Saturday, January 21, 2012

The Anti-Annoyed...

So the other day when I posted about being annoyed, I truly was annoyed.  With people and various circumstances in which I find myself on a day to day basis.  However, I promised a change this year did I not?  In my defense, I would just like to say that Wednesday was a very emotionally tough day for me; many realizations had dawned on me all at once and I was not prepared for the onslaught of heartache.  That said, I am doing much better after having promised myself to move forward and given these people/situations to God because I am simply done with trying to deal with them on my own.  Clearly, these were issues that I knew would need to be dealt with at some point, but I was so focused on being happy that I tucked them away in that deep part of my brain known as, "deal with it later," and somehow they spilled out.  It was a very good thing I had church that evening, because being with my church family was just what the "good" Doctor ordered.  Now with all THAT said, I would like to write an anti-annoyed list and share with you all (okay, just me...but still) to counteract the negativity of my last post (although, the peeing thing really DOES annoy me).  I present to you, in no particular order, 35 things that make me happy!  Enjoy. 

1.)  Waking up to sunshine instead of overcast skies.
2.) Watching elderly couples flirt after all the years they've been together. - My grandparents aren't together anymore, but even I can see they still sort of regard each other in "that" way...they think I don't know.
3.) People who call me from time to time just to say hi and check in. - Granted, I am not the best at keeping in touch with people but it is nice to hear from someone every once in a while...I ought to take my own advice.
4.) When I see daddies wearing their babies. - There is nothing more masculine than taking care of your babies, and being a baby-wearer myself...it is especially "awwww" worthy when a dad does it.
5.) Listening to my son talk himself to sleep. - Even after nearly 3 years of having him....sometimes I am still amazed that he is my baby.
6.) When I see the opportunity to give to someone in need and it seems like everything is in place for me to do so. - It never fails and I love helping people, everyone deserves kindness.
7.)  Singing in front of people, especially my church family. - Whether a big crowd or a small gathering, bringing emotion to people through song is something that I will never tire of.

8.) Babies. - They smell good, they are cute, they are innocence personified.
9.) When my husband cooks me an omelette.- Getting him to cook me an omelette is like asking the Pope to come to a Gospel church service...you would think I was asking him for a kidney.  Man that man cook a mean omelette though.
10.) Purses.- I have one in nearly every color of the rainbow.  I am not a purse snob, I don't care what brand as long as it is cute.
11.) When I can share my testimony of infertility.- I was told that I may never have children, but I do and he is the best!
12.) Chili's Buffalo Chicken Salad. - I have tried to recreate this amazing salad to no avail.  I am hooked.
13.) Fried Pickles.- Because duh!
14.) Being married to someone who has seen me at my worst and still thinks I am the hottest woman ever.- God really broke the mold with that man.
15.) When I put on a coat after not wearing it for very long, and I find money in the pocket. - This is awesome because it has happened nearly every winter for the past few years.  Keep it comin'!
16.) When I see a new mom or a seasoned mom breastfeeding their baby without apology.- One of my biggest fears of moving back to this country was all the nonsense over breastfeeding and how I would cope, because in Europe this isn't an issue at all.  Whenever I see a mama feeding her baby in public, I smile at her and let her know that I have her back.  I always get a knowing smile right back. 
17.) When I am feeling a little blue or a little sick and my boy comes up to me, hugs me, kisses me, and says, "mama." - That right there?  I don't ever want to take that for granted, I feel instantly better.
18.) When people are losing weight for health and for themselves, not for society or because someone else told them to. - Do it for you, not for someone else...it isn't their body.
19.) Coffee. - I do take some coffee with my flavored creamers...hehe.
20.) Lying down on freshly laundered sheets.- They are so soft and smell so good.
21.) Being able to walk into a store and buy something if the opportunity arises.- I will never take this for granted again. 
22.) Knowing that this earth is not my forever home.- I used to think people who believed in God were crazy and that Heaven was just a nice little fantasy they told themselves to make themselves feel better.  After everything I have been through in my life, I now understand those people.  I am so glad I will go to Heaven.
23.) Sunny days. - Must be the vitamin D.
24.) Amusement Parks.- Although I don't love roller coasters as much as I used to, I still love the smaller rides and just spending a fun day with my family and friends.
25.) Jesus. - This should go without saying, but I say it anyway.
26.) My husband. - He has done a lot with his life and he makes me so proud and happy to be his wife.
27.) Me. - I am finally becoming happy with me and who I am.
28.) The first bite into a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie. - Yup, it is that good.
29.) When I balance my checkbook and it actually balances! - I am such a nerd, I get geeked over this.
30.) When good things happen to my family and friends. - I weep when they weep and I rejoice when they rejoice.
31.) When someone takes the time to be honest with me, even if its not what I want to hear. - Very seldom do I come across people who tell me the truth in a loving way, instead they wish to lie to me and it hurts because I know I am worthy of the truth.
32.) When I am having a bad day and I am praying to God for help and suddenly the phone rings and the person who was on my heart is on the other end. - This has happened to me on many occasions, I thank God each and every time.
33.) People who love me, even when I am unlovable. - Need I say more?
34.) Sitting on my chaise lounge with a cup of coffee and relaxing. - I just close my eyes and thank God for the little things.
35.) People who overcome adversity.- This makes me happy.

Not a long list, but just some of the things that make me happy.  What makes you happy?  What or whom do you love?  If you are reading this and I haven't called you or communicated with you in quite some time; I apologize for being such a lousy friend/family member.  You are important to me and I want you to know that.  You are in every prayer, in my heart, and in my mind.  616-808-6146 is my cell, so we can text or call.  I don't care who calls whom, I just want you to know that I love you and I am asking for your forgiveness if I have hurt you by not keeping in contact with you.  I love you and God bless!

~Sally

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Annoyed meme....

I haven't really been inspired to write a witty blog post lately; call it a lack of creative flow (or that I just didn't feel like writing).  It seems like every time I blog lately it is a negative ranting post or some random update about our family and how TJ is doing.  I would like to say that I am done ranting and raving, but sadly that isn't the case.  I've just been seeing a lot of "things" lately that irritate me. For your enjoyment, here is a list (in no particular order) of 35 things/people that annoy me.  Wait, but Sally...aren't you a Christian?  Shouldn't you pray for people or situations that annoy you?  For shame!  Yes, I am a Christian...but I also have emotions because, guess what?  I AM HUMAN.  I am allowed to get mad, angry, sad, etc.  The difference between me and someone who isn't saved?  You tell me, because a Saint is just a sinner who fell down..and got up.  I just don't let my emotions dictate how I treat others; after all everyone is going through something and far be it from me to belittle them (as hard as that is).  So, without further delay....


1.)  People who let their dogs run freely through the neighborhood. - Seriously, you have two large dogs that can jump over the fence and poop in my yard.  I dealt with this in Army housing, I will NOT tolerate in my own home.  Keep your canines in check please.
2.)  People who park their vehicles in front of my house. - Is it hurting me?  No.  We have had to share parking spaces for the last 3 years...since we now have our own property, it would be nice to park out front if we feel like it!
3.)  People who say, "Call me if you need anything!" - I have heard this too many times by too many people who didn't mean it.  Cynical of me, but I am working on it.
4.)  Women who complain about their husbands being gone for a weekend. - The Army wife in me says, "Try it for a year, on top of having your first miscarriage alone, with nobody but a nurse."  I miss field training exercises...
5.) When I get home and suddenly have the urge to pee really bad, even though I didn't need to just a few minutes ago...and for some reason it takes longer to get in the house. - This happens all the time.  Does my bladder detect when our toilet is within 50 feet?
6.) Women who have their babies early just to avoid having a large baby and/or stretch marks. - I cannot believe that some doctors allow this to happen.  Unless their is a medical reason, this shouldn't be allowed.
7.) Doctors who dismiss my health concerns and tell me to lose weight and it will cure all my ills.- Really?  I   was not aware that losing weight could solve my mole issues.  
8.) When I am mistaken for Kirsten Dunst. - This has actually happened to me.  Do I look skinny and blonde?  Wow, get your glasses fixed there dude.
9.) When the captain says, "We are experiencing mild turbulence..." and the plane makes a sudden drop. - Pretty sure that was more than sweat in my seat when I got up after the flight ended, just sayin'.  Mild is a little juggling, when the overhead compartments pop open...it is time to talk safety!
10.) People who tell me what I should/shouldn't post on my blog or facebook. - Pretty sure it is mine and if you don't like it, don't read...that is all I ask!
11.) When people assume I do nothing all day when they find out I am not currently working. - This is not by choice, mind you.  I would work if I could find a job willing to work around our family schedule.  I have yet to find daycare that is open after 6PM and all the potential employers want me to work nights and weekends.  
12.)  Family and friends who don't respond to my messages, emails, or wall posts, even after weeks. - Am I silly because this bothers me?  I don't know, all I know it that it does.  
13.)  When I go into a room for something and suddenly have amnesia and cannot remember what I was doing or why I'm in that room. - I really don't like this one.
14.)  When I am walking through a doorway and jam my arm or elbow into the wall. - Someone with fibromyalgia will understand.  Bumping into things or even light touches often feel like someone is digging into our muscles with knives...not fun.
15.)  People who think women should put a cover over their nursing infant. - I get you don't want to see a breast, because God knows you don't see enough of them in every day television or commercial ads.  How about next time you are eating at the sunny spot in the park on a hot summer day, I come along and throw a nice polyester lined blanket over your head...I don't want to see you chewing with your mouth open.
16.) Trains that take FOREVER at railroad crossings. - People in Indiana will sympathize.
17.) Trains that come to sudden stops at railroad crossings. - See above.
18.) The fact that I care at all what other people think. - While I don't like confrontation or being mean to people, I am not here to please you.  
19.) Snow. - Need I say more?  
20.) People who gossip. - If you talk about your friend this way, I don't need to be your friend.  If you are that unhappy with someone, then tell them.
21.) When I get home from the grocery store and realize I forgot to use the coupons I had saved. - This really bugs me.
22.) When people assume my husband isn't disabled because he isn't missing any limbs. - This is sheer ignorance.  Wounded Veterans don't always look wounded.
23.)  The westboro baptist church people. - They annoy me for several reasons, not the least of which is they give Christianity a bad name.  I promise, we are not all death-loving, world-hating, people.  Did you know these people cuss freely?  Wow.
24.)  Men who believe a woman should be barefoot and pregnant in the kitchen. - Get over yourself.
25.) People who think they are better parents because they have more children than me. - Congratulations, you're reproductive system works better than mine....but your children need guidance.
26.) When I go to correct my son and he throws his arms around my neck and says, "mama." - Resistance is futile.  
27.) When I am trying to walk out of someones path and we end up doing "the dance."- This is just awkward for all involved.
28.) When I need to get through an aisle and one person is taking up all the space, sees me coming and ignores my asking to pass by. - Lord, I need your hand over my mouth when it comes to these people. 
29.) When I send someone a long worded text or message and I get an "OK" in response. - My sister and dad are soooo guilty of this.
30.) When I change TJs diaper and he poops immediately afterward. - *insert facepalm here*
31.) People who think I can't take a joke. - I can take a joke, you just assume I'll be offended.
32.) People who drink and drive. - RIP James, I miss you big bro.
33.) When I am driving on the road and I suddenly panic that I forgot TJ at home, look into the rearview mirror and he is there. - STUPID BRAIN!
35.) People who automatically assume I am unhealthy because I am plus sized. - Please get your head out of the weight-room long enough to do your research.  If I was unhealthy, you would actually have a valid argument.


There you go peeps.  I needed to write this down and purge these negative feelings from within.  It's a cathartic experience, like crying...only I am not ruining my eye makeup.  As always, God bless and see ya later!


Wednesday, January 04, 2012

Like a volcano...

Today TJ had his first meltdown.  We took him to the mall to play in the kids area (which consists are giant pieces of breakfast food like eggs, cereal, waffles, etc.) and he played for quite a while.  Then he discovered the exists and took off a total of....ok I lost track of how many times he tried to run out.  After the Nth time he took off, he was told if he did this again we would be leaving because running away from mommy and daddy is not acceptable nor is it safe.  Needless to say he tried taking off once more so we packed up and proceeded to head out.  He started to cry and bend himself backwards (the toddler version of the alligator death roll) and then started screaming, "play, play, mama, daddy, PLAY!"  Needless to say, it was a sight to see.  Granted, this wasn't the worst tantrum I have witnessed, but it was TJ's first real battle.  We walked around for a bit and distracted him with various questions, "What's that? Who's that?" until the tears stopped and he was his normal happy self.  I can say that I have been preparing for these tantrums by helping TJ to learn about feelings, but todays experience has me thinking about more ways he can learn how to express his feelings.  *phew*

Sunday, January 01, 2012

New Year, new attitude, new changes....

Happy New Year!  I love writing year in review posts almost as much as I enjoy reading them.  It's always nice to rejoice with someone who has overcome adversity over the last year, on the other hand it is a blessing to be able to offer encouragement to someone who is still going through something.  You may have noticed the layout is a bit different; I changed it to suit our life changes.  Let's take a look at what 2011 offered to the Moser family, shall we?

The beginning of 2011 was a month of anticipation and preparation for us.  We knew we were on our way out of the military; we were preparing to say goodbye to friends and hello to a new/old way of life.  Going back to civilian life sounds easy, but when you have been part of a military family the transition is difficult at best.  At least for our family.  God is still bringing us through, as Travis and I still both struggle with losing our Army family, and I know peace is just around the corner for us.  With that said, we were able to visit Rome for the second time, which was amazing as we were able to see more of the city and surrounding areas than our previous visit...not to mention we had an extra person with us this time.  TJ just makes everything better; seeing the world as he does is humbling.  He is still learning how to behave and what is inappropriate and what is acceptable.  2011 also saw us become the victims of nosy and incredibly judgmental prejudice, when we were reported for child abuse.  Someone didn't like the way I chose to discipline my son, who had a biting problem at the time, and decided I needed to be in trouble.  I have favor with God though, and the agency knew me well.  I thank God that His hand was over that situation, but I will admit that I lost my temper and *temporarily* my mind.  I have forgiven that wrong, just this morning in fact.  I refuse to be bound by unforgiveness, so I made up my mind to move forward.  2011 also saw two of my very best friends have their miracle babies.  One was a complete shocker and the other was long awaited.  While I didn't make it in time to welcome little "C" into the world, I was able to make in time to be one of the very first people to love on him.  I sure hope his mama knows how much I appreciate that!  For baby "T" I was there for it all; labor to birth.  What an incredible experience!  To watch her work so hard to bring him into this world and then watch as he took his first breath of life; beautiful!!  That is one experience I will always cherish.  Thank you Kayla for letting me be there, you will never know how honored I feel to have witnessed his birth!  We celebrated TJ's 1st birthday in Germany and boy is that kid loved by many!  He was spoiled with gifts and hugs and kisses galore!  2011 also saw us moving back stateside.  Here we are, nearly 5 months later, and we are still adjusting.  Thank God for His abundant mercy and many blessings or we would have completely lost it!  People said we wouldn't be able to find a home or a job and within 3 months of moving back we bought a house, Travis got a job, and we have a wonderful church home.  See how GREAT God is?!  Our own families were telling us these things wouldn't happen...but God made a way out of no way!  I am still in awe.  We celebrated Thanksgiving and Christmas with our families for the first time in years and it was a blessing.  Sometimes Travis and I sit and talk about Fort Riley or Baumholder, from time to time, and wish we could go back...but we know this is where God wants us to be.  I am thankful because this has given Travis and I the opportunity to grow closer to one another.  He has started to open up to me about some of the things he has gone through while in the Army.  I am able to open up about some things we well.  God is allowing healing and restoration to take place, I could not ask for more.  Travis is getting ready to receive a good report from the VA, I am waiting for the right job opportunity and school opportunity to come along, and TJ is growing by leaps and bounds.


In short, 2011 saw our family suffer a great loss when Travis was taken off active duty and his files officially closed.  We both feel like we lost our family.  Granted, 6 years isn't a majority of a lifetime...but it feels like it when you've given as much as we have and sacrificed as much we have.  2011 also saw God bring us up out of the pits of despair, because we both went through depression (I had a late on-set of PPD) and it was really wearing on our family and faith.  We have been blessed beyond measure, we've watched our friends come home from war (we celebrate with you all in spirit), moved closer to our family, we have 24 hour shopping, we have money to eat and pay the bills, and we have a HOME!  2012 is going to bring us so much more joy and happiness!  God is going to open a window of Heaven and the blessings will fall in abundance!

This year I am changing my attitude.  I am not going look at the glass half empty.  I want to be a better person; smile more, laugh more, enjoy my life more, not take my blessings for granted, enjoy my son instead of yelling at him, love on my husband instead of criticize him, tell my friends and family how much I love them as often as possible, open up to people, stop hiding behind other peoples' opinions and form my own.  Stand up for my beliefs and have more faith in God.

I pray that each of you have a prosperous new year and that, if you don't know who God is...that you seek Him and find Him.  I know, it sounds crazy when people quote scriptures or continuously praise God...but He is awesome and I want for all of you to experience His grace.  From someone who used to be the biggest skeptic...if you only knew what God has in store for you.  Much love!

~Sally