Kritter's Korner

Time for an update!

2010-02-28T15:21:00.000-08:00

Jim came home early from Iraq in November, then we had the holidays, and family commitments, so the blog has been ignored for quite some time. Here are some photos to catch back up to speed.

November 2009: Happy Thanksgiving!

December 2009: Merry Christmas!

Meeting Santa for the 1st time!

January 2010: Happy New Year!

February 2010: Happy Valentine's Day!

Addison started daycare last week, so we are very much a family in transition. She also managed to cut 3 new teeth, share a stomach virus germ with Jim and me--a bug that thank goodness she did not get! It has been an eventful week for us and now that things have settled down I intend on keeping the blog a updated more frequently!

Happy Halloween! Miss you Daddy!

2009-10-31T21:33:00.000-07:00

Pissing Match

2009-10-23T07:54:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a conversation with someone that went something like this...

Me: "Gee, I am really tired today"
John Doe: "oh, you think you're tired...well I (Insert laundry list of complaints)

Typically when a conversation starts off like that I usually just hear, BLAH, BLAH, BLAH, BLAH.

Or how about this one:

Me: It was so cute today Addison rolled all the way over!
Jane Doe: "Well, MY baby (insert miraculous feat)when he she was only 4 months old. (Again, I hear BLAH, BLAH, BLAH)

It really irks me when I make a statement or try to start a conversation with someone and they have to one-up me throughout the entire conversation. I just want to say to them--WHO CARES---I was just trying to be friendly or make small talk.

We take so much for granted in life and unfortunately, so many of use spend the majority of it complaining, wishing it away, or being jealous of the things other people have.

I LOVE the Darryl Worley song, because he has absolutely nailed it on the head. Life isn't supposed to be easy, it isn't supposed to be a walk in the park, and we aren't supposed to spend our days moping around feeling sorry for ourselves, complaining, or trying to start a pissing match with someone else to see who really is worse off.

I didn't have an ideal pregnancy and I certainly do not have an ideal situation with a deployed husband and brand new baby. If Jim's deployment has taught me ANYTHING...it is to be thankful for what you do have and more importantly for WHO you have in your life. In both instances of pregnancy and deployment, I constantly have to remind myself, "it could be worse, it could be worse, it could be worse." Believe me, there are days when these have almost become my daily affirmations.

When I had to go back to work and be away from Addison for 40+ hours a week, I had to remind myself daily that "it could be worse" and that the best thing I could do for my child was to go back to work to provide her with a stable home, food on the table, and a bank account in her name to provide her with a blanket of financial security. That being said...I HAD to go back to work, the mortgage had to be paid and staying at home was not an option for me, especially with a husband in Iraq. Again...I had to remind myself, it could be worse--Addison will have 0 recollection of Jim being gone. (THANK GOD--that in itself is a huge blessing).

When I am having a bad day or if I hit a rough patch I remind myself of how good my life is and I think of the military wives who have 4 small children and a husband in Afghanistan who is out in the field, whom she hasn't spoken to in weeks, or the 65 year-old man who has done manual labor EVERY single day of his life and is being forced to retire by his company--his wife just lost her business--their house is being foreclosed upon and they will have to move to a different state to live with their children. I think of the mother in Florida whose 7 year old daughter was murdered and thrown in the garbage. I think of all of these people and then realize that I have absolutely nothing to complain about, and then I feel thankful for all of my blessings.

My challenge to myself and to all of my friends is for us to think about those less fortunate, those people who are in REALLY REALLY REALLY bad situations before we complain about not getting enough sleep the night before, or complain about our jobs, or complain about your spouse or significant other. We need to realize that missing a few hours of sleep isn't going to kill us, at least we have jobs to go to, and be thankful for our spouses and significant others---they may not always be with you and most importantly..."That's life."

2 girls, An Anniversary, and a Country named Iraq

2009-10-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

Leah and I share more in common than just being former college roommates. As a matter of fact, I partially owe my existence in Virginia Beach to Leah in a round about way. Nonetheless, Leah and I not only share the same wedding anniversary date, we share the fact that her husband Matt (United States Army), and my husband Jim (United States Marine Corps) are both reservists, who are now serving active duty in Iraq. She and Matt have a 4 year old daughter and Jim and I have a 5 month old daughter.

Leah and I celebrated our marriages, our husbands, and our beautiful daughters on October 11, 2009. We wined and dined at the Cheesecake Factory and most importantly, we laughed, we smiled, and we shared conversations that only a wife/mother experiencing the deployment of a husband/father could share and understand.

Here's to our 1 year wedding anniversary and Leah and Matt's 6 year!

Flowers from Iraq =)

2009-10-13T08:49:00.001-07:00

BEAUTIFUL! My anniversary present from my sweet hubby!

Shoe Time!

2009-10-11T21:10:00.001-07:00

Chesapeake: At the corner of Eden and Merchants Way

And...another wayward shoe...

2009-10-06T18:23:00.000-07:00

I mentioned in a previous blog that I see so many randomly abandoned shoes that I was going to begin cataloging them. I think I will also announce where I find them so in case the owner stumbles across my blog. =)

Shoe location: Danville, VA Western Sizzlin' parking lot Riverside Drive

October!!

2009-10-04T15:35:00.000-07:00

Quick Update

2009-09-18T14:24:00.000-07:00

Addison is now 4 months old and weighs 11lbs and 7 ozs. She is 24.74" long! Here is a picture of her and some of our new picture wall in the house--and then a couple of our patriotic elements!

It Ain't Easy Being Green or Cheap, for that Matter!

2009-09-09T18:30:00.000-07:00

I am currently staying in an upscale hotel for a conference in Alexandria, Virginia. While the hotel is quite lovely, there have been a few noticeable items that I could not help to mention.
Once in my hotel room I began looking for several staple items 1.)Internet information, 2.) area restaurant and hotel guide, and 3.) my ice bucket. I searched this room high and low and found no information about the internet. I booted up my computer and was guided to the hotel's website to enter my name and room number, but was unable to find a price listing for how much this service was going to cost. I knew I would have to pay for the service, but I wanted to know how much I would be paying! I finally had to call the front desk to inquire--the cost was about $9.95 a day which was in line with what I was expecting, unlike the $24.95 per day parking fee, in which I was NOT expecting! Due to the location of my hotel I knew that there were restaurants within walking distance, so I looked for a hotel/area/guest services guide in the room and there was absolutely NOTHING. The only literature in the room was a sales guide on how to purchase the $2600+ bedding package. This particular hotel brand has taken a minimalist approach to marketing. This brand prides itself on clean lines and no clutter--which is nice and pretty and green--however, for the business traveler--we NEED resources--put a damn guide in the room! I want to know where things are and what room service has to offer and what amenities are in the hotel!
Not only was there not an ice bucket in my room--but the mini-bar was empty except for two rumpled napkins. My fear was that it had not been re-stocked, so I went to the front desk to inquire about my ice bucket, which was supposed to be in the room, and I mentioned that the mini-bar was empty (not that I wanted anything--more that I didn't want to be charged for anything!) and I was told by the front desk clerk that they were no longer stocking the mini-bars because they were losing more money than they were making. So--here is an idea for you sell your mini-bars and put area/hotel guides in the rooms!!!

So, now I know they are cutting corners, which has been reflected in my room very clearly. No ice bucket, a messy mini-bar, and dirty glasses. There is also a bottle of Nestle PureLife water next to the coffee maker. Now, again, I am completely used to hotels placing a bottle of water in the room--but it is usually a larger, more expensive bottle of water and if you take it or drink, you can expect a $5.00 or more charge to result on your bill for the convenience of taking the bottle in your room. However, in this instance, I JUST purchased an entire case of Nestle bottled water, in which I paid a grand total of $3.99 for an entire case of 24 bottles! I am not touching that bottle of water with a 10 foot pole!

There have been several other odd things, such as no napkins on the break table for the meeting I was attending or not enough staff to clear dishes (or at least a tray stand to sit my empty glass) during my trade show today--I searched the hotel over for a table, a stand or a staff member and found none of the above. I just had to sit my glass on end of a food table.

I also think there is a fine line between being green and being cheap! I appreciate the recycle bin in the room and the option to be green and skip housekeeping service. But don't but a super awesome dual spout shower head in the room and then place a note above it saying that you have turned off the second shower head to be green. Now, I am going to feel so guilty for using it or wanting to use it that I would rather it just not be there! Come'on that is totally dangling the carrot--here is this awesome thing and it is totally cool--but you are SO NOT GREEN if you choose to use it--it is almost cruel.
I know it seems as if I am complaining a lot---I am probably more sensitive to these items since I am in the hospitality business--the truth of the matter is that overall the hotel is quite nice and it is in an awesome location. I did opt for no housekeeping and received a $5.00 off voucher to use in the restaurant--I thought that was a nice touch.

Since I am traveling on business I will be reimbursed for my trip, but the fact remains I would rather stay at a 3 star, moderate or upscale hotel which has complimentary internet services, free parking, and a hotel/area guide in the room! Give me a Candlewood Suites, a Crowne Plaza, a Comfort Inn, a Howard Johnson, or a Hilton Garden Inn any day of the week--I don't need prestige, I need functionality!

Adda-Boo

2009-08-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

So, my little Addison--(I call her Adda-Boo endearingly) is a little over 3 months old. It hit me hard this week how much she has grown and how much she has learned in such a short period of time. Here are the "new" and "firsts" from last week:

1. FINALLY outgrew her newborn diapers--we are finishing up the last box. She is so tiny around her middle they still fit around her nicely--but she is so LONG they were beginning to look like low-rise diapers! She is also starting to finally outgrow some of her newborn clothes (mainly in length). She is wearing 0-3 and 3 months clothes now! YAY!

2. Sitting up. While laying on her boppy, a blanket, or slightly elevated she will completely sit up. She hasn't quite mastered sitting up from a completely laying down position--but I don't think we are too far from it. I first realized what she had learned when I came home from work to visit her at lunch and she reached over, grabbed my skirt, and pulled herself up!

3. Talking. She has lots and lots to say--if ONLY I knew what it was! She has become more vocal with her coos and babbles. I took Kaitlyn to the movies on Wednesday--which Addison frequently accompanies me--and I had to step out--not bc she was crying and fussy--but because she wanted to coo through the entire movie!

4. I un-officially weighed and measured her--she is about 11 lbs and 24" long.

5. She discovered her feet! She likes to lay on her back and play with her stinky little feet.

6. She had oatmeal for the first time today! She didn't hate it, I think she just didn't know what to do with it--so she rolled it around in her mouth and then drooled it out as she grinned at me.

She is such a cool little baby. I know, I know--all mother's think this about their kids. I just love hanging out with her and she is such a happy little girl--she laughs and smiles all the time and really only cries when she needs something--I just hope and pray that she continues to be this happy throughout her life! :o)

Look at those little cheeks puffed out!

It's a Shoe-In...Or Is It a Shoe-Out?

2009-08-21T08:30:00.000-07:00

This is just weird. For several years I have began to notice random shoes sometimes, a single shoe, some times a pair of shoes--abandoned in what seems to me to be the most random of places. Most of the time it is an interstate, a highway, a road, a street, a sidewalk--and tonight...it was a crosswalk.

This is at the intersection of Independence and Columbus in Virginia Beach. I know it is a little blurry---but you can still see a pair of sneakers in the crosswalk. My mind wanders into a thousand places on this one...did this person spontaneously combust? Did they just decide being barefoot was more fun? Did they fall out of their sneakers and just decide to keep going? Did I miss the Rapture? Was someone just driving down the road and decide...hmm, I just don't need these any more? I mean seriously people, I have never randomly lost a shoe in public.
This is the beginning of a catalog I should have started years ago...from now on when able I will photograph these random shoes!

Can't Carry a Tune =)

2009-08-19T20:15:00.001-07:00

OK--I am officially old. This is the quintessential "what are kids these days listening to?" blog.

Here are a few lyrics that I found awkward, disturbing, or just plain funny.

1. "Don't trust a ho, never trust a ho, won't trust a ho cause the ho won't trust me." or from the same song.."Shush girl, shut your lips, do the Helen Keller and talk with your hips."
2. "Doin' da stanky legg, do da stanky legg, do da stanky legg"
3. "The call me her..they call me Stacy..That's Not My Name..That's Not My Name."
4. "Birthday Sex..Birthday Sex..."
5. Oh..and what the heck is a "disco stick" :oP
6. "You da, you da best, you da you da best...best I eva had, best I eva had" (which I believe is an edit of "you da f***in best"
7. "We like her and we like her too...and she like us too." "I can never just pick one so you can't say I'm choosy hoes." and from the same song."my butter pecan Puerto Rican."
8. "Them chickens jackin' my style"
9. "Somebody call 911, Shawty fire burning on the dance floor."
10. "You're a jerk, I know, you're a jerk, I know."
11. "Kiss me thru the phone, see you when i get home"

PLEASE..feel free to add your own really stupid lyrics. I should seriously consider becoming a song writer...I can totally write lyrics like these.

Economy, Smeconomy.

2009-08-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

Recession, Recession, Recession. NO JOBS, EVERYONE IS OUT OF WORK. TIMES IS HARD. THINGS ARE JUST TERRIBLE. BLAH, BLAH, BLAH, BLAH de BLAH de BLAH BLAH.

No jobs, no jobs, no jobs. I meet people everyday who SUCK at their jobs. There is absolutely NO excuse for poor customer service if things are as BAD as we believe and are being told they really are. I can go back to when I bought my Honda Element and experienced horrible customer service at Hall Honda in Virginia Beach--all the way up to yesterday when I waited an hour at the Sprint store to inquire about the balance on Jim's suspended account--only to find out that they had lost my name on the wait list and had been taking people in front of me for about 30 minutes. There wasn't even a stupid balance to pay--they actually owed us money--but it took an hour for anyone to even care for me to find this out. I have been overcharged at Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, and Toys R Us in the past 2 weeks. AND nothing irks me any more than for a cashier to over-ring an item on my receipt and not catch it until after I have paid and then have to stand in a LONG lone at customer service to have it corrected. IT WASN'T MY MISTAKE--WHY DO I HAVE TO STAND IN LINE????

People who suck at their jobs, should be fired and places that are so concerned about customer service scores or guestview scores should pay a little more attention to the types of people they hire because guess what---CRAPPY EMPLOYEES EQUAL CRAPPY CUSTOMER SERVICE AND CRAPPY CUSTOMER SERVICE EQUALS CRAPPY SCORES. This is a no-brainer. There are people out there practically begging for jobs and this is the best we can do? Long waits, over-charged receipts, and ridiculously long lines. Get a clue Corporate America.

Kaitlyn Fire Burnin' on the Dance Floor!

2009-08-16T21:47:00.001-07:00

So, Kaitlyn has been staying with me for several weeks helping out with Addison while I am at work. She only asked for dance lessons in return for babysitting! I checked out a couple of studios, but felt the most welcome at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Virginia Beach. The studio is owned by Taras and Wendy Denysenko, who just took over the franchise about 8 months ago. Watching her take lessons has been so awesome! Her temporary instructors have been so complimentary of her dancing abilities and her techniques so many kudos to her permanent instructor, Jose Zuniga!
Her are some pictures from the Friday night dance party and some video of Kaitlyn dancing with one of the instructors, Erick.

Oh--and Addison got her first dance lesson too!

3 Months!

2009-08-14T08:08:00.001-07:00

Family Visits and the Bloody Shoe

2009-08-11T08:56:00.001-07:00

Last week my whole family (Ingram side) came to visit! We had tickets to see Dave Matthews Band--awesome show btw. Here are a few pictures of my sister, Karen, with my niece, Kassidy, my nephew, Grayson and Addison.

Does anyone remember the 2004 World Series when Curt Schilling pitched game 2 days after having surgery and bloodied his sock--yet went on to win the game? Well---I took my jogging stroller out for the first time yesterday. Addison is barely big enough to fit in it now. Kaitlyn and I went for a little walk--I ran one small section of the lake and thought my lungs were going to explode out of my chest--but mostly I was in pain because my new shoes were rubbing on my ankles--well I pressed forward and made it home. Instead of a bloody sock--I have bloody shoes. (Only a few minor differences in my story and Curt Schilling's) They have been christened well. :oP

My Week in a Nutshell!

2009-08-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last week ranks up there with one of the busiest, saddest, most hectic, stressful weeks of my life! Jim deployed on Monday for Iraq. They spent some time in North Carolina, had a layover in Germany--flew into Kuwait and then finally landed in Iraq. He is there and is safe. We have had a lot of opportunities to talk--I have been surprised at how much we have been able to communicate. Skype is a godsend--and it is free! Not only can we talk on the computer we can see one another!

A day after receiving word that Jim had arrived safely, his father had a heart attack. Thank God it was a minor heart attack--but nonetheless--it WAS a heart attack. He had a cardiac catheter placed on Monday which revealed no blockage in the main artery, but a 75% blockage in one artery and an 80% blockage in another and then on Tuesday had angioplasty on those two arteries.

I just felt tired and worn out emotionally from such a stressful week--but I am thankful that everyone is safe and getting healthy again. I have to remind myself on a daily basis that there are people who have it far worse off than I and that things could always be much worse.

There was a woman standing next to me at Jim's deployment with 4 children ranging from ages 3-8 (I would assume) and those children were absolutely pitiful. When their father walked away to get on the bus, not only were they crying, but they were yelling, "Daddy, Daddy, don't go." It was enough to rip your heart out of your chest and trample on it a good dozen times. I think I cried just as much for that woman and her children as I did for myself that day. Once again I said to myself--THANK GOD Addison is so little she that she doesn't realize what is going on. It's not that she doesn't miss him, because at 2.5 months old I know there would be some debate on whether or not she would be capable of doing so.

I think I have proof that she does miss him or acknowledges that she remembers him. We had a Hug A Hero doll made for her before Jim left. It is about a 20" doll with Jim's full head to toe picture on it--it is actually more of a pillow than anything. On the bottom of the pillow is says "Daddy love you!" This pillow-doll also came with a voice-recorder and Jim recorded a message for Addison saying, "Dad loves you, be good for Mom." Well last night we had a long day, my sister and her family came into visit and we went walking at the oceanfront and didn't get in until much later than we should have being that it was a work night. So, with her schedule being off--Addison was exhausted, hungry and just plain frustrated. Kaitlyn has been staying with me and helping out and she was trying to calm her down--and was almost in tears herself, trying to tend to her while I was doing some before-bed chores. I took Addison in my arms and began talking to her--she was still upset and crying and I snuggled her Daddy doll next to her and pressed the voice button. SHE STOPPED crying! I pressed the button over and over and let her listen to her Daddy's voice and she just stared at me with a look on her face that I took to mean--"I know that voice, I like it, and I miss it." I know that may be inferring too much--but she stayed silent the entire time I was playing his message. It was a precious and tender moment--and YES...I CRIED!

Here are a few pictures of our family--some of are our last night out together with some friends, followed by his deployment pictures--followed by some really cute pictures of Addison :o) (The day he deployed it was 98 degress and the AC at his unit building was broken--so we look like we are melting in the picture--it was HOT! We all got a little sun that day--even Addison, despite my best efforts to keep her covered)

2 Months!

2009-07-17T07:52:00.001-07:00

1 Month

2009-06-25T20:33:00.001-07:00

My REALLY Long Blog =)

2009-06-22T21:02:00.000-07:00

It is strange how on some days I feel as if there is nothing for me to blog about and then days like today where I have so much material that I feel the need to cram it all into one blog. If I don't cover them today they will be irrelevant in the future, so it is pointless to "save" one of these topics for the future. So, in true OCD fashion, I will outline these topics, and then discuss them--1. Jon and Kate 2. Breast-feeding, 3. Weight loss

1. Jon and Kate

I know bloggers across America (and the world) are heading to their computers to unleash the fury on the topic of Jon and Kate Gosselin. I am so angry with both of them--it has been blatantly obvious that from the beginning of the show Kate was a domineering head of household type of woman--Jon has been the passive-aggressive do as he was told type of husband. But seriously, did they not know this about one another before they got married? I have a hard time believing that Kate wasn't pushing him around prior to getting married--and besides, with 8 children, SOMEONE needs to take charge and be organized or else nothing will ever be accomplished. Children thrive in organized, scheduled environments. It seems as if Jon just woke up one day and thought, "Hmm...I'm 32 and I don't want to be married, be on this show, or be an active parent anymore." Well, Jon--you really should have considered all of this before brining all 8 of those children into the world. It appears that Kate has fallen victim to the celebrity bug and REALLY enjoys her spotlight. Between his frat-boy partying and her book tours--somewhere they lost sight of their marriage--their commitment to one another and their commitment to their children. It seems that when their roles were reversed and Jon was staying home with the children that the problems emerged. Was he unable to handle the job Kate had been doing for years prior? Did Kate have to go out partying and drinking on the weekends when she was the primary caregiver--or did she stay home with her husband and children on the weekends? Why is it that when she left the home and he became the primary caregiver that he had to "get away" and needed "me time." SELFISH.
Everyone rushed to the side of Susan Boyle when after competing on the talent show--many saying that the show had a responsibility to aid her in processing her newfound celebrity--others saying she is a grown woman, she knew what she was getting into--she shouldn’t have auditioned if she couldn't deal with it. In the case of Jon and Kate--did they fully understand the level of celebrity they would achieve? Once the show sky-rocketed into popularity did TLC take any precautions in helping them cope? No matter which end of the argument you are on the fact remains that the Gosselin children had NO say in their futures. I think whole-heartedly TLC bears a responsibility to aid in the therapy that these children will inevitably require.
I also think Jon and Kate took the easy way out. Anyone can walk away--anyone can say--this is too hard and quit, but it takes character to work things out and seek out solutions to your problems. 10 YEARS OF MARRIAGE--and it seems that so quickly it all melted away. LOOK AT the Duggars! Look how many children they have and they are completely happy in their marriage--if they can make it--then anyone should be able to make it. I look at these 2 families and it becomes wildly apparent that there are obvious differences between these 2 families--but one major difference really sticks out--RELIGION. Think about it.

2. Breastfeeding.

(Seriously, who wouldn't want to feed this little monster? So funny!)
I certainly thought that breastfeeding was going to be a lot easier than it has proven to be. We initially had some latching issues, but thanks to my dear friend Leah, who had given me a breast shield we were able to work through these issues. I feed Addison ever 2 hours and I have been VERY discouraged that in her last several doctors’ appointments that her weight gain has not been significant. The doctor shared with me that Addison is a very active baby and requires more calories than the average baby her age and that my milk supply cannot keep up with her necessary caloric intake. So I have to supplement her with formula. This week I am trying to re-stimulate my milk supply and have done some research on increasing milk and I just hope that I am not too late and that I can increase my supply. Through pumping, it appears that I am only able to get an ounce of milk out (that is both sides) per pumping. So, I am taking Fenugreek herbs, eating oatmeal and yogurt, and drinking raspberry tea. I am hoping that I can build up a decent milk supply so I do not have to use as much formula.

3. Weight loss.

I re-committed to Weight Watchers today. I had a lot of success with this program pre-pregnancy and I hope that I can pick up where I left off. Before my pregnancy had not made my weight loss goal with weight watchers, but I was involved in Women's fitness boot camp and I was in the best shape of my life. During my pregnancy I gained about 60 pounds--30 of which I lost between Addison's birth and my excess fluid problems and edema associated with my pre-eclampsia. So that leaves me with 30 pounds to get back to pre-pregnancy and then I can pick up where I left off to get to my ultimate weight loss goal. I don't even want to think about my ultimate goal right now--I just want to concentrate on getting back to pre-pregnancy. Exercising is going to be a challenge with Jim leaving on deployment. After working an 8 hour day and leaving Addison in daycare--the LAST thing I want to do is drop her off at another daycare so I can go work out. So I have been racking my brain about what to do and BOOM--tonight at my first Weight Watchers meeting the session leader tells me about a walking club that meets at Mt. Trashmore--so I asked if it was stroller friendly--and yes it is! What a great solution--I can work out with Addison and be with other people so we won't be out by ourselves in the evenings--it is perfect! Between my Wii Fit, my mommy and me yoga DVD, and the new walking club I should not have an excuse not to exercise and maybe when Jim gets back from Iraq I can start doing boot camp again, besides, my body needs time to adjust back into exercise--I know there is no way I would make it in boot camp right now! Wish me luck--I will continue to blog about this weight loss journey :o)

Happy Father's Day, Jim!

2009-06-21T17:06:00.000-07:00

Poor Jim is missing his first Father's Day. He is in North Carolina for Marine Corps training before they deploy--poor guy--as if he isn't going to miss enough holidays during his deployment!

Poor Jim is missing his first Father's Day. He is in North Carolina for Marine Corps training before they deploy--poor guy--as if he isn't going to miss enough holidays during his deployment!

Addison and I love you!

Addison's Hospital Pictures

2009-06-02T19:07:00.000-07:00

Adventures of Super Baby

2009-05-16T17:51:00.000-07:00

Addison Faith and I were released from the hospital on the evening of May 14 under the condition that we have follow-up doctor's appointments. Addison needed to be seen by her pediatrician the day after release to check her weight and I needed to be seen by my doctor the following Monday to have my blood pressure and vitals checked.
Addison's doctor's appointment was a little scary because she had not quite gotten the hang of breastfeeding yet and I knew she was dropping weight. Little did I expect that she would have dropped nearly a pound! She was born weighing 7lbs 2 ozs and in less than 2 days time was down to 6lbs and 3 oz's. We consulted with the doctor, got some advice on breastfeeding and supplementing her while she was learning to adapt to her new food source.

So...after the scary part was over...

During her check-up the doctor put her on her back to listen to her heart and my starving little child completely flips over on her side. MY 2 DAY OLD, STARVING BABY...rolls over. I think the doctor nearly had a coronary. She was equally surprised when she flipped Addison over on her tummy and Addison proceeded to lift her head off the table and push off the table with both of her feet. It was at this point that the doctor turned to me and said..."This is a super baby!" She gave me a very stern look and while pointing her finger at me said, "DO NOT...UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES...LEAVE THIS BABY UNATTENDED. Please bring your husband to the next appointment so I can share this with him as well."

The good news is that super baby is learning to eat. We worked very hard all day yesterday and have continued our work today. I think she is getting the hang of it...she just had to work a little harder at it since she has super baby powers :o)

Addison Faith Shelton

2009-05-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

Addison Faith Shelton was born at 1:08AM on May 13, 2009. She weighs 7 lbs and 2 oz and is 19.75" long.

Here is our birthing timeline:

May 12, 2009

7:40am Arrived at the Hospital

8:00am Admited to the hospital and Pitocin was administered.

Dosages were uped every hour or so until we were at max dosage

12:00pm Doctor broke my water

1:00pm Received Nubain

2:00pm Received Epidural

7:00pm Nurse Sift Change

10:00pm Pressure from Contractions and 2nd Nurse Shift Change

May 13, 2009

12:00am MAJOR PRESSURE FROM CONTRACTIONS Doctor is called to Emergency Room and we have to wait to start pushing

12:40am Doctor returns from ER and pushing begins!

1:08am Addison Arrives!

Congratulations, Kaitlyn!

2009-04-30T12:36:00.001-07:00

Kaitlyn was voted Prom Princess for 2009 at Galileo Magnet School!

Addison's Room

2009-04-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

Mary--recognize any of these clothes?

BUYING A CAR SHOULD BE FUN!!!

2009-03-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

Buying a car should be fun. (“SHOULD BE” being the operative words in that sentence) One would imagine that purchasing a vehicle in today’s economic climate that a sales team would be tripping over themselves at the opportunity to help a customer. WRONG—well, I guess it depends on what dealership you are shopping. It certainly was not the case for me at the Hall Honda Dealership in Virginia Beach. I am not a high maintenance person on most occasions, but when it comes to spending thousands of dollars, I try to pay a little more attention to detail to insure that I am getting a good deal, getting my money’s worth, and getting what I am told I will receive. I don’t need red carpets to be rolled out before me—I just expect to receive what you promise me—and for it to be done in a customer-friendly manner.
The Debacle
Let me begin by saying that I love Hondas. Being that we are expanding our family and do not have a family-friendly vehicle, I knew that I wanted to begin car search at the Honda dealership. Several friends had spoken very highly of Hall Honda, one of whom used to work there—so it was natural that I began my car research at this dealership. Now that being said—I will NEVER recommend Hall Honda to another person.
I am not going to bash my salesperson—it is what it is—he is a used car salesman—end of story—find the stereotype and there he is. What I am going to say is that customer service IS the key element to any successful business and customer service is what keeps people returning and referring friends.
I purchased my 2008 Honda Element late on Saturday evening and had to return on Sunday to a.)pick up second set of keys, b.)pick up owner’s manual, c.) have license plates installed, d.) have vehicle detailed and cleaned, e.) and have the tank “filled up” as I was told by the salesperson. I returned the vehicle on Sunday and asked if it was ok for me to leave it while I ran errands with my mother—of course this was ok and I was on my merry little way. We returned near close on Sunday to retrieve my vehicle and I was told that the second set of keys were still with the original owner, as was the owner’s manual and that they would call me on Monday to let me know when they would have these items, ok—no big deal. As I pulled off the lot, the first thing I noticed was that the tank was a quarter of a tank shy of being a full tank. Again, no big deal, I will call and let them know when I get the keys and the manual. When I got home I was gathering my belongings and noticed that my “newly detailed” vehicle still had smudges on the interior windows, a white stain on the floor (which could have easily been wiped off) and dust in several places----so, to me—it wasn’t detailed to my satisfaction. My husband, who used to be a porter at a car dealership said—“Kristen, let it go, it’s not a big deal.” So, being a little irritated I continue gathering my things and step in front of the vehicle to look it over and THAT is when I saw what would become A BIG DEAL. There were several scratches and 2 dents on the front driver’s side bumper that were NOT there when I purchased the vehicle on Saturday. At this point the dealership was closed—but I knew that I would be returning to the dealership on Monday to discuss this.
On Monday, Jim and I arrive at the dealership and ask to speak with our sales representative. I share with him my concerns. ALL he did was make excuses, give me inaccurate information, and basically brushed me off—telling me “I gave you two keys” I corrected him by saying he gave me one set of keys and a valet key—he said, that is all you get. He promised me the owner’s manual and then said that the dents were there when I bought the car, but the scratches were new. THEY WERE NOT---between Jim, my mother, and me, we would have seen them. I told him that they were not there—and he said bring it back on Thursday and I will see what I can do. Oh and the gas thing—you only get a partial tank if you buy a used car—so when they said “fill your tank” they really meant, give you a quarter of a tank of gas. I left the dealership feeling defeated and irritated.
On Tuesday I called and left a voicemail for the General Manager detailing my “challenges” with this vehicle purchase. It wasn’t too long afterwards I received a call from another manager. I explained to him my issues—a.) still needed a second full set of keys (not just a valet key), b.) still needed a manual, c.) I NEEDED THE FREAKIN DENTS IN MY BUMPER TO BE GONE!!!!! I did not yell, I was actually very polite. He informed me that Honda Certified vehicles came with 2 full sets of keys, and an owner’s manual, and he would have to check on the bumper situation and give me a call back that afternoon.
24 hours later. NO CALL. I called and asked to speak with this manager again and he apologized for not getting back with me—he had meetings. At this point---I DON’T CARE ABOUT YOUR MEETINGS…I just need answers—I am frustrated! However, he was very nice and said to come in on Thursday, as scheduled (I was not scheduled BTW) and I would get my keys, my manual and they would look at the bumper—just ask for my salesperson. Not exactly what I wanted to hear—but we were getting closer.
TODAY—Thursday—1:15pm I arrive at the dealership with my friend, who came along for moral support. I introduce myself to a staff member—who I find out is my salesperson’s manager—and he says he will call my salesperson. My salesperson arrives and greets me in a very cool manner—he is obviously not happy to see me. I go through the list with him again---I need a second full set of keys, the manual, and the bumper looked at by service. He asked me for my keys and says “we think the manual is in the car I need to go look for it.” Me: “It’s not in there,” Him: “I still need your keys we think it is in the back.” OK FINE—here are the keys. He returns, nope, no manual. He disappears, finally returns with a manual and states—this is the actual one from your vehicle. WHOOPIE. He then says---“Now onto ROUND 2—the keys.” OK, did he seriously just use a boxing term—is that what we are doing---we are fighting? Anyway, the keys are taken, he leaves, a service guy comes in talks to me and then leaves, salesperson comes back and says—“we have to reprogram your keys—this will only take about 10-15 minutes, I am going to disappear and then come back and we will have service look at your bumper.” I am thinking to myself—oh, the bumper, that must be ROUND 3.
45 minutes later---My friend and I are still sitting and still waiting. We have to get back to work—so we go around to the service area where my vehicle is just sitting. A service member approaches us and asks if we need help. I let her know that my keys were being reprogrammed and it was only supposed to take 15 minutes and that it had been 45 minutes and my bumper still hadn’t been looked at---she calls the salesperson. She returns and says—“the keys are programmed they are in the vehicle, I’m sorry but he didn’t tell us what was going on.” I AM SO IRRITATED at this point. It certainly isn’t this woman’s fault—she is by far been the most helpful of the day. I return inside and approach the manager and explain to him the situation and that I need to get back to work. Not so much as “I am sorry for the inconvenience.” He says—here is my card, just call me when get back to work and I will set up an appointment for you. I called him over 3 hours ago and have not heard back yet.
Here is what I have to say to you Hall Honda:
I know I didn’t buy the fanciest most expensive car on your lot. I bought what I liked and what I needed and I spent over $18K by the time your fancy finance guy added the insurance into the deal. I think for spending that amount of money that the headache, hassle, and frustration of getting a second set of keys, a manual, a full tank of gas, and a fixed bumper are minimal to say the least. Hall Honda, you stripped every bit of car buying joy out of this experience and I am so completely frustrated by this experience that I will NEVER recommend you to anyone. Your customer service sucks, to say the least. If I EVER dreamed of treating one of my clients in the manner in which you treated me—I would be fired. I think about the poor staff over at GM and Ford and can’t help but think—these folks may be out of jobs in a matter of months—I bet they would have been thrilled to have my business. Shame on you, Hall Honda, for treating a customer in this manner!

CONGRATULATIONS NICK AND NICCOLE!

2009-03-04T14:30:00.000-08:00

Married Saturday, February 21, 2009

CONGRATULATIONS JON, MARY, & VERA!

2009-02-20T07:28:00.001-08:00

Alton Lane born February 15, 2009 5lbs 15ozs and 19.5 inches.

Thank God for Dave Matthews, Missy Elliot, and Jason Mraz!

2009-02-12T09:48:00.000-08:00

What could those three possibly have in common? Come on...think about it! Another hint--the same thing Bruce Hornsby, June Carter Cash, Sandra Bullock, and Wayne Newton have in common. Still can't get it? One more try---Michael Vick, Plaxico Burress, and Chris Brown.

If you haven't gotten it by now, I will go ahead and tell you that they are all Virginians or all claim Virginia as their home. Now...why am I thanking God for Dave, Missy, and Jason? I just selected a few of my favorites to commend for NOT being like Michael, Plaxico, and Chris. The past 2 years have not been favorable for some of Virginia's celebrities, Michael Vick kills pit bulls, Plaxico carries illegal weapons and shoots himself in NY nightclubs, and Chris beats the crap out of his girlfriend Rhianna. Let me be amongst the first of Virginians to say--"WE AIN'T PROUD OF YA, BOYS!" As a matter of fact, we are downright angry with you--well at least I am. The three of you had it all--talent, respect, loyal fans, and of course all the cash that comes along with it--and you blew it. Good going. As a fellow Virginian--I am so very disappointed--you guys absolutely suck as representatives of our state and if I were in charge I would probably find some way to legally disassociate you from this great state. We don't need you and we don't want you--take your shenanigans elsewhere.

Luckily, as Virginians, we still have a lot of folks to be proud of--people who seem to be doing well and keeping it clean. Of course, I don't know what goes on behind the scenes, but until we see Dave or Missy in the news doing God only knows what sort of horrible thing--then kudos to them.

Just for fun--Click Here here for a website listing other Virginia celebs, athletes, and historical figures.

Every Mom Deserves a Blog!

2009-02-03T18:41:00.000-08:00

My Mom is the greatest Mom on the face of the planet. I am SO lucky to have her in my life and I love her so much. We honor our mothers every Mother's Day, (which coincidentally is the day after my due date :o) but I want to make sure my Mom gets her due EVERY day--not just on one day of the year.

A little about my mom: She went back to school the year I went to kindergarten, which would have made her about 36 years old. She completed nursing school and community college in two years--which normally takes about 4 years. She became a RN at what used to be Danville Memorial Hospital in the critical care unit.
Both of my parents have always done WHATEVER it took to provide for our family-and that typically meant working ridiculously long and tedious hours. We were never a rich family, but I promise that was never anything in the world I ever wanted or needed that was not provided to me.
Throughout the years my mom has continued to work long hours to provide for each and every one of her children and grandchildren. She has obtained her CCRN and worked herself into a nurse management position. My mom is dependable, caring, and hardworking.
When my Mom turned 43 she gave birth to my baby sis, Kaitlyn. I witnessed one of the most difficult times in her life physically. She was SO sick for the entire 9 months--dehydrating twice and having to go to the hospital twice to receive IV fluids. Imagine how scary it was for me at age 11 to see my Mom pass out in the hallway of our house! (This is one reason I tell myself each day that my pregnancy could be worse!) Kaitlyn was born and Mom gave her the middle name Faith, saying that it took a lot of faith to get her here. (Hence, our daughter's name, Addison Faith)
Mom always wanted to have 3 children, she and my father prayed and prayed that God would bless them with 3 of us. She laughs saying that God gave them what they wanted, just on his timeline and not hers. We have all three decades, the 70's (Karen), 80's (me), and the 90's (Kaitlyn) on lock down! There is a 21 year difference between Karen and Kaitlyn.
This past year my Mom turned 60 years old. She barely looks as if she is out of her 40's, but nonetheless she turned 60 and works just as hard has ever. She battles with physical pain, arthritis, foot problems, lower back pain, and acid reflux on a daily basis, but it doesn't stop her from working hard. She is also beginning to work on her BSN and started an independent study college course just last week to get her started.
If ever a person could be described as selfless, it is my Mom. She has gone without and done without her entire life to make sure that nobody else in the family would have to go wanting.
If one day I can look back on my life and say that I worked half as hard as my mother and loved my family half as much as she loved us then I will have lived a successful life filled with endless love.

Now--since I am honoring my mom, I also need to mention that I now have a mother-in-law who is also wonderful. Addison is going to be one lucky little girl to have a Nana and a Nine (pronounced Nee-Nay)in her life.

Taxes. ARGH!

2009-01-28T13:44:00.000-08:00

WOULD SOMEONE please explain to me--Don--this means you, since you are my only reader, right now. :o) Why do I feel like I am being taxed twice?????? I took out money from my IRA (without penalty for first time home buyer) and paid the tax on it. Now when I enter my 1099-R it counts as income (I guess in a new bracket) and lowers my tax refund. Is it just me, or does that seem like I am being taxed twice? NO PENALTY withdrawal--YEAH RIGHT!
I have also discovered that I would have been better off NOT working a second part time job this year since I was only taxed $7.10 in federal taxes and $7.01 in state taxes. Thank GOD we bought a house and were able to claim the first time home-buyer credit--or else I would have been paying federal and state taxes in amounts that I would not be able to afford! Granted--without the house I wouldn't have to count the IRA as income. GEEZ. I can't catch a break this year.

I'm going to start writing again!

2009-01-27T10:59:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning and decided...I need to blog. A lot is going on in my life and it will be nice to have an outlet, as well as a chance to share my thoughts, laugh at myself and connect with fellow bloggers.

SO...my wedding was October 11, 2008 and I found out 3 weeks before the wedding that I was pregnant! So...here I am 6 months pregnant with a little girl. We are so excited and cannot wait to meet our little Addison Faith.

Being pregnant has definitely been a test of will and strength for me. When I hear women say they love being pregnant--I wonder if they truly love being pregnant--or because they are now mothers of children whom they love--they look back on the experience as a pleasant one? Maybe a little of both. I can't exactly share the sentiment that I love being pregnant...but what I can share is that I love the child growing inside of me. It isn't something I can easily explain because it is strange loving someone whom you have never met--but I feel her moving around and I know she is there--THAT IS DEFINITELY EVIDENT IN MY GROWING GIGANTIC stomach!

As much as I don't like looking at the scale and seeing it creep up--after a year of diligently working to lose weight and get into shape--and as much as I don't like looking pale--(yes, I know tanning is bad--but I do enjoy having a little color on my skin)--and as much as I feel pain--I still wouldn't trade having the opportunity or loving Addison or being her mommy.

I think it is funny that my last post was about a book on self-image, when I seem to be having a lot of self-image issues right now! Last night, I got home around 9:15pm and I glanced in the mirror by my front door and this is the image I saw standing before me:

That's right Mama Fratelli from The Goonies was staring back at me! I had the greasy hair, the haggard,worn expression, the pasty white skin, and a very defeated look of despair on my face. My husband assures me that I don't really look like this--but I feel like I do. I feel like I am pregnant ALL over my body--I can see it in my face, my belly, my chest...everywhere. So I have decided to channel all of this despair into love for Addison and to start working on a plan. I know I won't be able to jump right back into my 5:30am boot camp work-outs, but I plan on starting slow and working my way back into it--Weight Watchers is the best $40.00 a month I ever spent and I will certainly be giving them a call after Addison arrives. Having a plan makes me feel a little less "Fratelli." In the meantime I will have to settle for a new haircut and an eyebrow waxing!

Body Drama

2008-02-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

I was so busy the other night at work, I barely had time to finish the article I was reading in People magazine about Nancy Amanda Redd's new book Body Drama. I was so impressed with what she said in this article, that I went to B&N after work to find this book.
Having a younger teenaged sister has opened my eyes to many new issues facing today's female teenagers. I am in my late 20's and I NEVER dealt with many of the issues that she is facing--or at least not until I was much older. This book covers so many of these issues. I bought the book and mailed it to her.

Nancy Redd, a former Miss Virginia, and Miss America contestant, wrote this book to cover many topics many young girls may be too embarrassed to bring up. I think it is a terrific "manual" for young women.

2 Email Responses to my Midnight Hero!

2008-01-02T11:44:00.000-08:00

Ms. Ingram - thank you for your kind remarks concerning the officer who returned your Wachovia ATM card. I am copying Captain Lowe and Lts. Dimitry and Jones as I suspect it may have been a First Precinct officer. If not, I am sure they will notify the proper precinct command.

Again, thank you for your email and have great holidays.

Tom Mitchell
Support Division Manager
Virginia Beach Police Department

Second Response

I am polling my officers in an attempt to determine which officer this may have been.

It is also possible the officer is not assigned to the 1st Precinct but assigned to Special Operations as they also work in uniform and at night.

Hopefully we can determine the officer and get him the recognition this incident deserves.

Thank very much for bringing this to our attention; usually we only hear from folks who are dissatisfied with the officer’s actions.

Once we identify the officer I’ll let you know.

Also, a copy of you email will be placed in their permanent personnel jacket as a letter of recognition.

Captain K.M. Lowe, Jr.

Commanding Officer

It makes me feel good that the person who helped me will get some recognition for his act of kindness. I really hope they are able to find him!

Midnight Hero

2007-12-21T09:19:00.000-08:00

A copy of the letter I sent this morning to the Virginia Beach Police Department Division Manager:

Mr. Mitchell,

I found your email address on the city website and I know you probably aren't the right person to send this too, but perhaps you can put me in contact with correct person. I would love to share this story with this police officer's supervisor, but I have no idea who he was.

Last night I got off work at my seasonal job around midnight and went to the ATM to deposit my paycheck. I arrived back at my apartment to finish wrapping a few presents before I went to bed. Around 12:30am (12/21/07) there was a knock at my door. My fiancé is in the Marines and is in CA so I am a little apprehensive about answering my door, especially at that hour of night. My dog was going crazy and I was a little off guard as to who would be at my door so late--as I was reaching for my phone to call the police, I looked outside and saw a police cruiser. There was another knock at my door and I asked who it was and the gentleman announced himself as a police officer. I opened the door and he asked me if I was Kristen Ingram, I said yes, and then he handed me my ATM card and said, I just wanted to make sure you got this back. Apparently in my midnight shift exhaustion I had driven away from the ATM, not only without getting my card back, but also leaving my banking information wide open on the ATM screen. He had pulled into the ATM behind me. Since my dog (a Weimaraner--I'm sure the officer would remember the dog because he commented on her) was going crazy I didn't get the opportunity to get this officer's name or to really thank him properly.

I just want him to know how grateful I really am that he took the time to not only get my card back for me, but to look me up, and promptly return it to me. Not only did he save me from a potential dishonest person gaining access to my account, but had the ATM machine shut-down my access and kept my card--he saved me the hassle of canceling the card and having to order a new one.

I was at the Wachovia ATM on Lynnhaven Parkway, near the Wal-Mart and Toys R Us. I don't know what precinct the officer is in---but last night he was my hero.

Thank you for letting me share this with you and if you can put me in contact with the proper person, I would really appreciate it.

Kristen A. Ingram

Rudy and Lucia

2007-11-13T08:02:00.001-08:00

These are our two wonderful doggies! While Jim was gone I had several travel obligations for work, thanks to my mom and dad who graciously agreed to dog sit--Lucia and Rudy went on a little doggie vacation to Danville, VA. Words cannot describe how much I missed these 2 little critters.
It is becoming more and more apparent to me that with when I have no sense of responsibility I flounder. When Jim left, I still had the responsibility for caring for our dogs and once they were gone I only had responsibility for myself. I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself--however, call it a mothering instinct or whatever--I feel more put together--more of a sense of purpose when there is someone in this world relying on me. Rudy and Lucia have been home for several weeks now--and I can already see a difference in my life and how I go about taking care of business. I have a greater sense of purpose--I am more effective. I am learning that I am completely motivated by staying busy---and these 2 little guys keep me busy!
Since thier trip to Danville, they have been readjusting to being home. Every time they go away--they return with little bad habits. Lucia loves to knock over the trashcan--I HATE IT! Rudy is so introverted that it takes me weeks to get him to come out of his shell. He loves to lay under the bed or in his kennel and rarely comes out to play. I am hoping that if I continue to work with them on these little things they will eventually get back to normal!

Trials and Tribulations of being engaged to a US Marine

2007-11-07T19:04:00.001-08:00

So--if you have been reading my blogs you will knows that Jim has completed boot camp, and just finished his MCT training. He is now in CA for his MOS training that was supposed to begin this week. (Supposed to being the operative words) I received a call from him tonight and his training will not begin until Jan 2008. They are keeping him in CA on "work parties" until then. So what was only going to be 2 more months of him being gone has turned into 5 months away from home. Not a happy girl :o(

Wedding planning has begun waaaay sooner than I ever anticipated it would. I know from working in the hotel industry that brides begin planning far far in advance--but I thought by having such a small, fun ceremony at a beach house would be so much easier with less advanced planning. I WAS WRONG. You can't just rent a beach house and have a party--you have to seek out a specific event beach house and you have to have event insurance for the beach house and there are only about 10 beach houses in this area that are classified as event houses. So I had to sacrifice my original wedding date for Oct. 11, 2008 beacause that is when the house was available. So my somewhat summerish beach wedding may wind up being a little chilly. So I have the house, I'm looking for the dress, I have family reseraching invitations, bridesmaid dresses are being evaluated, flower arrangements are being shopped, decorations are being purchased, etc., etc., etc. This is all happening so soon! Thank goodness for my best friend Niccole--she keeps me grounded and when I start freaking out about this moving too fast she just puts it into perspective for me. Love her!

Michigan!

2007-10-24T22:30:00.000-07:00

CantonMichigan, Here we go!
So exactly one week after my visit to Beaufort, SC, I find myself sitting in an airplane on my way to Detroit. Jim strategically planned his boot camp graduation for exactly one week before his sister's wedding. THANK GOD HE FINISHES ON TIME. I don't think a Parris Island DI could even come close to rivaling bride or a bride's mother!
I worked a half day at Candlewood Suites, Va Beach and Jim and I departed for the airport around 3:30ish on Wed. Oct. 10. Our 5:15 flight was delayed until 5:50 so; we had plenty of time to kill--not to mention we had been re-routed. Our original itinerary led us to Newark--then to Detroit--the new schedule had us routed through Cleveland (WOAH Indians fans!) then to Detroit. We didn't really have a problem with this change since it had us arriving into Detroit about 45 minutes sooner than our original plans. HOWEVER...things change and delays happen and we wound up arriving late anyhow. We had a royal Michigan welcome from the entire Shelton crew--and of course many beers were enjoyed by all. We met Jim's sister, twin brother, soon-to-be-brother-in-law, and cousin at the bar before we headed back to Melissa's place to crash, thus beginning our whirlwind of a trip to MI.
Day 2: We woke early--went to Mom and Dad Shelton's house and enjoyed good company and great food. I took Mom shopping for make-up, picked up a new outfit for Jim (after boot camp his clothes were too big) and just did make it back to her house to a frenzy of people dressing and showering for the rehearsal dinner that night. We made it to the church, had the rehearsal and then headed to Dave's parent's house for a taco dinner. Note to all men: If the rehearsal dinner is being hosted at someone's house--please inform your girlfriend not to wear a formal dress with 3.5" heels. :o) Note: to my fellow Virginians: IT IS FREEZING IN MICHIGAN IN OCTOBER--take warm clothes--lots of warm clothes.
Day 3: Oct. 12--one day until the wedding. This is where I get to pick on Jim. This man, whom I love dearly, takes longer to get ready than any other human on the face of the planet Earth. Now complicate this getting ready ordeal with the fact that, not only is he being required to wear a tux to the actually ceremony--but he also is being required to where his *new* dress blues to the reception. (Don't ask me---this was not my idea--I thought the reception was for letting loose--not buttoning up--I was sorely mistaken) So, $125 for the tux and about $200 for the Blues--you do the math--my dress cost a mere fraction of his nightly attire. So, back to Friday--I was sick--the kinda sick that crawls all over your body and makes you ache--yet you feel ok enough to get through your daily duties and Jim had to get a haircut and "prepare" his uniform for the next day. Jim's 2 cousins, Jacob and Brian were also wearing dress blues to the reception. SO...while the boys were playing Marine Dress Up--Kristen and Mom watched the DVR'ed Grey's Anatomy and reclined in the living room. Later in the day I took a look at my throat and when I saw nasty little white spots on my tonsils--I decided that it might be a good idea to "get thee to a hospital." We were at St. Mary's for a good 3-4 hours and yes, it is true--I had the nasty Strep throat. The doc hooked me up with the Z-pak and sent me on my way.
Day 4: THE WEDDING. Getting ready in a house full of women isn't always the easiest task. There were a good dozen ladies in one house. Curling irons were burning, make-up brushes were flying; dresses were hanging all over the house. The scene could easily be confused with the backstage of any Broadway show. I was in charge of make-up--I knocked out about 5 faces in an hour--including my own--not bad for a day's work. We took the party bus to the church and met up with our fellas. The wedding was beautiful--the bride was stunning and my Jim was as handsome as ever. Pictures took 5 million years, as usual and we were back on the party bus having some adult beverages and on our way to the reception. This is of course after Jim's much anticipating costume change. (Seriously, it only took him a good 45 min to change from the tux to the dress blues.)
Now--I will be the first one to admit that being the date of someone in the bridal party is NOT always the most fun. Your date is at the head table and you are sitting with their relatives and trying to be cute and funny. It is a job in itself. A few Capn' and diets later and it definitely helps take the edge off. So--my dear boyfriend who has not consumed alcohol in quite some time (remember, he was at boot camp) decides that Sprite and Jim Beam are a perfect combination and is drinking like a champ! When he started introducing me as his "really hot girlfriend, Kristen" I knew the buzz had kicked in! We had a blast that night and it ended with a bang.
Once we returned to the hotel, Jim, who is not really good at keeping secrets, surprised me with the most beautiful diamond engagement ring. He said some really amazing things--which I will keep to myself :o) and asked me to marry him. It was really sweet--and under the advice of my best friend, Niccole, he waited until Melissa's special day was over before he popped the question. We waited until the next morning to tell our families and immediately our hotel room was flooded with Michigan relatives with showers of congratulations.
We spent the next day enjoying family and spending quality time with the Michigan folks. Monday, Oct 15--we flew back into Norfolk, picked up our car at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, and returned home. Jim had to pack his gear because the next day we were driving to Jacksonville, NC to drop him off at CampGeiger for his MCT training.
CampGeiger was about 4 hours away and it was a sad trip. Newly engaged and not being able to spend any more time together was not so much fun. He reported for duty at 1:00pm and I headed back to Va Beach to find a bed and get a good night's rest!
Jim will spend 22 days completing MCT and then flies to 29 Palms, CA for his MOS training. I officially get him back in January 2008. Hopefully--fingers crossed--he will get time off for Thanksgiving and Christmas!
Thanks for reading! Please visit Landmark Hotel Group for great hotels for your travel needs!

Boot Camp

2007-10-24T22:27:00.001-07:00

My latest trip took me to a place I didn't think I would ever visit again, Beaufort, SC. My first trip to Beaufort was in 1997 when I attended Hargrave Military Academy. We visited Parris Island (Beaufort) to have a workshop with the Marine Corps Band. Little did I know that 10 years later I would be visiting again to see my boyfriend graduation from Marine Boot Camp.
My boyfriend, Jim, after attaining a college degree, working for several years, moving to Virginia Beach made a now or never decision to join the Marine Corps Reserves. Reservists are required to receive the exact training as active duty. Therefore, our newest journey together took him to Parris Island and left me in Virginia Beach for 3 months. No phone calls, no internet, no email, just plain ol' snail mail. I do have to say that only corresponding by written letters allowed us to explore elements of our relationship unknown to either of us. There is something inherently romantic about the soldier writing home to his girl and the selflessness of his actions to put duty first to serve and protect his loved ones.

Enough of the mushiness! So my trip began on October 3, 2007 at approximately 7:00pm. Why so late" I had previously committed to sponsoring a golf tournament for my job atCandlewood Suites, Virginia Beach. My friend and co-worker Katie (from the Crowne Plaza Hotel) and I were not able to leave the tournament any sooner than 4:45pm--hence the delay in travel.
So...I arrive home to the Dads. Jim's father had traveled from Canton, MI (a 13 hour trip for him by car) and my father had traveled that morning from Danville, VA (a 3.5 hour trip). The Dads of course were packed and ready to go--I, on the other hand, being a seasoned traveler and last minute Liz, still had to pack! To make a long story short--15 minutes of packing, stopping to get gas, and grabbing a sub sandwich had us leaving Virginia at 7:00pm that night.
Seven hours and 30 minutes later we found ourselves at the Comfort Inn Suites Hotel in Beaufort. Let me interject for a minute about the pronunciation of Beaufort--see, there is a Beaufort, SC and a Beaufort, NC--however--each is pronounced differently. I was visiting BU-FORT, SC---not to be confused with BO-FORT, NC. Any who, we got to the hotel at approximately 2:30AM. The room I reserved was a queen suite with twin sleeper sofa---just enough room for the 3 of us to crash. And crash we did--that is until our phone rang at 3:15AM. It was the night auditor giving us a courtesy call to make sure everything was ok with the room. SERIOUSLY!"! Who on the planet earth thinks that it is a GOOD idea to call a guest at 3:15AM"""" We were already in bed and dozing off! I work in a hotel and I think I would be mortified if my staff was calling people at that ungodly hour!
We had to be on base by 6:30AM that morning--October 4, 2007 for the MOTO (Motivational Run). We watched the Mike Co. and November Co. run the base (1,2,3,4 UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS!) After the run, we had to wait several hours to see Jim--but finally at around 1:30PM we were reunited. It was amazing to see the transformation he had made in 3 months. Despite the fact that he was about 40 lbs. lighter, he stood a little taller, and had discovered a confidence that prior to PI had been lacking. It was so good to see him. I knew I had missed him, but I didn't realize how much until I saw him again. He had about 5 hours of liberty that day. He was in a daze; the poor guy was so overwhelmed. He had been told what to do and how to do it for 3 months, so suddenly finding himself with family he hadn't seen for 3 months on a base that he had only traveled by foot in the company of other recruits was enough to leave him disoriented. We ate lunch, chatted, visited the Marine Corps Exchange, and tried to catch up. He had to be back on barracks by 6:45pm and we headed back to the hotel. After only getting 2 hours of sleep the Dads and I were exhausted--so EXHAUSTED that I fell asleep watching Grey's Anatomy--that is unheard of, my friends.
October 5, 2007--Graduation Day--again we arrived on base at 7:30AM. We had to find parking, attend a Q&A session and wait for graduation to begin at 10:00AM. Due to the inclement weather the ceremony was indoors and was very brief. At 10:30AM we were able to take our new Marine home! Of course, we had to make sure we had enough USMC shirts and souvenirs to cloth the entire family.
I failed to mention that on the way to Beaufort we lost a weight on one of the tires on my dad's Durango--so on the way out of town we stopped at a Goodyear Store and had the tires balanced and re-weighted. Jim was anxious to get home and 7.5 hours in the car listening to the Dads talk about the military definitely made our arrival into Virginia Beach--all that much sweeter! We did make one stop on the way back to our apartment and that was to eat dinner at Jim's favorite place, Red Robin. After 3 months of military chow and MRE's he was quite thrilled to sink his teeth into that bacon cheeseburger!
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