God in the Yard

Vinita Hampton Wright was quoted as saying this:

"...Not only is your soul bigger and wiser than you are, it knows the story better than you do, too. You may begin a poem and think you know where it's going, but you're going on your conscious, limited knowledge. Your well contains the true end of the poem, and you simply won't know it until your creativity draws it up...just do what comes to you, and you watch what appears."

I can't tell you how many times I've begun a body of work in hopes of writing about a) and then it ends up being more about b). I don't mind that, though. I think I've always recognized that through writing more of my true self can be revealed. That's one of the benefits of writing for me. The first time I remember realizing that my soul was taking over my pencil (or perhaps it was God?) was when I sat down to write about a certain boy. I was young, in love, and stupid- as these things often go. As you may have already read, I used to try to be a poet. Clearly, I am not. But all those years ago, I sat down and wrote this:

bottled up emotions I never set free, somewhere deep down inside me

I wish I could speak their truths, I want to tell Him for all to break loose

stowed away, I keep them hidden in a place forever forbidden

the chains of my secrets tie down my heart, I only regret I'm not back at my start

the key will unlock my chains and will forever bear my stains

I hope for forgiveness and look towards the sky, and never again feel the need to know why

  

Reading this now, I have to giggle. What troubles could I have possibly had in high school to make me sit down and contemplate my life to this extent? Anyway, the point is- something was revealed to me that day. I wrote and as I did so, I realized that my spiritual life was lacking. I wasn't in a good spot and my soul was telling me that I needed to change that.

Just two days ago, I sat down to write about my silly, furry friends and it turned into a vent about not having transportation (which, I'm sure if I kept writing, would turn into "I don't have a job. I'm not in school. What am I working toward?" type thinking). It's interesting to see what we can discover about ourselves through our writing.

My mother-in-law gave me a book to peruse called "God in the Yard." This book is about the author's journey in spirituality and how she set out to find God in various places throughout her day. L.L. Barkat decides to spend some quiet time in her yard while sitting in her childrens' sled oblivious to what the neighbors may think.

I have only begun reading so I will let you know how this turns out, but I already know that this was such a thoughful gift. Many times throughout the chapters, Barkat asks the reader to write, journal, discuss, or blog answers or thoughts on certain questions and topics. As you all know, blogging is right up my alley so I'll be sure to keep you informed on this process.

Who knows...maybe I'll grow closer to my Creator during all this. Perhaps I'll simply benefit in having better blog material. I already know that it will be an excellent excuse to arise in the mornings, prepare some chai tea, and crack open this book before my devotional time. As the Psalmist wrote, "You get us ready for life: you probe our soft spots, you knock off our rough edges."-Psalm 7:9 I'm sure what is meant to happen will happen. I'm just along for the ride :)

Dog Days Part 2

I've been a full-time stay at home dogsitter and maid (again) for less than a day and I'm already ready to pull my hair out. I hate, hate, hate not having the freedom that a vehicle brings. Sure it sounds like the life- no job, no worries but honestly, I'd rather have children to tend to than these two dogs. Drifter is terrible. He makes me crazy.Yesterday, he chewed a hole in my sweater. And Holly has developed some bad barking habits at the kennel. She barked all night last night. It wouldn't be that bad if I just had a car to take them to the dog park to get all this energy out, but I don't. I just attempted to take them for a walk, but they wanted to play so badly that they just ended up a big tangled mess with me smack dab in the middle. I find myself wishing J was the one who stayed at home and I was off at work. I can't work, though because I have no transportation to get to said job. Note to all the milspouses reading, if you're ever stationed at Ft. WW -bring your car! It doesn't matter how short of a time period it is that you'll be here, you're going to want it. It will be completely worth it, I promise. 

And now I'm going to pray the next hour or two flies by so that maybe I'll stay sane. I just sent Captain J a text that said, "We're going to the dog park tonight or I have to leave the house. One of the two."

Yes, it's that serious.

(Mil)ing It Over- PCS Edition

I have two exciting announcements in support of our military spouses. First of which, is a promotion for Tanya Leach who recently wrote a book, Hawaii For Heroes. Tanya is married to an Iraq/Afghanistan War Veteran and they spent some time in Hawaii, which she says, "sparked an idea that military families needed a travel guide specifically for them about where they could go and get discounts in Hawaii with a military ID." Isn't that a great idea? I know that I'm always for taking advantage of any restaurant, activity, hotel, et cetera that will give us a military discount! When Tanya contacted me telling me about her book, I knew I wanted to help. That's why I'm asking you all to help her out. She is entered in a contest to win a trip to Germany to pitch her book idea to publishers. Will you help out a fellow milspouse? You can vote here. Simply leave a comment/rating in support of her. The site requires you to have an email and username, but it's super easy to do. :)

The other exciting news that you've probably already guessed is that it's (Mil)ing It Over time! Woo Hoo! If you're unsure what this is all about, you'll want to check out our very first entry. Today's topic is PCSing. I recorded this vlog while I was still in TN so don't let it fool ya...gone are the days of short sleeves and carefree flip flops. Oh, well...it's good to be back. After you watch mine, go check out the rest of our clan's thoughts on PCSing- I betcha theirs are more informative ;) Links to come.



Here's our host, Jenn!

And the other lovely ladies who participated:

A Marine's Wife

It's A Hooah Life

Mrs. Ma'am

Kat

Nicole

Keep checking back because I'll be adding more links as they filter in throughout the day. Happy viewing!

the bottom dropped out

I spoke way too soon about the joys of traveling. I arrived in Anchorage and everything was starting to look up. A friend offered to pick me up at the airport and drive me home which saved me a bundle of money in taxi fare since we live way "out in the boonies". I boarded the flight to Fairbanks with no worries. An hour later we pull up to the house; this is about the time that everything started to go all wrong. I gathered my luggage, carry-on, and purse and sifted through them attempting to find my key to the house. My cell phone slipped out of my back pocket unknowingly and laid to rest in the floorboard of her truck.

She begins pulling away as I wave her off and jog up to the door to unlock it. Key won't fit. After struggling, I finally get it to go in the hole, but it won't turn. Keep in mind that I've become acclamated to TN's 90 degree weather which is easily 65 degrees warmer than where I was standing at that moment. All I had on was a thin long sleeved shirt and jeans (oh, and those dang boots I mentioned earlier). This is the point where I began to get flustered. I mean, all a girl wants is a warm bath and bed. I began pleading with the door- "Pleasssseeeee let me in!" After about twenty minutes of struggling, it finally decided to budge and I walked in the door. Unfortunately, this was just the first hurdle.

My struggles were not over. They were only beginning. As, I dropped my bags  right inside the door I heard an automated woman's voice saying "battery low" followed by an excrutiatingly loud, long siren alerting me that the fire detector was not working properly. Every thirty seconds, I got another warning. I decided this could wait a few minutes because I had to get to the heater and get it turned on because the temperature inside my house was below freezing. Standing water in my kitchen was frozen solid. I walked to the thermometer thing-a-ma-bobby and turned it on. Hearing it kick on was music to my ears. I then found a bar stool size chair, slid it over to the fire detector, climbed up and yanked it out of the ceiling. Then I realized that wasn't going to fix anything and I began to dissmantle it just for a little peace and quiet.

In the meantime, I had realized that I did not have a phone. I skyped my friend asking her to look for it and she told me that she did indeed have it. I told her I'd be right over to get it. She lives about 10 minutes away, on post. Driving after flying for an entire day was not something that was on my list of things I wanted to do. I hopped in the truck and tore off down the road.

Minutes later, it felt so good to have my phone in hand and know that my worries were over, I'd finally get to get some shut eye. I walked into our cabin, only to find that it hadn't warmed up a bit. Our heater was spitting out cold air. Great. Perfect. Shoot me.

I finally fell asleep that night wrapped up in a goose down sleeping bag and five other blankets I found around the house. Alaska has a way of reminding me that I better have my act together! I won't go into detail about the following day because not much got any better. No one could come look at the heater. I still hadn't had a shower. I was in a bad, bad place.

Luckily, I have some amazing friends who allowed me to get their spare key and go to their house to shower and thaw out. What a day! I finally was able to clean out the fire place downstairs and start up a fire in order to help heat the house until someone could look at it. I welcomed Captain J home that night with this sign and a smile on my face:

I'm so glad he's back! Be sure to come back tomorrow for the second edition of (Mil)ing It Over. We'll be talking about PCSing. :) See ya then!

travel woes (and happies)

In less than 24 hours, I'll be re-united with my hubby! This makes me pretty darn happy. Flight delays, chilly weather, and mean ole boots that leave blisters on my feet however, do not! I really can't complain too much about my travel experience today. On the first flight, I sat beside a sweet woman who just became a grandmother for the fourth time. This was a fairly short ride to Dallas Ft. Worth Airport and I got a little shut-eye on it. When I got off the flight, I walked a million miles away to the next gate. The nice flight attendant ladies gave me the gate number so, thinking they knew best, I didn't even question this. This, my friends, is where the blisters came from. I got to "D16", the gate they announced, and all those folks were headed to Cancun. That just wasn't going to work. And do you know how large that airport is? I finally rolled into my actual gate about 30 minutes later. Note to self: Always check the prompter and see fo yo self!

The flight from Dallas to Anchorage was pretty great actually, considering. I got an entire row of seats to myself so being able to stretch out was amazing. This six and a half hour flight is painful usually, but what a blessing I received today when no one showed up to sit beside me. That really makes me sound like a big fat meanie, doesn't it? After boarding, we found out that we were delayed an hour. I guess it didn't matter too much because my layover in Anchorage was so significant.

I fear I'm boring you with travel details so I will stop. I just wanted to let you all know that I am back in the great state of Alaska and I'm happy to be here. I look forward to crawling into bed, going to our wonderful church tomorrow, picking up my pups, and then picking up my husband. Updates to come!

Much love,

Interesting Questions

Friday is my favorite day for memes. There are so many good ones! I wanted to participate in Wife of a Sailor's- Milspouse Friday Fill-In today because I missed last week. Forgive me for not vlogging my answers, but I promise I'm doing you a favor. I've yet to run a brush through my hair or change out of my hawaiian print pajamas so I'm not a pretty sight. Without further ado, here are the questions this week:

1. What characteristic about yourself has either been strengthened or weakened due to your experience as a Military Spouse? (from The Albrecht Squad)

I love this question (mostly because I can recognize that as a military spouse, I'm in a unique position. Because of this position, we may have to face trials that other couples will not and it's always nice when someone recognizes how they've grown through an experience). My answer to this will seem complex, but it really will just come down to one thing. Please allow me to soul search for the next couple of lines, will ya?

I've always easily slipped back and forth from being a leader and a follower. In most situations, I prefer the follower role. This doesn't make me weak- maybe lazy, but not weak! In social situations, I like blending in with the crowd, for the most part. I'm not one to crave the center of attention, but if I do have a strong opinion on something then I will voice mine. Perhaps this is why I enjoy blogging so much, but that is a story for another day. On the contrary, there are other instances when I want to be the leader. One good example of this is when there's group work for school involved. I've always been that girl who wants to do everything herself so that I know it's all correct. I'd rather do it all by myself so that I know that it's done on time and that it's work that is worthy to have my name on it! These are just two examples; there are many more. This follower phase I came to rely on began to make me feel less independent, which I didn't like. I had dreams of being independent and I focused on them for the future even though my reality was that I was living in a condo and driving a car that was purchased for me. I had a long way to go! I always thought my career would catapult me into the life that I wanted for myself. I would become "successful" and finally provide for myself without any help from family. Years later when I chose the love on an infantryman over a stable career, I worried that my goal of independence would fall by the wayside. Over the past few years, I've gained a loving relationship that is close-knit yet allows me to practice independence when he's away. When my husband leaves, I remind myself that I can still function. I don't have to be completely helpless until he returns. I can step up and get things done on my own. I can make things happen. I can make good decisions. My strengthened characteristic is definitely my autonomy. I have the Army to thank for that.

2. What is your favorite vacation spot and why? (from ‘Tis the Life of the Army Wife)

"Spot" hints that this question is asking for a place that I like returning to so for that answer I will say- Siesta Key, FL. My grandparents have a beautiful place on the beach there and I've gone many times over the past years. I love it because it's relaxing and quiet and gorgeous! The sand is so soft and white; the beach captures my heart every time I go. With that being said, I've taken some amazing vacations that I wouldn't mind going back to, but I don't know that I'll ever get to. These include England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and New Zealand. I've also had some great times in the U.S. as well, but I hope I can return to each of those places one day.

3. If you could have any fast-food restaurant in the food court on base/post what would you pick? (from The Only Pink in a House of Blue)

Well, I can't really think of exactly what good ole Ft. Wainwright has in their "food court" so it must not be anything good. I'm not impressed by most of the fast food places in Fairbanks and I really don't eat it much anyway.

4. Where did you go on your honeymoon?  (from Pennies from Heaven)

After being married awhile, we finally got to take our honeymoon to Hawaii. It was amazing! If you're a new reader, you'll want to go back and check out these posts from that trip: Snorkeling Kona, Place of Refuge, Pssst...hey..., Zip a dee doo dah, and At 13,000 Feet.

5. If you could have any job in the world regardless of money, degree or experience, which job would you have and why? (from Proud to Be a Navy Family and The Calm Before The Storm)

My dream job would have something to do with writing. I used to always say that I'd love to be assigned a book to read every couple of days so that I could write a few sentences or an article that reviews the book. Let's face it, that's not going to happen. An even sweeter job would be to be a travel/ destination blogger. I'd love to be sent to various vacation spots and write reviews on hotels, activities, etc. Being paid to blog about a place that I didn't even go to on my dime would be amazing. Captain J could snap the photos while I typed up a review. I doubt the Army will allow us to do that, but a girl can dream!

A Dose of Reality

I like this wireless keyboard. It's allowing me to sit back, relax, and feel as if I'm still in that recliner I've been planted in most of the night. Today was a good day. Actually, it was pretty great. My dad, Julie, and I went to Cades Cove for a little sight-seeing and a day of hiking. We ended up walking Abrams Falls trail as I've done multiple times before. It was different this time, though. I think it was my favorite time visiting this trail because of the company I had. I don't get to spend enough time with my dad and step-mom so I was elated to get some q-time together, just the three of us. It's always nice when I get outside in God's country and enjoy my surroundings (and more exercise can never hurt). Speaking of, who's excited about Biggest Loser this season? This girl is! I watched it last night and it always gets me in the mood to go out and be more active. What about you? Dearest Jenn just wrote a post about how it does the opposite for her and I found it interesting.

I've conceded to the fact that this post may be full of plugs so with that disclaimer out in the open, I'll continue. Another show that I've recently caught up on is Teen Mom. I like the show, but I'm really unsure why I watch it. It frustrates me for a couple reasons, most of which are selfish. I secretly harbor jealousy towards these young fertile women simply because I know so many people who desperately try and try to have a child and are unsuccessful. Just visit this blog, a favorite read of mine, to see for yourself. These young moms got pregnant so easily although I'm sure they sometimes wish it could have happened a bit differently, too (like later on in life!). Then I see people struggle with infertility and it makes me wonder what the reason is for all of it. Aside from that nagging thought that pesters me throughout the hour long show, I mostly enjoy watching. I think the reason I always seem to go to it is because MTV is the only channel I know by heart here at home.  I hate channel surfing. It bores me. The other day I was watching Teen Mom and I paused it (even though I had seen the episode a gazillion times before) and lo and behold I saw someone I knew once upon a time! One of the girls on the show, Maci, is from Chatt. I happened to date a nice feller from Soddy Daisy who kept many friends in the Chattanooga area. His best bud's face was now all over my t.v. screen. Small world! I'm sure that wasn't the least bit interesting to you so I'm going to move on now.

When I return to Alaska, I'm afraid my reality t.v. consumption will drastically be reduced. I don't watch TV during the day at all. I prefer to read and surf the net, as you all know well. Winter seems to be knocking at the front door there and is sure to be moving in pretty soon. I can't say that I'm upset about returning. I look forward to cooler temperatures, lighting up a fire, and submerging in the hot tub as snow falls around me. I honestly don't know where I'll be two months from now, but I guess that's okay. It's definitely part of the whole military experience. There's an unknown, an adventure element that tells me I can handle whatever is next. Maybe we won't be settled somewhere by the start of next year, but I hold on to the hope that one day we'll have a place of our own- A home that won't move around a lot and a house where all of my belongings can be in one place. I hesitate to make our cabin in Alaska full of personal touches because it just doesn't seem like we'll be there long enough to warrant putting them up. I can't be the only milspouse who feels this way.

I'm going to end this post with those random musings. I'm tired and rambling. Bonsoi!

Plans & Premieres

My apologies for my last post. I was a bit whiney...a bit complainy...and that's unattractive, isn't it? I had a busy day yesterday. Laura Faye and I headed to Pigeon Forge to see what damage we could do to our wallets. Yes, I went shopping again. I purchased a cute hat, some new jeans (as if I needed more of those!), and a few Christmas presents. Most important of all is that I got to spend time with my dear friend. I really miss having them close by when I'm away. After a scenic drive through Townsend, Tennessee we arrived back to my neck of the woods where I was scheduled to meet up with my family to watch my step-brother's football game. He played really well and I was excited to get to watch at least one of my brothers playing the sport they enjoy. Afterwards, the whole gang went out to eat. I arrived home feeling completely drained so when the comforting voice of my husband came from the other end of the line, I just lost it. I miss him- I'll admit, but I'm feeling better today.

I have plans to see so many people today that I probably shouldn't be sitting down to blog, but it gives me a sense of normalcy and I don't feel quite as hectic when I go through this routine part of my day. I'm enjoying my second cup of coffee as I attempt to catch up on blogs and fast forward through the commercials from last night's Dancing With The Stars. Who are you rooting for? I have so many favorites already. Usually Captain J would rather not watch DWTS, but I hope I can talk him into it this season. What a great week for television! Biggest Loser is back tonight. Greys Anatomy. GREYS ANATOMY!! I can't wait.

Tomorrow I'm going hiking with my dad and step-mom, Julie. I'm pretty pumped about that! One of my goals while visiting was to get outside to be reminded of why I love Tennessee so much. I quickly realized that might not happen because there were so many people to see, places to go. When they mentioned wanting to head to the mountains last week, I jumped at the chance. I hope to take lots of pictures to share with you later on next week. Have a wonderful Tuesday, y'all!

I Cry

Well, I heard his voice today. I just got off the phone with him and all that built up anxiety, frustration, and loneliness that comes from being without my spouse for weeks is now spilling out. I should be happy to hear from him, but now I'm so much more desperate to be with him. I miss him so much. When he goes away, I feel like I lose him. I'm ready to find him now, ready to wake up beside him, ready to get on with our happily ever after.

When one marries their partner they think that person will always be there through every up and down. When I watched my great grandfather being buried with military honors yesterday and I didn't have my husband standing beside me, it was even more heartbreaking. At that point, J didn't even know that he had passed away because I wasn't allowed to talk to him. Being a military spouse is hard.

Tonight I cry for all those families whose soldier missed a birthday, anniversary, or holiday. I cry for every widow who never got to hear from their spouse again. I cry for every child who misses their absent parent.

Thank you, soldiers and families, for all that you do!

Sincerely,

Mrs. K

Week 2 Recap

I guess it's been awhile since I posted. I've been running all over the place trying to squeeze in visits here and there. I might go crazy with all of it, but hopefully I'll fly out of Tennessee in a week with no regrets. One regret that I do have is that I didn't get over to see "Pap" sooner. I wish I had gone to talk to him when I got into town. Pap is my great grandfather who passed away a few days ago at the age of 89. He was quite the legend in our little town and I am happy to have known him. I've said it before and I'll say it again- I inherited a wonderful family when my mother married my stepdad, Joe. I am blessed to be a part of the Lefler/Mourfield family. Pap will be missed by all of us, but we're so grateful that we got to have so much time with him here. I know he's rejoicing in Heaven now, though :)

This weekend was my much anticipated Girls' Weekend with my mom and sister. They thoughtfully invited me on their annual shopping trip in Pigeon Forge, TN. My family goes Christmas Crazy with decorations (only in a good way). My mom and sister are masters at decorating a Christmas Tree and filling the house full of Christmas cheer. Unfortunately, when Pap died, we decided to cut the trip a little short. My mother wanted to come home early so my sister and I stayed at the hotel we had already booked and woke up to head home for the funeral services early this morning. We all still had a fun, productive time. I can't wait to show you all pictures!

What else have I been up to? Wellllll, tons- thanks for asking! I went sailing with the dad-in-law the other day. It was scary fun! He let me maneuver the boat around Watts Bar as I attempted to conquer the wind and make the boat do what I wanted it to do. No easy task, but I had a good time trying. Afterwards my mother-in-law fixed (that's a southern thing, isn't it?) an excellent meal for my Dad, Julie, and me. I'm so glad I married into a great family and one that gets along with mine, too. I love that they're friends!  (Whew! All those adjectives!)

I can't chat anymore because I'm on my way to the next activity, but I'll be sure to catch up with you again soon. Also, the girls of (Mil)ing It Over are set to post near the end of the month. Get Excited!

You're so vain

I feel like a woman again! My mom expressed her fear and worry that her girl was quickly leaning towards more manly activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and going to the shooting range. She told me before I arrived in TN that it was "time for an intervention." When I got off the plane, the first thing I did was go shopping with Mom. That was quick, huh? I couldn't help it; I was having withdrawals. My girly-ness sunk in even further when I arrived home and remembered all the fabulous clothes I had left behind. For three glorious weeks, I wasn't going to wear one stitch of flannel or big bulky boots. I would break out my heels, paint some lipstick on my lips, and feel pretty again! Lemme tell ya, it feels good :)

[caption id="attachment_1459" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="I even went bubble gum pink with my nails. Be afraid, be very afraid."][/caption]

I'd like to tell you how great a product is in this post as well, but I hesitate because of one of my favs, Sandra Bullock. Isn't she the coolest? I just want to throw this out there- I'm definitely, completely, totally Team Bullock BUT...This product is, well, amazing-

Kat Von D, the tattooed missy who apparently caught the eye of Sandra's man, has made the best concealer ever. You may already know that she created this makeup as a way to cover up tattoos, but I love it because it also hides those pesky skin problems that come along with crazy hormones and adult acne. I think I paid 25 bucks for this bottle, but it is worth it. A little goes a long way!

After two weeks of shopping, I feel a little more prepared for Fall. I pieced together this fun, comfortable look with help from Forever 21, Target, and Maurice's. I decided I hope I'm pregnant in the fall so I can wear threads like the ones below just so I can be comfy and cute. Every girl needs one item of clothing that is animal print, right?!

[caption id="attachment_1461" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Typical Myspace Photo"][/caption]

*I wouldn't be surprised if this is my only makeup/fashion post ever. I'll be back in my element in no time and I'm sure my husband will remind me that he likes me best in loungin' clothes and devoid of all makeup. Man, he's crazy but I sure miss him.

Dear September,

You're very dear to me. As I drove to middle Tennessee yesterday, I found you hard at work, slowly changing the leaves from their great green to colors of fall. I can only imagine the vibrant colors you're creating up in Alaska, my home away from home. I wanted to tell you how happy I am that you are here. I'm so glad that you brought with you time with my wonderful family and sweet, funny friends. I only regret my husband couldn't come with you! I'm having a good time, September. Our time together has flown by and it's really running short now. I want to make the best of it. I close my eyes when the short reprieve from the sun blows across my skin and I know that God is ever present. Thank you for showing me that.

Love,

Mrs. K

(Photo Credit Here)

Sea of Orange

Hmph! Grrr! WHYYYYYY? That pretty much sums up my disappointment in my football teams yesterday and today. I went to watch my vols play, but apparently they only wanted to play for the first half. In case you don't know, it.got.ugly....so ugly, in fact, that I had to leave in the third quarter because I couldn't watch it anymore. It would have been awesome to see TN win to the number 7 team, but I knew it was a lofty hope. I still had fun before the game and during the first two quarters, though! Meaghan and I drove up to campus early to tailgate with my grandparents. They're so much fun! I'm still glad I went. I felt right at home in the sea of orange and I can't wait to go again next year. Hopefully I'll be able to watch a game or two in Alaska when I get back. It's just not the same pouring a glass of O.J. and settling in to watch a ballgame at 8 in the morning, though...Darn time change!

As if a loss from the college side wasn't bad enough, my NFL teams let me down, too. Raiders lost, Colts lost...it was a bad weekend for my favs. Oh well at least the Steelers won! Enough about football- I don't want to get all worked up again. Let's back up to Friday, shall we?

I had plans to go to Cookeville (my college town) to visit some friends there, but we re-scheduled so everyone could make it. I ended up spending time with my loves- Laura and Miranda. (Thanks for the flowers, balloon, and chocolate, MLJ!) We did a little shopping, then went out for sushi, and then we went to see a fabulous 80's cover band, The Breakfast Club, in the Old City. I can't really describe to you how much I missed these ladies. I had a great time catching up with them! I rolled into Loudon (and into bed) finally around 1 am with plans to wake up at 5 am to go fishing. Unfortunately, my step-dad and I woke up, drove to the fishing site, put on our waders, and then the sky opened up. It poured! I haven't seen rain like that in so long, but I heard they REALLY need it in this area so I suppose we couldn't complain. I was still thankful for the time to hang with Joe so all was good!

All in all, it was a good weekend. To remember back nine years ago at how scared I was, how intimidated, paranoid, and heartbroken I felt and then to recognize how far this country has come gives me hope. Life was only made more precious to us nine years ago. I was happy to have spent a "normal" September 11th eating terrible foods, spending time with family, and watching a little football. I spent the day appreciating the little things and enjoying each day I have left here on Earth. As it should be! But what powerful emotions that day can evoke. I was sure to take a few moments to remember those who were directly affected by the tragedy in prayer.

I have many more activities to attend to so I might be MIA this week. I also want to tell you that I've been taking lots of pictures that I'll be sure to share with you in a couple weeks when I get back to Alaska- I just forgot to bring the cord with me. Forgive me?

One more thing...After I posted (Mil)ing it Over, other ladies joined in and I have since added their links. Go check them out, would ya? Tell em Mrs. K sent ya!

Week 1 Update+Milspouse Friday Fill-In

The sun is peaking out from behind the closed curtains beside me so this update will have to be on the short side. I'm still enjoying my time in Tennessee. I have lots of exciting activities coming up including a 31 party hosted by my sister, fishing with my stepdad, UT ballgame, (home) church services, step-brother's football game and time with family and friends- and that's all just in the next few days! I'm one busy gal!

Thankfully, there's no more sharing a big manly truck. I have been reunited with my baby- my BMW 330i. Man, I love that car. It feels so good to have that freedom again. If I want to go somewhere on a whim, that is totally fine and I don't have to plan to do it. No more sharing...and boy, does being selfish feel good! It makes me excited to move to Georgia because I know I'll have many more opportunities. I can actually get a job if I so choose ;) Don't hold your breath, though. I'd much rather go back to school and finish up my Master's...or meet lots of girlfriends and do things like go out for coffee in the a.m. and conduct book club meetings and bible studies. Haha! I'm dreaming, huh?

Anyway, I couldn't stop thinking about my little doggies a million miles away so I signed onto their facebook page (yes, they are computer literate!) and found a picture and a note from them on the kennel's page. The note read, "Hi Mom and Dad! Havin' fun at Holy Dog!- Drifter and Holly xxooxx (sloppy ones, too)." It warmed my heart to hear from my dear furbabies.

I guess that's as much of an update that I can muster right now. I do have another video for your viewing pleasure. If you want to play along, head over to Wife of a Sailor's page. I can't wait to have kids--I mean...We're going to have so much fun!

(Ignore the laundry in the background, will ya?)

(Mil)ing it Over

Hi bloggy friends! Not too long ago, I told you of a surprise project I was working on with Jenn over at Chances I'm Taking. Well, today is the unvieling day. Are you ready? It's (Mil)ing it Over time! Please watch my introduction and follow the links I'll post shortly to meet the other ladies, too!

Disclaimer : This is my first attempt at making a movie- Please excuse my randomness, awkwardness, and cheesiness.


Check out these awesome bloggers and their (mil)ing it Over posts-

Jenn

The Marine's Wife

Mrs. S

Mrs. Ma'am

Kat

G.I. Joe's Wife

Bedroom of my Youth

As I write this, I only know one thing for sure: I don't know what will spill out of me. I just know that I need to write. I tell myself that no thought, no feeling is off limits tonight. I need the catharsis that writing brings me.

Self reflection is easy when one is placed in the very bedroom of their youth. Surrounded by an old t.v. that no longer serves a purpose, a closet and drawers full of clothes from my past, and various other knick-knacks that Ive accumulated over my twenty four years, causes me to think. I think about how completely my life has changed and I wonder what it all means. I feel as if I"m two very different people and that doesn't sit well with me. The life that Captain J and I have built together in Alaska will soon come to an end. I wonder how we'll fit back into the social circles here. How will these worlds of ours combine? Part of me wishes to take the bubble that is our life in the Last Frontier and preserve it in my hand always. The other part knows we'll smoothly transition into a life where we can have both our families and each other. Still I worry.

I see him in everything. The bouqet I held at our wedding serves as a beautiful reminder of the day I married my best friend. It is displayed in my old bedroom and I can't stop staring. I can't stop remembering. I recall thinking to myself, "I can't believe he wants to marry me." Now, several months have gone by and those same sentiments haven't changed. He'll always be too good for me in my eyes. He's such an honest and good natured man and most of the time I feel as if I don't deserve him. God really blessed me when he put my husband in my life.

I think of things throughout the day that I want to tell J about and then it hits me that I won't be talking with him anytime soon. I especially miss him on nights like tonight when the rest of the house is sleeping and I"m wide awake wondering how he's doing and how I'm going to make it the next few weeks without so much as a peep from my other half.

In this bedroom of my youth, there's only one consistent thought and that is J. He's my past, present, and future and that has seeped in completely in my heart. Little else matters. I look around and I know where my heart belongs, where it will always belong- with the man in ACUs who had me from hello.

Past. Present. Future.

Bye, Bye Love- Hello Family(ness)

Hi y'all! Man, how I've missed that southern accent. I've been back home for a few days now and it feels so wonderful to be here. I forgot how nice total strangers can be! As you probably already know, I spent a few days in North Carolina to see my man off and spend some time with my in-laws. It was a bittersweet trip. I was elated to be able to squeeze in more time with Captain J, but the time frame was so short that it was just a tease. He's gone- away from all contact and I miss him already. I enjoyed driving riding across NC. The weather was beautiful the entire time and I'm settling into this warmer climate quite nicely. The past day or two the weather has warmed my skin perfectly- not too hot. On the way to NC, we stopped off in a neighboring town from Ft. Bragg to visit my dear friend, Nicole. We picked J up at the airport shortly after and spent the weekend catching up on some much needed family time. His mother and I even got some shopping in! I can't tell you how good it feels to swipe that debit card and leave a store with something pretty. In case you were wondering, Fairbanks has no shopping to speak of. I've really missed that (poor J).

I arrived back in Tennessee yesterday. After a family wii tournament in bowling, I drove up to Knoxvegas to watch the fireworks at Boomsday. Thankfully, I didn't have to fight my way through the insane crowd that is always gathered there because my bestie has a fabulous new apartment with a view of the city. We watched from the comfort of her couch. I had a good time catching up with so many people that I hadn't seen in awhile. It was crazy, fun and now I'm back at my house relaxing. I'll definitely be busy this month, but that's okay. I want to fit in as much time with friends and family that I can!

Good Luck, Babe

I feel like Chandler from FRIENDS just before he knocked Janice to the floor when she fell asleep on his arm. My arm might fall off if Captain J doesn't stir soon, but I simply won't wake him. He's sleeping soundly- away from all the concerns tomorrow may bring. I'm really, really going to miss him. But go he must. He's all packed up and ready to rock! Good luck, babe. I love you so.

Im slightly more awesome than I was yesterday

Howdy! It's Mrs. K coming at you from the Dallas airport. I'm posting from my iPhone for the first time so we'll see how this goes. Allow me to enlighten you on the most exciting thing to happen to me all day...
I was tweeting, going about my business as I boarded the last flight when lo and behold, I come across a tweet from Heather McDonald (new author, writer for Chelsea Lately, and quite hilarious comedian) to yours truly! The flight attendants had already swooped by telling us to turn off all electronics so I had no one to tell. I looked to my right and decided the older couple and Korean War vet didn't give a hoot about my coolness, nor would they even know what Twitter is. To my left, people were already snoozin' plus how weird would I be to tell a random stranger this excitement? I decided to play it cool (until now, of course) like I get tweeted by celebs all the time. Anywho, I'm alive and well, but oh so tired. Sitting next to the lav on flights makes for a lot of getting jolted awake by someone's clumsy feet. One more flight to go--next stop-- Knoxvegas ! (p.s.- I just read Heather's new book. Reviews to come!)

travels, goodbyes, and blue skies

Goodbyes suck, don't they? I'm happy to know that I have several "hellos" I get to make in less than twenty four hours, though. I left my darling husband in Fairbanks and I'm now waiting patiently at the airport in Anchorage to board my next flight. Unfortunately, this layover is uber long.

Every time I fly, I feel somewhat independent (insert snickers or guffaws). I traveled as a young tike via airplanes, but it's quite another task to navigate an airport by myself without getting frazzled. I never thought I'd arrive at that point, but now that I'm here, I can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the fudge my babe got me as a parting gift. I'm the kind of person who stresses easily. Bounding up to the information screen to locate my gate number and finding it void of such information would usually send me into a quiet panic. Not today, though. I'm sure I'll figure it out.

I thought I'd use this opportunity to send out a mass message to my blogging family that I'm ok. Despite the numerous plane crashes in Alaska in the last few months, I have flip flops on the ground safely and Anchorage welcomed me with a gorgeous blue sky! Hopefully this trend will continue. Picture this- I'm sitting in the hallway of a terminal, hunched over my computer, typing furiously, and only stopping for breaks to pick up a huge block of peanut butter and chocolate fudge to nibble on devour. I'm sure I'm quite the sight.

Ya know....there's one good thing about the military and all the goodbyes: When I have to be away from Captain J, it's so easy to recall how much he truly means to me. I do miss him when he's away and I would venture to say that each absence to date has strengthened "us". I'm proud of and am very appreciative of that!

Several troops left out of Ft. Wainwright recently to assist with the flooding in Pakistan. I know plenty of wives who that affected. Some are handling this surprise deployment fabulously while others are neglecting certain responsibilities on the home front. This is too bad. Being a military spouse can be hard, challenging work but that's any marriage, right? I hope you'll remember those families in your prayers as well as those influenced by the damaging floods. (Oh, and if you're really tight with the man upstairs, will you talk to him about Captain J, too? Thanks.)

The other good thing about goodbyes- the hellos eventually follow! I'll miss my best friend as I'm sure all those spouses, parents, children, and friends will miss those that just deployed, too. Chin up ladies (and gents), our soldiers will be home soon :)

I'm going to quit rambling now and do a little people watching. Yeah, I'm creepy...what of it?

Adios.