Detours

Today was extremely stress relieving. Good news all around. Bobby and I were finally able to get some straight answers about our move. We’ve learned that it’s a good rule of thumb to quadruple check whenever possible. Especially when it comes to out processing.

The good news is, we found out we don’t have to drive all the way to Tacoma to ship one of our cars. Woo hoo! Instead, we just have to drop it off at the port in LA on our way to Vegas next week. Which gives the barge an extra week head start. So hopefully we’ll be able to pick up our car fairly soon after we get to our new base.

Because of the changes to our route we’ve decided to make a sightseeing detour. On the second day of our trip we’re gonna watch the sunrise at the Grand Canyon. How cool is that!? Definitely a worth while bypass. The next day, we’re driving…by Yellow.stone. Apparently the park isn’t very pet friendly and we don’t have a camper to leave our puppy in, so no go. Just have to put that trip off for a while. When we are able to visit Yellow.stone we want to make it a worth while trip. At least a week of camping and fishing and exploring. So hopefully we’ll be able to see some wildlife from the road near the park. Growing up in Alaska, where you’re surrounded by massive amounts of wildlife at any given time, I know you can drive for hours and still not see one single squirrel. Still, I’m hoping Montana will be different.

Here’s our new route.

And…I’ve always loved to show this map to people. So many just don’t realize how massive Alaska really is.
The house is just about ready. Just have to finish up some last minute laundry and pack the car. Packers will be here on Thursday and the movers on Friday. Then all we'll be left with is the futon, our suitcases and the laptop. We’re getting down to the wire! Can’t wait!

Lemonade

Well, we’re not gonna get to Alaska as soon as we expected. We were scheduled to start our big move on the 22nd, but we've hit a snag. When Bobby came home from his TDY we started all of our out processing and found out we had been given some incorrect information (by about 50 different people). Bobby’s official final out with this base is still going to be the 21st, but we’re not able to cross the Canadian border until the 1st. Which means, Bobby’s basically forced to take nine days of leave.

The main reason we wanted to leave so early is because Bobby’s ten year high school reunion is the last weekend of July. We’re gonna miss it by less than a week. We’ll probably be stationed in Alaska for three years, so we’ll definitely have another chance to visit Bobby’s hometown. It’s just frustrating that we’re gonna miss such a big event by only a few days. Hopefully his classmates that have made an effort to attend the reunion this year will be able to make it back up in the next few years.

So, we’re doing the only thing we can and just goin’ with it. Bobby and I have decided to make lemonade out of lemons. We’re goin’ to Vegas baby! The day after we were scheduled to start our drive up to Alaska, we’re heading to the Entertainment Capital of the World instead. We’ve got quite a few friends out there and it’s gonna be nice to visit with them before we leave the lower 48.

Last time I was in Vegas I was about 11, so I didn’t really get the real experience. When Bobby was there last he was coaching basketball and didn’t get to go out either. Funny enough, we couldn’t have timed it better. Bo.dies...The Exh.ibition is at the Lu.xor right now and we’ve always wanted to see it. We’re also gonna catch the Cirq.ue Du Sol.eil show Zum.anity. Very excited about that! I’ve seen one Cirq.ue Du Sol.eil show before, but it was just at Six Fla.gs. It'll be great to see the big Vegas show with Bobby.

In addition to that, we're gonna throw in some romance! We’ve always celebrated our anniversaries at a Hawaiian fusion restaurant called Roy’s. Because I had extremely bad morning sickness during our last anniversary, we weren’t able to go. To make up for it, we’re gonna have a special dinner at the Roy’s in Vegas. Especially since there aren't any Roy's locations in Alaska, it'll be really nice to go before we PCS.

So, lots of pictures and stories to come!

Hope And Trust

Today is the day our sweet babies were supposed to be born. For a while now I’ve been nervous about all the pain and emotions flooding back over me. Somehow, today hasn’t seemed as difficult as I expected. I think that’s partially because even in the beginning we were guaranteed an early delivery. Which has made the last month or so hard, not just today.

I still subconsciously reach for my stomach to hold them. Probably something I’ll always do. In the 20 weeks and 2 days since Addison, Ashlyn and Ashton were born I’ve felt out of place. At first even walking seemed wrong, I was supposed to be on bed rest. Just living my day-to-day life seems strange. It still feels like I’m a bad mother because I’m not taking care of my babies like I’m supposed to. This version of parenthood is nothing like what we ever could have imagined.

Another reason today hasn’t been as difficult as I expected is because of the incredible dream Bobby had last night. He dreamt that we were on a boat in the Pacific Ocean somewhere off the coast of Mexico. We had been fishing all day and anchored in a small cove for the night. Bobby and I were talking and looking out at the water when three small sea turtles climbed up on a rock formation close to the boat. It looked as if the turtles were smiling up at us. We asked them if they were okay, they nodded their heads “yes”. We asked if we were going to be okay, and again they nodded their heads “yes” and dove back into the water. When he woke up, Bobby was smiling and had a real sense of peace.

Bobby and I have always felt at peace when we’re close to the ocean. That's one of the main reasons we chose to get married on the beach in Oahu. After the babies were born sea turtles have become very special to us as well. Sea turtles, or honus, are an important part of Hawaiian culture. Female sea turtles are only able to get pregnant every 3-5 years, Bobby and I conceived the triplets after 3 years of infertility treatments. Once they’re pregnant, sea turtles only get to carry their babies for a short time. When the sea turtle babies hatch they make their way to the ocean, just like our triplets did.

I was looking for information about sea turtles in Mexico’s Pacific Ocean and after a few clicks I found this site. I would love so much to experience one of these incredible expedition. Bobby’s dream just might come true, how incredible would that be!? He’s always said he’d like to take me to Mexico. Maybe for a second honeymoon!

To commemorate our babies due date, Bobby and I have decided to go out to dinner at the same restaurant we went to the day we found out we were expecting. Also, because we’re moving soon, we’re going to pack up the babies’ nursery instead of letting the packers do it. We really weren’t comfortable with the idea of someone else going through their belongings anyway, but today just seemed like the right time to do it.

My family has been blessed with some truly incredible friends. This morning, one of those friends wrote this for our family in remembrance of Addison, Ashlyn and Ashton.

Sometimes in God's plan some things are not meant to be. When this happens it is hard for us to understand. May we take consolation and hope and trust in our Fathers love as we continue to serve him in this life knowing that He has a bigger view and perspective than we do, and His love for us is boundless.

My soul is deprived of peace,
I have forgotten what happiness is;
I tell myself my future is lost,
all that I hoped for from the Lord.
But I will call this to mind,
as my reason to have hope:
The favors of the Lord are not exhausted,
his mercies are not spent;
They are renewed each morning,
so great is his faithfulness.
My portion is the Lord, says my soul;
therefore I will hope in him.
-- Lamentations 3:17-18, 21-24

As we recall what might have been and hope for what may be.

These extremely kind words have also helped immensely today. I've read them quite a few times throughout the day. Thank you everyone for your prayers and thoughtfulness. Thank you for remembering our babies and loving them so much.

Happy Fourth!

Happy Fourth of July everyone! Bobby and I spent the first part of the day in the kitchen attempting to make a patriotic cake. Normally, I'm pretty adapt in the kitchen, but for some reason nothing was jiving today. Three cake mixes, two tubs of frosting, two containers of food dye and quite a few curse words later we ended up with a pretty cool looking three layer red white and blue cake. Stars courtesy of Nikki!

After the flour settled in the kitchen we headed over to a friend's house for a BBQ. Gotta love a good ol' fashion American BBQ! Ribs, chicken, steak...mmm mmm good! We had a great time visiting with friends, who we really consider family. Definitely gonna miss them when we leave!

Also, thought I'd share this picture my beautiful cousin took, full moon behind a burst of fireworks in the LA sky.

Hope you all had a safe and happy day celebrating our nation's independence!

So Thoughtful

Today Bobby and I got an incredibly thoughtful and kind surprise from an old friend. Who knew MyS.pace comments could be so moving. Thank you so much Rachael.

Show And Tell: Our Angels' Shadow Box

Make sure to check out what the rest of the class is showing and join in!

As promised, here's our Angels' completed shadow box. I am so proud of how it turned out and it's wonderful to have it finished and displayed in our home. Every single element is symbolic in some way and creating it was very therapeutic. Every once in a while I can't help but tear up when I look at it. It represents how beautiful and precious are babies are, so it makes me smile as well.

So, without further adieu...

The phrase around the top edges reads, "The best & most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart." On the bottom is the babies' birthday, February 18, 2009.

Can you see the angel wings in the clouds? They're always here, watching over us.

Our pearls, our honus in the sea.

Daddy and Mama love you so much Addison, Ashlyn and Ashton. We miss you so much. Thank you for looking over us. Our lives are forever changed and you will always be a wonderful part of who we are.

And One To Grow On July 2009

When we’re young, we love birthdays and usually can’t wait for the next one to come around. We look forward to “growing up.” Yet, once we’re grown, getting older looses it’s appeal and adding another candle to our birthday cake isn’t always easy. Whether we like it or not, that birthday is going to keep coming around. No matter how many birthdays we’ve celebrated, I think it’s safe to say that everyone aspires to live their life to the fullest. Well, there’s no time like the present.

We can choose to celebrate the anniversary of our birth and think of positive ways to improve ourselves. This year, we can start by establishing personal goals to achieve before our next birthday. They can be as simple or as complex as you’d like. Such as drinking more water every day or starting a new business. Life isn’t defined by thoughts, but actions resulting from those thoughts.

Encouragement is always appreciated…and the point really. So, let your fellow bloggers know you’ve got their back by leaving a motivational comment. Each month’s list will be open for submissions until the first of the next month.

Wanna participate? Here’s how it works…

• Add the And One To Grow On icon to your sidebar (click here for the icon code). This helps spread the word and encourages people reading your blog to participate. The more the merrier after all.
• To commemorate your birthday, put together a list of personal goals to achieve in the upcoming year. If you’re turning 25 this year, think of 25 goals then add "one to grow on."
• Once you’ve completed your list of goals, create your And One To Grow On post in your blog. For archiving purposes, please post on or around your birthday.
• Make sure to include: “And One To Grow On” in your post title, the And One To Grow On icon in the body of your post so others can join in.
• Add yourself to the list by filling out this form.
• Then check out posts by other bloggers also celebrating their special day this month. And of course, leave them a comment commending them on their new goals.
• Finally, have a brilliant birthday. Make the whole year a celebration.

To get And One To Grow On off the ground, please feel free to make a goal list and post it even if you've already celebrated your birthday this year.

1. Click here to be the first!

T Minus 24 Hours

Only a ONE more day and my wonderful husband will be home! I know this time apart is a lot shorter than what many other couples/families endure, but it’s difficult just the same. As soon as Bobby gets home our lives will be turned into high gear. After some finagling and finalizing our out processing dates we only have thirteen business days to get everything situated and start our trip. I know we can get it done though.

I think Bobby and I are both ready to start a new chapter. Hopefully one not so traumatic. This last year has really taught us a lot about what we’re capable of individually and as a couple. We’re much more conscious of how our words and actions can affect someone else. Everyone has their own book and we never know what chapter their living.

Right now, change sounds comforting. New possibilities are what’s keeping me going.

I’m starting to get really excited about being back in Alaska. I spent the majority of my childhood there, but I still feel like there was a lot I didn’t take advantage of. I know it may seem odd, but I’ve never even seen a bear in the wild. Not that I’m saying I’d like to walk up on one or have an unwelcome guest at our campsite, but maybe from a safe distance in the car would be pretty cool. Also, deep sea fishing! I am so excited to finally get to do that! Cant wait to pull up my first halibut!

It’s kinda funny how things have worked out. All of the bases Bobby’s been assigned to so far have been in states we’ve already lived in. When Bobby joined the military we assumed we’d get to travel and see new places…no such luck so far. On the other hand, it’s definitely a rare luxury to know what to expect when you move to a new station. Acclimating to all kinds of weather, now that’s a different story!

Fortunately, this weekend is a four day weekend. It’ll be nice to reconnect with Bobby and spend lots of time together before he has to go back to work. Planning on seeing Transformers and doing a little shopping. Lots and lots of errands, but I really do like being out of the house and running around with my man. I just can’t wait to have him home! Tomorrow is seriously going to drag. I think I’ve got enough to fill my day and help distract myself…guess we’ll see!

You Will Be Missed Michael

I don’t think it’s hit me yet. Michael’s gone. So sudden, so sad. He was just under a year older than my mother. That’s really scary.

Bobby and I are quite a bit younger than most of Michael’s fans, but we couldn’t deny his impact on the music world and have always admired his work. We were really looking forward to the possibility of Michael hitting a new stride in his career. He was set to start his comeback tour in London in just a few weeks.

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. However, the hateful, cruel and callous things being said about Michael are just heartbreaking. No matter what anyone thinks of his lifestyle behind the scenes, there’s no denying the incredible impact he had on music as a whole. I think it’s incredibly mean and insensitive of anyone disrespecting his memory.

Bobby and I love his music, that will never change. He is and always will be the King of Pop. Rest in peace Michael. My condolences to his family, friends and fans.

Show and Tell: Chalk Festival

Make sure to check out what the rest of the class is showing and join in!

Saturday I went to the 2009 Pasadena Chalk Festival with a few friends. When we first got there the artists were just getting started and the rain wasn't helping, but we were still able to get lots of great pictures. I especially enjoyed the wide range of artistic styles. Some people were very detailed and created extremely realistic pieces, while others were abstract to say the least. There was even an entire section dedicated to animation style artists. I never knew chalk could be such a versatile medium. Definitely inspired me to dig out my art supplies and get my hands dirty.

Here's a slideshow with some my favorites...

If you live in central/southern California you should definitely plan on attending next years chalk festival. The area has great shopping and some really nice mom and pop style restaurants to enjoy. Check out more pictures of the favorites and this year's festival winners by clicking here.

Also...I've been planning a remembrance shadow box for our babies for a while now. Lauren recently finished her shadow boxes and they came out so beautifully. Seeing them finished inspired me to get into gear and finish ours before we PCS (in only 27 days!). So, here's a sneak peak at what I've completed so far. You can click the image to enlarge it.

The white square is where the picture will be placed and the pearls will go throughout the waves and a couple on the names strip. Can you see the angel wings in the clouds? I love it already and can't wait to see it completed.

Bobby and I have kept the babies' memory box in our room and haven't shared it with anyone. Not sure if we ever will. Our babies are an enormous a part of our lives and we want to include them in a positive way. It'll be a really nice to have a representation of Addison, Ashlyn and Ashton in our home that everyone can see. I plan to hang the shadow box we in our new house in Alaska. Anyone who sees it or asks about it will be someone we're already comfortable enough with to have welcomed into our home.

Speaking of crafts, I haven't made much progress on my quilt. I think I'm actually gonna work on that in the next couple days and get it knocked out before Bobby gets home. Well, seeing as how this is my first quilt I'll finish what I'm able to do. More craft updates to come!

***We have two baby girl angels, Addison and Ashlyn, and a baby boy angel, Ashton. I know it was an honest mistake and that no one commenting on my blog would intentionally leave out our little boy, but it still was difficult to see. I can't help but be sensitive about our triplets, their memory and spirits are all I have.

Happy Father's Day My Love

click picture to enlarge

Show and Tell: Introducing And One To Grow On

Make sure to check out what the rest of the class is showing and join in!

When we’re young, we love birthdays and usually can’t wait for the next one to come around. We look forward to “growing up.” Yet, once we’re grown, getting older looses it’s appeal and adding another candle to our birthday cake isn’t always easy. Whether we like it or not, that birthday is going to keep coming around. No matter how many birthdays we’ve celebrated, I think it’s safe to say that everyone aspires to live their life to the fullest. Well, there’s no time like the present.

We can choose to celebrate the anniversary of our birth and think of positive ways to improve ourselves. This year, we can start by establishing personal goals to achieve before our next birthday. They can be as simple or as complex as you’d like. Such as drinking more water every day or starting a new business. Life isn’t defined by thoughts, but actions resulting from those thoughts.

Encouragement is always appreciated…and the point really. So, let your fellow bloggers know you’ve got their back by leaving a motivational comment. Each month’s list will be open for submissions until the first of the next month.

Wanna participate? Here’s how it works…

• Add the And One To Grow On icon to your sidebar (click here for the icon code). This helps spread the word and encourages people reading your blog to participate. The more the merrier after all.
• To commemorate your birthday, put together a list of personal goals to achieve in the upcoming year. If you’re turning 25 this year, think of 25 goals then add "one to grow on."
• Once you’ve completed your list of goals, create your And One To Grow On post in your blog. For archiving purposes, please post on or around your birthday.
• Make sure to include: “And One To Grow On” in your post title, the And One To Grow On icon in the body of your post so others can join in.
• Add yourself to the list by filling out this form.
• Then check out posts by other bloggers also celebrating their special day this month. And of course, leave them a comment commending them on their new goals.
• Finally, have a brilliant birthday. Make the whole year a celebration.

To get And One To Grow On off the ground, please feel free to make a goal list and post it even if you've already celebrated your birthday this year.

1. Click here to be the first!

How Are You Doing?

Last night, like many other nights, I laid awake in bed with thoughts swarming through my mind. Sleep escaped me. I couldn’t get a particular conversation out of my mind. One of my good friends “A” and I had been talking about one of her and my husband’s coworkers, “N”.

N is generous and thoughtful, constantly putting others before herself. Her beautiful smile is always present, ready to light up a room. N lost her husband and the father of her young son in the beginning of last year. When we met her earlier this year, I had no idea she had experienced such tragedy. My heart went out to her when I learned what had happened and I couldn’t imagine being able to go on the way she has. She has such a positive glow about her.

Right after the babies were born I didn’t want to be around anyone but my husband. I needed to be able to break down and cry with no inhibitions. Fortunately, we have some really incredible friends and family who we were able to turn to. Conversation with them became easier, even through the tears. Those select few were the only people we were able to be completely real with. When they asked how we were doing, we were honest. After the initial shock wore off, most people stopped asking. They returned to their own lives and we were left to sort out ours.

From time to time we’re approached with the question again and it’s been difficult for me to figure out the right answer. I feel that, for the most part, Bobby and I are doing pretty well. We love and miss our children terribly and always will. We’ve had to come to terms with the reality we’re left with. Addison, Ashlyn and Ashton will always be a part of who we are. Their lives, however brief, were full of love.

People brace themselves for an inconsolable response but when your answer is acceptance it throws them off. I've learned that few people know how to react to someone admitting their pain, but they seemingly don’t know how to respond to acceptance either. Apparently, there’s no middle ground. Because of this, I’ve felt awkward answering honestly about our new emotions and perspective. I was afraid that if I wasn't completely distraught 100% of the time people would perceive that as disrespectful of our babies' memories.

That is, until last night. I kept thinking about N. When N moved here she had to face the typical newcomer questions, just as Bobby and I will when we get to Alaska. While I’m sure there are still times when she breaks down, N has shown me that it’s ok to be outwardly happy again. Our emotions aren’t up for debate. Any of the preconceived notions people have about our grief, or grief in general, just don’t matter.

Our outlook on life is completely different than it was just four months ago, but that doesn’t mean our future can’t be happy.

Slowed To A Crawl

Bobby left for TDY (temporary duty) last Saturday. He doesn’t get back until the 1st of July and I miss him like crazy. The last time we were apart for any length of time was his basic training two years ago. Those six weeks were torture. Fortunately I was close to my family then and was pretty well distracted most of the time. Since Saturday, time has literally slowed to a crawl.

Run down of the last few days…

• Grocery shopping for one takes a completely different approach then shopping for two. I’ve never bought just a ½ gallon of milk before now.
• Cooking entire meals is just awkward. Smoothies seem to be a good alternative.
  
• Motivating myself to work out is a lot harder than having Bobby here to push me. I’m very proud to say that I’ve stuck with it and have exercised at least an hour every day since he’s been gone.
• Having someone else to put away the laundry is much nicer than doing it yourself. Thank you honey!
  
• Apparently, the grass won’t stop growing while your husband is out of town. I had my fingers crossed.
  
• I really think our dog is laughing at me every time I try to get her to do something. Apparently I don't get her humor.
  
• I still haven’t filled up the dishwasher to run a load. Sweet!
  
• Sleeping on his side of the bed is sweet and all, but it doesn’t really help. His pillow still smells like him though, so that's nice.
  
• I have a new found respect for families who have to go through TDYs and deployments frequently. I am not looking forward to that part of Bobby’s career.
• Staring at a computer screen does not make the time go by faster. I've been very dedicated to testing this theory, I'll let you know if the results change.
  
• This house makes a lot more strange noises when Bobby’s not here.
  
• Actually going to bed is a lot harder than it sounds. Staring at the computer or tv screen is much easier than staring at the dark in the bedroom.
• Dragging a full size couch out to the curb makes the neighbors stare and wave, not offer to help. (don’t worry, we donated the furniture that was in good condition) I couldn't help but laugh to myself and wave back.
  
• Getting ready for our 3rd military move with Bobby out of state is kinda nerve-wracking. Definitely doable though.
  
• A girls night is definitely in order. Good booze and chick chat always helps!
• I’m doing better than I thought I would be. Don't get me wrong, I miss Bobby immensely. Fortunately, a few minutes on the phone goes a long way.

As soon as my knight in shining dress blues gets back we have twelve business days to get all of our out processing done and get on the road. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel…can’t wait to get out of here and start the next chapter. Hopefully this one will end with “…and they lived happily ever after.” I love you honey, you're my hero.

5, 7, 5

Ron Moss

When I came across this picture all I could do was stare. It says so much in so few words. To me, hope seems to emanate from it. Chopped down after years of challenges, recorded in the rings. Permanent roots dug deep with conviction. Revival from tragedy.

Love x 7

I got my first blog award! Thank you so much Michelle!

The rules of accepting this award are simple: list seven things you love, and pass the award to seven bloggers you love.

Seven things I LOVE!!!

1. My wonderful husband Bobby.
I know I’ve said this before, but Bobby is quite literally my heart and soul. He gives me the strength to wake up and face each new day. Our relationship is so much more than I could have ever imagined as a little girl when I dreamed of my Prince Charming. Bobby is the one of the strongest people I know. He has been through so much in his life and chooses to use those difficult experiences in a positive way. I love you honey, and thank you for loving me so much.

2. My family and friends.
I am surrounded by some truly amazing and supportive people. I am so appreciative that so many people from so many different walks of life have graced my with their friendship. Each and every one of you have helped me in your own unique way. I love you all.

3. The Air Force.
I am very grateful for all of the opportunities the Air Force has opened up for Bobby and I. Our future is so dramatically different that it was a few years ago before Bobby joined. The extended family we are now a part of has such an amazing camaraderie. We’re in it for the long haul and wouldn’t have it any other way.

4. Cooking.
I have always enjoyed being in the kitchen. I love creating a meal for others to enjoy and seeing their reactions. Fortunately, I love just about any kind of food and am always willing to try new things. Which is the reason I’m the epitome of the old saying, “never trust a skinny cook”.

5. Art and Design.
This has always been my passion. I have so many ideas flying around in my head sometimes it’s hard to organize them all. Because of this, I have a lot of unfinished projects. This fall I’m finally going to pursue my dream of becoming a designer. I’m starting college!

6. Traveling.
Together, Bobby and I have lived in 7 different towns in 5 different states in approximately 9 ½ years. Only two of those years have been with the Air Force. I guess we just get antsy and want to move on to explore a new place. The military life definitely suits us! I have always been extremely curious about the world around me and would really like to see more of the world.

7. My Cell Phone.
Maybe this seems like a strange thing to love, but I definitely can’t be without it. I feel so disconnected from everything if for some reason I don’t have it with me. Everything from my news updates to my e-mail and birthday reminders are stored away in my phone.

Now on to 7 blogs I LOVE...in no particular order.
Little Bluebirds Fly - Every time I see bluebirds or a rainbow I think of you.
B a b y B o u n d - I'm proud to be a "muppet".
Lauren's Blog - Thank you for all of your inspirational words and encouragement. I look forward to getting to know each other better, being a shoulder to lean on as well as sharing our future triumphs.

The Angry Infertile -You're not crazy and thank you for taking all of us with you!
The chronicles of an incompetent cervix - Your journey and positive outlook has given Bobby and I so much hope for the future. I think of you, your boys and your little girl often.
Through the eyes of a Stranger - I'm tagging you back!
Busted Babymaker - Hoping that your "happy again someday" is soon.

Grab My Blog Button!

I finally made a blog button! Thanks to my awesome friend Lisa letting me use her Pho.tos.hop I was able to make a button for all of you to add to your sites. So, please do! You can get the code from my left sidebar or by clicking here. Hope you like it!

8x8 All About Me

I GOT TAGGED!

THE RULES:

• Mentioned who tagged you: Stefanie over at Through the eyes of a Stranger
• Complete the list of 8’s
• Tag 8 people

8 THINGS I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO:

• Moving to Alaska...believe it or not, back to civilization.
  
• Losing more weight...2lbs down so far.
  
• Finally starting school this fall.
  
• Starting TTC again...lots of different emotions there.
• My crafts...finishing my first quilt and starting my digital scrapbooking.
• Getting my hair hair done in a cute new style...hopefully soon.
  
• Making it through our first TDY...and have Bobby back
  
• Renewing our vows.

8 THINGS I DID YESTERDAY

• Had a super delish breakfast made by my awesome honey.
• Finally made a dent in the laundry.
  
• Went to the movies...saw Angels and Demons, very good movie!
• Finalized our PCS trip itinerary and budget.
• Kicked back and caught up on our DVR'd shows.
  
• Ate way too much cheesecake...but it was soooo good!
  
• Worked on the yard.
  
• Forgot to cut Bobby's hair.

8 THINGS I WISH I COULD DO

• I wish I was a little bit taller...I wish I was a balla...I wish I had a girl who looked good I would call her...I wish I had a rabbit in a hat with a bat and a six four impala.
  
• Ok, seriously...My deepest wish is to conceive, carry and give birth to a healthy baby.
  
• Become a great designer.
  
• Finish the ever-growing mountain of books I'm currently reading.
• Speak another language.
• Buy our own house and start building equity.
• Travel...a lot.
  
• Have a better relationship with certain family members.
  
• Win the lotto.

8 SHOWS I WATCH

• Grey's Anatomy
• Army Wives
• Private Practice
  
• Top Chef
• Dog The Bounty Hunter
  
• Deadliest Catch
  
• Fringe
• Charmed

8 FAVORITE FRUITS

• Pineapple
• Strawberries
• Bananas
• Red Grapes
• Apples
• Oranges
• Blueberries
• Kiwi

8 PLACES I’D LIKE TO TRAVEL

• Australia/New Zealand
  
• Puerto Rico/Caribbean
  
• Brazil/Peru
• Italy
• Africa
• France
• Panama/Costa Rica
• Japan

8 PLACES I’VE LIVED

• Fairbanks, Alaska
• Dallas, Texas
  
• Colorado Springs, Colorado
• Hilliard, Ohio
• Austin, Texas
  
• Sheppard AFB, Texas
• Vandenberg AFB, California
• That's it so far...moving to my eighth place in July.

8 FOLKS I’M TAGGING

• MrsMuelly at The Chronicles of an Incompetent Cervix
• Nancy at The Reiber's - Remembering Our Triplet Angels
• Angela at Third Time's A Charm
• Laura at The Fiegels
• Jeanne at And Baby Makes Three
• Michelle at To Baby and Beyond
• G$ at Makes you stronger
• Kathy at B a b y B o u n d

Tag you’re it!

On The Road Again...In 57 Days

Bobby and I just mapped out our drive up to Alaska. Looks like we’ll be on the road for just over 75 hours. I know, not too bad right? Just another weekend getaway. Or…something like that.

We’ve driven the across the country together many, many times. In fact, this will be Bobby’s fifth and my fourth time driving the ALCAN, our third time together. For one reason or another we keep getting pulled back to The Last Frontier.

Fortunately, because of the assistance (and restrictions) of the Air Force, we won’t be driving very long each day. We’re dividing up the 4,435 miles into 8 stops. First two days we’ll be in two different cars in order to put one on a cargo barge in Tacoma. We’ve got a little maintenance to do on the older car just to make her road trip worthy, but we’ll get there. Thank goodness we were able to get our new car! (thank you my Mama, we love yas!)

After we drop of the car at the dock we’ll be in one car and able to really enjoy the ride. We have three stops in Canada alone. The drive is really gorgeous, especially in the fall. Our fist stop in Alaska is at one of our best friend’s house. From there we’re onto Bobby’s hometown for the weekend. The little village tucked back in the woods has a yearly bluegrass festival and this year also represents Bobby’s ten year high school reunion. After that, we’re new homeward bound!

If anyone knows of any must see landmarks, attractions or great eats please share! We’re still in the process of finalizing our hotels for the trip. I’m gonna check out Fo.od Net.work’s suggestions for places to stop, I love Din.ers, Dri.ve-in.s and Di.ves!

So here’s the map of our route…
I also noticed today that the countdown widget I’ve got on my blog (upper right-hand corner) seems to be a little off. Not sure what “1 month & 4 weeks” means, but as of today we have 57 days to go.
I have seen a few Angel Baby parents ask their friends to write their babys’ names in a creative way and share the pictures. There are some beautiful examples at My Baby Butterfly Ella. I’m not sure exactly what yet, but I’d like to do something along those lines to represent our babies traveling with us (I’m open to ideas). We’re of course taking the babies’ memory box in the car with us. I think it will be difficult to leave because our babies were conceived, carried and born here. The Air Force will take us all around the world and I know they will always be with us. No matter what, there will always be a special connection to this area.

I’m starting to get anxious and really excited. The whole PCS process can be extremely stressful and frustrating at times. This is where my organization skills come in handy! From now until a few months after we arrive at our new base we’ll be out-processing and in-processing. Basically a whole ton of paperwork repeated over and over and over again. Of course, nothing ever goes smoothly. Bobby just got assigned to augmentee duty night shifts for at least two weeks, possibly an entire month. All the of the offices we have to visit in order to get out of here are open during the day. Looks like we’ll be pulling some double shifts.

On a side note…I’ve recently gotten into digital scrapbooking. For all of you crafters out there, this is definitely a much less expensive and, most importantly, green way to scrapbook. Once we get settled in Alaska I’m gonna make a couple few pages to commemorate our move. Of course, I have lots of other events I need to scrapbook as well…so they’ll be in the works too. All those crafty things will be documented in my new blog, Makin’ Waves.