The Curdy's EST. 2002

Christmas 2009 Orlando FL.

2010-01-01T20:06:00.008-05:00

Round one of the many pictures we all took down in Orlando. We loved every minute we got to spend with Nana and Opa. Disneyworld just added to the fun. We had a very long crazy week hitting all the parks and were very impressed with the great behavior both Lexi and Andy had the whole time. We did Epcot, Disney Studios and The Magic Kingdom. Than we got to celebrate Christmas... YAY! It was ALL AMAZING! Thank you so much Nana and OPA for everything! It will be talked about and remembered FOREVER!!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-18T02:52:00.006-05:00

I am so excited to FINALLY be able to post these! We LOVE you all and are so grateful for all the love and support you give us everyday. Another year has come and gone full of challenges, smiles, tears, love and laughter ( Lots of laughter). We are so blessed to find you all still here by our side. Pushing us and encouraging us. We will NEVER be able so say thank you enough for everything you do for us. This year has been AMAZING!
Matt can now speak Russian and has all these cool new survival tricks. He's found most importantly happiness and peace in what he's doing. I'm so thankful for his ability to make it possible for me to stay home and raise the kids. I find myself so humbled by the love he has for us. He has seen me in all the good times and especially the bad and still remains my best friend and greatest love. I'm Honored to have him as my eternal sweet heart. It's funny because in our line of work you here a lot about the service breaking up marriages BUT I know it saved ours. We are constantly reminded of the love that we have for each other and LOVE every minute of the time we are blessed with. Every day is an adventure filled with unlimited possibilities.
Lexi is 5 going on 13. She is full of life and an amazing amount of energy. Also so kind and so gracious. She's been such a great strength and help to me. She's attends preschool at the local elementary school where she will continue on to kindergarden next year. She LOVES her teachers and Loves her friends. She has been in trouble a few times for talking to much. Which of course she gets from me But other than that does a great job! She is a mini me so I do see some rebellion in her... BUT I'm ready.
Andy is doing just great! He LOVES cooking! Anytime I'm ready for the kitchen he's right beside me with his stole and mini whisk. He enjoys his play dates but is still very shy in large group settings. He is a carbon copy of his daddy for sure. His speech has grown in leaps and bounds since last year and has graduated from speech therapy. I can't believe how fast it has all gone by and how BIG he is now.
As for me... I keep busy! This year has been GREAT! I have learned so much about myself... the strength and courage I have. The AMAZING friends I have discovered here to help me threw. To finally know the name of what I'm actually fighting! Most importantly the faith that I have grown threw all of this.... I stand in wonder at the journey that is life. Knowing for what I lack my Savior makes up for me... and that anytime things get even remotely close to easy there is always more growth and learning to do. All I can say is that out of all my years... this was my favorite. I KNOW that whatever it might be I CAN DO IT! I hold my head high and Bravely step into the next year! I will conquer whatever is next and I will at times possibly have tears in my eyes while doing it BUT I will go to my Father in Heaven on my tender knees and he will make me strong!
As Christmas rolls around we find ourselves wishing we could be with you all. Instead we must send all of our love and best wishes for a VERY Merry Christmas and BLESSED new Year! We especially hold the soldiers in the field and their families in our thoughts and prayers. We LOVE you all and are so grateful for the sacrifices you make to keep us FREE! We LOVE YOU Bassette. and Guyer! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!

Matt Passes Russian!

2009-11-03T08:19:00.002-05:00

Matt just got the news right now that he PASSED Russian with flying colors! Thank you all for your prayers. We know that's what has helped get us threw. Now onto his next portion of training. Out to "Camp" for the next three months. Nov. 16th till feb. sometime. Wish us luck!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-03T07:57:00.004-05:00

Lexi's Halloween Birthday Party

2009-11-03T07:46:00.003-05:00

Lexi had the greatest idea of waiting till the weekend before Halloween to have her 5th Birthday. That gave Mom and Dad plenty of time to get the house all shaped up for viewing. It was so much fun having our friends and family here. The costumes made it even better. She had a blast! Thank you all for all the fun and amazing gifts. We'll see you all again when she turns 8! LOL

Our LUCK!

2009-11-03T07:35:00.003-05:00

The following are just a few pictures of the nasty-ness that was left behind for us. We didn't even get to add pictures of the floor and carpet because it was every inch of it. The carpet was black and all torn up in the living room and the vinyl in the kitchen and dinning room was torn to heck and back. Yes, they FINLLY made it all better but it didn't help mommy's stress level one bit. Luckily I can count my blessings and say that Matt was my HERO. I crashed out from sheer exhaustion and he kept moving on. Nothing would have gotten done here with out him. Once we're settled I will have to post more pictures. Better pictures. ( YES, that's hair poking out)

After the maddens of the move October 7th

2009-11-03T07:31:00.002-05:00

It was 8 before we were even able to get out the door to take Lexi to her favorite restaurant. She wanted of course Chili's for her birthday. It was well worth it. They even gave her her own malten lava cake. Being so cute must pay off :). LOL

Lexi turns 5 on October 7th 2009.......

2009-11-03T07:22:00.002-05:00

Lexi's Birthday was a crazy day. We actually moved into our new house on base that day so thanks to some amazing friends she never new the difference. Miss Katie came and took her to school but not before stopping in at walmart to buy her Snow White. Lexi was thrilled! Than after school she spent the afternoon with her BFF Emily till the movers finished up their business. When she did get home I managed to have the table all decorated with her presents all arranged nicely. She had so much fun. Thank you ALL for making her day so amazing and wonderful.

Lexi's 5th Birthday at School

2009-11-03T07:13:00.004-05:00

We were so excited to be able to celebrate Lexi's birthday with her class. Daddy and brother even got to come and help out. She loved having us in her class with her teachers and friends. Of course it had to be Ariel her very favorite Princess EVER! So she tells me. ( I could have done better with the cupcakes BUT the school has a policy that the food must be purchased and labeled with the ingredients. I was sad that they messed up so badly BUT Lexi NEVER noticed!)

Daddy's Combat Jump!

2009-09-17T08:15:00.003-04:00

Yesterday morning the kids and I scarfed down breakfast and ran up to Saint Meire drop zone to catch Daddy and his buddies jump from a plain. The kids love watching Daddy jump! This time was extra special. They call it a combat jump. Daddy takes his ruck sac and dangles it from his hip while trying to land. Very exciting to watch all this go on. We were lucky enough to catch daddy right after for a quick picture!

My Babies First Day at school

2009-09-03T06:52:00.005-04:00

When she was trying her knew school clothes on we weren't even sure on where she'd be going to school because Cumberland county's more at four program was overflowing with kids. She'd been on the waiting list since April/May. They also were horrible about actually calling people back. I called them literally everyday for a month straight and they still were unwilling to help. So, as you can tell we weren't to thrilled about having to send her. I decided to home school her because I felt there was no other option and i found an amazing online program . That's when we decided to move on post and everything fell into place. The weekend before school started I put an ad out on Craigslist ( my favorite place) to ask for some advice on schools for her when low and behold... I found out we could enroll her in school before we moved into our new house. i was thrilled! So, the day before school started I got her all set up in pre-k thats given at Mcnair school. ( her future elementary school) So, next year she will attend the same school! So excited for her! Her teacher has also turned out to be amazing! We also found out yesterday that her new BFF Emily ( which she says has the potential to be her "ALLI" ( mommy's BFF forever) lives three doors down from our new place. So, the girls can't wait to ride bikes and play hard all day. I think us mom's are just excited to carpool! :)I think it's amazing how things just fall into place when you have enough faith!

Lexi's Fashion Show

2009-09-03T06:33:00.006-04:00

Lexi was so excited to start school she had to try on her new out fits. Guess which one was from Nana? ( It's the one with the hearts :) Lexi has decided she LOVES hearts just like her Nana. So exciting for her.

We're MOVING!!!

2009-08-19T06:04:00.002-04:00

So, It has come that time yet again that we are getting close to our yearly lease being up. Matt teases me that I am now an offical Curdy. I get the itch to move about 6-8 months in. Believe it or not it was a very hard decision this time. We where planning on staying and making things work here but our stairs as of late have been to hard for this old lady. So, we looked all over this crazy town and found nothing. We thought and thought and thought... finally we came to the conclusion that living on post would be the best option. We'd be spending way less in gas, the parks are all there as well as the pool, It's close to Matt's work and most importantly close to the hospital where all our doctors are. Also the best part is Lexi will have a GREAT school to go to next year. When looking for places to live all the good schools off base are to far away. So, through process of elimination here we are moving into a very nice duplex home with for the RECORD NO stairs. I could not be more excited!!! Now we are patiently waiting for the call saying we're all ready to move in. They will at that point come pack and move us. I get to sit on my lazy duff and let them go at it. So, when we move we'll let ya'll know our new address and post super cute pictures OF OUR NEW PLACE. Just remember to... we have more than enough room for visitors now so we're looking forward to seeing you all soon! xoxoxoxo To everyone!

It's been a Year ...

2009-08-15T10:28:00.002-04:00

I can not believe that we have already been here in NC for a year. Where has the time gone?? We've been so blessed over that year I can hardly speak because the tears just wanna come right out! It's been so hard being away from all our Family and friends BUT it has been so rewarding to see all we've accomplished as a family. The kids and I have grown so close and rely on each other so much. The confidence and strength Matt has found nearly floors me and the women I have grown into amazes me everyday. The military can strain a marriage in so many ways but for us it has been a great way to renew and refresh. It helps you live for everyday and every moment that's for sure. We haven't even had a deployment yet! :) We are again so thankful for the courage we find everyday and the love that grows here in our home. We are thankful for the journey we've been called on as well. We've met the most amazing people and we can say WE HAVE LIVED WELL! Here is my favorite picture taken over the last year. If you look closely you'll see the tears rolling down Daddy's cheeks as he says FAREWELL A-GAIN.. to Lexi! Here's to another year... and Thank you so much Matt for having the Faith to follow your dreams!

Andy's 3!!!!

2009-08-15T09:39:00.013-04:00

Looking Back.....

Free Personal signatures - cool!

2009-08-15T08:50:00.001-04:00

TEXTAREA_ID

Please READ ME!

2009-08-05T06:51:00.004-04:00

Here's a brief update on what's going on with us. Lexi and Andy are getting ready for school. They both start at the end of the month and are going to be able to go to the same school. They LOVE the thought of being able to stay together. They're both very excited and have their backpacks all ready to go. Matt's still kicking BUTT in Russian. There's still NOT a day that goes by that we don't give all the credit to Heavenly Father for that! He's got eight more weeks and than onto his "Special" camp. He'll be there and away from us from November onto February. He'll be home for the Holidays but than back out again. As for me... I FIGHT ON!!! It's been a very hard battle for me. I know that I have already spoken on the possible LUPUS diagnoses. I saw my Family doctor on Friday. I was nervous because usually it's a hit and miss kinda thing. We go to a Clinic where our Doctors deploy as much as the soldiers here. So we make progress with one and than end up starting all over again. This is the battle we've faced. Friday was a different day! Matt met the kids and I and stayed with me through the doctor's visit. He kept them entertained and gave me some well needed moral support. The Doctor was AWESOME! She actually listened to me and decided to do a few more testes to rule out things like thyroid issues. That way when they came back negative, we'd know that the LUPUS was in fact there. She also gave me several new meds including a round of steroids that have been working very nicely! The thyroid option was eliminated by the end of the day! That's when I knew IT was in fact LUPUS I've been dealing with. I've heard this a few times but had been keeping the hope that each doctor would be different. I'll be able to see the specialist in the next two weeks. He'll be able to poke at me for a bit and help decide where we should go next. I will admit I was still hoping for something simple like a thyroid issue. So, friday was a rather dark day in our house. Matt has been so good about all of this... he's always on the internet trying to learn more and he's always got a great attitude about it. I feel horrible about the diagnosis at times like it's my fault or I could've stopped it. I know all silly BUT I know it will change the lives of myself as well as my children and husband. This is my most sensitive point because as everyone who knows me well can testify... I DO EVERYTHING for my family and the thought of sometime not being able to do that. That's my darkest thought. I take great pride and pleasure in being SUPER MOM! So I'll keep going and FIghting the good fight. I love being a mom and a wife. I hope that I can show them that more than ever. Thank you all so much for your love and support. WE can never thank you all enough for that. We'll update on this all soon. xoxoxxo and all our love!

Passing Through...

2009-08-04T16:51:00.005-04:00

Today we had a great visit with a wonderful old friend from back home! Thank you Chris and your Beautiful wife for thinking of us when planning your trip to your new home in California. You're so lucky to be going back home! Green with envy!! have a safe trip and thanks again for the wonderful visit and all the great memories!

Happy 3rd Birthday Andrew!!!!

2009-08-04T16:27:00.008-04:00

Andy had a wonderful 3rd Birthday! We were planning on having a party for him but we all wound up getting the flu. Our party goers also fell ill. Lots going around right now I guess. Anyway, daddy came home after a good long work out and we opened Andy's presents first thing! He loved that!! We made sure Nana and opa got to be on the phone when he was opening theirs.. that would be who was listening in on the phone. He loved everything he got even his books! Thank you so much grandma for his policemen outfit.. no more princess dress up for him! Thank you so much to Nana and Opa for the amazing geotrax set as well. To all our friends... thank you so much for all your love and support! WE WILL EVENTUALLY have that party! Love you so much baby boy! You're 3 now! Can't believe that!!! Thanks for going with sissy and I to the movies and the toy store... we had so much fun!

Our Fourth of July Parade

2009-08-04T16:13:00.007-04:00

Our Local town of Hope Mills holds a fourth of July Parade and all day / evening party. We were all so excited to go and have fun as a family. We were picturing something much more like a Cache valley fourth of July. We were pretty let down... the kids didn't notice the difference though. They enjoyed filling their bags with all the candy being thrown at them. After the parade we went over to our amazing friend Katie's house and enjoyed a BBQ and fireworks with her family and some friends. It was a great day! Especially being able to share it with our daddy our HERO!

Happy Fourth of July

2009-07-01T05:26:00.015-04:00

Happy Fourth of July to all those wonderful men and women who keep us safe and free. I hope that you and your families keep safe and our thoughts and prayers are always with you. To all those we personally know, who are out there in the field we can't wait for you to come home safe. We're looking after your families and missing you all greatly. We love you all and your families so much! God Speed and keep well. I received the following pictures in an email from my best friend Alison as a pick me up for Matt and I while he was going through * THE SUPER BOWL* ( please read posts from October... That'll catch you up). They were what I thought to be a wonderfully funny representation of the Soldiers that are fighting for us. They show that lovable big brother who is blowing off a little steam.... letting some of the stress just melt away. Remember to thank a Service man/women when you get a chance. The sacrifice is great but the blessings are greater.

A visit To the Fire Station

2009-06-28T10:38:00.013-04:00

Thursday we went with our Mommy play group to the local fire station for some education. The kids LOVED IT! They got to hold the fire hose and play in the water. The fire fighters built them a mini pool out of tarps and medal rods. It was the coolest thing I've ever seen. THey met a fire fighter in his full gear and were taught fire safety from a singing fire truck. It was so great! Next time they do it we'll be there again for sure! Everyone should check to see if there local fire department does something like this. Lexi has been spouting off fire info ever since we got back!

Happy 28th Birthday Daddy!

2009-06-28T10:33:00.004-04:00

You're an old Man Daddy! Closer to thirty than I am :) LOL! We love you!!! XOXOXOXOXO

Our New Kitten

2009-06-28T10:24:00.003-04:00

So, we had a female kitten only five or so weeks old. She suddenly passed away one morning. So Matt grabbed a shovel and we gave her a proper funeral. When speaking to the vet's office they suggested we try a knew kitten as soon as we were ready. The kids and Matt were of course were ready right away.... as for me it took a little while. We went a few days later and brought home Buddy. He's been truly great for everyone! Fun and very affectionate kitten.

What's Happening Now....

2009-06-28T09:15:00.003-04:00

Hello all! I've been asked on several occasions to update my blog.... So here I am on a Sunday morning home from church with a sick little girl. What better time to do it :)! So here's the happenings, Matt started Language training almost two months ago now. ( can't believe it's already been that long) He's totally kicking butt and being blessed with help from Heavenly Father. He's been able to get high scores each time they test he scores in the mid to high ninety's. Yes we feel truly blessed! It's amazing to see all of our blessings so clearly now. Everything we have done has led us here. Lexi and Andy will be starting school in August. This I can't believe! Lexi misses the cut off date for Kindergarden by two weeks. She was very upset! But I found a program that she can attend called more at four. It's just like Kindergarden but run through a State funded Preschool. Since Andy has had so many speech issues he gets to go a few hours a week and enjoy preschool. As for Andy and Speech... He's amazed me! Grandpa called yesterday and Andy talked to him... ( he thought it was Lexi because he was talking so well :) He was amazed at how well Andy was doing. Andy has also felt confident enough to talk on the phone. The Grandparents are all enjoying that! As an update on me.... the medical testing still goes on. I've got several appointments in July and yet another Bone scan. I'm hoping that this will yield more answers. I've been pretty sick for the past couple months now. Stress Fractures and several compound fractures in my right foot and toes/ankle area. That's what started all the testing anyway. I've also had several other symptoms that a "normal" 27 year old shouldn't have. They have several ideas as to what might be going on it's just all a process of elimination. I will update you all as soon as I have a handle on exactly what it is and how they will be treating everything. On a brighter note I've been able to have the cutest little babies in the house. I started watching some kids and am really enjoying that! I've also been blessed with a few very close friends here who have always been more than ready to help me out by doing things like watching the kids for Dr.'s appointments and such. Thank you guys... you know how amazing you are :)! Anyway, we'll keep taking one day at a time and being thankful for what we have been blessed with!

TAX DAY T.E.A Party... TAXED ENOUGH ALREADY!

2009-04-15T18:49:00.019-04:00

We were so proud to take our kids and even a few very close friends to our very first "Rally". As a family we feel so passionate about standing up for what we believe in but we've never had a chance to do something quiet like this. Our kids.. especially Lexi loved every minute of it! She's a people lover but all the attention she personally got made it all better. We'll be checking out the local paper today to see if her picture made it in. ( If you look close she even has tea bags in her hair)

Easter Sunday... Remembering Our Savior

2009-04-15T18:41:00.006-04:00

The Bunny Came

2009-04-15T18:31:00.008-04:00

Andy only interested in chowing down....

Lexi so excited to see where that "darn" Easter Bunny left "Her" basket. Hope he didn't lose it mommy!

Guess Which one put ( He's ) eggs all out in a row? Is this a sign of what might be to come???

Colored coated Easter Baskets so nothing was wrongly stollen. ( the Easter Bunny thought that was quiet clever)

We woke up Saturday morning and the Easter Bunny had come. He must have known how busy Sunday would be for mommy and Daddy! Anyway, he hide Lexi and Andy's Baskets somewhere in the living room to. Lexi and Andy had so much fun looking for their Baskets. When it came to the egg hunt all Andy wanted to do was open the eggs and eat the candy out. Go figure! We had so much fun just watching and enjoying all the fun they had.

Making our Easter Eggs with Daddy!!

2009-04-15T18:19:00.007-04:00

We're so excited that daddy gets to be home with us this year!!! So, we let daddy take care of all the messy stuff... he's better at the art anyway! :) While we were having a wonderful time coloring Easter Eggs our very sweet neighbor ( who has fallen in love with our very cute kids) brought them a basket filled with goodies. Than ( we love you Auntie Jo/Uncle Art and papa! We'll never forget) Had Hand dipped Strawberries delivered for us! Lexi says... they're bigger than my hand! I love strawberry and chocolate to! How'd she know??

Easter Dinner

2009-04-15T18:08:00.006-04:00

Thanks for coming over for dinner guyer family! We had so much fun with you Saturday night. We will miss you greatly Amya and Aden ( * mommy and daddy to)

Allergy's Southern Style

2009-04-15T18:03:00.004-04:00

We've all been struggling with allergies here. The coloring on the ground is actually all pollen. Everything is covered in bright yellow here and after it rains the "paint" ( as lexi calls it) covers everything in sight.

Our New Mini Van

2009-04-15T17:56:00.002-04:00

The kids and I love having our own car! Thank you daddy for our mini van... load them up and off we go! Next time it will be our Tahoe brand NEW. Till than....

Andy's Big Day!

2009-03-29T07:50:00.006-04:00

Word's cannot describe how proud we are of our little boy. On Wednesday Andy got his tubes put in and did a great job doing it. We played "Dress up" So he'd actually put the gown and hair net on. Besides being a little nervous he did a wonderful job going with the beautiful nurses and letting them put him to sleep. The funniest part was when he had his "juice" which was a cocktail to clam him down. He kept looking at me and in a very goofy way kept say "You my ma----maa". He makes for a very happy drunk. It was super cute! He does have a very bad cold now so it makes his ear drain blood... which makes my heart stop every time. But I've been told that all is well. He'll have a follow up in a few weeks. * There even turned out to be way less scare tissue in his ears than they thought. We were very excited to hear that.

Grandma's House Part 2 ...

2009-03-29T07:35:00.006-04:00

We had so much fun at Grandma's with everyone that we forgot to take pictures like we wanted. All we got were these few pictures Of Lexi and Andy playing with uncle James and our good friend Tristan. Lexi and Tristan were only born one week apart and have been very good friends from the start. His mom is one of the greatest friends anyone could ever have! Thank you Tati for bring him over to see us! We love you Unkie James! Thanks for all the fun cars.

To Grandma's House we went.... Part 1

2009-03-29T07:05:00.007-04:00

We were so lucky to get to have a very special visit with our Grandma's and Grandpa's in Utah a few weeks ago. We're so glade that we got to have a whole weeks with them. Both plane rides the kids did a great job. Andy had yet again double ear infections but boy was he ever so brave. Lexi also did a wonderful job and loved every minute of meeting new people. It was a very long day both days we traveled but we had a wonderful time.I admit it was just a little more than hard to leave all those beautiful mountains behind and all the fam. but we had no choice. We had to return and get on with daily life.

Vaentines Day Cookie Party

2009-02-24T10:12:00.009-05:00

We had the most fun at Katie's making and enjoying cookies! There was more frosting than anything eat'in that day!

A Disclaimer

2009-02-24T10:09:00.002-05:00

I just looked at these Birthday pictures and thought that I better add in the story about Lexi's black eye. She got her very first shiner from her baby brother and a giant water bottle. She only told me after that fact. She's our very brave littel girl!

Mommy's Birthday January 2009!

2009-02-24T09:55:00.008-05:00

Thank you my Babies for such a great 27th Birthday. Both kids had been very sick the week before my birthday so our wonderful and amazing friend Carmen made a plain White cake and brought over sprinkles and frosting for the kids to decorate it. They all made the day so wonderful!

NC Zoo

2009-02-24T09:35:00.000-05:00

We had so much fun at the NC zoo in Greensboro. We shared a very fun time with our Friends Katie and Erin. Our little ones have become quite the Bossum Buds. Thanks for all the Fun Beckham and Celeste. We love you!

Christmas 2008

2009-01-24T08:20:00.000-05:00

Decorating The Christmas Tree

2009-01-24T08:07:00.000-05:00

It came to be two weeks before Christmas and we still had no tree. This made the kids and I very sad so one night Lexi and I decided to run out and get our very own tree. Her smile stretched from ear to ear after we set it all up. Thanks so much Nana and Opa for sending there ornaments! They Loved being able to put something on there tree.

Our Personal Goods Arrive!!!

2009-01-22T17:34:00.000-05:00

One week before Christmas we got our household goods. A.K.A our toys, and furniture and Beds!!

Merry Christmas from our Family to Yours

2008-12-21T20:27:00.000-05:00

Santa Clause... What do we tell them about that?

2008-12-10T20:24:00.000-05:00

Ok we had a cute little Santa Talk this morning. Let me say How proud I am first off that daddy was happy to play along. Lexi came into our room very early this morning because she had heard some noise coming from the floor above us. Daddy told her that it was Santa checking on all the good boys and girls ( like a test run for Christmas Eve night) He just wanted to make sure he knew where we were living. He knew how good Lexi and Andy were so if they kept up the good work Santa would be back with some toys for them soon. Lexi was the most excited we've ever seen her. At that point she promised that she'd keep being good but she wasn't to sure about Andy.:) I'm so grateful that Matt decided to go along with it. I know that Christmas is about the Birth of our Savior and that is the most important thing to instill in our children. But at the same time it's so much fun to see their little faces light up with the excitement that Santa brings into our home! In Saint Nicks life he brought so much good and happiness into those lives of the less fortunate. I'd also like that spirit to live on in our children as well. We love ya'll and hope that the Holidays are Merry and Bright!

Black Friday!

2008-12-04T21:26:00.000-05:00

Matt and two of His Buddies decided to go "Hunting" for a few Black Friday Specials. They were at the local walmart a little after four in the morning with a grand plan. Everyone was at their post and were ready to roll at 5am. They brought home the greatest gift ever for Andy. Before this real vaccum everything he touched was made to be a vaccum. He's never been happier! The greatest $8 dollars that we've ever spent! The Boys also had lots of fun battling it out for other things like big screen HD TV's. ( Thank you for my gift Honey! :) )

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T10:37:00.002-05:00

Hello all!! Our Thanksgiving was so great! Sad to be away from family but great to be spending the Holiday with good friends and even better food. I do have to say that it did give Matt and I a much deeper appreciation for all the hard work our mother's have put in for us many times before. We had such a great time with all of our friends. We're so Thankful for all the wonderful things we've been blessed with this year. Thank you all for your love and support.

The Field all White with cotton

2008-11-14T14:25:00.000-05:00

I'm thrilled to be posting this picture! Lexi was so excited coming home that she wanted us to stop and take a picture of the cotton in the field! She said it was the most beautiful thing she'd ever seen. it was super cute!

Funny mess Ups

2008-11-14T14:21:00.000-05:00

I just realized that we must love our "famous Joe Jones" so much that I posted his picture twice in our last entry. So hopefully our family picture will make up for it!

Daddy Goes sky Diving with The Golden Knights

2008-11-14T13:48:00.000-05:00

We got really lucky this this Veterans day. Daddy was able to go sky diving with the army's Golden Knights! Most importantly he got to go with the famous Jo Jones! He's really good friends with Manny and Deon and I'd like to say us too! :) Anyway, Joe asked us out to the airfield for a special soldier appreciation day. Matt was able to jump with four other friends from church. He had the time of his life. The next time will be all mine!!!!

Twilight is Coming!

2008-11-07T07:42:00.000-05:00

I just got online last night and purchased my twilight tickets. I can't help but be excited that my favorite series of books is going to receive is due credit! So, I decided to dedicate my page to Twilight. I'm so excited for everyone who hasn't experienced the excitement that is twilight. Remember to buy your tickets!

My favorite Video

2008-11-06T08:27:00.000-05:00

This special Video was send through an email to me today. This touched my heart so much that I thought I'd better post it. Diamond Rio sang this in a Las Vegas Concert recently which was recieved by a standing ovation. In these times we live in all we have to rely on is our faith and the Knowledge that without a doubt Heavenly Father knows us each individually and loves us very much. Without him nothing would be possible. In this country it seems especially after this week that too many people have forgotten that. Too many people have become detached to the roots of this country. We have an obligation to him to stand up and defend our freedoms. Most importantly we owe him our graditude and love. So, please head to the bottom of my page and pause the page music then hit play on the video bar. Please enjoy! love ya'll.

Our Indian and cowgirl

2008-11-05T18:33:00.000-05:00

We had so much fun watching the kids dress up for Halloween this year. We really wished that we had just had more time. Matt arrived home just in time for our churches trunk or treat where there was lots of candy and even more chili. Lexi loved going around the parking lot collecting candy several times over. After that we decided since Halloween was several days away at that point and we already had enough candy to sink a battle ship that we'd just take it easy. We took daddy halloween night for his victory dinner at chili's. Lexi was very excited to take daddy to her favorite place. Fun was had by all.... we did have to make sure we shield the kids eyes from time to time though. Some of the costumes out there this year were next to nothing.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-05T17:57:00.001-05:00

Colorado and Russian

2008-10-29T09:52:00.000-04:00

We are so tremendously proud of Matt and all he has accomplished! We were able to go pick him up yesterday around 6 pm. We were all so happy and excited to see how well he was doing. Besides his his feet he was holding up pretty well. We wound up taking a buddy of his to Burger King for his celebration meal. They both really love Burger King. I've been there so much in the past several days that I really feel that's the last place I'll wanna see for a really long time! Anyway, we had a great time laughing and sharing stories. After that on the way home Matt finally spilled the beans. It looks like the "Team" he's been chosen for is in Colorado Springs! So, in two to three years we'll be stationed in Colorado! He'll be speaking Russian so he's excited about that! We've decided to learn together as a family! I can't wait!!!! We are so blessed to be on this knew path. It's all still sinking in! We love you all and are so grateful for all the love and support ya'll give us. If you want more details on anything else remember we're only a phone call away! we love you all!

Daddy's Home!!!

2008-10-29T09:39:00.000-04:00

Super Bowl Ring as been won!!!!!

2008-10-27T21:07:00.000-04:00

He did it.... he did it .... he did it!!!!!! We are so blessed, humbled grateful overwhelmed and excited to announce that Matt has accomplished his dream. He has won the stanley cup... the super bowl ring.... the high school championship football game. However we cut it he's coming home a winner!! He's achieved his dream! I could not be more proud of my husband. We're so blessed to know that the past eight month to a year have all been well worth it. I have not yet heard this from him but I have two very reliable sources on the inside. I know I am with out a doubt the luckiest wife ever to know the things I know at this moment. My husband still has no idea that I do know. :) Not until tomorrow that is! Before we thought that he'd be coming home on wednesday but I just found out today that he'll be home tomorrow. I can't wait to tell him how proud I am of him. Out of 68 players only 32 where chosen for the final "Play". ( Matt was one of the 32 :) ) we've been on own knees all day as a family making sure that Heavenly father knows how grateful we are for this wonderful experience. We know that with out a doubt all things good come from him and there's no doubt that we have been given a very special gift. So, onward we go down this very knew and exciting path. But never without Heavenly Father by our side. We're so grateful for all of you. we could never have done this without the love and support you all give us. Thank you for helping us accomplish this wonderful dream.

A wonderful Day!

2008-10-23T19:28:00.000-04:00

For those of you who may not know Matt is in his 10th day of "Super hero training camp"! I've been really struggling with the fact that there is no contact with him and we really don't know exactly how he's doing. So, I just think to myself that each day we don't hear from him that that should be counted as a successful day. I feel very honored and blessed that my husband is such an amazing man. That he's capable of great things when he leans on Heavenly Father. Today while I was out with the kids I received a call from some very good friends of ours. Her husband is out at "Camp" with Matt. He called her late last night to let her know about an injury that has taken him out of "The Game". They weren't sure of the extent of the injury at the time so he was unsure as to what will happen next. My heart automatically broke for them. I had to pull over and try to regain my composure. The flood gates had opened and it was very hard to close it all back up again. There family has been apart even longer than we had. She mentioned to me that she was able to speak with her husband about Matt for me. Her husband says he's a quote "Stud". Besides several very bad blisters Matt is doing well and thriving. He's made it through several of the major challenges that he was worried about. I feel very overwhelmed by the blessings that we have received since our journey began a year ago. We've been surrounded by all these amazing people who have brought strength and encouragement to our family. They've also been able to bring us comfort and peace in our times of need. I'm so grateful for all of our friends and family who have been praying so hard for his strength and success. We'll never be able to express blessed we are to have you all standing by our side. We love you all so very much! We'll let you know as son as we know how things turn out. But no matter what we have already been able to accomplish so much. We're most grateful to Heavenly father for the growth and development he has helped us to achieve. Without his love and guidance we'd be much less than we are.

2008-10-21T08:45:00.000-04:00

Ok, I just got this crazy tag from Our Aunt. I played along because I must :)....

1. Where is your cell phone? lost

2. Where is your significant other? M.I.A

3. Your hair color? lost

4. Your mother? beautiful

5. Your father? strong

6. Your favorite thing? family

7. Your dream last night? laughable

8. Your dream/goal? home

9. The room you're in? living

10. Your hobby? blogging

11. Your fear? dark

12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? independant

13. Where were you last night? home

14. What you're not? lost

15. One of your wish-list items? Europe

16. Where you grew up? California

17. The last thing you did? breakfast

18. What are you wearing? sweats

19. Your TV? on

20. Your pet? shelter

21. Your computer? laptop

22.Your mood? annouise

23.Missing someone? Matt

24. Your car? Impala

25. Something you're not wearing? Bra :)

26. Favorite store? Target

27. Your summer? hot

28. Love someone? many

29. Your favorite color? red

30. When is the last time you laughed? now

31. Last time you cried? Yesterday

Daddy Making us Proud!

2008-10-18T23:07:00.001-04:00

Last Sunday as Daddy prepared for "Camp" he had two very cute little helpers who were all to willing to go with and help him out. They even helped "pack" his ruck. If only it could be that light was what daddy was thinking. we bid farewell and good luck to daddy a week ago Monday. We always think "No news, is good news". Our thoughts and prayers are with him as he attempts to follow his dreams. We love him so much and are so grateful for the love and support he gives us. We're more than excited to see what the outcome will be. We're all holding our breath for October 29th!

2008-10-18T22:56:00.000-04:00

2008-10-18T22:39:00.000-04:00

After Golfing we hit the arcade. The kids liked that so much better than golfing. Shock and surprise!

2008-10-18T22:37:00.000-04:00

We gave Daddy extra points for the really cute road blocks...

2008-10-18T22:36:00.000-04:00

Daddy and Lexi stop to pose for Mommy

2008-10-18T22:34:00.000-04:00

Andy would rather play with big Rocks!

2008-10-18T22:30:00.000-04:00

Lexi Plays Golf with her Red club! Swing daddy swing!

2008-10-16T13:28:00.000-04:00

Mommy and Lexi in Columbus Georgia in June. Sharing a very special dish at Country's BBQ! We loved everything about this place! Especially the fryed banana pudding.

A very special weekend

2008-10-12T17:33:00.001-04:00

As I am writing this I can't help but laugh at the humor life seems to hold for us. I also find myself with a specific conference talk running through my head. It was given just last week and had much to do with finding laughter instead of anger when things don't work out the way we intend them too. Keep that in mind when I share the following:

So, this weekend was a very big weekend on the calendar. Matt was away training all week and missed Lexi's 4th birthday. She didn't seem to mind because her and mommy went and had a day out on the town without baby brother tagging along. I believe it was just the thing we both needed time together. Then Sat. Matt and I were going to celebrate our 6th wedding anniversary. It also happened to be that during that week we also reach our 1st anniversary with the decision to join the army. So, as you can see it called for something big and impressive. Since we were on a tight budget it couldn't be anything huge. I had gone ahead and planned a big family/friend party for lexi to share with daddy after he got home. Wednesday we were sitting around after we got the house in order when it came to me. We could go stay at the lake here. They have an army camp ground there where we could stay and be together as a family. Where we cold have a very nice relaxing weekend. We stayed with the same company at Ft. Benning the two times we went to see Matt while he was down there. They were so beautiful and we all had such a great time. There was a kitchen and a nice bathroom with a double bed and bunk beds. So, knowing this it sounded like nothing but a good idea.

Ok, Matt gets home and I lay it all out for him. Lexi is all excited and Matt too. Well, Matt is blessed with a three day weekend so after some running around in the morning we head for the lake. We were able to get there and check in around two with plenty of time to swim and play in the lake. Well, the lake was closed and there was no pool. I decided that would be just fine. We'd just watch movies and let the kids run around outside for awhile. Then with key in hand we pull up to this very scary looking cabin. The cabin was completely falling apart and so tiny...too tiny. We decided to try it out anyway. With Matt right behind me we entered. Two feet to the right of the door was the "Master bedroom" with a double bed. Two feet to the left was a table for two tightly pushed up against the wall. Then as if that wasn't enough five feet ahead of the door was the "guest " room which was much smaller than a shoe box. In that room they had a bunk bed and a small fridge with a micro wave. Yeah...I'd say I was supposed to laugh but I didn't. I couldn't! I was so excited... my family was so excited. My poor husband sat quite all the way home. He knew how disappointed we all were. That was a really bad day. I really needed to laugh but it was just way to hard at that time to laugh.

We spent the night in our room with the kids watching movies and sharing treats. It turned out to be a lot of fun because my husband who loves us so much decided to make it fun. I'm so grateful for him and for all that he does for us.

The next day we took the kids to miniature golfing. We shared a round of very competitive golf. Of course I was able to keep my winning streak going and wound up kicking Matt's but. i say that as if i were just stating the fact of course. No pride here! Then we played in the arcade where Lexi scored some points for tickets that could be cashed in for prizes. We had so much fun and as a family.

That night to celebrate our anniversary Matt took me to Carraba's which is one of our favorite Italian resturants. Then we were planning on going to a movie but that didn't happen because we got stuck in traffic and missed our movie. It did of course give us time to enjoy spending time together which I loved!

2008-10-05T19:05:00.000-04:00

Our family a year ago... we have all changed so much. Especially mommy and daddy. There's definatly way less of us!

2008-10-05T18:56:00.000-04:00

daddy and his little girl. my favorite picture of them!

2008-10-05T18:54:00.000-04:00

Mommy and her than "Baby Girl" She really looks nothing like me!

2008-10-05T18:51:00.000-04:00

I'm walkin! Look out ladies here I come!

2008-10-05T18:49:00.000-04:00

Tree Hugger!

2008-10-05T18:47:00.000-04:00

Andy a year ago. Hubba, Hubba! Just barely one.

2008-10-05T18:44:00.000-04:00

Lexi a year ago this month! What a big girl she is now!

2008-10-03T22:12:00.000-04:00

Mommy and Daddy! Happy to be together again.

2008-10-03T22:10:00.000-04:00

We love the beach!

2008-10-03T22:08:00.000-04:00

Daddy and his boy!

2008-10-03T22:06:00.000-04:00

Let's Build it Together! Sand and water our two favorite things.

2008-10-03T22:05:00.000-04:00

If the water would just sit still I know i could catch it!

2008-10-03T22:03:00.000-04:00

Lexi looking beautiful!

2008-10-03T22:01:00.000-04:00

Mommy with her favorite little girl Lexi

2008-10-03T21:52:00.000-04:00

Andy and Daddy enjoy a very special moment. It was a long time coming!

The Catch Up

2008-10-01T20:48:00.000-04:00

So, it's been a little longer than I'd like to admit since I posted a new update. Sadly there was nothing new to report. Matt was still training up for "The Super Bowl"and I was still home trying everything in my power to keep up with seven count that again seven kids in the house. Now I find myself with these terribly long run on senetences to help me briefly describe what is currently going on. Last weekend was filled with family fun. Matt did surprise me by coming home a day early. We spent the weekend with family and friends. We do have the most fantastic news though! It looks like the actual "Super Bowl" starts as of October 15th . From that time on he'll have several days in which to prove his super hero abilities. So, please remember that even during the regular "Football season" it's more than ok toy pray for your favorite team. I'm asking that our family and friends who would like to join in a special fast on Matt"s behave please mark your calendars for Sunday the 12th of October. This will be the extra boost that he will surely need to assist him in his quest.

Our Weekend

2008-09-23T11:45:00.000-04:00

Hello ya'll! Sorry, it's been way to long since we last updated the blog! We've just beenextremely busy this past little bit. We've been trying really hard to quote "Kill" time till daddy comes home for the weekends. We picked him up for the weekend around 2 on friday. We had so much fun getting to hear daddy's fun stories from the week. Matt is doing very well... considering the current things he's having to undertake I'm sure. We stayed home this weekend and has the greatest time. We had our date night after I picked him up friday going to Smokey bones a local rib joint that was really good. Than we spent Saturday hanging out and enjoying our busy crazy family time. Than Sunday was of course spent at church and home teaching. It was just so nice for all of us to experience " The Norm" which we haven't had for awhile. We were also able to have time to compare the special blessings we've both received while we were apart. We're still so grateful to have this opportunity to serve.

Andy's Birthday At Don Jose's

2008-09-17T15:50:00.004-04:00

Andy's 2nd Birthday we spent at his favorite mexican food place with our favorite people. Logan, Ethan, Katline and Garrett and of course big sister. We had so much fun spending our time in California with our family the Smith's and the Heller/Hitchcock family's. We miss them terribly!

Lexi and Andy enjoy Bear Lake with the Aunt's and Uncle's

2008-09-17T15:50:00.001-04:00

We enjoyed Bear Lake with the family in our last few days before leaving to join daddy. We had so much fun with the Curdy Aunts and Uncles. Lexi and andy had such a fantastic time playing in the water dirt and mud. It also turned out to be a very beautiful day on the Idaho side of the lake.

The Surprise

2008-09-17T15:50:00.000-04:00

Ok, yesterday was tuesday and I was of course not supposed to see my husband. He wasn't supposed to be home until friday afternoon as previously posted. Well, it turned out that last night after dinner Matt called to ask for a ride home for the night. He had some things to attend to on main post before he was able to continue on where he was. So he came home and spent the night with us which we loved. Thank you all for your fervent prayers. They've certainly come in handy. Please keep them coming by all means!

2008-09-16T00:02:00.000-04:00

By the way... yes we certainly did finally let Lexi get her ears pierced. We talked daddy into it about a week ago. Lexi was so certain she wanted her ears pierced that she literally marched right into Clarie's at our local mall and almost screamed to the ladies there that she was ready for her earrings. She also took no time at all deciding that red was just the right color for the earrings she'd be wearing for the next six weeks. She marched right up to the chair with daddy close behind and let the ladies do there thing. When she was done she screamed to daddy..." I finally got them, I've waited my whole life for these!" Of course the laughter was overflowing at that point. No tears or regrets! It does make Matt and I worry about the teen years though.

Today is the Day!

2008-09-15T10:41:00.001-04:00

Finally! Matt left this morning for the first leg of his training. This portion will take four weeks and he'll only be able to come home on weekends. He also doesn't get very good reception out there. So, i woke up at four o'clock and dropped him off for his 5:30 departure for "Camp". We'll get to pick him up this Friday around noon. We already can't wait. It is so super nice to see him focused and excited again! We're finally on our way! We all still feel so lucky to be on this very special venture together as a family. Thank you all for the love and support! We've also heard after this Matt will have a week break and then he'll be onto selections( last two weeks of training). We're all very proud and excited about Daddy! Please always remember him in your prayers over the next couple weeks. I'm positive he'll need the extra. We love ya'll and will keep you all informed more later!

Myrtle Beach SC

2008-09-15T10:05:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone! Just got Back form our special weekend in Myrtle Beach. We got a little lost with the lack of Mountains to guide us but we finally made it into N. Myrtle Beach on Sat. morning around 2 in the morning. Matt was more than a little delayed with Army stuff Friday into the late evening. So, we were so very thankful to finally arrive when we did. It was just as beautiful as we had heard. We slept a few hours and when the kids woke up of course the first thing they wanted to do was go and play in the ocean. Mommy and Daddy were happy to make that possible. We played all morning in the warm ocean and enjoyed building Sand castles for Andy to destroy. Lexi loved the Ocean and made it very clear that this ocean was much warmer than the one at Nana's house and that it did hurt her feet less at Nana's. ( the sand there is much softer and not full of shells like at Myrtle beach) At almost four Lexi continues to amaze us. She's so smart. After the Beach Andy and i enjoyed the lazy river in the hotel swimming pool. We floated on a tube for over an hour. Andy loved relaxing and flirting with the pretty ladies in bikini's. After all our swimming we spent the night at this really cool place called Broadway at the Beach. They had some really neat specialty shops and cool gift stores. Most importantly they had a giant candy store with all these giant bins of every candy you could ever think of. We were even able to find our favorite green army gummy bears! So delicious! The kids totally loved every minute of it. We ended Sat. cuddled with our kids watching a movie. Sunday we checked out of the hotel and took the kids to the Ripley's believe it or not aquarium. They had a huge tunnel that you could walk through where the sharks would swim over your head and all around you. The kids were both in awe. They thought we were really underwater. The sharks were the favorite but when it came to touching the sting rays in the open tanks no one was brave enough! Not even Matt. Then we ended the day getting lost somewhere in South Carolina where Matt got a really bad bug bite while peeing of the side of the road. I know it was really funny! We finally found our way back to North Carolina where we were supposed to get back home. We made it home just in time for cousin Sarah's birthday party. Which was really fun because we finally got to meet all of the extended and adpoted army family. The whole weekend was so much fun! We're so lucky we got to have some very special family time. Pictures soon to be posted!

Hurricane Hanna!

2008-09-03T08:12:00.000-04:00

Hurricane Hanna is apparently headed strait for the Carolina's according to our news reports. Matt of course could not be more excited about this opportunity. He's got Friday off which also happens to be the day they think Hanna will be touching down in North Carolina. We are currently around 45 min from the ocean so it does have the chance of getting pretty crazy! When we first arrived here there were a series of nasty storms that kicked up a mini hurricane here in Raeford. They actually practiced a hurricane drill that same day with the girls. I do have to admit I'm sorta with my husband in that it's another exciting adventure. Besides, knowing our luck it will swing right past us! Well, we'll keep ya'll posted on the out come and never fear we will be just fine! So, just in case you see some crazy man standing out beside the ocean greeting this thing smile to yourself and know that it's none other than my crazy man!

Ft. Bragg North Carolina

2008-09-02T14:09:00.000-04:00

We Finally arrived here in North Carolina three weeks ago and are really loving it! We've been blessed with lots of time with Daddy and have already had lots of fun. Lexi and andy are growing in leaps and bounds and never fail to amaze their parents. We're so glade that finally after six months we get to be back together as a family.