Thursday's Monday

I'm finally returning to the bloggie-world! I could offer excuses for my absence such as cleaning house (yes- it took that long. TEN, yes TEN loads of laundry were piled in my bathroom. My hubby has enough ACU's to clothe a small company!), catching up on missed appointments, lazy days in the sun and a disfunctional computer (Can I just say that after spending an hour writing a heart-felt post, only to have it mysteriously disappear with no record of being written...is extremely frustrating). But enough with my excuses... I missed all of you!

Despite that I missed my Monday's Must Read- I must share it with you! As a graduation present, my parents bought me a Kindle (I LOVE it!) and my first kindle book purchase was

So Long Insecurity, You've Been a Bad Friend to Us by Beth Moore

Here's a quick review from Publishers Weekly
Prolific Bible teacher and women's ministry leader Moore (Get Out of That Pit) moves away from her characteristic dead-on expositions of scriptural principles in her newest; the topic is insecurity, and the content, she admits, is close to an autobiography. Moore, always transparent with her own personal struggles, is refreshingly so throughout this text. Readers will be chortling in laughter one moment and sucking air the next as Moore exposes the many faces of female insecurity. The author names and claims each one, then defuses every bit of power these nonsensical inner voices possess by countering their lies with God's truth. Women, no matter what their age, battle against advertising's siren call for unattainable physical perfection; the habit of making a man's love the ultimate validation; and the worldly definition of success as money, power, and status. Moore uses personal essays, women's true confessions, expressive prayers, and lots of commonsense suggestions to jar women out of their insecure rut. Readers will delve into this work and find themselves comfortably uncomfortable, and this is a very good thing. (Feb.)

I am still currently reading this book. And it's fabulous. I'm just beginning the 5th chapter, but already I am learning to take a new perspective. But more on that later. It needs a while to settle before I spill all. If I'm learning anything about my demented way of insecure thinking, it's that I'm clearly not the only one who struggles with confidence and self-esteem. We all do. So let's find the answer in His perfect acceptance and heal. Go on, check it out. You can find the book here or to learn more about letting go of insecurity visit Beth's website here.

My Not-So-Much Post

Speedy update:
I survived! I lived! I graduated!
I officially have a B.S in pre-law!
I slept a full night of TEN!!! HOURS for the first time in ages! (and I SO needed it)
My Soldier and I have actually eaten dinner together. in the same room. at the same table. at the same time. And date night- woohoo! I forgot what cuddling and movies were like.
The past two weeks has been crazy! And can I be honest??- I just haven't felt like picking up the laptop because for the first time in four long years I haven't had to write anything!
But I miss you all, so tomorrow I promise for an actual post to catch you up with everything!

T minus ONE day!!!

Sorry for my absence around here,
I've been a little busy....
finishing papers,studying for finals,turning in homeworks,reading novels,and oh yeah-
GOING TO MY FINAL CLASS EVER!!! Tomorrow morning is G-R-A-D-U-A-T-I-O-N. Hallelujah!
And from this moment on, any class I take will be a gradute course!

It's SUMMER TIME!!!!!

Cutest.Child.EVER.

Is she not the most adorable child that you have ever laid eyes on?

This sweet little angel is my best friend's daughter and I can not

wait to get my auntie hands on her.

Who can argue really? LOOK at that face!

And she's even a loyal fan of my team.

She's perfect.

Another fun giveaway!

Heart & Home is having another giveaway!
In fact, she is having a giveaway WEEK!!!!Today's fun win is especially dear to my heart. (And I will tell you why another day. another day when I don't have ten gagillion finals to study for!)

The lucky winner will receive a bag of Thrive Africa Coffee and a travel mug!!Read about it on Ashleigh's blog here!!It is a terrific cause and I hope all of you will take the timeto check out their website and read what their mission is.Check it here.

FABULOUS Giveaway!!!

This just might be my favorite giveaway ever.

The ever so lovely Ashleigh from Heart & Home is hosting a $30 dollar gift certificate towards a fabulous Gussy purchase of your choice!!!

This little beauty is MY favorite.

Don't take my word for it- check out her lovely ruffled ladies!

P.S- I really hope no one reads this post...
I would really like to win this one myself!

Monday's Must Read

I was required to read this book for a literature class last semester,

surprisingly enough, I truly enjoyed reading it.

Warning: There were many tears.

The following is a book summary courtesy of Book Browse:

Maybe it was a grandparent, or a teacher, or a colleague. Someone older, patient and wise, who understood you when you were young and searching, helped you see the world as a more profound place, gave you sound advice to help you make your way through it.

For Mitch Albom, that person was Morrie Schwartz, his college professor from nearly twenty years ago.

Maybe, like Mitch, you lost track of this mentor as you made your way, and the insights faded, and the world seemed colder. Wouldn't you like to see that person again, ask the bigger questions that still haunt you, receive wisdom for your busy life today the way you once did when you were younger?

Mitch Albom had that second chance. He rediscovered Morrie in the last months of the older man's life. Knowing he was dying, Morrie visited with Mitch in his study every Tuesday, just as they used to back in college. Their rekindled relationship turned into one final "class": lessons in how to live.

Tuesdays with Morrie is a magical chronicle of their time together, through which Mitch shares Morrie's lasting gift with the world.

MilSpouse Blog Carnival- Last Day!

I have had such a wonderful time blogging for the carnival this week and reading what all the other amazing wives have written. It has been wonderful to meet other milspouses in the faith!

Check them out here!

Today's topic is Where I Find My Strength

Ultimately, I find my strength in the Lord.

He is the only source of perfect light and love.

When I am weak, He is strong.

His hands are mighty enough to hold all my fears, insecurities and doubts.

His arms cradle me when I am lonely, sick and tired.

His words bring comfort, peace and stillness.

He will never leave me nor forsake me.

There is none like Him.

The Lord has also given me a Hero, to love and honor

Who is my other half, my best friend.

My Soldier brings me joy and security

I know I am safe by his side.

Come what may, we will endure together

This man I call my husband, he is the strength for my heart.

He leads me to the Father, where we draw strength together.

I am so blessed to have such beautiful friendships in my life.

Each of them hold a special place, unique to themselves.

I am so thankful for these woman.

They are the treasures in life.

They ones who answer tearful calls in the middle of the night

Who send you packages with pretty ones and fun tea cups

Who hear in the silence the exact words I cannot say

They are the ones who will last forever

Kindred spirits until the end.

Family. It cannot be described in words.

There are no measures for its loyalty

Love, understanding and sacrifice.

Family is home.

Home is comfort.

Comfort brings its own source of strength.

This is where I find my strength. This is where I find myself. This is where I find love.

Happy Military Spouse Appreciation Day!!!

I didn't have the opportunity to post today for the MilSpouse blog carnival at Wifes of Faith,

BUT I wanted to wish you all a

HAPPY MILITARY SPOUSE APPRECIATION DAY!

I am so thankful for the friendships I have made through my fellow bloggies.

You guys all ROCK!

A special thanks to my best friend and hooah buddy Kate,

I don't know what I would do without you!

MilSpouse Blog Carnival- Day 6!

Day 6 : What's Cookin'?!

I have posted this recipe before, but its one of my favorite snack/desert!

Super Easy. Super Yummy. Mostly Healthy.

Ingredients:

2 lbs green seedless grapes
2 lbs red seedless grapes (I used only red)

8 ounces sour cream

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract, to taste

Topping Ingredients:

1 cup brown sugar, packed, to taste

1 cup crushed pecans, to taste (I used 1 1/2- you can also use walnuts)

Note: I used low-fat or fat free cream cheese and sour cream-tastes just as good!

Directions:
Wash and stem grapes.

Set aside.

Mix sour cream, cream cheese, white sugar and vanilla by hand until blended.

Stir grapes into mixture, and pour in large serving bowl.

For topping:

Combine brown sugar, and crushed pecans.

Sprinkle over top of grapes to cover completely.

Chill overnight.

Told you it was super easy.

Check out more MilSpouse recipes here!

MilSpouse Blog Carnival- Day 5!

Day 5: A Letter to My Military Husband

Note: Because I can't write a book for this post and if I did, I'd be in tears...

this is just a quick sweet letter to my man.

My Handsome Soldier,

Sometimes I look at you and can't believe you're mine. I see a man standing before me that must be too perfect for this earth. Why me? I think to myself. Why did you decide that day in the Starbucks parking lot that you would love me forever? And why, why sweet handsome love, did you decide you STILL wanted to love me forever when I said I didn't so many times? Why did it take me so long to realize that you were the one He had promised? I don't know why you loved me then and I am still baffled at why you love me now. But I do know why I love you. I love you because you are a man who stands for truth and integrity. A man who straps on combat boots and marches off to war, yet holds me in your arms and gently wipes my tears. I love you for your humor and how you make me laugh even when I'm mad. (And baby, sometimes that just makes me all more the mad!) I love the way you quick to help and slow to judge, even when you're right. and I know it. and so do you. I love you because your steady and reliable, I know you'd do anything to be there when I need you. You are a man of few words but your actions speak in volumes. I love that you miss me as much as I miss you, and when I can't kiss you goodnight, I'm not the only one lying awake. I love the son you are to your parents, always checking in and lending a hand. The brother you are to your siblings and the fun you bring to the mix . I love the uncle you are to our nieces and nephews, how you turn into a softy. I love the father you will one day become, because I already know you'll be the best. I love the man of God you have become and your desire to walk in truth. I love the soldier you are as you selflessly serve your country. I know it isn't always easy. But most of all my love, I love that you are my husband and you show me love each day. I am so proud to be your wife, to support and stand behind you. I am so blessed to be your best friend and build our hopes and dreams together.

There could never be another you Baby.

All my love,

Yours

MilSpouse Blog Carnival- Day 4!

Day 4: 10 Tough Things About Being a Military Wife

1. Deployment- separation from loved ones is always difficult, but deployment separation takes the cake. It's hard when the rest of the world around you moves on with life, while yours has temporarily frozen in time waiting for combat boots to grace your doormat once again. Not knowing where he is, what he's doing, when he'll call, if he'll call... but in that place where you have no control, God works in indescribable ways to show Himself faithful. When you are able to be fully dependent upon Him, it is an amazing revelation to see He truly is enough.
2. Learning to speak in Code-oh the joys of trying to learn the billion acronyms the military has. The best part? It CONSTANTLY changes and each branch has their own variation! But once you get the basics down, you can finally understand whats going on!
3. Independence-learning to be independent and holding the fort down is a great lesson that I am thankful for, however its difficult to transition from independence to submission when hubby returns. I constantly battle with the desire to take the lead and jump into action, yet I know my role as a godly wife is to be a supportive and submissive wife. Though I haven't overcome this struggle, I am learning (with the Lord's help!) patience and self-control and most importantly trust in my husband.
4. OPSEC-most often I don't have a problem keeping things underwraps. I am conscientious of what I can or cannot reveal, and am entirely in agreement that it is necessary and for the safety of our fighting men and woman, HOWEVER it is frustrating for me to see blatant violations of OPSEC from those who know better. I have learned to confront in love and kindness and withhold my judgements.

5. Opinions and Comments from Others-we've all heard them. From friends, family and strangers..."why would you marry a soldier?", "well you signed up for this", "what did you think deployment would be like?", "are you proud that he is fighting in a losing war?"(GRR!) ...and my personal favorites, "do you miss him?", "is it hard when you don't know what he's doing or where he is?", "what if something happens to him, what will you do?", "don't you think you're a little young to have this life", "did you know the divorce rate in the military is 50%?", "I bet its hard not to cheat", "oh, he flys in blackhawks- have you seen blackhawk down?" (and yes- someone actually asked that, ON deployment!) I think I could go on and on... All I can say is that God has faithfully shown me grace and allowed me to hold back the angry tide and respond in love. I can't lash out at them for being ignorant.

6. Inactive v. Active-since My Soldier is in the guard, I don't have the same experience as an active duty wife would...I don't have to deal with PCSing and leaving family and friends, however I also don't have that same support community. My hubby plays army everyday, leaves in uniform every morning and reports to the guard base here...but he's not active. (its rather confusing actually, a kind of full-time inactive guard job) I have met a few wives from the unit over deployment, but most everyone around here is regular guard and only lives military once a month. It makes it difficult to bond and establish a common ground for relationships. Thankfully, I have a close group of highschool friends whose husbands have all joined the forces. God has blessed me with those treasured relationships and I know they are "lifers".
7. Lack of Sympathy-as terrible as it is to admit this, it's true- I've toughened up with army life and find it difficult to sympathize with civis who miss their husbands on 2 week business trips or even 2 month trips. Callous I know, but honest. I am learning compassion and empathy through His help.
8. Miles apart- even though I don't have to move around the country, my best friend does. It's wonderful to have a Hooah buddy, but I would love it if she was next door instead. That said, distance has proven our friendship to be gold and I am so thankful for her.
9. Isolation-as I mentioned before, being in the guard means folks around here aren't exactly a military town. It gets lonely sometimes feeling like your the only one. I know there are others, but most of the wives of the men that work everyday with My Soldier are older, have children and are comfortable in their established circles. Its difficult to break into a group thats already formed. We have met a couple younger couples our age and get together at times, but their lifestyles and ours don't always go hand in hand. That said, it has been a great opportunity to be a godly example and display a picture of military life they aren't used to seeing.
10. Mr. Army is the Boss-theres not much to explain about this one; Mr. Army calls- My Soldier responds. No matter 12+ hour days, missed dinners, polar opposite schedules, scheduled weekends, continuous training and tedious classes. That's just the life. But Mr. Army is also the reason we have the many things we do. So for that, I've learned to thank him.

Well, I think that covers at least the basics.

Check out what the other MilSpouses have to say here!

MilSpouse Blog Carnival- Day 3!!!

It's Day 3!!! Check it out here.

Top 10 List of what’s great about being a military wife

Here goes nothing...(and in no particular order of importance)

1. Honor - I feel my heart swell with pride each time I hear our national anthem or see our soldiers stand in formation. Serving my country beside my husband gives me great joy and honor as we stand for something worth fighting for.

2. Family- I never thought strangers could bond so quickly or support so fiercely. I love being part of a close-knit community who knows and understands. It is such a blessing to have a large extention of family and friends.

3. My man in ACU's and Dogtags! - because we all know there's just *something* about a man in uniform. mmmm hmmm.

4. Discounts- well who doesn't love a bargain deal? And hey, if they are offering- I'll take it! I think it's wonderful that some companies and individuals do their part and support the armed forces in a way they are able. Using a discount is thanking them for that support!

5. Bumper Stickers- I love my Army Wife tag! Pink and camo (well- ACU digital print) all the way!

6. Military "speak"- Acronyms are such a normal part of our everyday conversations, I forget the rest of the world has no idea what I'm saying! Just yesterday I had to explain O'dark thirty and TDY to someone...

7. Benefits- another wonderful blessing God has provided. Health care is such a help!

8. Letter and Presents from far-away places!- it's always fun to get presents in the mail, but it's just plain neat to get foreign ones! Pictures of places you can't pronounce, coins, medals, teddy bears, jewelry etc. oooo- Irish and German dark chocolate = YUMMO.

9. Deployment- now before you misunderstand- I do NOT enjoy having my husband 5000 miles away, sleeping in a ginormous bed alone, or never being able to call HIM. However, isn't it awesome how God uses separation to grow your faith and allow beautiful moments where you are solely dependant upon Him alone?

10. HOMECOMING-so I hate the saying "Absence makes the heart grow fonder", but it's true!! And on that glorious day when your soldier steps off the plane and into your arms, that feeling is just one of a kind. Home takes a whole new meaning.

Of course there are a billion reasons why I love being an Army Wife,

but most of all I love being My Soldier's wife.

Giveaway Alert!!!

The lovely Mateya from Our Journey from Iraq to the Altar
is hosting a her very first GIVEAWAY!!!!

AND its a fabulous one at that!
One lucky follower will be winning a $25 gift card to Target!!!!!!


I LOVE Target.

Show her some love and check it out!
After all, whats to lose with a giveaway?!

MilSpouse Blog Carnival- Day 2!

Day 2 of the blog carnival over at Wives of Faith!!

Today's topic is to share your MilSpouse Bible verse or passage

Psalm 91
Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge,

my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.

For he will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease.

He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings.

His faithful promises are your armor and protection.

Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day.

Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness,

nor the disaster that strikes at midday.

Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten

thousand are dying around you,

these evils will not touch you.

Just open your eyes, and see how the wicked are punished.
If you make the Lord your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter,

no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home.

For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go.

They will hold you up with their hands so you won’t

even hurt your foot on a stone.

You will trample upon lions and cobras;

you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet!
The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me.

I will protect those who trust in my name.

When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble.

I will rescue and honor them.

I will reward them with a long life and give them my salvation.”

There are many scriptures that the Lord has blessed me with, declaring his faithfulness and perfect peace, however this passage which I have chosen to share has been the salve he used to quiet my anxious heart, calm my worries and fears, and provide comfort and stillness in the truth that he is our great protection. Time and time again, he has confirmed this verse in my heart, as well as through other's testimony.

To read more about what this passage means to me, click here.

MilSpouse Blog Carnival!

Wives of Faith is having a Blog Carnival!Day 1- Tell us your milspouse story...

Every time I tell "our story", I cannot help but smile. God is so into details.The first time I met my husband we were twelve years old and in the sixth grade.
He was loud. I was shy. I was not very interested in being his friend. I still thought boys had cooties. In junior high, his best friend had a crush on me.So, inevitably, the three of us became best friends.
In high school we remained the three musketeers.Until the friend decided to ask me out. I declined holding to my "no dating" policy...But secretly I was kinda crushin back.
My sophomore year, I transferred to a private highschoolI knew it was the Lord's calling, but I was devestated the three musketeers broke up.I kept in touch, but only minimally- going to their soccer games and such,but it was the friend who always made sure that I came- My Soldier was otherwise preoccupied by highschool love.Graduation came and went, the three of us saying our congrats and farewells.
Summer days were filled with college preparations and hanging at the beachUntil one day, I happen to bump into *My Soldier*He was working, I was rushing but we exchanged the polite- "what school are you going to, what are studying"...


He had joined the Army National Guard. He left for basic training in two weeks.I was glad to see him, would be praying for him, wishing him good luck.He would see me around.Two weeks later my phone rang. Would I meet him to say goodbye? Of course.I'd only be able to stay for an hour. I had other plans.Two days later, starbucks in hand, we talked for three and a half hoursSo how did he get my number? Well so and so said you wanted me to call.She said you mentioned I was leaving for basic and wanted to say goodbye.Actually I didn't say anything to her. She gave you my number? No, its ok. I am glad she did.Next time a date? I'm not interested in dating. I am just getting over a relationship.But I would love to have coffee again when you get back....I'll write you. Ok.
Months later, counting the letters sent every week-He came home. In ACU's.We had that coffee "not-date".Movie? Ok. But its not a date.By the end of the summer the line between not-dating and dating were a little blurred.We often joke- he chased me for months and I decided one day I loved him and then agreed to date him.

We're often asked how long we have been togethera question that really has no answerunofficially or officially?Dating or together?My Soldier was home for eight months for he deployed.We had officially been dating for two months.Unofficially about six.
That day I put him on that plane. Watched his uniform fade down the corridor....
I knew.
All the years of praying for a man whose name I didn't know...Yet God knew I met my soulmate on the playground when I was twelve.Letters, skype, flat-rates, and phone callsI gave my heart to a soldier 5000 miles away.Five and a half months into deployment, home for R&RHe asked me three little words-Volonta lo sposate (...will you marry me...He asked me in Italian!)I told him before he left for deployment that since he is part Italian, he should learn to speak it for me...so he did! Seven months later, at O'dark thirty, I welcomed home my Hero.Wedding plans galore! July 11, 2009We promised to be one- a chord three-fold- in a little white chapel Where my parents said their I Do's.
We are nearing our first anniversary and loving our lives together.Loving a soldier and living an Army life can be difficult at times,But every day I thank the LordFor choosing our souls to intertwine.Who would have thought?I met My Soldier, My Husband, My herothat day on the school playground in the sixth grade.See, isn't God into details?