Raising our Little DevilPup

Saving the Harvest

2010-10-14T21:45:00.000-04:00

Our road is lined with farm fields. And in the past couple of weeks, they have been busy harvesting all the crops for the rest of the season.

Corn.

Soybeans.

Cotton -- well, that has yet to be picked.

Tobacco.

Sweet potatoes.

Ahh my favorite harvest -- the sweet potatoes! Our landlord knows the farmer who owns the potato fields just down from our house, and told us the other day that they were done harvesting the entire field, and that we should go help ourselves to what was left.

When they rake a potato field, many get missed. Tons and tons, actually. They take the best of the best, the biggest. The ones they can get the most money for. And the ones that they dont have to dig and look to hard for.

So the other night, while Husband was working, I put Boogie in the stroller and we went down to try and get some. But because the field was so rutted, it was hard to really get in there and get to where they hadnt been too picked over yet.

Today, Husband took the truck and we went out there. All the way to the back of the field. The very back. And got quite a few.

Now, total, I have over 30 good sized sweet potatoes.

My plan is to let them sweeten up for another week or more, and then wash and bake them. Puree them. And then freeze them in one-cup portions. For the most part, the only thing I really bake with sweet potatoes, are biscuits [ OMG! I want some, yum! ] and maybe some sweets. Pancakes, etc. So I never really need a large amount at any one time. Freezing them in small portions will work out GREAT and will last probably until next harvest!!

This country living is getting to me. Not only will have I a bunch of frozen sweet potatoes, in the next few weeks I'll also be preparing a ton of pear preserves from our landlord's tree. Next year, I plan to preserve a lot of the vegetables and fruits that he gives us. And also make some apple butter, as well. I love the idea of living the whole year enjoying, and saving, that year's harvest!

Mamarazzi Monday

2010-10-11T11:41:00.000-04:00

Lately, Boogie has been a little big clingy.

I blame it on taking away her pacifier during the day.

But when she isnt crawling all over me,

and glued to me like a baby monkey...

She's usually playing hide and seek ...

She does the hiding --

And then I have to search high and low ...

Really Low ...

to find her.

Consignment Sale Heaven

2010-10-08T21:34:00.000-04:00

I seriously love consignment sales.
They have big organized consignment sales in our area every few months or so at the local Armories -- this was the second one this year that we've been to. Its always children's clothes and toys and furniture, so we always get some good steals for Boogie.
We went to one back in May in G-boro -- and it was really small. We got her some pajamas that she needed at the time, and a few toys. Nothing major.
Today?!
Man -- it was like bargain shopper's heaven!
I honestly could have spent so much money in there. It was packed! I got her six or seven cute outfits for the fall/winter -- she really needed some long-sleeves, so it was perfect timing. But as soon as I was done looking through the 12 month clothes, Husband had flown through everything else and was ready to go.
Wouldn't even let me look around.
So we didnt get her any toys or anything. But Sunday, everything they still have is 50% off. So if he wants to go see his Dad and we stay home or something, maybe she and I will go back and look around some more.
Maybe not, though. I dont know. She doesnt really NEED any more toys ... especially with her birthday and christmas right around the corner.
::sigh::
But I do -- I LOVE these sales!!

Creepy-Crawlies, Go Away!

2010-10-07T20:48:00.002-04:00

In the past week, Ive encountered a few too many creepy-crawlies for my own liking.

Way too many.

Ive had a locust walk across the livingroom floor like it owned the place. Ive had a stink bug taking up residence in Boogie's clean laundry, fresh from the clothes line. And today, two wolf spiders crawling around in the clean laundry, once again.

You have no idea how happy I will be when our dryer is fixed and I can wash clothes at any hour of the day, on any day, no matter the weather. And wont have to worry about finding gross bugs with fur and a million legs living in our clothes.

Ick.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-06T12:44:00.000-04:00

11 Months Old, Already?!

2010-10-02T19:41:00.001-04:00

From this ...

to this, in just 11 months!

Its hard to believe: 11 months ago today I was laid up in the hospital, having just given birth to Boogie.

And now, she's growing up. TOO FAST! I cant get over how much she's changed, how much she's learning and growing every day. It fascinates me to just sit back and watch her figure things out on her own.

At 11 months, Boogie:

- weighs 24lbs and is 31 inches long
- can crawl [all over the place at lightening speed]
- crab walks on her hands and feet [she hates the pavement on her knees]
- pulls herself up to standing [on everything!]
- feeds herself [she loves donuts, and pancakes and greenbeans, too]
- can make the "indian" noises [ahh yaa yaa yaa] with her mouth
- blows kisses
- waves hello and goodbye
- can give a high five
- claps
- says: ma-ma, da-da, daddy, bye-bye, uh-oh, hi, and tickle
- is a master at making a mess
- opens cabinets [and pulls out all the contents!]
- pulls open drawers
- closes the door [and can reach the doorknob! Uh-oh!]
- jumps on her bed, and the couch
- climbs on everything [including the oven, the couch ... and me]

and she also:

- bites [hard]
- slaps [hard]
- and pinches [hard]

I love her to death! Even her beastly qualities. She has her daddy's eyes and her mommy's sense of humor! She's going to go places in this world, I just hope she enjoys the ride!

Mamarazzi Monday

2010-09-27T18:52:00.000-04:00

It was a lowkey weekend around these parts.

We ran a few errands. Entertained ourselves.

Boogie let me sleep in, both days until 8am.

It really was a nice treat.

She was in a good mood all weekend, especially since

we are riding the coat tails of two new teeth.

Top teeth, at that.

But as long as she can play

and as long as she gets her daily cookie after her nap

and as long as we watch Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune

Nothing is bad in her world!

2010-09-24T21:24:00.000-04:00

One minute all is well in the world; Boogie is hauling out all the tupperware containers and playing on the floor, and Im sitting at the table making out a grocery list.

Next thing I know, I look over and she has scaled the oven.

Completely.

She has both her hands wrapped around the oven door handle, and both of her feet are off the floor. She was standing on the drawer underneath the oven, toes curled around the edge of it to get a good foot-hold.

There's no telling what she would have done next if I hadn't stopped her.

Aye yi yi ... there's not a moment of rest in this house!

Wordless Wednesday [ a day late ]

2010-09-23T10:33:00.000-04:00

Now on Night-Shift

2010-09-21T18:45:00.000-04:00

So husband went back to work/training today after a three-day weekend.

He was a little nervous heading in to his first actual day in the prison -- so much so, he smoked three cigarettes in his measely 20 minute ride to work.

He did well, though. Managed to find two shanks and a cigarette on his first day. Everyone seemed really impressed with that! He was worried about telling me ... but hey! He was/is a Marine. I figure he's seen worse.

Now, when he calls to say someone threw crap on him?!? Thats when I'll wish he hadn't told me!

[And yes -- it happens quite often!]

He also found out that he's been put on night shift. So he'll work from 1745 - 0600 from now on.

This means a few things for me:

1. I get complete control of the remote for the good tv shows
2. I can lay in the middle of the bed and spread out as much as I want

But it also means that I have to learn to have dinner ready no later than 1630 on the nights he is working. As opposed to the 1830 that we've been doing lately.

And it means I have to figure out ways to keep Boogie quiet during the day when he's sleeping. Thankfully, the weather will be cooling down soon -- so we can spend more time outside!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-15T14:07:00.000-04:00

Mamarazzi Monday

2010-09-13T17:54:00.000-04:00

Someday ...

in the future ...

we hope to have more children.

Like ... 2 more.

Which means Boogie will be a big sister.

Maybe she'll be a loving sister after all!

After all this time

2010-09-09T15:24:00.000-04:00

Finally!

After months of waiting ...

of continuous doctors appointments ...

of follow-up phone calls ...

we finally get a call we were hoping for.

Husband got a job. He starts 8am Monday morning at the prison.

I cant tell you how happy we both are for this day to finally come.

Mamarazzi Monday

2010-08-30T20:08:00.000-04:00

Im so glad Boogie enjoys books.

All the time, I catch her flipping open stories

Looking at the pictures

And telling herself a story ...

In her own language, of course!

Job Hunt ...

2010-08-25T19:01:00.000-04:00

Well ...

My husband went for two second-level job interviews today. Neither seemed to go as we had hoped.

The first interview was in Raleigh for a corrections officer. He had to watch a video, take a psychological exam, take a personality test, and review his physical results. Because of his medical discharge, he had to let them know exactly WHAT his disabilities are.

And because of that, they haven't yet decided if they want to disqualify him or not. They said they would call him next week.

Ugh.

The second job interview was for a jailer position in our county. They had been really interested ... only to find out that the county is on a hiring freeze.

What the ...!??!?

They said they were short-staffed. So they were allowed to hire a few people to fill the positions. But because they have to save as much money as possible, they are looking for people who are already certified with their BLET training. IF, and only IF, they don't find someone with certification, which my husband does not have, then they will look at other people.

I guess at this point, we really need to hope for the corrections officer position, and pray they dont rule him out because of his hearing. He wears hearing aids, after all!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-25T18:55:00.000-04:00

Mamarazzi Monday

2010-08-23T21:07:00.000-04:00

Boogie always bum-rushes me for whatever I have food-wise on my plate. Even if she's already eaten. She just loves food. So after I fed her today, I made myself some pancakes, and made her one of her own.

She was in heaven.

She loves some blueberry pancakes!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T22:39:00.000-04:00

Mamarazzi Monday

2010-08-16T20:03:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, our friends' little girl had her first birthday.

She and our Boogie are bffs!

The little things in life amuse them.

Sometimes, they are the best of friends.

Other times, they can play mean.

But when it really comes down to it,

they love each other.

Foodie Friday [a day late!!]

2010-08-14T11:23:00.000-04:00

I found these yummy biscuits in my Paula Deen cookbook, and thought I would give them a try. Husband loves sweet potatoes, as does Boogie. Even though Im a yankee, and havent really come to love them plain, I have aquired a taste for them, somewhat.

Sweet Potato Biscuits

3/4 c. canned sweet potatoes, drained and mashed, then measured

4 TBSP butter, softened

1/4 c. sugar

2 c. all-purpose flour

2 1/2 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

1/3 c. buttermilk

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray a baking sheet with vegetable oil cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.

2. In the food processor [although I used my kitchenaide mixer] combine sweet potatoes, butter, and sugar and process until blended. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add to the sweet potato mixture and pulse until the flour mixture is evenly distributed. Add the buttermilk throug the feed tube. Pulse again until the mixture forms into a ball.

3. Turn the dough ball out onto a lightly floured surface and knead several times, until the dough holds together, dusting your fingers with flour if you need to.

4. Gently roll the dough out into an 8 by 10-inch rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Using a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 12 rectangular biscuits. Transfer to the baking sheet.

5. Bake in the upper third of the oven for about 10 minutes, until golden on top and the bottom has begun to turn light brown. Serve hot with butter and honey.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-11T18:57:00.000-04:00

Growing like a Weed

2010-08-10T21:07:00.000-04:00

Its amazing how much babies change in just a short amount of time.

Exactly one month ago, we were visiting in Maine -- it was our first full day there. Savannah was playing and talking and sitting up, but she has really blossomed since we've been home.

She's talking all the time now.

She has two teeth that are clearly visible -- and hurt when she bites.

She's clapping. And waving bye-bye all the time.

She's crawling all over the place, and really finding her independence.

And now she's pulling herself up on E V E R Y T H I N G !!!! Just today, she pulled up on the coffee table, the recliner, the rocking chair, the toilet, the bath tub, kitchen furniture, and the washing machine! That one surprised me the most because there was really nothing for her to hold onto -- just the friction.

She's really coming into her own, and as much as I love her being little and wanting Mommy all the time, I love watching her grow and learn and change so much!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-04T19:17:00.000-04:00

Wayne Correctional Facility

2010-08-03T14:04:00.000-04:00

The husband got a phone call this morning, as we were driving home from the store.

He got really excited when he answered it, thinking it was a returned call from an interview he had last week. It wasn't but it was just as good.

Ever since he's been home from the Marine Corps, he's been trying to get into law enforcement. He went and talked to the local Sherriff about working as a jailer, and there is some potential there. But he also went to Raleigh and took a test in order to work as a Corrections Officer in the State Prison system.

Last week he had an interview. And the call today was for another interview.

This is good.

This show of interest means he did well on his test. And that people want him to work for them.

Now we just have to wait until they are finally hiring and we should have something lined up. Im keeping my fingers crossed for him.

Retirement: A Month Later

2010-08-02T17:12:00.000-04:00

Well, its been a month since our retirement from the Marines.

And we've survived.

Husband has been on one job interview, and has dropped off an application for another job. Both in law enforcement. We're waiting to hear back from both of them. He also took a test for a corrections officer in the state.

Ive been running the house, as always. Nothing has changed there.

Boogie is crawling up a storm. She's getting faster every day. And she has two teeth sprouting up from the bottom on her mouth. Every once in awhile they give her a fit, but for the most part, she seems to be doing really well with them. No fever. Nothing.

For half of the month, we were out of town, so we really didnt feel the pinch of minimal income. Which was a good thing. We have some of a savings built up to pay the bills this month, which we're going to need. And we found out on Friday that our VA package has finally been approved -- so we should start getting paid from the VA in September.

That will be a major sigh of relief.

Name Change ...

2010-08-01T15:43:00.000-04:00

From here on out, she won't be our little devilpup.

We are no longer a part of the active marine corps. Husband has retired.

She has a nickname around the house that she responds to.

Boogie.

From here on out, that shall be her moniker online, as well.

Things Im Loving ...

2010-08-01T15:41:00.000-04:00

Marshmallow Fluff.

Enough said!

Baby Motrin Drops

Devil Pup is cutting two teeth right now. This has been a life saver!

Stampin' Up's Stampin' Mist.

Seriously -- if you use rubber stamps, this is the best cleaner. Ever!

Matt Damon in Green Zone.

Im a sucker for a man in uniform -- and he just pulls it off SO.GOOD!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-28T14:30:00.000-04:00

"The Stare-Down"

Mamarazzi Monday

2010-07-26T20:05:00.000-04:00

Devil Pup has figured out how to crawl. And now she's getting into everything.

Movies and dvds in the living room. Drawers. Clutter. Papers lying around.

All of her food -- which is out on a bookshelf in the kitchen [because our old farmhouse has NO cupboard space].

And now, my cookbooks, too!

Someday, she'll be my little helper in the kitchen -- thats without a doubt!

Things I'm Loving ...

2010-07-25T14:35:00.000-04:00

The previews for Ramona and Beezus

[must be the kid in me!]

Kate Spade's Book of the Month Clutch

I wish they had one of "To kill a Mockingbird" but alas.

Worldwidefred.com

Anything, on that website, honestly.

But these plates are too cute -- and I think devil pup NEEDS them!

Remember the Sweet Things

Such a sweet book -- just finished it, and loved every minute of the story!

Foodie Friday

2010-07-23T18:47:00.000-04:00

This week was special -- Devil Dog offered to cook me a nice meal, as a kind gesture. A break from the kitchen. He flipped through one of the cookbooks I recently took out from the library [Soprano's Family Cookbook] and found a recipe for Baked Chicken Cacciatore.

It was so good. And very filling.

Although it didnt call for it, I paired mine with some linguine, in order to have a bit of a side to go along with the chicken. Yummy!

Recipe:

One 3-lb chicken cut into 8 pieces

salt and pepper to taste

2 TBSP Olive Oil

2 Green Bell Peppers, seeded and cut narrow

1 large onion, thinly sliced

8 oz mushrooms

2 garlic cloves

2 cups canned Italian peeled tomatoes, drained and chopped

1 tsp. dried oregano

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Oil your roasting pan, and place the chicken in a single layer.

2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry. Arrange it skin-side down in the pan. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 30 minutes

3. Turn the pieces and sprinkle skin side with salt and pepper. Bake for 20 more minutes, or until lightly browned.

4. While the chicken cooks, in one of more large skillets, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the peppers, onions, and mushrooms in a shallow layer. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned, about 15 minutes.

5. Stir in the garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce is thick, about 30 minutes.

6. Spoon off some of the fat from around the chicken. Pour the sauce and vegetables over and around the pieces. Bake 20 minutes longer. Serve hot.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-21T11:23:00.000-04:00

Mamarazzi Monday

2010-07-19T10:22:00.000-04:00

Poor DevilPup officially got her first tooth last week while we were on vacation in Maine. Grandma thought she saw something, tapped in her mouth with a metal spoon, and sure enough you could hear the "clink clink".

Even though I would assume the point leading UP to it breaking through the gums would be the most painful, devilpup hadn't been cranky.

Until we got home. And now, somedays it all I can do to keep her comfortable and happy, poor girl!

My poor sweet girl! But that washcloth works like a charm!

Beach Weekend WrapUp

2010-07-07T21:16:00.000-04:00

We had a wonderful time with family at Ocean Isle Beach!

Since it had been Christmas the last time we saw everyone, it was nice to catch up, see what was new, laugh and joke and talk all weekend. The kids were cute, too. The oldest of the three is 3 years old ... and very motherly. She was all about kissing the devil pup. And kept trying to tickle her and play with her. It was adorable.

Her 16 month old brother? He wasn't sure what to think. One minute he loved the devil pup and wanted to smile at her and kiss on her. A minute later, he would walk up to her and smack her!

And of course, no matter what he did, one look at his face set our oh-so-dramatic little pup off; the tears fell like rain!

We ate a lot of food, rode the JetSki, laid on the beach, and watched more than 10 different fireworks shows over the course of the long holiday! We had a blast!

Hope you and yours had a wonderful celebration, as well!

Could it be?

2010-07-07T21:09:00.000-04:00

Maybe our luck is turning around?

We got a letter in the mail the other day -- looks like we might just be getting unemployment benefits after all. Granted, its only 300$ a week -- but thats still better than nothing!

We also got a letter from the DOD showing our account statement -- they will be paying us their portion of our retirement pay until the VA kicks in with theirs [and who knows how long that will take] -- so at least we know we'll be getting some monies in August.

Husband also had a test today for the Corrections Dept here in the state ... and yesterday had an interview at the Sherriff's department for a job as a jailer. Could be good news coming our way soon!

A Big Let-Down

2010-07-01T19:46:00.000-04:00

After all the build-up in the classes he took, Husband was looking ahead to getting retired. He was ready for it to come -- and although he knew we would have to be a little tight with money, he wasn't worried about making ends meet with unemployment and his VA check.

We found out this morning -- after all the hassle of going through a briefing and everything else, that he does not qualify for unemployment. They said that because he will eventually get money from the VA -- no matter how much or how little it may be -- it's still considered income. So they won't pay him.

They are looking for some loopholes to see if there is anything they can do to help him out. But right now he's really depressed.

We will at least get a little bit of money from the Marine Corps each month until the VA kicks in. But its not a whole lot. Today we got paid the first time from them. It was all of $35 dollars.

Are We Out Yet?

2010-06-30T13:55:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we began the *final* process of leaving the military.

If was officially Daddy's retirement date. So, we loaded into the truck and drove the two hours back to base to pick up his DD214 and stop by a few places quickly to get things squared away.

We should have known better! Nothing with the military is ever quick, or on time. It never runs smoothly. And they always do everything in their power to throw you a massive curve ball at the very last second. Ugh.

We show up to IPAC to request the form -- and what do you know? They have no idea where it is. And the guy who was seperating the packets to mail out isnt in the office. It literally took them two hours to find three pieces of paper for us.

During which time I was melting like snow in hell because it was 98 degrees outside, and the devil pup was cranky, and hungry. We kept running in and out, in and out. Until finally we just sat in the truck in the A/C and waited for Daddy to get what he needed.

We went next door to ask a simple 5-second question to Tricare ... and that turned into another hour-long ordeal. First they MADE us go get our retired ID cards before they would answer our question. Then instead of simply saying -- "Your prime has now become standard, unless/until you want to enroll in Prime right now..." they just threw the application at us and had us fill it out. We did -- but they didnt say anything about us having to pay the first quarterly premium on the spot. We dont get paid until the 1st! They should know that!! So it was a bust. We had to take the application with us and get it done Wednesday [today] at the local AF base.

From there, we had to take all the paperwork over to our VA rep to make sure the claim is squared away, and that we'll start getting paid on August 1st, like we are supposed to.

We tried to go to the Unemployment Office this morning to start collecting until Daddy can find a job. That was ridiculous. The guy said -- "Can you come back tomorrow morning at 830?" Yea, we can. What for? "Well, you need to file a claim." Ummm ... I thought that was what we were doing right now!!! Seriously? I have to file a claim to file a claim?! WTF!

We wanted to hit up the SS Office too, to see about possible food stamps until we find a job, but we're going to wait a day or two on that.

There is too much to do. And on top of all of this, we are going away to Myrtle Beach for the weekend for a family get-together. And then next weekend, leave for a trip to Maine to see my family for a week. Too much going on to even think straight.

I just wish it was as easy to get out of the military as it is a regular civilian job!

Cabin Fever

2010-06-26T22:55:00.000-04:00

I had every intention of going out and checking out a few yard sales today. And a few different consignment stores. Somedays, you just never know what goods you might find. And there are a LOT of them in our area.

I'm looking for a few things in particular:

- milk glass
- a cute butter dish
- a full-length mirror
- a cake stand
- denim shorts for the devil pup
- a baby gate

However, Daddy had class at the college today for his EMT course. We've been using his truck a lot lately, so the carseat was in there. When he left, I heard him originally start up the truck -- I called him to remind him that he needed to take my Jeep.

But I wasn't thinking clearly at that point. My truck key was in the front seat of the Jeep. His truck key was in his hand, along with his spare Jeep key.

He took both keys to class with him. From 8-5 today. An hour away.

Safe to say, we never left the house. We made the best of it, napped a little bit, did a lot of cooking, and neatend up the house. But next time, I'll plan ahead the night before and make sure I have both of MY keys!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-21T14:44:00.000-04:00

Happy Father's Day [a day late!]

We had planned a day at the beach with some friends for Saturday -- but due to a migraine on Daddy's behalf, we opted to stay home and head to Onslow Beach on Sunday. We hung out with some friends on base for a little bit, and the Devil Pup loved the doggy, Zook, they were doggy-sitting. Every time he walked around her, she giggled with excitement.

Late in the afternoon, we headed to our friends' house for a cook-out. We mommies hung out with the girls for awhile, while they slapped each other and stole each others things. Finally they warmed up to each other, and were cute playing for awhile. Devil Pup hung out around their four dogs for awhile, but the dogs got really excited, and accidentally scratched her face. She wanted NOTHING to do with them after that, and only wanted to cling to Mommy.

But I think she learned a little bit in watching her little friend. She's two, almost three, months older than Devil Pup, and crawling and pulling herself up on the furniture. Devil Pup, on the other hand, wants nothing to do with crawling, but talks a lot more than her little friend. She's so vocal and noisy! But just this morning, I noticed her rocking back and forth, trying to figure out how to get where she wants to go. Maybe it won't be long afterall.

Dinner: Ravioli Balsamico

2010-06-16T21:36:00.000-04:00

I broke open one of my favorite Food Show Network cooks' cookbooks tonight for dinner: Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade Fast Fix Family Favorites. She has a lot of yummy stuff in all of her books, as evidenced by the eight or nine currently sitting on my bookshelf.

She always manages to throw in the odd recipe or two ... and almost always has a cocktail in there, too. She cracks me up with her matchy matchy decor and cocktail to go with each dinner 'scape. But her food is almost always simple, and tastes yummy.

The whole time it was on simmer tonight, my husband commented that it smelled like old gym socks. That was the vinaigrette. Then when I listed the ingredients, he said it sounded weird. And gross. And then he took a bite. And then he made himself a whole plate. And ate all of it.

So that must be a good sign.

He's really used to the southern way of cooking -- fried, salt, extra butter, grease and fat. This meal was definitely something up my alley. And boy, was it easy to make!

Recipe: Ravioli Balsamico

14 oz refridgerated four-cheese ravioli

1 1/4cup balsammic vinaigrette

1/4 cup julienne cut sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

2 tablespoons butter, cold

1. In a large pot of boiled salted water, cook ravili accord to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, bring vinaigrette to a boil over medium-high head. Add sun-dried tomatoes and walnuts. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Whisk in butter until sauce is smooth and shiny.

2. Drain pasta. Add to vinaigrette mixture and heat throug.

Cookbooks Galore

2010-06-14T19:12:00.000-04:00

I have an entire bookcase in my kitchen full of cookbooks.

I honestly think I've been collecting them since I was a young kid. The bindings are still intact -- which goes to show how much they've been used up to this point.

That's all starting to change this week.

Last week I cooked a recipe out of one cookbook -- broccoli cheese chicken. The week before, I made a homemade spice rub out of a cookbook to cover my beer-can chicken. This coming week Im tackling four different recipes out of three cookbooks. Everything from Betty Crocker [my go-to gal!!] to Semi-Homemade with Sandra Lee.

My goal is to cook at least one recipe out of each of the cookbooks -- even the sweets books. And then start all over again and make something else from them. Then I can start buying more and new cookbooks to add to the collection!

Domestic Goddess

2010-06-09T13:59:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure what's come over me lately.

Maybe its something about this old farmhouse we are living in.

Or maybe its that Daddy is home full-time now.

Maybe its just motherhood kicking me firmly in the backside.

Whatever it is, I've taken a great interest lately in the kitchen. Granted, I've always cooked for my husband, just not always anything grand. Sometimes I suckered him into cooking dinner. And still sometimes I would convince him we needed to eat out.

Not anymore.

I enjoy cooking for my family. Making the devil-pup's baby food [or at least most of it!] and making dinner for M. and myself. Sometimes, I'll even cook up a lunch mid-day.

I've even gone as far as taking out a few interior design books from the local library to get some ideas on sprucing the kitchen up and making it look really home-y. Since this is a farm-house, I'm really loving the old-style country look. I have a few Longaberger baskets out there holding the fresh produce our landlord keeps bringing by, and all of my wooden utensils.

Just yesterday, on top of everything I made for dinner [including Pioneer Woman's bacon wrapped stuffed jalapenos], I made homemade whipped cream with my handy dandy Kitchen Aide. Probably one of the easier things to make ... but I hadn't really ever thought about doing it. And it was so simple and yummy -- I don't think we'll ever be buying Cool-Whip again!

Mix 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, a 1/4 sugar and a splash or two of vanilla [more or less, depending on your flavor palate] and whisk until its good and thick. I did mine a little longer than some would ... I like a good thick consistency to my whipped cream [unlike Cool-Whip's airy texture] -- and M. was in heaven last night when he put some on his shortcake.

What are some of your favorite sumnmer things to make in the kitchen?!

Say Farewell

2010-06-05T16:13:00.001-04:00

Last night, we drove down to Jacksonville for Husband's farewell dinner.

We had invited about 18 or 20 people, and even at last minute, we unsure how many were going to actually show up. By the time we got seated at Texas Roadhouse, we had 12 people and the two babies! Im so glad that it turned out to be a little smaller than all we had invited. We were able to talk to everyone, and not feel like anyone was left out of a conversation.

The two girls were so cute. They jabbered and held hands and shared toys and pacifiers. They really did entertain an entire table full of Marines! The guys even took turns passing the girls around after dinner and making them laugh and smile, so the two of us moms could eat in peace! It was wonderful.

It was definitely a night to celebrate. Not only is M. getting retired, two others were EAS'ing within the next 30 days, and one of our friends was promoted to Cpl that same day! So it was perfect timing for us all to get together.

Sadly, this may be the last time we see some of these people; others we'll see real soon. I hate that its coming to an end -- if only for the wonderful friends we've made!

Wise Advice

2010-06-02T21:19:00.000-04:00

A while ago, M. and I were driving around aimlessly; bored. It was before devil pup had come along, so we didnt have her fabulous antics to attend to. He decided to stop by and see if his old coworker was home, and introduce me.

He was. And we were introduced. The man was hilarious -- probably one of the funniest people Ive ever met, without even trying. Everything out of his mouth had me wanting to giggle, and he was completely serious about what he was saying, too. It was just his way. Not long into the conversation, his wife joined us on the porch and we all were chatting.

They gave us the key to a successful marriage.

Time apart!

At first, because of how we lived in our marriage [only seeing each other two days a week] I didn't understand, or really like, what they were saying. But now that we are together under the same roof every night, we really do enjoy that advice and live by it.

"We wake up and enjoy a nice breakfast together. Then I go my way and leave her behind. She does the laundry. Sweeps the floor, maybe washes a dish or two. I joyride in my pick-up. Chat with the men at the gas station. Maybe hit up the hardware store. Flirt with a few ladies. And then come back home. The first thing she says is 'where you been?!' and thats how I know -- she missed me! Heck! If she spent every minute of the day stuffed up my tail, she'd grow mighty sick of me mighty quick. Why suffer. Enjoy the little moments together ... but have your own time and hobbies, too. It makes things more interesting -- and gives you stuff to talk about."

Today was one of those "go your own way" kind of days.

M. and his Dad went to Atlantic Beach on a chartered fishing trip. Poor guy -- he was sea sick the whole morning. Said he got sick almost every time he cast his rod. Until the afternoon and then the water calmed down enough to relax a little bit.

The baby and I went shopping! I was looking for a new bathing suit ... but didnt find one I liked just yet. So I settled for the new Candace Bushnell book and some chips and salsa and came home.

When he walked through the door, we had a good time catching up on each others' day, and unwinding before he passed out in bed. He's been up since 2am, after all!

What's some of the best marriage advice you've received? Or even some of the worst?!

Date Night

2010-05-30T15:10:00.000-04:00

Long before we became a family of three, M. and I used to go out all the time. It was nothing for us to drop whatever we were doing, and just head to town. Grab dinner, maybe even a movie. Whether it was the matinee or a late night showing. It didnt matter -- we didnt have anyone else to worry about. Nor did we have someone to think about getting home to.

In November, when the Devil Pup was born, I suddenly had no desire to leave the house, unless she was attached to my hip. Or boob, I guess. Grocery store? She came. Walmart? She came. Dinner out? Yep -- she even came then. Heck, I brought her into work for staff meetings during my maternity leave!! It wasn't until she was 6 weeks old, and my parents were in town for 10 days, that I left the house without her.

That was our first date night -- and felt like a bit of a disaster. We went to see a movie, and ran to Walmart when it was done. Saw The Blind Side and thought it was a great movie -- but the whole time, all I could think about was getting home to our little girl. I even cried on the drive HOME! I was just ready to see her, even though I knew she was in great hands.

Things got a little rough for us, emotionally, as we tried to balance our marriage with parenthood. They always tell you how much work it is to be a parent. But they don't tell you how hard it can be to do both at the same time. We made a pact -- one night a month [at the least] we would get a sitter, and go out just M. and I. To help us get back to where we needed to be. With each date, things got a lot better for me -- being apart from the baby wasn't as hard. I still miss her when I'm gone, but I enjoy having adult-only conversations without someone throwing a spoon on the floor, or screaming from the carseat because they are tired or hungry.

We've done a few different things these past couple months -- including a hockey game, and an ice cream date. But mostly, we head to the movies. Its one thing we really cant enjoy with the baby in-tow at this age.

So last night, we hit up the movies. To see Sex and the City 2 -- I was in heaven!! Not only is the movie fabulous, the clothes are gorgeous, as well as the shoes. The two and a half hours flew by before I even realized it was almost over. And I was so happy that my husband would put up with a theater full of cackling women just to spend the night out of the house with me!

The baby was awake and happy to see us at 10pm when we got home. And I was happy to see her, as well -- although I'll openly admit I didn't once wonder if she was awake or asleep, eating or crying, the whole time we were gone. And I'll do it all again next month, when we hit the town again: just us two adults out for a good time!

June is Looking Busy

2010-05-26T17:08:00.000-04:00

Daddy will officially be retired from the Marine Corps June 29th.

It's been a long time coming! The adjustment period of having him home right now is setting in. We're getting used to always being around each other, while maintaining our sanity, at the same time. We're learning to share things too -- the remote control, the laptop ... and the bed.

I'm enjoying cooking dinner each night -- even if it's something simple like tonight [pork chops, baked potatoes and steamed vegetables] and not something grand by any means. And I love that he's here to see the changes in the Devil Pup, instead of having to hear about them on the phone.

He's in the process of finding a job right now. He applied for a position at the prison last week and is waiting to hear back from them. And he's signed up for the EMT-Basic course at the local community college. Right now, thats what he thinks he would rather do, which is fine in my book. If it makes him happy, I support that.

June is looking to be a busy month for us.

I am throwing a dinner party with a bunch of our friends to celebrate Daddy's retirement on the 4th. He's supposed to be taking a test for the Correctional Officer position in the middle of the month. The online course for his EMT-Basic is slated to run June 7th - August 1st [if I remember correctly]. We're trying to figure out a week to go back to Maine to visit. And we're possibly house-sitting from the 26th through July 3rd [and heading to Myrtle Beach directly following that for the holiday with family at the beach house!].

And Devil Pup will be 7 months old on the 2nd. Wow, how time flies!!

To what are we entitled?!

2010-05-22T18:56:00.000-04:00

Entitled ... seems like such a horrible word to use.

We aren't entitled persay ... husband did earn the benefits we are given by doing his enlistment time [and 5 months extra] fighting for his country. He saw the sands of the Middle East, even if it was only a single mission, and not a year-long deployment. He stood on the yellow footprints of Parris Island, and remembers those days all too well.

We attended the VA portion of the Separation class on Thursday. Husband had been through it all once before, when they originally started his Med-Board [in late 2008/early 2009] but wanted a refresher. He also wanted me to attend.

I guess so someone would remember the things they told us. His memory -- it's not so great. Nor is his attention-span. Neither of which are side effects of his time in the Corps!

We learned a lot!

Even though he is considered permanently retired by the Marine Corps [who rated him at 60%], and the VA [who rated him at 80%], he is still allowed to work anywhere and for any length of time. Unlike Social Security, there is no stipulation on how many hours he can work, or how much he can make in a year.

If he applies for a federal job, whether he has the training for it or not, he is automatically given the job over someone with training up the butt who has never served. And with a federal job, for him, there is NO overtime! If the schedule says 9 to 5, it means he walks in and clocks in no earlier than 9am, and leaves at 5pm no matter what he's in the middle of. No boss can MAKE him stay late.

That was nice to hear!

We can keep our Tricare for the family. And he can utilize the VA hospitals and clinics around us [probably Fayetteville because its the closest to us]. We can keep dental for a small fee per month.

If the condition gets worse over time, he can get it documented and submit it to ammend his claim. If the VA feels that its significantly worse, they can increase his disability rating, meaning more money each month. And he gets paid more for each of his dependants. If we go on to have 18 more kids [and become another Duggar-esque family] we can claim every single one of the children.

Dont worry -- that wont be happening. Four is my limit. Three is husband's. There's no way we can meet in the middle, so three it is.

If he ever reaches 100% from the VA, he can use his GI Bill, and I, as well as the kids, will each get our own free education. He wouldn't have to choose who to transfer his to because we're all recipients. This was the exciting part for me! And we did learn that there may be a chance that right now he can still transfer his to me and I can use it, even though he's not 100%. If thats the case, I'll be going back to school for sure!

Things are looking up. VA Home Loans. Education. Health Care. Access to any and all military installations. Check, check, check, and check. This all lightens the load of returning to civilian life just a little bit.

He's Home!

2010-05-18T17:20:00.000-04:00

After two years of being married, we *finally* get to see what it feels like to live together.

Daddy signed all the necessary paperwork [as did I] yesterday, and was sent home on home-awaiting-orders until his final EAS June 30th.

We have to go back to base on Thursday for a day-long Seps and Taps class. And then we need to go back in June to get his DD214 form, and get things with his VA pay squared away.

He doesn't really know what to do with himself. He's looking at work in a couple different directions [Correctional Facility; EMT] and just taking things in stride.

Me?! Im learning how to take a deep breath when the mess I just cleaned up gets messed up again. Im figuring out what time normal people eat and prepare dinner [for two] instead of my breakfast-for-dinner at 8pm. Im learning to sleep on my side of the bed, instead of hogging the whole thing. And Im learning how to share the remote, even when my shows are on.

One day at a time ... but at least my marine is home. And this time, its for good!

A Couple Firsts ...

2010-05-16T21:22:00.000-04:00

I didnt mention it earlier -- I wanted to be sure it was EXACTLY what I thought it was.

The Devil Pup has said her first word. She's been babbling and jabbering on for awhile now; going on and on. Blowing spit bubbles and screaming really loud. Laughing out loud and giggling. But now she clearly said:

"MaMa" !!!

And I couldn't be happier, or more excited. Now we just need to work on "DaDa" and we'll be good to go!

Our other "first" came tonight.

We were visiting with some friends, and she was sitting on the floor squealing with delight everytime their dog walked passed her. So loud that it scared the dog! He wanted nothing to do with her.

So the Mom gave her a few toys to play with. She was sitting with her back up against the couch, and was playing good. Happy. Enjoying the noises that the toys were making. Next thing I know, she toppled over forward and landed flat on her stomach, knocking her face against one of the toys!

She picked her head up -- and then the crying and red face commenced. Tears -- the whole thing. I felt awful, but at first couldnt find anything wrong. Then she looked me dead in the eye and I saw it growing -- there is a good sized egg on her forehead from where she knocked against the toy. Part of it looks like it might bruise.

My poor baby girl -- it broke my heart to hear her, and see her, in so much pain!

Making My Own Baby Food? Who Would Have Thought!

2010-05-13T12:34:00.000-04:00

I always thought those moms who made their own food and cloth-diapered, breastfed and wore their kids were hippies; the same kind of women who didnt shave their legs and made it a habit to hug trees and drive volkswagens. What my home-state folks so kindly refer to as "crunchies" or "granolas".

But Ive surprised myself since becoming a mother!

Breastfeeding is a beautiful thing. I dont think I ever would have had the same wonderful bond with Devil Pup that I do right now, simply because every time she wants to eat, I get to craddle her close to me, skin to skin, and feed her, directly from me. I wouldn't change that choice for anything in the world -- no matter how difficult it was to find places in public to feed her sometimes [read: a dressing room at Forever 21; the floor in an emergency room bathroom; etc]

And now, I find so much joy in making homemade baby food. Sweet potato. Bananas. Green beans. Pears. Avocado. Carrots. Squash and apples. Not only is it easy, but I know what exactly my child is eating. What is going in her mouth. No preservatives. No added growth hormone.

Really, all you need is a saucepan and a food processor. Cook the food in a little bit of water until soft enough for adult consumption.

Throw everything into the food processor:

My mother bought me these wonderful containers from Williams Sonoma made especially for freezing and storing homemade baby food. You can make a large batch all at one time, place it into the individual sections on the container [similar to an ice cube tray] and pop it into the freezer. Takes up very little room, and as soon as they are completely frozen, you can transfer them to ziploc bags to reuse the container for another food.

It has made life so much simpler around here. Between the local fruit market down the road [where I picked up the locally grown pears in the pictures] and the WIC check we get each month, it also cuts down dramatically on the cost of her food. I cant imagine buying as much in baby food as I make, for as cheap.

CIF and Turning in Gear

2010-05-12T21:11:00.001-04:00

I had to take an unexpected trip down to Camp LeJeune this afternoon to bring a couple seabags full of gear to Daddy. Its official: he's starting the check-out process.

Today he gathered everything he had from the house, his barracks room, his truck and the office and put it all together. Anything fabric-y, he threw in to be washed. His Sappi plates got put to be hand scrubbed; same with his kevlar and his canteens.

He found he had doubles of some things, and we know he's missing a couple items; mainly his camel-pack. Not sure how much its going to cost us, but with having doubles, and no one claiming them as their own, he might be able to go out into town and barter for the things he needs with those extras.

Tomorrow morning, bright and early, he's going down to turn everything in, get it signed off on, and find out what exactly he's missing, and what he needs to replace.

If he can get everything taken care of this week, stand his barracks duty on Monday, and finish his Seps and Taps class Thursday, then come Friday he should be granted home-awaiting-orders.

Im keeping my fingers crossed ... but not getting my hopes TOO high. After this long wait, I know they can still screw us any which way possible!

Good Things Come to Those Who Wait!

2010-05-10T10:17:00.000-04:00

I just got a call from Daddy.

We were hoping for a settlement from the Marine Corps, and at least a 30% disability rating from the VA, but what we got was so much better!

They have decided to medically RETIRE him! We will receive Tricare Standard for life, as well as base privileges and IDs. He will still be able to work a regular civilian job, and still qualifies for his 6-month unemployment benefits, as well. And the VA rated him as 80% disabled.

We wont be scrounging for lost pennies from the couch after all!

He has about a month and a half until he is completely out -- so we need to make the most of the time left. Hopefully he'll be able to put in for home awaiting orders soon, and come spend some more time with us before he needs to look for a job, but even if he cant, I think we'll go down and visit once or twice. See our friends one last time and all.

Finally! After two years of marriage, we'll be able to live together under the same roof! And after two years of waiting on med-boards, we have the answer to our prayers!

The End Is In Sight

2010-05-07T20:57:00.000-04:00

As we were driving to Topsail Island today, Daddy got a phonecall.

The call we've been expecting for going on two years now!

The findings are in from his medical review. They couldn't tell him anything over the phone -- so he has a meeting with them at 1000 Monday morning to find out what's going on. They will let him know what is happening medically, how much of a settlement the Marine Corps will be giving him, what percentage disability the VA has rated him at, and how much longer he will be in.

He is hoping to put in for home awaiting orders, come back here, look for a job, and take a week or so to go back to Maine to visit with my family while we still can.

And then its back to the civilian world. In the two years we've been married, we really haven't ever lived under the same roof for more than a few days at a time. These past 15 days of leave was one of the longest stretches he's been home ever!

He's nervous, and a little worried. So its time for me to put my game face on. I need to stay positive and optimistic for both of us. I need to be the strong one.

More on Monday after we find out what's going to happen to us!

Beautician, maybe?!

2010-05-06T17:33:00.000-04:00

I think my daughter might dabble in beauty school when she gets older.

Only -- she wont be your run-of-the-mill stylist who cuts and dyes and trims your bangs. Oh no -- she'll create modern art with her styles. They will take pictures and frame them and gasp with awe at the outrageous hair-do's she comes up with.

They will wonder where she got her talents -- and take it from me, it wasn't from her Mama!

She may not make it her career ... but it stands a good chance of being something she at least does for awhile. Know how I know?!

Because she's already working on her craft!

Every morning when we are playing on the living room floor, she gets super excited. I bend to kiss her belly, give her raspberries, or tickle her, and she giggles. Throws her hands in my hair and PULLS! until she cant stand it! She never just pulls it out completely -- she always has to do something "avante garde".

So maybe she'll be a teacher. Or a politician. A bus driver. A nurse. A lawyer. A mom. A baker. A singer. Who knows ... maybe she'll be the first woman president. But maybe, just maybe ... she'll dabble in hair design. And then I can say that I was one of her very first clients!

Oh Where, Oh Where Could it Be?!

2010-05-05T19:37:00.000-04:00

It's amazing how much to miss something little when you can no longer find it around the house.

This evening, it was in it's rightful place. I was tending to dinner, as well as the devil pup. She was content. I was content. Daddy was in the livingroom, he, too, content.

We ate. Cleaned up. And thats when we realized it was missing.

I looked.

And looked.

And looked.

Under blankets. In the laundry basket. On the changing table. In the bathroom. On our bed. In the crib. The livingroom floor. In the toy box. Under the recliner and the couch. In the cushions. Everywhere in the kitchen. The washer. The dryer. The garbage can, even.

No where.

I dug out a spare and put it to use, but was still determined to find the original.

Finally, after looking high and low, and giving up, I found it. Thrown in a small hole on the end of our kitchen island.

What were we missing?!

Baby's pacifier!

Cannot live without it these days!

Foot Fetish

2010-05-02T08:12:00.000-04:00

Most kids go through the foot-eating phase. Its only natural.

But I'm not sure Devil Pup is following a normal "trend" when it comes to discovery and feet. Lately, not only has she been after her own toes, but anyone else's she can get her hands on. God forbid we sit down within reach. She will roll over to them and grab ahold, doing anything she can to try and get them into her mouth.

If she can't get them in her mouth, she runs her fingers through them and plays. Tickles you. Tries to see if there is anything in there she can dig out. She's just fascinated by them. If she's sitting in her bouncy chair, and within eyeshot of a pair of feet, she will crane her neck and try to flip around just to get a closer look.

I don't know what started this. And I can definitely tell you -- its not "genetic". I don't enjoy feet, and mine are quite ticklish, so I hate to really have them touched [unless, of course, its for a pedicure, but thats a whole other story!]. And Daddy is the same way. Although his are callused from wearing combat boots all day, his toes are quite ticklish [and stinky] and he doesn't like anyone to go near them.

Not sure where my daughter gets it, but it looks like she has a true foot fetish. Will she grow out of it?! Only time will tell!

MilSpouse Blog Hop

2010-05-01T08:49:00.001-04:00

Hello to all -- and a special Welcome! to anyone who is here from the blog hop hosted by Riding The Roller Coaster I love to meet new friends, especially other MilWives!!

As always, Im a little late to the game!

For those who don't know me, My name is Ashley. Although lately, I go by Mommy! Im a 20-something Marine Corps wife, married to Daddy for 2 years this month. We have a beautiful 6-month old daughter, S. who sometimes goes by Devil Pup! S. and I currently live 2 hours away from our duty station ... so we value the time we spend with Daddy over anything else these days. It comes few and far between ... as he's only able to make it home on the weekends!

I love to cook and have started dabbling in making homemade babyfood. I spend more time than necessary on the internet -- usually reading other MilSpouse blogs!! And recently bought a Nikon Coolpics camera, to capture the moments of my daughter's upbringing! Life in the south ain't so bad ... but being a Yankee, it takes some getting used to!

A Day at the Park

2010-04-29T21:59:00.000-04:00

It was gorgeous outside today.

And with Daddy Devil Dog home on leave, we were all sitting around the livingroom, wondering what to do with ourselves. Especially since it's the day before payday ... and like many other military families out there, we didnt have much money to our names.

Just down the road is a cute little park and play area that Daddy grew up playing in, himself. I threw the suggestion out there to take Devil Pup to the park, and bring the stroller along, just so we all could get some fresh air, and maybe a little exercise.

We all had a good time.

Granted, Devil Pup is still a little too small, and too young, to know whats going on. Or to really play around on the equipment. But I took her down the slides, and she giggled the whole way. We pushed her in the swings, and she laughed and smiled and had a blast. She was a happy girl the whole afternoon!

And she just loves to be outside!

This makes two days in a row of lots of nice warm weather, and [free] outdoor activities, since we went fishing yesterday, as well!

Home Again!

2010-04-25T21:33:00.000-04:00

The Devil Pup and I made it home safely from our trip up north!

Maine was a blast! The grandparents spoiled the Devil Pup, as is par for the course. Pup did wonderful on the airplane, too. I was incredibly surprised -- she napped during take off and landing, and just wanted to look out the window the whole time in the air. She flirted and tried to share her pacifier with anyone willing to talk to her!

We saw a lot of family, a few friends, ate a lot of good food, and enjoyed our time. Short, but sweet.

I was able to go to a few craft classes with my mother -- a nice little night out without the pup. Grandpa stayed at home and watched her, playing with all her toys and letting her nap on him all night long.

She charmed the pants off everyone that crossed her path, and everyone fell in love with her.

But then again, how can you not?!

Hello from Maine!

2010-04-20T10:32:00.000-04:00

The devil-pup and I made it to Maine safely on Saturday! She did wonderful on the plane!

She napped during both take-offs and landings ... and the whole time in the air, she just wanted to look out the window and try to grab the fluffy clouds! Grandma and Grandpa were waiting for us in the airport -- and couldnt wait to scoop little devil pup up!! They have been spoiling her with attention ever since!!

The weather here is nice -- a little cooler than we are used to in North Carolina -- but still enjoyable. The sun is actually out today ... so it just might turn up gorgeous!

We've been catching up with family and friends so far this week ... and Grandma and I left the devil pup with Grandpa last night to attend a Stampin' Up party. Tonight is the same routine ... only this time, its a scrapbooking class! Should be tons of fun, and its nice to get out a little bit with other people who enjoy the same hobbies that I do. I dont have anyone in North Carolina to craft with ... or any places I know to take some classes of that sort, either!

The rest of the week is going to fly by, Im sure. We're going to do a little shopping, visit with my brother, and have four generations all in one room for the first time!! That will be nice. We fly back to North Carolina -- and the warmer climate -- on Saturday, where Daddy is anxiously waiting for us! He says he misses us like crazy, even though he's at work all week. So much so that he took leave when we get back to spend lots of time loving on us! Cant wait!

Pictures to come when we get back home!

Bright Eyed and Bushy Tailed

2010-04-16T09:54:00.000-04:00

I woke up feeling well-rested this morning.

Because Devil Pup slept great, for once, last night. Granted, it was a chore getting her to sleep ... but once she was out, we barely heard a peep from her.

We came to Jacksonville to visit with Daddy for the night. As the Pup and I are leaving bright and early Saturday morning on the airplane. Destination: Maine!! So we wanted a little extra loving time with Daddy before we say goodbye for a week.

We went out to eat and then took Pup to see the animals at the pet store. She liked looking at the puppies -- but was more interested in their toys. Until she laid eyes on the kittens. She loved them! I had Daddy take one out so she could pet it ... and she was stroking his head and back, and being really gentle. Until she leaned over and tried to eat the poor kitty!

All that playing must have worn her out, however. She fell asleep in the truck on the way back to base. And was almost completely knocked out after I nursed her. Just as I was about to lay her down to bed, at 9pm -- a full hour later than normal bedtime -- Daddy walked into the room chatting away.

She heard his voice and BOOM! she was wide awake. I got her calmed down again, and he talked some more! Ugh! I love him to death ... and love that he loves us so much. But cant he whisper?! At that point she was so wide awake she wanted to play and eat her feet and giggle, blow spit bubbles ... anything but sleep. After laying with her, while Daddy proceeded to fall asleep, I decided to try and comfort nurse her again. And luckily it did the trick.

She was rubbing her eyes in no time, and asleep like an angel shortly after that. 10pm. About time!! She woke up once around 3am for a feeding ... and then woke up with Daddy at 6am. I fed her, but she was more interested in what Daddy was doing, and where Daddy was going [to work!]. She kept diving after him, obviously wanting him to take her wherever he went! Too bad the Marines dont have "Bring your daughter to work day" --because I could have used a little breather!

Good Eats

2010-04-14T21:27:00.000-04:00

I don't know where she inherited her great palate ...

...because Daddy Devil Dog and myself both tend to be picky when it comes to the things we should be eating. Neither of us like carrots. He likes brussel sprouts and greens ... I hate them. I like green beans and peas. He's not much of a fan. I enjoy mango ... he can't stand it. And I only enjoy bananas on toast ... while he'll eat anything banana flavored!

Our devil pup?

So far, she's proving to be one heck of a good eater.

Against some people's judgement, I started devil pup on food at five months ... and jumped right into it. I didnt spend the first month or so on just cereal. I didnt do vegetables first in hopes that fruit wouldnt spoil her. I did what I felt was best for her.

She eats rice cereal. Loves bananas and peaches. And just this evening, I gave her sweet potatoes for the first time.

I baked the potato in the oven this morning. Just long enough that it was soft, and the peel fell right off. I mashed it up and refrigerated it until she was ready to eat. Gave her two TBSP of cereal and two TBSP of the sweet potato ... both mixed with a bit of breastmilk to make them a little runny.

She *loved* them!

Must be the southerner in her ... because I cant stand the taste ... smell ... color of them. Nothing about them screams appetizing to me! Maybe she will be a good eater! I did spend a lot of my pregnancy eating tons of fruit ... and cut-up raw veggies! In fact, its all I ate for a good majority of the pregnancy!

Lets just hope she has this same enthusiasm about the rest of the fruits and veggies.

Dinner Time

2010-04-12T21:51:00.000-04:00

I'm ready for dinner

Cereal and Peaches? Bring it on!

You aren't doing it right, Mom. Lemme show you!

My little Devil Pup is proving to have quite a little

independent streak.

Another case in point, this morning:

Tylenol? Its our Friend!

2010-04-12T16:57:00.000-04:00

Devil Pup was beyond cranky today.

She's taking cranky to a whole other level lately. High pitched squeals. Spitting. Trying to bite my face. Bashing her head against me. Pulling my hair -- and not ever-so-gently, either.

I know its the teeth. Or tooth, I should say.

As of this weekend, we can finally see the little white bump on her bottom gums. But so far, nothing has broken through the skin. Im hoping its getting close ... and thats why she's overly clingy and whiney today.

This afternoon it reached an all-time high. She was fussy. And warm. And ready for a nap. So I gave her a little bit of tylenol before I laid her down.

For the first time in ... well, I dont know how long ... she napped for more than 30 minutes. As a matter of fact, she slept for a good hour and a half. I went in to check on her multiple times -- before I remembered the tylenol-induced sleep ... and figured she would be out for a little bit.

She's awake ... and cranky. But at least she got some good naps in this afternoon.

Too bad it's not good parenting to offer a serving of tylenol every night at bedtime. Maybe then I could go more than 2 hours without a sleep interruption lately. The joys of motherhood!

A Challenge

2010-04-11T20:32:00.002-04:00

Daddy Devil Dog knows that Ive wanted to finish losing my baby weight, but just haven't taken the initiative.

Five months post-partum, and Im still 8 pounds away from my pre-baby weight. Not a huge deal ... but its not where I want to be, either. Actually ... I really dont want to be at my pre-weight, either. So Daddy Devil Dog gave me a challenge ... and a chance for a "reward".

I want to lose a total of 24 pounds to get to my goal weight.

He said once I lose the first 10 pounds, he would buy me a gift of my choice. And once I finish losing the weight, he'll buy me another present.

I feel bad ... and its a little sad to admit that it took my husband baiting me with gifts for me to finally buckle down and lose all this weight. But I guess sometimes, you need that extra bit of motivation ... that extra kick in the ass to get things done.

And if a present is my kick in the ass, well ... then so be it!

Queen CrankyPants

2010-04-09T11:28:00.006-04:00

She's entirely too cranky today, my little devil-pup is.

I know she's teething. And I feel for her, I really do. But is it too much to ask to allow momma devil-dog a little bit of sleep? Something more than 1.5 hours consecutively?!

She used to do so great. Napping once or twice during the day, and sleeping great through the night.

Then we put her in her crib. In her own room. And moved to a new house only 5 days later. Ever since then, she's been off the charts with her crankiness, and lack of good sleeping. She still goes down relatively well, around 8pm.

But come 11pm, or so, she starts her waking routine. Every two hours she's up for a feeding. Occasionally in between them, she wakes again because she has lost her pacifier and cant seem to find it. I end up getting out of bed at least 5 or 6 times before she's up for the day at 630am.

Gone are the days of 8pm-8am sleeping, and hour long naps.

Welcome to teething, I suppose!