Never saw that one coming. I have prided myself (that always causes problems when one prides themselves on something) on looking ahead and seeing what is to come, but no one could have prepared me for this one.
I won't get into the specifics because in actuality, those specifics don't really matter. What matters more, is recognizing what it is. Sin. Simple as that. When I realized that I didn't see it coming, it was because I wasn't on the look out for sin like I am supposed to be. Been in all the classes, have the tee-shirt kind of thing, I know to be on the lookout for sin. But, complacency had set in. I have sat in that easy chair of life and kicked back believing that my sights were aimed in all the right directions and all I had to do was just pull the lever so I could sit up straight in my easy chair and then blast them with whatever weapon I currently had at my disposal. However, not every sin uses the same weapon. I didn't see the enemy come in this shape ever before and my weapon that I used on other sins I saw in my sight was not adequate for this one! I needed the Word of God and frankly, my past weapon has been my insight and knowledge ABOUT scripture, instead of scripture proper.
But now I am prepared. Well, maybe not prepared, but rather preparing... I am constantly on the lookout now and my bazooka (the Word of God) is aimed in the right direction. This is going to be a battle. A battle of epic proportion. A battle I intend to win since the right weapon will now be employed. Thank you Father for equipping ME - all of us - with your Word. THE sword for battle. The rest of the armor is going on and I am going in. Back me up people...I will need the support.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Sunday, July 24, 2011
On the other side of the Atlantic
I cannot believe it has actually happened. I can say that I have lived in Germany! You don't know how jealous I have been over the last 20 years hearing other Army wives go on and on about their time overseas, and I have to sit there and listen to it, all the while wishing I could participate in the discussion. Not because I needed to be apart of the conversation, but I had always figured, if my husband had to be in the military and was gone all the time, I should at least get a bit of the benefit of living in an exotic place! But NOOOOO, he always had some stupid job that was related to homeland defense, and how often can people do homeland defense if they aren't IN the homeland? So, I have sat through numerous events with spouses who talk about their trips all over Europe and how they would say, "Oh when you get to go, you'll love...blah blah blah!" Yeah, well, I thought our opportunity was gone. We are nearing our final duty station and I figured the chances were nil. But, I was wrong again - such a naysayer I am!
Finally after 20 years...we are here. In beautiful Stuttgart. I no longer feel that the rug will be pulled out from underneath us, like I did just 1 short week ago. I kept thinking this couldn't really be happening. Even after our first shipment left in June along with my car, I still believed it would all be sent back because it was a big mistake. It was a horrible feeling to think every call or email was going to be the one that pulled the plug on my overseas happiness opportunity! It is all about me isn't it? Greg has sacrificed so much to give this to me and for that I am eternally grateful. He has been my rock - especially through the terrible times we have had getting here. I don't think I could have done this without him, nor would I have wanted to.
The signs were on the wall that this wasn't going to be an easy move back in June. Up to that point, things had worked quite well. Bekah's passport was expired, and the soonest we could get an appointment to get one ordered was late in May. But the post office lady said, "Go to the courthouse in Atlanta because no one really knows they do them there!" Sure enough, we walked in, walked to the window, filled out the form, and BAM, 7 days later had a passport in our hands (didn't even expedite it!) But, within a few weeks, Greg got the news that the entire family was required to have military passports...WHAT!? How do we get those in a short time span (we were only about 6 weeks out from travel)? We went to the newly opened passport office on Fort McPherson and the woman there assured us that she could expedite and get them to us in 4-6 weeks! REALLY??? Seriously...that's like way too close for us. but she did the expedite letter and we were hopeful. Well in about a week and a half the 3 girls passports arrived and we wiped our brow believing Zach and mine would be following behind. Day after day we waited and waited to find nothing returned to the passport office. THese are military passports so you can't just call the local passport office or check online. In speaking with the passport office we asked when we could check on them. She said we'd have to wait FOUR weeks from the time they were sent out! WHAT?! So I dutifully waited the 4 weeks and then at 4 weeks showed up at her office.
She then thought that an email status inquiry was the best way to get information! REALLY??? Why not a call, I don't know. This was a Thurs. Friday afternoon she still had no response. We are now only 7 business days from travel. Monday we learn that the passport agency wants my and Zach's tourist passports. Now we have NO way to leave the country. But I dutifully surrendered to their request. She shipped them on Tues. They were received on Wed. But I didn't know this at the time. I contacted the passport lady and she basically told me to just wait and she'd start calling around to the people she knew to get a status check. Thurs was a crazy day of moving so I didn't call but on Friday I went into her office and left her a note that I needed to know what whas going on. She came back and said, "Oh, we haven't received anything so I guess it isn't coming today!" She went on to add..."You and your son may have to leave separately!" WHAT? Are you CRAZZZYYYY!!!???
So Friday I went into overdrive and began the process of contacting my Senator, Marco Rubio, in FL, who kicked it into high gear and flew through the process of helping me get my passports. I had to sign releases, fax them over, and then have Greg do the same. Within hours we had information about the location of the passports and that they had been returned for a special stamp (Zach is adopted from China). By Monday however, we still didn't know if they would be able to get the passport to me by Tues morning (the day we were to fly), but by 2pm - the workers in DC were walking my passports between agencies and getting the appropriate stamp and getting it FedEx-ed to me by the next day! At 10:30am I tracked the package to Fort McPherson. At 11:15am I had the passports in my hand.
That is the passport saga. DURING this same time frame, we had issues with shipping our second vehicle. The second vehicle was to be shipped out of Charleston SC. But the paperwork necessary to get the shipping documents was being held up due to a miscommunication by Germans as to what was actually needed to ship the vehicle. By Wed, all the documents had been fedex-ed to me and I was able to scan and copy all that was needed. All I had to do was call on Friday for an appointment on Monday to drop the car off at the port. Oh remember the problems with the passport on Friday??? I was stuck on the phone freaking out about that, I forgot to make the required drop off appointment in Charleston. Bekah and Greg drove down the night before and just prayed the port would have Grace and Mercy at the door - She was there! Grace allowed the car to be shipped and all is good!
Shortly before all of this saga, the household goods shipment nightmare occurred. I won't even go into that crazy situation. I don't want to rehash it as it makes me sick to my stomach. Suffice it to say if Allied ever comes near my home again, God help them.
I am grateful we have weathered this storm. Or should I say hurricane. It was a whirlwind of excitement but it is all good now as I lay my head on this side of the Atlantic. All worth it? So far so good.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
BE QUIET AND WAIT!
November and December of 2010 in Atlanta was filled with many different emotions. In November, the weekends were filled with me jet setting about the country. The 2nd weekend was filled with a spiritual high going to PWOCI Conference. This is a conference that brings together PWOCers from all over the US every 2 years. It is a time of spiritual renewal and a mix of emotions ending with a spiritual high. Upon returning from the mountain top, the next weekend was filled with a trip to Orlando with the family for a Reintegration conference (soldiers returning to family life after time overseas!) The family enjoyed some much needed bonding time at Disney and then in a wonderful 4 star hotel! It was definitely a fun time. I turned around 3 days later to get into the car for a trip to FL for Thanksgiving. Bekah flew in from Charleston and we drove to Venice with the rest of the family. We had a quick few days together and then Greg and I turned around and got on another plane to Aruba.
Aruba was the trip designed to celebrate 20 years of marriage. I don't think we should have ever come home! It was really a great trip. We enjoyed the company of good friends (Mark & Laura McCatty) who endured the coastal waterways and beautiful southern breezes with us. Scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, hot tubs, and bocci ball were the highlights of the trip! Oh yeah and barracuda. Man that was the tastiest treat ever!
After returning back to reality on the 6th of December, an 8 hour trip back home was waiting for us! The kids enjoyed their time with grandma and grandpa but were definitely ready to get into that car and get home. I guess Gma and Gpa didn't take them out of the house except for two trips to WalMart. They were a bit stir crazy!
After our arrival back to Atlanta, Bekah came home from school a few days later, and Grandpa George arrived for a 3 week stay. It was just crazy here. Grandpa needed some entertainment so we set him up with a computer at the table. He would play "Sparkle" (his way of addressing the game Farkle on Facebook!) and check his bank balance each day (sometimes multiple times a day). He appeared to have deteriorated or maybe just given up on life being anything but eating and sleeping. Kind of reminded me of babyhood. That is pretty much what my kiddos did in their first months of life...seems like grandpa is just waiting for him time to "check out." It's actually kind of sad. I definitely don't want to be unproductive through my later years. I want to stay active and alert - being involved in my grandchildren's lives.
Christmas came and it actually snowed here in Atlanta. Apparently that hasn't happened in over 100 years! So we had a very pretty White Christmas in Atlanta 2010. Since our Thanksgiving dinner was held at the American Legion in FL, we didn't have a real dinner. So, I made the whole kit and kaboodle for Christmas. What a nice night.
December 29th Grandpa left for home but within days (the 31st) the house had another addition - Rob. Bekah's boyfriend came for the Passion 2011 conference held in Atlanta at the Phillips Arena. What an amazing time of spiritual renewal - AGAIN! I was blessed with not only one conference in two months but TWO! YAY ME!
Not completely certain how the conference affected the 2 of them, but I believe we will see if it has done anything by watching the actions of the two of them over the next few months! Much of the conference talked about the balance between what we believe and what we do. Is there consistency? So, we'll see!
The dissertation is coming along. In October 2010 I passed comprehensive exams and became a doctoral candidate. I have been working on my proposal/prospectus since then and am getting closer to completion! UGH. If only....
We are also believing we will be moving to Germany. Just waiting for those orders. As usual...we will know when they tell us. So be quiet, hurry up, and wait!
Aruba was the trip designed to celebrate 20 years of marriage. I don't think we should have ever come home! It was really a great trip. We enjoyed the company of good friends (Mark & Laura McCatty) who endured the coastal waterways and beautiful southern breezes with us. Scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, hot tubs, and bocci ball were the highlights of the trip! Oh yeah and barracuda. Man that was the tastiest treat ever!
After returning back to reality on the 6th of December, an 8 hour trip back home was waiting for us! The kids enjoyed their time with grandma and grandpa but were definitely ready to get into that car and get home. I guess Gma and Gpa didn't take them out of the house except for two trips to WalMart. They were a bit stir crazy!
After our arrival back to Atlanta, Bekah came home from school a few days later, and Grandpa George arrived for a 3 week stay. It was just crazy here. Grandpa needed some entertainment so we set him up with a computer at the table. He would play "Sparkle" (his way of addressing the game Farkle on Facebook!) and check his bank balance each day (sometimes multiple times a day). He appeared to have deteriorated or maybe just given up on life being anything but eating and sleeping. Kind of reminded me of babyhood. That is pretty much what my kiddos did in their first months of life...seems like grandpa is just waiting for him time to "check out." It's actually kind of sad. I definitely don't want to be unproductive through my later years. I want to stay active and alert - being involved in my grandchildren's lives.
Christmas came and it actually snowed here in Atlanta. Apparently that hasn't happened in over 100 years! So we had a very pretty White Christmas in Atlanta 2010. Since our Thanksgiving dinner was held at the American Legion in FL, we didn't have a real dinner. So, I made the whole kit and kaboodle for Christmas. What a nice night.
December 29th Grandpa left for home but within days (the 31st) the house had another addition - Rob. Bekah's boyfriend came for the Passion 2011 conference held in Atlanta at the Phillips Arena. What an amazing time of spiritual renewal - AGAIN! I was blessed with not only one conference in two months but TWO! YAY ME!
Not completely certain how the conference affected the 2 of them, but I believe we will see if it has done anything by watching the actions of the two of them over the next few months! Much of the conference talked about the balance between what we believe and what we do. Is there consistency? So, we'll see!
The dissertation is coming along. In October 2010 I passed comprehensive exams and became a doctoral candidate. I have been working on my proposal/prospectus since then and am getting closer to completion! UGH. If only....
We are also believing we will be moving to Germany. Just waiting for those orders. As usual...we will know when they tell us. So be quiet, hurry up, and wait!
Monday, May 31, 2010
MAY 2010 IS NOT THE MAY 2010 WE HAD PLANNED!
May 15, 2010 was supposed to be the day that Rachel and Rebekah began their training as lifeguards. They had already been hired on by Sweetwater Pools as lifeguards under the idea that they were trained and ready for the opening day at the pool to which they were assigned (Fairfield subdivision). The girls had already been to the Introduction to Sweetwater/Training the Saturday prior and were really very excited about what the summer was going to hold for them. Then came May 15, 2010...
The girls took off early that morning to arrive at Eagles Landing Country Club Pool for their first day of training. They had worked the week before at the pool on post with the lifeguard, Daisy, who was helping them prepare for the prerequisites they had to accomplish before even being considered capable of being trained. The girls had to be able to swim 300m and then they had to save a "brick" from the bottom of the pool in 1 min 30 seconds. They trained with Daisy the weeks before the actual test on May 15. I was so nervous for both of them but knew they could do it.
I wasn't there, but Bekah kept me up to date via texting that they had arrived and gotten the testing started. Shortly thereafter, I got a text that both of them had survived the swim and were doing well (although Rachel had a few issues with her swim she passed!) A bit later I get another text that says Rachel failed the "saving of the brick" because she took in too much water as she was trying to swim back to the wall. She apparently got out of the pool, threw the brick down and yelled, "that kid would have died." I felt so bad for her. She takes this stuff so seriously and really gets mad when she doesn't do well, or could have hurt someone. She is so sensitive. Thankfully, they allowed her to do it again once she had herself back together and she passed with flying colors in 1 min 20 seconds! Bekah had already passed and she was just hanging out waiting for everyone else to finish.
Then the training in the pool began and all seemed to be going well. Until they learned to jump off the lifeguard stand.
Bekah was the 5th to go and the first 2 apparently jumped straight out and off the stand and once hitting the bottom, popped up and said, "I hit my butt" - meaning on the bottom of the pool. So, the lifeguard trainer told the kids to begin jumping off to the side in "deeper" water (about 4 to 4 1/2 feet). I guess someone else complained that their ankles hurt and then it was time for Bekah to go. She did what she was asked to do, and hit the bottom of the pool. When she popped out of the water, she said, in a seemingly calm voice, "I just broke my leg." They didn't believe her until she said it again. So they all jumped in to save her. Yep. Leg was broken! Funny - the remaining kids were told to continue jumping off the stand, including Rachel, who also stated that her ankles hurt when she jumped off! So why o why did the jumping continue?
Anyway, I was called and thankfully I was only a few miles away. Arriving on the scene, it was quite evident that the leg was either broken or dislocated and so I called for EMS to take her to Henry Medical Center. X-rays confirmed the worst fears that it was broken and the doctor added - you will need surgery for a plate and screws.
So, a week later, Bekah had surgery and is now recovering in a lime green cast. No job of lifeguarding. No job of working Chick Fil A. No fun in this summer that was planned way differently than what we have in front of us.
Thus, I ask the Lord - what is the deal? Why this? Why now? I got nothing. But then some things did hit me. I don't believe the break occurred for this purpose, but I believe the Lord will use this as an opportunity to teach. Bekah is not the most humble person and hates to ever ask anyone to help her. She would rather kill herself trying to do it on her own than humbly admit she can't do something and ask for someone to assist her. This has been her opportunity.
Also, Bekah has her ideas about what she was going to do this summer and when and how. That has all been thwarted by this unforeseen circumstance and she has an opportunity to learn how to handle life when it throws you a major curve ball. You can choose to complain all day and all night (which she did there for a bit) or you can live peacefully with the event/situation and ask what you can learn about yourself through the process. She hasn't quite made it to the latter yet. We are still working on the not complaining part!
God can use interruptions in our lives to teach us many things. But, if we are too stubborn to sit still and wait to hear what He has to say or teach, we miss out on some life lessons that could really help us in the future. If we truly believe that God is in everything, knows everything that happens, and wants what is best for us, then how can we not step back when life throws us a curve and ponder what He has in store for us? I want to be the first to say, "OK God, clearly I wasn't listening before and now you need my attention - Here it is! Tell me!" I am praying that for Bekah!
Rachel has gone on to begin lifeguarding and is doing a fabulous job. She has already in just a few short days, been thrown some curves of her own (people climbing over fences to get in to the pool she was guarding), and she has handled them with grace and dignity. I am proud of what she is becoming!
Sarah and Zach are doing well despite the craziness in the house. The continue working on their school after having said goodbye to dear friends, Shelby and Janlyn. Zach will say goodbye to Ethan and David this summer. This is truly the May 2010 we hadn't planned for!
The girls took off early that morning to arrive at Eagles Landing Country Club Pool for their first day of training. They had worked the week before at the pool on post with the lifeguard, Daisy, who was helping them prepare for the prerequisites they had to accomplish before even being considered capable of being trained. The girls had to be able to swim 300m and then they had to save a "brick" from the bottom of the pool in 1 min 30 seconds. They trained with Daisy the weeks before the actual test on May 15. I was so nervous for both of them but knew they could do it.
I wasn't there, but Bekah kept me up to date via texting that they had arrived and gotten the testing started. Shortly thereafter, I got a text that both of them had survived the swim and were doing well (although Rachel had a few issues with her swim she passed!) A bit later I get another text that says Rachel failed the "saving of the brick" because she took in too much water as she was trying to swim back to the wall. She apparently got out of the pool, threw the brick down and yelled, "that kid would have died." I felt so bad for her. She takes this stuff so seriously and really gets mad when she doesn't do well, or could have hurt someone. She is so sensitive. Thankfully, they allowed her to do it again once she had herself back together and she passed with flying colors in 1 min 20 seconds! Bekah had already passed and she was just hanging out waiting for everyone else to finish.
Then the training in the pool began and all seemed to be going well. Until they learned to jump off the lifeguard stand.
Bekah was the 5th to go and the first 2 apparently jumped straight out and off the stand and once hitting the bottom, popped up and said, "I hit my butt" - meaning on the bottom of the pool. So, the lifeguard trainer told the kids to begin jumping off to the side in "deeper" water (about 4 to 4 1/2 feet). I guess someone else complained that their ankles hurt and then it was time for Bekah to go. She did what she was asked to do, and hit the bottom of the pool. When she popped out of the water, she said, in a seemingly calm voice, "I just broke my leg." They didn't believe her until she said it again. So they all jumped in to save her. Yep. Leg was broken! Funny - the remaining kids were told to continue jumping off the stand, including Rachel, who also stated that her ankles hurt when she jumped off! So why o why did the jumping continue?Anyway, I was called and thankfully I was only a few miles away. Arriving on the scene, it was quite evident that the leg was either broken or dislocated and so I called for EMS to take her to Henry Medical Center. X-rays confirmed the worst fears that it was broken and the doctor added - you will need surgery for a plate and screws.
So, a week later, Bekah had surgery and is now recovering in a lime green cast. No job of lifeguarding. No job of working Chick Fil A. No fun in this summer that was planned way differently than what we have in front of us.
Thus, I ask the Lord - what is the deal? Why this? Why now? I got nothing. But then some things did hit me. I don't believe the break occurred for this purpose, but I believe the Lord will use this as an opportunity to teach. Bekah is not the most humble person and hates to ever ask anyone to help her. She would rather kill herself trying to do it on her own than humbly admit she can't do something and ask for someone to assist her. This has been her opportunity.
Also, Bekah has her ideas about what she was going to do this summer and when and how. That has all been thwarted by this unforeseen circumstance and she has an opportunity to learn how to handle life when it throws you a major curve ball. You can choose to complain all day and all night (which she did there for a bit) or you can live peacefully with the event/situation and ask what you can learn about yourself through the process. She hasn't quite made it to the latter yet. We are still working on the not complaining part!
God can use interruptions in our lives to teach us many things. But, if we are too stubborn to sit still and wait to hear what He has to say or teach, we miss out on some life lessons that could really help us in the future. If we truly believe that God is in everything, knows everything that happens, and wants what is best for us, then how can we not step back when life throws us a curve and ponder what He has in store for us? I want to be the first to say, "OK God, clearly I wasn't listening before and now you need my attention - Here it is! Tell me!" I am praying that for Bekah!
Rachel has gone on to begin lifeguarding and is doing a fabulous job. She has already in just a few short days, been thrown some curves of her own (people climbing over fences to get in to the pool she was guarding), and she has handled them with grace and dignity. I am proud of what she is becoming!
Sarah and Zach are doing well despite the craziness in the house. The continue working on their school after having said goodbye to dear friends, Shelby and Janlyn. Zach will say goodbye to Ethan and David this summer. This is truly the May 2010 we hadn't planned for!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
TO GERMANY AND BACK 2010
Amazing to think that I have been home from Germany for over 2 weeks now. What an experience.
Back in December 2009, with Greg overseas, I thought - wouldn't it be fun to go and visit with Greg in Germany rather than him coming home. I knew that if he came home, he would be immersed in working on chores around the house, going into work to shoot the breeze, and then family trying to get him to come and visit. So, I thought, let's meet in Germany instead. The kids and I would take a hop on a military aircraft and meet him across the pond.
Well, we started to plan in January and had most of the things taken care of by the middle of February. What a blessing to go over there and see Europe with the kids and Greg. Wow!
Friends had taken a military hop before we did and so they gave us some hints. Fearing that we would not get out on the first plane, we decided to start our attempts at travel on Sunday, March 14, with hopes of being there by Friday, March 19. So, we drove Rebekah back to college in Charleston, SC and went right to the Air Force base. Amazingly, the airman asks, "Are you ready to go right now?" Of course I said, "Yes!" and we were booked on the next flight to leave in approximately 45 minutes! Mind you, we have no definite place to stay once we arrive in Germany but I didn't care - just get me there!
We arrived after about 13 hours inside a C17 aircraft filled with material for the war effort. What an experience that was! I walked over to the Ramstein Inn to ask if there was room, and viola, a room for 2 nights was available. Needing 3, I figured we would do whatever necessary to get the 3rd night later - I just wanted to find a bed and melt in it. We then went over to the long term parking lot to find a car that our friends were going to lone us while in Germany - found it. However, the car was as dead as a doornail. Looking helpless and a mess from the 13 hour flight (and no sleep) a nice soldier started to help me jump it. It was very difficult to jump as it had been quite dead for some time...I, believing I would be helping with the effort, decided to get out of the car so as to not leave the door open. You see the door being open was leaving the lights on. Lo and behold, the door closes and guess what? The keys are in the car, along with my purse, and it is now LOCKED! Three to 4 more soldiers now arrive to help the helpless, woman and her 3 kids. Doing everything they can, they work to no avail. Finally, someone calls the German equivalent of AAA. They arrive and save the day! I have no idea who is footing the bill for that one as they kept asking me if I have American Auto Association. I do -so, I showed him the card, and he just graciously nodded. Hopefully my friend won't get too large a bill - they did take her license number.
We proceed to our room and enjoy the beautiful 4 bedroom accommodations. Once we were on normal time, we began to explore the area. However, we soon found out that we were not allowed to drive my friend's car because of a long, long, long story...suffice it to say, it was nightmarish - but I made friends with some of the men in the Custom's office. They knew me by name the next time we came in! :)
We waited out the next few days having survived another day in a different room on the 3rd night. The 4th night we were picked up by a friend who lives in Heidelberg. She brought us over to her house, took us out to dinner, and even lent us her car! Greg arrived the next day from his flight into Frankfurt, Germany. He took the train down the Heidelberg and we enjoyed the reunion. Julie, our Heidelberg friend, graciously took us around and helped us in so many ways. What a blessing she is!
That afternoon we scampered down to Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the Bavarian countryside = WHAT A TREAT! Gorgeous views of the Alps. We truly enjoyed our stay at Edelweiss in both the cabins and the lodge. It was an amazing place to be in a beautiful location.
We toured Switzerland, Austria, and Luxembourg - of course, Germany. Just the best trip ever! Sound of Music tour, Dachau concentration camp, Munich, Neuschwanstein castle, and bobsled run. So many things to remember. A great trip was had by all. I would love to go back and live there!
What did I learn from all of this? God answers prayer. We asked to be waiting in Germany for Greg instead of waiting on this side of the pond - Yes. We asked to have a great trip with little hassle - Yes. We asked to have a holiday together (Easter) - Yes. We asked that we would be able to return without difficulty (first flight out) - Yes. Just so many yeses by our God. He was there through all of it. I am in awe of his mercy and grace to us. We are SO undeserving and I am the most undeserving. He showed Himself and I got to see His Handiwork. Thank you GOD.
Back in December 2009, with Greg overseas, I thought - wouldn't it be fun to go and visit with Greg in Germany rather than him coming home. I knew that if he came home, he would be immersed in working on chores around the house, going into work to shoot the breeze, and then family trying to get him to come and visit. So, I thought, let's meet in Germany instead. The kids and I would take a hop on a military aircraft and meet him across the pond.
Well, we started to plan in January and had most of the things taken care of by the middle of February. What a blessing to go over there and see Europe with the kids and Greg. Wow!
Friends had taken a military hop before we did and so they gave us some hints. Fearing that we would not get out on the first plane, we decided to start our attempts at travel on Sunday, March 14, with hopes of being there by Friday, March 19. So, we drove Rebekah back to college in Charleston, SC and went right to the Air Force base. Amazingly, the airman asks, "Are you ready to go right now?" Of course I said, "Yes!" and we were booked on the next flight to leave in approximately 45 minutes! Mind you, we have no definite place to stay once we arrive in Germany but I didn't care - just get me there!
We arrived after about 13 hours inside a C17 aircraft filled with material for the war effort. What an experience that was! I walked over to the Ramstein Inn to ask if there was room, and viola, a room for 2 nights was available. Needing 3, I figured we would do whatever necessary to get the 3rd night later - I just wanted to find a bed and melt in it. We then went over to the long term parking lot to find a car that our friends were going to lone us while in Germany - found it. However, the car was as dead as a doornail. Looking helpless and a mess from the 13 hour flight (and no sleep) a nice soldier started to help me jump it. It was very difficult to jump as it had been quite dead for some time...I, believing I would be helping with the effort, decided to get out of the car so as to not leave the door open. You see the door being open was leaving the lights on. Lo and behold, the door closes and guess what? The keys are in the car, along with my purse, and it is now LOCKED! Three to 4 more soldiers now arrive to help the helpless, woman and her 3 kids. Doing everything they can, they work to no avail. Finally, someone calls the German equivalent of AAA. They arrive and save the day! I have no idea who is footing the bill for that one as they kept asking me if I have American Auto Association. I do -so, I showed him the card, and he just graciously nodded. Hopefully my friend won't get too large a bill - they did take her license number.
We proceed to our room and enjoy the beautiful 4 bedroom accommodations. Once we were on normal time, we began to explore the area. However, we soon found out that we were not allowed to drive my friend's car because of a long, long, long story...suffice it to say, it was nightmarish - but I made friends with some of the men in the Custom's office. They knew me by name the next time we came in! :)
We waited out the next few days having survived another day in a different room on the 3rd night. The 4th night we were picked up by a friend who lives in Heidelberg. She brought us over to her house, took us out to dinner, and even lent us her car! Greg arrived the next day from his flight into Frankfurt, Germany. He took the train down the Heidelberg and we enjoyed the reunion. Julie, our Heidelberg friend, graciously took us around and helped us in so many ways. What a blessing she is!
That afternoon we scampered down to Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the Bavarian countryside = WHAT A TREAT! Gorgeous views of the Alps. We truly enjoyed our stay at Edelweiss in both the cabins and the lodge. It was an amazing place to be in a beautiful location.
We toured Switzerland, Austria, and Luxembourg - of course, Germany. Just the best trip ever! Sound of Music tour, Dachau concentration camp, Munich, Neuschwanstein castle, and bobsled run. So many things to remember. A great trip was had by all. I would love to go back and live there!
What did I learn from all of this? God answers prayer. We asked to be waiting in Germany for Greg instead of waiting on this side of the pond - Yes. We asked to have a great trip with little hassle - Yes. We asked to have a holiday together (Easter) - Yes. We asked that we would be able to return without difficulty (first flight out) - Yes. Just so many yeses by our God. He was there through all of it. I am in awe of his mercy and grace to us. We are SO undeserving and I am the most undeserving. He showed Himself and I got to see His Handiwork. Thank you GOD.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
"SUCK IT UP, CUPCAKE!"
2010 is here! It seems like only yesterday we were saying good-bye to Greg and now it will be 3 months on Saturday that he has been in country (Kuwait). The thought of all of the milestones Greg is going to miss is looming over my head these past few days. I guess it all came about when we thought we were going to be together at Easter in Germany. Then Greg told me that he is actually leaving from Germany one day before Easter! I would be sitting in Germany on Easter in a hotel room with the kids, and nowhere to go. I got frustrated and angry! I was thinking - why would the only holiday out of the year that Greg would actually be with us, we screwed up the dates and it won't happen!
This got me to go into a pity party over the many other milestones. In about a month, Rebekah, our first born, will be turning 18. Greg will miss this milestone. Not that there is anything special planned for that day (although I did think of a few things)...but Greg wouldn't be here to participate in it. But I decided not to go further. The thought of all the milestones was too hard for me to bear, and I realized that I am whining.
A good friend of mine told me that one time a military spouse was complaining to her husband and he flat out said, "Suck it up, cupcake!" So, I am sucking it up and going to stop my pity party and maybe even eat a cupcake! LOL
As we begin our new study in PWOC called Esther by Beth Moore, I came to realize that even in this - God is there. Although we cannot see him, or even hear his name, He is there in all of this. So, I am grateful for this time in the desert to really see what God would like to do with me - a lowly wretch of a woman with a heart for the Lord.
May the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob be the focus of my 2010. May I see the positive in what the Lord is doing, even when I don't understand. May I rest in Him even when I don't feel His presence! Come on 2010, Bring it on!
This got me to go into a pity party over the many other milestones. In about a month, Rebekah, our first born, will be turning 18. Greg will miss this milestone. Not that there is anything special planned for that day (although I did think of a few things)...but Greg wouldn't be here to participate in it. But I decided not to go further. The thought of all the milestones was too hard for me to bear, and I realized that I am whining.
A good friend of mine told me that one time a military spouse was complaining to her husband and he flat out said, "Suck it up, cupcake!" So, I am sucking it up and going to stop my pity party and maybe even eat a cupcake! LOL
As we begin our new study in PWOC called Esther by Beth Moore, I came to realize that even in this - God is there. Although we cannot see him, or even hear his name, He is there in all of this. So, I am grateful for this time in the desert to really see what God would like to do with me - a lowly wretch of a woman with a heart for the Lord.
May the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob be the focus of my 2010. May I see the positive in what the Lord is doing, even when I don't understand. May I rest in Him even when I don't feel His presence! Come on 2010, Bring it on!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
TWO MONTHS DOWN - LESS THAN TEN TO GO!
In 5 minutes it will be Christmas in Atlanta, GA. I am more than blessed in many ways and then in others, I have to wonder what I did wrong to deserve. I am partly kidding, but in some ways, not so much.
Having endured over 2 months of Greg being gone, I thought the separation would be easier than it is. I guess I didn't realize how much I do lean on him for strength. I guess that old adage, "you don't realize what you had til it's gone" is quite appropriate. I took him for granted in that area, I suppose.
Him being gone has been roughest on Zach. I think he is doing well given the circumstances, but he is definitely struggling at times. He has done a great job in taking care of things around the house (garbage, recycling, etc.) and is one to help out when asked. he will even ask voluntarily to assist with this or that. But, his daddy was the one that put him to bed and slept with him (he wasn't supposed to, but Greg can sleep anywhere, anytime). So, he misses that special contact. That is something I can't provide right now with schooling.
Sarah and Zach both enjoyed birthdays this month. Sarah celebrated 11 years on the 10th and enjoyed her new DS game. Zach on the other hand, enjoyed turning 7 and we were at Disney during his birthday. Thankfully he had gotten the stomach bug 24 hours before that and was feeling quite himself on his birthday. We went putt putt golfing in FL with gma and gpa. Upon returning to Atlanta, he was able to open his car track in which Dale Earnhardt Jr. is racing Jeff Gordon. this was huge since Zach loves Gordon and his friend David loves Earnhardt. Perfect gift!!
Rachel is trying to keep her head above water in school. 10th grade is sucking the life out of her. But, this too shall pass. She enjoys playing with her hair, trying new styles, doing nails, designing new outfits, etc. She is really very funny and very, very sweet. She is a lot of fun to be around and I am praying that she will stay at home and go to college instead of going away. I will miss her too much.
Bekah was picked up from school and then whisked off to Orlando for the week. The first semester of college was okay to her but she was chewed up a bit with a little spitting out to go with it. She survived and frankly, that is a good thing. I am believing that her 2nd semester, if she makes some changes, will be a far better semester for her. Bekah is more than capable but sometimes she fails at the easy stuff. If she can get that down, she will go far!
Greg is maintaining himself in Kuwait. He reported that being in Kuwait is like Groundhog day every single day. It is the same day in and day out. sometimes you can't even remember which day it is, as they all seem the same (except Sunday when you have 4 hours off in the morning). This has to be hard on everyone there. I think about those dads who have little babies at home, or pregnant wives. Then the moms who had to leave their kids behind. How rough that must be. Being away during a holiday has to be the hardest part. But, it will get better. October 2010 will come quickly. We will be together before long.
My schooling is coming along...I have this class coming up in January (week long intensive) that I have to do. Once that is finished, I have 2 courses and then my dissertation. It is happening! Halleluiah. I am so looking forward to this being over and finished. I wish I would have finished it 17 years ago, but that is OK...it is getting done now!
Well, I just pray that this Christmas is a blessing to my kids and my husband and we see God's hand even when we don't SEE it!
Having endured over 2 months of Greg being gone, I thought the separation would be easier than it is. I guess I didn't realize how much I do lean on him for strength. I guess that old adage, "you don't realize what you had til it's gone" is quite appropriate. I took him for granted in that area, I suppose.
Him being gone has been roughest on Zach. I think he is doing well given the circumstances, but he is definitely struggling at times. He has done a great job in taking care of things around the house (garbage, recycling, etc.) and is one to help out when asked. he will even ask voluntarily to assist with this or that. But, his daddy was the one that put him to bed and slept with him (he wasn't supposed to, but Greg can sleep anywhere, anytime). So, he misses that special contact. That is something I can't provide right now with schooling.
Sarah and Zach both enjoyed birthdays this month. Sarah celebrated 11 years on the 10th and enjoyed her new DS game. Zach on the other hand, enjoyed turning 7 and we were at Disney during his birthday. Thankfully he had gotten the stomach bug 24 hours before that and was feeling quite himself on his birthday. We went putt putt golfing in FL with gma and gpa. Upon returning to Atlanta, he was able to open his car track in which Dale Earnhardt Jr. is racing Jeff Gordon. this was huge since Zach loves Gordon and his friend David loves Earnhardt. Perfect gift!!
Rachel is trying to keep her head above water in school. 10th grade is sucking the life out of her. But, this too shall pass. She enjoys playing with her hair, trying new styles, doing nails, designing new outfits, etc. She is really very funny and very, very sweet. She is a lot of fun to be around and I am praying that she will stay at home and go to college instead of going away. I will miss her too much.
Bekah was picked up from school and then whisked off to Orlando for the week. The first semester of college was okay to her but she was chewed up a bit with a little spitting out to go with it. She survived and frankly, that is a good thing. I am believing that her 2nd semester, if she makes some changes, will be a far better semester for her. Bekah is more than capable but sometimes she fails at the easy stuff. If she can get that down, she will go far!
Greg is maintaining himself in Kuwait. He reported that being in Kuwait is like Groundhog day every single day. It is the same day in and day out. sometimes you can't even remember which day it is, as they all seem the same (except Sunday when you have 4 hours off in the morning). This has to be hard on everyone there. I think about those dads who have little babies at home, or pregnant wives. Then the moms who had to leave their kids behind. How rough that must be. Being away during a holiday has to be the hardest part. But, it will get better. October 2010 will come quickly. We will be together before long.
My schooling is coming along...I have this class coming up in January (week long intensive) that I have to do. Once that is finished, I have 2 courses and then my dissertation. It is happening! Halleluiah. I am so looking forward to this being over and finished. I wish I would have finished it 17 years ago, but that is OK...it is getting done now!
Well, I just pray that this Christmas is a blessing to my kids and my husband and we see God's hand even when we don't SEE it!
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