My boyfriend, the Sailor, is in Iraq!

Virginia Tech

2007-04-17T09:16:00.000-05:00

You are in our thoughts and prayers......

Last Post

2007-03-28T09:55:00.000-05:00

Well since Mike is home, I see no reason to keep this blog anymore. I want to take the time to thank everyone who has been here for me during this deployment and for all of the faithful readers.

I will check back from time to time and maybe post something a time or two but for the most part I won't be posting. Mike can feel free to post anytime he wants but I doubt he will.

so for now....thanks again for everything....especially you Colleen :>) Your Mike is almost home... I am so happy for you....

Take care everyone........and as always....I Love you, Mike!

Kym

He made it....

2007-03-27T08:37:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted before now...Mike made it home Saturday. The trip to/from Baltimore was uneventful. We have been enjoying each other and spending some time with his children.

Will post more later....

I love you Mike!

It's almost over!!!!

2007-03-22T20:26:00.000-05:00

Only 2 more days........I can hardly believe it....This deployment is FINALLY going to be over :>)

Mike will be arriving in Baltimore, MD Saturday around 1300...I'm going to drive up to get him because he isn't scheduled to arrive into Norfolk until midnight on Saturday....Evidently there isn't a direct flight from BWI into Norfolk so his itinerary is to fly from BWI (Baltimore, MD) to Philadelphia, PA and then down to Norfolk....We will be back in Virginia Beach before he was even scheduled to leave BWI! So it makes total sense to us for me to drive up and get him.

I will update the blog to let everyone know that he made it home safe and sound sometime on Saturday.

Everyone take care and pray for Mike's safe arrival back on good ole US soil!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

He made it to..........

2007-03-20T05:26:00.000-05:00

Kuwait yesterday! He doesn't actually start checking out until tomorrow....but he is one step closer to being home.

Not much going on here except doing some last minute things before Mike gets home. I'm feeling somewhat "out there"...yes for those folks who "really" know me...I mean more "out there" than normal... ;>) I have a full range of emotions going on.....excitement, anxious, scared, etc... These are all normal feelings before and during a homecoming. I was telling Mike this morning these last few days are really the worst...it's so close but yet it's so far away, but we know it will get here and after it's all said and done I will be like did this past 300 or so days really happen? Oh well, the life of a sailors girlfriend...........

Hope all is well.......... I Love You Mike!!!!

Almost there........

2007-03-18T07:02:00.000-05:00

It seems something happens everyday to make Mike coming home real...when he is back on US soil, that is when it will finally sink in that it's over....He was presented with a Command "Coin" (it looks more like a plaque to me) by the CO of the battalion yesterday. Mike said it is huge....

He will be leaving Speicher for the last time soon to go to Kuwait to start his out-processing. From what we have heard there is a lot of waiting around doing nothing. I would think "they" (whoever they are) would try to make the process as quick as possible for our guys/gals who are headed home. I know how hard it is here for me....waiting and I have a lot to do. Oh well, the light is getting closer and closer...........he's coming home :>)

I hope all is well for everyone......take care!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Very Busy...

2007-03-13T18:10:00.000-05:00

Hi all,

Yes I'm still alive. Sorry I haven't posted in a while but it was crazy while my girlfriend was here. We had a lot of catching up to do....

Here we are catching up Friday night ;>) Lisa and I can have fun no matter what we do. It was so nice to have her here...I love her! Can't wait for her to get back to the states for good.

I'm getting excited about Mike coming home. We've got 10 days and I am keeping very busy....so I know he will be home before I know it! We've got a lot to look forward to.

We've already made lots of plans. There is one thing Mike promised me we would do when he got back home and I am going to hold him to it. That is going to Washington DC. For those of you who have been reading this post since the beginning, you might remember we went just before he went to South Carolina. We didn't have much time so he promised to take me when he came home. So that is one of the "events" we are planning.

I hope all is well with everyone :>)

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

From Mike...

2007-03-04T13:25:00.000-05:00

I want to take the opportunity to thank everyone for their support while I have been out here in the desert. The tour was very challenging at times, but it was also very rewarding. Knowing that I was part of a team that made a difference to the Army was and is a great feeling. I also worked with a great group of Navy personnel and several retired (or prior service) Army, Air Force and Marines. I will miss working with most of them as we really did make a great team and shared a common interest in bringing the best possible product to the Soldiers on mission.

Thank you also to everyone for the wonderful care packages that were sent out. Anything that I could not eat on my own was gladly consumed by my co-workers, so I thank you for them as well. That being said, as packages take anywhere from 5-14 days to arrive from the states, do not send any more packages to me as I might not get them, and then my co-workers that are still waiting on reliefs will need to figure out how to get them back to me.

Mike

Not much longer now...for those of you who started reading this blog from the beginning, you know Mike and I had just barley started dating...you might remember me saying "I hope we are able to survive this deployment, we both want the same outcome and that is for US to still be together in the end". At this point, I feel safe in saying...."MIKE, WE MADE IT!"

I would also like to thank everyone for their love and support. Especially to my family and to Mike's family. I couldn't have survived without them.

I also want to thank a fellow Blogger....Colleen, YOU have been a God send...even though we have never met, somehow I feel closer to you then people I see on a daily basis. My only wish is that we get to actually meet one day and of course for "your" Mike's safe return!!!! We will definitley keep in touch! Thanks for everything ;>)

I love you Mike!!!!

Headed home counter!

2007-03-04T08:52:00.000-05:00

It's for real...Mike will be heading home around 24 March!!!! His relief arrived today! We've known for a few weeks but didn't want to say anything until his relief was standing in front of him. So not much longer now!!!! I will write more on this later....

My girlfriend, Lisa from Guam arrived last night. She drove up from Atlanta. We went out to dinner and then we went to a few hangouts "just to catch up". She is here to house hunt as they will be returning to the states in July! I am so excited I have missed her a lot!

I hope all is well...........

I love you Mike!!!!

I'm OK.....THANKS to all ;>)

2007-03-03T12:44:00.000-05:00

Things around here have been a little difficult, to say the least. I have a lot of personal issues to deal with which is why I haven't posted. I feel they are working themselves out. I did want to thank everyone for thinking of me and checking on me. I am a very strong woman and I will survive this......no matter what the outcome.

Notice I have added a new counter.....Can't exactly tell you what it is for but you will know soon....hmmmmmmmmmmm.....YEAH ;))

I'm headed out the door for a walk....The weather is beautiful today!

Hope all is well with everyone....

I love you, Mike!

A Tough go of it!!!!

2007-02-19T15:10:00.000-05:00

It's been a really tough week..........lot's of personal issues to deal with...

Just so everyone knows, I won't be posting for a while until I figure some stuff out....

I Love you Mike!!!! (for realz & for serious)

He made it :>)

2007-02-14T18:08:00.000-05:00

Mike made it back to his FOB safe & sound. I just got off the phone with him. He sounded good, tired but good. He is glad to be back "home" per se....1) because it took forever for him to finally get there, 2) because it's one day closer that he gets to come home for good! I know I've already said this but........... It's a GREAT feeling seeing the "headed home" counter in the double digits!

I love you Mike!!!!

Happy Valentine's Day :>)

2007-02-14T06:55:00.000-05:00

Mike

Wish we could be together for this day of LOVE!!!! I do understand though and I am so very proud of you and what you are doing. One of the many reason's I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!!

Headed home counter!

2007-02-13T05:59:00.000-05:00

FINALLY............We are in the double digit's range of Mike coming home!!!!

Yesterday was a tough day. I took Mike to the airport and I was able to go to the gate with him, which was really nice; it gave us more time together (delay the inevitable). When Mike arrived, I posted how at peace I felt when I saw the plane land, "He was home". I felt the complete opposite when he left. I felt so alone and empty. It's not a good feeling knowing I would be without my best friend, AGAIN, after two, fun filled weeks; there was life back in the house, especially when Mike's kids were there. The house has felt so empty for so long, BUT if we can get through 8 months these next few months will fly by. Spring is right around the corner and it's my favorite time of the year. My girlfriend from Guam will be visiting me in March!!!!!!!!! YEAH!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY LISA!!!!! Lots to do.....and lots to look forward to.....

Mike's trip back to the "sandbox" has been very long, so far. He left Norfolk yesterday morning at 7 am and made it to Atlanta around 1030-1045am (he had a layover in Charlotte, NC); he didn't leave Atlanta until 8 pm. Yes you read correctly....he spent the entire day in Atlanta! He flew to Germany all night and is now on his way to Kuwait (he called me at 500am this morning). After he arrives in Kuwait he has no idea how long it will take him to get "home"! Could be days or he could leave as soon as he gets there. I hope for him it's the latter.

We talked on the phone up until the door closed on the plane last night, it was VERY hard to even hang up. At that point BOTH of us were exhausted. Neither one of us slept good the night before and we had to be up at 330 am; that combined with all the emotions of the day, we were just mentally exhausted. When I spoke to Mike this morning he sounded much better. He was able to get some good (well as good as can be expected) sleep on the plane to Germany. At least he was able to sleep. I too was able to get a half way decent nights sleep. I will keep you informed of the rest of Mike's journey.....

I am happy to say that "Desert Periscope" (one of the Narmy Bloggers on the right) has made it home for good! Thanks for your service and for all you have done for me through this deployment. Your blog, especially in the beginning, gave me so much insight on what we could expect....Thanks Dan and good luck!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

p.s. Notice the new picture under "About Me".....it was taken Super Bowl weekend, (the kids wanted to see Mr. Mike in his uniform and get pictures) it's not the greatest picture of either Mike or I but I thought I would post it anyway.

Mike Left :<(

2007-02-12T04:12:00.000-05:00

Mike is leaving today, he has to be at the airport @ 500 am. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers as he travels back.

It was so great having him home and it is really hard having to let him go again. It seems he just got here.

Will post more later.

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Smiles all around :>)

2007-02-06T12:30:00.000-05:00

Since I'm back at work (and have some spare time!) I thought I would share a little of what Mike & I have been doing. I wasn't able to take the entire 2 weeks off but at least I was able to take some time off.

As I said in an earlier post, for the most part we've just been enjoying each other's company, getting to know one another again. Eight months is a VERY long time..... We drove to Washington DC, Thursday to attend a Bob Seger concert. That has to be one of the best concert's I've been to. We had a GREAT time! Came home Friday, went out with some friends that night to welcome Mike home, again we had a great time. Left Saturday to head up to Fredericksburg to spend the weekend with some friends and they also throw a huge super bowl party, so that was a plus ;>) Mike's children went with us, which was nice. Sad to say DA Bears lost, but still a good time was had by all.

The time is slipping away rapidly and it's hard to think about him having to leave again. But all good things must come to an end. At least it's not for very long this time. We really can start seeing a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel!

I guess I should get back to work since I haven't been here since Wednesday but I did want to post something just to let everyone know we are alive and have a wonderful time together!

I love you Mike!

Real Quick!

2007-01-31T07:32:00.000-05:00

My company was awarded the contract!!!! Now I don't have that to worry about, for now anyway! It is a 5 year contract BUT if the the customer decides to add more people that means the contract will expire quicker and that is like a catch 22....it's good because they are VERY happy with our performance, bad because we will have to go through all of this sooner. OH well, such is the life of a contractor.

More good news....Brady has been working at his branch for a full week and he called last night to tell me he is #1 in his region! He is so excited and proud of him self!, rightfully so! I have always thought he would be a great salesman. When he was 10, he wanted a Sega bad (not sure how many of you will remember what that is!), well his father and I just didn't have the money to purchase one. That year as a fund raiser for his baseball team, the kid who sold the most candy would win a Sega....well I am proud to say...Brady won the Sega! So I guess what I'm saying, I think it was in the stars that he was to sell something in his future! Keep it up Brady, I am VERY proud of you!!!!

Mike and I are having an awesome time enjoying each others company! Eight months was way to long but yet now that he's home, I am really glad he decided to take his R&R now as opposed to earlier AND he gets to see DA BEARS in the Superbowl!! How cool is that? This is another reason I wanted the PATS to win. It would have been great if DA Bears and The PATS were in the Superbowl (1985 Repeat!)....although Mike and I have been saying at least now we can watch the game in the same room!

Everyone take care and I will try to check in later......

I Love you Mike!

p.s. Thanks Glen & Carol for the gift certificates. We really do appreciate them....and it was very thoughtful of you! We used one last night....YUMMY!!!! Love you!

Mike Made It!

2007-01-29T11:20:00.000-05:00

Mike arrived in Norfolk about 230 Saturday afternoon. It was a wonderful Homecoming :>) We (his kids and I) were able to get passes to actually go to the gate, which was GREAT! I am so glad we were able to because we watched the plane land and we were able to get a picture of it pulling up to the gate. I know this sounds weird but when that plane landed I felt so at peace. I knew he was home! I was so happy! He looks AWESOME! His workouts have paid off! Keep it up sweetheart!! We spent the rest of the day with his kids and had a nice time.

If you don't hear from me in a couple of weeks....you know why.

WELCOME HOME!!!!! I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

It's a Secret!

2007-01-26T16:09:00.000-05:00

Time to tell eveyone what the secret is................Mike left Kuwait today to come home for his 15 day R&R! YEA!!!! Needless to say I am so excited. He wasn't supposed to arrive here in Norfolk until Sunday but when he called me today with his itinerary he will be arriving tomorrow. His "scheduled" flight is due to arrive around 730 pm BUT he arrives in Atlanta around 830 am,. We are so hoping he is able to get on a stand-by and come home earlier. I can't imagine having to sit at the airport ALL day knowing you are so close to home. AND I want him to be able to walk off the plane! I can hear him now..."babe I just had a few drinks"....well when you haven't had ANYTHING in 8 months...a few drinks could knock you on your ass! Oh well...just as long as he makes it home!

Well a friend is on his way over to take me over to the storage unit so I can get Mike's car. I thought I would have it here waiting for him when he got home. I wanted to wash it but today I definitely wasn't going to do it....It was freezing!!!! Maybe I'll be able to do it in the morning.

I hope all is well...I will be sure to post that he arrives home safely.

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Warm & Toasty

2007-01-26T05:14:00.000-05:00

We are experiencing the coldest weather so far this year. We even had snow yesterday. The snow didn't stick and it didn't even snow that long, but it was very pretty seeing it come down. It doesn't' matter how cold it gets outside though because I am all "warm & toasty" on the inside just waiting for the "It's a Secret" countdown to reach 0 days!

Yesterday I wasn't feeling good at all and I thought it was my sinus' acting up, but as the evening wore on I felt more & more like I was getting a cold. I woke up this morning and I am 100% positive I have a cold. I can't believe it. I've got less then 2 days (counting today) before I have the best news that has happened to me in a long time and I'm getting sick. UGH!!!! It doesn't matter though because NOTHING will get in the way of this event.

Well as all of you know, I am HOPING I hear who was awarded my contract today. PLEASE, PLEASE keep your fingers crossed, the last thing I want to do is find another job now. I will let you know what happens!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Nothing new.........

2007-01-24T20:36:00.001-05:00

Still busy and excited ;-)

I love you Mike!

4 days and a wake-up!!!!

2007-01-23T08:25:00.000-05:00

I can hardly stand it........actually I'm ok. I've been busy at work and at home. I'm sure the majority of you have already figured out what's going on but.....I still am not at liberty to tell you. Let's just say it is a wonderful thing :>)

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Superbowl 41!

2007-01-22T19:46:00.000-05:00

Da Bears and the Colts!!!!!!!

My Pats let me down...........Oh well, at least one of "our" teams made it to the Superbowl. I do have to say though since it's only one of them, I am happy it's the Bears for Mike.

I also know I should be pulling for the AFC team, but I have NEVER liked the Colts so I will be cheering on DA BEARS!!!!

GO BEARS!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Not much longer now!

2007-01-20T19:20:00.000-05:00

Getting more and more excited as the "It's a Secret" count down continues on a downward spiral....

So far it's been a fun and productive weekend. Yesterday I got my hair trimmed and then went to the local hangout to see one of the bartenders baby. He was born on Jan 7th. What a beautiful baby. Today I had new tires put on my car, Thanks to Mike, and then I had a baby shower to go to. It seems all the girls at our local hangout are pregnant. Thank God I don't drink the water there. LOL!

I also would like to share this...yesterday I received 4 packages in the mail. Mike has been a little busy bee on eBay!!!! He bought us some Authentic Football Jerseys. I got a white and blue PATS, Tom Brady jersey's and he got a white and blue Bears, Urlacher jersey's . He is so thoughtful. I would never have even thought of it. He knows (well at least this is what we are still pulling for!) "OUR" teams are going to the super bowl so he wanted us to look GOOD!!! LOL How funny is it going to be....The PATS and DA Bears in the Super Bowl! All I can say is GO PATS!!!! (sorry babe!!!)

Well I STILL have not heard about my contract. I was so sure we would have heard something yesterday. So now all I can do is hope to hear something next week. This gets so old....

Brady has been in training all week for his new job at Enterprise (Manager Training Program) So far so good. He seems to really love it. He passed his test on Friday so his first "official" day starts Monday. I know he will do GREAT and I am so proud of him. GO FOR IT!!!!

Not much else is going on, it's going to be a long week, but I have a lot of things to do to keep me busy so hopefully it will fly by!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Not much...

2007-01-16T20:05:00.000-05:00

going on...I had a great weekend. Didn't really do much but enjoyed what I did do. I am getting very excited for "It's a Secret"...not much longer now....

I should find out about my contract this week. I know I've been saying that now for what about a month now...well, I really think it's going to happen. Just keep your fingers crossed.

Mike's parents are getting ready to go to Hawaii for a vacation. I hope they have a lot of fun. I'm sure they will. I'm jealous!!!! Seriously, Carol & Glen, Have a Blast!!!!

I hope all is well with everyone! Take care....

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

OMG!!!

2007-01-15T00:27:00.000-05:00

DA PATS beat the Chargers!!!!

My prediction....Da BEARS and the DA PATS...superbowl...

GO PATS!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

What will I do on Sundays............

2007-01-14T12:31:00.000-05:00

When football season is over............

It's a very exciting day for Mike and I in reference to football. Da Bears are playing Seattle and the PATS are playing San Diego (I only wish we were in Boston!). Let's hope both teams come out as winners. Well let me re-phrase that....We WILL come out as winners!
I will post some more after the games.

GO BEARS and GO PATS!!!!

I love you Mike!

For my San Diego blogger friend.....

2007-01-10T19:22:00.000-05:00

Colleen,

Thanks for being there during this deployment......

GO PATS :>)

GREAT news!!!

2007-01-10T18:01:00.000-05:00

My mother called and received the results from her surgery....She is cancer free! What they found was a "hair follicle tumor". The doctor said it was something he has never seen. At least it's nothing to worry about at this point. Now we only have to worry about my grandmother and make sure she takes her medicine to keep her blood pressure down.

I still have not heard about my contract.............UGH!!!! I have been getting more & more tasks though, so that is a good sign.

This is the time of year I dislike the most especially in Virginia. You NEVER know what kind of weather you're going to get. The saying goes like this..."if you don't like the weather right now, just wait 5 minutes because it will change!" That is soooo true! Last weekend we had rainy days with temps in the 65-70 range, yes it is Jan....this week the temps have slowly started creeping down....tonight we are supposed to dip into the mid 20's...during the day it's been 40-50 but sunny...this is the type of weather you would expect for Jan...well this weekend guess what?...that's right, it's supposed to be rainy again with temps 65-70....UGH........when will I ever be able to wash my car again!!!!

Mike has said it's been very cold there. Actually it's been colder there then it is here. Seems funny to say it's colder in the desert....They have also been having a lot of rain. He has said when the sand gets wet, it is just plain nasty.

Some other good news...Brady has finally got a job with Enterprise. He is going to be in their Manager Program. It's going to be a lot different than what he is used to since this will be his first "real" job. I'm happy for him. He will still be doing work for Mike (his room mate) but I'm sure once he gets started with Enterprise, that will slow down because supposedly he will be working around 50 hrs a week. It's going to be interesting. :>)

One more thing I've been meaning to pass along...I have added another link under "Navy Bloggers." The Sandbox - Military Blog I find this blog to be very interesting. It gives us a more in depth look at what our military are going through from all over. Take a look!

Well nothing much else.....I hope all is well with everyone.....I can't wait to share with everyone what the counter "It's a Secret" is, not much longer now!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

YEA!!!!

2007-01-08T19:36:00.000-05:00

GO PATS!!!!

The first week...

2007-01-05T21:51:00.000-05:00

of 2007 is over. I can't believe it and I've already had some ups and downs.

Some ups are...I wake up everyday breathing (even though, I know that drives people crazy on most days! hehe, right Mike?)...I have a healthy and happy son, I have Mike in my life, I'm still working (still no word on my contract, ugh!), it's finally the year this deployment will end, and countless other things.

Some downs are, My mother had surgery on Tuesday (they removed something) from her face (temple area). The Dr is pretty sure it's "some kind of cancer", but won't know or say until it comes back from the lab. My grandmother's blood pressure has been relativley high. She's had quite of few strokes over the last few years so we are all quite a bit concerned and she's 83, I think.

Did I say I have Mike in my life is a GREAT thing? Oh yea I think I did!

I hope all is well with everyone.

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

Lessons in Life!

2007-01-02T20:15:00.000-05:00

By Regina Brett The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio

To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolls over to 50 this week, so here's an update:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7 Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.
17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.
18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain
25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35 Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.
38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
45. The best is yet to come.
46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
48. If you don't ask, you don't get.
49. Yield.
50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift

Looking Good!!!!

2007-01-02T18:23:00.000-05:00

Mike sent me this picture today. The flag in the background is one of the Christmas presents I got him, I had it flown over the capital before I sent it to him. He received a certificate with it as well.

I can't wait to see him again. The beginning of this deployment, we were able to use web cams, but all of the MWR computers at Speicher have been reconfigured and he is not able to use his web cam, so it's been a long time. He looks SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO good!

I took my car to the dealer today, just some minor repairs. Thank God everything will be covered under warranty. Even though the dealership gives me a rental car, I always go get Mike's car out of storage. It serves three purposes....one I don't have to get a base sticker and two I'm able to get Mike's car out and running and three......... I LOVE DRIVING HIS CAR!!!

I'm sure some of you have noticed I haven't mentioned the MI game from yesterday. I'm not sure what happened but my opinion is..........what happened to the MI team that played all year? Really strange. Today when I dressed I put on a MI sweatshirt well, when I got to the dealership, one of the guys made a comment to the effect of....Ahhhhhhhhhh you haven't had a good year so far........it took me a minute to realize what he was referring to....so we bantered for a little while and my final comment was..........we may have lost BUT I will ALWAYS be a proud MI fan!

I hope everyone had a safe and happy New Year!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

It's a new year!

2007-01-01T01:09:00.001-05:00

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

2006!

2006-12-31T17:47:00.000-05:00

Wow, I can't believe that in a little over 5 hours it's going to be 2007! Where has the time gone...

I met Mike in October 2005 and Honestly when I saw him he took my breath away! I have NEVER believed in love at first sight but let me tell you, there was something about him....so I MADE sure we met that night....we had a rocky road at first.... BUT he was and has always been upfront and honest with me....He did NOT want a commitment...and then Feb 15th 2006 happened...the day he found out about his orders to Iraq. At that point all I could think of was...........Oh My God, I am going to lose the love of my life. Luckily WE decided to "try" to make a go of it. We knew it was going to be tough...(by the time he left we had only known each other 6 months).

Here we are 7+ months into the deployment and we are still together. We have had a few tough spots but for the most part it has been (I believe) the best thing for our relationship. It has given us the opportunity to be REAL friends...we have been able to talk about stuff that I'm not sure would have come up otherwise. I am truly hoping that 2007 will be OUR year.

Brady has started his life and I have never been prouder. He and Jess seem to be doing good. She will be moving out to CA after the new year. She won't be living with him, but will be closer to him so I think that is good. I know how hard a long distance relationship can be.....

I hope EVERY one has a VERY safe and Happy New Year!

Mike, I love you!!!!

Jingle Bell Jog 5k

2006-12-28T17:08:00.000-05:00

I have been meaning to post this but I have been a little busy. Mike has been training with a personal trainer and because of his hard work and dedication he was able to complete the Jingle Bell Jog 5K. It was originally planned for the Saturday before Christmas but it had to be postponed because of really heavy fog. It was rescheduled for Tuesday. The good news is HE DID IT! and he did it 28:25! I am so proud of him! I know how hard he has been training. He lifts weights 4 times a week, does Hot Yoga, STEP, and does an hour on either the elliptical or treadmill. I can't wait to see him! He did send me a picture of who he says is responsible.

The woman in the picture is his personal trainer. He says she is the one that has gotten him to where he is today as far as his health and workout program.

Not much going on with me. I have been working out as well and I do feel a lot better. I unfortunately don't have a trainer who is able to give me as much attention as Mike's, but I was able to go to the base gym and talk with a trainer and he did give me a workout schedule.

I've been enjoying spending time with Brady & Jess. I swear they are the cutest couple. I know I say that all the time, but they are! I still haven't gotten a picture of them in front of the tree but they are on their way over here so maybe I will remember to do that tonight and I will be able to post it.

As far as my contract goes..........still have not heard who was awarded the contract BUT they did extend the existing one until the end of Jan....isn't the life a government contractor GREAT! Ya gotta love it!!!!

I hope all is well and everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Nothing.....

2006-12-26T09:20:00.000-05:00

much to say...Looking forward to "It's a Secret" countdown!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

not sure when....

2006-12-21T22:07:00.000-05:00

I'll be able to post again but I wanted to wish everyone a VERY Merry Christmas!

I will be leaving tomorrow for Delaware to spend Christmas with my family. It will be nice to be around people who I KNOW love me for me.

Brady & Jess are going with me so at least I don't have to drive up there by myself. It really isn't that bad of a drive, only 3 1/2 hours. Most times I like driving alone, it gives me time to reflect on my life but it will be nice to have Brady & Jess with me this time.

Well I still have to finish laundry and pack so we can leave as soon as I get off work.

Merry Christmas!!!!

I Love you Mike!

Kids, Family, Christmas and Work!

2006-12-19T09:04:00.000-05:00

Brady arrived home yesterday afternoon for the Holidays. He will be here until sometime after the new year. It was SOOOOOO good to see him. I have missed him terribly. He looks great...he FINALLY cut his hair. I will have to be sure to get a picture of he & Jess and post it.

His father was at the airport as well...I have said this before but I'm going to say it again...it doesn't matter how old they are....ALL kids want their family to be together and happy. Brady is no different. It's been 2 1/2 years since his father and I split and he still hasn't gotten used to the idea. He still wants us to be together at the Holidays. And he's 23! He's getting better and I know once Mike gets home and he can see how truly happy I am, he will be OK. When he saw me yesterday, his first words were "Wow Mom you look Great, I haven't seen you look this good or happy in a long time". Of course it made me feel good. (I won't go into detail but I have had made some changes just with-in the last week (I've done a lot of soul searching)...and I have to say I really think they are good changes (I'm already starting to see & reap the benefits)... one - I TRULY haven't felt this good in a very long time....two - at least once a day someone tells me how good I look and they want to know what I've done different....so yes when Brady noticed right away.....well lets just say...I know him very well and he knows me very well, he knew the last time he was home....something was not right!)

His dad ended up taking us out to dinner, which was nice...hey I'm all about a free dinner....LOL! We did have a nice time. We went to Texas Roadhouse (a Steak House) I had not heard of it before, It was delicious! Everything is homemade and the steaks are shipped in everyday, FRESH and cut at the restaurant...never frozen. I swear they even make their own butter. I had a Grilled Chicken Salad (it was late and I didn't want a huge dinner) damn what a waste on that "FREE" dinner, huh? The chicken was the tenderest (is that a word?) chicken I have EVER had and the salad dressing WAS homemade and delicious. Brady and Paul had steak, I don't remember what kind, but let me tell you....it too was delicious....(of course I tasted it!!!) Mike & I definitely have to go when he gets home. I think he will have found a "new" favorite restaurant. Mike is a HUGE steak lover...so I can't wait to go with him. Anyone who knows me, knows that I am not a big fan of food. I eat because I have to, not because I really enjoy it. Does that make since? So for me to even go this in-depth about a restaurant the place has to be good. If you have one close to you....I would rec commend at least giving it a try. I'm assuming it is a chain....hence the name...Texas and we are in Virginia LOL (Oh if you do find one and it's not as good, then it's your location....hehehehe)

Jess was not at the airport because she had to work, but about 6pm she texted me telling me she ended not having to work, something about they had to close down and said she was going to try to surprise Brady. (she lives about 1 hour from Brady's dad's house and about 1 1/2 hours from the restaurant) well between her and I we were able to pull it off. SO the highlight of the whole night (for me anyway) was when she snuck into the restaurant and surprised Brady. (he is so hard to surprise!!!) The look on his face was PRICELESS.......I can't say I've eve seen two people as happy as those two were to see each other....up to this point anyway.....Mike's & my turn is coming, just had to throw that in there....on the down slide now. OH.... I was talking about Brady & Jess....sorry, lost my head. but no, they were very happy and it made me feel all warm and mushy inside. I am very proud of both of them and love them both very much!

Well folks I am at work...it's real slow...the holidays. Tomorrow my contract expires....UGH...still have no word on who will win the award....when I left yesterday they (the Govt) was going to extend the existing contract to the end of the month (Dec); this morning when I came in they (the Govt) are supposed to be extending it through Jan 19 or something like that. Now don't get me wrong I am so grateful to still be employed, but what kind of sucks is I will have to get a new badge, well 3 new badges, the first of the year and then when ever the contract is awarded. You ask why is that so bad....come on I'm working with the government!!!!! that and what you have to go through to get not one but 3 new badges and then to have to turn around and have to go thorough the same stuff 3 weeks later......Nothing is ever easy....but like I said I really don't care....I have a job and if they want to pay me to go stand in line for at least 2 days(1 day for each renewal period) just getting my new badges....I will..............

OK now I really do need to go.....I hope everyone is getting in the spirit of the Holiday and is either done or almost done with all their shopping so you can enjoy the actual Holiday.

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

Parties & Concerts

2006-12-16T19:36:00.000-05:00

The Command Christmas Party was last night and I had a wonderful time. I almost didn't go for a lot of different reasons but I am so glad I did. There are about 350 people at the Command so it's impossible to "know" everyone. It's funny because you can walk down the hallways and say Hi to someone 50 times a day, but you have no clue who it is or what they do. I was able to actually "meet" a lot of these folks last night. It was kinda funny because a friend of mine, Ed said he had heard I was there and I said Oh yea, he said yea someone told him "Kym the contractor was "bouncing" around" talking to everyone. I have never been accused of bouncing around before....made me laugh!

Mike was able to attend the Carrie Underwood concert yesterday, actually last night for him, I think he was surprised to have truly enjoyed the concert. He said she has a beautiful voice. I have seen her perform on the Today show and have heard her on the radio; I'm not surprised he liked it; he definitely has an appreciation of different types of music.

I can't believe Christmas is only a week away...mind you I'm not complaining....getting closer and closer to that date on the "Surprise" counter!!!!

Hope all is well for everyone...

I do LOVE YOU MIKE!

Whew!

2006-12-14T19:10:00.000-05:00

It has been one of the most stressful weeks; I NEVER want to have another one like it....

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

Happy Birthday Mike!!!!

2006-12-11T03:51:00.000-05:00

It's your birthday.....Have a party!!!!

I love you Mike and I am so very proud of you!!!! Enjoy your day :)

I Love You Babe!

It's that Magical Time of Year!

2006-12-08T21:35:00.000-05:00

for Christmas decorations! I wasn't going to put up decorations this year for a couple of reasons. One Brady probably won't be home until the week of Christmas and then we will be going to Delaware to spend it with my family. Two, Mike's not here. I really haven't been in the Christmas mood. What changed my spirit, you ask? A Yankee candle....Mistletoe scent! One night last week I bought the candle and the next morning I got a wif of it as I was headed out the door for work and at that moment I decided YES I am going to decorate....FOR ME! So I would highly suggest if any of you are feeling the need not to decorate or are not in the Christmas spirit....go buy a candle. Silly I know but that really is what got me in the mood.

So here it is Friday night and I am putting up my tree and decorating. I've got Christmas music going, drinking hot chocolate and I have never been happier. I've said this in an earlier post, Mike & I have spent two Christmas' together but we have NEVER been together. I miss him terribly and wish he was here but I have to remind myself....He is a Sailor, or in this case a Soilder....and he is so proud, how can I not be proud. He and thousand's of other's are away from their families just so we can have the freedom to celebrate this wonderful holiday! So LET'S CELEBRATE!

Ok, enough of my soap box....and back to decorating.

Hope all is well with everyone!

I LOVE YOU MICHAEL!!!!

My Baby...

2006-12-04T21:08:00.000-05:00

is growing up....I'm talking about Brady. He sent me a picture of his 1st Christmas Tree. It kind of makes me sad but yet very happy. I have to post a picture of it.

For a real tree it definitely has a very nice shape. At first I thought it was an artificial one. I have to say they did a good job.

I will be very busy this weekend putting up some of my decorations. At first I wasn't going to put up any because I will be going to Delaware but I bought a Mistletoe candle and just the smell of it put me in the Christmas spirit. I LOVE Christmas....I was telling Mike that we have actually been together two Christmas' yet we have not been together for either one. I am really hoping that next year we are actually together.

It's been a long day so I'm gonna close....

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Has it really been.........

2006-12-03T21:01:00.000-05:00

almost a week since my last post. I can't believe it. It has been crazy. I have been trying to finish up my Christmas shopping so I don't have to worry about it. Especially Mike's since his has to be in the mail by tomorrow for it to reach in by Christmas. I am happy to say I am ALMOST done! I don't think I have ever been this close so early....it is definitely a good feeling.

I have been busy at work as well. I love it.

Even tho I have been busy I really can't think of anything to write...cause I really am doing the same ole stuff, just a different day.

So with that I will close and hopefully I will have something "GOOD" to say tomorrow.

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Nothing new...

2006-11-28T23:02:00.000-05:00

It has been a crazy two days....work is very busy, as I have said before I have a lot of different responsibilities so I have to be on my toes.

I had to take Mike's car back in the shop to have breaks put on and when I did they said there was a recall. So they will take care of that as well. I've had people ask me why I'm going out of my way to get his car fixed when it will just be sitting in storage and he will be home soon...I do it for a lot of reasons...one because I love him, two because when he does get home that is the last thing I want him to have to worry about and I'm sure the last thing he wants to do is have to sit at a dealership waiting on his car.

Mike is doing good. He continues to work out and he says he feels a lot better because of it. I'm sure he does. I'm happy he's been able to get into a routine. He's been busier than normal at work it seems too. Not saying he hasn't been busy, I'm sure he has, but he just seems to be busier than normal.

I talked to Jess tonight, Brady's girlfriend, and she is doing good. Her trip to Europe was GREAT. She was sad it had to be cut short, but she said it was an experience she will never forget.

Not much else is going on. OH...You have to look at this link ...I loved the banner.............I'm sure all the Army soldiers loved seeing this.

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

I'm Back!!

2006-11-26T22:17:00.001-05:00

I had a Wonderful time in Omaha with Mike's family. They are all wonderful people. I love them to death! and I feel thankful they have welcomed me into their family.

Today was the game between the PATS and DA BEARS....and YEAH the PATS won.... It was an AWESOME game. Mike called me through out the game and I had a hard time sympathizing with him. He knows I am a PATS fan...BUT I would listen to him rant and rave and then all I could do was say "GO PATS"!!!! and at least I could get him laughing. It was really hard though because I really do want the Bears to make it to the Super Bowl...so maybe it will be the PATS and DA BEARS ....what an awesome idea!!!! I love you Mike!!!! As a friend of ours little girl, Kimmie says....It's just a game!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Hump Day & Travel Day!

2006-11-22T06:45:00.000-05:00

Today we have hit HUMP day. It is so nice to see the "Feet in Sand" counter & "Headed Home" counter read the same number of days!!!! Mike called me first thing this morning to wish me a "Happy Hump day"! It was so sweet! I have said it a thousand times and I'll probably say it a thousand more....He is so thoughtful! Thanks Mike!

I will be flying to Omaha tonight during a Nor'easter! Fun....right now the winds are gusting up to 50 - 60 mph. I'm right by the ocean so it is worse here than it is inland; I'm hoping it's a little better at the airport. Maybe everything will die down a little before my flight; which isn't until much later this evening. With a Nor'easter comes lots and lots of rain so I'm sure I will look like a drowned rat by the time I reach Omaha!

I hope every one has a very nice Thanksgiving and please remember all of our troops who are not with their families. Please say a prayer for all of them!

Thanks to each and everyone of you, especially you Mike!

I love you Mike....with all my heart....only 6 more months babe!!!!

Old news for some, but helpful news for others....

2006-11-21T13:41:00.000-05:00

I came across this information and thought I would post it here. Maybe someone who is reading this is in a state of shock like Mike and I were when we first found out he was going to Iraq. I know information like this would have helped.

Navy Hotline Assists Individual Augmentation Families
The Expeditionary Combat Readiness Command (ECRC) headquartered at Amphibious Base Little Creek, Norfolk, Va., has established a hotline for active duty and reserve Sailor’s families on Individual Augmentee (IA) orders. The toll free phone number is 877-364-4302. This phone number allows IA family members a way to find the information or resources they may need while their Sailors are deployed and aims to alleviate the stress IA family members may experience. The ECRC also plans to establish a Website designed specifically for IAs and their families.

Community of Practice on Navy Knowledge Online
The Individual Augmentation Community of Practice (CoP) on Navy Knowledge Online (NKO) provides Sailors with links to information supporting the Navy’s Individual Augmentee
(IA) effort. The Individual Augmentation CoP is equipped with several informational links that can be helpful to Sailors attending IA training at Fort Jackson, S.C. For example, one link provides information on what is required to get orders to Fort Jackson. Another section offers a pre- deployment checklist and still another gives cultural information about the countries where IAs are deployed. For more information click on the Individual Augmentation CoP, visit Navy Knowledge Online at https://wwwa.nko.navy.mil/portal/page?paf_communityId=co40220014

I know it was very difficult to find out information after we received the news. It is getting better though. It just happened that Mike was part of the first wave (no pun inteded) to be selected.

Hope this helps somebody.

I love you Mike!

Very Busy!

2006-11-21T07:36:00.000-05:00

I have been busy this week getting ready for my trip to Omaha. I leave tomorrow night and I return on Saturday.....just in time to watch the PATS beat Da BEARS!!!! I love you Mike! I am really looking forward to seeing Mike's family again. I love them all.

News about my job....well the oral presentations were completed yesterday for my company and from what I understand there is only one more company who is bidding on it....We were told we should hear the outcome sometime in the middle of December. We shall see....

I want to point out the clock counter's; notice anything? We are VERY close to the 1/2 way point of this deployment, whew it's been a LONG six months but yet I look back and it seems as if it has flown by. At least we are on the down hill.....finally the light at the end of the tunnel can be seen.....

Also a quick note: If you are sending Mike anything for Christmas USPS recommends it be in the mail NLT December 4th in order for it to arrive before Christmas.

I'm at work, so I guess I should go do what I'm getting paid to do....I will try to post one more time before I leave but if not I will definitley post when I arrive to Omaha.

I Love you Mike!

A weekend that was way to short...

2006-11-19T17:34:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I didn't even get home unitl about 1100 pm after leaving the house at 700 am. I worked at the Sports Plex and the of course I watched THE Game....now i know I'm new to watching college football, but even though MI lost to OH, I still feel it was a GREAT game. EVERYONE at work kept telling me that it would be a blow out....well I think we proved that theory wrong. Any way I am still VERY proud to be a MI fan.

A very good friend of ours came home from a six month deployment Tuesday and his wife had a welcome home party for him after the game. So I was able to go to that for a while. I didn't stay long because I was exhausted. Like I said I had to work so I was up at 500 am and then with all the excitement surrounding the game, I was beat....but it was GREAT seeing him home safe.

Today, what can I say except GO PATS & DA BEARS....I can't wait until NEXT Sunday....

I love you Mike!

Very Sad News Today....

2006-11-17T15:26:00.000-05:00

for Michigan Football....Former Coach Bo Schembechler passed away.....

May he rest in Peace!

I don't think he would mind my saying this either....

GO BLUE!!!!

Not much going on...

2006-11-16T22:11:00.000-05:00

Just getting very excited about Saturday......

GO BLUE!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

"My Watch Tonight"

2006-11-13T18:25:00.000-05:00

Here is a Great song, I just happen to come across. It is written and sung by a Marine who served in Iraq. Here is his story....

In 1992, Mike Corrado bought his first guitar, learned 3 chords and started writing songs while at The Citadel. He then graduated and joined the Marine Corps to lead our nations finest and see the world. His tours – both of duty and concert – would take him around the world, serving and performing from the North Carolina Coast to Iraq. Along the way, Mike crossed musical paths with Edwin McCain and John Mayer.

Then, on September 11, the world and Mikes band was forever changed. Mike and his fiancé, a flight medic in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, were mobilized back to active duty. In 2002, Mike continued to train with the Marines and prepare for deployment. He married his wife Kate, who soon after was called to Afghanistan. During all this, Mike penned the song "On My Watch Tonight," a story of a Marine's journey from boot camp to the front lines.

In 2004, Mike re-recorded “On My Watch Tonight” and droped off a copy to Greg Brady at WRHT 96.3 – “The HOT FM” – in North Carolina. “On My Watch Tonight” was posted on the HOT Morning Show's Web site and began receiving up to 5,000 downloads a week. Calls and e-mails continued to flood the station as military members, family members and fans were downloading the song and sending it to service members and loved ones across the country and deployed around the world. “On My Watch Tonight” was quickly becoming the anthem for U.S. troops deployed around the world and those here at home who keep a watchful eye.

Just days before deploying to Iraq in 2005, Mike released his CD Falling Awake. While in Iraq, he spent a year at Camp Falluja and served with some of the greatest people in the Marine Corps, Army, Navy and Air Force.

To listen to Mike Corrado’s “On My Watch Tonight” song and view photos taken in Iraq, click here.

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!

Military Pack

2006-11-13T18:02:00.000-05:00

Not sure if this is old news or not. It is the first I had heard of it....I did call the number to validate...the only question I was asked is "Had I ever placed an order before"........so please feel free to share..

Free USPS Packaging for Family and Friends of Service members The United States Postal Service is providing military family members and friends with packaging materials to send packages to service members. Call 1 (800) 610-8734, and select option 1, then option 1 again, then option 2 and ask for the "Military Pack." Eight boxes, tape, packaging materials, and labels will be mailed to those who call. They will also provide you with a a customer order number for when you re-order. Please allow 4 to 10 days to receive the materials. Take advantage of this great opportunity to show support to "OUR" loved ones overseas!

This is great information especially now with the Holiday's coming up.

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

The BIGGEST "Big Game"

2006-11-13T06:36:00.000-05:00

I have added a new link above Mike's mailing address....check it out!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

Chicago 38 - Giants 20

2006-11-13T05:13:00.000-05:00

DA Bears won! I'm kind of surprised, ONLY because I did fall asleep sometime during the 3rd quarter and they still were not playing very well and they were behind. Mike called me when it was over, needless to say he was pumped.

Need to go get ready for work.....Hope everyone has a GREAT day :)

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

New Look!

2006-11-12T21:14:00.000-05:00

Well I'm sure you noticed the "new" look of my blog. I actually had to make the change. Now that I've spent the better part of an hour figuring it out, I am very tired so I'm going to go to bed.

A few things of interest:

Michigan won yesterday, so #1 Ohio State and #2 Michigan will be playing next Saturday for the final game..........I have one thing to say and that is:

GO BLUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Another is the PATS lost 17-14 to the Jets......It was a horrible game to watch as a PATS fan....

DA Bears are playing now and I will try to watch at least the first half.

So with that said....I hope everyone is doing well........

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Real Quick

2006-11-08T05:30:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to let you know I am still alive. It's been very busy which is a good thing. Last night I met with my old supervisor who through the years has become a very good friend. We didn't realize it had been almost 2 years since we last saw each other. Needless to say we had ALOT to catch up on. It was a very nice time, I really enjoyed myself!

I have to work tonight at the Sports Plex again. I guess a Middle School is hosting a football game. Can you imagine how the kids are going to feel playing on a "real" field. They are going to feel like they are playing in the NFL. I can't wait to watch a little bit of the game.

I'm still waiting to see who Virginia's Senator is. All I can say is I am so glad we no longer have to listen to all of the negative commercials anymore. It does make it hard to vote; you don't know what to believe. I am upset with one of the amendments that was voted on. It was the marriage amendment which was passed. There is a lot of "stuff" in it that I don't agree with.

Mike is doing great! He has been playing soccer as I said in a earlier post and yesterday they tied. Mike said that to the team it was like a win though. So they are getting better. I love hearing him talk about it. He is also working out almost everyday. Every time I talk to him he sounds GREAT! We are both looking forward to his homecoming but yet we realize it's still way to far off to start thinking about it.

I only have two weeks before I fly to Omaha. I am getting very excited. His family is so wonderful and they have welcomed me into their home so many times; it makes me smile :) As everyone knows who is in a relationship, it makes everything so much easier when your significant other's family accepts you.

Well I do need to go start getting ready for work. Mike should be texting me shortly for our morning chat!

I LOVE YOU MICHAEL!!!!

200 and 2000

2006-11-04T18:46:00.000-05:00

Well today is a milestone in a lot of different ways. The first is we only have 200 more days to go before Mike comes home! Yes I am so excited!!!! The second is I have had 2000 visitors to the blog. I honestly NEVER thought anyone would look at it let alone 2000 people. So thank you to all of you....

I had a very nice time today. A friend of mine came over in the morning, we went to the mall (not one of my favorite things to do) but we did have a good time. After that we went to Gators to watch MI against Ball State. I wasn't' able to watch the entire game because we had to go to work by 200. At least I was able to watch the first half. Mike kept me informed the second half. He was able to listen to it through the internet. The final score was 34-26! Closer than any one anticipated. Not sure what exactly happened. We had better get a lot tougher to be able to have a game against Ohio State.

I have been VERY busy working on the proposal for the contract renewal and working at the Sports Plex. We were working the CAA Soccer Tournament. James Madison University (JMU, the college my son graduated from) girls team was in the final for the CAA State Championship game, which was tonight. They played against Old Dominion University (ODU, which is a local college here in Norfolk). They went into an overtime at 2-2, but ODU came out on top, unfortunately. I was able to watch the last 5 minutes of regular play and then the overtime. The JMU girls have nothing to be ashamed of. I know it's very disappointing but look how far they made it! GO DUKES :)

Not much else going on....so I'm going to go get comfy on the couch for the rest of the night. I have to work again tomorrow at 100. I love weekends like this....

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Very busy week ahead and other stuff....

2006-10-31T18:13:00.000-05:00

I am expecting a very busy week right into the weekend. So I'm going to apologize now if I don't get to post as much as I would like. First and foremost is assiting in the writing of the proposal for bidding on my contract. The RFP just hit the streets and we only have until November 9th to complete the presentation. If you're not familiar with Government Contracts then I know I'm speaking a foreign language but let's just say it's a huge process. It's definitely not your "normal" presentation. The government wants everything and anything. I'm surprised they don't ask for our type of blood! LOL My group started working on it yesterday and as it was I didn't get home until 630. I'm not used to that at all....I usually get off at 400 and I only live 2 miles from the office. I anticipate the rest of the week being late nights as well.

As far as this weekend, I will be working at the Sports Plex for a College Soccer tournament. I start Thursday night and it continues through Sunday. It's a 4 day tournament so this weekend will be a total wash. I don't mind working there though, I still enjoy it a lot!

Since today is Halloween I thought I would post some "scary" pictures.............

This is my "little bundle of joy"............doesn't he look GREAT! Yes folks that is actually his own hair, to me that is scary in of itself!..... I'm glad he didn't have to take a shower in my bathroom....Yes I am a mom, sometimes we seem to take all the fun out of things............. LOL

This is a picture of the "girls" that work at Mike's and my local hangout, Gators. They are the sweetest girls EVER. They all have adopted me and "IF" I am having too good of a time, they always make sure I get home safely. I love them for it!

This is a picture of me.....I was told (by the girl who took the picture) that it is a VERY good picture (I am not so sure!) and I had better send it to Mike or better yet I needed to post it on here. There is a story behind this. This was at the Halloween Party at Gators, I stopped in just for a "bit" and I HAD no intentions of staying, which is why I wasn't dressed up, but I decided that since I am a Michigan fan "in-training" and since I had on my Michigan t-shirt and earrings, I was a "Michigan Fan".....silly I know, but it was really kind of funny! People would ask how come I didn't dress up and I said I did....bet you can't guess what I am, of course the answer was no....so I would say a Michigan Fan....DUH!!!!!!!!!!! My motto has been for a long time "If you don't have fun, it's your own damn fault", A VERY good friend taught me that, I won't mention any names, Lisa, but I do tend to be on the silly side most times.

I spoke to Brady the other day and if you haven't checked out Jessica's blog please do. It is the saddest thing ever. Her girlfriend had to leave Europe earlier because she was very sick. Thank God Jess's mom was on her way for a visit and Jess has a sister study school in Florence. So Jess did stay but it sounds like she will be cutting her "journey" short. Can you imagine planning something like that since High School and then to have it turn out like that. I feel so bad for them.

Well I do have some work to do. I will do my best to keep up the posts.

Happy Halloween all!

I Love You Mike!

Michigan 17, Northwestern 3

2006-10-28T18:03:00.000-05:00

We're holding our own....Read the story!!

I went to a different place to watch the game today and I was glad I did. There were more MI fans there than where I usually go. I will definitely be going back. Mike listened to the game on the radio. Although he had quite a few issues with the connection so he missed some of the game.

Nothing new to report.

I Love You Mike!

Michigan vs Northwestern

2006-10-28T09:07:00.000-05:00

GO BLUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

JCCS-1 Commander's (CDR) Update

2006-10-26T18:59:00.000-05:00

I was looking at the JCCS-1 web site and the CDR posted a new letter. I thought it was very nice and since it is to EVERYONE I thought I would post the link here.

In the letter he talks about the Ombudsman and how she started a Yahoo Chat room for the families to keep in contact. Well I have tried to find it and have not had much luck. If anyone out there knows how to find it, or if they know what the name is would you please pass on the information. That has been one of my biggest complaints during this whole deployment, not knowing anyone close who is going through the same thing. There has GOT to be other spouses out there, meaning here in Norfolk & Virginia Beach who has a Sailor in Iraq. I would appreciate any information you might have.

If you don't know what an Ombudsman is, she or he is a spouse of an active duty member attached to JCCS-1 and she or he is the liaison between the families and the Command. It can be a very rewarding position but it can also be a very thankless job. I was an Ombudsman for two of my ex-husband's commands and I loved it. For me it was always very rewarding and I loved assisting other families.

I hope everyone is doing great!

GO BLUE!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

This and that...........

2006-10-25T18:34:00.000-05:00

Not much going on here in Virginia Beach....work has been very challenging since my responsibilities have changed a lot. I am not complaining because I love new challenges. I do get frustrated sometimes but most days I do ok. Another frustrating thing is being an off-site government contractor, I technically have 2 supervisors. So that in itself can be a pain. Especially since one of them (the government person) is who I work with on a daily basis. My real supervisor works at the home office and he is who I am "technically" supposed to take direction from. When the three of us are on the same page, it's works great, but when we're not, well lets just say it's not so great! Well folks that is the kind of week I've been having!

Mike is doing GREAT! He has started working out quite a bit and has started playing soccer as well. He used to play in High School and hasn't played in a "few" years but he seems to be doing well and is really loving it. He has been busy with work as well. I know he's had quite a few meetings to attend to this past week. I'm just glad he's keeping busy.

The AFN schedule came out and Mike will not be able to watch MI or Da Bears. We can't complain much because he has been able to watch more football then either one of us expected. He will at least get to listen to them on a radio station on the internet. So at least he gets to do that. This is one of things I loved so much about Mike when I first met him. He is SO passionate about football. I just knew though, if he is that passionate about football, that is how he treats life; with passion! I was right!

Well not much more going on.

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Milestone #2....

2006-10-22T14:43:00.000-05:00

Mike and I met 1 year ago today. He sent me flowers for "our anniversary"! Aren't they beautiful? I was so surprised! He definitely knows how to warm my heart!

Thanks Mike! You are so very special and I love you very much!

I can't wait until you get home!

Milestone #1.........

2006-10-21T04:59:00.000-05:00

Mike has had his "feet in the sand" for 5 months! We are almost half-way through this.............Sometimes it feels like he's been gone a year already and others it's like wow, I can't believe it's been 5 months.....but it has.................

As most of you have noticed I have added music to my blog. I hope you don't find it annoying. I have tried to set it up so you can shut it off, but the website I am using will not allow it....so if you do find it annoying, please feel free to turn down your speakers....I don't want to lose any readers because of it.........Today's music reflects my mood and I feel the NEED to post the lyrics

The Victors

Hail! to the victors valiant

Hail! to the conqu'ring heroes

Hail! Hail! to Michigan

The leaders and best!

Hail! to the victors valiant

Hail! to the conqu'ring heroes

Hail! Hail! to Michigan,

The champions of the West!

GO BLUE!!!!

I love you Mike!

Chicago 24 - Arizona 23 - Mike's R&R Pictures

2006-10-17T18:54:00.000-05:00

I guess I have to eat my words from yesterday's post. Da Bears did win against the Cardinals but just barely...Like all Bears fans, I'm sure, I was stunned....What in the world happened? Where was Grossman's head?....I would like to say where I think it was but I will be nice....let's just say use your imagination :) Where was the offense? I just can't believe I was watching Chicago. They have played so well. I think the biggest thing was, the team thought the Cardinals were going to be an easy team to beat....Guess again!!!

Onto something more pleasant to talk about....Mike! He finally return to FOB Speicher from his R&R. His plane had mechanical problems so they were delayed in Baghdad for a few days and as it turned out, it was basically up to them to find their own flight back.

I'm really happy he was able to go on this R&R but with the delay and all the stress that came with it; I'm not so sure it had the effect the should have had.

The images you see on TV of Iraq certainly paint a different picture in your mind....I know before Mike went, I thought it was a very ugly place. As with every where, it certainly has it's bad areas but the pictures Mike sends home are absolutely beautiful. These pictures are of Qatar, but even the past pictures he has sent of Iraq, I still find it to be amazing.

Not much else going on....I hope all is well with everyone!

I love you Mike!

It's been pretty quiet....

2006-10-16T19:30:00.000-05:00

I really haven't had much going on which is why I haven't posted.

I worked at the Sports Plex Friday night and had quite an interesting time. There is a sprinkler head right by the exhaust fan for the grill, well I guess it got a little hot up there and it decided to go off. The worst part is this...imagine your exhaust fan above your stove....know how bad the grease build up is? Well imagine grease build-up being four times as bad....Needless to say the girl and I who were working the counter had grease and then nasty rusty water sprayed all over us! It was on our faces, in our hair, on our clothes...it was just plain nasty. At the same time, all we could do was laugh. Thank God we had the other concession stand opened because we were so busy. Lindsay and I were troopers though...we cleaned up the best we could and went to the other concession stand and helped the girls there.

Saturday I puttered around the house until it was time to watch MI and Penn State. Which I am happy to say MI won....it was definitely noticed that Mario Manningham was injured. With that win, we are now in 2nd of the AP poll! GO BLUE!!!!

Yesterday I washed my car and now it is supposed to rain ALL day tomorrow and into Wednesday...It figures. Oh well at least I got the salt off of it. That is the one bad thing about working right on the beach....the salt air really can mess up a car!

Brady sent me some pictures last night of he and Tia Carrere. He and Mike attended the Filipino Music Award Show. The other picture is of he and Mike holding a HUGE BOA....Yikes!!...Brady said in this picture the snake was really coming after him. His look is a real "OH SHIT" look.

I'm not so sure I like Brady's hair long. I don't think it was ever this long....but he seems to like it and what really got me was he said he just got it cut before these pictures were taken! With it long though I can really see me in him where as when he had it short I think he looked more like his father. So I guess I can't complain to much!!!!

Mike sent some pictures of his R&R as well; I will post some of them tomorrow.

I had to take Mike's baby (his car) to get inspected and have the gear shift looked at tonight. Can't have his baby sick when he comes home. Hopefully it's nothing real big, he actually had a piece of the gear shift replaced before he left but it sounds like it might be the same piece again. It makes a horrible noise when you put it into reverse.

Well I'm going to get settled in to watch Da Bears whip up on Cardinals....I have a feeling it's going to be a blow out....We shall see though.................. GO BEARS!!!!

I love you Mike!

Quick Note!

2006-10-14T18:22:00.000-05:00

GO BLUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

I feel the need..............

2006-10-13T10:01:00.000-05:00

to say.........................

Always Michael!!!!

Fall is in the air!

2006-10-13T06:19:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning and decided to take the day off. I just needed the break. When I woke up the temp was 53 degree's....Cold!

I plan on getting a lot done today, just normal stuff, grocery shopping, laundry, mowing the yard, (hopefully for the last time this year :)) etc.... I'm also working tonight at the Sports Plex. They are calling for very cold temps tonight as well . If only Mike was here to keep me warm.

Tomorrow I will be watching MI kick some butt on Penn State!! Sunday I have no football to watch, it's the Pats bye week and Da Bears are playing Monday night. I'm not sure what I will do if anything. Depending on the weather.

I haven't' talked to Brady much lately...he's been very busy. He and Mike are working on a pilot for MTV and have been conducting auditions for the show. I'm not sure what it's about yet.....I still am amazed that he is my son. You all are probably tired of hearing it, but I will never stop expressing how proud of him. I'm hoping he is able to come home for Christmas but I will have to wait and see.

Mike is doing good and I am anxiously awaiting for him to send some pictures of his 4 day, which turned into a 5 day R&R. I know he will get to it when he can.

Well I'm going to go start my day!!!!!!!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Life as a Government Contractor!

2006-10-12T18:18:00.000-05:00

Being a government contractor isn't always easy. My contract is up for rebid and will expire 1 Dec. It is always a frustrating time but what makes it even more so for me this time is my job responsibilities have changed completely. I am no longer doing the finances for the project I work for. My sponsor wants to get me more involved in the "technical" side of the house, which really isn't a bad thing for me. It just makes is tough to be "needed" when you are having to learn a job completely out of your realm. I'm sure everything will work out.

This Sat MI plays Penn State, without Mario Manningham. He underwent knee surgery earlier this week. I still think MI fans will like the outcome of the game but when you lose a receiver of that caliber you worry just a little.

I'm getting excited about the holidays. I will be going to Omaha to visit Mike's family over Thanksgiving and then I will be going to Delaware for Christmas. It will be lonely without Mike and I will HATE knowing he will not be with family over the holidays but knowing he will be home shortly after will make everything a little easier.

Well not much else is going on.

I love you Mike!

Stuff.......

2006-10-09T16:45:00.000-05:00

Another weekend gone....another holiday gone (Columbus Day)...these are all good things....because they bring Mike closer to coming home!

Mike has enjoyed his R&R in Qatar and has promised to send pictures; as soon as I receive them I will be sure to post them. Tomorrow they are going on a tour, which includes jet skies. I am sure they will have a blast. I can't wait to hear all about it.

We had another good weekend as far as football goes. DA Bears killed the Bills with a 40-7 win and the PATS won over Miami with a 20-10 win.

I had a lot planned today, but was not able to do anything. During Ernesto, some of my fence came down and the repair guy showed up today to fix it. When he came by to give his estimate he also looked at the shed and was going to repair that as well. In order to do that, I had to keep the shed unlocked. I didn't feel comfortable leaving while he was here working. He is still here, so my day was pretty much shot.

I hope everyone is doing well....thanks for keeping Mike & I in your thoughts. It means a lot to both of us.

I love you Michael!

A-Maize an Blue :) All the way!!!!

2006-10-07T19:07:00.000-05:00

What was supposed to be a close game....didn't turn out that way....Michigan beat Michigan State 31-13...It was still a good game. What is really nice is that Auburn lost...if only Florida Gators had lost as well.....

GO BLUE...Let's hope PATS and DA Bears have a good day tomorrow.

I'm going to watch the last 4 episodes of season 2 of LOST. Then I will FINALLY be able to watch the first episode of season 3.....

I love you Mike!!!!

A Quick Note...

2006-10-07T09:16:00.000-05:00

to let everyone know that Mike is on a 4 day R&R in Qatar. He arrived there this morning. This link is a map of the country. I am so excited for him. He really deserves this break. Of course, I wish it was here, but that time is coming soon.........He plans on laying around the pool most of the time and he is allowed 3, count them 3 beers a day! I guess they want to make sure they don't go over board. I'm sure he will catch a buzz because it's been so long since he's had any alochol.

I am on my way to a girlfriends baby shower and then it off to watch Michigan and Michigan State football. All I have to say is............... GO BLUE!!!!

I love you Michael!!!!

Happy Birthday Jeanette!!!!

2006-10-06T04:40:00.000-05:00

Yes another birthday in the family :) I think this is the last one for awhile!!!! So here goes....

It's your Birthday..............Have a Party!!!!

Jeanette is Mike's Sister-in-law. I hope you have a Wonderful Day! We love you!

I love you Mike!

Another big event....

2006-10-05T16:36:00.000-05:00

happened today. Miss Jessica (Brady's girlfried) left for Europe! She has started a blog to record her trip and I have linked it under "My Boys and Girl" to the right. Please check it out from time-to-time. They are going to have a Blast! I am sooooooo excited for them.

Good Luck Jess and PLEASE be safe and keep your eyes opened! I love you girl :)

I love you Mike!

Happy Birthday Brady!!!!

2006-10-05T06:01:00.000-05:00

Wow I can't believe my baby is 23 today. It seems surreal. I remember the day I brought him home from the hospital. He was such a little boy and I was scared to death. On the way home I was in the back seat with him wondering if I would be able to do this....would I be a good mother? What would his life be like? I remember he cried all the way home...he HATED to ride in the car. That should have told me right there that my baby was different. Most babies LOVE to ride in a car. I don't mean different in a bad way, he just always had a mind of his own. Anyway, I am so very proud of him. He has become such a nice young adult. He still "thinks" different and he knows what he wants...and he is going after it. Looking back that is what I always wanted to teach him. Be your own person, go after what you want, treat others the way you want to be treated and LOVE and LIVE life. So I guess I can say I didn't do such a bad job after all!

Happy Birthday Brady!!!!

I love you Brady and I am so very proud of you!!!! Enjoy your day :)

I Love you Mike!

Happy Birthday Mom & Carol!!!!

2006-10-03T08:03:00.001-05:00

It's your Birthday...........Have a Party!!!!

Mike's mother and my mother share the same Birthday, another thing we have in common. I love you both and wish I could be with you to share your day. I hope you have a GREAT day!!!!

I love you Mike!

I can't believe....

2006-10-01T10:34:00.000-05:00

Tuesday was the last time I posted. All I can say is last week was a horrible week. I am still fighting this cold so I have felt horrible all week and now I have an ear infection. The one good thing is...... I have been a couch potato all weekend, good only because I know I need the rest, bad because nothing is getting done. Oh well, I always say, everything will still be there, because no one else is going to do it!!!! I am enjoying LOST A LOT. I can't believe I never watched it before. It is like a good book you can't put down.

I did watch MI play last night at our local hangout. I feel MI should have played a lot better than they did. We won 28-14 against Minnesota and I am happy that we have the W but yet I think it should have been a higher spread. Mike was able to watch the game too. He had to get up at 300 am....Iraq turned back their clocks last night. He's going to be able to watch Da Bears tonight too, but he will have to get up around 300 again. So far he has been very lucky as far as seeing his teams play. I was hoping the PATS were going to be on "regular" TV so I didn't have to go anywhere to watch it. I still haven't decided if I'm going to go or not. I guess I will wait and see how "lazy" I feel around 300 or so..........

Well even though I haven't posted since Tuesday I really don't have much more to say. I hope everyone is doing well...............

I love you Mike!!!!

Weekend Happenings!

2006-09-26T18:08:00.000-05:00

Mike did it again! He surprised me with a Mario Manningham jersey, he plays for Michigan! He had told me I should expect something in the mail and then he asked what size shirt I wore. Well that gave it away right? Wrong! He asked me what I thought it was so I told him I thought it was a JCCS-1 T-shirt. He said that's what it was. Well I was really excited; anything to show my love and support of him and all the other Sailders who are supporting their country. Well when I got the package in the mail and when I opened it, I was totally surprised! I couldn't believe he did that. He is so sweet and thoughtful. Thanks again Mike, I really love my jersey and I can't wait to wear it proudly Saturday when I watch the game!

I had a good time in Delaware. My sister is doing GREAT considering she just had back surgery. I was surprised to see how well she is getting around. I didn't go to the NASCAR race because I wasn't feeling well. Some of it was due to my own fault and the other is because I'm still fighting this damn cold. So I stayed on my sister's couch and watched DA BEARS and started to watch the race during commercials, well I think it was lap 5, my driver Tony Stewart crashed so I was really glad I didn't go after I saw that.

Mike sent me the 1st and 2nd seasons of Desperate Housewives and LOST, so I've been a couch potato watching TV. I started with DHW and I am really enjoying it. I'm going to try to watch as much of LOST as I can this weekend because the 3rd season starts Oct 4th. I figure I will deserve to be a couch potato this weekend because I start working again the following weekend and I think the games go up to early December. So my weekends will be pretty full. I won't have much time to sit around.

As far as football goes from this past weekend. Mike had another GREAT weekend. Michigan beat Wisconsin 27-13, DA Bears beat the Vikings 19-16, but my PATS lost to Denver 17-7. I don't think they showed up to play Sunday. Oh well such is life.....

Again sorry I haven't posted and as I've said before I will try to do better. I hope all is well with everyone and thanks for reading.

I love you Mike!!!!

1/3 of the way!!!!

2006-09-22T13:05:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted but I have been sick with a cold. It seems it's going around. I spoke to Mike's mom and dad today and they are both sick. Everyone at work has it too. I hope it's not an omen for the coming months.

Well Mike & I have hit another milestone. He has had his "feet in the sand" for 4 months now. Looking back it seems as if it's flown by, but looking ahead it seems as if it will never end. I spoke to Mike a few minutes ago and he sounds wonderful! We always have something to talk about and he always makes me smile. I love him and I can't wait to see him again.

I'm not sure if I'm going to be able to watch the MI game this weekend but I had to say something about MI.....so let's hear it...............GO BLUE!!!!

I'm getting ready to head out the door to go to Delaware. I'm excited as I haven't visited my family in a while. We probably won't do much since Reenie is still recovering from her back surgery, but just being with people who love you and are there for you will be nice. I am supposed to go to the NASCAR race on Sunday but if I'm not feeling better I probably won't go. I've been to a race before with a sinus infection and it wasn't fun at all.

I hope everyone is doing well....Carol & Glen I hope you start feeling better soon. I love you guys!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!!!

Happy Birthday Dani!!!!

2006-09-20T11:31:00.000-05:00

It's your Birthday..........Have a Party!!!!

Dani my niece turns 13 today! I can't believe she's a teenager. I will be going to her birthday party Saturday while I'm in Delaware. I can't wait to spend my day with a bunch of teenage girls!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!!

What a day.........

2006-09-19T16:28:00.000-05:00

I chatted with Mike a couple of times today and he is doing so good. He says the temperature is starting to drop which he is very happy about. He actually had to turn off his AC last night because he was too cold! If he is able to come home in January, I'm going to have to hug him the entire time he's here to keep him warm. Darn the bad luck!! You know a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do! Maybe we will have an Indian summer while he is here and he won't have to wear a parka the entire time!

This is the time in a "normal" Navy deployment that you start to get really excited. You've past the half point; it makes it difficult to realize we still have a LONG way to go. I miss Mike more and more everyday! I think he is having some homesick days as well. We are doing good, but it is hard. Not much longer and we will be at the half; after that it will be all downhill!

I finally received a call from my mother about Reenie about 900 last night. Reenie did good during the surgery. The doctor had to remove a disc from her back. He really didn't have much more to say, other than we would just have to wait and see how she does. This morning I called my mother, or so I thought, and my first question was "How is she?", I heard giggling and "She is fine, you're talking to she, and she is getting ready to eat, I am starved!" It was my sister. She sounded GREAT! The pain & numbness in her leg is completely gone and the only pain she felt in her back was from the surgery! She was just so happy to be "pain-free". I can't imagine saying that after a 3 hour back surgery so I'm thinking she was in serious pain before the surgery. She was waiting for my mother to get there so she could go home. They sure don't keep you long anymore, do they? They were going to give her morphine for the hour long ride home. I'm getting ready to call to find out how her day went. Hopefully she's still feeling the same as she was this morning.

I found out today that my SportsPlex job is starting back up, YEA!!!!!!!! My first night to work will be October 6th! I really am excited! Although as the title to yesterday's post says, it will just be one more thing to make the weekends fly by........

I love you, Mike!

The weekends fly by, but the weeks drag.......

2006-09-18T04:37:00.000-05:00

Another weekend has come & gone. I know I said I would post after the game on Saturday, but I actually met up with some friends, who just happen to be MI fans and lets just say we celebrated the 47-21 win over ND! Even if you're not a MI or a ND fan or even if you don't watch college football this was a GREAT game! I'm sure ND is still wondering what hit them. Well let me tell you, A-Maize-ing Blue hit them!!!! Mike & I had a great weekend with our NFL teams as well. DA Bears came out on top over the Lions 34-7 and the PATS just barely came out on top over the Jets 24-17. The PATS were leading 24-0 at the half and it seemed to be an easy win, but the Jets came out after the half with a purpose and almost came back. It's a good thing almost only counts in horseshoes!!!!

I talked to Mike a couple of times this weekend. I was really excited because he was able to see the Michigan game. He wasn't as lucky in seeing DA Bears but I think this weekend he really wanted to see the MI game so he was happy.

It is my sister, Vicki's birthday today. Happy Birthday Vicki!

It is also my nephew's anniversary. Happy Anniversary Brian & Salina!

My younger sister, Reenie is scheduled to have back surgery today. My mother took Reenie to the hospital around 730 this morning. I hadn't heard anything all day, so I finally called my other sister, Sheri @ 600 pm to find out what was going on and she said they JUST took Reenie into surgery! I could not believe it. She had to lay in bed all day with an IV in, no food, and nothing to drink! My mother kept asking what was going on and the nurses couldn't (or wouldn't) tell them anything. I guess at 400 Reenie had a little fit, which I don't blame her, saying she was going to pull the IV out and go home. She had a horrible headache, I'm sure it was from a combination of things. I'm not sure how long the surgery will be, but I'm praying everything goes as planned. I will be sure to let you know.

Well not much else to say. Sorry I haven't been doing very well at posting. I will try to do better.

I love you, Mike!

Sorry!!!

2006-09-16T13:22:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while but I am headed out the door to watch the Michigan and ND game. I will post more after the game...

GO BLUE!!!!

Hump Day.....

2006-09-13T18:42:00.000-05:00

Not much to talk about. It's been a very quiet week. The only thing that has happened is my dishwasher quit working. I called the landlord and they are supposed to come fix it.

Some friends of ours are coming to visit from Fredericksburg, VA on Friday. I am so excited. They have 3 kids so we should have a good time. It's supposed to be a beautiful weekend as well. The baby, who I think is 1 1/2 years old, I can't remember, has never been to the beach so we're excited to take him.

The following weekend I will be going to Delaware to visit with my mother and my sisters. My younger sister is having back surgery on Monday. I'm really worried about that. She's already had one surgery last year and now she's just gotten worse. I'm sure she will be fine. I will leave after work on Friday, spend Saturday with my mother and younger sister and then go to the NASCAR race in Dover on Sunday. It should be a great time.

Mike seems to be doing good. He finally got his computer back and it's finally right. So he's been busy getting caught up. He's been doing some exercise classes and seems to be really liking them. He did "Hot Yoga" today. I had never heard of it, but I guess you do Yoga but with no AC on...he said he felt like he was in the shower. He has even done a STEP class.

Well that is about it for now. I hope everyone is doing great!

I love you Mike!

We Will Always Remember!

2006-09-11T19:30:00.000-05:00

Today is a day we will always remember. As I watch some of the TV specials, the one I have enjoyed the most are about the babies who were born 9/11/01. Looking at their faces today as they celebrate their 5th birthday, what you see is hope and faith. America lost thousands of innocent people this day 5 years ago and we must never forget. But there were also thousands of babies born. The children give us all a reason to move forward and do what we can do to make America a safer place.

Thanks to all of the service men & women who are fighting for our freedom everyday.

This is one of the best videos remembering 9/11 I have seen ....it takes time to download, it is about 7 megs....you will not regret it....

Mt. Trashmore is a park here in Virginia Beach. This morning radio stations and TV stations sponsored a Living Flag. It would have been GREAT to be able to have gone, but I really couldn't afford to take time off from work.

Mike, as my friend, lover and solemate....THANK YOU!!!! I am so proud of you babe and I will always be proud to say WE did this together! It has been tough but very rewarding.....I have never been prouder....keep up the awesome attitude! I am here and will always be here waiting for your safe return.

I love you Michael!!!!

Michigan 41, CMU 17

2006-09-09T19:39:00.000-05:00

Well I have to say, I am really enjoying watching Michigan play football. Of course I wish Mike was here watching with me, but I did get to talk to him during the game. Unfortunately he was unable to see today's game. His plan was to go to bed early though and get up in time to watch the ND & Penn State game, but he was so excited about Michigan he couldn't sleep, so he called so I could tell him the score. It was so cute. He reminds me of a kid on Christmas morning!

Work has been slow for him, as of right now. The computer guys have not been able to get him the computer access he needs to do his job, so he's been getting a little frustrated. He's afraid of giving the impression of being a slacker so hopefully they will be able to get everything worked out soon. I know he is VERY anxious to do the job he's there to do. Once he gets the access he needs I'm sure everything will work out.

Well not much more to say......

GO BLUE!!!!

I love you Mike!!!!

Full Moon and the Beach!!!

2006-09-07T21:14:00.000-05:00

Two of my most favorite things are the title of this post. When my nephew was 6 I had him convinced that Aunt Kym turned into a warewolf when it was a full moon! To this day, he's 32 now, I will call him and tease him. When he see's my number on his phone he always says, Yes Aunt Kym, I know it's a full moon!!!! Gay I know but a memory i will always treasure.

With that said, I have passed my love of the full moon onto Mike. So tonight I went to the beach for a walk and took some pictures of the moon! I will only post one picture because really they all look alike no matter which angle I took the pictures from. But I have to say....it was a beautiful night for a walk on the boardwalk. The one thing missing was Mike....I can not wait until he gets home so we can go together.... Mike, can you guess where I was when I took this picture? Yes babe, besides the beach on the boardwalk!!!!

The other thing I noticed was the beach was empty. Kind of nice after a long summer of tourist. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad we have people who want to visit Virgina Beach, but after a long summer it is nice to be able to go there and not have to fight for a parking space.

That's it for tonight.

I love you Mike!!!!

American Music Fest, part 2

2006-09-05T18:29:00.000-05:00

As you know from my previous post , I was unable to post some pictures. I was finally able to, so please take a look.

We had a GREAT time! We saw 3 Doors Down....they were awesome. Brady came out with some of his friends. Of course he's the one with his tongue sticking out...I'm not sure why they had their sunglasses on, but it was funny because I turned around and when I saw they had them on, I put mine on and they thought is was the coolest thing ever. I guess they still haven't realized, it doesn't matter how old you are, you can still be cool. No really, I feel very fortunate, all of Brady's friends are very nice kids and I get along with all of them.

Here is a picture of the band.....you can also see how close we were able to get to the stage.

This is a picture taken of Brady & I earlier in the day. We could not have asked for a prettier day, especially after the weather we had Friday with Ernesto. As you can see by my hair the wind was blowing off the water, but it made for a perfect setting. The only person missing was Mike.

I can't wait until next year. My sister and I have already decided to get a room on the boardwalk, so we don't have to worry about driving home after the concerts. If you ever want to have a vacation in Virginia Beach, this is the weekend. You really can't beat it. This year they had 50 bands and if you buy your ticket ahead of time, you pay $30.00 for the entire weekend. Yes you get to see all the bands, well all the ones you can get to. The biggest stage is the one we were at, it's called the 5th street stage and the furthest one from that is the 31st street stage. So it's quite a hike and if you only have 30 minutes between bands you would almost have to run...I'm sure it's been done, just not by me!!! Anyway it's a good time, I would highly recommend it for anyone.

I was able to chat with Mike over the weekend as well. He is still having trouble getting the new group to work with him or I should say getting the new group to get his computer up & running so he is able to work. He is on them every day and it seems they have a different reason on a daily basis. I know he wishes he could get going and do what he was sent there to do.

Well not much more to report. It seems as if "blogger" has been fixed. I sure hope so I tried posting yesterday, but I wasn't even able to log on. Keep your fingers crossed.

I love you and miss you so much Mike!

Good Bye Ernesto....Hello Football and The American Music Fest

2006-09-03T10:55:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a fun filled day. First as promised I displayed the colors........ Proudly!!!! This weekend is the American Music Festival. I went with my sister and her boyfriend. We had a BLAST! We saw The Zapp Band, Midnight Star and Kool & the Gang, they were all old school bands but they were GREAT!

As I was walking back from the boardwalk towards the stage, I took the picture on the left. We were standing as close to the stage as we were allowed, which was right up front. I thought it came out pretty good. See the moon Mike? It was a beautiful night. The other picture is of my sister, Sheri and I. Would you ever guess we are sisters? Most people don't believe we actually have the same parents, but we do. And she is a natural blonde!

We met the coolest couple later in the night. What is really strange is they are from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and they are here celebrating her birthday. Well her name is Sherry (she spells it different than my sister) and her boyfriends name is Reggie. My sister's first husband's name was Reggie. Unfortunely we lost Reggie at a very young age, he was 25. So it was strange that their names are Sherry & Reggie AND his birthday is July 24, mine is July 25 and my sisters is July 28....and Sherry is the same age i am....so it was like we were meant to meet. Do you ever feel like that? When you meet certain people it's like you have known them all your life (which is how we all felt) and your paths were just meant to cross... We are hoping to meet up with them again tonight.

I will let you know how tonight goes!

I LOVE YOU MIKE!

Triple Number!!! Finally!

2006-09-01T11:42:00.000-05:00

I know I've posted twice today but with everything going on I did forget to mention something VERY important..........and it's something I've been waiting for long time...Look at the "Feet in the sand" counter....Mike has been in Iraq for 100 days.............only 265 to go............

I can almost see the light at the end of the tunnel!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOVE YOU MICHAEL GLEN VAN HAREN!!!!

During Ernesto!

2006-09-01T10:42:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures during the storm. These are taken in front of my house. There is usually a sidewalk. If you look hard enough you might be able to see it.

The thing is...it's still raining....it's slowing down some, so that's good news. I know it could have been worse, so I am not complaining.

I thought I would share......

I love you Mike!!

Ernesto!

2006-09-01T04:26:00.000-05:00

Well Ernesto is making himself known. There has been a lot of flooding just south of me. We haven't even gotten the worst of it yet but it rained and the wind blew ALL night. We needed the rain but I was hoping it wouldn't be this bad. As of right now (5:20 am EST) over 18,000 people have lost electricity just in Virginia. Hopefully I don't lose mine. Richmond is flooded in many areas already. The thing is....the storm hasn't even reached us yet...per se' ...and this is just a Tropical Storm!!

The good news...the storm is supposed to be outta here this afternoon or tonight. I was concerned because this weekend is the Music Festival at the beach. There will be over 50 bands down there over the weekend. I have been looking forward to it for a while now. It is also the weekend considered "Locals take over!" Most of the tourists have left so we, the locals, take back our beach! It's a lot of fun!! I wish Mike was here, he would love it!

A couple of things of interest to me in reference to reality shows...As you know from an earlier post, I am a HUGE Survivor fan, it seems GM has pulled their sponsorship for the show....Supposedly, it has nothing to do with the way the teams are being split up this season. Another favorite is The Apprentice, Carolyn Kepcher has been given the famous words...."Your Fired" from The Donald! It seems her head got a little big with all the attention she was receiving and was not handling her duties at the Trump organization.

Brady & Jess spent the evening with me last night. We had a blast. Jessica asked to see some of Brady's baby pictures, so we sat around and laughed a lot. Of course they were being BRATS and laughing at all my hair styles and my clothes. Brady was also weirded out about how he was dressed. He was like MOM you dressed me like a dork! Which I didn't; I had to remind them....times change guys!!! We had a really nice time. Then Brady fixed dinner. I was like you don't have to but he loves to cook so he fixed us dinner. It was very good. I wish I could say he got his cooking skills from me, but I have to be honest....his father did most of the cooking while he was growing up...sooooo....he used to be shocked if I was in the kitchen cooking...he would ask, Mom is dad sick or something? LOL! Kids....gotta love em!

I wasn't planning on chatting with Mike this morning because he had a meeting to go to, but the meeting finished earlier than he thought, so we were able to....YEA!!!! He didn't have such a good day yesterday so I was VERY happy to see and hear that he is having a much better day today!

Well I need to get ready for work....have a great day everyone!

I love you Mike :)

Hump Day!!!!

2006-08-30T03:27:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted because I really haven't had much to talk about. I've been real busy at work as usual. I should be seeing a break in about a week and I will have about a 2-3 week breather but then it will all start all over again. All the "new" money will start coming in and then it will have to be dispusred so on and so on....

Brady and Jess will coming home from Nags Head today. I really look forward to seeing them. Jess is starting to get real excited about her trip to Europe. I know she will have a GREAT time. I just wish the world was in a better place. I will worry about her.

Mike is doing good. He is still waiting for the new group to get settled so he can start his work, so he hasn't been as busy as normal. I'm sure everything will pick up and he will be like, OMG, what happened to the days when I wasn't as busy!

Yesterday was a tough day for me. I'm not sure why, I just woke up feeling very lonely. Mike's mom is so sweet. She is always sending me hugs and I so appreciate it. Carol, I always do what you ask....I close my eyes and get a hug! Thanks so much. I love you! I always try to hide these days from Mike, but sometimes I'm not so successful. Yesterday being one of those days. We were chatting and he said something silly and I started crying instead of laughing. I know how bad it makes him feel which is why I try to hide those feelings. It's just somedays I miss him more than others and it hits home really bad. I am happy to say though, I am feeling much better today, yes I still miss him, but it doesn't hurt as much today.

I need to go get ready for work. I hope everyone has a GREAT day!

I love you Mike!

Happy Birthday Jessica!!!

2006-08-29T15:32:00.000-05:00

IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY,

HAVE A PARTY!!!!

Happy Birthday Jess....

I hope you have a WONDERFUL Day!!!

I Love you girl :)

Will post more later. Love ya Mike!!

1000 Visits....WOW

2006-08-27T07:42:00.000-05:00

Brady came home today! YEAH! I'm not sure what his plans are for the next week, except he and Jessica are going to Nags Head for a few days. It's her birthday! Happy early Birthday Jess! Hopefully when they get back, they will go to the Music Festival with me one night.

Actually I just got back from spending the day with him. We had a very nice time. We didn't do much but sit around and talk. It is so amazing when you realize that your "baby" is no longer a baby, but a young adult. It becomes clearer to me each time I see him. I have to say he looks very good and seems to be very happy. What more can a mother ask for?

Mike is doing good. He is still trying to get to know his new battallion. He feels pretty confident that he will not have to move again. I hope not. He's also trying to figure out what his new mailing address is, so when he gets it I will be sure to post it for everyone.

He is sooooo excited about football season! It will be VERY strange this year not watching football with him. We had a lot of "interesting" times last year during the season! I really hope my PATS do well. No let me rephrase that....I can't wait to watch my PATS do well!!! The game I am really looking forward to watching is DA Bears and the Pats....on November 26th....GO PATS....sorry Mike! You know any other day I would root for DA Bears with you but on this day....we will just have to wait and see!

Well enough for me today. I need to get ready for another week of chaos.....

I LOVE YOU MICHAEL!!!!
PS....thanks to all who have visited this blog...Today the counter reached over 1000 visits! (see below)

Bottom Line is this...

2006-08-25T21:43:00.000-05:00

I Love You Mike....

Nothing much more to say!

good night!