

Fun Family Times

2008-09-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

My mother was here almost all of August to help out after Jeff's accident - then my father came during the last week of the month. It was great fun...I wish we all lived closer together. Here is a picture of Grandma, Grandpa & Julia goofing around at the Aquarium a few weeks ago.

October 4, 2008

2008-09-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

Next month, some friends and I will be taking part in the MCRD Boot Camp Challenge in San Diego...check it out - how fun does this look???? :)

After almost 2 years....

2008-09-01T20:12:00.000-07:00

...I have finally picked up a novel. I was inspired by my friend Beth's blog to begin to read again. I didn't even know what the book was about...but the name and the cover were enough to peek my interest. I was at Target last week and decided on a whim to pick it up.

Well, NOW, I cant even put it down! It is such an intriguing story and the characters are just so interesting. It is definitely one of those books that you just get lost in. And knowing that that it is just the first in a series makes it even better because I dont want the story to end - it is THAT good!

Lola's Successor

2008-08-26T19:26:00.001-07:00

Here it is - our new car. Yep, we decided to just go ahead and not mess with success. This car rocks and even after looking at numerous other makes and models, we just couldn't think of a reason NOT to get another S40. :)

Is It September Yet?

2008-08-20T20:51:00.001-07:00

August 2008 has got to be one of the worst months we've had in a long while, if not THE worst. Jeff having the accident was bad enough. Add to that, a child with Phneumonia and the nasty stomach virus that has plagued my house this week...effecting not only me, but Jeff AND my mom too. I am SO ready for this month to be over. Ugh.

The Contenders...

2008-08-16T12:18:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the contenders for our new car.

Volvo s60 (though this is not really how it will look - this is a concept for 2010)

Lexus ES

Toyota Camry Hybrid

A Tribute to Lola

2008-08-12T21:11:00.000-07:00

Lola...you were a great car. You were also completely responsible for saving Jeff's life. I hate to think of what would have happened to him had he been in any other car. You did exactly what you were designed to do last week. I'll miss you...

Things Can Change In An Instant...

2008-08-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got the call that no one ever wants to get. It was the hospital calling - Jeff had been in a bad car wreck and was currently in the emergency room at a nearby hospital. Considering the fact that I dont usually handle things like this very well, I am glad to report that I remained relatively calm while I figured out what exactly to do with Julia. It took me 30 minutes to get to the hospital that morning. Thank God for my mom who kept me distracted on the cell phone while I made the drive....it seemed like I would never arrive.

Once I got there and found my way to Emergency, they informed me that he had already had his X-Rays and CT scans and had been sent up to another floor. I was so scared to see what condition he would be in...I didnt know at all what to expect. Thankfully, his face didnt sustain any injuries so he looked "normal". But he was all banged up and bruised. His leg was stablized in an ice cast and he had IVs in his arms. It was so hard to see him like that..I tried so hard to keep it together for him.

Luckily he was coherent and was able to tell me his recollection of what happened that morning. He was on his way to work after the gym and suddenly from the opposite direction he saw another vehicle lose control and fishtail towards him. He tried his best to swerve and avoid an impact, but it didn't work. Our car ended up on its side. Thankfully, because it was rush hour, there were lots of Marines on their way to work and he had people get him out of the window of the car and to the side of the road. The other guy was not so lucky - he had extensive injuries and had to be airlifted to San Diego.

Jeff's injuries are surprisingly "minor" considering that he was going 50mph and was hit by someone coming the opposite direction and probably going MUCH faster than 55 - which is the speed limit on that road. He had an operation on his right ankle last night and there is a possibility that there may be another "problem" with the other ankle too...they are running the tests tonight.

The more I contemplate the situation, the more I realize what a complete and utter miracle it was that he (1) survived, and (2) walked away with just a few broken bones. I thank God that we decided on the Volvo 3 years ago based on safety. You never in a million years think it will happen to you....but I guess the truth is, it can happen to ANYONE and ANYTIME. I am so thankful for that car. I loved that car - and I love it even more now that Jeff's life was saved b/c of it. He definitely had angels looking over him yesterday morning....

My First Attempt At Home Movie Making

2008-08-02T21:11:00.000-07:00

Baking With Mom

2008-08-02T12:47:00.000-07:00

My mom has a few treasured photos of us baking in the kitchen together when I was a little girl. I used to love to help her bake....so much so that the first thing I ever wanted to be "when I grew up" was a baker. I think that Julia may be taking after my mom and I with a love of baking - she "helped" me bake my locally famous chocolate chip cookies. Here she is in a picture after having her first taste of chocolate chips.

Wild Animal Park

2008-08-02T09:18:00.000-07:00

I am a bit late in getting these up, but about a week ago Betsy, Beckie, Karna, Stacy and I set out with our brood to the San Diego Wild Animal Park. It was spectacular - albeit very hot by the time we left. Pictured are Garret, Lauren, Julia and Elena. The other picture was with the most ginormous balloon Julia had every laid her eyes on. She just loves Balloons and for awhile could not stop looking at it and "talking" about it. The picture was taken from a deck with a vista view of the park. It was a great day - cant wait to return!

Funny Jib Jab

2008-07-28T20:35:00.000-07:00

This gave me a much needed chuckle tonight! Obama's verse about "change" is hilarious....

Julia Dancing

2008-07-26T15:18:00.000-07:00

A classic.....I finally got the "julia dance" on video!

A Great New Find

2008-07-19T11:27:00.000-07:00

Julia and I had dinner this past week with my friend Becky and her two toddler children. They ate at the table with us and sat/kneeled on my dining chairs. The following day Julia REFUSED to have anything to do with her highchair....and would only eat if I put her on the dining chair too....problem being, the table came up to her nose! I knew I had to find a solution - and that if I bought a strap-on booster seat, we would have the same problem. So after browsing various stores I found this. It is perfect and gets Julia up high enough to actually see her food. :) She is happy to be a "big girl" and I am happy to not have food smeared and thrown all over - quite as often anyway.

Our First Official Girls Night Out

2008-07-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

Last night was the first "girls night" with my new group of friends. I am so lucky that I found such great women so quickly after moving here. We went to the Coyote Grill in Carlsbad Village....no kids, no hubby's - just the girls!

Living the REAL military wife's life

2008-07-15T16:19:00.000-07:00

Well, the fun is over. Jeff is now actually in a job where I almost never see him. It sucks and he has only been in the position for a week. :( He has informed me that at least until the late fall, he will be working saturday's and nights too. I guess it just prepares me even more for the deployments that we will face. But I always have to remind myself that there are young marines and wives that do this all the time - many of them REALLY young with 3 or 4 kids! If they can do it - I surely can. I am just glad that I have made a few fast friends...otherwise I would be going crazy. Actually we have a "girls night" planned for this thursday. I have not had one of those in a very long time - and I am completely looking forward to it. :)

A New Addiction...

2008-07-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

My new addiction is FACEBOOK. If you have not checked it out - you must. It is kind of like a "mature" version of MySpace....more of a reconnection/networking tool than anything else. I have already re-connected with about 25 people from my past and it is great fun seeing what happened to all those old friends and acquaintances. Some people I never thought I'd see again in my life have reappeared. The Internet is truly an amazing thing....

Its Time For TIMEOUT

2008-07-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

Julia had her first official "timeout" today. She was doing great all day - we were having fun. Then we had some friends over...they left due to bad behavior...and somehow the "bad kid" aura stayed around my house! It all started when Julia began hitting Harley. I told her no - and she did it again. I told her no again - this time much firmer - and, yes you guessed it - she did it AGAIN! All this time she is giving me a smirk that says, "just watch me mom...I'll just KEEP doing it!"

So we finally made use of that timeout chair that I bought in Florida. It was a pretty short timeout, seeing that it was her first, I decided to have mercy on her. Well, that set off the rest of the night - tantrums to be picked up, pasta thrown on the walls and the floor, etc, etc. She went to bed an hour early tonight.....and me? Oh, I had a drink. :o)

Growing up so fast

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

Even though I call Julia my "baby girl", the truth is - she isn't a baby anymore! She has now officially reached toddlerhood....complete with mind-blowing tantrums, fierce independence, spoon/fork meals...and last but DEFINITELY not least - graduation from the bottle. Yes, it is true - the bottle is (almost) completely gone. We still have our moments where nothing else but a bottle will do - but those are getting fewer and farther between. Next step will be potty training! Here are a few pictures from this past weekend...

Julia - Texas '08

2008-06-29T21:29:00.001-07:00

An Update - Long Overdue!

2008-06-29T20:56:00.000-07:00

We are here - we sold our house - we have moved into the new one and are settling in nicely. I like living in a smaller space much more than I originally thought that I would. It is great to just have to walk down the short hall to retrieve something! How do those people who live in mansions deal with it? I guess they just tend to live in one small area of the house??? :)

Moving always ends up more expensive than we think it will be - and the dislocation allowance never makes up for it either! (Though I wont complain too much about it b/c we are lucky to get it in the first place!) Of course we also seem to end up with things we dont really need - this time it was an IMac. I look forward to next month and living like a pauper.

I Am So Tired....

2008-05-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

I am so tired of keeping this house looking "perfect"....I am tired of putting all of my stuff away in the cabinets to clean off the counters to create the look of "more space"...I am tired squegeeing off my shower and making sure there are no water marks....I am tired of vaccuming so often....I am tired of dusting and polishing everyother day....I am tired of windexing my babys hand and mouth marks off the slider constantly....I am tired of keeping my "used" towels hidden while the fluffy "for show" ones take up my towel rack....I am tired of making my bed perfectly EVERY DAY....I am tired of showing this house.....I am tired of worrying about this house...I am tired of people saying they want to rent or buy the house and never contacting us back....

I am TIRED!!!

2 weeks to go....

2008-05-21T09:16:00.001-07:00

...until we leave Florida! I cant believe how quickly time has flown here. It seems like just yesterday we sold our house in VA and bought one here. I am definatly getting the "itch" - which is common when you are in the military. Jeff gets it too after being in for 14 years....I get it b/c I was an Army Brat and we moved every 3 years up until I was in highschool.

I am ready and excited about getting there, but pretty stressed out with the process. I am already working on my "to do" list trying to get everything in order. My parents are here visiting so that makes it a bit easier....i can do things all day instead of just during "nap time". :)

Gotta run, baby woke up...

Our New House On Base

2008-04-14T14:04:00.001-07:00

Living In The Moment

2008-04-08T07:31:00.000-07:00

I have a hard time living in the moment. I am always thinking about the future - will I like living in California, will I ever get pregnant again, will Baby Girl enjoy her new home, how about Harley?, what will I do when DH deploys and I am left alone to take care of the family?

When BG is playing around so sweetly, while I am physically there, many times my mind is elsewhere. I am worrying about this house sale, or the movers coming, or this or that. Then sometimes I stop and look at her and remind myself that she is this age only once - that once is NOW. I had better enjoy it and soak it up. She will only kiss and hug her stuffed animals for so long...I enjoy watching her carry them around and rearrange them from the couch to the chair to the table. Soon enough those toys that she loves so much will end up at the bottom of her toy chest - and later (in many years) in the basement of our house. That is where all my treasures are...in the basement of my parents house.

Just being gone for 5 days this past week, BG seemed somehow different to me. More grown up. I know that sounds very silly....as it was only 5 days. But it really made me realize JUST how quickly they actually change. She was doing new things already - things she didnt do before we left on our trip. She even looked more grown up (but I know THAT part is all in my head!!).

With so much in our lives it is difficult to live in the moment, but it is definately something I really want to work on. I want to savor it...every last sweet moment that she gives me.

New Home

2008-04-06T18:00:00.000-07:00

Well, we did it. We found a new home when we get to California. Surprisingly we have decided to live on base. The house is about 1000 sq. ft smaller than our current home, has no AC, only one "living" area, and is about 40 years old. BUT, it is renovated, has a nice big tree in the front, has a beautiful view to the canyon out back, is within spitting distance to the playground, community pool, and officers club! I am very excited b/c the neighborhood seems very intimate and community centered. I have heard nothing but good things about how close everyone is. I am excited by the idea of building close relationships with other military wives and having many little playmates for baby girl.

Now, if only we could get this house off our hands.....

How Will I Do A Year??

2008-03-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

With hubby being deployed for a month, I really am starting to wonder just how I will survive a year long deployment. Since he is at a joint command, he deploys here and there....for a few weeks at a time. This trip has been pretty long. But I guess I look at it as some sort of preparation for "the long one" that is to come. I know women do it ALL the time, many of them multiple times. And the fact is, alot of them are younger than I am and with more children. If they can do it, so can I, right?

It is just that these last few days have been mentally trying for me. Not for any one particular reason....but rather for many. Our house being on the market, Baby Girl has a constant cough, Harly is depressed about dad being away, the Xterra is acting up, and to to it all of we are BORED. There are only so many trips to Publix and Super Target that I can take....I wish we lived closer to the aquarium and the zoo....things that may entertain Baby Girl a little bit more than browsing the isles of the local stores.

Having to keep this house up with a toddler and a dog has proved to be very difficult. I am not a naturally tidy person. I like a little clutter in my life (much to the dismay of my hubby). But now that we are selling, it is like I am not even living in my own house anymore. I am constantly having to clean up after B.G....and once I am done putting something away, there she is getting into something else during her little adventures. By the time she is in bed, all I want to do it go to bed myself....but on the other hand I have a desire to just RELAX and veg in front of the TV! Usually, the bed wins b/c I am even too tired to stare at the TV.

I miss my hubby helping clean up the dinner, give BG bath time fun, I miss our evening walks and our cuddling on the couch after the baby is in bed. Only 2 1/2 more weeks to go until I get him back and we can get back to semi-normal.