Leaving and Loving on a Jet Plane

So THIS happened this weekend

2012-01-30T13:31:00.003-06:00

He's okay. He and Charlie got into a lil fight on Friday night. He has a small cut under his mouth which then oozes onto his legs which he then proceed to lick constantly and then would have a hacking cough. So needless to say we needed him to not touch...hence the poor lil guy was in a cone. He's out of it right now and very happy about that.

Just another weekend round here...

Pug Friday

2012-01-27T09:39:00.003-06:00

Hello All and Happy Pug Friday to each and every one of you. We can thank Pinterest and a lovely blogger for the heads up on today's Pug Friday.

Have a great Friday and a wonderful weekend. Our guest bathroom is 90% done (except I don't think I like the paint color I let Mr pick out) so there are no house projects this weekend!! JOY!

photo credit

Let it snow...

2012-01-26T08:58:00.000-06:00

You may have heard last week the Northwest got one heck of a snowday. At our house we probably got 10" in under 12 hours. This is midway thru the snowstorm. I emailed the picture to Mr. Jetplane who was enjoying his time in Vegas for work last week. It was great that we got some snow because our ski resorts hurting. And in an ironic twist we went on our squadron ski trip just days before the great snow.

Here's the view from our driveway, not bad huh? This resort got over 24" of new snow in 24 hours 3 days after we leave. Yeah I know....painful right?

No fear we still had a great time. Here we are warming up and nursing our bruises. Well my bruises Mr. Jetplane is a pro at snowboarding.

This is the bunny hill I spent most of the time on.

There is Mr. Jetplane getting ready to get on the big ski lift.

Mr. Jetplane headed up the Squadron Ski Weekend, so we had to live in the big house and organized the party the first night. We had a great house. Here are a couple of shots from the main floor. It was a 3 level house. The lowest level had 3 more bedrooms, bathrooms, game room and media room.

Here is where we enjoyed watching all the playoff games. Yes we definitely need ones of these in our forever home...which with the Air Force probably isn't going to happen for a very long time :(

But all in all it was a wonderful weekend getaway, light snow and all. Its wonderful to get to take these quick getaways together, especially with how much time these guys work. We're one big ole family and its great to enjoy some down time together.

Pug Friday - Its been 1 of those weeks

2012-01-20T12:14:00.002-06:00

Well yes, that's exactly how I'm feeling right about now. I've been sick the majority of this week thanks to Mr. Jetplane...who kindly flew out to Vegas for work on Monday and left his sickness dormant in the house until Tuesday night. Oh and let's not forget the 10+ inches of snow I got at my house on Wednesday. Its been quite a week :)-

I hope to share with you the fun we had on our squadron ski trip last weekend and the wonderful house we stayed in.

Have a great weekend.

photo credit

Pug Friday

2012-01-13T08:02:00.000-06:00

Happy Pug Friday Everyone...

The Jetplanes are off for the squadron ski trip this weekend and leaving today. Mr. Jetplane is in charge of the whole weekend, so watch out.

Hope to bring you some good pictures from this fun filled time and come back in all 1 piece. It is Friday the 13th after all....ooohhhhh

photo credit

2011 is gone...

2012-01-09T15:18:00.001-06:00

Obviously this is a late post, considering we're well in 2012 now. But I feel like it needs to be acknowledged.

2011

What a year it was.

It was challenging on so many levels. We were challenged and tested, and I'm proud to say we came out on the other side stronger.

2011... I sent the love of my life off to war for the 1st time. I'm sad to say that its probably not going to be the last. This is the picture a took when I came home the night he left. It was freezing out there on the flight line. I have never felt so much pride and sadness at the same time. He was so unbelievably strong and I was a total mess.

But we made it through 7 months. He went 7 months without a day off and without a decent meal or shower. And then he came back to me.

And it was wonderful. He is more than my husband. He is truly my best friend in the whole, wide world. And I truly felt like I was missing half of myself each and every day he was gone.

But we got through it and I think we now have a deeper love, trust, and understanding of each other.

2011 kicked our asses that's for sure, but we came out on top.

Here's to a great 2012...

We can't wait to see what it has in store for us....

Pug Friday

2012-01-06T08:21:00.001-06:00

Hello there, its me the girl that fell off the face of the Earth. I promise I'm still here, just life gets in the way of the blog sometimes.

The Jetplanes had a wonderful holiday back home in Illinois. It was great getting to visit with family and friends, and we ate way way way too much food....like gross amounts of food. Like I'm sick just thinking about it now.

Anyway...I also have to admit that I have done what I swore I would not do...I joined Pinterest. Welcome to the newest time suck in my life. And yes I'm totally obsessed with bathrooms right now. But that's to Pinterest I also found this lil gem for Pug Friday.

Have a great weekend and Happy Pug Friday!

Better Late Than Never..

2011-12-20T09:08:00.001-06:00

Our Christmas...I mean New Years' Cards are going out today...

You're Welcome :)

What's Happening....

2011-12-19T11:23:00.005-06:00

Well the Jetplanes have been quite busy over the past couple of weeks. I may have mentioned that Mr. Jetplane was in Panama City for work and I flew to Pensacola for work as well. We met up for my holiday party and even squeezed in a photo shoot with Oeil Photography. Michelle is a wonderful photographer, fellow milwife, and based in Penscola. We have worked with her a couple of times over the years and highly recommend her.

The photos were all taken at the Naval Aviation Museum on NAS Pensacola. Its a great museum and a wonderful way to spend an afternoon...oh and its free admission. They recently opened another wing of the museum and I think Mr. Jetplane might have been more interested in that, than the photo shoot. Here are a couple pictures from the shoot.

On Saturday Mr. Jetplane had his squadron holiday party in Boise. We had a wonderful time, unfortunately I have no pictures of us standing... and I really liked my dress so that's super annoying.

And the award for the biggest time suck of our lives right now goes to our guest bathroom. Mr. Jetplane decided to demo the entire bathroom 2 days before we left for Hawaii.

Yeah we left for a week with our bathroom like this...Charlie was totally confused.

Here are a few of the selections for the new bathroom. The mosaic will be used as an accent in the shower surround. We chose a large subway (6x8) subway tile for the shower as well. And that's our new tub. It feels like porcelain but its not, trust me I helped put that sucker into place. Current state of the bathroom...with a the new light. Bead board is going up, hence the walls only partially painted.

We bought the vanity this weekend and hope to get some of the tile work done before heading home for the holidays...wish us luck :)

Pug Friday

2011-12-16T11:45:00.005-06:00

Hello to all my lovely readers. Its been a very busy week around these parts. Sorry for no Pug Friday last week, but I was in Pensacola for work and unable to blog.

This Pug Friday is extra special and Milo has something very important to share, right? He's very excited (if you can't tell) to let you all know about http://www.pugsinthekitchen.com/. Pugs in the Kitchen is a joint venture created by 3 Indianapolis area bloggers, good friends, and most importantly pug lovers, The Pugs Strike Back, Tails from Nobletucky, and The Pug Posse.

These 3 lovely bloggers started baking treats as a way to help raise money for Kentuckian Pug Rescue. After baking for a few events, they thought about it and decided that it might be fun to start their own business selling homemade dog treats, alas Pugs in the Kitchen was born.

Pugs in the Kitchen prides itself on baking quality dog treats. If a customer has a dog with an allergy, they encourage them to contact them and they will do their best to find their dog a suitable treat to fit their needs. They offer a small selection of dog toys and as well as a wide selection of dog collar charms. They will ship anywhere in the U.S. for a flat rate of $5.00. If anyone has any questions, please feel free to contact them at info@pugsinthekitchen.com.

Pugs in the Kitchen is currently hosting a giveaway for a free gift basket. The contest ends at midnight on Dec. 18th, so enter now.

Happy Pug Friday!

A Date that will live in Infamy

2011-12-07T07:43:00.002-06:00

70 years ago today the attack on Pearl Harbor happened.

We were lucky enough to visit Pearl Harbor when we were in Hawaii last month. Its something that I had to see. Its a beautiful monument and due to my husband's insane thirst for military knowledge he knew alot about everything.

I highly suggest you go visit the memorial. Its free and quite moving. First you watch a brief yet informative movie about the attack. I will freely admit I cried. I don't know if its the fact that this place is where the actual event occurred or the fact that I was holding the hand of my recently deployed husband during the film but I cried.

You then take a short boat ride to the memorial. Its a beautiful memorial dedicated to those that were lost that horrible day. The ship underneath you is their tomb. Hundreds of men died in the very stop you are standing.

I can't imagine the fear and shock that was occurring that afternoon in such a beautiful and serene location. It was paradise just earlier in the day and then all hell broke loose.

For those of you that aren't aware of what happened on this day 70 years ago...

The area was attacked by 353 Japanese fighters, bombers, and torpedo planes in 2 different waves, launched from 6 aircraft carriers. All 8 U.S. Navy battleships were damaged, with 4 being sunk. All but 2 of the 8 were actually raised, repaired, and returned to service later in the war. The Japanese also sank or damaged 3 cruisers, 3 destroyers, an anti-aircraft training ship, and 1 minelayer. 188 U.S. aircraft were destroyed, 2,402 Americans ere killed, and 1,282 wounded. Japanese losses were light 29 aircraft, 5 subs lost, and 65 servicemen killed or wounded. 1 Japanese sailor was captured.

Today we honor those we lost that fateful day.

Remember Pearl Harbor.

Hawaiian Vacay Post 1

2011-12-06T08:42:00.004-06:00

Hello all... Did you all enjoy a wonderful weekend? Mine was okay, but nothing too great. Mr is in Florida enjoying the beach and it snowed here on Sunday...yes color me all kinds of jealous. But we'll be meeting up in Florida later this week, so I guess it'll be ok.

Well as promised I need to post about our lovely and much needed vacay to Hawaii. This was my first time in Hawaii, it was Mr. Jetplane's 2nd. He had been there a number of years ago to visit a high school friend that was going to school in Hawaii.

The Jetplanes flew into Hololulu and stayed at Hale Koa, which is a military resort. Its a nice hotel, but more importantly you get a heck of a deal. Its not the Ritz but we got a full ocean view on the beach, so we're not complaining.

We landed around 4pm the 1st day and checked in around 5pm. I was starving. We grabbed a bite to eat at the bar and had a drink or 2. Before you knew it we were about ready to pass out. We'd been up since 4am and we're ready to hit the hay.

The next morning we were up bright and early...that time change makes you wake up at like 6am there....well atleast it does to me.

We were ready to hit the beach for few hours before heading up to the North Shore. We have friends in the Coast Guard that have been lucky enough to be stationed in Hawaii for 8 years or so. We met when he was in Penscola for several weeks for a class. He happened to be a friend of a friend that went through OTS with Mr. Jetplane. When we met we were all just boyfriend/girlfriend combos....fast forward 5+ years and they are married with 2 adorable lil girls...and the Jetplanes are through flight school and have survived their 1st deployment and 3 moves.

They are an adorable couple and they welcomed us into their home on Sunset Beach for 2 nights. We had a wonderful time exploring the North Shore and all it has to offer.

Here are Mr Jetplane and our friend heading out to the beach from the house... pretty sure you can see who's the surfer. They will EXTREMELY close to the beach.

You take a short little walk through this and guess what's down that small little hill...This amazing beach...Sunset Beach...which is a famous surfing spot in the North Shore. Its also less than a mile up the road from the Pipeline yet another famous surfing spot. Mr. Jetplane tried to get some free surfing lessons...he needs a lot more :) Up and down the beach there are amazing surf houses, some vacation rentals and the biggest houses are owned by the surf companies. Our friends rent a floor of the house they live in from a famous, big wave surfer in Hawaii, he was a wonderfully nice guy. He's going to let us rent a room from him next time we're there for $80 bucks a night (friend rate). Yes we're already talking next time :)

A couple of houses down there was this amazing tree house. Mr loved it. Some surfer rents that per week for a few hundred dollars. Here is Mr. Jetplane with their youngest lil girl. Isn't that adorable :) He loved playing with their 2 little girls. He's quite good at Barbies and discussed the movie Tangled with the oldest daughter at length for over 45 minutes...love that man.

Alot more to come...sorry for a lack of pictures in this post. My laptop + blogger =no likey right now. It took 2 hours to just upload these pictures :( Hope to get more to you soon...

The Jetplanes visited Pearl Harbor as well and it was quite moving. I am hoping to provide you with a post tomorrow in honor of the 70th anniversary which is tomorrow.

*apologies for misspellings Blogger spellcheck isn't working either

Pug Friday - Its Beginning to Look alot like Christmas

2011-12-02T09:39:00.003-06:00

Happy Pug Friday!

How is it already December 2? It doesn't even seem possible. Milo just wanted to let you all know that the holiday decor is up at the Jetplanes' house and he is really excited...can't you tell?

He's more like..."Mama, why the hell am I sitting on this pouf?"

Here's to a great weekend.

xoxo

Holiday Hangover

2011-11-28T11:16:00.002-06:00

Jet Lag + Work+ Thanksgiving+ Home Improvement+Christmas Decorating = one tired couple Shh....don't tell Mr. Jetplane I snapped this picture of him while we on our layover in Denver on the way to Hawaii.

We had quite a busy weekend. I have a lot share with you and I promise to make good on it. I just downloaded all our pictures but I haven't gotten to my luggage yet. Anyone else hate unpacking as much as me.

I had to drop Mr off at base this morning at 0530. He's TDY in Florida for 2 weeks...I know he did just get home and we're already saying our goodbyes again...

Hope everyone has awaken from the food comas and back into the swing of things.

Thankful

2011-11-24T11:51:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone... I hope this day is filled with love and laughter and of course mounds of delicious food.

I feel this year I have so much to be thankful for. Its been a tough year for the Jetplanes and we've made it through. I am so thankful to have my loving family and friends and forever thankful that my husband came home safe and sound after 7 long months of deployment.

I am thankful for my job and our ability to keep a roof over our heads and food in our bellies. I am thankful for the recent vacation to Hawaii that we just enjoyed and the quality time that we got to spend together.

I am thankful for our health and that my mother remains cancer free.

I am thankful for our fur babies and that after "several" medical issues while Mr. was deployed they are still with us and add such joy to my life.

I am thankful for the wonderful friends we have made since joining the military and in particular the amazing women that I have come to call my friends. They have lifted me up in my times of need and have been an unbelievable support system.

I am thankful for so much today and everyday.

Have a wonderful holiday and safe travels to all...

XOXO

photo credit

Aloha...

2011-11-22T17:42:00.003-06:00

We're back...we took a red eye home this morning and I'm already back at work... I'm exhausted but refreshed... so happy to see my boys.

Can't wait to share some photos and details from the trip. It was amazing just to get to spend some QT with the Mr, we definitely needed it. Too bad he's leaving for 2 weeks after Thanksgiving...such is the life in an operational flying squadron... not even home 2 months and already gone on a TDY.

Gonna go grocery shopping, watch some of our DVR and then head to bed...this lil lady is dragging.

You're gonna have to excuse me...

2011-11-15T07:28:00.000-06:00

But me and the Mr are heading to Hawaii....

ALOHA!!!!

Be back in a few...hopefully tan, happy, and relaxed :)

Pug Friday - Happy Veterans Day

2011-11-11T10:53:00.001-06:00

Hello all... my lil Milo wanted to let you know today is a very important day...its Veterans Day. He wanted you to know that he's 1 very proud pug to have a daddy like Mr. Jetplane.

He's also happy that daddy has the day off and is hanging out with him all day (and may have let them sleep in a little).

Less than 1% of Americans serve in uniform and I'm honored to call 1 of those brave men and women my husband. Even though I hated every second of the 7 months we were apart this year while he was deployed, I still felt pride in every single one of them.

Take some time today to thank a Veteran, they deserve it!

I know I'm gonna take some time and love on mine today :)

Here's where I need your help...

2011-11-09T10:36:00.004-06:00

Hello one and all that read this lil ol bloggie of mine....

As some may know, Mr. Jetplane bought me a nice, new camera for my birthday this year. I've started trying to learn this new fangled contraption and I'm really enjoying it. This lil man got plenty of work in over our recent homecomings and I have since volunteered to be the squadron photographer for all (or most) of the events that we host/attend.

So here's where you come in...what else do I need...what do you suggest...

I have a Canon Rebel T1i EOS.

Christmas is coming up and I plan on asking for things associated with the camera. I need editing software - what software is the best (not the most expensive). I need a light thingy (yes that's technical for you) that attaches to the top of the camera. What other lens do you suggest?

Apologies if I sound like a total idiot...but I kinda am when it comes to all this. I have been looking up things online but I thought I would ask for guidance from the all-knowing Internet. I know there are plenty of budding photographers out there...can you help a sista out :)

Thank you!

UPDATE: Thank you for the help. I should say that I do have the EFS 18-55 lens. I thought that came with my camera standard, but I guess I am wrong.

Pug Friday

2011-11-04T09:33:00.004-05:00

Hello all! Its starting to get cold around these parts....brrrr. We might get snow this weekend even.

Time to get snuggling with my favorite boys, which obviously includes my lil hunk of puggie loving, Milo.

shh...don't tell Mr. Jetplane he's on the top of the couch...

P.S. I just got an IPhone last weekend, now that Sprint has them :) So I've been trying to figure it all out. Any suggestions for apps? Can someone tell me what Hey Tell is all about ?

Happy Pug Friday!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T16:12:00.004-05:00

Hello and Happy Halloween Everyone!

We had a wonderful weekend full of fun. It included a Halloween party on Saturday night. Sorry I don't really have many pictures to share.

Here is one of Mr. Jetplane in his full on Elvis glory. Side note that was my costume about 5 years ago while we were still in Indy. We have kept it and he has recycled it for various functions. Sadly it saw its demise on Sunday morning. It was disgusting and he tossed it in the trash. RIP- ELVIS costume you will be missed!

And here I am in my full on (perhaps drunk) pirate costume....

Oh yeah I have wondrous skills with my blackberry camera.

We had a great time out with our friends. But I can confess, waking up in a pirate costume and tights on a couch with a serious hangover is not as glamorous as one would think...

And as a reward for sticking through this horrid pieced together post thought I would share with you the following....

Happy Halloween!

Pug Friday - Halloween Edition

2011-10-28T09:36:00.003-05:00

You know I love a good pug dressed up in a costume...right? I mean come on, who doesn't...right?

I'm going to apologize in advance for not providing a link to where I found this lil guy. I have no idea but I remember seeing it and having to save it. It is just too cute for words....

I hope this 80s movie reference isn't lost on some of you...because this is FUNNY!!! This puggie is making MJ Fox proud!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone...stay safe and have fun. I'm still trying to figure out a costume :(

the SKINNY on WW

2011-10-25T17:47:00.003-05:00

So I'm going to lay the cold hard truth on you...I have lost weight on Weight Watchers. Has it been as much as I want...NO! Do I count my points like I'm suppose to every week...NO! Am I working out as much as I should...NO!

Good news is I lost 1.2 lbs this week...which is great considering since Mr. has been home the past 3 weighins I had gained a total 1.2lbs. So I have lost everything I've gained back since he's gotten home. 1.2 lbs is really good for me considering I'm only 5'2". And the weight seems to drop in .2 or .4 increments :(

I have more to go and its annoying that it doesn't come off as quickly as it goes on. I know a lot of that is my own fault. But that being said, I don't eat badly. I eat a lot of fruits and veggies. I try to not consume empty calories. I really think I just need to get working out more and it will come off.

That's where Mr. Jetplane comes in. We've been hitting the gym on the weekends together. I just need to kick it into gear during the week.

I saw this incredibly funny cartoon and had to share it.

Off to make a yummy dinner from my favorite WW friendly recipe site Skinny Taste :)

Pug Friday

2011-10-21T09:19:00.002-05:00

Hello all, this week's Pug Friday is showing a lil pre-Halloween fun. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

Mr. and I will be attending the Boise State v. Air Force game tomorrow, tailgating and all.

Ask and You Shall Receive

2011-10-20T10:48:00.006-05:00

Sorry this post has taken so long. I still don't have all the pictures from our homecoming. Obviously I didn't take them, so retrieving them when we all go our separate ways for 2 weeks is tough.

The day started off early. I couldn't sleep, the excitement had the best of me. Mr. Jetplane and a group of 7 others were flying into the airport. They had been delayed getting into country at the beginning of the deployment so they had to stay longer. They flew commercial home so we had a known time they would be arriving.

This is me driving to go pick up my man. I couldn't get there fast enough.

Mr's call sign is Contra (Constantly Transmitting aka never shuts up). I thought it was funnier to make a lil sign like a limo driver picking up someone.

Here are a few of the ladies that made it through the deployment with me. Our squadron color is red.

The wait is intense. Luckily we got through security in time, considering the flight landed about 15 minutes early. A couple of the families didn't make it down to the gate in time.

And here is it...a hug and a kiss 7 months in the making.
I honestly didn't want to let him go.

In true Mr. Jetplane fashion the first thing he says after the hug and kiss is...."Let's eat lunch...I'm starving! Where we going?"

The picture above is my reaction to the question.

We walked back from the gate to a large group from our squadron....hooting and hollering and waving signs. It was wonderful and I started crying. We had made it through. We had made it through.

It was a glorious day! So happy to have my man home. God bless all those who serve this great country. Godspeed to the squadron that replaced ours.

Tbolts Rule!

not a moment too soon...

2011-10-17T13:01:00.002-05:00

In less than a month we will be here. I can't wait...

But cue the panic that I will be in a bathing suit in just a few weeks.

Pug Friday

2011-10-14T09:27:00.000-05:00

Hello all...This Pug Friday is brought to you by my favorite lil puggie in the world, my puggie Milo. Isn't he just the cutest, I know I'm a bit partial.

Have a wonderful weekend :)

well...hello there

2011-10-13T14:55:00.002-05:00

Sorry folks having a deployed husband home sure takes up a lot of your time...but in a really good way :)

Blogging and tweeting just don't seem to be top priority. I promise to share more pictures of our homecoming. In the mean time, this cartoon has been making its way on Facebook and its too good not to share.

its the little things...

2011-10-06T09:10:00.000-05:00

Waking up in the morning and walking in the kitchen to see this hanging on the chair warms my heart.

So happy to have him home...

Just keeping it real...

2011-10-05T11:53:00.005-05:00

Thank you all for the kind and sweet comments, emails and texts over the past few days. Its been wonderful having Mr. Jetplane back.

Our life is almost back to normal...as you can see :)

I hope to share with you more in the coming days... off to enjoy a couple's massage this afternoon with my husband :)

He's HOME!!

2011-10-03T09:40:00.003-05:00

Today is the DAY

2011-10-01T09:48:00.004-05:00

207 days ago I sent the love of my life to war. It was a cold, dark, windy night and I watched my husband take off and fly away to the other side of the world.

He flew over 100 missions and only had a handful of days off. I have some idea of what he's been doing, but I have no idea what he's been through. I pray for guidance on this next journey we are taking, trying to do our best at reintegrating our lives back together.

Today he is coming home to me. Today my heart will be whole again.

My cup runneth over...

Thank you all for your kind words and support during this time. It means more than you'll ever know. I continue to pray for the squadron that is replaced Mr. Jetplane's and all those currently deployed. God Bless and Godspeed.

Pug Friday...Come Home Daddy...

2011-09-30T10:57:00.003-05:00

We're waiting...

Good Stuff...

2011-09-29T10:53:00.002-05:00

This week has been an emotional one. I have had the opportunity and pleasure to attend and photograph several homecomings. I have cried tears of joy for my friends and their families. Its been a beautiful week. Here's just a lil taste of the past few days.

Can't wait to get my arms around my man...our time is coming...I feel like a kid at Christmas.

Praying for a safe return for the remaining members of our squadron and all of those currently serving.

Godspeed!

Proud Military Wife

2011-09-27T11:46:00.003-05:00

I saw the following post on a friend's Facebook page today. Its beautiful and thoughtful and made me cry big ol fat tears...

This is for the young women that are waking up at 6am every morning with small precious children that they have been left alone to care for. This is for the pregnant military wife wondering if her husband will make it home in time to watch their miracle happen. This is for the childless military wife, living in a town or on a base alone where she is a complete stranger to her surroundings. This is for the women that feel like a 3rd leg when they go out with their friends and their husbands. This is for the military wife that cancelled all her plans to wait by the phone, and even though the phone broke up and cut off every time you spoke to him you waited anyway.

This is a pledge to the women that cry themselves to sleep in an empty bed. This is to recognize the woman that felt like she was dying inside when he said he had to go, but smiled for him anyway. This is for those of you that are faithfully in that long line at the post office once a month handling 2 large boxes and 2 small children like a pro. This is for all the lonely nights, all the one-person dinners, and all the wondering thoughts because you haven't heard from him in days.

A toast to you for falling apart, and putting yourselves back together. Because a pay check isn't enough, a body pillow in your bed is no consolation, and a web cam can never compare. This is for all you no matter how easy or hard this was for you. Our military men are brave, they are heroes, but so are we. So the next time someone tells you that they would never marry a military guy, don't bother explaining to them that you can't control who you fall in with. Just think of this and nod your head, know that you are the stronger woman. Hold your heads up high, hang that flag in your front yard, stick 100 magnets on your car, and then give yourself a pat on the back.

Be proud to be the woman that you are, be proud to be a MILITARY WIFE!

* The picture above is from yesterday. She is my BFF and that's her husband's jet taxiing in. In the past month she had surgery to fix her ACL and their sweet cat passed away in her arms. I cried tears of joy that she had the love of her life back.

Get em' ready folks...

2011-09-26T09:16:00.001-05:00

More homecomings...more families reunited...more happy tears! I saw 6 of our jets come home yesterday afternoon and god willing there are much more on their way.

Godspeed Tbolts!

This week is going to be LEGEN...wait for it ... DARY!!!

Pug Friday

2011-09-23T10:02:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone...its a busy time around these parts so today's Pug Friday is short and sweet...just like a puggie.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Coming home...

2011-09-22T09:43:00.004-05:00

We had our 1st wave of homecomings yesterday and it was glorious. I was moved to tears numerous times....driving to base...walking in the hanger...feeling the 747 fly over us...watching the door open to cheers...and seeing these families reunite. It was beautiful and it made me so proud. Only a few of our squadron members came home yesterday but it was wonderful to see them back on U.S. soil. Our squadron color is red. Our wives group has decided to try to wear red dresses when our spouses come home. These ladies were looking good yesterday :) Here is the plane arriving. Everyone anxiously awaiting their loved ones. I didn't know the majority of the people coming home yesterday but it didn't make it any less emotional. I was standing behind this family. The deployed father surprised them from behind. It was so cute...and then I cried some more :) This lovely family had their 2nd boy while daddy was deployed. He is meeting his new lil boy for the 1st time. This couple is close friends with Mr and I. We came to Idaho together and he flies with my husband alot. It was beautiful to see them reunited. We've shared the pain we've been going through without our husbands. Only a fellow milwife can really understand what you're going through.

The fun (and tears) are just beginning folks. We have a lot more homecomings coming up. Who's ready???

Excitement is in the air...

2011-09-21T12:32:00.003-05:00

The first of several waves of homecomings start today... I'm going to do my best to be there.

This wave is only going to have a few of the members from our squadron. It will be mainly maintainers and other members of the crews that service the squadron when they are deployed. They arrive in a large aircraft. This is my 1st homecoming. Even though its not my husband, I know without a doubt I am going to be overcome with pride and joy for these families. More importantly some of my closest friends in our squadron are welcoming home their husbands today. I am so overjoyed for them I can barely breathe.

So exciting...we'll all be together soon enough!

Godspeed Tbolts!

Hey Gurl...

2011-09-20T10:45:00.004-05:00

Sorry I've been MIA. I went back to Illinois for what was suppose to be 8 days, but thanks to Chitown and United, I was gone for 9. I just got home late last night. I picked up the doggies this morning, they are snoozing their heads off while I'm busy working.

Blogger on my laptop didn't work so I couldn't post anything...BIG :( to that.

But I am back and have a ton of stuff to talk about and do.

Here's to a great week !!

Pug Friday - Let's Take a Ride

2011-09-09T09:36:00.003-05:00

Happy Pug Friday Everyone! Today's post is short and sweet...just like a lil puggie I know.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

On a much more personal note...please take a moment to honor those that lost their lives on Sept. 11th and those continuing to fight terrorism on a daily basis. I have a post planned for Sunday to share with you a lil more of my personal feelings about the day.

Making Heads or Tails of it all...

2011-09-08T12:01:00.003-05:00

Hello there fine followers of this lil blog. I'm in quite a manic state at the moment so I do apologize.

With great excitement I can say that preparations for Mr's homecoming are under way but...and that's a BIG ASS BUT...its a crazy busy time. So much going on at our base, with our squadron, with my work, or and that personal life that I sometimes find time for.

I'm the MOH is a fabulous friend's wedding next week and am flying home soon to be there for that. So needless to say I need help...in the form of a wife...or at least a maid / personal assistant.

I might know someone that has already claimed sister wife status...wink wink

But there are some exciting things I hope to be coming to this lil blog very soon...

A lovely giveaway from one very talented mil wife
A lovely wedding recap and home visit
And homecoming preparations....and homecomings...notice that is plural? I will be attending several before my husband gets home :( Such is the life, right?

Well back to work...we got a long way to go and short time to get there...
xoxo

Pug Friday

2011-09-02T10:16:00.004-05:00

Happy Pug Friday Everyone! Its been quite a week over here. So much excitement I can barely stand it. We had our briefing last night for the guys coming home....it was exciting! We have a lot going on this month out here. Air Force Appreciation Day Parade, Air Show, Coffees, Crud Practice, Pot Luck, cleaning and decorating the squadron, etc....and that's just the AF stuff.

But the end is near and that makes me SMILE! So I thought I could make you smile today with our latest Pug Friday...I will say its probably not as funny as last week which I think might be the funniest ever.... this one comes in 2nd.

Happy Pug Friday. I hope everyone has an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend.

xoxo

Hey there September....

2011-09-01T10:08:00.002-05:00

Bout time you finally showed up. We've been expecting you. We're so happy to have you :)

It brings such joy to my morning reading all my fellow wives' Facebook updates...everyone so happy that we're in the final stretch. So much to do this month, I honestly think it will fly by...quite unlike that bitch August. She stuck around well after the party was over. She's not welcome round these parts anymore.

Its September!!! He's been really busy and I can tell in his voice that he's tired. He's worn out and ready to be out of there. I don't know what he's been thru or exactly what he'll be like when he gets home, but we'll adjust.

I just want him home. I miss the weight of him in my bed sleeping next to me. I miss the sound of his boots walking down the hallway. I miss his hugs and the kisses he gives me on my forehead. I miss holding hands. I feel like when I get him back I'm not going to physically let go of him for days. I'll probably just stare at him like he's not real or something.

Come on....

2011-08-31T09:26:00.002-05:00

August has been the longest month of my entire life. I woke up today, looked at my calendar and shouted "Come on....how can it STILL be AUGUST!"

But the good news is its almost September. This is a HUGE month. Mr. Jetplane will start coming home. There is a light at the end of the tunnel...albeit its still a long ass tunnel but its getting shorter!!! Yeah!!!

And now comes the time when my heart fills with joy for myself but I feel pain for our friends. Our friends that have the sad countdown to when their spouse leaves to replace our squadron. They are in the boat I was in months ago. Trying to fit as much as possible into each and everyday you have with your hubby. Its a vicious cycle, but it is comforting that you know you have a whole group of ladies willing to stand by you and help you at any time day or night. It truly feels like a sorority in way. I feel like kinda like we've went thru freshman year together, learning the ropes, dealing with in immense amount of drama, and growing together.

A military wife is strange breed that you don't really know or understand till you've lived it. These women are AMAZING and I'm so proud and honored to call them my friends and my sisters.

Now...Let's get our men home!

Pug Friday

2011-08-26T08:14:00.001-05:00

Hello and Happy Pug Friday Everyone.... What a week! We're dealing with a situation over here. One big American Bulldog (known eater of things he should not eat) has ate one of Milo's plush toys. This is why poor Milo doesn't get toys alot.

Well I'm spending a great deal of time, praying and looking for dog poop in the backyard hoping to find a yellow, plush, wiener dog in someone's business.

I believe I caught the situation early and took him to the vet hoping that he'd just throw it up. Well that would be a NO. So now we're on meds to speed up digestion and soften up the situation to make it easier for him to get rid of said toy. I hope he had the brains to totally destroy it before he decided to eat it. It was already half destroyed...there was no stuffing in it at that point. He's a big dog, I think he should be able to pass it. I pray he can pass it.

So needless to say I need some laughter (and a glass of wine) in my life...

So without further a do....

p.s. our lil 3 legged puggie Carmine won 2nd place in the contest. That means DFW Pug Rescue gets $3,000. Isn't that wonderful. They just rescued a sweet lil babygirl, Ivy. She was left suffering at a puppy mill, thankfully a kind soul took her from the mill and now she's the wonderful care of DFW Pug Rescue.

Guess What?

2011-08-23T15:30:00.004-05:00

Its almost end of the summer...

While most of the world is probably sad about that fact I am not. I'm freaking happy the summer is almost over. You know why? The end of summer means my hubby will be heading home. Its all classified so I can't tell you anything specific but in the coming WEEKS (WEEKS PEOPLE WEEKS, NOT MONTHS! WEEKS) he will be packing up and heading back to America. WOO HOO!

Hey sexy hubby....get your fine ass home ASAP :)

The Jetplanes have been discussing a lil post-deployment vacay and we've finally booked it. We're going to Hawaii!! Honolulu to be exact. Mr has been once but I haven't been before. Now that we live on the western side of the US it makes the trip a lot easier and less expensive. We'll be staying at Hale Koa Hotel . Its a military resort on the island which we've heard great things about.

I'm so excited! Thank you so much for those of you that have provided help and advice for this trip, I really appreciate it. Anyone else have any recommendations for things to do and see while we're there, I'm happy to take all the suggestions I can get.

But keep em' PG. My mother busted me out on Facebook letting me know that she'd like to get some grandkids out of this romantical vacay.... yes I about died when I read that as well. Subtle huh? Yeah...that's never been her strong suit!

Here's to time flying by (no pun intended)...

Pug Friday - Have you voted?

2011-08-19T10:41:00.005-05:00

Hello Everyone...have you voted yet? Are you voting everyday?

Remember last Pug Friday I mentioned Carmine the Pug and the great work of DFW Pug Rescue? If not, click here for the post.

Well there is still time to vote for Carmine and help DFW Pug Rescue win some much needed funds. You can vote once a day until 8/21.

Sometimes I forget

2011-08-16T11:04:00.003-05:00

Sometimes I forget how cool a job my husband has. And then I get a picture like this emailed me to me. Is it from my husband? Oh no... its from a fellow mil wife who's husband's jet is creating the shadow of the F15 on the side of the tanker. My husband's jet is the one refueling. She thought I would enjoy the picture...and of course she was right.

Its amazing to see it, even though I can't really see him. I'm not gonna lie, it may have brought a tear to my eye..or 2...or 3.

Happy Tuesday!

Pug Friday - Pugs in Need

2011-08-12T09:46:00.004-05:00

Happy Pug Friday Everyone! Calling all pug lovers and all animal lovers in general...

Carmine is a special needs pug that found his perfect home thanks to DFW Pug Rescue, the largest pug rescue in the country. Carmine is a contestant in FuzzyNation Supermodel Photo Contest on Facebook and we need to help 3 legged rescue pug Carmine win. Here's the greatest news of all if Carmine wins the top dog DFW Pug Rescue wins $10,000 for 1st place, $3,000 for 2nd place, and $1,000 for 3rd place. Think how many sweet, needy pugs can be saved with $10,000.

So what can you do to help...easy VOTE. You must go to FuzzyNation's Facebook page and "LIKE" it. Once you do that, the SUPER MODEL Photo Contest Tab will so up on the left side of the page. Click the link and it will take you to the contest.

You can vote once a day until August 21st.

To quote DFW Pug Rescue's Facebook page

" A vote for 3-legged Carmine is a vote for every special needs rescue pug, Adonnis who has liver disease, Hannah who has a paralyzed larynx, Max who was used as Pit Bull bait, Boca who was kicked and whose jaw was shattered, Peanut the blind puppy abandoned in a Dallas park in August. PLEASE support these pugs and the 5,000 others we have rescued by voting everyday for Carmine."

Please take a moment to help this wonderful organization and all the needy pugs out there!

Let's make this Pug Friday Extra Special :)

Not a fan...

2011-08-10T11:04:00.004-05:00

Somethings are just getting on my nerves lately...

I'm not PMS'n so that can't be my excuse. I think I'm just reaching the point of annoyance with deployment. Everything is rubbing me the wrong way lately.

Here are a few of the suspects that are on my sh!tlist this week

1. My dumbass Blackberry. I've been bitching about getting a new phone for over 5 months now. Why am I so damn lazy.

2. The scale..aka my enemy. Why am I so damn lazy...could also go here. I did lose another .6lbs at my WW weigh in this week but come on. I hate that others drop weight every week. I've lost like 5 lbs since JUNE. At this rate and eating disorder would be easier...I kid I kid people. I use sarcasm to deal with my problems :) But seriously, this sucks. I am such an instant gratification person.

3. And this.... is really annoying me. Any one else watch Design Star? Anyone else read the hilarious write ups each week by this lil sassy lady? If not you should. I'm at the point were I'm pretty sure they are keeping her on purely for TV purposes which annoys me.

Well I guess I should end it with something that doesn't annoy me. Just so you think I'm not a total Debbie Downer. If you are a True Blood fan, check out these two fabulous guys who provide some weekly dish about each episode.

Its hilarious...you're welcome.

Here's to a delightful Wednesday...yes there was sarcasm again...its my BFF :)

oh and ps to my anon commenter that said I was talking about deployment too much..airkisses :)

Strap yourselves in...its gonna be a bumpy ride

2011-08-09T09:12:00.003-05:00

If you've read this blog for awhile then you'll know that I am a rabid True Blood fan. Well, let's a take a moment to clarify that statement...I am a dedicated Sookie Stackhouse book fan and loyal watcher of True Blood. Due to my deep and undying (pun intended) affection towards the books I religiously watch True Blood.

Book 4 for me personally, is what lead to my love of the storyline. Obviously, it lead me to hate Bill and be TEAM SEXY VIKING VAMP 4EVER. (The latest book did have one questioning the Bill v. Eric saga again...no?)

I've been relatively quiet about my opinions this season. I wanted to absorb the storyline and see if the alterations that have been made were good or not. As we all know and I'm sure would agree, not all these decisions have been good ones....calling Mary Ann..anyone anyone?

I enjoy the witch story line. They have enriched it quite a lot and I find the resurrection and the Inquisition are very interesting additions. Lafayette, the mediums, the scary doll, ghosts, etc. are interesting and add to the story. I'm fine with those changes even if I find some of them tiring.

Anyone else glad those 2 dogfighting crazies are dead and I hope Tommy isn't long behind them. I'm so over that storyline. But Tommy turning into a alligator was one of the best things they have ever written.

I'm still a little annoyed with Hot Shot, yes they are inbred and a little weird, but we didn't need to make them methheads, white trash, dumb freaks. But I'm getting over it.

I guess my biggest bone to pick thus far is with the Fae. I'm disappointed in the changes and how the story has progressed. It makes future story lines totally improbable. But the same could be said about Eric's maker and how that plays out in future books.

Oh and Bill as the KING? BOO.

What are your thoughts about this season of True Blood? Anything you're looking forward to from the books and hoping to see in the show?

I will say that it does appear there will be a scene in the shower next Sunday night...at least from the previews...

No words...

2011-08-08T08:51:00.000-05:00

My heart breaks at the news from this weekend about the helicopter crash and the American lives lost. My heart goes out to the family and loved ones of those brave souls.

When your spouse deploys you fill out paperwork outlining what you prefer to happen if something god forbids happens to your loved one. Who do you want at your house. Who do you NOT want at your house....etc.etc.etc.

Its a painful but necessary step. Mr. Jetplane's job is dangerous, even under the best (non-war) circumstances. He's always said no news is good news. Since the family of the fallen are to be contacted first, Mr. Jetplane wouldn't be able to call me and tell me he is ok. Because if he did that, we're a small group and it could be obvious very quickly who has been affected prior to the military being able to make contact first.

As I said a prayer for those families several times this past weekend, I put myself in their shoes. The painful wait for the knock on the door telling you that your husband isn't coming home. And then I prayed a little more...for them, for my husband, for the fellow warriors out there, for myself, and for this all to get over sooner rather than later.

Thank you to those brave warriors out there that gave the ultimate sacrifice. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

God Bless You and God Bless America.

Pug Friday - Hang Ten

2011-08-05T09:28:00.001-05:00

Happy Pug Friday everyone... thankfully Twitter provided me with this little gem of a photo.

Happy Pug Friday. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

photo credit

It creeps up on you sometimes...

2011-08-04T08:29:00.001-05:00

I like to say I'm a pretty strong brawd. I can deal with alot and you'll never see me sweat. So far during this deployment I've taken some pretty strong hits and stood my ground.

I haven't broken down and cried very much and think that's a pretty big accomplishment. But I'm not too proud to admit that I randomly cry while I'm driving. I don't cry at the thought of him being gone but I cry at the thought of him coming home...is that weird? I start daydreaming about his homecoming and the tears start to flow. I allow myself to fantasize about what its going to be like to see him and running to him. I start thinking about what it will feel like to be in his arms again and feel his kiss on my forehead... and I lose it.

You know what else gets me going...music and this particular song.

I seriously felt like this song was written just for us...songs do that for all of us right? Mr. Jetplane tells me I'm crazy all the time so its only fitting.

On top of that we often say to each other "I miss you like a crazy person" or "I love you like a crazy person". I know it might not make sense to you, but it means something to us. We're both kinda weird and thankfully we found each other, no one else might be able to deal with us :)

But the good news is there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Our homecoming briefing is scheduled for next month...hot damn that excites me to no end. Can't wait to have my man back where he belongs... Mr got delayed getting into country, so I'm pretty sure he'll be one of the last guys back. Sadly I might have to attend 3 or 4 homecomings before I get to enjoy my own. Such is the life...

Oh boy...someone's husband needs to come home

2011-08-02T11:04:00.003-05:00

So when Mr. Jetplane is gone for extended periods of times I start to get crazy dreams. While he was in Texas for training for a few months a couple of years ago that time coincided with my heavy immersion into Sookie Stackhouse and I was reading book 4. I had crazy (and perhaps slightly awesome) dreams about myself and 1 strikingly handsome Viking vampire. Yes...I just admitted that. My love of Eric obviously knows no bounds.

During this deployment my dreams have been just as strange. But last night may have taken the cake. I was having an affair with this guy.

But he's the crazy part...I don't even like this guy. In fact I seriously dislike him. His personality irks me and it has since I watched his reality show The Restaurant...did anyone else watch that sh!tstorm? No just me...figures.

So why did he appear in my dreams...ugh. I'm going to go try to wash out my brain with rubbing alcohol....I feel dirty and not in a good way.

Pug Friday - Milo Update

2011-07-29T11:24:00.002-05:00

Happy Pug Friday everyone... Since its Pug Friday I thought I would give you an update on my lil hunk of pug lovin. Isn't he just the cutest puggie you've ever seen? Well yes I might be a tad be biased, but hey what's a puggie mama to do right?

We have WONDERFUL news! The hard lump on his leg has reduced in size by probably 75% if not more. We received the pathology results on Wednesday night, its not a fungal infection which we thought it might be. It appears to be misshaped red blood cells, but we don't know exactly what caused them. I think it might be from his falling which he does on occasion rough housing with his big brother and jumping all other the place. I'm so happy, but we'll keep an eye on the leg. He's going to go in for a visit with the vet in a few weeks to see how its going, but it looks like we're in the clear.

Milo turned 8 earlier this month and this crazy pug mama gets worried about everything little thing. Thankfully even at 8, Milo is at an ideal weight and extremely active...pretty sure we have Charlie to thank for that one.

Have a great weekend everyone :)

Truths...

2011-07-27T08:39:00.002-05:00

Here are some of the latest things I think I should tell you...

1. I literally clapped my hands and squealed like a lil girl when this happened.

Do we think we'll get to see Eric's "gracious plenty" sometime in the near future...a girl can hope can't she?

2. I have a new love for this song thanks to all the Shark Week...

3. I have been obsessed with these pictures since seeing them on i suwannee blog. They are photographs from Life Magazine. (originally posted here).

Aren't they amazing.... they make me think about the photograph I purchased from 20X200.
I just recently got it matted and framed...Hello Michael's 60% off coupon for custom framing :)

4. Weight Watchers is pissing me off. There I said it. I've been following the plan and I have been going back and forth with the same damn 1.5lbs for 4 weeks now. Its insane. Saturday I weighed myself and I was down 4lbs from Monday of last week. Yesterday...somehow I had gained it all back and remained the same weight from previous weigh in. OMG OMG OMG.... Why must my body refused to drop this weight.

The little things...

2011-07-26T08:26:00.001-05:00

Its the smallest things that make me happy lately...I'm pretty sure that's what deployment will do to you. It will make you appreciate what you have. Seeing pictures of your husband smiling and enjoying himself while living and working in the middle of a warzone will make any girl happy, right?

Mr. Jetplane's birthday was earlier this month. He turned the big 3-1. Since he didn't want me to send him any big gifts over there I thought 1 gift I would send him would be a Cubs flag. They fly American Flags in the jets all the time but I thought it would be a nice and fun thing for him to fly a Cubs flag as well. Mr. Jetplane is a Cubs fan, obviously.

Here is 1 of the pictures I got. He looks happy and that makes me happy. He's growing his mustache back which doesn't make me happy but...you win some you lose some right?

In case you were wondering those green, weird-looking pants are their gsuits. The suits help them deal with the g forces while they are flying. Its purpose is to prevent them from blacking out, it restricts the blood from pooling in the lower part of your body, which would deprive the brain of blood.

Which is obviously uber important...

Scenes from this past weekend

2011-07-25T10:10:00.004-05:00

Its Monday folks...yeah that's just about as awesome as it sounds.

I don't know about you but I had a great weekend, I was sad to see it go.

Friday we have a ladies night with the squadron wives group. We had a lovely light dinner at a local nursery where they also gave us a demo on container planting. They also happily answered loads of questions about gardening.

Saturday I headed up to Boise. A fellow wife and I hit up a free concert in town. We had the pleasure of enjoying the sounds of these 2. We had a great time, even though it was warm and there is about zero tree cover in the area. It was a free concert and people watching was more interesting than the music.

Oh, let me add that I caught this lil gem while we were looking for parking. I couldn't help myself.

Sunday afternoon it got HOT, we're talking supposedly 103. But the wonderful thing about the weather out here is that there is no humidity. I decided to bust out the $10 Walmart special kiddie pool for the back yard. I finished the Help and the dogs enjoyed taking a dip as well. I apologize for the paleness that is me. I swear this is the palest I've ever been in my whole life at this point of the summer...I guess that's what Idaho does to you.

Hope everyone had a great weekend.

On a more important note...I took Milo to the vet on Friday. I discovered a hard lump on his leg. The vet did a needle biopsy. It is not a tumor, but we don't quite know what it is yet. It was sent onto a pathology and I hope to know more by Tuesday or Wednesday. Milo is in wonderful spirits and he doesn't seem to feel any pain or favor one leg over the other. But I'm praying hard for my lil hunk of puggie loving. He turned 8 this month. My little old man...

Well stick around this week. I hope to be a lot better blogger.

xoxo

Pug Friday

2011-07-22T08:46:00.003-05:00

Hello all! I apologize for lack of posts this week, I had every intention of posting. But sadly the week got away from me.

For today's Pug Friday I thought we would jump on the Harry Potter Mania that has been sweeping the world. I'm 'proud' to confirm that I, too, am obsessed with HP and couldn't wait to see the movie. It was bittersweet for a number of reasons - #1 Its the end of the movies and I knew I would cry #2 Mr. Jetplane wasn't here to share it with me. We've seen from the 3rd movie off together.

So I went and saw it in IMAX 3D by myself on Saturday afternoon. And I LOVED it and I cried. Poor misunderstood Snape :( And wow Longbottom turned in a STUD.

Happy Pug Friday! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

Pug Friday - A Pug's LIfe

2011-07-15T10:13:00.005-05:00

Today we have a special Pug Friday treat. Today I'm happy to share with you a documentary that was brought to my attention earlier this week. Its a hilarious and heart-warming story about what else...PUGS and the crazy people (aka me & you) that love these wonderful little snoring, erratic, moody, sweet, lovable, adorable creatures.

Watch more free documentaries

I'll admit...I laughed and cried during viewing it. Please enjoy! Happy Pug Friday.

If the link does not work please follow this link.

Deployment....

2011-07-12T09:31:00.001-05:00

I woke up this morning and missed my husband. This is not an unusual feeling but some days its a lot stronger than others. He is switching from nights to days, and this is going to drastically change our pattern. He's going to start calling in the middle of my work days which is difficult. Its difficult because I work and am on the phone a lot. When possible, I pick up the calls and whisper "call back in 10 minutes". Which sometimes is 10 minutes or 2 hours. It pains me to wait...sometimes he can't call back in 10 minutes. I won't get to speak to him again for 24 hours and that makes me very very very sad. But I have to remind myself, my life cannot stop because he's gone. I hate missing his calls if I'm out for a walk, messing in the garden, or just on the other side of the house and away from my cell phone.

This is what your life becomes...waiting for a phone to ring...waiting for a lil green Skype icon to light up so you can see your husband. BUT Happy News - My handsome husband shaved his mustache the day after his birthday. I Skyped with him on Sunday night. I kept telling him how hot he looked, I haven't seen him clean shaven since beginning of March. Sadly, he is growing it back :(

Below is a picture from Mr's Squadron door. I think this picture speaks volumes. Obviously this picture isn't from the summer in Afghanistan. Its from the winter deployment. This is the door from Mr's squadron out to the flight line. This is the last thing they see before heading to the jet.

The love of my life opens that door every single day, jumps into that jet, and does his job. That's real world, that's war, that's our life. Yeah...I know... its cray cray...

Today I miss my husband. Today my husband has a job to do. Today my husband supports those soldiers on the ground and god willing protects them.

I know I'm not the only wife missing her husband today. I take comfort in the fact that Mr. Jetplane is protecting someone else's husband who's just out there doing his job.

But today, I'm also just wife missing her husband. Just hoping that I get to talk to him for 5 minutes....the best 5 minutes of my whole day.

And the Winner is...

2011-07-11T10:17:00.004-05:00

Hello all, sorry for the delay. I headed down to Utah this weekend to visit a very special friend and fellow milwife who was in town. We've been friends since our husbands graduated OTS together and all we're stationed in Pcola.

Sadly they chose to go B1s and now reside in South Dakota.

But the Winner of the Country Crock Wounded Warrior Giveaway has been chosen and the winner is TIFFANY. Tiffany, if you could please email me at leavingandloving@gmail.com with your contact information and I will ensure you that receive your gift.

Thank you all for entering and supporting The Wounded Warrior Project. Please be on the look out for the specially marked tubs of Country Crock throughout the summer.

Pug Friday - Happy Birthday Mr. Jetplane

2011-07-08T09:35:00.001-05:00

Today is a day of celebration. Today is Mr. Jetplane's 31st Birthday. I got to Skype with him yesterday evening, which was Friday already in Afghanistan. So in honor of this day, I thought I would let a couple other fellas in our the Pug Friday love... This is an oldie but goodie from our time spent in Pcola. Charlie (believe it or not) was still technically a puppy at this point. These 2 boys love their daddy more than anything in the world.

And come on...what's not to love about this guy? He's a wonderful man and I'm honored to be his wife. He is truly my best friend in the whole, wide world and I'm so grateful that life brought us together. Happy Birthday my love. Fly Safe out there.

DON'T FORGET TO ENTER...

2011-07-07T11:03:00.002-05:00

The Country Crock/Wounded Warrior Project Giveaway. I will select 1 winner at the end of the day!!!

Long Weekends are NEVER Long Enough

2011-07-05T08:51:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend. We sure did :)

Mr. Jetplane may have gotten this emailed to him this weekend. These 2 like to send him pictures of themselves all the time. They have quite a lot to say to their daddy. They miss him alot.

I can't believe its July, it felt like it was just Memorial Day weekend. Time is flying by, thankfully. But I do kinda feel like I wishing this summer away. With the husband deployed and not coming for a while, I just want to get the summer over it. Yes, I know it kinda makes me sad too, because I really love the summer time. But the truth of the matter is, the summer just isn't as much fun without Mr. Jetplane.

I went to a great lil BBQ yesterday held by a family in our sister squadron out here. I had a great time, but it made me miss my honey. I happy to see guys getting to enjoy time with their wives and kids, but it makes me soooo jealous. Luckily he did call while I was there. Poor guy sounded exhausted. I miss him terribly, but we're getting thru it.

Don't forget to keep entering my giveaway....the winner is selected on Thursday :)

Pug Friday - Patriotic Edition

2011-07-01T09:15:00.004-05:00

Of course with the 4th of July just around the corner I had to give you an extra special Pug Friday.

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe holiday weekend. Please take a moment to honor those that have fought and are currently fighting for this country. I know I'll be thinking about my favorite fly boy.

Oh...and don't forget to enter my giveaway. While you're at the store this weekend picking up your fixings, pick up the specially marked Wounded Warriors Project tub of Country Crock.

We are the Land of the Free because of the Brave!

photo credit

Giveaway Time

2011-06-30T08:35:00.002-05:00

Hello all...I hope you are all enjoying the warmer weather. I'll be honest the heat just made its way out here into the land of potatoes, aka Idaho, aka where we (sorry I) now reside.

Now that summer is officially upon us all and I'm happy to announce a wonderful giveaway. I was honored to be contacted to host a giveaway for Country Crock and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Reflecting its commitment to wounded warriors and their families/caregivers, Country Crock has partnered with Wounded Warrior Project, an organization established to raise awareness and provide air for injured service members. As part of the alliance, Country Crock has committed $100,000 to the non-profit organization. In addition, Country Crock has created a specially marked tub that will be on the shelves through the end of August and its my goal to get you all involved as well.

Now here's the exciting part...Country Crock has customized a patriotic kit, just in time for all your summer festivities. And I have a kit to giveaway to 1 lucky reader.

The kit includes an eco-friendly tote bag, a picnic blanket, sturdy plastic plates with utensils, corn on the cob holders, a patriotic cup, an American Flag, a cute "corn pen", and last but not least a specially marked tub of Country Crock to enjoy. That's almost everything you need to enjoy a great family picnic.

So what do you need to do to win? Its pretty simple. Please leave a comment here and receive 1 entry. You can feel discuss the Wounded Warrior Project and the wonderful work that they do for our service members and their families. Or you can feel free to leave your favorite summer recipe that can be enjoyed at your next family outing.

Do you want more entries....If you tweet this blog post, please include @mrsjetplane and receive 2 (that's 2) additional entries.

Also, I highly recommend visiting http://www.countrycrock.com/ and making a donation to Wounded Warrior Project. As the 4th of July rolls around, please take a moment to think about and thank those brave men and women that have fought, and continue to fight, for our country.

Enter NOW!!! I'll select 1 winner a week from today on Thursday, July 7th. (a day before my favorite fly boy's bday!)

What Deployment Looks Like Part 4

2011-06-22T16:13:00.005-05:00

1. I was driving to Boise and on the other side of the highway was a huge group of motorcycle riders, probably 100 or more. They were sporting American and POW flags. I drove for about 5 minutes and kept seeing more and more in the line. And then the tears came...and came...and came.

2. Sometimes when I shower before I go to bed I use Mr. Jetplane's body wash. I like the smell on me when I fall asleep. It feels like he's almost there.

3. The other day, while on Skype, I had to run to the bathroom. Mr. Jetplane told me to put the camera on the dogs, even though they were past out on the ground sleeping. He loves getting to see them even if they have no clue what's going on.

4. I send Mr. Jetplane cards in care packages that are 'written' by the dogs. He might have gotten a Father's Day Card :)

5. This came in the mail this week. I purposely asked for it to be shipped in August. Oh well its early. I wish he'd make it home early too.

6. I have blown through the first 2 seasons of Dexter. Mr. started watching it over there so I want to watch and be able to discuss it with him as well. I have no idea why I haven't been watching it. Its totally awesome. Sadly, Season 3 and on aren't on Instant Que for Netflix. I have to wait till next week to start Season 3.

Maintainer...

2011-06-21T13:38:00.004-05:00

Weighed in for my 2nd week in a round with Weight Watchers last night....

I didn't loose any weight which makes me a....

I didn't gain any so I guess that should make me happy...right?

Well in all honesty with a loss of 3.4 lbs last week I didn't think I'd do all that well this week in the weigh loss effort. At 5'2", 3.4lbs in a week is quite a lot for me. My body doesn't like to let go of the weight, especially not in a timely manner. Hopefully next week I can knock it out of the park. 1-2 lbs a week would make me a very happy girl.

Daydreaming....

2011-06-20T09:21:00.000-05:00

Summer hasn't quite reached us out here in the land of potatoes.... But that doesn't stop me from dreaming of laying on a beach somewhere warm with my main man... Can't wait till deployment is over and can enjoy a much needed vacay....

Pug Friday

2011-06-17T10:04:00.003-05:00

Hello and Happy Pug Friday Everyone. Thank you all so much for your kind words/tweets about starting Weight Watchers. You all are the best.

Today's Pug Friday picture I saw and it immediately brought a smile to my face, and after the crazy work week I've had I needed a smile.

I hope is does the same to you.

Have a wonderful weekend and a Happy Early Father's Day!!

photo credit

Putting it all out there....

2011-06-14T10:31:00.004-05:00

Hello all. Its time to come clean. If you've been following my Twitter then this isn't news to you, but I started Weight Watchers last week.

I'll admit I've never participated in a diet program before so at first I kinda of felt like I had failed myself by needing to ask for help. Also, when I told 2 of my friends (2 very skinny, athletic girlfriends) they looked at me like...why? ugh :(

In the past I just ate better (or tried to) and worked out. I have only really wanted to lose weight twice in my life.

First, during my Freshman year of college. I gained weight like most girls do. I went from hella active in high school and consuming.... McDonald's almost everyday for lunch only to be out done with a donut and Coke for breakfast. God you have to love metabolism and cheerleading...they do wonderful things for you. I was at 105 lbs at 1 point....oh that was a glorious time. But alas that didn't last when I went to college....for all the obvious reasons. During winter break I was on a mission to lose weight and I did lose around 7-10 lbs. Did I do it the healthy way....ummm no not really. I ate fruit (particularly oranges) for breakfast, lunch, and had a small meal for dinner. I also walked a few miles everyday.

The 2nd time I needed to loose weight was before my wedding. I lost 15lbs. I did it through eating right and exercising. Mr. Jetplane and I worked out together, even though I hated every minute of it. I couldn't afford a trainer and my schedule was so crazy I needed to work out when I could fit it in.

But now with him gone I don't have that person to push me and keep me accountable. So I decided that I needed to do this for me and do it now. I'm unhappy with my body and its time that I actually do something instead of complain. I'll admit the eating portion is generally pretty easy for me but the working out is the hard part. Oh...and the booze. I love me some wine and cocktails. I know I drank myself into part of this situation. Deployment and pre-deployment didn't help. Those extra 'empty' calories are part of my own demise.

But with all that being said, I had my 1st weigh in yesterday. I was slightly worried. I didn't go over my 29 points all week except on Friday and Saturday nights. I was saving those extra 49 points for the nights out with the ladies. I knew I'd consume close to all 49 points between the food and booze. I also didn't work out as much as I had hope last week. I chose to wear the lightest tunic I could find to the weigh in and guess what? I lost weight. I lost 3.4 pounds. That's great, especially for a 5'2" person like me.

So now I'm excited. Success makes you excited. I hope to keep you all informed of my progress. I'm hoping to be smoking hot by the time Mr. Jetplane comes home.

Pug Friday - Oh Happy Day!

2011-06-10T09:41:00.003-05:00

Its Pug Friday people....so happy its the freaking weekend, aren't you? Got any big plans? I'm going out to dinner tonight with a girlfriend for a belated birthday celebration. Then on Saturday we have a ladies night out with the squadron wives. A nice dinner and drinks are well deserved.

We're almost 1/2 way through this dreaded deployment. 1/2 way is a hard term to nail down since their departure from country is so up in the air (no pun in intended). But I'll take it...we're almost 1/2 way done...woo hoo.

Have a great weekend everyone! Happy Pug Friday.

via

3 Years Ago Today...

2011-06-07T08:14:00.001-05:00

I married the man I adore, the man that makes my world go round, and the man that brings a smile to my face.

I am so thankful that he is my husband and I am honored to be called his wife. Mr. Jetplane is a man's man and I love that about him. He makes me feel safe and cared for. He is dependable and reliable. He is honest and trustworthy. He is a hard worker and never sees a limit to what he can do.

He is a big kid and will never grow up. He is a go-getter and helps make me want to be more everyday. He is a true partner in my life and I so grateful that he wanted to spend his life with me.

This isn't an easy life. But its our life and I'll walk hand and hand with this man through any and every challenge that could stand in our way.

There is not another man in this world that knows me, the real me, the way Mr. Jetplane does. Its refreshing to be married to a man that knows everything about me - the good, the bad, and the ugly and loves me anyway. There is no sugar coating with us. We're real with each other at all times. We are partners in crime and are truly each other's best friend.

Happy Anniversary Babe. I love you more today than yesterday and I can't wait till you're back home where you belong.

xoxo

Pug Friday

2011-06-03T10:46:00.003-05:00

Thank you all for the lovely words yesterday for my birthday, I greatly appreciate that all.

30 becomes 31

2011-06-02T07:30:00.000-05:00

via
Today is my birthday.
Today I turn the big 31.
30 seemed like no biggie but I'll be honest the 3-1 is definitely getting to me.

Here's to being in my thirties...and here's to a lot of great things happening in the next year.

Truths...

2011-05-31T09:30:00.004-05:00

I am exhausted this morning.

I went to see some live music this weekend with a fellow spouse. The singer sang Leaving on a Jetplane. Yeah...that's not emotional for us.

I fell really hard on Saturday afternoon. I wasn't drunk. I thought I broke my nose. My back still hurts.

I miss my husband terribly.

I am pms'ing and I'm so moody. I've been almost picking fights with Mr. Jetplane while talking this past weekend. I don't know what's wrong me. I feel horribly when I get off the phone.

I saw The Hangover yesterday. It was funny but a lot more graphic than I was prepared for. I was concerned I may have upset my girlfriend that went with me. I'm a girl with a guy's sense of humor but I don't always know others' sensibilities.

I turn 31 on Thursday. I am not prepared to be 31. Its not going to be a good day.

I miss my husband...have I mentioned that already?

Memorial Day...

2011-05-28T09:37:00.011-05:00

As we prepare for another Memorial Day I ask you to think about the true meaning of the holiday...

Not the amazing sales at the mall

Not the great deals on a case of beer or buy 1 great 1 free packages of hotdogs

Not the first time you're breaking out the boat this year

Not the trip to the beach or to see a concert

Not the long lines at the airport or the traffic jam getting out of the city

Not the 'free' day off of work

Its none of those things....

Here is what it truly is about...

Heart breaking picture isn't it? It hurts me to look at it as well, but we have to.

This Memorial Day please take the time to honor those that gave all for our freedoms.

Pug Friday - If I Could I Would

2011-05-27T10:06:00.002-05:00

Happy Pug Friday. Sorry I'm been MIA. I actually set up an "END OF WORLD" Pug Friday post last week but sadly Blogger didn't want to post it :(

I found this video quite funny, considering how much my pug hates the vacuum cleaner and how much I wish I could vacuum his hair off of him.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.

Mama Jetplane in the House...

2011-05-19T09:39:00.003-05:00

Mama Jetplane flew out Idaho on Saturday and we've been having a great time. My mom is quite a hard worker and we've gotten a lot accomplished so far.

We've planted my vegetable garden, some flowers, removed a large portion of wood chips on the side of the house, removed all my kitchen cabinet doors, and gotten a coat of primer on it all.

I've taken today and tomorrow off so we're gonna get to it.

Gotta love this picture below. It was taken for our church directory back in probably 1985 or 1986. I believe I was in 1st grade and FYI I adored the outfit I was wearing. It was my favorite at the time. That would make me 5 or 6, my lil brother 1 or 2 and my mama 25 or 26. She was divorced from my father, a single working mom, supporting her 2 small kids, providing a private school education for me, and putting me in dance classes, brownies, and everything else. She is quite an amazing woman. So was my grandmother that help us out a lot during this time.

I love my mama a lot and I appreciate her coming out here. She's going to be here for 10 whole days....just us girls...well and the dogs aka her grandbabies. But what's hilariously (I don't think that's a word) funny...I feel like I'm living with a teenager. She isn't getting up until 11 o'clock. On Sunday I went it to make sure she was alive...at Noon. My mom never sleeps that late, at least I never knew her to sleep that late. She's always complaining about her lack of sleep so I'm glad she's getting all that rest while she's here.

Love you Mama...

Pug Friday - Happy Top Gun Day

2011-05-13T12:58:00.003-05:00

If you didn't know May 13th is Top Gun Day and its especially great this year because it is the 25th anniversary of Top Gun's release.... yeah I know I can't believe it either.

So I needed to honor it with its own special Pug Friday. Here's our aviator pug, I think its crazy how much this look like my puggie, Milo :)

FYI I own this print and its hanging in my office right over my computer as I type.

Milo and I wish you a very happy Top Gun Day!!

I feel the need...the need for speed....

Houston...We...I mean ME...I have a problem

2011-05-11T12:57:00.004-05:00

One might think I'm a very rational and thoughtful person, and generally I'd like to think that I am. But sometimes I've been know to be down right ridiculous. My thought process takes me down a path of insanity. I think about things so much I distort reality and then I'm in full on panic mode.

I freak myself out about everything and anything. So one would then think that this deployment has really shot me thru the roof. Well I'm happy to say that it hasn't. While I worry about my husband I know he's extremely well trained and knows exactly (well not exactly) what he's doing. I trust that fact and allow that to ease all my concerns.

But you know what I lose my sh!t over...dumb stuff. Really dumb stuff. Like...I'm going to break our sprinkler system. Turns out the I just simply turn the switch from off to on and it will run everyday at 2am unless I turn it off.

What else... the yard. I'm going crazy over our freaking yard. I started removing the old wood chips and I want to replace with rock. I removed wood chips from 3 count them 3 small areas in the front. That night I was in so much pain you would thought I was dying...seriously the people I was out with that night must have thought that I was totally insane. I rubbed down my entire body with BenGay. I smelled so bad...luckily I love the smell of BenGay:) Who is in that much pain removing wood chips. ME THAT'S WHO... I cried to Mr. Jetplane on Skype last week telling me there is no way in hell I can do this alone. I might be able to remove them all ( we have a large yard and probably another 30 to 40 bags of wood chips would need to be removed I only did 7 I think). But I cannot do the rock myself. He told me not to freak out and to hire someone..so that's what I'm gonna do.

But you want to know the real reason I made this post...the real lose my sh!t moment of the week thus far...

Well here is goes. Mr shut off his cell during his deployment. Its a program all providers offer and he can turn it right back on when he returns. This week he received a letter in the mail (which I opened) from the company informing us that the following number has been turned off. Well the number on the document was a cell phone number I didn't know. In fact it was a North Carolina number and Mr. has an Illinois number. So what the hell number was this???

My mind goes off into a bad place...a very bad place...a Lifetime movie...2nd family...another wife, kids, dogs...type of place. Yes...I said I was a crazy person. You knew that before you got to this point in the story.

So what do I do? I call the company. I don't know Mr's password and I don't know what the 1st damn grade school to he went to is...ugh...I then explained to the nice man...my husband is deployed I can't get this information right now. He said well I'm sending an email to the account on file with this information...ummm I don't have access to my husband's email. He's deployed I don't exactly know when I'll be talking to him again... can't you use tell me what this NC number on the account is? No dice.

So Mr. calls later that day...I ask him about the number...he's clueless. I then ask him if this is the phone he uses to call his girlfriend...his other wife...his other family... he's like..."You're crazy"

He says, "You know I'm way too lazy and cheap to pay for another cell phone and to have another wife".

TRUE...that is very true...but I'm a freakshow and I want to know what this number is.

He says...give me the information and I'll call them right now. As a matter of fact keep me on your cell and use your work phone to call the company, I want to hear this.

By this time I'm all... I know its nothing, its just really weird....

But he knows he's married to a loony toon and says.."We're doing this NOW"

So I call and find out the number is actually for a tower we have in our house. Back in NC we dropped calls in our house but no where else. They provided a tower for us for free. That thing, come to find out, has a phone number...a NC phone number...and when Mr shut off his phone it shut off the tower as well...

mmmm...makes sense...

So Mr waited for an apology which he kinda received...

Yes folks...I'm a nut job plan and simple

...gotta love me xoxo

Military Spouse Appreciation Day

2011-05-06T16:31:00.002-05:00

That's TODAY for those of you that don't know...which is probably ALOT of people including my hubby who I have yet to speak today...I suppose he's been rather preoccupied with his day job (now moved to night job).

So I'll give him a pass.

But to the rest of those devoted spouses out there, men and women alike, THANK YOU! I appreciate each and every one of you and am so very proud to count myself among you.

Pug Friday - Day Late and a Dollar Short

2011-05-06T09:22:00.002-05:00

Happy Pug Friday Everyone! I know I'm a day late celebrating Cinco de Mayo but I can't help it.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

photo credit

Unexpected Emotion

2011-05-02T12:37:00.005-05:00

Last night I was going about my own business watching the Killing...great new AMC show by the way...check it out...and I see people blowing up Facebook and Twitter. The POTUS is going to be making a big speech...what the hell...quick I'm googling CNN on Direct TV because I can never find it.

I was in utter shock. It was a strange mix of emotions. I was happy, sad, joyful, worried, you name it. Then I felt bad...I felt bad for being so happy a person was killed. But I am happy about it. I am happy he received the justice he so rightfully deserved. True justice would be that repeated a 1000+times for the unnecessary and tragic heartbreak he caused our nation and others before and after September 11th.

While this is a HUGE step, the War on Terror is not over. The battle rages on and our men and women on the front lines. We must be vigilant in our cities. We must stand watch because there will be retaliation. But right now...I'm proud of our service members. I'm proud of the Navy Seals and the CIA and all involved for getting the job done. I'm proud to be the wife of a currently deployed airmen. I'm proud to know that right now he's serving his country and keeping us safe. I'm proud that for one night it felt like America was united and happy and together. I bawled like a baby during the President's speech, it moved me. I cried when I saw the groups gathering and singing. It was a great day to be an American. We tasted a small success that we so long deserved.

Which makes this whole birth certificate drama vomit inducing...our Commander in Chief was dealing with momentual tornado damage in the South and THIS...and he needs to deal with that crap. I think it should keep it in perspective. I don't envy the POTUS and his role at all.

Whether you're a Republican or Democrat, I don't believe this is time for politics. This is a time to show respect to those that made it happen from start to finish.

Pug Friday - The Royal Wedding Edition

2011-04-29T09:46:00.002-05:00

With all the pomp and circumstance of today's Royal Wedding I thought it only proper for Pug Friday to share the same.

Even with all the joy and happiness this morning, I would be remiss to not comment on the horrible destruction that America has faced in the past few days. My heart is heavy with the tragic and scary news coming from the Midwest and Southern regions of our country. The Jetplanes have called both of those places home. My aches for the pain and sorrows that all are experiencing. My heart is also heavy for those service members lost this week in Afghanistan at the Kabul Airport.

Its been a rough week and I am happy to share a smile and a few joyous tears this morning due to the Royal Wedding.

photo credit

I LOVE my latest addition

2011-04-27T10:27:00.000-05:00

Before Mr. Jetplane left we completed a lot updating in our Idaho crib. We're almost done with the kitchen, minus painting the cabinets and adding new awesome and thrifty hardware that I found.

Since Mr left I'll admit I haven't done all much on the inside of our casa. I've been focused on all the stuff that needs to be on the outside.

But I did recently purchase and get this lil cutie framed. And now its found a home in our kitchen. I know this lil sign (FYI its actually a postcard) has made it way around the interwebs, but I don't care I love it. And the fact that one of Mr's favorite meals is biscuits and gravy maybe had a lil something something to do with it. I know he'll love it when he comes home.

What Deployment Looks Like Part III

2011-04-26T09:10:00.002-05:00

So we're well into our 2nd month of deployment and I'll admit to you all, that is starting to get hard.

Up and until now I think I let myself think he was just on TDY and would be back in a month or so. But sadly that is not the case. My husband is at war. Yeah that's a strange and surreal thing to think about it. He is doing well or as well as can be expected. They fly everyday and there are no days off.

So what does life look like right now...well here it is in words sans pictures...

1. Having a cell phone attached to you at all times and panic when you can't find your charger.

2. Knowing that 0000123456 is Skype calling your cell phone.

3. Waking up at 3am and reading an email you got from your husband telling you good morning.

4. Perhaps having an adult beverage or 2 on a particularly bad Tuesday night. (from your comfort of your couch)

5. Refusing to watch or delete your hubby's favorite shows that the DVR records.

6. Meeting up at your girlfriend's house and running late to a movie because she's Skyping with her husband. Obviously you are more than happy to be late.

7. Feeling the pain of your hubby calling you at 11am during the week and you're on a conference call and can't talk.

8. Letting the dogs cuddle with you in bed from 6am - 7am which is a huge no no in our house when Mr is home.

That's what my life looks like right now...glamorous no?

Pug Friday - TGIF

2011-04-22T09:43:00.004-05:00

TGIF - Ain't that the truth. This week has been difficult and I'm missing the Mr. real bad right about now. I'm proud to say that I have handled the deployment so far pretty well...that was up until this week. But we're getting through it, don't really have much of an option right?

So what did we learn this week....

1. Sugar Free is toxic to dogs.

2. A $1 pack of gum can cost you whole lot more.

3. I love my lil puggie more than ever.

4. I no longer chew gum...well at least not for a while.

5. Deployment still sucks.

Happy Pug Friday Everyone. I hope everyone has a lovely Easter.

Milo Update

2011-04-20T08:33:00.002-05:00

HE'S HOME!!!

I got to pick him up last night. He is on meds and we'll get his levels checked tomorrow night. But we're looking good. His blood sugar got into the 100s yesterday afternoon after a 2nd IV. The lil guy appears to be back to normal around here.

Thank you all for your love and support. Dealing with this, especially while Mr. is deployed makes things suck on a whole new level.

p.s. they are both on preventive liver meds since we know they both ate the gum.

Yesterday was...a no good very bad day

2011-04-19T09:35:00.003-05:00

Yesterday started like any other crazy, manic Monday. Unfortunately I was booked solid with work calls from 10am until 3pm so the dogs were chilling in the house on their own. I keep my door closed while I'm on the phone.

Generally they are pretty good, they sleep, look out the windows, and sleep some more. I got off a call and went into the family room to the let them out. They usually go outside from around 12:30 - 2:30 or so. I let them out around 1:30 due to my calls. Once they were out I saw something on the floor. It was what was left of a packet of Sugar Free Strawberry Orbit gum. The gum had been in my purse and someone (I assumed Milo) had jumped up on to couch and got in my purse. But to be honest I didn't really know which one had done it.

I didn't think too much of it and I mentioned it on Twitter. Thankfully later that day I received tweets from people warning me how dangerous Sugar Free gum is and that it contains Xylitol. Xylitol is toxic in dogs and can cause their livers to fail. I had absolutely no idea.

I called the vet, who at first didn't seem to concerned (she later admitted she hadn't seen much of this before). I brought both of them in. They both were made to throw up and got their levels checked. They had both ate some of the gum. Charlie's levels were fine but I had to feed him charcoal when we got home and he's on preventive liver meds.

Poor lil Milo is a different story. His blood sugar dropped from 82 to 65. He had to stay over night and be put on an IV. Vet called me around 9:30 last night, his numbers were back up to 82 and she was going to give him the liver meds around 11pm.

Needless to say I was and am still a total mess. Milo is almost 8 and has been with me through everything. I got him when I was living in Indy after college. He is my lil buddy and it breaks my heart that he is going thru this.

Mr. Jetplane called this morning around 3am before heading out on his mission. We talked yesterday afternoon and I told him about the gum before I knew we were in any danger. So when he received my 5 emails from yesterday and could tell I was really upset he called. He knew I wouldn't care if he woke up in the middle of the night.

I'm hopeful we caught it all in time and this episode will have a happy, albeit expensive ending.

Thank you to the wonderful world of Twitter and my fellow pug lovers out there who made me take action yesterday.

Love you all more than you'll ever know.

Pug Friday

2011-04-15T11:09:00.005-05:00

Happy Pug Friday Everyone... With Easter just around the corner I couldn't resist. I have a wives' potluck tonight and then a fellow wife is coming over for some adult beverages...quick someone come over and clean my house. Each spouse/significant other/family member has been tasked with creating a 11x11 page for their deployed loved one and we are suppose to bring it tonight. All of these are going up in the squadron for the guys/gals to enjoy. Take a look at what I put together for Mr. Jetplane. I did it all with what I could find at Walmart in a moment's notice...someone likes to wait till the last minute. But all and all I think I did a pretty good job. Yes it does say "You're the Best Around". That is somewhat of an inside joke with us. Its one of Mr's favorite songs and it may have even been played during our video shown at our rehearsal dinner... What you don't know that song...here let me help.

Have a great Friday :)

image can be found here

Hello Hello Hello

2011-04-14T10:23:00.002-05:00

Sorry I've been away. I've been busy with work and life. I went to Vegas last week and have been digging out of work since I got back on Sunday. More blogging to come... I do have a lot to talk about... Stay Tuned :)

Lost a friend...

2011-04-04T09:56:00.004-05:00

Someone else was taken from this world way too soon. He was truly one of a kind, the life of the party, the guy that could make you laugh without saying a word. He was a friend to all. He will be truly missed. Rest in Peace Adam. This one's for you... If there's a party up in Heaven I know you'll be there.

Side note - Please be careful out on the roads. Life is so very fragile. This is my 2nd friend in less than 6 months that was involved in a serious car accident. Take care out there people, for your sake and for the sake of others.

From the bottom of my heart...

2011-04-02T12:43:00.002-05:00

I apologize I have no makeup on and may have shed a few tears...

Pug Friday

2011-04-01T09:19:00.004-05:00

Hello and Happy Pug Friday everyone. I had intended to be a more active blogger this week but sadly that did not happen.

I seem to have ideas or start to write posts then I think...wow this is dumb, dumber than usual...no one would care about this. I don't even care about this. So I delete them.

But with all that being said, its Friday and Friday around these parts means PUGS! Sorry for all the sad puggie pics lately. But with Mr gone they make me smile.

Happy Pug Friday :)

What deployment looks like...Part 2

2011-03-28T08:57:00.000-05:00

During deployment the guys tend to do some crazy things. They can't drink and they need to do/have things that keep their lives enjoyable/fun. One of the random things they do are grow mustaches...aka deployment staches.

I was fully expecting Mr. Jetplane to grow a killer mustache while he was down range (aka the sandbox... aka the desert) But what I wasn't expecting was this...

Please explain to me why in the hell my handsome husband would do this to himself...and be proud of it? He didn't just shave his head...he bic'd it. Its horrible... I hate it.

Side note...he was not down range when this Skype date happened. Their living accommodations don't have nice floor lamps.

Pug Friday - ROAR

2011-03-25T10:47:00.002-05:00

Happy Pug Friday Everyone...

And this has absolutely nothing to do with pugs but it is way too funny not share. And yes I agree the guy's voice sounds alot like Woody Harrelson sometimes.

Guilty Dog - Watch more Funny Videos