Christmas Time Is Here!!!

This is my favorite time of year! In my family Christmas, or any Fall holiday, is a big deal. I know this is the time of year when we all get together as a Family. We eat, play, talk, and enjoy together and it's great. This year is going to be super fun because everyone will be home!!! The Archibalds will be back from China and Lacy will be home from Utah!! I'm so excited. Down here is a little different. I'm bummed because we don't have a Christmas tree up or any real decorations. I have tons of Christmas songs to listen to, but no decorations to look at. Oh well, one year I'll have more than Grandma!! Love you all and see you in two weeks!!!

Catch Up

Just to catch everyone up, I have a new job. I work at UF, I know, at the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. It'll be for just a month while the receptionist is on maternity leave. Then I'll have to get another job. My agent is out all week, so next week I'll have her trying to find something for me. I need something until about the end of April. Then I'll be back in Alabama for school. YIKES, but I'm okay. There is a part of me that thinks, if I can find a job maybe I should go back to school early. The only catch with that is I would take 4 classes in the Spring, 1 in the Summer, and then 1 in the Fall. Exercise Physiology is only offered in the Fall. I mean, this might help me make sure I have everything I need to graduate, but I'll be gone for an entire year. I don't know if that's okay. Joe says do whatever I feel is right, but living away just doesn't feel right. Which lets me know it's the right thing to do because I really don't want to. I mean I do want to finish school at UAH because I'm almost done, but I would not like living away from Joe again. It will be easier for me to travel back home since this time around we're married, but still, once you're married it's hard to sleep alone. I know, I had to sleep with Sara when Blasen was gone and there was a squirrel in the house!! Oh well, I'm going to call and talk with someone from the school to make sure I have everything I need to graduate. Let's just pray that happens in December 2009.

Thanksgiving was a hoot. Of course when Joe and I got to Mom and Dad's no one had told us there was NO WATER!! Oh well, Emily and I took jug baths while Danny and Joe took the kids to Jennie and Krager's. So while the kids played Joe and Danny got baths with running water. Whatever, it isn't a Ford Holiday without something like no water. At least it wasn't like some appliance was broken. Usually it's the dishwasher that breaks. But it finally came back on when Emily and I had both finished getting ready. At least Mom and Dad got showers, and that's what matters. I also learned about the emfamous "Christmas Spanking". I had never heard of this in my life, but Jennie and Emily knew exactly what it was. So Tim, my uncle, looks at Jennie and says, "What's a Christmas Spanking?" and Jennie replies, " You Die." OH MY GOSH, I had never heard of that. But they say that Dad used to say that Uncle Tony almost got one, which is believable since he was a pretty bad kid. So, I think I'll adopt this phylosophy with my kids!! Oh, but before all the Christmas Spanking excitement, Joe and Danny came back from the Vaughns wanting Deviled Eggs to go with dinner. So, I head to the store to get more eggs because I volenteered to make them. Okay, I've NEVER made deviled eggs. I've NEVER really boiled eggs. So I crack two and Joe chimes in that you're supposed to put them in the water first and then boil the water. I'm glad someone told me. Whatever! Then when I was trying to peel the eggs the pipe came loose under the sink and the garbage disposal leaked onto the floor. So now Dad's mad and Mom and Jennie are trying to clean up the mess. I take the eggs into the bathroom to peel them. Picture this, me at the sink in the kitchen bathroom, pot of eggs on the sink and bowl of peeled eggs on the toilet. Yet another reason to not eat deviled eggs. Joe was sweet and helped me make the filling for them and then fill them so I can eat. He's too sweet. They technically were for him and Danny, so I didn't feel too bad making him fill them.

We drove home on Friday and had a pretty uneventful weekend. Church on Sunday was a different story. I am the new Chair of the Activities Committee and have the Ward Christmas Party on Saturday. That's right, it was going to be on the day of the SEC Championship game!! Luckily, Bishop suggested we change it so he will actually attend. Now it's on Friday night which is completely fine. Until I found out that the YSA is having a dang Winter Formal at our building on that day at that time. Great, so now it's moved to the Institute Building on campus which doesn't have that much parking!! Luckily it's after ticketing hours so people can park down the street at the parking garage. This party better be dang good! Oh! To top that off the two people on my committee might not be there because the wife is having a baby any day now, her due date is Dec. 6, but they are super sweet and it's baby #3 so they are getting most of the stuff from Sam's Club for me. That's the best part of it. They are such good people and I'm lucky to have them.

Hope everyone is enjoying the Holiday Season!! Love you all!!

Wost Morning Ever

So, on top of being sick still and kinda depressed that I don't have a job anymore, I wake up this morning to go to the bathroom. No biggie, I do it all the time. Well 30 mins. later I have to pee again. I think, "Okay, maybe I read the clock wrong". So I go again, then again and again. Oh great, I have a freaking UTI, again!! So I take some Urogesic Blue and go to sleep. Then I wake up this morning feeling yuck and not wanting to go to work. But I get up and get ready, remind Joe to grab his computer, and leave for work. When I get outside my car is frosted. So I turn the car on and remember my medicine is inside. So, I grab the remote to unlock the car and lock it to run back inside. BIG MISTAKE!! Dumb dumb me didn't realize that the remote won't work when the car is turned on. So, now I've locked my key, phone, and purse in the car with it running. So I run back inside to get a hanger and try to get in. After six people, SIX, walk by me a nice lady stops to let me use her phone. I call Joe and tell him what happened and he calls a Locksmith. Well, right when I get off the phone the nice new maintenance guy comes over and sees me crying on the curb by my car. He goes and gets a crowbar to pry the door open a little and then runs to get a metal rod so we can either roll down a window or unlock the door. We get a window rolled down and get in the car. It only took an HOUR AND A HALF to get into my car after I locked the keys in. I was in a hurry because I only had a forth of a tank left and didn't want to run out of gas. So I call Joe to cancel the locksmith and inform him that I sorta broke the lock on the driver side door. Whatever, he says it's okay we can fix it. Did I mention that I have the best husband in the world ever?????? He's great! So I'm headed to work, call and let them know what happened and stop to get some gas. Joe calls me and lets me know that my friend Lisa, who's been majorly sick this pregnancy, is having TWINS!! I'm so excited for her. So, that made my day a little better. Things happen for a reason, I'm just glad Heavenly Father could understand my high pitched, squeaky prayer this morning. Now I really just want to go home and lay in bed. But, my day is better now, I'm at work and getting paid. For another day, then I'm gone. Oh well, hopefully I'll find something!

We're Back!!!

Thailand was amazing! I had the best time seeing what my husband calls home. I'll post some more details and pictures, promise!! Just working my last week, yeah, I got laid off while I was gone. Oh well, my Temp agent has been looking for me a new job for about a week, so we'll see. But I got tons of cool stuff from Thailand so I can't complain. I mean I could, but we'll save that for later ;) Love you all!!

Tuesday!!!

I'm so excited we leave on Tuesday!!!! I can't wait, I need a vacation. This will be the frist real vacation I've had since I was in high school! I know that wasn't too long ago, but still, a girl needs a break every now and then!

Sucky Monday

Do you know how hard it is to fight back tears all day and not look like a big baby at work?? Too hard!

10 Days

When i think of it that way it seems longer than it feels. I'm so excited about going to Thailand. Joe and I have our passports, luggage, and traveling plans all worked out. I'm ready for a change. It's the same every day: get up, go to work, come home, wait for Joe, eat dinner, go to bed. I need a little excitement right now. Just waiting for everything is boring. I know, we were never allowed to say that when we were growing up, but it's true. My excitement is watching TV when I get home or reading a book. I'm glad I have a wild imagination. You can't go wrong with a good Sherlock Holmes mystery!!

Update

So, to update the previous post, I called Mom last night about my whole dentist thing. She told me that my dentist was full of crap and just trying to get my money. Since the last time I was at the dentist was six months ago. Well, now I'm going to have to try and see my old dentist in Huntsville about all this. I just hope I can, since I technically haven't had my teeth cleaned yet, I can still have that done. But I agree with mom that all that couldn't have happened in the last six months without Dr. Knight saying something about it when I saw him last. Oh well, we'll see!!

I Freakin HATE Dentists

So I just got back from the Dentists with the worst news ever. I have six, SIX, tiny cavities; two fillings that have to be replaced because they are causing decay and fractures of my teeth; and my crown wasn't fitted properly so now it had to be replaced, a new post put in, and refilled and completely redone! I freaking hate my teeth. I always have had crappy dental visits and this was no different. According to the front desk lady, my insurance will cover 100% of the cavity fillings, 80% of the replacement fillings, and 0% of the crown replacement. So, the really only good thing is that since my office carries my insurance I pay what my office would pay for the crown. So instead of paying like $900 for the crown and everything it would only cost me about $600. That's still alot, but they're really nice and I'll be able to set up a payment plan. But if my filling replacements are going to cost alot, then I'll just have them done while we're in Thailand. Joe's mom is going to have some work done, she usually does when they go, so I'll just make a day of it with her. I'm not sure about what is covered and how much, but the office is supposed to call me back and let me know. I have an appointment next Tuesday for a cleaning and to have my cavities filled and my fillings replaced.

So if you ever hear me say that I hate the dentist, this is way. It's been this way since I was 21 months old. It's written in my baby book. This is also my sixth dentist since I was BORN! It is totally frustrating. Because my crown was fitted improperly I have decay underneath and a gum line infection. But she said once that is replaced it'll all go away. My fillings are amilite or something like that, they look metal. But they expand and contract so they cause cracks and fractures as well as let in decay, which is what they've done in my head. Except the cracks, their just tiny fractures right now.

I will have to say that it's a pretty high tech office. They use a KODAK digital X-ray thing. They also have a camera wand that takes really magnified color digital picture of my teeth they need a better look at. That's how they noticed my crown problems and filling stuff better. They didn't even need to camera to see the problems with my amilite fillings. Oh well, maybe in Heaven I'll have no dental problems. Until then, pray we can make it through this.

Love you all!!

14 Days

I finally got my passport on Friday afternoon!! Then I realized I had no clue where Joe's was. Great, it's always something. So after searching frantically through the house I had him look through our tubs at his work on Saturday. He then calls me that afternoon to meet him at Sam's Club because he locked the keys in the car. So, while we're waiting on the car we go back to his office and I look through everything while he washes my car. Still nothing. So now I'm getting frustrated. Then I've gotten a letter, an email, and a phone call letting me know I have to start paying on my student loans. I know, I keep up with my stuff and figured that much out by now. So, finally on Saturday night after we both went through the entire apartment again, it's not that big so it didn't take that long ;), I finally ask Joe where is his breifcase? He says it's in the car and he goes to get it. Of course that's where his passport was. How it got in there I'll never really now, but I'm glad I thought of it. It had been in the house when we first moved in but then he put it in the car because we had gone to a coin show with his Mom and her boyfriend. Somehow it got in there. So, now we are both ready to go!! We just have to pack and get everything together. I know, I love to pack in anticipation of a trip, and NO I haven't started yet. My sisters always loved giving me a hard time about packing early for trips. I will admit that two months before a trip was a little extreme but you can never be too prepared!! ;)

Anyway, things have been kinda busy and slow right now. I have to go back to the dentist tomorrow for a check up and cleaning. I will have to say a cleaning is the most relaxing hour of my life. My football mouthguard is still hurting my teeth so I'll have to remold it again. Oh well, it helps sorta so I don't wake up in pain and not able to open my mouth. Now I just wake up with loose feeling teeth and dry lips every morning. Joe will try to talk to me after we've gotten into bed so he can laugh at me while I try to talk with my mouthguard in. He's really sweet, I know. But it is funny to hear my try to talk. I finally got my library card so I'm back to reading Sherlock Holmes. I tried to read the Twilight books, but I think because everyone is so hyped about them right now I can't get in to them. It was that way with Harry Potter. I started reading after everyone else had finished the entire series. I haven't read the seventh book, but I already knows what happens. So maybe one day I'll read it just to say I finished it. Same with Twilight. One day I'll read them. I was never really that big into Vampires and stuff like that. I like made up stuff, but I stick to real people instead of creatures. But it's always fun to read.

I found the Sweet Pumpkin Spice at Bath and Body Works and I'm so going to get some. I couldn't find any last year even online. I read Sara's blog today about it and instantly checked. There it was, Buy one get one 50% off!! If I can't find it at the store here, I can always order it online!! I love that stuff. It's the best memories of Fall caught in a bottle. I get that way with smells. I relate smells to certain times. Like things that smell like Fall or Christmas. Or when I smell Joe's calonges I always remember wonderful times.

Well, I can't wait to see everyone at Christmas. I'm excited about going to Thailand in 14 days!!! I've never left the US before so it'll be interesting. We'll be flying for 24 hours, not including layovers and other stuff. I can't wait though. This is a place that has great significance for my husband and I'm glad I can share this with him. He loves that land and the people. It will be a change because I can't kiss him in public, shake my foot when I cross my legs, touch anyone's head, but they can touch mine, I think I can hold his hand, maybe. So it's going to be interesting. Whenever I get nervous or panicy I hold his hand. Hopefully they won't mind. I think I can hold his hand and that's about it. We got our luggage and travel size stuff. I'm super excited.

Love you all and I'll put up some pictures when we get back!!

My Husband Was Right, I Worry TOO MUCH!!

So after being in pain for about two weeks I finally went to the dentist. I had been having major "lock-jaw" pain and it wasn't getting any better. I could take an 800mg Ibuprofen and it wouldn't help. I thought something was wrong with my teeth, like always, and was prepared for the worst. So, I found a nice dentist that could see me soon. I went yesterday afternoon and found out . . . I have TMJ. She told me pretty much that I needed to calm down and go see a message therapist. Which I can agree with, I need a good rub down!! But she gave me a muscle relaxer and some antimicrobial mouthwash because I had a slight infection from clenching my jaw. So now I get to look all sexy at night with my football mouth guard. I feel like a buck-tooth freak. It's so big that my lips don't touch! It's actually quite hilarious, but I feel so much better this morning. I just have to consciously not clench during the day as well. But in my defense, it's been very stressful lately. With trying to get my passport and everything for the trip to figuring out what to do about school, I've had a lot to think about. I got my passport, just waiting for it to get back, we got our luggage last night and some travel size stuff. School, well, that's a work in progress. I know my choice to leave was the right thing for me. I needed to be here for the first year of my marriage to learn and grow. But, now I feel that it is best for me to return home next summer and finish my last two semesters. That's as far as I've gotten. I've emailed the school telling them that I'm just taking off for the year and will be back in Summer 2009. We haven't figured out living arraignments or work yet, but I'm working on it. I feel at peace with this decision. It isn't what I really want to do, because living away from my husband will be hard, but finishing school and having my BS will make a huge difference. I can always do Nursing down here if I choose, but until then I can have a real job with a nice real paycheck. I don't need to hear "I told you so"s because I know everyone told me to stay, but if you had been in the same situation you would want to live with your husband too. I will have to say with this plan I don't technically have to wait until school's completely done to have a baby either. Which I was really not comfortable with. Mom and Dad were down this past weekend and while Dad was at Priesthood Session mother and I went to the store. We talked about school and she said that I could do Nursing, but I can't get pregnant before or after I get accepted because I have to be able to get all my shots. If I'm pregnant I can't get them so my acceptance would be worthless. I wasn't okay with that. I didn't want to wait another two or three years because I could have a child. I know I'm young and that's not that long, but to me it just wasn't right. I know this way I could be in school and pregnant and not have to worry about having a child. I think that is what really sealed the deal for me!! Anyway, I'm excited for Halloween. I need to find the other people on the Activities Committee to see if we have anything planned for that Friday. I don't know if they Trunk-or-Treat down here or what. So, Ta-Ta For Now! Love you!

Wall Street Bailout

I understand the importance of the Wall Street bailout bill that just passed, but my one lingering thought is: How can you expect a nation of debtors to not be that way if we see our government doing the same thing? I know that this bailout was needed, but how can you sit there and tell people that they need to stop spending money so they can afford things when you have $3 Trillion, TRILLION, in debt yourself? Why not at an additional $700 BILLION more to it?? What, just because you're the government you can? Is it fake? Do you just brush it under the rug and pretend it doesn't exist? I just read an article where Bush said he would sign the legislation because we needed to stay the leader in the global economy? So does that mean other "global economy" members have more debt than us? I guess I should research this more, but from what I've heard before, this really was a dumb, but needed idea. They, the government, need to learn about those things called budgets and what they are really supposed to look like. I wish I could just say that my debt didn't exist anymore and that it was all just a bad dream!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Yes, I'm stealing from the song, but I mean Fall. I officially declare this the Ford Season. It seems we girls all love this time of year. The changing leaves, which down here there's a little of that, the smell, oh it's here too!! It's actually been chilly in the mornings and cold at night. We're getting close to not having to use our air conditioning anymore. It's still a bit warm in the afternoons, but when I leave for lunch, the sky has this look of crisp Fall. I can't explain but the sun shining at that angle just makes you feel that outside your car should be crisp and cool. It is, for here. It's usually about low 70s in the afternoon, so it's cool. At night you need shoes and a light jacket, at least I do but I'm always cold. I love it. I bought two new candles for Fall. My usual Spiced Pumpkin and a new Autumn Harvest. Oh, they smell so good. Like all the Ford girl husbands, Joe doesn't like my Fall candles. He thinks they stink and so I have yet to light them, but I feel that since this morning when I left I was freezing in a long sleeve shirt, that it's officially time!!! I have some decorations for Halloween, my cute place mats and porcelain pumpkins that Sara and I have!! I'm excited, I'm actually going to make my Fall-themed wreath this year. We have a nice little hook on our front door. Joe and I were at the store the other day and I saw some cute yard scarecrows, but we don't have a yard. Joe, knowing that I love all decorations, said that I can have one when we have a yard! He's warming up to my love of decorating. He's not helping, but he knows that I love to celebrate the Fall holidays and that it was always a big part of my childhood. His family didn't do much in the decorating department, so it doesn't matter much to him. I'm grateful he's allowing me some freedom to get some stuff. Right now though, since we're in the apartment, I don't get to buy many things. We don't have the room for it, so I make do with what I have and am anticipating, hopefully next year will see us in a house with a yard to decorate!! Then I'll have room to store stuff and will be able to expand my decoration collection.

Also, we're going to Thailand in ONE MONTH!!! I'm so excited, and nervous, but really just ready to go have fun. So, money right now goes towards savings and paying for our tickets ($2,600) That was a decent deal too. But, Hunny, Joe's Mom, decided she wanted to go back and Joe is her traveling companion. So she said we could come with her, so we call this our "Belated Honeymoon" with Hunny. I don't mind at all, I enjoy getting to see my Mother-in-law, she's tons of fun. I don't know how to feel about picking your nose being socially acceptable in public, shooting snot rockets in public also being acceptable in public, yet you can't pick your teeth or lick anything in public. Strange I know, but most Asian countries seem strange to us foreigners. Sara, they also think a hairy mole shows wisdom, so I have that to look forward too as well.

Conference is this weekend and Mom and Dad are coming down today to visit. I'm excited but sad because Joe has to work all day Saturday. So he's not going to get to spend much time with them. He has a 120 apartment move on Saturday. So, University Apartments were doing renovations and building a new building when Joe moved down here. Well it was supposed to be completed by beginning of Fall semester, but it wasn't. So they put the people in Cabana Apartments until they were done. Well they just finished and instead of making everyone move themselves, since it was the apartment's fault they had to live somewhere else, they decided to hire out Two Men and a Truck to move them all. So, they have been working all week on getting this move ready for Saturday. It's great for the business since everyone at Cabana and at University will see them, it gets a big name to support them here in the community. Bad for me because I don't get to see my husband. Monday he didn't get home until 9pm because he had to deliver boxes to all the people. Which I will have to say this is the most expensive move they've had since they've been open. University Apartments bought everyone boxes from TMT also, so that's a nice big chunk of change. They will have all their workers and Joe out there on Saturday. Plus their big trucks, so an 11 man 3 truck move. They have 4 but one is a little tiny truck. His boss will also be out there, so 11 men and 2 managers on site all day. I'm impressed and they are very happy.

Work has been hectic. If you didn't know I got a job through a temp agency with The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company at their Pathogen Research Facility building site. I'm the office manager/receptionist/greeter here on site. It's nice having a good paying job, but different since I'm the only girl in an office of 10 guys. It's been nice having a job, but I can't wait to get back into school. I never really realized how much of my time was taken up by school and homework. Okay I really never did my homework at home, usually at the office, but still.

Football down here is obviously one thing, Gators. Which is fine. I don't really care since this season they haven't done too hot. Alabama on the other hand has made the guys I work with hate me. Alabama is #2 and Florida is #12 I think. Monday was hilarious when I got to work because everyone was mad that I was the only one that got to celebrate the new ratings list! But Bama has been working hard and deserve to be where they are. I've watched all the games that have been on or watched Sports Center all night until they showed the score. I'm slowly starting to enjoy watching ESPN and Sports Center at night. I feel like Jennie when she first got married. I remember her telling me about when Krager would watch SC all the time and she was starting to learn more about sports. Joe used to not be into sports as much as he is now. So we're spending time together learning about sports. He knows more than I do, but he's a guy I think they are born knowing more about sports. Except for Tracy, I don't think any other female knows more about sports voluntarily.

I haven't been on in a while if you hadn't noticed, but I just couldn't not update any longer. Reading everyone else's blogs on Fall and seeing the cute Halloween backgrounds I had to change it up. Love you all!!!

It's actually kinda chilly!!

It has actually felt like Fall recently. It's been in the 50s in the mornings and at night, and maybe mid 70s during the day. It's been nice to not leave in the morning and feel like you're going to suffocate it's so muggy outside. I'm enjoying my sorta Fall.

Mom and Dad are coming to visit next weekend! I'm so excited, I haven't seen them since July. It'll be nice to have them down to see our house and everything. To see our sweet 32" flat screen HD TV Joe WON at a Chamber of Commerce After hours event. Yeah, Joe called me last Thursday to come over to his old house so he could cut Shane's hair. I was at home with the clippers, so he needed me to bring them. He then mentioned that he had a surprise for me. So I'm thinking a canvas bag because that's what I got last time. So, anyway, I go over to Brian's and Joe's standing outside on the phone, it's dark by the way, and he tells me to look in the backseat of the car. So, there it is in it's huge box. I was like "Is that for us????" I couldn't believe that it was ours. He had put his boss's business card in the drawing with his name on it. He had run out of his own, so Mark, his boss, let him have one of his. HE WON!!!! So, now we enjoy our nice HD TV, of course we don't have HD TV, but next February when that switch goes into effect, it'll be nice to watch!!

I learned that nothing I say will change Santa Fe's mind about my credits. Logan, a guy from church, told me that he took a class at Santa Fe, transferred to UF, then transferred back and they wouldn't take the credit he got from them. So, I guess I'm going to have to take more classes. I guess that's okay, I'll have an advantage over the others, but still I'm just kinda bummed. I know this is the right thing for me to be doing. It just isn't how I planned it. But I've learned that planning more than like a day isn't a good idea. It all changes when you try to plan long term. So, now I'm just working and saving for Thailand. I hope I can get everything done eventually, but how long eventually is I don't know.

If anyone would like something from Thailand let me know. I can get cheap namebrand knock-offs and some kids toys. I think I'll do the postcard thing for Rachael and Ben. I have to say that is the cutest and most simple idea for a room theme ever. It fits their family perfectly! Well, I thought I'd catch everyone up on our exciting life!! Oh, I have a calling now. I'm on the Ward Activity Committee. We have about 5 yearly activities that we plan, so it seems like a fun calling. I don't know who else is on the committee, but if they need me I'll know who they are then!! Love you all and see you at Christmas!!

Oh, PS . . . I got my coat and I'll have to post a picture when I wear it. Today's a bumb day because it's Friday!! Okay, bye for now!!

Bumbed Out

A school update: I just checked my Degree Audit with Santa Fe and it turns out that they didn't accept my Math, my A&P 1 & 2, and my Nutrition classes. So now I have to re-take those along with my Developmental Psychology and Microbiology. I'm really kinda mad but at the same time I feel that since I've had those classes already I'll have a little of an advantage. But still, I was hoping to only have to take two classes so I could apply in May. Oh well, sometimes you just have to say that everything happens for a reason. Even if it doesn't make since. Sometimes schools can just be stupid. I guess I should look at this as a positive. I'll have more time to work and save money. I just have to keep telling myself that it will all work out for the best.

Super Excited!!!!!!

I just got the best thing ever. There was a cute dressy coat that I saw at Old Navy that was $50. Of course I didn't get it because I knew it would eventually be on sale so I didn't worry. Well, a few weeks ago I was looking at OldNavy.com and saw it was on sale for $25. Still a little high for me, but I thought if it didn't go down in a couple days then I'd get it. So, yesterday I was just browsing and I saw it. In all the sizes they make it in, for $9.99!!!!! I was so excited. I called Joe and asked if it was okay for me to get it since we spent most of our clothing money on his work shoes (he got two new pairs). He said it was fine and I got it!! I'm so excited. I think it's the cutest thing ever!! I love coats, even though I live in Florida. But this isn't a heavy coat. It's three-quarter length sleves and is light-weight kinda khaki cotton. I can just see myself now, wearing that coat with a white button-up shrit with dark jeans and my brown knee-high boots. If I looked good with the whole skinny jeans inside the knee-high boots I'd try that look. But we'll just stick to the normal jeans. Just thought I'd share!!

School

I had to go to Santa Fe College yesterday to turn in my transcripts and change my last name. Slowly things are getting done, but unfortunately the staff in the Nursing Department are not very nice. I guess they feel I'm looking down on the department because I'm transferring from a four year school to a two year so obviously I think that the two year is easier than the four year. She, Sari, was truly rude and didn't expect me to fire back with just at tart responces. She was telling me about the prequals I needed, by listing of this long shpeal, then I answered her that I was only missing two of the prequals and planned to take them in the Spring. Application for Nursing school is in May, so hopefully I can get a conditional application, you can apply and get accepted on the condition that you are taking the last prequal when you apply and you pass is with at least a "C". I of course left heart broken and hurt because they had crushed my dreams, sorta. It left me feeling like I was spinning my wheels and that I wouldn't ever be done. I also questioned my intelligence, "Maybe I'm not smart enough for this, maybe I wouldn't get accepted?". I was really, truly scarred, what if I don't get accepted? What if they don't feel that I have enough qualification points to get accepted? I still sorta feel that way, but I'm trying to reassure myself that I am smart enough.

Joe and I were out last night and went to see his friend Tristan who was nice and confirmed that the people in the Nursing Department are pretty rude and don't usually treat newbys nice. I felt better that it wasn't just me, but then I felt bad for the others who get treated the same way. But, I just have to take in my Recidency forms and then hopefully I'm done, school wise. I still have to submit my FAFSFA, get my ID card, and register for classes. I learned I'm only two or three, depending on an English, classes away from getting an AA degree. Which wouldn't be bad, but I'm trying to get my AS in Nursing. I'm excited because I've missed school terribly. I know, I'm a nerd, but I just loved being in school. I don't want to be a student for life, but I enjoy learning and studying the body. I hope everything gets straightened out and starts working better in my favor.

I'm still anticipating Mom and Dad coming to visit! I'm thinking about what we could do and what I could cook for them. We do this Angel Food Ministry down here. We go the the Gainesville Christian Ministries Thrift store and place an standard order with an extra monthly special. The standard is $30, but it's about $75 - 80 dollars worth of food. You can look it up at angelfoodministries.com and see if there is one in your area. The specials are usually $18 - 20 extra, but it's worth it. They accept Food stamps and anyone can order.

Here's the Menu for this month of what we're getting:
REGULAR BOX


.5 lb. Top Sirloin Strip Steaks (4 x 6 oz.)
2 lb. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
3 lb. Breaded Chicken Chunks
1.5 lb. Boneless Pork Filet
20 oz. Supreme Pizza
1 lb. Ground Turkey
1 lb. Cheddar Cheese Bratwurst Sausage
1 lb. Green Beans
1 lb. Stir Fry Vegetables (Broccoli & Bell Peppers)
35 oz. Crinkle-cut Fries
32 oz. Borden 2% Reduced Fat Shelf Stable Milk
7.5 oz. Macaroni & Cheese
15 oz. Pork & Beans
7 oz. Chicken-Flavored Rice & Vermicelli
1 lb. Pinto Beans
One Dozen Eggs
One Dessert Item

Our specialty box is:
SEPTEMBER SPECIAL #16 lb. Assorted Meat Grill Box
1.5 lb Ribeye Steaks (3 x 8 oz.)
2 lbs Boneless Pork Roast
1.5 lbs Beef Short Ribs
1 lb All Beef Burgers (4 x 4 oz.)

For $50 this isn't a bad deal. It's all name brand stuff, they just get it straight from the distributor. I would suggest it to anyone, especially if you have kids, it's an easy way to have some extra just in case. It's designed to feed a family of 4 for a week, but since it's just me and Joe it lasts a bit longer.

Anyway, just thought I've give an update on our lives. Oh, one last thing I promise. I had to give a talk in church on Sunday and I'm proud to say, I spoke for almost half an hour. It's the longest talk I've ever given. I had to speak on Reverence in Church, especially being on time and keeping the talking and noise out of the sacrament meetings. So, you can obviously see why I was a bit hesitant to speak. I didn't want to have to tell people to keep their kids quiet because I don't have any kids so I didn't feel like I had any room to talk. But I took some comments from old conference addresses and a Young Women's lesson manual. When I was done, Bishop
Rodgers got up and said how he had asked us to speak on these specific topics and he said, ". . . and I say AMEN to everything Sis. Messervy just said!". I was floored. No one's ever said that and I felt like I had done a good job. So, that was my week so far!!

Love you all and hope everything is going well with everyone!!

Amanda Peet is my new favorite actress

So, this weekend I was home cleaning with the TV on, like always, when I saw a commerical come on with Amanada Peet. It looked like one of those celebrity endorced Cord Blood Bank commericals so I thought I'd stop and see what it was. I was shocked what I heard. She was advocating for a website called vaccinateyourbaby.org!!!!! I was so surprised that someone in Hollywood would have a sponsership like that!! She was talking about when she had her daughter a few months ago she talked with her pediatritian about vaccinces. She said for parents to talk with their doctors about then because they are safe and can save your baby's life. I just stood there in shock and awe!!! I couldn't believe that someone in Hollywood would actually be thinking rationally and agree with vaccines. I thought all celebrities thought the same. I was glad that someone was standing up for babies and saying that parents shouldn't be stupid and not vaccinate thier children. This has been a touchy subject with me because I feel that parents that don't vaccinate their children should be charged with endangerment of their child. I'm sorry, but if you don't vaccinate your child because so wacko said that vaccines gave their child autism, which FYI hasn't been proven by any medical experts anywhere, then you're just as retarded as they are. (They've said the only logical explination for the girl's autism is that she had some genetic recessive trait that somehow was triggered by some ingredient in the vaccines which is so minutely impossible that they aren't even sure that's what happened) I feel very strongly about this issue, even though I don't have kids yet. I hope that people will stop listening to Hollywood for their answers and start listening to doctors and researchers that have studied these things. I know that the vaccines are a lot for a small child, but they have no immune system whatsoever when their born. They rely on their mother's immune system to start theirs. That's why there are so many shots for when their little. But I would rather have an autistic child then no child at all because I didn't vaccinate them and they died of some preventable disease. I know that awful to say, but if I can save my child with a vaccine that everyone has had before and we're all fine and alive, then I'll take that risk.

I don't mean to offend anyone, this is just my opinion. But I just thought I'd share about that commerical. Love you all and hope life is going well for everyone!!

Oh, PS I talked to Mom last night since it was her birthday and I'm so excited because Mom and Dad are coming down to visit for Conference in a couple weeks! I'm so excited, I've been so homesick and ready for a visit from anyone!!

Seven Years Ago Today . . .

I was sitting in my 1st period Drama class enjoying a movie when the world changed forever. We were celebrating Homecoming Week at Jacksonville High School, it was Cowboys & Cowgirls day. It was a Wednesday I believe. A sub came to the door for Ms. Steed and we knew something was up. Ms. Steed instantly turned on the lights and told us to turn to the news. We sat in amazement and watched the burning building when suddenly I noticed something in the corner of the screen. The other plane hit the 2nd tower. My heart sank when I realized that this wasn't just some acident. The bell rang and everyone silently got up and went to the next class. When we got there we learned that another plane hit the Pentagon. When we went to 3th period another plane crashed in the Pennsilyvania field. As the day went on, we were afraid that something was going to happen, that another plane would crash and hit another place. Homecoming was changed completely into a memorial service. We tried to all go about life as normal, but it was difficult. Learning that we were under attack was the scariest thing for me. We built our float and had the "rest" of Homecoming week. Friday instead of a large Pep-rally, we had a memorial service and had veterans from JHS come and speak. We dedicated our football game and halftime shows to the victims and their families. We raised money to donate and had the most patriotic week I've ever known. It was weird to think that was seven years ago. Time moves on, yet everyday there's a hint of that day everywhere. We watch the news everyday for any new developments. More and more trooops leave everyday. Less come home, but some do come home. My brother-in-law served over there recently. He has a Purple Heart and Bronze Star. He still has shrapnal in his back and shoulders that they can't get out. He's fine, luckily. I remember getting that phone call too. It was Father's Day of last year. The first call was that he was badly hurt or dead. Then we heard her was fine and just had some shrapnal wounds.

You hear the songs still today on the radio and sometimes I even catch myself saying " I hate that song, I wish they'd just stop playing it". But then you realize it's a part of your life you can never forget. Not just because of the annoying songs or protestors or activists, but because in a little way all our worlds were made a little less safe. A little less comforting. A little less peaceful. I'm glad I have the gospel in my life to help these troubled times have a flicker of light in them. I hope everyone has a blessed day and Love you all!!!

Stupid Amazon.com

So, the only way I like to workout is in the privacy of my own livingroom. Here's the problem, I've been looking for the DVD of the original Tae Bo Instructional and Basic workouts. They have one DVD of them and it's out of stock!! Dang crap. Well, the VHS tapes are only like 8 bucks for the two. So I call Joe to let him know that I found some and ask if we could even find a VHS player to buy! I know that sounds dumb, but think about it. When was the last time a VHS player was seen at any store?? He said he would try to download them for me so I could have it on the computer. But I guess if not then I'll have to hit up the Good Will and see if they have one. Rediculous!!! I can't believe I passed up a three DVD set a couple months ago and now it's gone. I could just kick myself. I would if I had my Tae Bo!!! LOL, but anyway I guess I'll have to see if he can do that for me. It would be nice to have them because it was so fun I would do it everyday!! I'm not the kind of person that likes working out in front of other people. I know that's retarded, but I have my fears. I would workout at home, but Joe's weights are too heavy and we only have those and some push-up arch things. I could get creative, I guess I'll have to if he can't download them for me. Stupid technology, as I type on my blog. ;) Oh well, hope everyone is having a great day. I'm just working and reading my book called Midwives (thanks Sara for finding it for me!!!) Love you all and wish you all well!!!

Work, Work, Work

So, last night while watching the RNC, Lisa and I enjoyed discussing what everyone had to say. We were all anticipating Sarah Palin and what she would say about all the recent media coverage. Once she walked out Lisa and I noticed that she was in a skirt, not a pants suit. That struck me as unusual, but as something nice to see for once. I don't think a woman has to wear a man's style suit to be taken seriously. I was impressed that Gov. Palin looked very feminine, yet delivered a speech worthy of any GOP man. She discussed her family and put people in their places. You don't mess with a mother's kids unless you want the smack-down that follows. I think she handled everything very professionally and did a very classy job. I'm still a little weary about her stance on Anti-Birth Control, but I think I'm okay with everything else. It's been a tough choice for me, I wish there was someone in the middle of the two extremes sometimes, but I guess that can't always happen.

But before all this occurred, Lisa and I were talking about the Priesthood meeting from a couple weekends ago. I liked that Elder Anderson talked briefly about how young married couples are following the trends of the world and having small families. Joe hadn't told me much about the talks, so it was all new to me. I found that quite interesting because just earlier that day I was talking with a gentleman from work about families. It was interesting that he pointed out that families today seemed to be shrinking and he didn't understand why. He was 1 of 6 and so was his wife. They have, I think, 6 kids themselves. It got me to thinking that maybe there are people out there that aren't members who feel like we do. It surprised me because down here in Florida you don't meet many people with the same views as the church unless their members too. It was nice to hear someone else agree that larger families are the thing to have.

So, we have decided that we're selling Joe's car because we owe less than it's worth so we can make money off of it and get another car and not have a car payment anymore. He of course wants to get a motorcycle, but he agrees that we need to have some sort of a "family" car. When I say that I mean a car that has more than two doors. I don't mind it right now, but it frustrates me that he wants a stupid motorcycle. Which is fine, but I don't think he would look very perfessional riding up to an estimate on a bike instead of in a car. He's even said that, but whatever. I've learned that sometimes you just have to just say whatever and just deal with things as they go. It makes things easy and you get less mad at each other.

Oh, can I just say, ROLL TIDE ROLL!!! That was the best game ever. At times we were too afraid to cheer because we thought we'd jinx it. Who was that quarterback?? John Parker Wilson has never played that well before EVER!! I was very proud on Tuesday at work because my boss was at the game for Clemson, but I refrained from wearing my Alabama shirt that day!! Anyway, hope all is well with everyone. Love you all and see you all soon!!!

Hello To All

So, we've, really I've, decided that we need a blog. It's the best way for me to keep in touch with everyone. I hope all is well with everyone. Things down here are going well. I have a great job at a construction company that's building the new Pathogen Research Facility at The University at Florida. I'm the only girl in an office with 10 guys. They're all really nice and are teaching me all I need to know. Joe's job is growing and going great. Married life is fun; a new exictment everyday!! The apartment is tiny but clean. We've gotten everything put away, so my OCD is under control for now.
We got down here and were in Gainesville 2nd Ward, but two weeks ago they redrew the boundries so now we're in 3rd Ward. We've met a ton of married couples down here. We're the true newly weds compared to the other young married couples. But we're about to be replaced by our friends Spencer and Ileane. They get married next weekend. We've met a couple and the wife actually grew up in Gadsden, AL. Lisa Booher was Stout back then. Emily, you're in a picture she has from Girl's Camp. So that's cool. Her husband and Joe are buddies now because Amory lets Joe work on motorcycles with him. Now Joe wants to get a motorcycle which I think is fine, but just not right now. We finally got cable about a month ago and it's heaven on Earth. A little exaggerated, but when you go with two months of no TV and I read a 300 page book in an afternoon, I needed some television. Plus Joe doesn't get home until 7:00pm so I have two hours to kill so I usually watch tv and cook dinner.
We have to get a new tag for Joe's car and since now I drive his he got me a Breast Cancer Awareness tag!!! I'm totally excited!! He knows that I'm a big supporter of Breast Cancer Awareness so I was excited that I didn't have to ask he just did it for me!! So, things are great.
School I haven't gotten everything fixed as of now, but I won't be able to start until Summer 2009 because then I'll have Florida Citizenship and get Instate tuition. Then I'll only have six classes and one lab to finish and then boards and I'll be done!!
So that's about all right now, no kids or anything. At least not right now, maybe next year or something. Until then I get to take care of my big 7 year old. But I'm okay with that, right now!! Okay love you guys and can't wait to see everyone!!!