Well here it is.....I am desperate....so here is a donate button, and if you are feeling like you can spare $5, or a million......then please click on the donate button I have provided on the right side of my blog.
I really do appreciate all the help.
Thanks
Andrea
March 30, 2011
***Need Help!! SOS!!***
All right I have to admit that when I typed SOS....the ABBA song came into my head. But really I need help! I got a call from the place I am borrowing my pump from today, and I have to return the pump ASAP! I wasn't expecting to have to return it so soon. And without a replacement!
*********I desperately need a hospital grade breast pump to feed my son!!********* Other pumps just aren't doing the job since I have to pump so often. I am looking for a Medela Symphony pump!
This is getting a little frustrating. I have been putting the word out there, but I haven't heard a word back yet. I have no other way to feed my son. He can't keep down formula...we are pretty sure he is alergic to it. And he can't latch no matter how hard I try. I don't know what to do anymore! ;0(
Please pass the word around. I need help! If you want to buy some Scentsy, let me know. If you want to help, please let me know......But please pass the word around.
Thank you
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Here is my e-mail where you can send me info....thanks
firecraker45@hotmail.com
*********I desperately need a hospital grade breast pump to feed my son!!********* Other pumps just aren't doing the job since I have to pump so often. I am looking for a Medela Symphony pump!
This is getting a little frustrating. I have been putting the word out there, but I haven't heard a word back yet. I have no other way to feed my son. He can't keep down formula...we are pretty sure he is alergic to it. And he can't latch no matter how hard I try. I don't know what to do anymore! ;0(
Please pass the word around. I need help! If you want to buy some Scentsy, let me know. If you want to help, please let me know......But please pass the word around.
Thank you
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Here is my e-mail where you can send me info....thanks
firecraker45@hotmail.com
March 28, 2011
Blessings and Anxiety
We got to bless Riley on March 27, 2011 It was really great, and we even had people we are very close to there. Riley was dressed up very handsome, and even wore his new white pom pom hat! lol
Riley did great during his blessing and didn't become one of those babies that ends up screaming the entire time. lol It all happened so quickly that it was over before I knew it. And when Chuck held him up in front of the congregation.....everyone sighed at how cute he is!!!
After his blessing we went to lunch and ate at Ihop! ;0) While we were at the restaurant my anxiety suddenly flared up and I felt like walking across the isle and snatching Riley up. I felt like I had to protect him, but am not sure why. It was a weird feeling. But other than that It was a great day!
Monday was a semi productive day. Riley seems to be feeling better each day. He has been slowly eating a little more and I am so thankful for that. He has been approved to see an occupational therapist to asses his eating and such. I hope someone figures out something for this little guy! Monday night Riley slept for 5 hours straight!!!
Tuesday Riley and I went to our mommy and me class again. This class was on feelings, and Depression. It was fun for everyone to share/vent in the class and just know that most of the moms in there are going through a hard time as they try to figure out being a mommy. After the class....we all stayed in the class room for an hour afterwards to visit with each other. Riley and I left after an hour when some of the group started to break up. He got really fussy and so I hurried outside so he would have something else to think about besides crying. He quieted down right away, and turned back into his happy little self. Right as we were crossing the street.....a HUGE and MASSIVE fire truck comes barreling down the road towards us. Lights flashing, siren wailing, and horn blaring.....we hurried as fast as we could out of the way. Riley's eyes got really big and then this look of utter terror crossed over his face. I felt so bad. I ran across the street and once across snatched him right out of his carrier to sooth him. The poor little guy was pretty shaken up by it. ;0( I felt awful.
When we got home, Chuck was working on his bike in the driveway. We had the windows in the house open as it was a nice 70 outside. And Riley and I picked up in the house a little. Chuck ran a few errands, and Riley took a nice long 3 hour nap! I should have napped with him, but I really needed to get some things done around the house.
When Chuck got back, he had picked up some Subway, and the movie Tangled I had reserved at the Disney Store! We fed Riley put him to bed and Chuck and I crawled into bed and ate dinner and watched Tangled. We had offered for Riley to be a third wheel and watch it with us.....but he declined and slept for 5 hours again!!! I could really get used to his sleeping this long. lol
Today is Wednesday, and it has been a hot, hot day. Chuck and I were still pretty tired when we woke, so we stayed in bed for a little bit and fed Riley. We all hung out for a bit before Chuck had to go in for a half day of work. Riley took a 2 hour nap and I finished working on his birth announcements and thank you cards. Chuck came home and we walked to Walgreens to get some postage stamps so I can mail it all out tomorrow. We didn't walk very far, but I somehow managed to get sunburned! Yah....lame!
Our House is hot! It is almost 10p.m. and it is still 80 in here!! We have all the windows open and the fans on. Riley is in his Dah duh ta da's (diapers) and the poor little man is still warm.
Well I need to find something to eat for today. I am tired and hungry!!
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Riley did great during his blessing and didn't become one of those babies that ends up screaming the entire time. lol It all happened so quickly that it was over before I knew it. And when Chuck held him up in front of the congregation.....everyone sighed at how cute he is!!!
After his blessing we went to lunch and ate at Ihop! ;0) While we were at the restaurant my anxiety suddenly flared up and I felt like walking across the isle and snatching Riley up. I felt like I had to protect him, but am not sure why. It was a weird feeling. But other than that It was a great day!
Monday was a semi productive day. Riley seems to be feeling better each day. He has been slowly eating a little more and I am so thankful for that. He has been approved to see an occupational therapist to asses his eating and such. I hope someone figures out something for this little guy! Monday night Riley slept for 5 hours straight!!!
Tuesday Riley and I went to our mommy and me class again. This class was on feelings, and Depression. It was fun for everyone to share/vent in the class and just know that most of the moms in there are going through a hard time as they try to figure out being a mommy. After the class....we all stayed in the class room for an hour afterwards to visit with each other. Riley and I left after an hour when some of the group started to break up. He got really fussy and so I hurried outside so he would have something else to think about besides crying. He quieted down right away, and turned back into his happy little self. Right as we were crossing the street.....a HUGE and MASSIVE fire truck comes barreling down the road towards us. Lights flashing, siren wailing, and horn blaring.....we hurried as fast as we could out of the way. Riley's eyes got really big and then this look of utter terror crossed over his face. I felt so bad. I ran across the street and once across snatched him right out of his carrier to sooth him. The poor little guy was pretty shaken up by it. ;0( I felt awful.
When we got home, Chuck was working on his bike in the driveway. We had the windows in the house open as it was a nice 70 outside. And Riley and I picked up in the house a little. Chuck ran a few errands, and Riley took a nice long 3 hour nap! I should have napped with him, but I really needed to get some things done around the house.
When Chuck got back, he had picked up some Subway, and the movie Tangled I had reserved at the Disney Store! We fed Riley put him to bed and Chuck and I crawled into bed and ate dinner and watched Tangled. We had offered for Riley to be a third wheel and watch it with us.....but he declined and slept for 5 hours again!!! I could really get used to his sleeping this long. lol
Today is Wednesday, and it has been a hot, hot day. Chuck and I were still pretty tired when we woke, so we stayed in bed for a little bit and fed Riley. We all hung out for a bit before Chuck had to go in for a half day of work. Riley took a 2 hour nap and I finished working on his birth announcements and thank you cards. Chuck came home and we walked to Walgreens to get some postage stamps so I can mail it all out tomorrow. We didn't walk very far, but I somehow managed to get sunburned! Yah....lame!
Our House is hot! It is almost 10p.m. and it is still 80 in here!! We have all the windows open and the fans on. Riley is in his Dah duh ta da's (diapers) and the poor little man is still warm.
Well I need to find something to eat for today. I am tired and hungry!!
XoXo-Andrea Carla
I am a travelin gal
26 out of 50 isn't so bad.I saw this on some other military wives blogs.....so you can see each state I have been to. I thought this was pretty fun. If you would like to do this as well.....just click here
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 26, 2011
Rainy Days
The last two weekends have been rainy. I don't mind....but it is cold, and I do not like that. lol It is funny how one who isn't from Cali thinks that all our days are sunny and bright. ha ha ha Yah not so much.
Riley hasn't been feeling so hot. His reflux has really been acting up. He throws up more than he used to, and his appetite is diminishing. So I called the Dr. and we got in for an appointment that day. It turns out that in almost a month....Riley has only gained 9oz. He is still in the 8lb. area. ;0( I love our little guy, but he is so tiny. I just worry about him a lot. So his Dr. put him on meds. Hopefully this will help him. We go back in a few weeks for more shots and a check up. I have to admit I am not looking forward to the shots. Especially after what the last ones did to him. Poor little man.
I have been getting excited about our big move to the San Diego area. Even though I will really miss it up here....Chuck and I love San Diego. We spent the first 8 years of our marriage there. We have a bad habit of saying we want to do things or go places and then we never do. We were in the San Diego area for 8 years, and we never went to the zoo. We only visited the Wild Animal Park 2 maybe 3 times. We never went to Balboa park, Chuck never went to The Con with me. And so many more things. We always said we would go....and just sort of never made it. But this time we are for sure doing these things. We are going to get a pass to The Zoo, and to SeaWorld and take Riley very often. We can take him to LegoLand, and the best part.....We are so going to be taking him to DisneyLand several times a year since it will once again be only 2 hours away!!! ;0) I miss living so close to Disney. And you know Chuck and I have been so many times that When we go now....we have like 3 rides we want to go on, and that is it. We just love to go and walk around and spend the day at the park. We aren't pushed for time to make it on all the rides or anything. So we can go around and enjoy the park. And that will be fun so we can track down all the characters and get pics of them with Riley. And I can continue to do these fun things with Riley when Chuck deploys so he won't feel like fun things only happen when dad is around. And when we are having a rough day......it will be a great option to distract us with the zoo or something. ;0)
I have really been enjoying being a part of the blogging world. I love finding great recipes, crafts, and ideas for activities for Riley. Like a friend had a scavenger hunt for St. Patrick's day for the kids. And with a name like Riley Patrick....we have to do something fun for him every year for St. Patty's day. Also Easter egg hunts really late at night, or early in the morning when it is still dark and Riley would need a flashlight to find the eggs. lol I love these ideas. lol Or things on how to keep a kid entertained during General Conference so they pay attention somewhat and not use the time to nap. There are really a lot of talented people out there in the world, and I love that we are able to tap into that. And it helps us less crafty individuals be a little crafty. I have great ideas for crafts.....it's just getting those ideas from my head to the project table is next to impossible. lol
Riley is going to be blessed this Sunday. I am super excited and nervous for Chuck as well. I hope he feels comfortable with what he is going to say for our son. We have asked a few of our friends to help with the blessing, so it will be pretty neat for everyone involved. Riley's outfit is super cute. I wish he could wear the blessing outfit that was made for him, but since he is so small.....it will be a while before it will fit him. I am going to try one more time for him to wear it, but I am not holding my breath. He is 2 months old and still wearing Newborn diapers. lol We tried to see if he could fit in the size ones yet....and the diaper took up most of his body. lol
Well that is all for now. Here are a few pics of little man for ya.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Riley hasn't been feeling so hot. His reflux has really been acting up. He throws up more than he used to, and his appetite is diminishing. So I called the Dr. and we got in for an appointment that day. It turns out that in almost a month....Riley has only gained 9oz. He is still in the 8lb. area. ;0( I love our little guy, but he is so tiny. I just worry about him a lot. So his Dr. put him on meds. Hopefully this will help him. We go back in a few weeks for more shots and a check up. I have to admit I am not looking forward to the shots. Especially after what the last ones did to him. Poor little man.
I have been getting excited about our big move to the San Diego area. Even though I will really miss it up here....Chuck and I love San Diego. We spent the first 8 years of our marriage there. We have a bad habit of saying we want to do things or go places and then we never do. We were in the San Diego area for 8 years, and we never went to the zoo. We only visited the Wild Animal Park 2 maybe 3 times. We never went to Balboa park, Chuck never went to The Con with me. And so many more things. We always said we would go....and just sort of never made it. But this time we are for sure doing these things. We are going to get a pass to The Zoo, and to SeaWorld and take Riley very often. We can take him to LegoLand, and the best part.....We are so going to be taking him to DisneyLand several times a year since it will once again be only 2 hours away!!! ;0) I miss living so close to Disney. And you know Chuck and I have been so many times that When we go now....we have like 3 rides we want to go on, and that is it. We just love to go and walk around and spend the day at the park. We aren't pushed for time to make it on all the rides or anything. So we can go around and enjoy the park. And that will be fun so we can track down all the characters and get pics of them with Riley. And I can continue to do these fun things with Riley when Chuck deploys so he won't feel like fun things only happen when dad is around. And when we are having a rough day......it will be a great option to distract us with the zoo or something. ;0)
I have really been enjoying being a part of the blogging world. I love finding great recipes, crafts, and ideas for activities for Riley. Like a friend had a scavenger hunt for St. Patrick's day for the kids. And with a name like Riley Patrick....we have to do something fun for him every year for St. Patty's day. Also Easter egg hunts really late at night, or early in the morning when it is still dark and Riley would need a flashlight to find the eggs. lol I love these ideas. lol Or things on how to keep a kid entertained during General Conference so they pay attention somewhat and not use the time to nap. There are really a lot of talented people out there in the world, and I love that we are able to tap into that. And it helps us less crafty individuals be a little crafty. I have great ideas for crafts.....it's just getting those ideas from my head to the project table is next to impossible. lol
Riley is going to be blessed this Sunday. I am super excited and nervous for Chuck as well. I hope he feels comfortable with what he is going to say for our son. We have asked a few of our friends to help with the blessing, so it will be pretty neat for everyone involved. Riley's outfit is super cute. I wish he could wear the blessing outfit that was made for him, but since he is so small.....it will be a while before it will fit him. I am going to try one more time for him to wear it, but I am not holding my breath. He is 2 months old and still wearing Newborn diapers. lol We tried to see if he could fit in the size ones yet....and the diaper took up most of his body. lol
Well that is all for now. Here are a few pics of little man for ya.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 25, 2011
MilSpouse Friday Fill-In
1-What is your must have gadget?
Normally I would say my phone....but since I have become a mommy....it is now the Itzbeen! This thing is amazing, and I can't live without it. It helps me stay sane, and reminds me when I forget. Here is a pic of it, and you can buy it at Baby Earth ....They even give Military discount.
2-How does your adulthood compare to what you imagined it would be like when you were a little kid?
Ha Ha Ha I laughed out loud when I read this! Adulthood is nothing like I had imagined. I had figured I would be able to be free of everything. The reality is I am more tied down now than I was as a teen. lol Granted I can do what I want, but I have to be responsible, and I need money to do the things I want. It is a lot more responsibility than I thought it would be when I was a kid. But when I look at my son sleeping....it seems so worth it.
3-What is your favorite chocolate recipe?
Plain ole Chocolate Cake with Chocolate icing, and some mint ice cream mixed in. Yah I stir my cake and ice cream together....I don't think you can eat it any other way. lol
4-How do you deal with military life when it gets to be to much or to hard? submitted by Combat Boots And Pointe Shoes
Hey look it's my question!! This will be fun to see what other people will put as answers. Well having gone through 4 deployments to Iraq, 1 to Uganda, and 1 to Norway I feel a little seasoned with the routine. But sometimes it does get to be to much. The thing I have to remind myself is...Yes this stinks, yes I am lonely, and yes I want to throw a temper tantrum. But I have to wonder how my husband is doing. He can't whine about it, he can't complain about being lonely, and he for sure cannot throw a temper tantrum. lol I let myself cry, I take a day off from my normal routine of cleaning, work, or whatever it is....and I cry some more, take myself out on a hot date of dinner and a movie, and I allow myself to get chip faced...with Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream. And on occasion I do some retail therapy. I take care of my plants and make sure I haven't killed them off, and I try to take my mind off of life in general. I don't want to be surrounded by people who remind me of everything....so I pamper myself alone. I chose my own company to find something to soothe the soul and get myself back on track so I can get back into my routine.
One thing wives need to remember is that women run with higher emotions than men most of the time. So even though I know my husband has it worse, and I am not in danger like me may be.....I am allowed to feel emotion, and cry about it. But for the sake of my family and marriage....I cannot sit in my own sad feelings for more than a day.
5-What piece of advice would you give a new Military spouse facing their first deployment?
It is going to be tough, it is going to be lonely, and you are going to question your sanity. But you have to be the rock at home. Even when you don't want to be. You can't complain about every little stinkin thing to your spouse. They need to be able to vent to you, but you cannot use them like you normally do to vent. Tell them about big things, and how you are going to fix or deal with them. Your spouse needs to feel that you are able to somewhat function while they are away. If not.....they are constantly worrying about you and are not concentrating on the mission at hand or what they are doing at the moment. You have resources to help you deal with he emotional part of a deployment. Your spouse has only 3. His friend by his side...if he has one, the Chaplain, and YOU! You have several, and it is unfair to offload petty things onto your spouse while they are gone. You will survive while they are gone. But keep things realistic. You will have hard days, you more than likely will cry. And you will for sure be lonely. But there are ways to help with that. Other spouses know what you are going through. Befriend a few. Also if you are lonely....surround yourself with people. Get a job, volunteer, or just do some damage with retail therapy. It does not do you, your spouse, or your marriage any good to isolate yourself from the world while they are away. Allow yourself to feel bad or down once in a while when they are away, but don't let it last more than a day, two at the most. You have to be strong and brave. If you let it drag you down.....then things will fall apart. You have to suck it up and be brave just like your spouse. ;0)
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 23, 2011
A solution for a pump!
I think I might have figured out how to get a pump to feed Riley!
I am going to have an open house each weekend in April at my home for Scentsy! I will have stock available, and then you can order as well. I might be able to get others there to showcase merchandise like Cookie Lee. This is going to take a little planning, but I will see what I can come up with. That way I will be able to sell product, and raise some money so that my little man can get the chow he needs.
If you would like to come help, or have a product you would like to showcase....let me know. Also you can host your own party, and earn free product, and at the same time it will really help me out a lot. Remember this is a great excuse to have a girls night out, and just socialize with friends. I would really appreciate your input and help.
Thanks so much
XoXo-Andrea Carla
I am going to have an open house each weekend in April at my home for Scentsy! I will have stock available, and then you can order as well. I might be able to get others there to showcase merchandise like Cookie Lee. This is going to take a little planning, but I will see what I can come up with. That way I will be able to sell product, and raise some money so that my little man can get the chow he needs.
If you would like to come help, or have a product you would like to showcase....let me know. Also you can host your own party, and earn free product, and at the same time it will really help me out a lot. Remember this is a great excuse to have a girls night out, and just socialize with friends. I would really appreciate your input and help.
Thanks so much
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Loving it!!
I don't have much time to write, but I just wanted to pop in and say that even though I have no idea what the heck I am doing.....I am loving being a Mommy!!!!
Sure the sleepless nights are taking a toll, and I feel like I am being worn down. But you know what makes it all worth it?......Today after a very fussy morning with Riley.....after I fed him....he rolled over and just smiled and laughed at me for no reason. I hadn't tried to egg it out of him or anything....he just smiled because he wanted to, and my little heart just burst with joy!!! ;0)
The other day I was in Babies R Us getting some more supplies, and this woman walks up to me and commented on how cute Riley was. Then she asked if he was my first. I said yes and she was astonished at how I was cradling Riley in one arm and guiding the shopping cart, and paying the clerk with my other hand. She said I looked like such a natural. I wanted to hug her for such a kind comment. To have a complete stranger be impressed with what they see is kind of cool.
I do have to say most days I feel like I am barely winging it....trying to keep the house clean, baby fed, changed, clean, and happy, and of course to not forget about my husband. I feel like I am just making things up as I go sometimes.....and I have to laugh at myself. But you know I love it. The other day I realised that I have kind of been liking doing the dishes every night to make sure all my pumping equipment and bottles are ready for the night shift and the next day. I just finally feel I am starting to figure out the whole wife and mommy thing. lol
Well I had better go. My little man is being good in his crib being entertained by his mobile and Mozart....but I need to get something else done before he fusses...
....too late.... lol
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Sure the sleepless nights are taking a toll, and I feel like I am being worn down. But you know what makes it all worth it?......Today after a very fussy morning with Riley.....after I fed him....he rolled over and just smiled and laughed at me for no reason. I hadn't tried to egg it out of him or anything....he just smiled because he wanted to, and my little heart just burst with joy!!! ;0)
The other day I was in Babies R Us getting some more supplies, and this woman walks up to me and commented on how cute Riley was. Then she asked if he was my first. I said yes and she was astonished at how I was cradling Riley in one arm and guiding the shopping cart, and paying the clerk with my other hand. She said I looked like such a natural. I wanted to hug her for such a kind comment. To have a complete stranger be impressed with what they see is kind of cool.
I do have to say most days I feel like I am barely winging it....trying to keep the house clean, baby fed, changed, clean, and happy, and of course to not forget about my husband. I feel like I am just making things up as I go sometimes.....and I have to laugh at myself. But you know I love it. The other day I realised that I have kind of been liking doing the dishes every night to make sure all my pumping equipment and bottles are ready for the night shift and the next day. I just finally feel I am starting to figure out the whole wife and mommy thing. lol
Well I had better go. My little man is being good in his crib being entertained by his mobile and Mozart....but I need to get something else done before he fusses...
....too late.... lol
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 22, 2011
Mommy and Me!
Today was our first Mommy and me class. I signed up through Muirmommies at the women's center. I have been looking forward to going for a few weeks, but last night I was up most of the night with Riley, pumping, and then up with Riley again. I was extremely tired this morning and wasn't so sure I would make it to the class. I even called to see if I could switch to a later in the day class.....but alas it was full. I really tried to get there on time. I fed Riley and put him down for a nap while I flat ironed my hair and got dressed. I hurried and got Riley ready, got snacks and chow for both of us and loaded us up in the car. We stopped by Taco Bell and got mommy a LARGE Dr. Pepper so she would have more of a chance at staying awake......and then headed to the bank to get some cash for the parking garage.
We were the first ones to arrive for the class, and that gave us time to change Riley's diaper, and then get settled in class and start feeding him while the other mom's arrived. As everyone was coming in.....I had thoughts of "what have I done?!! I don't belong here, I never fit in". But as the class started I had fun. We all talked, and I found that I really related to most of these women. It was a relief to be able to relate to them and talk about things and not feel left out for once. Normally when I get together with a group of women.....I don't fit in. I have nothing in common with any of them, and I feel like an outsider. So I normally don't participate in social things because I don't see the point in making myself feel like an outsider and an idiot because I don't fit in. But it was really neat to be able to understand and talk with the other mom's.
We spent the whole time chit chatting and introducing ourselves in class. It is a 12 week class, and we will meet once a week. Each week we have a new topic to talk about. They have the rooms set up so that we don't have to leave the class right after. So we can stay and chat as long as we want. ;0) It was really fun and I am looking forward to next week. ;0)
XoXo-Andrea Carla
We were the first ones to arrive for the class, and that gave us time to change Riley's diaper, and then get settled in class and start feeding him while the other mom's arrived. As everyone was coming in.....I had thoughts of "what have I done?!! I don't belong here, I never fit in". But as the class started I had fun. We all talked, and I found that I really related to most of these women. It was a relief to be able to relate to them and talk about things and not feel left out for once. Normally when I get together with a group of women.....I don't fit in. I have nothing in common with any of them, and I feel like an outsider. So I normally don't participate in social things because I don't see the point in making myself feel like an outsider and an idiot because I don't fit in. But it was really neat to be able to understand and talk with the other mom's.
We spent the whole time chit chatting and introducing ourselves in class. It is a 12 week class, and we will meet once a week. Each week we have a new topic to talk about. They have the rooms set up so that we don't have to leave the class right after. So we can stay and chat as long as we want. ;0) It was really fun and I am looking forward to next week. ;0)
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 18, 2011
MilSpouse Friday Fill-In
1-What are some of your ideas for staying connected with family...you know, those people we moved thousands of miles away from?
Skype has become a fun thing for our family. I really enjoy it, and don't feel so far away from them. Also it has allowed them to meet my son. My Aunt Bobbe sent us a flip video camera to stay connected and that has come in really handy to be able to capture special moments for my son, and others as well so I can share them. I started my blog as a way to express who I am, what I am about, and so that my family can catch up on the happenings of my family.
2-What's the most romantic gift you have GIVEN?
My husband doesn't do romantic, so I get him manly gifts that he likes. I got him a gun for his birthday once, and every time he comes back from a deployment We buy him something special he has wanted.
3-Would you encourage your child, if they came to you and wanted to join the military?
I would say yes.....but my son is so young, I can't really imagine it.
4-What is your least favorite bill to pay and why?
I hate paying rent. I wish we were paying for a house, not to live in someone Else's home.
5-What is the proudest moment you've had as a military spouse? I have had so many. When my husband was promoted to Ssgt. When he received the award for Marine of the Year, watching him do Toys for Tots. Seeing how the public receives him.
Thanks for reading
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 16, 2011
San Fran Adventures
Today started off with Chuck and I getting up and hurrying out the door to drive to Sausalito to pick up some free storage bottles that we had found on craigslist. I had talked Chuck into taking us because we all know that even with OnStar my navigation skills are pretty bad. That's right folks....even with turn by turn directions this country bumpkin has managed to get herself lost. And let's face it....I get anxious in the city, this being only my 2nd trip in 3 years....so I don't venture out to much. lol
Well I didn't brush my hair I just pulled it back into a pony tail and threw on some clothes. We made it out the door with our little man in record time. We needed to hurry because Chuck had to be to work by noon. And with traffic that was going to be a real challenge. So Chuck drove and I tried to pump in the back seat....ouch! On our way Chuck asked if I had $ for the toll on the bay bridge. I said yes, reached in the diaper bag and realised that when my loving husband had taken out the burp cloths last night, he had taken things out. So my wallet was not with us. Chuck asked OnStar to take us to the nearest ATM. Well apparently that means the nearest bank. So it took us into downtown Oakland. We couldn't find parking, so Chuck pulled in front of the bank even though it was red. He left the car running, jumped out grabbed some cash from the ATM, jumped back in and we were almost out of there in less than 3 minutes....when......lights flashed and we got pulled over!!! WHAT?!!!
Apparently it was a bus zone. As the extremely large SUV in front of us pulled away...we saw it was a bus zone! BLAST!!! So Chuck got written a ticket. You know normally with the EGA on our license plate....cops don't bother us....but hey this one sure did. He came back and apologized to us and then said that he would have to write Chuck a ticket. Chuck said that's fine, he understood. Then he handed him the ticket.....$260!!! HOLY MOO COW BATMAN!!! That is an insane amount! It would have been cheaper to drive through the fast track lane without a pass and just pay the ticket that way!!! I can't believe this!!!
Chuck was in a pretty bad mood after that. I don't blame him either. He didn't want to come, I begged him so I wouldn't get lost, and look.....it cost him $260 for a ticket, and $20 at the ATM. So we drove through San Fran. It was my first time actually driving through the city. Then we got to drive across the Golden Gate Bridge. I was pretty excited as I haven't done this before. I took tons of pics from the back seat with Riley. ha ha ha We drove to Sausalito found the place where we were to pick up the bottles. I stuck a Thank You card in the back door of the car they were in front of, and we headed out. On the way back we had to pay yet another toll to cross the bridge again. lol go figure. $6 for the Bay Bridge, $6 for the Golden Gate. Chuck pulled over and we stopped at a viewing area so that I could see the bridge up close. We took tons of pictures, and we walked halfway up the bridge before realising that we needed to head back before our parking meter ran out. $1.50 for the parking meter, and $5 for two drinks. We stopped to get a shot glass for our travel collection in our cabinet. We also found a cool bridge and key rack. $35 at the gift shop. We headed back into San Fran and drove down Broadway, and into China Town. We headed back towards Concord.....filled up with Ethanol gas $30 and then stopped in at Chuck's work to drop some things off. We changed Riley's diaper only to find that the wipes had been taken out last night as well. So we improvised with some wet paper towels. ha ha ha We stopped in to say hi to Uncle Mike (1st. Sgt.) Then headed over to exchange Chuck's pipes that he had ordered because they were the wrong ones. We hit up the mall to eat at Sbarro's....we call it Sombrero's. lol $26 for 4 pieces of pizza....ouch! Then we headed to get some things we needed $76....ouch.....
We came home and I opened the bag that we had picked up in San Fran. I was curious because it was a lot heavier than 75 plastic bottles should be. But I double checked the name tag and it said my name. I opened the bag to find some great treasures for our little man. Clothes in sizes he doesn't have, some books, and best of all....pumping items that I didn't even know were made....and I am so thankful for them!!! ;-D
Holly you are amazing....Thank you so very much for spoiling my little man!!! ;0)
So even though our day started off a little rough.....it ended great! Chuck was able to spend the day with us, and we had an adventure! ;0) Here are some pics for you to see.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Well I didn't brush my hair I just pulled it back into a pony tail and threw on some clothes. We made it out the door with our little man in record time. We needed to hurry because Chuck had to be to work by noon. And with traffic that was going to be a real challenge. So Chuck drove and I tried to pump in the back seat....ouch! On our way Chuck asked if I had $ for the toll on the bay bridge. I said yes, reached in the diaper bag and realised that when my loving husband had taken out the burp cloths last night, he had taken things out. So my wallet was not with us. Chuck asked OnStar to take us to the nearest ATM. Well apparently that means the nearest bank. So it took us into downtown Oakland. We couldn't find parking, so Chuck pulled in front of the bank even though it was red. He left the car running, jumped out grabbed some cash from the ATM, jumped back in and we were almost out of there in less than 3 minutes....when......lights flashed and we got pulled over!!! WHAT?!!!
Apparently it was a bus zone. As the extremely large SUV in front of us pulled away...we saw it was a bus zone! BLAST!!! So Chuck got written a ticket. You know normally with the EGA on our license plate....cops don't bother us....but hey this one sure did. He came back and apologized to us and then said that he would have to write Chuck a ticket. Chuck said that's fine, he understood. Then he handed him the ticket.....$260!!! HOLY MOO COW BATMAN!!! That is an insane amount! It would have been cheaper to drive through the fast track lane without a pass and just pay the ticket that way!!! I can't believe this!!!
Chuck was in a pretty bad mood after that. I don't blame him either. He didn't want to come, I begged him so I wouldn't get lost, and look.....it cost him $260 for a ticket, and $20 at the ATM. So we drove through San Fran. It was my first time actually driving through the city. Then we got to drive across the Golden Gate Bridge. I was pretty excited as I haven't done this before. I took tons of pics from the back seat with Riley. ha ha ha We drove to Sausalito found the place where we were to pick up the bottles. I stuck a Thank You card in the back door of the car they were in front of, and we headed out. On the way back we had to pay yet another toll to cross the bridge again. lol go figure. $6 for the Bay Bridge, $6 for the Golden Gate. Chuck pulled over and we stopped at a viewing area so that I could see the bridge up close. We took tons of pictures, and we walked halfway up the bridge before realising that we needed to head back before our parking meter ran out. $1.50 for the parking meter, and $5 for two drinks. We stopped to get a shot glass for our travel collection in our cabinet. We also found a cool bridge and key rack. $35 at the gift shop. We headed back into San Fran and drove down Broadway, and into China Town. We headed back towards Concord.....filled up with Ethanol gas $30 and then stopped in at Chuck's work to drop some things off. We changed Riley's diaper only to find that the wipes had been taken out last night as well. So we improvised with some wet paper towels. ha ha ha We stopped in to say hi to Uncle Mike (1st. Sgt.) Then headed over to exchange Chuck's pipes that he had ordered because they were the wrong ones. We hit up the mall to eat at Sbarro's....we call it Sombrero's. lol $26 for 4 pieces of pizza....ouch! Then we headed to get some things we needed $76....ouch.....
We came home and I opened the bag that we had picked up in San Fran. I was curious because it was a lot heavier than 75 plastic bottles should be. But I double checked the name tag and it said my name. I opened the bag to find some great treasures for our little man. Clothes in sizes he doesn't have, some books, and best of all....pumping items that I didn't even know were made....and I am so thankful for them!!! ;-D
Holly you are amazing....Thank you so very much for spoiling my little man!!! ;0)
So even though our day started off a little rough.....it ended great! Chuck was able to spend the day with us, and we had an adventure! ;0) Here are some pics for you to see.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 15, 2011
The light at the end of the.....
Things went well yesterday. Riley was doing a lot better. Today he is so far on a roll of being awesome again. I wonder if he was picking up on the stress from his daddy and in turn.....his mommy. He seemed to not feel very good. Poor little guy. Right now he is napping on and off so I can pump.
So we had a pretty rough weekend. And I think that is because I really didn't get my break that I normally count on. It's not that I don't want to be with my son......it's must that I need some time to regroup and get some things done around the house so I can feel sane. I stress a lot over stupid things like the house being clean. So when I feel it is getting away from me it really starts to bother me, and then with a crying baby, sleep deprived wife, stressed husband, sick/dying doggy, and a spazzy doggy......I kind of reach my limit! lol
I am happy to say I do not have post-partum. Our little family just has a lot on our plates at the moment and I have just blogged about it as one of my ways to vent and get rid of a little stress. Some of you may have thought that I am feeling blue, but I am not. I love my little man and feel so blessed to have him. I actually enjoy being out in the world again. Before I was pregnant....I would rather stay in all the time. And even though I have little stressers in my day....I am the type of person who runs on high all the time. I thrive on it I guess. Some see it as I am high strung, and I guess you could say I am. I just run like that. lol But I want you to all know that I am truly good, and I have not felt depressed at all. Frustrated, or disappointed yes a little. But let's be real here.....how many things always work out the way you want? lol Yah I didn't think to many of you raised your hands. lol
Chuck's inspection is for the most part over!!!! Wooohooo so we can finally see the light at the end of the inspection. lol
Well my me time is up.....My little man has started to fuss.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
So we had a pretty rough weekend. And I think that is because I really didn't get my break that I normally count on. It's not that I don't want to be with my son......it's must that I need some time to regroup and get some things done around the house so I can feel sane. I stress a lot over stupid things like the house being clean. So when I feel it is getting away from me it really starts to bother me, and then with a crying baby, sleep deprived wife, stressed husband, sick/dying doggy, and a spazzy doggy......I kind of reach my limit! lol
I am happy to say I do not have post-partum. Our little family just has a lot on our plates at the moment and I have just blogged about it as one of my ways to vent and get rid of a little stress. Some of you may have thought that I am feeling blue, but I am not. I love my little man and feel so blessed to have him. I actually enjoy being out in the world again. Before I was pregnant....I would rather stay in all the time. And even though I have little stressers in my day....I am the type of person who runs on high all the time. I thrive on it I guess. Some see it as I am high strung, and I guess you could say I am. I just run like that. lol But I want you to all know that I am truly good, and I have not felt depressed at all. Frustrated, or disappointed yes a little. But let's be real here.....how many things always work out the way you want? lol Yah I didn't think to many of you raised your hands. lol
Chuck's inspection is for the most part over!!!! Wooohooo so we can finally see the light at the end of the inspection. lol
Well my me time is up.....My little man has started to fuss.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 14, 2011
Military Wife Survey
This is a little survey I found on The Arthur Family blog. I hope you enjoy this, and hop on over to hers so you can see what her Army life answers are. ;0) Thanks Kelly!!
1. How long have you been a military wife? Since September of 2000.
2. What branch of service is your husband? Marine Corps!!
3. Active/Reserve? Active
4. What is his job? He's a Mechanic for the HMMV, LVS, and 7 ton
5. How many deployments have you gone through? 4 to Iraq, 1 to Norway, and 1 to Uganda
6. ACU's or Class A's on your man? I love seeing my man in his Dress Blues!
7. What do you like about being a military wife? Feeling proud of my husband and his occupation!!!
8. Do you live on base? Nope. We have always lived off of base. The reason my husband says is so that work can stay at work.
We have yet to see that happen. Lol
9. What is your favorite base so far? I loved Camp Pendleton and living so close to MCRD San Diego. But I have to say Living here near San Francisco has been my favorite so far.
10. What's the hardest part of the military life? The sense of always being left out. Being stationed with this Unit for the last few years has really been amazing. I have been included in everything and it has been so incredible to be able to be a part of things and feel included for once. It has opened my eyes to what my husband really does in the Corps, and has shown me a different side of it that normally most wives do not get to experience. I am sad to go back to the fleet, where I am betting it will go back to being shut out again. But I am so grateful for this experience.
11. Do you go to the grocery store or commissary? The grocery store unless I am somewhere near a commissary. I have never lived near enough to one to make it worth the drive.
12. Do you work or stay at home? I stay at home, and try to make a little money selling things on the side.
13. Do you have a lot of military wife friends? Quite a few. All over the world too.
14. Do you prefer Walmart or the PX/BX/MCX/NEX? I like them both for different reasons. I prefer Wal-Mart for it's variety, and the MCX for it's good prices, and no sales tax!!! Hello Coach purses $100 off and no tax!! lol
15. How did your husband propose? Lol We had discussed it, and I figured he would do something fancy. All he did was say... "so you want to get married?" Then when he got my ring, he asked......"So when do you want your ring?!!" Yah!!
16. Did you marry him after he joined or before? After.
17. How long have you been together? Married 10 years 6 months, and know each other for 11 yeas and 2 months! lol
18. Any kids yet? We just had our first child....A handsome baby boy!!!
19. Any kids yet to come? Hopefully at the very least one more!
20. Is your husband one of those "I am a soldier hear me Roar!" kind of guys? Absolutely not...I would say I am probably more like that about him. Ha ha I am for sure the motivator in the family.
21. Have you ever done combatives with your husband? We used to mess around. But he always wins!
22. How many bases have you lived at? 3
23. If you could change one thing about the military? I would change the communication. It can be very little info we receive sometimes. And I would allow our guys to Skype no matter what rank or where they are as long as they have Internet! :)
24. Do you like military balls? I love them.....but I think Wives should be able to give some input on them as well.
25. Where does your family live? Utah, and Idaho
26. What do you do for a job? Clean house, take care of my infant son, and try to sell Scentsy.
27. Have you ever gotten in a fight with an NCO's wife? Um.. No.
28. Name one thing you do when your husband is gone? Whenever he is gone I stay up really late and watch stupid movies. I also get into a really good routine.
29. Do you think other wives do that too? Maybe...... Lol
1. How long have you been a military wife? Since September of 2000.
2. What branch of service is your husband? Marine Corps!!
3. Active/Reserve? Active
4. What is his job? He's a Mechanic for the HMMV, LVS, and 7 ton
5. How many deployments have you gone through? 4 to Iraq, 1 to Norway, and 1 to Uganda
6. ACU's or Class A's on your man? I love seeing my man in his Dress Blues!
7. What do you like about being a military wife? Feeling proud of my husband and his occupation!!!
8. Do you live on base? Nope. We have always lived off of base. The reason my husband says is so that work can stay at work.
We have yet to see that happen. Lol
9. What is your favorite base so far? I loved Camp Pendleton and living so close to MCRD San Diego. But I have to say Living here near San Francisco has been my favorite so far.
10. What's the hardest part of the military life? The sense of always being left out. Being stationed with this Unit for the last few years has really been amazing. I have been included in everything and it has been so incredible to be able to be a part of things and feel included for once. It has opened my eyes to what my husband really does in the Corps, and has shown me a different side of it that normally most wives do not get to experience. I am sad to go back to the fleet, where I am betting it will go back to being shut out again. But I am so grateful for this experience.
11. Do you go to the grocery store or commissary? The grocery store unless I am somewhere near a commissary. I have never lived near enough to one to make it worth the drive.
12. Do you work or stay at home? I stay at home, and try to make a little money selling things on the side.
13. Do you have a lot of military wife friends? Quite a few. All over the world too.
14. Do you prefer Walmart or the PX/BX/MCX/NEX? I like them both for different reasons. I prefer Wal-Mart for it's variety, and the MCX for it's good prices, and no sales tax!!! Hello Coach purses $100 off and no tax!! lol
15. How did your husband propose? Lol We had discussed it, and I figured he would do something fancy. All he did was say... "so you want to get married?" Then when he got my ring, he asked......"So when do you want your ring?!!" Yah!!
16. Did you marry him after he joined or before? After.
17. How long have you been together? Married 10 years 6 months, and know each other for 11 yeas and 2 months! lol
18. Any kids yet? We just had our first child....A handsome baby boy!!!
19. Any kids yet to come? Hopefully at the very least one more!
20. Is your husband one of those "I am a soldier hear me Roar!" kind of guys? Absolutely not...I would say I am probably more like that about him. Ha ha I am for sure the motivator in the family.
21. Have you ever done combatives with your husband? We used to mess around. But he always wins!
22. How many bases have you lived at? 3
23. If you could change one thing about the military? I would change the communication. It can be very little info we receive sometimes. And I would allow our guys to Skype no matter what rank or where they are as long as they have Internet! :)
24. Do you like military balls? I love them.....but I think Wives should be able to give some input on them as well.
25. Where does your family live? Utah, and Idaho
26. What do you do for a job? Clean house, take care of my infant son, and try to sell Scentsy.
27. Have you ever gotten in a fight with an NCO's wife? Um.. No.
28. Name one thing you do when your husband is gone? Whenever he is gone I stay up really late and watch stupid movies. I also get into a really good routine.
29. Do you think other wives do that too? Maybe...... Lol
Military Wife awards
I want to invent something for wives to get awards when husbands do, or when they get promoted. You know sometimes the wife sacrifices as well so the husband can get the job done.
In the first unit we were at.....one of the wives got an award for basically putting up with the Corps, and all the things wives go through when her husband picked up rank. I thought it was pretty cool and have wondered how to do that for other wives. For sure it would be up to the husband to determine if one should be given. I mean some wives have more than earned it, and some not so much. But you know our Guys get N.A.M.'s.....so maybe we can give one to the wives as well. I mean there really is no harm in it. It's not like we can wear it anywhere, but it is the thought behind it, and I am sure more than a few wives would be proud to display the certificate in her home.
I think when we get back into the fleet I will try to bring it up to the Key volunteers. It sounds like a great idea, I am just not sure if there are any hoops that need to be jumped through for it to happen.
I would love some of the wives opinions who read this. What do you think? Would you like to be recognized for your hard work and sacrifice to the Corps?
XoXo-Andrea Carla
In the first unit we were at.....one of the wives got an award for basically putting up with the Corps, and all the things wives go through when her husband picked up rank. I thought it was pretty cool and have wondered how to do that for other wives. For sure it would be up to the husband to determine if one should be given. I mean some wives have more than earned it, and some not so much. But you know our Guys get N.A.M.'s.....so maybe we can give one to the wives as well. I mean there really is no harm in it. It's not like we can wear it anywhere, but it is the thought behind it, and I am sure more than a few wives would be proud to display the certificate in her home.
I think when we get back into the fleet I will try to bring it up to the Key volunteers. It sounds like a great idea, I am just not sure if there are any hoops that need to be jumped through for it to happen.
I would love some of the wives opinions who read this. What do you think? Would you like to be recognized for your hard work and sacrifice to the Corps?
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 13, 2011
Poor baby boys
My poor little man has been having a very rough day. I even called my mommy so I could talk to her and vent a little.
Riley has Colic. when we went to the Dr. last time he told us that Riley had Colic. I wasn't so sure because he wasn't really screaming. Well right now I have the sling on while I sit in a rocking chair in front of the t.v. with the mommy heart beat machine going. Yah Riley has been fussing, crying, and miserable all stinkin day. He woke up at 5 a.m. and hasn't napped all day. He hasn't been able to eat much all day no matter how much we tried to get him to.
I had to call chuck and ask him to come home from work so that we could get some help. I had reached my limit with a crying baby and not even having anything myself to eat. I needed to pump, and Riley wasn't letting me put him down to do so. I needed support. Finally Chuck came home in the evening and gave us a break from each other. Chuck took Riley and worked on soothing him, while I shut the door and pumped while I played on the computer and learned how to digital scrapbook.
After an hour Riley still wasn't calming down, and it was hard to listen to him fuss so much. So Chuck and I loaded Riley up in the car seat and drove to Oakland to the Temple, and then turned around and drove back. Riley had passed out in his car seat while the mommy heart beat machine was running. Well once we pulled off of the freeway and got stopped at a light and then had to pull into the gas station to fill up.....Riley woke up and started to fuss again. Ughhhhhh It is so tiring listening to him fuss, and I feel so bad that nothing I do is soothing him or making him feel better.
Chuck and I stopped by McDonald's and then headed home. When we got home Riley started to really fuss again. So I put the sling on and stuck Riley in it with the mommy heart beat machine on, and then started walking and dancing around the house. And happy day.....Riley conked out cold. I ate my dinner while walking around the house. lol When I would stop to pick up a chicken McNugget Riley would get fussy immediately. lol So I ate on the run as they say. ha ha ha
Chuck moved one of our rocking chairs in front of the t.v. for me and got everything ready for the night shift with Riley. Riley has been asleep on my chest for almost 2 hours now and I am so thankful....and.....I got him to eat 2 ounces!!!! wooohoooo......I want to put him in his crib to sleep......but I am afraid of messing up the good thing we have going on......as in he is asleep and quiet.....and being fuss free at the moment. lol
I rented a scary movie to help keep me awake.....because as long as I am rocking Riley seems to be doing great. I must keep going.....Must not stop rocking......To bad I forgot to ask Chuck to get me a Mt. Dew before he went to sleep. Blast!!
So tomorrow is the start of the big inspection for Chuck. He is pretty stressed and I can't wait for it to be over. He worked all weekend finishing up what he could get done. Hopefully he will get some time off afterwards......but then if he does get time off.....hopefully he will want to spend it with us at home, and not working and working out. lol Yah he isn't so great at not working even when he takes time off. lol
Well that is all for now. Hopefully my baby boy will continue to sleep well......as I know he is exhausted. I don't care if I don't sleep tonight.....I just want him to get some rest.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Riley has Colic. when we went to the Dr. last time he told us that Riley had Colic. I wasn't so sure because he wasn't really screaming. Well right now I have the sling on while I sit in a rocking chair in front of the t.v. with the mommy heart beat machine going. Yah Riley has been fussing, crying, and miserable all stinkin day. He woke up at 5 a.m. and hasn't napped all day. He hasn't been able to eat much all day no matter how much we tried to get him to.
I had to call chuck and ask him to come home from work so that we could get some help. I had reached my limit with a crying baby and not even having anything myself to eat. I needed to pump, and Riley wasn't letting me put him down to do so. I needed support. Finally Chuck came home in the evening and gave us a break from each other. Chuck took Riley and worked on soothing him, while I shut the door and pumped while I played on the computer and learned how to digital scrapbook.
After an hour Riley still wasn't calming down, and it was hard to listen to him fuss so much. So Chuck and I loaded Riley up in the car seat and drove to Oakland to the Temple, and then turned around and drove back. Riley had passed out in his car seat while the mommy heart beat machine was running. Well once we pulled off of the freeway and got stopped at a light and then had to pull into the gas station to fill up.....Riley woke up and started to fuss again. Ughhhhhh It is so tiring listening to him fuss, and I feel so bad that nothing I do is soothing him or making him feel better.
Chuck and I stopped by McDonald's and then headed home. When we got home Riley started to really fuss again. So I put the sling on and stuck Riley in it with the mommy heart beat machine on, and then started walking and dancing around the house. And happy day.....Riley conked out cold. I ate my dinner while walking around the house. lol When I would stop to pick up a chicken McNugget Riley would get fussy immediately. lol So I ate on the run as they say. ha ha ha
Chuck moved one of our rocking chairs in front of the t.v. for me and got everything ready for the night shift with Riley. Riley has been asleep on my chest for almost 2 hours now and I am so thankful....and.....I got him to eat 2 ounces!!!! wooohoooo......I want to put him in his crib to sleep......but I am afraid of messing up the good thing we have going on......as in he is asleep and quiet.....and being fuss free at the moment. lol
I rented a scary movie to help keep me awake.....because as long as I am rocking Riley seems to be doing great. I must keep going.....Must not stop rocking......To bad I forgot to ask Chuck to get me a Mt. Dew before he went to sleep. Blast!!
So tomorrow is the start of the big inspection for Chuck. He is pretty stressed and I can't wait for it to be over. He worked all weekend finishing up what he could get done. Hopefully he will get some time off afterwards......but then if he does get time off.....hopefully he will want to spend it with us at home, and not working and working out. lol Yah he isn't so great at not working even when he takes time off. lol
Well that is all for now. Hopefully my baby boy will continue to sleep well......as I know he is exhausted. I don't care if I don't sleep tonight.....I just want him to get some rest.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 11, 2011
Rough Day
Today wasn't the best of days. In the last two weeks I have found 2 fleas. (one each week) We have lived here about 3 years now and haven't had one flea. I try so hard to keep things nice and clean and bug free in my home. It's hard living in flea country where your dog even looks outside and he seems to get covered in fleas. But I have done pretty well since we got our dogs 9 years ago. Well when I find a bug I kind of freak out. I feel so gross and unsanitary and yucky. So today while I was trying to pump I saw one on Harley. I had to pump and had got Riley down for a nap. He will only take a long nap if I keep the vibrating music box touching him. Well it only stays on for 15 minutes. So I hooked everything up, and then set a timer. I would unhook from the pump, run down the hall and reset the box every 14 minutes so my Riley bug wouldn't wake up. Then I went to town on the house. I picked everything off the floor and then vacuumed. Then I turned on the air purifier, and the Scentsy warmer. I got out the flea spray and sprayed down the carpets and the couch. The dogs were locked in the kitchen, and I was still running back to our bedroom every 14 minutes to reset the box so Riley would sleep. I got half the house done and then Riley woke up.
I have been feeling down lately because I just feel like I am not doing things right. I feel like I didn't have Riley, Like I didn't create him. And I can't breastfeed him no matter how hard I try. I just feel like a failure sometimes. And it doesn't help to look at myself in the mirror and know that I am the fat mommy.
I know I know you are all going to tell me that it's okay and I am doing the best I can, and that I just had the baby, and such. But it doesn't change how I feel. And I just want one night off. But alas no one will help me with that. I am just starting to feel very frustrated.
I am so stinkin tired!!! The longest I have slept in the last two months might be 4 hours....but I am pretty sure it's about 3 1/2. It is starting to catch up with me.
Chuck's inspection has got him stressed, so he comes home in a foul/stressed mood, which in turn turns my mood and it's adding up. I can't wait until week after next!
I am still searching for a hospital grade pump so I can continue to feed Riley. I am not sure what I am supposed to do once I have to give this pump back if I can't get one. How am I supposed to feed Riley? Why do they have to cost about $1,000???? So if you know of anyone who has one they want to sell, or know how I can get one for cheap.....please please let me know.....I am begging you!!!
Well I need to go....my pumping time is over.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
I have been feeling down lately because I just feel like I am not doing things right. I feel like I didn't have Riley, Like I didn't create him. And I can't breastfeed him no matter how hard I try. I just feel like a failure sometimes. And it doesn't help to look at myself in the mirror and know that I am the fat mommy.
I know I know you are all going to tell me that it's okay and I am doing the best I can, and that I just had the baby, and such. But it doesn't change how I feel. And I just want one night off. But alas no one will help me with that. I am just starting to feel very frustrated.
I am so stinkin tired!!! The longest I have slept in the last two months might be 4 hours....but I am pretty sure it's about 3 1/2. It is starting to catch up with me.
Chuck's inspection has got him stressed, so he comes home in a foul/stressed mood, which in turn turns my mood and it's adding up. I can't wait until week after next!
I am still searching for a hospital grade pump so I can continue to feed Riley. I am not sure what I am supposed to do once I have to give this pump back if I can't get one. How am I supposed to feed Riley? Why do they have to cost about $1,000???? So if you know of anyone who has one they want to sell, or know how I can get one for cheap.....please please let me know.....I am begging you!!!
Well I need to go....my pumping time is over.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 9, 2011
5 blissful hours!
I know it's not always nice to brag.....but I have to. My little man slept 5 whole hours last night!!! Yah I know I was shocked!!!! It is the first time since he has been born that he has slept that long. I was pretty darn thrilled. Now I did not get that much sleep as I was waiting for him to wake up for his midnight feeding since it wasn't that far off.....only thing is....he didn't wake for it. So I finally went to sleep.....But it was good getting a little extra sleep in. lol
Now that did cause Riley's schedule to be off today. He wanted to eat almost hourly....but he would only want an ounce at a time. Then he only took 2 of his naps. But he still let me make dinner for us tonight. I haven't mastered the whole making dinner thing with a baby yet.....but I am trying. I got the ingredients yesterday, but was to tired dealing with Mr. fussy buckets to make it. So during Riley's late afternoon nap I made my Chicken casserole. I would check on Riley each time I was done chopping up the meat, celery, and onion to restart the vibrating music box so that he would stay asleep longer. It was nice to be able to have Chuck come home to a hot meal. ;0)
This month is Chuck's big inspection at work. Normally they had the thing in January right after Toys for Tots, and that was pretty rough as everyone was still cleaning up from that and trying to get ready for an inspection that Battalion comes down from Washington to do. Luckily this year someone moved it back so that the guys had some time to prepare.
I hate inspections. I mean I completely understand why they are necessary. Everyone needs to make sure all the T's are crossed and the I's dotted so that when something goes wrong....it can be handled properly. Not that I am saying something is going to go wrong. But being prepared and up to date on all records, will help the shop run more efficiently, and ensure that there aren't as many mistakes happening. But I hate them. I know they need to happen, but watching Chuck stress as well as everyone else in the shop for weeks trying to make sure they have all their ducks in a row so they look good in the inspection, and make the shop look good. I just hate seeing everyone stressed. I wish I could help Chuck prepare.....but there is nothing I can do as I know pretty much nothing about all his paperwork and such.
Chuck is hoping to get an award from this unit before he leaves. I can't remember the name of it. I know he doesn't have one yet, and it is one above the N.A.M....I hope he gets it as I see how much he cares about his job and makes sure things run smoothly. In order to maybe get that medal....this inspection needs to go well. So here is to hoping and praying that things go well. The big inspection is next week.
Well I need to get a little sleep before Riley wakes up. Night all
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Now that did cause Riley's schedule to be off today. He wanted to eat almost hourly....but he would only want an ounce at a time. Then he only took 2 of his naps. But he still let me make dinner for us tonight. I haven't mastered the whole making dinner thing with a baby yet.....but I am trying. I got the ingredients yesterday, but was to tired dealing with Mr. fussy buckets to make it. So during Riley's late afternoon nap I made my Chicken casserole. I would check on Riley each time I was done chopping up the meat, celery, and onion to restart the vibrating music box so that he would stay asleep longer. It was nice to be able to have Chuck come home to a hot meal. ;0)
This month is Chuck's big inspection at work. Normally they had the thing in January right after Toys for Tots, and that was pretty rough as everyone was still cleaning up from that and trying to get ready for an inspection that Battalion comes down from Washington to do. Luckily this year someone moved it back so that the guys had some time to prepare.
I hate inspections. I mean I completely understand why they are necessary. Everyone needs to make sure all the T's are crossed and the I's dotted so that when something goes wrong....it can be handled properly. Not that I am saying something is going to go wrong. But being prepared and up to date on all records, will help the shop run more efficiently, and ensure that there aren't as many mistakes happening. But I hate them. I know they need to happen, but watching Chuck stress as well as everyone else in the shop for weeks trying to make sure they have all their ducks in a row so they look good in the inspection, and make the shop look good. I just hate seeing everyone stressed. I wish I could help Chuck prepare.....but there is nothing I can do as I know pretty much nothing about all his paperwork and such.
Chuck is hoping to get an award from this unit before he leaves. I can't remember the name of it. I know he doesn't have one yet, and it is one above the N.A.M....I hope he gets it as I see how much he cares about his job and makes sure things run smoothly. In order to maybe get that medal....this inspection needs to go well. So here is to hoping and praying that things go well. The big inspection is next week.
Well I need to get a little sleep before Riley wakes up. Night all
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 7, 2011
Okay...all alone!
My last post stated how I really wasn't okay with Riley sleeping in his crib by himself yet.....but we gave it a try last night.....and Riley did great. Me?.....not so much. ha ha ha
Last night we had Riley sleep in his crib. He did great the whole night. He fell right asleep, and only woke when he needed some chow. When I crawled into bed I laid there and stared at the monitor for about an hour just watching him. I don't know what I was watching for, but just watching him made me feel a little better. It was tough making myself turn the video off so I would go to sleep. Riley woke around midnight, 2, 4, and 6a.m. for his feedings and that was it. He didn't cry or anything.....and that was good. My anxiety was pretty high as I hated leaving him all alone. But I am worried about him getting to attached to sleeping in his side sleeper in our room. And as much as I love sleeping with him there.....I know we shouldn't get into the habit.
Riley has been sleeping for a while on his side. and for his naps I don't mind....but when he was sleeping alone last night I wasn't to sure about it. So we pulled out his wedges. They are these triangle shape pillows that are firm and fit on either side of him so you can place him on his side or back, and he cannot roll to his stomach. That made me feel a little better knowing he couldn't smother himself. I placed the Summer Infant day/night video monitor in the corner of the crib with him so that I could really see his face well.
I think this will work out for the best, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. I just feel like I am abandoning him. We got to cuddle for a little bit this morning before he fell asleep for his nap. I am hoping we can cuddle more this afternoon. ;0)
Well that's all for now
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Last night we had Riley sleep in his crib. He did great the whole night. He fell right asleep, and only woke when he needed some chow. When I crawled into bed I laid there and stared at the monitor for about an hour just watching him. I don't know what I was watching for, but just watching him made me feel a little better. It was tough making myself turn the video off so I would go to sleep. Riley woke around midnight, 2, 4, and 6a.m. for his feedings and that was it. He didn't cry or anything.....and that was good. My anxiety was pretty high as I hated leaving him all alone. But I am worried about him getting to attached to sleeping in his side sleeper in our room. And as much as I love sleeping with him there.....I know we shouldn't get into the habit.
Riley has been sleeping for a while on his side. and for his naps I don't mind....but when he was sleeping alone last night I wasn't to sure about it. So we pulled out his wedges. They are these triangle shape pillows that are firm and fit on either side of him so you can place him on his side or back, and he cannot roll to his stomach. That made me feel a little better knowing he couldn't smother himself. I placed the Summer Infant day/night video monitor in the corner of the crib with him so that I could really see his face well.
I think this will work out for the best, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. I just feel like I am abandoning him. We got to cuddle for a little bit this morning before he fell asleep for his nap. I am hoping we can cuddle more this afternoon. ;0)
Well that's all for now
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 6, 2011
All alone!!
I am not to sure how I feel about this. Tonight will be Riley's first night not spending it in our room. He will probably end up in our room. But so far he is fine with sleeping in his crib. I have always laid him down to nap in his crib so he is used to it. And I am pretty certain I am having more of a problem with this than he is. But today Chuck took Riley to work with him for 7+ hours so I could rest, and now he is sleeping all alone in his own room. What's next? College tomorrow? I feel bad that I am all of the sudden abandoning him. Maybe I should set up a makeshift bed in his room so I will feel better about it. ha ha ha
We have a temperature monitor for his room, and a day/night video monitor as well. So I can see him and know if he is to cold or hot since our house is old and hard to keep the temperature even.
Well we will see how it all works out. Wish us luck that mommy doesn't have a nervous breakdown, and baby sleeps well through the night.
Aughhhh my Anxiety might get the better of me!!!
XoXo-Andrea Carla
We have a temperature monitor for his room, and a day/night video monitor as well. So I can see him and know if he is to cold or hot since our house is old and hard to keep the temperature even.
Well we will see how it all works out. Wish us luck that mommy doesn't have a nervous breakdown, and baby sleeps well through the night.
Aughhhh my Anxiety might get the better of me!!!
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Exhausted
Things are good here. I am truly exhausted. It's funny how a person who has had insomnia for years and has functioned somewhat well on little sleep since sleeping pills never worked. No really I could take 4 Ambien and 2 muscle relaxers and nothing happened. But I think it is funny how I thought I was tired then....and now that I am a new mommy I am functioning on even less sleep. Here is my schedule last night:
Feed Riley from 10-11:30 p.m.
Finally get to sleep around midnight
Feed and change Riley from 2:30-3:40ish
Woke up around 4 hungry and thirsty
Woke up when chuck left around 5:15 a.m. but couldn't get up to pump even though I needed to.
Feed Riley off an on from 6:30-8a.m. He is hungry but can't seem to make himself eat
Trying to pump since 6:30 a.m. But have fussy baby so I am still working on it and it's 8:17a.m.!!!
And more than likely I will not get a nap today, and since Chuck has to work today.....I am not going to get a break to sleep a little this week.
I am UBER tired!!!
Feed Riley from 10-11:30 p.m.
Finally get to sleep around midnight
Feed and change Riley from 2:30-3:40ish
Woke up around 4 hungry and thirsty
Woke up when chuck left around 5:15 a.m. but couldn't get up to pump even though I needed to.
Feed Riley off an on from 6:30-8a.m. He is hungry but can't seem to make himself eat
Trying to pump since 6:30 a.m. But have fussy baby so I am still working on it and it's 8:17a.m.!!!
And more than likely I will not get a nap today, and since Chuck has to work today.....I am not going to get a break to sleep a little this week.
I am UBER tired!!!
March 5, 2011
MilSpouse Friday Fill-In
Sorry it's been so long since I have done one of these. It has been a little hard finding time to blog being a new mommy. But I think I am finding a routine now. ;0)
1. Do you or your {spouse} ever wish your {spouse} was in a different branch of the military?
No. We are pretty darn proud that he is in the Marine Corps. When we first got married he would tease his siblings or friends who were in other branches. I would get upset and say they are all in the military and they are all equal....yadda yadda yadda. But now we both have some friendly banter with our friends about which branch is best. ha ha ha
2. What duty station(s) are on your "No Way, Hell No, Not Going, Have Fun Unaccompanied" list and why?
I don't think I have any. I mean sure right now the only station I wanted was San Diego with a newborn. But other than that I really don't mind any other station. Sure I prefer some more than others. But I can't wait to go overseas.
3. If you could be one age forever, what age would you choose and why?
19.....I was in the best shape, and had the most energy. I felt very much alive at that age. It's been pretty much downhill since then. ha ha ha
4.If you were a breakfast cereal, which one would you be? ha ha ha Well it depends on the day. On a cold or wintry morning I would be malt-o-meal or oatmeal. On a regular summery day I would be lucky charms, or pops. On a school day I would be Honey bunches of oats.
5.What is your morning beverage of choice and why? Normally I make a bubba keg of shaved ice and fill my water bottle with ice and water. But if I had a soda it would be Diet Code Red Mountain Dew, or Diet Dr. Pepper. And I always like a glass of milk with my breakfast.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 4, 2011
Summer Infant Video Monitor
I wanted to tell you all about this great monitor. I am so in love with this thing. We actually have two monitors in our house for Riley. One that tells you the temperature and this one. The video monitor is by far my favorite.
The sound is so clear, and I do not get any static sound out of it. When I use it I normally have a porter music box CD playing in the background in the nursery, and I still hear Riley more clear on the monitor, and barely pick up the music. The battery life so far has been great. I can use the stand on the back to prop itself up and do the dishes and still see and hear him. I have taken it into the bathroom and set it on the counter while I shower, and I can still see Riley. The picture is very clear and I can tell if his eyes are open or not. Also if the room is light enough the video is in color. If there isn't enough light, it turns black and white. And it there is no light, there is night vision that still allows you to see your child very clearly.
If you are running around the house with it, the video will shut off to preserve the battery. You can still hear your little one the entire time though. If you want to see them, there is a little button on the top that you press and the picture appears for a few minutes before going off again. If the monitor is plugged in to charge, the video stays on the whole time. I really love this thing as I feel more comfortable leaving Riley to sleep alone and not have to go check on him every 5 seconds to see if he has somehow covered his face and smothered himself.
I highly recommend this. It really makes me feel better knowing I can check in on him without disturbing him. I mean how many people have crept to the edge of the crib to check on their baby....and have the floor creak and it wakes up baby and now you have to start all over again. Or Baby catches your scent and spots you before you can get out of site. Or what about the toddler who is trying to make a break for it out of their crib and are being awfully quiet and you go to check on them and then they are screaming crying mad because they saw you. I love this thing. You can be completely sneaky and they don't know it!!
You know you could probably use this also for watching your dog when you go outside without them and see what kind of shenanigans they get into, or to catch your husband stealing cookies from the cookie jar when you have been blaming the kids for it all along. ha ha ha
I hope you give this a try. It is so worth it. You can purchase it here: Summer Infant Video Monitor
XoXo-Andrea Carla
I'm published!
So a long time ago I submitted some recipes online for the next WorldWide Ward cookbook by Deanna Buxton. On one of them I submitted a picture of Chuck and I from one of the Marine Corps Balls as sometimes if you are selected for submission.....they can add your picture.
After I had done so I told Chuck all about it as I was so excited. My excitement was quickly crushed as I found out I shouldn't have submitted the picture with him in uniform as I guess the Corps frowns on that. It was to late as it had already been sent in, and I didn't know if I would be selected or not.
Today in the mail I received the next book in the WorldWide Ward Cookbook series. This one is called secret recipes! I sat on the couch and flipped through all the pages trying to find out if I was selected or not, and sure enough I was! Of course it was the one recipe that had the picture with it, but alas there is nothing I can do about it. This is a cookbook compiled by someone in our church. All it is, is people from our church around the world submitting recipes that they love.
I have to say I am pretty excited that my recipe made it. I will share the recipe here, as it is one of my favorites!! I also have a friend who asked to borrow this recipe one night so she could cook for her boyfriend. Little did she know it was the night he would propose to her. ;0)
You can purchase the book Here: WorldWide Ward Cookbook
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Pizza Casserole
1 12-oz. bag uncooked wide egg noodles (or any fun shape)
1 lb. sausage
1 8-oz. can sliced olives
1 8-oz. can slices mushrooms
1 26-oz. jar meaty spaghetti sauce
1 lb. cheese, shredded (any kind)
Heat oven to 350. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain. While pasta is cooking, cook sausage in a pan over medium-high heat. Stir while cooking, and make sure it is broken down into small pieces and cooked through. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, browned sausage, olives, mushrooms, and spaghetti sauce. Set aside 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Mix remaining cheese into bowl. Transfer to a large casserole dish. Sprinkle reserved cheese over top. Cover with tin foil and bake for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Take off tin foil cover and bake uncovered for 10-15 additional minutes or until cheese has melted and is slightly crusted on top. Remove and let stand a few minutes so cheese can harden a little.
Makes 8 servings.
Bursting
All day long I feel like I am bursting with things to tell you all. But then when I actually have a few seconds to blog....I can't remember it all. This mommy brain is a pain. I need to do a few product reviews for some of the baby items I got because I think they are so awesome. But I want to tell everyone about Riley and I.
Yesterday Riley had his 6 week check up. He did pretty good most of the day. He slept for half of it, and then cuddled with his mom for the other half. Then around 5 p.m. he started to fuss. Well the fussing got worse and worse. His crying changed. It wasn't his normal fussing or grunting that he normally does. And his face was all scrunched up like he was in pain. We gave him some Tylenol and it seemed to sort of help. He cuddled with his dad for a little while. And I cleaned around the house. But my poor little guy seemed really miserable. He couldn't keep his dinner down, and seemed to be getting worse. We finally got him to keep 1 1/2 oz down around 10p.m. and gave him some more Tylenol. He passed out shortly after. He didn't sleep any longer than he normally does which was disappointing. I figured he would have. But he wasn't crying in pain like he had been. Chuck and I didn't get much sleep, and I of course had to get sick in the middle of the night. Go figure. But this morning when we got up he seemed a little better. Chuck had to leave earlier this morning because it is a drill weekend and he needed to be there before the reservists. Well that threw our whole schedule off this morning. Normally when Chuck gets up I get up with him and pump while he feeds and takes care of Riley. If I don't do that then I won't be able to again for hours and then by then I am in pain. So this morning when Riley woke around 2 I fed him and such. But he took forever to fall asleep and just seemed to need to be cuddled. Well I didn't realise that he had fallen asleep with me. Don't worry he won't be crushed. The way he gets to lie I can't harm him. So we had fallen asleep together, and I didn't wake when Chuck got up. BLAST!!! So when Chuck was leaving he came in to say goodbye. I had him pick up Riley and move him to his bed so I could go pump. I got about 20 minutes in before Riley woke at his normal time.
This morning I opted to shower while Riley was awake. I put him in his bouncer and brought him in the bathroom with me. He likes the sound of running water, and so was content to let me shower since I think I was starting to smell as it had been 3+ days since my last one. lol I got all showered up and as I was rinsing the soap out of my hair he decided he was done. lol so I rushed at the end, but hey I got a bath, and I got to shave my legs!! lol
Riley took a small nap today and I opted to take one with him as I didn't get much sleep last night or yesterday. When I woke up I was trying to figure out how to quietly slip out of bed to use the restroom without waking my little man. I wasn't successful at all. But it was chow time for him, and so I got him all ready and fed him in bed.
While he was eating I got a text from Chuck.....it simply said "WE ARE GOING TO PENDLETON!!!!" I figured this meant one of two things. That for some reason he had to go to go to Pendleton for drill today and the bold text meant he was annoyed.....or that we got the orders to Pendleton that we have been hoping for. I called Chuck and asked.....and sure enough....We got new orders!!! wooohooo So we are going to Pendleton sometime this year, and then I guess our next orders will be to Japan in 3-4 years! I am really happy about these new orders as Chuck will deploy. It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when. And so to be in the San Diego area when he goes is such a blessing because I will have a support system there of friends and family that will be able to help me with Riley if I need it. I normally do pretty good alone when Chuck deploys but this one will be different as Riley is a part of our family now. I can't even express what a relief this is to get these orders!!! Prayers were answered, and I know 1st Sgt. Worked some serious mojo magic to get us these!!! Thanks Uncle Mike.....You are wicked awesome and a great 1st Sgt. ;0)
I am for sure going to miss this place when we move. We have made some really great friends here, that have become an extension of family. Our ward family has been awesome, and our Marine Corps family has been fun, supportive, and brought us all closer. I am so thankful that we got to be a part of the Concord Marines. Being in the fleet wives don't often get to experience the Corps like I did here. I have been able to really see what happens in the corps, and it has helped me understand things I normally wouldn't have. I will also miss being a part of Toys 4 Tots.
After our next duty station I guess the monitor told Chuck that we will be going to Japan. I am also excited about this. I am stressed and excited. I am stressed about the whole moving portion as it is always stressful to move. But moving overseas is going to be interesting. But I am so excited to be able to experience another culture, and travel. SWEET! And this will be a really neat experience for Riley!!! He will be 4 ish when we move, and so will be able to understand some things better. I am sad I will be so far from family, but hopefully they can come visit.
I need to wash Riley's bottles daily. I wash the parts to my pump, and I wash his bottles. I wash in the morning and at night. Well the other night Chuck got in the shower and I remembered that I hadn't washed them yet. So I took Riley and propped him on the counter since he is so small he fit right next to me and the sink. He wasn't able to roll anywhere as the fridge was behind him, and a small oven on one side and me on the other. So I wrapped him in a blanket, and set him on the counter. I washed dishes while singing Itsy Bitsy spider to him. lol It was funny. He likes the sound of running water a lot. ha ha ha
Well that is all for now. I will continue to keep you all updated.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
Yesterday Riley had his 6 week check up. He did pretty good most of the day. He slept for half of it, and then cuddled with his mom for the other half. Then around 5 p.m. he started to fuss. Well the fussing got worse and worse. His crying changed. It wasn't his normal fussing or grunting that he normally does. And his face was all scrunched up like he was in pain. We gave him some Tylenol and it seemed to sort of help. He cuddled with his dad for a little while. And I cleaned around the house. But my poor little guy seemed really miserable. He couldn't keep his dinner down, and seemed to be getting worse. We finally got him to keep 1 1/2 oz down around 10p.m. and gave him some more Tylenol. He passed out shortly after. He didn't sleep any longer than he normally does which was disappointing. I figured he would have. But he wasn't crying in pain like he had been. Chuck and I didn't get much sleep, and I of course had to get sick in the middle of the night. Go figure. But this morning when we got up he seemed a little better. Chuck had to leave earlier this morning because it is a drill weekend and he needed to be there before the reservists. Well that threw our whole schedule off this morning. Normally when Chuck gets up I get up with him and pump while he feeds and takes care of Riley. If I don't do that then I won't be able to again for hours and then by then I am in pain. So this morning when Riley woke around 2 I fed him and such. But he took forever to fall asleep and just seemed to need to be cuddled. Well I didn't realise that he had fallen asleep with me. Don't worry he won't be crushed. The way he gets to lie I can't harm him. So we had fallen asleep together, and I didn't wake when Chuck got up. BLAST!!! So when Chuck was leaving he came in to say goodbye. I had him pick up Riley and move him to his bed so I could go pump. I got about 20 minutes in before Riley woke at his normal time.
This morning I opted to shower while Riley was awake. I put him in his bouncer and brought him in the bathroom with me. He likes the sound of running water, and so was content to let me shower since I think I was starting to smell as it had been 3+ days since my last one. lol I got all showered up and as I was rinsing the soap out of my hair he decided he was done. lol so I rushed at the end, but hey I got a bath, and I got to shave my legs!! lol
Riley took a small nap today and I opted to take one with him as I didn't get much sleep last night or yesterday. When I woke up I was trying to figure out how to quietly slip out of bed to use the restroom without waking my little man. I wasn't successful at all. But it was chow time for him, and so I got him all ready and fed him in bed.
While he was eating I got a text from Chuck.....it simply said "WE ARE GOING TO PENDLETON!!!!" I figured this meant one of two things. That for some reason he had to go to go to Pendleton for drill today and the bold text meant he was annoyed.....or that we got the orders to Pendleton that we have been hoping for. I called Chuck and asked.....and sure enough....We got new orders!!! wooohooo So we are going to Pendleton sometime this year, and then I guess our next orders will be to Japan in 3-4 years! I am really happy about these new orders as Chuck will deploy. It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when. And so to be in the San Diego area when he goes is such a blessing because I will have a support system there of friends and family that will be able to help me with Riley if I need it. I normally do pretty good alone when Chuck deploys but this one will be different as Riley is a part of our family now. I can't even express what a relief this is to get these orders!!! Prayers were answered, and I know 1st Sgt. Worked some serious mojo magic to get us these!!! Thanks Uncle Mike.....You are wicked awesome and a great 1st Sgt. ;0)
I am for sure going to miss this place when we move. We have made some really great friends here, that have become an extension of family. Our ward family has been awesome, and our Marine Corps family has been fun, supportive, and brought us all closer. I am so thankful that we got to be a part of the Concord Marines. Being in the fleet wives don't often get to experience the Corps like I did here. I have been able to really see what happens in the corps, and it has helped me understand things I normally wouldn't have. I will also miss being a part of Toys 4 Tots.
After our next duty station I guess the monitor told Chuck that we will be going to Japan. I am also excited about this. I am stressed and excited. I am stressed about the whole moving portion as it is always stressful to move. But moving overseas is going to be interesting. But I am so excited to be able to experience another culture, and travel. SWEET! And this will be a really neat experience for Riley!!! He will be 4 ish when we move, and so will be able to understand some things better. I am sad I will be so far from family, but hopefully they can come visit.
I need to wash Riley's bottles daily. I wash the parts to my pump, and I wash his bottles. I wash in the morning and at night. Well the other night Chuck got in the shower and I remembered that I hadn't washed them yet. So I took Riley and propped him on the counter since he is so small he fit right next to me and the sink. He wasn't able to roll anywhere as the fridge was behind him, and a small oven on one side and me on the other. So I wrapped him in a blanket, and set him on the counter. I washed dishes while singing Itsy Bitsy spider to him. lol It was funny. He likes the sound of running water a lot. ha ha ha
Well that is all for now. I will continue to keep you all updated.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
March 3, 2011
Big Boys!!
Today was Riley's 6 week check up. I can't believe he is getting so old. He weighed in at 8lbs. 4oz! He is getting so big. I told him not to, but he isn't listening to me very well. ha ha ha He had his first 4 shots, and the first one shocked him. He looked at Chuck like why would you do this? The second shot made my poor little man cry. I think it hurt me more watching him get these shots than it did him. I'm not going to lie....I almost cried. The oral one he took was so funny to watch. He was sticking his tongue out and was looking at us like what on earth is this stuff. ha ha ha He is so cute and handsome. ;0)
He still isn't gaining enough weight. He is all right for now, but he is still in the lower part of his age group. I have been trying to get Tri-Care to approve me for a hospital grade pump so I can feed Riley. We tried giving him formula in the hospital and that didn't work out so well. He couldn't keep it down. And I never wanted him to have formula in the first place. (personal preference) To rent a pump is $100 a month. So my options on what I can feed my son are dwindling away. We submitted a request and it got denied. They said the reason it got denied was because it wasn't for personal convenience. What?!!! It's personal convenience for my son to get chow? So we are going to contest it. Riley's doctor said he is going to call the medical director himself and speak with him. I am also going to write a personal letter as well. Hopefully this time Tri-Care will help.
Riley is showing his smiles and a little bit of his personality more and more now. It is pretty fun to watch. Also we are finding a routine. It's not the best one, but it is one for now and is better than the unknown. ;0) Riley's late morning...early afternoon nap has been with me lately. I have tried to get him to sleep in his crib for this one, but he doesn't sleep very long in it. And I found out that if he sleeps with me I can keep resetting the vibrator thing we took off of the bouncer, and he is no match for it. He will take an average 2-3 hour nap if I do this, and that means I normally get one as well. True I have to keep waking up when he fusses when the vibrating stops.....but it is still a nap, and I need it. ;0) I just really need one night off where I get to sleep through the whole night. I am hoping that maybe Chuck will take one for the team and let me have a night off.
I have really been loving being a mommy. And I am finding this new independence fun. I don't mind going out in town for errands and doing the shopping just my little man and I. It has been fun lately. It is a hastle getting loaded and unloaded from the car and making sure we have everything packed up in the diaper bag before we leave the house. But it is fun. And it is so rewarding to have people compliment me on Riley. I mean for years all I did was mess up. And I haven't looked like a hottie in years. So compliments never felt real to me. I felt like they were more of a pity sometimes. But when people are telling me how awesome Riley is.....I have to smile and agree that he really is the coolest little man in the whole world!!!
Well I need to go and accomplish something today. Here are some pictures to tie you over until next time.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
He still isn't gaining enough weight. He is all right for now, but he is still in the lower part of his age group. I have been trying to get Tri-Care to approve me for a hospital grade pump so I can feed Riley. We tried giving him formula in the hospital and that didn't work out so well. He couldn't keep it down. And I never wanted him to have formula in the first place. (personal preference) To rent a pump is $100 a month. So my options on what I can feed my son are dwindling away. We submitted a request and it got denied. They said the reason it got denied was because it wasn't for personal convenience. What?!!! It's personal convenience for my son to get chow? So we are going to contest it. Riley's doctor said he is going to call the medical director himself and speak with him. I am also going to write a personal letter as well. Hopefully this time Tri-Care will help.
Riley is showing his smiles and a little bit of his personality more and more now. It is pretty fun to watch. Also we are finding a routine. It's not the best one, but it is one for now and is better than the unknown. ;0) Riley's late morning...early afternoon nap has been with me lately. I have tried to get him to sleep in his crib for this one, but he doesn't sleep very long in it. And I found out that if he sleeps with me I can keep resetting the vibrator thing we took off of the bouncer, and he is no match for it. He will take an average 2-3 hour nap if I do this, and that means I normally get one as well. True I have to keep waking up when he fusses when the vibrating stops.....but it is still a nap, and I need it. ;0) I just really need one night off where I get to sleep through the whole night. I am hoping that maybe Chuck will take one for the team and let me have a night off.
I have really been loving being a mommy. And I am finding this new independence fun. I don't mind going out in town for errands and doing the shopping just my little man and I. It has been fun lately. It is a hastle getting loaded and unloaded from the car and making sure we have everything packed up in the diaper bag before we leave the house. But it is fun. And it is so rewarding to have people compliment me on Riley. I mean for years all I did was mess up. And I haven't looked like a hottie in years. So compliments never felt real to me. I felt like they were more of a pity sometimes. But when people are telling me how awesome Riley is.....I have to smile and agree that he really is the coolest little man in the whole world!!!
Well I need to go and accomplish something today. Here are some pictures to tie you over until next time.
XoXo-Andrea Carla
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