Wanna See Somethin' Sweet?

This afternoon, I was checking my email and Matt signed in online. Right after he asked me how I was doing today, the doorbell rang. (I was also trying to finish the last 30 seconds of a facebook Scramble I began before Matt signed on...yes, this was a Scramble, 3 things at once). I went to the door and what did my little eyes see?

THESE!


The packaging was seriously taller than my waist. I found it funny!

My man was on just before 4am his time to check on me...and the flowers. :) Yes, he also had to make his 4am bus to work, but that's beside the point! He still saved time to talk with me before he had to leave. He is the best!



Aren't they beautiful?



I know my photography skills don't do them justice, and my battery was running out (to the point where the camera kept turning off on me) so I had to take them really quickly, but you get the idea!!

So, what is the special occassion? 2 years ago today, I said, "Yes!" May 20, 2006, Matt proposed!

*Thank you so much Bubba! I meant Yes then, today, and forever more! I love you!

Today's Schedule and Yesterday's Blunder

Today is my Mom's birthday....Happy Birthday Mom!

I'm hoping to talk with Matt this morning. Have I mentioned he's the best? The other day he "sang" ("Good Morning Beautiful"....tear) to me over IM. Well, he typed the words, but I could hear him singing. I received some information concerning Matt's return to the states today. I was excited. Then I read it, and it was not so exciting. No "new" information. Oh well, it must mean we are getting closer though!! I go in for an ultrasound this morning. I'm a little nervous but hoping I'm A OK. What is A ok anyway...the "a"..absolutely?

I'm hoping I get out in time for Laurel's baby shower. The ladies at the bus garage where Pete works is throwing her a shower...isn't that sweet?

I need to do a little grocery shopping after that. Then tonight is a family dinner for my Mom's birthday!

Ok, yesterday, I went birthday shopping. I really wanted to get my Mom something decorative/crafty for around the house from an antique store. I spent all afternoon shopping and did not find something that really stuck out to me. I went on to plan B looking for a nice top for her. Nope, that was unsuccessful too. She has mentioned she'd really like a nice new quilt or bedspread. I didn't find a great one of those either. No, I shouldn't have shopped last minute, but I had my ideas, and I had done some shopping (or should I say looking?) a couple weeks ago. Unfortunately, it looks like I'm going to have to be "unoriginal." I'm going to take her out one day to craft/antique stores for her to pick something out. I think part of my problem was getting something that she wasn't particularly thrilled about, and then you can't return it. So, I was extra picky at what I saw.

Here's the real blunder part. I stopped at McDonald's on the way home to grab a snack...some nuggets. I was starving...does shopping do that to anyone else? It was too early for dinner, so this was just a snack. After I went through the drive thru, I figured I would just park and scarf them down. Then head on to my parents'. If I'm sitting in my car, alone especially, I need noise...music. So, I keep the car's music on while turning the engine off and eat my delicious dollar menu snack. I finish and go to turn my car on. Umm, nothing was happening. Then I couldn't turn it "off" to get my key out. Ohhh, man. So I try shifting to different gears after I turn it "on" (but nothing is happening). I call my dad and his line is busy. I call my brother, but there was no answer. My phone battery was literally about to go dead, and here I am, stranded here in McDonald's parking lot...not to mention I'm parked next to this truck that appeared to be dealing drugs. He was waiting around, sitting in his truck (kind of like I was before I was pounding on the steering wheel). Then another guy came, and they went to his back hatch...talking low, around the other side of the truck. Well, after the several minutes of wrestling with my car, I was able to see the 2 men making a different deal...I believe one was selling a handsaw to another? They had it out and were sawing something on the other side of the truck. I don't know, but I could hear it. I was just thankful they didn't see my "distress" and try to help. Matt and I have had a couple experiences at McDonald's when we've feared for our safety. One was across town and the other was in Hawaii. Anyway, I finally got ahold my dad and he said to try moving my steering wheel (in case it was locked or whatever?). He'd come and get me in a few minutes if I wasn't back. Well, that didn't work. I finally realized, that though my shifter thing was in park, the red marker line wasn't there next to the P to tell me I was indeed in park. It was like my shifter was jammed and wouldn't go forward all the way. Then I realized the problem, after however many minutes, however many phone calls. We use one of those portable CD players you plug into the car with the cassette and a thing that goes in the lighter (I'm so technical). Well, the plug that goes in the lighter is kind of large and L-shaped and was prohibiting my shifter from locking into park. That was the jam! Hence, why I couldn't turn my car on or off or get my key out. (I don't know if all cars do that, but mine definitely does weird things.) So, I made it home, feeling as stupid as ever. Oh well.

Matt's on now!

*I love you!

Kissaroo and the Barnyard too!

So, I'll start with Kissaroo! I taught kindergarten this week, and I saw this book and thought it was absolutely adorable!! It's called, "Won't You Be My Kissaroo?" by Joanne Ryder and Melissa Sweet. I still need help with my links, so just check it out on amazon or something. I really want to get it! It's written for children, from a mom sheep to her lamb sort of ....but I'll let you in on a secret....I videotaped myself reading it and put it on the other blog I have for Matt for his birthday video. Yes, there's a reason why he's the only one who can read that blog. Nobody else would want to listen to me read a silly story, with lots of bloopers because I just copied down the text real quick at the end of the day and couldn't read my handwriting!

Sidenote: How cool is my family??? They sent I think 32 emails to Matt for his birthday!! Thank you family!! It helps to have a big family, but that's so awesome!!

The book is sort of written like a poem and talks about all different kinds of wonderful kisses...hehe. Good morning kisses, hello kisses, good-bye kisses, breakfast sticky kisses, "gotcha" kisses, and on and on. I think it's one of my favorites. So sweet! It's not one for a good plot though! However, I think it's one any parent would enjoy reading (well, Moms anyway) to their little one or even wives to their husbands (big points for any husband who reads it to their wives)! haha Hooray! I made a plug for Literacy! I need to use that Master's degree some time. Someday, maybe I'll share more of my favorite "children's" books. That's about all the kind of books I've read in the past 6 years, besides text books. I did start an "adult" book today, haha...ok, a novel, so we'll see how that goes.

This weekend, well, Thursday on, my parents are out of town. Roberts had a track meet, Christian Nationals, out in Indiana and my dad coaches, so he's often gone most weekends (until super early Sunday mornings ...for church). My mom went with him this time. Being the helpful daughter I am (ok, the boring one out of the 4 kids without much of a ...a...busy life, no that's not right. Yeah, I guess just the boring one right now), was stuck with, I mean left with the responsibility of taking care of the animals. Caleb, our dog is alright, but right now he stinks! It's pouring outside, and I'm thankful to have just finished feeding the animals. We all (the animals: sheep, goats, donkey, horse, ducks, Caleb... and I) got pretty wet. Several weeks ago Caleb must have sat on a skunk or, probably rolled on a skunk. Oh man he stunk! He's an indoor dog that's an outdoor dog at heart. He loves being outside, but he loves people too. So, he's in when the weather is bad and during the night or when the family is inside for the most part. Anyways, no, as far as I know he hasn't had another date with a skunk but anytime it rains and he gets wet...that scent just bursts on forth! I put off filling the water troughs till tonight, so I had to stand in the rain with the hose while he runs around sniffing things out. I was hoping the weather would call for several inches of rain...so I wouldn't have to fill them ;) just kidding..? At least they were all where they were supposed to be tonight. This morning, I was in a hurry (to go babysit Nathanael), isn't that the way it always is? and one of the ducks was out and the littlest lamb was in the wrong stall ma-jig. The last day I have to deal with you and this is what you do? We still have yet to figure out how that duck keeps getting out. She's pretty tricky! On the neat end, we have 3 eggs in a nest in the barn. We'll see if we get some little ducklings! Matt and I have discussed this whole animal issue when we have kids several times. This is our conclusion: We don't mind having fish as pets (haha) or at most, a dog. (Oh wait, we might have to have Matt's chinchilla, Yoda, for awhile...sigh...at least it's small :) As soon as our kids ask for the "bigger and better pets"....we ship them off for a weekend at Grandma and Grandpa's. They can help out all they want. (My parents waited till all us kids were grown up to finally get half the animal we wanted...a horse...they have a mini-horse.) Hey, maybe our kids can even persuade them to get a different animal, but it stays at Grandma and Grandpa's!! Grandparents really do spoil the grandkids waayy more than their kids. Hopefully, that'll still be the case when our kids come around! Our kids will be able to have the fun of "having" animals, but we won't have the mess! And, we won't be stuck with the animals, after the novelty has worn off for them and/or when we want to go on vacation!

*I love you...even though you like chinchillas...ew.

I'm Ready!

I'm ready for a change in my blog! I know it's plain, and I'm tired of the colors. I'm kind of a plain girl, and I didn't really like the options given for templates, so I went with the "plainest" umm, most plain, or traditional one. Hopefully soon this will look a little different. Although, it may not last long. We'll see. Oh, anyone who can help me put videos on here, I'd really appreciate it (they can be seen when previewed but only show up with an x on the blog page). I'm hoping to post videos and pictures for Matt on another blog.

(Yes, I guess that's another secret: sometimes I still play dress up)

*I love you! You look much better in your work clothes than I do! ;)

i don't think this is accurate

I saw this thing:

HowManyOfMe.com

There are 4 people with my name in the U.S.A. How many have your name?

You can type in your first and last name and find out how many people have the same name as you in the U.S.A. Just be sure you say you're older than 13!!

Anyway, I know my name isn't super common like Mike Smith, but....only 4 people in the U.S. with my first and last name? That's pretty ironic, since I happen to know 3 of them! My husband's brother's wife has the same name and my husband's only aunt on his father's side has the same name. Quite a coincidence to have 3 in the same family in the first place. Hmm, could there only be 1 more in the U.S? (I'm not convinced.) I found the missing 4th, if that's the case...she does something with grave stones or something. I can't really remember. Come on, you've never googled your name to see what comes up? I guess the census needs some updating.

Oh, it also said more than 99.9% of people named Rebecca are female...isn't that a relief?

*Proud and honored to share your last name Man! I love you!!

Secrets?

Ok, you might already know some of these things...but then again, you might not. They're not really secrets, but they're probably not widely known. A look in the life of Becky. Now, where do I start?

I like to write, but this is about all the writing I do these days. I used to keep a journal, but I haven't done that in awhile. Maybe I should write more.
I've never had a cavity, I never had braces, I don't wear glasses/contacts, I've never broken a bone...sometimes, I felt left out as a kid...haha. Now, I am thankful.
I had never been on an airplane until my freshman year of college. We went to nationals for Cross Country in Wisconsin (well, we flew to Chicago and drove to Kenosha). Since then, I've been to more airports than I ever dreamed I would, including that short trip to Hawaii. I really think our round trip flight was longer than our stay.
My first car was a 1993 (right?) Dodge Shadow. I called her Bobbin' Robin. First, the shocks were completely shot, hence the "Bobbin'." (Kind of like the Grapes of Math car from Veggie Tales). The color was bright blue like a Robin's egg...thanks to Bethany, "Robin" was added. It was definitely a little embarrassing as far as the looks go (she kept me humble..haha), but to be honest it was sad to see her go. She frowned till the end too. (umm, after an accident, the front bumper was like an upside down v)
When I was little, I was allergic to misquitos. The allergy came back for a summer several years ago again but has disappeared since. The misquito bites would swell up bigger than bee sting swells and would often get infected really easily. I actually had to take meds when I was at Covenant Acres Camp. I also was the queen of nurse visits at camp. Not a moment went by that I didn't have a bug in my eye, mouth, ears, or nose. Right, Laura? The nurse had to flush one out of my ear...it was crazy! Another tidbit, my dad was on the committee to start Covenant Acres...kinda cool. We used to have a camper there. My older brothers would camp, and Pete and I would stay with Mom and Dad in the camper. That big rubber slide always smelled like goose poop, but it was worth it. Can I get an amen, all you Covenant Acres campers? Oh, a raccoon got into one of the tents one year, and they had to shoot it?? Apparently, a girls' clothes were all bloodied up by the incident, so she had to borrow clothes from girls. She wore a pair of my shorts. I'm sure that's incredibly interesting to you all.
My hair has always been it's natural color...though Chrissy and I tried to color the tips of our hair grey with Grandma's stuff...what was it called? Yes, Shimmering Lights, I think it was!! Oh, I guess I used that spray on hair color stuff that washes out for a cross country meet...so it was green. If I blow dry my hair, you need to stand 3 feet away from me, or you'll be caught in a big fro bush. (Matt, remember that car ride home with the window down? hahaha That's one I won't share). Oh, to have straight hair again...yes, it was pin straight and thin when I was a little girl. I must've eaten too many carrots....that's what my mom always said, carrots will make your hair curl (I tried to avoid them and "lucky" for me, it worked).
My brothers and I would always give my mom a hard time when she called us morons (spelling?). Ok, she would tell us to, "put more on." We would laugh and say, "Mom said, moron." She was always cold, so naturally, we "were" too. I think I finally inherited that gene..the cold one.
I was born on a Friday night around 8:03 in 1983...my brothers wanted to name me Daisy because of course, I was born during their favorite show The Dukes of Hazzard. Daisy ******...now there's nails on a chalkboard. Phew, missed that one. However, my favorite flowers are daisies!
I was the star in a cooking show called "Cooking Witb B", yes, "witb." If you've never seen it, you'll have to go to my parents'. My mom often runs marathon "Cooking Witb B" shows when new people come over, or when Hannah and Abby request it. That was one of the funniest times ever of my childhood, and they were mostly real bloopers.
I like surprises, good surprises, but I often figure them out beforehand...and usually not on purpose! It's a frustration of mine. FRustration, not fustration.
Our first dog, Lady, was killed by coyotes in our backyard. She had an accident in the house, so her punishment was to spend that night outside. This usually solved the problem for awhile because she liked to be with the family. My parents had no idea there were coyotes...I had a hard time warming up to the idea of another dog after that, but Caleb is the best!
I don't like dancing. I'm warming up to it...sort of, only because I'm married to Matt. He really likes to dance, but it just isn't my thing. My family didn't dance. I don't know that they're against it (my mom went to dances in high school)...it just didn't happen. So, school dances weren't a thrill for me, and I didn't go to any till my senior ball. I was convinced (by friends) that I missed a lot at my junior prom, so I caved when I was asked. It wasn't a good experience for me, so I never wanted to dance again until I met my husband...until marriage. I did have a dream though of dancing with God. Since I'm not such a girly girl in that regard it may sound a little odd or cheesey...but it was beautiful. It was like a wedding day, I was wearing white (no, I don't really know what He looked like), but I had no fear or shame or sense of ridiculousness. It was only us. It was kind of like being a child dancing with your father. I know I'm not doing a good job depicting this, but that's ok. You need to have your own dream anyway. It was very moving for me. I was able to experience a glimpse of how He sees me, how He loves me. I sometimes wonder how it's different for guys and girls...like in their love for God. I don't mean for girls it's a romantic love (this was not a worldly type of romantic love dream...let me make that clear), but I don't picture guys having a dream of dancing with God. I do think He shows special times of His love for us in different ways though. Men and women are just created so differently, yet compliment each other...I think that's so neat. So, the first time Matt and I danced together was at home after our wedding. Our first kiss was also the day of our wedding...despite a memorable, "Yeah Right!" from a member of the congregation.
When I was a kid, I was very talkative and didn't mind being the center of attention. I wasn't very shy either. This may be a shocker to most, but it's true. I had my share of needing my seat moved, both at school and Sunday School for talking. Yes, I could've even been seen at the principal's office. I laughed and loved to laugh, but sometimes, I said hurtful things to others or about others...that I sincerely regret. I had a "boyfriend" as early as 4th grade and was headed a bit down the fast lane. Thankfully, as I grew a little older, I realized I needed to be more wise with my words and actions. Sometime in middle school I quieted down and focused more on my relationship with God. I decided no more boyfriends till at least 17, but even then, it had to be someone who would possibly, ultimately, become my husband. I never told anyone this, just between me and God. 17 came and went, college came and almost went, till Matt came along. It was a tough wait at times, and sometimes I wondered if I would ever meet anybody, but I waited for God to send the one He had prepared. He was so worth it! Matt was the first "guy" I ever dated...was in a courting relationship with. I wouldn't change that for anything. He had to work a little for me, but I knew I only wanted a man who would pursue me, not me him. Matt had just the right handshake, looked me in the eye when he talked to me, stood respectfully, spoke with my parents...and he thought I had a boyfriend!...haha...because I was guarded. He told me much later that he walked away from meeting me saying under his breath, "Whoever he is (referring to my "boyfriend"), he's a lucky guy." 4 months later, long after finding out I was indeed single, he had the courage to call.
There are several things Matt owns that I am not particularly fond of, which have become a big joke in this household. First, his favorite pair of orange brown socks. I have no idea where he could've gotten them, unless they're about 40 years old. Second, these huge mink blankets. Third, a pair of white worn out puma shoes, especially when worn with white pants and a white shirt (worn his first Sunday home). I'm no fashion diva, but ohhhh boy. Fourth, "the suit." I thought he was crazy when he came home from the military (the first time) wearing this ugly, ugly shiny suit with faces all over it and a fur coat thing. He had his hair slicked back. Honestly, I was going over in my head how I was going to tell him I changed my mind about "us" after that. He looked like a pompous, rich, pimp? He really likes to see reactions out of people. He got one! Thankfully, he showed up in jeans, a t-shirt and dickies shirt for our first official date...So, another secret, sometimes I smell the Polo Sport cologne he has. I don't believe he has worn it since the day he came home in that suit, but when I smell it with him gone, it reminds me of him. My other favorite scent is his body wash...Dial Spring Rain or something...definitely a favorite of mine.
Matt and I have a special thing about acorns. I saved some from a park that backs up to his house because my family goes there every year...and I had no idea till those first few months we were "talking" that Matt lived so close to the park and liked it to. I almost sent them to him (out to Hawaii) and later learned it was a good thing I didn't because it's illegal to brings seeds from the mainland. So, I put them in a little treasure box for Matt as one of his Christmas presents that first year (he was home by then) with the verse from Isaiah 61: "They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor." I really like the verses about being strong in the Lord, being like trees by water or that bear fruit, and oaks are just so solid. As a wedding gift, I gave him "The Oak Inside the Acorn" by Max Lucado. I embroidered a pillowcase for Matt before he left and there's an acorn on it with that verse from Isaiah referenced. We hope to plant some of those acorns from the park...(we'll see if they grow) when we move into our first house.
105 days left until Matt's back in the states. Of course, that's an estimated countdown because I don't really know, but I need numbers!
Ok, that's probably more than enough for now.

*You make me smile and laugh Man! No, I haven't thrown away your socks! I love you!!

as requested

As I gear up to share some interesting, or not so interesting, tidbits about myself, I will share some words, or phrases or sayings that "irk" me. Hmm, this may be a short one that needs to be added to later.

Well, I already shared, "Home again, home again, jiggity jig." I wonder where that started. I have a feeling it is a pretty old saying. I guess some people have never heard it though...so, I decided to see what happens when I "yahoo" it. First, LOTS of blogs come up (or specific posts), entitled (entitled, not entailed...:) just that. Umm, a homosexual game site came up. That's something that bugs me. When just looking up where a phrase originates, all sorts of terribly inappropriate websites come up. I actually have to tell my doctor about one. She recommended a product for me and said I could just do a search for it, and that it would be there. Not good things came up, so I need to let her know. So those things irk me, but more than irk me. I find it especially annoying since I'm not looking for that stuff, I'm looking for often quite the opposite, but in the process those come up. Anyway, I wasn't able to find an origin. Somebody must've just said it one day and all is history.

There's another one my mom used to say, let's see. I'll remember it sometime.

"There's a millipede or there are a lot of millipedes!" Ok, not what you're looking for, but honestly, I can't stand finding millipedes in our apartment. Also in our house, "Good night, sleep tight, don't let the bed bugs bite!"...for real!

One I teased Matt about for awhile was when he said, "We'll keep you in prayers." First of all, I thought it was really cute, but I said, umm, you mean, "We'll keep you in our prayers, or we'll keep you in prayer." Sometimes, the English concentration part of me comes out, but yes, on my blog, sometimes I slip up. I don't edit much here.

I really don't like to call a class "friends." I don't mind saying something like, "One of your friends" referring to a classmate of another student. However, calling the entire class "friends" just sounds cheesy to me. I prefer boys and girls or class, or in my case since I sub, I can say Mrs. so and so's class.

Sidenote: I really like the Amelia Bedelia books, ever since I was little. I think they are just so funny. Apparently the most common sources of idioms are from Shakespeare and the Bible...neat tidbit.

This weekend I was asked for a picture of Matt for his brother's wedding, so a life-size cardboard cut out could be made of him since he can't be there. I don't remember the exact words, but that irked me and hurt me.

Something I learned, when people say, "mind your p's and q's" it came from old English pubs. Apparently, ale was ordered in pints and quarts, so when customers got "unruly," the bartender would say that (mind your pints and quarts...p's and q's). (http://www.panix.com/~acohen/expr.html) So I don't think that's one I would use with my kids, not that I like it anyway. "Mom what are p's and q's?"

"Don't ya know?" is sort of a joke in our family. We say it like an older woman from times past I guess. It's not my favorite, one of those nails on the chalkboard type things for me, but I do laugh almost every time.

Another one is related to the word "at." It doesn't need to be placed at the end of something already stating a ...location I guess. I don't know the lingo. (I don't like the word lingo either...haha). "Where are you at?" At is not necessary. "Where are you?" does the job. Now, I say it sometimes too because I'm around it quite a bit...oh well.

Hmm, April fools!! That's also not a favorite, but I felt the need to say it today.

How about I end with a silly one? When I was little, during Christmas time we would sing, The Drummer Boy or The Little Drummer Boy. I guess I never really saw the words of the song, or I was so little I couldn't read...but this went on for years. I always thought one part of a verse of the song was in another language. "The ox and ram kept time..." I never heard it annunciated in those words, and it was always really choppy...I thought it was something in like Chinese. So, no, this doesn't really irk me. It's pure childhood confusion or misunderstanding. I remember that one year that I learned the truth. I saw it on an overhead while we were singing at church. I just could not stop laughing!! I think about that every Christmas and every time that song is sung or played!

*Love you!! 29 weeks left!!

this and that, and so on and so forth, etc.

The title are some phrases that are not my favorite. Hmm, maybe I could make a list of phrases or sayings that "irk" me...can we say, "home again, home again, jiggity jig!" Ahh, Mom! That's like nails on the chalkboard for me. Anyway...

I'm not going to talk about the bad things today, so here are some good things: I talked with Matt this morning, and it was soo good!!! It's been over a week since we've talked. That's the best news.

The past couple days:

Our wedding photo book arrived! It turned out nicely and so far I've only seen 1 minor typo/error (yes, that's a good thing to me...I can be somewhat of a perfectionist). I think it was a great deal. We never ordered an official wedding album, so this is sort of it for us. Now, I'd like to put a few more pictures around the apartment. We mostly have family pictures, which is fine, but we need more of us around.

Our fed tax refund also arrived, yay, but I couldn't deposit it...so, I'm not going to write about that.

I'm taking a break from the crib cover and making some toys/time occupiers (is that a word?) for Matt. I'm making him and the guys some hacky sacks. They don't take as long as I thought they would, and I have a ton of material, so I'm gonna keep sending them. It's ok if they beat them to a pulp. Duct tape is one of Matt's favorite things! Some day, it would be fun to have a sewing machine. I sew everything by hand mostly because I don't have a sewing machine and because I don't have sewing machine experience. I'm afraid to use my Mom's and break it. I'd rather break my own...does that make sense? Someday...

I went to Ollies and one of those huge Barnes and Noble stores yesterday. That was really fun. I'd never been to either (just the regular Barnes and Noble). I bought some birthday board books (umm, I bought beautiful birthday books for a bouncing baby boy...how's that Hannah? She likes that game...a lot!) for Nathanael's 1st birthday. I can't believe how big all these nieces and nephews are getting. Hannah is turning 7 this summer...whoa. Anyway, I got those books at Ollies, and that was a fun time. I am now a proud shopper of Ollies with, basically, a shopper's club card. haha. And so, I went to Barnes in Noble, the one I usually go to. I had a coupon for 40% of cds, and I wanted to get Matt one for his birthday...so I was off. I walked around the whole store like I was crazy. Where in the world did their whole cd collection go? I thought, a lot of other people must have really beaten me to it, I couldn't find one cd. Finally, I asked a store worker, and he said I had to go to Pittsford or Webster. I was completely confused. I had never been to the other stores, I know I've seen a cd section, right over there. I wasn't confusing it with another book store. What is going on? Finally, I realized, I was confusing my hometown Barnes and Noble with the one out in San Diego...how weird is that? I totally remembered that one "more," and I've been to Barnes and Noble back here at least 3 times since being out in California. WEIRD! It definitely made me laugh though. Boy, do I feel like I'm in a time and place warp. Where exactly is my home these days? Anyway...I went to a super? (like a super walmart?) Barnes and Noble. It was like a field trip. That store was huge! I had so much fun. I previewed the cd's at their listening stations and came home with 1 cd for Matt (unfortunately, their Christian selection was not very big) and 2 cd's for us at home...well, I guess probably mostly me, but Matt likes them too...I think. Yes, I thought, when else am I going to have 40% off as many cd's as I can buy (they are a bit more expensive than some other stores but the discount was still cheaper than regular prices elsewhere...elsewhere...another word that drives me nuts...haha), so I purchased the Little Women and Pride and Prejudice soundtracks! I could listen to that music all day long (Yup, I'm listening now). Hey, Matt, maybe I would learn to do some "fun" dances...but only for at home! If you know me, you know, I don't dance (to Matt's displeasure) and there are reasons for it...but that's another story. I'm not much of a classical girl, but some forms, such as these pieces, are just beautiful. I really think geniouses composed them. Maybe playing the violin from 4th grade to 12th grade has something to do with my love for "old" classical music (right Laura?)...but maybe not. We rarely played songs that I enjoyed or thought absolutely beatiful. Maybe that's why I rarely practiced. I think they go hand-in-hand. Maybe our children will be really smart from listening to this music (hmm, good study music)...or maybe they'll go stir crazy. I think we'll have a balance though because Matt likes the harder stuff, I like the country-er stuff, and we both like acoustical and inbetween stuff.

Umm, I guess that's it for now. I'm thinking of sharing some secrets in the next post. Ok, you may already know some of the "secrets", but I'll try to think of things...special tidbits...to share.

*Thank you so much for this morning Matt! I love you!

packages and more packages

It feels like Christmas around here...or maybe it feels like Easter! :)

Our California photo book arrived yesterday! I was so excited. I think it turned out really well, and I am super pleased. I'm still waiting on our wedding album photo book to come...nervously waiting. I hope I'm just as pleased. We're also still waiting for the shirts we ordered.

Today, I did some Walmart grocery shopping. I needed some stuff to make cupcakes for tomorrow, and I wanted to get a bunch of goodies to send Matt and his guys. I still need to go look for a new microwave (yup, ours bit the dust over a cup of hot chocolate), but that will be next time. I just finished the cupcakes and packing his box. It looks like I'll have to wait and mail it on Monday. I'm too late for today. After I made the cupcakes and packed the box, I realized I didn't get much in the line of groceries for around here, but that's ok. I had sooo much fun filling his box!! (except for the fact I got a hunk of a papercut, or cardboard box cut, from wrestling with a Rice Krispies Treats box...I'm going to need to change that bandaid soon. I just get hyper and sometimes make "hasty decisions," right Matt?) Anyway, I love making things that make my Man smile. There are a few goofy things in there, but I won't share yet because I don't want to spoil the surprise. Maybe I can get him to send pictures of it! Yes, my husband reads my blogs when he can. I just may be one in a million!

Even though today has been a good day for the most part, I have been a little down. It's one of those days I just get hit with heart ache for missing him. It didn't help that his internet was down yesterday and today (at least that is probably the case, I haven't heard yet), so we weren't able to talk when we were supposed to. That leaves me missing him like crazy even though we did talk earlier that morning. (Please don't roll your eyes or tell me, "o stop it!" about this because it may cause me to roll up my sleeves....I mean, I am thankful when we are able to talk quite a bit because I know that is a gift in and of itself, but it really still isn't the same as having him around. Oh, to be hugged and held again again. Sometimes it's kinda tough for me to see couples together...but we're getting there. This week has been a little extra "soft" for me after having an awful dream about Matt at war. I won't go into detail, but it was scary and too real, and basically all I could do was stand there and watch.) Anyway, that morning while we talked, we played checkers, go fish, BINGO, and air hockey together online. It was so much fun and gave us something else to do "together." The highlight was definitely winning yahoo BINGO during the same game (we think we had the same board)! I even dragged my laptop to the bathroom with me during BINGO...more than you wanted to know I'm sure...don't worry, I washed my hands. It was so great, and I believe God threw in that little special win for us at the same time. Silly as it might be, I was touched by it....ok, I can be a little emotional these days.

So, this week I'm thankful for flat rate boxes, goodies I can stuff in it, webcams, online games, the opportunity to communicate and love, the love of my husband, and the love and promises of our Lord and Savior. Happy Easter!!

*I love you Bubbers! Happy Easter!

and what a refined young woman she's becoming...

This is definitely one of those "lighter" blogs...that you might want to skip over! Today, I picked up some groceries and was in the mood for a snack. I know, you shouldn't go shopping in a snacky or hungry mood. Last time, I made the mistake of getting a Reeses Whipped/Whipps...whatever they are. This time, I wanted something salty with a zing. I scanned the checkout aisle and grabbed...a slim jim!

I personally find this quite funny because I haven't had one in, I think it's safe to say, several years. As I opened the package in the car (you know how I open my treats before I leave the parking lot of the store), I also thought to myself, "I can't believe you're going to eat this. Look at the skin!" I have my opinions about certain foods that cause me to not like them. So, these slim jims would fit the category of a "do not eat" food because it has this tough nasty skin layer on the outside. I feel the same way about hotdogs because of their skin. I also don't like hotdogs because I think the ends look like....bear with me...the inside of my belly button (I suppose if it was flipped out). The wrinkled skin pulled together in the center! gross!! Anyways, I like foods with some pep, and the slim jim fit the bill in the moment. I took the first bite and chewed. I chewed and chewed and chewed. The flavor was better in my childhood years and I certainly didn't remember how you could chew and never get it small enough to swallow comfortably. So, I did what any refined woman would do. I would spit out the meatball sized chunk out the window of my car (when cars were not coming the other way of course). I felt like I was chewing...well, chewing tobacco. Over and over again, I bit off a chunk and repeated this process. I think this food has a certain redneck flare to it as it as...and here I was. Afterwards, I wished I had just gotten some pepperoni or chocolate.

I have the bad breath to prove my story, but I'll spare you all by just sharing a picture. I think I'll mail the twin to Matt! Umm, do you even like these, Matt?



*I love you Man! So, do you want that other slim jim? Are there any other takers?

i get to hear his voice again! ..and 48 things

So, Matt is back on land, and we are able to talk over the phone much more and use wecam!! We talked 3 times, actually 5 times in the last 2 days! That's the good news lately!!

48 Things You Possibly Didn't Know About Me
1. What is in the back seat of your car right now? Grocery bags, the Suburban News, junk mail, coveralls, snowscrapers, a metal pail, a pair of socks, some candy wrappers....it's time for Spring cleaning!
2. When was the last time you threw up? The spring semester of senior year...during student teaching...after one 3rd grade student announced she had "a stomach virus", I was down for the count a day later...it was awful.
3. Name 3 people who made you smile today? Matt, Chrissy, and Patrick Henry Hughes on tv this afternoon...he's inspirational...look him up.
4. What were you doing at 8 am this morning? Talking with Matt
5. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? I think talking with Chrissy.
6. What will you be doing 3 hours from now? Probably going to bed.
7. What is the last thing you said aloud? "That's kind of stupid"...a question I deleted...this is supposed to be 60 things you possibly didn't know about me
8. What is the best ice cream flavor? Cookie dough or cookies and cream
9. What was the last thing you had to drink? water
10. What are you wearing right now? jeans, t-shirt, and fleece pull-over
11. What was the last thing you ate? dinner...leftovers
12. Have you bought any new clothing items this week? no, that's a good thing, i've done enough shopping for awhile
13. When was the last time you ran? ha! actually, today....this question came at a good time, i'm working on consistency
14. What's the last sporting event you watched? probably basketball
15. Who is the last person you emailed? Aunt Maryanne
16. Ever go camping? Yes
17. Do you have a tan? Just a speckled tan that's here forever....they're called freckles.
18. Do you drink your soda from a straw? umm, who does that?
19. What did your last IM say? "yeah"
20. Are you someone's best friend? yes
21. What are you doing tomorrow? talking with Matt in the morning, and then I have no idea.
22. Where is your mom right now? at Bible Study
23. Look to your left, what do you see? a clock
24. What color is your watch? black
25. What do you think of when you think of Australia? umm, does Aussie hair products with the little kangaroo count? are they even made in australia?
26. Would you consider plastic surgery? no
27. What is your birthstone? umm, it's ugly orange, i don't even know the name
28. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit thedrive thru? usually go in, especially in california, i saw too many people hit the curb bad at taco bell in their big SUV's ...hysterical, but it'd be us next
29.How many kids do you want? several, we'll see, i used to say 7, but i'd like at least 4 or 5
30. Do you have a dog? well, he lives with mom and dad, Caleb, the best dog ever
31. Last person you talked to on the phone? the doctor
32. Have you met anyone famous? i saw President Clinton in person, but i personally handed First Lady Laura Bush our wedding invitation...which do you think was more exciting?
33. Any plans today? everybody loves raymond
34. How many states have you lived in? umm, i guess just 1, ny, but i sort of lived in ca for a little bit, it wasn't a vacation, and i'll be going back again so i can live with my husband
35. Ever go to college? yes, and then i went again....i'm done
36. Where are you right now? at my mom and dad's, and they aren't here...a little weird. i'll be heading home soon.
37. Biggest annoyance in your life right now? well, probably our stinky water, but everything seems more annoying since Matt isn't around
38. Last song listened to? whatever Patrick Henry Hughes played on the piano
39. Are you allergic to anything? sulfa drugs...and i think propel, it makes me feel terrible when i drink it, but i like it so much
40. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time? in winter, boots, in summer, sandals
41. What time is it? 7:19pm
42. Do any of your friends have children? yes
43. Do you eat healthy? sometimes, we're working on that
44. What do you usually do during the day? good question
45. Do you use the word 'hello' daily? yes, but not really as a greeting
46. How old will you be turning on your next birthday? 25
47. Have you ever been to Six Flags? yes
48. How did you get one of your scars? i was about 4 years old, wearing flip flops (my mom told me to change them, but i disobeyed,) and i was tripped, or i tripped over my cousin's foot and i fell, i hit my head on his brother's metal training wheel things. Lots of blood, a good lesson in obedience.

right in this moment...i'm laughing

Let me share what I'm doing at this exact moment. I just came back from mailing Matt's package...hooray! (it should've been mailed a long time ago) My neighbor handed me a package that came in the mail for me. I was so excited!! I ordered 2 dresses online and they came!!

Well, I was excited until I opened the box. Yes, they were the right dresses, but no, not what I was expecting. Well, I might as well try them on...maybe they'll look better on. I really don't have many dresses or what you would call really dressy clothes. My cousin is getting married this weekend, and I thought, hey, let's go shopping for something new. I went to practically every store in the mall and outside of the mall and found nothing! So, I decided to see what was online. I ordered a black dressy dress...go figure...and I also ordered a yellow summery dress. I am fully aware that I might be a ghost in a yellow dress, but it looked so pretty, I decided to try it. Ha....ha ha ha ha. The black dress, well, it could work...but it's like anything else I own dressy or try on. It doesn't fit right in some places. That's usually code for the chest area among other places. It doesn't help that every style is super scoopy. I did buy a new black tank to wear under it in case it was too low. Well, it is too low and baggy on the right and left, but the tank top takes care of the coverage. Now, I just sort of look like an old woman at a funeral. The material is just weird too. I've come to the conclusion that's why they are online and not in the store: so you can't see or feel them! It's almost like the crepe paper you use to decorate with for children's birthday parties. This dress really reminds me of the old orchestra days. Oh, those hideous dresses!! I guess I'll need an honest opinion from someone who isn't wearing it. Or, maybe I'll just wear it anyway and just act confident....ha! Not very likely...but I hear that's what you're supposed to do.

Ok, so the black one is a maybe. The yellow one is out of my realm of fashion. I'm not a particularly fashionable person. I prefer jeans and a comfortable shirt or sweatshirt. Hence, the fact that I needed some more dressy clothes. The first thing I thought when I opened the package was, is this a dress or my grandma's tablecloth? It's lacey...which, I'm not a lacey girl. I knew it was going to be lacey, but I thought, maybe it's ok to dress a little feminine once and awhile. So, I gave this one a try too by seeing what it looks like on. Honestly, it sort of looks like a tablecloth or maybe curtains. And, I'm not exaggerating here, it feels like one of those too. It sort of poofs at the rear area...I think there's a little too much extra material there. I wonder if it will look better without the wrinkles from the packaging. Once again, I'll need help from an outsider. I feel like a guest on "What Not to Wear." Either that, or I just really am not with the times!

Maybe for your enjoyment I should've posted pictures to go along with my description (since my description does not do them justice). My excuse is this: I don't have a clicker (remote) or timer (that I know of) on my camera so all you'd see is my face. Ok, my other excuse is, I'm way too embarrassed.

So, my order is a little disappointing, but sort of expected. I should've learned my lesson after ordering my bridesmaid dresses online. I am still so sorry about those, girls. When I opened the boxes for those, Matt had to literally come me down. That was probably my 1 bridezilla moment. And you all were so gracious saying they really weren't that bad....yeah, they really were.

So, it looks like I'm not going to be very dressy at the wedding this weekend and some other upcoming weddings and events unless there is some intervention. Oh well.

*I love you, Matt!!

Yes, one of these

1. What time did you get up this morning? 5:00...then 9:00 (lazy!)

2. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds

3. What was the last film you saw at the theater? National Treasure 2 (phew, I didn't think there was one since Mr. Bean's Holiday...haha, I shared anyway)

4. What is your Favorite TV show? Jen listed 3, so I can too: LOST, American Gladiators, Dr. Phil (at least these are the ones that are recently being aired)

5. What do you usually have for breakfast? toast, cereal, or bagel

6. Favorite cuisine? Italian (I like some Mexican too....but I got sick on it after our 1st anniversary dinner)

7. What's your middle name? Helen

8. Food do you dislike? FISH!

9. What is your Favorite CD at the moment? I don't know. I'm listening to a lot of Jeremy Camp. I think Matt has every cd he ever thought about recording. It used to always be playing here and in the car. I like Jeremy Camp, but it drove me nuts....so it's my attachment to Matt right now.

10. What kind of car do you drive? Silver 1998 Subaru Outback....can we say, I want kids?

11. Favorite Sandwich? Peanut Butter

12. What characteristics do you despise? Inconsideracy...is that a word? Being inconsiderate.

13. Favorite item of clothing? My "honeymooon" pants...no they aren't what you're thinking. They are blue sweatpants from Target we bought on our honeymoon.

14. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would
you go? Right now, the Philippines....to be with Matt. When he comes home, probably home and maybe just a short getaway (we've done a lot of traveling for awhile...but we'll see).

15. Favorite brand of clothing? Umm, does Salvation Army count? Ok, then anything cheap or on sale.

16. Where would you retire to? I don't know.

17. What was your most recent memorable birthday? My most recent birthday was this last November...it was sort of boring without Matt. I did get red roses though! I guess that's memorable, but I don't think that's what the question is looking for.

18. Favorite sport to watch? Any kind of sport with a running event (the other day I watched some of the ironman), but I'd have to say gymnastics may even top the list...ever since I was a little tyke.

19. Furthest place you are sending this? Possibly, the Philippines

20. Who do you least expect to send this back to you? Matt, he's a busy guy.

21. Person you expect to send it back first? Katrina (yeah, this was an email first)

22. Favorite saying? I'm trying to think of what I say a lot. Guess what? What in the world? For real? (Hannah, my niece even says it now...so funny!) Oh, I looked down below to question 24, and I think Matt's favorite, maybe least favorite though, saying is, "Matthew, I can't sleep!" His response, "5:00 comes early!"

23. When is your birthday? 11/18/1983

24. Are you a morning person or a night person? Lately, neither..haha. When Matt is here, I'm definitely a night person. I get really hyper at night (bed time) and he totally crashes. I'm practically jumping on the bed, and then I tell him I can't sleep. It's a big joke, because honestly, I don't even try, but I'll repeat it over and over again. It makes him laugh...a lot. And, it keeps him awake a little while longer. Then he gets serious, a little frustrated with me, and tells me, "5:00 comes early!" He rolls over and I'm stuck awake alone! Then there are noises that keep me awake....it's an interesting time living in a basement apartment with the other tenants bedroom above yours. I leave it with that.

25. What is your shoe size? anything from a 7-8.5...really depends on the shoe. Ridiculous.

26. Pets? Well, we don't have any "pets" in our apartment. We have unwanted creepy crawlers, mainly spiders, which I can deal ok with, but the millipedes have to go!! (Yeah, I'm ready to move!) Matt has a pet, Yoda, he's a chinchilla. He stays at his mom and dad's house because as I remind him, "We're not allowed to have pets in our apartment" (we really aren't, but I don't care for him...haha). I told Matt we can let him live with us when we have a house. He's had him since 8th grade...is it Matt? And they live for like 20 years I think. He'll have to correct me. So basically, we still have a lot of years left with him. I'm convinced my husband just likes weird things...animals, cars, whatever...for other people's reactions. I can't leave out Caleb though, my favorite dog. He's getting old. He's at my parents' too. I want him to come and visit, but our rules swing both ways apparently, no Yoda, no Caleb.

27. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us? Nope.

28. What did you want to be when you were little? A teacher, a writer, a bus driver (ha!...all because of that cool crank door opener. My parents won't let me live it down. That would've been such a disaster!) Most of all, a mommy of a ton of kids.

29. How are you today? Good, but in need of a shower!

30. What is your favorite type of candy? I agree with Jen with the sour gummi stuff. My favorite candy bar, which is not a bar, are Reeses Peanut Butter Cups. Well, the Reeses Sticks are also amazing...those are 2 bars! I splurged on a Reeses Whipped or Whips whatever they are yesterday....don't buy it! What a waste! I was completely disappointed with Reeses. Yet, I still ate like all of it, trying to convince myself it would get better with each bite. I finally threw one pathetic little stump of a chunk out my car window. (Yes, if I buy candy, I have to open it before I get home). I know, more than the question asked and more than you wanted to know.

31. Favorite flower? Daisies

32. What are you listening to right now? The sound of my air purifier running

33. What was the last thing you ate? wheat thins

34. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? blue..Matt and I would have to be the same crayon...or we'd have to joust it out.

35. How is the weather right now? a little chilly in our bedroom. I haven't been outside yet. It's probably bitter cold, and then I love the experience of ice skating to my car...ok, I really don't love it, I'm scared I'm going to break a bone!

36. Last person you spoke to on the phone? John Gray..haha, no it's not that funny, but it really is. We don't generally talk on the phone to catch up on each others' lives. He was calling my parents', I was there, they weren't, took a message...you get the idea. Anyway, he's a great kid...not trying to make fun. Ok, just since I wrote this, Suzan called and my Mom.

37. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Yes. Why do they even post this question? We're supposed to send it back. Good thing I like her!

38. Favorite restaurant? Taco Bell and Jack in the Box. Ok, I know these aren't restaurants, but we don't go to many "restaurants". Taco Bell is obvious (isn't it?), and Jack in the Box has the most amazing cookies and cream milkshake. I couldn't tell you how many times we went to both of those places in San Diego. Literally, it must have been like 10 times each in 3 weeks...maybe more? haha

39. Hair color? Brownish Blackish

40. Siblings? 3 brothers...there just was no possibility for a sister, i really asked and asked. When I was in 6th grade, my dad asked me what we should do for my mom's birthday or Mother's Day (they are right near each other), I said we should adopt another kid...obviously, meaning a girl! I was completely serious.

42. Favorite day of the year? This year, it will be October 19!!!

43. What was your Favorite toy as a child? Dolls, hands down! I was a little Momma. I also played with Polly Pockets and Littlest Petshop...still have them! Oh, I liked my dollhouse too. I also had these little horses (not My Little Pony...but I had those too) that I played with a lot. Hannah and Abby play with those now.

44. Summer or winter? Summer, but I do like snow, in moderation. I'm just ready to not be freezing.

45. Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate

46. Do you want your friends to email you back? Yes.

47. When was the last time you cried? Ha! Yesterday.

48. What is under your bed? (Did you ever think there was a baker under your bed? No. Did you ever check to see if there was a baker under your bed? No. Well, how did you know you didn't have a baker under your bed unless you checked? Ok, I really like Rocketman!) A plastic bin of Matt's old pictures, a display box of Matt's (I think it was from his Grandpa) and a couple shoe boxes of stuff we just don't know what to do with!

49. Who is the friend you have had the longest? I met Jane when I was 3. My cousins I knew from birth, and they're friends! Laura has been my best friend since 4th grade.

50. What did you do last night? Went to Sandy's, talked, laughed, and cried (refer to question 47).

51. Favorite smell? Chocolate chip cookies in the oven. I also like a lot of like "candle" smells...too many to list. I'll spare you all on one question anyway.

52. What are you afraid of? Millipedes! They are so hard to kill.

53. Plain, buttered, or salted Popcorn? I guess buttered, but I'd rather have something else.

54. How many keys on your key ring? 2, car and apartment

55. How many years at your current job? Well, I've subbed 2 half days...haha.

56. Favorite day of the week? Friday

57. How many towns have you lived in? 4, and 6 different houses/apartments

58. Do you make friends easily? It all depends. Oh, that reminds me. When I was little I wasn't always what you would call a precious little girl. I had a mind of my own. My mom tried to give me the stranger danger talk. When she finished, I said, "Well, I might just like it better with them." Not what you want to hear as a mom ....for multiple reasons!

59. What are you wearing right now? Pajamas...including those blue sweatpants.

60. What color is your bathroom? I guess it's sort of off white. We have blue towels, a turtle soap dish, and ducks, frogs, and turtles shower curtain rings. We're such kids.