Vacay, thus far

I have an album on facebook called “Christmas in Dixie” – thought that was fitting since I’m in the south ;)

Here are some things I’ve done so far!

Dinner at the Atlanta Country Club with my Grandfather and Aunt and Uncle.

Decorating the tree with my brother and sister

I’ve eaten at Chick-Fil-A twice so far, and I’ve spent lots of time with Kynlee!

Baby sitting Kynlee, going to make cookies later!

Decorating the tree with Emily’s family, it was quite eventful, the tree fell on Becky, her sister!

Also got to spend some time with the LT’s family, this is his little cousin!

Going home

So, I’m waiting for my ex-neighbor, and very good friend, to get here to take me to the airport for a red eye. I’ll land Wednesday evening! I’m sad to be going home without the LT, but I’m looking forward to seeing family and friends.
I can’t wait to spend time with my best friend, Em, it is going to be like old times, spending the night and just chilling. I cannot wait! I have truly missed her. Her husband was deployed a few years ago, and we practically lived together while he was gone, and I hate that I didn’t have her here with me during the LT’s deployment.
I’m going to be traveling a lot when I’m on the mainland, going from place to place, it will be busy, but should be good. I’m hoping so anyways!
Luckily before I leave, maintenance was able to come and install vertical blinds, we’ve lived in this house for 2 years now, and I tried to do this about a year ago, and they wouldn’t do it. So I had a friend help me clean the house, and I figured since the house was clean, I’d try again, and they agreed. I was really okay with the fact that I might not get them installed until after I got back, but they were able to fit me in today. And the guy came in the AM, instead of between noon-six. I’m glad I woke up when I did, because I was planning on going back to bed, and my alarm went off while he was here.
So here is the finished project, and my wonderful pink tree :)

I also had them install those horizontal bambo-ish blinds, that my ex-neighbor, and very good friend, gave us, on our back screened Lanai (porch), and when my friend helped me clean, we moved our dining room table out there, so now our dining room is outside, it looks good, except the table has some stuff on it. Really need to work on that…I am also wanting to put some twinkle lights out there. Maybe some white ones, and put them on those beams, or just around, not too sure.

So, that’s about it, I’ll update when I’m home some. I’m sure.

Christmas Vacay

I’m leaving Hawaii and coming to Ga/Tn next week, will be there until the end of Dec. I’m super duper excited. I can’t wait to see friends and family. I hate that the Lt won’t be able to join me, but soon he’ll be home, soon!!!

I am going to have to work on Christmas cards soon. So if you want one, email me :) I’ll put this out on FB too so, I have most of the family’s addresses, but if you want one and are a friend, let me know.

New design & Thanksgiving

First, since it’s the most noticeable, I’d like to introduce you to the new blog design. I had Brea at Utterly Chaotic Designs make one for me, my friend Jane had one made, and I loved hers, so I thought, why not, plus, this MIGHT give me motivation to blog more. She gives a military discount, because she is also a military spouse, and I will be going back to get my other blog redone as well. I loved this one so much. Plus, I really enjoyed chatting with her, and getting to know her. She was so easy to work with, and she was just always SO nice to me. And she is quite fast! I definitely recommend working with her, not just because she’s awesome and nice, but because her prices are probably some of the best I’ve seen for a blog design!

Thanksgiving was good. We had SO much food, and ate WAY to much. But we had a great time. I tried to do some Black Friday shopping that evening, but the crowds were just TOO much! So I did my Black Friday shopping from home!! Didn’t get much, just a few things I’d been wanting, and some things the LT wanted. A friend told me about how I could get a really nice Keurig for REALLY CHEAP, so I of course bought it. I saved close to $80 on it. And I ended up getting $30 Kohls cash, so I’m going to buy some K Cups with that!

I’m going to have to wait to send the LT’s Christmas boxes out because I’m waiting for a few things to come in, and I’m so scared they’re going to be late. I know he won’t mind, but I care. I just don’t want them to be late.

Holidays

The Holiday season is fast approaching, and it will be our 1st Christmas apart…I’m going to go to the mainland for a couple weeks.

I’m not looking forward to much this Christmas, but spending it with family and good friends that I haven’t seen in a while will be nice, but not spending it with the LT won’t be fun either…

But once we get past the Holidays, we are just THAT much closer to his home coming. Which I am so looking forward too.

Veterans Day

Happy Veterans Day to all those who serve, have served, who gave the ultimate sacrifice, and those on the home fronts.

“Land of the Free, because of the Brave” - Francis Scott Key

A special thanks to my husband and my grandfather for their service. I also have some other family members who serve, so thanks to them as well!

2 Year Anniversary & Halloween

Today, 2 years ago, we got married, it has been an amazing ride, and I’ve never been happier, although, I’d be so much happier if he were in the same state, much less the same country as me right now.

As far as the military lifestyle goes, we’re batting 1-1, which is pretty good, considering I know people who have been married several years and have only spent a few anniversaries together. We were just so lucky to have spent our 1st one together.

We are on the downward slope of this deployment, over the hump, over half way finished! Just got to make it through the holidays!

Happy Anniversary Babe, I love you and miss you!

Day 20

And be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you. (Eph. 4:32)

It's time for some heart examination. As you continue in this 30-day challenge, have you found any roots of bitterness that are contaminating your relationship with your husband? Do you understand that as long as you are unwilling to forgive your husband—by God's grace and in His power—you will not be able to encourage him? Your own resentment will keep getting in the way. Now is the time to deal with any unforgiving attitudes. Forgive him, even as God has forgiven you.

Is your husband a forgiving man? Does he keep short accounts of your problems? Express your thankfulness for such a man.

Does your husband seem to harbor grudges against you? If so, could there be things you need to change? Do you possibly need to ask forgiveness for an offense?

---

I’ve forgiven my husband for the things he’s done, and I’d hope he’s forgiven me.

We’re still young, and have a lot to learn. But we are learning together.

I try not to hold grudges, as I’d hope my husband doesn’t either.

I’m so grateful for my husband, and I know I don’t say it enough.

Day 19

Read a wife's description of her beloved in Song of Solomon 5:10-16.

Criticism leaves scars; but encouragement can bring healing. Remember that today as you focus on your "30-Day Encouragement Challenge."

Almost nothing is as devastating to a man as the belief that his wife finds him repulsive. Sadly, many women unwisely criticize their husbands' bodies.

Have you ever considered how wonderfully God designed men and women? No matter how a man looks—by the standards of the world—a loving God designed them all, and they are all "beautiful" in His sight. Encourage your husband today by praising his uniqueness.

As you look over your husband's body, from the tip of his toes to his bald or bushy head, thank God that your husband is "wonderfully made," then admire your husband verbally. (Strong arms? Hairy chest? Firm hands? Big feet? Rugged chin? Wide shoulders? Compassionate eyes? Broad smile?)

---

I nit-pick, always have, probably always will. So this is a good reminder to not nit-pick so much.

My husband has pretty eyes, and a nice smile. And a beautiful soul!

Day 18

You will show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy . . . Happy are the people whose God is the LORD! (Ps. 16:11a; 144:15b)

A merry heart does good like medicine. (Prov. 17:22a)

It's hard to criticize others when we are enjoying their company. Instead of speaking negatively to your husband today, enjoy him! Encourage him! As you experience fullness of joy with God, share some of that joy with your husband.

Does your husband have a playful side? A great sense of humor? Is there a "little boy" that wants to escape from time to time, reflecting the joy in his heart?

This is a wonderful part of who he is, and a great strength. Let him know that you appreciate his joyfulness and his playful spirit. Find opportunities to join him in positive play times.

If your husband can sometimes be overly serious, coax him out occasionally for some play times. It will help him relieve stress and relax.

---

My husband is such a “little boy” and that is one thing I love about him. He knows how to have fun, and he is funny. And he’s learned that there is a time and a place for the fun and games. As I have too.

When we were dating, it was mostly long distance, so we would talk on the phone every night, and he was tell me a joke every night. I always looked forward to those jokes.

Day 17

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (Prov. 9:10)

Are you a wise woman? Do you open your mouth with wisdom, as Proverbs 31:26 suggests? As you continue in your 30-day challenge, remember that a wise woman encourages her husband.

Is your husband a "wise man?" Does he have a godly perspective that comes from knowing God and walking with Him in obedience? Does he have a sense of purpose for his life and vision for your home? Tell him how much this means to you.

If you are not sure about your husband's vision for your home, ask him, "Honey, what do you want to accomplish with our marriage and home in the years to come?" and "How can I help you accomplish that?" If he does not have a vision, your questions may inspire him to develop one.

If your husband is not walking with God—or perhaps, does not know the Lord—you have the opportunity and responsibility to practice your faith and create a thirst for God. Thank God for giving your husband a place in his heart that only He can fill, and keep praying that he will turn to the Lord to fill that vacuum!

---

I know my husband knows the Lord, but I don’t know what his vision is for our home. I guess I should ask him!

Day 16

And the LORD God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” (Gen. 2:18)

God says that it is not good for man to be alone. But the way some women criticize their mates, the husbands may long for solitude. Be careful today not to criticize your mate, but look for ways to encourage him personally and publicly.

Speaking of communication, does your husband communicate with you? God has made you a companion and helper for your husband, and part of being "one flesh" with him is the privilege of sharing and discussing personal needs and concerns. Thank God for that wonderful gift. Thank your husband for communicating with you.

If your spouse does not communicate as you wish, look for ways that he communicates that are normal for him: smiling at you, nodding his head, even a pleasant grunt, and then thank him for letting you know that he cares. Perhaps he needs to be lovingly taught how to communicate. Be patient with him . . . and listen when he does speak.

---

We communicate fairly well now that he’s deployed. We talk almost daily, and he lets me know things he wants me to send to him, or not send to him. We talk about the bills and how we want to save the money, and lately things haven’t been a fight. It’s been nice. I enjoy talking to him about these things when we don’t fight.

He is also very affectionate when he’s not deployed. He always tells me he loves me, and shows me he loves me by kisses, holding my hand and hugs. I do miss those SO much!

Day 15

Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Pet. 3:18a)

Sometimes we live so close to our spouse that we fail to see him as others do; we only see our husband's faults. But take a step back. Perhaps he is growing spiritually in ways you have failed to appreciate. How can you encourage his growth in a fresh, new way? Remember, your husband is accountable to God for his spiritual development. You are accountable to God to encourage and not hinder that growth.

Can you identify an area of spiritual strength in your husband? Does he pray or read his Bible regularly? Does he like to read about or discuss spiritual matters? Does he go to church with you? Is he a spiritual leader? What do others say about him? If you can identify a specific area, praise him for that.

If not, pray earnestly that God will work in his heart, and watch for signs of spiritual growth in the future.

---

This is tricky. Neither one of us is very religious at the moment. We both believe in God and know him and love him. But we don’t do anything as a family or separately to grow spiritually.

We don’t talk about it much. If at all ever. But I do pray from time to time. I just don’t know what the LT does when it comes to this subject.

I do know that he’s a believer, and we both love the Lord. So that has to count for something.

Day 14

yes, I skipped day 13, but it was because it is about the sexual relationship, and that is not for a public blog…

---

The righteous man walks in his integrity. (Prov. 20:7a)

Every week there are news reports about men who gave in to temptations and compromised what they said they believed. We hear countless reports about dishonest business dealings, hidden infidelity, and hypocritical leaders. It's so easy to focus on
these things and ignore those who are being honest, faithful and genuine. As you continue in the "30-Day Encouragement Challenge," determine to look for ways that your husband stands against the culture.

Is your spouse a man of integrity? Is he fair in his dealings with people? Does he understand the meaning of justice? Is he honest in business? Unhypocritical in his
faith? Consider all the ways a man can live in integrity, and praise your husband for one of them.

As you have the opportunity—as it is appropriate—share examples of your husband's honesty and integrity with others.

---

I might be bias but I think my husband is fair and honest. I’ve never known him to be dishonest. I can’t think of any time where he’s not had integrity for others. Now, my memory is miserable, so I can’t think of times when he was, but I’ve never known him to NOT be those things.

Day 12

With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love. (Eph. 4:2)

Part of the difficulty you may face as you continue in this 30-day challenge to encourage your husband is that you really are struggling to find positive things to praise. Perhaps the problem is not with your husband. Have you checked your own heart?

Sometimes we get disillusioned because of our own unreasonable or unrealistic expectations (Prov. 13:12). It may not be that our mates are doing something wrong; it's simply that we expect too much in some areas.

Our expectations must be met in God alone, and then we will have the right perspective to ask God for the healing and grace we need to respond to others.

How sad that we give more grace to others than to those in our own homes. Today, try to look at your husband through eyes of grace. Verbally thank your husband for what he is already doing.

---

I think the hardest part of this challenge for me is to be consistent in blogging through it. I have no problem speaking positives on my husband, because I truly love him and think he’s an amazing person and husband, and will make a wonderful father one day.

I hope I get to speak with my husband today, and tell him thank you.

Day 11

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. (Eph. 5:22)

Women who are constantly negative toward their husbands—especially by speaking evil of them to others—show great disrespect. Determine not to do that today (or ever!). This challenge to encourage is closely connected to submission.

Men respond to women who respect them. What do you respect about your husband? Part of that respect includes submission to his authority. Let your husband know how respecting him makes it easier to submit to his leadership. Show your respect in public by listening to him and smiling at him when he speaks. Place your hand in his as you walk together.

If you feel there is nothing to respect, search harder . . . nearly every man has some core characteristic that can be nurtured and respected. In any case, you must still cultivate a submissive spirit to his position of leadership "as to the Lord."

---

The one thing I respect about my husband is his job. He’s an officer in the U.S. Army, and that to me deserves SO much respect. I sometimes get so mad at people who trash talk our troops, and who won’t stand up for them. I don’t tolerate that kind of thing, especially now that I’m married to someone who is giving up things in order for these people to trash talk.

The long deployments and long hours when he’s home sure stink, but I respect him for wanting to do this to provide for our family and for the people of this country. My favorite quote when it comes to this type of thing is “If you don’t stand behind our troops, stand in front of them.”

Day 10

Only the 5th day of October and I’ve already missed 1 day…Go figure, I never claimed to be a great blogger, and I think I’ve even stated a few million times how horrible my memory is…Oh well, we press on…

---

Behold you are handsome, my beloved! Yes, pleasant! (Song of Solomon 1:16a)

We all crave appreciation. We want to know that we are valued and loved. Early love letters probably reflected our admiration, but if we're not careful, our spouse will forget why we were drawn to him. If you still have any of your old love letters, re-read them for
clues to deepen your current level of appreciation for your spouse.

When we spend time criticizing our husbands, we lose time that could be spent admiring them. As you consider various ways to encourage your husband, ask, "How can I admire him?"

Does your husband know that you think he is attractive? What was one of the characteristics in your husband that first drew you to him? Was it a physical
characteristic, or something else?

Was it his gentle, compassionate eyes? Kindness or concern for others? An easy-going confidence? A steadiness that comes from trusting in the Lord? Strength of character in a culture that lacks integrity? Do you see at least a glimpse of that characteristic in him today? Whatever it is, tell him!

---

My husband is pretty much the same man I met and married, just a tad bit more mature, only a tad ;)

I can’t pinpoint what exactly it was that made me fall in love with him. But he was just so sweet, and understanding, and not judgmental about my past. He accepted me for who I am, imperfections and ALL!

And he’s still so sweet and understanding, and still doesn’t judge me for my past.

And in turn, I do the same.

Day 9

Be swift to hear, slow to speak. (James 1:19b)

We are often so busy speaking that we don't take time to listen. We are so quick to offer a comment—negative or positive—that we don't really "hear" our husband's heart. Remember: we have two ears and only one mouth. We need to listen more!

As you continue in your 30-day challenge, not speaking negatively and focusing on positive encouragement, hear the Lord's admonition today: "Be swift to hear."

If listening is a real problem for you, play a game with yourself. See if you can listen to your husband for one whole day, only speaking when asked a question. If your husband notices the difference, explain that you are learning to listen more—not only to God, but also to him.

One easy way to express admiration for your husband is to ask a question about something he enjoys, and then listen to his response. If it's an area of personal familiarity, keep asking questions until you learn something you didn't know, then tell him, "Wow, I didn't know that!"

---

This is something that is kind of hard to do now, since we hardly ever talk face to face (or skype) and we usually just email back and forth. I know I should listen more when we do speak in person, and I’d like to think that I do listen a good amount of the time.

When we do email, I ask questions of things he’s said. And most of the time, my responses are just “I love you” and “I miss you” because I really do love and miss him so much. But we get a lot solved in our emails from time to time too. And it’s kind of nice to have things written down, so I can go back and look at them later, because he’ll tell me he wants something, and then I forget, but since we wrote it down in an email, all I have to do is just scroll through and find it. Because we all know how horrible MY memory is.

I do think I’ve done really well with not speaking negative towards my husband, there might have been a few times when telling a story I’ve said something, but most of the stuff I say is positive, because I’m just SO blessed with such an amazing man! It’s truly hard for me to believe that someone like him loves me, little ole imperfect me.

Day 8

But who can find a faithful man? (Prov. 20:6b)

Faithfulness is a wonderful but rare quality today, especially in regard to marriage. Do you understand how important this quality is? Your challenge is to continue to root out all negative speaking, and plant seeds of encouragement instead. You may be amazed
at what will grow.

Contemporary culture often entices men to be unfaithful to their wedding vows and spiritual
commitments. Appreciate your husband's faithfulness—how he is loyal to you. Let him know that you are glad he has "stick-to-it-iveness" in your marriage. Appreciate
his faithfulness to God. (If you have an unfaithful husband, this is a difficult area for you. Pray, speak the truth in love, remain faithful yourself, and discover ways to encourage faithfulness in your mate. The Bible says that husbands may "be won by the conduct of their
wives" [1 Pet. 3:1]. You may also want to seek counsel from a mature, godly individual or
couple.)

---

I am SO blessed to have a faithful husband. I’ve been in several relationships where the man was unfaithful, and that is just such a toxic relationship and a toxic way of life. I am just so glad to be out of those relationships and married to a man who is 100% faithful to me.

Thank you hubby for being faithful to me! I love you!

Day 7

I was going to start over the 30 Day Husband Challenge, but I’m just going to start where I left off. It’d probably end up being REALLY repetitive, so I’ll just go from Day 7 to the end!

---

Day Seven
Do not overwork to be rich; because of your own understanding, cease! . . . for riches certainly
make themselves wings. (Prov. 23:4-5b)

That I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, that I may fill their treasuries. (Prov. 8:21)

Money is the root of much marital discord. Ask yourself, "Am I being negative toward my husband in the area of finances?" Determine not to speak evil of your husband in this area. Discover ways to encourage and help him instead.

Does your husband handle finances wisely? Does he make good financial investments, based on biblical principles? Does he have a budget? Does he make wise decisions about purchases—checking many sources before he buys? Is he a good steward of his money before the Lord? Let him know how much you appreciate his strengths in financial matters.

If he is weak in this area, encourage any good decisions that he does make. Perhaps you can help him, if he's open to the idea, by organizing financial files or providing other practical assistance. Or, if he wants you to handle the finances, ask for his input before
you make decisions that will affect him.

---

This is one area where we struggle, but since he’s been deployed, we’ve gotten caught up on bills, and haven’t been late or skipped payments on ANY of our bills. We are slowly seeing the light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to some of our debts.

We have a budget, but we’re both really bad at sticking to it, which is something I’m working on, and I’d hope he is working on.

He is VERY good at researching things at different stores and sites before buying something though. Where I am just a go buy something I want/need and not care what brand it is or what reviews it’s gotten.

Since he left I have been in charge of the finances, and we’ve done a really good job about talking to each other about big purchases. If there is something big he wants, he asks me if we can afford it, and if I say we need to wait to buy it he will, and I put the money aside, so he can get what he wants.

Forever Newlywed–Love Is

So I’m going to start over the Husband Challenge in October, I figure it might go better, and it’s our 2 year anniversary on the 31st, so why not.

I’m also going to try this Forever Newlywed Friday Meme, I am hoping to do it every Friday, I mean, we all know how well I do with these things! Ha!

I’m going to copy my good friend Jane, who copied Mrs. Alana(go here to link up), who copied Erinn

---

Love Is…

Skype Sessions that make you feel like you’re not almost 7500 miles away from one another

Forehead kisses at the airport waiting for him to leave again, and now leaving the airport until you see his plane taxi away

Laui’s while he’s home for 2 weeks because all you want to do is be a tourist with him and spend as much time together until he has to leave again

Our last picture together for 12 months, not including R&R of course

His combat boots with your flip flops

Goofing around at the ER because your wife is a sickly woman

Seeing how great he is with kids, and knowing that one day he’ll be a wonderful father

Writing messages in sand just for him, to show him how much I miss him and love him

Day 6 and a calling out

So I was told by the husband that I’ve been doing a bad job at this challenge, and that he had been reading it daily…well, way to make me feel like a bitch, =P

So I’m going to TRY and start doing it daily now…so onto day six!

---

Day Six:

"...whatever ye do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Cor. 10:31b

Do you recognize and appreciate your husband's creativity? Or do you criticize and demean his efforts? Instead of negativity, determine to be positive. Perhaps you can help your husband see that his efforts are an opportunity to glorify God.

Is your husband the "creative" type? Does he have any artistic gifts? What is that special "knack" he has? Affirm him for his handiwork - a hobby, music, gardening, tinkering with cars, working with wood, etc. Remember: Even if he doesn't measure up to your standards, praise his efforts. If your budget allows, buy him a book or magazine that will continue to encourage his special skill or talent.

If you have a hard time finding his "creative side," understand that men's creativity sometimes is related to their work. Find something he does to make his job run more smoothly or something he does that adds value to his work...and let him know that you have noticed.

Make his day...Praise his accomplishments in public, while he is listening.

---

My husband is in the Army, so I’m always telling him how proud of him I am, and letting everyone who will listen just how proud of him I truly am!

I think I tend to criticize and demean his efforts, but I don’t mean to. I do appreciate the effort he puts into creativity and other things. And I am working on not being critical. It isn’t fair for me to give him a hard time, when I get butt hurt when he pokes fun at me.

He is SO very smart, and in being so smart, makes me feel like I don’t know nearly enough to get by. He might not come out and say I’m dumb, but the things he says make it seem like I am. Even though I know he doesn’t mean it that way, I still get butt hurt.

I do apologize when it happens, but I want to apologize now, too. I’m sorry babe. I love you and miss you!

Day 4, 5 and 100 posts

We all know how bad I am at challenges, and this one is NO exception…but I’ll do two days in 1…and I would also like to point out that this is our 100th post! :) so YAY!

---

Day Four:
"...let him labor, working with his hands what is good..." Eph. 4:28

We are all accountable for the things we say, both negative and positive words. Have you embraced the challenge to speak only positive things to your husband and to others about him? Here's a suggestion that touches the core of your husband's world.

Some women take their husband's career for granted, and they show it in many ways. Do you "dump" on your husband at the end of the workday, or do you strengthen and encourage him with your words? A wise wife will make her husband feel that she values
and appreciates his work. Let him know that you are glad he is a hard worker. Take opportunities to praise his diligence and resourcefulness to others.

If your husband is out of work, unable to work, or refuses to work, you'll need to be more creative. Praise him for a character quality that you see in him that would be a vital part of a successful career - such as persistence, decisiveness, strength, an analytical mind, organizational skills, good with people, good listener, determination, etc.

---

I am SO proud of my husband and what he does for a living. Some people don’t understand what my husband does, or how I can put up with it. Some people don’t find his job necessary. But I do, it’s because of his sacrifices people can speak their minds.

---

Day Five:
"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers." Eph. 4:29 

Another way to describe the positive side of this "30-Day Encouragement Challenge" is by using the word "edify," which means, "to build up." Negative comments only
discourage and tear down. Positive comments encourage and build.

Do you edify your husband before others, adding to his value in their eyes? This is especially important to other family members.

Do you praise your husband to his relatives, and yours? Does your husband's mother know how much you love him? How about your dad? Perhaps you can drop a word of praise into a conversation or letter. Be creative in letting your relatives know that you respect your husband, love him, and support him - in spite of whatever flaws and weaknesses he may have.

---

I might not edify him as much as I could. But I have talked to his mom about how much I love him and what a great man he’s become. My father knows how much I love him and how much he loves me. My father loves him too. I think he sees how happy the LT makes me and is happy for me. I know that is how my mom feels too.

Day Three

"...love suffers long, and is kind..." 1 Cor. 13:4
"And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ
Jesus." Phil. 4:19 

Love indeed suffers long and is kind. As you consider your Encouragement Challenge, determine today that you will not say anything negative to or about your husband. Speak kindly to him with words of genuine encouragement.

If your husband is considerate of your needs, let him know that you have noticed. Thank him for his kindness and consideration. Thank the Lord that your husband knows how to be both tough and tender.

Sometimes it's difficult for a man to be gentle, kind or tender - especially if he hasn't had role models in these areas. If he's not a considerate person, appeal to him for help without complaining. Let him know that it's hard for you to handle some things alone. Then, when he moves in to help, don't insist that he do it your way. Be glad that he is responding, and express your gratitude. 

Ultimately, you can't expect your husband to make you feel more secure, loved, etc. Remember that only God can meet the deepest needs of your heart.

---

You know, one thing I love about my husband is his gentle nature and loving ways. As much as he can get on my nerves, which if I’m being honest, happens, I just love that he can be such a wonderful comfort to me!

Love does suffer long, which is evident in this 12 month deployment. But for us, it has only made us stronger, and more in love. It has showed me that my husband not only loves me more than anything, but that he actually cares about me, and misses me.

He was home recently on R&R, and he told me that on his plane ride back to Afghanistan he was so sad, and just wanted to cry because he was going to miss me so much. He might kill me for sharing that, but the honesty he shared with me, and the fact that I wasn’t the only one who was sad about his leaving made his leaving that much easier to handle.

So, thank you LT, for all your love and support.

Day Two

Day Two:
"...through love serve one another." Gal. 5:13b

How did you do yesterday with your first day of blessing and encouraging your husband? Was it easy? Was it hard to hold your tongue when you wanted to say
something negative? We hope you're off to a good start. (If you blew it, don't give up - start again today!) There are so many practical things you can praise, if you look for them.

Today, find some way that your husband is serving you or your family. Does he help around the house? Take care of the car? Fix things that are broken? If your budget allows, give him a new, small tool with a big bow attached. But make sure he doesn't think it's part of a "Honey Do" list!

Maybe your husband's not a handyman, but does he run errands for you? Let you go
first? Take care of you when you are sick? Help you make decisions? Praise him for his
willingness to serve others. Let him know that you see his unique service as a great
strength.

---

Yesterday was pretty easy, I might not have written something positive for the whole world, I did on my blog, but I will do something better today…actually, I posted something on Twitter about how sweet and thoughtful he was because he posted a sweet song on my FB.

The main way the LT serves our family is by being in the Army. He makes the ultimate sacrifice for our family, and for everyone else's for that matter. Right now he’s making an even bigger sacrifice being in Afghanistan. And I’m so very proud of him and what he’s doing, and how he’s doing.

He’s also very sweet to me when I’m not feeling well, and always does nice things for me when I am sick. He’ll go get me something from the store if I need it and he’ll bring little surprises too. As I do for him when he’s sick.

He is the strongest person I know because of his service in the military and for the care he gives to me when I’m sick or just need anything. He’s quite amazing actually!

Day One

Day One:

"The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life." Prov. 31:11-12

To refresh your memory...here's the 30-Day Encouragement Challenge...for the next 30 days:

* You can't say anything negative about your husband ...to your husband...or to anyone else, about your husband.

* Say something that you admire or appreciate about your husband...to your husband...and to someone else, about your husband!

To help you get started, have you ever thanked your husband for "choosing you" above all other women? He found you attractive as a person, and appreciated you. Though many circumstances in your marriage may have changed, let your husband know that you are glad God led you together, and that you want to be a blessing to him for the rest of your marriage. Let him know that he can trust you to be in his corner.

One of the best opportunities to express your gratitude is first thing in the morning. How do you greet your husband each morning? Is he confident in your love? Give him a "wake up call" that he'll never forget-a big "I love you" and an "I'm so glad I'm your wife!"

---

So, thank you for being my hubby and loving me. I love you more than anything! Your love for me is hard to understand, because most of the time I don’t feel very deserving. But you show me that love regardless, so thank you.

If I could give you a kiss and hug in the morning right now I so  would. But seeing emails from you in the morning when I wake up is the best thing in the world. I hope you feel the same about emails I send you while you’re sleeping.

I miss you SO much and I can’t wait to see you soon…it seems so far away, but things are going so fast, that it will be here before we know it!

30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge for Wives

There is an event on Facebook that a friend of mine sent, it’s the 30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge for Wives.

It’s basically the Love Dare, just in 30 days.

For the guidelines and what you’re suppose to do every day, go here.

I’m going to blog my challenge, I think it might help me finish, and it will be in one place, so if the LT can’t get online for a few days, he can see what I’ve done for him each day.

Weight Loss

So, since he’s gone, and it’s just me, I think it might be easier to watch what I eat, and count calories. And so far, I haven’t done too well. So I’m going to go here and hope that I can keep myself accountable. I plan on going down to 150, or lower. Right now though, my goal, short term, is 175, by Nov. 28th of this year.

I’m going to start exercising as well. But I thought I’d start with tracking my calories. I don’t think this will work if I just jump in with both feet. Some might think it’s the wrong way to go, but this is my weight loss journey.

I did a 3 mile walk yesterday, it was a race, and I did it in 50 min. I think I did a great job, I know others finished sooner, but my goal yesterday was to finish, and not give up. I did it, and I finished, and I wasn’t last, which was just icing on the cake, because that wasn’t even part of the goal.

I’m tired of looking fat, and pregnant, I’m tired of feeling like crap. You might think I look fine, but you’d be lying.

So, I have 20 lbs to lose before Nov. 28th, and I’m going to do it. Then, I’ll do 20 more, and then 20 more, until I hit my long term goal weight.

R&R is OVER, already?!! :(

So, I have been having trouble with posts, and pictures not showing up...and I also can't seem to figure out how to easily transfer pictures from my phone to the computer...SO this post is a little late...

He left on Monday. It was a good day though, he didn't have to be at the airport until the evening, so we had the whole day almost to spend together.

This time I was able to get to the gate, and of course since I brought his orders with us, they didn't need to see them...GO FIGURE...

We ate at the little cafeteria place by his gate, and then went and sat at the gate until it was time to board.

The airline had everyone clap for the service members and that made me cry...and then they started boarding, and he was one of the first on the plane.

I couldn't bring myself to leave the gate. I thought it would hurt more to stay, but I don't know, since I did stay. I just really could not get up and leave, and it was so hard to do that when the plane was taxi-ing away...I kept looking back at it, and watching it...I finally decided to just let it go, and get some Starbucks, I mean, a little pick me up is always good, right?

After he had boarded and they were getting the last people on and ready to leave, there was a rainbow, and it was over the plane, I think it was good luck, at least that's what I like to tell myself...

it's really hard to see, but it's there, above the jetway (is that what that is called?)

R&R

So, he got in a little earlier than we had thought, which was a good thing.. I had things mostly together for him.
So, I had a friend come with me to the airport to take pictures for me.
We got there with plenty of time to get our gate passes, and be at the gate when he landed.
However, the guy at the USO said we had to have orders to get to the gate. Which was not something I thought of, so that is the first thing that went wrong.
Then, we went to the baggage claim where his flight was suppose to pick up their baggage, even though he didn’t have any checked bags, I figured he’d just come down there. We waited and waited and waited…no husband.
At this point I’m getting mad, where is he, why isn’t he down here yet, because other flights had come in at this point. So I was not happy and thought maybe something had happened to him. I went to the baggage claim clerk counter and went off. The lady told me she couldn’t tell me anything, so I took that to mean she wasn’t going to help. But she ended up looking it up, and telling me he was on the flight. So okay, then where is he, and why isn’t he here.
Finally he calls me from someone’s phone, saying he got lost, and went to the wrong baggage claim, and could not figure out how to get to the right one. Seriously, great, okay, well, your ass is coming to me, or I’m leaving you and you can walk home…
So he finally found me, and things were great….So here are the pictures…

I guess I went a little over board, LOL

Finally found us…..

It wouldn’t be a proper home coming without a Lei…

HUGS, they felt good, even though I was still kind of annoyed…

Welcome Home Hun!!!!

Oh and the pics are from my phone, because the battery on the camera died, and we can't find the charger...

MilSpouse Friday Fill-In #49

If you could have a private concert with any singer, who would it be? submitted by An Air Force Wife’s Blog
Sugarland, they’re my all time favorite…or if it were for my husband and me, Avenged Sevenfold, because a few of their songs are “our song”
Is there anything you do to supplement your family’s income? submitted by Our Life, One Adventure at a Time
Yes, I am a nanny, and I baby sit as well.
During your pregnancy (whether past, present, or future), what did you nickname your unborn baby before you knew the sex? submitted by Explosions of Love
The baby, or “it” LOL…
Have you ever won a blog giveaway?  If so what did you win? submitted by Mrs. O’s Life
Yes, I’ve won 2. One was for a gift card to a stamped necklace shop for $50 and the other was for an adoption book written by the birth mom.
If I looked into your refrigerator right now, what would I find? submitted by Married to the Army
Wine, Champagne, Salsa, 7 Layer Dip, Eggs, Cranberry Juice for the Champagne, Blue Hawaiian punch, Coconut Rum (for the Hawaiian punch), Bread, Sandwich meat, Cheese, Vodka, and another liquor…

My Birthday

It wasn't my 1st birthday without the hubby, he missed the first birthday I had while dating. It was in 09, I turned 24, and he left for Oklahoma a few short days before. And now, here we are 2 years later, except he's in Afghanistan.

It was a weird day yesterday. I had an off day, kept messing things up, forgetting things, and just not having things go my way.

Until dinner and even there I almost left my debit card at the restaurant. 15 of us got together for dinner at the Outback Steakhouse. It was AMAZING!!! New friends were there and old friends, and a few of my favorite children. Plus a huge chocolate cake from Costco. Which I think there should be some law against buying your own bday cake LOL

I got my nails done and then went to the mall and got my hair done, and my free bday drink from Starbucks!

When I got home from dinner I got on fb and the hubby was on and I got to Skype with him. It made my bday so much better. I hadn't heard from him all day and I was getting a little annoyed and anxious.

I got some really awesome gifts, which I was not expecting and that made my day! I will post some pictures when I get them.

I also met my great grand sis mom, in my sorority we had sis moms, not big sis/lil sis, its hard to explain. But Merce was my sis mom, MiMi was her's, and then Kathy was her's. And I met Kathy last night. She just moved to Hawaii. She had graduated the semester before I pledged, so we missed one another.

I am so blessed to have so many wonderful friends!

posted from Bloggeroid

MilSpouse Friday Fill-In #46

Are you a different person than you were five years ago? submitted by Sisterly Thoughts

Yes, I am more mature, and I’ve had a few things happen in my life that have made me a better person. I’m also mentally stable, which is more than I can say about myself even just 3 years ago.

If you could go on Amazing Race, who would you take with you as your partner and why? submitted by Thoughts from a Poekitten

Probably my husband, or one of my best friends, Emily or Melissa. Probably because I think any of them would help me and has strengths that I don’t.

But who am I kidding, I’d never be on Amazing Race…

Does Facebook or Twitter actually bring more stress or good in to your life? submitted byJust an Arizona Girl

Sometimes, it can add stress to my life. Other times, I find it helps relieve some stress. It depends on what is going on, and who is saying or doing what…

June is National Soul Food Month- what’s your soul food? submitted by NH Girl Displaced

Chocolate.

If you could live in any other era than the current, which one would it be & why? submitted by Sugar in My Grits

Roaring 20’s, because I love the hair and flapper dresses, or the late 70’s and all of the 80’s, because I just love the music.

Scentsy Party

I’m hosting an online party, I wasn’t going to post it on here, but I’m so close to my goal, so I figured why not.

Head over here, and click on my name, order from the party, you want to direct ship, or else it will ship to me, and then I’d have to send it to you, which I would do, but that can get expensive.

Thanks in Advanced!

Friday Fill-In #45

Fill-in along!

Underwear Parties, how old is too old? submitted by Wookie & Co.
Uhm, what the heck are underwear parties?! I don’t think these are appropriate at any age…
What was your favorite class in high school? submitted by Adventures of M-Squared
I didn’t have a favorite class, I pretty much hated High School, all of it…
Have you ever convinced packers/movers to pack something they aren’t supposed to for a PCS? submitted by Ground Control to Major Mom
No, but I know people who have gotten things put in their pack out without the movers knowing, and will more than likely try to do that when I move, if there are things I want to take. LOL
Blogging plays a growing roll in the media. If you were asked to embed as a blogger with a deployed military unit, would you go? What do you think your blog would be like? submitted by To the Nth
No thank you. I’m happy not knowing the ins and outs of a deployment. I think if I knew the ins and outs I’d be more of a nervous wreck with him gone.  However, that would be a pretty cool job, if I weren’t an Army Wife.
Do you think kids should attend year-round school? submitted by Marrying the Navy
In Hawaii, hell yes, these kids need all the schooling they can get.

5QF, hey it’s still Friday here, LOL

Rules for Five Question Friday: Copy and paste the following question to your blog post, answer them, then watch for the linky to appear tomorrow morning (any preferences as to time?) and LINK UP! I would LOVE for you to link back to me, but that is NOT a requirement! I just wantcha to have FUN!! (And, 5QF is also a quick, easy post for when your muses have gone on sabbatical or if you're just plain old too busy to write something else!)

Questions for Friday, June 17th: (Special thanks to @gasfamily, @MarandaLamping,Sandy, Lorilynne, and a question from the Deck of Random Question cards [i.e. sending out an SOS for question suggestions!] for their question suggestions! Have a fun question? Head over to my community or shout it out on twitter to me, @5crookedhalos, using hashtag #5QF!)

1. What is your favorite summer time activity?

Swimming, Cook Outs, eating Watermelon

2. Do you have one laundry soap you stick to, or do you buy whatever's on sale?

Tide

3. What is your favorite dinner to make in the summer?

Kabobs, I actually have never made them myself, but I do love to eat them fresh from the grill

4. Do you have any talents?

I can sing and procrastinate like nobodies business, oh wait, that isn’t a talent, is it?!? ha

5. If you could instantly be an expert in something, what would it be? Why?

Organizing and cleaning, so my house would always be clean and organized LOL

2 Months Down

So, it’s been 2 whole months since he left. Quite honestly, I miss him so much, and it sucks so much that he’s gone. BUT I’m doing so well with the deployment. I’m staying busy, I’m sending care packages galore and I’m just not dwelling on the fact that he’s gone.

Some things that have made this deployment bearable…

E-mail
Skype

Seriously, I think back to when my grandfather was in the Army, and the times he was deployed, and I have so much more respect for my grandmother and father and uncle for what they went through.

I know I get so frustrated when I don’t get an email or he can’t get on Skype. I know for a fact that I don’t sleep well when I haven’t talked to him in a while. But I just remind myself that we’re so lucky to have the technology to Skype and email, and that helps, but I still don’t sleep well. Because I worry.

He doesn’t tell me much about what’s going on there, and I’m glad, I don’t want to know specifics, I think it might make the worry and the sleepless nights worse. I just know that he’s safe, and that he’s healthy. I thank GOD for that.

So, here is to 10 more months…let’s hope I’m still doing this well in a few months…

Wedding Challenge COMPLETE

Don’t be too happy with me. I’m going to let you in on a little secret, I did them all in like a day or two and just set them to post over time…I knew that was the ONLY way I’d get the damn thing completed.

But, at least I can say I finished something I started, because we all know how bad at doing that I am =P

The LT is doing well. I’m sure he misses me just as much as I miss him. We email almost daily. He doesn’t have internet in his room, they might be getting Wi-Fi, but who knows. He has to go to the MWR to get internet, and that isn’t something he does often. We Skype almost once a week. It’s nice to see his face and hear his voice. I’ve tried to get him to purchase some phone minutes, but I’m not quite sure what his hold up is.

We found out when his R&R is, so that is so exciting! Something fun to look forward too! I hope we get to go to Kauai, but every time we look, the hotels seem to be less and less available. I wish we knew specific dates so we could go ahead and lock it in, but we don’t know until he lands in Hawaii. We know a time frame, but like I’d tell you =P

I will start doing the Nanny thing full time, more than likely after his R&R because the father’s block leave just happens to be the same time. Things in the Army rarely work out, so for this to be happening is quite a miracle. But neither of the guys are back on island, so I don’t want to jump the gun toooo much. Things in the Army rarely make sense, and they change on a dime…Go figure…

Well, I’m going to shower and get in bed, 5:30am is really really early. But I did it today, I can do it tomorrow!

Memorial Day

I’m celebrating the fact that my husband, although deployed, is safe and sound.

I’m thinking about the ones we’ve already lost this deployment. And their families.

I am thankful, so thankful, for their sacrifice and that of their families.

Don’t just remember these families and the ultimate sacrifice their loved ones made on a day like today, but every day.

You have the ability to speak freely and live openly because of what these people have given their lives for.

Wedding Challenge 17

17. most recent picture of you and your significant other and what you love most about them :) and any other thoughts

Our last picture together……
almost 2 months ago

I love so much about him. He’s hard working, loyal, cute, nice, and lovely. And he treats me like a princess

Wedding Challenge 15 & 16

15. first place that you lived together: pics if you have them!

Hawaii, he moved here a week after we were married, and I moved a month later. We live on post, in a duplex, it’s 2 bed rooms, 1 bath room, we have 2 screened in porches, and a laundry room, kitchen, and a big dining room/living room.

16. kids: do you have any yet? if not, when do you plan on it? how many do you want? any tips on good/bad birth control?

We do not have children yet. We plan on having them. Not 100% sure when we’ll start, we’re more than likely going to start when he gets home from deployment. That way he’ll be in one place for a set amount of time, and we won’t have to worry about a deployment. But anything can happen. I’m not sure how many we will have, but I’m thinking 2. Hopefully a boy and girl. But I’ll take whatever I get.

Wedding Challenge 14

14. thoughts on marriage: what is the easiest/hardest part? if you could change anything, what would it be?

Being away from one another is pretty hard. It’s easier than I thought it would be. I’m doing so much better than anyone thought I’d do. Most of our relationship before marriage was long distance, and I think that prepared us for deployments and trainings. And it doesn’t change the fact that a deployment and training is hard, but it makes me feel better about being away. I’ve gotten so independent, and I can do so much more than I thought I could.

Easy parts are that he is always there for me, even while deployed. He knows when to say the right things, and when not to say the wrong things.

Sure, we fight, and have our differences, but we always work through it, and we’re stronger for it.

Wedding Challenge 13

13. honeymoon: where did you go? was it good? ;) haha...jk

We went to Atlanta for a  few nights. We went to the Aquarium, World of Coke, we saw a concert (The Used), some other museum. We stayed at the Hilton. It was great.

After Atlanta, we drove up to Chattanooga, rented a Uhaul, packed up most of my things, moved them to his grandmother’s house so the movers could include it on the pack out. He left for Hawaii a week after we were married. I followed a month later, after waiting for the Army to get their stuff together, upon not having their stuff together, we bought my ticket out to Hawaii. And that is that.

MilSpouse Friday Fill In #42

(click the picture to participate)

Do you think civilians, in general, understand the meaning of Memorial Day?

I think they get the jist of it, but I don’t think they’ll fully understand unless they lose someone in a war. Not that I’m saying they don’t care, just that they wouldn’t have the same feelings about Memorial Day as a military wife or a service member. I know it means more to me now than it did before I was married to my LT!

What are your plans for the Memorial Day Weekend?

Just hanging out, might cook out, I do want to go see the Lanterns, but I’m not sure if I’ll make it there. Maybe go to the movies. Hopefully hear from the LT.

What skill/talent do you wish you had? submitted by The 3 Turners

I wish I were better at painting and more creative. I’m pretty creative, but I’d love to be able to paint a picture or something.

Which came first: the chicken or the egg? submitted by I Married Into The Army

Uhm, well, I guess the chicken. But I really don’t know why…

What is the best thing about your post (base)? The worst? submitted byRandomly, Robyn

Well, the best thing about my post is the fact that it is in HAWAII, and there is a beach in any direction you drive out of it.

The bad part about my post, at least where my house is located, is the loud neighbors and the dogs who bark NON STOP. Oh and the fact that my husband isn’t here.

Wedding Challenge 12

12. favorite part of the day and least favorite part of the day: can be anything.

My favorite part would be saying I Do. And marrying my very best friend, and the most amazing man.

My least favorite part was the end of it all.

Wedding Challenge 11

11. your song and/or the first song you danced to at your wedding: share a music video or lyrics if you can!

I walked down the aisle to Bella’s Lullaby. I honestly can’t remember what we walked out to.
We danced to Boston’s “Amanda” because my father always said that whoever I married had to learn the words before he could.
My father and I danced to Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” because he and my mother danced to that at a Christmas party the year I was born. And the LT and his mother danced to Mariah Carey’s “Hero.”

Wedding Challenge 9 & 10

9. the ceremony and reception: where was it at? show us some pictures! what day did you get married?

We got married at my husband’s church, on Halloween. It was a Saturday. The reception was in the same place. The church is very small and we had less than 100 people. Mostly family. We had a memorial for my great-grandparents, and my husband’s baby sister. Instead of a unity candle we did the sand ceremony. Also, instead of just my father giving me away, we had a special part where all our parents welcomed each of us into their families. We both come from divorced families, so it was something nice to do to combine the families.

his familymy familymy brother put smiley faces in our sand, LOL!
10. the cake/food: i love food. so tell me about what you had at your wedding!

We had the best cakes ever. I was so happy with them. We had finger foods mostly:Shrimp cocktail, Chicken Nuggets, Meatballs, and some other stuff, that I can’t remember, LOL! I showed the cake lady a picture of a cake I loved, and she did an amazing job making one like it. I also wanted to do a surprise cake for the LT, and I knew he was Field Artillery, so I had her put the cross cannons, I was wanting to do a cannon cake, but she was unable to make it, and that was okay. My cake was chocolate and white (alternating tiers) and his cake was strawberry.

Wedding Challenge 6-8

6. the colors: show some of the flower and colors you used

I used Gerbera Daisies and Orchids, my colors were Watermelon (pink) and Clover (green) and Navy. The flowers below are the ones the parents and the LT and the best man wore, my flowers were a combo of all three…I don’t have a good picture of them alone…

7. the dress: was it what you always imagined? did you have it made for you? white or ivory?

The dress was white. I didn’t really know what I imagined, it wasn’t what I had in my mind, but I loved it, it was a halter top with a lot of bead work.

8. the little accessories: you know, veil? shoes? jewelry? what did your bridesmaids wear?

I wore PINK heels, and my veil matched my dress pretty perfectly. My sister was my only bridesmaid, and she wore a Navy dress. I also wore a bracelet my sister made me and I can’t remember what earrings I wore, but that was the extent of my jewelry.

Wedding Challenge 5

5. engagement/bridal pictures: let's see em!

Engagement Shots

Wedding Shots