My Favorite Picture of all Time!

The funniest picture of Banner I ever took. This picture instantly gives me the giggles! Love it!

We're (hopefully) moving!

So... anyone who knows me - knows that I'm not a quitter. That being said... our no-spend month has gone out the window. WE BOUGHT A HOUSE! It is a foreclosure that needs some TLC. But we got it for an incredible price and our interest rate is 4 1/2. We are doing a conventional loan -- which means we are paying 10% down in cash from our savings and the loan is a 30 year and fixed. Ideally we wanted to do a 15 year loan but being young and first time homebuyers with no major assets... we were not permitted to do so. Regardless -- we are thanking the Lord that our mortgage will be low enough to hopefully get it paid off in less than 30 years. I am so proud of my little family. We had our pest inspection last week and they couldn't find any problems there. Also... our home inspection is this week and I'm excited to hear what needs work and what doesn't. The only real obstacles ahead of us are inspection and appraisal. But we're optimistic!

The inside is rather nice. You can tell the old owners put some money into it. The outside... *barf* needs paint BADLY and some major landscaping work. Looking forward to having a garden!!

So here's the specs. It's 1100 sq ft. Kind of small, but whatever -- it's the same size house I grew up in when I was a kid an it was perfect for us. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, good neighborhood and close to a huge park. The rooms are pretty good size -- considering the square footage of the whole house the builders used their space wisely. Overall it was an amazing deal for a California property in Dixon. We're thrilled! Currently our close date is set for Oct. 14th, but we have already filed for an extension just in case. Hoping we will be in our new home before Halloween.

So grateful to God for bringing us to this home. The entire process has been nearly stress free -- which I hear is never the case for most people. We are grateful to be working with a team of faithful Christians and we just that all of this has been so blessed. 2 years later and after bidding on 7 houses before this -- we finally (almost) have one!

So... that's the big news. Please continue to pray for us as we go through new and exciting experiences as a family.

Love,
Liz

Guess What?

We're having another baby!! Due May 14th. :) WOOHOOO!

Challenge: The No-Spend Month. [September]

Currently I am preparing for next month. Preparing my heart. Preparing my home. This morning while reading God's word I came across the passage, in Ecclesiastes 5:19. "Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work -- this is a gift of God". My heart started aching and thinking about how much God has blessed us. My husband has a job that he enjoys. I am able to only work a few hours a week at a daycare where I am blessed by kids and my co-workers... and better yet, I can bring my daughter to work with me... I don't have to leave her in someone else's care. How many other families have that blessing? I know this answer -- VERY few.

I should probably start by stating that we are not rich by America's standards. My husband works hard to provide for our family. We have a monthly budget, we rent a modest townhome, but we are generally pretty wise with our money. We have completed Dave Ramsey's Finanacial Peace University. We don't use credit cards. We have money in savings, some money invested, and a small savings account started for our daughter. But... this challenge isn't about money. It's about going without and enjoying what we have. It's about cutting out the distractions and it's about beating the desire to aquire.

I thought back to our time in India and it's hard to believe it's been nearly 2 years. The children there live so joyfully on practically nothing... I read once that America spends 20 BILLION dollars on ice cream a year. That's enough money to provide everyone in the world with clean water and food... doesnt' that just make you want to hang signs in the freezer isle of the grocery store? "ATTENTION SHOPPERS: Please be advised that we could irradicate world hunger and thirst by simply not buying ice cream this year and instead donating the amount we would spend to our brothers and sisters around the world. Thank you for considering the needs of others." WOW. Can you imagine? The Baskin Robbins in our town has "dollar scoop night" every Tuesday and half the town shows up. What a difference even one little Tuesday could make.

Anyway, I have gotten a little off-track. Back to the Haugen Family Challenge of a "no-spend" month. Realistically it's a "no spend except for the ABSOLUTE essentials month" challenge.

Where we live, it seems like we are constantly being confronted about things that will make our lives better, easier, more fun, whatever. Sometimes the products are helpful, but overall -- it's wasteful. That daily message to buy, have, and make things nicer never stops, it consumes our time, and it can make us not see what we already have.

We’ll take a break from trying to add more. The tight budget is for accountability.

Details:

We have a total budget of $250 to spend on anything we would buy for ourselves this month. Is that exteme? YES. However, we will rise to the challenge.

Included:

• Groceries & eating out
• Gas
  
• Clothing
• Household items
• Entertainment

Not included:

• Rent and bills
• Health expenses
• Work expenses
• Savings and investments
• Tithes and gifts

What we’re starting with:

I will have gas in my car and groceries, plus the food we normally have in the fridge and cabinets. Since we live in a townhouse, we don’t have an extra freezer to store more food or anything like that. We’ll be getting creative with some of the leftovers in the back of the cabinets, but primarily using this month’s budget for our food expenses.

What’s the point?

What’s the point of depriving ourselves? Shouldn’t we be able to enjoy life?

Yes, and that’s exactly why we are going to do it. When we take a break from spending, we learn to appreciate what we have. Dinners out become a special treat, our favorite foods are savored, and everytime we put gas in the car -- thankfullness should overwhelm us because even having the opportunity to do so is a blessing. We stop taking things for granted. (And let’s not forget all the money saved from not eating out or making impulse buys.) It's time to get creative.

So that's it. It's going to be a challenge and that's what we want. I'm excited to see what God reveals to us during this time. Should be interesting! Pray for us, if you think of it.

Love,
Liz

I love my Wayne!

Late Night Ramble

So for the past week [or so] I've had trouble sleeping... which is evident by the timing of this post. Yes, it is nearly 4 o'clock in the morning and my brain will not shut off.

Remember those little wind-up toys that looked like teeth with big red lips and would clack and hop all over the table? That's like my brain. It's clacking and hopping and if there was someone else up with me... I'm sure it would be talking. But there's not. So I'm blogging. [YAY.] {+10 extra rhyming points for the win. Yeeehaw.}



Anyway. Back to what's keeping me up. I've been thinking a lot about choices... and I've come to the conclusion that I like the ones I've made. Some I'm sure were a case of a little serendipidy... which I'll give God credit for those miracles, but over all... I'm quite satisfied with my picks of life. On the other hand... I'm amazed by how someone else's stupid/inconsiderate/idiotic/what.have.you choices can completely destroy someone elses. Philosophize that for a bit... and then you'll be in the same position I am... wide awake.

I guess it really all comes down to not letting yourself become the product of a single life experience [which is a subject that I have pondered and analyzed MANY times in my adult life]. There are so many people I know that live in this world of if-onlys, and remember whens. It's nice to look back on the past every now and then for a smile, or a quick cry... but if you can't move on... and the thing/person you keep looking back to becomes a drug and consumes your entirety ----- what a disservice you are doing to yourself, others, all. {tap your foot three times & sigh}.

I'd like to always be the kind of person that looks for signs of change. Not just in my own life, but in others -- because it's certain that they have changed... at least a little.

You know what drives me crazy?

When people tell me that they don't like someone that they haven't seen or talked to in years. You know, like they are the only person that has grown up or changed. There's this part of me (ok, it's my right hand) that just wants to slap them and then throw up all over their shoes. I mean really... are you that narrow and close minded to think that the only person in the universe who ever changes is you?

How silly some people are.

Life has its ebbs and flows and we learn to bend. Or at least we should... because when we don't give just a little, we break... and there's nothing worse than going from solid to broken so quickly.

Anywhooo, that's where I'm at tonight.

I love my daughter. I love my husband. I love our choices. I love our God. I love this blessed life.

Love,
Liz

Cloth Diapering: Favs, Q's & A's

A post about Cloth Diapering! Woooohoooo!

A short little review of my favorites so far. It's funny -- there are so many people who have so many questions. My friends who don't cloth diaper want to know why we switched. Others are curious about trying it. And then there's my fellow cloth diapering friends -- one thing I've learned is that moms who cloth diaper LOVE to talk about cloth diapering! There are so many options out there and it's a little overwhelming with how much info is online. We've officially been exclusively cloth diapering for 2 months and it's going great.

Here's why we switched: It's more eco-friendly, its cost efficient, and on top of Banner being allergic to the chemicals in Huggies & Pampers, there are lots of hidden dangers: cancer-causing chemicals, dangerous dyes, and synthetics that can cause discomforts like widespread rashes. The main reasons for rashes are due to chemicals, lack of air, and higher temperatures (because plastic retains body heat), and babies are probably changed less often because they feel dry when wet. There are also tons of synthetic materials used in creating the diaper itself which can cause skin irritations or worse.

As far as chemicals there are 3 major chemicals found in disposable diapers ("sposies"):

The first is called Sodium Polyacrylate. This chemical is what makes sposies so absorbent. Ever find little crystal looking gels on your baby's bottom after a diaper change? That's sodium polyacrylate. Not only can it cause severe allergic reactions, but it can absorb it's weight in water by 100x, it's also well known for causing staph infections. In animal testing, SP was injected into rats and caused severe hemorrhate, heart failure, and death. It has killed children after ingesting as little as 5 grams of it. And if you haven't already figured out that it was bad news... it was banned from tampons in 1985 because it was found to be linked to TSS (toxic shock syndrome).

The second chemical is called Dioxin. This chemical enters the diaper via the bleaching process. First and foremost, Dioxin is a carcinogenic. This is a proven CANCER CAUSING chemical. The EPA lists it as the most toxic of all cancer-linked chemicals. It's been known to cause birth defects, skin diseases, and has been banned in nearly all countries EXCEPT the good ol' USA.

Lastly, there is Tributyl Tin also known as TBT. It's toxic pollutant that has hormone-like effects in even small concentrations and is spread through the skin.

Don't believe me? You can happilly check my sources below!

SOURCES:

1. McConnell, Jane. "The Joy of Cloth Diapers."
2. Caldwell, Ginny. "Diapers. Disposable or Cotton?," Eco-Baby Catalogue (www.ecobaby.com).
3. "New Tests Confirm TBT Poison in Procter & Gamble's Pampers®: Greenpeace Demands World-Wide Ban of Organotins in All Products," 15 May 2000, ( www.diapersafari.com).
4. Allison, Cathy. "Disposable Diapers: Potential Health Hazards.," referring to: Hicks, R et al. "Characterization of toxicity involving hemorrhage and cardiovascular failure, caused by parenteral administration of a soluble polyacrylate in the rat," J Appl. Toxicol. 1989 June; 9(3): 191-8.
5. Peggy's Diapers, Slings N' Things, (www.peggysdiapers.com).
6. "Why Cloth Diapers?," (www.diapersafari.com).
7. "The Poop on Diapers.," (www.slonet.org/~scoward/poop.html).

Ok finally! I'm done preaching. Here's my list of favorites so far.

Favorite Pockets:

• BumGenius: They are one of the most popular for a reason. The organic/elemental line is wonderful (although not a pocket). They wash well, they are comfortable around my daughter chubby legs, they pull moisture away from Banner's bottom wonderfully and are so cute. I love how many snaps there are. This is a great OS "grows with baby" diaper.
• Happy Heinys: These are the workhorses of our Pockets. They absorb well and they dry so fast!! Since I prefer to sun my diapers rather than throw them in the dryer I really appreciate a speedy drying one. I just love these. They are great for the heavy wetter and are super adjustable since it’s on a hook & loop closure... plus they come in ADORABLE prints. Love, love, love.
• Charlie Banana: These are my husband’s favorites. They have adjustable leg gussets which is WONDERFUL. The micro fiber pads pull all moisture away from Banner's tooshie. They also come with 2 pocket soakers. We use both together for naps and overnights. They are ultra absorbant and we've never had a leak. Love all the snaps.

Favorite Hybrid:

• Flip: It’s my favorite simply because of the re-usability of the cover. You can use it with disposable liners, pre-folds or inserts and everything holds in its place.

Favorite Fitted:

• Green Scene: ADORABLE designs AND it's a super absorbent diaper. This diaper has duo inserts that can be snapped in. No extra stuffing needed for overnights or nap times. I love them.
• GoodMama: I love these. I need these. More, more, more. They are super pricey but are BEAUTIFUL. My only complaint is that you have to put a cover over them. They are so cute that you truly don't want to cover them up. Great diaper, but expensive -- although IMO it's worth it... they are just THAT cute.

Favorite Cover:

• Thirsties: Simple and functional. No leaks. :)
  
  So, that's it folks! There's my preachy diapering 101 information. Have a blessed day!
  
  Love,
  Liz

God's Majesty

If you have some time on your hands, you should really go over and check out my friend Kelli's Blog: Happily Ever After. She and I were never super close but I blame distance as that demominator.... however, her brothers Kris & Brandon were my best friends when I attended Harding University. Her family has always meant a lot to me and she has always been a person that I've looked up to in many ways, but her faith in the trials that she and her husband are facing has completely blown me away. In short, at full term in her pregnancy and during a routine ultrasound the doctors discovered that their daughter: Hanalei Faith, did not have a heartbeat anymore. She then had to deliver their daughter, and her husband and she said goodbye. They had a powerful moment while saying goodbye, a small funeral and are still healing.

Her words are beautiful and each time I read an entry I bawl my eyes out. I am amazed at her strength and vigor. I am encouraged by her dedication to the Lord. I feel so connected to her emotions and in turn, am mourning with her... despite the fact that my daughter is very much alive, and hers is waltzing in heaven with Jesus himself.

Her testimony is so beautiful. She is weaving the most beautiful life tapestry as an example for the rest of us. She is the dear reminder of how passionate we should all be about the ones we love, and to not take a day for granted. Her journey is not one that I would ever wish for anyone, but the way she has clung to our God: The Great Navigator, is inspiring.

Kelli & Scott, my family is praying for yours. I cannot wait to see how God guides the rest of your path. We are praying for blessings to rain down on your marriage, your hearts, and your future.

Thank you.

Love,
Liz

So, you ARE a baby genius! [I always knew it!]

Do you think it's purposeful or just ironic that the word genius is somewhat hard to spell?

Anyway, on another note... today Banner proved to me that she is, as I always expected (hehe), a total genius. The girl has done everything early. She craweled like a pro just before the end of 5 months. She could wave 'hi' & 'bye' on command at 6 months. She started cruising a 7 1/2 months. Climbed my stairs at 8 months. Walked at 9. Speed walked at 10. Now at nearly 11 months (tomorrow -- wahhhhh!) she, well, let me explain in detail. We have this little basket at our house. It has a lid on it and on that lid are little cut-outs... a star, a square, a rectangle, etc... you know that toy I'm talking about. The one with the pieces that you drop into it's coordinating shape. We also have this big push around/ride around airplane (thank you Auntie Babe!) and it also has cut outs along its side that you can push coordinating pieces through. Now, the pieces from both toys look practically the same. Same shapes, same colors, same sizes... the only difference is that the ones from the airplane have a graphic on them.

Today, my little genius child sat down in the middle of the floor with all of the pieces from both toys. She then proceeded to sort them... which ones go to the airplane, which ones go in the basket/lid toy. Then she (one by one) picked up the toys to the airplane and pushed the coordinating pieces through their coordinating cut-outs. After, she picked the other toy's pieces up and put them straight in the basket (I guess she figured it was a waste of her time to fiddle with putting them in the correct holes and just decided to bypass that step all together). Then she picked up Henry (her bear... he travels everywhere with her) and walked into the kitchen to mess with mommy's cabinets, ooooh joy - heh. But seriously... what 11 month old can do that? I was totally blown away. Isn't that a 18-24 month benchmark?

I'm not going to lie... I'm beaming. But just a little. :)

Spaghetti with marinera meets baby.

Here are a few pictures that might brighten up your day! The first one on the left is from dinner time when Banner had her first spaghetti with marinera sauce experience... I think you can tell it was hit. :) Hehe. Obviously a bath followed the taking of this picture!

The right picture is of my FAVORITE cookies... "Susan Cookies". Last night we got a flat tire so in the morning I needed to take it to the shop while Wayne was at work. Well he knows how much I dread auto repair places (other than the husband's work at Anderson Bros. Body Shop -- holllaaahh!)... so this morning he left these on the seat of my car as a surpise. In sharpie on top it says...
"To my AMAZING wife!
I know you don't want to start your day off at a tire shop. Hope this makes it better!! I ♥ U.
Love, Wayne"

Ummm... can you say "AWWWW!!!"???
Goodness gracious I love that man.

A big update (with more to come)

Welcome to the blog that never gets updated! My goal is to try and start writing at least a little more often... wish me luck.

So there's lots going on lately. Banner is turning ONE in a month and a half!!! I can't believe how fast this year has gone. It's hard to believe that I only get to do this 17 more time until she's an adult -- it just doesn't seem long enough.

Banner is the most laidback fascinating and advaced baby I've ever met. She craweled at 5 1/2 months. Walked well at 9 months and is now practically trying to run (slightly unsuccesfully with lots of bumps and falls) everywhere. She loves to talk on her play cell-phone that her Daddy bought her and is full of personality. She's definitely strong willed and likes to get her way. Her favorite thing these days is climbing up (yes all the way up) the stairs... so obviously we have safety gates now WHICH SHE HATES. When she sees me start to put them up she turns on the waterworks big time! I've got an independent little one -- that's for sure. Overall, she's amazing and the most beautiful curly haired, blue eyed, strawberry blonde child that you'll ever lay eyes on. Seriously, everyone says so... everyone loves her. Hehe.

Wayne is great. I've been so blessed with such a loving and gracious husband. He keeps the humor running strong in our house and is so selfless in everything he does. Other than the normal work stuff (which is going strong) he's been working on a side-job restoring a 1960's corvette. It looks great. He painted a dark green the other day and it's an eye catcher. I couldn't be prouder of him. He's incredible and what he does... and I love seeing the look on his face when a customer is pleased with him. If you need any work done on your car... let us know!!!

In other news, slowly but surely we are stepping down from the Teen Pastorship roll at our church. For now and throughout the summer we are hosting kickball nights once a week at the park but come the fall, things will likely be changing for us. The church has decided to try and make our job a paid position (FINALLY!) but unfortunatly, now we do not have the time to make the program what it deserves to be made. I think that's a normal thing that happens when you become parents. We are a little sad to be saying goodbye to it, but ultimately it is a good thing and will loosen the stress load in our house a lot. We still expect to be fully entertwined in the lives of the teens and will definitely still help out but as far as the brunt of it goes, I'm looking forward to having it off of our shoulders. 4 years later -- it's made us better leaders, teachers, and listeners but just like everything... it's time to move on.

In other news, we're house hunting... again. Truly we started this process about 3 years ago -- but God orchestrated that perfectly back then (as he always does) and we did not get any of the houses that we had offered on... which served us well condsidering I lost my accounting job at the law firm a few months later.

Fast forward a few years and here we are again. We have outgrown our little town house and although it has served us well and in itself is still such a blessing... we are ready to move on. The problem with that is location, and how much we want to spend, and how well will it serve our family so that we can serve others, etc, etc, etc...

We've bid on 3 homes in the past few months. The first 2 were snagged out from under us by cash paying investors. Bummer... but this last one was the real heartbreaker. Everything about it seemed wonderful... and I don't use that term lightly... I truly thought that that was the home that God wanted us in...but apparently, I was wrong! I know God is better with directions that I am and that His plan for our family will undoubtably be greater than any plan that I can dream up but let's just say... we were incredibly shocked and dumfounded the way our offer on this home fell through.

Essentially what happened is that the real estate agent representing the seller made some paperwork mixups and pushed through the wrong offer to the bank. Even though our offer had been accepted... the paperwork for another lucky family was processed instead and guess what...? Now they are in contract. I know that everyone makes mistakes but this one just seems so huge. Our realtor (who is a great man of God and a good friend) really chewed the lady out and we were heart broken and forced to move on. I didn't have peace about it at all until last night when I woke my husband up around 4am and asked him to pray with me. I just felt like we needed to pray -- in a unified way -- and ask God for direction. I don't know what His plans are for our family... but I know that currently and although we don't LOVE the way our needs are being met -- we are well taken care of. Wayne has a steady and good paying job, I have a few hours a week and the day care, we have a strong shelter, food in our fridge, wonderful family and supportive friends. I feel a little guilty asking God to bless us one more time with a home... all we can really do is wait and see what happens...

In other news, if you didn't know, we are trying to get pregnant. We would like Banner to have a sister or brother cooking in my belly sometime in the next few months. I loved having a sister 2 years apart. Heidi and Wayne are just under 2 years apart and I love how close they are as well... sooo, if you think of it, be praying for that.

I know this post was a bit of a ramble and I am terrible about updating this blog. Okay, I pretty much never update this blog, but I think I will try to be better about it in the next few months.

Mad love to all who read (And those who don't),

Publish Post

Liz

Organic & Homegrown vs. Store bought

Just one more reason that I love good old fashioned homegrown, organic food. Check out these lemons! The ones on the left are the homegrown organics. The right ones were from Safeway. Thank you Krystal & Ryan Kathain for the fruit! We're making fresh and pulpy lemonade tonight!

A note from a friend.

PLEASE READ! GOV'T SHUTDOWN: a note from my friend Tearah Parker [ARMY WIFE]

For some reason my computer wasn't allowing me to "share" this so I copy/pasted! Please read note below from a dear friend. Here I am, Tearah Parker; breaking my lent. You heard it from my mouth first people. I am outraged beyond belief, and yes; I am going to speak.

I want to know how many of you have NO IDEA what is going on right now? How many of you are out getting your nails done, grocery shopping, planning parties, etc?

Let me tell you what I am dealing with, what WE are dealing with. We, of course; being military.

Last night I spent the night in the hospital. Instead of focusing on myself and the growing life inside me, I was surfing my Iphone in hopes of finding some relief news about the government shutdown that may or may not take effect as of midnight tonight. Now, we all know this has been going on for MONTHS. It was supposed to happen on the first, but an extension was pushed through until today, and now again, we wait.

I want to first address those of you who have the gall to say "you should have been saving', "you should be prepared for this", "this is why we should never live paycheck to paycheck'. How dare you? Especially those of you who are military personnel. You know what it's like. Now, dont get me wrong; I am not bashing savings. We should all be financially responsible and have some sort of savings going on at all times. HOWEVER. In these economic times, lets SAY (just for fun) that you have 3-4 grand in savings. What is that going to do for you? How many bills and for how long is that going to pay until its gone?

We have E-1's and E-2's who have WIVES and CHILDREN to support. After bills, gas in the car, and food on the table...they are lucky if there is enough leftover for dinner and a movie. So don't be so quick to point fingers. YOU are in the wrong in a VERY large way, and I am so dissapointed that I am seeing this in our very own community.

My rent alone is $1400. Why is my rent that much? Because, I live in (the wine country of) California. Why do I live in such an expensive place, you ask? Well, the same government that is about to deny my husband a paycheck, gave us written and specific orders to move and reside here until further notice. [and for those of you wondering; there is NO military housing available where we are stationed. I will repeat. NO military housing is available WHERE WE LIVE] Are we compensated with BAH? Yes. That doesnt mean that on the first of the month, when I get paid $1942...$1400 of that doesnt go to pay our rent. IT DOES. That leaves me (the wife of a SGT) with $542. That's to put gas in my car, food on the table for four people, and pay whatever bills I have left. (Which on the first is my cable and phone bill, usually amounting to $80)

Then what if my kids get sick and need medicine (that ISNT prescription and tricare DOES NOT cover)? Or how about if it's a holiday and extra expenses are needed like cooking a special meal, easter baskets (hello), Christmas, etc. Or bills from the dentist, optomotrist that need to be paid accordingly. All those things come from our paycheck. So you can see, from just the FIRST alone, I am left with POSSIBLY a few hundred dollars to put in savings. SHOULD everything go perfectly.

NOW THINK ABOUT how an E-1 or E-2, with those same responsibilites, and far less a paycheck...survives. It is unfair and WRONG to point fingers at those of us who ALREADY struggle. Doing so gets us NOWHERE and accomplishes NOTHING.

Our LES' have been released. & as of right now; we are recieving pay for April 1- 8. That is, HALF, of a paycheck. This is happening ladies and gentlemen.

AER has stated they are ready to help soldiers out should a shut down occur. Ummmm, AER comes from donations that are given from...OUR PAYCHECKS. So please, Id love to know how AER thinks they are going to help EVERY Army family in need should this occur. NOT TO MENTION; AER loans are a standard of $1,000. That doesn't even pay HALF of my bills. These solutions are not solutions at all. Mere ideas for those of us who are not really paying attention, to sit back and relax whilst the government cuts our pay. Even if AER WANTED to give $1000 to EVERY active duty Army family currently enlisted...I can say with full certainty that they DO NOT and WILL NOT have the funds. That's common knowledge people. AER was never put in place to help us should our paychecks be cut.

The ARMY ALONE is overstrengthed right now. Our economy is SO BAD that people are enlisting left and right (ironically, for the stability of a steady paycheck). If you do not re-enlist within 12 mos of your ETS date, YOU CANNOT re-enlist. Re-enlistment bonuses have been cut, completely. They do NOT exist for most MOS'. & points to promote right now are SKY HIGH. THESE ARE THE FACTS, MAKE YOURSELVES AWARE OF THEM.

& yes, just because this happened once in 1995 and everyone still got paid, DOES NOT MEAN we will still get paid THIS time. Are you paying attention to what's going on in our government/economy in the last 12-18 months? We are crumbling, and at an alarming rate. This is a HUGE possibility. Active duty military MAY be forced to work with NO paychecks starting midnight tonight.

Those of you who are not in the military, this doesnt effect you. However, I want to know why more people are not in an absolute uproar?!? CIVILIANS DO NOT EVEN KNOW THAT THIS IS HAPPENING!

We have to ask ourselves. Why are we SO uninformed?

There are rumors that Obama has said he will veto any bill that comes out stating we wont get paid. Ladies and gentlemen, lets face the damn facts. HE can stop this. Just as Clinton AND Reagan did when the government was shut down before.

Now, lets look at this. It is a BREECH OF CONTRACT for our men and women in the armed forces to be FORCED to work without a paycheck. A BREECH OF CONTRACT. That means that every man and woman who wears the uniform SHOULD have the right to opt out of their contract and LEAVE their branch, should pay stop. HOWEVER, as we all know (and so many of us have already been briefed on) our husbands and wives, will instead; be court martialed or marked as AWOL if they do not comply with the mission.

THAT INCLUDES ALL MILITARY PERSONNEL OVERSEAS FIGHTING FOR OUR FREEDOM. DODGING BULLETS, MOTORS, IED'S ETC. THAT MEANS THAT EVERY SINGLE MAN OR WOMAN WHO HAS BEEN WOUNDED AT THE COST OF PROVIDING FREEDOM FOR THIS COUNTRY, WILL STILL BE REQUIRED TO WORK WITHOUT A PAYCHECK. THAT MEANS THAT EVERY MAN AND WOMAN IN AFGHANISTAN, IRAQ, ETC. WILL STILL BE ASKED TO LAY THEIR LIVES ON THE LINE FOR THE SAKE OF THIS COUNTRY....WITHOUT A PAY CHECK.

Now, they are warning us not to run to 'advance payday' suppliers. But let me tell you something; if we get hungry enough, we're going to go wherever we need to. The Navy Federal Reserve has offered and stated that they will 'front' all active duty military's pay checks, for at least the first month; should a shut down occur. (& I highly suggest we all rally together in thanks to them. For standing up in this time of need and offering help) After that? Who knows.

Rumors have circled that the government will provide waivers for us to hand out to landlords, cable, electric etc. Which would state that we fall under no obligation to pay until the budget crisis is fixed and our pay returned. That still doesnt take care of gas in my car or food on my table. Especially since we know that commisaries WILL be closed should a shut down occur. Will we be issued food stamps? Gas cards? I for one would like to know how my daughter will be able to attend school everyday without gas in my car. The school that we shelled out $2000 for her to attend. (For those of you wondering....that's from OUR savings. Because my husband and I not only strive, but FIGHT to give our children the best possible) Gas, in my town, is currently going for $4.19 a gallon. I have a 25 gallon tank, you do the math.

EVERY SINGLE Army, Navy, Marine, Air Force wife is talking about this right now. & I've looked (before writing this) EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOUR FB PAGES is swarming with articles, status' etc. about the shut down. YET I SEE NO CIVILIAN even aware enough to ask questions. Why are we the only ones aware of this? Is it because it's our paychecks? Isn't this America? Aren't these the people who have fought to give you freedom? Why are you not in an uproar, America?

We have husbands and wives who are overseas right now, fighting the fight. Literally, just hoping they get through today unscaved. & yet; they have to also worry if they are going to get paid on the 15th. If their wives, husbands, children at home are going to be provided for. Why are they worrying about that? Why?

Remember that the bible tells us not to worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. You don't have to ask me to have faith in God; He has never failed me. However, this is not some natural disaster we're talking about people. This is a government controlled issue that we MUST pay attention to. It is affecting us because; point blank, it can. THEY OWN US, let's not kid ourselves here. We suffer for the American people willingly, and yet we are the ones suffering now (with half a paycheck so far) because....they can. They can, and we (or at least our SO's who wear the uniform) can't say a damn thing.

With or without pay, my husband will continue to put his uniform on everyday, lace up his boots, and serve this country. That does NOT mean we agree, or that we are not outraged.

Prepare yourselves as best you can, and try to stay involved so that you can be informed. Heaven knows this won't be on the 5 o'clock news (just yet). So it is our responsibility to know our rights, know our options, and prepare accordingly.

& ladies (& gentlemen), let us not go quietly.

[Remember always that we are the strongest of the strong. We can and WILL survive, paycheck or not. Let us band together and rally around those struggling. We are military wives (& husbands) for a reason, and we are a different breed of human. Have faith in EACHOTHER, hold fast to prayer, and never forget what the ones around us have sacraficed for us. We MUST support them now more then ever. & remind them that we are proud of their CONTINUING sacrafices to keep this country a FREE one.]

I really, really REALLY love my husband.

DIY

Do it Yourself: All Natural Beauty Products

This may seem kind of silly but I've been asked a lot lately about how to make the products that I have in my bathroom so here's how you make all organic... Vitamin E facial scrub, lip gloss, body scrub & whitening toothpaste.

Disclaimer: I have naturally dry skin so I feel comfortable using small amounts of olive oil in the products that I make for my skin. If you have oily skin on your face - do not use the vitamin E facial scrub. That being said, enjoy the rest...

How to make your own:

Vitamin E facial scrub.

1. Grate a bar of soap with a cheese grater (it's okay if it sticks/clumps together) & set it aside.
2. Pour 1 cup of finely granulated salt into a bowl, add 15 drops of Vitamin E oil (can be found at Safeway where soap products are, & add 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Mix.
3. Add your grated soap. Mix.
4. Pour the mixture into a cute container (or Tupperware, haha).

Lip Gloss that tastes lemony (or any other flavor... see ** note below.)

1. In a bowl: put 2 tablespoons of Crisco shortening, 1 tablespoon of grated paraffin wax (you can get this at Safeway too), 10 drops of vitamin E oil, & 10 drops of lemon extract.
** if you don't like lemon - then use something else. the grocery store carries tons of different extracts... i just happen to like lemon A LOT.**
2. Microwave mixture for 30 seconds... if that doesn't melt everything in the bowl then nuke it for 10 more seconds until it's melty.
3. Pour the mixture into a small container and let it cool.

Lemon (or orange) Sugar Body Scrub:

1. Take your lemon and grate all the yellow rind off of it and set it aside. Keep the rind.
** you could also use an orange **
2. In a bowl: combine 1 cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of Sea Salt (or Epsom salt. both can be found at Safeway) & 3 green tea bags (just rip open the bags and throw the tea leaves in).
3. Add 10 teaspoons of olive oil. Mix.
4. Add 2 teaspoons of honey. Mix.
5. Add your lemon zest. Mix.
6. Pour in a cute bowl.

Extreme whitening toothpaste:

1. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda into bowl.
2. Add a dash of salt.
3. Add 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide.
4. Add a drop or two of peppermint extract.
5. Add 2 Stevia sweetener packages (or whatever natural sugar substitute you enjoy).
6. Mix to paste. If it seems watery add a little more baking soda and mix again.

Love,
Liz

Everything

Everything.

This morning at around 3am I couldn't sleep. I looked at my husband -- who's body & soul I have memorized. Every inch of him, I know. From the place in his hair where his cow-lick is to the tip of his 2nd toe which is much longer than his big one. To the way that one dimple indents so much more than the other when he slips on that grin that makes me melt. I know his body by heart and I see his love in everything he touches. He works his bones dry to provide for our family. He sacrifices sleeping in, evenings, some weekends, and a decent lunch everyday to cater to our family's needs... to provide for our family's future so that our children can go to college, get married, have nice clothes and food on the table... and to allow me to not have to work a '9-5' in an office away from our baby. And he's never complained... not even once. He takes joy in providing for us. And then he comes home. Home --- where he is still rejoicing in our life. He plays energetically with our daughter. He rubs my feet. He tells me how beautiful I look despite not having showered. He kisses my forehead and tells me "I love you"... and that 'he looked forward to coming home to us all day'. How did I -- out of all the other amazing women out there -- get so blessed? I walked across the hall and watched our daughter as she slept. She sleeps like an angel. She's beautiful -- the kind of beautiful that makes people want to stop and tell you that she's stunning. And pleasant -- sweet and curious and easy. But there she was inside her crib, passed out exhausted without a worry. Completely trusting -- completely unaware of any evil that lurks in the world -- outside of the safe nest we've built for her... that one day she'll leave. I pray that she trusts in the Lord -- and that she remembers what we have taught her so that she won't experience as many let-downs and rock-bottoms as a lot of people do. But eventually she will -- and I have to pray and trust that she will be able to reach out to those who love her, to help pull her up by her boot straps and keep truckin'. She laid there completely unaware of all the beauty that shines in this world. The joy that she'll one day find in creation. She'll appreciate it soon. The warm kisses the sun gives when it warms up your skin. The thrill of a flower among the weeds. Mud -- and the fun you can find when you get your hands dirty. Water -- and the way it splashes back when you touch it. The majesty of the waves on the ocean. The kindness of a stranger. The eternal grace and mercy our God provides us with. A family that sacrifices. A smile from someone unexpected. A drive with the windows down on a warm day. The smell of the pines. I can't wait to watch her grow and to watch her love. I can't believe that she's already lived outside of me for half a year. I can't wait from bubbles, hand-made cards, and genuine slobbery kisses. How did I -- out of all the other amazing mommies out there -- get so blessed? 24 years ago I never would have guessed where my life would take me. That my heart would stop thinking about myself and beat for 2 other people so strongly. I'm trusting that God will take my faults and make them beautiful, take my family and use us to bless others, and to take my life and make it HIS. I want to be a woman who is sacrificing, who worships in the storm, who praises in the joy and beauty and who can bear the responsibilities of being a wife of noble character and a mother of wisdom, love and strength. It's a lot of heavy wishing -- but I'm trying my damndest and I know that THAT means something -- and hopefully for the right people -- everything.