Bloggings of an Army Wife

Come, Follow me!!!

2010-10-30T16:02:00.005-05:00

Hey guys! Just wanted you to know that I have started a new blog to go with the new chapter in my life... Click here to join the journey!!! Thank you all for your love an support during the last roller coaster ride! I pray you will join me as God writes the next chapter and fills it with many BLENDED BLESSINGS!!!!!!!!!!

Tickets, Toddlers and Tumors

2010-06-28T14:58:00.002-05:00

Its been a busy month. Complete with Mother's day, Father's day, vacation, school ending, summer camp beginning, and the title of this post....I'll spare the details of the first few things on the list - I'll just say that I have the greatest family and friends ever!!!! My kids are truly blessed. Now, onto the juice of this post.....
I have gotten 2 (YES TWO) speeding tickets in the last month. I've always had a lead foot. I know its wrong. But I drive an ambulance for a living for pete's sake! I am used to driving really fast in a diesel truck and people getting out of my way. I drive through red lights (always with due regard) and break speeding limits daily! I've paid one, but will be fighting the other. The circumstances surrounding the other are questionable. I'll keep you posted! Buckle up for safety!
We have begun the arduous task of potty training Reese. My goal is for him to be dry during the day by the end of July... wish me luck! Any pointers are greatly appreciated!
And lastly, I took Hailey to the Dr on June 17th for a perpetual cough. We couldn't get rid of it even after all my old tricks. The Dr gave her the once over and gave her the diagnosis of sinus infection. She looked in her ears and noticed something strange. Initially we thought it may be an infected pimple on the inside of her ear canal. The Dr gave us some antibiotics and told us to come back if things changed for the worse. By Monday, this "thing" had grown so much that it was coming out of her ear canal, completely blocking the opening. Truthfully, it looked like a jelly bean sitting in her ear. I took her back to the Dr (after getting my second speeding ticket for the month) Monday afternoon. The Dr took one look at it and decided this was beyond her scope of expertise and called the ENT. He could see us in 15 min, so we hurried (within the speed limit) over there. He took about 2 min looking at it and said it would have to be surgically removed. He called it a "tumor" - I do NOT like this word. So the next 48 hours were filled with phone calls, preop paperwork, nerves and tears. Wed, June 23, my baby girl was taken back to surgery at 1215. Approximately 45 min later, the ENT came out and told me that he thinks he got it all but we'd have to come to the office next week for the results of the biopsy. So tomm, hopefully, we'll have some answers. Hailey has done well. She was in a good bit of pain the first few days, and her ear bled a lot, but she's no worse for the wear now. She's waiting on the ok from the ENT to get back in the water...we're supposed to go to the lake next week. I am finally starting to breathe a little better. It was a scary few days.
I just want to say that I have the most amazing family and friends. They have always surrounded me when I need them most and even when I don't know I need them. I am truly blessed! So there it is, my monthly update. Some craziness, but mostly just mommy stuff, work and life....boring - just the way I like it!!!!

Is anybody there?

2010-05-14T00:32:00.003-05:00

Hello Blog world! If my existence was determined by the number of blog posts I've made, I know I would be considered MIA or DEAD..... However, have no fear! I am alive and well. There has been a lot that has happened over the last 6 months (seeing as though I posted last Nov 22) and I'm excited to tell you there are more changes to come. Here's a quick update....trust me, there will more than likely be individual blog posts on each of the events listed - all to be posted in due time.
*I am buying our house and its a nightmare! Cory and I decided that I would keep the house since we bought it with the kids in mind. However, I have to take it out of Cory's name and put it into mine...so I have to buy it! Let me tell you, it SUCKS! I'm doing all this stuff, making all these phone calls and I won't even get the joy of "moving" into my new home (ie picking out paint colors, new bedding, matching bath sets, etc). However - I love that my kids are settled and I will be the proud owner of my own home soon!
*I am still working. And by working, I mean WORKING. I am now a single mom (not just geographically anymore, I will legally be a statistic again soon), and I still work as a Paramedic in our County's EMS system. But on top of that, you can also find me working with our hospital's Transportation service as a Paramedic or with our local Rescue squad as a Paramedic or in the ER as a Communication's associate (my old job), or around town doing my Guardian Ad Litem thing or selling Thirty One products! If you lost count, thats 6 jobs that currently pay our bills! Keep in mind, the only "full time" jobs I have are Mom and Paramedic - the rest are just PRN positions that I hold and work when I can. I like to have as many different options as I can so that I don't get bored with one place or group of people.
*The kids are adjusting well. We have our good days and bad days, of course. But overall, they have been resilient. Samantha will be wrapping up her dance year in the next few weeks and will begin guitar lessons this summer (she got a PINK guitar for Christmas). Hailey has enjoyed the season off from soccer, but is ready for the fall. She will be taking piano lessons this summer. Both girls are going to a summer camp this weekend and have been accepted into a 1 week gifted summer enrichment program through Converse college. Reese is heading full speed ahead into potty training. So far, it has been good. He's having to make some adjustments since he's with Daddy, Granny and Pop every other weekend. We're all making the best of it and so far, it hasn't been too traumatic. We're on the go all the time, but wouldn't change it for the world!
*I think I'm gonna start a new blog. I think its fitting for this time in my life to close this chapter and create a new. I will keep this one up for a while longer because its linked to a local news station. However, there will be a link to the new blog as well. Hopefully you guys haven't given up on me! I have been keeping up with most of you, even if I haven't commented!

So look for more to come! There's plenty more I could type about, but I don't want to make my "first blog back" too lengthy. Thanks for hanging in there with me. Please feel free to leave me a message to let me know you're still here!

Getting back on the horse...maybe

2009-11-22T22:19:00.004-06:00

I am still alive, for those who were wondering. Its been almost 2 months since I've posted last...the reason for that is simple - my life is CRAZY!!! Since my last post, we've had a lot going on.... here's my feable attempt to catch you up: (hopefully I'll add pics sometime before the turn of the decade...)
*We celebrated the girls 8th birthday with one heck of a party!!! Filled with creepy critters, custom cakes and some of our most favorite people on the planet!!!
*The Daddy of our house made his way home.... FINALLY!!!!!!!!
*The Fall soccer season ended and a week later we started winter training...its never ending!!!
*Sam is still doing dance and has decided to add Upward cheerleading to her schedule (as if we didn't have enough to do!!)
*Reese is into EVERYTHING and occasionally gets stuck... case in point- he thought it would be fun to "play" in his bath seat (you know the one you put baby's in that encircles them so they dont slump over and drown in the tub)..... well..... he's grown a little, ok A LOT since the last time he was in that thing and he got stuck. Not "stuck" like threatening a limb stuck, but I was unable to manipulate his chubby little legs out of it. So, I (along with my BFF) spent some time one Sunday morning extricating him with a hack saw and some Dawn dish detergent. I love making memories!!
*Cory is officially done with active duty Army...now its back to the Reserves.
*The girls carried the Army flag at the Veteran's Day program.
* We've already celebrated Thanksgiving with my family because my parents and girls will be going to the beach on Thanksgiving to meet with my brother, SIL and adorable niece and we will be going to Anderson to visit Cory's family.
*Our old post - Fort Hood was struck by tragedy.
*While all of our closest friends survived this attack, we lost another dear friend only a few short weeks later...
*I'm carrying 3 cases right now with my GAL stuff.
*I am working like crazy.
*We've lost some animals (2 of these, 1 of these, and 1 of these)
*But we've gained one too.

So as you can tell, we've been busy! With kids and pets and work and extra cirricular activities, my life is jam packed!!!!!!! I hope you are all doing well! I am trying to keep up with your blogs, though I may not ever comment! Wishing you a safe and Happy Holidays!! Hopefully I'll be back before the turn of the decade, but if not - have a safe and happy one of those too!! LOL!

Back up and running

2009-10-03T07:34:00.003-05:00

Cory finally got his blog back up and running! Go here to check it out! I couldn't be more proud! I know I am quite slack on blogging lately. I'm dealing with some things personally and I am just choosing to lay low for a bit! Don't give up on me... I'm slowly getting it together! Soon, very soon, I'll have all sorts of posts for you to read - there's a lot going on in my corner of the world! Til then, stay safe and God Bless!!!

Lost connections

2009-09-22T19:51:00.002-05:00

I'm posting a new blog because, if you haven't noticed, the link in the blog before no longer works. Cory is making a new blog and hopefully he will put his most recent blogs on the new one! Anyway. Lots of happenings, but I don't have the energy to post any of it right now! I hope you are all doing well! Check back soon for more detail!

What's happening...

2009-09-13T16:33:00.002-05:00

You wanna know what's been happening in our house? Go here for more details!!!!! Please pray for us, there's some changing going on!!!

What was I thinking?

2009-09-05T09:51:00.002-05:00

Today is day 2 of another 7 day stretch of working. At the end of the stretch, I will have worked approximately 112 hours. WOW! That sounds ridiculous! What was I thinking? I think I have lost my mind... if not, I'm sure I will have by the end of this schedule! Anywho... just wanted to update those of you who care, on what's been going on this week:
*Monday was MY birthday! Yep, that's right. I turned the BIG 2-7!! I spent the day alone for the most part. I had court in the afternoon for my G.A.L stuff - it did not go the way I had hoped! I left frustrated and annoyed at the unorganization of some and the lack of communication of most! I picked up all the kids and came home to a beautiful bouquet of yellow and white DAISIES (my favorite) and balloons on my front door step from my favorite US Soldier! He's so sneaky! I finished the night with dinner with the parentals, my BFF and all the kiddos!
*Tuesday was CORY'S birthday! (isn't he lucky? I've made it easy for him to remember my bday - its the dayh before his!). He turned the big 2-9(almost 30, hehe!) I had to work a 24hr shift, so my day was almost a bust (I say almost because the next bullet will be about how amazing our God is!!!). Cory had a good day, I think. He had dinner with some of our closest military buddies, complete with the Chicken Dance, the annual "birthday beating"(not as painful as it sounds), and a gift from his roomies. I didn't buy him anything (shame on me, I know) because I will be purchasing the next COD4 complete with night goggles in the next month or so - that will be his birthday gift!!! We missed him, but this will be the last!
*God is Good! All the time! Here's what saved my Tuesday... Let me go back a day - Court, on Monday, was disappointing. But when I left, I called to give the 411 to the person in charge of "my" kiddos (the G.A.L. kiddos that is). She informed me that they boys would be moved the next day but was unsure where. I was beyond frustrated as I could envision the nightmare it would be to track down these kids once they are moved (communication is lacking in the job - BIG TIME!) Anyway. I decided that I would spend the next day (Tues) trying to make heads or tails of it all. I woke up dreading the phone calls I would have to make. I went into work and began talking to the off-going crew. One of them made a comment that she had to hurry home because she was getting 2 new kids that day and had to rearrange a few things... I inquired as to the ages. She said 8 and 2! I gasped and asked if it was >>>>> >>>>> and >>>>> >>>>>>?!?! She said YES!!!!!!! OMG! PTL!!! No phone calls needed to be made! I knew where they were! And it also meant I didn't need to rush over to the foster home to make sure it was suitable (some of them are NOT - trust me!)! I was so excited and relieved! The foster mom and I work together, so we communicate on a semi regular basis - so I can keep close tabs on them! I love it!!! God is SO good!
*We are in full swing of Soccer season. Hailey's doing great! Its so neat to watch her develop her skills in the sport!
*Samantha started dance on Thurs. SHE LOVED IT!!! That's actually an understatement! She got her first pair of ballet slippers and she was glowing! I can already hear the "tap,tap,tap" that will be ringing through our house when she gets her tap shoes!
*Reese is doing well... still rotten, as always! He no longer cries when we leave him at daycare, he now cries when we pick him up!!! But I'll take it! He's with MeMa and Pop (Cory's parents) this weekend. I will have to de-program him next week - for sure!
So that's it! We're in full swing of life now, settling back into a routine after the crazy summer! I am exhausted most days when I finally make it to bed. I have always wondered what it would be like to have a "normal" life - but have recently come to the realization that THIS is our "normal". Its chaotic most days, but I LOVE IT!!!!!!

Livin' the life...

2009-08-22T03:02:00.002-05:00

So its Saturday at 4 am... I've officially survived the week! Its been a long one. But here's a run-down of what's been happening:
*Cory made it to Texas on Sunday and settled back into the Army life pretty smoothly. He has begun the daunting task of "clearing" everything so he can ETS (get out) in a couple months. We hit a snag this week - The Army pays extra pay for hazard duty and family seperation while the soldiers are deployed. This pay is supposed to stop when they return home. Well, it seems that the Army has made a mistake (GASP!!!! I know you are shocked) and has continued to pay 85% of the soldiers this extra pay. Sounds great, right?!?! Well, once the Army realizes it, they want their money back - all at one time!!! I caught the error this past week, and Cory has reported it. So now, we wait for Cory to come home with very little to no check one week...
*Reese started his new class. He sobbed when I left him - it broke my heart! But he's adjusting well after we leave him. He had an allergic reaction to Cinnamon on Thurs. Have you ever heard of such? His little face and chest broke out into hives - so it was definitely just a contact reaction. I will be getting him an EpiJr this week! The kid is so sensitive to EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!
*The girls are loving school (so far, that is). Hailey has had 2 soccer practices and LOVED them both (despite almost roasting!) I've Samantha enrolled in a Tap/Ballet/Jazz class. It will start in Sept.
*I have officially started my "new" job. I put that word in quotations because it is technically not new to me. I was doing the same job before we left to go to Texas. So I'm just going back to where I came from... that's how I see it! Anyway. So far, it has been a good move for me. Hopefully I will continue to see it that way!
*I also have my first OFFICIAL case. I can't post details due to privacy, but I can say it involves 2 children (Ages 9 & 3). I am very excited and nervous all at the same time. Please pray that I will always keep their best interest in mind and that I can make a difference in their lives with the help of God.
* I will be working a good bit of overtime at my "old" job. I am there now, hence the ability to blog! Because of the Army situation, I just want to be ahead financially BEFORE we are drowning!
As you can tell, we've been super busy! But busy means times flies. And for me, that means the world! We're getting back into a routine and settling in.... Just livin the life!

Just a quickie...

2009-08-16T20:24:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to stop in and tell everyone that I am alive. I've got so much to share, but not today. I am going to bed. Cory left about 4 hours ago and the kids are finally in bed. Tomm is a big day here at the Trotter house - Reese moves up to Toddlers, the girls start 2nd grade and I start my new job. So I need to rest in preparation!! So check back, hopefully by the end of the week, I will have an adequate post to catch you all up!

Is anybody out there?

2009-08-09T23:15:00.002-05:00

I'm sure many of you have given up on me here in the Blog world. I would apologize, but that would not be genuine. The fact of the matter is that I have been spending as much time as humanly possible with my husband and family since he has been home. Hopefully you understand. Life around our house has been pretty boring. Just spending the days hanging out, doing the "normal" family thing.
*Cory has managed to paint both bathrooms - one with the girls help.
*I have completed my G.A.L. Training. I hope to have my first case soon.
*Reese moves up to his Toddler class next week.
*The girls start 2nd grade next week.
*Cory leaves Sunday :(
*I start my new job next week
*Hailey is signed up for Soccer, Samantha will soon be signed up for Jazz.
*We've been to the mountains
*We've been to the lake
*Bugsy (aka Houdini Hamster)escaped
*But found his way back in the cage while we were at the lake
*Turtle (his name has slipped my mind yet again) has decided to "hibernate" under this tree.
*The dogs are fat and lazy as always.

I think that about sums it up! We've had a blast just being "normal" and are super sad that Daddy is leaving us again. BUT - this should be the last time! The next time he comes home, it should be FOR FOREVER!!!!!!!!! WooHoo! Have a great week...

Change is good...

2009-07-14T01:52:00.002-05:00

Right?!?! Then why do I feel like puking when I think about the changes that are to come in the next few months?? I know its just because they are going to force me to leave my comfort zone. I know its going to be so rewarding once I am "settled" into my new surrondings. But I just can't shake the nauseous feeling...

*Monday I was offered a different job. As of next month, I will no longer be sitting in my "fish bowl" office, answering the radio and dealing with angry family members. I will trade in my comfy scrubs and tennis shoes for steel toe boots and BDU's. I will leave the comfort of my air conditioned (often times too much) room, office chair and cable TV for 12 hours and hit the streets in the middle of the August heat. I will be working with our county's EMS (emergency medical services) System. I will be a "real" Paramedic. I've been a Paramedic for 2 years, but have not been on a truck since we moved to Texas (and back). I will be working 24's for a while, as I wait for a 12 hour position to come open. I am SUPER excited and terrified all at the same time. I am thrilled to be putting one of my 3 college degrees to good use. The money is going to be way better and hopefully I will not be exhausted constantly once I settle in!!! But knowing all of that, I am sad to be leaving my current job!

Believe it or not, I love my job. I knew coming into it that it was only temporary as I know my calling is to be serving our community on the streets, but it still breaks my heart to leave. I will not be "leaving" the people, as I will see them when I bring patients in, but our relationships will be different. I will miss my job, but I know this is what's best. It still makes me queezy!!!

*I am also training to become a G.A.L. This is something I have felt led to do for a long time, but didn't want to take any of the (already minimal) time I had with the kids while Cory was gone. But now that he's home, I have decided to take a leap of faith! I am anxious to see how God is going to use me in the lives of the children that will cross my path. Again, I am beyond nervous, but I know without a doubt that this is where God is leading me!

*Cory will be home THIS Friday! Holy Cow! I can't believe its here. Seems like we've been waiting an eternity!!! Again, this is beyond exciting! But on the flip side, it makes me uneasy. I have got to learn to let someone else take some responsibility around the house. Cory is a wonderful father, but its hard to "let go" of the control I've had for the last year!

*I am officially on a "diet". I want to lose weight for several reasons. The biggest reason is so that I don't have to buy new BDU's. That's as shallow as it gets! LOL!! I've got several pairs of work pants and I don't want to have to buy anymore - they are NOT cheap! I am doing the Atkins diet. The reason is simple - I do not eat many vegetables (lets be honest, I think I may eat 5). But I will eat just about any kinds of meat, cheese, etc. My one biggie to give up is bread/carbs!! So if you see me out - keep me accountable!

While I am slightly freaked about all the changing going on, I am also beyond excited! Continue to pray for us as we transition into the next phase of our life.

Friday Five

2009-07-10T22:30:00.003-05:00

I haven't done one of these in a while, so I thought it would be good to do one! Here are five things going on at the Trotter household...
1. The Daddy of our house will be home NEXT Friday!!! I can't believe its finally here! We are all beside ourselves with excitement. Luckily, the kids will be busy with the grandparents (see below), or else I think they'd drive me nuts!!!
2. The girls will be in Charleston for the week visiting Uncle Brian and Aunt Annie - and of course Hannah Banana!! Reese will be with the out laws (hopefully he'll make the week). But don't be jealous because I won't be enjoying any "me" time because....
3. I will be working 84 hours over the next 7 days. That makes me tired just thinking about it... I don't know what I was thinking when... oh wait - I do know what I was thinking. I get to be off when Cory is home, so while I will be exhausted to the point of physical illness when I'm done, it will be soooo worth it!!!
4. I've got some cleaning to do... unfortunately with me working that many hours, I don't think it will happen. However, thanks to the kindness of a good friend, there may be hope!!! Our house is not "dirty" by any stretch of the word, but it needs a little TLC (ie dusting, mopping, vaccuming). I just want our house to be perfect when our Hero arrives.
5. As if I don't have enough to this week, I'm trying to get a "Welcome Home Hero" party together for our soldier. And I have NOTHING done for it! UGH!

So we are super busy to say the least! But it will all be worth it when we are ALL in the same house. I've forgotten what it feels like to be a "real" family!!! So there you have it. I've been working on this blog for the last 5 hours - so its Sat now! I'm at work - so I've had to stop and actually do "work"!! Have a wonderful weekend!

A lesson in forgiveness...

2009-07-08T21:13:00.002-05:00

Today I did something that, had you asked me over a year ago, I never thought I would have done. Before I share what I did, I want to share a couple things that have been on my mind. It all ties together, I swear... just bear with me!!
Forgiveness, to me, means that you have truly moved past whatever the situation was. It is not in our human nature to forget, but I believe that true forgiveness means that NO MATTER what, it is never brought up again (ie in the heat of an arguement, or to "prove" a pattern of something). For the most part, I don't really have any issues with forgiveness... I might would argue I forgive too easily sometimes. But today, I had to not only "preach" forgiveness, I had to live it...
For those of you who do not know "the story" about how Cory and I came "to be", its a soap opera in itself. Here's the reader's digest version: Cory was married, his wife was unfaithful, he found out, he kicked her out, we started dating a week later (we had been friends for a while before - in fact I was the one who encouraged him to "really look into" her activities... this too is a great story of the cunningness of women and the links we'll go to to get what we want). Back to the story... of course, because we got together so quickly, there was great speculation that we had been having an affair before - this was not true, for what its worth. (Don't get me wrong, I figured out months before this happened that He was the one for ME, but he was faithful - at least physically- to his marriage) Anyway, his wife was out to ruin me for a while. We absolutely hated each other and said and did a lot of things that were hurtful to and about one another. Needless to say, when we moved to Texas, I was soooo glad to be away from her and the situation!
We moved on, got married, had a baby, you know the story. She married "the guy", and is now expecting herself. All was calm and quiet... We just kept our distance.
When I moved back to SC, I knew we would be running into each other at work so I emailed her and told her that I saw no reason that we couldn't be civil at work. I had enough to worry about this year, and I didn't need the added drama. I fully expected for her to email me back and let me have it. She didn't. Surprisingly, she apologized. It was a heart felt apology. I, too, apologized for the things I said and did. It was nice to feel the chains that had bound us together, due to the dislike we had for one another, break in that moment.
Fast forward to today....
She and I are friends - real friends - now. We do lunch and chat on a pretty regular basis. She even called to tell me she was pregnant the day she found out and I even got a call when they found out it was a boy. We are actually a lot alike (despite what Cory thinks... love you baby!) Her father passed away a couple days ago. The moment I heard, I reached out to her and let her know I was praying for her family. And tonight, I went to the funeral home to pay respects on behalf of Cory and I. As I stood in line, I was thinking about how far she and I have come and I was proud. I was initially uneasy. What do you say to your husband's ex-wife's mother who just lost her husband (the relationship I have had with them is less desirable than the one I had with their daughter). I prayed that God would give me the right words to say. And, as always, he did!
I'm not sharing this story with you guys to "toot my own horn". Lord knows this has been a long, bumpy journey and I have been less than Christ- like on MANY occasions. I am not proud of any of that. I'm sharing this story to encourage you to think about those with whom you may be holding a grudge against, for whatever reason. What was your role in the situation? What can you do to rectify the wrong? I'm not saying you have to hang out with the person or even talk to them. You can forgive a person without them even asking. Forgiveness is YOUR choice. Is there anyone you need to forgive today?

Q&A

2009-07-01T22:56:00.004-05:00

I was reading one of my favorite blogs and she did a Q&A. I thought it was neat, so I thought I'd play along. Here are a few of the questions I am asked when someone finds out I am an Army wife (and that my husband was deployed)...
Q - Who keeps your kids while you work so much?
A - God has given me the greatest parents in the world! They live 2 miles from us and never hesitate to keep the kiddos. The kids have a super nice set up over there and have everything they would ever need or want at their house!
Q - Is Cory going to Re-enlist? If so, what will you do?
A - Much to the surprise of some, WE are planning on re-enlisting. But we will go Reserves (either Army or Air Force). I say "we" because we have made the decision. It is OUR life, after all and we both wanted to be ok with the terms. I'll keep you posted as details come...
Q - What was your biggest fear while Cory was gone? (or what is your biggest fear)
A - My biggest fear was never him being injured or even death. I can deal with anything medical that is thrown at me... my biggest fear was and always will be the Army and his deployments will change who my husband IS; on the inside. In some ways, he's not the same. But I can honestly say it could definitely be worse!!!
Q - What is the hardest part of Cory being gone?
A - This changed depending on the situation. Sometimes it was climbing into an empty bed. Sometimes it was knowing he was missing so much of the kids lives. Sometimes it was having to do everything around the house by myself. Sometimes it was just not being able to pick up the phone and call when I wanted to. Holidays were particularly hard. There never was a "hardest" part for me.
Q - How do you do it? (this was always my favorite)
A - What choice did/do I have? When Cory and I were dating and he expressed his wishes to go Active, I promised him I would follow him anywhere and support his dream. Granted, neither of us could even imagine how hard it would be at times. But it is a journey. We've made some wonderful friends along the way. We've been tested and survived! We've learned a lot about each other and ourselves. How do I do it? With the grace of God, an amazing support group of family and friends, lots of tears, lots of prayer, and one day at a time.
Q - Knowing what you know now, would you do it all over again?
A - ABSOLUTELY!!!! YES,YES,YES! While our run with the Army hasn't always been easy, I wouldn't change any of it for anything! It has given us opportunities that we would not have been afforded otherwise. I will be sad to leave Active Duty life, as it gave us our "start"! However, I know it is what is best. But it thrills me to no end to still be able to serve in the Silent Ranks!!

So there you go. There are tons of other questions, that are sometimes a bit controversial (ie - how do you feel about the war?; the president?; the army?). If you guys have any questions, please feel free to ask. I am no "master" of this life, but I will answer as best I can. Also, to the other Army wives, feel free to share some of your answers - I'm sure you get asked the same stuff!

Playing catch - up

2009-06-29T01:30:00.003-05:00

After changing my flight voluntarily and then mechanical problems, I finally arrived back in SC yesterday morning. The kids were there to greet me with Grammie and I was so excited to see them!
I had an amazing first week in Texas, complete with manicures, pedicures, spray tans, SLEEP, adult beverages, girl talks, road trips, shopping, a great steak due to Doc losing a bet (love ya!), lots of laughs, some tears and TONS of anticipation waiting for our soldiers to return!
Friday was D-day for 2 of us. All day we (Elizabeth and I) were nauseous and just trying to keep occupied. The guys' plane arrived around 1730 (5:30 for non military), but they did not make it to the gym where we had been waiting for OVER 2 hours until 1930 (7:30). But after a brief (thank GOD) "welcome home ceremony", the reunion began. Cory and I stayed in a local Hotel for the first two nights to give us some time as well as the Sheplers. I'll keep the details to myself as they may be TMI for most.
Sunday we moved Cory into his new domain (AKA the Shepler's), where he shall dwell until his contract is up... or housing realizes he is living there and kicks him out (which ever comes first). Our week was filled with a road trip to get Cory's new truck, tons of movies, a new LCDHD TV for Cory's father's day, SLEEP, eating out, tattoos, spending time with friends, making new friends, the Sheplers getting a puppy that we all loved on, cooking dinner together, Brownie Batter Blizzards, and just eating up every second we had together!
I took very little pictures, as we did very little. But that's who we are. Homebodies! I may or may not post pictures of our reunion. I haven't decided if I want to keep them for our memories only or share them with the world. We'll see.
Cory should be home on July 17 for 30 days. I'm looking at having a "Welcome Home Hero" cookout/party on the 18th (maybe) or later. The kids are SO excited that Daddy is coming home and Cory is beside himself!
I am back at work and it looks like the next 3 weeks will be crammed with work, house cleaning, unpacking, swim lessons, day camp, day care, work, party planning, work and did I say work? I'll be working tons to make up for being off the last two weeks and being off while Cory's home. Needless to say, I'll be busy! But hey, at least it will keep me occupied, right?!?!
I'm so glad to have my hubby stateside, but sometimes I think its almost worse knowing he is attainable, I just can't go to him whenever I want! Does that make sense? Anywho! Please keep praying for us all as we transition into our new "normal".

Texas bound...

2009-06-14T01:07:00.002-05:00

I will be Texas bound in about 4 hours. I am so ready to go for MANY reasons. Please continue to pray for us as we transition out of one phase of our lives and marriage and into another!!! We expect Cory to be in Texas by the end of next week! Thank you so much for your love and support over the last year! We've ALMOST made it!! WooHoo!!

For Daddy, Love Reese

2009-06-11T23:36:00.002-05:00

I finally figured out how to make a slide slow. This is for you, Cory! Grab your kleenex! Enjoy! Love you!
PS You have to disable to music player on the right! YOU NEED TO HEAR THIS SONG!!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Breaking point

2009-06-09T04:13:00.006-05:00

I am 4 days from flying to Texas for what will probably be my one and only vacation for the year! And lets not forget the most important reason - our hero comes home... soon. Everything is still on go, despite (in true Army fashion) some last minute changes of plans. It promises to be an emotional time for us both. The end of one journey and the beginning of another. And while I am beyond excited to see my soldier, I have to be completely honest and tell you guys why I'm REALLY looking forward to going back to the Lonestar state: I need a break!!!!!!!

I've known for months now that I am approaching "that" point - physically, mentally, emotionally. You know what I'm talking about, right? When you begin to lose sight of the "why" you are doing things. When you are in auto pilot and simply going through the motions. And this was further confirmed last night.

I work at our county's hospital (a level 1 Trauma center) in the ER. My job, while not physically demanding, requires me to think on my feet and "git r done" with very little to no resources. I also deal with ALL the calls that come into the ER - family, doctors, EMS, police, etc. I could post for days about the conversations I have had with family members... another time, I promise. Most times I am extremely courteous and try to be as compassionate as possible, as I know the frustration of the family members.

I am VERY limited, legally, as to what I can release over the phone. So this gets sticky sometimes when families demand to know more. Tonight, was no different. A lady called and asked if her daughter was a patient here. I looked in our system and politely told the lady no. End of conversation. Two minutes later, the same lady called back. Here was our conversation:

Me: Good evening. _______ ________ EC, this is Christan.

Her: Yes, I just spoke with you. You said my daughter wasn't there. I just spoke with her and she said she was. I want to know why you lied to me. Did you even look?

Me: Ma'am, I take great offense to being called a liar. Why would I lie to you about something that makes no difference to me?

Her: Well you said she wasn't there. She is there.

Me: Well you asked if she was a patient, she is NOT a patient. She may have been seen and discharged, but that's not what you asked. I don't know if she's out front, I'm not sitting out there. (I have to admit, I probably wasn't conveying the most "customer friendly" tone with that...)

Her: Well I'm coming up there and I'm gonna fix you.

Me: More capable people have tried to "fix" me, ma'am and have been unsuccessful. But you are more than welcomed to try.

Her: Well, you're just a b****. I'll be there in a minute and you'll be fixed.

Me: Be sure when you get here, you ask for Christan Trotter, T-R-O-T-T-E-R, there's four Kristen's here and I'd hate for there to be a mix up. I'll be more than happy to let you give it a shot.

Her: We'll see if you're talking all that s*** when I get there

Me: I'll be here waiting.

That was the end of the conversation. I called up to the front desk (my office is in the back, hehe) and told the security guy that if an irrate woman comes in and is asking for me, please call me. He chuckled and asked "Who have you pissed off now?" You see, this is not the first of such occurances. I told him the story and he laughed "That is classic you... I love it". She never showed... Darn it....
Now, I must say here that any of you who know me well know that I try not to have conflict but I do not back down from it either. Here lately, I've found myself instigating it. Needless to say, I need a break. And that is exactly what I will be taking starting Sunday!!!

The Road Not taken

2009-06-04T05:04:00.002-05:00

I had to memorize the poem below in the 7th grade. It impacted my life tremendously. I know that I have given my parents more than a couple gray hairs because I am forever taking the "road less traveled". But that's me. Never take the easy way out. Just wanted to share my favorite poem. Enjoy!

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveller, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference...

Robert Frost

Random

2009-05-29T21:01:00.002-05:00

I know I have been total slack with blogging lately. And I'd like to say I'm sorry. The fact of the matter is that I haven't had much that is "blog worthy" going on lately. Scratch that. Yes I have. I just can't seem to find the words to say...
Reader's Digest version: my life has been chaos for 2 weeks. The rollercoaster has definitely thrown me for some loops. In the interest of saving time and my family's privacy, I will spare the details. Lets just leave it at its been rough. Please pray for us!
In other news, we have added another mouth to feed at our house. Its a turtle named Dinky. We are foster parenting for the summer as his owners have some valid reason for not keeping him (I'm not sure I remember exactly why). So far, he's been easy. We've had a turtle before, so we kind of know what to expect. The kids love him, so for that, he can stay for a while. Our hamster still escapes frequently, but has learned to put himself back in the cage when he's hungry. Its interesting. Again, the kids love him, so I can't complain.
I'll be heading to Texas in a few short weeks for what promises to be an emotional reunion with my soldier. Reese is growing like a little weed. He's learned several new words lately. To include - turtle, bird, and Barbie. The girls are sooooo ready for summer break. And I... well I'm just trying to survive the next few weeks without having a serious break down!
So that's it for us. Just moving along, trying to keep it together for this last little stretch! Thank you to all of you who have been praying for us and will continue to do so! This journey is almost over, thank God. The next one looks to be just as eventful, unfortunately. What I wouldn't give to remember what it felt like to be "normal"!!!

Some heroes wear capes...

2009-05-17T18:24:00.001-05:00

Some wear combat boots, and still others wear pink boxer shorts! For those of you who have no interest in the news (or the time), click on the link below for a story that will bring a smile to even the hardest of hearts!!!

http://news.aol.com/article/pink-boxers-taliban/486339

Walking among heroes

2009-05-13T20:37:00.004-05:00

By Staff Sgt. David Hopkins, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO

Facebook Digg Delicious April 30, 2009 News

JALALABAD AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – When a man with blood-soaked hands emerged from a small shop in the Nishgam bazaar in northeastern Afghanistan in mid-March and approached a Fort Hood troop of Soldiers he had one request for their medic – to save a baby’s life. Soldiers from Troop C, 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, were on patrol through the bazaar to show a presence in the area when an Afghan nurse burst into the street seeking help from the American Soldiers.

“I wasn’t sure what he wanted at first,” Spc. Anthony Janda, 6-4 Cav. Regt., medic, said, “but I followed him into the little shop. Inside there was an 8-year-old boy holding a baby who was wrapped in gauze and had blood all over him.”

The baby was victim to a circumcision that went wrong in a village across the border in Pakistan and was brought to the nurse to help, but his knowledge and supplies were limited and the baby was in shock. Janda knew immediately the injury was serious judging by the amount of blood on the floor. Acting quickly, the medic began to remove the gauze from the child and for the first time realized just how bad the injury was.

“When I started to pull the gauze away blood squirted at me,” Janda said. “I didn’t really think about it at that point. It was all instinctive.” He had never worked on a baby and was not trained in any medical techniques to save babies, but Janda, a father of a three-year-old, knew he had to save the child.

He tried to control the bleeding by applying gauze to the wound. While he was doing this, he sent another Soldier back to get his noncommissioned officer-in-charge, Sgt. 1st Class Jimmy Carswell, so he could request an evacuation. However, before the senior noncommissioned officer arrived, the baby’s heart stopped beating.

“I’ve never done CPR on a baby before,” Janda said. “Normally I just work on the guys, making sure they are healthy and mission capable. This was completely new.” He performed CPR on the baby and in a couple minutes detected a pulse, but the child wasn’t in stable condition. He had lost a lot of blood and the medic had none to replenish the baby’s supply. The medic and Carswell, who had arrived and was working on getting the baby evacuated, decided to try an IV solution called HEXTAND, which adheres to blood cells and adds more volume to the blood supply. Janda found a small needle in his aid bag. He hit the baby’s tiny vein on the first attempt, but his heart stopped beating.

Janda revived the boy again with CPR. He knew the baby wouldn’t survive if they didn’t get him to surgery, so Carswell ran out into the street to hire a cab. “I found a local and had our interpreter get him to find a cab,” Carswell said. “It’s a thirty-minute drive, but it was the only way to get him back to the (forward operating base).”

Before the cab arrived the baby’s heart stopped for a third time but Janda again successfully revived him. When the child was stable the nurse from the bazaar shop went along with him on the rough, gravel roads to FOB Bostick. By the time they arrived on base, the intravenous solution had taken affect and the baby was responsive and crying.

With the help of a large medical team and advice from a pediatrician on the phone the Soldiers stitched up the baby and saved his life. “The cut was deep,” said Sgt. Shay Wilson, Forward Operating Base Bostick’s aid station noncommissioned officer-in-charge. “When the surgery was performed, just over the border in Pakistan,” Wilson said, “the surgeon, or whoever did the surgery, cut too deep. The baby lost a lot of blood, but Janda did the right things to stabilize him and get him to us.”

After the baby and nurse left the bazaar, Janda and the others went back to work without knowing the baby’s fate. “I had a heavy heart,” Janda said. “I was really worried about the kid and wasn’t really talking to any of the guys. I was depressed because I really didn’t know if he was going to make it.” Several hours later the word was passed to the troop that the baby had survived and was doing fine. The entire troop breathed a collective sigh of relief.

“To have a medic of that caliber with you is priceless,” Staff Sgt. Eric Winn, Troop C squad leader said. “Knowing you have a medic that good with you when you go out lets you focus more on the mission at hand. I wouldn’t want anyone else working on me out there.”

Janda and his team have visited the baby since saving his life and he has recovered and is doing well. “It was great to see him healthy,” Janda said. “I’m just happy I was able to figure out the right things to do, and am happy he gets to live a healthy life.”

The picture above is Janda, his wife Jaime and their son, Aiden! We are so proud of you, Janda! We love you and can't wait to see you soon! You truly are a hero and we are honored to call you friend and family!

Every rose has its thorns

2009-05-09T20:40:00.002-05:00

If you have ever had the joy of eating a meal with my family and I, you know what a process it can become. The girls are and have always been wonderful eaters. They will at least try anything we put in front of them. And when they eat, they EAT. They are by no means "bird eaters". They can inhaled massive quantites of food that sometimes leaves me asking "where did you put all that?!?!" They are very tall and skinny.
Reese, on the other hand, is SUPER picky. That doesn't even scratch the surface. He is beyond picky. He will usually only eat fruit, with the occasional grilled cheese, bacon grits and a rare (as in time, not cooking) chicken nugget. I do only allow him fresh fruit as I feel that if he's gonna eat it, it might as well be the healthiest I can get.
Well, today we went to a good friend of ours' little boy's b-day party. They had those little smoked cocktail weenies with BBQ sauce. I fixed my plate and sat down to eat. I, as always, offered Reese a bite of a weenie. To my surprise, HE ATE IT!!!! And even said "Mmmmm" Which is his way of letting me know he REALLY likes it. I was elated. Ya'll he NEVER eats anything new I offer. So I continued to feed him several. I stopped only after I realized he had eaten A LOT and I didn't want to upset his sensitive stomach.
We went and played. He did his "poop thing" - its so dramatic, but hilarious. (I know this is TMI, but I"m trying to save this memory). Immediately, I knew something was wrong. He absolutely refused to sit down. This isnt completely abnormal since when he was an infant, we would rush to change his diaper because he had such stomach issues (we needed to check the poop - I know, I know, TMI). This resulted in a bit of a Divo - he hates to have a dirty diaper. Anyway - back to the story...
He would not sit down, so I decided to check his diaper. Sure enough, it was dirty. I laid him down and proceeded to "do the deed". When I took off his diaper, I gasped! Ya'll, his bottom was SO red. Bless his heart he started screaming and continued to do so while I gingerly wiped him off. IT.LOOKS.HORRIBLE!!!! I caked on the Desitin and diapered him up. He laid on my shoulder the remainder of the party. He's pitiful.
When we got home, I let him run around naked, but everytime he sat down or fell down, he would cry. We did a bath and that seemed to help. But you can tell he's really uncomfortable. Bless his heart. I feel so bad.
I told Cory. His response "Sometimes the best things you will ever put in your mouth will literally tear up your behind coming out!" Love him! Does anyone have any tips on how to help my little boy recover any quicker?!?

Proudly serving in the silent ranks

2009-05-08T20:03:00.002-05:00

Military Spouse Day, 2009
May 8, 2009
By The President of The United State of America
A Proclamation
Military spouses share the sacrifices of service with our Nation's men and women in uniform. As members of the Armed Forces serve in the United States and across the world, military spouses also serve our Nation. When a servicemember goes to war, we know their spouse also shares in that sacrifice. I am inspired by their commitment to family and our Nation, and on Military Spouse Day, we honor these individuals for their contributions.
Wives and husbands of servicemembers display an uncommon courage and strength as they steadfastly support their spouses during long and arduous deployments. While they endure separations that are filled with worry and anxiety, they face unique stresses. Foremost is the concern about the safety and well-being of deployed loved ones, but there are many other challenges. From managing household finances to comforting children impacted by a military parent's absence, military spouses take on the burdens of maintaining families largely on their own.
This task is complicated even more as spouses work to maintain careers and a sense of community while moving to new duty stations around the country and the world.Despite these hardships, military spouses are an inexhaustible source of strength for our military families and donate their time generously to local communities. Military spouses offer the love and encouragement that help servicemembers endure the challenges of serving our Nation. Military spouses support one another as friends and mentors. They serve in family readiness groups to keep fellow spouses informed and to provide mutual support. They contribute as volunteers to improve neighborhoods, military installations, and communities. These contributions strengthen both our Nation's character and its security.
All Americans should express appreciation for military spouses and let them know they are not alone. To help those who need it, friends, co-workers, and neighbors can offer to help with the burden of daily tasks and thus give military spouses more time for themselves and their families. To assist spouses who are coping with the absence of a loved one, individuals can listen and offer their counsel. Americans can also volunteer through the many organizations that provide assistance to military families.Our Nation maintains a sacred trust with every individual who serves. My Administration is committed to showing our Nation's gratitude for them by honoring our obligations to their families.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 8, 2009, as Military Spouse Day. I call upon the people of the United States to honor military spouses with appropriate ceremonies and activities today and in the future.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.
BARACK OBAMA

I stole this from a fellow Army wife, Tina (hope you don't mind)! Just wanted to take a minute and thank all the Military Spouses who come across my blog. Thank you for your sacrifices, your support, and your heart! I am so proud to say I serve with some of the strongest men and women I know - in the "silent ranks". May God bless you all, your families and your soldiers! Hooah!

What we've been up to...

2009-05-04T20:55:00.012-05:00

So, I finally uploaded all my pictures from my camera. Here's our year in review so far - a brief synopsis of what we've been doing! I tried to get them in order. Enjoy!

Reese's First Birthday! Jan 26
Here is his cake! Isn't it adorable? We did a soldier in honor of Daddy!
As you can see, Reese loved the cake. Note to self - stay away from RED icing on a kid's cake!
It snowed - I don't remember when.
The girls had a blast and Reese was content to eat the snow. Notice Hailey's snow suit - bless her heart. She grew lots in two years (we didn't need one in Texas, so we didn't buy one last year!) Have no fear, we will be buying her a new one this year!
I missed my hubby! I love you, baby!!!
We've had some battle injuries!
Reese broke his leg in March.

But never stopped smiling!

We went to the beach with Grammie and Pappie!

Here's Grammie and her boy!My niece Hannah came too. Her Mommy and Daddy kind of came and went - they couldn't stay the whole week!The girls at Ben and Jerry's! YUM!Of course, we went to Build a Bear. Hailey made a pink monkey, Pinky. Sam made a bear, Sophia. And Reese made a dog, Duke - as in Task Force Duke (the Unit his Daddy is attached to!)I missed my hubby some more! I love you , honey!

We spent LOTS of time with family/friends

Reese with Taylor, his future wife!

These 5 kids are my heart!

Reese and Colin. T-R-O-U-B-L-E!!!

The girls with Shelby.

We've done some cosmetic work in the house.

Our new floors! Aren't they pretty?

The view from the back

I finally got the back wall of the kitchen painted. This is before.

This is after! Disregard the table cover - its from the baby shower! Speaking of which...

We had a baby shower for one of my dearest friends!

The diaper cake for Isaac!Natalie, her daughter, Emma and the stuffed bear that Natalie's sister, Heather, made! So cute!Emma helping with the opening of the gifts.

There's also a new park close by. We LOVE it!From top left, clockwise: Sam, Hannah, Hailey, ReeseBTW, Reese got a hair cut. Not an "official" hair cut as we are waiting on Daddy for that. But we had to shape him up a bit, he was looking like a hippee!

We bought a new car!

09 Honda Pilot. This is not the color of our's but this is what it looks like.

We've (re)added two members to our family!

Now that the floors are done and they have been to the groomer, the dogs Gus(left) and Mollie(right), can come in and be a part of our daily lives! Reese loves them and they simply adore him!

There you have it. There's been tons more in between, but I didn't think you wanted to see the 300 + pics I've just uploaded and saved! We're still keeping busy. We're in the middle of soccer right now and soon we will add swim lessons. And with any luck, our hero will be home sometime next month and will have some pics to share of his adventures!! Have a great week!

Priceless

2009-04-23T20:55:00.002-05:00

Having our 2 fat, lazy dogs groomed - $120
New cage for our Houdini Hamster - $40
Gas to Petco - $0 (Thanks to the Dealership filling up my gas tank in my NEW car)
Knowing the dogs will soon become "real members" of the family b/c they will be inside; Knowing Houdini Hamster may be less likely to escape his habitat (at least slowed in the process); Seeing the look on Reese's face as he watched the different animals and hearing him say "pish"(just as my brother did as a baby) and "bird" - PRICELESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I don't blog much about our dogs, but we have 2 - a Golden Retriever, Gus (who weighs a whopping 120+ lbs) and a Lab mix, Mollie (who is quite the Diva). They have always been inside dogs, but when we moved into our new house I put them out back because I didn't want them to ruin our carpet (I wasn't sure when I'd be able to get the floors put in). But now that we've got our floors in, I am more inclined to let them in. I still don't know if it will be a permanent thing because I really don't want our house smelling like dogs, but at least that option will now be available. Either way, they are in some serious need of grooming (Gus needs a shave and Mollie needs a good bath). I know Cory is not a big fan of Mollie going to the groomer, but I don't have time to wrestle with her to give her a bath. Honey, she will be fine - when you get home, you can fight with her!
Also, if you are new to our blog, we have a Houdini Hamster. His name is Bugsy and he's a gift from Santa (he must be, because no parent in their right mind would buy such a creature - EVER). He escapes at least 2 times a week - no matter what cage he's in or how much food is in there. The last time he escaped, he was out for several days and one day we went to check the cage and he had let himself back in - true story. I didn't put him back, Samantha hadn't been home to put him back and Hailey hates him & would never touch him to put him back. So we found a cage today that gives me hope that his days of escaping may be over.... MAYBE. I'll keep you posted!

In deployment news, looks like Cory is going to be delayed coming home one more month. This is disheartening but we are trying to look at the silver lining. I will have more time to complete my "list" and that will be one more month of tax free pay! He should be promoted within the next few weeks. He has good days and bad days - luckily the good are far outweighing the bad these days. Not much longer and we can move forward to the next phase of our life!!
So that's it. We're sailing along, sometimes the ride is peaceful and serene and other times we're riding the waves of the high seas. Check back for pictures of all the changes that have been going on around our house!

Next best thing...

2009-04-20T20:43:00.005-05:00

While having Cory on the other side of the planet has been trying on so many levels, I thank God I have the next best thing here to help me around the house - my Dad (well, stepdad, but if you know me, you know my issues with my "real"dad - so John, is it for me!). He has done so much over the last few months and really over my entire life - at least the 19 years he's been with my mom! I just wanted to give a GINORMOUS shout out to him! I'm not sure if he reads my blog, but I want the world to know how wonderful he is!!
John -
Thank you for everything you have done to keep me sane! For cutting our grass, multiple times. For laying the quarter round for our floors, even though it took way longer than it should have. For buying my flowers for the flower bed in front of the house. For planting said flowers in a bed that I thought was unplantable! For being willing to help my buy our new car and new lawn mower! For keeping the kids for a week straight while I worked and our house was in shambles from all the "renovating". For always being willing to come and help me with whatever "bee has gotten in my bonnett". For loving me as if I was genetically bound to you. For showing me that any man can be a father, but it takes a real man to be a Dad. For loving our kids as if they were your own. For spoiling us ALL rotten! For calming me down when my battery has died in the car, in the garage - even from 2 hours away! For sacrificing time with Momma, your wife, because I have to be at work at 7 and need to take a nap. For showing Reese the love of a man while Cory is away. For lovingly directing me in a different direction when I am heading down a wrong path. For loving me through my "troubled years" and knowing that I still am a bit "troubled" - and loving me anyway. For always giving me your honest opinion, while sometimes a bit brash - but always offering a way to fix what needs to be. For being a Dad, when you didn't have to be!
I love you more than words can say and I am so thankful that you chose us to be your family! Your neverending sacrifices and love have earned you the title of Dad in my life - now and forever. And while, at best, I am an over demanding, moody, self centered, opinionated, rebellious, spoiled rotten brat - I am and will always be your little girl! I love you and I hope that in someway, somehow, I make you as proud of me as I am of you! "Thank you" does my gratitude no justice. You are the greatest! And while you cannot replace Cory in our house, in our kids lives, or in my heart (not that you'd want to), you always have been and always will be the next best thing!

Hump day happenings

2009-04-15T02:10:00.005-05:00

Yes, I'm blogging at 3am. But its ok, I'm at work - I'm supposed to be up! The last few days have been CRAZY around our humble abode. Here's a brief synopsis - Friday, I worked (on my "day off) for another girl in my office whose mom died. Saturday I painted the back wall of my kitchen - to say it was disasterous would do it no justice. It has been fixed, but its taken me MANY hours and MANY MANY coats of paint. Sunday, our laminate (faux hardwood) floors were put in.(**before you gasp, yes, I am aware that it was Easter Sunday and I made every attempt to get the 'contractors' to go partake in Easter festivities, then insisted that if they weren't at my house, they'd be somewhere else working) Monday, it was back to work. Tuesday we went for our daily trip to Lowes to buy the quarter round to finish the floors, pick bubba up at daycare, then to soccer practice. After all that, I dropped the girls off at my parents and went home. I couldn't sleep, so I decided to paint the base boards and trim of the kitchen. Now I am at work and it has been wide open.
So that's been my week so far. The rest of the week consists of laying the quarter round, touching up paint and putting everything back where it goes in my house. Saturday, I'm having this lady and some other ladies over to our house to celebrate the upcoming birth of her son. This is also my weekend to work! So I'll be exhausted when all is said and done... but the kitchen and floors are DONE!!! (btw, I looked into putting in the ceramic flooring - i'll be holding off on that for a little while!)
In Army news, looks like we are in the 2mth time frame of redeployment (Cory's coming home). I can't believe that the end is near. Cory is doing well, hopefully you have been following his blog as well. If not, go check it out!!!!!
So that's it. Life's crazy again at our house. But for me its a sign of good things to come! Hopefully soon I will post pics of Easter. No promises!

Honey Do

2009-04-06T21:33:00.005-05:00

The "word in the mountains" is that I can count on 2 hands the number of weeks left until my hubby returns. To say I'm excited would be an understatement. I've got a ton of things I need to get done before Cory comes home. When he left, I told him I would have sooooo much done when he got home. I knew that I would procrastinate and even told some friends and family to prepare to be prepared to have to lend a hand on a time crunch! Luckily, I have wonderful people around me who have come to expect this and love me through the stress! Here's a list of things that are on my "honey do" list. (I hope to use this as a public accountability tool - as I plan on update the list each week!)
*Put in Laminate flooring (aka faux hard woods) in the living room/kitchen
*Paint the back wall of our kitchen - Cory got all but this wall painted before "the chaos"
*Paint the kids bathroom
*Steam clean the carpet in the bedrooms
*Look into putting ceramic tile into the bathrooms/laundry rooms
*Acquire a lawn mower - either used or new
*Cut the grass (more than once)
*Look into trading our car in for something with a lower payment
*Finally take the "stuff" I've had packed for Goodwill to Goodwill
*Try to find an upholstery place to redo our kitchen chairs
*Clean out the garage
*Take the dogs to the groomers for a bath and shave
*Find a new home for the hamster - Samantha has finally decided to relinquish her ownership (after Bugsy got out AGAIN today)
*Reorganize our closet so that Cory can have room to put his clothes
*Move my stuff out of Cory's side of the dresser (sorry, honey, it has taken me all 6 drawers to put my clothes in - do you think they make a "mens" dresser for our suit?)
*Clean our house - I mean REALLY clean it!
*Get the big screen tv from my inlaws for the living room
*Buy plants for our "porch" and flower bed in front of the house
*Buy furniture for our patio
*Arrange for my shifts to be covered at work while I'm away
*Find a place to stay while I"m in Texas for 3 weeks
*Fix our fence in the backyard - its got some rough spots

WOW! That looks like a lot. I know I'm forgetting several things. I'm glad I'm a procrastinator - because I know I'll be so busy with this stuff that I won't have too much time to be anxious about Cory coming home!
Soccer starts tomm. So on top of my list, I've got both girls doing soccer, I've got my normal duties and I've got to work. Should be fun! I can only pray that everyone stays healthy and in one piece until its all over!

Stolen pictures

2009-04-02T22:46:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I stole some pictures from this blog. Hope you don't mind, Annie! They were just too cute!

Reese playing in the sand. FYI - the shirt he has on actually belonged to Cory when he was a baby. We've got ALL of Cory's clothes - my MIL saved them all (and I mean them ALL). Its neat to pull out some of the stuff and get Reese to wear them!

Kisses for Mommy! Here recently, everytime I ask if can have a kiss, he says "NoNo and shakes his head" Its a game for him. I'm glad Annie caught him being sweet!

Aren't they the cutest bunch of kids? Samantha, Camden (Hannah's "best boy"), Hannah and Hailey! I"m glad you can get them to pose pretty for you, Annie!

**Be sure to read the post below! I need your help! Have a great night!

Beach bums and crafty creators

2009-04-02T21:02:00.004-05:00

For those of you who didn't know, my family and I have been at the beach for the week. This was my first beach vacation in 7 (yes 7) years. My parents usually take the kids without me because I am NOT a big fan of the beach (and that's an understatement). Anyway. It was a good time - so good that I may even go back next year!

Here are a couple pictures from our trip:(maybe one day I'll get around to posting more pics - that's a big maybe!)

Our little man! Isnt he the cutest beach bum you've seen today? The bandana is to keep his head (which still has very little hair) from burning! And yes I did put a shirt on him while on the beach! Look at his little flip flops! OMG!!!!!!!!!! I.could.eat.him.up!

And the crazy girls! Don't ask what they are doing. They are not big fans of having their pictures taken. Hailey is on the left and Samantha is on the right! They LOVE the beach. Don't you think they are growing up too fast? (BTW that's Hannah our cousin/niece in the bottom corner - she was there too with her Mommy, and "best boy" Camden, and Daddy at the end!)

Look for more updates about our trip, maybe some pictures. I'm hoping that my sister in law, Annie posts some pics from our "projects" that my Mom decided would be "fun". She wanted memories to be made, and believe me - they were.

On a side note: I am looking for a cute bag (maybe back pack) to carry with Reese's stuff in it. I have a diaper bag but its GINORMOUS and I am always packing it with random stuff because I feel like it needs to be full since its so big. I am wanting to downsize. I know I have seen cute bags somewhere, but can't seem to find ANY now. Everything looks so girly(which is great for a girl). I need something that Cory will not be ashamed to carry when he takes Reese places without me! I no longer need a huge bag as the daycare provides everything (diapers, wipes, food, etc) he needs there and we are never too far from home for too long. Any suggestions of places I should be looking or anyone that would be willing to make such a thing?!?!?

Only a child of God

2009-03-25T22:04:00.002-05:00

I have spent the last two nights at work looking at something online. If you need some inspiration today, or any day, go here. This young girl is wise beyond her years! Be sure to read her story under "her life". Hope you are having a wonderful week!

H.O.C.

2009-03-24T23:48:00.004-05:00

God has blessed me with a few men in my life that have taken care of "house matters" while Cory has been away. I lovingly call them my "husbands on call" (HOC). Anytime something happens at the house - ranging from clogged toilets, to beds that need to be put together - I call one of my HOC's and they either come to fix it or walk me through the repair. I love these men dearly and while they are by no means a substitute for MY husband, they have taken excellent care of me (us) over the last 8 mths. I'm sure they are just as ready for Cory to come home as I so they can "retire"! Here's just a few things over the last month that I've had to call my HOC for!
A few days ago, I went into the girls bathroom to "tidy" up a bit. When I flushed the toilet, it wouldn't fill up. Do you know what I'm talking about? My intial feeling was "NO WAY". Let me back track - we moved into our house in Sept and 3 days after moving in, we had to have our septic tank pumped. Our house is only 3 years old. I was infuriated. I know people who have lived in their house for almost 30 years (ie my parents) and NEVER had to have theirs pumped. Then I was upset about the price - its CRAZY expensive. (I realized that people who do that for a living are actually underpaid as it is absolutely disgusting). Anyway - back to the story. I went in a few days ago and felt my blood pressure shoot through the roof. I called one of my HOC's - Cory's best friend, Trevor. His wife kind of chuckled when I told her the situation and she said "I can probably help you more than he can - he's not a toilet man". She told me exactly what to look for and how to fix it! Problem solved - and I didn't even have to pay a plumber! I guess that was one for the WOC - that's another post and group all together!
Then tonight I started the dishwasher before heading to work. It was my short night, so when I walked in the door at midnight, an extremely noctious odor hit my nose. I asked my mom what that horrid smell was. She said she couldn't smell it but that Hailey had smelled something earlier. From a previous experience, I knew right off hand what it was. You see, when we lived in our apt in Texas, we had our first dishwasher (my first one EVER). One night there was this horrid smell (similar to the one I smelled tonight). We thought it was something on fire in the apt above us so we checked with our neighbors to see if they smelled it as well. Sara, our neighbor asked if we had been running the dishwasher (undoubtedly she had made the same mistake at some point). It was a wooden spoon on the "warmer". Tonight's culprit, a plastic lid! No HOC needed! Aren't you proud?!
As I was letting my mom out of the garage, she informs me that the doorknob on the door to the garage is broken. She wasn't kidding. As I grabbed it, it fell off into my hand. I don't even know where to begin with that one. That will be tomorrow's job, I suppose. Which HOC to call for that one - we shall see!
One day back when I was doing my Paramedic Refresher my battery in my car died. I knew what to do to fix it, but had one other problem. Mondays are MY day to carpool. It was a Monday. It was 1:30pm, I was in Greenville and the kids had to be picked up by 2:20 in Spartanburg. I called my "#2" husband - as I am his #2 wife! He's a local fireman and left work to pick up all the kids. My mom often jokes that Shawn (my #2) has a second family - ours! His wife ( my best friend, Amy) is so generous in sharing him when we need him around the house!
Don't get me wrong, I love my husband and miss him more than words can express, but it gives me great peace to know that if/when I need something here at the house, God has given me a group of men that are willing to pitch in and help out! I also don't want you to think I am helpless. I'm sure I could figure out some of these things on my own (like the dishwasher), but it takes a lot of stress off me to know that if something does arise - I don't have to stress! God has given me people that can fix it and more importantly don't mind doing so! I love you all dearly and appreciate your helping hand more than you will ever know!

Bring on the rain

2009-03-15T21:23:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite songs of all time is "Bring On the Rain", by Jo Dee Messina. This past week, I have listened to this song more times than I'd care to think about. It always gives me the motivation I need to pick up and keep going. Here are the words - maybe they'll brighten your day when you need it most!!

Another day has almost come and gone
Can't imagine what else could go wrong
Sometimes I'd like to hide away
Somewhere and lock the door
A single battle lost
But not the war
Cause tomorrow's another day
I'm thirsty anyway
So bring on the rain.

Its almost like the hard times circle round
A couple drops, and they all start coming down
Well I might feel defeated
And I might hang my head
I might be barely breathing,
but I'm not dead, no.
Cause tomorrow's another day
I'm thirsty anyway
So bring on the rain.

No I'm not gonna let it get me down
I'm not gonna cry
And I'm not gonna lose any sleep tonight
Cause tomorrow's another day
I'm thirsty anyway
So bring on the rain.

Our first "battle wound"

2009-03-13T21:22:00.004-05:00

As if our week wasn't crazy enough with Reese's surgery, we found out Wednesday that he broke his left leg. We think he fell on it wrong at some point. He has broken his left fibula (the small bone in the lower leg). He has been a real trooper - he has faced the Dr offices (as there have been several) with courage and bravery that even a hardened veteran would be proud of.
Below you will find a picture of him from Thursday. He is all smiles. However, his cast is now green because his Orange one was sliding off, so we had to have it cut off and a new one made. He did not cry AT ALL having it cut off and put back on! Daddy, you should be proud!
Please pray for him as he has several weeks that he has to wear this cast! Pray for me as I try to catch on some much needed rest that I was deprived during this CRAZY week and pray for my nerves - I don't think I can take much more before Cory gets home! Also, if this is any indication of what is to come in our lives with this little boy - pray for patience and GOOD DOCTORS!!!

Here is a picture of Reese just before his surgery on Monday! He was such a big boy and didn't even cry when they took him back! Isn't he cute in his hospital gown?!?

Surgery,Sickness,Stolen Goods

2009-03-10T18:46:00.002-05:00

Reese had surgery on Monday to put tubes in his ears and take out his adenoids (which were growing stuff ON them - YUCK). He did really well with surgery and has done well so far with recovery. He hates to have the drops put in his ears, but I think that's mostly because I have to hold him down and he is definitely a "free spirit" and hates to be "bound by anything". Anyway. Thank you for your prayers!
My mom called me Sunday night at work and told me that Samantha was sick. She is notorius for throwing up in the bed (usually while her sister is sleeping). She came out of the room and told Pappie that she threw up a little in his bed - boy was that an understatement! Pappie said it was massive! My personal opinion is that she ate too much Pineapple. I'm not exactly sure of the amount, but if I know my girl (which I know I do), she probably ate until she was about to pop - or throw up in this case! Thank God it wasn't the "bug" again!
In more distressing news - I've had TWO magnets stolen off my car in the last month! The first was a magnet from the girls school and the other was a yellow ribbon that read "Keep My Husband Safe". What a shame! People never cease to amaze me! If the people who have done this injustice happen to come across my blog, I hope you enjoy them and I hope you lay awake at night ridden with guilt! (I'm being dramatic again, but it is aggravating).
Its Tuesday! Yay! Almost half way through another week! Can I get a WooHoo for warm weather!?!?!
PS If you haven't already, scroll down to the bottom of my blog and click on "Through my soldier's eyes". That's my hubby and he's been blogging away!

Aware

2009-03-08T19:20:00.002-05:00

Most days I go through life on autopilot. Since Cory has been gone, I have tried very hard to stay exhaustingly busy so that when I do finally go home, I'm so tired that, the fact that our bed is empty, doesn't bother me. For the most part, I have handled our separation fairly well. I've had my moments, don't get me wrong. But even I have been suprised at how strong I have been through it all (thus far). I try to make my Soldier proud by being a good Army Wife. And I feel in my heart that he is.
Today I went to a new LifeGroup (like Sunday School) at church.It is for Newlywed/Engaged couples. I am so excited about this group as I have often felt a little out of place in other classes. I am also SO excited about the teachers. The "lead" teacher is a the wife of our Pastor, a precious woman that I know will be a wonderful teacher and the "assistant" teachers are a wonderful couple that I definitely look up to when it comes to having a Christian home. I am also excited about being with other couples that are going through some of the same "life challenges" that we are.
While I sat in this group this morning, I was at peace in my heart that I was where God wanted me to be - a feeling, I am sad to say I haven't felt in our church for a while. And while it gave me great joy to feel like I was involved in something that I feel God designed for me (I know that sounds selfish, but He knew I needed THIS class with THESE teachers), my heart was broken.
I sat and looked around the room at the couples. Some of them I have known a long time, some of them I was just seeing for the first time, and some I had seen but not "met". I do not know where any of them live, how they met or what they deal with on a day to day basis. None -the-less, I found myself jealous. I was painfully aware that I am (physically) alone. I don't know why it was TODAY that it hit me so hard, but it did. I went through Thanksgiving,Christmas, our Anniversary, New Years and Valentines with what I would consider minimal heartache. But today has been hard.
I look forward to what God will reveal to me over the coming weeks and months in this Group. I hope to learn from the other couples as well as share my heart and experiences. I know we are on the homestretch of this Deployment and each day brings him closer to being home. However, its not getting any easier. Please continue to pray for all the soldiers and their families!

I declare WAR

2009-03-04T02:09:00.003-06:00

Cory has been gone for almost 8 mths now. He's lived in the trenches. Treated our Nations finest for ailments ranging from the common cold to wounds received in combat. Treated locals with compassion and humanity. Not showered for days at a time. Slept in caves. Ate more MRE's than he'd like to think about. Shot at the enemy (quite possibly killing them - I don't care to know those details). Arranged for a dozen medevacs and shared his medical knowledge with countless individuals. He, along with all our other soldiers (both living and not) are the TRUE heroes of this war. They are fighting a war, that I fear has many more battles to come and may not be over anytime soon. However, while my husband is "waging a war on terror", I am fighting a war of my own...
The enemy is not easily swayed and stands firm on his position. While to some, he may seem small and harmless. He has almost brought me to my knees countless times. He, like most enemies is very tactful and seems to know how to "hit me when I'm down". His mission is clear. And for him, defeat does not seem an option.
I am waging a war on bedtime terror and picky eating! Reese has decided that bedtime is not what it once was - a time to cuddle with Mommy (or Grammie when I'm at work), have a bottle and listen to soft lullabies as he drifts off to sleep holding his "beloved" blankie. He fears he will miss something if he succumbs to the ploys of the "sand man". Therefore, bed time has become a battle worthy of the history books - right there with Normandy, Baghdad, Pearl Harbor, etc (ok, I'm being extremely over dramatic with that, but you get the point - its a battle!) The last two nights have been exceptionally bad!
At one time, I looked forward to bedtime! Not only because it meant that my bedtime was near, but because it meant that my little boy, who seems to be becoming more and more independent as each day passes, would actually cuddle with me and let me stroke his head and hold his hand. Now, I dread the battle of wills that is sure to ensue.
I know that some may feel that by now, I should of had him "soothing himself" to sleep in the bed. And if that's what you've chosen to do now or in the past, thats awesome. However, I haven't felt comfortable with that yet. I didn't do it with the girls and when they were "ready" they did it on their own. Reese will only be little for so long and I plan on taking full advantage of every minute. On that note, I am realizing that it may be nearing "that" time - as he is wearing me (and my mom) out fighting.
Do any of you have any helpful tips to make the transition go a little smoother? I am definitely open to suggestions. Reese is a VERY stubborn child (he is definitely his parents child). I've tried a couple times to lay him down and leave. After 30 min of screaming that could quite possibly peel the paint of the walls, I went and got him. He'll do just about anything you ask, but on "his terms" (don't know where he gets that from). Somethings got to give - for my and Grammie's sake! Any advice is definitely appreciated!
I often joke and say that 1 Reese is 10 times harder to raise than the girls are together. This is just one of the areas. Reese has decided that at the ripe ole age of 1, he is going to be a Vegen (minus the veggies). He only eats fruit and bread! No meat, no veggies. I buy only fresh fruit so he's at least getting the healthy stuff without the syrup and I have gone so far as to allow him only V8 Fusion and Juicy Juice Harvest Surprise (both have a single serving of veggies in a serving of juice - that taste like fruit juice) just so that Reese is getting some sort of veggie intake. He ate all the Veggie Baby food (minus peas) really well, but now will not even touch those! Ugh! Any advice on that front is desperately needed! Is this something I should stress about?
So while my husband is valiantly serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, I am battling the will of a stubborn 1 year old! A war I need no medals or commondations for (not that I'd get them), just change! I realize there will be many battles - some lost, but most won (as I am where he gets most of his stubborness from, therefore my will is stronger). And this battlefield shall be conquered, so HELP ME GOD! And then its on to the next. I will not let a 26lb, brown eyed, crazy haired, two toothed, fruit loving, veggie hating, little boy (who looks more like his Daddy everyday, sigh) defeat me!

Welcome back

2009-03-01T22:20:00.001-06:00

My husband has decided to rejoin the world of Blogging! If you get a chance, go here to check it out! Show him some love!

Goat guts and other tid bits...

2009-02-22T21:22:00.002-06:00

Cory called today - after nothing for the last couple. He's been at another base having his ear looked at. All is well in regards to that - tx was successful and he can actually hear now (selectively, I'm sure :)!) I missed the first call today so I got this voicemail "Hey Dear, its me. Sorry I haven't called in a couple days. I'm back at ***. Its a long, crazy story how I got here - I'm ok, just extremely tired. I'll try and call in a few minutes and talk to you before I go to bed! I love you and miss you like crazy!" Its never good when my soldier adds "I'm ok" in a conversation - for me it tells me that at some point in time he was NOT ok...
So he called back. My first words were "What happened?" He began to share with me that 1) the weather had gotten really bad all of the sudden. 2) he had spent a while in a bunker due to a blast outside his B-hut. WHAT?!?! Again, with reassurance he was ok, he began to chuckle... NOT FUNNY for me! Long story, short, a "blast" had occured about 200 feet from him hut (which is conviently about the same distance from "the wire"). They had to go to the bunker as they thought it was enemy mortars and awaited further attack. The advanced patrol came back and reported "All Clear" and invited the guys to come and see what it was... a goat had walked over an explosive device planted by US. He said goat guts were EVERYWHERE! Of course, with my husband's strange sense of humor - he thought it was awesome!
In other news, Reese took his first steps last week. It was such a bitter sweet moment because Cory was not here. I did, however, get to video the event and send it to Cory. Now, our next hurdle- getting him to eat more than fruit and bread! He starts his new day care tomorrow and hopefully the Dr will call this week to schedule his sx for tubes and adenoids! As always, he keeps me busy!
The girls' last game is this week. Then its on to the next sport - SOCCER! Our hamster, Bugsy, keeps getting out of his cage. I found him in MY bathroom the other morning at 3am. Needless to say, I am not loving the creature. Oh the joys...
So we're trudging along... taking it one day at a time. Rumors are Cory will be home sooner than later!! Yay! Not getting my hopes up, but a girl can dream, can't she?!? Have a great week!

A Valentine never forgotten...

2009-02-13T18:22:00.003-06:00

Here's another writing from my Valentine. I hope you all take advantage of this special day and EVERY DAY with your loved one! Happy Valentines Day!
The Inner Circle
The inner circle is completely untarnished and shines like a mirror when you look at it. very few scratches are on it, and it is very smooth. On the outer circle, however, scratches and scuffs adorn it both proving that it has been somewhere, and everywhere at once- it's sturdiness proves that it stands the test of time.
What is the inner circle? It is my wedding band. Why is it so smooth and near flawless? I have only taken it off ONE time in my life because of finger-swelling from an allergic reaction last year. When my ring slides upward towards my knuckle, you can tell it has left a permanent imprint on my finger- over the finger itself, not a strand of hair grows from where the ring makes contact with the finger. The ring never comes off no matter what the circumstance, and people have been told, (and knew) if I sustain an injury to that hand in a combat scenario, That I would rather my finger get chopped off or amputated before I allow any destruction to the ring to save my finger.
Maybe I'm a little over the top about the ring, but it is another symbol- one of many- to the love that will even endure death with my wife. Not only a symbol of love, but fidelity- a state that I hold in the highest regard in this lifetime.
Doing this job I am able to track reports of hundreds upon hundreds of patients that we have in the entire task force. about 20% of those patients are RETURNED TO HOME STATION because they are pregnant. It takes two to do the dance. And the chances of the two being married are slim. I really don't want to speculate the percentage that are practicing infidelity. And what are going to become of the children when they are born? Are they truly wanted? will they be taken care of, or are they just a product of war that 'mommy' used to get out of a combat zone? Hmm.
Marriage as it is explained to me is one of the most holiest of things you can partake in, second only to receiving the spirit of Christ in you. Although there is a human officiating the marriage, it is God himself that passes on the blessing.. and is the unseen witness in the pew watching the ceremony. Why would anyone risk losing grace itself or destroying a family by being a cheater?? Cheating is to accept death itself in my opinion. and people do not take into account the number of people affected, which is severe.
A deployment for a year is no excuse. seperation by 'area codes' is no excuse. There isn't any excuse!I know there are some good moral people, and one is a dear friend at a different base (J.S., you know who you are. Your faith in Christ and Marriage is an example that other people should follow, my friend)But there is definately bad apples here. Anyone who knows me knows that despite the colorful language that I employ at times, I hate immorality with a passion and I find immoral people completely despicable and do not associate with them. You can look deeply at those that I call true friends and see we are all like minded. I hate to lift myself up any higher than I know I am, but I am a saint among some sinners.
I personally can't stand the thought of treating my wife like this and the thought has never, ever crossed my mind. Every time I look at that rough, weathered outer circle I think of how much closer I am to reuniting with the only one that God himself has meant for me to be with. And every time I can see the smooth, flawless inner circle, I know the true meaning of enduring faith and love that has absolutely no bounds. I can also look at the tattoo on my left arm and know that no matter where I walk on this earth, she is absolutely with me.
So cheaters out there beware. If I know you I will expose you. If you make your bed you will lay in it. and I will fluff your pillow.For all the rest of us, forever faithful and good people, Valentines day is tomorrow. If you have the capability don't blow this holiday off. It's not about giving a ton of useless stuff to your significant other or about giving flowers that will eventually die (I love giving Chris Flowers, tho.. LOL) it's about celebrating love.
For me this is just another holiday that I have missed. Like many of my brothers in arms that I can call true friends. But to rejoice- this is the last one missed for me, Like Christmas, Chris's Birthday, The Girls' Birthdays, Reeses' Birthday. Next year I will miss none. I refuse to work any holiday in 2009 or 2010, I will bribe a co-worker with additional money if I have to.
On a sidenote, Most of our true ancestors can be aligned to Scottish/Irish/Gaelic lines. Very, Very true if you know your history of South Carolina. So, for my wife, I have an expression in Gaelic:
Is tú mo ghrá, A chuisle, a chroi!!
(I love you, my pulse and my heart)
I love you, Chris!

SPC(P) Cory M. Trotter
MIL USA FORSCOM
3/1 HHC BDE
Medical Operations SpecialistCommunications

Happy Birthday....

2009-02-07T11:28:00.002-06:00

BRIAN!! I am heartbroken that I cannot be there with you to celebrate. But I know you guys will have a blast tonight! Please know that I love you dearly and could never ask for a better big brother! You are the greastest! I look up to you more than you will ever know. Have a wonderful day! I miss you guys and hope to see you soon! Happy Birthday, Bubba!

Under my umbrella

2009-02-05T20:43:00.002-06:00

Today I went back to the Dr to check my H. Pylori levels. They are still elevated and the dr gave me some new meds that he promises will make me nauseous and there's nothing they can do about it - NICE. I'm sure it will be a good weight loss program, but I absolutely hate to be nauseated. I would rather puke my guts up continuously than be nauseated. So I went home and took said medication and went to bed. I woke up with the feeling that if I moved, I would vomit. I had to get the girls from school. On my way, Reese's daycare called to tell me that he had a temp of 101.7! So I called the pediatrician to see if it was "doctor worthy". (On a side note - we go to Palmetto Pediatrics in Spartanburg and I absolutely LOVE all the staff and doctors; if you are in the hunt for a good peds office - I've got the perfect one for you!) They said they would work us in, so off we went.
To make a long story short, Reese STILL has bilateral ear infections and upper resp infection - and a REALLY bad one at that... we've been on oral antibiotics for the last month with no relief. So now we are onto IM injections (aka shots) of Rocefin - 2 a day x 3 days (minimum). We had the first two today, we'll have 2 more tomm before heading to Chuck Town and he'll get 2 days for his body to "rest" from antibiotics and then its back on Monday for 2 more.
Call me a weenie - whatever you will - but today when he got the first 2 , I cried. It's just these times that I miss Cory more than ever. I'd just like for him to be here. I know this will not kill my child, but as a mother, it breaks my heart to see him suffer and have to get 1 shot, much less 6!!!
And to top it all off, if the shots do not work, its on to IV antibiotics which could mean another bag of goodies to deal with. I have my Paramedic Refresher scheduled for next week (9-5 ALL WEEK) that is mandatory or I lose my registration and to retest. Why is it that the ONE week I have something I have to do, my baby boy is sick and may need extensive treatment? I guess its true - when it rains, it pours... so here I sit - under my umbrella.

*On a different note - if you haven't read the post below, please do so! I love you, baby!

Voice from within

2009-02-04T22:25:00.003-06:00

Cory asked me to post this for you guys. He's finding solace in writing it seems and I LOVE IT!! Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers! He's in there - and here's proof!
I wanted to give everyone a little glimpse of what it's like for me over here in Afghanistan. Everyone's individual situation is different and I am no more important than the next soldier who's in a different area than me getting shot at every day, But we all have our different roles.I spent the first couple of months getting shot at almost daily. I had literally spent every day wondering if it was going to be my last. I was sleeping in a flea-infested cave carved out of the side of the mountain, and the enemy was both everywhere and nowhere at the same time. I slept about two to three hours at a time and spent every minute that I had awake either swatting flies, chasing rats, or having my ear glued to the radio. Frequently our day of just 'sitting there' was interrupted by gunfire and the sounds of mortar rounds going off. You could never tell where they were coming from unless they were right in front of you. The enemy would hide in the village about three hundred meters away from our location, blending in perfectly with civilians. There is no way to describe how fast your heart rate elevates and how time seems to slow down to a trickle when you come into contact with enemy fire. Some love it- or act like they do- for me it was horrible. Having to set up an area in our cave, completely dark- to deal with any casualties we might incur.
Fortunately for me there were only minor injuries during my time in the Valley.On my first day out there, apparently I slept straight through a complex attack. I woke up and walked out of the aid station and there was a crater in the ground five feet away from the aid station front door- Barely missed by a mortar round. It became too intense for me to handle mentally, so I was rotated out to go to the Aid Station at a more built-up location. I spent a few months there treating thousands of local civilians- mostly children- with various injuries ranging from boils to horrible wounds sustained in combat crossfire. The ones that stand out the most are the children. Females are not particularly celebrated here in this country, and are frequently abused- most often by burning- these little kids for doing anything their caregivers seem wrong. One was burned so badly that over 80% of her body was covered in second and third degree burns. Even when we gave her Ketamine- An extremely strong sedative- I could still hear her crying in her sleep and watching her shake. A few feet away was her 'caregiver'.. the one who burned her. Every time I walked into the room I thought about shooting him or slitting his throat, but obviously I couldn't.
I come home on Leave in September and I had a blast with my family. The worst part of leave for any soldier is realizing that it shall too pass- and right back on a plane to a combat zone you will go. I injured my shoulder severely and thought I was going to be having surgery and was put on some hardcore pain pills and was shocked to find that I would have to go back in lieu of surgery. This shock happened at the last minute, and ruined my goodbyes with my family because it was so abrupt.I did get moved to where I am now because of my shoulder- I can't really pick anyone up in an emergency by myself anymore, so I am now dispatching medical helicopters to pick up the sick and wounded.
In response to me being moved, the majority of my friends I have made since I have been in the Army- Even the unit- turned their back on me. I would have never expected some of them to do that, but it is a part of human nature to backstab- even a little. The good thing is I've made new friends rather quickly here, and for the most part it is going well.
The base I'm at now is incredibly quiet, minus the constant noise of Jets and Helicopters taking off. The only problem I have is with a certain individual who is high ranking. The guy gets off by being a bully, especially to me- because I have so much "history" with my old unit where he came from as well.. and usually resorts to talking to me like I'm worse than a dog in front of the entire battle staff that I work with every day here. I guess he's still sore for the fact that I wrote the white house.. I put the unit under a congressional hearing before we deployed because I did not feel that our medics were quite ready to be deployed. As a Paramedic with almost 9 years experience, I know failures when I see one. It wasn't that I was being a direct A-Hole to the people I work with.. My job is to SAVE and CONSERVE lives, so I was thinking about every single grunt with a weapon I've ever met, in case they were severely injured. Most of my days are good.. Boring (which is a good thing... I don't want to medevac our people) but I have to deal with that guy. My dilemma is trying not to let my hate completely consume me and lash out, and do something I regret. I pray every day that God will curb my temper with some people.
I live in a little building called a "B-Hut" now. Most of the time I get very little sleep in those things because I am mixed with both day and night shift workers (I work straight 3rd here) and some people are very inconsiderate. I've been moved more than 4 times since I've been here which is a strain because I have more stuff than the average soldier here, stuff that's quite heavy, and requires more than several fetchings of the stuff.
I know the usual thought about soldiers who return to the US might have "PTSD" or be a completely different person. I am still the same Cory Trotter that alot of you know and some have met. Death has been a part of my life since I got into EMS so this is not something that is going to effect me. The only difference from being in the civilian world and being deployed over here is the massive amount of pressure I'm under, from making the right decisions on my job that could effect whoever I medevac out- Or having to deal with people I would tag with extremely colorful references. Once I return home I will deal with people again that are alot closer to normal. This is abnormal.
I'm not saying that everything will be just like it was before I left- The girls have gotten a year older and I have missed out on almost all of the major milestones of my son, that I can never get back. My wife has held down fort living room well, and my family and in-laws have done a tremendous job helping back home while I've been away. I'm sure I'm going to be sleeping different for awhile, very cautious of people I don't know for awhile, and probably be over-defensive of my family. I am around sixteen weeks or less of finally being done here and I am probably more nervous than my family of my return.
I promise however that I will slowly ease back into being a husband and a father, a friend, and a healthcare worker because many people depend on me. I will not fail my family. The Army may have had a claim on my head for a long time now, but in August when my time is up they can have me no longer.
If you have a family member serving that is due to return soon, I wish you all the best. One thing that is going to help me is that I am very open with my wife and there is nothing that I won't tell her... no matter how bad it may be. Being open is the key to the liberation of your soul. Hold back, and you will always be wearing virtual chains. Not only will I talk to my wife, I will talk to a pastor. I will talk to a psychiatrist. I will get this all out and get it past me.
I just wanted to share a glimpse of how it's been for me over here. It's almost over, thank god, and I am healthy minus a stomach virus I have now. Thank you for all the prayers and support, they have definately helped. But I am still me- I am not a 'caged animal', nor am I a warped version of me- I'm still the same 'ol me. Uncle Sam can't change me. Viva La Revolution.
Have anyone thinking about the military? Have them give total control of their life to a complete stranger for about 9 weeks. See how they like it.I will see you soon-
SPC(P) Cory M. Trotter MIL USA FORSCOM
3/1 HHC BDE
Medical Operations Specialist
Communications

One step at a time...

2009-02-02T23:33:00.002-06:00

I know that's the song that begins to play as you are reading this, but it is just fitting for my life right now. Its 1234 am and I am still awake. Call it anxiety or whatever you will, but Cory has not had a good day - which translates into me not sleeping. I feel like for us its 2 steps forward and 3 steps back. Hes has several good days in a row, but then there is a set back. Please continue to pray for him. He's got a long road when he comes home and I think the closer it gets, the more anxious it makes him. I don't know whats worse for him - being on the other side of the world in a war zone or returning home to face the demons that have been rearing their ugly heads for the last few months.
In other news - my hours have been cut at work. But surprisingly, I am TOTALLY ok with it! I'll be working a couple 12's, a couple 8's and a couple 4's each pay period. Sounds confusing, but I think I'm gonna love my job even more - and who thought that was possible? The job I made reference to recently is on hold - at least until March as our hospital is on a hiring freeze. I'll let you know if and when anything comes of it! Has anyone figured out what the job is?
The girls are doing well. They've survived 100days of 1st grade. They are both excellent students and are reading at least 2 grade levels above what they should be! If only I could get Samantha to stop talking all the time, we'd be good! They are doing Cheerleading still and LOVE it! They look so cute! And their coaches have been wonderful and always give them the cutest cheers to do! With any luck, I'll get some video soon and post it!
Reese is going to have to have tubes put in his ears in the next month. I have to be honest - I can't wait! I am so ready to not have to see him suffer anymore. He's been on antibiotics for almost a month straight with no relief. Nights are exceptionally bad, but luckily during the day, he's such a happy little boy! Looks more and more like Cory daily - its scary! He' s walking with assistance, I look for him to take off on his own soon! He's growing so fast! And he's so stinking cute!
This weekend we are heading to ChuckTown to celebrate my Bubba's big 3-0! Wow, he's getting old! I really hate we don't live closer so we could spend more time with each other! I love you Brian!
So that's it. Just taking it one day at a time, usually one step at a time. Its served me well thus far! Happy Groundhog Day!!!

All partied out...

2009-01-31T21:11:00.002-06:00

Today was Reese' s first birthday party! Everyone I invited (with the exception of 3, I think) came. So needless to say, our house was PACKED!!! We had such a good time. Reese got a TON of stuff (some of which we are seriously considering putting away until Christmas...). He was so cute with his cake - there will definitely be pictures once I have the energy to sit and wait for them to upload. Cory wasn't able to call during the party, as we had hoped, due to a mission, but did call shortly after and got to see his little man on the web cam. Reese had a bit of a reaction to the icing in the cake, but is all better. There for a while, his little face was so red everywhere the icing had been. Fun was had by all (I hope)! Thanks to everyone who came near and far to celebrate this special day with us! And for those of you who couldn't make it - we missed you!
I will be posting pics sometime this week, so check back. As for now, I'm waiting for my love to call and then its off to bed!! I have definitely been over stimulated today!!!

Birthday Boy

2009-01-26T15:03:00.002-06:00

Guess who turned 1 yr old today? Reese Michael Trotter! Its been a tough day, filled with many emotions. I will post pics of his birthday party (which is Saturday). But for now, I'll leave you with a pic from the day God gave him to us and a pic from today! Happy Birthday, BooBaLa!!

*On a side note - I'd like to give an anniversary SHOUT OUT to my brother, Brian, and sister-in-law, Annie! I think this makes 7 years... You guys are the greatest and your marriage is such a model for Cory and I! We love you dearly! Thank you for sharing your day with our little man!

Here's your sign

2009-01-22T20:01:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, after I dropped Reese off at daycare, my heat went out in my car. Let me rephrase that, the fan broke the blows the heat (and air) in my car. I was so exhausted from working the previous night that I just cam home and went to bed - I'd brave the Kia Dealership later. So after I picked up the girls, we headed out to see what the problem was.
We enjoyed the new amenities at Kia of Greer for over 2 hours. The girls were wonderful, thank God and we got to get all the homework done. Mom picked up Reese, so that was another task accomplished. After watching 2 "Everybody loves Raymond" 's and 2 "King of Queens" 's, the Service lady comes in. Here was our conversation:
Lady: "Well Mrs. Trotter, it appears that you blew a fuse when you tried to use your rear windshield wiper."
Me: "Really, how could I have done that"
Lady: "Did you try to use it when it was frozen?"
Me: "No, I usually don't use it EVER because I forget its there."
Lady: "Well, we're not sure. It could have happened anytime and it just took it now to effect the other parts."
Me: "What does a fuse in the BACK of my car that runs the wiper have to do with the fan in the FRONT of my car that blows air?"
Lady: "Its all interconnected." (as she pulls out this "map" and tries to show me)
Me: "Okay, so what needs to be done to fix it? I have to have heat, I have 3 kids."
Lady: "Unfortunately, Fuses aren't covered in the Warranty."
Me: "Of course not, how convient."
Lady: "All total, its going to be about $175"
Me: "I'll take it to my own mechanic - he won't be near that much."
Lady: "Well, ma'am, we've already fixed it."
Me: "I didn't tell you to, so I'm not paying for it."
Lady: "You brought it to us"
Me: "Because I wanted you to tell me what was wrong, not fix it. You did that on your own accord, and I appreciate that. However, I do not feel like I should have to pay you for it."
*We went back and forth for over 15 min. To make a long story short, I only paid $25 for labor. As I pulled away from the store, I vowed to NEVER go back... and I'm still not convinced that was the problem, it just makes no sense to me.
So today I went up to CarMax to see about having another vehicle that I have done TONS of research on transferred here. Everything went really well until we got to the crunching numbers part. Here was that conversation:
Man: " Mrs. Trotter, we have found a company that would be happy to finance your new vehicle, but you will need to trade in your current vehicle and provide $12,000 for the down payment."
Me: "The asking price for the new car is only $13,000."
Man: "Yes ma'am."
Me: "Well if I could come up with $12,000 for a down payment, I might as well find the extra grand and pay it all and be done with it."
Man: "Yes ma'am. But that's a deal, considering you are upside down in your Kia."
Me: "Do I have something on my face?"
Man: "No ma'am." (he looked puzzle)
Me: "Good, I was afraid I had a sign on my forehead that said 'I am a woman, please take advantage of me'. You can keep your "deal" and your car. I'll take my business elsewhere."
Man: "Let me see what I can do."
Me: "No thank you. You would think that in todays economy, you would be bending over backwards to sell people a car. Beggars can't be choosers. Have a good day!"
*And I left. He called twice while I was driving home.
What is it with Car Dealers? So the search continues for my new car! And as for those wayward dealers - here's YOUR sign!

Down in the dumps?

2009-01-20T21:51:00.004-06:00

I received this in an email a few days ago and thought you guys might get a kick out of it! I'd love to hear some of your "worse date" stories!!! Enjoy!
If you didn't see this on the Tonight show, I hope you're sitting down when you read it. This is probably the funniest date story ever, first date or not!!! We have all had bad dates but this takes the cake. Jay Leno went into the audience to find the most embarrassing first date that a woman ever had. The winner described her worst first date experience. There wa s absolutely no question as to why her tale took the prize! She said it was midwinter...Snowing and quite cold... and the guy had taken her skiing in the mountains outside Salt Lake City, Utah. It was a day trip (no overnight). They were strangers, after all, and had never met before. The outing was fun but relatively uneventful until they were headed home late that afternoon. They were driving back down the mountain, when she gradually began to realize that she should not have had that extra latte. They were about an hour away from anywhere with a rest room and in the middle of nowhere! Her companion suggested she try to hold it, which she did for a while. Unfortunately, because of the heavy snow and slow going, there came a point where she told him that he had better stop and let her go beside the road, or it would be the front seat of his car They stopped and she quickly crawled out beside the car, yanked her pants down and started. In the deep snow she didn't have good footing, so she let her butt rest against the rear fender to steady herself. Her companion stood on the side of the car watching for traffic and indeed was a real gentleman and refrained from peeking. All she could think about was the relief she felt despite the rather embarrassing nature of the situation. Upon finishing however, she soon became aware of another sensation. As she bent to pull up her pants, the young lady discovered her buttocks were firmly glued against the car's fender. Thoughts of tongues frozen to poles immediately came to mind as she attempted to disengage her flesh from the icy metal. It was quickly apparent that she had a brand new problem, due to the extreme cold. Horrified by her plight and yet aware of the humor of the moment, she answered her date's concerns about' what is taking so long' with a reply that indeed, she was 'freezing her butt off' and in need of some assistance! He came around the car as she tried to cover herself with her sweater and then, as she looked imploringly into his eyes, he burst out laughing. She too, got the giggles and when they finally managed to compose themselves, they assessed her dilemma. Obviously, as hysterical as the situation was, they also were faced with a real problem. Both agreed it would take something hot to free her chilly cheeks from the grip of the icy metal! Thinking about what had gotten her into the predicament in the first place, both quickly realized that there was only one way to get her free. So, as she looked the other way, her first time date proceeded to unzip his pants and pee her butt off the fender. As the audience screamed in laughter, she took the Tonight Show prize hands down. Or perhaps that should be 'pants down. 'And you thought your first date was embarrassing. Jay Leno's comment...'This gives a whole new meaning to being pi--ed off.' Oh and how did the first date turn out? He became Her husband and was sitting next to her on the Leno show.

Randomness

2009-01-16T13:09:00.003-06:00

Is that even a word? Anyway. Just thought I'd take a moment and update on the "goings on" here at our house. Nothing particularly exciting, that's why I haven't posted in a few days. I am actually considering taking an extended hiatus, but I haven't decided yet. Anywho...
*I have received Reese's cake pan. I made a cake in it to give it a test run. Lets just say that if you plan on being here for the party, don't get your hopes up for any masterpiece!!!
*I have been in the market for a new car for a while. I need something with a little more room and a lower car payment. I think I have found one, but the guy at the dealership is being a little shady and its really annoying me!
*Reese is growing at a ridiculous rate. I swear some mornings I wake up and he grew in the night. I cut his hair for the first time last week - its cute but breaks my heart because he no longer looks like my baby - now he's looking more like a big boy!
* The girls are loving school and cheerleading. This week will be the first game I get to see. I'm trying to talk them into taking "hip hop" dancing - Sam thinks its for boys, so we'll see. They crack me up everyday.
* Cory is doing well. He hopes to make an "appearance" at Reese's B-day party via webcam. It will be hard, but OH SO SWEET!!! He has good days and bad days. Luckily, the good days have FAR outweighed the bad! Keep praying!
* I'm still working and just signed up to take a Paramedic Refresher so that I can keep my registration. I need to start studying because I haven't done the first thing on a truck in almost 2 years.
So lifes just going on. Pretty boring, but I'm not complaining! I see that you all are doing ok, as I am keeping up with your blogs! Maybe I'll have something "blog worthy" in the near future!

6 down, 6 to go

2009-01-08T19:34:00.002-06:00

In the next couple of days we will roll past the half way mark of Cory's deployment. I'd like to say that it has flown by, but that would be a lie. Truth of the matter, at times it has seemed like I was rewinding certain days and reliving them and then at times it seemed like someone had pushed the pause button just out of spite. None-the-less, I have survived!!!
I am just getting over the stomach bug, again... I forgot what number this was. Hopefully I have done a good enough job of keeping it away from my family. The girls have their first game this weekend - they are cheerleading and are SOOOOOOO excited! I ordered a cake pan for Reese's 1st birthday party. Its a Soldier! I've decided in honor of Cory, we are going to have a soldier cake and a grenade (for his personal cake). I couldn't find anyone to do it for me, so my BFF Amy and I have decided we are going to give it a go together. Should be interesting, to say the least. I can't believe my baby is going to be a year old!
Cory is doing well. He's had several good days in a row. He's started to work out some and is slowing forming friendships with a few other soldiers. We saw him on the webcam this weekend. It was great! I think it did a lot for his morale (as well as ours). He looks so skinny and sick, but I know that can be fixed with some good food and good loving! I am so excited that we've made it through half of the deployment and hope that its all downhill from here.
I have applied for a part position in the hospital that I work for, I think it will be an AWESOME job for me. I'll give more details when I find out if I got the job or not! Lets just say its not a job that just anyone could do, but would be a perfect job for me! Any guesses?
I hope you all are doing well and recovering from the holiday season! Happy Blogging!

Numbers...

2008-12-30T13:17:00.002-06:00

Christmas is over. I survived! I hope that everyone is Blogville had a wonderful Christmas and spent it with the ones you love most, but most importantly you remembered the REAL reason for the season. I hope to upload some pictures soon of all our festivities. Here's a quick list of what's been going on in our little corner of the world...
1- is for the number of teeth Reese now has! YEAH!!!!!!! It is also for the number of Hamsters I have in my house at this time.
2- is for the number of years Cory and I have been married (as of Dec. 26). Happy anniversary, honey!
3- is for the number of diamonds in my Christmas/anniversary present from my husband (who actually searched and found it online and had it shipped to me). It is also for the number of stories in Hailey's new doll house!
4-is for the number of hours I've been averaging of sleep lately. I am having a REALLY hard time staying asleep and its starting to wear me down a great deal.
5- is for the number of months I've survived this deployment! Woo hoo!!!
6-is for the number of days I worked last week (that's out of 7, might I remind you).
7- is for the number of times I've been to the Pediatrician this month! Now all three of my kids have had Pneumonitis!
8- is for the number of hours Cory is now required to work at this time. He was on 12's but they have just got another guy to help out. Cory's still having a really hard time, so please keep him in ur prayers. Hopefully cutting back his hours will help some!
9- is the number of times I "lurked" on blogs last week. I can't log on at work as of yet, but I get on and check them - that's why I haven't left messages!
10- is the for the number of days the girls have been out of school! We are ALL ready to start back - especially me!
11- is for the months Reese has been on this earth (outside my belly, that is). I can't believe his first birthday is less than a month away!
12- is for the number of hours it will probably take me to get my house back in order from the chaos of the holidays!

So there you have it! Just a little update! I can't wait to see all the pics from your Holidays, so hurry up and post em, would ya!?!?!

Going through the motions

2008-12-24T14:30:00.003-06:00

Its Christmas Eve. Wow!! I honestly can't believe its already here. I haven't blogged much over the last week. The reason is simple - I am having a really hard time. This week has been a million times more difficult to take than I ever expected. With Christmas and our anniversary (Friday), I am flooded with emotions. I am trying to be "Merry" but I find myself just going through the motions.
I hope you guys have a WONDERFUL Christmas! Please spend it with the ones you love most and try not to get caught up in the "hustle and bustle". Jesus is the reason for the season! I have really tried to focus on that this year. We love you guys! Merry Christmas and God Bless and keep you safe - wherever you are!

Spoke too soon

2008-12-14T02:08:00.002-06:00

So I spoke too soon... I knew after posting the previous blog, I would live to regret it. Friday, I had to take Hailey BACK to the Dr. I had picked her up from school and she was complaining of her ear hurting a little. While I was in Reese's daycare picking him up, Hailey hit her head inside the car. She was screaming that her ear hurt really bad. It has to be said that Sam and Hailey have had ear infections since they were 4 mths old, and never complain of pain. I only knew they had one (an infection that is) after going to the Dr with some other symptom. So for her to cry, I knew it had to be bad.
So I took her back to the Dr. She has an ear infection - duh. But something more troubling than that, she STILL has some sort of resp funk. We've decided that if she still has stuff going on in two weeks, she will have to have an xray and possibly some other tests run. She's on yet another round of antibiotics. She says she's feeling better, but I'm not sure if its because she is afraid what "other tests" entales. So please say a prayer for her. She's been a trooper, but I know she's tired of being sick (just like me).
On that note. With all of us being so sick for so long, I started thinking and talking to some people about it all. And after my best friend mentioned that the sickness began shortly after moving into our house, I began to think about it and they do correlate. So, my mission this week, track down an HVAC guy to come and check out my air ducts (or vents, I don't know the difference) and see if there's anything that I should be concerned about. If that's not it, I've considered ripping up all the carpet in my house and putting in hard woods. If there's anyone out there who could offer ANY direction, be it a name of a good HVAC guy or the name of a good flooring company or maybe another direction I need to be considering, I would greatly appreciate it! I don't know what the answer is, but I do hope to find it soon. I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired!

I'm back....

2008-12-11T15:27:00.002-06:00

...from the land of the living dead, that is. I have finally recovered (almost completely) from the "plague" that has haunted me for the last 2 mths. I know I'm being a bit dramatic, but I have felt miserable for far too long. I think we're all on the other side of the sickness and hopefully there will be no more (yeah right, but can't a girl dream?!?!)
Here's a quick update on the "goings on" at the Trotters...
*Reese has FINALLY mastered crawling. He's pulling up and will stand on his own for a few seconds... and you know what that means!! He started a new daycare this week and he LOVES it. He's smiling when I leave and smiling when I get there to pick him up - what more could I ask for? They love him - but what's not to love?!?! He still has NO teeth. This bothers me. Have any of you known an almost 11 mth old with NO teeth? He's learning new words everyday and is so full of personality.
*Samantha was Terrific kid last month at school. She's loving school and doing Upward cheerleading this winter. She loves it! She has asked Santa for a hamster. Although Santa initially refused to let another breathing, eating, pooping creature in our house, he has found a soft spot in his heart and will be delivering said creature Christmas Eve. It will be interesting to see how that's carried on the sleigh. (Shhh, its a secret!!)
*Hailey is Terrific kid this month at school. She's also loving school and also doing Upward cheerleading this winter. She asked for a "Barbie Doll House". So Santa has made her a 3 story house. Its huge and he has put ME in charge of putting all the pieces together - WooHoo! (Shhh, its a secret, too!!)
*Cory is doing as good as to be expected. Its the holidays, and he's having a hard time. But he's hanging in there. Just keep him in your prayers, the next month is going to be tough. Any cards you could send to him would be greatly appreciated...let me know if you are interested.
*I am good. I have my days. The holidays are hitting me harder than I had expected. I'm trying not to be a complete scrooge, but its just not the same without him. I still love my job, although the last few shifts have been trying. I look forward to 2009 because it means this rollercoaster will be half over!
So that's it for now. Nothing overly exciting going on in our house. I hope you all are enjoying your Holiday Season! Merry Christmas!

A tribute to my heroes

2008-12-02T19:27:00.002-06:00

Christmas Tribute to the Military
Author - Pam Cartwright
Christmas in the Great Lakes states is probably much like Christmas in other areas of the U.S. We don't have enough time or money to do everything we wish we could. We eat too much, spend too much, sleep too little and exercise only by walking into or out of the mall. Our intentions are good.
We buy special gifts for everyone we can think of. We make huge efforts to get just the right gifts..Uncle Frank is so hard to buy for. Did I get that scarf for him?Sue really loves tea. Will she like the tea set I bought her?I have a doctor's appointment on Monday. Should I get something for the nurse at Dr. Johnson's office?
But, sometimes a gift has nothing to do with buying. It's a kind word or a lift to the grocery or a phone call to a far-away friend.
The other day as I was walking into our local supercenter I saw a person dressed in military clothing. You know the kind of outfit I'm talking about. We got used to it with Desert Storm – that desert fighting apparel.
I was in awe, as I always am, when face-to-face with someone in the military. The person noticed me staring and shouted hello, so I returned the greeting. It got me to thinking about Christmas in the military.
Today, I wrote this poem to thank the men and women who keep our country safe. If you know someone in the service and would like to, please pass it along to them. I would be honored if you share this gift.
You are in my thoughts and prayers today as Christmas Eve draws near
I praise you for your sacrifice to protect what we hold dear
Your thoughts here at Christmastime, I hope are filled with trust
That you will soon be home again where you belong - with us
Each time I see a person clothed in military dress
I silently pray that they return whole and without stress
I give them my biggest smile and hope they understand
That I am thanking them right there in the only way I can
I do not know the harms you face, my information lacks
The knowledge of the place you go when you get summoned back
I share your love of country even if I do not go
You honor me by serving when you may not wish it so
As you read this ode to faith and hope and trust and love, I pray
That it will bring you peace and strength to make it through the day
Remember why we celebrate, remember that we care
Even in the midst of night when no one else is there
As you stand your vigils in the dark and your thoughts wander far
And your greatest wish - to be home - is wished upon a star
Please take my tribute to you and keep it in your heart
I only say what many feel while we are far apart
I hope the loneliness you have is one that you believe
Will make the world a better place each future Christmas Eve
Thank you.

*This tribute was written by the mother of a woman who I am blessed to call my friend. Tina is also an Army wife and a woman who's strength I draw from more than she'll ever know. Please remember our soldiers this Holiday season as we are apart. Merry Christmas and May God be with you all this busy season!

New week, fresh start

2008-12-01T19:14:00.002-06:00

I know last week I was MIA, and for that I apologize. I know that while I do not have a large, loyal fanbase, the ones of you who do care have missed me!!! Last week was HORRIBLE, beyond horrible. Here's a breakdown of the last 7 days of my life...
Monday (last monday, that is) - I had the stomach bug. Why do they call it a bug? Bugs are little creatures you can crush and move on. There was nothing little or crushable(is that a word) about this sickness. I honestly prayed that the Lord take my life more than once. I stayed home from work and almost OD on Phenergan and sleeping pills, so I could "sleep it off".
Tuesday - Hailey was asked by her teacher how I was feeling, her response "She can at least stand up without puking". Progress had been made! Still unable to eat, I went to work, feeling reasonable. While at work, I had to be given 250cc bolus of fluids for dehydration and then the REAL pain started.
Wednesday - By the time I got off work, I was unable to stand and walk. My abdomen was KILLING me. I had seen one of the ER doc's who had determined I had Appendicitis and gave me a shot of pain killers. I decided Wed afternoon to go and see my GI doctor, who backed the decision to not do surgery til after the new year - believe it or not, the state my body is in now, I would be better off having my appendix rupture than what would come with the surgery (it complicated, but my reality). So its anti-inflamatories and antibiotics until 09!!
Thursday - still unable to keep anything down, I went to Anderson for lunch with the in laws. I managed to set a few things straight and anger people who weren't even at lunch - that takes skill! Lets just say, those of you out there who think you have nightmarish In laws, call me - you have NO clue!!! My night ended with dinner at my bestest friend's house. It was great food (that actually stayed down - well most of it), great family and great fun!! Despite the drama of the rest of the day.
Friday - Brian and Annie came up to do Thanksgiving. Its always so good to sit and spend quality time with them - just us. I only wish we lived closer and could do it more often. I think Hannah may be finally warming up to me - unfortunately we don't have the close bond I had hoped, but I hope she knows I love her and even though she lives far away, she's still my favorite 3 yr old!!! That night I headed back to work to begin three of the worst nights I have ever had at my job.
Saturday - I had to hold over 4 hours at work holding a crazy man's pants - true story! Came home, slept and went back to work. Again, I LOVE my job and I wanted to quit this night more than once.
Sunday - sleep, and back for night # 3. Luckily, they say bad luck comes in 3's - I've had my 3 so now I'm waiting for my stroke of goodness.
So that's just a quick recap. I'm glad its a new week and I have been given a fresh start. Hopefully this week will be much better and will not be near as drama filled! Hailey had to go to the Dr today - she has a sinus infection and a upper resp infection. And so it continues... sick kids, tired mommy. I hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful!!! And I hope you have an even better week. I would like to promise that I will do better with blogging, but I make no promises. I will, however try! Thanks for sticking it out with me!

And so it begins...

2008-11-21T22:04:00.002-06:00

Tonight we began our holiday festivities by taking a trip to see Santa. As you can see by the picture, the girls have conquered their fear of the Jolly man in the red suit. However, Reese is not a fan. Hailey pointed out that Santa was thinner than he should have been and Samantha replied - he's on the Atkins diet like Pappy! Thankfully, this is just a pic I took with my phone on my camera. The real picture will be a good shot with Reese superimposed (sp) on Santa's lap. I will definitely post it as I'm sure it will be great!!!

After we left the hospital (where Santa was), we came home and ate dinner. Reese had been sleeping a lot today, so I knew he wasn't feeling well. When he woke up from his catnap, he was having some trouble breathing. After much deliberation and calling some of my Paramedic/RN buddies, I made the decision to take him to SRMC emergency room! They have an AWESOME Peds ER (and I'm not just saying that because I work there). Reese saw one of my favorite Drs and we were in and out in a little over an hour - if you've been to the ER lately, thats absolutely AMAZING!!! Reese has an Upper Resp infection (borderline RSV), a right ear infection (the left is not too far behind it) AND a Sinus infection! So, I guess its ok if he wasn't up to being held by a stranger in a red suit with bells that would NOT be quiet, and having his picture made. Thank goodness for technology; hopefully we'll get a good pic from piecing all the bad ones together!

So that's how I've started off my weekend. On a good note, Reese went almost 10 mths without ANY ear issues...my fear is that its only just begun (the girls have had 3 sets of tubes, Cory had major ear issues as a child - poor Reese doesn't stand a chance). Have a great weekend!

Santa baby

2008-11-18T00:58:00.003-06:00

Its 2 AM and when I should be taking full advantage of my night off by sleeping soundly in my bed, Reese is sick. Bless his heart. Nothing is more sad to me than sick babies. So I've caught up on on the blogs I read and have read all my emails. I know I have been slack with blogging lately, but I just don't have a whole lot to say... well, let me take that back - I have A LOT to say, but I'm just not ready to share yet. So I thought I would take this opportune time to update you on what's been going on with us over the last week:

Pappie bought Reese this Santa suit. He looks SO cute!! It came complete with little "boot looking" booties. This picture does not even do it justice. I hope to get better pics of him in it soon. I've convinced the girls to wear reindeer antlers and pull Reese in a wagon for our church's annual Preschool Christmas Parade - there WILL be pics of that, I assure you!!

*Reese has mastered crawling - FINALLY! Still no teeth, but hopefully by Christmas.

*Cory is not doing too well right now. Please pray for him. He's having some emotional issues that he's having to deal with. And its breaking my heart that I am not there to help. There's a lot to it, as always, but the bottom line is that only GOD can heal his heart.

*The girls are busy little beavers. Samantha had a stomach bug yesterday, Hailey has had Pink eye. BUT we've made it through an entire day with NO SICKNESS or INJURY - Praise the Lord. I think the aliens who abducted them a couple weeks ago are slowly returning pieces of thier brains, as they are acting more and more like my sweet girls everyday!

*Work is great! I know not too many people can honestly say they LOVE thier job, but I can. I love what I do, I love the people I work with. And even though I'm tired most of the time from lack of sleep, I still feel like I made one of the best decisions in my life going back to work!

So that's about it. Nothing too exciting. I hope you all are having a good week!

Not all heroes wear capes... Ours wear Combat Boots

2008-11-11T15:16:00.005-06:00

If you've been living under a rock, you may not know today is Veteran's Day. The girls had a ceremony this morning at their school that was so sweet (and that I cried through - the whole thing). I just wanted to take a moment to share with you guys some pics of our heroes, our friends and family in the military. Be sure to thank a Veteran today, if you haven't already!

Us with our own hero!

Samantha and Hailey at their Veterans Day festivities.

Samantha and Hailey again.

Chace, Cory, Doc, and Finley - just part of the crew.

Jeremy, David, Doc and Cory (and of course Reese) - we love you guys!!

Playing Catch-up

2008-11-04T19:45:00.003-06:00

Here are just a few pics of what we've been up to. They are in no particular order. I've been really slack with blogging and taking pics, and for that, I apologize. Hopefully now that things are calming down, I can step it up a little! I do have pics of Reese at Halloween (he was a duck), but they are in my phone. I'll upload them ASAP! Hope you are having a great week!

Samantha as a GoGo dancer. She had a purple wig, but got tired of it!

Hailey as Cleopatra. She had a black wig, but also got tired of it.

I've discovered what to do with them when they are crazy... :)

Reese has acquired some cute Winter apparel, thanks to Grammie!! He looks so cute in them!

Cory sent me flowers from Afghanistan. Aren't they beautiful? Daisies are my favorite!! I love you honey!

Yes we can

2008-11-03T19:56:00.004-06:00

Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond my control, I cannot vote tomm. However, someone sent me this video today and I thought it was profound. Do I believe the man in this video is the one who should lead us? Do I believe either one is the man for the job? That is not the point of this post. I am not getting into a political post, as I hope by now you have made your decision and feel confident in who you will choose. This video struck me not because of who is talking, but what is being said. No one man can change our nation or the world. Putting all our faith in one man is futile... but yes WE can. And more importantly and a thought I feel has been lost in the chaos is yes GOD can. So my prayer tonight is not for one or the other to win, it is that GOD will work through whomever is elected. And also that we, as a country, can realize that its not who lives in the White House that matters, but that we are the UNITED States of America and together, WE CAN MAKE A CHANGE!!!
*Turn off my song on the right hand side and watch the video.*
Yes We Can Obama Song by Will.I.Am

9 mths old

2008-10-26T20:55:00.002-05:00

Reese turned 9 mths old today. I can't believe how fast time is going by, but I"m not complaining. He is such a handsome guy and full of personality. He looks more and more like his Daddy everyday - what a blessing and a curse. He has added so much to this family in such a little time. The girls adore him and he keeps me on my toes! His Daddy's missing a lot, but thank God he'll never remember this time! Happy Day, Bubba! We love you!

Reese not even a day old.Reese 9 mths old.

Serenity

2008-10-25T06:21:00.004-05:00

My sister in law shared some of her heart here the other day. While I hate to hear that anyone struggles with ANYTHING, especially my family, it gave me some comfort to know I'm not the only one who struggles with anxiety and worry. Unlike Annie, I am not usually a worrier. I was at one time, but for several years, I've just been a go-with-the-flow, whatever happens happens kind of girl. I think I've let go of a good bit of the "control" that I wanted to have over the world. Over the six months, my life has been plagued with anxiety. I've shared my struggle on more than one occasion. While I am sad to report that anxiety is still a major part of my life and I've had to seek medical attention for it at this time, this post is about a new "disease" I've created for myself... guilt.
As some of you know, Cory has been moved from his initial FOB to a larger,"safer" (I use that term loosely as I know he is still in a war zone) place. Let me preface the rest of this post by saying - I AM SO GRATEFUL TO GOD THAT HE SAW FIT TO PUT CORY WHERE HE IS!!! He is getting the treatment he needs for his shoulder, he is with one of our closest friends, and he is in a much larger place (which translates into safer where he is). He is doing a job that is allowing his shoulder to heal properly (at least relatively) and he seems to be with a good group of people. What more could I need, right? At least if Cory is not with me and the kids, he is with one of the only other people I trust with Cory's life - and is getting some form of treatment... Well, lately, Ive been plagued with guilt. I feel guilty that Cory is "safe" and our other good friends are in harms way daily. This guilt was magnified a million times after watching the clips I posted earlier.
You see, even though Texas was not a great place for us to be, and the Army has not been what we had hoped, we managed to make some pretty awesome friends - I would even venture to say we formed a pretty unique family (a bit disfunctional at times). So when Cory deployed in July, I felt as if I was not only sending my Husband to war, but also my brothers. One of my ways to "cope" was knowing that I had their wives to cry with, vent to and lean on. We were all in the same boat. Of course, things were shook up a bit early on, but soon they settled in, as did we, the wives. We are all in different areas of the country, in different walks in life, but we had one thing in common - our men were fighting in one of the most dangerous places on the planet. Because they were in the same area (not the same FOB, most of them) we had a way to keep track of how they were all doing. Through all the losses our unit has taken, we've found solace in knowing our men had each other to lean on.
But with Cory being removed, whether it be temporary or permanent, I feel guilty. You see, because I care about those men and their wives so much - its ripping me apart to know they are still constantly in harms way and their wives are dealing with that fear everyday. While all of my friends have been wonderful and so thankful that Cory is getting the treatment he needs, I have created a tornado of guilt - sometime's I'm at peace and feeling ok, only to find out that was just the eye of the storm and then I'm tossed into funnel cloud only to have my heart and mind ripped apart.
I hope this does not come off like I am an ungrateful, spoiled brat. I am more grateful than anyone will ever know. I can't even begin to explain the peace I have been given knowing Cory is getting what he needs. I can only thank God for that. This is his doing. And just as I am confident in that statement, I am confident that Satan is plaguing me with this guilt. There is a lot more to this, I just wanted to share a bit of what I'm struggling with this morning (and everyday for that matter). Please continue to pray for me as I take this journey. Pray that God will guard my heart and mind and will grant me peace. I never knew that this would be such a rollercoaster of emotion - even if they are emotions I'm creating for myself (which I know that is what most of this is).
God,
Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change.
The courage to change the things I can.
And the wisdom to know the difference.
Amen

HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-22T07:10:00.003-05:00

Does anyone know how to make a slideshow and add a song to it? I have a slideshow made on Photobucket for Cory and I have a song picked out, but I can't figure out how to get it all together. PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!!!

Part 2

2008-10-21T19:56:00.003-05:00

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/27304836#27304836

If you are interested, here is part two of the video that I posted yesterday. This clip does not show Shepler, but it does tell of the tragedy that struck last week. Please pray for Shepler as he was the medic on scene and was in the building that was blown up. He and the other men are having a hard time dealing with all of this. Pray that God will guard their hearts and minds and not let them turn cold. Jeremy is one of the faithful Christians that helped us get through our time in Texas - his wife says he's taking this really hard. Please pray for these men and the other men and women over there!

So thankful

2008-10-20T20:13:00.002-05:00

This video is of Bravo Co. 1/26th INF - AKA the Vipers. Cory was with these guys initially and one of our closest friends Jeremy Shepler is there now. This video opened my eyes to what I'm sure is only a glimpse of what they endure daily! I am so thankful tonight, for many reasons, after watching this video. Part 2 will be shown tomm on the NBC nightly news at 6:30 EST. This puts a name with faces and soldiers I've asked you to pray for this whole time. Please pray for Jeremy - or Shepler as we call him. He is in charge of keeping these men well and going - what a huge burden to carry. He does it so well and gives the Army his all. Pray for his wife, Elizabeth. They were married a mere month before she sent her husband to the "Valley of Death". She's such a strong woman and source of strength for me during this time. I love you girl. And lastly, but definitely not least - pray for ALL of the soldiers fighting for YOU and I. THEY are what the Armed Forces is all about. Even though the last month I have been so frustrated with the Army, watching this video makes me so thankful for everything they do. And it reminds me that its not the organization as a whole, but only a select few. God Bless these soldiers, their families and God Bless America!

I.C.E.

2008-10-19T08:21:00.002-05:00

I 'm sure you all have heard of this, but I wanted to re-emphasize how important it is. I work in he E.R. at the "big" hospital here in the county and last night we had an incident where we weren't quite sure who to call for the pt. I'm not going to go into detail, even though the person was not technically a "patient" of ours. It was gut wrenching to know that there was no one to call at such a life altering time for this person. I know this is really vague, but I'm exhausted and about to go to bed. Here's what to do:
I.C.E. stands for "in case of emergency". In your wallet, purse, pocket, cell phone, whatever is with you ALWAYS, put a paper with numbers and names to call in case you are unable to call but you are having an emergency. In your cell, put ICE by the names of those who you'd like to call. I assure you, paramedics, police officers, AND staff at the ER will find this info and it will be VERY helpful. In a time you need the ones you love the most, but can't say who those people are - its good to know that those who don't know you will know how to connect with those who do!!! Have a great day!

With great sadness

2008-10-17T16:43:00.002-05:00

It brings me great sadness to inform you guys we have yet another fallen soldier. Four in one week. PLEASE, PLEASE PLEASE pray for these soldier's families and the soldiers left behind. I can't even imagine what these casualties have done for morale. They are gone, but never forgotten.

Never any easier

2008-10-16T14:06:00.003-05:00

I know I mentioned this here , but I feel these heroes need their own spot. We've lost 4 more soldiers. I've lost count of the actual number and honestly, I'm afraid to look back and count the number of casualties thus far. Please keep these families and the soldiers left behind in your prayers. It never gets any easier.

ABC's of me

2008-10-16T13:41:00.003-05:00

Allergic reactions, Broken bones, & Chicken pox. Cory has been gone for exactly a week today. And in this week, I've managed to have some ailment with all three of my kiddos. Monday, Samantha broke her collar bone. Hailey is having an allergic reaction to some meds that's she's taking and has a very unpleasant rash. I took Reese to the Dr today to determine whether or not he has the chicken pox - and that is still up in the air. This is just week one. Its got to get better, right? I've gone back to work as well. The good part of all of this is that I'm so occupied with who needs what when I"m at home, I don't have time to think about how much I miss my love.
On that note, Cory is doing well. I've talked to him twice today - GASP!!! He's seen the Ortho doc. No surgery right now. But surprisingly, I am at peace with that. He's been given another option that in my book is just as good (if not better). I'm not going to discuss what that option is right now, as if I've learned anything from the Army, its been to not count your chickens before they hatch. But things are looking up everyday! GOD IS GOOD - ALL THE TIME!! Its so amazing to me that even though I know he knows I doubt him, he is ever so patient in revealing to me that it's all gonna work out. He humbles us everyday. I struggle with letting go, but he never gives up on me. Thank God for that!
On a side note, could you add to your prayer list the families of 4 more fallen soldiers. Sadly, I've lost count of the numbers of fatalities from our unit. I know its well over 10. I pray the Lord has "lifted their souls, and is healing the hurt" (from Carrie Underwood's "Just a dream" - a song that is absolutely gut wrenching but beautiful).
So that's it for now. I'm off to medicate the kids, clean the house and get dinner going! Have a wonderful weekend!

Angel with a broken wing

2008-10-14T07:39:00.001-05:00

Before I try and get some sleep before having to go back to work, I wanted to ask you guys in Blogville to say a prayer for my Samantha. She broke her clavicle yesterday doing a cartwheel. She is pitiful and in a good bit of pain. So as you're going about your day, if you would just lift her up in prayer so that she heals quickly and in as little pain as possible. Thanks you guys!

Picking up the pieces

2008-10-11T20:10:00.004-05:00

It's Saturday. Cory has almost made it to his final destination. The kids are busy. I guess its time to pick up the pieces of my broken heart and move forward. I don't really have anything profound to offer today, just some pics that I've been meaning to post. Tomm's goal is to take some pics of our new house for you guys to see. Thank you for your uplifting words and prayers. They mean so much to us all. Enjoy! (They are in no particular order)

Reese showing Daddy how to feed him.

Reese loves to sit at our back door and "talk" to the dogs. Maybe he's the next Dr. Dolittle.

The girls celebrated their 7th Bday with a cooking party. That white blob in front of Sam is Pepperoni Bread - YUM!!!

Hailey with her Pepperoni Bread.

We also painted plates and cutting boards. This is Ansley. Also, notice the kitchen set. We got it at a yard sale! I'll take better pics soon. (It was such a bargain)

Hailey getting ready to play soccer. She is so talented, I hope she keeps with it!
Reese has graduated to a bath seat. This was a $2 find at a consignment sale! Best $2 I've spent in a long time.
Seeing Daddy for the first time at the airport.
The girls ran across the airport to get their Daddy - it was so cute!!! They were so excited!
Finally a COMPLETE family! What a happy day! This was Cory coming in. We didn't get any pics of the goodbyes (it was NOTHING to celebrate).

Heartbreak on the Homefront

2008-10-09T19:16:00.002-05:00

Cory left today to head back to Afghanistan. It was a shock for us because he needs surgery on his shoulder and were expecting for his leave to be extended. We were supposed to see the surgeon who would perform the surgery today and 2 hours before he was to get on a flight, Rear D called and told him he could not stay. Even after our Dr contacted Rear D and expressed his concern for Cory's health and the need for surgery, he still had to go. This time hurts so much more than any other time I've ever had to leave him. I feel like my heart has been ripped out of my chest. We had been reassured that Cory could seek the treatment he needed to fix his shoulder. And to have it come down to literally the "11th hour" was absolutely devastating for us. There is so much more to this story, so much wrong has been done.
So Cory is heading back. Both his spirit and his body are broken. The girls are holding up amazingly well. They've had their moments, but they have definitely been real troopers. Reese was laying in my arms tonight as I was rocking him back to sleep and looking around saying "Dadadada". I'm not sure if it was intentional, but it broke my heart none the less. I think he has gotten used to seeing Daddy. Everytime the door opens, he looks with such excitement only to have it turn to disappointment. As for me, I'm a wreck. This is far more traumatizing for me than any of the other times we've had to say goodbye.
So please continue to pray for us. I know that we will get it together and move forward with our lives. Staying busy and trying to keep it together until Daddy comes home for good. Its gonna be a long 9 mths. The pain is so raw right now. I pray that it subsides as time passes. I'm angry, I'm sad, I'm proud, I'm nauseous, I'm so in love with my soldier. Such is my life. An emotional rollercoaster.
*Dear Lord,
Please keep my love, as well as the other soldiers fighting in foreign lands, safe. Please call your Army of Angels from R&R and have them surround him, guarding him. Please grant him relief from the pain of his shoulder and heal his heart from the brokeness of today. I pray that you grant the surgeons he will be seeing in Afghanistan the wisdom and knowledge to know how to adequately care for his injuries. Almighty, please grant the children and I peace, calm our spirits and guard our hearts and minds while our hero is away. I pray that you guide my steps each and everyday so that I can keep my kids occupied but never let them forget where Daddy is and what he is doing. You are the Knower of all things, the Peacespeaker, the Alpha and Omega. Please place your hand on us as we continue on this journey.
In your precious and Holy name I pray.
Amen

7 years, WOW!

2008-10-07T12:55:00.003-05:00

Seven years ago, today, I was in the hospital recovering from having the most beautiful set of twins I had ever seen. I remember when they were delivered, the Dr told me their lungs were great, which was our biggest concern - I was so relieved. I had some complications so I was out of it for a while and when I woke up, the baby warmer was empty. Of course I freaked out. I was told they had been taken to the NICU because they were having "feeding issues". I was devastated. The next two weeks were filled with heading down to the NICU every 2 hours to feed them and cheering them on as they had to take 1oz in 30 min or have the feeding tube put back in. You would never know now they had ANY issues, as they have grown into beautiful little girls.

I feel like we've all grown up together as I was a mere 19 when they were born. I was so young and not ready for that responsibility. But with the help of my AWESOME family, we have made it. We have learned to spread our wings and fly - but never too far from those we love. It has definitely taken "a village to raise these children". They are always surronded by love and give love to everyone they meet.

The past two years have been filled with many uncertainties, but they have taken them all in stride and made the best of every situation. Even in Texas, they won the hearts of all those they met. Often times, they were the ones showing me how to be strong and make it through it all. They have been such a light in our lives and we are so proud of them. As they are "finding themselves" in their different activities, it is so neat to see who they are as individuals. I can't wait to see what they grow into in the years to come.

*Samantha and Hailey, We love you so very much and are so proud of you. Its hard to believe you are 7. Thank you for letting us be your parents and thank you for teaching us new things daily! We hope you have a wonderful day! Love, Momma and Daddy.

"IT's" back

2008-10-04T21:24:00.002-05:00

I blog tonight from a place of MAJOR anxiety. I will refrain from going into detail as I am sure my psyche can not handle living through the thoughts that flooded my mind only a matter of a few hours ago. Things have gotten really bad in the area where Cory and our other men have been stationed. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God brought Cory home so early because had he not come home, he surely would have been hurt or worse this week. I see God's hand in it all but I am SO terrified of Cory going back. Please pray for me and Cory as some news we heard just this evening has rocked us in our inner cores. We are very uncertain of our future and it has really shaken us up. PLEASE PRAY; ask your friends and family to pray. Pray also for the other men stationed with Cory as they have endured the unspeakable this week. Pray for he wives of these men as we are left to try and pick up the pieces of our men's hearts and minds. God is working BIG time in our lives right now. I hope to post more on this soon, but only when I know that I can handle it emotionally.

I AM still alive!

2008-10-03T22:26:00.003-05:00

I know its been almost an entire week since I blogged. I've been a bit busy! Just wanted to let you guys know I am still alive. Here's a short list of what's been going on with us!
*We have gotten (sorry for the grammar, Annie) our entire living room/kitchen painted. Well almost - we're missing one wall. Our walls are green and blue -sounds ugly, but I LOVE the green and the blue was already there when we moved it (I didn't want to worry about covering it). The one wall has been left out because Cory has had a mishap (see below).
*The movers found the girl's bike that was missing. I can't remember if I shared this story or not with anyone, but the movers lost our side rails to the bed, legs to our dining room table AND Samantha's bike. They also broke several things and lost a few other miscellaneous items. Its been a nightmare, but the bike has been found and sometime next week we will have an 18 wheeler drive down our road to deliver one purple bike with training wheels - I hope to take pics, I"m sure it will be funny! (a claim will be filed for the rest of the broken/missing items)
*Reese's reflux has gotten (again, sorry Annie) worse. This is NOT a good sign, per the Pediatrician. Usually baby's begin to get better by now, but his is getting worse. He is on some medicine that helps, but if we miss a dose, we can definitely tell. This is making for some LONG nights for us all, plus its making him extremely clingy (more than usual). I feel so bad because I know what it feels like when I have heartburn, I can't even imagine what it must be thinking.
* Cory has hurt his shoulder (again). This is a pretty common occurence for us. He dislocates it on a semi regular basis (well, not regularly, but enough for us not to freak out when it happens). We went to the ER today and he is seeing an Orthopedist on Monday. We're not sure what is going to happen, but we do know that the doctors have all recommended surgery (at least the ones we've seen so far).
* Hailey was nominated to be the Assistant Student "Counselor" (that's what she calls it). She's on the student council is what it all boils down to. She's so proud! I'm not sure why she's the "assistant". I didn't realize that being on the student council was so demanding that they assigned you an assistant :). j/k
* Sam is working on her back hand spring and I am trying not to freak out everytime she falls. That's one of the bad things about being a Paramedic - I can just visualize her falling a breaking her neck and all the bad things that would happen because of that. When she's practicing, I'm constantly running through my ICE (in case of emergency) phone calls: 911, Mom, Amy, John, Traci. 911, Mom, Amy, John, Traci.
*Tonight began the girls Birthday festivities. They're actual Bday isn't until Tues, but no matter how hard we try to keep it low key, it always turns into a long week!!
* The dogs have made the move to the new house (as well as EVERY fire ant in SC - or so it seems). The dogs aren't happy about not being able to see out of the fence (its a privacy fence), and the ants aren't too happy that we keep trying to kill them. Hopefully the dogs will settle in soon and as for the ants, hopefully they will hibernate or do whatever they do soon!!! (what's up with them this year, has anyone else had issues and what did you do?)
*Cory is supposed to leave this week and I am supposed to go back to work. Monday we will find out if Cory is leaving now or later and believe it or not, I'm kind of ready to go back to work! I have really enjoyed the time with my hubby and kids, but I LOVE my job (I truly do), so I'm kind of ready to go back to the "nut hut"!
So that's about it for us! Please pray for Reese that God will give him comfort and that the Dr will figure out what the problem is soon, I know his esophagus has got to be screaming!! Please pray for Cory, that he will find some relief from the pain and that the Drs will make the right decision for treatment (and while you're praying, pray that Cory's Rear Detachment cooperates with whatever outcome and doesn't make things more difficult). Pray for the girls as they are "finding themselves" in their seperate activities. I have been so blessed and I hope you all are doing well. God bless everyone and everything - except those fire ants, UGH!!!

Home is where my heart is

2008-09-27T22:02:00.002-05:00

I blog tonight from my mattress on the floor of my new master bedroom. Why am I on the floor? (you may be asking). Well, the "wonderful"(I use that word as I hold back the urge to vomit) moving company lost our side rails to our brand new bed. We need the side rails to old our bed together so without them, we are left with no bed frame. So our room looks great, except for the mattress on the floor!
We have less than 5 boxes in the garage to sort through, so I think its safe to say we are "moved in". Thanks to our good friends Shawn and Trevor, as well as my dad, John, the move went really well. Cory spent most of the week unpacking and getting things done around the house. I did some too, but my main job was to keep Reese occupied and try not to get stressed out (moving makes me want to lose my mind). We've got a couple of things Cory would like to do before he heads back to A-stan, but we are SO in love with our new home.
On that note, Cory is so glad to be home. We don't even talk about him leaving again. We know its coming, but we just want to make the best of everyday. Please continue to pray for him as well as the other soldiers. They've got a long haul before its all over. It has already taken a toll on them. My heart breaks everytime I think about what our men and women have to endure daily.
I hope to post pics soon. If not, definitely when Cory heads back as I will have more time to wait for them to upload (I'm sure you understand). Just know that I am SO in love with my husband, my kids and my beautiful home and home is where my heart is!!!!

Moving day

2008-09-22T06:47:00.002-05:00

The day has finally come! We are moving into our new house, starting today! It was definitely a God thing having Cory come home so early because God knew how stressed I get when I have to move! I HATE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm sure it will be a several day process as we have three kids to keep up with in the process. We are taking Reese back to the Dr. this morning for his cough, so we probably will not get started until this afternoon. But the house is officially vacant and ready for its new owners - US!!! I'll update with pics as soon as I dig my way out of the sea of boxes! Happy Monday!

Birthday Shout Out (take... oh forget it)

2008-09-16T15:10:00.004-05:00

Today is my mom's birthday!! I just wanted to take a moment and give her a shout out! Although I do not have a cute video(with the CUTEST 3 year old ever, I might add) like my sister-in-law, I do hope she has a wonderful day!!
Mom, thank you so much for all you do for us each and every day! You are the greatest and without you, we'd be lost! We love you so much and are so blessed to have you as Mom and Grammie! Have a wonderful day!
Love, US

Friday 5

2008-09-12T18:53:00.003-05:00

This summer has been a busy one. I've taken tons of pictures, but instead of loading them all here, I've decided to post some highlights!! These are 5 of my favorite pics from this summer!

Reese in Charleston. He loves to laugh and smile!! Isn't he adorable?
All the grandkids. Not the greatest pic, but surely you understand the difficulty of getting 4 kids to look at smile at the same time!!

Sam and Hailey did cheerleading camp (along with cooking camp). They had such a great time.

Sam and Hailey started 1st grade. This is them on the first day. So grown up!!!

Reese has outgrown his baby bath tub (as well as the sink). He always reclines - no matter where he is. He can sit up, just chooses not to.

Something bit me...

2008-09-09T14:59:00.003-05:00

I'm sure my colorful husband added a few more explitives to that statement, but he was bitten by a scorpion a couple days ago. OUCH!! It bit him in his left armpit - DOUBLE OUCH!!!!!!! So far, he's had no adverse side effects, just lots of pain!!!
In other news, the "good news" that I eluded to a few blogs ago is true!!! NO, I'm not pregnant (so stop asking). Cory is coming home for R&R SOON!!! I can't say when because I really don't have a definite date (besides, I couldn't release it even if I did know - OPSEC). I wasn't excited at first. Not because I don't love and miss him, but because I have just now gotten to the point where I'm not a basket case all the time, I just started my job and we're not in our house yet. Its just not the way I planned things. But, I've got work settled and it looks like we'll be moving into our house in a couple weeks, so now I'm SO EXCITED!!! Looks like he'll be home for the girls Birthday - yeah its that soon!!! The only bad thing is that when he goes back, we'll have a LONG time to go until we see each other again. I guess we'll cross that bridge when we get there!
The girls activities are in full swing now. Hailey has her first soccer game this Saturday, and Samantha has had her first tumbling class. I start nights this week - FINALLY!!! Reese is still fighting his cough. He did say MaMa yesterday - of course I cried... He's getting so big!! Hopefully, like I said earlier, we'll be in our new house in a couple weeks. Definitely by the end of the month! YEAH!
So that's just a little update. Cory's doing well. Besides being bitten by the scorpion, and the Army trying to get every minute out of him before he comes home for R&R, he's just peachy. The kids keep me sane (and sometimes cause me to feel like I'm going INSANE), keep me busy, but I'm loving every minute of it all! My job is great. I really enjoy work and the people I work with. I love my kids, I love my job and of course, I LOVE my soldier. Life is just moving along at warp speed! Now, if only I could figure how to freeze time when Cory's here, I'd be set!
** AFTER MUCH RESEARCH AND DEBATE, I HAVE DETERMINED THAT SCORPIONS DO NOT BITE, THEY STING. SO CORY WAS NOT BITTEN BY THE THING, HE WAS STUNG. EITHER WAY, I'M SURE IT HURT!!! YOU GET THE PICTURE!

Fallen Soldier

2008-09-09T10:19:00.003-05:00

Today we mourn the loss of yet another 2 soldiers. Please pray for these families and for the soldiers left behind. They have taken many blows. Please pray for their continued safety, and God will give them the peace that only He can give.

Birthday shout out (take 3, I think)

2008-09-04T21:03:00.002-05:00

Tomm, Sept 5, is one of the greatest people I know's birthday. (I know that isn't really grammatically correct, Annie, but you get what I'm saying :)). Natalie (Abrams) Childs is celebrating her 27th birthday (it may be her 28th). I remember when we were in High School a group of us would celebrate our birthdays together. Natalie and I always shared the celebration because our birthdays were so close. Now that we're all grown up and busy with our lives, we almost NEVER get together. I miss those days.
Happy Birthday, Natalie!! (I know I'm a day early - I work tomm and didn't want to forget to give you a shout out!). I hope you have a wonderful day! I will see you soon! But even though we don't see each other much anymore, please know that I love you and you will always be one of the dearest friends I have ever known!!!

Hump Day Happenings

2008-09-03T15:18:00.003-05:00

So its Wednesday. I'm off today and tomm and then my first full weekend working since I've been back. Just wanted to take a moment and post an update on how we're all doing.
*I'm into full work mode now. It amazing how I have just fallen back into the routine. I'm still working 11am to 11pm and I hate it. I love my job, just hate the hours. Hopefully this is my last week and then I'll be on strictly nights.
*I had reservations about working (we all know that), but I find myself feeling more accomplished and "happier" (I use that word only because I can't think of a better one at the time). I am tired, don't get me wrong. But I am a firm believer that some women are meant to be stay at home moms, but I am not one of those. I have loved being home with my kids all day everyday, but I feel more fulfilled because I'm working. Call me a horrible mother, but in my honest opinion, I feel like I'm a better mother because I'm happier and when I'm with my kids, they have my undivided attention nevermind the fact that I'm so busy that time FLIES by. Its what works for us, and I'm glad God opened the door for this job!!!
*In the nest few weeks, I'll be praying for time to come to a halt as Cory will be home for R&R. It will only be for 18 days, and its A LOT sooner than we hoped and planned, but we have both vowed to make the most of every minute we have. Work has been gracious enough to give me the full time off so I can be with my family. I am so thankful!
*With any luck, we will begin the move into our new house while Cory's home. Again, I had hoped when he came home, we would already be in our house and settled, but we have to take what we can get!
*Hailey has started soccer and LOVES it. She's so cute when she plays too. Her first game is Saturday. Hopefully I'll remember the camera.
*Sam starts tumbling next week. Mondays will be crazy for us! Hailey has soccer AND Sam has tumbling back to back. I'm glad they have chosen different activities, but its going to be chaos for a while!
*The girls are still loving school. Traffic is getting better. I have to get to the school around 1:15 to be close to the front to pick them up. Now, if we could only get rid of the moron who's the crossing guard (that another post all together).
*Reese has had a nasty cough for the last week and a half. I think we may be on the other side of it now. But he's been pitiful. Still no teeth, I think I may have to get him some dentures (LOL, J/K). He's eating baby food and some table food. He's at that stage where if ANYONE is eating, he feels like he should be too. Of course, that's not the case, but its hard to get a 7 month old to understand that!
*I finally got the pictures downloaded off my camera. I'll post some soon. I had close to 200 that needed to be downloaded. As soon as I pick which ones are "blog worthy" I'll post them.
*I'm on the hunt for another vehicle. I LOVE my Sorento, but I need more room. I would prefer to have an SUV with a third row, but it looks like I may have to break down and become a minivan mom (I'm not knocking you ladies, but if you know me, you understand I'm not a minivan mom). Any suggestions would be great!!
I think that's it. Life is in full swing here at the Trotter's and I LOVE IT!!!!!! I hope you all are doing well out there in Blogville! Have a great week!!

T.G.F.F.

2008-08-31T20:59:00.002-05:00

I know its TGIF, but tonight I am thanking God for family. Although I miss Cory terribly and I still feel like poo, my birthday was better than I thought it would be. I had lunch with Brian, Hannah and Annie - Kanpai YUM!!! And then I headed over to Amy's for the afternoon and dinner. Traci and her crew joined us for dinner and it was so nice just to sit around and talk. We have such a great time together! I am so blessed to have family (b/c my friends are as close to family as anyone) that swoops in and cheers me up when I'm down! I love you all and thank you for making my day as special as it could be!!!

Birthday shout out part 2.

2008-08-31T07:00:00.002-05:00

Today I wanna give another birthday shout out to a good friend of ours, Zach!! Happy birthday buddy! I couldn't imagine another person I would rather share MY day with! (remember it is my day, I was here first). We miss you guys and hope to see you when this is all over!!!
Also, today is MY birthday! Happy Birthday to me. Although its not too happy, I'm sick with some sort of head cold (I think) and I'm all alone! I miss my husband. I'm doing lunch with Brian and Annie, and then dinner with The Harters and Traynhams! Right now I'm going to lay back down, I'm not feeling so hot! Have a wonderful Sunday!

Birthday SHOUT OUT!

2008-08-30T08:04:00.002-05:00

Today is my niece's birthday. Hannah is 3 yrs old! I don't get to spend near as much time with her (or her parents) as I'd like due to distance and being busy, but I hope they all know I love them! I can't believe how fast these 3 years have flown by! Happy Birthday, Hannah!! I know you'll have a wonderful day!

Not so happy birthday

2008-08-29T14:31:00.002-05:00

This weekend is mine and Cory's birthday weekend. My birthday is Sunday and Cory's is Monday. It looks like I'll be spending it by myself for the most part (with the exception of Reese). The parentals are heading to the Lake for one last hoorah before the girls gear up with their activities. Most of my friends are busy with their own stuff. This is my weekend off work, so I don't even get to spend it with those crazy people! I am supposed to do something with Brian and Annie, but other than that, its just me, the baby and the couch! Its times like these that I really miss my hubby. We always do something extra special because our birthdays are only a day apart.
We did get some exciting news today, but I'm gonna refrain from sharing until we know for sure! Its shocking, but what in our life hasn't been lately!?!? Be sure to check in periodically so you don't miss the big news!!!
Have a wonderful weekend!!!

Bring on the rain

2008-08-26T15:51:00.004-05:00

You know the old saying "when it rains, it pours" ? That's how I feel right now. I feel like screaming. I think it would terrify my kids if I did, so for now, I'll blog. The last two days have been SO frustrating. I've gone back to work, and before I even get to my actual job, I think I may quit. That is not a good sign. I'm not going to get into the details. Its really all stuff that should be no big deal, but others are making it HUGE and I'm having to decide if I really want to be a part of all this again.
I'm not totally in love with Reese's daycare situation. And it goes far beyond the fact that I know no one will ever love and care for him the way I do. I would love to find someone who stays home and would like to keep him. Someone I know and trust. He's not being mistreated. They take really good care of him and he's happy everyday when I pick him up. But there are other factors that I'm not too excited about. Please pray that God will send me something to ease my mind either way - take him out or leave him in!
Cory's got some craziness going on. Shocking, I know! I know there's nothing I can do about but it doesn't keep me from getting frustrated by it all. Can't share too many details right now. Hopefully by next week, it will be over and done with. Some things, however, will NEVER change apparently.
The house situation is still the same. The "rentors" (that's so funny for me to say because who ever I thought that I would be a landlord, hahaha) are still waiting for their house to be done. Hopefully by mid Sept, it will done and we can move in. I'm so ready for the move to be over and to not be living out of bags and boxes.
If you know anyone who would be willing to keep little man 2 days one week and 3 the next, let me know. I only want him to go the days AFTER I work (I work nights). Say a prayer for my sanity and Cory's safety! Today is only Tuesday and I am already ready for this week to be behind me! But to quote one of my most favorite songs by Jo Dee Messina, "Tomorrow's another day; I'm thirsty anyway; So bring on the rain"!!!

Monday, rainy Monday

2008-08-25T20:05:00.002-05:00

So it rained today, YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have never been so happy to see the rain in my life. I've got a million things I want to say, and I feel like I need to say them all, but I can't come up with the right words. Does anybody out there understand? As soon as I get my brain in order, I'll be sure to post! I've got several birthday shout outs and exciting events going on! Hopefully soon I'll get rid of this ADD and be a little more productive!

Another angel guarding our troops

2008-08-21T06:58:00.005-05:00

We, the Blue Spaders, are once again mourning the loss of yet another soldier. As a wife, this is very disheartening as my heart aches for the family of the fallen. Please pray for this family, that they will not only find peace in such a difficult time, but they will see GOD in it all. I also ask that you remember the other soldiers... the number of losses they have endured so far has got to be devastating and discouraging. And while you're praying,would you please pray for the spouses left behind, that we may find the words of encouragement that our husbands need to hear in such a time and that we may find peace from worry. Thank you!

Heartbroken

2008-08-20T14:07:00.002-05:00

It was bound to happen, and today it did. I have always been VERY diligent about having my phone with me and handy so that if Cory called, I could answer. I sleep WITH my phone (not just on the night table beside me, but actually with it). Its always clipped to me or in my hand, no matter what I'm doing. And if by some chance, you see me and its not in my hand or on my hip, look at my ear - I have my blue tooth in! I've become quite obsessed with it, actually. I've only missed one call before today and that was when we were at the lake and he was able to leave the sweetest message for us! I knew I would probably miss that one.
But today, as I was heading to the car to go to lunch with Amy, my phone rang. It was down at the bottom of my purse and of course I could not get to it in time. I looked at the missed number and it wasn't a number I recognized. I breathed a sigh of relief. I checked my voicemail and my heart began to break. It was Cory. He was using a satellite phone and the message was broken. I sobbed. I haven't spoken with him in 5 days now, and the one chance I had, I couldn't get to my phone! Lesson learned: I've got to come up with some way to literally attach it to my hand, but still be able to use my hand! Either that, or glue my blue tooth to my ear. Anybody with any good ideas, I'll split the profit with you! Necessity breeds invention -isn't that what they say?

Tuesday tidbits

2008-08-19T18:50:00.003-05:00

The girls started FIRST grade today. Unfortunately, I couldn't take them to school because I was S-I-C-K. Not just sick, but S-I-C-K. Luckily, though, Mom and John could take them and actually walk them in. I was feeling well enough to pick them up this afternoon. They were SO excited when they got in the car this afternoon. I don't think they took but two breaths the whole way home (between the two of them). They love their new school, new teachers and new friends. I know this year will be a great one for them.
Tomorrow will be Reese's first day at day care. I'm more than an little nervous. I plan on putting him there for a couple of hours tomm and Wed and then Fri he'll have to stay for most of the day (I have to have some tests run that will take several hours). I know he'll do well and it will be a welcomed break for both of us! I love my little man, but I think it will be beneficial to have this time apart. And when I go back to work, he'll be able to go so that I can sleep some! So although I am nervous, I know this is the best thing for us all!
I still haven't heard from Cory. Its fast approaching Day 4! It makes me sad and I would do just about anything to hear his voice! So, honey, if you're out there... CT PHONE HOME! I love you and I miss you!
So that's about it for now. Nothing too exciting! Just trying to keep busy! Hope you all are having a wonderful week!

Just a poem

2008-08-19T12:35:00.002-05:00

I GOT YOUR BACK
I am a small and precious child, my dad’s been sent to fight…
The only place I’ll see his face, is in my dreams at night.
He will be gone too many days for my young mind to keep track.
I may be sad, but I am proud.
My daddy’s got your back.

I am a caring mother; my son has gone to war…
My mind is filled with worries that I have never known before.
Everyday I try to keep my thoughts from turning black.
I may be scared, but I am proud.
My son has got your back.

I am a strong and loving wife, with a husband soon to go.
There are times I’m terrified, in a way most never know.
I bite my lip, and force a smile, as I watch my husband pack…
My heart may break, but I am proud.
My husband’s got your back…

I am a soldier…
Serving proudly, standing tall.
I fight for freedom, yours and mine, by answering this call.
I do my job while knowing, the thanks it sometimes lacks.
Say a prayer that I’ll come home.
It’s me who’s got your back.

*A tribute by Autumn Parker. For her husband and soldier. Til they all come home!

Fallen Soldier

2008-08-18T14:55:00.004-05:00

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We, the Blue Spaders, are mourning the loss of a fellow soldier. Please pray for this family, for comfort in this time of loss. Also, please pray for our other soldiers who are having to deal with the loss of a brother in arms. Thanks you guys!!

Frozen in time...

2008-08-14T20:29:00.003-05:00

Tonight was "Meet the Teacher" for the girls! They are at a new school (not only new to them, but to everyone else going there too). They are in seperate classes this year, but I feel really good about it. Hailey's teacher (we'll call her SC) is someone we know from outside of school. I am SO excited that she is Hailey's teacher. Samantha's teacher (we'll call her M&M) has over 30 years experience in education! She seemed really nice too. The girls are excited to begin the year. And what more could I ask for than a beautiful school (full of teachers, parents and administrators that I know personally) a one time teacher of the year, and a teacher with more years' experience in education than I've been alive!
As I walked through the halls of the school, I saw so many people I knew and was shocked that their kids were in elementary school!!! I know it sounds strange, but I think in my mind I thought that when we went to Texas, that everyone would just stop growing. So the kids that were 3 and shy when I left should still be that way. But seeing them walking through the halls of the school with confidence and excitement kind of stunned me! And the thought that their siblings (some of them) were going into middle school or even high school took my breath away! I guess the world didn't get my memo.... NO ONE GROWS UNTIL I RETURN (so I don't miss anything). Either that, or my mind was just frozen in time!

Because I'm bored...

2008-08-14T10:56:00.002-05:00

Directions: Place an X by all the things you've done and remove the X from the ones you have not. Answer the 30 questions at the end and tag 3 (or more) of your friends to play too!
(This is for your entire life.)
(x ) Gone on a blind date
(x) Skipped school
( x) Watched someone die
( ) Gone to Canada
( ) Gone to Mexico
(x) Gone on a plane
( ) Jumped out of a plane
(x) Been on a Helicopter -
(x) Gotten lost
(x)Gone on the opposite side of the country
(x) Gone to Washington, DC
(x) Swam in the ocean
(x) Cried your self to sleep
( ) Played cops and robbers
(x) Recently colored with crayons
(x) Sang Karaoke
(x)Paid for a meal with coins only
(x) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't
(x) Made prank phone calls
(x) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose
(x) Caught a snowflake on your tongue
(x) Danced in the rain
(x) Written a letter to Santa Claus
(x) Gotten kissed under the mistletoe
(x) Watched the sunrise with someone you care about
(x) Blown bubbles
(x) Gone ice-skating
( ) Gone Skiing (water & snow) - I waterski, but I've never been snow sking.
(x) Gone skinny dipping outdoors
(x) Gone to the movies
( ) Gone to a drive-in movie
1. Any nickname? Squirt (by my brother), Chris, Baby, any sort of weird name Cory can come up with
2. Mother's name? Lita
3. Favorite drink? Sweet tea, and I have a new addiction to Crystal Light Lemonade
4. Tattoo? yep, 2
5. Body piercings? used to but I think they've all closed by now
6. How much do you love your job? Ask me next month!!!
7. Birthplace? Spartanburg, SC
8. Favorite vacation spot? Anywhere but the beach
9. Ever been to Africa ? no, but I'd love to
10. Ever eaten cookies for dinner? I'm sure at some point
11. Ever been on TV? in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, in the Rose Bowl Parade
12. Ever steal any traffic sign? no
13. Ever been in a car accident? A couple but NONE of them were my fault
14. Drive a 2-door or 4-door vehicle? 4 door
15. Favorite salad dressing? ranch
16. Favorite pie? apple
17. Favorite number? anything even
18. Favorite movie? Probably Dirty Dancing is my all time favorite
19. Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving - I love to eat!! (and hopefully my hubby will be here by then!)
20. Favorite dessert? brownies, I guess
21. Favorite food? don't really have one
22. Favorite day of the week? any day I don't have to work! It alternates
23. What do you do to relax? what's that?
24. Favorite toothpaste? anything that doesn't burn my mouth
25. Favorite smell? clean laundry
26. What month were you born in? August (31st to be exact - write it down!)
27. Favorite Candle Scent? Mango
28. How do you see yourself in 10 years? Loving my husband and kids, doing something in the Medical field
29. What 3 people do you tag to do this meme? Tina, Annie, &anyone who hasn't done it!
30. Who will be the first to respond? we'll see

So there I was, in Academy Sports...

2008-08-13T20:30:00.003-05:00

crying!!! I find myself crying in the strangest places these days. Cory called this afternoon. I had given up on talking to him today. Chalked it up to business or blackout. So I was so excited to look at my phone and see CMT on the caller ID. He's doing good. He had a REALLY cool day today where he treated his first "official" patient. That's what Cory's there for so he LOVES to do his job. Its a running joke in EMS that we are the only profession that wishes really bad things on really good people (solely so we can do what we've trained to do). Anyway, back to the story.
Samantha was picking out something to wear to gymnastics (that's another post all together); she was so excited and talking a mile a minute. In the mean time, I'm trying to hold a conversation with my husband AND keep track of three kids. I was talking to Cory and the kids at the same time. Then the phone fell silent. "Babe, are you there?" I asked. "Yeah" he said. "Just listening" he added as his voice cracked a little. Tears began to fall. He is missing so much and I know its killing him (and us). He talked to both girls and gave them some encouraging words as they embark on new activities. I guess you kind of had to be there, but it was precious! He was happy just listening to the chaos of it all and I know he was wishing he was right there in the mix of it all!