Whew!

Christmas is over, thank goodness. It wasn't easy coming back a couple days before the holiday with jetlag. I'm pretty sure Sam knows I'm Santa now. (okay, I'm positive because he's a pretty smart boy) I hauled the presents downstairs and spent a little while bickering with Yagopuchae about how I overdo Christmas. Apparently, wrapping gifts is above and beyond in his book. Anyway, I stuffed the stockings and came upstairs to hang them on doorknobs and go to bed. I hung Sam's and brushed my teeth. I left the bathroom with Yagopuchae's stocking in hand only to bump in to Sam standing at his stocking in front of his bedroom door. It was after midnight but he was still awake trying to adjust to the time change. I dropped Yago's stocking (which has a jingle bell on it, so much for being sly) and asked what he was doing. He said he woke up. Oops.

On Christmas Eve we went to a small gathering at Karry and Amy's house. They have five kids with the sixth due in a month (Mormons). They do a reenactment of the birth of Jesus every year and invited us and two other families over. Sam got to be one of the wisemen, it was cute and funny. Sounds a little more bizarre than it turned out to be. I was braced for pure wackiness but it was fun watching them all.

Yago is bragging that he got 3 Christmas cards and I didn't get any. I'd just like to point out that getting a Christmas card from a merchant that sold you several thousand dollars in rugs a couple years ago DOESN'T count. His friend sent one addressed to Jason and Jennifer. Also, the neighbors don't know my name and addressed the card to Jason and family... joint cards. I assured him if people knew my new address I would have gotten many more cards. (or at least one) By the way stuckinmd, it's PSC 3 Box 64 APO AE 09021. Thank you, and feel free to address to just Sam and me!

Packy Pack

I drafted an entry the other day explaining why the German dry-cleaning ladies hate me but I became bored writing it so I knew you'd be bored reading it. Suffice it to say, they aren't very nice or forgiving of my forgetful tendencies. Even if it's in German I know they're insulting me. It reminds me of when Elaine knew her nail technicians were talking about her in Vietnamese. (Seinfeld)

Sam sang with the Catholic Children's Choir last night for the tree lighting ceremony on base. I tried to take pictures but by the time the flash when off and the picture snapped someone's head would pop in my way. It was a complete debacle anyway. They changed the song list at the last minute on a bunch of 4-7 yr olds. No one knew what the heck they were singing. They sang two songs and one of them was in German, you can guess how that went.

I have a lot of getting ready to do for the trip. I'll have two cranky boys that don't travel well and honestly? I'm not sure which one will be more difficult. At least I can give the little one a trinket or game to keep him busy. The big one is higher maintenance and not as easily pacified. I wish I could slip them some extra-drowsy Dramamine or something... And, by the way, I was supposed to by flying business class this trip until evil Delta doubled the mileage requirement on me!! Still bitter.

I haven't done much Christmas shopping yet. I've gotten a few games for Sam and that's it. That means I'll either have to brave the mall crowds in the states or wait until the weekend before Christmas here. Either way, it doesn't sound fun. Tonight is St. Nick's Night here. The children leave their shoes outside and St. Nick comes and fills them with candy if they're good or coal and switches if they're bad. Heehee, I can exact my revenge.

Well, I'd better get busy doing something or else Yagopuchae will be grumpier than usual. He's already in service dress today, I hadn't better push my luck. ...Where do I keep those Dramamine?

Nuernberg Trials

I've been quite neglectful of my little blog lately...

Yesterday we went to the Christmas Market in Nuernberg, it's quite famous. I got up at 6:00 on a Saturday morning to leave at 7:00. We got there at about 12:30. I really love the Christmas Markets but this one was so crowded it was difficult to really enjoy it. They serve Gluehwein, mulled wine, everywhere in about a thousand different varieties but being pregnant I had to practice restraint. Anyway, it was so crowded... It's a huge outdoor market and little amusement park for kids but it was shoulder to shoulder throughout and I get grumpy when people constantly push me and never say, "Excuse me." Especially when I'm pregnant, whether they can tell or not. I feel bad for Yagopuchae because he's been talking about the gingerbread there for over a year now and he bought lots of it to bring home only to discover it's fruitcake.

Sam nearly got suspended from school on Thursday. That's right, first grade. He punched a kid during recess and they tried to suspend him but couldn't get a hold of his parents to pick him up. The kid he punched is huge, going to be eight this year and I learned it wasn't so much a punch as a heel of his hand to the kid's forehead. I think the kid was running at Sam and Sam panicked...

Yago's 30th birthday was last Friday and I tried to make him a special lemon raspberry liquor bundt cake. Unfortunately, I forgot the baking powder, baking soda and salt. That didn't make a very good cake. Sorry.

Well, I've already skipped mass this morning and if I don't get my behind in gear we're going to miss CCD too. (For the third week in a row...)

Mistress... we need to work out what day we're coming up there. Maybe the 19th? What do you think?

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving at our house went really well. I was exhausted by the time it was over and dishes were done. I made turkey, stuffing, candied sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, pistachio salad and green beans. Oh yeah, and two pumpkin pies. It was WAY too much food. I've never made Thanksgiving dinner by myself before, all I had to work with were memories of my mom making it for our family. I didn't keep in mind that Yagopuchae, Sam and I can't eat as much as my parents, sister and me. I bought a 20 lb turkey and have no idea what we're going to do with it all... We had turkey tetrazzini last night for dinner.

Sam lost ANOTHER tooth. He's going to look like his Gramma pretty soon! The Tooth Fairy left him three quarter dollars.

We put up the Christmas tree last night. We had box after box of mismatched decorations. In the end we went with an oldie but goodie... the salmon colored tree. I know Mistress would be relentless if she were here but it looks good! Good, I tell you!

I wish there were Christmas movies on TV. I really want to just curl up on the couch and watch cheesy Christmas movies. Any cheesy Christmas movie would do. Of course, right now there's too much work to do. The living room is destroyed with the boxes of Christmas decorations I have to sort through.

I hear Yago doing dishes and I should get downstairs to help. He's making pumpkin muffins for breakfast. Such a good husband...

I'll be back in the states in a couple weeks, I can't wait to see everyone.

When will it end?

Although I've tried to avoid watching the footage of Michael Richards' tirade I wasn't able to escape it this afternoon. It was disgusting. What is wrong with people? I had hoped 20 years ago that this was over...

Ralphie is really worrying me. I've still got almost four months of pregnancy left and I'm uncomfortable entirely too often. I found out a few weeks ago that Yagopuchae was 8 lbs 11 oz and I was none too happy. Plus? Yago has a big melon. Some of you remember what Sammy's head looked like... How can I have heartburn this much and feel so much pressure on my ribs already?

Sam's teacher gave them something like 5 sheets of homework over the holidays. I'm glad he'll be kept busy but I think it's odd that a 1st grader should have that much homework over a long weekend. Not to mention his parent's dole out plenty of workbook assignments for him as it is.

Or not...

This weekend wasn't really that busy after all. I skipped all the Sunday morning stuff because I didn't feel well, I have a cold. So no church or CCD. We did, however, all go to the Pack Meeting and the choir thing for Sam. A little girl that was chosen for the solo ruined it, in my opinion. No one showed her or told her how to use a microphone so she stood up there with her lips pasted to it and yelled her solo in to it. She completely drowned out the other kids and made me cringe. At one point I giggled out loud at how ridiculous she sounded.

I went to yoga again this morning. The pilates instructor is filling in for the yoga instructor and everyone is just patiently waiting for Jennifer (the regular instructor) to get back next month. Today there was an old couple there, it was cute. They had to have been in their 60s, at least the husband was. I was amused at the thought of Yagopuchae and I going to yoga together in 30 years. During the relaxation at the end of class Ralphie always wakes up and completely distracts me. How am I supposed to go in to a deep state of relaxation when he decides it's time to strike a few poses of his own?

Still Busy

I've been very busy the last few days and Yago always takes the computer on Wednesdays for his class so I haven't written much.

Sam had Thursday and Friday off from school due to parent/teacher conferences. We went to his conference yesterday and he's doing very well. Ms. Oppenheim wants to have him and a couple other kids in the class tested for reading. She thinks he's above his grade level and could benefit from this test. Really the only advantage she mentioned was that the librarian would direct him to more challenging books. They color code the books according to grade level and if he places on the test then they would make sure he chooses books of corresponding color. His teacher says he's doing well though and his behavior is improving.

Tomorrow is a rehearsal for some choir thing they're doing Sunday. Sunday is mass, CCD, pack meeting and then choir performance. That should keep me busy most of the weekend...

Poor Yagopuchae has had to tolerate my hormonal mood swings. Twice last week I started bawling for no real, apparent reason. I'm not usually much of a crier but I think Ralphie's getting the better of me. I started crying at the gym last week and had to hurry out after watching the 60 Minutes tribute to Ed Bradley. How silly, I don't even know the guy. I almost cried at choir practice because the kids were so cute singing about the Lord. ???

Sam lost his other front tooth last night. I don't know why losing teeth grosses me out so much but it does! (Maybe it has something to do with an incident with a "frozen dog turd.") Sam is so excited, he can't wait until Gramma and Grandpa see BOTH of his teeth gone. I think he looks like a hillybilly, but that's just me.

Sorry about the lapse, Mickity. ;^)

Drumroll Please...

Mistress of MooMoo. Bad news, your niece has a penis!! That's right, it's a Ralphie... not a Spider-Girl. Turns out Schmitty wanted a brother anyway.

I was sure it was a girl and almost bought some girly things. I found myself wandering through the pink baby section of stores on more than one occasion. I would see little girls in cute clothes and smile, I'd imagined how I would do her hair. That's why I was so suprised about how excited I was when the radiologist told me it was a boy. I wasn't disappointed or anything, just excited. I really didn't care whether it was a boy or girl. I always thought people who said they didn't care, just wanted a healthy baby were full of bologna.

Well, off to yoga today. I used to love doing downward dog pose, I even used to get Sam to do it with me in the evenings before bed. Turns out the pose sucks when you have to hold it for an extended period of time. Don't even get me started on plank pose.

New Doc

I had my doctor appt today. Very uneventful. I had the nurse take the history and about a 15 minute conversation with the doctor. Then off to Radiology to schedule the ultrasound (Tues morning), the Pharmacy for vitamins and the Lab for bloodwork. Poor Yago and Sammy were starving. Anyway, I'll post more when I know more.

Scary Clowns

After many weeks of intimidation and procrastination I went to a Yoga class this morning. I talked to the instructor beforehand to let her know I had never attended a class before, I'm not bendy and am almost 5 months pregnant. She was very encouraging and gave me alternatives to any poses that were uncomfortable or that just weren't good for me to do. I'll go again because it got me out of the apartment early and I indeed liked it. One myth I've found true, Yoga makes you want to toot. ;^) Really.

Yesterday, I finally got through the appt hotline and got an appt for Friday. Two, actually. One at 1200 with a nurse filling out forms and medical history and another at 1400 with a doctor. I'm a little confused though. I asked the person making the appt if it was unlikely I'd have an ultrasound on Friday since it would be this doctor's first time seeing me. I assume she'll put in a referral to Radiology and then I'd go back later have a tech from Radiology actually do the ultrasound. That's how it was at Offutt. The appt lady said I'd probably have the ultrasound Friday since the dr had to put in the referral. That doesn't make sense to me and the more I tried to get clarification the more confused I got. It doesn't make sense the doctor AND the radiologist would do the ultrasound or that they would both just drop everything (at the same time) and do it. Whatever. I just want to know if it's a Ralphie or Spider-Girl. (Names that Sam has chosen.)

Sam had his choir practice last night and it was like herding cats. They went through a couple songs and now the parents are supposed to work with them. I don't think Sam trying to sing a song the way I sing it is going to help anyone. I was hoping he'd learn pitch and stuff, not be permanently screwed up from trying to sing like his mother. I can't hit a note correctly to save my life and I think it's a little gift I'll wind up passing along.

Sam and Yago went trick or treating last night. Apparently, one house was so decked out that Sam ran away when a spooky clown and old lady answered the door. I'm sorry I missed that but watching the Germans trick or treat was fun too. They would come to the door and say something, I have NO idea what it was. Half of them didn't have bags, they just held out their hands. The vast majority did say, "Danke," to which which I answered, "Bitte." American kids tend to just turn and run to the next house, the danke was refreshing.

That's about it for today...

The Kicker

The baby's started kicking to where I can feel it now. That's been cool. I'm still waiting to get in to a doctor here. I've been trying to call the appt line all morning but it's busy. Maybe I'll just show up and deliver in March.

I made banana bread this morning and accidentally ate half an entire loaf already. Oops.

Sam has his first children's choir practice tonight, he's excited. I think. He was very reluctant at first (i.e., he refused to go) but I think he's coming around. Then it's trick or treating tonight.

I got him a Ninja costume but he told me this morning he wants to go as the Hulk. His grandparents got him a Hulk costume for his birthday.

I hear Barry Manilow singing on the Colbert Report downstairs, it's kind of funny.

I really need to be more motivated in the morning but I'm just not a morning person. Left to my own devices, I don't start anything until about 3 pm but that doesn't exactly mesh with everyone else's schedule. Hmm.

Tried to call for an appt again, still busy. It's annoying.

There's no crying in baseball...

But apparently there is in Cub Scouts. OMG!! We went to a pack meeting Sunday afternoon and holy cow. The Cubmaster started bawling that his son was progessing from Cub Scout to Boy Scout. Talk about uncomfortable. He was up there reading some story about climbing a mountain and broke out crying. Not just once but probably three different times during the "ceremony." Yagopuchae and I almost laughed out loud. Part of it's funny because I had told Sam the day before he didn't want other boys to see him crying, especially in his man uniform. (Tiger Scout uniform)

I'm making cupcakes for Sam to take to school tomorrow since it's his birthday. I bought a little cake decorating bag and tip and I'm trying to draw an orange bat on each of them. I think I'm more impressed than any of the kids will be. In fact, I'm certain of it. Next I'm going to try to draw a Spider-man on his actual birthday cake. That sad part is, I know Sam would prefer a store-bought cake but I refuse.

Happy belated birthday to Mickity, I'll have a cupcake for you. Hope you feel better.

Fast Death

I'm going to say the quickest way for a girl to die is to spot a spider in the car while she's driving. Well, quickest way for her to die or accidentally kill someone else in a vehicular accident. I'm guessing...

That water and soap thing...

Yesterday, after posting my entry I took a shower. It was then that I discovered a... shall we say, shallowing? on the right side of my bellybutton. This seems soon. I don't remember when it happened with Sam but I'm only halfway through my pregnancy. It's going to get worse.

I've painted my nails a very dark berry color. Something I don't think I've done in years. Sam asked me last night why I painted my nails. "Because I can paint them any color I want now, I don't have to wear my uniform anymore." That brings me to other adjustments. When I enter the base I still hesitate waiting for the guard to salute me. Then, I remember what a knucklehead I am and drive away. When I go to the commissary I proudly pull out my dependent ID. As if to say, "Ha! I have a husband! Can you believe that?" When I was active duty I used to think, "See, I don't need a man to take care of me. I'm doing it." Now I'm happy someone really wanted to make my life easier. (And rob me of a bellybutton for a few months.)

I need to clean the house, I've been incredibly lazy the last couple days. I feel even worse than usual because Yago is working all day and then comes home, eats dinner, and spends the evening studying until he's ready for bed. He's halfway through a statistics class and I can't wait for it to be over. I feel like I hardly see him.

This weekend Sam has a bowl-a-thon fundraiser for Tiger Scouts. We haven't gotten any sponsors but there isn't really anyone to ask here. Yago is a flight commander, he can't ask his subordinates and I don't know anyone to ask...

Oh, and I took Sam to his first CCD class here last week. We're working on memorizing the Hail Mary. They're learning it in small sections but he gets upset that I say, "The Lord is with thee" instead of, "The Lord is with you." It just sounds wrong and I don't know how the rest of it would go without the thees, thous, arts, etc. I've had a tough time convincing him both ways are correct. He thinks he's going to get it wrong on a test.

Behind door number one

I'm sick. Not bad, just stuffy and lacking motivation. My hair was so greasy today that I had to wear a baseball cap out. I just wasn't in the mood to shower yet and knew if I did there was no way I'd go work out. When I did go to the gym I rode and exercise bike for a little while because I didn't really have the energy to stand up. As I was pedaling my thighs kept bumping my belly. It felt like I'd swallowed a water balloon and then someone was smacking it around. Distracting.

I went to the commissary and bought some bottled water for Yagopuchae this afternoon. It was like an 8-pack of one liter bottles. I went to pull it off the shelf and the handle came off so the package fell on the floor. Thank goodness, it didn't break. I pick it up, stuck the handle back on it and headed for the register. As I was exiting, I stood in front of the automatic door waiting for it to open. Unfortunately, the door slid from right to left and I was standing on the left... Made me look a little retarded. Not to worry though, I did it again when I exited the second set of automatic doors. Then, I took about three steps out of the building when I experienced handle failure again with the water. I turned and laughed to all the people I was holding up with my shenanigans but I couldn't find one amused person. No humor.

Well, I really must do something involving water and soap before my boys get home...

New Friends

Not mine. Sam's. He's finally got some friends in the neighborhood. I took him to the park yesterday and three American girls came to play with him, they ride the bus with him. One of them even came over to the house and played for about an hour. I'm glad he's finally got some friends nearby, I think it'll make the summer easier.

I ordered him another Leapster for his birthday. I got him one a couple years ago but it finally croaked. He hasn't mentioned wanting another one but I'm hoping he'll be happy to have it again. He spent a lot of time on the other one and we're still working on math. Once he gets a little better he'll be able to get the Batman game for it and I know that'll make him happy.

Yagopuchae turned in the command sponsorship package last week and we may have an official verdict the middle of this week. Then I can enroll in TriCare and figure out how my doctor visits will go. Who I'll see and where the baby will be born.

Today I'm sorting through towels and dishes to donate to the Airmen's Attic. I found a lot of my books over the weekend, pretty happy about that.

Last Friday I went to the school's volunteer training. Ick. I quickly realized it was run by the PTA. They were all wearing their school "spirit day" shirts and Keds. The training consisted of instructions on how to use a copier and paper cutter. Seriously. We each even got to keep a copy of the instructions for our own personal use. I thought it was going to be more along the lines of, "You're not allowed to beat other people's children, regardless of their behavior." Of course, the training would not have been complete without the bitch session at the end. Thanks.

Quickie for Mickity

All right, all right. I'll update, sheesh.

I've been going to the gym every school day since last Tues or Wed. (Mind you, they had Friday and Monday off so it's not that impressive.) Here's something interesting though, I feel like I have a nerve problem near my tailbone on the left side. It's been that way for a few weeks but usually only bothers me if I'm laying on the floor and try to get up. However, exercising seems to have aggravated it. Now it hurts whenever I move my left leg, that's nice. I'm not sure if it's something related to the pregnancy or not, I guess that'll be a question at my next dr appt.

I love taking Sam to the bus stop every morning. We talk and play, I don't rush around and drop him off at the CDC anymore. Almost every morning he blows me a kiss as his bus pulls away and it makes me smile the entire walk home. He's really just too cute.

The tons of boxes in the basement still haven't unpacked themselves. I'm not sure how to motivate them.

My belly's annoying me because it's poking out but not in a cute pregnant way... More in a super-size-it-please kind of way. If I had a smaller frame it'd be cuter. Plus, I don't remember when I started showing with Sam. I just don't want to be humungous and get crazy stretch marks. I got really lucky the first time but I have plenty of friends that didn't get stretch marks until the second baby.

Time to pick my boy up from the bus stop.

Finding a Routine

That's what I'm trying to do now, find a routine. I'm not working and I have a TON of stuff to unpack and throw away. I wish that part was over so I could create a schedule. ...Go to the gym everyday at -- o'clock, when there aren't many people there. Run errands at --:--. Go to the cleaners on such and such day. Do laundry on this day... Otherwise, I don't really get much accomplished.

I have unpacked a few boxes today and I'm hydrating to go to the gym. I haven't really done anything physical in about a year or so. I'm looking forward to it but I have that sense of dread you always get when it's been too long.

Sam got his Tiger Cub Scout uniform yesterday, he's very proud. We also sewed a cub scout wallet using the whip stitch. We talked about Grandma sewing and how she'd get a kick out of all of us sewing together. Maybe she can give Yagopuchae some lessons, I think he could use some remedial.

I lost everyone's email address because I didn't save it from my eucom account. They said they'd keep the account open for 30 days after I left but it's already been deactivated. Right now I'm using csobarbie@hotmail.com but I may change it soon, I hate hotmail.

Time to get back to work. Oh yeah, my belly's starting to poke out a little.

Lisp

Sam is completely adorable with his missing tooth (gaping hole). We had a good weekend together and tomorrow I'm moving, very excited. I'll post pictures when I get the computer moved and set up.

I had my going away luncheon yesterday. The most interesting part was the attendance of the general's wife, the general is TDY. You all should have seen my brown-nosing, butt-sucking boss. "I didn't know you were in with the general's wife like that!" So dumb.

I'm wondering how the big adjustment will go for all of us. I think Sam is doing okay but I don't think it's easy on him. I foresee some flared tempers, I'm just wondering how long it'll take. Maybe it'll be okay as long as I don't drive. For some reason we seem to get cranky when I'm the one driving.

I saw the baby again today... completely adorable sticking its little hand in its mouth. We tried looking for the "privateers" but they weren't really visible yet. Next month.

I'm off to get my car fixed for about the fourth time! I'll post again next week.

One more week

I'm in the office today, for my last Friday. My stuff has been packed up and I'm living in a hotel on another base for the rest of my time here.

I had a baby shower on Wednesday, it was nice. It was a tea party theme and the girl who hosted it is British so it was neat. I got some cute outfits, a blanket and other miscellaneous stuff. Not as much fun as my last baby shower, but nice nonetheless.

Cranky is getting bigger, I can tell. I just look chubbier to other people though. (and maybe I am chubbier...) I have another appt with the doctor on the 28th, the day before I leave. I'm hoping we'll know the sex.

My boys are coming to visit me today. Sam lost his first tooth yesterday, he's bringing it to show me. He's very excited and I'm curious to see what he looks like missing a tooth.

In a hurry, gotta go.

Baby Cranky

I had an appt yesterday and Cranky is now 7 cm long from head to butt. Not much new beyond that.

I'm pretty boring now that my boy is gone, not a whole lot to report. I'm just busy trying to tie up loose ends.

Sam's doing well at his new school. He smuggled in a nail file last week and got caught pretending it was a dagger. However, suspension was averted. The teacher just took it from him instead of reporting it.

Ladies at work are planning a baby shower for me next Wed. That's very nice but I know it'll be uncomfortable because I'm not really good friends with any of them. Plus, I hate all those dumb games...

In other news, my downstairs neighbor groped me Sunday night. He came upstairs to give me his phone number in case I need a ride home from the train station. He talked to me with his hand on my butt and then gave it a good solid squeeze before he left. I told Yagopuchae about it last night after carefully planning how I'd avert his jealous rage. Instead, he just continued yawning uncontrollably. I guess I did a good job averting.

Now I Get It...

My boss is sitting in the other room sucking the food from between his teeth, making disgusting sounds. This is a man who talks with his mouth stuffed full all the freakin' time. I mean, it's so full you can't understand what he's saying. When I give him a look and ask him to repeat himself he gives me an indignant look. Anyway, the sucking noise is gross and I finally understand why Yago gets irritated.

I'll be spending the entire next week up at Ramstein attend the Transition Assistance Program Seminar. It'll be nice to be out of here and with my boys for a week and a half.

I did some cleaning last night and I felt GREAT afterward. Made me wonder why I haven't done more throwing away and scrubbing over the last couple years...

The Curse, continued

I am essentially out my security deposit and no one is held accountable. (except me, of course) I'd like to kick everyone that works over there in the jimmy a couple times. (too bad they're girls and don't have jimmies)

I was informed yesterday that I owe Sam's daycare $150. I was supposed to be getting money back since I pay for the entire month on the first and he's leaving a week early. Nope. They say somewhere the billing got mixed up and I owe them $150... today. Perfect.

For YEARS, I have been looking forward to accruing enough frequent flyer miles to upgrade to business class. (Not even 1st class, just business class) I finally got the 25,000 I needed so my next trip to the states I was going to be balling, shot calling. Ya know what I'm saying? I went to look up ticket prices and upgrade procedures last Wed only to find they raised the requirement to 50,000 miles. WHAT??!! But, but... I was so pleased that when I go home over the holidays, 6 mos pregnant, I'd get to rest and relax on the plane. I'd get to dine on fine food instead of the microwavable veggie pizza crap. But, nooooo. I get to spend 10 hours crammed in a little seat doing the bobble-head sleep thing. (observing Sam's restful slumber only embitters me more)

On a happier note... my sister, mistressofmoomoo, turns 32 today. Happy birthday, you old lady!!! Sam said, "So Aunt Mistressofmoomoo is 32 and you're 33?" Yep, I'm only a year older. (zip it Yago. I didn't go cradle robbing for the verbal abuse)

Still with the curse?

I haven't much felt like posting lately because... well, a few reasons.

What's occupying most of my time and energy right now is trying NOT to get screwed by my landlord. He put a clause in at the end of my rental contract that nullifies the military clause. Of course, this cute little clause is all in German and the Housing Office said it was a good contract and recommended I sign it. Turns out it's not a good contract for me and I could be held liable for rent until Dec 2007. If I'm lucky I'll just be out a $3,600 securtity deposit. The whole purpose of the "Housing Office" is to help and protect military tenants, which they haven't.

Sam is leaving me this weekend to live with his dad. I'm sad that he'll be gone, I'll be lonely. I'll have to cuddle myself after dinner. I'll join them in a month but it's still four weeks alone in my apartment.

I've been trying to hand stuff off at work with mixed results. I don't really care about the Holiday Party but the person that's supposed to take it over isn't DOING anything with it.

It's frustrating but I have to remember, regardless, it'll be over in about a month.

Positive In = Positive Out

This morning I felt awful and didn't know why. I went to the espresso bar for a pick me up but got more than a caffeine buzz.* The people at the coffee machine are cool, not like the knuckleheads in my office. After a few minutes of good old-fashion bantering I realized that I physically felt better. It's amazing how that works.

* I know I'm not supposed to have a lot of caffeine and I am trying to ween myself.

Who has what?

Last night, while fixing the worst dinner in recent memory, the phone rang...
"Let me talk to Schmitty."
"Okay, hold on." hmm, that's weird.
Schmitty hands the phone to me a couple minutes later. With a smile he says, "The little baby in your belly is growing raisins."

Thanks, Yago. He's reading anything and everything he can get his hands on about fetal development.

Better Than Last...

This weekend was better than the last one... When Sam tried to get me arrested for kidnapping and child abuse. (lil' stinker)

We saw the movie Over the Hedge and had fun. I was CRAVING Chili's steak and portabello mushroom fajitas so I talked Yago in to going. He despises such establishments but agreed anyway, for the sake of Cranky I think. I can't tell you how excited I was about these fajitas. Imagine the disappointment when I saw they were discontinued. That was a bummer.

I ordered school clothes and maternity clothes on Sunday. Can't wait to have a little pregnant belly. (not the huge one where everyone is afraid to stand too close)

Big Smile

Yago and I went to my first OB appt today. Once he found out there was going to be a pelvic exam he wasn't nearly as excited about attending. "It's okay, you don't have to be there for that part." (in a forgiving tone when I actually didn't want him there for that)

I went out and got Yago when the doc was ready to do the ultrasound. It was so cute, you can already see the little heart beating. The doctor told us Cranky is about the size of a gummy bear. Yago made some comment about seeing it's little arms. The accompanying gesture was so funny I laughed the sensor/scopy/thingy off my belly. He's so ridiculous sometimes.

The difference in care between the Americans and Germans is already apparent. When I was pregnant with Sam I was diagnosed as pregnant. They took my bp, height, weight, some blood and sent me to a briefing. That's the only care I got during the first trimester.

I was diagnosed here and immediately eligible to see a doctor. I'm about 8 wks along and had my appt today. They didn't weigh me, which I found odd because in the US they write down your beginning weight and then lecture you the rest of your pregnancy about weight gain. They didn't take my blood pressure either but did collect a couple tubes of blood. Plus, I already got an ultrasound. That's a treat reserved for the fourth month in the States. They do an ultrasound EVERY visit and they have the 3-D kind.

Another difference... The doctor told me I could change into the robe hanging on the wall. She didn't leave the room or anything, just stepped behind the screen out of my sight. I asked which way I should have the robe open, the front or back. (All us girls know different doctors have different preferences.) This doctor sounded a little confused by my question. She told me, "We only have the robes for the American patients because we know that's what they're accustomed to. Germans don't use them." Hmm. I'm trying to imagine myself stripping down and walking around a stranger's office buck-naked. Nope. Then plopping myself down on a table in to stirrups without a robe, sheet, or anything. Nope. I don't even do that at home in front of my husband. (I mean walk around naked, we don't have stirrups at home.)

Today has been such a good day, I'm even friendly to people at work. Completely out of character.

untitled

Baby Cranky hasn't been so cranky the last couple days so that's good. I was worried I was going to have to endure months of feeling sick.

So it was right around a year ago that Yagopuchae started drunk dialing me while I was working mids. That is so funny to me. I had a little crush on him but I didn't take him seriously when he said, "I want to get to know you on a personal level." Yeah yeah, we'll see if you even remember this conversation tomorrow. It's amusing.

Mr. Cranky

I have named the little Huff fetus Mr. Cranky. He is draining me of what little energy I had. I walk around as if I have those little velcro weights strapped to my wrists and ankles. My eyelids are alway heavy. And I'm not exactly nauseous but I'm not quite right either. I just alway feel kind of... hungover. That's it! I feel like I went on a drinking binge.

Two months feels like a long time to sit here with these jokers. I wish I could just take off now. I want to tell everyone to suck it. I think the people I work with would be surprised to know that I can actually be pleasant on occassion because I always act like a bizzo here. ...Maybe they call me Capt Cranky.

Where did I go?

In case you're wondering, I've been busy the last few days. Thursday, Sam woke up sick. He threw up the grossest smelling puke I've ever been exposed to. We stayed home and he seemed fine from 0700 on.

I got a phone call in the afternoon from Yago that our paperwork had been approved by the German government, what date did I want? "Tomorrow, if they have it!" Friday was available so we went and got married! We were officially married on July 21st.

Then, Yago's grandmother visited over the weekend. She was in Scotland with her son and made a weekend trip to Germany to see us all. We spent a very pleasant weekend together.

To recap, this has been an amazing week. Sunday, I found out I was pregnant. Monday, that I'm due March 12th. Wednesday, I'm separating from the AF and on Friday, I got married.

That's why I've been so neglectful of my blog...

Thank God Almighty, I'm Free at Last

The AF has let me go! Can you believe that?? I can't. They told me they would turn down my application but they didn't! For once I'm glad they lied to me!! My separation date is Sep 29.

Sorry about not calling you, Mickity. I've been pretty busy in the evenings. Sam's home sick today so I'll try calling you this afternoon.

Fertile Myrtle

So it turns out I am pregnant! At least according to the discount store pregnancy test. I can't believe it but I'm pretty excited. I'm also quite the out-of-wedlock frau, but that's how we Adsits do it. Rules schmules.

It's very different this time. I didn't sit in the bathroom stall and cry. I couldn't wait to get home and tell Yago, I wasn't afraid of being yelled at. He grinned a big smile and asked, "Really?" It wasn't, "How could this happen?!"

I'm going to the clinic this afternoon to get my "official" test. There's a prenatal briefing Aug 8th that I'll have to attend. I'm so happy.

Two Things I Don't Know

Sam was rathered pleased with himself last night because he found two things I don't know. Our discussion over pizza:

Sam: What does heaven look like?

Me: (pause) I don't know. Kind of like out there? Sun shining, grass green...

Sam: Is it ever night time in heaven?

Me: I don't know. (long pause) I guess so.

Sam: I know two things you don't know now.

Me: (start to argue then realize I really don't know) But Sam no one knows until they die. (pull the old I don't know but neither does anyone else card)

Dumber than a post?

I took Sam to school this morning and on my way back I did something completely retarded. I was in a hurry trying to get around a crowd of kids and walked right smack in to a street sign. ...embarrassing. Now I have a cut and bruise on my forehead. I have to come up with a better story than, "I walked in to a street sign."

What Stinks?

Oh, that's me. Why? Because I went for a little jog in stinky clothes* and then forgot deodorant.

My physical condition sucks. Short and simple. It's depressing but I have to make it a priority.

I ate lunch with Sammy again. He said he's a team leader in his summer enrichment program at school. That means anyone in his row boat (I'm assuming that's his group) who needs help has to go to him. I asked if it changes everyday and he said no. We'll see. It sounds like he's doing well but it's hard to tell.

*I grabbed my gym clothes off my bedroom floor this morning . Although my t-shirt was folded, it smelled like it had sat in the washer for a week before I dried it. Gross.

Baby Steps

I feel so much better. Yago and I turned in our paperwork this morning for the marriage application thingy. We should hear back in a couple weeks and know the date.

We had a great weekend. Friday night we cooked out on our new grill. Saturday we took Sam and a couple other boys (Yago used to work with their father) to Kids Zone and they had a blast. Then, we had dinner at their house and had a nice evening. Sunday, we went to a Fest in town... Ate sausages and drank beer while Sammy jumped in a bouncy castle.

Needless to say, I'm ecstatic to be back at work...

My Sister Will Kill Me

But she sent me an email today and it was the sweetest thing...

I can't believe you are a captain. Look how far you have come. I can still remember the first day you left to go to basic. I sat in your room after we took you to the bus station and I cried while I held your garfield.

It's so cute and I remember that Garfield and my Garfield bedspread. So what if I was 19...

Craziness

I actually accomplished something at work today and have a clear idea of what the way ahead is. Amazing. Both my bosses are out today too. Coincidence? I doubt it.

I scarfed down a huge Taco Bell lunch today, not my fault... kind of. Yesterday I was told the CDC would save a plate for Sam since he doesn't get back from summer school until after 12:00. Good. Then when I dropped him off this morning I was told they couldn't do that because they can only hold lunch 30 mins and it would be longer than 30 mins. I hadn't planned for that and didn't have any cash on my so my choices were Taco Bell or BK.

I played wormy with Sam and he said I could be part of his family if I didn't talk to girls. Then he asked wormy if he wanted to go to his dad's house with him tonight.

(Wormy = A game played with a child to sucker them in to holding your hand. Stick out pinky finger and pretend it's a talking worm. Wormy tells child he's scared and needs to be held. Child holds on to worm. (Viola, they're holding your hand.) This is a great game in crowds or when crossing the street.)

Yeah, I Know

I know, I've been a complete slacker... but in my defense, oh screw it.

Got back from the honeymoon and it was really neat. We were there for the White Nights where it doesn't get dark. It'd be 11:00 at night and you could go outside and read a book. Jason woke up one morning and started getting ready only to see that it was 3:30 in the morning. Construction workers were still working at 11:30. I also learned that Russians are a frolicking people. They were everywhere along the river banks at all hours.

I turned in my paperwork to get out of the AF but the Exec isn't exactly pushing it through for me. What's IMPORTANT to me (and my mental health) isn't important to him. I can't further his career so why bother helping me? Every day that passes increases the likelihood of AFPC turning down my application because it's so short notice.

I also got promoted to captain last week so Sam can quit calling me Lieutenant...

Man Day

Jason is off today so he came down to Stuttgart a day early. He and Sam are enjoying a "Man Day" while I'm at work. I don't know what that means but I'm pretty sure it involves pajama bottoms and no shirts.

I have an appointment with the General in 30 mins to ask for his support in separating. I'm nervous as heck. I'm also afraid of ticking off my entire chain of command only to have my application turned down at AFPC.

In other news, today is my last duty day as a Lt. After I get back from leave I'll be a Capt.

Stick With It

I was given some advice last week, "You have to just make a decision and stick with it. You have to think about the worst case scenario on both sides. Can you live with it? Once you decide, you can't look back afterwards." Hmm. I can sit on a fence with the best of them.

Sam's last day of school was yesterday and his report card improved. He scored highly in all the academics and his behavior improved too. That's great news.

We leave this weekend for the "honeymoon." There might even be a wedding July 7th. Who knows.

Susie Homemaker

It's weird that I long to spend the day home cleaning and cooking. I was never really interested in being a domestic. Of course, before Sammy, I wasn't really interested in being a mother either. I still remember when I bought diapers for my niece and hussling out of Albertson's before anyone (besides the cashier) saw me. I didn't want anyone to think I had a baby! I despised the word "wife" until Yago told me he wanted me to be his. ;^) Suddenly, it had a certain ring to it.

I think I'm mostly tired of a lot of things. I'm tired of a messy house, of sticky floors, of throwing dinner together and mostly I'm tired of being tired. I want a home not a place where we all crash at the end of the day. It'd also be nice to learn to cook something that wasn't "cajun style."

Picture This

I've been trying to post pictures from when the family was in town but my computer at home is stupid. Yeah, it's the computer that's stupid.

I was lamenting yesterday to a coworker/friend about how I don't get any significant work but am getting paid a crap load of money. When I told her how much I get paid she couldn't believe it. She said something to a LTC (reservist) and he thought she was joking. When I showed him he was surprised and appalled that I make more money than HE does when he's 3 pay grades over me. I'm amused. Really. Probably more than I should be.

I have NOTHING to do today. Honestly. I should just go buy some fresh food and make an awesome dinner. Spend the day relaxing. I think they call that AWOL though.

Colonel Who?

I had to bring Sam in to work one night last week. I picked him up from the CDC, got a pizza and brought him to the office. I warned him to be very careful because we were eating at my boss' boss' conference table. "Okay," he answered.

Later on he wanted to play a game with me. "Mom, can we play a game? Pretend I'm your boss and I'm calling you. Pretend my name is Colonel Sam, okay?"

This has been our game lately. We pretend he's my boss and he asks me to go get him pizza because he has to work late. I ask, "I'll get it, what would you like on your pizza, sir?"
"Pepperoni."
"Yes, sir. I'll be there in a few minutes with your pepperoni pizza, Colonel Sam."

Can't think of a title...

I haven't blogged in nearly a week, don't have anything funny or particularly interesting these days.

Yago and I finally got our Russian Visas, that's good news. Honeymoon is still on.

I lost my debit card and curse you Mickity, I'm dependent on it now. I can't order anything on line because I had the lost one cancelled and haven't gotten the new one yet. I was going to order a swimsuit and some new clothes for our trip but I can't. I'm back to the check writing days and it's driving me crazy.

Add to that, Sam got in trouble at school last week and was sent to the Vice Pricipal's office. He disrupts the class (trying to clown around) and doesn't listen to the teacher. But, only a week left of the school year.

The secretary is putting in her 2-wk notice today and I'm afraid I'm going to become the full time secretary. Make no mistake, I'll be TICKED. My boss says he won't let it happen but he's pretty spineless so I don't put much stock in it.

My Turn?

I was here (at work) until almost 9:00 last night which makes me wonder, should I go in the office and start patting myself on the back for staying late last night? That's what everyone else does... Is it my turn to be an ass?

The in-laws (heehee) are coming back from Paris today and spending the night at my house. I really want them to come but my place is a DISASTER! I'm afraid they'll try to talk Yagopuchae out of his commitment. I dumped everything in one of Sam's toyboxes last Friday so I could take it to Yago's house. Sam needed a place to keep his things and it makes his bedroom there more his own. Anyway, Sam's room is a mess because I haven't had a chance to pick up all week. Nevermind the rest of my house looks like the dryer exploded because there are clothes EVERYWHERE. Some folded, some not. The priority is clean, then folded, then put away. I haven't gotten to the put away part yet.

The General's visit should be over around 4:30 so maybe I can get out of here and tidy up a bit before they all show up. I'm excited though. It'll be fun.

Play Me Another One, Sam

This morning I went to Sam's first music recital, he was adorable. He came in and looked through the crowd of parents but couldn't find me. His expression when he found me was all I needed to assure myself I made the right decision ditching work for an hour. He began singing and my eyes welled up with tears, he was so precious. I took pictures but they don't do him justice. When he was singing his little heart out to me I couldn't bring myself to look away to fumble with my camera.

I'm back at work now, still filling in for the Executive Assistant (or secretary, whatever). I have a big visit tomorrow morning and can't wait until it's over.

Yagopuchae is still in Paris, he may bring his family by Stuttgart and spend the night at my place. It would be wonderful but I'm still not unpacked after a year and a half, they'll be less than impressed with my housekeeping. It'd still be nice to have them stop by tomorrow night. We'll see.

On a completely separate subject, I have a crazy-ass zit on my lip that looks suspiciously like a cold sore but is NOT. It's becoming enormous and increasingly hideous. It's the most curious blemish I've had in a while, not your run-of-the-mill kind of thing. And painful, that's always a nice add-on. It's either throbbing or growing it's own heart and blood supply. If I grossed you out, you're welcome.

Memorial Day

I went on Sam's field trip Friday and I'm not sure when I'll sign up to do that again. It was exhausting sitting and walking with 20 kids all day. The museum had lots of interesting exhibits to see, maybe we'll go one day on our own.

On to the good stuff... I had a great time with the in-laws. They are so nice and funny. They came in Saturday, Sunday we went up to Bastogne and saw some cool WWII stuff. Monday, we went to St Goar to do some wine tasting and buying. Yagopuchae even bought a special bottle to celebrate when we finally get Sammy adopted. He's sweet like that.

It was a nice weekend and I was sad to come home...

Ain't I Purdy?

My dress got here last night so I hurried home from work to try it on. Cute cute. I stood in my room and examined myself from all angles, determining where it could be taken in. As I scrutinized I would periodically call out to Sam in the living room, "Isn't the dress pretty? Isn't this a pretty dress?" He lost interest in my dialogue after about five minutes, darn shame.

My future in-laws are coming in this weekend and I'm excited. They are so funny and nice, it should be a good weekend. Tomorrow is Sammy's field trip and I get to chaperone. He says that means he HAS to be my partner all day. (Despite his tone, I'm making that a positive statement.) I just can't wait to have a few days off.

Call Me Executive Assistant

My morning started out pretty well. I stepped on the scale and I'm finally below 140 again, I think it was around Nov-Dec that I passed that magic little mark.

A couple of slugs (not the fun beer chugging kind) from my office came in and did their best to apologize. Still don't like them but it was fun watching the spineless one squirm while I shot him with my ocular death rays.

I am STARVING right now because the hall smells like my momma's yummy potato salad. Try as I might, I can never duplicate it. (Have I ever tried? That's not really important.) It smells GOOD! rumble rumble

I kept having bad dreams about separating last night. I dreamt they officially announced a huge bonus for voluntary separations ($250k) but Yago, in his zeal, signed up for it before me. Then, I was afraid of both of us separating with only HALF-A-FREAKIN-MILLION dollars. It would have been about $350k after taxes though.

What Gives?

I'm feeling a little down in the dumps today and am not exactly sure why. My self-esteem seems to be taking a beating lately and I hate work. I'd like to go home and mope in private for a little while and then get Sam to cheer me up.

I have a festering ball of anger in my chest. Maybe it'll pass...

I'm substituting for the secretary again, this time for 2 1/2 weeks. Will I still do this after I make Capt? The other Capt hasn't ever had to fill in for a secretary but I bet I will continue... (I don't have a penis, after all.)

I can't get the Exec to send out an email tasking the divisions for Holiday Party reps. I'm supposed to have the first meeting tomorrow but he won't even send the stupid tasker out. I told him I was drafting it for his release, I went in and told him after I sent it to him, I sent him and email asking (begging) him to send it out and he STILL hasn't done it.

Everyone in my office took off for the day and went to see the forward operating site for Exercise COMBINED ENDEAVOR and not only didn't tell me but didn't invite me. (They're all jerks anyway but come on, this tops the office luncheons they don't tell me about.)

Plus, I'm feeling kind of ugly lately. I have the world's worst passport photos, no really. I'm not kidding. I put on a few pounds over the winter and have managed to lose about half of it but I'd be embarrassed if I ran in to an ex. I'm really putting too much thought in to that whole scenario, I just don't want it to happen.

I want out of this Division so badly, it's killing me. I want to go plead my case to the General but I can't really move when I've only been in this Branch five months. There's just no way I can excel over here. I have to remember it's better than the NOSC.

Plus, my dad wrote me. The Sabres lost last night, just let this day be over.

New Headquarters Badge debuts

"Airmen at the service headquarters often work 18-hour days, said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley. And while the Air Force can’t give the airmen extra money or time off, it can honor them with the badge, he said."

Well, zippity doo da!! Thanks Gen Moseley, maybe we could cut some more people and all work 19-20 hr days. Someone slap some stars on me and call me General.

Haircuts! Get your free haircuts!

I cut Sammy's hair last night. I cut his hair shorter than it has been since probably his third birthday. He thinks it's cool. (Not as cool as the mowhawk he wanted but he's happy.)

I just went to take a big swig of my water and noticed a BUNCH of crap in my cup. Gross. I wonder how much of it I ingested.

Bear with me...

Health care. It ticks me off. I HATE TriCare, mostly because I remember when everything was FREE. Because that's what I signed up with and it was taken away because TriCare was going to be SO much better and save the government SO much money.

Well, they're trying to overhaul it now because DoD is spending too much on health care. (Maybe they'd spend less if soldiers didn't keep getting wounded when they're sent off to war.) By overhaul, I mean charge us more for less benefits.

They're spending too much on pharmaceuticals. Huh? TriCare doesn't even cover new drugs, only generics that have been around something like 15 yrs. Don't EVEN get me started on THOSE lobbyists because it'll just ruin my day.

I think we should ALL have the exact same coverage the Senators get. People hated that Clinton wanted universal health care. Whatever, I don't think anyone should go bankrupt because they were in an accident or contracted a disease. What about all the schlepps working that aren't offered health insurance? It shouldn't be a perk, it should be a right.

Jennifer's Death

So here's my little story of the day...

Yesterday, I called Yago when I got home from work (as I always do) only to find him thoroughly annoyed. He planted basil the other day and went out to check on it yesterday afternoon. A slug had feasted on his beloved basil and he was... shall we say angry. (You must first understand his love affair with basil and rosemary, let's just say it borders weird.) After a five minute rant he told me he had to get off the phone and salt the slugs. (The evil basil robbers.)

I called him last night as I was going to bed (as I always do) and heard a man giddy with excitement. Hmmm, what's this about? "I named one of the slugs Jennifer!" Turns out, after we got off the phone he called his father who let him in on a little trick. "You see, if you get a bowl full of beer and put it in a little pit so it's level with the ground the slugs will come out to drink it. They get drunk, fall in the beer and drown! It's the coolest thing!"
"...so you named a slug you were trying to kill Jennifer?"
"I named her Jennifer because she hurried over to the beer! She really likes it, it's so funny! So I named her after you, honey." (He's obviously pleased with himself.)
"You watched her die? And you named her after me?"
"Uhhh... No, it's real funny." (A little deflated now.)
"You named a slug after your betrothed and watched her die?"
"Um, you're taking it wrong. I love you."
Hm.

Pumpkin Head

I sent Sam to school with some ORANGE hair today. I hope he doesn't get in trouble. I took him to school and expected to see kids with painted faces and all sorts of things. Nope. Not a single person was displaying any spirit. Oopsy.

I finally ordered a dress last night. Nothing fancy but nice enough to have a picture taken in. Sizing charts are always tricky so I ordered big thinking I can always have it taken in. You know, by the same people that sew my the pockets down on my uniform. Maybe not such a brilliant idea after all...

Field Days and Field Trips

Tomorrow is Field Day for Sam's school. He's competing in the Tug of War competition. (not the Hug of War as he initially told me) He's on Team Ireland so their colors are orange, white and green. Guess who's going to school with orange hair tomorrow... I hope they send a note home and let me know what time he's competing so I can cheer for him.

Next Friday they're taking a field trip to the Rosenstein Natural History Museum. We have a four-day weekend on Memorial Day so I'll get to chaperone and go with him. I'm looking forward to it but it means I won't spend an extra day at Yago's house, that's a bummer.

I got an email today saying that the Clerk of Courts needs a $6 money order to send us Yagopuchae's paperwork. You know, the paperwork we requested about 3 wks ago. The Legal Office sent another request with the money order today but that means it's another 3 wks before they look at it. Then we still have to wait for the stupid piece of paper to arrive in Germany. Maybe it's a good thing the AF retained me, otherwise I might be tossed out of Germany on my ear. ...Or have to get a job at the Shoppette.

Happy Mother's Day

Yes, I had a happy Mother's Day. Yagopuchae made me a gift that has kept on giving. Oat bran muffins.
Me: "Honey, how much oat bran was in those muffins?"
Yago: "A cup and a half."
Me: "Hmm, one serving = 1/4 cup. Holy crap!! I ate like five of those little suckers!"

Lil' Buckaroo

All Sam was missing this morning was a cowboy hat. He looked countrified but still adorable. He has a green checker western shirt that he wore with blue jeans and a denim jacket. He didn't even want his hair sticking up as usual because, "Cowboy hair is flat."

I'd just like to throw this out for my own amusement... Has ANYONE (besides Yagopuchae) ever heard of someone using "raisin" in place of the word nipple? i.e., "My raisins are poking out?"

Congratulations!

I've been inundated with congratulations on my retention. It's retarded. A Colonel that's nowhere near my chain of command just congratulated me. The secretary gave me a handwritten note from the General congratulating me again. I think word is out among the Lt Cols and below that I didn't want to be retained because I've been asked a few times.

Meanwhile, I ran in to Mrs. Verbeck at Burger King this afternoon and she congratulated me on my engagement. Silly General, telling his wife...

Also, I saw Sam's teacher at the post office last night and asked if his behavior has improved. Indeed, it has. So I offer congratulations to my (our) little Sammy.

Disenchantment

Since my conversation with Mickity last night I've been thinking...

Many years ago I was watching a program about the deficiencies of American schools. It focused mostly on the disparity of achievement among Asians and Americans. What it boiled down to was expectations. In the Asian culture it was the child's "job" to be a student. They didn't spend an hour after dinner doing dishes, they spent the time studying. Their job was to study, not to help out with household chores. The father's job was to earn a living, the mother took care of the home and the children studied. School was their priority. I thought that was interesting and find myself telling Sam that his job is to do well in school.

I look around now and am worried and perplexed about our future as a nation. Kids finish high school and can't add unlike fractions. Nobody can spell worth a damn anymore because it's not important. There's spell check for papers and most writing now is informal, IM and email.

For the vast majority of the population, education is the only way to increase your net worth over a lifetime. The higher your education the more money you make, it's that simple. However, schools are more and more unequal. It's always been that way but it's getting worse. There is a distinct difference among the classes. (and the classes)

In the meantime, our government is moving to cut aid and student loans making it even more difficult for a kid from an average income household to go to college. Legislators are also well on their way to approve an extension of a tax break for investors. That's great for all those people making money off investments but what about the Americans that live paycheck to paycheck? So the parents of a 6 yr old in the suburbs (whose mother is schlepping her to French lessons, gymnastics and swimming class) just got an extension on their tax break. Meanwhile, the family of the 6 yr old living in the city whose is going to a rotten school district isn't any better off. He's not going to learn trig in his public high school and he's not going to be able to afford college.

This is all especially groovy when you take into account crumbling pension plans and global outsourcing.

Oh Bloggy, wo bist du?

I can't see a damn thing. I'm getting the black screen of death, what is going on?

BONKERS!!

I'm going bonkers!! This guy has been trying to drill a safe open for hours. However, there are intermittent breaks from the drilling when he pounds on it. I'm normally pretty good at tuning out that kind of stuff but Jeezy Creezy, it's been 3 or 4 hrs.

I'm still adjusting to the fact that I'm going to spend the summer here in Stuttgart instead of at Ramstein. (Or Ramstead, as my mom calls it.) I had been trying to sign Sam up for swimming lessons and everything, thinking I'd be on the total slacker schedule.

I need to get out of here before I start screaming at the German.

Speculation

The news is out, finally. I'm being retained by the AF. That's right, they're keeping me in even though I wrote a letter and said I wanted out. Ah, how typical.

I misinterpreted a conversation with the Exec earlier today. I thought I was going to be forced out without the severance package. I was told the AF was going to treat the people who wrote letters as voluntary separations, making me ineligible for the money. I was bummed about not getting the GI Bill but was adjusting. Then the General called me in to his office and announced I'm being retained. "Congratulations, Jennifer. You're doing a great job."
Fake smile, "Um, thank you sir." Brain, process message. You must have misunderstood.

Changes

Yagopuchae is getting a new job, sounds a lot better than what he's doing now. The big bonus (in my opinion) is he won't be working for Arty. And hopefully, I'll be starting my new job soon. The one were I get to watch Oprah every day. The announcement should come next Wednesday. I'm warning you now, it's probably going to be a daily mention here on the ol' blog and if you call me... I'm bound to bring it up. I'm a total girl like that. If it's on my mind, I'm yapping about it.

Sam's sleepover went a lot better than I expected. They were good but they managed to bicker about everything, gives me a new appreciation for my mom and sister. Two kids are harder than one. I've heard that after three it's all the same.

I've got a four star event tomorrow and life should be SOOO much better after that's over.

I want to get out of here. Just take a couple weeks off and chill with the family but it'll have to wait...

Customer Service?

Here's what I've noticed lately... I am more surprised when I receive good service than I am when I receive bad service. Twice today I received good service and both times I walked out of the office in a bewildered, what-just-happened kind of daze. It's sad that I expect to be ignored my first few moments in an office and then get an, "I can't do that, what you're asking is impossible or it's not my job." attitude. I didn't have to beg or anything, it couldn't last all day though.

Sammy's friend is going to spend the night Saturday, I'm a little afraid. I'll report back Monday on how it went. We're going to go see Curious George this weekend so that should kill a couple hours.

Yagopuchae and I are progressing on the wedding and honeymoon. I got my passport pictures today for the Visa application. I'm going to make him promise he'll still marry me before I show them to him.

A Discovery

Last night I had to bring Sam in to work with me. I had to attend an online collaborative meeting so I picked Sam up from soccer practice and returned to the office. I warned him to be very quiet, no talking. I gave him an apple, a pen and a pad before donning my headsets and bringing up the website. He did amazingly well.

I just noticed the legal pad this morning. Across the top in big letters... WE TOOT YOU TOOT with stick drawings of us underneath. Nice. Thanks Yagopuchae.

Lots to do...

It's Thursday and I have tons to do. Yagopuchae will be here tomorrow night so I'd like to fold the laundry that's been sitting in the corner before he sees I still haven't done it. I should shave my legs before tomorrow night too. I have to get orders done for people coming to support the departure ceremony, update the weekly calendar, get my official passport (sounds like they want to send me tdy), get a letter from Leonberg stating I'm allowed to live in Germany... the list goes on. As you can see, I'm working on all this like a firecracker (you know, on blogger).

This morning I did manage to start a load of laundry, make Sam scrambled eggs and bacon for breakfast, and pack our lunches. If nothing else I feel like a good mom this morning.

Interesting Conversations

Here's an excerpt from a conversation this morning:

"Whoa, Sam look at all those cool motorcycles!" (me)
"Wow. They look cool. (pause) Someday I want to work for them." (Sam)
"What would you do if you worked for them?"
"You know, go with them to motorcycle class..."
"Oh yeah, I bet that'd be fun."

Here's another from Sunday:

"You didn't even notice the thing I did for you in your bathroom." (Yagopuchae)
"Yeah, right." Eye roll. (me)
"No, really."
"What'd you do?"
"I used milk to shine the leaves on the plant in your bathroom."
???? "What are you talking about? You did what with what?"
"Really, go check out how shiny they are!"

I have to give him credit, I don't know if I've ever seen plant leaves that shiny.

Fest or No Fest

Sam spent Saturday night at a friend's house so Yagopuchae and I had 24 hrs alone together. Unheard of. We went to the fest but got there too late and couldn't get in the tent. We had busted out butts walking to the train station in the rain and then searching for our tent at the fairgrounds. I was mad (and soggy). We got some food with a couple beers and I realized I was happier sitting and relaxing with him than I would have been crammed in to a huge drunken tent PACKED full of people. It really turned out better.

I'm losing motivation by the day, it's not good. I know the board results will be out in a couple weeks and I find myself not caring about tasks.

Sam starting calling Yagopuchae "dad." It's cute and gives me a warm little feeling inside. Like I finally did something right...

How do you spell fun?

Short Fuses

I don't know what's going on lately but everyone seems to be a little on edge. I had my outburst at the housing office last week but I've noticed EVERYONE seems a little short on patience lately. People get grumpy with me, I get grumpy with them. I think it's odd.

Complications

I got a surprise four-day weekend for Easter, that was nice. I got to take Friday and Monday off. Yagopuchae took the train here late Thursday night so we got an extra day together.

We all went saw Ice Age 2 on Friday, it was a really cute movie. I think the rest of the weekend we just hung out, Sunday we made a roast for dinner.

Apparently, getting married overseas is more complicated than Yago and I thought. Even in Denmark, where they're supposed to be lax, it's more work than we anticipated.

Hopefully, three weeks from tomorrow I'll get the board results. It'll be nice to actually get started on moving and getting settled in.

Susie Chapstick, or not

My lips are chapped. I mean CHAPPED. I'm not sure how it happened since I'm never too far from a tube of Chapstick. I have the peeling, annoying, bloody, stinging chapped lips. Very annoying.

There are about a thousand (maybe only 10) other things I'd rather be doing right now. Going to the legal office, housing office, cleaning up my apartment, doing laundry and putting my spring bedding on, running, grocery shopping, eating lunch with Sam, shopping for Sam's Easter present, planning a nice meal, shopping downtown... Any of those things and not in that order.

My board starts today and is scheduled to run for 3 wks. Hopefully everything goes as I have it planned and I'll be out of here soon. Maybe I'll miss working, maybe not.

What to do?

I've been pondering what I really want to do with myself when I have the opportunity. I'd like to own my own business one day but what would it be? I'd love to study different languages and how they're learned. I'd like to work with disadvantaged children, it'd make me feel like I was making a difference in the world. Hmm. Seems like most people have this figured out when they graduate college at 22. I could get my master's in something marketable and try to make a ton of money but I don't think I'd get much satisfaction. I wanted to go to med school but it'll demand more of my time than I'm willing give. Maybe I'll become and astronaut or a cowgirl.

Spelling

Sam wants to learn how to spell Schmitty. Why you ask? Good question. Seems that was a nickname he was given. By whom? Another fine question that I, myself, asked last Saturday morning over breakfast. Apparently, Yagopuchae decided a while back to nickname Sam Schmitty. In return, Schmitty gets to call Yago...hold on, this is good...The King. That's right, they are now known as Schmitty and The King.

When I tried to pin Yago down on why and how this came about he couldn't answer. The best he could do was say, "Everybody loves a nickname and Schmitty is a good one. Have you ever met someone named Schmitty that you didn't like? That's a cool, come-on-over-and-watch-the-game name."
"Okay. And The King?"
Crickets chirping.

That Was Fun

Just once I would like to have a cool boss. You know, someone that gave me projects and then gave me the authority to complete them. That'd be awesome. Instead, I get ass clowns that make ME look like an incapable ass clown.

I had the Colonel that I've been playing secretary for show up at a meeting today. I am the J6 Directorate rep and have attended ALL the meetings, which is more than I can say about my counterparts. The good Colonel shows up (late), takes my copy of the handouts and asks questions that were answered three weeks ago. I tried to tell him where we're at and he waved me away and proceeded to ask questions like, "I talked to the G6 and know the VISE team is locked in. Does anyone here know who initially reserved them?" Sir, that was ME. Your secretary for the last two days. The Lt who is sitting RIGHT NEXT TO YOU. The one you assigned the task to.

Thanks, Jerky. I don't have enough problems getting anyone to listen to me.

Ready to move on

Those night sweats I was so worried about... Well they haven't returned. That's good news but I don't know if I should go ahead and have the labs done since they were already ordered. That's not really very interesting...

I don't have much that's interesting to blog about these days. I'm engaged and planning the honeymoon, waiting for my flaming exit from the AF so I can become better acquainted with my little boy and maybe have another... All very exciting to me but it doesn't provide much entertainment for a reader.

I can't wait to get pregnant again. This time there will be two families excited about a new arrival. I know Yagopuchae will be funny with his zillion questions. I may have to make up cravings just to keep him entertained. (really, to keep myself entertained)

Just Like Heaven arrived in the mail today. Yagopuchae put it in my Netflix queue but now denies it. See, I gave him my username and password in case there was something that he wanted to see. I was trying to be thoughtful. I went from having three movies in my queue to 52! That's right, 52 friekin' movies. Thanks Yago, we're set until mid 2007 with the movies. But back to the topic of the paragraph... He loves Reese Witherspoon but is too embarrassed to admit he put a romantic comedy (or drama, I dunno) in the queue. Don't worry, we won't think any less of you.

A Thousand Words (or 50)

I posted the picture of my ring last night, as promised. You may be wondering why I placed my new diamond ring on a Jimmy Dean sausage link for a photo...

If you look at the picture you'll notice a cut on my middle finger. That's from chopping onions at Yagopuchae's house a week and a half ago. I cut myself but continued on chopping, being careful not to get blood on the food. But when Yago saw what I'd done he ran upstairs and got some peroxide and a bandaid for me. He bandaged me up, it was pretty cute really. Of course, it could just be that he didn't want to chop onions or have to cook bloody onions...

The Big News

So Yagopuchae finally lost what bit of mind he had and got down on one knee and proposed. He presented me with a beautiful 1/2 carat diamond set in platinum.

I'm very happy and want to run around and show everyone but don't want to be annoying. Especially since I work mostly with men that would, more than likely, feel bad for the poor sap I suckered in to an engagement.

I'll try to post a picture tonight... (big smile)

Are you kidding?

I was browsing cnn.com and saw two articles the made me shake my head and say wth (what the heck)?

First a man died running from cops when he got stuck in some mud. He thought he was wanted but turns out he just got pulled over for expired registration and driver's license. He ran away and got stuck waist deep in a mudhole when it was 30 degrees out. They tried to pull him out for an hour but weren't able to save him.

Another guy was a doctor working AIDS relief in Botswana when he was pulled out of a canoe by an alligator. He was on some tour with his new wife when it happened. This guy had worked in Iran in the 70s, been the Chief of Medicine at a couple of VA hospitals and then cared for his wife until she died in 2001 of some neuromuscular disease. He'd finally remarried and moved to Africa to be eaten by an alligator? How do you tell kids that grandpa was eaten by an alligator in Botswana?

I think about dying sometimes, ever since a near collision with a tanker. I hope Sam doesn't have to tell people I was gobbled up by an alligator in Africa. It does kind of make me think of Happy Gilmore though. ;^)

What's IS it?

So I was freaking out a little bit, I think I'm okay now. It's just a wait and see kind of thing...

I've been getting night sweats when I go off the pill, it's been going on for a couple years. I tried to tell a doctor about it a year and a half ago but he ignored me. I finally found a doctor that listened to me and I'm supposed to be tested next week. She told me to quit taking the pill for a month so she could do the blood tests and then I have to wait a couple more weeks for the results.

I was afraid now that someone is listening nothing will be wrong. I thought maybe I wouldn't get night sweats now that I'm supposed to get a blood test to find out what is causing it. Saturday and Sunday nights I woke up a little warm but it wasn't like the night sweats that I would wake up with in TX where I was soaked. ...Until last night. So it is still happening but only when I'm not on the pill.

But really, other than premature menopause what could be causing this? It's obviously a hormone problem if it's okay while I'm taking BCP. I was hoping for some answers and searched WebMD but everything says menopause or cancer treatment. I'm pretty sure I haven't been treated for cancer... You're not supposed to go through "the change" until 50!!

PLUS I read a few blogs almost every day and what's up with all the fertility problems?? Greek Tragedy, Zube Girl, Painting Chef...

Cinnabon Day

Today is a Cinnabon fundraiser so I preordered a four pack. Sam and I got up early and came in to my office to eat our Cinnabons. We sat at the conference table with our little cartons of milk and had breakfast together. It was cute. Then I walked him to school and gave him a hug in front of all his friends, I don't care. He can be embarrassed later.

I walked back to the office with a friend of mine who has a 15 yr old son. The stories! I really don't want Sam to become a teenager. Really. If I ever find out he's trying to have X-E-X I'll have to lock him in the basement.

eck

I ate WAY too much Taco Bell, I think it's related to my thyroid problem. (Not really)

I'm filling in for the secretary again today because she's sick so you know what that means... I'm flippin' bored.

Looks like they may release the board results in May instead of June, that'd be good. Less time sitting around wondering if they got my letter... Speaking of that, I need to get started on it. "Members of the board, you can all stick it where the sun don't shine."

Why did I eat so much?? Now my belly hurts and I'm sleepy.

Pratice Makes Worse

So why is it the more I type the worse I get? I should be a seasoned pro but I swear I'm getting worse and worse. I leave words out, overlook typos... I just get crappier and crappier.

While I'm on the topic, my spelling is deteriorating too. I used to spell pretty darn gud, not no more...

Is it really only NOON?

I am tired today and not in the mood for worky. I drank half a pot of coffee this morning and then two mugs of ESPRESSO!! I'm still sleepy.

On the plus side, my urine smells like coffee!! Why does that entertain me so?

Sam Doesn't Need Therapy!

Speech therapy, that is. I just had a meeting at his school with the speech pathologist, principal and teacher. They've been working on evaluating his stuttering for a couple months now. Although his disfluency level is kind of high it's not impacting his education so he doesn't qualify for therapy. Woohoo! (The threshold is 3 disfluencies/min and they recorded 9/min with Sammy) I didn't really want him to be the "special" kid that had to go to speech therapy anyway.

I'm taking some stuff up to Yagopuchae's house this weekend. Not much, some of Sam's toys, books, a poster, Spider-man blanket, pajamas, change of clothes. Like I said, not much. ;^) I'll just keep squeezing in more of my stuff and eventually he won't even notice when I don't leave. I've already got the carseat permanently placed in his car and now he buys the soap, shampoo and conditioner I like.

Here's what I wish I was doing right now: Sitting on a couch in Kaiserslautern with my feet propped up, wearing comfy clothes with fluffy socks, under a blanky drinking some wine.

Here's what I'm doing right now: Sitting in a secretary's chair, wearing my uncomfy uniform with boots laced a bit too tightly, reading about humanitarian mine assistance in Africa and drinking water.

Sniff Sniff

I bought a new scent yesterday during lunch. I forgot what I was supposed to be shopping for and started wandering around. I've been looking for something new for a while but whenever I start sniffing around I can't find anything I really like. The perfume counters always smell of everything mixed together and when you pick up a bottle to sniff it's always overpowering. After a while olfactory senses are dulled and I'm afraid of choosing the strongest instead of the best. Too citrusy, too floral, too sweet, too prostituty. Sam tries to help but he likes everything and tends to pick the funky bottles based on aesthetics.

Yesterday I grabbed ONE bottle, took a little wiff and decided it wasn't awful. I accidentally got too much this morning. The first squirt was only half a squirt because it was a new bottle so I went with another squirt and it was too much. So now I'm in my office and it's all I can smell. I feel like a smelly hooker, or at least one of the annoying girls with WAY too much perfume that you can smell 30 feet away.

CONGRATS MICKITY!!!!

First and foremost, congratulations to Mickity for getting in to Villanova Law School!! She's going to do great and LOVE it. She'll find more intellectual people to sharpen her debatin' skillz. Pilots just think they're smart cuz a bunch of other pilots told them so. (gotta throw in some pilot hate)

Sam's doopy problem has improved since the pink diapers. He's back in underwear. He's afraid of going to Mr. Jason's house in a diaper again. Not very manly.

You know how some months fly by and some drag by? This month is DRAGGING. It's killing me. I'm waiting for lots of things in June... my board results, my promotion, and maybe a little celebration?

Friday I get to fill in for the secretary so I'll probably blog lots that day. That job is BORING, no one ever calls or goes in there. I just sit and stare at the computer.

Yesterday was an awful day. I yelled at Sam and didn't give him a hug goodbye and then got my butt handed to me by a Lt Col via email (who cc'd lots of people). It wasn't my fault but I still felt like the dummy. I was still thinking about it in the shower this morning but I'm finally over it. (I think.) Sounds minor but it was pretty sucky.

Look forward to more on Friday...

We'll see...

Today, Sam went to school wearing a PullUp. The only ones the commissary had that were big enough were for girls. He's got Cinderella on the boys. I didn't know what else to do. It'll only be for a couple days and we'll see if he improves...

For those keeping track... Yes, my son is wearing a pink diaper.

...In the Dumps

Yagopuchae is down in the dumps today. He's not his normal, goofball self today. It's okay, everyone goes through phases. He thinks he wants Sam and me there. Wait until we're there a couple months, he'll be sure to change his tune.

"Why did I think it was a good idea to put this woman in charge of preparing my meals. EVERY-freakin'-DAY?? Why didn't I heed Mistress' warning? The shriveled black roast was cute the first time... I don't think I'm getting rid of her either. Maybe I could PCS and not tell her, I'll just tell her I'm going tdy. I won't even get movers, I'll just start over. What I wouldn't give for a Double Whopper and falling asleep on the couch watching American Idol."

We'll be there tomorrow, Pooky.

At a Loss...

I am STILL having issues with Sam's potty training. He doesn't wipe or clean himself and I've tried what I think is everything without success. It is a DAILY battle. Every night when we brush our teeth and change in to jammies I make him show me his doopy crack. It is always dirty and I have to make him wipe and clean himself. I've tried being understanding, patient, furious, shaming... you name it. I thought (hoped) it would eventually work itself out but it hasn't. Last night I went to tuck him in and he had poo smeared on his sheet. Disgusting. I lost it.

Trying to do searches and check websites for advice directs me to sites that are intended for help with a new 2-3 yr old. I've been going through this almost 3 yrs!

Anyone (mistress??) have words of wisdom?

Heehee

I just tooted a noisy toot at work. Accidentally, of course. Still funny even though no one was in the office.

Flashbacks of Last Weekend

I was thinking about the ski trip to Austria last Saturday and found myself smiling. I was thinking about how Yagopuchae, Sam and I were eating poppyseed crackers and brie for breakfast. Sounds kind of hoity-toity until you picture us smearing the cheese on with our fingers...

Attention to Detail

Here's an example of my awesome attention to detail. Yesterday I wore my undies inside out, accidentally. The funny thing was I had gone to the bathroom at least four or five times before I noticed. (I drink lots of coffee and water during the day.)

Yagopuchae and I are making plans together for our future and I'm excited. No one's ever cared what I wanted or thought before. It's funny because we want the same things and have the same thoughts before we even discuss anything. It's perfect and I know I'm nauseating to everyone else but, oh well. I'm hoping to get out soon even though I said I wanted to retire. It'd be nice to have the money but life is too difficult trying to balance everything and not doing any of it very well. I think I'll be better at being a mom than a captain anyway. Plus, I don't much like being a Lootinint and I don't think Capt will be much better. It'll be nice not to look at train schedules every weekend.

The old diet isn't going so well, it's got me kind of bummed. I broke down and ate Taco Bell yesterday and today I was starving and ate my lunch at 0900. I even ate Cheerios at home before I came in but I was still hungry.

Even the Best-layed Plans...

This weekend didn't go at all as I thought it would. I had the big Sock Hop scheduled Friday night which was kind of a disaster. It was complete mayhem, a thousand screaming little kids with parents crammed in to a tiny school. I envisioned a cute scene from Happy Days and it was NOTHING like that. I knew Yagopuchae was uncomfortable in a room that crowded and I couldn't wait to get out of there.

We went to bed late and then got up at 0330 to go skiing. The weather was awful, Sam wasn't feeling it and it took ELEVEN hours to get home. We got home around 0500 Sunday morning instead of Saturday evening. In a word, it sucked.

Sunday was nice though. Sam's friend Brianna came over and we kind of just lounged around the house all day. I made dinner and Yagopuchae complemented it, as he always does. I swear, I could heat him a dog turd and he'd tell me it was the best dog turd he's ever eaten. "It's good, honey." :^)

Paying for College

I'm thinking I may redirect the money I send to Sam's college fund every month. I think he may be able to pay for it with the money he's putting in his piggy bank during Lent. Yesterday I gave him 2 euro and a dollar. I've already said the f word this morning, although no one got to hear it. People park like idiots, especially when there's snow covering the lines.

Eating Crow??

I've been dreading someone moving to my office because I thought she was a meany. Today is her second day, she's been nothing but sweet and now I feel bad. Maybe I shouldn't have bad mouthed her so bad.

On the other hand, I'm not the only one that has a history with her. I've heard from four other people that she's been a witch to them too. She has yelled at me and been unpleasant in the past but maybe I just caught her at a bad time.

I'll keep you posted...

Squared Away

In a feeble attempt to look more squared away I put my hair up differently today. I put my bangs in a barrette so they wouldn't hang in my face. Unfortunately, I have an odd-shaped noggin with hair that NEVER cooperates. I look like an idiot and this only accentuates my nose, one of my favorite features. My FAVORITE is the double chin that I noticed a few months ago. Today is the start of a new month and I'm going to try to improve my lifestyle. I used to do really well but somehow I ditched all my good habits.

Oh, and I decided to give up cussing for lent. That'll be interesting. I cussed twice before 0900 this morning so it's not going to great. I think I'll give Sammy's piggy bank 50 cents everytime I cuss.