I was so surprised...to realize how much I've changed.
Okay, this may turn into a boring or self-centered, philosophical post, so if you're not into that, I recommend you go here instead. That'll be more interesting and insightful. haha
Anyway, the other day I was walking down the hallway at work and I realized, as I walked past a parent, that, while I still employ a brisk, hair-blowing walk (can't break that habit, sadly), I was holding my head so high I might have looked like I was snubbing them.
Now, this may not seem like that big a deal--wow, so you hold your head high; that means nothing!--well, my friend, this time the physical stereotype totally applies to me.
I specifically remember--because, annoyingly, I'm a very active thinker--walking from class to class in high school (and junior high, and elementary school), staring at the ground. And sometimes I would tell myself (seriously), "I just have to watch where I'm going. These halls are so crowded, gotta watch my stepping. It doesn't mean I'm self-conscious. I'm totally not."
But I totally was. And I knew it. I mean, if you have to pep-talk yourself and justify walking with your head down, I think you already know how (un)confident you are.
But I went through life for so long like this, pretending, even to myself when I could swing it, that I didn't have a confidence problem. "Fake it 'til you make it," they say. And I did my best to do so. Though, at the time I never thought I'd gain confidence. I honestly thought that was my normal, and that I'd never live life as one of those self-confident girls.
And then, college happened. And I started out just as self-conscience and scared as always, but somewhere along the way, my faking became superfluous. No one cared in college what I was doing or wearing--whether I was humming to myself as I walked, or if I wore a sweatshirt to class again today, or if I was too lazy to wake up early enough to shower before class. And as I realized that no one else cared, I began to slowly realize that I didn't really care, either.
I was in a sorority that made me meet new people--so many new people--and take on offices and lead people. People had confidence in me, and in my abilities. I had to talk to people, and in front of people, and for people. I couldn't be shy and insecure. There was no room for it.
I made new friends who loved me for me, and didn't try to keep me under their thumbs or laugh at me for things I said or make me feel useless--in fact, they sought out my attention and help and company--and I realized I had something useful inside me.
Somewhere along the way, the confidence that I faked--and I had begun to hold my head up as I walked, projecting the image of confidence wherever I went, hoping it would hold true--at some point, that confidence was real.
And I never even noticed.
How awesome, though, is marriage for your confidence, too? Though I know, respectively, my confidence improved the most while I was in college, it's continued to grow into a nearly-unmanageable beast now that I'm married. There's nothing quite like someone thinking you are the world--and expressing it often--for a little ego booster. When there's someone constantly telling you you're beautiful and smart and wonderful, and when your opinion of this person is pretty well equal to the one he has of you, it's hard not to believe it.
I always was told I was "cute," and just maybe "pretty," but--not including my mother and other family members who definitely don't count toward ego-boosting--beautiful was never something I thought I could be. God forbid anyone say I was sexy. I would've laughed right in their faces! That one is still a little hard for me, but, like I said, having this wonderful person building you up constantly has a way of wearing you down into confidence. Plus, you've got a ring on your finger, so who do you need to impress? Someone awesome loves you, so who cares what everyone else thinks?
Anyway, the moral of the story is, it's taken me 24 years (minus, of course, those lovely years of childhood where you just really don't care and have no idea what it means to be insecure), but I finally have found some self-esteem. And damn, does it feel good.
Sunday, December 15, 2013
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Love Conquers.
I was so surprised...this first week of deployment has been hard. (Yeah, I know. Read on, skeptical friend.)
Okay, so for those of you who are not aware of this already, my wonderful husband has been deployed.
It's only been about a week since he left, but it's been rough, nonetheless. You can think, "But he's only been gone a week. You've done worse than that," and you'd be right. I keep telling myself that, too.
But it's different this time. There's a knowledge in the back of your mind that he's going to be gone for nearly a year. This person who you've lived with and bet your whole life on is leaving you behind to live your life as if nothing has changed. But everything has changed.
He's not going on vacation. Or to the field. He's going into a war zone. There will always be worry on my mind. No matter how much I ignore it and tell myself he'll be fine, and that he won't be in any action. It doesn't matter. It's terrifying.
I sit on the couch and watch tv, just like I've done with Russell hundreds of times. And many of those times, we completely ignored each other for hours on end. But it's different. That warmth is gone. The companionship is gone.
It's the thought that he won't be here to hold me when I cry or to clean the dishes when I come home tired from work or to listen to me vent about this or that. But these are selfish things.
Sure, he has internet, and I can Skype him hopefully most days or weeks and keep in touch that way, but it feels disconnected. The internet is unreliable, the schedules are unreliable, and the conversations are public. It's hard to connect that way. And one should never undervalue the strength that holding a hand or touching a shoulder can have in communication.
But enough moping and self-pity.
I really have been handling it all pretty well so far, despite the doom and gloom of this post so far. I do well, I think, with living alone. And I know how to bring myself around, how to entertain myself and keep a home. So I'm not really worried about myself.
Plus, I have something no one else has: Russell. And he, and everything we've built and will build together, is worth so much more than nine months apart. I can get through anything knowing we've got our whole life ahead of us and I will have all the cuddles and kisses and talks and (within reason) babies I want for the rest of my life.
It's all worth it in the end, I know. But I will not lie, deployment already sucks. However, I am one week closer to holding my husband in my arms again, and that's all I've gotta remember to get myself through it. Boy, do I love this man.
Okay, so for those of you who are not aware of this already, my wonderful husband has been deployed.
 |
| The last photo of us together for a while. |
It's only been about a week since he left, but it's been rough, nonetheless. You can think, "But he's only been gone a week. You've done worse than that," and you'd be right. I keep telling myself that, too.
But it's different this time. There's a knowledge in the back of your mind that he's going to be gone for nearly a year. This person who you've lived with and bet your whole life on is leaving you behind to live your life as if nothing has changed. But everything has changed.
He's not going on vacation. Or to the field. He's going into a war zone. There will always be worry on my mind. No matter how much I ignore it and tell myself he'll be fine, and that he won't be in any action. It doesn't matter. It's terrifying.
I sit on the couch and watch tv, just like I've done with Russell hundreds of times. And many of those times, we completely ignored each other for hours on end. But it's different. That warmth is gone. The companionship is gone.
It's the thought that he won't be here to hold me when I cry or to clean the dishes when I come home tired from work or to listen to me vent about this or that. But these are selfish things.
Sure, he has internet, and I can Skype him hopefully most days or weeks and keep in touch that way, but it feels disconnected. The internet is unreliable, the schedules are unreliable, and the conversations are public. It's hard to connect that way. And one should never undervalue the strength that holding a hand or touching a shoulder can have in communication.
But enough moping and self-pity.
I really have been handling it all pretty well so far, despite the doom and gloom of this post so far. I do well, I think, with living alone. And I know how to bring myself around, how to entertain myself and keep a home. So I'm not really worried about myself.
Plus, I have something no one else has: Russell. And he, and everything we've built and will build together, is worth so much more than nine months apart. I can get through anything knowing we've got our whole life ahead of us and I will have all the cuddles and kisses and talks and (within reason) babies I want for the rest of my life.
It's all worth it in the end, I know. But I will not lie, deployment already sucks. However, I am one week closer to holding my husband in my arms again, and that's all I've gotta remember to get myself through it. Boy, do I love this man.
Thursday, August 22, 2013
We Run This...But Not Yet.
I was so surprised...I have volunteered myself for running...
Yes, I said it. Anyone who knows me knows I do not like physical activity of pretty much any kind, but I especially hate running.
However, this weekend, I was browsing through my Facebook feed, when I saw pictures someone had taken at a Color Run. I thought, "Man, that looks like fun." And then, "Too bad I'll never be able to do that."
And that was stupid. I'm a healthy (now that my husband has pulled my junk-and-fast-food-eating leash in a fair amount), four-limbed, capable 23-year-old. Why can't I participate in "only" 5 kilometers? (For those of you that don't want to google it, that's just a bit over 3 miles.)
I thought about all those times I've turned people down for working out (including my husband and probably Nicole) and told myself, "Nooooo, thank you" and how many times Russ has told me he wants to make sure I'm around for a long time. (You guys, I like junk food and not working out.)
Well, why not have some sort of goal for working out? Clearly, I can't maintain a "work out every day to be fit" goal. Nope. Don't care. I'm fit enough for my lazy ass. So, maybe a "run this fun 5K" goal will work! I'm hoping it does. Not because I care too much about being able to run forever--'cause I don't--but because I've seen all the ads for the cool 5Ks and I'm curious.
So I immediately texted my best army wife friend, and she said, and I quote, "Yesssssssssss". So I take it she liked the idea. haha And now we're starting our "training" tomorrow morning! I found an app called "C25K"--short for "Couch to 5K--so we'll see how it works out. It's supposed to work you up from being a couch potato to jogging a 5K. And I think both of us could use the slower transition and the guidance. I know I could.
Jesus. I can't believe I've volunteered to run.
Yes, I said it. Anyone who knows me knows I do not like physical activity of pretty much any kind, but I especially hate running.
However, this weekend, I was browsing through my Facebook feed, when I saw pictures someone had taken at a Color Run. I thought, "Man, that looks like fun." And then, "Too bad I'll never be able to do that."
And that was stupid. I'm a healthy (now that my husband has pulled my junk-and-fast-food-eating leash in a fair amount), four-limbed, capable 23-year-old. Why can't I participate in "only" 5 kilometers? (For those of you that don't want to google it, that's just a bit over 3 miles.)
I thought about all those times I've turned people down for working out (including my husband and probably Nicole) and told myself, "Nooooo, thank you" and how many times Russ has told me he wants to make sure I'm around for a long time. (You guys, I like junk food and not working out.)
Well, why not have some sort of goal for working out? Clearly, I can't maintain a "work out every day to be fit" goal. Nope. Don't care. I'm fit enough for my lazy ass. So, maybe a "run this fun 5K" goal will work! I'm hoping it does. Not because I care too much about being able to run forever--'cause I don't--but because I've seen all the ads for the cool 5Ks and I'm curious.
So I immediately texted my best army wife friend, and she said, and I quote, "Yesssssssssss". So I take it she liked the idea. haha And now we're starting our "training" tomorrow morning! I found an app called "C25K"--short for "Couch to 5K--so we'll see how it works out. It's supposed to work you up from being a couch potato to jogging a 5K. And I think both of us could use the slower transition and the guidance. I know I could.
Jesus. I can't believe I've volunteered to run.
Friday, August 16, 2013
Granada and Madrid in One
I was so surprised...we are exhausted. (Uhh, were exhausted. I started this post our last night in Madrid...haha)
I left off last time with us thinking about going out and seeing the cathedral in Granada, and, well, it didn't happen. I'm pretty sure we both had food poisoning--Malaga strikes again!--so we spent most of our first day in Granada in the hotel room reading. It was actually a very nice day, considering. Haha
The next day, we were scheduled to see the Alhambra in the morning, so we sucked it up and went. And it was awesome! The palaces were so ornate, with such detail in everything---it was gorgeous. We loved it. But our feet were dragging a bit by the end of a tour through the Generalife--the royal gardens--and it already had been a few hours.
So, after a siesta, we decided to check out the Parque de Ciencias (Science Park) and were thoroughly disappointed. It looked really cool and interactive and fun, but it was pretty much none of those. OK City's science museum was way better! So, hot and tired and disappointed, we trudged back to our hotel, after stopping for dinner--delicious bocadillos! Bocadillo is just the Spanish word for sandwich, and I became enamored with them. The meat and bread are just so yummy!
The next day, we were off for Madrid, and our final two days in Spain! We were excited, but also very, very tired. And kind of ready to be back in the States. After a confusing and stressful, final, four-hour drive, returning the rental car, and checking into our final hotel, we spent the first early evening in our hotel room and in Torrejón getting dinner. My stomach still wasn't feeling quite right, and we weren't sure we wanted to wander around hot, populated Madrid quite yet. So we rested for one more night and checked out the local areas around our hotel instead.
The next morning, we took the train over to Madrid and wandered around a bit. We found a cool marketplace that reminded me a little of the kasbah--only more modern and big-city-setup. It was pretty cool. But we were on our way to the Royal Palace, and we were on a mission. Also, it was really hot outside in the middle of the city. So we kept walking all the way down to the palace, stopping by the Royal Cathedral before, and admiring the colorful paintings all around the huge, vaulted ceilings and walls. I'm personally a bigger fan of the Gothic and Baroque styles, but the sleeker, more modern look inside a simple cathedral exterior was really perfect for the feel of Madrid.
After the Cathedral, we finally visited the Royal Palace, which turned out to be really awesome! I wasn't terribly excited for it, but I am so glad we went. There were just so many cool details, and fresco paintings and painted ceilings and really old furniture and floors and silver and sculptures and, finally, the armory, where there were endless rows of armor. Royal armor, common armor, 14th century, 15th century, horse armor, little prince armor, helms, breastplates, gauntlets, swords, crossbows, rifles, spears. Everything. It was so cool. We loved it.
Finally, we ended with some delicious montaditos--another Spanish word for sandwiches...And got some inspiration for a possible future venture. Russ really wants to start up a deli or something, and maybe a montadito shop with tiny sandwiches is just the thing. We'll see what happens. :]
Anyway, we finished off our final day in Spain with tapas--my favorite croquettes and chicken skewers--and a pitcher of sangria, of course. It was amazing.
Then, after a stressful time getting back to the airport the next (very early) morning--turns out the buses didn't start up in our area until 7--we got on the plane and made it home!
And thus ended a wonderful, amazing, so-fun honeymoon. I wouldn't have traded it for anything.
I left off last time with us thinking about going out and seeing the cathedral in Granada, and, well, it didn't happen. I'm pretty sure we both had food poisoning--Malaga strikes again!--so we spent most of our first day in Granada in the hotel room reading. It was actually a very nice day, considering. Haha
The next day, we were scheduled to see the Alhambra in the morning, so we sucked it up and went. And it was awesome! The palaces were so ornate, with such detail in everything---it was gorgeous. We loved it. But our feet were dragging a bit by the end of a tour through the Generalife--the royal gardens--and it already had been a few hours.
 |
| Isn't it beautiful? |
 |
| Such intricate detail--I'm obsessed! |
The next day, we were off for Madrid, and our final two days in Spain! We were excited, but also very, very tired. And kind of ready to be back in the States. After a confusing and stressful, final, four-hour drive, returning the rental car, and checking into our final hotel, we spent the first early evening in our hotel room and in Torrejón getting dinner. My stomach still wasn't feeling quite right, and we weren't sure we wanted to wander around hot, populated Madrid quite yet. So we rested for one more night and checked out the local areas around our hotel instead.
The next morning, we took the train over to Madrid and wandered around a bit. We found a cool marketplace that reminded me a little of the kasbah--only more modern and big-city-setup. It was pretty cool. But we were on our way to the Royal Palace, and we were on a mission. Also, it was really hot outside in the middle of the city. So we kept walking all the way down to the palace, stopping by the Royal Cathedral before, and admiring the colorful paintings all around the huge, vaulted ceilings and walls. I'm personally a bigger fan of the Gothic and Baroque styles, but the sleeker, more modern look inside a simple cathedral exterior was really perfect for the feel of Madrid.
After the Cathedral, we finally visited the Royal Palace, which turned out to be really awesome! I wasn't terribly excited for it, but I am so glad we went. There were just so many cool details, and fresco paintings and painted ceilings and really old furniture and floors and silver and sculptures and, finally, the armory, where there were endless rows of armor. Royal armor, common armor, 14th century, 15th century, horse armor, little prince armor, helms, breastplates, gauntlets, swords, crossbows, rifles, spears. Everything. It was so cool. We loved it.
Finally, we ended with some delicious montaditos--another Spanish word for sandwiches...And got some inspiration for a possible future venture. Russ really wants to start up a deli or something, and maybe a montadito shop with tiny sandwiches is just the thing. We'll see what happens. :]
Anyway, we finished off our final day in Spain with tapas--my favorite croquettes and chicken skewers--and a pitcher of sangria, of course. It was amazing.
Then, after a stressful time getting back to the airport the next (very early) morning--turns out the buses didn't start up in our area until 7--we got on the plane and made it home!
And thus ended a wonderful, amazing, so-fun honeymoon. I wouldn't have traded it for anything.
 |
| Cheers! |
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Not-So-Impressive Malaga
I was so surprised...we walked a very long way up a winding, slippery-rock-paved road, in the very hot Malaga sun...to look at walls and trees and puppets...
Yeah, well, that one was due to our excitement at seeing the "castle" down there...But I'll get to that shortly.
After a very late start in Tarifa, Russ and I were off for Malaga--a city I wasn't terribly excited for, but still: Mediterranean views and old, Moorish architecture.
Well, we kind of hit the ground running in Malaga, walking off for the Alcazaba (fortress) and Castillo (castle) after lunch. (Which, by the way, is getting on track with the Spanish schedule, with lunch at about 2 or 3 pm). Though at first we were under the impression that these sites were closed on Mondays, so we were actually on our way to the Roman Ampitheatre (which we actually never found). On the way, we stopped for some pretty souvenirs, and came across the entrance to the Alcazaba, found it open, and bought our tickets.
The Alcazaba itself was mostly gardens and winding stone pathways and small plazas, surrounded by tall, stone-and-brick walls. It was pretty cool, especially with the Moorish details, but it was also very hilly and filled with stone staircases. Very tiring, especially under that hot Malagan sun. We were sweating (and slightly panting, on my part--I am definitely not the soldier haha).
After we wandered through the Alcazaba, looking for the walkway that would lead to the Castillo (which we finally, after a lot of stair-climbing, found out were not connected for tourists), we stopped back at the hotel. The light, breezy t-shirt and short skirt I had on were not cutting it and I was in desperate need of free underarms so as not to completely die of heat exhaustion. Plus, skirts are not conducive to long walks with some uphill battles.
And they were certainly uphill battles. I really mean that. Haha The road leading to the Castillo, which sits atop a tall hill overlooking the ocean and the city, is long, winding, and extremely steep. Russ joked about wishing we'd had segways for the walk up, but I honestly don't think those things could make it up those hills. We'd have to lean onto the ground to go forward. Haha we had to stop several times so my heart didn't burst of of my chest and beat me with its tired, angry arms, and we were both drenched in sweat by the time we mde it to the top. My legs were ready to collapse.
"This castle better be worth it," we both chanted. And what did we find, you ask? More stone walls surrounding sparse trees and bushes, around tiny stone buildings with no access to the inside...Oh, and the information center, which showed us the various items and military uniforms for the first several centuries of the castle's existence (it was built in the 14th century!). It was cool to see...however only if it had been at the bottom of the hill...the only thing the castle really could have boasted, in my opinion, would be the views. I'm sure they were beautiful, but Russell and I were not climbing another ten feet of stairs up the walls...I would've collapsed.
And then we had the walk back down the steep, slippery rocks. By the time we made it back to the city, we were starving and decided to try a BBQ restaurant, which really just means grilling the meat in Spain, not being drenched in BBQ sauce. Haha Basically, we ate a lot of meat (pork and duck) and drank a pitcher each of sangria and tinto de verano (which is just red wine with carbonated soda mixed in).
Unfortunately, we woke up feeling a little sick to our stomachs this morning, so, though we'd planned on going down to the beach, we headed straight for Granada, which thankfully was an easy drive--not too many crazy roads/drivers. After buying tickets for the Alhambra for tomorrow and very slightly attempting the cathedral, we returned to the safety and comfort of our hotel to recover a bit.
Now Russ is saying he's feeling better, so we'll see if we can tackle at least the cathedral tonight before dinner. If not, we still have tomorrow! Hopefully we'll be feeling better by then, because I've dreamed of going to the Alhambra for years. So, anyway, hasty mañana, compadres! Que tengan in buen dia! Besos!
Yeah, well, that one was due to our excitement at seeing the "castle" down there...But I'll get to that shortly.
After a very late start in Tarifa, Russ and I were off for Malaga--a city I wasn't terribly excited for, but still: Mediterranean views and old, Moorish architecture.
Well, we kind of hit the ground running in Malaga, walking off for the Alcazaba (fortress) and Castillo (castle) after lunch. (Which, by the way, is getting on track with the Spanish schedule, with lunch at about 2 or 3 pm). Though at first we were under the impression that these sites were closed on Mondays, so we were actually on our way to the Roman Ampitheatre (which we actually never found). On the way, we stopped for some pretty souvenirs, and came across the entrance to the Alcazaba, found it open, and bought our tickets.
The Alcazaba itself was mostly gardens and winding stone pathways and small plazas, surrounded by tall, stone-and-brick walls. It was pretty cool, especially with the Moorish details, but it was also very hilly and filled with stone staircases. Very tiring, especially under that hot Malagan sun. We were sweating (and slightly panting, on my part--I am definitely not the soldier haha).
After we wandered through the Alcazaba, looking for the walkway that would lead to the Castillo (which we finally, after a lot of stair-climbing, found out were not connected for tourists), we stopped back at the hotel. The light, breezy t-shirt and short skirt I had on were not cutting it and I was in desperate need of free underarms so as not to completely die of heat exhaustion. Plus, skirts are not conducive to long walks with some uphill battles.
And they were certainly uphill battles. I really mean that. Haha The road leading to the Castillo, which sits atop a tall hill overlooking the ocean and the city, is long, winding, and extremely steep. Russ joked about wishing we'd had segways for the walk up, but I honestly don't think those things could make it up those hills. We'd have to lean onto the ground to go forward. Haha we had to stop several times so my heart didn't burst of of my chest and beat me with its tired, angry arms, and we were both drenched in sweat by the time we mde it to the top. My legs were ready to collapse.
"This castle better be worth it," we both chanted. And what did we find, you ask? More stone walls surrounding sparse trees and bushes, around tiny stone buildings with no access to the inside...Oh, and the information center, which showed us the various items and military uniforms for the first several centuries of the castle's existence (it was built in the 14th century!). It was cool to see...however only if it had been at the bottom of the hill...the only thing the castle really could have boasted, in my opinion, would be the views. I'm sure they were beautiful, but Russell and I were not climbing another ten feet of stairs up the walls...I would've collapsed.
And then we had the walk back down the steep, slippery rocks. By the time we made it back to the city, we were starving and decided to try a BBQ restaurant, which really just means grilling the meat in Spain, not being drenched in BBQ sauce. Haha Basically, we ate a lot of meat (pork and duck) and drank a pitcher each of sangria and tinto de verano (which is just red wine with carbonated soda mixed in).
Unfortunately, we woke up feeling a little sick to our stomachs this morning, so, though we'd planned on going down to the beach, we headed straight for Granada, which thankfully was an easy drive--not too many crazy roads/drivers. After buying tickets for the Alhambra for tomorrow and very slightly attempting the cathedral, we returned to the safety and comfort of our hotel to recover a bit.
Now Russ is saying he's feeling better, so we'll see if we can tackle at least the cathedral tonight before dinner. If not, we still have tomorrow! Hopefully we'll be feeling better by then, because I've dreamed of going to the Alhambra for years. So, anyway, hasty mañana, compadres! Que tengan in buen dia! Besos!
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Tanger en Todo
I was so surprised...Russ and I got a little souvenir-crazy in Morocco today.
Okay, friends, I'm exhausted, so don't expect a very long post today. It's to your benefit anyway. ;)
Anyway, today we went over to Tanger, Morocco! We took the ferry this morning--about a 35-minute ride--and found the tour guide I'd booked for the trip. And boy, am I glad I did! Seriously, if you're ever in southern Spain and thinking about popping down to Morocco, I very highly recommend Aziz Saint Laurent for the tour. He got us safely through some sketchy (for tourists), but so cool to see parts and gave a very extensive tour of Tanger. Very fun.
Anyway, we got to see where the royal family of Morocco lives, the fish market, the fruits market, the spice market--basically all of the Kasbah, plus some cool little handmade shops. We also saw the Hercules Grotto--which was really cool, and Russ and I contemplated moving in--the sound, sight and smell of the ocean, paired with the dark cool of the cave. Plus, Tiger would have a blast hiding in the little cavelets (the technical term, I believe). :)
Plus, Aziz was kind of a celebrity. Everywhere we went, he knew at least half the people, and had "in"s for pretty much everything. It was fun.
Oh, and did I mention that he took us to a fabulous restaurant with authentic, local food? Well, he did. And it was amazing. Russ and I practiy scarfed the food, it was so good. They gave us what they called a salad, but really it was like a salsa, a plate of vegetables and bread, the. Some delicious Moroccan lamb recipe and some kind of chicken pie. Oh, it was amazing. So fresh and delicious.
Uh, anyway, we also bought some cool stuff in some little shops, and even had to haggle a good bit. We got a marble camel figurine, a pretty hand painted bowl, a couple beautiful tablecloths, AND (my favorite) a cool, Moroccan lantern! I'm obsessed, you guys. It's so heavy, but sooo beautiful! I can't wait to hang it up!
The only problem now is that we sti haven't bought any Spanish souvenirs yet...But we do still have a week, so we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for something cool. Until then, we're off to Malaga tomorrow, and then Granada! It's been a hell of a honeymoon already, and I can't wait for more!
Hasta mañana, mis compadres! Besos!
Okay, friends, I'm exhausted, so don't expect a very long post today. It's to your benefit anyway. ;)
Anyway, today we went over to Tanger, Morocco! We took the ferry this morning--about a 35-minute ride--and found the tour guide I'd booked for the trip. And boy, am I glad I did! Seriously, if you're ever in southern Spain and thinking about popping down to Morocco, I very highly recommend Aziz Saint Laurent for the tour. He got us safely through some sketchy (for tourists), but so cool to see parts and gave a very extensive tour of Tanger. Very fun.
Anyway, we got to see where the royal family of Morocco lives, the fish market, the fruits market, the spice market--basically all of the Kasbah, plus some cool little handmade shops. We also saw the Hercules Grotto--which was really cool, and Russ and I contemplated moving in--the sound, sight and smell of the ocean, paired with the dark cool of the cave. Plus, Tiger would have a blast hiding in the little cavelets (the technical term, I believe). :)
Plus, Aziz was kind of a celebrity. Everywhere we went, he knew at least half the people, and had "in"s for pretty much everything. It was fun.
Oh, and did I mention that he took us to a fabulous restaurant with authentic, local food? Well, he did. And it was amazing. Russ and I practiy scarfed the food, it was so good. They gave us what they called a salad, but really it was like a salsa, a plate of vegetables and bread, the. Some delicious Moroccan lamb recipe and some kind of chicken pie. Oh, it was amazing. So fresh and delicious.
Uh, anyway, we also bought some cool stuff in some little shops, and even had to haggle a good bit. We got a marble camel figurine, a pretty hand painted bowl, a couple beautiful tablecloths, AND (my favorite) a cool, Moroccan lantern! I'm obsessed, you guys. It's so heavy, but sooo beautiful! I can't wait to hang it up!
The only problem now is that we sti haven't bought any Spanish souvenirs yet...But we do still have a week, so we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for something cool. Until then, we're off to Malaga tomorrow, and then Granada! It's been a hell of a honeymoon already, and I can't wait for more!
Hasta mañana, mis compadres! Besos!
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Whales!!
I was so surprised...Cadiz was not that great.
Okay, so we had no wifi again in Cadiz (we were in a little hostal--nice, but no private bathroom and no Internet :/), soooo now I have to inform you of our adventures for a few days. Since the last post, we saw a bullfight, enjoyed the beach of Cadiz, got lost on the way to Tarifa, and then went whale watching! It's been a fair bit.
As for the bullfight--it was fun, and we enjoys it, but Russ isn't really the biggest fan. I agree with him, and he respects the tradition and culture of it, but he'd prefer not to watch it again. And I respect that. No regrets for seeing it, though, so that's good. :)
As for Cadiz, well, we liked the beach (though both agreed Hawaii had nicer, cleaner, better beaches), and had a good time, but it's not a place either of us really care to go again. Just too tourist-y and dingy for our tastes.
Finally, after a few rough starts (very rough and stressful, being lost in a car in a foreign country, ugh), we finally made it to Tarifa. And I, for one, really love it here. The streets an buildings are cleaner, prettier. The city doesn't have as touristy or congested a feel. The ocean is nearly always in view. AND we had delicious Mexican food at a restaurant in the center of the city. I know, Mexican food in Spain? But holy cheese, man, it was the best Mexican food I've had. Ever. Like, if this was the Mexican I could get at home, I'd eat it all the time. Delicious. Oh, and we also went whale watching. That was awesome! We saw a few pods of orcas and several fin whales, on top of just having a great time sailing on the Strait of Gibraltar. Russ and I have decided that if we ever get rich, we wanna live on the ocean and have our own boat. We love the water. :)
Other than all those fun adventures, we're just excited now for Morocco tomorrow!! We're going to probably be pretty tired, so we'll see if I get to a post, but I'll do my best! Just know that we're having an awesome time and I can fairly safely say we'd both highly recommend Spain. :) And having a later honeymoon is kind of awesome in itself--thank goodness we already know how to handle each other stressed and tired and traveling. But, really, I couldn't have picked a better travel-buddy and we are having the best honeymoon ever. :)
Love de Espana!
Okay, so we had no wifi again in Cadiz (we were in a little hostal--nice, but no private bathroom and no Internet :/), soooo now I have to inform you of our adventures for a few days. Since the last post, we saw a bullfight, enjoyed the beach of Cadiz, got lost on the way to Tarifa, and then went whale watching! It's been a fair bit.
As for the bullfight--it was fun, and we enjoys it, but Russ isn't really the biggest fan. I agree with him, and he respects the tradition and culture of it, but he'd prefer not to watch it again. And I respect that. No regrets for seeing it, though, so that's good. :)
As for Cadiz, well, we liked the beach (though both agreed Hawaii had nicer, cleaner, better beaches), and had a good time, but it's not a place either of us really care to go again. Just too tourist-y and dingy for our tastes.
Finally, after a few rough starts (very rough and stressful, being lost in a car in a foreign country, ugh), we finally made it to Tarifa. And I, for one, really love it here. The streets an buildings are cleaner, prettier. The city doesn't have as touristy or congested a feel. The ocean is nearly always in view. AND we had delicious Mexican food at a restaurant in the center of the city. I know, Mexican food in Spain? But holy cheese, man, it was the best Mexican food I've had. Ever. Like, if this was the Mexican I could get at home, I'd eat it all the time. Delicious. Oh, and we also went whale watching. That was awesome! We saw a few pods of orcas and several fin whales, on top of just having a great time sailing on the Strait of Gibraltar. Russ and I have decided that if we ever get rich, we wanna live on the ocean and have our own boat. We love the water. :)
Other than all those fun adventures, we're just excited now for Morocco tomorrow!! We're going to probably be pretty tired, so we'll see if I get to a post, but I'll do my best! Just know that we're having an awesome time and I can fairly safely say we'd both highly recommend Spain. :) And having a later honeymoon is kind of awesome in itself--thank goodness we already know how to handle each other stressed and tired and traveling. But, really, I couldn't have picked a better travel-buddy and we are having the best honeymoon ever. :)
Love de Espana!
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Amor Sevillano
I was so surprised...we get to see flamenco and a bull fight in the same city!
Since my computer died while I was typing this up yesterday, and we realized we have no outlet converter for a grounded plug, I now get to type these out on my phone while we have wifi...Yay. So pardon any weird mistakes. And also the lack of pictures...Those now get to wait til we're back. :/
Oh we'll. Anyway, we weren't very productive yesterday, actually. In part due to jet lag and in part due to walking around in such heat! Seriously, guys, it just keeps getting hotter! Though we're building up our tolerances--both for the heat and walking for hours. But it still gets to us. Hence the long siesta we took yesterday afternoon after driving out to Sevilla.
When we got into the city, and somehow found our hotel in the midst of it all, we knew it would be extremely difficult to find parking for two nights...the hotel has none, and is located right in the middle of several one-lane, one-way, teeny-tiny streets. So we drove around the same block a few times before finding a magician who directed us to the only spot anywhere near our hotel. Or, really, anywhere at all. Haha after checking in and grabbing lunch--a strange seafood salsa with small crackers--we passed out for a few hours. Seriously, even I took a nap--and anyone who knows me knows I don't do that often.
After our little siesta, we navigated through the city a bit, walked for a while just looking--and also finding our way toward El Patio Sevillano--a flamenco show place, and the one recommended by our front desk girl.
We splurged a little for a great show and some tapas and drinks. It was COMPLETELY worth it. The show was wonderful! We were so entranced that we barely noticed a buzz from the two pitchers of sangria we polished off during the show, not to mention the several tapas they brought us. Seriously, if you're ever in Sevilla, El Patio Sevillano is amazing! I wish I could show you pictures, too, but oh well.
Today, now, has been reserved for sightseeing. After letting ourselves sleep in a bit this morning, we wandered down the street and found chocolate con churros! If you can't tell what it is, it's a chocolate syrup-like "drink" warmed up, with some delicious, non-sugarfied churros for dipping. Yummy!
Once we finished off our churros, we headed down to the Plaza de Toros (bullfighting ring) to buy tickets for a show tonight we accidentally found out about. So, we also get to see a bullfight tonight at 10 pm! I know--Spain has weird schedules, but I think they were ring nice and letting the sun set first. (Did I mention it's hot?) Because after we completed our one chore, we were off for the Alcazar (a castle-like structure for royals) and can I tell you it was gorgeous? Because it was. The details were so magnificent--inside and outside, with traditional Spanish tiles and moldings, and Moorish arches and windows, and frescos and moulded ceilings and carved doors and plentiful gardens. It was awesome. Just breathtaking. Again, I really wish I could show you pictures, but even those don't do it justice. Russ and I were just in awe the entire time. Except when Russell was trying to poke a koi in a big fountain. That was not awe. Haha
After the Alcazar, we headed toward the Catedral, but found we were too late to take the tour. It was still beautiful from the outside, though. Oh, and we also found a naval museum inside a random tower, and climbed a bunch of stairs while looking at boat things. Haha It's been a busy day.
We also stopped for lunch at an actual cafe, instead of the usual tapas place, and had some delicious sandwiches and a glass of sangria for 8 euro total! It was delicious, and we're now gonna try to do that more often.
Anyway, after a rest in our hotel room (with air conditioning), we'll be off for the bullfight! We're excited for tonight--almost as excite as we are for a beach day tomorrow. Haha So until then, tengan un buen dia! Besos de Espana!
Since my computer died while I was typing this up yesterday, and we realized we have no outlet converter for a grounded plug, I now get to type these out on my phone while we have wifi...Yay. So pardon any weird mistakes. And also the lack of pictures...Those now get to wait til we're back. :/
Oh we'll. Anyway, we weren't very productive yesterday, actually. In part due to jet lag and in part due to walking around in such heat! Seriously, guys, it just keeps getting hotter! Though we're building up our tolerances--both for the heat and walking for hours. But it still gets to us. Hence the long siesta we took yesterday afternoon after driving out to Sevilla.
When we got into the city, and somehow found our hotel in the midst of it all, we knew it would be extremely difficult to find parking for two nights...the hotel has none, and is located right in the middle of several one-lane, one-way, teeny-tiny streets. So we drove around the same block a few times before finding a magician who directed us to the only spot anywhere near our hotel. Or, really, anywhere at all. Haha after checking in and grabbing lunch--a strange seafood salsa with small crackers--we passed out for a few hours. Seriously, even I took a nap--and anyone who knows me knows I don't do that often.
After our little siesta, we navigated through the city a bit, walked for a while just looking--and also finding our way toward El Patio Sevillano--a flamenco show place, and the one recommended by our front desk girl.
We splurged a little for a great show and some tapas and drinks. It was COMPLETELY worth it. The show was wonderful! We were so entranced that we barely noticed a buzz from the two pitchers of sangria we polished off during the show, not to mention the several tapas they brought us. Seriously, if you're ever in Sevilla, El Patio Sevillano is amazing! I wish I could show you pictures, too, but oh well.
Today, now, has been reserved for sightseeing. After letting ourselves sleep in a bit this morning, we wandered down the street and found chocolate con churros! If you can't tell what it is, it's a chocolate syrup-like "drink" warmed up, with some delicious, non-sugarfied churros for dipping. Yummy!
Once we finished off our churros, we headed down to the Plaza de Toros (bullfighting ring) to buy tickets for a show tonight we accidentally found out about. So, we also get to see a bullfight tonight at 10 pm! I know--Spain has weird schedules, but I think they were ring nice and letting the sun set first. (Did I mention it's hot?) Because after we completed our one chore, we were off for the Alcazar (a castle-like structure for royals) and can I tell you it was gorgeous? Because it was. The details were so magnificent--inside and outside, with traditional Spanish tiles and moldings, and Moorish arches and windows, and frescos and moulded ceilings and carved doors and plentiful gardens. It was awesome. Just breathtaking. Again, I really wish I could show you pictures, but even those don't do it justice. Russ and I were just in awe the entire time. Except when Russell was trying to poke a koi in a big fountain. That was not awe. Haha
After the Alcazar, we headed toward the Catedral, but found we were too late to take the tour. It was still beautiful from the outside, though. Oh, and we also found a naval museum inside a random tower, and climbed a bunch of stairs while looking at boat things. Haha It's been a busy day.
We also stopped for lunch at an actual cafe, instead of the usual tapas place, and had some delicious sandwiches and a glass of sangria for 8 euro total! It was delicious, and we're now gonna try to do that more often.
Anyway, after a rest in our hotel room (with air conditioning), we'll be off for the bullfight! We're excited for tonight--almost as excite as we are for a beach day tomorrow. Haha So until then, tengan un buen dia! Besos de Espana!
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
On to Córdoba!
(This post was typed up on Tuesday, July 16, and published 17 July.)
I was so surprised…that driving down tiny European streets is terrifying (though I should’ve known, really).
I was so surprised…that driving down tiny European streets is terrifying (though I should’ve known, really).
Last night, Russ and I walked back down to the Plaza Mayor
of Torrejón de Ardoz, where he had vino tinto con limón (red wine with lemon),
and I had a Coke. I just needed the sweet sugar and caffeine to keep me awake
for the walk back to the hotel.
After returning to the hotel around 1 am, we woke to find
that it was already 10:30—way later than we meant to sleep in! After all, we
had an appointment to retrieve our rental car at 9, and still had a 4-hour
drive to make.
However, after showers and some bus managing, we made it to
the airport, got our luggage back (yay!) and hopped in the rental on the way to
Córdoba. After a quick stop at McDonald’s (we know, we know, but we wanted to
hurry on to Córdoba!) for lunch, we were on our way.
It’s so interesting seeing the countryside of a completely
different country. It seems almost like the US when you don’t see the buildings
or the Spanish signs. Finally getting into Andalucía gave us views of the
typical Spanish-style houses and buildings, small, white-washed towns hidden in
the hills, and many giant, cardboard bulls. I couldn’t tell you why…haha
When we made it into Córdoba, we had a…difficult time, to
say the least, navigating the streets to find our hotel. On the bright side, I
found a fairly-priced, chic hotel in the middle of the city. On the downside,
this meant navigating down tiny, one-car-width cobblestone streets. At one
point, we literally had about two inches of space between each side-view mirror
and a wall of stone. It was terrifying.
And Spaniards Do. Not. Move. They expect you to move for them. I don’t know what happens when they encounter each other in
the street. Probably it just turns into Dr. Seuss’ The Zax, if you know that story. Or if you don’t look it up, I
guess. haha
So, well, we eventually accidentally found the hotel and
decided to park (for 15 euro extra) under the hotel—trust me, it was well worth
it.
Once we finally had our stuff in the hotel and could move
freely, we headed down to La Judería (or the Jewish Quarter), where beautiful,
Moorish details dotted the traditional Spanish architecture. We spent a few
hours wandering the streets, stopping to eat some tapas when we were hungry.
We had some delicious tapas that night, first trying some
vino tinto con limon (red wine with lemon), which actually turned out to have
some carbonated soda in it—delicious—before finding a tapas bar and picking a
several to try. My favorites were the bull meat and croquettes. Seriously, don’t
try to find good croquettes in the States—I did, and was sad to find that
nothing compares to authentic Spanish croquettes. They’re probably one of my
favorite foods, even though it’s mostly just fried mashed potatoes with meat.
So good, though, trust me. And the toro meat was just as delicious—we scraped
the dish clean. With these tapas, we may also have had another pitcher of
sangria. I know, alcoholics. But that’s what Spaniards do! They drink wine a
lot! Regardless, it’s our honeymoon and we’ll do what we want. :]
Soon after (about midnight or 1ish), we headed back to the
hotel and are now ready to pass right out.
And in the morning, Sevilla! Buenas noches, amigos!
Monday, July 15, 2013
El Primer Día of Our Adventure!
I was so surprised...It's not that hard to navigate around Madrid.
Granted, we've only been through a small part, but hey! We even figured out the train system!
Anyway, I should start with the beginning of our trip. If you don't already know this, Russ and I are honeymooning in Spain! We boarded our planes yesterday, and after a long 5-hour wait in Charlotte, and then a really long 8-hour flight, we made it into Madrid!
Then, after a lot of waiting and discussion, we learned that our luggage was left in Charlotte and that we would have to pick it up tomorrow morning. An inconvenience, but nothing too terrible. The only thing we're really bummed about is the fact that we had no different clothes to change into after over a day and two plane rides. Especially since I chose to be smart and wear jeans (since planes are freezing) and an NAU t-shirt (to save my cute shirts for Spain)...And it's been in the high 90s all day while we walk around. I can't even tell you how many gallons I've sweated out today. Plus, my makeup is all in my checked bag, because I didn't want to deal with showing security or some stupid reason. haha So I'm going without today. But who cares? We're in Spain!!
Anyway, next, we were slightly swindled in taking a taxi from the airport to Torrejón de Ardóz--a small city just on the outskirts of Madrid, where our hotel for the night is. The driver told us something about Torrejón charging extra taxes for taxi drivers or something--yeah, sure. Whatever. I was tired, and overwhelmed and nervous to use my Spanish.
Eventually we made it to our hotel, and discovered it to be pretty nice! For 38 euros a night especially, it's pretty great! Only thing to complain about there is that our double bed is really two, extremely hard twins pushed together. But, really, it's one night. Once we got back to the hotel, we passed out for about 6 hours (at 9 am Madrid time, mind you). Finally, we woke up, feeling a million times better and, after a shower, ready to take on Madrid!
When the concierge told us the best way to Madrid central was to take the train, I was nervous. Especially when he said the train station was about a 15-minute walk from the hotel first. However, we bought our tickets, boarded a train and hoped it was the right one right up until the minute we saw the sign for Atocha--perfect!
We walked up the cobblestone streets toward the Plaza Mayor--probably about a mile's walk--loving the sights on the way, though I was huffing up the hill. Maybe I'm a little out of shape...But I'm gonna blame it on the jeans and dark t-shirt that had me sweating like crazy and feeling a little overheated.
Finally, we made it to the Plaza, and Russell understood why I'd told him to wait before we stopped. Beautiful Spanish architecture and style. The cobblestones. The arches. All the people sitting outside cafés, enjoying a drink and a tapa.
We walked around the Plaza a bit, then were ushered to a table--which is just what I wanted anyway. We ordered some sangria--"Un pitcher?" the waiter asked--and a couple tapas to enjoy while we relaxed. We got the pollo y patatas--basically just little pieces of chicken and fried potato wedges in olive oil and sea salt, delicious!--and fried calamari, which I'm not a fan of. The sangria was delicious, and just perfect--simply adorned with orange and lemon wedges--and so smooth and cool. We felt rejuvenated so quickly.
By this time it was about 7 pm, and we'd decided to spend the evening in Torrejón, to make it easier on ourselves, so we started back toward the train station. Did I mention there was a weird little forest in there? Strange. haha
It was a nice, meandering walk, and we detoured through a little park or two, navigated through the train station like pros, buying our tickets and boarding the right train without hesitation or problem--we're quick learners!
Finally, we made it back to Torrejón and to our hotel. Now we're taking a small break (at 10 pm, crazy Spain), before we go back out and grab some dessert and just enjoy a little bit more of Torrejón before we move on to Córdoba tomorrow.
Hopefully I'll have some time again to type something up for you guys, again, once we get our luggage and rental car, and drive down to Córdoba. If not, that's what we're up to! Hope you're all having as much fun as we are (but that you're not quite so sweaty--seriously, that's my main problem today. haha).
Felíz noche de miel a mi esposo y que tengan un buen día! :]
Granted, we've only been through a small part, but hey! We even figured out the train system!
Anyway, I should start with the beginning of our trip. If you don't already know this, Russ and I are honeymooning in Spain! We boarded our planes yesterday, and after a long 5-hour wait in Charlotte, and then a really long 8-hour flight, we made it into Madrid!
 |
| I may look happy, but there's a lot of hidden sweat and exhaustion, too. |
Anyway, next, we were slightly swindled in taking a taxi from the airport to Torrejón de Ardóz--a small city just on the outskirts of Madrid, where our hotel for the night is. The driver told us something about Torrejón charging extra taxes for taxi drivers or something--yeah, sure. Whatever. I was tired, and overwhelmed and nervous to use my Spanish.
 |
| Spain! Ignore the tired looks--we've been so giddy all day. |
Eventually we made it to our hotel, and discovered it to be pretty nice! For 38 euros a night especially, it's pretty great! Only thing to complain about there is that our double bed is really two, extremely hard twins pushed together. But, really, it's one night. Once we got back to the hotel, we passed out for about 6 hours (at 9 am Madrid time, mind you). Finally, we woke up, feeling a million times better and, after a shower, ready to take on Madrid!
When the concierge told us the best way to Madrid central was to take the train, I was nervous. Especially when he said the train station was about a 15-minute walk from the hotel first. However, we bought our tickets, boarded a train and hoped it was the right one right up until the minute we saw the sign for Atocha--perfect!
We walked up the cobblestone streets toward the Plaza Mayor--probably about a mile's walk--loving the sights on the way, though I was huffing up the hill. Maybe I'm a little out of shape...But I'm gonna blame it on the jeans and dark t-shirt that had me sweating like crazy and feeling a little overheated.
Finally, we made it to the Plaza, and Russell understood why I'd told him to wait before we stopped. Beautiful Spanish architecture and style. The cobblestones. The arches. All the people sitting outside cafés, enjoying a drink and a tapa.
 |
| Pro sangria-drinkers. |
 |
| Delicious. |
It was a nice, meandering walk, and we detoured through a little park or two, navigated through the train station like pros, buying our tickets and boarding the right train without hesitation or problem--we're quick learners!
Finally, we made it back to Torrejón and to our hotel. Now we're taking a small break (at 10 pm, crazy Spain), before we go back out and grab some dessert and just enjoy a little bit more of Torrejón before we move on to Córdoba tomorrow.
Hopefully I'll have some time again to type something up for you guys, again, once we get our luggage and rental car, and drive down to Córdoba. If not, that's what we're up to! Hope you're all having as much fun as we are (but that you're not quite so sweaty--seriously, that's my main problem today. haha).
Felíz noche de miel a mi esposo y que tengan un buen día! :]
Monday, July 8, 2013
España, Once Again!
I was so surprised...I'm terrible at keeping up a blog (but not really that surprised...).
Sooo, it's been a couple months since I last posted, and I'm sorry, my friends. I know you're all just hanging on the edge of your seats, waiting to know about my life. haha
However, the husband was gone, so there was nothing really going on, and then the husband has been home, so either nothing has been happening, or I'm spending my time with said husband instead of blogging. Priorities. :]
Anyway, my baby sister Aimee has been up here for about a week, spending time with the old people and enjoying the rainy days of Northern New York. It's been nice having a touch of Arizona, and having someone Clover is so incredibly excited to see every day. haha Seriously, it's like the dog forgets who she is every time she comes down. He's ridiculous.
Now, also, you probably already know my next bit of news, so I'm gonna try my hardest not to dwell...We're leaving for Spain this Sunday!! Seriously. Two weeks in beautiful Spain with my one and only. Driving down the coast, soaking in the sun and the Mediterranean and the Moorish architecture. Oh my gods, I'm so excited. We're working on getting everything ready for the trip, and I'm getting slightly stressed--I just know something is gonna go wrong. Right? It's terrifying. Was I this scared to go overseas last time?
Oh well. I'm sure everything will fall into place this week. And then we're off! For Spain. Ahh!!
Keep an eye out for pictures! I'm gonna bring my laptop, too, in the hopes that I can blog some of the awesome stuff that we do, so we'll see how that goes, since we'll be only staying in each place at most two nights. But I told you I wouldn't dwell. So I'm done. SPAIN!
Sooo, it's been a couple months since I last posted, and I'm sorry, my friends. I know you're all just hanging on the edge of your seats, waiting to know about my life. haha
However, the husband was gone, so there was nothing really going on, and then the husband has been home, so either nothing has been happening, or I'm spending my time with said husband instead of blogging. Priorities. :]
Anyway, my baby sister Aimee has been up here for about a week, spending time with the old people and enjoying the rainy days of Northern New York. It's been nice having a touch of Arizona, and having someone Clover is so incredibly excited to see every day. haha Seriously, it's like the dog forgets who she is every time she comes down. He's ridiculous.
Now, also, you probably already know my next bit of news, so I'm gonna try my hardest not to dwell...We're leaving for Spain this Sunday!! Seriously. Two weeks in beautiful Spain with my one and only. Driving down the coast, soaking in the sun and the Mediterranean and the Moorish architecture. Oh my gods, I'm so excited. We're working on getting everything ready for the trip, and I'm getting slightly stressed--I just know something is gonna go wrong. Right? It's terrifying. Was I this scared to go overseas last time?
Oh well. I'm sure everything will fall into place this week. And then we're off! For Spain. Ahh!!
Keep an eye out for pictures! I'm gonna bring my laptop, too, in the hopes that I can blog some of the awesome stuff that we do, so we'll see how that goes, since we'll be only staying in each place at most two nights. But I told you I wouldn't dwell. So I'm done. SPAIN!
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Strength
I was so surprised...I've learned a different definition of strength. Also, I'm super philosophical. Sorry 'bout that.
As some (maybe most?) of you know, my husband has been gone for training a whole lot lately. His unit is getting prepared for probably--though also possibly not--deploying to Afghanistan for a year--though maybe 9 months, or possibly 15 months--sometime in October--though it was originally November, but it could be September, or maybe November, but probably October. Oh, I'm sorry, did that confuse you? No, no, it's okay. That's the army. haha
Anyway, I'm not here to rant about the uncertainty of army life. Back to my original point: Russ has been gone for training a lot lately, and will be gone another significant amount of time coming up.
Now, in the grand scheme of things, I know that a few weeks without each here and there is not that big a deal. We've got years and years to be together--and, as we've said, we'll spend every minute together someday, and be completely annoyed with one another, but absolutely happy despite it--so why should such (comparatively) little time apart be so bad?
I know this. I know I have to suck it up and it'll all be fine in the end. And I know that we're going to have a longer, less certain length of time apart. But it's hard, guys.
It's hard going from spending, at the very least, every night together, and every weekend on the couch, cuddled up, watching our shows or some movie, to sitting alone on that same couch watching Teen Mom or HGTV. Knowing that he won't be coming home tonight, that one side of the bed will be cold.
It's hard. And I won't lie, I've been having a harder time of it this time around. If you can't tell. haha (I promise, I'm not as mopey and depressing as I sound right now--I just wanted to get this out for you and for myself.)
Anyway, getting to the whole point of this post: I always knew that I was a strong person--not so much physically, but emotionally. For whatever reason, I just knew that I could handle things well, and that I would be strong.
But I used to think that strength meant holding those difficult feelings inside, pretending they didn't exist and making sure everyone knew you were totally fine with everything. Pretending even to yourself that you were completely fine. I used to hold it all in, and cry silently to myself when I knew no one would hear me and know that I do cry. (And I'm not talking about crying because someone died in a movie or because my dance teacher told me to fix something--because anyone who's been around me for minor things like that knows I'm totally a crier for those things, and I even cry when I see other people cry. I'm one of those people. haha) I'm talking about loneliness or frustration or hopelessness or just utter sadness--those were the things I hid from people. I hid those things from myself. I tried to keep myself from even feeling those emotions.
And I told myself that was strength--not letting people see you hurt. Not letting myself hurt. Just pretending I didn't have those feelings, because I was the strong one--the one people could turn to for everything.
But being with Russell has let me open myself to those harsher emotions. Slowly, I've had to let go of that "strength" and just admit that I am human. If I wanted to let love through--and man, do I love love--I had to let the other big emotions through. I've finally allowed myself to unload everything from my mind, admitting I feel it, and even to share it with someone else. Letting someone else take the load and tell me it'll all be okay.
And I think that's real emotional strength--admitting you hurt or are sad or lonely, and pushing through it instead of ignoring it. It's probably why they say, "admitting you have a problem is the first step to resolving it," or however it goes. Because when you're ignoring that you're sad, it's hard to get over that sadness. You're not really being "strong;" you're pretending that you're strong.
I'm sad. It's true. I miss my husband, and I wish he could be home with me. And I've been sad lately, but I feel so much better for being able to admit it. It doesn't mean that now I just complain about the things that make me sad, or cry any time Russell texts me. It means that I feel the sadness, and I understand it, and I accept it, and I can push past it.
And now when I hear Russell tell me I'm strong or how glad he is that he can depend on my strength, I can actually appreciate the word, and admit that I am a strong person now. That I can handle all the stresses of being an army wife.
And, of course, it doesn't hurt that I'm madly, madly in love with my husband. I cannot stress enough how easy it makes things to know that there is nothing to question about our relationship. I actually was telling Russ tonight, and I quote, "There's nothing I'm more sure of in this world [than our love], and nothing I ever have been so sure of." Don't call me cheesy. haha I know it is, but it's completely the truth. There's just something so easy about it, and knowing there's one less thing in this world I need to worry about is so freeing.
Handling the stress and sadness of being away from each other becomes a breeze. Because instead of worrying about the toll the absence will take on our relationship, we're simply concerned with how much longer we have until we're back in each others' arms. It's...well...It's not wonderful, because I'd rather not have to be away...But, it's our life. And once we get through these trying times, we have a whole lifetime ahead of us to be together every day of every week. Or at least most of them. :]
Sorry you suffered through so much babble! Have a nice picture of Russ and me after the Kentucky Derby!
As some (maybe most?) of you know, my husband has been gone for training a whole lot lately. His unit is getting prepared for probably--though also possibly not--deploying to Afghanistan for a year--though maybe 9 months, or possibly 15 months--sometime in October--though it was originally November, but it could be September, or maybe November, but probably October. Oh, I'm sorry, did that confuse you? No, no, it's okay. That's the army. haha
Anyway, I'm not here to rant about the uncertainty of army life. Back to my original point: Russ has been gone for training a lot lately, and will be gone another significant amount of time coming up.
Now, in the grand scheme of things, I know that a few weeks without each here and there is not that big a deal. We've got years and years to be together--and, as we've said, we'll spend every minute together someday, and be completely annoyed with one another, but absolutely happy despite it--so why should such (comparatively) little time apart be so bad?
I know this. I know I have to suck it up and it'll all be fine in the end. And I know that we're going to have a longer, less certain length of time apart. But it's hard, guys.
It's hard going from spending, at the very least, every night together, and every weekend on the couch, cuddled up, watching our shows or some movie, to sitting alone on that same couch watching Teen Mom or HGTV. Knowing that he won't be coming home tonight, that one side of the bed will be cold.
It's hard. And I won't lie, I've been having a harder time of it this time around. If you can't tell. haha (I promise, I'm not as mopey and depressing as I sound right now--I just wanted to get this out for you and for myself.)
Anyway, getting to the whole point of this post: I always knew that I was a strong person--not so much physically, but emotionally. For whatever reason, I just knew that I could handle things well, and that I would be strong.
But I used to think that strength meant holding those difficult feelings inside, pretending they didn't exist and making sure everyone knew you were totally fine with everything. Pretending even to yourself that you were completely fine. I used to hold it all in, and cry silently to myself when I knew no one would hear me and know that I do cry. (And I'm not talking about crying because someone died in a movie or because my dance teacher told me to fix something--because anyone who's been around me for minor things like that knows I'm totally a crier for those things, and I even cry when I see other people cry. I'm one of those people. haha) I'm talking about loneliness or frustration or hopelessness or just utter sadness--those were the things I hid from people. I hid those things from myself. I tried to keep myself from even feeling those emotions.
And I told myself that was strength--not letting people see you hurt. Not letting myself hurt. Just pretending I didn't have those feelings, because I was the strong one--the one people could turn to for everything.
But being with Russell has let me open myself to those harsher emotions. Slowly, I've had to let go of that "strength" and just admit that I am human. If I wanted to let love through--and man, do I love love--I had to let the other big emotions through. I've finally allowed myself to unload everything from my mind, admitting I feel it, and even to share it with someone else. Letting someone else take the load and tell me it'll all be okay.
And I think that's real emotional strength--admitting you hurt or are sad or lonely, and pushing through it instead of ignoring it. It's probably why they say, "admitting you have a problem is the first step to resolving it," or however it goes. Because when you're ignoring that you're sad, it's hard to get over that sadness. You're not really being "strong;" you're pretending that you're strong.
I'm sad. It's true. I miss my husband, and I wish he could be home with me. And I've been sad lately, but I feel so much better for being able to admit it. It doesn't mean that now I just complain about the things that make me sad, or cry any time Russell texts me. It means that I feel the sadness, and I understand it, and I accept it, and I can push past it.
And now when I hear Russell tell me I'm strong or how glad he is that he can depend on my strength, I can actually appreciate the word, and admit that I am a strong person now. That I can handle all the stresses of being an army wife.
And, of course, it doesn't hurt that I'm madly, madly in love with my husband. I cannot stress enough how easy it makes things to know that there is nothing to question about our relationship. I actually was telling Russ tonight, and I quote, "There's nothing I'm more sure of in this world [than our love], and nothing I ever have been so sure of." Don't call me cheesy. haha I know it is, but it's completely the truth. There's just something so easy about it, and knowing there's one less thing in this world I need to worry about is so freeing.
Handling the stress and sadness of being away from each other becomes a breeze. Because instead of worrying about the toll the absence will take on our relationship, we're simply concerned with how much longer we have until we're back in each others' arms. It's...well...It's not wonderful, because I'd rather not have to be away...But, it's our life. And once we get through these trying times, we have a whole lifetime ahead of us to be together every day of every week. Or at least most of them. :]
Sorry you suffered through so much babble! Have a nice picture of Russ and me after the Kentucky Derby!
 |
| <3 |
Monday, March 18, 2013
Mushy, Mushy, Love Story
I was so surprised...I found the man of my dreams.
So I know that almost all of you have heard the story, that most of you have heard it way too many times, and that some of you didn't even care the first time. Well, I'm not writing this for you. I'm writing this for me, and for Russell, and for our children (when we have them--and when they're old enough to ask). :]
Russ and I met on a night on which I wasnt supposed to be out.
Well, I clearly was supposed to be out, but I wasn't going to be. My roommate Caroline and I had just come back from a concert that the All-American Rejects had put on for NAU. I desperately wanted to go downtown to the bars to see if we could spot the band, but Caroline was skeptical. I later learned that it wouldn't have taken much convincing to get her out, but I felt silly asking her again, since she'd just explained how unlikely it was that we'd see them...
So I enlisted the help of my little--Emma. She'd been asking to go to the bars with us, and I knew she'd help me out with my problem. It didn't take much persuasion to convince her to pretend it was her idea to go downtown.
So, armed with the "fact" that my little wanted us to go out, I convinced Caroline to go out with us.
We went straight for our favorite bar--Maloney's--and grabbed a booth next to some rowdy strangers, watching a couple guys run around the bar in competition. After a victor was announced, and about halfway through my tequila sunrise, the winner himself walked by our table on the way to the bathroom.
Now, as he was not-half-bad looking, and as I had already caught his eye, I threw him a grin, and was rewarded with a wink.
I turned to my friends--I'd never been winked at before! Did that guy really do that?--And before I knew it, the guy was squeezing into our booth next to Caroline.
The four of us chatted, and the charmer--turns out his name was Russell--dazzled us with his surprisingly accurate drunk memory, reciting our favorite colors, music, hometowns, majors, etc. for us.
There was just something about him.
By this time, his friends had sort of joined us, and we'd talked for hours, and it was closing time too soon. We all shuffled out the door, and still this guy hadnt asked for a number! We split into our separate groups, saying awkward goodbyes and "nice to meet you"s, and I knew I had to do something. When would I see this random guy again otherwise?
Maybe it was the tequila shots, maybe it was just something in me that recognized him. Whatever it was, a strange boldness swept through me and I cooly stepped up beside him, handing him my phone with his name typed out as a new contact. "Is this how you spell it?" I asked.
"Yes," he replied...And then he got it. "Oh! You want my number?"
Duh.
He texted me that night (or early morning, really), asked me on a date for that week.
We dated that April, May. I went to Hawaii with Russ and his family after graduation--where I totally fell in love with them. I stayed in Arizona for my mom's wedding, and joined him in Oklahoma days later.
We fell in love quickly, and I think we both just kind of knew. We'd found the one. And it was easy. It wasnt perfect, but it was easy.
We were engaged that August--a whopping four months into our relationship. Russell took me to a jewelry store, claiming that he wanted to get his sister a watch for her birthday. Being that I'd only been with my boyfriend for four months at this time, I tried really hard to believe that was the reason. You just can't go into it thinking he's scoping out a ring for you that soon!
Well, "maybe a ring would be good for her." So Russ began wandering past the rings, and I looked up and down for a ring that might be appropriate to give to his sister--weird, but possibly manageable, I thought. And then he wandered to the engagement rings. The jeweler whispered to me, "He's looking at the fun ones now!" and I chuckled nervously--I knew what those rings were.
When the jeweler insisted I try on a ring that had caught my eye--even though I tried desperately to remain unbiased and kept saying, "I don't know if she would like this, but I think it's nice."--I tried to give him my right hand. Really, the man did not make this easy.
"No, your other hand," he grinned. I'm pretty sure I was shaking with nerves and awkwardness. Here we are, with this jeweler trying to pressure my boyfriend of four months into buying me an engagement ring, and I have to go along with it. I took that thing off as quick as I could (though it was very pretty).
After dropping me back at home, Russ went to "study with the other guys" for about an hour, and we later sat on our apartment floor, drinking wine and putting together a puzzle. Russ seemed a little on edge, but I ignored it. Until he suddenly jumped up, looking out the window.
"The sky's clear tonight, do you wanna go star gazing?" He knows I love looking at the stars--especially since I point Orion out to him pretty much every night--and we had planned to go the next day. But I was up for it--plus I was so confused by his demeanor.
We drove out to the Wildlife Preserve, where he proceeded to try desperately to get us up Mount Scott. "It just would be a really cool way to look at the stars!" But, alas, the gate was locked tight, and I was not willing to hike up a small mountain in the dark.
Disappointed, Russ finally pulled over, and we turned our gazes to the stars. Or, I did, at least. Immediately, I began pointing out the constellations I knew, spouting out the meaning behind more. I glanced to where Russ had been standing, and found him on one knee.
Shocked, I have no idea what Russell then said to me, and I literally only remember, "Will you marry me?" I stared at him, seriously contemplating my answer. I knew I loved him, and that we were gonna end up married anyway, but was it too soon? Could I pull the trigger?
Finally, I decided. "Sure, yes, yes, of course!" I stammered out (which I will never be allowed to forget). And it was such a sweet moment. My heart was bursting with joy.
I found out in the car, when I called my mom to tell her the news, that Russ had asked her for permission to marry me. It was the most wonderful surprise.
We were married three months later in the most beautiful ceremony, with the most fun and wonderful reception under the beautiful Arizona sunset. The day was perfect and so full of love.
And now it's been nearly four months since then. We've moved across the US, gotten a puppy, made new friends, started new careers, made a home together. And it's been good. Really good. I know I'm an absolute romantic at heart, but I'm surprisingly not that good with really mushy stuff, but I'll say it--life is beautiful. Our life is beautiful.
Sure, we're learning how to be adults, and how to be married, and how to be who we need to be and what we need to do, but I would not trade any one second of this life for anything.
I've found--finally--where I really belong. And it's in his arms. And that is beautiful.
Thus ends the mush. :] Thanks for bearing with me through it. I hope it was worth the read to you, but if not, well, I already warned you! haha This is for me. Because even though these are wonderful memories, I know my capacity for memory, and I don't want to forget any of it. :]
So I know that almost all of you have heard the story, that most of you have heard it way too many times, and that some of you didn't even care the first time. Well, I'm not writing this for you. I'm writing this for me, and for Russell, and for our children (when we have them--and when they're old enough to ask). :]
Russ and I met on a night on which I wasnt supposed to be out.
Well, I clearly was supposed to be out, but I wasn't going to be. My roommate Caroline and I had just come back from a concert that the All-American Rejects had put on for NAU. I desperately wanted to go downtown to the bars to see if we could spot the band, but Caroline was skeptical. I later learned that it wouldn't have taken much convincing to get her out, but I felt silly asking her again, since she'd just explained how unlikely it was that we'd see them...
So I enlisted the help of my little--Emma. She'd been asking to go to the bars with us, and I knew she'd help me out with my problem. It didn't take much persuasion to convince her to pretend it was her idea to go downtown.
So, armed with the "fact" that my little wanted us to go out, I convinced Caroline to go out with us.
We went straight for our favorite bar--Maloney's--and grabbed a booth next to some rowdy strangers, watching a couple guys run around the bar in competition. After a victor was announced, and about halfway through my tequila sunrise, the winner himself walked by our table on the way to the bathroom.
Now, as he was not-half-bad looking, and as I had already caught his eye, I threw him a grin, and was rewarded with a wink.
I turned to my friends--I'd never been winked at before! Did that guy really do that?--And before I knew it, the guy was squeezing into our booth next to Caroline.
The four of us chatted, and the charmer--turns out his name was Russell--dazzled us with his surprisingly accurate drunk memory, reciting our favorite colors, music, hometowns, majors, etc. for us.
There was just something about him.
By this time, his friends had sort of joined us, and we'd talked for hours, and it was closing time too soon. We all shuffled out the door, and still this guy hadnt asked for a number! We split into our separate groups, saying awkward goodbyes and "nice to meet you"s, and I knew I had to do something. When would I see this random guy again otherwise?
Maybe it was the tequila shots, maybe it was just something in me that recognized him. Whatever it was, a strange boldness swept through me and I cooly stepped up beside him, handing him my phone with his name typed out as a new contact. "Is this how you spell it?" I asked.
"Yes," he replied...And then he got it. "Oh! You want my number?"
Duh.
He texted me that night (or early morning, really), asked me on a date for that week.
We dated that April, May. I went to Hawaii with Russ and his family after graduation--where I totally fell in love with them. I stayed in Arizona for my mom's wedding, and joined him in Oklahoma days later.
We fell in love quickly, and I think we both just kind of knew. We'd found the one. And it was easy. It wasnt perfect, but it was easy.
We were engaged that August--a whopping four months into our relationship. Russell took me to a jewelry store, claiming that he wanted to get his sister a watch for her birthday. Being that I'd only been with my boyfriend for four months at this time, I tried really hard to believe that was the reason. You just can't go into it thinking he's scoping out a ring for you that soon!
Well, "maybe a ring would be good for her." So Russ began wandering past the rings, and I looked up and down for a ring that might be appropriate to give to his sister--weird, but possibly manageable, I thought. And then he wandered to the engagement rings. The jeweler whispered to me, "He's looking at the fun ones now!" and I chuckled nervously--I knew what those rings were.
When the jeweler insisted I try on a ring that had caught my eye--even though I tried desperately to remain unbiased and kept saying, "I don't know if she would like this, but I think it's nice."--I tried to give him my right hand. Really, the man did not make this easy.
"No, your other hand," he grinned. I'm pretty sure I was shaking with nerves and awkwardness. Here we are, with this jeweler trying to pressure my boyfriend of four months into buying me an engagement ring, and I have to go along with it. I took that thing off as quick as I could (though it was very pretty).
After dropping me back at home, Russ went to "study with the other guys" for about an hour, and we later sat on our apartment floor, drinking wine and putting together a puzzle. Russ seemed a little on edge, but I ignored it. Until he suddenly jumped up, looking out the window.
"The sky's clear tonight, do you wanna go star gazing?" He knows I love looking at the stars--especially since I point Orion out to him pretty much every night--and we had planned to go the next day. But I was up for it--plus I was so confused by his demeanor.
We drove out to the Wildlife Preserve, where he proceeded to try desperately to get us up Mount Scott. "It just would be a really cool way to look at the stars!" But, alas, the gate was locked tight, and I was not willing to hike up a small mountain in the dark.
Disappointed, Russ finally pulled over, and we turned our gazes to the stars. Or, I did, at least. Immediately, I began pointing out the constellations I knew, spouting out the meaning behind more. I glanced to where Russ had been standing, and found him on one knee.
Shocked, I have no idea what Russell then said to me, and I literally only remember, "Will you marry me?" I stared at him, seriously contemplating my answer. I knew I loved him, and that we were gonna end up married anyway, but was it too soon? Could I pull the trigger?
Finally, I decided. "Sure, yes, yes, of course!" I stammered out (which I will never be allowed to forget). And it was such a sweet moment. My heart was bursting with joy.
I found out in the car, when I called my mom to tell her the news, that Russ had asked her for permission to marry me. It was the most wonderful surprise.
We were married three months later in the most beautiful ceremony, with the most fun and wonderful reception under the beautiful Arizona sunset. The day was perfect and so full of love.
And now it's been nearly four months since then. We've moved across the US, gotten a puppy, made new friends, started new careers, made a home together. And it's been good. Really good. I know I'm an absolute romantic at heart, but I'm surprisingly not that good with really mushy stuff, but I'll say it--life is beautiful. Our life is beautiful.
Sure, we're learning how to be adults, and how to be married, and how to be who we need to be and what we need to do, but I would not trade any one second of this life for anything.
I've found--finally--where I really belong. And it's in his arms. And that is beautiful.
Thus ends the mush. :] Thanks for bearing with me through it. I hope it was worth the read to you, but if not, well, I already warned you! haha This is for me. Because even though these are wonderful memories, I know my capacity for memory, and I don't want to forget any of it. :]
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Can't Stop, Won't Stop
I was so surprised...I've become one of those girls.
I remember a time when I lived in Flagstaff, stayed in my room any time I could avoid going outside, and only longed for life as a married woman, with a house and a cat. (I know, I never wanted the puppy, and I've been proven wrong...I get it.)
How was I able to entertain myself for such long periods of time in such a small space (and anyone who's seen the rooms in Mountain View knows just how small a space)? I would go forever, playing the Sims, reading, writing, watching shows, or something. How?
Now I live in this nice, big house, and I can't seem to keep myself entertained anymore. I have this cute, little puppy who demands my attention all the time, and all the time in the world to hone my craft, and yet, nothing. There's no motivation to play the Sims, to write, to watch shows, to read. Nothing.
I think this whole having-a-husband thing has ruined my capacity for self-entertainment. I think I'm stuck now basically counting down the hours til he comes home to me. Terrible. I'm a woman who now waits for a man to entertain her.
Not that he's particularly entertaining either, but there's just something different about having someone to spend that boring time with, I think.
I know Russ has only been in the field for the week, but it seems to take forever when you don't have anything in particular to keep you busy. Now, you all know that I've been keeping sort of busy doing projects for the house, but that can only go so far...
Luckily, I got the job at the Child and Youth Services, sooo I'm working on getting all the paperwork and clearances and things so I can get working as soon as possible. Then, time with Russ out of the house won't seem so bad!
However, don't think I'm floundering already, guys! I'm perfectly capable of living alone and surviving and not going crazy, I promise. This is just a little observation I've made. So don't worry about me. :]
Another thing I've noticed: even after living in Flag for 4 years, and surviving my first Northern New York winter, I still love the snow. :] It's freezing, but gorgeous here. I've met some wonderful people that I can't wait to get to know better. I've got two adorable, little baby animals that I love to death. A beautiful house that someone my age probably shouldn't have. And a husband I am totally crazy about.
So yeah, I love my life. And I love my life here. It's amazing.
I remember a time when I lived in Flagstaff, stayed in my room any time I could avoid going outside, and only longed for life as a married woman, with a house and a cat. (I know, I never wanted the puppy, and I've been proven wrong...I get it.)
How was I able to entertain myself for such long periods of time in such a small space (and anyone who's seen the rooms in Mountain View knows just how small a space)? I would go forever, playing the Sims, reading, writing, watching shows, or something. How?
Now I live in this nice, big house, and I can't seem to keep myself entertained anymore. I have this cute, little puppy who demands my attention all the time, and all the time in the world to hone my craft, and yet, nothing. There's no motivation to play the Sims, to write, to watch shows, to read. Nothing.
I think this whole having-a-husband thing has ruined my capacity for self-entertainment. I think I'm stuck now basically counting down the hours til he comes home to me. Terrible. I'm a woman who now waits for a man to entertain her.
Not that he's particularly entertaining either, but there's just something different about having someone to spend that boring time with, I think.
I know Russ has only been in the field for the week, but it seems to take forever when you don't have anything in particular to keep you busy. Now, you all know that I've been keeping sort of busy doing projects for the house, but that can only go so far...
Luckily, I got the job at the Child and Youth Services, sooo I'm working on getting all the paperwork and clearances and things so I can get working as soon as possible. Then, time with Russ out of the house won't seem so bad!
However, don't think I'm floundering already, guys! I'm perfectly capable of living alone and surviving and not going crazy, I promise. This is just a little observation I've made. So don't worry about me. :]
Another thing I've noticed: even after living in Flag for 4 years, and surviving my first Northern New York winter, I still love the snow. :] It's freezing, but gorgeous here. I've met some wonderful people that I can't wait to get to know better. I've got two adorable, little baby animals that I love to death. A beautiful house that someone my age probably shouldn't have. And a husband I am totally crazy about.
So yeah, I love my life. And I love my life here. It's amazing.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Puppy Blues
I was so surprised...That I'm not surprised...Just, raising a dog is annoying.
Well, friends, it's been a while since I've written anything for you, and I know you're all just weeping knowing life is going on over here and you don't know about it. And I'm sorry for making you cry. I just have...really not been busy enough to use it as an excuse. I'm lazy. Sorry.
Anyway, since I last posted, we've gotten our house, FINALLY gotten our furniture (after 3 weeks of waiting, calling and accidentally frustrated-crying at the guy and getting us a $50 gift card for our troubles). Oh, and we got a puppy.
As you can see, he's just adorable. He likes playing in the snow or grass (but snow's better), snuggling, new people and dogs, chewing things (especially paper and mom's...ahem, delicates), playing with/chewing on the cat, piña coladas, gettin' caught in the rain, and sneakily peeing on the carpet.
Yes, a couple of those are just not very fun. We crate-trained him while
we were still staying at the Fort Drum Inn (Sorry, neighbors!), so he's
become really good at even just walking into his crate when we tell
him, most of the time. Especially now that we've upgraded him to
sleeping in our room at night and being crated just generally in the
laundry room while we're gone. He does great with that, sleeping through
the night and not peeing until Russ gets up and takes him out most
days, and never peeing or pooping in the laundry room. He listens very
well when we tell him "no," or just call his name. And he generally
stops the behaviors we scold him for.
However, we've hit what I'm deeming the terrible twos, because, despite having been almost fully potty trained, he's resorted lately to peeing on the carpet again. Ugh.
The worst part is not disciplining him, because Russell and I are really good at being consistent. The problem comes when he just looks up at me. You see that face--he's so charming! And it's even harder to be mad at him when he comes scampering in from outside, snow all around his snout because he's weird and loves to sniff it. If I had a picture of it, I would show you, because it's so cute, but I don't.
Oh, and, he has vivid dreams all the time. It's hilarious.
The dog's kind of obnoxious. But he is very well-behaved, for the most part, and he's stolen my heart.
 |
| This adorable, little dude's name is Clover. |
Anyway, since I last posted, we've gotten our house, FINALLY gotten our furniture (after 3 weeks of waiting, calling and accidentally frustrated-crying at the guy and getting us a $50 gift card for our troubles). Oh, and we got a puppy.
As you can see, he's just adorable. He likes playing in the snow or grass (but snow's better), snuggling, new people and dogs, chewing things (especially paper and mom's...ahem, delicates), playing with/chewing on the cat, piña coladas, gettin' caught in the rain, and sneakily peeing on the carpet.
 |
| But look how cute I am, Mom! |
 |
| Damn these sweet animals. |
The worst part is not disciplining him, because Russell and I are really good at being consistent. The problem comes when he just looks up at me. You see that face--he's so charming! And it's even harder to be mad at him when he comes scampering in from outside, snow all around his snout because he's weird and loves to sniff it. If I had a picture of it, I would show you, because it's so cute, but I don't.
Oh, and, he has vivid dreams all the time. It's hilarious.
The dog's kind of obnoxious. But he is very well-behaved, for the most part, and he's stolen my heart.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)