Love, love, love this song!

As we prepare to say good bye to Nutz for the 3rd time this deployment, this song is PERFECT! Thank you to my friend, Lisa, for sharing it with me.

CC's First Dance Recital

Thank you, Miss Nancy, for a great Christmas dance recital. As you can see, CC LOVES to sing and dance.

Santa visits early!

Daddy is visiting so Santa told Regan he'd come to our home early so she could celebrate with him.

Daddy is home!

Daddy is Visiting!

Right on, Maxine!

God Bless America

Can you relate?

If you're a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, babysitter, etc., I bet you can relate to this cartoon.

Source: For Better or For Worse website

"45 Lessons Life Taught Me"

Written By Regina Brett, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio

"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written."

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12 It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye.. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special. 22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don't take yourself so seriously.. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40 If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's,

we'd grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need

42. The best is yet to come.

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

Sketch from Photo

Check out this great website that will convert your photo into a pencil sketch, along with some other types of interesting pictures.

Our Diva!

This morning, CC dressed herself for school. It was a "pink and brown" day. She's quite the fashion statement, I think.

Deuce is 6 months!

Well, our little boy is getting to be such a big boy. He's starting to sit by himself, a little wobbly though. And, he got his first tooth! At his appointment, he weighed 20 lbs and was 27 inches long.

Arts and Crabs

CC to mommy: "Can we do arts and crabs?"

I love his laugh!

My oh my!

I told CC that I was going downstairs to feed Deuce. She asked, "Does he want boob?" Where does she get this stuff?

CC wanted to paint using her watercolors. I told her, "DO NOT take the paints outside of this room (the office)." She said, "They don't have legs to walk." Smarty pants!

"CC, go to the bathroom. Hurry, hurry." "Mommy, I can only do one thing at a time!" (as she shakes her head at me)

The Tooth Fairy

I overheard CC as she wrote a note to the Tooth fairy: "Tooth fairy, please don't take my tooth until I'm 4 months (think she meant years) old." The note is now under her pillow.

Breaking News:

The Tooth Fairy visited CC last night and left her a note. It read: Dear CC, Thank you for the note. I won't take your tooth until it falls out. Don't worry, you have a few years before this happens. Love, The Tooth Fairy.

Other sayings...

"Mommy, you're really good at ponytails." CC - September 24, 2010

Where does she learn this stuff?

CC just asked me if today was Friday (she gets to bring her school work home today). When I told her yes, she got very excited and said, "Yay! I have lots of drawings to show you. They are for papa, grammy, my cousins, and all of the people in my life."

A fun day at the farm!

After several days of being cooped up in the house due to sickness, we decided to venture out of the house. We made a trip to the Hunt Club Farm with Chris and Skylar. As you can see from the pictures, CC and Deuce had a great time!

Go Pink!

Nutz and CC were talking via Google video. Nutz told her, "Go Blue!" She promptly responded, "Go Pink."

Restoring Honor Rally: My Personal Story

On Saturday, August 28, I attended the Restoring Honor Rally with my 3 year old and 5 month old. When my husband and I first heard about this event, we knew that we’d attend. However, right before Christmas, my husband found out that he’d been mobilized and would be heading overseas after the first of the year for a year-long deployment. I promised him, and myself, that I’d still make the trip to Washington D.C. to attend the Restoring Honor Rally. I knew it’d be hard with two children in tow, but I also knew that I needed to be there to represent all the people that couldn’t attend, like my husband.

I was fortunate to have some “adopted parents/grandparents” who were making the trip and allowed my family of three to “tag along.” We left the Norfolk area on Friday, August 27 around noon and arrived in D.C. later that afternoon. My three year old, CC, was excited to attend this “party” for which we had been invited by Glenn Beck. Believe it or not, she knows who Glenn Beck is and can easily recognized his face on television and his voice on the radio.

We woke around 6 am on Saturday, dressed, packed the double stroller and backpack, and headed to the Lincoln Memorial. I’m sure that I was a sight to see: I had my 5 month old strapped to my front in the baby carrier and my backpack of baby/toddler goodies strapped on my back. And, a toddler holding my hand and pulling me along to the “party.” We joined Grandma Kathie and Papa John and started our 2-mile trip to the Restoring Honor Rally. I knew there would be a lot of people in attendance, but I was still amazed at the number of people that walked with us. As we neared the Washington Monument, I was in awe at the number of people making their way to the Lincoln Memorial. When we made it to the Washington Monument around 7:00 am, I could see that none of us latecomers were going to even get close to the Lincoln Memorial. We didn’t mind, we were going to get as close as we could. What mattered is that we were there. We ended up under the trees near the Vietnam Memorial.

As we recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang the National Anthem, I was extremely proud to be an American. CC stood proudly next to me and sang every word as she held her hand over her heart. Tears welled in my eyes as I listened to the people around me sing and show their patriotism.

With a husband serving our GREAT country overseas, this day had special meaning for me. I made shirts for both of my children. Deuce’s onesie had a picture of his daddy and read: “My daddy is serving his country, but my mommy brought my big sister and me.” CC’s shirt had the same picture and read: “My daddy is serving his country, but my mommy brought my little brother and me.” Since Nutz couldn’t be with us, in person, we brought my daughter’s daddy doll. Her daddy doll has a picture of Nutz in his flight suit on one side and his civilian clothes on the other side. So, even though he couldn’t attend the rally in person, he was still with us.

We met and talked with people from all over the United States. The family next to us had been on a motor home vacation and attended the event with their two young children. While waiting in line for the restroom, my daughter and I talked with a gentleman who had driven his motor home from Washington State to attend the event with his 13-year-old grandson. I also talked with people from Utah, Florida, Hawaii, California, Virginia and Maryland, to name a few. Some people drove, while others flew and rode the train.

I’m so glad that my children and I attended the Restoring Honor Rally. It truly was a historical event and one that I’ll be able to look back on and say, “We were there.” God Bless America!

CC Dreams

This morning CC awoke at 5:25 am. She quickly informed me that she couldn't sleep because she dreamed that her daddy wasn't here.

More CC sayings...

CC looked at one of our wedding pictures and said to me: "That was you when you married my handsome daddy."

CC to mommy after I finished dressing for work: "Mommy, you're missing something. You need a necklace."

Funny Stuff...

Mommy to CC: Did you toot?
CC to mommy: I think it was daddy in Djibouti.

Happy Anniversary, Nutz!

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. ~Mignon McLaughlin

CC's take on marriage

CC to mommy: "Daddy married you because you are a princess. You're going to have a happy versary (anniversary)."

Yes, Nutz and I will celebrate six years of marriage on Sunday.

My sweet girl...

Tonight at bedtime, CC said to me: "Mommy, I'm going to dream about daddy tonight. And, Cinderella's castle, too." :-)

A Sunday with Friends

Today we spent the day with the Broussard and Behr families. It was a fun-filled day of sun and swimming.

Deuce Rolls Overs

This morning while playing on the floor with CC and me, Deuce decided to roll over for the first time. And as luck would have it, I had turned away. CC said to me, "Mommy, G just rolled over." He had. I'll try to get a video or at least a picture when it happens next time.

Check out CC's writing....

she's getting pretty darn good at it!

Makes sense to me.

Source: http://flowingdata.com/

The Purple Crayon (or CC's interpretation of a purple crayon)

Today, my sweet child decided to give herself a haircut AND color her face purple. No, not at the same time. The haircut was on Ms. Amy's watch and the purple face was on my watch. In fact, I sat in the chair and let her do it! I figured, why fight it? It will wash out and she was really having a fun time making me laugh. After she was finished coloring her face, I told her to go to the bathroom to look at herself in the mirror. She exclaimed, "Mommy, I look like a purple crayon."

Our trip to the Outerbanks

Last week, we took a week-long trip to the Outerbanks with Bonnie and Bella. It was nice to get away BUT, it's certainly no vacation when you've got a toddler and baby AND no husband around. We missed you Nutz!

The Dinner Diva: Cherish your Children by Leanne Ely

Indulge me for a moment, will you? Today's column is more about food for the soul, than for the tummy.

Years ago, I was watching TV and I saw a commercial for diapers. I don't remember the entire context of it, but the commercial showed a baby in the crib, then, later, as a toddler learning to use his pull-up diapers and go potty like a big boy.

I almost got teary over that commercial! I don't know what it was about that ad that landed so hard in my heart. After sleeping on it all night, I realized exactly what it was.

I spent a good portion of my children's childhoods wishing it away. Instead of cherishing the moments, I would say to myself, "This is so hard. It will be so much easier when they're older."

My children are there, now, at 18 and 20 years old. They're close in age, 21 months apart. When they were little, I had double everything: stroller, car seats, diapers, you name it. Their babyhoods were a blur — I was nursing one and trying to keep another happy. I was tired, stressed out and wanted motherhood to be easy and perfect — like it is in magazines. The reality was quite the opposite: I was overwhelmed and spent an inordinate amount of time looking ahead instead of loving their sweet heads. "When they are older, THEN I will (fill in the blank)."

Why am I telling you this? Because I have guilt and regret and can't move forward? No, it's because I finally realized that even if I did wish away too much time when they were babies, now that they have gone away to school, I thoroughly cherish each moment that I have with them. Oh sure, there were times they were rotten and need straightening out, but I am not trying to tell you that life becomes perfect when you're looking wistfully back on their childhoods. The root of all discontent, however, is expecting "perfect" out of anyone (child or adult) or any situation; I am thankful I learned that while they were still home.

Here's a way to put this important lesson into practice: instead of constantly trying to correct and PERFECT your children's table manners, consciously try to have a dinner table that welcomes the stories about your son's day, your daughter's dreams and laugh together! My heart's memory book is filled with memories from those kind of interactions and (thankfully) not the guilt of nagging at them constantly.

My children grew quickly and were gone before I knew it. One thing that really helped me enjoy them and love them each day was breaking bread each night together at the table. Having dinner together not only blesses those at the table, but it blesses the hands that make it.

Wherever you are in your journey as a mother, you can begin to cherish your babies now — no matter what age, even if they have children of their own! You are still a mother and you still have moments, God willing, left to cherish. The past is one thing we can do nothing about, but we have today!

Take a moment today and look at your children's faces and understand that they are there in your care by divine appointment. It is no accident that God gave you that child or those children. They were hand selected to belong to your family — no one else's. What a gift!

So tonight, when you are gathered 'round your family dinner table, thank God for giving you each child even if you can see their tonsils with mouths full of spaghetti. Treasure your sweet children and love them like there is no tomorrow. They are gifts to be cherished at each meal, with each moment.

Happy Birthday America!

Letter to daddy

Mommy to CC: What are you doing (as she rummages through my closet in the office)? CC to mommy: I'm picking out a birthday card for my daddy. :-)

As she was writing on the card she was talking aloud. She said: I love my daddy. He's part of my family. He needs to come home from Djibouti forever.

M&Ms

Mommy to CC: What would you like for dinner? CC to Mommy: I'm eating M&Ms for dinner.

I'm so exhausted that I'm okay with this. :-)

A friend from high school sent this to me...

Letter to a Military Spouse

While I have never had the pleasure of meeting you or your husband, I felt the need to write you and express a very deep feeling that I have in my heart.
I, as a person, am not brave. I do not tackle things head on, as I hate confrontation. I will travel 100 miles out of my way just to avoid a conflict. I am an American woman that has no idea what is going on in the military other than what I hear on the news.

I have never had to let go of someone so that they could go fight for people that they didn't know, people that sometimes do not appreciate or understand what they are fighting for.

I have never had a sleepless night of worry because of a report that another bomb has exploded and I still haven't heard from my husband.

I have never had to wait for months on end to hold the one that I loved so.

I have never had to tell my children that daddy wasn't coming home tonight because he was so far away fighting for something that they aren't yet old enough to understand.

I have never had to hold my head high and suppress the tears as I hear that it will be at least another six months of separation before my loved one gets to come home.

I have never had to deal with a holiday away from the one that I thought I would share every day of my life with.

And I have never had to feel the panic rising in my heart at the sound of a ringing phone or knock at the door for fear that it is the news that everyone is terrified of getting.

For the reasons listed above, I can not tell you that I understand how you feel. I can not tell you that you must be strong. I can not say that you shouldn't be angry, because you "knew what you were getting into when you married a military man". I can not say these things because I have never had to walk in your shoes.

What I can say for certain is that because of your unselfish acts of bravery and your husbands willingness to stand up for those who see him as "just another soldier" - - I will never have to walk in your shoes.

I do understand that as a military wife you are expected to uphold a certain amount of control, but I never understood how you could do it, until now. I have figured out that you are not like other women. You are of a special breed. You have a strength within you that holds life together in the darkest of hours, a strength of which I will never possess. The faith you have is what makes you stand out in a crowd; it makes you glow with emotion and swell with pride at the mention of The United States of America.

You are a special lady, a wonderful partner and a glorious American.

I have more respect for your husband than I could ever tell you, but until recently I never thought much about those that the soldier leaves at home during deployment.

Until this moment I could never put into words exactly what America meant to me.

Until this moment, I had no real reason to.... Until I heard of you.

Your husband and his military family hold this nation close, safe from those who wish to hurt us...but you and those like you are the backbone of the American family. You keep the wheels in motion and the hearts alive while most would just break completely down. Military families make this nation what it is today.

You give us all hope and you emit a warming light at the end of a long dark tunnel.

Because of you and your family...I am able to be me. I am able to have my family. I am able to walk free in this great land. Because of you and your family, I can look ahead to the future with the knowledge that life is going to be okay. Because of you and your family, I can awake to a new day, everyday.

I realize that you are a stronger person than I will ever be because of these things and I just wanted to take the time today to say thank you to you and your family for allowing me that freedom.

I will never be able to repay this debt to you, as it is unmatchable. However, I hope that you know that no matter where you are...what you are doing...what has happened today...or what will happen tomorrow...Your husband will NEVER be "just another soldier" to me.... And you, dear sweet lady, will never be forgotten.

You are all in my prayer's everyday and I pray that God will bring you back together with your loved one safely.

May God Bless You!

(Author Unknown)

Daddy's Little Girl

Rest in Peace, Dr. Arana

Today, our good friend, Jose, lost his father to cancer. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family! We love you!

Happy Father's Day, Nutz!

We love you!

Happy Father's Day, Big Ira

Happy Father's Day, Big Ira! Thanks for being such a GREAT dad and papa all of these years! We love you!

Our Little Ballerina

Snow White, the Gardener

Mommy's Little Boy

You look so distinguished.

CC was dressed in her ballerina costume this morning. As she looked at herself in the mirror she said, "You look so distinguished." Yes, she was talking to herself.

My Sweet Boy

Birthday Dinner

Tonight, we celebrated CC's birthday with her friend, Bella.

Happy 3rd Birthday, CC!

We love you, CC!

CC's 3rd Birthday Party

The New Play Set (Pictures)

The New Play Set (Video)

Sweet Singing

Our Little Gardener

CC is CRAZY!

Princess Potty Party

Today we (Bonnie, Bella, CC and I) had a princess potty party at our house. Auntie Anne was visiting so she, too, was here to participate in the festivities. It was a LOOOONG day but a successful day!

To see the book that we used, go to Teri Crane's website.

Potty Party Videos

Watch these videos, too!
Is that poop I smell?
Sitting on the Potty

Mother's Day

Mother's Day was GREAT! I have two of the most beautiful children and the greatest husband EVER! CC potted some flowers and painted the pot for me. She also made me a beautiful Mother's Day card. Nutz had the most beautiful roses delivered and my in-laws sent some chocolate-covered cherries! Yummy!

We spent the afternoon at the Behr's for a bbq. As always, it was a great time!

CC's Art Show

Today, we attended CC's art show at her school. As you can tell from the pictures, she is quite the artist AND she's very proud of her work.

CC and the Dinner Table

CC loves to be mommy's helper. In the picture below, she set the table while we had company.

Deuce is growing!

Today I had to move from the newborn diapers to size 1. How'd I know? I was holding baby brother and the pee leaked out of the diaper and onto me. He's also getting too big for the newborn clothes. So, I've started packing those away and dressing him in the 0-3 months size.

Yay for rich boob milk!

Deuce Weight Update!

At the doctor today, Garrett weighed 9.12 lbs. He's gained 3 lbs in 5 weeks. That's our boy!

Happy 9th Birthday, Cayleb!

Happy Birthday!

Today is Deuce's one month birthday! We love you!

Message from daddy...

Thank you, granny!

My grandmother (CC and Deuce's great-grandmother) stayed with us for the past 2 1/2 weeks. She was A LOT of help and I could NOT have made it without her. THANK YOU!

April Pictures

Silvia's 2nd Birthday

Today we celebrated Silvia's 2nd birthday. Here are the pictures...



Happy Birthday, Silvia!

A message from daddy....

Our First Family Picture

Deuce's First Doctor's Appointment

Deuce is here!

Deuce joined the Nutz and Crackerz family on Sunday, March 28 at 10:19 am. He weighed in at 6 lbs and was 20 inches long. He was welcomed into the world by his big sister, Crazy Crumbz. As you can see in the pictures, she is CRAZY about her "baby brother."

Day 8: Emotional Day for Mommy

Perhaps it was shear exhaustion after a busy Saturday, but for some reason today was an emotional one for me.

CC and I stayed in our pjs until 11 or so. We enjoyed a quiet morning hanging out with each other. That included breakfast (well, she didn't eat but I did), playing, "working" on the computer (CC on her laptop and me on my Mac), and a video conference with daddy (no audio though since there were people still sleeping in his "room").

CC and I had a few errands that we needed to get done today. She's making a surprise for her daddy and we had to pick up some items from the store. She's super cute when she talks about the surprise. We met grandma Kathie for lunch and, as always, enjoyed her company.

We were able to talk to daddy several times during the day, something that won't happen as often once he heads overseas. So, we're enjoying every call/video conference we have with him.

We spent the afternoon with the Arana family. It's been a couple of weeks since CC has seen the girls so she was very excited. In fact, when we turned onto one of the streets near their house CC exclaimed, "I'm so excited!" When we arrived, the Arana girls came running upstairs to see CC. I'd say they were really excited to see her, too. As always, the girls played and played and played. Laura fixed us a nice grilled chicken salad that was yummy and she bathed CC so I wouldn't have to when we got home. Thank you for everything. Thanks for letting me get teary-eyed when talking about Z (you know how I hate to cry in front of people)! You guys are great friends and we love you!

As you know, we had the "spring forward" last night. So, I thought it'd be wise to NOT let CC take a nap. That way, she'd be ready to go to bed at the new 7:00. She was tired BUT she was also very cranky. She cried for her milkie the entire way home and was very whiny when we got here. She calmed down once she had her milk and we read stories in her bed. I was only able to read a few before she drifted off to sleep. I'm so thankful to have such a sweet girl! She really is a lot like her daddy! I love you both more than you'll ever know! Hugs and kisses!!

Day 7: A Very Busy Day

for Crackerz and Crazy Crumbz.

Bonnie and Bella came over before the parade and we enjoyed breakfast cooked by mommy. Granted, it wasn't daddy's cooking but it was good. After breakfast, we made our way to the parade. It was really overcast and looked like it might rain at any time. We didn't care, we were going no matter what. We parked the cars at the beach parking lot and walked to the parade. We were smart enough to bring the girl's strollers so they'd have somewhere to sit. We were NOT smart enough to bring a chair for us. There were a LOT of people at the parade but we found a great spot at the corner where the parade turns off the main drag. And, talk about people watching. There were some really interesting people at the parade...both watching and participating. I still think that we need to get a group together and build a float. We'll need to come up with a really creative name and theme. I think we could do it!

"Daddy" went to the parade with us also and I think both he and CC had a good time.

After the parade, we came back to our house and let the girls play for awhile. It's fun to listen to them problem solve over sharing toys, princess dresses, etc. :-)

I was exhausted so I tried to get CC to take a nap with me. NOT! However, I did get her to lay with me for about an hour so I could rest. I needed to rejuvenate for our afternoon St. Patrick's Day party.

Prior to leaving for the party, we were able to have a videoconference with daddy. As always, it's great to "see" and talk to Nutz. CC LOVES it!

The party was a BLAST as always! The food was GREAT and the company was AWESOME! CC is quite the social butterfly; I'm not sure where she gets that trait?! I don't think she slowed down once we arrived. She was so excited to see all of her friends: Ben, Nate, Caroline, Jacob, AJ, Skylar, and Bella. They played outside for the majority of the time. Thank goodness the weather was GREAT! Towards the end of the evening, Bonnie and I took the girls inside. They found the beads and some wild hats. You can only imagine how much fun they had. Take a look for yourself.

"Daddy" seemed to enjoy the party, too.

Our long day ended with a quick bath, some books, and a phone call from daddy! It's always nice to end our day talking with daddy! We love you!




Tomorrow is another day and who knows what CC and I will get into...

Day 6: Friday

It's Friday! As much as I'd like to say I'm excited, I'm not. The nights and weekends are always the hardest when Nutz is away. However, we do have a busy Saturday planned so that helps make the time go by.

This morning when CC woke up the first thing she asked me was "where's my daddy?" I reminded her that he was in South Carolina. Her reply, "near Nancy." For those of you who don't know, Ms. Amy's daughter is Nancy and she lives in SC. I think it made CC feel better knowing that her daddy had a "friend" nearby.

Time to get dressed before we go downstairs...CC chose a short-sleeved green/brown dress and wanted to wear brown sweat pants. I FINALLY was able to talk her out of the sweat pants and put on brown tights. BUT, I was not able to talk her out of socks and tennis shoes. She told me that she needed to wear the socks and shoes to help her run fast at school. Okay, who am I to argue with that?

It was another rainy morning so CC wore her mermaid raincoat. I do believe that she'd wear it every day even if it's not raining. P.S. I hid her yellow rain boots so she wouldn't want to wear those with her cute green/brown dress. Next on my list is to hide all of the heavy jackets (once it warms up) and other items that I don't want available for her to choose from. I know, bad mommy.

CC had a nice day. She went to school and Ms. Amy picked her up. From there, they went to the gym (had lunch in the car) and then played for an hour. Afterwards, they spent some time at Ms. Amy's house. CC LOVES to go to Ms. Amy's house after school.

I, on the other hand, spent the morning at the chiropractor. My back and right hip are KILLING me. I don't remember having these issues when I was pregnant with CC but then again, I wasn't 38 years old either. Anyway, doc did his adjustments and Tasha spent 1 1/2 hours with some deep tissue massage. I'd like to say that it's a relaxing time but it's NOT! I feel like I've had a good workout when I'm done. I thought the chiropractic adjustment would help my headache! NOT! Guess the headache wasn't from my neck. So, I came home and tried to take a cat nap. Nope, that didn't work either. I really want this head cold and sinus "stuff" to go away. I'm sure I'd feel 100% better if it did.

CC came home around 4 and we spent the next hour or so playing in her room and upstairs. When I asked her what she wanted for dinner she told me mac n' cheese. So, I made mac n' cheese. Did she eat it? NOPE, she had yogurt and water. I guess she'll eat when she's hungry. At least she takes a multi-vitamin.

It was time for bath and for whatever reason, she didn't want any part of that routine tonight. Too bad, she was taking a bath. It was a fight from the beginning. And, daddy called during this time. But, CC was too mad to talk to him. OOPS! I finally got her in the bath tub and gave her a quick bath ONLY to have to fight with her afterwards to get dressed. This is what took place after we got out of the bath tub:

Mommy: "Are you sad?"
CC: "No."
Mommy: "Are you mad?"
CC: "Yes."
Mommy: "Why are you mad?"
CC: "Because you were counting."

Yes, that's the conversation that CC and mommy had after a "not so fun" bath time tonight.

Counting, you might ask? When we want CC to do something and she won't or hesitates, we count backwards from 5 to 1. In most cases, it works. But NOT tonight. She wanted NOTHING to do with me, a bath, or getting dressed.

Finally, she was dressed for bed and very apologetic (mommy's a sucker) so I gave in and let her come back downstairs with me rather than go to bed. We sat on the couch and watched "Babe" and ate popcorn. Finally, around 8 went to bed. She was tired and so was mommy. I think we made it through 3 books before she was out!

Tomorrow's a big day: St. Patrick's Day Parade and a party in the afternoon.

Day 5: Thursday

This morning, CC decided to wake up around 6:30 calling, "mommy, mommy." I love her little voice. I'm glad that she's not in a rush to get out of bed so that we can snuggle, read books, and talk. While cuddling, CC told me that she wanted her daddy to be at her home. Yep, I had to fight back the tears. She is CRAZY about her daddy!

I asked CC what she wanted to wear to school and she said, "the brown pants, they match my hair." Okay, I guess that's one way to pick your clothes for the day. At least it was running this morning so I didn't have to fight with her about wearing two jackets and gloves. It was an easy choice for her to wear her mermaid raincoat (thanks grandma and grandpa, she loves it).

CC loves going to school and I'm so glad. I really look forward to our short drive to her school in the morning. It's amazing the things we talk about during this time. This morning she asked me if I had any money. I wasn't sure why but I handed her a penny that I had. She asked me if she could take it to school and I told her know. Instead, I told her to put it in the door. What I meant to say was to put it in the pocket in the door. Next thing I know, CC put the penny in the door (down the slot where the window goes). OOPS! She told me what she had done and asked for another penny. Being the good mother that I am, I gave her one. In her polite way, she said, "thank you mommy for finding more money for me." She is a sweet girl but I am biased.

I had a LOOONG day of training. My body, in it's current state, is NOT meant to sit for 4+ hours. Granted, I was conducting the training but the space was so small that there really wasn't much room for me to "roam" like I want to when training. So, I could barely walk when the training ended around 2:30.

When I got home, CC and Ms. Amy were in her room reading books and playing. CC was dressed in a princess dress, tiara, and high-heeled shoes. She told me, "mommy, I'm a beautiful princess." Yes, she is!

CC received some special mail today; a postcard (on an MRE packet) and a letter from her daddy. Her face lit up when I told her she had mail. When I finally read the letter to CC, I needed a box of tissues! We called Nutz and left him a voicemail so he'd know that his CC received her mail. It's obvious how much Nutz loves CC! I did good picking a husband. :-) I love you, Nutz.

Our afternoon/evening together is filled with fun and challenges. We painted, colored, played with animals and Diego train set. She made some pictures for her daddy and told me that she'd give them to him when he came home on the airplane. :-) She did NOT want to stop for dinner (and I wasn't too hungry) so I asked her if she wanted to eat upstairs (in the office) and have a picnic. She liked that idea. When I asked her what she wanted for dinner, she told me "princess soup and crackers." She LOVES chicken noodle soup. Thank goodness it comes in a princess variety that is low sodium. Ms. CC had her princess soup, crackers, applesauce and water upstairs on her table. The chairs are too small for me so I sat on the floor. I'm sure you can imagine how uncomfortable that is for a 7 1/2 month pregnant lady.

After dinner, we had bath time and bed time. I really love this time with CC especially now that we can talk about our day and all that's going on in our lives. Okay, it's not too deep a conversation but it's still fun!

Tonight, CC wanted to read books to me, so I let her. She read "Polar Bear, Polar Bear what do you hear?" and "I'm a big sister." I love listening to her "read" books. She got a new book on Sunday called "Daddy and Me." It's a short book with few words but it's about a daddy and baby bear who are really close. She wanted me to read it to her. Afterwards, she told me that she wanted the daddy recorder. Nutz recorded a message for CC on the recorder that goes in her daddy doll. I got it for her and we must have listened to the message 20+ times. It says, "Hello Cupcake, it's your daddy. I love you! Now, go smack your momma on the butt." She thinks it is the GREATEST thing ever! She finally fell asleep holding the recorder tightly in her little hand.

Then, the phone rang but CC didn't wake up. Nutz had a long day of training and called just a few minutes after CC fell asleep. So, they didn't get to talk tonight. However, I did and it made my day/night.

Day 4: Wednesday

I wasn't able to sleep in my bed last night so I found my way to the couch. It's amazing what's on the boob tube during the wee hours of the morning. Fortunately, I'm a Fox News watcher so I was able to catch up on Glenn Beck, Bill O'Reilly, Sean Hannity, and Greta Van Susteren. I'm not sure why I bother since the news does nothing more but get me all worked up.

I'm still not feeling 100% and really wish this head cold would go away. Yes, I should probably go to the doctor but really, what's she going to give me?

At 6 am, I heard a little voice calling from upstairs, "mommy." So, I went up to wish my sweet girl a good morning. She wanted to snuggle so we stayed in bed and read a few books. While reading books, CC started crying. I'm talking real tears rolling down her face. I asked her what was the matter and she didn't answer. After several attempts, she finally told me that she didn't want to go to school. WHEW! I was expecting a different answer. We cuddled some more and decided to get our day started. As I've mentioned before, it's MUCH easier on both of us if I dress her when she first wakes up. She is very opinionated and knows exactly what she wants to wear and don't you dare try to give her something else. Lately, it's been her socks. She's very particular about what color socks she wears. And, they have to match her outfit.

Combing her hair is another story. CC has the finest hair and every morning she wakes with a knot in the back of her hair. Bonnie was kind enough to get me a couple of different kinds of conditioner (leave-in and spray). I used the leave-in the night before but still, a huge knot. So, this morning, it was another "fight" with CC to let me comb her hair. I admit that it's a huge blur now but remember it being quite stressful this morning.

As we were preparing to leave for school, CC informed me that she was wearing her yellow rain boots and that she needed her brown jacket, her "big jacket," and her gloves. Mind you, it wasn't raining and the weather was beautiful. I tried to talk her out of them but NO, she had to have her way. So, CC went to school with yellow boots, a jacket, a vest, and gloves. I guess I should be thankful that it wasn't 80 degrees outside.

On another note, today was the first day with our new cleaning lady. I worked from home so I could be here with her. She worked HARD from 9 am until almost 4 pm. Of course, this first time was a deep clean: windows, blinds, lots of dusting of trinkets (which we don't have many), etc. When CC came home and walked into the door, the first thing she did was hold her nose and say "puey." We went upstairs and she checked out her bedroom and bathroom. When she saw the bathroom she said, "Oh my, it's very clean." I think she appreciates a clean house. Not that our house wasn't clean before, Nutz always did a GREAT job! But now that he's not here, someone needs to do it. And, he was kind enough to "allow" me to get a cleaning lady. Love you, Nutz!

While CC and I were playing in the office, she wanted some paper and tape to make a picture. So, I gave it to her. When she was finished she brought her art work to me and told me that it was for her birthday which was June 8. Hello? I didn't realize that she knew her birth date. I'm always amazed at what she does know...thank you Ms. Amy and Ms. Tatiana.

Dinner is always fun with CC. While Nutz was home, she took over his chair at the head of the table. And, that continues now. CC has become quite a picky eater so I have to "trick" her to eat some items. My latest trick is to let her "cut" her food with a new kiddie knife that I bought for her earlier this week. Tonight she had kielbasa (she thought it was a hot dog), cottage cheese, mandarin oranges, and green beans. For whatever reason, she didn't want any rice.

Bath time...what a fun time. CC's friend, JD, sent her some bath tablets and she LOVES to put two colors in the tub to see what color it will make.

Bed time...again, CC wanted to be in her "big girl" bed so we read books and waited patiently for daddy to call. CC was able to stay awake to talk with him; a great way to end the night for all of us! Each night, CC sleeps with her daddy doll and her pillowcase that has lots of pictures of her and daddy. Her daddy doll protects her from the "monsters" under her bed. The "monsters" are from one of her books and they consists of a dust bunny and spider. :-) CC was fast asleep by 7:30.

Me, I couldn't make myself sleep in my bed so I found my way to the couch again. Maybe I'll just sleep with CC in her bed. :-)

Until tomorrow...

We love you, Nutz!

Day 3: Tuesday

My sweet little girl is growing up. Tonight after bath time we read books in my bed and even talked to daddy on the telephone. When all was done, she said to me, "mommy, I want to sleep in my big girl bed." I was excited that she was so independent but was sad that I wouldn't have her to snuggle with during the night. So, we moved to her room where we read a few more books before she drifted off to dreamland.

Day 2: Monday...

This morning when CC woke up, the first thing she asked me was "Where's my daddy?" We talked a little about what daddy was doing and then we snuggled for awhile. I'm glad she's a snuggler like her daddy.

In an attempt to NOT fight with CC in the mornings about her clothes, I've started dressing her for school when I change her morning diaper. It sure beats the alternative if I try to do it later. Now, if I could just figure out how to keep the knots out of her hair. It's not a pretty sight trying to brush her hair in the mornings.

Our day was pretty normal: I dropped CC off at school and then I worked from home. I'm still not feeling 100% so getting dressed and driving to the office is NOT something I want to deal with right now.

Ms. Amy picked up CC from school and the two of them spent the afternoon together. Thank you, Ms. Amy for taking such good care of CC.

When asked what she (CC) wanted for dinner, she told me "soup" so that's what she had. I don't have much of an appetite so that worked for me. It meant I didn't have to really cook dinner for us.

CC and daddy were able to video conference this evening and I think it made them both VERY happy (me, too). It's so cute to watch CC interact with her daddy on the computer. When it was time for Nutz to go to dinner, CC proceeded to kiss the computer screen and tell her daddy good bye. :-)

Then, it was bath time. I'm so glad that CC LOVES to take a bath. It makes this time of the evening so much easier. The only problem is her NOT wanting to get out of the bath tub.

CC and I snuggled on the couch after bath time (since we took one earlier than normal) and watched "Say Yes to the Dress." This is NOT my choice of shows to watch but CC loves to watch the "princesses." She had a long day and was extremely tired so we went to bed early. Again, she slept with mommy. I think this is more for mommy than CC. Perhaps we'll transition back to her "big girl" bed this weekend.

And finally, my sweet hubby called to tell me good night! A great way to end a Monday! We love you, Nutz!

Day 1: Our First Sunday...

without Nutz was spent with some morning retail therapy at Target and TJ MAXX. Then, Grandma Kathie and Papa John called and invited us to spend time with them. So, we enjoyed a nice lunch at Baker's Crust and then spent the afternoon at their house having a tea party, playing dolls, and doing everything else possible to keep our minds off the fact that Nutz was not with us. THANK YOU Grandma Kathie and Papa John for always making us feel like we're part of your family. Grandma Kathie and Papa John both took pictures of CC (one with sunglasses and reading the menu and the other with lipstick on her face) and sent them to Nutz via the phone. Isn't technology great?

We did enjoy several phone calls from Nutz today which is very nice! We both love to hear his voice.

We finally decided to head home around 5:30. Yep, CC wasn't ready to go and wanted to stay. But, Grandma Kathie was finally able to get her to the car and in her car seat. We came home, took a bubble bath, and snuggled in mommy's bed. And that is where my sweet little CC is now at 5:52 am on Monday, March 8.

Sunday Morning

CC had a good night's sleep in my bed. She woke up this morning around 7 calling for me. When I went upstairs to get her, she asked, "where's my daddy?" I told her that daddy was on a trip and she said "No, I want my daddy at home." It's going to be a LOOOOONG deployment.

We love you, Nutz/Daddy!

Today was the day for which CC and I had to say goodbye to Nutz/daddy. Goodbyes are never easy but they are especially hard when you try to explain to a 2 1/2 year old why her daddy won't be coming home tonight. :-(

I'm very thankful that we had an additional two weeks to spend with Nutz. I don't think I was mentally ready for him to leave in February. Okay, so I wasn't ready for him to leave today either. But, it did give us more time to spend together as a family.

On Friday, we had some friends over for taco night. Typical Nutz/Crackerz, our last night together and we invite our closest friends to spend it with us. For me, it's much easier dealing with a stressful situation when surrounded by people who love and care about you. And, we have the BEST friends EVER.

Our Saturday morning started out like any other, Nutz cooked breakfast (farmer's special: the leftovers from taco night made into a delicious scrambled egg concoction) for us. I'm sure there were still lots of things that Nutz needed to get done before his early afternoon flight but he made time to spend it with CC and me. I'm sure that CC knew something wasn't normal. Mommy and daddy don't typically cry as much as we have over the last several days and she is very observant: "mommy are you sad?" "mommy, why are you crying?" "mommy, are you sick?"

We left the house around 1:30 to run an errand before going to the airport. CC was so tired from the party the night before that she fell asleep on the way to the airport so she wasn't even awake when we dropped off Nutz. So, when she woke up she wanted her daddy. I'm glad he'd been talking to her about his "trip" so she somewhat understood that he was on the airplane going on a "trip." Nutz recorded a message for her and she's been carrying it around for the last several days. She played it in the car yesterday and started crying and saying, "I want my daddy." Yep, I broke down and almost had to pull the car off the road.

Nutz also wrote Regan a special letter and I read it to her when we got back to the house. It was tough to read without balling my eyes out. I did cry and then CC began crying as well. It was a good 10 minutes before she calmed down. Nutz also recorded himself reading some of their favorite books. So, I was able to talk her into going upstairs to watch daddy reading books. She loved it!

We spent the afternoon/evening with our friends, Bonnie and Bella. It made the evening a little better spending it with friends. On the way home though, CC informed me that she wanted her daddy and that he'd be waiting for her at home. Again, I tried to explain to her that daddy was on his "trip." When we pulled into the driveway she saw his car and said, "daddy's here." UGH! Needless to say, she was VERY disappointed when I reminded her that daddy took an airplane to go on his trip. She cried for another 15 minutes.

We finally settled down for the evening by cuddling in my bed. At one point, CC said to me, "Mommy, I want to be close to you so I can pinch your neck." This is something that she does to her daddy when she's tired. We snuggled for awhile before she finally fell asleep.

CC is a tough little girl but because her daddy is such a special person, she'll get through. She has her daddy doll, daddy/CC pillowcase, daddy's video of book readings, daddy's voice recording, and lots and lots of pictures! And, she's looking forward to the letters her daddy is going to mail to her.

CC and Nutz have a special relationship. If you've ever been around them for any period of time, you know exactly what I mean. I can only hope that I am a good enough substitute for her daddy while he's away. He's a special man and I'm very blessed to have him as my husband and the father of my children!

We love you Nutz/Daddy!

PS If you want to keep up with Nutz, check out his blog.

College Fund

Momma says, that if I dress like this and hang out on the corner in the "View" I can make enough money to pay for college!

Chores

That is the last time I say the "grand daddy of all profanity"....at least while mommy and daddy are in earshot!

Thank you

Thank you grandma and grandpa for my uber cool mermaid rain coat and umbrella. It will come in handy when I go out trolling in the rain! Baby brother likes his new duds as well!

CC and Mommy

Family Pictures

It's been over a year since we had family pictures taken. So, I wanted to get some taken before Nutz leaves. After looking at the bags under my eyes and my fat belly, I shouldn't have waited.

CC's First Time Ice Skating

After the movie, CC and Bella wanted to go ice skating. So, Nutz rented some skates and took turns with the girls. It was a sight to see. :-)

CC's First 3D IMAX Movie

This morning, we went to see Whales and Dolphins 3D at the local IMAX movie. This was CC's first movie that happened to be 3D and at the IMAX. She had a great time as did her friend, Bella.

CC and Daddy

Happy Birthday!

Bath Time is Fun Time!

Big Sister and Baby Brother

Here is a side-by-side picture of CC and Deuce.

More pics of CC....

Baby Brother @ 31 Weeks

Tonight we had a 3D-4D ultrasound. CC enjoyed seeing her baby brother on the tv but she was a little concerned, at first, about her mommy. When I first got on the table for the tech to start the ultrasound, CC stood on the stool next to me and started rubbing my tummy. Deuce was a little slow to begin with but once CC started singing some of his favorite songs (Old MacDonald, Twinkle Twinkle Little Start, Hokey Pokey), he started cooperating. :-)

More Ultrasound Pics...

taken from our camera.

Ultrasound Pictures (Video)

Baby Brother Moving

Phrase of the Day

Our little princess is growing up so quickly and it is amazing what she learns as she goes. Today, she wowed mommy and daddy as we ventured out into the rain to drive to the 3D ultra sound of baby brother. Baby brother pictures will be up soon, momma needs to watch 24 first.

Anyhow, sweet little CC in her cute voice told all within ear shot in the car that;

"It's F&%king Raining!"

Sooo, I wonder where she learned that? I am half inclined to blame the nanny who is after all married to a Navy chief. However, sweet little CC was bellied up to the poker table last night with a bunch of helicopter pilots who may have been drinking some beers. Or, could it have been momma's meltdown the other night? I know it could not have been her loving father who would never use such vulgar language in the company of impressionable ears. I did nearly get into a car accident for I was laughing sooo hard after momma and I eyeballed each other. On a bright note, little CC was accurate in her observation, it was f**ing raining!

Note from mommy: Unfortunately, we know where CC heard this word. OOPS!

Beer and Naked Butt Dance

Today at lunch, CC promptly told Ms. Amy and I that when she grows up she's going to drink beer.

Then, after going pee pee in the potty, she ran into the office where I was working and said, "I'm going to do the naked butt dance."

Beer and a naked butt dance. Yep, we're going to have our hands full with this one. :-)