Columbus Weather Report = Crazy.

The weather here is insane. It continually poured rain throughout the night, and was still coming down when I went to bed at 1 am. Brody woke me up crying this morning at 7, and the rain was heavier than I have ever seen before. Lightning flashes lit up the room every few minutes, and the thunder that followed shook the apartment. I was able to calm Brody down enough to go back to sleep, but at 9 am we woke up to the city-wide sirens going off. I then got a text from Amanda, making sure we were okay, because there was a high tornado warning for our county. I turned on the news and sure enough, us and all the surrounding counties had been on Tornado and Severe Weather alerts since early this morning. Nearby in Salem, AL, a tornado actually touched down and destroyed a few buildings. There was also heavy traffic due to overturned vehicles caused by the heavy winds. 

I knew Brody needed to go out to go potty, so during the time I was contemplating HOW to accomplish that, he peed in the living room. As I was cleaning it up, he went into the kitchen and pooped. His nerves must have really gotten to him. Over the next half hour, every time there was thunder he would poop right where he was. He is SUCH a wimp. I really, really hope he grows out of this nervous stage. I finally put him in his kennel with a bunch of towels and a bone to keep him occupied, which helped. Finally, the storm started dying down and I took him outside to go potty again, and he threw up on the grass. He still has not been interested in eating at all today, and is extremely lethargic. I think it is just extreme nervousness, and he should start feeling better tonight. At least I hope so, or I'm going to have to find money for a vet bill and antibiotics on Monday. 

The storm has now blown over and it is bright and sunny outside. Its 80 degrees with 70% humidity. The forecast for tonight shows a chance of showers. I pray that is all it will be, and no thunder, for Brody's sake. Tomorrow the predicted high is only 41 degrees with chance of SNOW! Well, as they say... "If you don't like the weather in Georgia, wait until tomorrow."

To anyone who reads this: PLEASE keep Drew in your prayers! He has been fighting off a cold for the past two weeks, and he is outside in this horrible weather. I kept thinking the whole time during the storm about what the guys out in the field were going through. I can't believe they have to stay out there in this. That really rubs me the wrong way and I'll be ticked if he comes home with pneumonia. 

Thats my weather update for today, I'll check back here later. Have a good day!!

Only in the South!

So now I'm depressed again. Well, not depressed, just.. blah. Its been pouring rain for the past hour, so tennis lessons are cancelled, and the dog park is empty. The house is way too quiet, even Brody is sleeping more than he usually does. Its almost dinner time and I forgot to thaw out the last chicken breast I have. Looks like I'll be going to Chick-fil-A.. DARN! haha. I saw a bumper sticker on a car yesterday that said "I ♥ Chick-Fil-A" and thought it was the coolest thing ever.

Amanda is still at work (although this will be her last day), so I don't have anyone to text. I've gone over to Kirby's apartment twice today, but she hasn't been home. I'm kicking myself for forgetting to get her phone number last night.

One good thing that has come out of my boredom: I bought Mark Wills' new CD on iTunes and it is amazing. Good music will always get me through a day like this. All my life, I have adored country music and thought I could relate to it, but now I realize how much I had been missing. I mean, I'm living those songs now, I'm in the place that has inspired all of them. I see that "Red Dirt Road" everywhere I go, I drive over the Chattahoochee River daily, the Georgia pines really are just as beautiful as you can imagine, when I order REGULAR ice tea they give me sweet tea (which still hasn't grown on me), and all the houses with classic wrap-around porches make me swoon and I can easily picture myself sitting there watching the kids and the dog in the green yard with no fences. Plus, almost every radio station is country music.. What do I want to listen to today? Classic country? Contemporary country? A wonderful mix of both? The street lights hang on a thick wire and they swing around in the wind, when the posted speed limit is 65, everyone drives 60 (amazingly, even me!), there is literally a Waffle House on every corner and everyone has their "usual" one where they are known, but there are only two Starbucks in town. There are drive-thru liquor stores, and yesterday I saw a Bar & Gas Station together, but no liquor is sold on Sundays. Contradictory? Nah, just Southern. Oh, and today I had to call a bakery to order a cake (for a secret mission, to be explained later) and asked if they do champagne cakes. The lady replied, "Champagne? Nah. But we can draw beer bottles." Only in Georgia.

Enough of that... Current News time?

Obama Says He Will Raise Pay for Troops:

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009...nefits-troops/

"WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama says he wants to raise the pay of America's fighting forces and improve health care and benefits for veterans.
The president also says he will soon announce a way to responsibly end the war in Iraq and a new path for the war in Afghanistan. Defense and foreign policy were a small part of Obama's first address to Congress on Tuesday that focused on the economic crisis.
Obama did not give specifics, but he said his new budget proposal for next year will provide for an expansion of the armed forces and increases in their pay and benefits.
Obama says his plan to close the Guantanamo Bay prison will make the country stronger.
Obama says he will also seek what he calls swift and certain justice for terrorists."

Believe it or not? If this actually happens, I'll admittedly have to give him props and thank him for seeing something that is long overdue. But, I still don't understand his thought process behind closing Guantanamo Bay. "Make the country stronger?" How so? I would love to see another article backing that up.

Katelyn has FRIENDS!

Drew got home early yesterday so we went tanning and played tennis. While we were playing tennis, Bryce, a guy we met at a Superbowl party this year walked up to us and gave Drew a study guide for Airborne school. At the party, Drew had expressed an interest in Airborne and the guys talked about all the qualifications, etc. Bryce had attempted to qualify awhile back, and still had all the materials. He must have seen us playing tennis, so walked up and gave Drew the book. Bryce is leaving Fort Benning this week and being relocated, and was having a going-away dinner last night with all the people from the dog park. He invited us, too, and of course, I was ecstatic and wanted to go. Drew had the opposite feelings and didn't want to go out, but he finally agreed to tag along. The dinner was at El Vaquero Mexican Restaurant, and the first time we had mexican food since we've been here. Its weird not having mexican restaurants on every corner like in California. 

The dinner went very well and was so fun. I'm really starting to get close to a girl named Kirby that I see at the dog park every night. She is awesome, and we are exactly alike. Her and her husband, who is away at Ranger school right now, got married after they dated only a couple times. They have two dogs, an Italian Greyhound named Bailey, and a beautiful Weimeraner named Major. Its funny how a LOT of the dogs at the park are named Major, or something related with the Army. Thats how you know you are in a military town. One of my friends, Jessica, is getting a Great Dane puppy today and are naming him Rugar. I wish Drew and I could have thought of a more creative name for Brody, but Drew would have never agreed to an Army related name. haha.

This morning I met Amanda at Starbucks and we sat and talked for an hour before she had to go to work. She is quitting her job the child care place, because she is disgusted with how unprofessional they are with the kids. She said its so bad that, when she has kids, she will be an overprotective mother when it comes to her kids' daycare. It really scares me how you can barely trust any child care, elder care, or any establishment of that nature these days. I turned in an application for her job last week, so am assuming they will call me if they lose her, which I'll turn down. I would not be able to stand working in that environment, either.

Tonight the apartment complex is having Advanced tennis lessons, and I'm thinking about checking it out. Our neighbor across the hall goes every week and loves it. Drew and I played tennis with him about a month ago, and he said I'm good enough to be in the advanced group. 

I also am going to see if we have enough money for me to go on a 24-hour women's retreat with our church in March. Stephanie, someone who I have become very close with at church and is also in our finance class, said I should go and share a room with her. I'll call the church today and see if they still have room, and if they do I'll have to scrounge up ninety dollars from somewhere. I'm sure God will provide, especially for something like that. 

All in all, life is heavenly right now. I'm in much better spirits than I was just a few days ago. God is good! 

Question of the Day:

They say that you should never meet your heroes, who are your heroes and, given the opportunity, would you ever meet them?

I don't look up to any celebrities or people I don't know as heroes, they are more like role models or influences. All my heroes are family, and friends, that I know and love. Specifically, Drew, my parents, grandparents, and my cousin Justin. All for different reasons. And I have a new level of respect and gratitude for the all the troops, because I've seen their demeanor and how humble they are about what they do.

Prayer Requests & Other Ramblings

The Top 5 Things We Brought With Us to Georgia:

1. Our GPS Navigation, affectionately referred to as Gina.

2. Drew's camping heater. We keep it in the bathroom and turn it on in the mornings while we get ready. Its wonderful stepping out of the shower into a warm bathroom =) Oh, and because of that we haven't had to use the apartment heater for over a month, and our utility bill has been so low.

3. Drew's laptop, for obvious reasons.

4. 5-piece luggage set & rolling makeup bag, which I use daily.

5. Our Uggs. They were made for Georgia. 

Last night before finance class Drew and I went to PetsMart to get Brody food, chew toys, cologne, and dental care products. He has gone through a 40 lb bag of puppy food in a month, consistently destroys chew toys within the first day of getting them, farts so bad it stinks up the house, and has the breath to perfectly compliment those farts. So, just in case you were wondering why we bought what we did, there you go. I make him sound lovely, don't I? He really is precious, but all that is what you get with a bulldog. Ugh. He is sitting next to me right now shredding his new rope toy, but at least it keeps him away from our shoes for a day.  

I took Brody to the vet two days ago to get Frontline and heartworm preventative, and to weigh him. I have been weighing him every three weeks since we got him. He started out at 28 lbs, then went up to 36 lbs, and now he is 44 lbs. Very consistent. Now, when I stand him up on his back legs to dance with me, his head comes up to my stomach. Drew thinks its hilarious that Brody will be taller than me in a couple months.

I've noticed a pattern over the last few weeks, and last night confirmed it. Drew and I become extremely irritable towards each other the night before he is set to leave for the field again. I think we become so stressed out over it that we take it out on each other, subconsciously. We always make sure that he leaves on good terms, but just leading up to that is difficult. Its an interesting observation, and we finally agreed last night to notice when its happening and fix it.

Drew called me this morning and said his unit is actually not heading out to the field until tomorrow, so tonight will be "Night Before Leaving: Take Two." Last night, he was dying for Ben & Jerry's but we didn't have time, so when he gets home today I'll take him to get his ice cream. We love having an actual Ben & Jerry's store here in Columbus, which is coincidentally right across from the Starbucks. Heaven on Earth =)

I went tanning and to the gym yesterday! I'm finally taking advantage of our free membership. My goal is to lose a little bit of weight before I go home in April. Its only about a month and a half away. Drew MAY be able to get leave to go with me (prayers please!!), and if he does he is determined to start working out more before he goes home as well. Because, as you know, Army physical training isn't enough... Psh. I will never understand him. 

I have a huge prayer request, if whoever reads this could keep it on your mind. My cousin's 6 month old baby girl, Ellie, is having some serious medical problems and needs to go in for more testing within the next few weeks. I have been receiving updates from my mom only through text messaging, so I don't know the exact condition, but apparently Ellie's urine may be flowing backwards and causing severe bacteria in her kidneys. The testing process for the condition is really a big ordeal, so just getting through that will be a big step. Please, please keep Ellie and my family in your prayers. I wish I could be at home during this time, as the two babies in my extended family have become everything to me since they were born last year. Thank you in advance.

QOTD:

You have four unexpected guests showing up for dinner in less than an hour, you haven't been to the store in days, and you want to impress them with a delicious meal. What do you serve them?

Skillet Herb-Roasted Chicken w/ Garlicky cream sauce. I threw it together for myself the other day and it was SO easy and yummy. And its made up of the ingredients I ALWAYS have on hand.

Prayer Really Works!!

So much for continuing my last blog. When Drew got home on Monday, he was covered in dirt and had not taken a shower for the five days out in the field. He literally stunk up the entire house! Of course, he thought it was funny. Finally he took a shower and I started a HUGE load of camouflage colored laundry I could have sworn would break the washer. When he was fresh, clean, and had sprayed on his Chocolate-scented Axe (my fav!), I agreed to be seen with him in public and we headed to Atlanta Bread Company, which has become our absolute favorite food place in town. We go every once in awhile to celebrate a homecoming from the field, and considering the money I saved throughout the week, I thought we could splurge for once. 

After we ate, we went to see Tyler Perry's "Madea Goes to Jail." One of my favorite movies is "Diary of a Mad Black Woman," and ever since I saw it I have grown to love all of Tyler Perry's movies. This new one is no different. Drew and I loved it. 

Later Monday night, we ate pizza at the house and watched The Bachelor... my guilty pleasure of television. Melissa is going to win next week, for sure. She has been my favorite all along. 

Overall, Monday was perfect. Absolutely perfect.

Yesterday, the most amazing thing happened, and God showed Himself to me yet again. I was cleaning out the hutch in our kitchen, and found a bag with all our wedding cards from my family. I was in the mood to reminisce, and started reading all of them and missing home. Then, as I opened one of the cards from my cousin and his family, $40 fell out of it. Apparently when we had received the card, we put it and the money back in the envelope for safe keeping, and forgot about it. I said prayer of praise to God, and continued opening the cards. As I opened the next card from my Aunt & Uncle, a check for $200 fell out!! I stood there with my mouth open for the next few moments, not believing what had just happened. Miracles happen at the most unexpected times. Tomorrow I need to call my aunt and make sure they can still afford for me to take the money out of their account, considering they wrote the check over seven months ago. Last week at our finance class, we were told that PRAYER REALLY WORKS and to turn to God and He will provide. I cannot wait to tell this story tonight in class.

Drew just got home from work, and is preparing to go out in the field for the next six days tomorrow. Signing off until tomorrow, so I can spend this quality time with him.

Much love,

Katelyn

To Be Continued...

I am amazed at the responses I received from my blog about Hopegivers. I still have no clue how you both found me, but praise God, as you have been an encouragement. To the anonymous care giver of M.A. Thomas, my apologies for my mistake (and possibly a few others) about the facts of the situation. I guess in my haste to write my feelings about the message, I twisted a few of the facts, but thank you for clearing that up. My prayers will be with Dr. Thomas, his family, and everyone surrounding them during this time. 

Drew and I have been actively tithing to the Church and making it a steady part of our budget, and I have seen God work through that, by providing us all our necessities. When Drew left for field training last week, we had barely anything to eat, and no more budgeted for groceries. Drew told me I could take some money out of the "Army supplies/gear" envelope and use it for food. That has been four nights ago, and I have yet to go the the store or spend one penny on food, because each night I have been able to find random items to throw together and make pretty good meals for myself. I know Drew will come home and see the barren kitchen, and think that I've been starving myself all week. I have never been one to be able to make a meal out of scraps, but God has given me this newfound ability to cook! Finally! Praise Jesus!

Eeek Drew just walked in the door!!!! He's back three days early. Signing off, for now =)

Craigslist SCAM.

Craigslist scam really TICKS me off! I posted about 6 ads 2 weeks ago, and 90% of the responses I have received have just been [attempted] scams. I love craigslist, because it really works, but its such a shame to have to fight off scam with absolutely everything you do. 

Beware of responses like this, as I have received:

Hello ,

Thanks for your quick response, I am quite satisfied with the

condition of the item and price.Am very much interested in buying the

item from you and I would like to make an outright purchase

immediately so I will advice that you withdraw the advert from the

web. I don't mind adding $50 for you to do that. I will be paying with

a certified bank check.

Furthermore my mover will be coming over for the pick up as I

might not be available to come for the pick up myself but am OK with

the information from the ad. I will need the following information

details to make payment arrangement done asap.

1,Your full name to be on the Payment.

2,Your mailing address including zip code.

3,Your phone number both land and mobile.

I will be awaiting your response which should entail these information.

Best.

Hello ,

How was your day i will like you to know i saw the

picture of your good on the ads and i am very okay by it .

I will like to know if you still have it available for

sale . Hope to hear from you soon .

Regards

I have an idea: I'm going to start a scam business, only I'll be smart about it and actually write in good, literate English. I could make millions.

I'll pitch the idea to Drew, just in case we get desperate =)

"A Perfect Love has no Fear"

Its 2:45 pm right now, and this it the first time today I've been on the computer, so that in itself is an accomplishment. It means that I've been out doing something!

I went to church this morning, and they had a special guest speaker, Dr. Samuel Thomas, who is the president of Hopegivers International, a Christian-based orphan and abandoned children rescue in India. I didn't know this, but the founder of the organization, Dr. M.A. Thomas (Samuel's father) is currently in the Assisted Living home on our church grounds. He is in very bad health, and they are trying to stabilize him enough to fly home to India where he can live out his remaining time. 

Dr. Thomas gave his amazing testimony and a message that really hit home for me. This man has spent his life witnessing and surviving severe persecution by officials in India, and still has so much faith and dedication to his ministry and God. He has lived through twenty assassination attempts against him, and even an ad in the Newspaper offering $75,000 to the person who brought his head on a platter to the officials. That was in September '06. Anyway, his message was all about not living in fear, and putting all trust in God, because He will handle anything life has to throw at you. "A perfect love has no fear." You just need to take all your fears to the altar and lay them down at God's feet and give everything to Him. I was so uplifted after the sermon, and the stress I've had about our finances seemed to disappear. Drew and I have been praying every night about our finances and other situations, and there is no doubt in my mind that we will pull through this and God will provide. 

Oh, and here is my written promise... In the future, when Drew and I are financially straight, I will be a sponsor to one of those orphan agencies, like Hopegivers or Compassion. Freshman year, I (ok, well my parents' because I theoretically never paid) used to sponsor a little boy from Nicaragua through Compassion and it really is an amazing thing. I am such a sucker for things like that, and today almost started crying when I knew I couldn't add anything to the donation plate. 

My neighbor upstairs has been telling me about a place called Flat Rock Park here in Columbus, that is a big wooded area with lakes, campsites, creeks, hiking trails, etc. She is an avid walker (which probably explains why I haven't gone with her, I think she'd kick my butt) and goes there quite often. Drew and I have made Sundays our walking/exploring Columbus day, so I thought I'd carry that on today even with him gone. The park is only about a mile from our apartment, and is so beautiful. I took Brody with me, of course, and he loved it too. We conquered the Beginner 3 mile hiking path, and now he is sound asleep (and snoring) on the couch. I'm sure I have at least an hour of quiet time now. Woo hoo!

I took pictures on my phone of the park. Can you believe this is all practically in our back yard? I think I'm the luckiest person ever.

Question of the Day:

If you could be an expert in any one field, which one would you choose?

Veterinary medicine/Animal behavior.

Be Careful What You Wish For

Last night I met up with that girl I mentioned in my last blog. Her name is Amanda, and she lives about 20 minutes away from us in Phenix City. She and her husband rent a really cute house with land, so they can have their two big labs, a cat, and a pig! I wish Drew and I had looked into renting a house, but I love our apartment, so I'm not complaining. Amanda texted me while I was at the dog park and said they were having people over to play poker, and invited me if I felt comfortable. My first thought, as my new introverted and shy self, was that I didn't want to go by myself, but I forced myself to get over any fear and told her I'd be there.

When I got there, she and a friend met me outside and we all clicked right off the bat. It was the biggest relief I have ever felt. There were a total of three married couples there, and me, but I never felt out of place. The girls and I made some margaritas and played poker with everyone. I told everyone I KINDA knew how to play, but of course, I was the first one out. I sat there and watched the rest of the game, and had an amazing time. 

After the first game was over, they were planning on starting another one, but I was at my 4-hour limit of Brody being locked in his crate, and had to go. When I got home, Amanda texted me to say that she had a great time and we should meet up again within the next week. I did a little dance with Brody in celebration, and went to bed. Since when has meeting new friends become like dating? I seriously feel so elated, like I'm in a new relationship or something. haha. Guess I shouldn't tell Drew that! 

Another thing I shouldn't tell Drew... is that I've been letting Brody sleep with me while he has been gone. I absolutely hate being alone at night, and every night while I'm trying to go to sleep, my mind races and makes up crazy scenarios about people sneaking into the apartment to get me. I'm confident that in that case, Brody would protect me, but then it dawned on me... If he's locked in his crate, what good is that going to do? The bad guy would just laugh at him! So thats it, Brody is with me. Completely legitimate reason.

The only problem, is, Brody has horrible gas. And he snores louder than my dad, who I never thought could be beat. His farts are the definition of silent, but deadly. He has almost run me out of the room twice per night while I'm trying to go to sleep. And to top it off, he is a big, clingy baby that insists on being practically attached to me at every second while he's sleeping. This morning I woke up with his head on top of mine, snoring and content as can be. Throughout my entire life, I have always wanted a big, cuddly dog, and the last time I tried for that I ended up with a Siberian Husky that doesn't want anything to do with affection. Now, I'm convinced that God has a sense of humor and is looking down on my saying, "Be careful what you ask for!" Thanks, God.

I can proudly say that I have not spent one penny since Drew left Thursday morning. I have cooked myself skillet chicken with creamy sauce over rice, spaghetti, and now I have chicken thawing for a chicken sandwich later on. I'm only eating dinner, with a couple NutriGrain bars to get me through the day. I just ate my last bar though, so I think I'll have to switch to EasyMac the rest of the week. And last night was the first time I've driven my car in four days, so I still have a full tank of gas. Instead of driving, I've been walking Brody to the mailbox and around the complex. You know, maybe this budgeting and being broke thing isn't such a bad idea. I'll lose weight, at least... ha.

Today is a beautiful, bright, sunny day. I have our windows open for once and am letting the apartment be lit with sunlight only. Its really gorgeous. I should take Brody out for a walk, but of course, he is sleeping on top of me right now. I actually have the laptop resting on his head. He makes a great lap desk. Maybe when he wakes up I'll make the most of the day.

Question of the Day:

What is your favorite flavor of Ice Cream?

Ben & Jerry's Half Baked!! GRR why did I answer that? Now I really want to go to Winn Dixie and stare at their unbelievable selection of Ben & Jerry's. Its the next best thing to spending money for one. haha.

I left myself in California.

I'm writing this in a very discouraged state-of-mind, so bear with me. I feel discouraged about myself as a wife and dog momma. I feel like I'm going into a mild state of depression, but I still feel happy and content with my life in general, and I'm fully aware that that sounds crazy. I don't know how best to explain it... I guess its that I feel blessed beyond belief with with what God has given me. I'm in the deep south where I've wanted to live my entire life, I have the most amazing husband that is even better than the dream guy I always had pictured in my head. Not only is he the best husband, but he is literally the most genuine and best person I have ever known. Together, we have the cutest apartment I've ever seen in the most gorgeous part of the country, and a puppy who is absolutely perfect and makes us laugh every day. So, why is it that I realize and understand what I have, yet I continually fail to make the most of all of it?

Its only two (well three, including Brody) of us living in 1200 sq. ft. and it is impossible for me to keep it clean! I do laundry, dishes, and vacuum every day, but even when I'm done I feel like it is all cluttered. I so wish that I had some kind of interior decorating skills. My house can be sparkling clean, but I never feel that way because none of our furniture matches, there are no decorations or pictures on the wall, and things just look awkwardly placed in their designated spot. The only thing that feels like "home" is the fireplace mantle, with candles, wedding pictures, and a big framed horse picture hanging on the wall. I look at it and feel content, but then I turn my head and am discouraged. I would have the ability and encouragement to fix everything, but we are so broke that we can barely afford food, let alone curtains, pictures, and various fixtures. 

Does everyone except me have the natural ability to keep a house clean and homey? I babysat the neighbors upstairs' little boy last week. They have the same exact floor plan as us, but as soon as I stepped in I felt like a loser. Everything was so perfect, and decorated, and their sunroom (where we just have random ugly furniture that we don't use) was an adorable little playroom for the baby, with a train set table and his own little chair & tv stand. SO cute and I'm admittedly so jealous. Even the baby's room was clean, with all the toys in their own bucket. I can't even keep track of Brody's dog toys! The little boy, Greyer, is absolutely precious and I had a great time with him. I hope I can babysit more often for them.

My self-discouragement only gets deeper when I think of having kids in the future. I long for a family, but how will I ever keep up with a baby when I can't even keep up with us as a couple?

Which leads to Brody's potty training. He's been with us for over two months now and is STILL peeing in the house about once every two days. I have him on a schedule to eat, go out and poop, play, poop, sleep, eat, etc... and right when everything is going awesome he'll look at me and pee on the carpet. Urgh. Drew and I can't leave for more than 4 hours at a time, because Brody can't hold his pee that long yet. Twice in the past week we have been out too long and have come home to poop smeared all over the bottom of the crate and Brody sitting in it. We haven't really been able to enjoy any of our "Dinner & a Movie" date nights, because we fight over who is going to clean the cage when we get back. 

I don't ever get mad at Brody, though, and Drew gets mad at me for coddling with him, but he is seriously all I have at this point. I want to make friends, I want to go out and DO STUFF with SOMEONE. I've realized how socially awkward I am and for some reason I act so weird and introverted around new people. There is a large group of about 15 residents that meet at the dog park every night and let our dogs burn off some energy while we chat. The group is made up of mostly young army wives like myself, and we all get along great, but they have all known each other longer and my quiet self kind of gets left out. They always talk about meeting up at each others' apartments and going out for dinner, but they have yet to ask for my phone number. I'm not having a pity party for myself, because overall its my fault for not making myself known. To anyone who is reading this... I really AM a fun, outgoing, and crazy person. I am funny, sarcastic, giddy, like to dance and embarrass myself... WHY did that person stay in California? I think it stayed with my best friend and didn't want to come to Georgia. I wish Danielle would come and visit and bring the old me with her.

I joined a MeetUp group on meetup.com that is for Army Wives in the area. It is really and awesome idea and concept, but I think I am the only one without a baby. Therefore, most of the meetups are "playdates" for the little kids, and the rest of the meetups are "adult only" at the bars... which I can't get into! AAARGH. I can't win. I did finally come into contact with another 20 year old army wife who sounds awesome. We have been texting back and forth and are planning on meeting up later this week. Her husband is 22, so it would be nice to go on double dates. Right when everything seemed perfect with that, she mentioned that her husband is a Sergeant, which Drew freaked out about because he is only a Private and feels inferior, so it would be awkward. Ok babe, nevermind. Bad idea.

So my criteria for a friend at this point: My age, brand new to the military, not married to anyone over E-3, no kids, extremely social to override my quietness, doesn't constantly talk crap about their husband, not an alcoholic. Hmm.. any takers?

To top everything off, Drew basically hates it here. He is more homesick than I am, and he really, really does not like the Army. I know its only because he is brand new and feels like he is overpowered by everyone he comes across, and it will get better. I have to stay strong for him and get him through this. Every single one of his friends have told me how Drew is the best soldier out there, and everyone admires him. I wish Drew could see that and understand that. He is amazing and I love him, and I love it HERE. I really do. Drew is my hero and I could never thank him enough for getting me where I am today, because even through all the trials I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. And yes, I do tell him that every day... Maybe he'll start to believe me eventually.

Its tough on a man who feels like he cannot provide for his family. Our budget and financial situation weighs on his mind 24/7 and it kills him to know that he can't just work overtime, or take a part time job, to help us. I can't even explain how hard of a worker he is. He is always looking for odd jobs to do around the house. I wish I had a supernatural bank account that I could reach into and give him every penny he deserves. 

I turned in two more applications this week at child care places that I heard were hiring. Please pray that I hear back from them.

I'm sorry for the rant. But, I do feel better. I'll be even happier 2.5 seconds after posting this.

25 About Me's.

1- Over the past 2 months that Drew and I have lived in Georgia, I have realized that I'm really NOT good at meeting new people. Up until this point in my life, I always thought I was a fairly outgoing, social person. This has been a true test and I feel like I have failed. Everyone here is SO nice and I love everyone, but for some reason I can't get comfortable. I guess that just comes with time, and I'm totally committed to really, really making friends for myself.

2 - Music is my sanctuary. I love anything and everything... From classic rock to girly pop, country to hardcore. But I'm always partial to country =)

3 - 6 years after I first tried it, I am STILL addicted to Chai. I can't go long without my Venti Chai Latte w/ No Water. And when I don't feel like driving to Starbucks, I have Tazo Chai Mix in the refrigerator waiting for me. And Target sells it cheap!

4 - I still dream like a little girl about being a Trackside Veterinarian for race horses in Kentucky. Man, I really should have pursued veterinary school when I had the chance.

5 - I still feel like I'm in a dream when I think about my life. I hate to sound cliche, which is why I don't say that much. I'm definitely doing way better than I deserve.

6 - I absolutely adore babies, toddlers, kids, babysitting, etc. Drew and I have decided to wait to have kids, but every time I see one I long for one. And I have a new obsession with baby things, such as clothes and cool toys. Oh and to make it worse, practically everywhere I go on post has little boy ACU's and shirts that say "My daddy is my hero" or "Daddy's Little Soldier". OH MY GOSH. Love Love Love.

7 - Every day I miss the good days with Anna Karlik. I miss being crazy, and not caring what other people thought. I still laugh when I think about breaking Chad Lantz's spatula, or yelling "FIDO" out the car window, or my mom saying "That car is really horny!" to the honking car in the Starbucks parking lot, or Anna sneaking into the career convention only to get kicked out by the school officials, or singing SHOW ME YO BOOTYHOLE at the top of our lungs, or wearing our Camelot Park wristbands for weeks & hoping someday we would use them again to get on the go karts for free. And most of all I miss writing on our Xangas at the end of each day about what funny things happened.

8 - I NEVER used to cook, but since we've been in Georgia I have really made an effort to teach myself... And SURPRISE! I'm dang good at it.

9 - Although I now eat and cook healthy foods, I will always be a fast food junkie at heart =)

10 - I have a fetish with a ton of random and quirky things. To name a few: Toe socks, llamas, the Chik-fil-A cows that say "Eat More Chikin!", bumper stickers, horse racing, loose change, funny street signs, and names.

11 - I CANNOT STAND: guys who are tools, annoying girls (annoying has many sub categories as well), ignorance, blatant stupidity, gangsters who think they are cool in their crappy cars on 20" chrome rims, American "citizens" who cannot speak English, and people who do not respect authority. I am NOT in the least bit racist. There are people like that in ALL ethnicities.

12 - If given the opportunity, I could watch reruns of The Office and Law & Order: SVU for hours on end.

13 - Someday I'm going to get back into a law enforcement career. I really want to be a crime scene technician, because I LOVE mystery, detective work, and gore. haha.

14 - I absolutely swear by Bare Minerals makeup and think everyone should use it.

15 - I didn't go to my 7th or 8th grade Winter Gala because I refused to wear a dress. Freshman year I stopped being such a tomboy and went to the formal in a nice long gown. By junior year, I finally got a fancy, super short dress that I sported to prom. But even now, my idea of dressing up is a nice top, jeans, and heels. I barely EVER wear a skirt or dress.

16 - Up until a year ago, I NEVER EVER cussed. Then I started on this downhill slide and now I really have to watch my mouth, and I hate that about myself.

17 - Speaking of that downhill slide, I also learned that getting drunk is SO overrated. Now, I'm married, and have discovered the WONDERFUL calming effect ONE margarita, glass of wine, or hookah will provide =)

18 - I have started an online Blog on blogger.com that I love.

19 - God gave me the best family anyone could ever ask for. All my friends agree that my parents are the best, and I pray that I will do at least half as good a job at raising my kids. My brother is the coolest kid ever and I'm so proud of him. My grandparents are my heroes, each in a different way. All of my aunts & uncles have had such a positive impact in my life, and they gave me ALL my cousins, who have each been my best friends and/or the very best role models that I cherish.

20 - Growing up, my best friend Linsey and I practically lived in a big tree in front of my house. We set up a swing, and played house with our American Girl dolls. We even carved the names of ALL the boys we liked throughout the years, and our phone numbers, and messages to each other. Our entire lives from 3rd - 7th grade was documented in that tree, which is still in front of the house. Someday I'm going to drive by and if it looks like no one is home I'll climb up and see if it is all still there.

21 - I absolutely hate being on bad terms with anyone, no matter how mad I was at them at one point. I don't hold grudges, but I DO recognize when someone isn't good in my life, and I'll cut contact with them if need be. You go your way, I'll go mine. No hard feelings.

22 - As I'm looking around at my apartment, I desperately wish I had interior decorating skills... or at least CLEANING skills. Anything to make it look better.

23 - I am NOT an emotional person. At all. My best friend seriously believes I don't have tear ducts.

24 - One thing I hate about myself is how much I care about what people think of me & my life. I wish I could just live for my life without being influenced by what other people will think, or say what I want to without worrying about making enemies.

25 - Most importantly, I am a Christian and have given all of myself to God. I have tried to just give Him parts of me in the past, and I was not fulfilled and was not happy. I have lived and learned, and now strive to make myself a stronger Christian and overall a better wife, friend, daughter, role model, etc.

Stuff of the Day.

Questions of the Day:

What are you doing to save money during this economic downslide?

Anything and everything! We are taking Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey, which is helping us out a lot, and really opening our eyes to the financial myths that are out there. We have adopted the "envelope method", where we allocate a certain amount of cash per week for food, gas, etc, and put that amount in separate envelopes. When its gone, its gone! Drew is gone this week, so I don't feel obligated to cook and will be living off Top Ramen. We also paid off three credit cards with Drew's sign on bonus!! Only a couple more to go, and we are planning on selling Drew's jeep. Anyone know of someone wanting to buy a really nice 1991 Jeep Wrangler? I also put about 10 ads up on craigslist. If its in our house and not nailed to the ground, its for sale! I think Brody is worried that he's next... ha.

What challenges in life have you conquered and emerged from a better person?

THE breakup 3 years ago. If you know me, you know what I'm talking about. Initially I did not emerge a better person, and rather became the opposite and completely let myself go and fall away from God. But, now, I've learned from all those mistakes and am back and better than ever. I really feel that I can truly worship and give God all of myself, without anything holding me back now. Before I went through those challenges, I was naive and didn't know what I was being saved from. 

Just Released... Must-See Movies Before You Die.

By AOL News.

The Godfather

Titanic

Gone With the Wind

Batman Begins

Star Wars

The Sixth Sense

The Breakfast Club

Moulin Rouge

Amelie

The Naked Gun

OK... Out of all those I've seen Titanic and Batman Begins. And I thought I've seen practically every movie. Apparently I don't have any room to disagree with the list, but if I could make my own, it would include:

Remember the Titans

Cinderella Man

It's A Wonderful Life

A Christmas Story

Passion of the Christ

Laugh of the Day:

(thank you Peggy!)

The reason this is so funny to me: One of my nicknames is Blinkie, because according to my Sophomore Geometry teacher, I blink more than anyone he had ever met. I blinked so much during his class, that it became distracting to him. Of course, with my luck, my best friend also happened to be in that class with me, and she took the liberty to tell everyone outside of class... And the nickname has stuck. Thank yoooou Mr. Tucker!

As much as I can't stand Pelosi... I think I have found my twin. Lord help me.

My posts have been MIA lately, because I've kept them private.  I had one long rant about the military life, and now I'm over it and feel better. But, I just feel that stuff like that shouldn't be broadcasted to the whole world, and kept as personal issues.

Anyway, Drew and I had an amazing first Valentine's Day together! We drove to Panama Beach, FL with Brody and spent the weekend there. It was amazing and beautiful. Brody absolutely LOVED the beach and was going crazy in the sand... Running, hopping, spinning, and chasing the waves. It was adorable. We found a dog friendly hotel, and Brody had his very own bed. He did so well the entire trip, and waited patiently for us in the room (without peeing or pooping!!) while we went out on our own. I have found a new obsession... Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville. It was AWESOME and I had the best chicken sandwich and chicken quesadillas I've ever tasted. That is quite an honor, considering I'm the chicken sandwich and quesadilla connoisseur! Drew had the "5 o'clock somewhere" margarita and said it was excellent. OKAY OKAY, I admit, I had a couple sips too, and I approve. I'll go back when I'm 21 and have one all to myself!

Speaking of being 21... the countdown is on! My birthday is April 28. I'm going back home to Bakersfield April 11-19 to spend time with my family and friends. I will be back in Georgia for my actual birthday, because Drew does NOT want me turning 21 without him. I really don't think he trusts me, although he would never admit that. Thats okay, though, because I'd rather spend that night under his supervision and safety. We are planning on going out to a couple choice bars (I have been actively looking for a country-western bar around here, which would be ideal), but nothing too crazy. I've been through my drinking days, and fully believe it is completely overrated. Now, I'd much rather stay [fairly] sober, play pool, dance, have the time of my life, and remember it all the next day.

Drew is out in the field for the next 5-8 days, so its me and Brody on our own. I found a child care place that is hiring and am planning on stopping by to get an application later today. I have been SO stressed out about our finances lately, and I've decided to just swallow my pride and get a part-time job.

Brody is waking up now and will need to go outside to pee... Signing off.

Surprise!

At 7 am this morning, Drew came running into the room, jumped on the bed, and woke me up yelling "I'm HOME!!! Woo hoo!!" Ok, YES I was excited that he was home super early. But, I'm not the happiest morning person to begin with, and when you wake me up early I'm just plain pissed off. So, that started a chain reaction of him being pissed off. Anyway, we both fell asleep and woke up again at 12:30! I never sleep past 9am, but subconsciously I must have known he was there and didn't want to get up without him. He said that was cute, so I earned brownie points and he wasn't mad at me anymore.

Brody, my 5 month old American Bulldog, is turning out to be the greatest dog ever. I have been putting all my time and effort into his training since we got him a month ago, and it is definitely paying off. For one, I'm keeping myself SANE by not sitting around all day feeling sorry for myself. Secondly, Brody and I have been able to develop a bond that I've never had with one of my dogs before. I'm so excited for him to grow up! He should get to approximately 115 pounds. American Bulldogs are such gentle giants, but when they need to protect, watch out. He will be the perfect companion for me to have while Drew is away. Right now he weighs 40 lbs, up 15 lbs from when I got him. He knows Sit, Down, Stay, Leave It, Drop It, and Go Potty. I'm a proud momma =)

Drew and I are going to go see the new movie He's Just Not that Into You later today. I'm praying its not too much of a chick flick. This is supposed to be Drew's turn to pick the movie, but I begged and pleaded with him to go to this one. He'll kill me if its bad! Last week I chose to see Revolutionary Road and it was the most depressing move in the world. It could have been really good with a good story line, but for some unknown reason, any movie that is "Oscar Worthy" has to go off the deep end and leave you feeling suicidal by the time its over. 

After the movie we will probably go to the hookah bar downtown. I have a new-found obsession with Hookah, haha. Drew bought me one last week as an early Valentine's Day present and now our apartment smells like strawberries. Yeah, I'm a dork.

A few weeks ago I made homemade gnocchi and it was SO easy and SO good. Its totally worth sharing. Drew loved it and is begging me to make it again soon. 

Here is the recipe:

INGREDIENTS

1 cup dry potato flakes
1 cup boiling water
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

(side note -- I went ALOT heavier on all the seasonings, and not all the flour was needed)

DIRECTIONS
1. Place potato flakes in a medium-size bowl. Pour in boiling water; stir until blended. Let cool.
2. Stir in egg, salt, and pepper. Blend in enough flour to make a fairly stiff dough. Turn dough out on a well floured board. Knead lightly.
3. Divide dough in half. Shape each half into a long thin roll, the thickness of a breadstick. With a knife dipped in flour, cut into bite-size pieces.
4. Place a few gnocchi in boiling water. As the gnocchi rise to the top of the pot, remove them with a slotted spoon. Repeat until all are cooked.

I covered them with regular spaghetti sauce, which was awesome. Next time I'll try alfredo sauce though.

I'm going to start a new QOTD from another blog I found:
QUESTION OF THE DAY:

Must-See TV
What television show do you never miss?
The Bachelor and American Idol. I'm hooked on both.

Okey Dokey, Drew is wanting to go the store. Have a good day!

Love this!

I'm finally getting the hang of this. Its funny to me how someone who is so computer literate can be thrown for a loop when it comes to this new Blogging technology. I'm only 20 years old!!! How in the world can my computer knowledge already be outdated? Its time to kick that in the butt.

I'm laying in bed listening to my puppy snore. I swear, he sounds like a freight train. Its a good thing Drew doesn't snore, or I would have to buy some ear plugs. Drew is out in the field tonight so its just me and the pup. When Drew and I first got married, everyone constantly warned me about being prepared to not have him home. I knew the Army would take him away for deployments and what not, but I really didn't know about these month-long field training things that will keep him away for a total of 4 months out of the 9 months until he deploys. And I sure as heck didn't know I'd have to adjust to a new town and new apartment on my own. I'm not complaining, and if anyone can deal with having to be independent, its me. On the other hand, though, sometimes I feel like playing the, "Why didn't someone tell me??" card, but that just makes me look stupid, because I should have been prepared. When you are young and have your mind set on something, all warnings and advice go in one ear and out the other. I will never understand why people insist on learning the hard way, and I guess that statement is pretty ironic, considering I am the worst person EVER at that. Oh well.

On a not-so-happier note, I just have to vent for a second and ask, WHY IN THE WORLD ARE PEOPLE STILL OBSESSING OVER OBAMA?? He's not a savior, and he's not going to wave a magic wand and make all our troubles go away. Due to my extreme boredom with Drew being gone, I have been watching The View in the mornings. Good Lord is that a headache. This morning, Joy (ooooh she is like nails on a chalkboard) was complaining about all the negativity Republicans are saying about Obama. Umm hello?! What about what Democrats were saying about Bush, the last 4 years especially?

Oh, and here is a quote I saw from Ashley Judd today... "Women voting for Sarah Palin is like a chicken voting for Colonel Sanders." hmm.. No comment.

On that note note... Its late, and I'm going to bed. Goodnight!

Just Joking!

Dear Diary (haha),

So this blogging thing is really proving to be harder to get into than I thought it would be. A million things go through my mind a day, and every time I think, "Today should be the day to start blogging," then when I actually get around to the computer I completely forget what I was going to write. I'm hopeless. 

I used to use that website called Xanga ALL the time throughout high school. A couple months ago I went back to that ancient "blog" and read through a lot of my entries. It was a really cool experience. Good Lord how I have changed! I've been through hell and back since that last entry, and feel so much smarter and mature. Those were the good days, though, and I would love to go back and visit that time again. 

The difference between then and now? Then, I was some love struck teen that thought that boy was THE ONE. Now, he is THE ONE who broke my heart and turned into a jerk. Then, I was goody goody two-shoes that never thought twice about doing anything "bad." Now, I've lived the party life, made mistakes I never would have seen myself making, and realized that entire life is completely overrated. Then, everyone loved me and I was the best friend someone could ask for, and 100% loyal. Now, I think back and see that I was gullible. I'm not proud to say that I've made enemies, and some people see me as hypocritical, which they have every right to think. I still care about what people think of me, but now I'll stick up for myself and be okay if others don't agree. Then, I was best friends with Anna & Katie, but they admittedly were replaced by Cody (aka "THE ONE [or not]").  Now, I see the ultimate mistake in leaving friends for a boy. The girls and I are still friends, but very distant. There is now my best friend Danielle, and my HUSBAND Drew!

But perhaps the biggest difference... Then, I was stuck in this bubble and didn't know who I was. Now, I've broken out of that shell, lived my life, made my mistakes, and found MYSELF in the midst of chaos. I found this crazy side of me that meets a guy, falls madly in love, then runs off to Vegas 2 months later to get married. Yep, little Miss Goody Two-Shoes DID THAT. And I've never looked back. No regrets, just happily ever after. Too good to be true? Not at all.

I love being an Army Wife. I'm independent and secure, and can handle the time alone. As long as I have my Jesus and my dog, I can handle anything life has to throw at me. Well, and my wonderful hubby, of course! <3