Rumors, Rumors, Rumors!!!

I never thought that I would love rumors. Usually they are mean and hurtful, but these I like. What are they about you are wondering?! Well, the rumors have begun for Travis's homecoming date!! I know they are just rumors. Trust me, I am staying prepared for them to completely change. After all that would be the Marine Corps. But rumors mean that the time is getting closer. The dates that are being thrown around are even better than we originally thought. And this is what is really exciting. I just can't wait for Travis to come home. Life just isn't the same with out him here. And his homecoming promises to be absolutely wonderful. So I am keeping my fingers crossed that these rumors have some sort of truth to them.

I am so ready for 2009!!!!

75 degree December

Yes, you read the heading right! It is a nice comfortable 75 degrees here in Tennessee. Can you believe it. It is the end of December and it feels like it should be April. I know that it doesn't get to terribly cold here on the south, but still it is usually a little cold. I usually have to wear a coat this time of year. But not today, I am more than comfortable in my short sleeves. And of course it the windows are all open. That part I do like. Helps ALOT with the energy bill. I wish I had gotten pictures of how bright and sunny it is today. Gorgeous!

I forgot....

..... yesterday, Christmas Eve, marked Travis having been gone for 5 months. I haven't talked to him in over 2 weeks. I did get an email from him wishing us all a Merry Christmas. So at least we know he is ok. But still keep him in your parents as hopefully this deployments end is with in reach!

Christmas 2008

Well, what a last 2 days it has been! Christmas this year was much different then in years past. The obvious differences were that there was no Travis, Brandi, Kyle, or Zach. I have to admit it was alot harder than I thought it was going to be. But we still managed to have some good times as well.

Christmas Eve started out with my brother (who spent the night here for 2 nights) and I getting up and packing up mine and Dewy's stuff so that we could go to my parents house and spend the night. We got there pretty early in the day and hung out till it was time to go to my grandparents house to celebrate with them. We had a wonderful dinner followed by a wonderful service at the church's annual Christmas Eve service. I always love going to it. We all went back to the house and opened presents. Once we were all done opening them, some one had the great idea to play Aggravation! This game lasted for over 2 hours!!! And even then it only ended because we all quit! But it was a fun night. But me, Kyle, dad, and mom all went back to there house to go to bed.

This morning started with my brother coming and waking me up at 5 AM! It is tradition to get up and open all the presents that "Santa" left us. Which was even different this year. I got lots of wonderful presents. My parents got me and Travis our very own GPS. It is going to be great for our trip to Disney next year. After we were done, at 7:30. Me and Dewy went and took a nap. We got up at around 10 or so, and packed up and came home. We had unloaded all our stuff from the car and I got ready to go to my Granny's house to celebrate. I went to there house and had a good time visiting and opening presents. I got great presents there to.

Now I am home and Dewy is sleeping on the couch. I have put away most of the presents and are getting ready to hang a couple of things.

This Christmas all in all was a good Christmas. But it was just not the same with out the rest of the family. And it is especially weird to look and see Travis's presents still by the tree. I miss him so much, and can't wait for him to come home and get to open all his presents. And I can't wait to see Brandi, Kyle, and Zach next month!!! I miss them all so much to.

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!!

Open to the Public

Ok, so as you can tell I have official made my blog public again. I don't know if this is the best idea I have ever had or the worse. But I guess we will see. I originally did it to protect me and Travis from his parents and their ever snooping noses, but I think we are past that now. If not I will put it back on private and you all with of course be invited to read and share with us. So just pray that this doesn't come back and bite me in the butt. Because trust me you will all know about it if it does. But all in all I feel good about it. So just keep us in your prayers as we wait and see.

Merry Christmas!!!

A Smiling Face

Just thought you all would like to see the latest picture of Travis. Know you all can see that is doing well. If you look close you can see his pictures and the other stuff that we have all sent him. Keep praying for him and the rest of Delta Company. They are almost ready to come home, but they have more to do before they can come home.

Toys for Tots

The last 2 Wednesday's I have helped with the annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots. It was so much fun. The first Wednesday we did nothing but take people's applications so that they could get toys. It isn't hard to qualify for the toys, all you have to do is bring the appropriate paper work. Which come to think of it even if you didn't you still got toys! That is what is so great about this program. As long as you aren't driving up in a Lexus or something like that you will get toys! That day we started at 7 am and didn't end until about 7 pm. We took over 2000 applications. And each application usually had more than one child on it. That is a lot of children.

Today was distribution day! Today all the families got to come and pick up all their toys. You would expect this to be a really good day. To be able to help some one give their child a good Christmas. And for the most part it was. There were just a few things that could have gone better. One lady was mad because I couldn't find her application she got all mad and was hitting her husband. He kept telling her to stop so I kind of wondered if we were going to have to call the cops. But luckily one of the Marines that was there and in charge got her to calm down and realize that it wasn't that big of a deal she was still going to get toys.

Then not even an hour later. The ware house we are in in packed with people. When all of the sudden an older lady falls and starts seizing. I was the first one to get to her and know what to do. So needless to say we had to call the paramedics and send her to the hospital. While I was taking care of her, the Marines cleared the building. But then it decided to start pouring, and I do mean pouring, on the hundred or so people having to stand outside. But finally the paramedics got her off to the hospital, and everyone could come back in.

Well, this all happened early in the morning so the rest of the day went by with out any more big problems. Until the last 10 minutes! I am exhausted and my friend Whitney who is 33 weeks pregnant is exhausted, we are ready to go home. Then this guy walks in. He asks if he can sign up to get some toys. I asked if he had an application. He told me no, so I told him like I had told everyone else that day who didn't have an application, that we couldn't give him toys. Well he got mad, really mad. And he wasn't taking NO for an answer. At this point I am getting a little nervous. Because this guys is getting madder with every time I say no. But that is all I can say. And of course all the Marines are in the back cleaning up so it is just me and the pregnant lady. So she asks me if I want her to go get some one. Of course I said yes. So the guy in charge comes out, and tells the guy no, just like I did. And he turned around a left. Can you believe it! I am not intimidating. I have to admit I was kind of offended. I want to be that intimidating. Oh well.

As you can tell it was an interesting 2 days. But I had so much fun. And wouldn't have changed it for the world. It was nice to help people this Christmas.

The light at the end of the tunnel!

I think I am beginning to see it!

The light at the end of the tunnel, that I have been looking for for the last 8 months. The light that says this deployment is over. Yes, my optimism has settled in, and even might be taking over! It has been a rough year for us, but I am finally seeing the end.

It is still a ways away when you really think about it. There is so much to do to get ready. The holiday's have been rough as well, but they are almost over as well. WOW! I sound like such a scrooge when I say that, but I just can't help it. My family has been absolutely amazing through this entire thing, and I appreciate it more than they will ever know. But having my husband home once again will be the best thing in the world.

I am sure most of you are wondering what brought all of this on. I am not actually sure myself. I just know that in the last few days I have come to realize that there are things that I am going to have to start doing soon to prepare for him coming home. I know that you are probably thinking "what is there that she could possibly do over 2 months in advance"! Well, you would be surprised! But I can't tell you it is a surprise.

I am just so excited to be able to think that it is almost all over! But I my worrisome side is also showing it's ugly side. This last year it has been hard. Every time things seem to be going good, something bad happens. So I have to admit that even with this new found joy, I am just waiting for that bad something to happen. But I guess I am prepared for it, which will hopefully help! But I am learning my own strength to manage to get through the bad so I can handle anything! (I hope!).

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Is it only me?

I was sitting here looking at every one's blog when I realized that I am really the only one who hasn't posted anything about Christmas. No pretty background or countdown. Which we all know is my big thing. I love counting down to things that are a big deal. But I honestly don't know what has gotten to me this year.

Even though my blog is not decorated, I have decorated the house! I actually did it a couple of weeks ago. But by decorating I do mean, the tiny 2 foot tree, and the nativity scene. Oh, and the wreath on our front door that my parents bought us. I was very bummed when I got out the decorations and I saw that I really didn't have any! I guess that is what I get for being a newlywed! I made Travis promise that we would have a big tree next year, and that we would make this apartment really feel all warm. But this is probably better since I plan on leaving all the decorations up so that me and Travis can celebrate when he comes home.

Well, that is really all I have today, but I will try to post pictures of my rinky dinky tree and few other decorations that we have some other time.

P.S. Congratulations Brandi and Kyle and of course Zach!

Thanksgiving

What a Thanksgiving! It was so much fun. My parents were so absolutely wonderful and said that I could bring Dewy to there house so that I could stay a long time. I was worried about her being there and behaving, but she did really well I think. But since we were invited to come over, I got up Thursday morning, after working late the night before, and packed us both up and loaded the car, and headed off to my parents. I know it sounds like we were going really far, but we only went 10 minutes down the road!



We got there about 10:30 or so, which was enough time to help with some of the cooking. It was great to visit with my parents and brother for awhile. The food was great as usual! Both of my parents are great cooks. But as soon as we were done, my mom and me hit the ads! We had to start planning our after Thanksgiving day shopping trip! But other than that we had a relaxing day, hanging out,playing Aggravation, and going Gander.

Friday, me and mom were up at 3:30 AM! We went to 4 or 5 stores and were home by 8 am. We had so much fun. And of course we got a lot of good deals! We both took a nap and then were back out at 1:00. I had so much fun.

But now I am home. Getting back into the swing of things.

Thanks, Mom and Dad for letting us both stay with you all. We had so much fun, and we love you guys.

4 Months Down!!!!!!

Yes that is right! We are down 4 months in this deployment! Which means that we are officially OVER half way done. I know this doesn't mean near as much for you all, but this is a huge thing for me. My husband will be home in less than 4 months! It's still a long time, but so close also! Please pray for the guys over the next few months they still need all the prayer that they can get. Love you guys,

1 year ago

So, What were you doing a year ago today? Well, exactly one year ago a today Travis and I got engaged! Can you believe it has been an entire year. Alot has happened since that day. Want to hear our story? Well, I am going to tell you anyway. One year ago today, Travis was in town from MOS school for Thanksgiving. He was in town for only a few days so he stayed with me at my parents house. He had Thanksgiving with me and my ENTIRE family, both my moms side and my dad's side! And that is alot of people. We had so much fun. He stayed and hung out with both Kyle's (my brother and brother-in-law) and Zach while the girls went to our annual after Thanksgiving day shopping. The next morning we had planned a trip to Dollywood. He was the first person to ever take me there, and always promised to take me back so I could see the Christmas lights. Well, that morning my parents cooked there wonderful big southern breakfast. It was so yummy we has sat talking and decided that we all wanted to go and get our Christmas tree before Brandi, Kyle, and Travis had to leave. So we were going to come home early so that we all could go. But on our way up to Dollywood I got a call from Brandi that said not to rush that they had plans and wouldn't be able to go get a tree. Little did I know, she had alterior motives.

We had so much fun laughing on the way up there, until some lady re-ended us! Yep, just rammed into the back of us. It was not fun and I was a little freaked out. But we got over it and really enjoyed our time.

While we were there we didn't get to ride many rides, because it was freezing. So we walked around and looked in all the shops that they have. We went into this old church that they have in the park. It was so beautiful all decorated for Christmas, but that was about it. There really wasn't much to see. So we left and decided to get something to eat. We ate at this little diner that has amazing hamburgers. I had said that I was bummed because I forgot to take pictures of the church, I had wanted to show them to my family. But made it a point to say that I didn't want to go back, after all we were all the way on the other side of the park!! He seemed ok with that for a while, when all of the sudden he starts stuffing his face, and telling me that he really wants to go back to the church! I kept saying it wasn't a big deal, but he insisted! So I hurried and ate, and we started back to the church. We got there and I took a picture of the outside of the and we walked in and I got a picture of the inside. Travis was taking pictures also, so I went off to the side to look at some book they had in the corner. I heard him ask some lady if she would take a picture. I thought that it was weird, but figured he just wanted to have a picture of us two. He called me over. I thought it was weird because he had taken the back pack off. So I walk over to the middle of the church and all of the sudden he gets down on one knee! I know that I gasped, but I know that I heard people in the back of the church gasp to! It was so wonderful.

I don't remember saying yes, but obviously I did. I quickly called home to tell my family. My mom was the first one I talked to, and she said "Well, it's about time, I have been waiting on this call all day"! Turns out that everyone in my family knew that he was going to purpose. Even my little brother, and of course he asked my dad's permission! And that is why Brandi said not to hurry home. She didn't want Travis to be rushed to purpose. I have such a wonderful family and a wonderful husband! Here are some of the pictures:

The church

What to tell you....

Nothing. I have nothing to tell you. There is nothing new in our lives her in good ole Knoxville, Tn! The Dickson's lives are the same boreningness as always. I feel bad that you all haven't had anything new to read in a really long time! But here is the best that I can do... Enjoy!

Travis is doing fine I guess. The last little while I haven't gotten to talk to him much, but I will take what I can get. The last time I did get to talk to him he was exhausted, but I just can't imagine why! It's not like he is working hard or something. Although I learned today some interesting news in that department. One of the high ranking people from the unit here in Knoxville was talking to Gunner the radio personality here in Knoxville that loves to do things for all the guys over there. And he was talking about all the work that they have been doing over there. Apparently some of the guys from here were part of an operation that ended up finding a room under ground that was filled with hundreds of weapons and ammo! They are doing such a good job over there. I couldn't be more proud of them! There has already been rumor of a date that they could be coming home. And we really like it!!! I am not telling because I don't want to jinx it! After all you never really know with the Marine Corp.

For me, well I am just staying busy with work. Right now I work 6 to 7 days a week. But just one shift so that I am not leaving Dewy in her crate all day. I hate working but it is something that is obviously necessary and it keeps me busy. I have been having some trouble with Travis's family again. But I think that I have found a way to stop them, for now! We'll see how long it lasts. I have made some wonderful friends while Travis has been gone. All of which have husbands deployed with Travis. It has been really nice to have some one to talk to who is going through the exact same thing as I am.

Yesterday, I booked our "honeymoon"! For those of you who don't know, I will fill you in. Ever since me and Travis talked about getting married we also talked about were we wanted to go to on our honeymoon. And I had always said that I want to go to Disney World, and he agreed. So when it was time to plan a honeymoon that was the first place that we looked into. Well, it didn't really matter what we wanted, the Marines had different plans! Since Travis left after a day after we got married we never went on one. But we always said that we would go when he came home. We both figured after him being deployed and spending our first year of marriage apart, we deserved a vacation/honeymoon! So after much talking and debating we choose dates (that we are hoping will work!) and I found a great deal on flexible dates, and tickets in case we have to move them. And I booked them! I can't tell you all how excited I am. It will be so much fun for the 2 of us to finally get away and get to act like kids! Now if he will just hurry up and come home.

Dewy is doing good. Her growing seems to have slowed down a little. My friend and I weighed her yesterday. She is almost 10 months old (on Dec 7) and she weighs 62 lbs. A lot I know, but she weighed a little less than 60 a month ago. She use to gain 5 or more lbs a month, so I am hoping she has slowed. Either that or she is fixing to grow like crazy, which if you must know I think is the case. But I know that she will be doing a lot of filling out if nothing else. She still has a lot of extra skin that she needs to grow into! I bought her a dog bed yesterday. It is really a giant pillow, but she loves it. To give you an idea of how big she is, this pillow is 44" by 54". When she lays on it and stretches out so that she is comfortable she is longer than the pillow is! But that's my puppy. When she gets all excited and running around in the mornings, she comes running from the bedroom a takes a flying leap on to the pillow. She lands in the eagle spread position. It is so cute. I keep trying to get a picture of it, but she isn't cooperating with me. I will keep trying though.

Wow! I had a lot more to tell you guys then I thought that I did. So I hope that you enjoyed reading all about what is going on in the lives of the Dickson's! But remember to come back soon, because I know there are going to be some more posts coming soon!

Veterans Day!

Wow what a day! Me and my friend Whitney decided to attend Knoxville's 83rd annual Veterans Day Parade. We had actually been invited to come and be interviewed on the radio to talk about our husbands. We were up really early, but we left on time. We didn't know how long it was going to take us to get there so we were there really early! It was cloudy to day so that made it extra cold and we weren't dressed as warmly as we probably should have been. but that is ok! We had so much fun watching all the people parade down Gay Street (for those who don't know that is in the heart of downtown knoxville!) Although there may have been a few tears shed when they played the national anthem, did the 21 gun salute, and played Taps all right in a row! They really know how to make a military wife cry. But in the end we had so much fun. And it was really wonderful to get to be there, front row and center, and get to honor our husbands and all of those who have fought for our freedom. I know that I am truely blessed! Enjoy the pictures from today:

This is the huge flag that hang in the middle of the parade. It was so cool to watch them do it

These men are apart of the Delta Company Marines (the same unit Travis is in) doing the 21 gun salute! It was such a touching moment.

This women was walking down the street yelling "What are you proud to be?" and everyone would shout "American!!!"

Fly over

Just reminded me of Travis.

Isn't this so cool. I couldn't balance on that thing even if I try

The ROTC unit that me and Travis were a part of when we were in High School

Me, Gunner (radio personality that interviewed us), Whitney, and Cathy

Happy Birthday Marines!

Happy 233rd Birthday to all Marines!

Since Travis is in Iraq we aren't going to get to celebrate really. But I do hear that they did a little celebrating this morning over in the sandbox. And then it was back to work! As Travis says the war stops for no one.

A Heart Felt Thank You

As all you know Travis is in Iraq, and has been since July. Since he left I have had many people tell me to tell him thank you for all he is doing, and they also thank me for being his wife and standing beside him. But this guy, he is different.



About a month or so ago a guy came into my work and saw my Hero Bracelet and asked me about it. I told him what it was and what it meant to me. He was so nice and talked to me for awhile about Travis, and he even asked me how I was doing. Turns out that he was a retired Marine that fought in the Gulf War. He thanked me and told me to pass it on to my husband, and promised to pray for us both. Many people tell me to tell Travis thank you when I talk to him. I always do, but it is hard to always remember who says it. It is always so sweet and thoughtful for people to say it. But I never really thought about the people who go home and really pray for us.

Today I was getting ready to leave work when this guy and his wife walk in. I don't recognize him. I begin to walk away when all the sudden he asks me how my husband is doing and if I had talked to him lately. At first I was shocked! Who is this guy and how does he know about my husband? Then it hits me. This is the same guy from a month ago! I couldn't believe that he remembered me and Travis! I begin to tell him how Travis is doing and about them all.

I know that this shouldn't surprise me like it did. But I was just really touched by this guy. They really supported us. His wife had just come from the emergency room, and said if it weren't for my husband and people like him she wouldn't have had the freedom to go to the emergency room. They were really sincere. The man told me that they couldn't remember Travis's name so they had just been praying for "the combat engineer marine"! Their support and dedication to praying for us even though they really didn't know me and definetly had never met Travis was something that really touched my heart.

I know that this isn't as big of a deal to you all. But I wanted to share it with you all anyway. I know that we can all use a reminder about all the people out there that support our troops, especially with the looming election.

So remember to pray for all the troops, and especially this new president! We may really need it!

Voting and A Picture

Hello, I have been trying so hard to find things to post about. But let's face it my life is boring! There isn't really anything to post. So I thought that I would tell you about my exciting news. Reday.... drum role please!!!!

Today was the first time that I ever voted. Yes, that is right. Today I excersied my right to vote. Aren't you all proud of me! Ok, that's it I have nothing else to tell you guys. I just thought that you all would like to share in the joy of my first presidential election!

Oh, in other news. I haven't said much about Travis lately, but he is doing pretty well. He has had a rough couple of weeks, but the last time I talked to him (which has been awhile) he was doing better. About 3 weeks or so ago he sent me a couple of pictures so I am posting the one of him. It isn't anything great, but nice to see his face! I hope you all enjoy.

3 months!

Well tonight marked the 3 month mark of this deployment. That is right, Travis has been gone for 3 months, well at least in Iraq for 3 months but that is a different story! But tonight my self and 5 other wives/girlfriends/fiancees all decided to go out to dinner to celebrate! It was so much fun. I thought that you all would like to see some pictures of our fun night!



Christina and her daughter Teddi! Kensie and me (she is the fiancee)

Whitney and Amanda

Christina and Letticia (they are best friends)

Christina and Letticia goofing off and making fun of each other!!!

Once again, making fun of each other!

It was so much fun I can't wait to do it again!

Promised Pictures

These are just a few pictures of my family when we got together while Brandi was home. I hope you enjoy:

Sad for the fun to end

Wow, the last 2 weeks have been so much fun. I loved having Brandi home again. It is nice to have some one to do all the fun sister things with. We did so many things that I am not sure that I can tell you all about them, but all you need to know is that we had so much fun. It was so sad to say goodbye yesterday. I know that she should be back in not to long, but it still stinks to see her go. Thanks Brandi for coming home and spending time with us. I love you!!!

P.S. I will post pictures later!

Happy Birthday, Travis!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TRAVIS!

I love you baby, I hope you have a wonderful (well as wonderful as possible) birthday. I promise we will really celebrate when you come home.


October 14th 1988. Exactly 20 years ago, my husband was born!! Can you believe it 2 decades ago Travis was born. Well everyone wish him a happy and safe birthday in Iraq!

Off to Atlanta

I am so excited!!! I am fixing to load up and go to Atlanta's airport to pick up Brandi! She has been really home sick, and since her husband will be gone this next week or so she decided to fly in to see us. It was such a last minute thing but I am so excited. I promise I will post lots of pictures for the both of us.

50 years- to life

That could possibly be the sentence a judge would hand me if my day doesn't seem to get some sort of ray of hope soon. Why you ask? Because I have had "one of those days"! It started out fine. I got up had plenty of time to take care of the dogs and get ready. I even arrived early to school, were as I usually arrive just in time for class to start! It was a long day at school. We usually get out a little early but not today. We spent 1 1/2 hours doing drug dosing math equations in Pharmacology, and then 3 hours talking about wounds in Foundations to Nursing! So nothing bad, just a long day. So I am tired when I get home I have to pee (sorry I don't know how else to put it) so bad since I couldn't go during class, that all I want to do is go use the bathroom. Well, I walk in to the bathroom and there is water on the floor and the toilet is backed up. We have never had this problem before so of course I am unprepared and don't have a plunger. But I figured it was no big deal I would just call maintenance and they would come fix it for me. At our last place if you had 1 toilet and it had a problem then it was considered an emergency and they would come fix it immediately. Well, apparently that isn't how it works here. 2 hours later I still haven't peed and their isn't anyone here to fix it. I am mad at this point as I think to myself that I could have just gone and gotten a plunger then I could have fixed it myself. And that is exactly what I did. I called the office again and told them that I was going to fix it myself. So 15 mins later, I had run to the convince store down the road, gotten a plunger, gotten then mail, fixed my toilet, and peed!

But to understand just why I am so mad you have to know what went on during this time I decided to check and see if my financial aid stuff had finally gone through for school. And for those of you who don't know I go to Roane State who recently has gotten some bad press concerning there financial aid department and how slow they have become in getting everything done. Well, once again mine hadn't been done. So I decided to call them. I have done this before and each time they tell me that they are working on it and it should be done soon. Well, today I call and the lady she informs me that the reason that they haven't finished it is because they don't have a copy of Travis's signed tax return form. Hello......why haven't I heard about this before! She proceeds to tell me that they sent me an email and/or a post card on Sept. 18 that told me that. I told her that I didn't have it. Me and Travis didn't file our taxes together because we weren't married yet. But my FAFSA form had both of our information on it. Back in August they sent me a letter that said that they needed my tax return form. So I sent it to them, but they never said anything about his. I also told her that he was in Iraq and that I didn't know where it would be. And you know what she told me to do. "Ask him" is what she says. I didn't know what to say. Ask him, when would she like me to ask him. I don't talk to him on a regular bases, and when I do talk to him I have trouble remembering all the things that I want to talk to him about. That isn't at the top of my priority list! I just don't understand the federal government approved me for this money why can't my stupid school? Needless to say I am going to be writing the president of the school and let him know what is going on!

Once again, just another example of the things that can go wrong when your husband is away!

Balloon Festival

Last night me, my friend Mary Beth, and her son Dylan all went to an annual Hot Air Balloon festival held at a local community college. It was so much fun. As soon as we got there we started with a funnel cake. I hadn't had one since I was little and it was delicous. We walked around and looked at all the vendors that were there. There was one tjhat did face painting, so we stopped and got Dylan's face painted. It was so much fun and he loved it. About this time it got dark and we went to find a good place to stand and see the show. The balloons were awesome to see. They put on this show were they flashed to music it was so cool.

They did a tribute to the military which was also really cool. One of the Balloons raised up the American Flag while they played Lee Greenwoods "God Bless the USA" and the National Anthem. It was very cool to see.

Luckily for us the weather held out. It was suppose to rain, but didn't until we were already on our way home. It was such a great night. Thanks for going with me Mary Beth and Dylan. Hope everyone enjoys the pictures:

2 down

I know that it doesn't seem like much but I am super excited! Travis has been gone for over 2 months!! Can you believe that it has only been 2 months. It seems like a lot longer than that to me. But I guess I finally realized it today and it seems that time really is moving! Now we have almost 3 times that to go, but you never really know! Please continue to pray for him (and me)! Thanks for all the support so far it really means alot to me.

WHAT IS THIS!

I would like to say thank you to whatever hurricane is hitting Texas. Because of this the gas prices here in Knoxville, have sky rocketed!!!! Yesterday, when I was coming home from work the price was $3.69 a gallon. It was that much this morning when I went to school. During class we had talked about how the price was suppose to go up. Well I left to go home and it had gone up to $3.99! In less than an 24 hours it had gone up 30 cents! Crazy, right well that isn't the worst of it. Less then an hour later I left to go run some errands. And it had gone up to $4.49!! 50 cents in one hour! Unbelievable. I think that this is what they call ROBBERY! OK, so maybe that is an over-exaggerating. But that is sure what it feels like. Oh, well nothing I can do right.

Blessed

Today I really realized how much God has blessed me. I have always know that I have a wonderful family, but it is even more obvious to me know! Since, Travis has left I have had good days, and bad. I have been lonely alot. But my family is always there to cheer me up. No matter what is wrong they are always there to fix it in any way that they can. I honestly don't know what I would do with out all of them. My sister is always there for a good laugh when I need it. My parents take care of me. They entertain me when I need it the most. And they are always there to help with problems that I can't seem to fix on my own, like opening a Dr. Pepper bottle! My grandparents put up an electric fence so that my dogs could stay at there place on Tuesday's when I am gone at clinicals all day. And although she isn't family God has blessed me with a great friend. Mary Beth is there to just sit and help make noise in a quiet house. And all the rest of my aunts and uncles and cousins are always praying and supporting me. And I know that I could call on them at anytime of day for any reason. I am so blessed to be loved so unconditionally by so many people, even when I don't always deserve it!

I love you all. You are all the best family that any one could ask for! Thank you for all the support and prayers. I love you soooo much.

safe and sound

So I am back. It has been awhile, but let's face it I am a very busy women these days. But I have finally found a moment to tell you how things are going. Well, I am ok. I have been having a rough few days this past week. With Travis being gone, and starting school, and trying to take care of everything on my own i was a tad bit overwhelmed. But today seemed to be a fairly good day. The dogs decided to give me a break and we laid around and slept for a good portion of the day. It was nice, but unfortunately I did have to go to work but I'll get over it.

Yesterday, was a fun day! My friend Mary Beth came over for awhile last night. We ran a few errands together, and then we came back to my apartment and colored her hair. Actually, I colored her hair. She trusted me enough to do. I even did highlights. I was freaking out and really really nervous. But she was excited. And it actually turned out really well. She loved it, which was a relief to me.

All in all it has been a good day, and tomorrow is looking pretty good.

A note to my parents, I got the door brace today and I immediately put it up when I got home. So I am even more safe than usual. Thanks for buying it for me, I love it. It is nice to have an extra security blanket while being by myself. I love you guys. Have fun with Brandi!!!

Terrible mom!

I am a terrible pet owner. Absolutely terrible. Dewy has a thing with barking at people, well just barking in general. And I have been trying to find ways to stop it. Spanking doesn't work, and yelling doesn't work. So I resorted to something that I thought that I never would. A collar. Not just any collar, but a shock collar. Well this one said it sent out static first to stop them and then really low volts was next again. Well, I bought it after some encouragement from my husband. And I put it on her. She walked around for hours not making a peep. I thought YES!! it worked and she didn't do anything. Not so much. We went out side and she saw another dog, and so she barked at it. Well the collar sent "static", and she FREAKED! She yelped and jumped. Then she barked again. And once again she barked and then yelped and jumped. That sound of her yelping broke my heart. It was such a sad sound that just was terrible. People were looking at me like I was killing her. I felt soooo bad. I immediately took her inside and took it off of her. Now she is laying on the floor on her back with her legs in the air, like she is dead. Ok, ok, yes she sleeps like that sometimes, but still. I feel so bad.

So I need your help. Does anyone else have any ideas on how to get her to stop barking. With out shocking her!? HELP please

Stress,a phone call, and my girls night

Ok, so I have made it through my first week of school. Not without it's share of stresses, but over none the last. I have been stressed lately because of school. I go to school 3 days a week, fixing to start clinicals on the 4th day of the week. Leaving 1 day during the week, in which I work. And I work one day one the weekend, leaving Sunday's as my only day off!! So as you can tell I am a busy women. The dogs and I are trying to get into a new routine. We had a pretty good one since Travis left, but that to has changed since school started. I just keep telling myself that I just have to get through this semester and part of next and then I will be getting some "live in" help, in the form of my husband!!

Speaking of which, I actually got to talk to him this week!! It was so exciting to hear his voice on the other end of the phone. It had been awhile since I had to talk to him. So it was a nice surprise. He is doing well, and seems to be staying busy (obviously!!). He thanks you all for all the thoughts and prayers. And said to tell everyone hello.

So as treat for myself on making through the week, and with some encouragement from my husband to do something for myself, and my sister for giving me the idea. I am spending the night doing fun girly things. I have ordered pizza and cinnamon sticks (I caved Brandi) and plan to watch a girly movie, and possibly even get a bubble bath, but let's not push it. So excuse me while I go and enjoy myself!!

My 1st day of school

Yesterday and today I felt like a kid again. Being nervous about school was something I thought had past when I graduated High School. But apparently not. I kept going through my head about all the things that I had to do to get ready. I even picked out my cloths last night. I haven't done that since I was in like the 6th grade!!! But this morning I got up and feed the dogs. Who were not happy to be up that early. They didn't even eat, they just feel asleep in the living room. But I got a shower and got dressed and off I went. I started the day with my Pharmacology class. Sounds fun right!? Then I got an hour break so that I could come home and take care of the dogs. I only live 5 mins from my campus. And then went back for my Foundations to Nursing class. They were both pretty boring classes. But I have hope that they might get more interesting. Probably not much, lab and clinicals should be more interesting! But I guess this was the first day of the rest of my career. Scary. Now I get to go study! Pray for me I think that I am going to need it!

Sunday is Funday

What a day!! I had such a good day. I got up early this morning to put dinner in the crock pot for dinner tonight. Then I got ready to go see a movie with my mom. I meet her at the theater. And we saw "Mama Mia". My mom say the play and wanted to go and see the movie. And of course I jumped at the chance to go out. It was a wonderful movie. It was so entertaining, and fun. It kept me laughing the entire time. But it ended to soon. Thanks mom for taking me to a movie. It was nice to laugh again. It seems to have been awhile since I had that much fun!!

Later this afternoon my grandparents came over for dinner. We had fun looking at pictures and reminiscing. And I have to say that I made a good dinner. I was surprised because it has been so long since I have made anything! But all in all it was a good day. I just hope there are more to come. I have a feeling I am going to need them!

It's Brandi's turn!

Brandi hasn't posted on her blog anytime recently. So this is my way of getting her to post something for us all to enjoy! She told me that I didn't post anything since she did last, and she wouldn't post anything until I did. So now it is her turn!

Computers and Dr. Pepper

Ok, so I know that you all know the theory that when your husband is away everything breaks or goes wrong. Well it never ceases to amaze me the things that go wrong. So I thought that I would tell you this weeks story, because even if I do say so myself it is some what funny. But first you must understand something. In our marriage there is certain things that I am better at and somethings that Travis is better at. That is what makes us work, you know we balance it out for each other. Well I am not good at computers and Travis is. I mean I am probably the dumbest person when it comes to them. I know enough to get me through my college classes, to post blogs, and maybe play a game or two, but that is were my knowledge ends. Travis on the other hand can do anything and fix anything that goes wrong with them. He is so good at it that I swear he can walk into a room and look at a broken computer and it is fixed instantly! So of course that is one of the few things that I was absolutely positively hoping wouldn't mess up while he was gone. Well that is not exactly how it went, it went a little something like this....

Yesterday I was doing my usual things on the computer nothing fancy just checking my email and such. Well this little thing popped up and said that it had found virus's that could be attacking my computer. Well I start to worry because there is so much on this computer that I would hate to loose, especially all of our pictures. I read it and tried to figure out what to do to fix it. It wanted me to download this "Antivirus 2009" to fix it. The symbol in the corner of the box looked like the Microsoft symbol, but the more I looked at it and the more I read the more suspicious I became. So before I downloaded it I thought that I would research it a little just to be on the safe side. Well, my instincts were right, it was a fake! It was actually a virus itself.

At this point I think that I have dodged the bullet. I am so proud of myself. Well then comes the bomb!! All the sudden I the Internet is freaking out. Everything I do is blocked or stopped, and these ads keep coming up saying that I am not protected, and there are virus's on the computer, and if I download "Antivirus 2009" it will get rid of it all. It was so bad I can't do anything on the Internet. I try everything I know to do and nothing works. So I decide to try download something from McAfee to help. Well after it takes forever to download it doesn't even work!! At this point I have exhausted all my resources, or so I think. Then I remember that I have heard Travis say that he was going to "restore" the computer. Well I go searching through the computer to find anything that might help. Well then I find it. A button that I can push to fix everything (ok it was a little harder than that). Well it can't hurt the computer any more than it already is I thought so I did it. And it worked!!! My computer is back to normal!! I did it all by myself with out help from any one. I know that my husband would be so proud if had been here.

Well I know that you are thinking were does the Dr. Pepper come into play. Well here is that part of the story. See I fixed something that I know nothing about, and I was so happy. And there was this 2-liter of Dr. Pepper in the refrigerator that Travis bought while he was home that we never opened. I thought that I would treat myself to some since I rarely ever drink soda. Well I get a glass put some ice in it and get it out of the drink out of the fridge and then..... I can't get it open. I must have spent 20 minutes trying to get it open. And it never opened. I can fix something I know nothing about, but I can't open a stupid 2-liter!!! So it is still sitting in the fridge. That is the funny part to my story!! Sad I know, but I guess it is just another thing that can go wrong when your husband is away!!!

My week as Switzerland!!

I had suck a great time in CA! I miss seeing Brandi and getting to spend time with her. We always have so much fun when we are together it stinks that we are so far apart. Here are just a few of the pictures that I took while I was there. Sorry I don't think that they are in order but you get the idea.


Me and Brandi on girls night! Those were good Strawberry's.




Bath night, those are paintings behind him. Me and Travis got him bath paints for his birthday!


Yummy cake. The kid had it every where!!








Doesn't she look stunning!? (sorry Brandi I just couldn't hide this from the world!)


The adults eating ice cream at Sea World. Kyle had and M&M sandwich, Brandi had a Schamu, and I had an M&M shaped thing.


Mom and Zach checking out the Black and White Dolphins!

Taking a pic of Brandi taking a pic of me.

The family testing out the new baby carrier! Zach really seemed to like it.

The happy family all snuggling together.

This is just a video of us on the way to Sea World. Nothing much just a look at us having fun!