Ten on Tuesday

Welcome to another edition of my Tuesday Ten!  Just a set of ten random things that are going on in our crazy lives--in case this is your first time reading my blog.

One.  This week, my hubby and I are starting a workout plan that'll help me lose the weight I gained during my pregnancy (about 20 pounds) and get me back in shape so that I at least get to the point where I can do PT without feeling like I have to keel over, as well as start to look and feel good and healthy.  I'm already fitting into a lot of my pre-pregnancy clothing, but my body has lost its firmness and has been left with lots of pudge!  Part of the plan includes implementing a healthier diet.  I am NOT excited about the plan.  I mean, for someone whose been indulging in whole jars of nutella with, well, just about anything (fruits, pretzels, bagels) for I don't know how long...it kinda sucks.  And last night's workout...let's just say I'm in pain today.  And my husband really took it easy on me.

Two.  Speaking of last night, I made a delicious pasta dish that was in this month's issue of Rachel Ray's magazine.  It's a Ribbon Pasta with Tomato, Dill and Ricotta.  I know, I know, pasta has a lot of calories.  For the record, the cherry tomatoes and dill sauce made the dish seem very light.  Could have left out the ricotta cheese...but hey, it's in the recipe, and it really pulled the dish together.  I posted the recipe on my cooking blog.  And speaking of the cooking blog...I gave it a new look the other day.  You guys should head on over there to check it out!

Three.  While I'm on this cooking topic, I should let you guys know that I joined a new online cooking group (thanks to my friend, Angie).  It's called French Fridays with Dorie.  The group is going to cook through Dorie Greenspan's new cookbook, Around My French Table and post about the recipes every Friday.  Almost two years ago (when I was in grad school), I was apart of the baking group called Tuesdays with Dorie and we did the same thing, only through Dorie's baking cookbook.  I did it for a few months, but then had to quit because I had no time to bake when I moved to El Paso.  I actually got the cookbook in the mail today and am excited to look through it.  Some of Dorie's recipes can be intimidating at first glance, so I'm going to use this time in the group to learn tons of new techniques!

Four.  This morning, we woke up to a very happy baby.  And that's always something to be happy about!  It doesn't matter what time it is when she wakes up, as long as she's in this mood, I'm thrilled.  And Baby V is like this a lot in the mornings...until she is out of her sleepy stupor and realizes that she's hungry.  I like to use that time to talk to and play with her, and to teach her new things--even though she may not understand quite yet.  But she always makes me laugh with her cute smile.  I was able to capture a few pics this morning.  This one is my favorite.  Are you as amazed as I am at how much she's grown?  Look at all her hair.  I mean, ALL of her hair.  She got it from her mommy for sure.  And we called it...we always knew that our baby was going to come out looking like Ewoks since both the hubby and I are pretty hairy!

Five.  Even better...Baby V is currently napping with her daddy in her nursery...on the rocking chair.  Seeing that never gets old to me.  It's my joy!

Six.  The La Vina Winery is having it's fall festival this weekend and we are sooooo there.  I've been to all of them since I've moved here (the winery is about a 30 minute drive from where we live) and the last one I went to, I was pregnant.  It wasn't as much fun.  And this is the first time that my hubby will be with me when I go.  Can't wait.

Seven.  I'm so happy I got a glimpse of some fall weather this morning.  It was actually in the mid-60s for a change.  I'm totally a cold-weather baby, so these extended El Paso summers (where it's 90+ degrees during the day) are so not cool.  It's so bad that I don't even feel like putting up fall decorations (and don't think I will since we'll be moving soon).  Right now, it's hot out, but it was nice to feel it for a while and to have somewhat of a nice breeze when we went for our walk this morning.

Eight.  Next weekend, we'll be going to Utah to visit Malu's grandparents and aunt and uncle.  It'll be Baby V's first trip out there.  It's about a 14-hour drive that we're both dreading.  But they really want to see the baby and it'll be fun once we get there.

Nine.  I got Baby V's newborn photos weeks ago and I still haven't shown them to you guys yet.  I'll do that tomorrow.  They're so cute.

Ten.  I probably should have done Five on Tuesday...it took me forever to get to ten!  Happy Tuesday everyone!

Ten on Tuesday

Wow...I haven't done Tuesday Ten in a long, LONG time.  So why waste any more time? Here we go:

1.  Talked to Malu last night about his first day at Airborne School.  Not surprisingly, he maxed his PT test out at over 300 points (which is the first thing they did...at like, 0400 in the morning).  When I went to the school (way back when), the school had eliminated the PT test, so I had a freebie.  Not surprisingly again, Malu had so much fun his first day.  Me?  Way back when, I was sick my entire first week of school.  It was nasty.  I had diarrhea and didn't know why.  It was extremely hot and humid.  By the weekend, I had admitted myself to the hospital and was found to be completely dehydrated.  I was given 3 IV bags.  Amazingly, I still made it through the first week.  Malu? He never has to worry or stress out about Army schools.  He's just a natural at everything, it seems.  Me? I'm always freaking out about everything.  But it was great hearing from him and knowing that he's having fun.

2.  Sina woke up at around 0130 this morning, so I fed her.  But I couldn't get her to go back to sleep until around 0430 this morning.  Needless to say...I'm exhausted.  Any pointers from you moms out there on how to easily get your baby back to sleep at o-dark thirty in the morning?

3.  Lucy hates thunder and lightning, so around 0530, she was whining and freaking out...and almost woke Baby V up.  I had a conniption.  I almost lost it actually, and gave her a good yelling (in whispers).  I felt bad.  Luckily, Baby V didn't wake up until 0645...and I fed her again.

4.  In an attempt to stay sane and not get cooped up in this house, I'm making it a point to get out of the house with Baby V at least once a day--whether it be to run an errand or just to go somewhere to look around.  Yesterday, I had lunch with my girlfriends from work.  We celebrated a birthday for our friend, Shelly, who is actually my boss' (or now my former boss) wife. 

We had such a great time.  And isn't her daughter, Phoebe, just the cutest thing? I have yet to see this baby not smile.  It's so adorable.

Anyway, sometimes I just want some adult interaction too.  And staying home all day, glued to a TV and talking baby talk to Baby V and sometimes dog talk to Lucy gets old.  Is that bad?

5.  Today, Baby V's got a hearing screen--hence our outing for the day.  We were referred to an off-post physician because the Army hospital is over capacity.  The place we're going to is downtown and about a half-hour drive.  Oy vey.  Yesterday, Baby V cried all the way from the house to the golf course where we went for the birthday lunch.  Let's hope she sleeps the whole way this time. 

6.  I miss work.  And I've only been away for a little over 2 weeks.  The mark of a workaholic.  Is this bad?

7.  This past Saturday, I had my lady friends from work at the house for dinner.  We had pizza and I made this dessert...a hyped-up version of strawberry shortcake.  I'm going to post the recipe to my cooking blog here soon.

8.  I've been participating in Kimberly's Snail Mail Swap for the last few weeks.  Next week is the final week and I'm so sad to see it end.  I've been partnered up with A.J. and she's been sending me the coolest stuff.  I'll be posting about it soon, but it's been so nice to have a sweet pen pal!

9.  Baby V's newborn professional photos are complete.  Now, if I can just find some time to sort through which ones I like and place an order.  I'll be sure to post some for you guys once I do!

10.  Here's a not-so-pretty picture of Baby V...but her belly button stump fell off yesterday afternoon. 

Kinda gross.  Malu asked me if I kept the stump.  Yuck!  I put it in the trash.  But this means I can start giving Baby V regular baths!  Yeah!  But through the craziness, frustration and sleep deprivation...I love her more and more each day...

Love you, sweet girl.  Happy Tuesday everyone!  Now off to take my girls for a walk!

Ten on Tuesday

Just in time for Ten on Tuesday!  I'm sorry it's so late guys.  After my long day, it took me a while to get settled in.  But anyway...here goes!

1.  Today I kinda had a "day off" from work.  Our brigade commander authorized a Women in Boots Day for all the females in his brigade.  It was hosted by one of the battalion command sergeants major (CSM)--and the only female CSM in the entire brigade.  What was cool was that we all got to attend this shindig in civilian attire, so it was much like having a day off.  And we sat through a series of lectures for the entire day; addressing issues like women's health, sexual assault awareness, women & finances, etc.  It was just a great day...to be out of the office, in comfy clothes, and amongst all the women in my unit.  I loved it!

2.  When I got home from work today, I couldn't be more happy.  All the weeds turned weed bushes were completely pulled from my front yard.  I'd hired a nice guy to come and work on them all day for me.  Can you believe he'd quoted me $30 to do it?  I insisted on paying him more...and I did.  I seriously wish that I had taken a "before" picture because it was REALLY bad.  Now, the front yard is weed free! Yippee!

3.  As we speak, I have the first batch of Vaiosina's laundry in the washer.  I know I'm just over 30 weeks, but I really don't think that's too early to start washing my little baby's clothes...just to be ready.  Not only am I washing some of her outfits (just the 0-3 month sizes for now), I'm washing her linens and blankets. 

4.  Speaking of blankets...you know those fluffy, soft baby blankets?  Well, we amassed about 15 of them--and all are so cute--at the baby shower.  That's how many we're washing.  And that's not counting the blankets that were handmade.  I mean, will we actually need that many?

5.  Two of my best friends are coming into town for the Memorial Day weekend and I absolutely cannot wait!  That's why I'm doing so much cleaning these days!  Gotta get ready!

6.  Speaking of this weekend...I'm taking my friends to the Southern New Mexico Wine Festival.  I know you guys saw my last wine festival post not too long ago.  Since I cannot drink...I'm definitely going to be eating.  A LOT!  And stocking up on my post-delivery wine collection while I'm at it.

7.  I just got the coolest pair of Crocs flip flops and oh my goodness, are they the most comfy for my swollen, aching feet! 

8.  I am exhausted and am contemplating whether or not I should put away all the laundry I have laying out on my dining room table or to put them off until tomorrow. 

9.  I really want to get one of those Shark steam floor cleaners, but am wondering if they're really worth it...or if I should just stick with my trusty ol' Swiffer. This house is mostly tile and the floors are just filthy.  I'd like to get them cleaned up before my BFFs come.  Does anyone out there have a Shark?  If so, are they worth it?

10.  I can't tell you how excited I am that this is a short week.  I'm sooooooooooooo ready for the weekend!

Anyhoo, have a happy Hump Day everyone!  Til' next time...

Ten on Tuesday

1. Honestly, today I didn't realize that it was Tuesday until about half way through the day. I wanted it to be Wednesday so bad. Heck, really want it to be Friday. I guess that's what I get for not blogging yesterday. I totally messed up my flow!

2. As I'm sitting here doing this, Lucy is sprawled out next to me and she's got bad gas! Peeeeee-yew! I'm sorry I'm putting your business out like that, baby girl.

3. I'm not doing so well with my 40-hour work weeks. Now that I've hit my 7th month, I'm supposed to be following an 8-hour work day schedule. So really, I'm supposed to leave work by 5 if I get to work at 9. I didn't know that the hour for lunch counts too. But it's been four days since I hit 28 weeks and I haven't gotten home earlier than 6:30. It's my fault though.

4. Lucy and I have made new walking friends at the park. We see Aracely and her 4 year old daughter, Isabella, pretty much every night. Lucy loves playing with Isabella. They like to run off together. It's just great to see that Lucy loves playing with little girls. Maybe a glimpse of what to expect when Vaiosina is that age.

5. Aracely was sweet enough to give me two pairs of Old Navy maternity cargo pants--one khaki and one green--that she's not using anymore. They fit so well and are so comfy! I'm stoked. I was going to buy some this weekend, but no need for that anymore. I love having sweet new friends!

6. I got the phone call from the hospital about my 3-hour glucose test lab results. Everything is NORMAL! And thank the Lord. If those people were going to tell me to lay off the sugar, I just might have gone off the deep end!

7. I'm at that point in my pregnancy where my baby is jumping on my bladder like it's a trampoline or something. I have to pee literally every two minutes. I mean, I was totally expecting this to happen, but geez, it's annoying.

8. My friends Chrissy and Melody are going to be here for Memorial Day Weekend and I cannot wait! I haven't seen Melody since the end of 2006. I'm so stoked. I'll tell you guys more about them in the weeks to come.

9. Congratulations to my little brother, Jon, and his fiance, Jolene! They are officially new homeowners and I am so happy for them! Yay! Now, if they would just get married already! Seriously, they've been together for over 10 years! I love you guys.

10. One of these days, I'm going to attempt to put together the glider I purchased for the nursery last weekend. I am so pumped about it. It was the best model they had at Babies 'R Us, and regularly priced for $499.99. I had about $175 worth of gift cards left over from the baby shower and they just happened to have 20% off furniture that day. So I got it for more than 50% off!

Anyway, the weekend can't come soon enough. It's only day two of the week and my body doesn't seem to want to take any more. Is that bad? Well, gotta go. J-Lo is on the George Lopez Show and I wanna see!

Ten on Tuesday

1. OMG, I just saw the preview for the new Robin Hood movie, starring Russell Crowe. Robin Hood was my favorite movie in high school...the one with Kevin Costner. I'm so excited to see this version. And Russell Crowe looks the best that he's looked since The Gladiator--same haircut and all. Nice!

2. I felt better going in to work today and I have to say that it's because of this stuff the OB gave me yesterday for my sinuses. It's a sinus rinse made by NeilMed Pharmaceuticals and is basically a nasal irrigation system that cleans out all the "yuck" in your sinuses. Having chronic sinusitis, it would have been nice to know about this years ago. The way you use the system is kinda weird. You shoot the saline solution up one nostril and have it drain out the other nostril and though your mouth. Then switch nostrils. But the relief you feel afterwards--is unbelievable.

3. Continuing on with our "hole in the wall" ladies' lunches....my co-worker girlfriends and I went to Rosco's at the suggestion of our friend, Maddie, who couldn't go with us today because her hubby just returned from his deployment! Yay Maddie! Anyway, this place was in another run-down part of town, but they serve the most delicious hamburgers ever! The place is so dingy looking outside, but it was jam-packed and we were barely able to grab ourselves a table. I should have taken a picture of my burger, but didn't have my camera on hand. I had a cheeseburger and fries with chili on the side. To die for!

4. Remember how I blogged about my friend Chrissy meeting Jack Johnson the other day? Well, the next day after she had sobered up...she told me that she did meet Jack Johnson, but not the one I spoke of. Just another singer who had the same name. What are the odds? So funny. I'm somehow knew it was too good to be true! Now I don't feel so bad about missing that night.

5. I sent flip flops out to my Flip Flop Swap partner, Summer, yesterday. This event was hosted by Kimberly and was such a fun idea. I hope she likes what I got her, as she likes the bling-blingy kinds of slippers. I can't wait for her to post about them when she gets the package. You guys should check out both these ladies' blogs. They're great!

6. OMG...I'm up to 80 followers now. How cool is that? As promised, I will be doing a giveaway, I'm just thinking of ideas. Thanks to everyone for becoming followers. It means so much to me.

7. Speaking of giveaways, I've entered so many the last few weeks and I have yet to win. I never have that kind of luck!

8. Can you believe that I start my third trimester on Thursday? This means I technically start my 8-hour work days. Let's see if I can actually pull this off. I haven't had 8 hour work days since I've been in the Army. But if I don't actually start doing it sometime soon, I'm going to wear myself out. We don't want that to happen. Wish me luck, guys!

9. Malu sent me a just-because-I-Love-You email yesterday. What great timing. I got it while I was home on quarters. He somehow always seems to know when I need to be loved on! I love you baby.

10. Lucy just wanted to people-watch on our evening walk tonight. She just plopped down in the middle of the grassy field and watched all the other walkers pass her by. It was so cute. When we do walk, she walks about 10-15 feet in front of me and looks back every 5 or so paces to make sure that I'm there. Either that, or she's making sure I don't pass out. Gosh, I can't wait until Malu comes home so he can play and run around with her. She's been getting jipped by mommy! Sorry Lucy!

And that's it you guys. Hope you have a great hump day tomorrow!

Ten on Tuesday

Wow! What a day! It started out great, got kinda crazy, and then ended up okay again. I am exhausted, but happy to share the details with you guys.

1. Did our weekly ladies lunch at Chili's today. Yummy! We usually do it on Wednesdays, but today we had a special guest join us--our brigade commander's wife, Christina. And it was tons of fun. We had a total of 13 gals come. It was so great and we had sooooooooooo much food. Chili's has this $9.99 appetizer and main dish combo, so everyone got to share appetizers. I had the Southwestern eggrolls...my favorite. And a quesadilla explosion salad--also a fave. We didn't get dessert.....

2. ...at Chili's because some of us were pressed for time and had to get back to work. Conveniently for us, there was a McDonald's right next door and three of us--Leah, Laura and I--went to get some cold treats. I had an ice cream sundae, Leah had a cone and Laura had a fruit smoothie. All three of us are pregnant--Leah 7 1/2 months, Laura--3 months and me--6 months. Of course it would only be the pregnant chicks that would still make room for dessert. That was delicious too.

3. Left work early to take care of the Jeep. Last weekend, somehow the car wash (or perhaps even the car washers) did something to it because ever since the car emerged from the drive thru car wash, the programmable (computerized) keys haven't worked. The dashboard said "damaged key" every time I put the key in and the car wouldn't start. Somehow that day, I was able to get the car to start after a few minutes and bring it home. But I couldn't get any of my keys to work the entire week.

4. So today, I had to had the Jeep towed to the Jeep Dealership where they would re-program the keys. Those guys at the dealership were expecting me too. So I had the tow-guy drive me over with the Jeep to the dealership. But when we got there (around 4:30), the dummy who works at the service department says, "um, ma'am, our service guys went home at 4:00. your car won't get seen until tomorrow morning." I was like, "what?!?!, no freakin' way" because I basically had no ride from there.

5. After calling a few people and not getting any answers, I got a hold of Auntie Daisy, who was in the middle of dying her hair. She wasn't going to be able to pick me up for another 45 minutes. So I was like, fine, I'll just walk down the street to see if there are any stores I could just shop around in.

6. There was nothing down the street--at all. After walking about a mile in the heat (and it was H-O-T! I'm glad I had changed out of my uniform before taking the Jeep), I settled for a place called Incredible Pizza, which is like a glorified Chuck-e-Cheese. Because honestly, all I wanted was a cup of water. I was so tired and thirsty. I was such an idiot to do such a thing.

7. A few minutes after I'd settled in there and had a few bites to eat from the pizza buffet (I mean, why not eat while I wait, right?), my friend Jennifer calls. I tell her the story and she comes to get me in a hurry. She is closer than my Auntie Daisy after all. So I tell Auntie Daisy not to come to get me anymore and minutes later, Jennifer comes to the rescue.

8. She proceeds to scold me all the way to her sons' daycare, where we picked them up. "You're can't do everything by yourself anymore," Jennifer says. "Stop trying to be superwoman," she says. My friend Melissa called, after seeing that I had called her earlier, and she starts to scold me for walking alone in that area (which, by the way, was just off of I-10). It gave me a good laugh, but they are right. Sometimes I just need to ask for help and they are such great friends for caring. But Jennifer also said she's going to put a GPS tracker on me. Now that's funny!

9. But the day ended on a good note. Since I was hanging with Jennifer anyway, I got to go to Dominic's t-ball practice. All of those little kids were so adorable and Dominic was such a good sport all the way through. I got a few good pics! I can't wait to go to a few games myself one day!

10. And now I'm home and lounging on my couch, exhausted. Even too tired to eat anything. What a day, huh?

Enjoy the rest of Tuesday you guys! Is anyone else thinking that my life seems to be shrouded with crises lately?

Ten on Tuesday

1. It's 10:00 p.m. and I'm up doing my Ten on Tuesday. How convenient!

2. I'm this late because I was at Auntie Daisy's house doing my laundry. Why don't I have my own washer and dryer at my house? Because I haven't made the time or dedicated the energy to go and look for one. That's why. Pure laziness! But I fully intend to go before the baby is born. I'm going to need them badly when she gets here. For the record, we do have a washer and dryer, but left them for the renters at our house in Colorado. Big mistake.

3. Speaking of the house being rented in Colorado, our property manager emailed me pictures of this nasty white mold looking stuff that has infested our back yard. Do I have any green thumb folks out there? Can you tell me what this stuff is? It's ruining our yard! Thankfully, I have a wonderful property manager and she's investingating the issue as we speak.

4. I have to get up early tomorrow for an 8:00 meeting at the University of Texas El Paso. I have to meet up with the ROTC folks over there just to scope out the area and get to know the staff there. My boss is going to be their guest speaker at next month's commissioning ceremony. I only mention this because UTEP just happens to be close to the place that I buy those magnificent strawberry, banana and Nutella-filled crepes I've mentioned a time or two on this blog. Yum! I may have to stop by.

5. My mom says I need to stop eating all this junk food, which should totally make me want to nix #4. But mom's not here...and, well, the baby wants it ;) She just wants me to stay healthy for the baby. But gosh, cravings are cravings sometimes and can't a girl just have a crepe? Mom, after the crepe, that's it. I'm back to fruits and veggies ONLY!

6. I mentioned yesterday that my friend, Chrissy, is coming this weekend. Have I cleaned this house yet? Umm...no.

7. It's official...I'm being put on orders to report to Stuttgart, Germany in January 2011. When I asked Malu about the assignment, he told me to jump on it. My assignments guy is helping me get Malu a job over there as well so that we can finally be together. I hope this works out. It would suck to have to be there by ourselves (the baby and I). But Malu said he'd get to me no matter what. I believe him. He has a way of making the most impossible things possible.

8. Stuttgart is in Southern Germany and here is the city website. I can't tell you how excited I am about going there! http://www.stuttgart-tourist.de/index_ENG.htm

9. My parents won't be too excited about this assignment. If they're reading this now, they're probably freaking out because I haven't called them with the news yet. Sorry mom and dad. And don't freak out...yet. We still have a while.

10. I've only completed and mailed out about a quarter of the Thank You notes for the baby shower. Forgive me folks! I'm working on it!

As always, I'm sleepy and totally ready for bed. This baby is kicking me right now and telling me she's ready too. Good night everyone!

P.S. OMG...my work Blackberry just went off. Who is emailing me at this hour? Why am I acting like this doesn't happen all the time? Love the Army, I tell you.

Ten on Tuesday

Better late than never! It sucks because during the week I always have to wait until I get out of work to come home and get on my blog. Only when I have quick breaks at work do I actually get on blogger, but when I do, I'm checking out everyone else's blogs and leaving comments! It's one of my secret work indulgences. Well, it used to be secret. I hope none of my co-workers are reading this! Anyway, by the time I get home and get settled down, it's just about this late--around 9:45. But I'm trying to do this on a daily basis! So here goes.

1. I just got back from Jennifer's house. After I got off from work, I went to her house to work on the centerpieces for the baby shower. Remember that lady bug pot I made at Michaels a few weekends ago? Well, we painted and dotted about 20 flower pots tonight. What a great help Jennifer is. And I pay for her labor in food. We had chinese take out for dinner. I had beef with broccoli and shrimp fried rice. Yum-o! Thanks Jenn for always being great company and a great help!

2. I can't believe the baby shower is this weekend. I pretty much told my shop at work that I'm in weekend mode and my great mood cannot be spoiled this week! I'm so excited for this baby shower, but I'm also trying not to get so stressed out about it. My family back home is doing most of the leg work, but I wanted to do all the decorations and even that is tiring me out. I wanted to do so much more originally, but really, it's just me and I really don't want to kill myself trying to do that much. So I've narrowed the decorations down to a few things. I'll definitely take pictures for you guys.

3. Also on the baby shower...there will still be tons of people attending. My mom has chosen to break tradition and invite whole families (guys, gals and kids) to this shin dig. Whatever. Sometimes I just have to let my mom go and do her thing. It makes her happy. But really? Should baby showers have a dee-jay and music? Oh, mine sure will. Filipinos. Gotta love 'em. Speaking of DJ's, some hot stud used to do it for the Filipino American community when we were stationed in Colorado. My mom pretty much made him do it. But he loved it and he got paid! It didn't take much coercion on mom's part.

4. It was soooooo hot today. Must have been in the high 70s, low 80s. I'm usually out and about around our work area, but today, I stayed in most of the time and when I did venture out, I broke out in a sweat every time. Gross. Heck, even Chester refused to go outside today even for a short walk and stayed sprawled out on the Colonel's office floor. Smart doggie.

5. I tried a cool recipe that Malu's Auntie Jewel sent me months ago for a Minute Chocolate Mug Cake. Now you can have chocolate cake at your disposal within minutes and with just a few items that you most likely have in your pantry/fridge already. It's so easy and ready in a jiffy. It was delicious. Especially when topped with vanilla ice cream. Oh yeah!

I got the idea of collecting the Starbucks City Mugs from a close family friend and I've really gotten some cool ones like this one from Beijing. My sister in law, Lulu, got it for me when she went to the Beijing Olympics last year. And when I say she was at the Olympics, I mean she actually competed. In Judo. Yeah, I'll have to save that for another post too. But here is the recipe:

4 Tbsp Flour

4 Tbsp Sugar

2 Tbsp Cocoa

1 egg

3 Tbsp milk

3 Tbsp oil

3 Tbsp chocolate chips (optional)

Small splash of vanilla

1 large coffee mug

Add dry ingredients to mug and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well. Add the chocolate chips and vanilla extract and mix again. Put the mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts (high). The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed. Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired. EAT!

With the cravings I've been having lately, this recipe will prove to be DANGEROUS!!!

6. Although I'm excited about going home this weekend, I am NOT looking forward to the drive. Auntie Daisy will be doing most of the driving but 9 hours is a long time!

7. Who knew that picking a baby name would prove to be so difficult? It turns out that Malu and I have decided to change our lil' bug's name. I'm still kind of butt hurt about it, but we have been offered a reasonable alternative, and I have to wait until Malu talks to his mom about it. I'll be posting about that story soon too.

8. I just found out today that Stephenie Meyer, author of the Twilight series, has written another book that is somewhat of a complement to the Eclipse book. I think it's going to be out in June. I'm definitely getting it.

9. On my way to work this morning, I'd heard on the radio that over 60% of married men and women share this. The answer? Hobbies. At first, I thought, hmmm...I don't think Malu and I have any hobbies in common. But after a few minutes I was like, oh yeah! We both like to sing, sing well, and sing well together. Especially when we sing to him playing the guitar. Malu also taught me how to fish (one of his hobbies) and I absolutely love it. We've had so many great times on fishing trips. This is a picture of my first catch. It was taken at Fort Rucker, AL in 2007. Malu was stationed there at the time. I wasn't too successful learning one of Malu's other hobbies--golfing. Yeah, let's not go there.

What hobbies do you share with your spouse or significant other?

10. I was able to talk to Malu yesterday so that was two days in a row. He tried calling me today, but I'd missed the call and instead got a voicemail. It really has been a good week so far!

And there you have it! I liked doing this one. It allowed me to stroll down memory lane for a little while. Good night all!

Ten on Tuesday: Family Visit

This week, I'm tying my Ten on Tuesday with my family's visit to El Paso. My mom, dad and sister arrived on Saturday afternoon and needless to say, I've been enjoying having them here. They even brought my Auntie Helen along with them. In case you ever wonder...I have tons of Aunties and Uncles, most of which aren't blood relatives, but really close family friends. It's a Filipino thing. It's also a Samoan thing. Everyone is considered family. Once again, I digress.

1. Regretfully, since I've been working the past two days, the most time I spent with them was over the weekend. When they arrived on late Saturday afternoon, we had dinner at my Auntie Daisy's house. We had barbecue and some of our favorite Filipino foods. Yum!


2. On Sunday morning, we all hit up the Corner Bakery. I've only ever been to this restaurant in El Paso, but if you've never been, it's almost like a Panera Bread. It's great. My parents fell in love with the place on their last visit, and they wanted to go again. Of course, after we got our cups of joe and each had a good fill of baked french toast and fresh fruit, we just had to take a good picture outside the place. And for those of you who keep commenting (mostly on Facebook) that I don't look pregnant...well, here's the evidence. Yeah...I'm totally blimping up.

Roz, Me and Mom

3. After that, we hit up the outlet mall just to go and ooh and ahh at all the cute baby clothes on sale at Carter's, Gymboree, and the like. And it was a gorgeous day to be out, walking off the zillions of calories we had consumed at the Corner Bakery. Of course that didn't stop us from chomping on some good fudgy treats from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. I seriously had no shame as I stood in line to pay for my little bag of chocolate covered gummy bears, chocolate covered marshmallows on a stick, chocolate covered strawberries on a stick, and a chopped rocky road caramel apple. YES...I shared!

4. Auntie Daisy's son, Jack, just happened to have a charity gig with his band that afternoon at a local biker bar called Muggs. He is 18 years old and is one of the guitarists for a local, classic rock band (of which it's members are my parents age). We had a great time listening to the band perform while also supporting a fundraiser to benefit the Children's Miracle Network. The place was a biker bar, so naturally, there were tons of motorcycles there. Here's my daddy wishing he could ride a bike, let alone have one.

Dad, Jack, Mom, Roz, Me and Auntie Helen







5. They had some good food out there...typical fundraiser food--burgers and hot dogs. So we chowed down on those while listening to the band.

Dad, Roz, Me & Auntie Helen





6. Thank goodness for Auntie Daisy. With me working, she has to pick up hostess duty and take everyone around. While I was at work yesterday, she took my mom and sister, Roz, to the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. I don't have any pictures of their visit there, but the place is amazing if you've never been. They even had a chance to go sand sledding out there. I'm so glad they had such a good time.

7. Since my dad was stationed here a while back and had visited me twice last year, he knows the place very well. Instead of going around with mom and Roz, he likes to stay home with the dogs. They brought their furbabies, Rusty and Misty, with them and they're best buds with my Lucy girl. They've been getting their fair share of walks all day long. And I have to admit, that it's nice to go to work and not have to worry about Lucy being on her lonesome.

8. My mom, dad and Roz have been such a good help with helping me get the rest of the house unpacked. My mom is hell bent on emptying out the soon-to-be nursery so that I can get it started. She unpacked all of our books last night--and there are a lot of books!

9. While I was out at work today, mom and Roz went downtown for some shopping. My mom went crazy shopping out there the last time she visited that she couldn't wait to go again. They came back tonight with bags full of goodies.

10. Gosh, I almost forgot to mention that my mom came with me to my follow-up OB appointment yesterday and although it was a quick visit and the nurse told me that everything is normal and fine, she got to hear the baby's heartbeat and she was so excited. She was so happy and giggly the entire time, you would think she is having the baby. It is her first grandbaby, after all. I love her and am so happy that she could share that moment with me.

I always love to have my family visit. They're my best friends and there's a kind of peace and comfort that comes with just having them here. With Malu gone and me doing this pregnancy gig and enduring all the stress that comes with all those things and doing my job, it's such a relief to know that they are home waiting for me....with a good, homecooked meal every night!

Ten on Tuesday

Yay! Another Ten on Tuesday! Why waste time? Let's get to it!

1. I was sad to find out that my boss was put on quarters today and was all percocet'd up on his couch. But I was happy that this meant he was NOT IN THE OFFICE. Well, everyone was. He's such a great boss and I love him, but it was nice to have a little freedom today. All the girls thought it perfect to have another girls' lunch today (even though we went yesterday). We went to Texas Land and Cattle. I had fish tacos (I know, no steak) and they were delish!


2. I also got to go home a little after 5:00 pm today! Which means I got to come home early enough to take Lucy out on a walk. It was such a gorgeous day today too--sun out and no wind. It was still in the 70s when I took Lucy out.


3. Poor Lucy, though, she was limping again when we started walking at the park down the street. After she had done her "business" she and I just laid out on the grass and enjoyed the sunlight. My poor baby, she's experiencing some early arthritis.


4. As such, I took her to the pet store to get some glucosamine chondroitin vitamins. Since Lucy hates the sight of Pet Smart (she gets anxious every time and it was my fault--her very first visit as a puppy to that store was to the groomer and she was terrified. she has hated the place ever since). So I thought I'd try to psyche her out by taking her to the "Pet Barn" instead. And it seemed okay for a few minutes but after about four or five good sniffs she realized where she was and practically pulled me all the way outside the store. At least I was able to get the vitamins before she did.


5. My sister, mom and dad are going to be here on Saturday and I can't wait. I told my mom to pack my dad some gardening clothes and gloves. Tons of tumbleweed has amassed in my backyard from all these windy days and I need him to get rid of them!


6. I'm totally craving some ice cream right now. I'd be happy with the 50 cent soft serve cone from Mickey D's!


7. I'm trying to grow my hair out, but hate this in-between phase where its long enough to be in my face all the time (and extremely annoying, especially when it's all staticky) but too short to be put up in a pony tail. I've had my hair short for so long and I personally think I look better in it. I want to do something different, yet every time I see a cute short hairstyle somewhere in town, I always want to chop my hair off!


8. I was finally able to download some pictures of the 4D ultrasound off the disc the imaging place gave me. This is my favorite and the one that I framed for Malu and sent to him in Iraq. Doesn't she look like she's just loungin' out? So cute. My friend, Joy, said that our girl looks like she's going to be muscular. Funny. Baby Sala was 19 weeks in this picture.





9. My stomach is growling. My lil' bug is trying to tell me she's hungry. But I don't want to eat anything I have in this house. What to do?

10. The New Moon DVD comes out this weekend. Now I'm thinking I should have put one on reserve. While we're on the topic of Twilight, I saw the Eclipse trailer the other day and just about died. I can't wait to see the movie in June!

Happy Tuesday Everyone!

Ten on Tuesday

Another Tuesday--which means another Ten! Man, I've been cutting it close on making my daily posts. These long work days are killing me and it's funny because my schedule has been like this all of my Army career. Man, my lil' bug is cramping my style. But that's okay. I love her anyway.

1. My friend, Jennifer, had me stop by her house on my way home tonight. She wanted to share her chocolate covered strawberries and pineapple with me and had some cake leftover for me. Tonight, her family celebrated her sister, Lexi's, acceptance onto her high school varsity cheerleading squad. I've become very close to Jennifer's entire family since I've been in El Paso, so the good news brightened my day. Go Lexi!



Me, Jennifer and Lexi at the Texas vs. The Nation Game

2. I brought Lucy to Auntie Daisy's house today since she seemed so terrified to be stuck in the house the other day with the winds blowing like crazy. I went to pick her up around 6:00 p.m. this evening, but still had to go back to the office. She met my boss and we walked around the brigade area for a while so I didn't have to walk around the neighborhood here and risk seeing Wile E. Coyote again. And oh my gosh, it was windy as hell. After all, it is windy season. But man, it's so bad and makes it so much more cold outside.
   
3. Speaking of windy days, there are man-sized tumbleweeds blowing every which way out there. Lucy and I almost got taken out by a few of them last night while we waited for Jennifer and Auntie Daisy to come and rescue us during our "lock out". I spend half my time on the road trying to dodge those suckers. It's sometimes scary.
   
4. My mom received the baby shower invitations that I had shipped to her on rush order. They actually got to her three days ahead of schedule and she's probably addressing and stamping them as we speak. We're all so excited. The invitation has lady bugs on it, which is the baby shower theme (as well as my lil' bug's nursery theme). I'll have to save all the lady bug stuff for another post because I'm totally lady buggin' out these days.
   
5. Every time I make posts to my blog, I cut and paste them into emails to Malu since he can't view it on his work computer nor does he have his personal computer set up in the tent that he shares with a zillion other people. Today, he mentioned that he enjoyed reading my "lock out" post from last night. Then, he just randomly mentioned that on his last night here in El Paso with me, he had recorded me sleeping on his camera and that he watches it pretty much every night before he goes to bed. He said it sometimes makes him sad--that he wish he could be with me. I never knew he did that. Then again, I'm not surprised. When we lived apart here in the states, we used to keep the phones on while we went to sleep at night. Yeah, we're cheesy like that.
   

   

   Another M&M Flashback
   

6. Lucy Girl (that is Malu's nickname for her) is due for her rabies shot. I tried to schedule an appointment with the Fort Bliss Vet Clinic, but they don't have any openings until the 18th! Gosh, is this post backed up on animal appointments too? I guess so! Anyway, yesterday, I decided against waiting and went to the clinic to pull her records. Instead, she and I will be visiting an off-post clinic this Saturday which is perfect because I won't have to leave work to take her. My sweet baby...she is on the floor right now, conked out, and snoring. I love her!



Lucy during one of our weekend walks




7. Over the weekend, I got a membership to Costco. Oh my gosh, I just went nuts in there. Probably because I didn't have anything to eat before I went and bought just about everything that looked appetizing to me. Among the economy sized goodies I got were: a box full of sliced fresh mangoes, cranberry-macadamia nut cereal, fruit roll-ups and veggie chips. I have the feeling I'm going to be at Costco all the time!
   
8. Thanks to Friday Follow, I'm up 23 more followers in just a week. And it's amazing how many cool people I've met through it. Now, I'm 11 people away from hitting the 50 mark...which means I'll really get to do my first giveaway soon. I've been spending some of my hours-long meetings thinking about what I can giveaway. I promise it'll be good. I think I should do some research on how to actually do it right. I've been entering other people's giveaways left and right, and it seems easy, but I don't want to take a chance on screwing it up.
   
9. Oh, I can't wait until the weekend. I have NOTHING planned, which is just perfect for me because I just want to sleep right through it. Since I'm so tired now, I really can't picture doing anything else. Oh bed...I want you!
   
10. I have an appointment in the morning to do some testing. I have to have my blood drawn to see if the baby tests for any abnormalities, cystic fibrosis, etc. Wish me luck!

And that's it, folks. Gosh, it took a lot of energy to get through that one. Until next time! And thank goodness for hump day--the week's halfway over!

Ten on Tuesday

It's late, and I'm tired as hell, but I didn't want to miss out on blogging tonight. So here goes:

1. Some of you might have seen this on my Facebook page already, but I went to the hospital for my ultrasound last night at around 11:45. I was actually seen about ten minutes early. I wasn't prepared to lay there for about half and hour though. It was tormenting, to say the least. The technician made all kinds of funny faces as she moved that wand around my tummy. It made me wonder if she was seeing something weird or something wrong altogether. As it turns out, one of the problems was that she was having a hard time seeing the little peanut. So she had me flipping and turning over in both directions and even tipped the bed over so that my head was lower than the rest of my body (I was laying diagonal). The other thing was that the little peanut (obviously as unhappy as mommy to be up at the wee hours of the morning--because it was past midnight by this time) had its arms and legs flailing up and down and everywhere that it was hard for the technician to get a clear picture. All in all, she was only able to tell me that she thinks that we're having a GIRL. She couldn't see a little wee-wee anywhere, even after we'd looked at the little peanut from it's rear end (legs dangling and all). But she said that she couldn't say with 100% certainty because it was so small and hyperactive at the moment. Just my darn luck. I have pictures, but don't have a scanner set up yet. Plus, I'm not really wanting to post them. They look kinda scary.
   
2. Because she couldn't tell me with 100% certainty that it's a girl, I finally broke down and scheduled a 3D/4D baby screening this Thursday afternoon with a place downtown. Why? Because I need to know. And I need to make baby shower invitations. It's a little over three weeks away. Yikes! It's pretty cool though. It's only $100 to have it done and they put everything on a disc, so I'll be able to send a copy to Malu.
   
3. Speaking of Malu, I emailed him as soon as I got home (which was after 1:00 am), to let him know that he may be having a little princess after all. Remember in my previous post how he remarked that it didn't matter what we were having as long as the baby is healthy? Well, this was his response: "What great news, sweetheart. But I won't believe it until they're 100% sure. Not that I don't want a girl first or anything...you know me, I just like to know for certain." Man, he cracks me up. So much for the sex of the baby not mattering :) It was just like how for years he'd been telling me that he didn't care about me having my hair cut really short. That it didn't matter how I wore it. Then all of a sudden, out of the blue, it's hey, why don't you ever grow your hair out? Men! But then, at the end of the email, he said this: "The thought of having a little princess is absolutely breathtaking. I guess she's just going to have to be a tom-boy for a few years until mommy gets a boy in about two years ;) I'm sooo excited to come home to you my darling. I love you with all my heart and soul.I was there with you all along my love, I hope you felt it." I couldn't give him too hard a time after that. I love you baby.

   Flashback Photo of Malu and Lucy
   

4. A few days ago, Tori of Tori and Chad, another cool new blog that I follow, gave me the Honest Scrap award, which is the first award I've received on our family blog. I've received some on my cooking blog (which has kinda been on hold for a while). I am so stoked. Part of accepting this award means writing 1o things about myself that other people don't know. Well, I'm too lazy to do that right now. So I'm saving that post for another day. I'll also get to pass it on to a few folks, so beware...you guys might see something from me soon! Thanks Tori for the recognition!
   
5. I've entered a few blog giveaways in the last couple weeks that I'm hoping I win at least something--which hardly ever happens. I just don't have that kind of luck. But if you have a chance, go on over to A Yummy Mummy on a Pink Park Bench to enter to win a Sony E-Reader. Last day is on the 5th! I also entered to win a "Keep Calm" print off of Lovely Yellow Ribbons' blog, which is also very cool! Last day to enter is March 7th. She has some other giveaways too, so check it out. Speaking of giveaways, I eventually want to do one myself one of these days. If I get more than 50 followers, I swear I will. I have the feeling it'll be a while!
   
6. My parents and sister will be here in just under 3 weeks! I'm so stoked. I'm so excited to have company. What's cooler is that our brigade headquarters will have a field exercise the week that they are here. Since I don't get to go to the field with them (one of the perks of being preggo in the military), I just might be able to get home at a decent hour every day to spend time with them. But when I'm at work...they'll be sightseeing with my Auntie Daisy. So it'll all work out pretty well.
   
7. I'm totally craving some Krispy Kremes right now. I might have to make a stop in the morning before going to work. Totally.
   
8. I stayed late at work because I had to go to Care Team training for the unit from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. I had already been tired from lack of sleep last night, worked all day, then had to walk into this training. I am drained. This training is designed to train volunteers to be part of a team that provides emotional and logistical support to family members of fallen or wounded Soldiers. When I think about how important this training is, it makes me feel guilty for sitting there being miserable and constantly thinking about wanting to go home. Not to mention, I probably wasn't the only one who had been working all day. Sometimes I don't realize how selfish I can be.
   
9. My boss let me leave work at 5:00 to go home and let Lucy out. Otherwise, she would have been left at home from 7:30 this morning to past 9:00 tonight. I had driven halfway out of my neighborhood with her in the car (with the intent to drop her off at Auntie Daisy's on post) until I ran into my friend Jennifer who lives just down the road. Jennifer quickly volunteered to keep her for the night, which was so convenient because I was already running late at that point. I'm so thankful to her for doing that and for being such a great friend. She and her family have been so supportive throughout my redeployment and this pregnancy, that I am forever indebted. I keep bugging her about starting a blog soon. Let's hope she does so that you can meet her someday. Thanks Jenn!





Flashback Photo of Jenn & I

10. I can't wait to get into bed! Off I go!

So, Happy Tuesday you guys...even though we're an hour away from Wednesday!

Ten on Tuesday

1. What a busy day! I woke up at 0530 because I had a lot to do to prepare for my meetings. After walking Lucy and getting ready, I left the house at 0630. I'm not going to go into the details of every meeting I had today (there were too many and long as hell), but I left the office at 2030 (8:30 pm) and my boss and the Command Sergeant Major were still there when I left! Crazy. So I wish that I could write "tired" for every one of the ten things for today, but that wouldn't be any fun now, would it?


2. I'd given Malu my work number a while back because I don't get any reception where I work (thanks, AT&T!). Well, he finally used it and I was able to talk to him for at least a half hour today in my office. Thank goodness I just happened to be on a break at that time! It was so nice to hear his voice and to tell him more about how the baby's been doing. He seems a lot more homesick this time around and sometimes mentions that he shouldn't have deployed again, so soon. I can't help but be partially responsible. I mean, the main reason he left was because I asked him to. But what can you do, right? I miss him so much. Doing the pregnancy alone has been rough, but I am looking forward to him coming home when the baby is born!


3. Speaking of Malu, I need to get a St. Patrick's Day package going for him. I'm trying to send him packages once a month and February went very well! Hmmm....what should I get him this time? His favorites are dried mangoes, trail mix, beef jerky, tuna and candy. He's so fun and easy to prepare packages for!


4. Because I worked late, Lucy was stuck in the house for almost 15 hours. What's crazy is that this has been the norm for her ever since I got her in North Carolina 7 years ago. She was basically trained to hold her pee for more than 12 hours each day because her mom is such a workaholic. I had to take her for a walk as soon as I got back....in the cold...in the dark. It's kinda scary, but it's the least I can do for leaving my baby all alone, all day. I love her!


5. I ordered a necklace and some earrings at a jewelry party I went to a few weeks ago (it was hosted by one of my former co-worker's wives). Not sure if anyone's heard of jewelry by Premiere Designs, but they've got some cool stuff and I'm such a jewelry fan. It's sad because I didn't really need both earrings and a necklace, but why not support a friend, right? I wish I had a picture to show you, they're so fab!


6. I'm watching The Office right now. I LOVE this show! What a good way to unwind for the rest of the evening.


7. It snowed last night and we had about half an inch of snow this morning. Hey, that's a lot of snow for El Pasoans! I didn't see anyone outside scraping the snow off their cars like I did. Maybe it's because I'm the only one around here that actually carries a snow scraper in her car!


8. I joined the Fort Bliss Officer, Civilian, and Spouse Association because, well, I have friends that belong to the group and I do fall into two of the three categories of participants--officer and spouse! This group of ladies are mostly the wives of officers on Fort Bliss, but they're tons of fun. The first meeting I went to was a bingo luncheon and I was hooked! This weekend, we're holding a Spring Bazaar on Fort Bliss. I LOVE post bazaars! There will be crafts, baked goods, wines, and other food tastings. It's going to be great and I'm going to be volunteering! Fun, fun!


9. My taxes are just shy of being completely filed because my Auntie Daisy is waiting for me to provide me the last of the information that she needs on our rental property. But right now, she's telling me that we're due a hefty return. That's always great news! Of course, the first instinct is to save and invest, but man, I really, really, REALLY want a nice camera. Not the small digital kinds, but the ones you actually have to spend a pretty penny on. Won't it come in handy for when the baby is born? Now I'll have to pitch the idea to the hubby.


10. And on the pregnancy side of the house....my boobs are annoying. If they aren't hurting, they're itching and vice versa. It sucks, especially when you're in uniform all day in front of dudes, trying to hide the discomfort. I've pretty much assumed a new policy on this...which has pretty much been "Screw It!" and proceed to scratch/rub anyway. Gotta love it!

Ten on Tuesday

I told my friend, Melissa, that the Ten on Tuesdays thing is such a good idea. Seems like everyone is doing it these days! Thanks Melissa! Now, on to my ten...

1. I picked up my pregnancy ACUs (Army Combat Uniform) this afternoon! For once, the uniform gods have smiled down upon officers and have authorized us 2 free sets of these bad boys. Usually, these kinds of entitlements are only given to enlisted soldiers, but when I got to my unit I found out that officers can get them too--which is a great thing because a normal set of ACUs typically sets me back about $70. So that's almost $150 in savings! Anyway, when I got to the Central Issuing Facility on Fort Bliss, I was happily greeted by a gentleman who asked me what size I needed. I was like, huh? I wear medium-short in regular uniforms, but this list had the likes of 8S/8W/8L in both tops and bottoms. Huh? So after trying a few sets on...I ended up getting size 16S in both tops and bottoms. I don't know if I should feel good or bad about that, but I think they're cute. I won't wear the top until I get a little bigger, but I'm going to start wearing the pants. They have the elastic band along the waist and I am busting out of my old pants! Take a look...what do you think?

2. I LOVE World Market. It's my favorite home store. In fact, most of the stuff I own in my house is from that store. I love, love, love it. I've been searching far and wide for a good area rug for the dining room and I found it. It's just my style and goes with the orange and blue pillows that I have on our sectional.

3. Aside from the beautiful rug on the dining room floor...do you notice anything different about this room? Dude...all my kitchen stuff is gone! Don't know where I mustered the energy, but I did last night and got everything all prettied up and the dishes put away and organized. I'm starting to feel like my old self again.

4. Notice the cracks in the table? I also got this table at World Market. Imagine my dismay to see that, after removing this from storage, the table was starting to pull apart at the cracks. This is what I hate most about military moves. You can't really have any nice stuff because if you move a lot, like we have, things get ruined. But I've only had this table for a little over a year (and last displayed it in our Colorado house)...it's practically new. I can't see myself buying another dining room table for at least another couple of years.

5. I FINALLY got all of our tax documents together so that my Auntie Daisy (tax-filing extraordinaire!) can file our taxes! It was hard to do because I had to get Malu to pull his statements off of MyPay...the military online finance system. He's been so busy that he kept forgetting! Thanks baby!

6. Speaking of my Auntie Daisy, I can't say enough about how thankful I am that she is here in El Paso. She and her husband have taken such good care of me and I love them! She likes to check up on me at least daily and today, she called me to stop by to pick up some dinner at her house. It was so nice after a late night at work to pick up a nice, home-cooked meal. Thanks Auntie Daisy!

7. I start a seminar for work tomorrow that will last through the end of the week. We'll be learning about Afghanistan. Exciting. I just hope that I can stay awake through it.

8. My mom is going to see New Moon with my sister tonight. She'd read the book and has been dying to see the movie. I can't believe my mom's as much of a Twilight freak as my sister, my cousins and I.

9. I bought about five nightlights for the house. I've been having trouble sleeping because I get scared of being alone at night. Hence, I'm having a security system installed in this house over the weekend.

10. Can't wait, can't wait, can't wait for my doctor's appointment on Friday. If I find out what we're having, I'm going to get registered at Babies 'R Us, Target, and Burlington Coat Factory this weekend!