Insanity at it's Best

22009

2009-02-20T09:49:00.005-05:00

There is just nothing better than a puppy. We have had so much fun (and stress) with adding Lily to our family. She is finally able to play and be a normal puppy after having her 2nd surgery 2 weeks ago. She is full of "it", too. She and Romeo play every waking moment. They have finally realized they can take a nap and be in the same room. They were playing so much I had to separate them just to rest. My plan is working! A playmate for Romeo and I can get things accomplished..... only if I could stop watching them play, while I smile and think they are so darn cute.

Sometimes her ears are up,

and sometimes they are down.

She can't make up her mind. She is a girl afterall.

21109

2009-02-11T09:40:00.003-05:00

Why do puppies always want things they can't have? We have a gazillion toys for these guys and Lily wants shoes and socks! At least she is feeling better. Last week was an ordeal. She was spayed on the 3rd, then developed a horrbile infection (we think it was from the clinic the spca made us use, I couldn't choose my vet to do her spaying, grr) and had to have another surgery on the 6th. Then, on the 8th, her temp was 104 and had to have IV fluids and a shot of a strong antibiotic. THEN, on the 9th, she was feeling a bit better and JUMPS her crate! So, back to the vet to make sure nothing opened. Yesterday, she was a playful puppy, today, omg, she is a wild child. I am so very thankful she is feeling better and would rather her get into stuff and not let me sleep at all than have her sick. She is rotten, and hopefully will stay that way just like the rest of my dogs, hehe.

Is this not the funniest photo ever???

Gangsta puppy!

Her new dress

2209

2009-02-02T13:30:00.001-05:00

Happy Groundhog day.... lol Guess we are having more winter weather. Doesn't mean much here in SC. We need about 4 feet of snow. Not going to happen.

I called about Lily today. She was just taken to the vet today, grrr. I thought we could pick her up today. She will be spayed tomorrow morning and we can pick her up Wed. Courtney is going to be soooooo bummed. Nothing we can do but wait 2 more days. I can't wait until she is home with us.

13109

2009-01-31T14:42:00.003-05:00

We decided to change the name of the puppy to Lily. Here is a better photo of her. It is on the SPCA site. If the link stops working, let me know.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/26338135@N07/3239391359/

13009

2009-01-30T18:54:00.003-05:00

Umm, today we decided to adopt a new puppy. Some of you may think we are crazy since we already have 2 dogs. Romeo is very playful and sometimes I can't get anything done all day long except play with him. I thought getting him a puppy friend might help. Pepper is 11 years old and doesn't always want to play. So, we went to the SPCA and adopted a husky terrier mix. She is so stinkin' cute! We don't get her until Monday. She is 3 months old and they are already going to spay her. Scares me a little, but I guess they know what they are doing. They wouldn't let me take her and use my own vet, so I really didn't have a choice. I hope Romeo and Pepper learn to love her and all goes well. Keep your fingers crossed!

Her name will be Blizzard - Blizzie for short. She has ice blue eyes.

Not the best pics, but it's all we could do at the time.

We took Romeo to meet her to see how things would go.

12509

2009-01-25T03:08:00.003-05:00

Decided to finish up a few layouts that I started friday night.

Not much else going on here.

121308

2008-12-13T09:06:00.002-05:00

I decorated the inside of the house yesterday. It looks so pretty. I wish I would have done it sooner. I changed a few things around this year. I like to do that every now and then so it doesn't feel blah. Today, I hope we get to do the outside. We don't have a lot to do. I try to not get a lot for the outside because Chris doesn't like to help and I need his help because I am short. I might try to get it done myself. We will see.
I thought about scrapping last night. That's as far as I got. Maybe someday soon.
I found the funk in the house. It was a large rug I had in the dining area. Unfortunately, I already had the Christmas tree on the rug! It was not fun trying to get that sucker out from under the tree so we could roll it up and toss it. We had company and they had their dog cages on the rug and it smelled like dog, bad. I had cleaned it with the carpet cleaner twice, but I just couldn't get the smell out, I guess. Oh well. Romeo had already pulled threads out of it and it was going in the trash anyway. I'll get new ones later. At least the house smells normal this morning. I was going insane trying to find the smell. I think I used an entire bottle of febreze and Oust.
I am headed to Columbia today to do some returning and shopping. Hoping to finish up the Christmas lists. I am going to attempt to put presents under the tree today. Hopefully Romeo doesn't think they are chew toys, or even worse, something to pee on. I am so afraid he is going to think the tree is an "outside" tree and take a pee. Cross your fingers. He hasn't peed in the house in 4-5 days! I had him trained, but when we had company and 4 other male dogs, it was a war of testosterone, and he started peeing again. I think I finally have him broke of the habit again. Again, cross your fingers.

121208

2008-12-12T12:36:00.003-05:00

Less than 2 weeks until Christmas. I am just now getting my decorating done! This is so unlike me. I usually get it all done the weekend after Thanksgiving. We had company for Thanksgiving, so I lost track of it all, I guess. I haven't really been in much of a festive mood this year, not sure why. I am feeling a little better now that I am decorating.
We had Romeo neutered on Monday. They said to keep him still for 7-10 days. I don't think they realize whom they are talking about! This dog is 200mph all the time. The day he came home, I think he hallucinated a little, but the next day he was UP and ready to GO! Walking him on a leash lasted about 2 days. He does this death roll thing and starts fighting the leash. He only does this in the back yard. He wants to run and play. I figured it might be easier on him if he just runs instead of fighting the leash. He seems to be healing well, I guess that is all that matters.
Most of my Christmas shopping is done, except for Chris. I have no idea what to get the man, as usual. We decided not to go visit family this year. After buying Courtney a car, our insurance increasing, the economy in a bad place, etc, we decided not to go broke trying to visit. I know gas is cheaper right now, but other things come in to play. We would need a kennel for the dogs, or possibly a motel, etc. Just easier to stay home. We are all ok with the decision. We have spent many holidays just the three of us. :)
There is a funk in my house and I can't find it!! I have cleaned carpets, mopped floors, cleaned all the pet areas, and I still can't find it. I am ready to toss every piece of furniture and rug out and go buy new. I think I may need to use the carpet cleaner on the couch. That is the only thing I haven't done. Candles are my saving grace. I just hate covering the smell, I want to find it and get rid of it. I'm afraid to find it, though.
Off to do more decorating. Have a wonderful holiday season!

Here is the only layout I have done since Oct! I need to scrap more. I have everything needed to do the job, just no motivation..........

111208

2008-11-12T02:49:00.005-05:00

Can you believe it's almost the middle of Nov??? Where has this year gone?

We went car shopping *again* today for Courtney. I think we may have finally agreed on a 2004 cavalier. Chris is going to test drive it tomorrow. Cross your fingers!

I have been crocheting my fingers to the bone, but loving it! I have been making little crochet flowers to sell on Etsy. I have 17 colors made.
Here is a link to my shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6409460
I am going to crochet more things, too. So far I have leaves, a cute little ghost and some snowflakes. Just need to get photos and upload them to etsy.

Here is a peak at the flowers. They look so good on layouts, too!

Here are pink ones on this layout - at the bottom of the page.

10108

2008-10-02T00:53:00.003-04:00

Even though all my supplies were packed for my scrappy weekend in NC with my sister, I decided to do a challenge for AllyScraps.

Just a bit of background on the title. My other sister was visiting and kept calling Romeo (the puppy in the layout) Homie-o, then I started calling him Homie. He is so rotten and will shred any paper he finds.

92708

2008-09-28T01:07:00.006-04:00

Today we went to the Congaree Swamp. It wasn't really what I was expecting, but we had a good time. I was thinking there would be more water and alligators!! But, it was more about the trees. There were tons of creepy spiders, some turtles in the Watson Lake, and woodpeckers in the distance.

Entrance

We walked 2 1/4 miles on the boardwalk.

Creepy spider!

Fungus or mushroom??

This tree is over 175 years old (I think it was this one) There is another tree that was over 500 years, I think.

Hollow tree, they think had bats living in it at one time.

Lightening stuck this tree.

After the swamp, we had dinner at Eric's San Jose. I think we finally found a good Mexican restaurant. Leaving the parking lot, we were headed over to target and saw this, lol.

This is the only layout I finished at the crop last night.

91608

2008-09-16T18:10:00.004-04:00

Just an update with layouts. I did one at Martha's and the other 5 at the crop on Fri. They are a little simple, but that is how I was feeling that night.

91508

2008-09-15T03:15:00.005-04:00

Things are getting back to normal. I still miss Callie and think of her every day. My therapy was to paint the entire house. It sure does look better and kept me busy so I didn't get too down. The living room and hall are a nice brown/tan, the kitchen is sage, as well as the master bed/bath. The scraproom is a dusty purple. They say purple promotes creativity, so I thought this would be a perfect color for the scraproom. I guess it's a good thing I *love* purple. ;)

I went to a crop Fri night in town. I had a good time. I started 5 layouts that I need to finish here at home. Seems I never take the right stuff with me to a crop. They all need titles and I didn't have my cricut or any letter stickers. What was I thinking? I will finish the layouts and post them later.

In the mean time, here are the layouts I have worked on in the past few weeks or so that I haven't posted to the blog. I am working on a lot of old photos of Courtney when she was a baby. I am still doing some recent ones, too. I just like to mix it up a little and do some of both.

8262008

2008-08-26T00:13:00.003-04:00

It's been sad around here lately. We lost Callie on Aug 12th. This has been very hard for me to go through. I miss her so much. I found puppy pictures of her last night. She was 8 weeks old in the photos. I'm glad I was her momma. She was a crazy girl. Not perfect, but she was my girl. I miss her.

Happy Birthday Callie!

2008-08-06T02:06:00.003-04:00

Today, Aug 6th, my Callie Girl turns 9!

I am so glad she made it to her 9th birthday.

You see, Callie was diagnosed with adrenal cancer on July 7th. The internal medicine vet said she could live 2 weeks or even 6 months, he was unsure. The cancer has progressed too far for surgery, so he said it would be best for her to live out her days at home. This has been a very hard time for me knowing my baby is sick. She is doing ok. She has good days and bad days. As long as she knows she is loved.

So, A BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you, my sweet Callie Girl!!!!

52108 -2

2008-05-21T12:52:00.000-04:00

52108

2008-05-21T00:14:00.008-04:00

I've been scrapping with my sisters for the past couple of weeks.....

42408 #2

2008-04-24T18:28:00.004-04:00

Just a quick update with some photos.

Court brought home a puppy she found on the side of the road last Wed. She named him Romeo. We think he is part jack russell. He's definitely entertaining. He weighed in at a whopping 3.2 pounds and he is about 8 weeks old.

I enjoyed taking some spring photos. This is the Japanese Flowering Cherry in my backyard.

Some recent layouts that I have completed since my last blog entry.

42408

2008-04-24T11:57:00.001-04:00

I've decided to come back to the blog. I will update soon.

11607

2007-11-06T21:05:00.000-05:00

Well, I've started a myspace so I've been neglecting the blog.

www.myspace.com/marylitton

Here are the layouts I did today. (you can click to see them larger)

102407

2007-10-24T02:24:00.000-04:00

Pepper....

Myrtle Beach sunset

Chris and I Sat on our anniversary.. awww.

just a few more creations....

Stroll down memory lane

101907

2007-10-19T02:59:00.001-04:00

Nothing to say, just wanted to add some photos of Court riding.

101807

2007-10-19T00:31:00.000-04:00

93007

2007-09-30T17:26:00.001-04:00

Sometimes I can 'smell' my mom. I hope she is here - looking out for me.

92907 / 93007

2007-09-30T04:02:00.000-04:00

I had the weekend to myself. C & C went to visit family. I thought I was going to have a relaxing time and scrap all weekend, but for some reason I was inspired to clean! I did too much, my back keeps telling me. I tried to empty out the dvr, but only watched a few shows. It was nice and quiet around here, but lonely.

Wanted to add my latest layout. It didn't scan very well, but you get the idea. I did another layout and a few other projects, but they are for a DT I applied for, not sure if I can show them yet. I will upload them later. Here's to hoping they like my stuff!!

Now, I'm off to bed. Yes, at 4am. I have become quite a night owl lately.

91107

2007-09-11T17:42:00.000-04:00

Last Friday Chris and I went to the zoo. So much fun! I took, get this, 174 photos! I have a serious problem, I can't stop taking photos. Here are a few of my favorites.

I did a layout last night for a challenge over at http://www.allyscraps.com/ . It was for summer photos, using yellow and/or blue, chipboard and journaling.

Courtney is sick, Chris is starting to get sick, and I don't want it!! I hope it passes me by. I've been sick all summer, it seems. One thing or another. Sinus infections, herniated disks, something. I just want to be well.

I have decided I seriously need to scrap more. I have so many supplies. They are getting old sitting here in my room. I love to scrap so I do not understand why I do not make more pages. But, these days, I just don't feel like doing much at all. I need an energy boost. Off to take a nap... no, I better make dinner first.

83107

2007-08-31T16:48:00.000-04:00

He has surprised me once again!! Chris sent me 2 dozen roses today and sent Courtney a rose bush. How sweet, right? It makes me smile to know he loves us so much. He will be home tomorrow!!!

I have been doing my Friday cleaning, trying to make the hours go faster. I will make his favorite cookies tonight. He's already traveling, so keep him in your prayers.

82607

2007-08-27T01:21:00.000-04:00

Not sure why I'm up so late tonight, I'm dog tired. I was letting the dogs out and I found a little visitor on the patio. (excuse the bright green garden hose).

Cute, huh? He/She is an american toad. Yes, I'm a nerd and looked it up on the web. I keep seeing them all over my yard. It was raining tonight, so I'm sure there are tons out there. The dogs and the cat chase them around. Quite entertaining. Although, I am afraid they might hurt one, so they aren't allowed to get aggressive. Only look and when they hop, the jump back. Too funny.

Only a matter of days until Chris is home! We are excited and can't wait to put this year behind us. It was hell for us both. Him in Korea, Courtney and I at his mom's for 9 months. It's nice to be in my own home, but missing him sucks, for lack of better words.

Courtney is having a hard time with school. She hates going because she doesn't know anyone. I wish I could make it better. She is shy at times and doesn't want to go up and talk to people. I told her that is the only way to make friends is to talk. But, who am I to really give this advice? I am one of the shyest people around. I can't just go up to people and talk and expect to make friends. I hate that she is like me in this way. I would love for her to be more outgoing and talk to anyone... .like her father. It breaks my heart that she is so miserable. I hope she talks to someone tomorrow. She needs a good friend.

*thought for the day*
Try not to judge, although we judge because we feel we are being judged.

81307

2007-08-13T12:42:00.000-04:00

I have another sinus infection. I called the clinic, hope they let me have an RX of antibiotics over the phone instead of having to make an appt. Not sure when I would get an appt is why. They are always booked and you can't get in. Joy.

I scrapped last night. This is for the b&w challenge with a splash of color over at AllyScraps.

81007

2007-08-10T18:46:00.000-04:00

As I sit here, locked in my scrapbook room, avoiding my child, the dogs, life in general, I wonder why I am in such a foul mood. I was in such a good mood when I woke this morning. Could it be that my child does not clean up after her cat, the one that I am allergic to? Could it be that my water bill arrived, stating we used 3 times the water we normally use? I need to read the meter, but where *is* the meter? What if we have a leak, how will I find the leak? Or, could it be that I am having trouble sleeping at night, waking every hour or two, and I am not rested? I took a 4 hour nap yesterday, which made me stay up late last night. I had six hours of sleep last night, but woke every 2 hours. I'm grouchy. I want to listen to music, but everything is irritating me. I want to talk to someone, but do not want to pick up the phone. I want to scrap, but I can't when I'm not in a good mood. Tired of the computer, but don't want to watch tv. Maybe I just need to scream.

8307

2007-08-02T14:33:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to update with some photos of the past couple of weeks. I have also scrapped 4-5 pages, I will add them later.

My sister was here for a week and we headed to the beach again and also to swan lake. Here are a few of my favorite photos from our outings.....

This dragonfly was on the side of my house

My puppies... terrified of another thunderstorm. I don't know why they get on the couch, which is a big no no. Maybe they think it will save them.

71507

2007-07-15T18:19:00.000-04:00

It's raining, yeah! I know most people don't like the rain, but that is one reason I was so happy to move to the southeast. I *love* thunderstorms!! It's raining, thundering, lightening, and the dogs are running around at my feet in terror, hehe. I tried to take a photo of the rain. This is the best one, I think. You can see the rain falling. We have a tin roof on the sun room, so you can hear the rain. Ahhhhh.. such is life.

I also scrapped today. Here is my baby back in 1992. Seems like forever ago, but yesterday just the same.

I think I will scrap more.

After dinner.

More for today

2007-07-14T21:22:00.000-04:00

Last night I organized all my scrapbook paper, purged some, and this is what I have left. The first one is cardstock (mostly from the old store days). The second has the first half with old pattern paper, and old cardstock, then the back section is all my newest paper. I have it organized by manufacturer (or store) and they are labeled.

Now.. to put it to good use.

It's taking over!

2007-07-14T15:06:00.001-04:00

Help me identify this plant, please. Will it ever bloom, is it just big leaves. I don't like it and if it doesn't bloom something pretty soon, it has to go. Does it have a purpose? (click to enlarge)

**EDIT**

It has been identified as a confederate rose!

Here's a link: http://www.floridata.com/ref/H/hibis_mu.cfm

Then there are pretty roses all over, too. Here are some yellow ones from the back yard.

I'm back.....

2007-07-12T10:38:00.001-04:00

What? I am blogging again?? Yes! Looks as though I do have something to say afterall!

I wanted to share this drawing from Courtney. She drew this last night and seemed to be very proud. I am too! I think it's beautiful!

I did too much yesterday and now my back/leg are hurting bad today. I need to take it easy but I have errands on base today. Maybe after that it will have R&R on the couch. The grass is getting taller, the dishes are pilling up in the sink. I don't know what to do but call a maid and someone to landscape.

IT"S HERE!!

2007-07-11T20:09:00.000-04:00

My new camera has arrived! My Canon Rebel xTi is here! In my hands! I can't believe I have it. I'm so excited. I tried to take a few photos today, but it's kinda borning in the house and it stormed all day. So, here is what I did. I took some photos of my ribbon storage for the ladies at allyscraps.

and a pic of pepper sleeping under my chair. His favorite place when I'm in the scrapbook room

and pansy, one of my bunnies.

If I could bend, I could get better shots, but that will happen soon.

An update on my back situation. I went to the dr yesterday and had a CT of my back. I have 2 very buldging disks on the L4 and L5. He said they should heal on their own with proper rest. I hope and pray they do. I had a friend suggest physcal therapy. I will ask my regular dr about that when I see him. I hope that will pop them back in place. Surgery is an option at this point and I am not even excited about that. It scares the pee out of me. So, if the prednisone works along with rest and PT, hopefully we can skip surgery.

Love you to all!!!

It's been a while

2007-07-08T14:08:00.000-04:00

since I blogged last. We are now in SC, and loving it! It is a nice little town. Chris is back in Korea, but will be home soon. Just a few more months. Two of my sisters came to visit in June. Photos will follow this post. We went to Myrtle Beach and to Swan Lake Iris Gardens. We had a great time. I still have a few things to unpack and organize in the house, but it will get done in time. I have hurt my back again and now I have a pinched nerve that is bothering my leg. So, not much activity for now. I hope to heal on my own and be able to finish the house very soon. The dogs have adjusted and love the big back yard. The rabbits are adjusting, too. They love running through the house. :) Courtney I think is adjusting.... she is a teen, she may never. School is just around the corner. She isn't too happy. Bless her heart. I understand it's hard to move as much as we do, but she needs to be strong just one more time. I doubt we move again before she goes off to college.

Enough of the boring stuff, here are some pics. I hope to scrap again some day, if I can ever get my scraproom together.

BTW, I only had b&w film when we went to the beach. I just ordered a new digital camera, so I will never have that problem again, thank goodness.

Love to you all.

Courtney

my nephews

Prom Pictures!

2007-05-01T12:36:00.000-04:00

Courtney went to the prom Saturday. She had a great time. Wanted to share some pics with you all.

Chris will be home for midtour in a matter of hours. I am so excited to see him! We haven't seen each other since Sept 1st. We go to sign on our house next week and move our things the following weekend!

SC here we come!!

2007-03-30T18:02:00.000-04:00

With months and months of stress and weekends of driving....we bought a house!! We still have the inspection, but everything else is good. I can't wait to move! I'm so excited I can't sit still. Stress, however, is still going strong. Chris will be home soon and we go to SC to close on the house in May and move our things. I wish we could stay, but we have to come back to WV because Courtney is still in school. As soon as school is out, we are leaving for our new home. I'm so happy!

today

2007-01-22T23:12:00.000-05:00

Thoughts for today...

allergies suck

i'm a major tivo addict

if it's going to be cold, it needs to snow

i miss my husband - 3 months until midtour!

...........................................................

Decided to finish up a couple layouts I started at the church last weekend.

more layouts

2007-01-19T02:33:00.000-05:00

Finished these 2 layouts this 'morning' and wanted to add them to the blog. I seem to be going simple these days.

our 16th anniversary :)

My niece with her niece....

stressful day

2007-01-19T00:47:00.000-05:00

For those of you that do not know, I have social anxiety. Today, I'm sitting in the dr office for my 3 month check up. There are too many people in the waiting area, they are running behind (as usual, but he is a good dr, so I really don't mind). Did I mention there are too many people in the waiting area? I start stressing, blood pressure is going up. So after 1 1/2 hours, they call me back and yep, my bp is up. I go into the other waiting room, the room is full. More stressing, more anxiety. Finally, 40 minutes later, they call me back to the room. The dr says, Mary, your bp is up. I love this man, but umm, yes, I have social anxiety, my bp is VERY elevated. He apologized for the amount of people, but it really wasn't a problem, just an issue I have and can't control completely. I would rather him be thorough and be a good dr, than rush us through to get everyone out faster. I sucked it up and made it through. I wasn't in my car 15 minutes and my face was no longer flushed and I was over it.. over it! I hate these episodes of stress and fear. What am I afraid of? Why do I get so uncomfortable around people? I have always thought myself to be a nice friendly person, so why do I have such issues? It's annoying, really. I do not want meds, I want to deal with it on my own.. but sometimes I can't. On a good note, he did give me an rx for meds for rosacea. Something I have had for several years and other dr's brushed me off. Love this man, even though I stress in his office. :)

Also, my dog pepper is having issues with his leg. The vet said it could either be his knee or hip. He is in bad shape. He cried all day yesterday until his rimadyl kicked in. He is still limping and is scaring me pretty bad. If you pray, please keep my baby Pepper in your prayers. He's a sweetheart and I hate that he feels so bad.

Christmas Photos!

2007-01-14T12:20:00.000-05:00

Just had my film developed last night and would like to share a peek into my family. We had a wonderful time at Christmas this year. Everyone was there except Chris and 2 of my nieces. One niece showed up the following day with her little one, so we did get to see her, too. It was a very nice Christmas and I am so thankful I was able to be here.

Just a few photos from the 3 rolls I had taken.

*the sisters* oldest to youngest, left to right. I am on the end at the right (the youngest).

*with dad*... daddy is in the middle of his 5 girls

*the clan* adding 6 of 8 grandchildren

Courtney with the blanket her dad bought her in Korea

Her excitement when she realized it was an ipod :)

She seems happy!

Tradition, always have a photo with a bow on her head. :)

My daddy with his ball cap with lights, isn't he cute!

We never claimed to be a sane family!

Little miss with her momma

The cutest dogs in the world!! Pepper and Callie

I SCRAPPED!

2007-01-12T22:20:00.000-05:00

I haven't scrapped in forever, it seems. It felt good to get back to the hobby I love. After receiving a big box of goodies in the mail and going to the church with my sister, I got back in the groove. May do another page tonight, woohoo!

This is Courtney in July 06 at her last lesson in NM before we moved.

Where has the time gone?

2006-09-28T15:27:00.000-04:00

Where have I been, you ask? Around, and do I ever mean, AROUND! I think today is the first day in 2 months or more that I have been at home, not going anywhere. Well, the day isn't over, I may have to go somewhere... crossing fingers I can stay home in my sweats and not have to get dressed. Things have been so busy with errands and visiting people. It's nice, really, but I'm a bit tired, stressed and in need of a good day at home to relax. Today is the day. I have been scrapping with my sister. It's good therapy for us both. I hope to start scrapping more and shopping less. I have so many supplies I could scrap all of my photos and not have to buy anything, seriously. I just have to be creative and have will power not to buy the latest and greatest. Will power.. hmm, does that really exist? We will see.

Here is a layout of my sweet little bunnies being lovey on each other. Stepped out of the box a little with the pink/reds, but I love it!

We're Here!

2006-08-18T00:52:00.000-04:00

We made it to WV Friday, Aug something or other. I can't remember the day. I know it was the first Friday in Aug. We are getting settled, but also the day Chris leaves is glooming over our heads. I hate to say goodbye, and I hope the year goes fast for both of us. Our trip went fairly well. We had some trouble with the uhaul in St Louis, but other than that it went well. All the animals did great. Booger, the hamster died a few days ago. How sad. He had a big tumor thing on his neck, so I don't think it was due to the move. Poor thing. He was about 4 years old. I read that hamsters usually only live about 2 years, so he had a good long life. As you know, we have 2 dogs, big dogs, and MIL has 2 dogs, but they are small dogs. Well, lets just say it's been an experience getting them all to get along. I hope it isn't much longer until they start behaving and stop bickering. Silly dogs. They all want to be the alpha and that just can't happen. Except poor Callie, she just wants to play and be happy. Hmm, maybe dogs *are* like their owners, lol. Pepper is aggressive - Chris has anger management issues.... Callie is like me, happy go lucky and wants everyone to get along. Ok, said enough for tonight. Will save some of the excitement for tomorrow! See ya then!

Tuesday - one week to go

2006-07-25T14:33:00.000-04:00

Taking a break from packing and cleaning. We get the Uhaul tomorrow. Chris and a friend will be packing all our furniture and most of the boxes tomorrow. Then the icky cleaning starts. The deep dark ugly cleaning. Thankfully we don't have to do windows or move large appliances. I just wish the animals were out of the house. It would make cleaning so much easier. Every time I vacuum, I turn around and there is more dog hair. Love the dogs, hate the hair. There is still so much to do, but I feel like I'm not getting anywhere. I guess once the stuff is on the truck, it will seem like things are moving along. I really wish the movers would have done all this, but not this time. I vow not to be such a clutter bug at my next house!!!

Update

2006-07-16T20:05:00.000-04:00

Well, we have 2 weeks until we are out of this house! I'm so excited! I can't wait to go home and be with family for a while. Although, I will miss Chris terribly. I just try not to think about him leaving, it's too emotional for me. I have a little bit of stuff left to pack, then I will clean my butt off until we have our inspection. Not looking forward to the cleaning, but it's part of the process. Since we have been here, I have taken so many things to goodwill, airmans attic or just tossed them. I'm so proud of myself for trying to de-clutter. I know I have a ways to go, but I have tossed a bunch of stuff. I just hope what I am taking to MIL's will fit in my room. I think 1/3 of all the boxes I packed are scrapbook supplies. Umm, pretty sad, don't ya think? And, wouldn't you know it, since all of my supplies are packed, I want to scrap!! Only a few more weeks. Then, I will be able to scrap with my sister. And shop!!! Shhh, don't tell Chris I said that! Ok.. off to pack more, clean more, or something of the sort. Hope everyone had a great weekend.

Over the holiday weekend....

2006-07-06T13:34:00.000-04:00

We decided to get out of the house over the July 4th holiday. Chris had a 4 day weekend so we had time. We went to Roswell to see if there was anything interesting. The UFO museum was fairly cool. Courtney wanted to do more, but umm, well, that's just about all there is to do in Roswell. We did have a good time. Visited the museum and a few gift shops. My favorite thing was the lamp posts that had alien eyes. You can see it in the first photo below, if you look closely. It was a 2 1/2 hour drive one way, we spent about 2 hours in the town, but now we can say we've been to Roswell. I've added a few of the photos taken on our outing. (click the photos to enlarge)

This is the outside of the museum.

As you enter....

This alien was donated from the 1994 movie Roswell.

Since we didn't take as long as expected in Roswell, we also visited Lincoln, where Billy the Kid shot his way out of the courthouse killing 2 lawmen. The photo below is the actual courthouse. Chris is standing by the front door. (you can also see Courtney and her friend to the left, didn't know they were in the photo until I got them back). There are markers on the ground where the 2 lawmen died. Pretty interesting history in this small little town.

This is a photo of the General store in Lincoln.

Just a few miles up the road is Capitan where Smokey the Bear was rescued from a forest fire in Lincoln National Park.

This is a statue resembling little Smokey before he was rescued.

This is just an old house we saw on the side of the road. Thought it was interesting.

And this is a church here in Alamogorodo that I've been wanting to take a picture of for a while.

This sweet little guy was in our front yard when we pulled up in the driveway. I have more photos of him but they are on another roll of film still in the camera.

I'm a slacker...

2006-06-28T02:23:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I posted, i'm a slacker. Not much has changed. I have almost everything packed. I can't wait until this move is over. I really can't wait for the next 14 months to be over. So many emotions, so much stress. It's hard to deal with at times. I hope things go smoothly for both Chris and myself while he is gone. I know he is going to be lonely in Korea, worse than I will be in WV. I will have family to keep me busy. He plans to study for his next stripe. Cross your fingers! I may take a class in WV so I can get a job in SC. I do not like the hours of the class (2:30 - 8:30pm m-f) so I'm not sure I'll be taking it. I don't like the idea of leaving Courtney every day and not seeing her until the weekend. I like to know what is going on with her, and if I take this class, I will feel like I am ignoring her. Maybe I can find a differnt class to take in the day. Or, just get a part time job during the day. They are hard to find, so I'm not sure that will come easy. Our first inspection on the house is in less than 2 weeks. I have so much to do. Since almost everything is packed, I can focus on cleaning. It isn't going to be too hard, just keeping it clean with dogs, rabbits, cat, us.... you get the idea. Say a prayer for our health, our trip, and our mental health through this long process (the entire 14 months). We need it.

Almost time

2006-06-18T19:36:00.000-04:00

I did it. I started packing my scrapbook supplies. I have almost all of them packed and ready to be moved. I hate to pack them, but I do not think I will get much scrapping done in the next few weeks. I will have lots of time after we move. It's just so sad to see all of our things put in boxes knowing most of them will be in storage for a year. It's going to be hard not having my own house, doing my normal routine, being me. I know the decisions we have made are for the best, it's just going to be hard. I know it will not be much easier on Chris in Korea, but....... I hope the year flies. It will be nice being with family and everything, but there is nothing like missing your husband, missing your things, not having your own house. I am so thankful we can stay with MIL, don't get me wrong. It's just hard after you have lived on your own for so many years and having to live with someone. I hope Courtney adjusts easy. She has always had problems with moving. Hopefully the move to SC is our last.

Heat wave

2006-06-13T20:13:00.000-04:00

Boy is it HOT! 108 Sunday, 104 yesterday, it was 106 in the car today when I went to the post office. We are melting! It will be nice to move a little north and get away from this heat. Not like living in Alaska, but WV is a bit cooler. Although, there is humidity, ugh! I haven't packed for a few days, it's just too hot. I just feel like sitting around and not doing a thing - so I am!

Here's a layout of my grandmother I did the other day for a challenge to make a frame/mat. I just love the Melissa Frances papers.

Hope everyone is having a great week. It's already tuesday. So much to do before we leave, but it feels like forever until it's time.

It's the weekend!

2006-06-09T02:50:00.000-04:00

Still packing, and packing, and packing. I started on my scrap room today. I want to squeeze out a couple more layouts before I pack it all up for the move. On the layout below I used more products from my spotlight package from www.allyscraps.com. Love the 3 bugs in a rug kit!
Hope you all are having a great week... it's the weekend!

This is my family back in 1977 or 1978. Aren't we groovy??

and the day drags on

2006-06-06T15:42:00.000-04:00

It is so hot I can hardly make myself pack. I'm drained before the day starts. It is supposed to be 104 today. The cooler only makes it 20 degrees cooler than it is outside - so it should be about 84 in my house! Thankfully we have 2 a/c units that keep it about 75. I'm HOT and MISERABLE! I still have a bunch to pack. The kitchen is the big thing. And Courtney's room. She is protesting this move and is not packing. I'm giving her a couple more days (since we have over 2 weeks before it all has to be packed) and if she doesn't start soon, she does NOTHING until she starts helping. No more trips to Ryan's (boyfriend), no more movies, phone, tv, computer, etc. I have enough to pack already and she is home sitting in her bed doing nothing all day. I do not think I raised her to be so uncaring.. is that the word I'm looking for? She could care less to help me do anything. I don't know what I did or didn't do to make her be this way. I have always helped her when she needed it, went out of my way for her. Maybe that was the problem, I did too much. I just don't understand her being so lazy and uncaring. This did not come from my genes! I can see it coming from Chris' genes, though.

Major Meltdown

2006-06-05T15:37:00.000-04:00

It is supposed to hit 102 here today!

Slowly but surely

2006-06-05T02:41:00.000-04:00

I have been packing like crazy! I think over half of my house is in boxes. Just a few more weeks until it all has to be in boxes. I've been making a pile for goodwill, tossing things in the garbage and feeling good about it! We still need to get rid of some things, but I'm a packrat and I can't part with things that have a lot of semtimental value. We do have tons less than we used to have. I applied for a couple design teams. I know I shouldn't torture myself, but I did it. If I don't make them, I am going to pack all my scrapbook supplies up early to go ahead and get more packed. Since I have started packing, I want it all finished. The spare bedroom is almost empty, woohoo! It was so disorganized. I don't think I'd be this way (disorganized) if we stayed in a house more than a 2-3 years AND I liked the house. I am hoping when we buy a house in SC next year, I will be a better house keeper. It's hard to make a house a home when it doesn't feel like home. I'm getting excited to move now that we are just a few weeks away. I still hate the fact that Korea is taking my husband away for a year, but it's something we knew was coming. Hopefully when we get to SC he won't have to go much. He hasn't deployed since we have been here - 3 years - so we are pretty lucky.
I received a big package from www.allyscraps.com I ordered some yummy stuff!! The new 8" rusty pickle letters are awesome! I also got some Queen & Co charms and mini brads. They are cute, but I would rather them come in a throw away package and be cheaper. Let's see, what else did I order..... Melissa Frances papers, they are nice. We R Memory Keepers papers, nice. Umm, Li'l Davis chipboard rounds and letters, love me some chipboard. I can't remember what else, but it was a big package. Chris was giving me a hard time about ordering stuff. I was soooo , lol. I was keeping it a secret. He just laughed, stinker!
Ok.. off to bed. I worked like mad today and I'm exhausted. It's almost 1am! Have to get up and pack more tomorrow.

Altering

2006-06-02T15:35:00.000-04:00

Made my dad this frame last night as a father's day present. Altering wasn't so hard this time. Might have to do more. Although, the mod podge smells like kaopectate! haha. Pretty gross.

Have a nice day

2006-05-31T16:33:00.000-04:00

Song for today - Bon Jovi - Have a nice day
link to lyrics: http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/bonjovi/haveaniceday.html

The past couple of days have been very moody for me. Not sure what's up, but this song reminds me to not let the world get in my face and have a nice day. Smiles are needed. Happiness is needed. No more moody days.

Off to walmart to get mod podge. Going to give altering another try. I want to make my dad a nice 8x10 frame and put a photo of his 4 girls in it for father's day. We will see how this works out. Last time I altered a frame, I wanted to toss it out the window!

HAVE A NICE DAY!

Tuesday

2006-05-30T15:24:00.000-04:00

Song for today:
James Blunt - High
link to lyrics - http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/jamesblunt/high.html
This is a sweet song, I suggest reading the lyrics. : )

Not much of anything else going on today. I haven't scrapped in a couple days, I haven't cleaned or packed either! I need to get going and get some things accomplished today. Four weeks until we drive a packed uhaul to WV! Then we come back for 3-4 weeks and have to drive to WV again. I'm excited to go home, but I'm really not looking forward to the move itself. I hate that Chris is going to Korea for a year - being alone once again. The life of a military family....... I will have lots of time for scrapping living with MIL. I have 2 sisters that scrap, also, so we will be getting together. It will be fun. I hope spending time with family takes away the loneliness and pain of missing Chris.

One for today

2006-05-27T23:40:00.000-04:00

This is my sweet little great niece. SHe is such a cutiepie!

Saturday....

2006-05-27T14:27:00.000-04:00

They are filming part of the moving "Transformer" here on base. Chris had to work all day yesterday with the crew and jets so they could get their movie scenes filmed. I thought it was kind of exciting, but he's acting like he is annoyed. Whatever.... He did meet a couple movie stars. Wish he would have taken the camera, but it's big and bulky and would be hard to move around with on the flightline. He was "in charge" so he didn't have time for stuff like that anyway. Oh well.. maybe another time. He does have to go back to work Monday (yes, on the holiday) for more filming. Maybe I can sneak in with the camera, lol.

After packing several boxes last night and making a big dent in the spare bedroom, I decided to relax and scrap a 2 pager. Not something I do often (a 2 pager), but I wanted to use up more stuff from my spotlight kit from www.allyscraps.com

And yet another

2006-05-26T01:06:00.000-04:00

Just a quicky I did tonight. This is Courtney in 2001 when she first started riding horses.

SD Blog Challenge

2006-05-25T13:41:00.000-04:00

Word association

1. Yours :: ours
2. Charcoal :: grill
3. Platitude :: dictionary
4. Graduation :: new beginnings
5. Hungry :: like a wolf
6. Somewhere :: out there
7. Nurse :: hospital
8. Freak :: out
9. Unbelievable :: unseen
10. Walk :: trot

More scrapping

2006-05-24T20:19:00.000-04:00

Two layouts I did today.
Not much elseo going on......

Just some layouts

2006-05-24T01:45:00.000-04:00

Jst wanted to add some recent layouts I have completed.

This one is of Courtney in May 2005 at white sands national monument. Used lots of 7 gypsies stuff. This all came in my spotlight member packet from www.allyscraps.com :)

Did these 3 on Sunday. The bottom one, Courtney would kill me if she knew I posted it on the web, haha. You might be able to read the journaling if you click on them to make them larger.

Remembering

2006-05-20T20:51:00.000-04:00

I was pulling some things out to pack today and found one of my mom's photo albums my sister gave me. As I looked through the photos I sent to her of Courtney when she was little, I smiled and remembered how much she loved Courtney - and the rest of her grandchildren. In the back of this album she had every post card I ever sent her on our trips to and from bases. She kept these in a photo album...... It touches my heart to know she kept these postcards. (big sigh)
Then, I got to thinking. What is wrong with me? I used to send a card to *everyone* for every holiday. Birthdays of course, but all holidays, valentines, Easter, st. patricks, thanksgiving, etc. Why do I not send the ones I love a little note to tell them I am thinking of them? I used to, why not anymore? Did I somehow get to busy for my family? The people I love? That couldn't be it. I love them. Nothing is more important than family. Maybe after my mom passed away 9 years ago, it just doesn't have the same meaning? Just because I can't send her a card doesn't mean I should stop sending everyone else a card. My goal is to remember the ones I love. To send them a card to let them know I am thinking of them and I love them. In this day and age with computers, I think I rely too much on email. We need to send/receive a card in the mail, or even a phone call.

Hump Day

2006-05-17T23:36:00.000-04:00

Busy day today. Chores and errands. Not exciting to talk about, but...... the scrapping bug has bit. I did 2 pages tonight!

This photo was taken on the flightline at Eielson in 1993.. eons ago, it seems. Photo was taken by the base paper photographer. I used to have it in a frame, but wanted to put it in an album. I LOVE this photo!!!

This is for a challenge at www.allyscraps.com The weekly challenge was to use plaid or argyle paper, flowers of some sort, and eyelets.

ramblings

2006-05-15T12:43:00.000-04:00

*Mother's Day was a pretty good day. I sat on the couch all day watching tv and hoping my back would feel better. It worked! Today, I am able to move around better, but it still hurts a little. Going to be taking it easy for a few more days so I don't aggrivate it again. I need it to heal so I can start packing again. Only 6 weeks until we have to load the truck. I know that sounds like a long time to pack a house.. but we are still using over half of our stuff! I need to pack the stuff we aren't using now so I will have time to pack the things we are using in the last few days. It usually takes a team of movers two days to pack our house.

*Courtney made dinner last night. Enchiladas from scratch. They were so yummy!! Thank goodness the child took after me in some way and can cook, lol. I told her now that we know she can cook, she can take over 2 nights a week. She laughed, guess it wont work.

*I have been chosen as the Spotlight Designer at Allyscraps for this month. SO excited!!! Can't wait to see what Cathy sends and I can't wait to create, either!! I know it's going to be a lot of fun. So glad to be chosen. :)

*My house is a total wreck, but I dont' want to do too much and make my back start hurting again. I guess we will have to live in the mess until I feel much better. Chris did vacuum Friday, but it needs it again. The dishes are gross from the weekend - even though I didn't cook all weekend. I need a little maid fairy to come clean my house. Wishful thinking!

*I'm really excited about going home to WV for a year. I know there will be times I wish I were in my own place, but it will be nice to spend time with our families. Having someone to go out with, see a movie, go shopping, grab a coffee. Company is nice....

*Can you believe, there are times when I don't leave the house for an entire week? Courtney rides the bus to/from school. Chris can stop on his way home to get something if I need it. Sometimes I never leave this house! It can be nice, but other times, quite aggrivating. It's no wonder I have anxiety issues. I never get out. There is nothing to do here and no one to do it with (if there were something to do). Boring, boring, boring. Will be such a nice change in a couple months. (see above).

*I really like the bullet system for my blog. Just some ramblings here and there in their own little paragraph. Do not have to go into much detail, but get my point across. It's easier for me to write this way.

Song for today: Gonna Buy me a dog
lyrics: http://www.monkees.net/DOCS/LYRICS/BUYDOG.htm
listen to a piece: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000033RR/103-6831522-1531866?v=glance&n=5174 scroll down a little.
This song is hilarious, but it just doensn't capture it on the web.

Pain and a few other things

2006-05-12T11:53:00.000-04:00

*My back hurts. H U R T S. Not sure why. Stress? Pulled muscle? Over used muscle? Pinched nerve? Not sure, but it hurts. Mainly when I sleep. If I get up and start my day, it doesn't hurt as bad, but when I'm sleeping, it wakes me the pain is so bad. I want it to go away. Heating pad isn't helping, neither is tylenol. Argh

*I want Bo Bice's CD. Must buy it soon. He was my favorite idol last year. Bummer he didn't win, but so glad he went on to do good things - make a CD!

*If I pack 3 boxes a day for 7 weeks, I can pack 147 boxes. I sure hope we don't have more than 147 boxes because my back hurts (see above).

*We have nothing for breakfast. Oh wait, I made chocolate chip cookies last night, that could be breakfast! Yesterday I had buttered toast with marshmallow cream. I eat so healthy. Normally, I don't eat this bad, but I think it's the stress factor kicking in. Must eat junk food when stressed.

*Tried calling storage unit places in WV yesterday. Only one answered the phone. I wonder if they have caller ID and wonder why in the heck someone from NM would be calling. I will try again today. My life is going to be stored in a 10x20 storage unit for a year. (see post below)

*Courtney is in denial about moving. She does not want to leave her boyfriend. I wish there was something I could do, but we are not staying here - plain and simple. I know this guy is nice to her and so on, but they are only 15. If they really want it to work, they can have a long distance relationship. That's my only advice. I hate it for her, but I am not putting our lives on hold for a boy she may break up with in a week. I wish she could see the realization, but she can't - she's 15.

Song for today: Bo Bice - The Real thing
lyrics here: http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/bobice/therealthing.html

Packing up is hard to do....

2006-05-11T14:21:00.000-04:00

As I pack box after box, I realize another chapter in our life is over. We are moving from NM after 3 years. I pack these boxes, looking at each item and remembering when and where it was purchased or given to us. Our life is being packed up in boxes. Going into storage for a year while Chris is in Korea and Courtney and I spend a year in WV with family. Boxes that hold our sentiments, our lives, our memories. It has been a very hard decision to move to WV to live with MIL. I know financially this is the best thing we could do at the moment. We can get all of our bills paid off, get money saved, and have more time to pick out a house in SC. I felt like we were rushing into buying a house and having to settle for something we aren't truly happy with buying. Not having enough saved, still have too many bills to pay, and so on. Military pay is not the best, but I am thankful for what we have. So, packing box after box, memories and more, hoping we don't lose ourselves in the next year.

Sunday happenings

2006-05-07T16:11:00.000-04:00

Stress. S T R E S S. It's creeping up on me pretty bad! I want eveything worked out NOW. I'm so impatient. I think worry makes me impatient. I want the VA loan certificate now, I want to be preapproved for a loan now, I want to see the homes now, I want it all worked out.. NOW. Forgive me for being a whiney brat, but I want it done.. NOW!

On a lighter note, I am now addicted to HGTV. It is getting me even more excited to own a home. I can paint! I can remodle! I can plant flowers, bushes, trees! I can call it HOME! I so hope this all works out like I have planned. I know there are always snags, but everything is looking good so far. Say a prayer for us that the VA certificate doesn't take 2 months or more. We do not have that amount of time.

Below are things I put together Friday.

This bookmark is for Chris when he goes to Korea. He will be studying for his next test/stripe, so this will help him keep his place in his big ole book. :)

It's all coming together

2006-05-05T13:47:00.000-04:00

We are on our way with all the home buying issues. We mailed our VA loan papers today. Hoping it does not take months like some people are saying! This is just not going to work for us if it takes months. We found a little house we like, but keeping our options open. We are asking our agent questions. Things are going rather smoothly, I just fear they won't go fast enough. I'm a worrier, can't help it, will try to stop. I am very excited to move to SC. I hope it works out well. I was excited to move to NM, too, but this place bites. I hope I am not setting myself up for another disappointment.

On a brighter note, I scrapped last night. Plan to scrap more today!!

Coffee Heaven

2006-05-04T20:51:00.000-04:00

It's a good day.. my espresso machine came in today! Chris picked it up at the BX and I made a wonderful latte! MMMMMmmmm My original machine was defective - this one works, woohoo! I will be wired for days drinking coffee!!! ;)

The Golden Rule

2006-05-03T13:31:00.000-04:00

After my experience with the vet on base a few weeks ago, I decided I was never going to set foot in that vet clinic again! The vet is nasty and rude. She made me so mad I cried! Callie is a big dog, around 100 pounds - she has an ear infection. She insists (every time we go in) that this monster of a dog needs to be on the table because she can't bend over to see her. I WARN them she is a submissive pee'r and she will spray them down. She gets all nasty and says "well, if you want her on the floor, you will have to go somewhere else!". Totally ticked me off. That wasn't the end of it, there was more, but I will spare you the details. I tell Chris I am not going back. I will either take her in town or he can take her on base. She gets ear infections a good bit, and I do treat them, but they keep coming back. They say it's because of her heavy floppy ears. I guess this is something we are going to to have to deal with her entire life. So, Chris takes her to the vet this morning. He is a man in uniform and the vet couldn't be nicer.. GAG! She even bent down on the floor and didn't insist that Callie be put on the table! It really makes me mad how the people on a base treat dependents and members. We are all people. Just because I do not wear a uniform does not mean I need to be shown disrespect. It isn't just the vet clinic, it's everywhere on base. If you aren't the member, you are nothing. They preach "family first", but rarely show it. When we move, I am finding a good vet off base. I have one here for the rabbits, but it would be silly to change now with only having 3 months until we move. I want to be treated with respect like any normal person, and if that means going off base and paying more, that works for me.

My Callie Girl - lab mix

Sick, but still scrapping

2006-05-02T23:53:00.000-04:00

I'm still sick with a nasty cold. I think it's starting to go away, but I wish it would go completely away! I did manage to scrap a couple pages. One last night and one today. Tomorrow I have to clean since I have been neglecting the house due to being sick. If I am a good girl and get my chores done quickly, I can scrap, haha.
Click to enlarge to read journaling if you wish. It is rare for me to journal. :)

Catching up

2006-04-30T15:43:00.000-04:00

I can't believe I haven't blogged since Thursday! Not much different going on. Still looking for houses. Chris needs to start the process on getting us pre approved.... he's a slow one. We drove around yesterday for hours trying to find *the* cactus that is blooming so I could take a pic. Found one after too many hours of searching. There were many in town, but I wanted a photo without the city elements in the background.
Only 3 months until we are on our way to SC! I am so ready to leave NM. Too many spiders for one. Not fun seeing black widows around your house... scary!

Blog challenge from ally scraps:

Answer the following questions in your blog:

If you go back and change anything in your teen years, what would it be and why?
I would not have skipped school. I did fairly well, but if I would have applied myself, I could have done better.

If you could go to heaven for an hour to see a loved one, who would you pick and why?
My mom, because I miss her dearly. I would like to catch her up on my life and show her photos of Courtney.

What is one thing you can NOT do without besides your family?
No brainer.. computer/internet. I'm an addict. Sad, really.

What your dream day consist of?
SILENCE, not having to cook any meals, computer, scrapping - with all the pages turning out perfectly.

How much time do you spend on the computer per day? and you can't say "too much" really try and figure it out.
Hmm, well, on average, probably 6-8 hours. wow!

The past 24 hours

2006-04-27T11:28:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was a whirlwind! I have been searching for information online about home loans. Also got our credit report and learned more about it. It's going to be a process to get a house, I tell ya. Thanks to Tawnya for helping us!!! Means the world to me that she is taking time for us. :) Still looking at houses online and hoping this will all get together by the first of Aug. The phone rang all day with family members and I trying to sort things out. Who can watch this animal and when will we be at the base. Are we packing ourselves or letting the movers/airforce, etc etc. ::big deep breath::
Court calls and needs me to pick her up from school. Why? I have no idea. Our answering machine was shocked my static electricity and it is broken and you can barely hear the person leaving the message. I have been looking for a new one, but I can't find one I want. So, I go pick her up. She's upset she can't find her boyfriend to say goodbye. We get home and she calls him a few hours later. The boy cracked his hip falling at school onto a big boulder!!! Poor kid! Court is a mess, crying and worrying about him. It's been a day already. At 8pm she brings her algebra homework in for help. 8pm! She had 40 problems. I had to brush up on algebra that I haven't done in oh, 15-17 years - learn it all in a couple hours while she has had 5-6 weeks to learn. She was so stressed out from her boyfriend getting hurt, she is sleeping on my desk while I try to figure out these problems. She has dyslexia, so algebra is pretty hard for her, but she could try to listen to me and try to get the problems worked. We sat here until 11:30 trying to get all 40 problems done between waking her up and me learning everything in the chapter. Whirlwind is definitely a title for yesterday. She wakes me up this morning asking for lunch money. I forgot to go to the ATM and get her money! I had all that algebra in my head I had to go to bed, lol. So, now, I have to take her lunch. I have a feeling today is going to be one of those days, too. I feel the urge to stop and get a coffee!! THis is a must for today. I'm still waiting on my new espresso machine. The BX (on base) ordered me a new one, just waiting (im)patiently for it to arrive.

Scrapbook Dreamer Blog Challenge for today:

Complete these statements:
1. My current favorite song: hmm, so many - Bad Day by Daniel Powter, probably
2. The last book I read: I can't remember
3. What I'm wearing right now: PJ's, haha
4. The last cd I bought: Kelly Clarkson
5. The last gift I bought for someone: Courtney - roses/balloons for her bday and 2 movies

SD Blog Challenge

2006-04-26T13:06:00.000-04:00

I will update more later, just wanted to get the blog challenge done before I forget. :)

Today's Challenge:
I say ... and you think ... ?

1. Rising:: falling
2. Third:: grade
3. Disruptive:: quiet
4. Surround:: sound
5. Distant:: far
6. Suction:: cup
7. Fried:: chicken
8. Nuggets:: wendy's
9. Clip:: clop
10. San Antonio:: texas

A new home....

2006-04-25T13:09:00.000-04:00

I know I keep going back and forth, back and forth. Where are we going to live. This is on my mind day and night. It is consuming me. After some issues yesterday, Chris and I decided (still not 100%, rofl) that we will go ahead and move to SC. We want to buy a house and live happily ever after. Anyone have any house buying tips for us? We have always lived in base housing or rented. This is a new beginning for us. Exciting, but scary. Chris will be leaving for Korea as soon as we sign the papers, it seems. ::sigh:: So, searching the internet all day for houses is my new obsession. Thankfully, Chris knows a guy in Sumter. He was in Korea with him in 1999-2000. They are pretty good friends, so he can help us with the area. Funny thing is, he is going back to Korea the same time Chris is going. They are going to different bases, though. Bummer for them. Now, to tell family. Some think we should go ahead to SC anyway. My sisters think it's a good idea. Chris' family on the other hand will not take the news very well. We need to do what is best for our family (the 3 of us). Sometimes it isn't what others want, but we can't do what others want. We have to do what is right for us. I'm excited to be moving to the east. We have been away for so long. Green grass!! ; )

I keep forgetting to post this layout I did Sunday.

Another one down

2006-04-24T15:24:00.000-04:00

It's Monday! Another week in NM gone, woohoo! We are still undecided where we are going to live in Aug. The uncertainty is overwhelming. We are leaning toward WV at this point. Courtney would like to go home for a year. I am concerned about her mental health, so this is probably what we will do. If living near family for a year will help her cope, then I can deal with it, as well. The good and the bad. Still praying for the right thing to do, so, we will see.

Monday's Blog Challenge
With the warm weather here and lots of Spring cleaning going on - what are some of your goals of things to accomplish for the spring/summer season? These can be for anything - household, scrapping, etc.

I will be packing my house to move. I plan to clean out all the unnecessary items and purge purge purge! I need to get started. We have a truck reserved for the end of June!!!

We're Moving!

2006-04-21T18:11:00.000-04:00

We finally know our follow on base! Shaw AFB, SC. The base is right outside Sumter, SC. We are pretty excited about this base, so this is a good thing. THis is where I figured we would go, so it's all good. It is 6 hours from our families in WV, and 2 1/2 hours from my sister/dad in NC. We will be near family, wahoo! Not like we can go see them every day, but MUCH closer than NM. Now, to figure out where to go for the year Chris is in Korea. WV or SC?????? We'll figure it out, soon, I hope. Did I mention the base is 2 hours from Myrtle Beach!!!!!!

(from scrapbook dreamer)
Here is today's challenge:
Four for Friday: List 4 things that you love/admire about your DH, DW or Significant Other. I know that it is hard to limit it down to 4 things when we all have the best spouses on the planet...so list the top 4 things!

1. He loves me and isn't afraid to show it
2. He is a very hard worker outside the home and has always taken care of his family
3. He makes me laugh, even when I don't want to, lol
4. I know he will always be there for me, in the good days and bad.

Random thoughts for today

2006-04-21T11:47:00.000-04:00

Not much to say today

Allergies suck
My days are boring
Angel the rabbit escaped his pen while I was asleep
-do not know how long he was out of his pen???!!!
Have to clean so I can scrap all weekend
Courtney is home for the day-school is out
Treating a dogs ear infection is not fun
Thank God they hooked up our swamp cooler yesterday
Cleaned out my big sticker drawer last night
-Giving half of it away
Candles are heavenly

and the kicker...
Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, "I think I'll squeeze these dangly things here, and drink whatever comes out?"

Another day...

2006-04-19T15:38:00.000-04:00

April 19th Blog Challenge

What are the top 5 websites that you visit on a daily basis? What is one thing that keeps you going back to that site? (P.S. They do not have to be scrapbook related)

1. www.allyscraps.com love to chat there

2. www.scrapbookdreamer.com love to chat there, too

3. www.realtor.com We are in the process of moving and I just look....

4. www.twopeasinabucket.com Just look in the gallery

5. www.scrapsubmit.com To see if anything new has come out that I could possibly try for.

Yes, it is insanity!

2006-04-17T18:01:00.000-04:00

Monday... Monday...
What has happened today? Not too much.
Chores: cleaned the fish tank, that's always a joy. That's all I did, but it seems like the day is gone already.
Mail: Received my "wish list" from ally scraps mb. Austin granted my wish and wowser!! He sent me lots of MM boho chic stuff!! SO excited! Thanks Austin!!!
Moving update: Not really... just that Chris is upset with his mom, so we may not be going to WV to stay afterall. Also, he called today about our follow on base. They said they do not even start on the Sept people until May! So, we have to wait a few more weeks. BUT, they did say that since we claim residence in Alaska, they will put us before anyone else (that isn't a resident) wanting to go to AK. That is actually good news. Chris wants to go back very badly. I wouldnt' mind going back, but I was also looking forward to a year back *home* in WV. Whatever happens.. it will be for the best. I have said many prayers for our next base and what we should do, so I know whatever happens is supposed to happen.

Super quick layout I did last night. I was in a very nasty mood so my creativity wasn't at it's best, lol. It's done and will not be redone is all I have to say! Didn't turn out like I was thinking.

Happy Easter

2006-04-16T12:04:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter everyone!

Do you ever wonder what happens in Heaven on Easter? I can just imagine the celebrations. I keep having dreams about my mom (she passed away 9 years ago), and they are just weird dreams like normal. It just makes me wonder what is going on in Heaven and what she is doing today. Easter and Christmas always make me so happy to think of the joys she is going through, the celebrations in Heaven. I miss her so much, but I know I'll see her again some day. For now, I just want to think she is having a wonderful time celebrating with Jesus.

4 for Friday

2006-04-14T13:13:00.000-04:00

Here is today's blog challenge....4 for Friday!!!

What are 4 things that the Easter Bunny puts in your kid(s) Easter basket?

Chocolate bunny (this year it's white chocolate)
Cadbury eggs
bubble gum
reese eggs

mmmmm

Scrap Fest

2006-04-13T01:51:00.000-04:00

I did 3 layouts today! Made up for a very sucky morning. Sometimes you have to relax. :)

They are quick and simple, but it's what is happening these days.

Crab Walk

2006-04-12T02:58:00.000-04:00

Before Courtney learned to walk, she did NOT like to crawl on her knees, especially outside. She would only crawl on her knees if she had on long pants. She was so funny. She would do this little crawl that reminded me of a crab. I found written on the back of one of the photos "her crab walk" which brought about the title of the layout. I just realized I should journal this on the layout - will add it now.

Click to enlarge

Newest LO

2006-04-11T21:45:00.000-04:00

Here is my latest layout :)
Courtney at 1 1/2. She was so darn sweet at that age. ::sigh::

Going to scrap tonight, too. I'll post them tomorrow, with hopefully a longer entry, too.

long monday

2006-04-10T17:59:00.000-04:00

I haven't done a thing all day, but the day is almost over! It's almost time for dinner. Today was very nonproductive to say the least. We did get the Jeep from the shop today, but it's still not fixed. I swear, I'm ready to scream. There is something wrong with the driver's side mirror. The memory feature will not work for each driver's settings. Aggrivating. They did offer Chris a good deal on a new one.... ummmm.. no thanks! This one isn't even paid off yet. I was getting rather happy with the idea that we only have 1 1/2 years left to pay on this one. Car payments are just too much. Would like to go a few years without one.
Oh, and you know how my espresso maker is burning my coffee? According to the manufacturer, this is normal!! So, burnt coffee it is. If we can return this one, we will. Have to find the receipt. I can't believe they said this is normal. Who enjoys burnt coffee? I can see strong, since it IS an espresso machine, but burnt?? ::insert big scream::
I plan to scrap this evening. We shall see if I do.......

Holy Crap!

2006-04-09T15:14:00.000-04:00

I was sitting in bed this morning, dreading to get up, and realized.. HOLY CRAP, we only have 2 1/2 months before we move our stuff to WV!!! I have only packed 3 boxes!! It takes me a while to pack because of getting tired and also my back, but I SOOOOO need to get a move on it. I am never going to get it all done if I don't start soon. We are getting ready to go get more boxes, but I haven't packed the ones we already have! You may not see me online for a while because I will be packing! Ok.. I will be here, didn't want to scare anyone. I do have to take breaks, ya know. Ok.. off the computer to start organizing some things. Have to take the dining room table down today so we can put all the packed boxes in the dining room. These next few months are going to be chaotic!!

scrappin'

2006-04-09T02:04:00.000-04:00

It's technically Sunday, but I'm still up at midnight! What else is new??

Couple layouts I did for a scraplift challenge at Scrapbook Dreamer. I scraplifted 2 layouts from TamiinKS. Thanks for the inspiration!!

Chris and I way back in the spring of 1990

Snow in Fairbanks Alaska, 2002

Sunday's Blog Challenge
What do you like to do for "You" time? Most of us would say scrapbooking but also include other things that you enjoy doing with your quiet time. Do you have a set time for "You" time? If so, when is it?

I'm either on the computer or scrapping. Sometimes I pop some popcorn and veg out in my bedroom watching a movie. I'm a boring one, lol.

Where it happens!

2006-04-08T18:15:00.000-04:00

Not much going on today. Just a boring Saturday. Finally had some film developed. Below are pics of my scrap area in my scrap room. I didn't take photos of the rest of the room. The computer is in here and so are the rabbits.

SD's Saturday Blog Challenge
Show us your scrap space!!! Whether it be a corner in the dining room or an awesome scrapping room we want to see it!

Here is my space
This is my desk with the hutch closed

with the hutch open

my cabinet (The baskets on the 4th shelf have 3 compartments and I use them for loose ribbon)

book shelves and carts and ribbon rack

hanging paper file systems Top is cardstock, bottom is cardstock and pattern paper. I have more in the desk.

Now for the CUTE photos! We saw these adorable little bunnies outside the other day. These photos are for the spring photo challenge at SD.

(I took this one with my icky digital, when I get the film photos back, I'll upload it.)

SD Blog Challenge and a LO

2006-04-07T19:08:00.000-04:00

Today's Blog Challenge
List four things you plan on accomplishing this weekend.

1. scrapping a few pages
2. calling a friend I keep forgetting to call
3. vacuum (blah)
4. laundry

Scraplift challenge at AllyScraps - I scraplifted JudgeLisa.
This is Chris' basic training photo from 1992

Blog Challenge #2 (for today)

2006-04-06T18:57:00.000-04:00

I'm going to give you some words, you say the first thing you think of:

Color = combination
Paper = pretty
Scrapbooking = generations
Season = winter
Reality TV = boring
Salad dressing = outback steakhouse
Blog = journal
Animal = awww
Dreams = scary
Love = chris

Things that make me happy/smile

2006-04-06T12:14:00.000-04:00

Blog Challege for April 6th
List 5-10 things that make you happy, smile, laugh...things that always put you in a good mood no matter what.

1. Kiss and/or hug from Chris (dh)
2. my bunnies being cute
3. certain cd's (billy joel, elton john, etc.)
4. looking at my scrapbook albums
5. going home to visit family (usually)
6. taking pictures
7. clean house (even better if I didn't have to do it)
8. talking with good friends
9. seeing courtney happy
10. not having to cook dinner... hahhaha

After making my list, I realized how much I enjoy when Chris comes in and kisses me goodbye every morning. Although I am asleep, just getting that first kiss from him is so special. I'm not sure if he realized this is a start to a good day for me.

Song for today - Faith Hill: This Kiss
http://www.lyricsfreak.com/f/faith-hill/52531.html

2006-04-05T21:50:00.000-04:00

This page is for a sewing challenge. My first time sewing on a lo. My kitty princess. She is so cute in these photos. I don't remember what she was looking at, out the window, but it's just so cute!

Not much going on today. Stressed for some reason. COuld it be because we are moving soon and I have only packed 3 boxes?? More tomorrow.....

Songs of all time

2006-04-05T14:08:00.000-04:00

Today's Blog Challenge
List any songs that have been a theme song or a song that has really hit close to home with you throughout your life. These songs can be anything from your wedding song to a song that helped you thru hard times or even good times.

Green Day: Boulevard of Broken Dreams
Bad English: When I see you smile (*our* song)
Kelly Clarkson: Where is your heart
Kelly Clarkson: You found me
Daniel Powter: Bad Day
Christina Aguilera: Beautiful
Chumbawamba - Tubthumping (I get knocked down)
Billy Joel: James
Billy Joel: Just the way you are
Jimmy Eat World: The Middle
Nickleback: Photograph
Monkees: I'll spend my life with you
Monkees: I'm a Believer
3 Doors Down: When I'm Gone
3 Doors Down: Landing in London
Elton John: Blue Eyes
Hootie and the Blowfish: I will wait

I'm sure there are more.. I'll add them as they pop into my head.

Alone edited

2006-04-04T17:44:00.002-04:00

I was driving home from walmart this afternoon and a song made me realize.. I'm alone. Of course I have Chris and Courtney, and my online friends, but... I'm alone. I have no real friends. I actually did this on purpose, so I have no one to blame but myself. When we moved here, I said I was not going to try to make friends because every time I do, they stab me in the back (most, not all) and I'm tired of dealing with all the crap. Living a military life - especially living on base - can be rough on your social life. We do not party, we do not back stab our friends, we do not cheat on each other, we do not do alot of the things that it seems cool to do these days. We are just laid back people that enjoy a friend to chit chat and confide in. Is this too much to ask? Why is everyone out to get each other? I am always on high alert because I have been hurt so many times by people. So.. I walk alone.

Song of the day - Green Day: Boulevard of Broken Dreams
Blogger isn't letting me post the link to the lyrics, it's doing something crazy to my template. Look them up if you want.
http://www.azlyrics.com/g/greenday.html - scroll down to album: american idiot.
There is a naughty word in this song - but it's not played on the radio, so I didn't know it was there, lol

****edit****
Today's Blog Challenge
List your Top 10 favorite movies of all time.

(in no specific order)
1. Pretty Woman
2. Sixteen Candles
3. Breakfast Club
4. Grease
5. The Notebook
6. Miss Congeniality
7. Hope Floats
8. City of Angels
9. Sleepless in Seattle
10. Proof of Life
11. Sweet Home Alabama
12. Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood
13. While You Were Sleeping
14. Monster In Law

Had to add a few more. ;)

It's Monday, get out of bed

2006-04-03T14:02:00.000-04:00

I have been sleeping so late these days. Chris snores and wakes me up all night long. The man needs to go to a sleep clinic! I love him, but his snoring needs help. So, I slept until 10. If we didn't turn the clocks ahead, that would be 9.. so maybe it isn't SO bad. I hate this time of year, losing an hour. Those sleeping hours are precious!
So, here I sit, listening to AOL radio, wondering what I will do for the day, knowing I need to clean, not wanting to do a thing. I'm a bum....
Maybe I will clean, maybe I will scrap, maybe I will do both. Today just feels like an icky day. I need to make it a better day. Maybe I'll go get a coffee. ;)

Today's blog challenge.
List the 5 people who you are closest to...since most of us have multple children we will exclude them from the list. Also list one reason why they are so important to you or one quality that you admire about them.

Chris: he is my man! my soul mate! He makes me smile, laugh, cry, scream, etc, but I love him with all my heart.

Martha: my sister closest in age. We are 15 months apart. She has always been there for me and always will. She understands me only like a sister can.

Leslie: my sister in law. We are far apart in age, 15 years apart, but she is the sweetest and is always there for me, too. She is wise beyond her years.

Jody: My newest friend, but feels like I have known her forever. I'm so glad to have run into her. She gets me, understands my silly quirks. I am her mini me!

I can't list 5, only 4. May sound sad, but I am picky who I am close to. These 4 people I feel I can tell anything to and they will not judge me. Thanks for being there, and know I love you guys!!!

If my mom were alive, she would be on the list. I still talk to her, so maybe she should be on the list anyway. :)

Insanity at it's Best

2*20*09

2*11*09

2*2*09

1*31*09

1*30*09

1*25*09

12*13*08

12*12*08

11*12*08

10*1*08

9*27*08

9*16*08

9*15*08

8*26*2008

Happy Birthday Callie!

5*21*08 -2

5*21*08

4*24*08 #2

4*24*08

11*6*07

10*24*07

10*19*07

10*18*07

9*30*07

9*29*07 / 9*30*07

9*11*07

8*31*07

8*26*07

8*13*07

8*10*07

8*3*07

7*15*07

More for today

It's taking over!

I'm back.....

IT"S HERE!!

It's been a while

Prom Pictures!

SC here we come!!

today

more layouts

stressful day

Christmas Photos!

I SCRAPPED!

Where has the time gone?

We're Here!

Tuesday - one week to go

Update

Over the holiday weekend....

I'm a slacker...

Almost time

Heat wave

It's the weekend!

and the day drags on

Major Meltdown

Slowly but surely

Altering

Have a nice day

Tuesday

One for today

Saturday....

And yet another

SD Blog Challenge

More scrapping

Just some layouts

Remembering

Hump Day

ramblings

Pain and a few other things

Packing up is hard to do....

Sunday happenings

It's all coming together

Coffee Heaven

The Golden Rule

Sick, but still scrapping

Catching up

The past 24 hours

SD Blog Challenge

A new home....

22009

21109

2209

13109

13009

12509

121308

121208

111208

10108

92708

91608

91508

8262008

52108 -2

52108

42408 #2

42408

11607

102407

101907

101807

93007

92907 / 93007

91107

83107

82607

81307

81007

8307

71507

Alone edited