tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66788578270377250202024-02-20T17:41:47.792-08:00Combat Boots & Diamond RingsAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.comBlogger433125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-56989445801222542322017-01-12T06:58:00.000-08:002017-01-12T06:58:51.156-08:00Day #4<strong>Today marks the fourth day in a row we have had at least a 2hour late start to school. While at first this teacher was excited to have a shorter day at work, now I am getting annoyed. It's not the school district's fault that we have ice & yesterday 4 inches of snow just in my neighborhood. So I can't be upset with them. I loved a couple days of a slow pace but now I am so so ready to be back to a regular school day. I have so much to do before report cards in 2 weeks & now I am so behind! Praying that I can make it out of my neighborhood this morning & into work to try to get caught up! </strong><br />
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<strong>Please let it stop and warm up soon! Late starts are fun in moderation mother nature. Please hear my word-haha</strong><br />
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<strong>sincerely,</strong><br />
<strong>Amanda stressed out 3rd grade teacher</strong><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-43110664763610149842016-12-17T16:58:00.001-08:002016-12-17T16:58:53.519-08:00Gone by in a FLASHHow did 2016 go by so quickly and without me posting on the blog like I intended? I accomplished a lot throughout my year but I am not sure it all went as planned. I saw my second son graduate from high school in June and my oldest continue into his second year of college. Both boys enjoying adulthood and new jobs. Jeremy staying so healthy at times one might forget he has a rare disease who doesn't really know him. Grateful that God has seen fit to bless Jeremy with his health and seizure free for awhile. Jacob deciding his path for the moment is the direction of one day attending the Coast Guard Academy. As a new freshman in high school he is already taking steps to make this happen. Paul home for two straight years, still blows my mind! We are winding down our time as an active duty Army family and it's a little bit scary to think about. But I know that Paul is so ready to make the switch and retire soon.<br />
I myself completed 3 full marathons this year, which wasn't planned. We succeeded in raising over $1,200 for the Sturge-Weber Foundation in Jeremy's Pile of Miles last May. It was our 3rd year and our most successful time at fundraising. We all agreed that in 2017 we would move back to a half-marathon distance for May. October brought the Portland marathon and so much rain that day I should have swam the race! October 30th brought me back to the Marine Corps Marathon for the 3rd year. This time in a much different capacity then just a runner. I had the honor of escorting my best friend's children who are two Gold Star family members along the course. It was a record breaking hot day of 81 degrees and so much happened along those 26.2 miles I shall never forget. But the most important thing was the kids finished their first ever marathon in honor of their dad SFC Clifford Beattie, May 27, 2011. Of course all this craziness happened while teaching my second year of 3rd grade at Eagleview Christian School.<br />
What I learned is early fall marathons are easier for me to train for then late fall races. So my goal this coming 2017 is to run Tunnel Light marathon in September with my best running friend so we can enjoy training together over my summer break. I volunteered at the aide station for that race this past September and loved the vibe! It will most likely be my only marathon this year. I have the "mini" Hood to Coast in June as well as my volunteer time on the wear blue mile at Seattle Rock N Roll. July will see me running Ragnar PNW for the second year in a row as well as taking Jeremy to the SWS conference in Ohio.<br />
I wonder if 2017 will go by as quickly as 2016?? I hope not but I can remember my grandmother saying as we grow older the time passes more quickly. I'll share some fun highlights & try to post more often. But no promises as I would much rather be out living life to the fullest then sitting around behind a computer screen.<br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-28537279620190926352016-01-01T09:22:00.000-08:002016-01-01T09:22:22.170-08:00Here We Go, Ready or Not 2016 is Here!<strong></strong><br />
<strong>I fell asleep before mid-night not feeling so great & woke up to a new year! I don't really believe in the whole " new year , new you " thing but I do believe you can try to accomplish some goals or dreams in each new year. They may or may not turn out the way you pictured them in your head but you won't know unless you try. My thinking is to use the One Word 365 goal to focus on one word that can help me feel better about my year. FAITH is my word because I really think I need a big dose of it to tackle this year ahead.</strong><br />
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<strong> I have some goals that aren't necessarily new goals for me to accomplish. Run at least one marathon with no aches or pains from injuries. Watch my second son graduate from high school successfully and move on to the next phase of his life. Continue to teach 3rd grade for another school year. Enjoy more time with my husband as we seem to be in our own worlds a lot of time. They say this happens after years of marriage, kids, work etc. It's time to find something we both enjoy again. Find a stronger connection with my God and learn to have a stronger FAITH in him. That he will uphold me when I feel weak mentally & physically if I just ask. As I grow older I realize I am never going to be perfect and that's okay . But man is it hard to swallow for this type A, organized perfectionist lady.</strong><br />
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<span data-dobid="hdw"></span> </div>
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<span>noun: <b>faith</b></span></div>
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<strong>1</strong>. </div>
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<span>complete trust or confidence in someone or something.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="lr_dct_nyms_ttl" style="padding-right: 3px;">synonyms:</td><td><span><a data-ved="0ahUKEwj43O-Pj4nKAhUI_mMKHSJjCpMQ_SoIHTAA" href="https://www.google.com/search?biw=1518&bih=714&q=define+trust&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj43O-Pj4nKAhUI_mMKHSJjCpMQ_SoIHTAA"><span style="color: #1a0dab;">trust</span></a>, </span><span><a data-ved="0ahUKEwj43O-Pj4nKAhUI_mMKHSJjCpMQ_SoIHjAA" href="https://www.google.com/search?biw=1518&bih=714&q=define+belief&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj43O-Pj4nKAhUI_mMKHSJjCpMQ_SoIHjAA"><span style="color: #1a0dab;">belief</span></a>, </span><span><a data-ved="0ahUKEwj43O-Pj4nKAhUI_mMKHSJjCpMQ_SoIHzAA" href="https://www.google.com/search?biw=1518&bih=714&q=define+confidence&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj43O-Pj4nKAhUI_mMKHSJjCpMQ_SoIHzAA"><span style="color: #1a0dab;">confidence</span></a>, </span><span><a data-ved="0ahUKEwj43O-Pj4nKAhUI_mMKHSJjCpMQ_SoIIDAA" href="https://www.google.com/search?biw=1518&bih=714&q=define+conviction&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj43O-Pj4nKAhUI_mMKHSJjCpMQ_SoIIDAA"><span style="color: #1a0dab;">conviction</span></a></span><span>;</span><span> </span><span data-log-string="synonyms-more-click" jsaction="dob.m"><span class="lr_dct_more_btn" style="padding-left: 4px;">More</span><div style="display: inline;">
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<span>strong belief in God or in the doctrines of a religion, based on spiritual apprehension rather than proof.</span></div>
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Hopefully by not focusing on all that is "wrong" or "depressing" in my daily life but focusing on having<strong> FAITH</strong> that I can choose to make the most of each day with my family by choosing to have <strong>FAITH</strong> in what God has in store for me, I will have a happy, healthy, & blessed new year!</div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-83306959694244226002015-12-30T07:51:00.001-08:002015-12-30T07:51:51.297-08:00FAITH, my One Word for 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>FAITH </strong>, what does this word mean? It has several different meanings to me and others I am sure. I picked the word<strong> FAITH </strong>as my one word for 2016 to use in my life. As we move forward into 2016 I realize that I used Faith a little in 2015 but I didn't lean on it, listen to what God wanted it to mean in my life. We have several big things coming up in 2016 and I really tend to worry a lot about everything. I want to release the worry and have <strong>FAITH </strong>that God knows exactly what is suppose to happen in my life on a daily basis. It says so in the Bible so why am I not opening my ears to listen to his gentle voice? I am not sure but I hope by joining the One Word 365 movement I will be more receptive, more accountable for spending daily time with God in his word. To listening to what he wants for my life even though I may not see the big picture.<br />
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I know I should have been doing this all along in my life. But as an adult this crazy world steps in with everyday things that take my focus off of him and his will for my life. I know he only wants good for me, but in the throws of arguing with my teenager, or a sick child, or my husband making me upset, or my job not going the way I want it all gets lost. But what I notice is the "I" in all these phrases . I need to stop, be still and remember, it's not suppose to be all about me but have <strong>FAITH </strong>in my God that it's all about him and his will for my life.<br />
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<strong><em><span class="passage-display-bcv">Hebrews 11:1</span><span class="passage-display-version">King James Version (KJV)</span></em></strong><br />
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<span class="text Heb-11-1" id="en-KJV-30174"><strong><em><span class="chapternum">" </span>Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."</em></strong></span></div>
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<span class="text Heb-11-1"><strong><em> </em>A Great song for me to listen to all year.......</strong></span></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-39501336827715465472014-05-13T06:16:00.002-07:002014-05-13T06:26:08.590-07:00Time Sneaking Up On Me<strong></strong><br />
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<strong>I know you're shocked I'm posting since it's been so so long! I went to write a check out this morning for the older boys lunch and realized the date. It's funny to me how some dates just never leave your subconscious even if you think they have . A small thing like simply writing the full date out makes a memory come back. It's been 7 years since the crazy deployment to Iraq. If you've been reading my blog for awhile you know exactly what I am talking about. 2007-2008 when 4th Brigade, 2/23 TOMAHAWKS went to Iraq. The date that suddenly popped into my head I know is because we are into our big Memorial Day campaign for <a href="http://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/" target="_blank">wear blue : run to remember</a>. I love honoring the service & sacrifice of those heroes that gave all. But it also triggered my memory of that horrible 13 months that I thought would never end. This Saturday May 17th I will remember the start of the sacrifice of so many brave soldiers during that time starting with <a href="http://combatbootsdiamonds.blogspot.com/2011/05/13-months-of-hell.html" target="_blank">PFC Aaron Gautier & SPC Jonathan Ham</a> . Some days it feels like that time in my life was just yesterday other days it does feel like it's been seven years. I know in my heart for the families that the pain doesn't ever go away, that their world stopped. </strong><br />
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<strong>As we get closer to Memorial Day once again I ask you pause and take time to remember those who gave you the freedom you enjoy each day. It's not about the cookouts, the barbeque's, the four day weekends you are enjoying. It's about honoring those who are no longer with us that allow you to do all these things. Here are a few videos I ask you to watch to see who the Heroes left behind and why it's so important they aren't forgotten. This weekend Aaron & Jon won't be forgotten by their families, brothers in arms, & wear blue. Their names will be called this Saturday and steps will be taken so that their sacrifice does not go unnoticed.</strong><br />
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<strong><a href="http://projects.militarytimes.com/valor/army-pfc-aaron-d-gautier/2775251" target="_blank">PFC Aaron Gautier</a></strong></div>
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<strong><a href="http://projects.militarytimes.com/valor/army-pfc-aaron-d-gautier/2775251" target="_blank">May 17, 2007</a></strong></div>
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<strong><a href="http://projects.militarytimes.com/valor/army-pfc-jonathan-v-hamm/2775213" target="_blank">PFC Jonathan Hamm</a></strong></div>
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<strong><a href="http://projects.militarytimes.com/valor/army-pfc-jonathan-v-hamm/2775213" target="_blank">May 17, 2007</a></strong></div>
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Krista Simpson : Every Runner Counts</div>
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Mary Bradshaw: Every Runner Counts</div>
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Think about going to the <a href="http://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/">www.wearblueruntoremember.org</a> this day and pledging your miles for Memorial Day and for those fallen heroes.<br />
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<a href="http://combatbootsdiamonds.blogspot.com/p/page-of-remembrance.html" target="_blank">Page of Remembrance</a></div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-18330901411738992712014-01-21T07:15:00.001-08:002014-01-21T07:15:51.888-08:00He PASSED!!!<b>Yesterday I learned that our dog trainer from </b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/IslandGroveKennelsOfTennesseeInc" target="_blank">Island Grove Kennels</a> <b>of Limestone, TN had given Balto his Public Access Test on Sunday January 19th.</b> <b>We had no warning or knowledge that he was going to do the testing. We knew from prior conversations that he thought Balto was ready but we weren't sure when he would make the decision to test him.</b> <b>The wonderful CEO's from <a href="http://www.1boy4change.org/home.html" target="_blank">1 Boy 4 Change </a>were in town dropping off some dogs for training so he decided this was the perfect opportunity to show off what Balto's strengths as well as weakness's were.</b> <b>A young eleven year old boy had stopped by to ask about training classes for his own lab so James the trainer asked if he would mind helping. The young man went along with the request and was handed Balto's leash. Balto is now over 80 pounds and 15 months old. The young man had never laid eyes on Balto before which is a HUGE deal. </b><br />
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<b>Not many kids I know would be okay just taking the leash of a German Shepherd who looks as big as Balto . Thankfully this young man did just that & listened to James. He ran Balto through all the required elements of the test so that Janet & Chris could see him at work. What we heard from them was he was "Fabulous", " passed with flying colors", & " Amazing Job!". I just can't even begin to tell you how relieved I was at this news. It's probably a great thing I had no idea ahead of time they were going to be doing this testing. I have been a wreck about Balto being okay around children that are small like Jeremy. Before he left he was not happy about them jumping around or approaching Jeremy. James had told me this was a stage that if corrected early would be resolved. But after losing one service dog in training I was just a nervous mom.</b><br />
<b>But now Mr. Handsome hear has proven us wrong & can now be called Service Dog Balto!!</b><br />
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<b> This DOES NOT mean that his training is over. He is still very young and has much more training to accomplish. What it does mean is that he has proven on Sunday as well as many other occasions that he can behave with manners out in public. No service dogs are required to pass the PAT or the CGC , but our organization as well as our family think this is extremly important. Not only does it speak well of service dogs who behave properly out in public it means I can have no fear or worry when Jeremy is in charge or left alone with Balto that he won't listen. We will travel to pick him up in February from TN and we can hardly wait! We have some training to do there so that Jeremy & I can learn any new commands he has learned. Also so that Balto can be reminded that Jeremy is his responsibility & who is in charge. Once we return home we will give them a week or so to adjust to their new schedules. Balto won't just jump into going to school with Jeremy full time. We will do drop off & pick up as well as see if we can sit in on classes some to get them both use to the routines. Balto & Jeremy will also go back to attending some form of obedience class to keep up with Balto's training . He also will take his Canine Good Citizens test with Jeremy as the handler. Once again this is not required but I think a good choice so if ever there comes a time we need to we can say that he has had a lot of training done the work & passed. </b><br />
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<b>We are just so thankful to everyone who has followed along on this crazy roller coaster ride for the past two & a half years. The heart ache of losing Banyan as well as the joy of receiving a second chance with Balto. We know in our hearts that Balto & Jeremy are meant to do great things together. We will continue to work and support them to make them a successful Service Dog team. We enjoy all our friends on Facebook we have made through this process and can't wait to continue to share <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JeremysJourney" target="_blank">Jeremy's Journey</a> with everyone as they continue on into the future. Thanks for being a part of this, thanks for your kindness, love, & support. Now here are some fun pictures & videos to show just how far team Jeremy & Balto have come.</b><br />
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<b>On the way home from Mi to WA first time in my SDiT Vest at 10 weeks</b></div>
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<b> Meeting Jeremy for the first time</b></div>
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<b>Picking Jeremy up from School</b></div>
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<b>Training can be FUN! </b></div>
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<b> Going to appointments with Jeremy</b></div>
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<b>Taking walks in our cool superhero capes together</b></div>
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<b>Going on our first sleepover </b></div>
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<b>Celebrating my 1st birthday, letting them make me look silly.....</b></div>
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<b>These are just a few fun moments captured in time over the past 15 months of training. We can't wait to see how many more wonderful memories we can make.</b></div>
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<b>Balto's first time at a beach, helping Jeremy dig</b></div>
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<b>Jeremy missing me so he called, being away at training can make my boy lonely.</b></div>
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<b>Celebrating a wonderful life!</b></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-87826165160769999832014-01-08T21:12:00.001-08:002014-01-08T21:12:40.242-08:00Tears, Coffee, & Baking<b>Since I last checked in on the blog I have sent my husband on his next adventure thanks to the Army. Off he went to Fort Bliss in El Paso to sit through countless classes. I mean seriously he sat through how to exit a roll over vehicle & an IED class. I'm sorry but if you've deployed 5 times in the past 11 years these seem like the dumbest classes EVER to make these guys endure. I think I am only mad because his time for this hardship tour doesn't start until his big size 11 1/2 combat boots hit the ground in Egypt. So thank you Army for wasting ten days of time away from our soldier to make him sit through silly classes that I sure hope he would know by now, most likely by heart! </b><br />
<b>I think saying goodbye caught us all off guard. We knew he was going but we didn't really expect the sudden tears that spilled down my eyes at the airline gate. My poor husband was shocked. He kept telling me how easy this time was & how different. But in my head all I could feel was sadness that he had another whole year apart from our family. I mean he isn't getting home until January 2015- to me that is just NUTS & I've done a 13 month deployment before. Not sure why this time it bugs me.....</b><br />
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<b>I took the first three days in my usual stride. Thankfully the boys didn't have obligations so I was comfortably in my pjs by 3PM every day for 72 hours. Our 18 year wedding anniversary day came & went with me in my pj's.By Tuesday I headed to appointments with the boys & hit up the gym. Pouting time was over and we all just sort of fell right back into our routine. I told my friend today while at coffee how it just seems normal now when Paul is gone. How sad is that, that the house can just flip a switch and run smoothly, well so far smoothly. Coffee with a friend was a nice break today away from the house. Baking some brownies for the boys & new gluten free muffin recipe for me tonight was also nice. Now we just sit back & wait, wait for the Army to finally get him to Egypt so our year apart can really start.</b><br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-2442062126655102432014-01-01T09:13:00.000-08:002014-01-01T09:32:24.533-08:00Keeping My Promise<b>Making the first Blog entry of 2014- keeping my promise to Blog more..... </b><br />
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<b>Happy 2014, I can hardly believe it's a start to a whole new year already. At times 2013 seemed to fly by and at other times just drag out. I know that is normal for every year , but hear lately it has flown by with lightning speed. The next 48 hours could really seriously slow down to a snail's pace for me & the family. We had a lot of fun at our annual PJ New Year's Eve party staying in our neighborhood close to home. We had good food, drinks,laughter, & a seriously strange new board game to try last night. The kids loved running around blowing the party horns that once again all the adults questioned "why" we buy them every year, way to loud! I loved that Paul was home and able to spend the start of his year with us & his friends. Overall a wonderful night that was the perfect way to usher in 2014 & all the fantastic opportunities that lay ahead. We hope you all enjoyed your New Year's Eve whether it was spent at home quietly or even at a huge event with fireworks. Remember today is a new start to a new year. You can choose to make the year whatever you like. I plan on making it fun & exciting for our boys while Paul is in Egypt. Hopefully take a couple road trips , pick up Balto from TN, and just enjoy the life God has blessed me with. Blessings to you all in 2014!!</b><br />
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<b>The silly flash got Paul, we had just arrived so it was still way to early for this look he is giving -haha</b></div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-47988884845861033792013-12-26T21:01:00.000-08:002013-12-26T21:05:42.774-08:00Year End Review 2013<b>I am such a bad bad blogger this year. Maybe with Paul leaving for Egypt in a week I'll pick back up some. I know the late nights will kick in & maybe that is when the blogging will happen. I accomplished so much this year & the family time was amazing. I traveled more then I had ever planned to Las Vegas twice, Tennessee, Colorado, & Washington D.C.. I ran not one but two half-marathons and now hope to run my one & only full marathon in 2014. I can train while Paul is gone to help fill the time.</b><br />
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<b>Anyway since I don't make near as many photo albums as I use to for the kids. I have done a quick little video on the computer & uploaded it to YouTube. I love the song & each picture holds a special place in my heart. We were blessed to have Paul home for almost 19 months now, Jeremy is out of the hospital feeling well, & Balto is almost ready for us to travel back to TN to pick him. Life is good my friends. Here's to a great 2014 Happy & Merry!</b><br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-8907116841959908932013-10-29T03:58:00.000-07:002013-10-29T04:19:15.667-07:00Tic-TockI woke up at 1:50AM and rolled over to stare at the clock. I was not sure why I was awake so I laid in bed for a few minutes then gave up the fight to go back to sleep. I decided to come lay on our super comfy couch thinking I could fall back asleep with a change. Now it's 3:42AM and I am still awake, yawning wishing I was asleep but realizing it's going to be a super long day ahead. I've traced it back to the source though of my restlessness. 64 days, tic-tock is the clock going through my head all the sudden. Life has settled down and my brain has finally caught up with what I have tucked away for the past 6 months in hopes to have a somewhat normal family life.<br />
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64 days until sleepless nights are normal again. Until waiting by the computer and never leaving my cell phone more then an arms length away is normal again. I think the knowledge that time was drawing near pushed itself to the front of my mind on Saturday evening. I listened as Paul said goodbye to a friend after our annual Halloween party. His words jolted me out of my false sense of normalcy. He said " we have to get busy, we have to get this done. I'm short on time dude and I want to make this happen before I leave.". That right there, those simple two sentences knocked me right back into pre-deployment mode. <br />
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I can't complain we've had a nice ride of having Paul home this time. We will have had 17 months and 2 weeks this time with our family together as a whole unit. That is the longest stretch of time together since 2006. I also can't complain because I have packed a lot into these 17 months. Paul and I went on our first vacation alone with out children in 16 years. We did small family trips to the beach to enjoy time together. Paul & Matthew spent a week in Colorado with his family camping. I made my first trip to Las Vegas, the Sturge-Weber conference, & completed two half-marathons. Paul was able to partcipate in several Project Healing Waters trips that he loved. The kids enjoyed having their dad home for consecutive birthdays and holidays. So no I can't complain about losing sleep or the fact he is leaving again for twelve months. But I can see that my mind & body have started the prep me for the sleepless nights. How it creeped up on me almost makes me feel like a rookie at this deployment thing. But the calm, the family time, the alone time with my husband those memories will be in my memory now to help on these up coming crazy sleepless nights. Now I am off to lay on the couch and hope that my brain shuts off & my eye lids get heavy. That the thoughts of what we need to do before he leaves evaporates and I can just enjoy the next 64 days before a new countdown begins.<br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-50486889912186197092013-09-22T16:33:00.000-07:002013-09-22T16:33:34.621-07:00Hello FallOh my goodness summer came to an end & I realized I have been the worst blogger for awhile now. I have just been so busy with life that blogging took a back seat. I decided I would try to do a once a week post until after the husband deploys. That way I can stay focused on our family time before he goes. Then once he is gone & sleepless night prevail I can be a better blogger I promise.<br />
We welcomed the first day of Fall with our second annual walk for The Chelsea Hutchison Foundation. Jeremy along with his team mates Holly & Alaska over at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/servicedogholly" target="_blank">Holly-Through the Eyes of a Service Dog</a> worked tirelessly for about 5 months towards their goal of raising $3500.00 to help others. Not only did we make our goal we surpassed it by $100.00!! Thank you to all of our supporters who donated to a great cause! Now other families can get a grant to help train their own service dogs. We also helped spread the word about Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy. It was windy & rainy for our walk in WA, but the boys had fun anyway.<br />
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<b>We then came home to make some yummy Fall caramel apples to eat.</b></div>
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<b>Now we are about to head out to a fellow friends & BEARS fan house to eat chili to watch the big game. I just love love love FALL! I hope you all are enjoying your Sunday & I promise to try to be a better blogger again soon.</b></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-70641199812195330242013-07-31T15:58:00.001-07:002013-07-31T15:58:44.795-07:00Everybody Wants to Be Loved<b>I am not exactly sure how to start this post about the time Jeremy & I spent in Denver over the past weekend for the Sturge-Weber Conference. We were so excited to attend & the excitement just mounted as we arrived in Colorado last Thursday. Jeremy kept asking if I was sure other kids would be there with birthmarks like his? I assured him that there would be a lot of children attend who had similar birthmarks & who all had Sturge-Weber Syndrome (SWS). As we got onto the shuttle for the hotel we met another family from all places Seattle, WA! They had their nine year old daughter with them attending their first SWS conference as well. Both the kids were excited and were chattering away when we arrived at the hotel with anyone who would listen. Once we arrived it was time to check in but before we could Jeremy saw two or three others with birthmarks. All I heard was "WOW mom they look like me!". I tried very hard at this point not to cry but my eyes were very misty as I could only nod in agreement.</b><br />
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<b>I knew Jeremy was at the age that people asking or staring all the time was starting to bother him. Some days he would answer the questions of on lookers other days he would ignore them. But always I see the regret in his eyes that he has a birthmark & no one else he knows does. Now as we stepped into the hotel he had the biggest smile on his face. No more did he feel different he felt included , the same as his peers. This was a huge moment for us both.I will never forget it as long as I live.</b><br />
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<b>The first stop after checking into our room was the dinner & registration portion of the conference. Once again everyone was so welcoming , children were laughing together. Teenagers were huddled together talking & parents were all smiles. Our kids finally felt like everybody else & the love in ballroom D was palpable. We sat with some lovely ladies who had come from Canada that night during dinner. Jeremy laughed & giggled with the table behind ours as the dad made silly faces through the boring parent parts as Jeremy kept saying. After all the formalities were over it was time to hit the pool!</b></div>
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<b>Here is were I met Josephine & Jeremy met her daughter Julianna.</b></div>
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<b> They became fast friends while the moms chatted in the hot tub. We learned we had a lot of similar medical things with the kids & a lot different. That is the crazy that is SWS, no two cases are the same ever. The kids swam until they were ready to head to bed. We had an early morning ahead so sleep was needed.</b></div>
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<b> The next morning Jeremy was so excited for the kids camp I barely got him to take this picture with me. Off he went to spend the day making new friends. Off I went to listen to the most fabulous speaker I have ever heard Kathie Snow who wrote <a href="http://www.disabilityisnatural.com/" target="_blank">Disability Is Natural</a>. She made us parents laugh, cry, & feel like we are normal in this crazy medical mess we deal with daily. I am telling you folks go check her out if you have the chance, it will change the way you think about your children who have disabilities. I met more wonderful parents during the day with our break sessions about parenting. I discussed options for childcare, parenting, & in-laws- yes folks we went there! HAHA!</b><br />
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<b>The hotel kept us stocked up on tables of any kind of snack you could possibly want. Jeremy had so much chocolate milk I thought he might float away. When I picked him from camp he was tired but happy. He was also ready to swim again!</b><br />
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<b>So we went to the pool dressed as a cowboy of course. I mean we are in Denver after all. My heart just exploded as we entered the pool area and all the kids start yelling " Jeremy. HI!! You made it come swim with us!". Some were kids from camp some were sibilings, all were brand new friends he just met that day. Kids who looked similar to him, who didn't notice he can't see well & who didn't care. I almost cried again for the hundredth time that day. It confirmed in my heart what I already knew. That everything we had put into getting Jeremy to this conference was worth my energy. He was blossoming right before my eyes. After swimming it was time to meet in the lobby for the SWS Miracle Mile Walk to downtown Stapleton. We also finally got to met Julie & Doug Hutchison . They are some amazing folks who braved Denver traffic for over an hour to come meet us & walk.</b><br />
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<b>The <a href="http://www.chelseahutchisonfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Chelsea Hutchison Foundation</a> helps families receive grants for service dogs like Balto. They will in fact help give us the money we need to pay for Balto's training when he passes his final tests. We have been chatting with Julie for over a year now & were so glad to meet them during our time in Colorado. </b><br />
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<b>They braved the heat and walked the mile to spread awareness about SWS & a route to a cure.</b><br />
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<b>The next day brought more kids camp for Jeremy were he played with new friends Jesse & Madisynn . I got to listen to the doctors explain how they found the gene that causes SWS. I tried to understand it all but some was over my head. What I did understand is that it's nothing I as a mother did while pregnant, it's not genetic, it's just something that happens like a lighting strike! They still don't have a cure but with this amazing discovery we hope one day we will have a cure to SWS.After all the medical talk it was time to meet up with Aunt Stephanie who had recently moved back to Denver. We were lucky enough to get a few hours to visit.</b><br />
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<b>Then it was time for the best part , wait I already said other parts wer the best. That is because the whole conference was amazing! It was time to dress up a little, kick up our heals and celebrate the new friendships we had made. It was dinner & dancing time!</b><br />
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<b>This is were another first for Jeremy happened. After dinner a mom came up to me that I had met earlier in the day. We had no idea while we were chatting away that our children were also playing at camp together. What's more we had no idea that they really liked eachother. Once we made the connection we exchanged address's so the kids could become pen-pals, as she lives in Utah. That's right folks SHE, a girl!! Her name is Madisynn and she is very lovely. Jeremy was excited to ask her to dance. Something he has never done before. I & her mom were almost in tears as he went up offered her his hand and they went to the dance floor. I have some video but have no clue how to post it here. I have a few pictures but the photographer Rick who was running around got some amazing shots & I can't wait to see them.</b></div>
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<b>They never stopped smiling the whole time they were twirling away. I never stopped tearing up! It was just an amazing time that is so hard to capture on a blog . Words will never describe the range of emotions that went on last weekend. We made new friends across the country . Jeremy feels so great about himself. His self esteem is through the roof! I know we will try to make another conference happen in his future. The sacrifice is worth it all to see his smile & know he feels the same as all his peers. Even if it only lasts a brief moment in time. I say "a brief moment" because as soon as we were back at the airport a lady stopped and starred for what felt like minutes. Jeremy turns to me with his first small smile of the weekend and says " back to normal, huh mom?". I smiled back and told him we are always normal dude & offered some gum.</b><br />
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<b>I will leave you all with these parting words from this wonderful experience. Never think oh, poor Jeremy, if he only looked like everyone else. If he didn't have so many medical issues. We don't need pity we need acceptance that Jeremy can do all the same things you can it may just take him a different route to get the same results.</b><br />
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<b> I heard this song over the weekend then again when Julie put it in a slideshow. It really does hit the nail on the head with these amazing children,teens, & adults who go through life with a grace, happiness, & love that only the rest of us could dream of having. I am blessed to have Jeremy & I am blessed to have been lucky enough to meet other amazing SWS families.</b><br />
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<b>I don't want to leave out Rick from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/positiveexposure?ref=br_tf" target="_blank">Positive Exposure</a> he made Jeremy laugh & gigggle so much! He is an amazing person who decided beauty comes in all shapes & sizes. He has made it his mission to show the world that everyone is beautiful, not just who the fashion magazines say are beautiful. He took some amazing photos & I can't wait for him to post them all. I'll do a whole blog when he does of those pictures. Jeremy has his own series by Rick called "Hats"........</b><br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-49660129054886392702013-07-11T07:50:00.001-07:002013-07-11T07:50:39.223-07:00Summer SnapshotI've been so busy lately so that has made me a bad blogger, so sorry folks. Here are a few pictures to give you a small idea of our busy summer. The husband is on leave & my parents are in town. One child is in a summer college prep class & the service dog is back. Yep, busy, busy. Have a good week everyone.<br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-86559857923816063522013-06-23T03:10:00.001-07:002013-06-24T06:19:47.182-07:00Running with the Sole SistersI could hardly believe it when this past Friday finally arrived. It was time to grab our bags and head to Seattle to pick up our BIBS for the Seattle Rock n Roll 2013 Half-Marathon. Excited doesn't even begin to cover all the emotions that went on that day. As Ashley, Dana, & Bekah piled into my van and we zoomed off to the fitness expo laughter was the theme for the whole day. Here are a few fun pictures that can't be explained except by the huge smiles on all our faces.<br />
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<b>We proceeded to get all checked into our hotel & were pleasantly surprised when they up-graded our room. We ended up with a king suite that had a lot of room to stretch out & cause complete fits of uncontrolled giggling around mid-night.</b> <b>From dinner that evening into early morning the laughter was non-stop. Not sure it was at all appropriate at times, but hard to stop once we started.</b> <b>When it was time to prep & run we were all serious.....well sometimes serious about running our first half.</b><br />
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<b>We were running in blue again to honor the service & sacrifice of our military men / women. It was already a super emotional day but throw that into the mix and tears at time were wiped away. But for the most part it was a lot of fun sharing this special moment with my Sole Sisters as well as other members of the wear blue community. It was a true sea of blue in corral 17 yesterday. </b><br />
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<b>Once we got moving it was my game face on for the first five miles. Then I came running around a turn to spot Ashley just ahead. I sprinted ahead for about a minute and had a good laugh when I snuck up behind her to pull her ponytail. My favorite part was when a lady gasped " she pulled that girl's hair!" in a horrified voice-hehe After months of training together it was fun to chat for a few minutes during this huge life event for us both. Then we threw back on our game faces & kept logging the miles. </b><br />
<b>In my head I kept saying just get to the wear blue mile. Once you see those flags, the blue shirts, the smiling faces, you will remember why you can't stop. It was no joke as I hit the first poster of the fallen they had lining the mile my legs kicked it into over drive. I jumped over the yellow tape separating the half from the full to high five SFC David Cooper's poster as well as pose for a quick picture with SFC Clifford Beattie's Poster. I have no idea who the nice lady was that snapped that picture on her cell phone but I hope it pops up soon on the facebook page. I hugged retired Veterans who held the flags. I waved like a rockstar when really it was those we were honoring who are the true heroes. All those volunteers holding flags, cheering GO BLUE, Run Strong may never know the little umph they gave me to keep going at that point in my race.</b><br />
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<b>There is Ashley & I as we hit the start of the wear blue mile. See that yellow tape? That was the last time I was on that side for awhile during that mile.</b></div>
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<b>After that mile came the crazy hill that I had to walk super fast, I still managed to pass a few people on that climb around mile 8 of the run. Then more running until I saw the 15k sign. Once we hit that point I was tired and ready to take a break. Thankfully out of nowhere ahead I see a blue shirt and the "teddy bear" as I call him aka James running. He has been a constant source of encouragement over the past few weeks of long run trainings on Saturday mornings. We ran/walked a little bit as he was having some cramps & I was so thankful for his company. I needed to see a friendly face for sure at that point in my run. We took off again only to separate around mile 10. I keep chugging along happy to hear shouts of Go Blue from other blue runners as they passed. I was not in it for time today just to finish especially around mile 11 as sweat rolled down my face and the stomach growling started. I found James again and we stayed together for about a 1/2 mile before losing each other in the run.</b></div>
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<b>For those of you that have run 13.1 miles before I'm sure you can relate to seeing the 12 mile marker. I smiled and just kept telling myself one foot in front of the other. My legs were tired, I was hungry and I saw a hill. I stopped literally in the road & shook my head. I decided to walk half the hill & run half the hill. I knew at that point conserving my legs & energy was the only way to cross the finish line looking happy. Once I heard the shouts of " only a quarter mile to go, you CAN DO IT" from complete strangers my legs propelled me forward with a huge smile plastered on my face! I crossed that finish line strong and almost in tears. Then the amazing guy handed me my ice cold chocolate milk and all I could think was please more food!</b></div>
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<b>I located three of the ladies for cheers, smiles and guessing at our finish times.</b></div>
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<b>We replenished our tired bodies in the sun while we waited for Dana to come across the finish. We high-fived other wear blue runners as they came past and in general couldn't stop talking about each mile of our races. Finally Dana arrived and we snapped the finish picture.</b><br />
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<b> Words fail me at times when I look back at this day. From the sweet facebook message Karen left me that was the last thing I read before handing my phone to be put away. It literally made me tear up when it reminded me that no matter what the out come I put in the time, the work, the tears, enjoy my day I earned every single second. Thank You Karen for that encouragement.</b><br />
<b>The moments of weariness that consumed mile 11 & 12 were the only reason I got through them was James as well as a few other special blue runners cheering me along the road. This is a moment in time that I won't ever forget. It was a day shared with the best friends honoring the loss of good friends as well as a triumph of all our hard work. Thank you to all those that helped me along the way. With out every persons encouragement right down to Paul my husband who put up with cranky training me, those are the reasons I made it 13.1 miles in Seattle 2013. The help of all my running partners and my family is the reason I finished 8 minutes under my goal time of 2:30- my official finish time posted at 2:22:31- I was SHOCKED but extremely happy girl.</b><br />
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<b>P.S. Next half is set for September 14th on JBLM-lol I'm Hooked!</b><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/vTnWFT3DvVA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<b>Perfect song for all our wear blue families .</b></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-57091715321891329062013-06-02T19:13:00.000-07:002013-06-02T19:13:55.020-07:00Jeremy Walking Again<b>It's time for Jeremy & our family to start raising money for our second annual Chelsea Hutchison SUDEP Awareness walk on September 22, 2013. Jeremy set a high goal this year that honestly is a little scary to me that we won't reach. But I promised him I would help him do his best.There are a few ways to help Jeremy reach his fundraising goal. You can 1. Join our team with a registration fee of $25 which get's you the new shirt and a chance to raise money yourself for Team Jeremy Journey. or 2. You can just go to Jeremy's page he has set up and make any amount of a donation you like once, twice, as often as you like until September 22nd. No amount is to small or to large. It's all tax deductible since the Chelsea Hutchison Foundation is a non-profit.</b><br />
<b> A quick refresher on what the Chelsea Hutcison foundation does for our new readers. They lost their precious daughter to unexplained death in seizure (SUDEP). Now their mission in life is to make sure that children like Jeremy or adults who have a seizure disorder have some options to have safety nets in their lives during seizure activity. One way is with a Service Dog who alerts to the child or adult during a seizure- like what Balto is in training to learn. Also they donate EMFIT monitors which are on the bed & will sound an alarm when the person has a seizure while sleeping. This is very important since a lot of seizures go undetected during sleep. These two tools can hep save a life. That is why we help raise money for the foundation. We also help because they have helped get Balto the grant money he needs to finish his training for Jeremy. Here is the link to Jeremy's page , please if you would like to help at anytime during our fundraiser go here and make any donation you like. We would love to help Jeremy meet his goal again this year.</b><br />
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<a href="https://www.runningguru.com/DonateTeam.asp?tID=JeremysJourney" target="_blank">Team Jeremy's Journey</a><br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-22367486103039333862013-05-28T16:01:00.000-07:002013-05-28T16:01:02.219-07:00We Run , We Run<b>I was quiet leading up to Memorial Day & on the day itself. I had every intention of blogging last night but was so overwhelmed from the day I wasn't sure I could. Memorial Day means so many different things to so many of my friends. For me personally it means trying to honor those we loved & lost. I decided to help organize the <a href="http://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/index.html" target="_blank">http://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/index.html</a> walk again in our hometown this year. I hoped, prayed it would go over well and we might double our miles pledged in honor of the 6,687 military men & women who made the ultimate sacrifice since the global war on terror began in 2001. I had no way of knowing exactly how large & meaningful this walk would be once again.</b><br />
<b>Last year I barely made it through the calling of the names. This year we shared all of the 43 names with the other walkers to read aloud. As I looked around the circle of remembrance to hear the names called the look of sadness or smiles was very breath taking. Each person called a name, all 43 men & women were even if for a brief moment remembered. That is what Memorial Day is about. It's not about bar-b-ques and four day weekends. Those are a nice bonus,but it should be about taking time to make sure the families of our fallen heroes know their loved ones will never be forgotten. With the help of two good friends I was able to make that happen I hope for the three Goldstar families in attendance. Yelm Pledged 426+ miles, compared to the 196 last year I was so excited! The weather kept a few away as it was rainy & cold. But we had 65+ people show up despite the weather and run or walk those miles pledged. Some even did a couple extra miles. As I ran my miles some with my husband & some by myself I was proud at that moment. Proud of this community I live in coming together over one ladies Facebook event to honor these brave heroes. I laughed, I cried, I smiled , I ran to remember yesterday. It was a great day and worth all the hours of work. Yes I think I will be doing this again next year, because I can still run when 6,687 fallen can't.</b><br />
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<u><b>The Fallen Honored on May 27, 2013</b></u></div>
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<b>SFC David Cooper Jr Sept 5, 2007</b></div>
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<b>SFC Clifford Beattie May 22, 2011</b></div>
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<b>SGT Joel Dahl June 2007</b></div>
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<b>SGT Christopher Kruse November 17, 2007</b></div>
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<b>CPL Luke Runyan February 17, 2008</b></div>
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<b>Chad Groepper February 17, 2008</b></div>
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<b>SSG Keith Bishop</b></div>
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<b>SSG Thomas McFall</b></div>
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<b>CW2 Bryan Henderickson</b></div>
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<b>SGT Faith Hinkley</b></div>
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<b>SPC Danny B Daniels</b></div>
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<b>CSM Kevin Griiffin</b></div>
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<b>SSG Michael H Simpson</b></div>
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<b>1LT Robert N Bennedsen</b></div>
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<b>SGT Phillip Anderson</b></div>
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<b>SSG Michael B Quinn 2003</b></div>
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<b>CW4 Matthew Scott 2005</b></div>
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<b>SGT Mark A Mardia 2005</b></div>
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<b>CW2 Joshua Michael Scott 2005</b></div>
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<b>SPC J. Adan Garcia 2006</b></div>
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<b>Lance CPL Emmanuel Villarreal 2007</b></div>
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<b>SPC Chad A Edmundson 2009</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>PFC John C Johnson 2011</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>PFC Leroy Deronde lll 2012</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>1LT Thomas M Martin </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>PVT Calvin E Ross</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SFC Wyatt Goldsmith</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SSG Nicholas A Sprovtsff</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SGT Justin D Norton</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SPC Daniel Unger</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>MSG Mark Coleman</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>PFC Christopher E Hudson</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SSG Guy S Hagy Jr</b></div>
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<b>CPL William J Rechenmacher</b></div>
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<b>SPC Joshua G Romero</b></div>
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<b>SPC Frik J Franzese</b></div>
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<b>SPC Ailen Reding</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>CPL Jeff Starr</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SGT Ronald Milton Randazzo</b></div>
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<b>PFC Arden Bradley Cooper</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We Run</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We Run for those</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Who Ran before</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>To the fields of battle,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>To the fields of war.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We Run</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We Run</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>We Run for those</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Who Run No More.</b></div>
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<b>My amazing soldier who supported me during all the crazy getting ready for the event.</b></div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPDD1l2H6bU&list=UUpgqRaS_353Vu0U4PvQqFmQ&index=1" target="_blank">Honor Has No Finish Line</a></div>
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<b> </b></div>
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<b> </b></div>
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<b> </b></div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-60665278501575526692013-05-14T18:06:00.001-07:002013-05-14T18:06:19.553-07:00Honor Has No Finish LineIt's that time again when the wear blue community starts planning their Memorial Day events. Well a lot of us have been planning for a few weeks or months now to make sure it all goes smoothly. If your not sure how you can show how much you appreciate & honor our Fallen on Memorial Day I have just the thing. <a href="http://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/memorial-day.html" target="_blank">Wear blue: run to remember</a> has their pledge site up & running again this year for Memorial Day. You can run or walk to show your support for the Fallen, the Fighting, & the Families. Memorial Day is not just another four day for our family and we hope everyone will take the time at some point to honor the sacrifice of so many. Please remember you can run or walk ANYWHERE!! You do not have to be close to one of the meet up locations. My husband ran in Afghanistan last year while I ran in Yelm. It's just about taking time to remember and show the families their loved ones are never forgotten. Take a moment to watch the video tribute to the blue community and then head over to pledge your miles today.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwaSwhj2pXwJ9I1Xac9PmEwXkYTf7jNAlh0EowIa1VV_mXFKapu9XFL0eVRctMNCbbFJ4zrOly9UWdvkTC3dg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-59531390743511153642013-04-27T13:57:00.000-07:002013-04-27T13:57:47.578-07:00Tinker Bell & All That Disney Magic<b>Well folks my plan since I saw all the posts on the Disney Princess Half-marathon pop up on Facebook was to go run it in Florida next year. Then life happened & with the husband deploying at the end of the summer a trip to Florida is out. Bummer! BUT never fear we live super close to California which means July 9th THIS GIRL is signing up for the Tinker Bell Half-Marathon in Disneyland. It's set for January 2014 so it will be the perfect time for a much needed mommy break. I always try to plan one trip that is at least 3 or 4 days away with out the kids while the husband is deployed. It's for their safety & my sanity-haha</b><br />
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<b>Now my running partner in crime & I have to come up with a team name. It doesn't have to be Disney but we thought why not? We will be wearing our <a href="http://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/" target="_blank">blue run to remember</a> shirts with some fun add-ons for the half. We would love a few name suggestions from anyone who is more creative then us , shouldn't be hard. Here are the only three we came up with & we aren't just thrilled with any of them. The names are printed on our bibs that we want to keep so something cute & fun is a must!</b><br />
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<b>Minnie Marathoners- we would have Blue Bows instead of red.</b><br />
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<b>Then we have Blue Belles after Belle in Beauty & the Beast.</b><br />
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<b> Next is Magical Mermaids , mostly because Ariel is my favorite Princess.</b><br />
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<b>But we are open to all suggestions that are fun that we can't think of on our own. I am excited for July 9th to come so we can register and get this race planning started. I hope after running my first half on June 22nd I am still excited-haha Wish us luck and post any fun team names you can think of please.</b><br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-206817133980708202013-04-16T18:47:00.001-07:002013-04-16T18:48:09.430-07:00Runners Unite for Boston<b>I don't have the dream to run a marathon, but I have friends & family that are marathon runners. I had a cousin who was 2 blocks away when the blasts went off. She never got to finish her race, she had no idea if those with her were okay. I am sad for those innocent spectators who always encourage us as runners at the end when we think we can't possibly take one more step to reach the finish line. I am sad for those 5,000+ elite runners who qualified for what they thought was the race of their lives that they never got to finish. Today a movement swept across facebook, twitter, & the country. Runners showed their support by putting on a race shirt & running for Boston. </b><br />
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<b>We ran for everyone who can no longer run. Who are now sitting in a hospital recovering from wounds. We ran for those who never got the chance to finish their race. But mostly we ran to show whatever cowards that are behind this attack, that we won't stop running. That runners have an unspoken solidarity with eachother. That even if you don't know that runner passing you on a trail, you wave, smile & feel like they are family. The cowards did not break our Amercian spirit. Instead just like 9-11 it only brought out the best in our country. It reminded us that in the darkest moments of American history there are true heroes willing to step up & help.</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.armywtfmoments.com/national-guard-answer-the-call-in-boston#.UW3xI8puQp8" target="_blank">Rucking 26.2 miles into hell: A hero's story</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wearblueruntoremember.org/2/post/2013/04/in-the-wake-tragedy-we-run.html?fb_action_ids=10200959139211271&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=timeline_og&action_object_map={%2210200959139211271%22%3A538890266150060}&action_type_map={%2210200959139211271%22%3A%22og.likes%22}&action_ref_map=[]" target="_blank">wear blue:run to remember - In the wake of a tragedy</a></div>
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<b><i>That a widow who was running in memory of her husband was there in the midst of chaos can write so eloquently of how her spirit is not broken.</i></b></div>
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<b><i><span class="userContent">"For me<span class="text_exposed_show">,
a girl who was invited to run to honour her soldier who was taken by
another terrorist on 27 April 2011, it threw me back into a spot where I
immediately felt out of control, that my life was being torn apart, and
I stood immobilized sobbing for again the terrorist sought to take yet
another thing that matters in my life."<br /> </span></span></i></b></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Today,
I was running the Boston Marathon. I was the cheerful girl zipping
through the marathon with a swish of her red polka dotted skirt and a
huge smile on her face. I ribbed the army people working the course
with my call out, "Air Power." I stopped twice to use the potty and I
was but a quarter mile from the end when I heard a loud boom, felt the
street shake, and started to smell a smell I<span class="text_exposed_show">
never smelled before. All hell broke loose. People were screaming and
sprinting away from the finish line. The race immediately ended. For
me, a girl who was invited to run to honour her soldier who was taken by
another terrorist on 27 April 2011, it threw me back into a spot where I
immediately felt out of control, that my life was being torn apart, and
I stood immobilized sobbing for again the terrorist sought to take yet
another thing that matters in my life. <br /> <br /> I find joy in running
and I have grabbed my life back by running. It is the singular aspect
of my life that allows me to find my faith and to find happiness. I am
sitting in total disbelief. How could it be that two potty breaks saved
me today? How can it be that as I was running to snub my nose at the
terrorist that took Phil, another sought to destroy the hard fought for
happiness I have found. It cannot end this way. I am shaking and I am
physically ill tonight, but I will pick myself up one faltering step at a
time until I can run victorious once again. I cannot let these vile
monsters create any more fear in my life. I just can't.<br /> <br /> There
were heroes today. I met a man who was an instructor at my training
these past weeks. He brought his family and found me. He got me back
to my hotel. A nurse sat with me as I sobbed my eyes out and shook
violently in the Dunkin Doughnuts store. So many people called me. My
phone did not have reception, yet the singular two phone calls that got
through were phone calls from people who came to get me. My children
were terrified and that is what hurts. This event brought fear back
into my family--fear of loss and fear of violent acts. How can I fix
the hurts in my children when I am right there? I ask for prayers and I
ask for some time to process this event. I will find the strength that
I fall into with my faith. The terrorist will never EVER maim my
heart, my spirit, or my drive to live life out loud. Got that?</span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">author: </span></span><span class="fcg"><a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=630282840" href="https://www.facebook.com/ambardpl" id="js_5">Linda Leonard Ambard</a></span></div>
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<b><span class="fcg">The cowards could not have anticipated the out pouring of human kindness, all though they should have if they can remember 9-11 at all. </span></b></div>
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<b><span class="fcg">I was honored to run in blue for Boston today. I was joined by some amazing friends & all over the globe as others laced up to run today. We will not stop running if anything it makes me a lot more excited for my first half-marathon in June. It makes me want to train harder to finish. I will continue to pray for all those in Boston tonight that lost loved ones or have injured family members. I will keep running will you?</span></b></div>
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-83903748154299947522013-04-15T20:15:00.000-07:002013-04-15T20:28:11.081-07:00Balto Does Vegas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b> Balto, my best friend Sam, & I all left last Wednesday for Las Vegas Nevada. We were going to take Balto to his trainer & puppy raisers to live for the next 6 to 9 months. It was a lot of fun & a lot of work. Balto did great on the plane ride & the flight attendants all wanted pictures. We arrived and he was a bit stressed over all the foot traffic but it was perfect for training. Training is what he & I did- a lot! Stephanie our trainer had us shopping on the strip, riding escalators, & eating at restaurants. Balto took it all in stride & was pretty worn out at the end of most days.</b><br />
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<b>Yes he slept on the bed with me & snored! But when I got sick one afternoon he snuggled up and made me feel better. He deserved to be pampered before heading into bootcamp.</b></div>
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<b>Here are a few pictures from training at an open air mall with Freedom . Balto also recieved his new <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelsAngelPaws?fref=ts" target="_blank">Michael's Angel Paws </a></b><br />
<b>training vest. </b></div>
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<b>We also had a fan from our Facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JeremyandBanyan" target="_blank">Jeremy's Journey </a></b></div>
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<b>take the time to come meet Balto. Thank You Sandy it was nice to meet you & put a face with the name.</b></div>
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<b> After two days of long training & evaluations it was time to take Balto to meet his new puppy raisers.</b> <b>His temporary parents are so nice & were so excited to welcome him into their home. They really put me at ease & Balto took no time at all showing off for them. He jumped right into their pool taking his first swim ever!</b></div>
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<b>He Loved the Pool!</b></div>
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<b>He then loved meeting his new fur friends & playing in the yard.</b></div>
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<b>I gave a few parting kisses & he kissed me back in true Balto fashion.</b></div>
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<b>Then I left trying not to cry. I made it to the hotel before a few tears slid out of my eyes. But I knew / know he is in great hands with Stephanie. I know that the puppy raisers want him there and are excited to help our family out with training. This helps me a lot. Balto will continue his journey as a SDIT until he comes home to Jeremy. We will see him in 10 weeks & we are already counting down the days.</b></div>
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<b>Now to share some fabulous pictures our friend's son came & took for us before he left. I knew when Balto returned the cute puppy phase would be over so I wanted it all caught on camera .</b></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/JosephCurrallPhotography?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Joseph Currall Photography </a> </b></div>
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<b>Took these amazing pictures that melt my heart everytime I look at them. We are so blessed to have friends with such amazing talent.</b></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-73096412505085790082013-04-10T07:07:00.001-07:002013-04-10T07:07:25.780-07:00I Spoke to Soon<b>It's really kind of amusing in a weird it's normal to me kind of way. Last week like a ding-dong I did the math & realized out loud that Paul had been home 9 months with no orders to deploy from the Army for the first time EVER in 6 years. I remember looking at Paul & smiling thinking "wow we may actually be done with year long separations. You might be able to just ride out the last year of the Army at home with the family." Yeah I should have kept all these thoughts to myself in my own brain. I spoke them out loud for the universe to hear . Mostly for the Army DA Gods to hear & say to themselves "OOOPPPS, how did we miss this soldier, he should be on orders already we are slacking!".</b><br />
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<b>Paul did have orders come down to head to West Point to teach for two years. I would have loved to move like four years ago. But now with our oldest about to start his junior year of high school it was not a good idea. Not to mention that once again they did not have the medical we need for Jeremy's EFMP packet. A call was made by Paul, & DA said we will look into getting those deleted. We didn't think about it again assuming he was good to stay at JBLM. Then Monday morning he get's to his office turns on his computer to log in & find a nice email from DA. Your right MSG your family can't go to West Point the orders are deleted. BUT you can GO unaccompanied to x, y, or Z for twelve months you choose ASAP or the Army will choose for you. Have a great week, hope to hear from you soon. So yes folks once again we are on orders for the husband to leave, no time frame yet, but once again we didn't make it a year with him at home.</b><br />
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<b>Now the truly bizarre part is when he called me I didn't bat an eye or shed a tear. I thought well this is normal & I'm okay with this again. I think my body no longer register's it means a year of single parenting again with all that can go wrong happening. I honestly think my body & mind have a built in system now that just goes with the flow. Sounds crazy to a lot of people I'm sure. But this has been my families normal going on seven years now. Paul home a year then gone a year. I think also it helps knowing we can pick were he chooses to spend the year & it's not in a war zone. He was really upset & retirement was tossed around again. I let him know I would support whatever decision but we are just so nervous about him getting out & there not being a job. He hasn't had the luxury of completing any college because well he was at war for the past few years been a little busy staying alive. He was told he could complete a year's worth of school while he was gone this time. I guess they are giving the college back to our soldiers. It should have never been taken away but that is a whole different post. </b><br />
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<b>So were you may ask did we decide? The husband will be taking a tour of Egypt folks for a year. Time to leave is still to be determined. he will call DA this morning & pray they keep their word of letting him pick. He really was not to keen on going to Korea- can you blame him? He will get two times he can take leave so we hope to either fly to meet him somewhere do a family vacation or he will come home. We will see how his morale is & what he thinks he needs most. The boys aren't even phased, just like me this is their normal now. We do hope this is it, that once he can complete some college over there he can come home & retire. He is not interested in doing sergeant major as that would mean another year long school away from the family. Please keep us in prayer as we adjust to all that him leaving will entail again. As soon as we get dates I think reality will sink in for us all as a family. But hey I can do this & like I told my mom. You all bought a house right down the street from us, I'll just go live there for a year & she can move in with the boys-HA! </b><br />
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<b>Now to read up about Egypt and were he is off to on his next Army adventure.</b></div>
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<b>This is what I picture in my head. But this is what we looked up as well.</b></div>
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<b>I want to go visit if we can go to the location of this picture.</b></div>
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<b>When the Army promised my husband he would "See the World" they certainly didn't lie on that one promise they made to him.</b></div>
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-1184185654872914372013-03-26T06:45:00.001-07:002013-03-26T06:52:54.126-07:00Together we can do MUCH<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>March 26th marks Epilepsy Awareness day.<span class="userContent">Jeremy does not have an Epilepsy diagnosis but
every time he has a seizure he is considered in "status epilepticus" so
we will spread awareness. Anyone can have epilepsy, there is no cure.
Help us spread the word, wear your purple on Tuesday in a show of support. Help others learn the facts not the fiction.</span></b><br />
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<span class="userContent">Facts:</span><br />
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<span class="userContent">1. </span>You cannot swallow your tongue during a seizure; you cannot swallow your tongue now, can you?<br />
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2. Like a diabetic who is misinterpreted as a drunk driver, epileptics can
often have a seizure that manifests itself as bizarre behavior, such as:
repeating the same word, not responding to questions, speaking
gibberish, undressing, or screaming. Jeremy has ABSENT SEIZURES, often times people think he is ignoring them or not paying attention.<br />
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3.About 1 in 20 epileptics are sensitive to flickering light, or
photosensitive epilepsy. The contrast, or change in light, can trigger a
seizure.<br />
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4. Seizures have a beginning, middle, and end. The beginning, referred to
as the aura, can have signs of the oncoming seizure such as smells,
sounds, tastes, light headedness, or deja and jamais vu. The middle, is
the seizure itself, whether it be a grand mal seizure, or a simple
partial seizure. The end of the seizure is called the postictal phase
and is the brain recovering, which can take anywhere from seconds to
hours and is usually accompanied with disorientation and memory loss. Jeremy has muscle weakness & usually can't walk.<br />
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5.The proper treatment for someone having a tonic-clonic seizure is not
what you see in TV shows (multiple people pressing their body weight
down on a seizing person). Here’s what you should do: Pay attention to
how long the seizure lasts, move objects that they could strike out of
the vicinity, simply block their way to prevent them from moving too far
(or into water, fall off a bed, etc.). Put them on their side after the
episode and don’t put anything in their mouth. If it lasts for more
than five minutes call an ambulance. Jeremy must have 911 called with in 2 minutes because he looses all oxygen from prolonged seizures & can stroke.<br />
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6. Diastat, or diazepam, is the medicine used to treat a prolonged seizure
or cluster of seizures.<br />
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7. Epilepsy is usually not a lifelong disorder, with only 25% of those who
develop seizures developing difficult to control seizures.Any body can have epilepsy- no matter what age.<br />
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8.Epilepsy is the third most common neurological disorder after stroke and
Alzheimer’s disease. It affects three million Americans of all ages.
Approximately 200,000 new cases of seizures and epilepsy occur each
year. One in every 10 Americans will experience a seizure at some point
in their lives. Three percent will eventually develop epilepsy.<br />
Yet Cancer get's more Awareness then Epilepsy- let's CHANGE THAT!<br />
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9. <span style="color: black;">Epilepsy is not a single entity but a family of more than 40 syndromes that affect nearly 3 million people in the U. S.and 50,000,000 worldwide.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">10. </span><span style="color: black;">The association between epilepsy and
depression is especially strong. More than one of every three persons
with epilepsy are also affected by the mood disorder, and people with a
history of depression have a 3 to 7 times higher risk of developing
epilepsy.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><b>These are just a few of the facts about Epilepsy. There are so many more. Please share this BLOG today & share the AWARENESS. Epilepsy isn't contagious , the children & adults are just like you. They have the same hopes,dreams, & aspirations for a long healthy life. Only research, awareness, & a cure can make this possible. Will you WEAR PURPLE today, the color for Epilepsy? Will you SHARE the knowledge you just gained? Will YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE?</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><b> </b> </span><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"><a href="http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/aboutepilepsy/" target="_blank">Epilepsy Foundation</a></span></span></div>
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<b><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">Come visit us on Facebook at :<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JeremyandBanyan" target="_blank">Jeremy's Journey</a> </span></span></b></div>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"><b>While we share amazing Facebook pages all day of Epilepsy Heroes. </b></span></span></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-88345497291212646012013-03-23T07:17:00.000-07:002013-03-23T13:30:45.360-07:00Cycles of Life<b>Do you ever feel like your life goes through cycles? I know I do & sometimes I feel like I am on the Spin Cycle just a little to long. I am beyond grateful for all our wonderful blessings, but even in the blessings there comes a certain amount of stress. I have been super busy with everyday mom duties lately that seem unending with no break in sight. I don't mind I love being a mom but sometimes it does get overwhelming. Like your being pulled in fifty different directions because each child needs something a little different. Then throw in your little tiny corner of suppose to be a wife too & the spin cycle begins!</b><br />
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<b>Between medical appointments, school activities, dog training, & training for a half while injured , mentally I'm just done. I've laid around in pjs for a day doing nothing but watching mindless tv while folding stacks of laundry, but that didn't seem to help. As a mom your brain just never get;s to turn off. As a mom of a child with crazy medical even when you are away for a few hours it's still in the back of your head that the phone could ring any minute & everything could turn up side down. My feelings were recently hurt when I was told it wasn't a certain person's fault I chose not to relax & take breaks. Well let's think about that, if I am away from home I should be able to relax some, but I am a mom a parent so that comes with responsibility of always being ready for anything. Also as a army wife who has done multiple deployments learning to turn off is just almost impossible. </b><br />
<b>My husband went away for a year, he turned off the family business to focus on war, his men, staying alive, his job He had to to survive.Now I envy that he seems to still be able to do this so easily now that he is home. I stayed behind every time dealing with kids, household messes, extended family issues,medical issues, war, single parenting, worry over other spouses losses,& army. It sometimes feels like we get double duty and in doing multiple deployments it get's harder eachtime to learn to relax when the other half of your parenting team is finally home. It's also frustrating when you watch them casually go about life with what looks like the only stress is work, like they are still able to leave for days with no issues about parenting & all the things around the home that still need attending. I wish I could do this but I can't, I need to learn how. </b><br />
<b>For now life is in the spin cycle of my world. I have a lot of balls in the air, just hoping none fall causing total chaos. Here is a snap shot of last weeks crazy but a lot of fun as well. I wouldn't change the crazy because then I would have missed out on the smiles from the boys, or the cuddles from the puppies.But sometimes I wish I had a double to help out with the chores-lol</b><br />
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<b>Mail day for Balto & Jeremy, we get a lot of fun things so we try to reply to as many as possible. But it does take time. This is only one letter, I actually had a bag full of items to ship out to our friends</b>.</div>
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<b>Puppy Playtime takes up time as well, it's fun but no down time with puppies in the house.I also had puppy training at night the past few weeks. It's a 45 minute drive each way to class :0/</b></div>
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<b>My youngest got asked to go on an all day Science Fair for school. They were short on parents so at the last minute I went to help with Balto. It was so fun, but very draining day with puppy in tow. But I loved seeing Jacob enjoy the congress so much. He thrives on education.</b></div>
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<b>We got accepted to go to the Sturge-Weber Conference & Kids Day Camp in July. The foundation will cover our hotel & registration fees we come up with airfare. I spent hours brainstorming coming up with fundraising ideas. We have some amazing people step up and offer items for auction. But it taking a lot of time to run & brain power. I am falling asleep by 8:30 at night but have to wait to go to bed until 10PM so puppy can go out to potty one last time. I also get up between 5AM-5:30 every morning-YIKES!</b></div>
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<b>We made the appointments for Jeremy to have another surgery in April & spring break over night plans. All these things done by yours truly, just typing it out exhausts me. Then you throw in trying to get my running in to train for my half with a rib injury that sometimes hurts sometimes doesn't- I'm spinning, round & round. This is why updates haven't been happening as much on the blog. I hope you can understand. But after we get through Spring Break it should settle down.Now I am off to eat & go try to run 5 or 6 miles with out passing out. Wish me luck!</b></div>
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-70538378022200971232013-03-11T17:45:00.000-07:002013-03-11T18:08:17.672-07:00Counting Our Blessings<b>As I type I really do hear the harmony & tune to the song "Count Your Blessings". The words going "Count your blessings, name them one by one. Count your blessings see what God hath done. Count your blessings name them one by one. Count you many blessings see what God hath done". That's just the chorus. I'll have to look in a minute on Youtube for a good version in case you can't hear the melody like I can in my head. My dad always leads this song for as long as I can remember in church. Often times I am just as guilty as most of wishing or wanting more & not being grateful for everything I already have been blessed with in my life. </b><br />
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<b>The picture that started it all </b></div>
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<b>I made one choice & talked with Jeremy about the choice. We took one photo to show our respect for a beloved hero who left for the rainbow bridge unexpectedly . It started a landslide of support & love for Jeremy, Balto, & our whole family that I never could have seen coming. Now with so many amazing blessings coming our way on a daily basis we are moved to keep "Pawing it Forward" as we decided to call it as often as possible. </b><br />
<b>I can't express the gratitude I have in my heart for all the love from the mailbox as we call it that Jeremy is receiving. He had his laser surgery & Balto posted that Jeremy would love some mail to cheer him up while his face healed. We have had over 40 cards show up, gift cards for him to shop, movies for him to watch, money to go buy an ice cream. Just so many wonderful blessings that I never expected or intended when I (Balto) posted about getting cheer- up mail. This shows me that there is still amazing kindness & generosity of spirit in this crazy world. That in economic times that are devastating to a lot, people still spend the time & money to cheer up a little boy they have never met in person. My favorite saying is "God is Good" & then to hear someone say back " All the Time"</b>. <b>It is so true! We could not have made this second attempt at a service dog for Jeremy with out God. He has blessed us with so many new friends that want to help.</b><br />
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<b>With that in mind each month Jeremy & I will pick a way to help Paw -it-Forward in his honor, in Gabe's memory, & to remind my children that giving is way better then receiving. The joy it brings to us every time we see the smile on the faces of those we help, there are just no words. For March we sold Jeremy T-shirts and made $80 for the Sturge-Weber Foundation. We will be sending a check to them soon from Jeremy & Balto. Today we learned of a pregnant chocolate lab who needs help while she waits to give birth. We have several rolls of paper towels we are donating at their request. It doesn't have to be huge to make a difference folks. It just has to come from the heart. Thank you to all those whom we have never met for making my little boy feel so special & our family feel so loved. Now what can you do to make a difference in someone's life? Just look around, you'll be amazed at all the opportunities.</b><br />
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<b>Look at that sweet face, he loves all the cards & treats from all over the world. Yes, World- Canada & England have sent cards!</b></div>
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<b>This is the exact sound I hear as I sing the lyrics, thanks to my amazing dad. </b></div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6678857827037725020.post-55981155219528323452013-03-04T09:30:00.000-08:002013-03-04T09:30:16.179-08:00Sweetest Run in America<b>What a crazy last week we had here in our house. I had been training for my first 15K for a few months now. That is 9.3 miles folks in Seattle, where there are a lot of hills. Well on Wednesday morning around 2AM, Balto the puppy had to go potty, I jumped up slipped on my shoes & took him out. On the way back in I felt hot & could tell I wasn't doing well.</b><br />
<b> At this point I wasn't thinking I was about to pass out, but pass out hard is what happened. I managed to get Balto into the kennel, went to sit on the side of the bath tub with my head down thinking i just needed a minute. When it was clear I was seeing stars, hot & dizzy I decided to wake up Paul by heading back to our bed. Well the problem came when I never made it past the bathroom door. I woke up to Paul standing over me scared to death, that he had watched me pass out hitting our bedside table & metal basket on the way down. I woke up screaming in pain as I had landed hard on my left side ribs. If anyone has ever had a rib injury I can only say it feels like giving child birth with NO DRUGS! It was beyond painful to move, to breath, all I could do was cry. Paul wanted me to get to our bed, so the sheer amount of effort to convince me to move was insane- once I got to bed he was amazing. He recognized that my blood sugar was most likely very low and headed to get me oj with peanut butter toast. After a few minutes recovering I convinced Paul to go back to bed that if I still hurt in the morning we would head to the ER.</b><br />
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<b>About 4:30AM I feel asleep and woke up to the puppy whining again around 5:30AM. I tried to get up and yelped in pain rolling on all fours to the floor. I crawled to the kenel opened it, then crawled down the hall way while breaking out in a full on sweat. I soaked through my shirt and had it running down my face. FInally Matthew woke up and helped me get the two dogs out then went to wake up Paul. By that time it was clear something was wrong & I needed to go to the ER. After a quick phone call to my best friend who arrived to help with kids we were out the door. They got us in a room quickly but NO pain meds for four hours! I was so miserable & I had an IV so why no drugs? They kept asking about my drug habits, I am pretty sure they thought we were drug seeking, uggg. If they just took the time to look in their handy dandy computer they could see I haven't been in the hospital in over 4 years for myself. They finally got all the x-rays they needed, gave me drugs, blood work etc. They came back with nothing except I was healthy as a horse. My iron slightly low but nothing to be concerned about. All my ribs were very bruised but not cracked. They advised no running for two weeks- yes folks I said 2 WEEKS! That just was not what I wanted to hear and the tears flowed again a lot.</b><br />
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<b>After getting pain pills to take home and resting like a crazy person all week I decided to head to Seattle with my girls for my run. I thought if I woke up Sunday and could't move I would not run. But it was a miracle! I woke up able to move my left arm over my head for the first time since Wednesday. I still couldn't move fast or tight turns without pain, but I popped some vicoden and headed to the starting line. My whole race had changed at this point & I fully expected to only be able to run maybe a 14 minute mile. What turned out to be an Okay race and a 10:24 pace was a shocker! I trained for hills and this race had them in abundance. I climbed those hills easily, it was the jarring rib shaking going down that made me cringe and almost cry. I popped another half pill at mile 6 & kept going. I know a lot of you think I'm nuts, but my legs felt fine, it was just my blasted ribs! I made it across the finish line in 1:37minutes and 23 seconds. Over my original goal but also a lot faster then I ever thought would happen while running with this injury.</b><br />
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<b>Monday, today I am suffering the after effects of a very sore left side again & nausea. I think the nausea is from all the pain pills I am popping. But my legs aren't tired, but my ribs are back to hurting on about an 8 scale out of 10. I had so much fun with my running girls though & a couple of their husbands. I wouldn't change a thing except for packing while drugged up for a race. I found out at 9:30PM the night before that I had packed two different shoes both left feet :0/ Thankfully a friend lives in Seattle and we swung by to grab a pair of her extra shoes as she was running the next day as well. They fit & worked great!</b><br />
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<b>The swag was a bit of a let down if your signed up for any Hot Chocolate 15k or 5k. The tech hoodie is nice but runs extremely small. That was all you got , bummer. No extras in your bag at packet pick up at all. The cup you get at the end as your finishers mug was not even cermaic like it looks- it's a cheap-o plastic that breaks. The yummy snacks at the end were good, but that's all. All of us 15k's got the same exact thing as the 5k people, so that was a HUGE let down. They should think about getting a finishers medal or shirt for those who run the 15k to make it a little more worth the run. The course was done great and the road closures awesome. I never felt cramped at all, a lot of room to spread out- I would give the Swag a C-, but the actual Run a B+, the experience with my friends an A+++.</b><br />
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<b> Here are a few fun pictures & I hope no one ever has to run with a rib injury. This week is all about healing I hope and no pain.</b><br />
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<br />Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17370740043122954244noreply@blogger.com1