tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-225247612102529792024-03-12T22:55:30.658-06:00Darcy's Life as a Military WifeDarcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-11531561705000615752011-05-21T06:56:00.005-06:002011-05-22T09:05:50.092-06:00Trying againBig news that happened back in January, 3 days before Dave went back Dave went back to Afghanistan...a new addition. Her name is Shelby and she is quite a character! <br />She has been my distraction the past 4 months and I can't wait for Dave to get home to get to enjoy her. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0s3x4yxESk8/Tde2vXFk18I/AAAAAAAAAHc/8PIFYmH87yE/s1600/sleeping.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0s3x4yxESk8/Tde2vXFk18I/AAAAAAAAAHc/8PIFYmH87yE/s200/sleeping.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609152785680750530" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eZ7WyAkGdx4/TdfMyYu6BVI/AAAAAAAAAHk/TTfAnigtSto/s1600/kids.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 197px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eZ7WyAkGdx4/TdfMyYu6BVI/AAAAAAAAAHk/TTfAnigtSto/s200/kids.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609177026917958994" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8QBr-OLM8gc/TdfM7dfYolI/AAAAAAAAAHs/c3ynt0cGiW8/s1600/you%2Bcalled.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 195px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8QBr-OLM8gc/TdfM7dfYolI/AAAAAAAAAHs/c3ynt0cGiW8/s200/you%2Bcalled.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609177182813856338" /></a>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-21254091045055342252011-05-21T06:45:00.002-06:002011-05-21T06:49:12.775-06:0037 days...Well, the real countdown has begun. 37 days until redeployment!!! <br />Its been an interesting year for sure and I've learned alot about myself. <br />I've tried to post on here numerous times with photos and updates but the photos always post too big and I gave up on them without posting anything. I have enough frustration without having to fight with that!!!<br />We have almost survived the deployment, thats the important thing.Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-73401157543969657772010-12-29T05:51:00.003-07:002010-12-29T06:00:36.024-07:002 Days... (hopefully...)Well, last I heard from Dave he was flying into Kuwait the afternoon of Dec 29<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> (his time) and was hoping to quickly get on a flight out. We're still hoping for a Dec 31st arrival (my time).<br /><br />I can't believe he could be here in 2 days. I can't wait....I REALLY can't wait.<br /><br />Also arriving at the end of the week...WINTER in Colorado. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Yay</span>! I'm very excited for <span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffff00">some</span> cold weather and SNOW!! I love snow!<br /><br /><br /><br />Last night our Iowa <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hawkeyes</span> played a wonderful game and beat Missouri in the Insight Bowl. I was really hoping for a win for them after the terribly November and December they've had with unexpected losses and heartbreaking player indiscretions...<br /><br />ALSO...now Dave will have a GOOD game to watch when he finally does get home. :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TRswpeP_9kI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/mS34_KiiN7Y/s1600/th_c338ab82.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 160px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 117px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556088054344578626" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TRswpeP_9kI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/mS34_KiiN7Y/s320/th_c338ab82.jpg" /></a>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-16462375992483928642010-12-25T20:40:00.003-07:002010-12-25T20:44:11.515-07:00Only 5.5 days.....So tonight Dave and I were having a skype conversation while it was still lights out so he was using a flashlight to light himself. This just cracked me up.<br />Can't wait for him to get home at the end of the week.<br />I hope you all had a wonderful holiday!!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TRa5biISH6I/AAAAAAAAAHI/whjByKmRPmE/s1600/scary%2Bdave.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554831073077239714" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TRa5biISH6I/AAAAAAAAAHI/whjByKmRPmE/s320/scary%2Bdave.jpg" /></a>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-66852281804168927542010-12-25T06:43:00.002-07:002010-12-25T06:44:00.983-07:00Merry Christmas!!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TRX1GfzrlsI/AAAAAAAAAHA/VHYc3CpaoRc/s1600/merry_christmas_everybody.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 223px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554615207397660354" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TRX1GfzrlsI/AAAAAAAAAHA/VHYc3CpaoRc/s320/merry_christmas_everybody.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-7058426162099385752010-12-18T07:56:00.004-07:002010-12-18T07:57:53.826-07:0013 days.......while visions of Daddy coming home from Afghanistan danced in his head....<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TQzLqC38miI/AAAAAAAAAG0/DrqJsHf4_IE/s1600/Chopper%2Bsleeping.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552036363827452450" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TQzLqC38miI/AAAAAAAAAG0/DrqJsHf4_IE/s320/Chopper%2Bsleeping.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-53947999990449134622010-12-11T15:14:00.005-07:002010-12-11T19:32:37.192-07:00Wow, 3 months since my last post!I can't believe its been that long!<br /><br />Good news is Dave will be home in 20 days for his 2 week mid-tour leave. He should arrive on Dec 30th or 31st and we both are so excited.<br /><br />Christmas and Thanksgiving will be celebrated on January 1st and I'm sure the first week will be spent just hanging out, watching bowl games and eating lots of good food. The second week he's home we're planning a 3 day trip to Estes Park, CO which is about 3 hours north of us. I can't wait for alittle get-a-way. We decided to not venture to Iowa for a family visit since the leave is so short and I want Dave to relax the whole time he's home. Traveling is definitely NOT relaxing at all for us. Its going to be so nice to get back to "normal" if only for a short time.<br /><br />Dave is doing good over there, for the most part. Its definitely not fun for any of them and I know they are all looking forward to their leave time.<br /><br />The unit have adopted some stray dogs that have become their companions and mascots.<br />The top pic is a young male, Tack, and the second is of the older female, Dog.<br />Original names, huh? Anyway, it makes me happy to know they have one small comfort of home. The dogs eat chow hall food and are so spoiled that neither like the dog treats I've sent in the care packages for them.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TQP5bmeBmzI/AAAAAAAAAGs/kb3DPtWvbW8/s1600/alpha%2Bdog%2B6.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549553418428848946" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TQP5bmeBmzI/AAAAAAAAAGs/kb3DPtWvbW8/s320/alpha%2Bdog%2B6.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TQP5Uoqk2zI/AAAAAAAAAGk/PZlWmuvlOVs/s1600/alpha%2Bdog.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549553298759277362" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TQP5Uoqk2zI/AAAAAAAAAGk/PZlWmuvlOVs/s320/alpha%2Bdog.jpg" /></a><br />Well, I will try to update more often...my life just hasn't been that exciting lately.<br />Happy Holidays everyone!!!<br />My goal for 2011 is to keep this blog updated more frequently.Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-81001689968082551902010-09-03T05:54:00.002-06:002010-09-03T06:01:10.434-06:00Rough weekIts been a long, rough week with soldiers lost, no communication, stress and worry and finally relief.<br />My heart breaks for the families of our fallen soldiers....I have no words to tell them how sorry I am or to thank them for their sacrifice for our country.<br />I do know this is going to be a long, stressful year. <br />Dave had hoped to come home in February for his 2 week R&R and now it looks like that will be pushed back to April. Theres always a chance it could change again and not be that far off but I am going to mentally prepare for April and if he gets to come home sooner...GREAT. But I won't set myself up for the disappointment of expecting earlier.<br /><br />Hawkeye football season starts tomorrow and that will be bittersweet. Hubby and I are huge fans and it just won't be the same without him here watching with me. <br />Go Hawks!Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-30680844982447217342010-08-29T07:08:00.001-06:002010-08-29T07:08:44.594-06:004 weeks down, 48 to go!!Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-4777105575819354222010-08-27T11:49:00.002-06:002010-08-27T11:51:19.183-06:00The Deployment PrayerDeployment Prayer<br /><br />Dear Lord:<br />Give me the strength to say goodbye.<br />Hold back the tear in my eye.<br />Cure my insomnia so that I may sleep alone.<br />Give me a reason to awake when I've none.<br /><br />Dear Lord:<br />Please help me pace myself.<br />Allow me to turn to you for help,<br />And please let me be strong for him,<br />Even if I've reached the brim.<br /><br />Dear Lord:<br />Please make time go fast.<br />I don't know how long I can last.<br />This is the hardest time of my life, But this is my job: the soldier's wife.<br /><br />Dear Lord:<br />Let them all stay strong.<br />Give them the will to go on, And Lord, Please bring back all our men.<br />In the name of our country. Amen.<br /><br />~By Leanne Thomas~Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-30343479372122321272010-08-20T10:34:00.003-06:002010-08-20T11:25:34.124-06:00Week 2Well, sorry I haven't updated in awhile but the past couple weeks have been very busy. First off the emotional good-bye took a toll but then I only had a week to prepare for my besty friend and her daughter's visit. They arrived last Thursday night and we had a wonderful 4 days.<br /><br />There was my friend Kim, her 10 yr old daughter Emily, her 15 yr old daughter, Kaitie (my god daughter) and Kaitie's best friend Jenna.<br /><br />Last Friday I made my first drive up Pike's Peak. I must admit the anticipation of the drive was more nerve-racking than the drive itself. The girls loved the mountain! Friday also happened to be Jenna's 15th birthday so after the mountain adventure we went out to dinner at Carinos and came home to a mini birthday party for Jenna, cake included.<br /><br />Saturday we hit the Colorado Springs Flea Market with my neighbor and her daughter and spent Saturday evening sitting around with my neighbors and partaking in a few drinks.<br /><br />Sunday I took my guests to Manitou Springs, CO for more shopping and to visit the Indian Cliff Dwellings. The girls loved the cliff dwellings...however I was less than impressed, enjoyed the shopping much more.<br /><br />Monday was another day of shopping and then Monday night they had to prepare to leave on Tuesday morning.<br /><br />We had a wonderful girl's weekend...the only downside is that my friend brought a cold with her and decided to leave it with me. So Tuesday when they left my cold kicked in bigtime and I've been suffering with it the entire week. Today seems to be better.<br /><br /><br /><br />While I was busy with the girls Dave was busy getting things in order at his new base. They got internet hooked up yesterday so we were able to chat on Facebook this morning. There is no wifi so I doubt we'll be able to Skype which is very disappointing. It was good to be able to chat with him in real time though.<br /><br />He says the people in Afghanistan are dirt poor and is looking forward to doing things to help them. He also said some of the Afghani kids see them as good guys and some do not and throw rocks at their convoys. He seems more committed to the mission than ever and is excited to make positive changes for the people of Kandahar.Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-53340328874222409022010-08-03T15:25:00.005-06:002010-08-03T15:41:42.784-06:00Deployment DayWell deployment day has come and gone and the adjustment period has begun. Sunday was undoubtedly the hardest day of my life, saying good-bye and seeing Dave for the last time for atleast 6 months. We arrived at the unit at 2pm and stood around for 3+ hrs while the guys were issued their weapons and a year's supply of anti-malaria medication. It was a long hot afternoon. At 5:30 the buses pulled up to the unit to take the guys to a larger gym on post for the formal good-byes. That building was hot and as the people filed in it got hotter and hotter. We stepped out to the lobby and had our last few moments together there. I was overcome with emotion and we decided it was time to say our last good-bye and for me to head home. It was about 7pm and it has already been a LONG, hot, exhausting, emotional day. That last good-bye was heartbreaking.<br /><br /><br />This pic was taken at the unit...<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TFiJggevuVI/AAAAAAAAAGU/6j3gJCeLlEQ/s1600/DSCN0455.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501298136400771410" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TFiJggevuVI/AAAAAAAAAGU/6j3gJCeLlEQ/s320/DSCN0455.JPG" /></a> Dad and Chopper saying good-bye.....<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TFiJbT1VaoI/AAAAAAAAAGM/SBF5iGyko5E/s1600/DSCN0451.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501298047106509442" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TFiJbT1VaoI/AAAAAAAAAGM/SBF5iGyko5E/s320/DSCN0451.JPG" /></a><br />He looks entirely too happy...<br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TFiJUY87MlI/AAAAAAAAAGE/2Kan39dz5eI/s1600/DSCN0446.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 274px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501297928221438546" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TFiJUY87MlI/AAAAAAAAAGE/2Kan39dz5eI/s320/DSCN0446.JPG" /></a>Yesterday I heard from hubby by text and a quick call letting me know that they had made it to Germany and were awaiting their flight to Kurkistan where they will stay for about a week before heading into Afghanistan.<br /></div><div>This morning I got an email telling me that they had arrived in Kurkistan and he was sleeping in a tent with about 200 other soldiers and that is was HOT.<br /></div><div>All I can say to that is...."GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!"</div><div> </div><div>On the homefront things have been very quiet. I'm not sleeping well, have had a constant headache and I'm sick to my stomach most of the time. Its going to be a long year...</div><div>Only 364 more days.....<br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-74481235217212176532010-07-31T08:22:00.003-06:002010-07-31T08:24:00.252-06:00At the Cubs/Rockies gameAlthough the outcome was not what we had hoped, we still had a great night at the ball park.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TFQxuks2HQI/AAAAAAAAAF8/jo2lDHAIao8/s1600/39849_1495941512714_1059383538_31456759_4548858_n.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500075721121733890" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TFQxuks2HQI/AAAAAAAAAF8/jo2lDHAIao8/s320/39849_1495941512714_1059383538_31456759_4548858_n.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-69842446552928838142010-07-30T08:57:00.002-06:002010-07-30T09:07:14.188-06:00Quick updateGot news this week that the deployment was delayed by a day so we have a Sunday D-day now. That delay enabled us time to get to the Cubs/Rockies game tonight. Yay! We spurged and got great seats so......Lets Go Cubbies!!!<br /><br />Also found out that the base the company is going to in Afghanistan is one of the nicer ones and they should have showers and internet access. Both things--- great news. I had Dave ask his executive officer (who is already over there) if he felt safe and he said "Yes" and that they got lucky with the location they're going to. That makes me feel ALITTLE better.<br /><br />We also got a mailing address and I've already began planning the first care package which I'll probably mail out next week and he'll get it toward the end of the month. He's gonna love it. (I better not share cuz he might read the blog and I want it to be a surprise.)<br /><br />Oh....and they will be 10.5 hrs ahead of our mountain time zone.<br /><br /><br /><br />The report time Sunday is 2:30pm and the families will be able to stay with them until 8:30pm and they fly out at 2am. Its going to be a LONG day.Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-85959903742402434712010-07-22T05:58:00.003-06:002010-07-22T06:07:38.633-06:00One more week...Well, we've only got 9 more days until deployment day. I can't believe its that close already...the time is really flying by. I've got tons of things flying through my brain...mostly hoping we've gotten everything in order as far as Powers of Attorney, money issues and house/car issues go. We had a meeting last week given by the battalion commander briefing us on the deployment and answering questions by the audience. One little girl in the back of the auditorium asked..."Is my Daddy going to come home?" It was heartwrenching....BC answered as best he could without promising her anything. Needless to say, the Q&A session ended right there. I learned alot of good info but more importantly it made me realize that I am not alone....there are hundreds of Army spouses in my exact situation and I'll be okay. Atleast I know this is Dave's only deployment and we have that retirement at the end to look forward to.<br /><br />Dave came home last week with new patches on his uniform. <br />The flag used to be red/white/blue...I like that one much better than the new one!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TEgyfstGqII/AAAAAAAAAF0/xcDB9v5o0jY/s1600/Left.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 271px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496698865363363970" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TEgyfstGqII/AAAAAAAAAF0/xcDB9v5o0jY/s320/Left.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TEgya-B7YrI/AAAAAAAAAFs/Ri3h13e521o/s1600/right.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 247px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496698784114762418" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TEgya-B7YrI/AAAAAAAAAFs/Ri3h13e521o/s320/right.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div></div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-70834667872997875652010-07-13T05:48:00.002-06:002010-07-13T05:55:54.138-06:00Happy Birthday!Wow, I can't believe its been a month since I last posted. We've been pretty busy getting ready for the deployment, getting ready for block leave and we just got home from leave in Iowa last Friday. It was great seeing everyone but also bittersweet knowing that Dave wouldn't be seeing anyone for a year. While we were home Dave's grandpa passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer. I was so happy we made it there in time for Dave to see grandpa while he could still know we were there and recognize us.<br />While we were driving home to Colorado I couldn't help but think about how close the deployment is. Less than 3 weeks now. <br /><br />This week there is an important meeting on post regarding the deployment. The battalion commander will be providing families with info about what to expect while our guys are gone. Hopefully he'll have some information about how and how often we'll be able to communicate. We'll also find out exactly where the guys will be and info about the area. I'm anxious to hear the details.<br /><br />Today is Dave's 41st birthday.... HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEETIE!!!Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-1981236353530822532010-06-15T18:55:00.007-06:002010-06-15T19:00:10.886-06:00Random Critter PicsOrlando is still enjoying his lion cut. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBghqDqv7AI/AAAAAAAAAFU/ZeENIdB-O6Q/s1600/DSCN0311.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483169552746408962" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBghqDqv7AI/AAAAAAAAAFU/ZeENIdB-O6Q/s320/DSCN0311.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBghiZ0jubI/AAAAAAAAAFM/KV4dCeI-YBc/s1600/DSCN0307.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483169421254179250" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBghiZ0jubI/AAAAAAAAAFM/KV4dCeI-YBc/s320/DSCN0307.JPG" /></a><br />Chopper loving the sun.<br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBghaKgoRHI/AAAAAAAAAFE/TWsYpp1GDFk/s1600/DSCN0293.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483169279705105522" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBghaKgoRHI/AAAAAAAAAFE/TWsYpp1GDFk/s320/DSCN0293.JPG" /></a><br />Jace reflecting on things.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBghNzPQwRI/AAAAAAAAAE8/1NW7p6__AXE/s1600/DSCN0249.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483169067299815698" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBghNzPQwRI/AAAAAAAAAE8/1NW7p6__AXE/s320/DSCN0249.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-85877067926859611902010-06-13T11:22:00.005-06:002010-06-13T11:38:20.041-06:00Battalion BallWe attended the Battalion Ball last night and had a great time.<br />The guest speaker was a man who worked in a building across the street from the World Trade Center and was a witness to the horrific attacks on 9/11.<br />He relived the horror he and his co-workers experienced that awful day from witnessing the planes flying into the buildings, their harrowing escape from their own building, and then seeing the people jump to their deaths from the upper floors of the WTC.<br />It was very moving and seeing him brought close to tears while telling his story brought me all the way to them.<br />He said he felt priviledged to be in the same room with these brave men and woman who defend our country everyday and wanted them to know how much he appreciated them and their service to our country and wanted them to know if they (or their families) ever question why they're in Afghanistan or wonder if people back home support them to call him. And he made his phone number available to all of us.<br /><br />After the wonderful speech, awards ceremony, dinner and MANY drinks the dancing and craziness began. Everyone had a wonderful time and the guys were able to blow off steam before their upcoming deployment. Its definitely what they needed after the many months of training they've endured and what they have infront of them in the coming year.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBUULcK_M9I/AAAAAAAAAE0/NyxlHKHR-kA/s1600/1sgt.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482310308166841298" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBUULcK_M9I/AAAAAAAAAE0/NyxlHKHR-kA/s320/1sgt.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBUUGFSnRwI/AAAAAAAAAEs/sy1kI2STsTI/s1600/me.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482310216125466370" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBUUGFSnRwI/AAAAAAAAAEs/sy1kI2STsTI/s320/me.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBUUA1Kr-FI/AAAAAAAAAEk/wdmgIPiRqdM/s1600/dancing.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482310125897906258" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBUUA1Kr-FI/AAAAAAAAAEk/wdmgIPiRqdM/s320/dancing.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBUT76pJVtI/AAAAAAAAAEc/SQCXRXVP9iU/s1600/table.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482310041468491474" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/TBUT76pJVtI/AAAAAAAAAEc/SQCXRXVP9iU/s320/table.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-5839662881669590252010-05-22T10:13:00.005-06:002010-05-22T10:27:03.043-06:00This and that.....I haven't posted in awhile...not much has been going on. We have both been busy at work, Dave getting ready for the deployment and me preparing to start working with a new orthodontist who just bought our practice. I'm very anxious to meet him and hope he's nicer than my current boss.<br />The deployment date keeps changing. Its gone from July 20th, to mid-August, to August 3rd and now its July 30/31. The Army likes to keep you guessing I guess. The unit they're replacing is in charge of the flights and their guys must be in theater for 365 days, not one day more or one day less. When a flight of our guys gets there they'll fill the plane up with soldiers coming home. The whole process of trading out battalions will take atleast a month. <br /><br />It looks like spring has finally sprung here in the Rockies. My white lilac bush is in full bloom and the backyard smells amazing. If we leave the family room window open the lilac smell fills the whole room. Natures own air freshner!!!<br /><br />Our cat Orlando has been fighting mats for the past few months and we've been losing the battle so we decided it was time for a lion cut to get ahead of the problem. I thought we'd bring home a very upset and embarrassed kitty but much to our surprise he seems much happier now! He's been VERY lovey and social....he must feel better having gotten rid of all that long, hot and matted hair!!! <br />A few before/after pics....<br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Before</span></div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S_gC-k99s0I/AAAAAAAAAEE/Be_9GbDacII/s1600/nakedcatbefore.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474128621167555394" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S_gC-k99s0I/AAAAAAAAAEE/Be_9GbDacII/s320/nakedcatbefore.jpg" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">After</span></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S_gC1mDKt0I/AAAAAAAAAD8/uvI2pTKMRIk/s1600/naked+cat2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474128466838992706" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S_gC1mDKt0I/AAAAAAAAAD8/uvI2pTKMRIk/s320/naked+cat2.jpg" /></a><br />Apparently nakedness agrees with him.....</div><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S_gCwvbvKfI/AAAAAAAAAD0/S9msUXHB5uo/s1600/naked+cat.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474128383458617842" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S_gCwvbvKfI/AAAAAAAAAD0/S9msUXHB5uo/s320/naked+cat.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-50936789514831287642010-05-15T10:24:00.003-06:002010-05-15T10:30:02.694-06:00VaccinesDave had a bunch of vaccines the past two days. The two I can remember are Anthrax and Small Pox. Man, that Small Pox one is not one to mess with. He'll be dealing with the injection site for weeks. He has to keep in totally dry at all times which he plans to do using duct tape. Thats a tough Army Ranger for ya!! <br />The injection site will first swell then the next 4 weeks it'll blister, pus, itch and finally heal. <br />Soldiers with pregnant wives or small children can't get their vaccines until they reach Afghanistan. Kinda makes me nervous wondering what the heck could happen if I was exposed to it. Scary.Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-38835502777283683832010-05-07T05:53:00.002-06:002010-05-07T05:54:29.500-06:00An Important Day....<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S-P_YGTNi6I/AAAAAAAAADc/kZWt7EJaP7o/s1600/MilitarySpouseAppreciationDay.gif"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 144px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468495162031049634" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S-P_YGTNi6I/AAAAAAAAADc/kZWt7EJaP7o/s320/MilitarySpouseAppreciationDay.gif" /></a><br /><div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-68369952128796261152010-05-05T05:47:00.002-06:002010-05-05T05:50:21.320-06:00Life back to normal....Well, my soldier finally got home on Sunday and after 3 days off for both of us its back to work today.<br />It sure is great to have him home. <br />The weather is getting really nice so we've spent alot of time just sitting outside on the patio and talking...while watching the Frenchie play in the yard. <br />Its the little things.....Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-65319726790963203132010-05-01T07:24:00.003-06:002010-05-01T07:29:39.312-06:00Camera Critter Saturday<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S9wr5h0-DmI/AAAAAAAAADU/eb2qdDxi4-I/s1600/ranger+2.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 236px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466292315054018146" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y5sJmPmIKg8/S9wr5h0-DmI/AAAAAAAAADU/eb2qdDxi4-I/s320/ranger+2.jpg" /></a><br /><div>This is our Boxer/Plott Hound Ranger. Sadly he passed away this past November. </div><div>Ranger was the sweetest boy and without doubt the smartest dog I've ever known. </div><br /><div>We miss him everyday....he was a BIG presence in <div></div>our home and hearts.<br /></div><div></div>Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-73908376535387158682010-04-29T11:17:00.001-06:002010-04-29T11:17:57.981-06:00Grrrrr....Scratch Saturday....make it Sunday.<br />My patience is really being tested.Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22524761210252979.post-64005657294879369242010-04-29T05:57:00.002-06:002010-04-29T06:02:54.986-06:00What was that I said about waiting???I wrote in my very first blog posting about learning to be patient and all the waiting military spouses have to do. Well, I was informed yesterday that my soldier WON'T be home Friday but "hopefully" Saturday. (Deep breath). Something about a problem getting the flights arranged. Well, you would think that the powers that be would have had that all figured out, wouldn't you? Especially since they've had a month (at the very least) to prepare to bring the guys home from Louisiana. So I rearranged my work schedule, for a second time, and I will continue to wait. And hope for a Saturday return.<br />Another military life lesson....don't believe it until you SEE it.Darcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485250122040594216noreply@blogger.com1