Long Lost Relatives

Awhile ago, my step-mom showed me a pic of my half sister (whom we will call Mary) when she was two years old. She looked exactly like me! Blond hair and light color eyes! I couldn't believe it. Ever since then I have been waiting to meet her but have had no luck. First I sat down and wrote a letter to her and then one to her mom explaining who I was. I put a few pictures in there and then mailed them off to the address my step-mom gave me. The letters were not returned so I am assuming that they reached their destination. Now whether Mary's mom (whom we will call Sue) showed them to her I have no clue.

That was all 3 years ago. I was 19 and Mary was around 13 I believe.

About a month ago, if that, I was talking to Cheryl, my step-mom, and she said to look up 'Mary R*******) on FB. She believed that it was my half sister. Once FB loaded and pulled up her profile I could tell by her profile pic that we were related. She looks a lot like my cousin Erica when she was younger. The only sucky part was that her profile was to private that all I could do was friend request her. So not only did I friend request her so did my good friend Amanda.

About 3 weeks went by and all of a sudden Mary accepted Amanda's friend request, but not mine. Of course, at that exact moment my phone rings and it's Amanda. We talk about it for about, o 3 seconds and then we decided to have her send Mary a message asking her to get a hold of me. Once Amanda got done typing it she read it back to me and then clicked 'send'. Low and behold, a minute later Mary responds and asks if she could text message me. I told Amanda that was fine so she gave her my number. At this point I'm so excited and nervous that I'm shaking. I couldn't believe that I was about to talk to my half sister who I have never met. Well... the minutes came and went and I didn't receive any texts. I know she is probably wondering who these creeps are that are contacting her. lol I know I would be.

So here I sit, 10:36 on the morning of Tuesday, August 24 waiting for my phone to make it's little chime that notifies me that I have a text.

During all of this I have realized just how lucky I am. I am very grateful for my family and that my dad is apart of my life. Mary doesn't know (I don't think) who he is and with that she is missing out on all the wonderful people that make up my dad's side of the family. I can't imagine my life without them. My grandparents who have been there for my sister Robin and I since we were born. My aunts and uncles that are more like parents to us. Cousins that are more like siblings, and family friends that are more like relatives. So dad, (even though I know you will never read this because you have no clue how to turn on a computer! lol) thank you for being apart of my life. You are the best dad I could have ever asked for. I love you.

Mary, if you read this I hope none of this scares you. I'm not sure what you know or if you know anything about our dad but please know that he is a great guy. Yea he has made his fair share (plus a little) of mistakes but all in all he is good people! (I've always wanted to say that! The 'good people' part. lol) I hope that one day, if not now, we can talk and get to know each other, then maybe even possibly meet. :)

I hope everyone has a great rest of the week!

It's been too long...

Wow, Has it really been since May since I last blogged? So much has happened since then. Where to start... where to start!! Let's try starting from the beginning shall we?!

June 7th rolled around and my wonderful husband and I celebrated our second marriage anniversary. It was the first anniversary we have gotten to celebrate and I must say, it was definitely better than last year! We ended up spending the day together and going out to dinner. Three days later the CMA Fest started in Nashville so since it was so close to our anniversary Ben got us tickets to go for all four nights!!! He is so sweet to me! He knows that Reba and Keith Urban are my absolute favorite and that they would be there, so what better way to celebrate our anniversary than dancing and singing the night away with all the wonderful and talented country music artists?! For the Fest, my aunt and uncle, Glen and Debbie, came down and got tickets as well! We all had a wonderful time and are thinking of doing it again the next summer than Ben is home.



The next couple of weeks were a little busy for us. Our dear friends Erica and Matt came down and spent a few days with us. We don't get to see them enough. The day that they left, my uncle Frank and cousin Aaron came into town to spend a few days with us since they were on their way to Florida! Aaron is like my little, but bigger, brother! I love him to pieces and so glad that him and Frank stopped by our house! We definitely enjoyed their company and can't wait to see them again.

July 2nd finally got here and it was time for us to hop on a plane and fly to Alaska to visit Ben's mom! It was the MOST beautiful place I have ever been! We had so much fun! We fished for Halibut (which we brought back 83 pounds of btw), caught shrimp, saw whales, sea lions, seals, and eagles. We also went hiking, shopping, and zip lining. I have never had so much fun in all my life and was very upset to leave. So upset in fact that I cried when we landed in Nashville. I know, I know, I'm a big baby. You go to Alaska, come back and tell me that you truly wanted to come back home and not stay! lol



Now we are back to our day to day lives. I have three weeks left of school and then my externship before I am done!!! I can't wait! Well, it's really bittersweet actually. I can't wait for it to be over so that I can start working and we can get the two things that I really really want and keep begging him for, but at the same time I don't want to wish my time away with my hubby. It's crazy to think that in six months he leaves again. It seems like he just got here and we have barely had enough time to start our lives back up again. I know that it's the Army life and this is what happens but I must say that it sucks. My crying spells have already happened and I already know that this next tour will be harder than the first. With the first tour, we had only lived together two months before he had to leave since I was finishing up my first round of schooling so therefore we were kinda used to being separated. Now, however, it's a different story. We have lived in our first house together everyday (minus Army training) since he got home. I'm just going to miss him is all, and I pray that he comes home untouched, safe and sound like last time.

Okay, now since that is off my chest I'm going to but it far far away in the back of my brain and not take a single moment I have with him for granted. I thank God everyday for bringing him into my life. He is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I love you sweetie!!!

Well... the dryer and basket full of unfolded clothes are calling my name. Until next time. Have a week everyone!

I'm a strong minded person...

"I am a strong minded person. I say what I want to say, when I want to say it (most of the time). I have been walked on in the past and will not let it happen to me again so If I call you out on something, even something small, I am not doing it to cause problems, I am doing it to get it off of both of our chests so that the air is clear." This would be one of my facebook status' for the day. Let me start from the beginning...

"I am a strong minded person..." - This is pretty self explanatory. Ever since before I can remember I have been this way. I do not have a problem expressing how I feel, most of the time. lol I feel that, even some of the small things, once you get them off your chest you feel better. You know that it is out in the open and you can move on. Bottling everything up inside is not healthy. You end up becoming unhappy and everything that person does will end up getting on your nerves until one day, you just snap. I know this first hand. My mother and I have this kind of relationship. Ever since I was small I would see and hear stuff she would do and I would just keep my mouth shut. After I got kicked out of her house and she never called to talked to me I just kept it to myself. Don't get me wrong, I talked to my dad and stepmom about it but never to her. She confronted me at my wedding about how she was upset I didn't involve her in anything and I just blew it off because I wasn't going to let her ruin my day. While my sister was planning her wedding, Joy (my mother), did some stuff that was making Robin, my sister, upset but once again, I just kept it to myself. However, the day of my sister's wedding Joy crossed the line and I finally started letting things out. I tried to tell her how I felt, but of course she kept interrupting me, which gets me even more heated, so I just stopped and tried to walk away. Finally, about two weeks or so after the wedding I had had enough. I had not gotten an apology for what she did to me at the wedding so I decided that I would write a letter. I knew that was the only way that I could get my entire point across without being interrupted. Long story short, I feel much better now that everything I had bottled up inside me for a good 10+ years is finally out in the open. It was tearing me up inside... but not anymore. I will admit that a lot of the things I said in the letter probably hurt her but the truth hurts sometimes. I know that sounds harsh but I don't know how to put it any other way.

There is also something else that I have kept bottled up inside that I have never spoke to the person or people about. I'm not sure why I haven't said anything to them about it. I honestly couldn't tell you. However, I'm ready to get it off of my chest. Even if it is only on here and they will probably never read it. lol

When I sit at the same table as you and ask you a question and you ignore me, or you give me dirty looks from across the way or you even plan on convincing my husband (fiance at the time)to not marry me (even though you didn't, it's the thought that counted) it upsets me. I have done nothing but be nice to all of you and I get treated like dog crap. I understand that you don't see your nephew near as much anymore but that is not my fault. Not only is he married to me but he is married to the Army as well. I am more the mistress actually. lol You should always treat people the way you want to be treated and unless you want to be treated like dog crap as well then please stop treating me like that. Another thing, I honestly don't mind if the people in question do not like me. I understand that I am hard headed and can rub people the wrong way but the least you can do is respect me. I am a human being just the same as you.
For a side note, don't tell someone you are going to do something, (ie tell someone you are going to visit them and tell them you are going to send them gifts while they are overseas fighting for your freedom) and then don't. It does hurt a person and makes them think you don't care. Just look at it as if the situation were reversed.

Like I said before, I do not say stuff to cause problems. I simply do it to feel better and to get it off my chest so I don't become unhappy. I am a very happy person and would like to stay that way!

If I have offended anyone I am truly sorry. Have a blessed week.

Flowers!

Who doesn't love flowers? They are beautiful and always put a smile on your face! With that in mind, I decided that I wanted to redo and extend the flower garden that was currently outside of my house. The garden was directly in front of the porch and consisted of six bushes and two itty bitty things of flowers. The bushes... well... lets just say that they were not my favorite. The previous home owners had three sets of them. Two bushes at either end and two in the middle. And I don't know about you, but I am very OCD when it comes to things matching; and these bushes didn't match. They were two different shades of green that just did not go together. Have a look for yourself...



See what I mean? UGLY! lol

My best friend Betsy and her boyfriend Allen came down this weekend to help me take care of the ugliness and turn it into something beautiful! And we did just that! (side note... I do feel bad that the two times they have come down I have had them help me with something. The first time... paining. Now... planting. Next time Bets... I PROMISE we will hang out and not work! lol I guess that's what happens when you have a version of Martha Stewart has your best friend! :))

First we started with digging up the bushes. A lot harder than it sounds. Apparently our yard is nothing but rocks... YIPPEE! (hints the sarcasm) lol Once we dug the bushes up it was time to plant the Holly bushes! We got those in the ground in no time. The Lilies, on the other hand, were a different story. While I was digging my hole, my shovel hit this, what I thought was a rock at first, duck taped "thing." I had no idea what it was and didn't want to pull it out of the ground in case it was something important. Low and behold it wasn't, so Allen pulled it up and when Ben got home that night he had Ben open it. It ended up being a bottle of dirt wrapped up in, what seemed like, an entire roll of duck tape. However, at first we thought maybe some cocaine was in that bottle, so once Ben got it open he started sniffing. The funniest thing ever! lol I guess this goes to show you never know what could be buried in your flower garden! lol

Back to digging holes for the lilies... After the lilies, zebra grass, another bush and flower that I forgot the names of were planted, the weed barrier in place, and the rocks down for decoration, we were FINALLY done! Here's the finished product...





I think it turned out AMAZING and I thank Betsy and Allen for all of their hard work! I could not have done this without them! Thank you guys so very much!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Later that night, Ben finally got home! Allen was happy! lol I guess too must estrogen for the day and needed a man to talk to! lol We got to hang out with him for about an hour and then we headed uptown to go to the Charlie Daniels concert, for free I might add, while Ben went to bed. (He is in WLC and has to be up super early in the morning so for the next 13 days he will be in soldier mode all day, except for when he is home to sleep.) The concert was pretty good! Of course there were a ton of people up there, but hey it's free... what do ya expect! lol However, before Charlie could even get his first song completed the lady in front of us fainted. Poor thing. I hope she ended up being alright. Allen and some people around us tried standing her up, only for her to fall again. Thank goodness there was a nurse standing right behind me that came up and helped her. Once the EMT's got there, they walked her out. Her poor little boy had no idea what was going on with his mommy. I'm sure she ended up being alright, probably got to hot or something, but man.. it sure was scary!

Well... it is now Sunday afternoon. Bets and Allen have left, Ben is at WLC til atleast 7 tonight, and Rascal is sleeping. What to do, what to do! Good thing Army Wives is on tonight! Man do I love that show! lol

I hope everyone had an awesome weekend! Until next time....

Easter Weekend

What's better than spending Easter with the people you love? Nothing! Easter this year was awesome! Ben was home, the weather was beautiful and we were surrounded by all the people we love! We got into town Friday night and had dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings with my stepmom! After that we headed to TG's to have a couple drinks! To our surprise two of our really good friends walk into the door! Yep you guessed it... Kristi and Lance! We had so much fun catching up with them and listening to Kristi sing Karaoke. lol. Saturday we headed over to his uncle Dan and Cindy's and had the best breakfast I have ever eaten. I absolutely LOVE his aunt Cindy's potatoes! I have tried to make them myself but they just don't turn out the same. One of these days I'm gonna have to have her teach me! Once breakfast was over the egg hunting for the little kids began! It's always such a joy to watch little kids find the Easter eggs! When I was little that was my favorite thing about Easter. Heck who am I kidding... I still love to hunt for Easter eggs! lol






Later on that afternoon we headed over to Chrissy's house to celebrate Easter and Sophie and Brayden's birthdays with them since we won't be home for their parties. We got Sophie some Strawberry Shortcake and Little Pony stuff! Brayden got a bunch of outside toys that he will be able to play in his sandbox! I think I had more fun playing with their toys then they did! (They were eating their candy from their Easter eggs from us. lol) Kids toys nowadays are so much fun!






Chrissy, Brad, and Sophie had to go have Easter with the YaYa so the McHugh's and Carroll's left and headed to Walmart. We had to go for an oil change, Adam wanted potatoes. lol Lets just say I have never had so much fun at Walmart as I did that day. First we went into the bike isle and I rode this little kids bike. Brayden was eyeballing me the whole time. When I got off he started grabbing for it so I said... hey, why not!? lol I held onto him as he put one of his little feet onto the petals and turned the handle bars like he knew what he was doing! It was so cute! If only we had gotten a picture of the smile on this face. :) After that, while his mommy, daddy, and Ben were shopping, Brayden ran around the isles giggling as I chased after him. By the time we had to leave, the poor little guy was covered in sweat. But if I do say so myself... he was having a pretty good time! :)
The next morning was Easter Sunday. And what a fabulous day it was to worship the Lord. That morning we had breakfast with Ben's dad before we left for home. On our way out, we stopped over at my cousin's house and cracked some jokes for awhile. Also, not to mention... ate some of the M&M's that were in the kid's Easter eggs. lol shhh... don't tell. lol
About 2pm we finally got on the road and started heading back home. So to sum it all up, we had a pretty great Easter this year!

Spring is FINALLY here!

{AP Lumbar Spine}

Can you believe it? After what seems like an eternity, warm weather has finally found it's way back to us! I'm super excited! My favorite part of this season is being able to open up my windows and let all the fresh air fill up the house! Oh, and not to mention, driving with your sunglasses on, radio turned up and the windows down! ☺

These past couple of weeks have been busy and not to mention, a bit stressful. lol First of all my sister and her husband got transferred down here from Ft. Sill. They stayed with us for about a week until they found a house to rent. After a week of doing "bitch" work here at Ft Campbell, Josh finally got into his unit and found out that he will be deploying the beginning of April. I can't believe it is so soon already. We will be praying for him while he is over there and try to keep Robin busy until she leaves to go over in Oct. It's crazy to think that this time next year my brother-in-law, sister, AND husband will all be overseas. I am so proud of each and every one of them and will be praying for their safe return home!

School has also taken up a lot of our time but we can't complain since we both love it! Ben's schooling is going really well. He is in this third week of his Math class and has gotten 100% on his past two tests... all without my help! :) I'm very proud of him. School for me is going really well. Right now we are learning about the spine and have taken a couple x-rays already of the thoracic and lumbar spine! I never would have thought in a million years that I would like taking x-rays or even like anything in the medical field. I am so grateful that I looked into this and gave it a try. I really do think this is what I was meant to do. One of the goals in my life is to have a career that I love. Not a career that I continually ask myself "What was I thinking?" And I'm very excited that I will be able to, in a couple of months, place a big fat check mark next to that goal!

Yesterday, March 18, was quite an interesting day. As I do every morning, I left the house around 10 til 6 to head to school. I get to the outside of Nashville and notice that there is a bunch of smoke coming from my car. I glanced down at my temperature and saw that the needle was ABOVE the hot line. I got a little worried, pulled over, and called Ben. He talked to his sergeant and within a matter of minutes was on his way to rescue me. In the meantime I called a friend from school, Toni, and she just so happened to have coolant in her car! Thank goodness! So when she got there we added some and I then had her follow me to school. At times I could go 55 with the temp staying at normal and then at other times I could only go 30mph. Let me tell you, that morning sucked but we finally made it to school. Not to mention, I heard them mention me on the radio. hahaha. Sorry Nashville drivers! I was in class for about 15 min when Ben called and told me he was there so I went out and gave him my keys. At 8:30, when we have our break, I went outside to see if he figured it out. No such luck. He said he was going to have to take it up the street to the mechanics. Before he took it up there he came in and met everyone from class and enjoyed our break with us. Thank goodness the shop wasn't busy so they got my car in right away. Go to find out, I blew the top of my radiator. Not a clue as to how I did that. lol They said it just happens with the wear and tear of a car. So $400 later, my car has a brand new radiator and is as good as new. I am very grateful to Ben's platoon sergeant, Ben, and Toni for helping me out that day! I don't know what I would have done without them! Thanks you guys!

So needless to say, the trip we had planned to go back to Jefferson City this weekend was canceled. We know everything happens for a reason but we were really looking forward to going home. Tonight, Friday, we were going to go to my aunt's hall for a comedy show and dance. I have yet to attend an event that they have held and was looking forward to supporting them tonight. Saturday morning we were going to head to Ju-Ju's house to play with Brayden and Sophie before Julie's Tastefully Simple Party started at noon. However, the thing I was looking forward to the most was going to Victoria's Bridal with my friend Kristi, who is getting married next year, to watch her try on wedding dresses and for us bridesmaids to try on bridesmaids dresses! It was going to be so much fun! Darn car! lol I know she will have a blast tomorrow though and I can't wait to see pics and hear all about it.

So now we have planned a trip to come home for Easter. That will be the last time we are home for awhile though since all of our vacations will be coming up shortly after that! We can't wait! NC for Memorial Day weekend, CMA Fest with my aunt and uncle in June, a wedding in June, and then ALASKA in July for a week! Not to mention, July is my last month of class before my externship! WHOO HOO!!!

Enjoy the warm weather and WELCOME SPRING! (oh how I have missed you ☺)

Until next time....

Congratulations!!!

A lot has happened since my last post. My little sister got married on Feb. 20th, my best friend got engaged, more friends of ours found out they are going to be parents for the first time, and Ben turned 22!! Where to start... lol

Robin, my little sister, married Josh Elliott on Feb 20th. It was a very beautiful wedding and Ben and I couldn't be happier for them. The day started off great. Ben and I met up with my step mom and my aunt and uncle for breakfast that morning before my hair appointment. Hardees have some of the best hash-rounds. hehe. 10am was my hair appointment and I went in there having no idea what I wanted to do. I told Lesha that I wanted it simple, half up and elegant and she took it from there! She did a wonderful job! Next we got in the car and drove to the other side of Jefferson City to go and have my make-up done by the best make-up artist I know... Barb Perkins! Ben hung out in the "man cave" with Barb's husband (our friend Philip's dad) while Barb worked her magic! If you ever need anyone to do your makeup, I HIGHLY recommend Barb! Finally, after I was all prettied up, we headed to the church to get ready. My sister was already there chillin and after a half an hour we were all dressed and ready to go. We took the pictures first that didn't require Josh and Robin to be together and then the ceremony was about ready to go. Everything was going good at first until I found out how the seating arrangement was supposed to be in the front row. I'm not going to get into all the details and what not but when I discussed this with my mother and how I wanted Ben to sit between my dad and Cheryl (his ex-wife, my step mom) she jumped my case about it and wouldn't quit. You know they say that you are supposed to treat people the way you want to be treated, well, my mother should really listen to that. So I walked out of the church and thank goodness some of my family was out there to give me a beer! Thanks uncle Glen! :) All in all the ceremony went well and turned out very beautiful! As did the rest of the day, except for a few minor things that didn't go according to planned, but hey, that's life! I must say though that, that night (after Robin left) was a life changing night for me! I feel like a giant brick has been lifted off my shoulders and I couldn't be happier!

{The wedding party}

{Sisters}

Sunday morning Ben and I got up early, went to Mel's (the best restaurant btw) with my dad and his girlfriend and then headed on our long journey home! While we were driving I found out that one of my best friends got engaged over the weekend!!! Of course I had to find out over freaking facebook, and believe me she got an earful for that (hahah jk Kristi). I had known that her (Kristi) and Lance had been talking about marriage for awhile now but I had thought that Lance was going to wait for a little while until he proposed. He fooled me and her I think! lol haha! So of course the wedding planning has begun, and on Thursday, Feb 25 she officially asked Ashely, Michelle and I to be her bridesmaids!!! I'm not going to speak for them but I couldn't be more honored! I believe she is looking at a fall wedding so that Ben can be in the wedding (an usher) and actually be there (hopefully he isn't training). Lance, I do want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for making Kristi so happy and for being such a great 'step-dad' to Brett! Both of them are so lucky to have you, as you are lucky to have them! I believe that you guys will make a great couple and and ever greater family! Congrats to the three of you!!

I now have an 'old timer' on my hands. lol Ben turned 22 on Thursday the 25th! It was such a blessing to have him state side and home this year for his birthday! Of course he had to fly that day so he didn't get home until I was already in bed so we celebrated Friday! We had some friends over for some goo lash and cookie cake! Happy Birthday babe!

{We are going to make cute kids some day! lol}

Today, the 27th we found out that our friends, Joline and Philip Perkins are going to be parents for the first time! We couldn't be happier for them!

Wheww... that was a lot! jk. Ben and I are good. I am about to finish up with my second class and Ben has finished his first class! It's hard to believe that we are both in school! And let me tell ya, it can be really stressful at times! If only people could be as smart as me! HAHAH JUST KIDDING! The class that I am about to finish up is Technique Math. I know I know, you are probably getting sick to your stomach as you read over the word math but for me, it comes easy. Call me a nerd but I actually like it! I have even proven the teacher wrong a couple of times. lol Ben is about to start his College Math class. I'm excited for him because I know that he will need my help and I love math so I'm going to love helping him!

Some more interesting news is that my sister and new brother-in-law are being transferred to Fort Campbell so you all know what that means... we are getting new neighbors! lol Well not technically but I'm sure we will be seeing a lot more of them now that they are going to be living down here. To say the least, it should be interesting, fun but interesting. I'm actually excited to see what all of this will bring!

Other than all of that, nothing else is going on with us. Just living our daily lives and falling more and more in love with each other every day! I truly am blessed to have him in my life and thank God everyday for leading us to one another.

"All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better." Ralph Waldo Emerson

{Ben and I with our new bro-in-law}

{My all time favorite pic of Ben and Brayden. Too cute}

{Aren't they adorable? I just love these two to peices!!!}

Life's A Dance...

I finished up my first class of my nine month program today with a 93.8!!!! As much as I am excited that I got this grade and it being my first class I was really shooting for a 94.5 or better so that I could have gotten an Academic Excellence pin. Oh well. There are six more opportunities to get that pin and I know I can do it!
It is amazing how much I have learned, and retained in just a four week period. When I started the class on Jan 11 I had no idea what the bones were in the lower extremity or all the things on them, ex: trochanters, condyles, tibial spin, tibial tuberosity, etc. And to top that off I have also learned how to position those bones and all the medical terminology to go with it! The next class, that starts on Monday, is Technique Math! I'm excited about it. I love math! It comes easily to me.

While we are on the subject of school, Ben has started his schooling as well. His first day was this past Monday. He is attending Everglades University Online to receive his Bachelors in Aviation Technology with the hopes of being an air traffic controller once he is finished. It is one class a month for the next three years and they will work with him while he is deployed. Right now he is taking Aviation History and loves it! Last night while he was reading his book he would look up at me and say "Did you know..?" This happened about four or five times. It was so cute and I'm so happy that he is enjoying this class. I have learned alot about aviation already too! lol

Other than school, nothing too exciting is going on. My sister is getting married in a couple of weeks so that will be fun! She may even be moving down here so you can only imagine all the fun we are going to have. lol haha. jk Robin. Love ya. lol We have also heard rumors that Ben will be deploying again around Feb of next year. We knew this was going to happen but it sucks that they have already started talking about it and they haven't even been home three months. Even though I've already started the pre-deployment crying (I know, I'm a big baby) I am going to enjoy the time I have with Ben this year and not take one single moment for granted cuz I know Feb 2011 will be here before I know it.

Well I hope everyone has had an amazing year so far and that it only keeps getting better for you.

"Life's a dance, you learn as you go." John Michael Montgomery

Too much thinking...

Good things never come when I start thinking too much into things. That could be what is happening here or, I could be looking at the situation the way that it should be looked at. There are certain friends of mine that I love as if they were blood related. Don't get me wrong, I love all my friends as if they were family but these friends, idk... there is just something, or I thought there was something that made us even closer than friends, more like sisters. However, here recently I have been getting the feeling that that 'closeness' is fading away and soon there won't be any. This upsets me but I know that if that is what they want and will make things easier for them then that is what must be done. There are things that have happened in the past few years that have put a strain on our friendship. At first I thought I could handle it but I don't think I can anymore. I don't like putting my friends in the middle of things and then me getting hurt as well. As with every story there is more to this but I don't want to plaster it all over the Internet. Like I said, I could be looking way too much into this but then again.. I may not be. Only time will tell I guess.

Dominican Republic

Only one word describes this vacation.... A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!!! We both had so much fun and we learned a lot more about one another as well. It's weird, but good, but ever since we got home it seems like our marriage is even better now than it was before we left. I'm not sure why I am surprised or making a big deal about it cuz it's not like our marriage was bad but I think it's the way we look at each other now seeing that we were down in this foreign country with nothing to do but keep each other company. No phones, No relatives or friends, and only a small amount of tv at night.

So Saturday the 2nd we drove up to St. Louis to meet my stepmom so she could take Rascal and watch him for us while we were away. After meeting up with her we headed over to my aunt Margie's house to hang out with them for awhile. We always have a lot of fun when we go over there, just wish we could do it more often. We ended up going out to dinner at the best restaurant ever, Tony's, and then went back to their house to do Christmas with my grandpa and Mary. Around eight we headed back to our hotel since we had to get up at five to head to the airport for our seven am flight.

After four hours later we were finally landing in the warm and sunny Dominican Republic! We headed into their airport, which has no windows!, to go through customs and then were on our way to the hotel. Our resort was about an hour away and with our driver's crazy driving and all the pot holes in the road, I'm surprised I made it off of there alive. I was so nauseous. Ben said I had absolutely no color to my face. lol Thank goodness though that once we reached our destination they handed us cold towels so I could put them around my neck to keep me from getting sick. lol For the remainder of the afternoon we walked around the resort and down along the beach.

Monday morning we got up once again headed for the beach. We only had a few hours there until we had to be up at the lobby to catch our bus to go on our first excursion, Snorkeling! We drove for about an hour before we reach a place in the southern Dominican where we were in the Caribbean Sea, since where we were was the Atlantic still. After everyone had their pictures taken we all loaded onto the boat and set sail until we got to a place where there were alot of coral reefs for us to snorkel around. I must say... that was the most beautiful sight that I have ever seen in my life. I didn't want to get out of the water! It was truly amazing! While snorkeling we saw fish, of course, sharks, (the vegetarian ones) and stingray (we also got to hold one). After snorkeling was over we headed over to a natural swimming pool where we all jumped in and had a few drinks from the floating bar. Around Five pm or so, after we had a chance to purchase the dvd from the trip and our stingray picture we headed back to the hotel to grab a bite to eat, watch the Magic Show and head off to bed.

Tuesday we did nothing but spend all day relaxing at our resort. We walked the beach for about an hour, swam, ate lunch then went out kayaking! Besides snorkeling, that is my new favorite thing to do! The first big wave I made it over but Ben didn't. lol The second big wave we had I wasn't turned around all the way, and this wave just picks me up on the top of it to where I'm surfing on it in my kayak for about an eighth of a mile! I really thought I was done for. I was so happy that I didn't get pulled under though! I looked back at Ben and was like " that was awesome", he was a little jealous! lol hehe. Once we were coming in though one of the resort photographers was waiting for us to take our picture, so of course we let him! lol hehe

Wednesday morning we got up and headed back to the lobby to go on yet another excursion we planned. This one was an all day thing where we went to Saona Island. We took an hour long bus ride to where the Catamaran (sp?) picked us up and took us for an hour and a half long boat ride before we finally reached the island where they had lunch, and drinks of course, waiting for us! The Caribbean Sea, where we were, was absolutely amazing! Saona Island was beautiful as well. I loved the white sand and the crystal blue water! And not to mention the hammocks!

Once we left the island we all loaded into speed boats to head over to yet another natural swimming pool. This pool was the best. At times the water was up to your knees, and there were points where it was just chest high. While in this 'pool' we also found two starfish! Those things are really neat, and big! They can only be out of the water for no more than two seconds before they start to die. I really wanted to take one home with me but I didn't want to kill the little fella so I put him back where he belonged.

Once we made it back to the hotel we put on our best outfits and went out to dinner for the last time :( After dinner we watched the 'All Stars' show for a little bit after losing $30 in the casino. lol

Thursday morning came, a little too fast if you ask us, and we had to pack our bags and leave, but not before one more walk on the beach. It was such a beautiful morning. Well before the rain moved in. lol Our plane took off at 2pm that afternoon and we finally landed in St Louis about 5:30 central time to gusting winds and about four inches of snow. lol Once we made it back to our car I called Tony's to place a carry out order, hehe, and then we were on our way to Jeff City to spend the rest of the weekend.

While in Jeff we went out to lunch with my sister, stepmom, and aunt. Had dinner over at Ben's grandparents house, went to El Jim's for Katy's bday party, went bowling with some awesome and hilarious friends of ours and then had breakfast Sunday morning with my 'lil pimp' at Mel's. In case you are wondering, my 'lil pimp's' name is Brett! He loves me (more than his momma sometimes) and someday I'm gonna adopt him. lol hehe

We are finally home now and couldn't be happier! I missed home... ALOT! lol

I started my first day of my nine month x-ray tech program today. It went really well and I think I'm really going to enjoy doing this. The only downfall... getting up at 5am every morning and driving an hour to Nashville for class. lol Oh well... I will manage. lol just gotta go to bed earlier. lol hehe.

Well we hope everyone had a great New Years and that the start to 2010 is bringing you lots of happiness. As for some friends of ours, please know we love you and are praying for your soldier's safe return home! God Bless all of our soldiers!

Christmas 2009

I must say... this was one awesome Christmas!!!! I do miss Christmas last year when I went to Disney World but I am so very happy that Ben is home this year!!! I never realized just how much I loved him until he was overseas and I couldn't see him for awhile. That was def the hardest thing I have ever had to do. Thank you to everyone who was there for Ben and I during this difficult time. You guys are truly amazing and we love each and every one of you!!

Our first Christmas together as husband and wife!

Alright... on to Christmas details. Ben found out he had to work on Monday after Christmas so we decided that we would drive home on Christmas Eve instead of Christmas Day. So we packed our bags the night before and loaded the car. Christmas Eve morning Ben and I had breakfast and opened our gifts from one another. I got new boots and the GPS I have been wanting! He got three movies and then got sent on a scavenger hunt for his big gift... the grill! He really really loved it!! Now he can cook me some food every once in awhile instead of me always cooking. lol hehe just kidding. I like cooking so I don't mind.

Berkley and the Pink Panthers

We finally reached Jeff City around 5pm xmas eve night so we headed over to Ben's uncles house to have xmas with them! We had a lot of fun over there, we always do! lol We played with the little ones, played some poker and then talked the rest of the night. We finally got to my stepmoms at midnight. lol. Christmas morning we got up, went to Jack's house to have xmas with him and Cheryl, which btw, she made an awesome breakfast!!! Then we headed over to my mom's house to have xmas with her and my sister and finally we headed up to Columbia to have xmas with the McHugh's, or the one's that were there anyways. We had sooo much fun up there! The most fun I have had with them in.... well... four years! lol We played poker, laughed at poppy and his dealing of five card stud, and just BSed the whole night! We decided that if we are in town we are def going up there every year!

Ben and his cousin Cole

Saturday we headed over to Ben's grandparents house to spend a little one on one time with them. It really amazes us how different they are when it is just us compared to when everyone is there. They make fun of each other, pick on one another, and really are a lot of fun to be around. After spending about an hour or so with them we headed over to my aunt's house for the Eiken's Christmas. There was lots of good food there and plenty of yummy drinks, I believe I had seven! lol The four great grand kids were there and were a lot of fun to play with. Berkley cracks me up the most. She saw plenty of ghosts that we had to go hide from and loved playing with the pink panthers that were bigger than her. She is such a hoot! lol My sister and her fiance showed up a little later and we all played Like Minds. That was a fun game. And Josh, her fiance, finally opened up and was more sociable than I have ever seen him! Ben and I really like him so they now have our blessing, like they needed it anyways. lol hahahaha jk Robin. lol

Silly Faces!

Sunday we slept in and then headed to Ben's dad's house to go and pick up his 66 El Camino that his dad rebuilt for him while he was gone. He LOVED it! Wally made a custom design that he put on the dash and had a license plate made with the design as well! I must say, I like that car now. After we left there we headed over to Chrissy's for xmas with Sophie and Brayden. Watching Sophie get mad at Brayden for taking her toys was priceless, and then watching Brayden not share his toy from us with Sophie made it even better. Those two... you would think they were brother and sister. lol

The design on the dash of the El Camino (also on the license plate)

Finally at around 3pm we were on the road headed back for home. The whole way we had to go 60 since that was the sweet spot for the El Camino. A 6 hour trip soon turned into an 8 hour trip. Thank goodness we only had to do that once. lol

Now that we are back home we decided to get us something good with our xmas money so we headed out to the PX and got us a PS3, two more controllers for the Wii and a game for the PS3! We really love it! And they even have Bad Company for the PS3!!! I was super excited about that one since I loved that game when we used to play it on our xbox. Ben's favorite game on the PS is Call of Duty the new one and on the Wii our favorite game is Super Mario Bros!!! If you ever get a chance to play that we suggest doing it! It's alot of fun and just like the older game only better and up to four people can play at a time! :) Thanks Dad for that awesome gift!!

Well... we leave for our honeymoon in 5 days!!!! Can't wait!!!! We've waited a year and a half for this! :) I promise to take lots and lots of pics and post them for everyone to see!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and has a great New Year!!!

Love,

The McHughs

The Holidays

I can't believe that Christmas is almost here! It's crazy! I love this time of year though! I love all the family time and good food! lol It's all about the food. lol well not really but its a big part! :) This is mine and Ben's first xmas together as a married couple in the same country! We have the tree up and the Christmas lights on the house!

This time of year also always reminds me of the past holidays and the great times had by all. I was going through all my old sent emails tonight, had to look for an email address and started reading, and ran across some between me and an old friend. Made me realize that when we were friends we had alot of fun times together. There are days that I miss her as a friend but other days it doesn't bother me. Everything happens for a reason and we, I guess, were not meant to be life long friends. I just wish things didn't end as bad as they did. So if you are reading this, for what it is worth, I'm sorry for how things ended between us. I wish you a life full of happiness and joy.

Anyways, I feel better now that I got that off of my chest. I believe that as one of my new year resolutions I'm going to try not to judge people as much and forgive more easily. Also, Ben and I are going to start going to church next year. There is a First Assembly of God right by our house that we have been talking about joining. He grew up in a church as a child and really liked it. I, however, didn't get to. I went to church at St. Martins with my grandparents and aunt when I was younger but not on a regular basis. Also, when Ben and I have kids, we want them to grow up in a church as well.

Well, I better end this and head off to bed. We have a busy day tomorrow! We are having our friends twin 5 year olds over to spend the night while their parents have a much needed night out to themselves. We are going to make a pizza from scratch, eat the ginger bread house, play the wii, and play with the dogs! They are bringing their nine week beagle mix puppy over for Rascal to have someone to play with! I'm sure we will also make some home made popcorn and watch some Christmas movies, that is if we can get them off the Wii! lol They love that thing! lol We are sooo excited though!!! We have been asking to watch them for awhile now! :)

Alright... off to bed I go! We hope everyone has a wonderful time with friends and family this Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!!

Love,

The McHugh's!!

School Starts Next Month!!

Well... I did it. I enrolled for school today! My first class in Jan 11th and I should graduate Sept 24th... yes... just nine months after I start. It is a fast paced program and going to be a lot of hard work but I think, with the help of my wonderful husband, I can do it! I just have to be determined and really focused. I'm not going to lie, I am scared, but I'm ready. I want to have a career that I love doing. I don't want to be one of those people that hates getting up every morning to go to work. So now... while I'm in school... I'm going to try to get a PT job to help pay for the gas to and from Nashville. I just hope I can find a bank job or better yet, a job in a hospital or doctor's office. We shall see. God knows what is best for me, I just have to believe in him and trust him that he will lead me down the right path.

Our First Thanksgiving 2009

This year was our first Thanksgiving in our new house! It was a success!!! Amanda and her two kids came over as well as Ben's dad. I made the turkey, mashed potatoes, and corn. Amanda made fruit salad, the gravy, stuffing, rolls, and a sweet potato thing. It was all very yummy! I was very happy that the turkey turned out. It was the first time I have ever made one... and celebrated a holiday away from family!

While Amanda and I slaved away in the kitchen, Ben and Wally entertained Austin and Lilie with the Wii. They were skiing, hola hooping, bowling, playing baseball, boxing, playing tennis and much much more. They were def worn out by the time that they left.

All in all it was a good Thanksgiving. I think the only thing that could have made it a PERFECT Thanksgiving is Amanda's husband, Rich, being home to celebrate with us. Only a few more weeks and he should be here. We are all still praying for you Rich and can't wait for you to get home to your kiddos and wife!!!!



This morning, Black Friday, Ben and I got up at three thirty and headed to Amanda's house on base. Ben stayed and took a nap on the couch until he had to go to work while Amanda and I went shopping. We got everything we wanted plus more! Amanda's car was def loaded down by the time we were done!

Well... I think that is all I have to talk about. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! :)

Going Back To School

I have made the decision to go back to school. I want to be an x-ray tech and eventually get into ultrasound. The problem I am having, however, is what school I want to go to. There is this school in Nashville, The High Tech Institute, that offers a diploma in X-ray tech along with some training as a medical assistant and the program is a little over a year. The problem with that school is that it is a diploma, not a degree. The difference in those two is with a degree you have to take your history, English, etc whereas a diploma you only take the course that are necessary for the degree, which is what I believe in but if I'm going to go to school then I want at least a degree. Another perk to this school is that I can start in January, which is what I want to do.
West KY Tech College is another college I have been looking at along with Bowling Green Tech College in KY. Both of these schools are an hour drive away (about the same as Nashville) and according to their website take new students for their radiology programs in the Fall. I don't want to wait that long to start school. Plus, since they are in KY and I live in TN the cost for tuition is much much higher. Also, these schools offer degree's but in order to get your associates in Radiology you have to go for five semesters, one of those being a summer semester. IDK... I'm just lost and I don't have much more time to figure it all out.

I had to go to the hospital yesterday to get an ultrasound done on my throat for a possible enlarged thyroid. I was talking to the lady that was doing the ultrasound and she told me that she lives here in Clarksville but drove up to Paducah, KY to go to the West KY Tech College to go to school. She had just graduated in August. She really enjoyed the school. She said that she looked into High Tech in Nashville but didn't choose them (obviously). The way she talked about them she wasn't to pleased with them. She did say, and so does the website, that with these two tech colleges in KY you take courses and then you have to do clinicals. I think those would be fun... but at the same time the one big thing holding me back on these two schools is starting in the fall.

Alright... I'm done blabbering for now. I have asked God for his assistance with helping point me in the right direction of what I need to do. I know he will come through for me... I just have to really listen to what he is telling me. I have also called both schools to get more information on their programs. They should get back to me on Monday so hopefully by the end of next week I can make my decision.

Have a Wonderful Thanksgiving everyone!

Welcome Home

Ben is FINALLY home!!!

His plane landed at 6:20pm last night (Friday, November 20th). What a wonderful feeling. There is no greater feeling in the world than being away from your loved one for so long and then them finally come back home to you. I am grateful for this, this Thanksgiving. I know that being overseas is hard on our soldiers, but at home it's no piece of cake either. I am grateful for all the military wife's, mother's, father's, brother's, sister's, etc. who are at home making things run smoothly, giving their soldier all the support they can while they are fighting for our freedom. Not everyone can be a military wife. I believe it takes a special person to put up with all we have to put up with.

On a happier note... like I said.. BEN IS HOME!!! My wonderful friend, Amanda, went to pick up Ben with me to take pics (even though her hubby doesn't come home for another three weeks). At about 15 min before the plane landed we all went outside. Once the plane touched down the speaker came over the intercom and announced "The Eagles Have Landed!!!" It was too dark, and we were too far away for us to see Ben get off the plane so we waited until the first group got off and was walking up to the hanger, and then we went inside and got our seats for when he came in. The soldiers, dropped off their belongings outside, got into formation, they opened the doors, and in all 278 soldiers returning home marched in. We all went wild!!! The Chaplin talked for about two min and then released them to us. Ben finally found me and I ran up to him! Then made fun of him because I told him we would be on the right hand side at the top and what does he do... looks to the left. lol haha. That's my husband! lol hehe

After 15 min of time with him they had to get into formation again, and then out they walked. They bussed us back to the hanger we parked at and bussed the soldiers back to the hanger where they checked in their weapons. Finally they all walked over to the hanger we were in, got their stuff and we left. We took Amanda back home, saw her kids, and then we headed home to the house Ben had yet to seen.

We get home and as I open the door and turn on the light, Ben picks me up and carries me into our house! What a sweetheart! He was very proud of me. Said that it already felt like home!

Onto another news. I am thinking about going back to school to become an xray tech! I think I will like it and be good at it. It sounds interesting and would be fun to learn. I have talked to a school in Nashville already. They want me to start in Jan. so we shall see. I do want to go back to school to become an xray tech so I will probably start then. The sooner I start.. the sooner I will get to have a career I love.

Well, I believe that is all for now! I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

Paint, Paint, and more Paint!!!

This past weekend my best friend Betsy and her boyfriend Allen came down to the house in TN and helped me paint. We painted the office a cream color, the theme in there is going to be Americana. The spare room is painted grey, the theme in there is black and white, That room is really going to be my favorite. Our bedroom is an eggshell white on all the walls except for the wall that the bed goes on. That wall is a creamy green color. Once I get my dark brown curtains in there I really think that the room will come together nicely. The main bath is called "Sea tickle" blue. It is going to be ocean themed. I can't wait for it all to come together.

Let me back the train up just a tad bit... On Wednesday night I got off work and drove to TN. Thursday morning I got up, headed to base, and went to school with my friend Amanda's twin 5 year olds. They were having a fall picnic day or something and since Rich, their dad, is overseas right now and it's hard for her to be in both classrooms at once, she asked me if I would go! When I told her that I could get off work, she told the kids and Austin called dibs on me. It was really cute. Ben is still laughing about that. lol

Anyways... Saturday, Bets, Allen and I got up and got ready to head into town to go eat some food, and go to Lowes to get more paint. Besides painting all day the only other thing we did was meet up with my old roommates parents at the storage shed so that they could finally get her stuff out of there. Everything went well and I now have no ties to her anymore. I am very grateful for that. We just didn't see eye to eye on things. Which is fine, happens in friendships all the time. Lets just say though that I am not at all saddened by the lose of friendship between us.

There is one thing that is still worrying me. The one thing that I am the most afraid of is the unknown. I like to have things planned out, well for the most part anyways. You can just say I'm a little bit of an organizational freak. lol Anyways, I still haven't managed to find a job down there yet and that has me worried. I do get this strange feeling though that God is doing this to me so that when Ben gets home we can spend time together, since we haven't been able to with him overseas. IDK... I guess all I really want to know is that we are going to be okay. I know we will be okay but the one thing that me and Ben said how we wanted to live was comfortably, we aren't asking to be rich, just comfortably. And ONCE I get a job, and yes I will get one just don't know when. lol, we will be able to live comfortably. I know that none of this may make sense to any of you but that is okay. They say blogging is a good therapy thing, so I'm really just doing this to... say it out loud to myself I guess. lol

Well I'm done ranting for now. Not sure when I'll be able to blog again but I will try to as soon as I can. Have a great Halloween!!!!! Trick or Treat!!!

I spoke too soon

Well... there won't be as many new beginnings as I thought there would be. I found out today that I won't get to transfer into a branch in November. This has upset me greatly, but it is my fault.... don't ask... I don't want to go into detail. Now the job hunt for another job as begun which has got me thinking "what do I want to do with my life?" and the sad part is, "I don't know." Part of me wants to go into the medical field and become a pediatrician but then again something is telling me no. IDK... I'm just really confused and don't know what to do anymore. And I'm not a fan of being confused.
All I do know is that I'm glad that Ben is coming home next month. I need him now more than ever!

New Beginnings

I realized tonight that there are a lot of new beginnings that are happening, or about to happen, in mine and Ben's life. We are getting ready to close on our first house in ten days!! That is super exciting!! We are also going to FINALLY get a chance to have a real marriage. I mean, don't get me wrong, we have a marriage now, but we will finally get to live together and be together like married couples are supposed to. I love being an army wife, that's not what I'm saying, but I do miss my husband. And being a newly wed and them him leaving to go off to war makes it even harder. I see all those other newly married couples out there and get jealous because they have what I want, but I have to keep telling myself that I'm the one that said 'I do' and I can do this. In my opinion, Ben and I have a much better understanding in marriage than most newly weds. (I'm not saying this about all newly weds, I'm just saying compared to others that I have seen). We are both independent people and don't need the other one to lean on. We can do our own thing without the other one if we want and we also really enjoy being together. We also have one thing that most marriages lack nowadays and that is communication! We know now that if we can get through a deployment then we can get through anything!!

Also, for another new beginning, I have started training in the branch at work! I'm excited about this but I'm also a little nervous. Today was a good day and I really did learn alot! There is sooo much more to learn though. I just hope that I end up enjoying working in the branch and that this stuff comes easy to me. After today, I'm feeling good about the whole thing, but it was still just day one. Hopefully by the end of the week I will have a better feel for the whole thing. I must say though, I am going to miss working in the district office. I really enjoyed working there, especially with everyone in the office. But... I'm not afraid of a challenge and I'm going to do my best to learn as much as possible before I move and hopefully get transferred. ☺

This past weekend was a very relaxing weekend!! I went shopping for some new work clothes, which I haven't done in a long time, and found some really good deals!! And of course, I found some new stuff for the house too! hehe!!

However, while I was out, I couldn't pass up this cute little sweater and coat for Rascal!! He got his hair cut Friday and is almost completely shaved bald! lol So since it is getting cold out I decided that he needs a coat to go outside in and a nice sweater to wear when we go places!! lol I know, I'm a total dork! lol Enjoy the pics!

Well... I think I have said enough for one night. lol I hope everyone has a wonderful week!!

Confusion, Stressful, ahhhh

I don't know where to even begin. There is so much that has happened in the past two days that my head is spinning and I can't get it to stop.
To sum up the work thing, we all have jobs still, just not the same as we had before. We either have a new job title or we are doing different things with the same title we had at the beginning of the week. I am very grateful for this and it couldn't have come at a more perfect time because if I wasn't moving to TN then a good friend of mine would have lost her job, and that would have sucked big time since she just bought a new house. So therefore, I'm very grateful that they decided to do this now, instead of earlier this year.
There is one thing about this whole "work thing" though that is bugging me. I found out from another friend of mine that someone that I work with knew about this whole thing yesterday but mad me believe that she didn't know. I'm not sure if I believe this, I'm not really sure what to believe anymore. I don't want to think that I have been lied to but... ahhh I just don't know. All I know is that I am a very honest person, I hate lying, and all I expect is the same from people. I just don't understand why people have to lie, I mean really? Where does that get you? It gets you into more lies and more lies after that is where it gets you.
So on top of all of that, I am confident that I can get the PT job with Citi open in KY, which I really want so that way I will have time to spend with Ben when he comes home and once a full time position comes available then I will shoot for that. Plus this job will at least get me down there. I may have to take a pay cut, which I'm not happy about, but at least it is a job right?

On a more positive note, Ben is finally back in his normal base over there so I have gotten to talk to him the past three days!! I have missed hearing his voice so much!!! He has also let me go ahead and get the new computer desk we are wanting to get before he gets home!! yay!!! All the other new furniture we are going to get when he comes home because he wants to be here for that, which I completely understand. I love him so much and I can not wait for him to finally be home again where he belongs.

Other than all that drama, nothing else is going on. We close on our house in 14 days!!! Can't wait!!! Rascal, however, keeps getting sick. Not sure why, it might be a side affect to the medication he is on so I'm going to call the vet tomorrow and ask them what they think is going on. Hopefully my poor baby is okay.

Well I think I'm done chit chattin for now. I hope everyone has a great weekend!!!