Hey all! I know my readership has gone down drastically since my little undeclared sabbatical from blogging, but I thought I'd put this out there -
I have a friend who would like to pass on at least one - possibly two or three - tickets to the EWomen of Faith conference in Greenville, SC! Here's the catch - it's THIS weekend! If anyone might be interested, let me know and I'll hook you up with her!!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Goodbye, Farewell, and Amen
In the Army, when a person leaves, it is officially a "Farewell" - it's used as a noun, a verb, and an adjective. (Conversely, the same is true of "Hailing" someone new...) Anyway, we've had several of these over the past week, and this week will bring even more...
~ Thursday morning we did our official transition of leadership at PWOC. It was, of course, emotional. We used the same script I used last year installing Misty at Ft. Stewart when we thought we were moving in December. They gave me a plate they had all signed, I gave my speech, then I quietly slipped out while they started the study time. I have to admit, the advent of Facebook in my life has dramatically decreased the need for goodbyes!
~ Yesterday morning they recognized us at Chapel. As a wife, it was very honoring to be recognized individually, apart from Jon, for the energy I have put in there, specifically through PWOC. We are a team in everything we do; my involvement in the Chapel I look at as an extension of his ministry. Even still, it is nice that people see me as Sara, not just as Chaplain Fisher's wife.
The best part, though, was when Chaplain Godfrey talked about how much he'll miss Sophie! He pointed out that she took some of her first steps in that Chapel and is part of that community. It's true - she's more comfortable in the Chapel fellowship hall or nursery than she is anywhere other than home. Stands to reason - she spends the most time there.
~ Last night we went to Jon's Battalion Commander's house for dinner, along with one of the Company Commanders and First Sergeants who are also both leaving. 1SG Davis is retiring, and CPT Whittacre is actually leaving for Kuwait this week! I remember meeting both their wives at a get-together at that very same house just about a year ago (it is the 603d Commander's house, so it's the same building, just with different furniture!). A lot has happened since then, both in all our lives and in the unit.
Like always, those things will shape who I become; each experience I have had at Hunter Army Airfield will in some way affect who I am in the future. That makes it easier for me, as I have a ridiculous need for closure. The knowledge that I am not leaving this place unchanged in itself adds closure to this chapter in my life.
And for that, I am thankful.
~ Thursday morning we did our official transition of leadership at PWOC. It was, of course, emotional. We used the same script I used last year installing Misty at Ft. Stewart when we thought we were moving in December. They gave me a plate they had all signed, I gave my speech, then I quietly slipped out while they started the study time. I have to admit, the advent of Facebook in my life has dramatically decreased the need for goodbyes!
~ Yesterday morning they recognized us at Chapel. As a wife, it was very honoring to be recognized individually, apart from Jon, for the energy I have put in there, specifically through PWOC. We are a team in everything we do; my involvement in the Chapel I look at as an extension of his ministry. Even still, it is nice that people see me as Sara, not just as Chaplain Fisher's wife.
The best part, though, was when Chaplain Godfrey talked about how much he'll miss Sophie! He pointed out that she took some of her first steps in that Chapel and is part of that community. It's true - she's more comfortable in the Chapel fellowship hall or nursery than she is anywhere other than home. Stands to reason - she spends the most time there.
~ Last night we went to Jon's Battalion Commander's house for dinner, along with one of the Company Commanders and First Sergeants who are also both leaving. 1SG Davis is retiring, and CPT Whittacre is actually leaving for Kuwait this week! I remember meeting both their wives at a get-together at that very same house just about a year ago (it is the 603d Commander's house, so it's the same building, just with different furniture!). A lot has happened since then, both in all our lives and in the unit.
Like always, those things will shape who I become; each experience I have had at Hunter Army Airfield will in some way affect who I am in the future. That makes it easier for me, as I have a ridiculous need for closure. The knowledge that I am not leaving this place unchanged in itself adds closure to this chapter in my life.
And for that, I am thankful.
Monday, March 16, 2009
On their 35th...
Today is my parents' 35th anniversary - what an accomplishment! Though I would love to claim credit for this video, my dad made it for my mom. It, of course, displays his humor, but is very sweet all the same! :-)
I am very privileged to have had a great example of marriage growing up. I know my own is better off for it. Happy anniversary, Mom & Dad!
I am very privileged to have had a great example of marriage growing up. I know my own is better off for it. Happy anniversary, Mom & Dad!
Friday, March 13, 2009
Closing this chapter...
So it seems I'm not much of a blogger anymore. What can I say, life gets busy. Sophie is running all over the place (literally), my class ended, Jon is clearing Hunter Army Airfield. Our living room is adorned with boxes, and we will be moving in the two weeks!
These next couple weeks will be full of goodbyes. The nice thing in the Army is that it's usually, "Well, see ya around!" We both know that may or may not happen. But it MAY. So why go through the emotion of saying goodbye?
I did have an interesting experience this last week. I went back to PWOC at Ft. Stewart, the place where it all began for me. I went to PWOC before Jon even started his official orders when we moved to Hinesville. Those women are what gave me a good attitude toward the Army and a place to belong.
Things, of course, have changed. They now meet at the new chapel. About 75% of the women who went two years ago when I started have moved on. As I was standing talking with someone before the meeting started, the greeter came up to welcome me on my first time.
I think the most encouraging part was seeing the women in leadership. Two years ago, if you would have told them what would happen, they would have never believed it! They had never done anything like it and started out in "behind the scenes" jobs. How awesome! They have stepped out of their comfort zones and are doing a great job serving the group at Ft. Stewart. The President right now, Brandie, was actually one of the first people I met there. She was standing beside the greeter at the time, helping her. The following year she was the greeter herself, and this year she is the President. That's one of the great things about PWOC - it gives people a chance to develop and grow in a safe environment. I know it did that for me.
I am quite a sentimental person. Jon never understands why I have this need for closure when I leave a place, why I can't just leave and be done with it. He has accepted it, mind you, but he is not the same way! Being back there brought back a lot of memories, a lot of thoughts. When I first walked into PWOC just over two years ago, I was new to the Army life. I was just starting to get to know my husband and Sophia was not yet a thought.
It was fitting to go back, to see how it has changed. To see how the new women who have moved in have stepped up, keeping the group going. And when they're gone, there will be a new group. You know, that's why I really don't miss it. Nothing is ever the same when you go back, especially in the Army. Still, the women I met at Fort Stewart last year will forever be a part of my life.
These next couple weeks will be full of goodbyes. The nice thing in the Army is that it's usually, "Well, see ya around!" We both know that may or may not happen. But it MAY. So why go through the emotion of saying goodbye?
I did have an interesting experience this last week. I went back to PWOC at Ft. Stewart, the place where it all began for me. I went to PWOC before Jon even started his official orders when we moved to Hinesville. Those women are what gave me a good attitude toward the Army and a place to belong.
Things, of course, have changed. They now meet at the new chapel. About 75% of the women who went two years ago when I started have moved on. As I was standing talking with someone before the meeting started, the greeter came up to welcome me on my first time.
I think the most encouraging part was seeing the women in leadership. Two years ago, if you would have told them what would happen, they would have never believed it! They had never done anything like it and started out in "behind the scenes" jobs. How awesome! They have stepped out of their comfort zones and are doing a great job serving the group at Ft. Stewart. The President right now, Brandie, was actually one of the first people I met there. She was standing beside the greeter at the time, helping her. The following year she was the greeter herself, and this year she is the President. That's one of the great things about PWOC - it gives people a chance to develop and grow in a safe environment. I know it did that for me.
I am quite a sentimental person. Jon never understands why I have this need for closure when I leave a place, why I can't just leave and be done with it. He has accepted it, mind you, but he is not the same way! Being back there brought back a lot of memories, a lot of thoughts. When I first walked into PWOC just over two years ago, I was new to the Army life. I was just starting to get to know my husband and Sophia was not yet a thought.
It was fitting to go back, to see how it has changed. To see how the new women who have moved in have stepped up, keeping the group going. And when they're gone, there will be a new group. You know, that's why I really don't miss it. Nothing is ever the same when you go back, especially in the Army. Still, the women I met at Fort Stewart last year will forever be a part of my life.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
New pics
So... I've been taking pictures, but I had some issues getting them onto my computer. It seems every once in a while you need to EMPTY your trash, so as to not slow your computer down. Glad I have a loving husband to point such things out to me.
Anyway, here they are. I didn't realize until after it published that it cut off the end of my captions. I'm too lazy to go back and fix them all. It also called the album "library" because I forgot to change it in iPhoto before I imported it to iWeb. I think Mac should come out with a new application called iThink so I don't have to...
Here they are - enjoy!
Anyway, here they are. I didn't realize until after it published that it cut off the end of my captions. I'm too lazy to go back and fix them all. It also called the album "library" because I forgot to change it in iPhoto before I imported it to iWeb. I think Mac should come out with a new application called iThink so I don't have to...
Here they are - enjoy!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Movin' on up!
In the Army, every time you're up for move (PCS), you fill out preference sheet, or, as is commonly called, a "dream sheet." A few months ago Jon and I carefully filled it out, weighing where we would like to live geographically with what he would like to do - and open slots.
Fast forward to last week. Jon got the call. I had never heard of the place.
Think it was on our dream sheet? ;-)
So, once again, "the needs of the Army" trumped our "dreams"... BUT... it is actually really great!!!
Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. It is much closer to family (8 hours to the closest, instead of 15 like here), further north (better seasons!), and, the best part... (drumroll please...) it's non-deployable! Jon will be with an AIT Battalion (Advanced Individual Training - it's where Soldiers learn to do their "job" in the Army after Basic Training).
I can hear your protests already. You, like many of our friends and family, may be wondering if the Army is going to do what it has done so many times before: change its mind.
Well, possibly. Of course, we can't rule that out. That said, we are further along in this process than we have ever been. The whole Ft. Leonard Wood thing? That was nothing more than a phone call. We have this in official writing.
Oh... one other thing... it's an "immediate fill" - we leave in 6 weeks! Good thing we didn't buy a house this time! :-)
Fast forward to last week. Jon got the call. I had never heard of the place.
Think it was on our dream sheet? ;-)
So, once again, "the needs of the Army" trumped our "dreams"... BUT... it is actually really great!!!
Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. It is much closer to family (8 hours to the closest, instead of 15 like here), further north (better seasons!), and, the best part... (drumroll please...) it's non-deployable! Jon will be with an AIT Battalion (Advanced Individual Training - it's where Soldiers learn to do their "job" in the Army after Basic Training).
I can hear your protests already. You, like many of our friends and family, may be wondering if the Army is going to do what it has done so many times before: change its mind.
Well, possibly. Of course, we can't rule that out. That said, we are further along in this process than we have ever been. The whole Ft. Leonard Wood thing? That was nothing more than a phone call. We have this in official writing.
Oh... one other thing... it's an "immediate fill" - we leave in 6 weeks! Good thing we didn't buy a house this time! :-)
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
25 Random Things
I know, I know, another one of these things. I wrote this on Facebook, but just in case we aren't "friends" (I hate saying that - "I am friends with X now," like FB seals the deal or something...), I'll post it here.
1. I rather enjoy reading other people’s “25 Things” lists. I’m a dork like that.
2. Though I typically love coffee, for some reason it seems completely unappetizing to me during the first trimester. It is starting to come back.
3. Sophia Anne is the joy of my life. I could just sit and watch her explore all day – I think watching her eat is the most fascinating thing ever! I’m such a mom.
4. I am perpetually working on my degree. Assuming they accept all my transfer credits (should know in the next month or so), I will have senior standing in a couple weeks when this course ends. Of course, it will still take a couple years to finish from here…
5. I have a secret. I will tell you tomorrow.
6. My husband and I do the “traditional” anniversary gifts – 1st was paper, 2nd was cotton, 3rd was leather, and in April we will celebrate with fruit/flowers.
7. My kids will be 20 months apart.
8. My husband and I met when I was his brother’s secretary (at a church – Josh is a pastor). Jon came up to visit for the holidays, and it’s pretty much all history from there…
9. We got married 12 weeks after we got engaged, and he left a week and a half later for Iraq. Wouldn’t recommend that.
10. I think Army wives are great, but to compare them to the show would be like comparing every hospital worker with the cast from Grey's.
11. I have played the flute since 6th grade, and I really enjoy it. I quit band after 9th grade (my parents made me stay through then), but if it weren’t for marching band, I would have continued. I still pull it out for special musics, or to play with Jon
12. When I got married I inherited 6 sisters-in-law and 8 brothers-in-law.
13. I worked at Pine Ridge Bible Camp in Cedar Springs, Michigan for several years in various capacities. The people I met there shaped my life tremendously.
14. I went to Guyana, South America in high school and Hungary in college. I haven’t traveled overseas since then, but would love to. The next time Jon deploys and I don’t have a newborn I plan to go… somewhere…
15. PWOC is what made me not hate the Army. It continues to be a very important thing in my life.
16. My sister has two girls and my brother has two boys. I’m hoping my kids split.
17. I don’t understand how people live without wireless.
18. I love holidays. Christmas is by far my favorite, but I am ridiculously looking forward to heart-shaped sugar cookies this weekend and have already started listening to what I deem an “Easter” cd.
19. To piggyback on #18, Jon says I am a lot like my grandma, who also has an infatuation with holidays. Every time we go to their house he says he understands me more. He also says that I am much more like my mom than my dad, though I when I was in high school I assumed the opposite just because I like to talk.
20. My hometown is the Red Flannel Underwear Capital of the World. Not even kidding.
21. I am a firm believer in letting kids cry it out.
22. I am also a firm believer that food is a love language.
23. Indelible Grace is my favorite music. They’re not really a band, but a group of people who make CDs together. They take songs from the Reformation and put them to new music. If you’ve never heard of them, you should look them up on iTunes right now.
24. I would take The Colbert Report over The Daily Show any day.
25. I joined Facebook the day after Jon left for Iraq last spring so I would have something to fill those first few lonely days. It worked.
1. I rather enjoy reading other people’s “25 Things” lists. I’m a dork like that.
2. Though I typically love coffee, for some reason it seems completely unappetizing to me during the first trimester. It is starting to come back.
3. Sophia Anne is the joy of my life. I could just sit and watch her explore all day – I think watching her eat is the most fascinating thing ever! I’m such a mom.
4. I am perpetually working on my degree. Assuming they accept all my transfer credits (should know in the next month or so), I will have senior standing in a couple weeks when this course ends. Of course, it will still take a couple years to finish from here…
5. I have a secret. I will tell you tomorrow.
6. My husband and I do the “traditional” anniversary gifts – 1st was paper, 2nd was cotton, 3rd was leather, and in April we will celebrate with fruit/flowers.
7. My kids will be 20 months apart.
8. My husband and I met when I was his brother’s secretary (at a church – Josh is a pastor). Jon came up to visit for the holidays, and it’s pretty much all history from there…
9. We got married 12 weeks after we got engaged, and he left a week and a half later for Iraq. Wouldn’t recommend that.
10. I think Army wives are great, but to compare them to the show would be like comparing every hospital worker with the cast from Grey's.
11. I have played the flute since 6th grade, and I really enjoy it. I quit band after 9th grade (my parents made me stay through then), but if it weren’t for marching band, I would have continued. I still pull it out for special musics, or to play with Jon
12. When I got married I inherited 6 sisters-in-law and 8 brothers-in-law.
13. I worked at Pine Ridge Bible Camp in Cedar Springs, Michigan for several years in various capacities. The people I met there shaped my life tremendously.
14. I went to Guyana, South America in high school and Hungary in college. I haven’t traveled overseas since then, but would love to. The next time Jon deploys and I don’t have a newborn I plan to go… somewhere…
15. PWOC is what made me not hate the Army. It continues to be a very important thing in my life.
16. My sister has two girls and my brother has two boys. I’m hoping my kids split.
17. I don’t understand how people live without wireless.
18. I love holidays. Christmas is by far my favorite, but I am ridiculously looking forward to heart-shaped sugar cookies this weekend and have already started listening to what I deem an “Easter” cd.
19. To piggyback on #18, Jon says I am a lot like my grandma, who also has an infatuation with holidays. Every time we go to their house he says he understands me more. He also says that I am much more like my mom than my dad, though I when I was in high school I assumed the opposite just because I like to talk.
20. My hometown is the Red Flannel Underwear Capital of the World. Not even kidding.
21. I am a firm believer in letting kids cry it out.
22. I am also a firm believer that food is a love language.
23. Indelible Grace is my favorite music. They’re not really a band, but a group of people who make CDs together. They take songs from the Reformation and put them to new music. If you’ve never heard of them, you should look them up on iTunes right now.
24. I would take The Colbert Report over The Daily Show any day.
25. I joined Facebook the day after Jon left for Iraq last spring so I would have something to fill those first few lonely days. It worked.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Army suicides surpass combat deaths in January
Have you seen this?
More Soldiers committed suicide last month than were killed in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan combined.
Let that sink in.
Here's an excerpt from the article:
Notice, too, that it's not comparing apples to apples - Army suicides alone surpass all branches' combat deaths. When you add in Marine, Navy, and Air Force suicides, the ratio gets even more alarming.
The Army - and other branches - are looking into this, into the causes, and possible prevention. In fact, Jon is spending all week at Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, so he can train others in suicide prevention. Of course, no suicide prevention will save everyone. But can we help some?
The best thing to do for this would be to at the very least give Soldiers more time at home; unfortunately, that is not always possible. (It is no coincidence that Army rates are much higher than other branches', and the Army has seen more and longer deployments than any other branch.) I remember Jon telling me after his first tour that the "rule of thumb" is that it takes 2 years to return to normalcy after a deployment (though I would argue that "normal" just changes - you never go to war and come back the same...)
So what happens when Soldiers go for 12 months, are home for 10 (during which they spend time in the field, maybe at a school, at NTC... several months away from home altogether), then deploy for another 12, home for 11 (again, spending much of that away), deploy for another 15? How long does it take then? They have not dealt with emotions from the first tour... let alone the second or third. The divorce rate is higher in the military as well - no wonder, eh?
I tell you all this just to bring to light an oft glossed-over topic in the military. Please pray for our men and women in uniform, pray for our leaders - the hope Christ brings is far more valuable than any prevention program they can find.
More Soldiers committed suicide last month than were killed in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan combined.
Let that sink in.
Here's an excerpt from the article:
The seven confirmed suicides and 17 other suspected suicides in January were far above the toll for most months....
Usually the vast majority of suspected suicides are eventually confirmed. If that holds true, it would mean that self-inflicted deaths in January surpassed the 16 combat deaths reported last month in all branches of the armed forces in Iraq, Afghanistan and other nations considered part of the global fight against terrorism.
Notice, too, that it's not comparing apples to apples - Army suicides alone surpass all branches' combat deaths. When you add in Marine, Navy, and Air Force suicides, the ratio gets even more alarming.
The Army - and other branches - are looking into this, into the causes, and possible prevention. In fact, Jon is spending all week at Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, so he can train others in suicide prevention. Of course, no suicide prevention will save everyone. But can we help some?
The best thing to do for this would be to at the very least give Soldiers more time at home; unfortunately, that is not always possible. (It is no coincidence that Army rates are much higher than other branches', and the Army has seen more and longer deployments than any other branch.) I remember Jon telling me after his first tour that the "rule of thumb" is that it takes 2 years to return to normalcy after a deployment (though I would argue that "normal" just changes - you never go to war and come back the same...)
So what happens when Soldiers go for 12 months, are home for 10 (during which they spend time in the field, maybe at a school, at NTC... several months away from home altogether), then deploy for another 12, home for 11 (again, spending much of that away), deploy for another 15? How long does it take then? They have not dealt with emotions from the first tour... let alone the second or third. The divorce rate is higher in the military as well - no wonder, eh?
I tell you all this just to bring to light an oft glossed-over topic in the military. Please pray for our men and women in uniform, pray for our leaders - the hope Christ brings is far more valuable than any prevention program they can find.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
New Baby Pics!
Thanks for all your advice and encouragement about Sophie. It seems it is a passing stage (which I figured, but it's still nice to hear!) - she's only done it a couple times since I last posted. I have realized that she refuses water a couple times, but if I keep offering it, she eventually wakes up enough to see what it is, guzzles it down, then goes back to sleep. She drinks a lot during the day - I don't think she's dehydrated - but I suppose I wake up thirsty too!
Today we had our first appointment for the new baby! It's a long story full of the hospital not recording our appointments correctly, and me sitting there for four hours this morning... but it was worth it! The doctor actually gave up her lunch hour to see us, and even did an ultrasound!
I have been feeling better; it seems the worst is behind me. And, I can breathe a sigh of relief now. Even though I had no reason to think anything was wrong, hearing the heartbeat always helps, you know? I actually had a nightmare (yes, I would call it that...) last night of this appointment today. They were doing the exam in the waiting area in front of everyone, and the nurse was actually a drama major merely practicing the role of a nurse. She would stop to do monologues in the middle of the exam. Fortunately, even with the wait, the actual appointment went MUCH better than that! :-)
Everything looks good and on schedule - August, here we come!
Today we had our first appointment for the new baby! It's a long story full of the hospital not recording our appointments correctly, and me sitting there for four hours this morning... but it was worth it! The doctor actually gave up her lunch hour to see us, and even did an ultrasound!
I have been feeling better; it seems the worst is behind me. And, I can breathe a sigh of relief now. Even though I had no reason to think anything was wrong, hearing the heartbeat always helps, you know? I actually had a nightmare (yes, I would call it that...) last night of this appointment today. They were doing the exam in the waiting area in front of everyone, and the nurse was actually a drama major merely practicing the role of a nurse. She would stop to do monologues in the middle of the exam. Fortunately, even with the wait, the actual appointment went MUCH better than that! :-)
Everything looks good and on schedule - August, here we come!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
To all you expert parents...
I have a question.
The last, oh, week or so, Sophie has been waking up in the middle of the night, screaming her head off. The first time it happened I rushed in, afraid she was seriously hurt. It was that kind of screaming.
Keep in mind she has been sleeping through the night since she was about 8 weeks old... she's been sleeping about 10-11 hours without waking up for months. Now, it happens, about 1:30 and/or 3:30. Every night.
I have tried letting her cry it out, but she just gets more and more frantic. She doesn't go back to sleep.
So, I go in, pick her up, hug her, hold her for 45 seconds- a minute or so, then lay her back down... she goes back to sleep right away. She won't take water and doesn't fight being held (meaning she doesn't want to go play or anything).
Any ideas? At first I thought maybe it was bad dreams, but it's happening a lot, and on schedule. My other thought was maybe a neighbor is coming home from work or something, and the car wakes her up, since it's scheduled - but why would that scare her so much? I have no idea and am open to suggestions!
The last, oh, week or so, Sophie has been waking up in the middle of the night, screaming her head off. The first time it happened I rushed in, afraid she was seriously hurt. It was that kind of screaming.
Keep in mind she has been sleeping through the night since she was about 8 weeks old... she's been sleeping about 10-11 hours without waking up for months. Now, it happens, about 1:30 and/or 3:30. Every night.
I have tried letting her cry it out, but she just gets more and more frantic. She doesn't go back to sleep.
So, I go in, pick her up, hug her, hold her for 45 seconds- a minute or so, then lay her back down... she goes back to sleep right away. She won't take water and doesn't fight being held (meaning she doesn't want to go play or anything).
Any ideas? At first I thought maybe it was bad dreams, but it's happening a lot, and on schedule. My other thought was maybe a neighbor is coming home from work or something, and the car wakes her up, since it's scheduled - but why would that scare her so much? I have no idea and am open to suggestions!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
So, uh...
Sorry I've been avoiding you.
It's not you. Really. It's me. The last month I have had the energy of a slug.
And it's been busy, much going on.
And, it's difficult to blog when the only thing I feel like writing about I'm not ready to.
So, to sum up, here's what I would have said over the past month or so:
Now, aren't you glad I didn't blog? What a complainer!
We also went to Atlanta for an impromptu trip with Aaron & Jenny, I hosted a Coffee, went to to the Hunter Spouses Club Luncheon, a Hail & Farewell for Jon's Battalion, Chaplain/Family luncheon, Jon started teaching a weekly financial class on Wednesday evenings - plus the usual PWOC and such.
The pregnancy is going well. I'm now at 10 weeks - due August 26. (Or August 3, if this baby is like Sophie...) I've been feeling ok - mostly tired (see above).
On that note, I've been sitting here for the past hour and need to get some things done - more updates soon! :-)
It's not you. Really. It's me. The last month I have had the energy of a slug.
And it's been busy, much going on.
And, it's difficult to blog when the only thing I feel like writing about I'm not ready to.
So, to sum up, here's what I would have said over the past month or so:
I'm tired.
I'm hungry, but nothing sounds good.
I eat anyway.
I want to sleep.
I think I'm going to throw up.
I can't wait for Sophie's naptime so I can take one too.
I shouldn't have just eaten. Still feel like I'm going to throw up.
Still tired.
Being pregnant with a one-year-old is much more tiring than just being pregnant.
Now, aren't you glad I didn't blog? What a complainer!
We also went to Atlanta for an impromptu trip with Aaron & Jenny, I hosted a Coffee, went to to the Hunter Spouses Club Luncheon, a Hail & Farewell for Jon's Battalion, Chaplain/Family luncheon, Jon started teaching a weekly financial class on Wednesday evenings - plus the usual PWOC and such.
The pregnancy is going well. I'm now at 10 weeks - due August 26. (Or August 3, if this baby is like Sophie...) I've been feeling ok - mostly tired (see above).
On that note, I've been sitting here for the past hour and need to get some things done - more updates soon! :-)
Monday, January 12, 2009
Eating Together
About three years ago, I heard a story on NPR about this fabulous new book called The Surprising Power of Family Meals: How eating together makes us smarter, stronger, healthier, and happier. I of course went directly to Amazon and had it shipped.
I finished the book yesterday.
But not because it was hard to get into. I mostly blame my degree work. When one has to read for no fun so much, it makes it hard to read for fun.
The other part of the blame is me.
Anyway, now that that's off my chest... it is a fantastically encouraging and enlightening book. It gives the history of the culture of eating, and how that has impacted culture throughout the ages. It points out that kids are more confident and resilient if they have regular meals with the family.
One of the motivating sections for me was about kids cooking. It is a known fact that when kids help prepare the meal, they are more inclined to eat it. I have heard this many times in my life, and we shall see in a few years if I am carrying through with this notion, even though it makes cooking time longer. (Really, can a 3-year-old wash and tear lettuce faster than me?)
It also instilled that whatever eating habits I have, most likely my kids will pick up on. Mothers who constantly diet tend to have 10-year-old daughters who think they're overweight. Do I end every meal with dessert? (not saying that's a bad thing necessarily... ;-) My kids will too. Children will learn to eat - and enjoy - what their parents do. (This is why most 4-year-olds living in Mexico have a higher tolerance for spicy heat than I do...) They learn appropriate portions, nutrition, what foods go together - and these things will stick with them forever.
That is why, to this day, whenever I have fish, I have peas. Why? Growing up, for some reason, it was written in some secret Nave code that peas go with fish. Also in this code is that Sunday lunch includes roast and homemade biscuits, Wednesday evenings were for fried food (gotta love going to youth group smelling like a Fry Daddy...), and potatoes go with everything.
Okok, maybe I didn't keep all of that. I did not inherit my mother's affection for potatoes... but I did inherit her comfortable, homey style of cooking. I have adapted it and made it my own... just as my kids will.
One of the things I appreciated about this book is that the author didn't make judgment calls. She never offered a model of how family meals must run. In fact, quite the contrary. She suggests, that, if nothing else, eat breakfast together, or a bedtime snack. She of course promotes cooking at home - whether that mean gourmet meals, or things so simple a young child could do them. This isn't a cookbook - it allows you to make the best of whatever family situation you have.
If you have young kids - or even if you don't - I would highly recommend this book. It is a quick read (as long as you don't put it down for months between chapters...) and will either inspire you to change, or reinforce what you are currently doing.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
T-Day in KC
We had a great Thanksgiving! (What? Late in posting this? Nah...)
We went to Kansas City to be with Jon's grandmother on her 85th birthday! She had never met Sophie before... nor had she met 3 of Sophie's cousins who were there too! What fun!
After a long Thanksgiving Day spent in the airport (thanks to a 4 1/2 hour long layover), we finally made it to KC late that night. On Friday we went to the WWI Museum there. It was a great museum - very interactive. If you ever have the chance to go, you should.
(As I write this, there is a pile of shiny gifts in the middle of the floor that I wrapped while Sophie was napping. True to the saying, she is literally playing with the empty box of one of her gifts, completely ignoring the bright presents next to her...)
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Ok, that was yesterday. Anyway, that evening all (well, most) of Jon's siblings and his dad came into town, and we all went to the church to hang out! It was great having it at the church instead of someone's house - we ate in the gym, so the kids could play on one end, we could talk on the other, and we weren't all on top of each other. They even brought in some nursery toys for the little ones. Fabulous.
The next day was Grandma's birthday party! Jon and two of our brothers-in-law took the young kids in the nursery to play - it was great! They got to talk, and the moms didn't have to worry about the kids! Sophie had a great time playing with new toys - and her cousins! Ok, she probably wouldn't have known one way or the other if her cousins were there, but I like to think so...
Saturday evening we all played Apples to Apples. Now, you have to understand something. Growing up, my family got a board game every year. Though we actually rarely played between Christmas, we ALWAYS did that day. Trivial Pursuit was a perennial favorite, though never mine. Jon has been telling me for the past four years that his family "doesn't play games." Ha! We all sure did have a great time that night! Then we played The Name Game, and Amy and I pretty much kicked butt.
Sunday Jon's dad and siblings left for home, so we went to Grandma's church. After that we went to his uncle Jeff's for lunch - leftover Thanksgiving! Since we at at Friday's in the airport for our Thanksgiving dinner, Joanne's leftover turkey, stuffing, and potatoes were FABULOUS!
You can see all the pics from the trip here!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Once around the sun...
My darling, on this, your first...
In some ways I can't believe it's been a whole year since you were born, but in other ways I can't imagine life before you. You have added such joy to our family!
I love how your face lights up when you see your dad. Yesterday when he had to leave for work, you laid on the floor and sobbed, brokenhearted.
A few weeks ago you learned how to smack your lips to make "the kissing sound." You are even getting the hang of doing it at the same time you get (or give!) a kiss!
We gave you a push-behind walker for your birthday the other day. As soon as you saw it, you flashed up a big smile, pulled up, and took off! It is now your favorite thing to walk around the house - if only you could figure out how to turn!
You love your independence. You have been self-feeding for months, barely letting me get a spoon in your mouth. Now that you can even drink out of your sippy cup by yourself, you drink water all day long! Part of it is probably that you are thirsty - but I am convinced that part of it is because you just like being able to do it for yourself.
When you get a very special treat (usually chocolate), you giggle. It doesn't matter what kind of mood you were in before - sometimes even crying - but unexpected chocolate is enough to make you giggle with glee.
You go through phases with things. Like, the kissing sound you made for about 3 days, then stopped for about 2 weeks. You also went through phases with sticking out your tongue (not straight out, but touching it down to your chin), "bubububing" your lips (when you stick out your lips and run your finger over them to make that sound), clapping, waving, and pointing. If things in your life go from cool to not cool that quickly, I don't think I will ever be able to keep up come junior high...
You have recently developed separation anxiety. It makes me feel good that you like to be with me so much, but I do wish you would let others hold you without screaming! Yesterday a friend from PWOC saw you cuddling with Dad at the Christmas party, and she was amazed you would go to anyone but me. I am so grateful you love your dad just as much!
You LOVE your doll. Every time you see her you say "aaoow" in your cute little way, smile, and give her hugs. You even pat her back (just like you do when you hug Dad or me!) - you somehow know how to treat her differently from the rest of your toys. The things you pick up on are amazing.
You are such a peaceful child. You are content at every stage, but excited to reach the next. You always want to know what's going on - if people are talking, you want nothing but to be in the room. You don't talk or try to be the center of attention - you just take it all in. Aaron said that you have that look in your eyes that says you know what's going on. You are so aware.
You're also fun! One of my favorite things you do is when you start laughing because other people are. Sometimes I laugh for no reason, just to see yours. You have recently started playing games and teasing too! Yesterday you were giving Dad kisses, then I asked for a kiss, and you turned away and laughed. Three times.
Sophia Anne, I love you. I can't imagine life without you. You have filled my life with so much joy. I am so proud of the little girl you are and the one you are becoming.
Happy birthday!
In some ways I can't believe it's been a whole year since you were born, but in other ways I can't imagine life before you. You have added such joy to our family!
I love how your face lights up when you see your dad. Yesterday when he had to leave for work, you laid on the floor and sobbed, brokenhearted.
A few weeks ago you learned how to smack your lips to make "the kissing sound." You are even getting the hang of doing it at the same time you get (or give!) a kiss!
We gave you a push-behind walker for your birthday the other day. As soon as you saw it, you flashed up a big smile, pulled up, and took off! It is now your favorite thing to walk around the house - if only you could figure out how to turn!
You love your independence. You have been self-feeding for months, barely letting me get a spoon in your mouth. Now that you can even drink out of your sippy cup by yourself, you drink water all day long! Part of it is probably that you are thirsty - but I am convinced that part of it is because you just like being able to do it for yourself.
When you get a very special treat (usually chocolate), you giggle. It doesn't matter what kind of mood you were in before - sometimes even crying - but unexpected chocolate is enough to make you giggle with glee.
You go through phases with things. Like, the kissing sound you made for about 3 days, then stopped for about 2 weeks. You also went through phases with sticking out your tongue (not straight out, but touching it down to your chin), "bubububing" your lips (when you stick out your lips and run your finger over them to make that sound), clapping, waving, and pointing. If things in your life go from cool to not cool that quickly, I don't think I will ever be able to keep up come junior high...
You have recently developed separation anxiety. It makes me feel good that you like to be with me so much, but I do wish you would let others hold you without screaming! Yesterday a friend from PWOC saw you cuddling with Dad at the Christmas party, and she was amazed you would go to anyone but me. I am so grateful you love your dad just as much!
You LOVE your doll. Every time you see her you say "aaoow" in your cute little way, smile, and give her hugs. You even pat her back (just like you do when you hug Dad or me!) - you somehow know how to treat her differently from the rest of your toys. The things you pick up on are amazing.
You are such a peaceful child. You are content at every stage, but excited to reach the next. You always want to know what's going on - if people are talking, you want nothing but to be in the room. You don't talk or try to be the center of attention - you just take it all in. Aaron said that you have that look in your eyes that says you know what's going on. You are so aware.
You're also fun! One of my favorite things you do is when you start laughing because other people are. Sometimes I laugh for no reason, just to see yours. You have recently started playing games and teasing too! Yesterday you were giving Dad kisses, then I asked for a kiss, and you turned away and laughed. Three times.
Sophia Anne, I love you. I can't imagine life without you. You have filled my life with so much joy. I am so proud of the little girl you are and the one you are becoming.
Happy birthday!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Christmas Peace
My friend Megan wrote a beautiful post that is a great follow-up to my last one. Though many are hurting, we know that the Prince of Peace comes to offer hope! If you don't have time to read the whole thing (which you should!), at least scroll down and read what's in green toward the bottom...
A Revelation
I have been given an amazing gift this Christmas season. It was probably costly, but not expensive. It is laced with beauty, but not found in diamonds or jewels. No, this Christmas season I've been given the gift of understanding.
Understanding how awesome it is that Jesus came to our world.
Understanding the idea that He began His journey to redeem the world on that lonely Christmas night.
Understanding what the true meaning of Christmas is all about.
In my devotions, I've been reading about the promise of Christ throughout the entire Old Testament. How Christ has reigned supreme since the very beginning of time. God revealed Christ for the very first time when He said to the serpent, "You will bruise His heel, but He will crush your head." Again, He declared the promise to Abram when He declared that "all the peoples of the earth shall be blessed through you." Abram knew God wasn't talking about Him, but of the One who was to come through Abram's line of descent. David received the promise of the Messiah when the Lord God said, "your kingdom will reign forever." Again, David knew it had nothing to do with him, but everything to do with God redeeming the world.
In the book of Isaiah, we find four songs of the servant, which can also be referred to as Messianic prophecies. One that has always been read during the Christmas season is Isaiah 9:6-7:
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of government and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this."
What I find to be amazing are the verses that precede this text, rarely ever read together:
"Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan - The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. For unto us a child is born...."
Do you see what I'm getting at? How incredible it is that the one who brought peace came in the form of a baby! I have many other thoughts on this that I will write in another post, but for now I want to focus on the issue of peace. Reading my friend Sara's blog the other day, reminded me of the war-filled world we live in. Having her husband as an Army Chaplain, I doubt that she is ever able to think otherwise. It is sad for me to read stories of real people who are losing their lives. Men and women who are fighting for our country, but also wars that are taking place around the world that we don't even know about. Civil wars like the ones in Africa, tribal wars, religious wars, etc. take place always. Will peace ever come to be in this world of hatred and hurt?
Yet, in this passage in Isaiah, God says that there is One greater than all of this. There is One who will bring peace. And peace means so much more than just an absence of war or an inner calm. My devotion suggested it as, "completeness, wholeness, fullness, soundness, firmness, safety, well-being, prosperity, and contentment." Being a Wonderful Counselor indicates wisdom and royalty; "Mighty God" is associated with power and victory; "Everlasting Father" points to His eternal and divine origins; and "Prince of Peace" means he brings peace and well-being to the earth.
It is so humbling to me to think of my God coming to earth as a human. Think of a baby you know and love; maybe your own child. Think of Christ in that precious form. Knowing that those tiny hands would be nailed to a cross. That those tiny little feet would take the grueling steps toward redeeming the world as the world threw insults and hatred at him. That his sweet, soft skin would be covered in stripes of blood. And that through all of this, we have the promise of peace. True peace that no President, pastor or peace treaty can provide.
Why is it we tend to bypass this great truth? Why do we only look to the cross on Easter? For truly, that little baby was looking to the cross on that miraculous Christmas night. I will never cease to be thankful.
Saturday, December 06, 2008
The Return of the Red Baron
Last January, as Jon and I sat on the couch in the sunroom, one phrase stuck out at me:
"I'll be home for Christmas..."
And he is. When he first told me he was deploying this year, neither of us really knew the details, how long he would be there. What we were fairly certain of was that he would be home for Christmas.
That means so much to me... we all know another deployment is down the pike, and with all these calls for surges in Afghanistan (wait... not a surge, right? Just quickly sending more troops...), who knows if he'll be here next year...
You know those messages that are on radio and tv this time of year, from the war? "Hello, this is Sergeant X stationed in Baghdad, wishing a Merry Christmas to my wife and kids back at Fort Stewart." They make me cry every time. Jon will come home from work to find me in tears, listening to Christmas music.
Especially if "I'll be Home for Christmas" happens to come on. It's over then.
I have found another song this year that makes me emotional. I remember it well from my childhood; it was always one of my favorite Christmas songs. Remember it?
Yep, The Return of the Red Baron. Growing up I just thought it was a fun song - it is actually quite significant. Though the events specifically aren't from the famous Christmas Eve Truce of 1914, similar events were told of all over the war zone.
Don't know what I'm talking about? In 1914, when WWI started, no one thought it would last more than a couple months. On Christmas Eve, stories are told of both sides agreeing to not fight on Christmas. They really are touching stories - I think what's most amazing is to hear Soldiers talk about how that made the war more human to them. They realized that the enemy Soldiers were men just like them, with families and lives back home.
If you've never seen it, I'd encourage you to watch Joyeux Noel. I wrote about it two years ago in this post. (Though, I feel the need to caveat that there is one scene you may need to skip through...)
Christmas is happy for me this year. I have a beautiful daughter and a wonderful husband at home. Yet, I can't help but think about all the people it isn't happy for. Whether those around me whose Soldiers are still deployed, or others who are hurting in many different ways, this is certainly not "the most wonderful time of the year" for everyone...
Remember these people in your prayers this season. Be grateful for what you have. Help others when you can.
Merry Christmas.
"I'll be home for Christmas..."
And he is. When he first told me he was deploying this year, neither of us really knew the details, how long he would be there. What we were fairly certain of was that he would be home for Christmas.
That means so much to me... we all know another deployment is down the pike, and with all these calls for surges in Afghanistan (wait... not a surge, right? Just quickly sending more troops...), who knows if he'll be here next year...
You know those messages that are on radio and tv this time of year, from the war? "Hello, this is Sergeant X stationed in Baghdad, wishing a Merry Christmas to my wife and kids back at Fort Stewart." They make me cry every time. Jon will come home from work to find me in tears, listening to Christmas music.
Especially if "I'll be Home for Christmas" happens to come on. It's over then.
I have found another song this year that makes me emotional. I remember it well from my childhood; it was always one of my favorite Christmas songs. Remember it?
Yep, The Return of the Red Baron. Growing up I just thought it was a fun song - it is actually quite significant. Though the events specifically aren't from the famous Christmas Eve Truce of 1914, similar events were told of all over the war zone.
Don't know what I'm talking about? In 1914, when WWI started, no one thought it would last more than a couple months. On Christmas Eve, stories are told of both sides agreeing to not fight on Christmas. They really are touching stories - I think what's most amazing is to hear Soldiers talk about how that made the war more human to them. They realized that the enemy Soldiers were men just like them, with families and lives back home.
If you've never seen it, I'd encourage you to watch Joyeux Noel. I wrote about it two years ago in this post. (Though, I feel the need to caveat that there is one scene you may need to skip through...)
Christmas is happy for me this year. I have a beautiful daughter and a wonderful husband at home. Yet, I can't help but think about all the people it isn't happy for. Whether those around me whose Soldiers are still deployed, or others who are hurting in many different ways, this is certainly not "the most wonderful time of the year" for everyone...
Remember these people in your prayers this season. Be grateful for what you have. Help others when you can.
Merry Christmas.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
my mind is on the brink
We have family here! My sister Andrea, her husband, and two girls are here for a visit. I would say "you won't see much of me because my family is here"... but the fact is, you haven't seen much of me around here anyway...
Not really sure why that is. I suppose part of it is that a lot of the things I would want to blog about, I can't, because I never am exactly sure who all is out there reading...
Another is that my mind is tired. I sit down to blog and find myself staring off into the distance instead. I am frustrated at my class (BY FAR the WORST professor I've ever had!), busy with PWOC, and trying to keep up with an ever-changing little girl!
So, let's talk about her - she's much more fun to talk about than my frustrations! :-)
She's on the move! She is now cruising (walking along furniture), talking nonstop - we are even starting to be able to discern some things! She has said "Mom" and "Dad" with discrimination for a while now, and these last couple days I've been pretty sure she's saying some form of "down/done" when she's done eating - or done with anything! She was pretty sick last week - poor little girl. Fever, thick runny nose, clingy - just all around miserable. (That explains it, Lori! ;-)
She's loving her aunt and uncle and cousins being here! The first night she had to make sure Mom & Dad were close by, but now she's taking off to go find them around the corner! She's being much more adventurous with eating and is a ton of fun!
If I don't "see" you before then, have a great Thanksgiving!!
Not really sure why that is. I suppose part of it is that a lot of the things I would want to blog about, I can't, because I never am exactly sure who all is out there reading...
Another is that my mind is tired. I sit down to blog and find myself staring off into the distance instead. I am frustrated at my class (BY FAR the WORST professor I've ever had!), busy with PWOC, and trying to keep up with an ever-changing little girl!
So, let's talk about her - she's much more fun to talk about than my frustrations! :-)
She's on the move! She is now cruising (walking along furniture), talking nonstop - we are even starting to be able to discern some things! She has said "Mom" and "Dad" with discrimination for a while now, and these last couple days I've been pretty sure she's saying some form of "down/done" when she's done eating - or done with anything! She was pretty sick last week - poor little girl. Fever, thick runny nose, clingy - just all around miserable. (That explains it, Lori! ;-)
She's loving her aunt and uncle and cousins being here! The first night she had to make sure Mom & Dad were close by, but now she's taking off to go find them around the corner! She's being much more adventurous with eating and is a ton of fun!
If I don't "see" you before then, have a great Thanksgiving!!
Friday, November 14, 2008
MER Weekend
Now this is irony.
I'm sitting on the couch, eating leftover chocolate cake and watching Food Network. Alone.
The reason I'm alone? Jon's at a Marriage Enrichment Retreat.
Yes, 'tis the season in life in which I can't leave Sophie overnight, and this is a "No Kids Allowed" kind of thing. My dear friend Lori has graciously agreed to watch her tomorrow so I can go join them for the day. It will necessitate 4 1/2 hours on the road, but it whatever it takes to be with my husband!
----------------------------------------------------
I actually wrote that Friday night. Jon is now happily by my side! I did go yesterday and had a great time meeting some of Jon's friends and enjoying the beautiful island! (It was at the Westin on Hilton Head Island, SC). Unfortunately, Sophie didn't have quite as good of a day. She's cutting a tooth, so it would seem - today she was drooling and had a runny nose. Many thanks to Lori for doing everything she could to console her yesterday!
I'm sitting on the couch, eating leftover chocolate cake and watching Food Network. Alone.
The reason I'm alone? Jon's at a Marriage Enrichment Retreat.
Yes, 'tis the season in life in which I can't leave Sophie overnight, and this is a "No Kids Allowed" kind of thing. My dear friend Lori has graciously agreed to watch her tomorrow so I can go join them for the day. It will necessitate 4 1/2 hours on the road, but it whatever it takes to be with my husband!
----------------------------------------------------
I actually wrote that Friday night. Jon is now happily by my side! I did go yesterday and had a great time meeting some of Jon's friends and enjoying the beautiful island! (It was at the Westin on Hilton Head Island, SC). Unfortunately, Sophie didn't have quite as good of a day. She's cutting a tooth, so it would seem - today she was drooling and had a runny nose. Many thanks to Lori for doing everything she could to console her yesterday!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Picture update
"Hmm... not totally sure what this is..."
"Ooh... it's good!"
"I wonder how I can most efficiently get this all in my mouth at once..."
"I have an idea!"
"This works even better!"
"Happy Birthday, Mom! Good cake!"
A couple weekends ago we were able to go on the Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise! That's something we've talked about doing since we move to
Hinesville 2 years ago and told ourselves we would after the deployment. Well, a few weeks ago a fellow Chaplain's wife offered to watch Soph any time we needed it - so we took her up on it! :-)It was SO much fun! It was pretty dark after dinner when we went up on the 3rd deck, but it was still pretty cool to see all the lights. We too
k the Savannah River out to the Atlantic, then back in.Unbeknownst to us, there was a Seafood Festival going on at the same time. As an attraction there, there was a tall ship that is run by a commune of people. After seeing the tour cost only a $1 donation, we were all over it! We were able to spend about 15 minutes there before catching the cruise!
Jon loves boats, and that evening made him want one even more! Maybe when he retires...
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