tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55054497311393425522024-03-14T00:33:47.201-05:00My world, my lifeMy Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.comBlogger160125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-87141006900812792212013-07-07T03:42:00.000-05:002013-07-07T03:42:01.835-05:00Happy Birthday sweet boySeven years ago a little man blessed our lives. Roman was the last chapter in our family. The final bambino! It was very bittersweet to know he was the last one. 6 amazing pregnancies, so very blessed and that would be coming to an end, it made me very sad, but his being in our lives made me super happy. Romans birth was typical and pretty normal, not too fast and not too quick, he would be the only birth I had an epidural with-AMAZING, LOL Weird, but amazing. At the time he had some complications after birth, toxic level of bilirubin, possible blindness, a few markers of DS and some muscle issues, but he came through all of it like a champ-Or so we thought. Little did we know at the time that some of these issues wouldn't come into fruition until he was around the age of 5-6 and they came with a vengeance.. Vision, minor brain damage and with that came dysagraphia, SPD and anxiety. These are all things we have been recently dealing with and while they can and do pose a challenge to every member of this house, he is still very loved and a blessing to us. He has made us become even MORE patient and to learn some different parenting tools. He is an amazing little man though and we love and adore him each and every day..<br />
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Dear Roman,<br />
You are seven today!!!! Yay 7!!!! At the age of 7 you have an extrememly high IQ, you can read and write, ride a 2 wheeler and skateboard like a pro! I love coming home from work and snuggling with you and listening to you talk about what you liked and didn't like at school. I love that you are such a protector of your big brother Dominic and keep him safeguarded from all egg products. I love that you love bacon and think I make the best pancakes and oatmeal. I love your dumb jokes and your eskimo kisses. I love that you are so strong and brave. This year has been a journey for you and I know you hate having meltdowns and fight them so hard.. Somedays they just get the best of us. I know as you get older it will become less of a struggle for you, as you are learning how to cope with these things. My wishes and hopes for you and your future are for you to be happy and loving and do what you enjoy. I think you will make an excellent chef one day and cant wait to eat at your restaurant. Thank you for keeping us on our toes and for the challenge, LOL.. I love you so much, sweet baby boy.. Happy Birthday!!!<br />
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My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-75744951037889336522013-06-16T01:27:00.001-05:002013-06-16T01:27:28.711-05:00Happy Fathers Day!Fathers day is always bitter sweet for me, well has been for the past 25 years with the loss of my dad in 1988. I get a tiny bit sad because I don't get to call my dad or send him a card or buy him a gift-all I can do is send him a thought and a prayer and spend the day just thinking about the funny things he would say and do. I am lucky in that I also have a stepfather is amazingly kind and loving and puts up with all our crazy, haha.. BUT, my dad is gone and never coming back. He never got to see his amazing grandchildren that my sister and I gave him, he won't get to bounce a great grandchild on his knee and that makes my heart heavy. Don't get me wrong, I know he is watching down with amusement at the crazy antics his family provides. I miss him. I just miss him. I remind our kids that we are here only for a short time and to make the most of it with your family. <br />
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On a happier note, I have an AMAZING husband and father of our 6 children and grandfather to our 4 grandmonkeys. There are so many wonderful daddy stories I could share about Sal, he really is one of the best fathers I know. He is strict when its needed and loving and patient always- and trust me, I test that patience all the time!! A few things that stand out to me are watching him meet his 1st born for the first time, walking a daughter down the aisle, teaching a 16 year old how to parallel park in the pouring rain, saying goodbye to a daughter leaving for college, and being the BEST monster/wrestler to 2 little fellas who think he hung the moon and the stars. I just want to take this moment to say thank you to my husband Sal and Happy Fathers day! I could have never wished for a better father-ever! I love that you are not only the father to our Biological children, but that you have taken so many "kids" under your wing and stepped up to be the father figure they needed, whether it was a soldier, airman or kid in our lives. You took the time in Italy to drive the teen bus after hours so the kids could have a normal teen life of hanging out late at the movies or bowling and ensured they got home safely, you have given butt chewings when needed but amazingly after, you just let it go and move on, you have woken up with my crying because a nursing child was waking up for the 20th time in 2 hours and you just held me and encouraged me and told me that this wouldn't last forever and it would be okay. You have provided so many wonderful memories for this family and I love you!... Nicholas, Ashlee, Cassidy, Anthony, Dominic and Roman are 6 lucky babies to have you in their lives...<br />
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My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-21534864804983063242013-05-12T13:22:00.000-05:002013-05-12T13:22:35.631-05:00Happy Mothers day!Happy mothers day to women and men everywhere!! Motherhood isn't just about birthing or adopting a baby. Motherhood isn't even for mothers sometimes. I know many single dads who raise their children and have to be both dad and mama, so hats off to them as well! Some people haven't even had children yet, but are mothering to nieces, nephews, friends children, children in general. Our 6 children have HAD many wonderful "other mothers" in their lives, to include my sister and sister in law, my mother, mother in law, great aunts, friends of ours and other military spouses and their teachers. It truly takes a village to help each other out in raising our children and I appreciate all the women in my life who have helped out with our babies through the years, especially as we have all spread out all over the world through the years and can't always be together. <br />
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I have truly loved being a mother, when asked in High School what I wanted to do with my life, I easily with all my heart answered- Be a mother. It's been an adventure for sure and hasn't always been the Donna Reed show I had hoped, I haven't always gotten my way in what they choose to do, but when they call for a recipe or call me for advice or call me daily just to say "hi mom", then I know we did something right. When they continue our family traditions with their new families, it makes me shine with pride. When they are stubborn and fight for what they think is right (even when it is against me LOL) I am proud that Sal and I raised 6 individuals who are good and decent and loving and kind. I love their strong minds and opinions. They have given me such joy and pride that I can't even think of the best moments in their lives as there are so many! With each birth, I was just as excited and elated as the first, it never got old. Nicholas, Ashlee, Cassidy, Anthony, Dominic and Roman have made me laugh until I've cried, worry sick, be hot fire angry, be disappointed, be full of pride, and have the privilege of being called mommy. <br />
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So, thank you to my sweet children. You will never be too old for me to worry about you, love you, kiss you, hug you, be mad with you, be proud of you. I will ALWAYS be here for you-good times and bad. Thank you kids for making me the woman that I am today. I love love love you, to the moon and back....<br />
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My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-82108632093903496532013-04-09T14:34:00.001-05:002013-04-09T14:34:03.135-05:00My "Army Wife" Life: Month of the Military Child<a href="http://maryurzi.blogspot.com/2013/04/month-of-military-child.html?spref=bl">My "Army Wife" Life: Month of the Military Child</a>: So, April is the month of the Military Child and I am proud and happy to be the mother of 6 of them and our 4 grandchildren also just so ha...My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-38753969214051461512013-04-09T01:46:00.001-05:002013-04-09T01:55:55.496-05:00Month of the Military Child<div style="text-align: left;">
So, April is the month of the Military Child and I am proud and happy to be the mother of 6 of them and our 4 grandchildren also just so happen to be Military Children as well. To be a military child is to be brave, strong, resilient, adventurous, proud, flexible, lonely, imaginative, resourceful, funny, amongst so many other things. I can give you an example of what our oldest 4 kids went through in a 2 year period. We moved to Germany so they started a new school, got settled in and BAM, daddy had to deploy. This would be their first deployment as older children and they knew the risk for their daddio and it was a scary and uncertain time, dad returned safely from 1 year in Iraq and then we PCSd (moved) to Missouri, where again, new schools, new styles, new traditions, new life. This is pretty normal for most Military Children and they thrive very well! When the service members are gone off to war, the community embraces these kids and they all inherit several parents that help take care of them.. It truly takes a village with military families and I love, love, love it! So, in today's installment of my blog, I interviewed our 4 oldest military brats, who are now adults and living all over the globe. SGT Nicholas Giovanni Urzi is an MP and stationed at Ft Bliss, Ashlee Marie Urzi-Seidel is now an Army Wife and medical tech in Tennessee, Cassidy Renee Urzi is living in Texas and going to College, Anthony Giancarlo Urzi is a college student here in Alaska and will be transferring to Iowa this fall to finish school. Our 2 youngest kiddos need an honorable mention, they are Dominic Gianluca Urzi, who is an aspiring comic and future celebrity and Roman Gianmarco Urzi who wants to be a Chef one day. So, here is the interview with our oldest. Hope you enjoy..</div>
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ME: Where were you born?</div>
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Nick- Luke AFB</div>
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Ash- Virginia (Ft Belvoir)</div>
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Cass- Frankfurt Germany</div>
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Tony- "mom, you know where I was born" (Luke AFB)</div>
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ME: Tell me 2 things you liked about being an Army Brat</div>
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Nick- Moving around and doing something new in different countries</div>
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Ash- Moving to new places, meeting new people</div>
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Cass- Exploring new cultures, having friends all over the world</div>
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Tony- Being spoiled and seeing different places</div>
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ME: What are 2 things you didn't like?</div>
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Nick- Graduating in Waynesville, Not graduating at Ft Bliss</div>
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Ash- Not having dad home for special moments (Ashlee has her own rules and only gave 1)</div>
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Cass- Starting new schools and being far from other family members</div>
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Tony- Moving and leaving friends</div>
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ME: Favorite Duty Station?</div>
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Nick- Camp Darby, Italy-It's our homeland</div>
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Ash- Giessen Germany, it's where I met my future husband and my best memories are there.</div>
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Cass- Ft Bliss Texas because it's where I graduated and it's my home.</div>
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Tony- Ft Bliss, but Alaska too, because it's where I met Dana Rae (love of his life)</div>
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ME: What thoughts went through your mind when your dad would deploy?</div>
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Nick- Nothing, I knew it was for a bigger purpose and he WOULD be back....</div>
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Ash- My thought was what would life be life if I lost my dad? I was pissed, upset, sad but also</div>
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very proud of him for having the courage to do what he was about to do and show </div>
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amazing strength.</div>
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Cass- Scared, proud, nervous and sad just because you never knew what could happen.</div>
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Tony- "Here we go again, I thought it was dumb but a good thing we was going to protect us"</div>
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ME: What was life like when he was gone? Did you mom go crazy?</div>
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Nick- Life was normal, we kept going through the motions and mom tried hiding it, but I new it </div>
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Was eating her inside.</div>
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Ash- When dad would leave we would go on as normal as possible. One example comes to </div>
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mind, it was Christmas and normally dad would be the one to pass out all the presents but</div>
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that year, Nick did. He stepped up when dad was gone. Without a doubt, we drove mom</div>
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crazy!! Dad was gone and with 4 kids at the time, it's hard to discipline all of us for things </div>
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when you are focused on one child LOL so we got away with some things-BUT it was</div>
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VERY RARE!!! Mom was always so strong, I don't think I ever saw her shed a tear</div>
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While my dad was gone which as an Army Wife now, I don't know how she did it</div>
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because being strong in this lifestyle is easier said than done!!!!!!!</div>
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Cass- Life was hectic but we made the most of it. And only sometimes did we drive you crazy</div>
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Tony- It wasn't too hard for me, I knew dad would be back home and YES She was MEXICAN </div>
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CRAZY.</div>
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ME: What would YOU tell a military child aged 10-17?</div>
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Nick- How lucky they are to experience everything all over the world and not live sheltered</div>
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Ash- I would tell them that they are a special kind of child. We go through so much heartache</div>
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and separation than most civilian adults and that things will sometimes be hard to do, like</div>
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say goodbye to many amazing people, but we get to see different cultures and people and </div>
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places that some people save their whole lives for to see, or never get the chance. We </div>
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appreciate small moments that most take for granted.</div>
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Cass- That it is hard, but we make the most if it. Not everyone gets to experience this life.</div>
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Tony- I would tell them to enjoy the lifestyle while it lasts!!!</div>
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ME: Do you ever resent your AWESOME mom and dad for bringing you up in such a life?</div>
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Nick- Never</div>
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Ash-Never! They have raised us this way, and it's normal for us. It's an honor to be in this life.</div>
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Cass- Never! We always ended up meeting old friends again!</div>
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Tony- Naw</div>
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ME: Do you think being a military child better prepared you for the real world?</div>
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Nick- Yes, in every way because we saw everything and had a lot of freedoms to learn for</div>
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ourselves.</div>
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Ash- I think our parents prepared us for the real world. Being a military child did teach me not</div>
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to fear change and to never sweat the small stuff and to show those we love that we love </div>
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them because we should not take life for granted.</div>
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Cass- NO! I didn't know anything about rent, bills, water, trash, LOL Now I have to figure it out</div>
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Tony- Sort of-Major change going from spoiled to YOYO (you're on your own) LOL</div>
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ME: Did being part of a military family make you want to join the military or run for the hills?</div>
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Nick- That's obvious lol.. It's been 6 years since I put on the suit (uniform)</div>
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Ash- I strongly considered it, but then I got married!!</div>
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Tony- Ash, you would have never survived the military HAHAHA!</div>
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Cass- I never thought ever once that I would join the military, It was great as a child.</div>
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Tony- Nah, I ran for the hills! College is my route. I want to live in one spot only!</div>
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ME: Last one- Your fave childhood memory-</div>
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Nick- My favorite moment was good and bad LOL. The day dad got back from OIF1. Right </div>
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before we went to pick dad up, mom stopped at the post office and my report card and I </div>
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had gotten a C on something and mom said dad was going to kill me! When he got off the</div>
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bus, he wasn't too mad LOL</div>
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Ash- My favorite memory? That's hard because there are so many, but my most fondest goes </div>
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back to when dad was home, he always made it a point to spend time with us one on one </div>
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and make those memories. So, it was homecoming day in Giessen and in Germany, they</div>
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don't have corsages LOL. Dad went all over town to find one and when he couldn't, he got</div>
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creative and made one. He got fresh flowers close to the color of my dress and a purple</div>
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hair tie and a hot glue gun and made me the best corsage ever. Mom was out of the country</div>
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helping my aunt, so he was on his own! He took me to the YAYAs(my other mommies) </div>
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and they did my makeup . My most cherished memory.</div>
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Cass- Giessen Bingo Nights!!!! A lot of the parents were deployed so everyone always got </div>
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together and just enjoyed it all together. We were like one big family</div>
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Tony- LOL Tony doesn't have a fave memory, LOL</div>
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My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-24679527602599124912013-03-19T13:10:00.000-05:002013-03-19T13:10:52.038-05:00Our RomanI don't think I've shared what's going on with Roman, except privately with people in our lives. Roman has a lot of worries and anxiety and we are not sure why. It causes him to have major meltdowns over things that most of us would find trivial. He as he is getting older also shows signs of depression, to where he could go a few days even without eating- just sleeps. Roman also doesn't like loud noises or crowds and has to know exactly what we are doing, to the hour. Roman has no problems in school and is super smart, has friends and usually is just fine day to day. He has a wonderful teacher that can tell when he is overwhelmed and deals with him accordingly. The people in his private life are also very understanding about Roman and are nothing but awesome with him, and I'm thankful for them all. Romans inner circle is very small and that's how he likes it. So today brings us to a neuropsychiatric appt. where we are trying to determine if its neuro due to some birth and some newborn issues, so friends that is where we are at. Thank you for the love and supportMy Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-76865881456655403152013-03-15T00:28:00.000-05:002013-03-15T00:28:05.750-05:00My bucket listThere are so many things I'd like to do before I leave the Earth, I know I won't hit them all-but it should be fun to try, right? What is on your bucket list?<br />
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1-Visit Scotland<br />
2-Visit England<br />
3-Walk around in the rain in Paris<br />
4-Celebrate NYE in NYC<br />
5-Ride a gondola in Italy<br />
6-Sleep in!!!<br />
7-Sit on a deserted beach and watch the ocean float by<br />
8-Catch a Salmon<br />
9-Take a road trip across the US for no reason at all, and stop at out of the way places<br />
10-Sleep in!!! ( I am hoping if I put this on the list more than once, it will happen-haha)<br />
11-Survive another round of teenage years<br />
12-Design my dream house<br />
13-Live in my dream house<br />
14-Go on a police ride along<br />
15-Have frozen hot chocolate in NYC<br />
16-Get my nose pierced<br />
My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-60693670082117003542013-03-12T23:09:00.000-05:002013-03-12T23:09:41.385-05:00The "Lavish" LifeMy head has many crazy thoughts about the recent article I read regarding the lavish spending and the lavish lifestyle that military families live-This my friends is so far from the truth. The Author talks about so many things that I truly believe he didn't research. I am so irritated by his writings because bottom line, it isn't true for most of what he talks about. From his writings, he makes us sound like we are rolling in the dough and live in massive houses, get medical care and practically free groceries. What he doesn't speak about is the sacrifices that the military and their families make each and everyday. Only 1% of the population is even in the Armed Forces! These brave men and women DEFEND this country. These brave Americans lay their lives on the line and those that "survive it" come back changed people (not bad, just changed) Does this man know that my husband has listened to soldiers dying over the radio in an attack? Does he know that my husband has had to see HORRIFIC things, even holding onto someone in their last moments? He has watched soldiers do brave things to save others and risking their own lives and not even blink an eye to do it. My husband is no different than any other battle hardened soldier in what he has done or seen. I bet this author doesn't jump out of his skin when someone drops a tray or at the pop of a balloon or flinches going under a bridge. He should really do more research in making these budget cuts sound like they are going to save our economy, to which they will not. Should EVERYONE tighten their belts, including the military-Absolutely, but do NOT insinuate that we are living some crazy Trump like exsistance because Sir, we are not.. I can only speak for my family, because every military familys' story is different but this is ours.<br />
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Sir,<br />
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My husband joined the Army at 18 years old-just a child really. Sal had a new wife and a baby on the way, he was making our lives better while serving the nation he loves. When he joined the Army in 1989 his base pay was 700.00 a month, he made more bagging groceries in High school than he did his first 2 years in the Army. We were given a housing allowance, medical benefits to which I am greatful for, they provided us a safety net. Sal deployed in 1990 to Iraq for Desert Storm, I was in limbo staying with family and had another baby, at this point he was making a tiny bit more money. We had VERY limited contact while he was downrange, as there wasn't the technology there is today. Fast forward many years and more deployments to today.. My husband is an E8 with 24 years in (pretty normal in his MOS, unlike the 10 years you put in your article... Anyway, last week was the last college class he will take until we can figure out how to budget it so he can finish his 2nd degree, which BTW, he is just nearly there, but with the suspension of Tuition assistance, who knows when he will get to finish really. It's a shame that one of his lavish benefits is non exsistant currently, I mean, he has only proudly served this country, sacrificed family time for it, missed out on births (yes, I said births) to help this country and he continues to make family sacrifices for the Military and the country as do we by supporting him and making sure he knows that we understand and support him. He could just say ahh, soldiers can take care of themselves, no sweat off my back-I am getting paid regardless, but he doesn't, he goes in and does an exceptional job in taking care of them and our community. All he asks for in return is the respect from his country and to be treated fairly by this government and it's people. He pays taxes, LORD do we pay taxes for what? To support some that are on welfare as a job? But he can't finish his degree and now by your article you make it sound like we are lavish and wasteful. Did you know that housing allowance is based on rank and zip code and that it fluctuates year to year and sometimes even goes down? I didn't notice that in your article. I also didnt notice you mention that our commissaries buy at cost and sell that way and charge a surcharge to cover pay, and other expenses and that the people that bag our groceries don't even get a wage, they earn tips-Most of whom are retirees or students trying to supplement their "Lavish" income. There is NOTHING lavish about my life and the lives of other military families. It isn't lavish to wipe the tears of your child saying goodbye to their parent for a year, or listening to a 17 year old son cry himself to sleep because he just misses his dad or being a "single" parent cleaning up vomit in the middle of the night because not 1, 2 or 3 but 6 kids have the stomach flu and I am here with them alone, it is not lavish to figure out your budget so that you make sure there is enough for yearbooks, sports, clothes and food so that your soldier isn't worried about you while he/she is downrange. It isn't lavish to wait 2-3 weeks for a medical appt, or wait 2.5 hours for prescriptions to be filled. Military and their families deserve to be taken care of, there is nothing lavish about that. <br />
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I wish the Author would have actually interviewed several military families to see and hear their individual stories. There are people who join later in life and give up very lucrative careers to serve this country and there are kids who join because they are promised a better life, a life that will give them goals and a future and an education, but why should they join now? We have military members downrange, having to buy some of their own equipment, paying for part of their meals-so that "exta" deployment money isn't even an extra amount of money for them and their families anymore. The good thing about Service Members and their families is they will keep their heads held high and bounce back after all of these cuts to our lives.. I do however wish that those that keep cutting our budgets, try and cut theirs as well. Congress cannot continue to live THEIR Lavish lifestyles while the rest of the country has to make sacrifies and tighten their belts-Its not fair. They work for us as a country and when people slack, they get fired.. So maybe next election the votes will clean it out.. My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-13492520942275603032013-03-07T00:28:00.001-06:002013-03-07T00:28:08.032-06:0015 months.....So, today while driving home I suddenly realized that in 15 months we could be starting a new adventure due to Sal retiring, as I was driving I was thinking about how our lives have been for the past 24 plus years and a million memories came flooding through my brain and my eyes started to tear up.<br />
It is bittersweet to me, I have learned SO much from this life we chose to live. There have been good times and bad and MANY lessons learned. Living in the military bubble has not always made for an easy life or easy marriage-there have been big mountains to climb, dissapointments, surprises, excitement, sadness, loss, gifts and a million pride filled moments. <br />
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When Sal joined the Army, he had no intention of staying past the 4 years he had signed up for, it was "supposed" to be temporary, just a step into his career field while serving his country. Sal didn't come from a military family and while I did, I was relieved that it wasn't going to be "forever". My dream was to do this for a few years, move to Flagstaff Arizona and build our dream cabin and raise our 10 kids-hahha, seriously. We even bought cabin plans, knew where we wanted to buy our little plot of land, but it wasn't meant to be. The Army showed my then teenage husband what responsibility, loyalty, compassion, pride, integrity and honor meant and once that bug bit, there was no turning back. Reinlistment after reinlistment happened and before we knew it, he was reinlisting indefinately and put him to 20 years of service-Hahahah, not really 20 as he now hit 24 years and still hasn't retired.. Honestly, we love this life. We have met so many AMAZING people that we are proud to call family. We have learned to adapt and roll with the punches and that just when you have things "figured" out, the Army changes it, not always a bad thing. I look at the fast changes as this is where we are meant to be and do, so we roll. <br />
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Things I will really miss are the friendships made. In this life you make friends REALLY quickly. You jump in all the way, or you dry up. Not always do you meet friends for life, sometimes you meet friends for now, or you quickly realize that this person isn't meant to be your friend. Our children, Our PRECIOUS "brats" also have to jump into the friendship pool super quickly and adapt to a new surrounding, new fashion, styles, lifestyles, whats cool at the new place and find your niche in a clique and prove yourself YET AGAIN, that you have what it takes to play for a team at the new school. "Brats" also miss sporting seasons because a PCS happens and throws ithe timing out of wack.. It isn't always fun and if they move to a "non military town", you feel like an idiot and not in the loop of the town kids-It's hard for them, but they are brave and good and proud and fight through it and come out a super star-usually. Our children also have to say goodbyes to their dear friends and hope and pray that their mom and dad PCS to where we are going, it does happen sometimes!!! Oh Happy Days, when that happens!!!<br />
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I will also miss the safety net of this life, its consistantly inconsistant and you expect the unexpected, it's our normal. I will miss running into the commissary thinking it will be a quick trip and running into 15 people and chit chatting, having some gossip, giving a hug to a spouse who is having a crappy day and hasn't heard from their soldier in 2 weeks. I will miss watching soldiers do PT in formation in the mornings and hearing the roar of the cadence they sing and the pride in their voices. I will miss hearing "yes ma'am, no ma'am" and hearing children NEVER call an adult by their first name, but always saying Miss Cathy, or Mr Shawn, even when the "brats" are in their 20's. <br />
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I will really miss all the little things that really aren't so little when you think about it. I am scared to live in a neighborhood that is "regular" I love seeing Rank and Names and Units on the front of the houses on post, I will miss seeing the welcome home daddy/mommy signs all over the place. I will miss the slow drive of the MP car keeping watch over our street and the wave and smile from the MP in the car. I will miss the crazy street names we have seen on over the years- Artillery Road, SGM Christian Fleetwood St, Patriot Parkway, etc. I will truly miss this bubble. <br />
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There are things I wont miss too... I wont miss deployments, separations, missed holidays, dinners, bdays and anniversaries. I will NOT miss the middle of the night phone calls, or the holding of breath when the doorbell rings and my soldiers is not home. It will be nice to be around family and friends that aren't military. We love our families and being away from them has always been our biggest struggle. Its hard not being able to just jump in the car and go help them when they need it or missing the birth of new nieces and nephews and grandchildren. <br />
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Sal is excited to retire, while the Army and MP CORPS have been a HUGE part of his life, he ready to hand over the reigns to the new crop and watch and see them grow and develop into great NCOs and leaders. I think the last day Sal puts on his ACU's and his training cap, will be a very hard time for him and I am thinking a few tears will be shed- from him!! <br />
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“Lead me, follow me, or get the hell out of my way.” <br />― <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/370054.George_S_Patton_Jr_">George S. Patton Jr.</a>, <i><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/7084973">Patton Principles</a></i>My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-37631960981219585282013-02-28T01:11:00.002-06:002013-02-28T01:11:19.273-06:00I am still here!Gosh, it has been FOREVER since I have blogged.. SAWWY, just been very busy with life and work, etc. I have also been afflicted by writers block-BOO! I love to write and blog and I ALWAYS have so much to say, it's just my thoughts can't find a focus. <br />
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I will update everyone on the familia. Well, we have all just been busy busy as always.. So, Sal is doing great and while he won't fully admit it, he really does like his job here. He misses having his "own" soldiers, but he makes an impact on those that reach out. I do believe this position he has here really will benefit him in the civilian world. Lots of goings on here at JBER, so sadly, it keeps him a little overly busy at odd hours of the day and night-it's par for the course of this life, so we smile and move forward. <br />
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I am good, had a couple medical things, but nothing to horrific, BUT I do not really enjoy psoriatic arthritis, it makes me feel way older than I am somedays. I have been watching what I have been eating, but this week is a cheat week-not just a day, but tonight I made some paleo and will get back on track tomorrow. I am trying to ease my way into Paleo, so I am doing one meal a day paleo. It is actually a very good way to eat, so it has not been very hard. Work has been going well, it is really my cup of tea to talk to people all day, I really just love it. <br />
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So, now for the kiddos, LOL I'll try and keep it brief. All the grown up kids are doing fine, staying busy, going to college, prepping for PCS's and living life. I miss Nick, Ashlee and Cass being home. I know some parents cannot wait for their kids to move out and move on-but I am not one of those parents. I really miss the crazy chaos, hectic lives and their faces.. SMOOCHIES from mama!<br />
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Our baby boy, Tony will be heading off to Arizona this summer to continue his education. I am super excited for Tony and Dana, but I know I am going to have a REALLY hard time saying goodbye to this kid. He is a wackadoodle and I love it. I think I have cried nearly each day at the thought of him going away, but I know its part of life and that he has to cut the cord sometime... RIGHT? REALLY? SERIOUSLY?<br />
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The littles are still silly beans, but they make me happy. Both are doing great in school and are getting ready to start baseball season and are just enjoying life as we all should. I love watching them sled out back, they just have this zest for life that I wish I could bottle and share with the world. Belly laughs, action figures, silly jokes and cuddles-its what they do and I love them for it.<br />
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So, that is all that is going on in the Urzi house.. Hope everyone is doing well!<br />
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My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-82021730484264428572012-11-20T21:36:00.001-06:002012-11-20T21:36:31.995-06:00My Review<span class="huge bqQuoteLink"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/m/margaretth109592.html" title="view quote">Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren't.</a></span><br /><span class="bodybold"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/margaret_thatcher.html" title="view author">Margaret Thatcher</a></span><br />
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So, this week was the premiere of Married to the Army-Alaska. This premiere caused quite a ruckus all over the land, but particularly here IN ALASKA. MTTAA was filmed here on JBER-Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson, using Army spouses whose husbands were deployed. I think it will be interesting to most to see this show, but its also caused a lot of dialogue amongst the spouses, not always in the positive. So, I will give you a summary of the show. There are 7 wives, whose soldiers vary in rank and who are thrown together (most did not know each other before this) to film a docudrama about our lives as Army spouses during a deployment. The first episode was a train wreck, honestly. I think it pointed out the extreme ugly side of our lives in regards to friendships, judgements and stereotypes....<br />
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I wonder why we keep perpetuating these stereotypes. The stereotypes if you don't know are Officer wives are classy, educated, pretty, charming, bitchy, obnoxious, rank wearers, intimidating, insulting. For Enlisted spouses its that we are vulgar, uneducated, baby-popper-outers, partyers, bad mothers, amongst others for both sides. All are further from the truth for the most part, I think "WE" can all fall into each and every stereotype at times. Another stereotype is that military spouses can't associate with spouses that have husbands of higher or lower ranks-Which is NOT true... Spouses do NOT wear rank. I am not an E8 in the Army, Sal is-Me, not so much. Sure, there are varying levels of "to do" responsibilities that CAN be associated with the spouse as the soldier makes his/her way up the ranks and how much you involve yourself is up to you. It certainly does not make your soldier look good or bad, his abilities are all on his shoulders. I have dear friends whose husbands and or wives are litterly every rank from E1-Generals and my friends have NEVER behaved like some of the spouses on this show. Being a spouse of an officer, does not make you proper-Nope, not at all, it makes you So and So's wife or husband. Thankfully there are spouses on that show who REALLY and truly show what it's like to be graceful, kind, loving and selfless, these few ladies really will be the reason most will learn anything about our lives. Its funny how just a couple bad apples can really cause so much anger amongst military spouses and can cause NON military people to text me and ask me if that is how it really is with us spouses. Watching the first episode only sets my opinion in stone how important mentorship is within the world of the spouses. Sometimes someone needs to take us under their wing and say "Mary, how about I give you some advice"- In a NON COMBATIVE WAY... I have had AMAZING mentors in my life as a military spouse, they have helped me make good choices in this life. They have made me want to be involved and help where needed and to be supportive of my soldier. I also pride myself on being what I hope is a great mentor to young spouses. I truly with all my heart love this life we live, so when I see the ugly side of it, it makes me so sad and disapointed. Seriously, who cares how 2 people met and how is it ANYONES business. Sal and I were married while I was still in high school, every odd was against our success, I dropped out of high school and had 4 babies by the time I was 21, is that horrible? Ideal, NO! Sal and I love each other and at 18 we took the bull by the horns and made the commitment to each other. I am not ashamed of any decisions we made and NOBODY will ever make me feel less than because of it. I personally know one of the spouses in the show and while we aren't friends, I felt really sad for her treatment on the show because she did nothing wrong in answering a question honestly. Her reaction would have been anyones reaction for the most part. <br />
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So for those young spouses or men and women prepping to marry a soldier, don't be scared. Embrace the role you are about to commit to, toughen your skin up and be true to yourself and others. Remember there are no "proper" ways to be a military spouse, you will find your own way. Make sure you find a great mentor that can give you great tips on being a spouse in the military.<br />
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In further opinion about the show, I think a bit more diversity would have been good. There aren't any spouses of SR NCOs, or male spouses. There are women in the Army who are married and those spouses really get no representation. Its a new world people, modern times, modern times. All in all I think it will be a good show, the aftermath however is becoming more and more amusing by the moment and by amusing I mean RIDICULOUS....... My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-43859848191260655232012-10-19T12:53:00.001-05:002012-10-19T12:55:17.962-05:00Did I shave my legs for this?No, I didn't fall off the planet, just been busy with life and all things that it brings. Since I last blogged we have had a new grandson enter our world, a son celebrated his 19th birthday, Cassidy moved back home for the semester, my sister had heart situation and I believe that is it. Whew, life...gotta love it.. My sister is doing better, thanks to prayers.<br />
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So I have been pondering what I would be blogging about and with all the recent redeployments and deployments going on where we are, I thought that possibly a brush up in what to expect when you're "expecting" a deployment or redeployment. (A redeployment is when the military members return home)<br />
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So, when a soldier returns home it IS indeed a wonderful thing. We get in our best outfits, primp, shave, highlight, lowlight, tweeze, pluck and wax. We find the cutest patriotic outfits for our babies, prep the house, etc... We arrive HOURS before the planes and busses and wait....and wait...and wait-Then its time and a sea of troops march in, just like in the movies! Our hearts race and while the command is speaking, we just want them to shut up so we can love on our soldier!!! What is really a 5 min speech, feels like hours. Then it comes-They get released and its like a sea of crazy! Swarms of families, crying, laughing, searching, hugging. Daddy's meeting new children, mommy's reacquainting with their children, new loves and old loves reuniting, its a beautiful and tremendous sight.... And then we drive home.<br />
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Coming home and getting back into your family life can be hard. When a soldier returns they don't get a few weeks off, they litterly go back to work for reintegration just hours upon returning home, that can be hard for us to handle, we just want all that time for us, the Army has had them for a year, we want our time, BUT we have to realize that this is part of return process and there are reasons and a method to this madness. We as spouses NEED to be patient and instead of having a fit and causing more stress upon the entire situation, calmly vent with your battle buddy (I can assure you they are probably going through the same thing or have gone through it.) Remember that our soldiers have to decompress and adjust to being home from a combat zone-They do not however need a new combat zone to battle) Is it hard to not scream, "I WANT YOU ALL TO MYSELF!!!!!"? ABSOFREAKINGLOUTELY! But it will only add to the stress of it all. Its a transition to merge back as a family, but we ALL have to pitch in and be understanding of each other. This is going to take time. If my husband wants to sleep for 36 hours will it irritate me? Sure, piss me off even, BUT its what he needs. Merging families with children also has its quirks and hills to climb. For a year you have been mommy AND daddy and your system of things is what worked while he/she was gone, well they are back now and need to have a say as well. Be supportive of each other during this transition, if he/she didn't handle something how you would have, talk to them when you are alone and figure it out then. Kids need a united front and need to see how to handle all of this too.<br />
My point to all of this is to not expect things to be perfect and how it looks on TV. There is NO normal in this, only what is right for you, your soldier and your family. Some families have no issues at all and it feels as if the service member never left, others have a lot of issues, neither is right or wrong, it just is what it is. <br />
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To my friends who have recently welcomed their soldier home, "woohoo!" you did it, you ran the marathon and did just fine!!! To my friends who are just now begining the marathon-You can and will do it. You are strong and brave and loving..My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-61918494971608105182012-08-15T23:13:00.000-05:002012-08-15T23:13:09.671-05:00Our birthday babyHere you go, Miss Cassidy!<br />
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Happy Birthday to our baby girl! 20 years ago today, we were given a sweet little ginger angel. You had a bit of a rough start in life, but you are a fighter!!! I remember when I held you for the first time, I couldnt believe that you were so tiny, I had never had a baby that small before. You had a headfull of ginger hair and huge blue eyes, and a tiny heart mouth. I could tell from the very first moment I met you, that you would be strong, brave and loving-and I was right. I was so excited to have another baby girl, (your dad was in disbelief that we had a 2nd girl-he thought something was wrong with him, LOL) I couldnt wait to dress you and Ashlee alike and do your hair and have 2 little princess' in my life. We all babied you so much, because you were just so cute and tiny. Such a good and easy baby you were and smart, sooo very smart. One day you were laying on your tummy on the floor and you litterly sat up and walked, like you had known how to walk for your entire life! You were on a mission and needed to keep up with Ashlee and Nicholas. You have such an old soul. Your loyalty and love to your family amazes me. You never give up on people and your friendships and relationships prove that. I am proud to call you one of my daughters. Daddy and I cannot wait to see what the future brings to you, PS-Dad said it better bring you a job hahahha!!! We are happy you are in college and in a good and loving relationship with our Katie pie, the love you show each other is precious and we are so happy to have her in our lives. <br />
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A piece of bday advice, always remain true to yourself, don't change because of what others think you should be and do. Love always and live life, we only get 1 of them so do your best-Don't waste the gift of time we are given. <br />
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Mommy and Daddy love you and want you to know that we miss you and are UBER proud of you.. Keep on being FABULOUS!!!!<br />
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SMOOCHES!!!My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-32579017890116929092012-08-15T00:01:00.000-05:002012-08-15T00:01:06.817-05:00Dear DadHi dad,<br />
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Its me again. Today is your birthday, in earthly years you would be 63!! You left too soon 38 is too young. I miss you and just want you back. I want you to be here with us and watch the kids grow up and do funny things. I want you to open your wallet and have oodles of grandkid pics falling out. I want to listen to your laugh and listen to your stories of when you were a kid and I just want you here. Today, if you were here, I would imagine we would have a nice BBQ meal and angel food cake for your bday cake. I wonder what you would be like now-I am sure you would be just as funny and wise, maybe just a little grayer. I just miss your face. I hope you watch down on us and are happy with our lives. Love you daddy!!!My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-73504284351150687632012-08-06T23:17:00.001-05:002012-08-06T23:17:06.913-05:00Dear Anthony...Dear Anthony,<br />
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Watching you grow into a man has been quite entertaining. I never realized what a little romantic you are and that makes my heart melt. Dana is a lucky girl. So, there are a few things I want to make you aware of about women. You think you may know it all, but kid-You will NEVER have women figured out. <br />
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ALWAYS be a good listener, don't interrupt and when asked your opinion-TREAD carefully... One wrong statement and you are TOAST.. <br />
Remember that we as women can change our minds fast as lightning.. Living with me and your 2 sisters, you should know that by now.<br />
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Know that you will hurt feelings, its human-BUT You are not weak in saying you are sorry. In fact, just the opposite, because it takes a very strong person to say "sorry".<br />
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Keep your own individuality and interests. Difference is the spice of life, and be supportive of those things. <br />
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Remember the little things. Little things mean the most.<br />
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Treasure the "lean years" I know, lean isn't a word you are familiar with in your life, but trust me when I say, the lean years will happen and they are GREAT. Some of mine and daddy's best memories are from those lean times and in case you aren't sure what lean means-It means BROKE as a JOKE! Those times when you stick together and rise above it will be the best times. Sure, they suck when you are going through it and you cannot ever imagine anything worse, they do indeed get better. <br />
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Don't sweat the small things like butter being left out, or toothpaste being squeezed from the middle and not the end, relish the quirks. <br />
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ALWAYS BE A GENTLEMAN! Open doors, hold hands and always let her have the biggest piece of the cake. <br />
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Be a GREAT FATHER! When the time comes one day for you to be a father, be a great one-you had a wonderful role model and I couldn't have asked for a better dad for my kiddos. Even when you are exhausted, muster up enough excitement to show a 5 year old how to tie a shoe, or a 16 year old how to parallel park. Be a good husband to their mother and allow your kids to see the love that exudes from your relationship. <br />
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Think before you speak when you are angry.. Words hurt! If you need to take a run, or punch a bag- do it and clear your mind before you say a word. <br />
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I love watching you and Dana and your relationship unfold. You two are so cute and funny and just savor the moments. I am proud of the man that you have become and me and daddy are VERY proud of you. Remember, one day you may have a daughter and she will have a boyfriend so think KARMA in how you treat your sweet love..<br />
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Momma and daddy love you to the moon... Smooches, Your mom!<br />
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Roman is a perfect combination of all the other 5 kids, it's a little crazy actually. He has the exact hair color and sense of humor as Nicholas, the temper and spirit of Ashlee, the lovingness and eyes of Cassidy, the mischieviousness and loyalty of Anthony and the love of life and laughter of Dominic. He has been a cutie pie for us and we just love him..<br />
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Dear Roman,<br />
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6 years old!!! Yayy 6!!! I love that you are such a strong and good boy. I love coming home from work everyday and hearing you tell me you want a cuddle and you get on my lap with your cute blankie and just melt into my arms. Although right now as I type this journal you are having a HUGE temper tantrum and making me crazy-I still think you are a cutie pie and love you-ALOT! I secretly do not want you to grow up. I cannot lie, I get very teary eyed at the thought of you not being a little boy, you are such a cute and sweet little guy. I hope you always have that innocense and love for life. I love that you call bacon bits, bacon bites and I love that only momma can make you perfect chocolate milk, its cute that you like to dip EVERYTHING in ketchup and that you know exactly how to order at starbucks. You make me laugh little man. Momma loves you to the moon sweet boy, to the moon....My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-42277409285258703742012-06-17T22:33:00.000-05:002012-06-17T22:33:53.257-05:00Fathers Day!!!Today is Fathers Day. Its bitter sweet for me. Bitter, because my daddy is no longer here and I do miss him terribly. Fathers days are "eh" for me. I just try and stay busy. Now my childrens father and the love of my life-Well he DEFINATELY needs to be celebrated because he pretty much rocks! I do INDEED know how lucky I am to have him in my life. For instance today is HIS day, he could sit and do nothing all day if he chooses, but do you know what he did? He detailed my car, filled the gas, played with the boys, sanded down some wood furniture for me, BBQd our dinner and just took the boys to the park! He is just awesome. <br />
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He has always taken his fatherly duties seriously and with everything he does, gives it 150%.. I truly am greatful he is in our lives. <br />
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Dear sweetest man on the planet,<br />
SMOOCHES and I love you. I am choked up just doing this blog because you bring me tears of joy just at the memories of the past 23 years of you being our childrens' father. Here are some reasons WHY I think you are a great father:<br />
*You put our marriage first<br />
*You love unconditionally but have HIGH expectations for them<br />
*I've watched you teach a son to parralell park in the pouring rain<br />
*I've watched you give a daughter away to her love of her life<br />
*I've seen you weep when they haven't always done the right thing<br />
*I witnessed you sending off a "child" to war<br />
*You have shown our sons what kind of men they SHOULD be<br />
*You have given our daughters VERY high expectations of whom they should love<br />
*You've held my hand when we nearly lost a child<br />
*You have had to wipe my eyes and held me when I was nearly at a breaking point<br />
*You made a corsage for our daughter when I was out of town<br />
*You change diapers!!!<br />
*You are the BEST monster to 2 little boys<br />
*You make our kids laugh<br />
*You are firm when you need to be and soft as its needed<br />
*You embrace our childrens' individuality<br />
*You talked a son through pitching a tent via phone<br />
*Even though you "act" like they are financially sucking you dry, You still help them when needed<br />
*You buy them gifts and "blame" it on me<br />
*You clogging at Ashlees wedding to make her smile<br />
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There are SO many more things that you do that I appreciate, but you get the idea. Thanks for being a SUPER daddy to our kids. Thank you for being a wonderful "Boss" as well, our grandkids LOVE you always and forever......<br />
<br />My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-64184384824474198932012-05-28T14:25:00.001-05:002012-05-28T14:35:14.671-05:00Memorial Day..Memorial Day is a special moment to me, but should be a wonderful moment to every American. It was at the cost of MANY amazing Americans that we can say whats in our hearts and minds, we can disagree and even love whomever and believe however, with freedom. I have personally known some of these wonderful men and women that paid the ultimate price for this freedom I love. <br />
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I also am married to a wonderful patriot. Sal is a great American. I am sure when he reads this he will be very modest and say to me "my sexy mama is crazy" and then he will walk over to me and kiss me on my forehead, LOL.. I also have men and women in my life who serve as well, they know who they are and why we love them. We have been blessed to have amazing people in our military family and our lives would never have been the same without them. My father and stepfather and sooo many other family members have served and still serve-It makes me proud beyond words.<br />
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To the many of our fallen, the Urzi Family salutes you. I can never know what posesses someone to join the military and go into battle-KNOWING full well at any given moment you could make that sacrifice that we remember today. You, the fallen have been in our prayers and thoughts daily as well as the loved ones you left behind. Thank you for making my opinions okay to voice and for the many other voices in this country. Thank you for being the steele fabric in this beautiful country's quilt. <br />
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I hope those of you today, while you are BBQing and having a wonderful time with friends and family, that you take a few moments to remember those that served and still serving and will NOT be spending this wonderful day safely at home. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">On thy grave the rain shall fall from the eyes of a mighty nation! ~Thomas
William Parsons</span><br />
<br />My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-79608647837498134862012-05-11T14:31:00.001-05:002012-05-11T14:31:48.231-05:00Happy Military Spouse Day!Ladies and Gents!<br />
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Today is Military Spouse Day!! A day that people can verbalize their appreciation for military spouses. Military spouses are the silent ranks, which means that while "WE" don't "serve", we do indeed have a place in the military bubble. Our place is to provide stability to our soldier and our family. It isn't always easy, but it is something that indeed MUST BE DONE. I can only speak for myself, but I also like to play the role of the opposing opinion to Sal. I usually agree with his vent or topic of discussion, but I like to provide another view, LOL. He says I am playing Jedi Mind Games when I do that, muhaha! <br />
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What is a military spouse to me? A military spouse has different roles, depending on the person. Some spouses relish in the "being active on post" role, while others prefer not to be involved. Do NOT confuse lack of involvement with not supporting their soldier. We all have different personalities and comfort zones. For me, I am a pretty open book with most people. And if you ask me a question, I'll give you an honest answer. I wasn't always that way. When Sal first joined the Army there were NO FRGs yet and we weren't authorized housing yet because he was only an E1, so I wasn't even living around military spouses in our apt complex. It was new to me and I muddled through and read books about being a spouse LOL.. Nothing I learned or read about in books was really prepatory for my military spouse life. It was a road of live and learn. Not until we went to Giessen Germany did I really ever have a mentor-Then I had several!! I had Lana, Kristy, Lisa, Michele and Melissa. A great group of ladies who REALLY showed me everything wonderful about being an Army Spouse. They are still in my life and I love them like family. My payback to them have been to try and always be a good Army Spouse role model and mentor. My honesty and realistic approach can come off harsh, but it is what it is-I'm not one to sugarcoat things and I think MOST spouses want to hear the truth, as harsh as it may be at times. <br />
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Military spouses endure alot! Being alone, making decisions big and small at the drop of a hat, Mom, Dad, Jury, Judge, friend, foe, Nurse, hugger, kisser of booboos, disciplinarian, baker, chef, housekeeper, butt wiper, shoulder to cry on, gardner-I could go on but you get my gist. We also sit at night, in the calm and cry and think about our soldier.. What is he/she doing? What is she/he seeing? We also think and cry about having to wake up the next day and be everything to everyone. We all get to the point of "really? This has to happen again tomorrow? Can't I have a break?" At times, we even get irritated with our soldiers down range because they aren't here taking up some slack-It may sound wrong, but it's true... It is what it is. <br />
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Military Spouses also endure some amazing things- I have helped spouses give birth and watched these amazing brats come into the world! I've watched my fellow spouses of all faiths sit with me and cheer on my children as they have made their first communions and confirmations. They were the family for our kids-we are the family for each other-Good, bad or otherwise. I have also been very blessed to be at the homecomings taking pics for friends and spouses to catch a glimpse of the love and affection that goes on after not seeing each other for a year. I have also been the reciever of a homecoming and watched my sweet love, get off that plane or bus and run into the arms of 6 kids and me. I love watching all the kids talk to him at once, sharing their whole year with them at the same time and in the matter of 20 seconds. I love seeing his face during that time-Total Bliss and happiness. <br />
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Each wonderful military spouse has their own story and path. If you know or see a military spouse-tell them "good job'! If she is walking through the airport with 6 kids, 12 pieces of luggage and a frazzled look on her face, Don't be upset if I don't wave back, LOL...My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-14344107298875699912012-05-03T00:59:00.002-05:002012-05-03T01:01:10.553-05:00Whew..That was the most I have blogged in forever, but the Month of the Military Child is VERY near and dear to my heart. I too was an Army Brat and VERY proud of my daddy's service to this country and the sacrifices he made. <br />
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So, I should be cleaning and getting ready for my family to visit, but I don't feel like it right now. I have lost my motivation-bahhha. Saturday Ashlee and Kaydence arrive then Sunday my stepdad and mom get here and Monday our fave son in law lands in Alaska!! Next week, Cassidy and Katy come-WOOHOO!!! I wish our whole family could be here, but we will hopefully see them soon. <br />
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In other news, Big Sal graduates Friday!!!! Its been a long road but I am beyond proud of him. He has already begun to take his classes for his BA, which he should have next year. Oddly, he HATED highschool and would have rather been hit by a truck that go to HS, LOL.. Its also a little bit of HMMPH! to his English teacher at Greenway High in Arizona. She once told him he wouldn't amount to anything.. Seriously, what kind of teacher says that to another human being? Even without the degree, Sal has become one of the most AMAZING men I know. He has a wonderful career in the Army, a happy family that loves him, soldiers that he mentors and friends that think he rocks! Really, at the end of the day a college degree doesn't make the man. Even though he "acts" like it is no big deal for his graduation, I can see the pride in his eyes. Many times taking his classes I could see on his face a look of BLAH and frustration, BUT success is VERY important to him and I knew he would climb that mountain and conquer it. So my love I write to you..<br />
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Salvatore,<br />
I cannot even find the words to say how proud I am of you in EVERYTHING that you do. I frequently wonder how you do it. How do you go to school, lead in the Army, put up with the crap that you do at work, love me, love our children, friends and family. You will always help anyone that needs it. I like to think I am a pretty good person, but I couldn't hold a candle to you. I love the kid I fell in love with 25 years ago and I love and adore the man you have become. You my sweet are the poster child for a decent human being.. I love you! I have a fun memory of you with each of our kiddos.<br />
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With Nicholas, watching you talk to him at our house right after his basic and ait and I was taking pics and noticed that while you were talking to him, he was standing at parade rest. It was so hilarious.<br />
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With Ashlee, watching you dance with her on her wedding day was so beautiful and heart wrenching. You doing the soul train was hella funny too!<br />
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Cassidy graduating was VERY hard on you and watching you say goodbye when she left to move to Arizona- while it was sad, what was funny was all of us standing outside wondering if you were going to cry.. We won! <br />
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Tony's prom night, watching you carefully help him get ready-like you were helping a soldier get his uniform ready for a board.. Pride, love and respect<br />
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Dom and Rome-Teaching them to pitch a tent and "camp out" in the back yard. Watching Dom help and work hard and watching Roman hide and act like he was helping.. Even though they didn't make it out there ALL night, you made a fun memory with them.<br />
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Thank you for all these years of memories. It hasn't always been an easy climb, but its been worth every step...<br />
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Baci, Baci, Baci!My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-33774233095178165282012-05-01T00:43:00.000-05:002012-05-01T00:44:06.233-05:00Last but not least.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Its overly emotional to write about our 1st born. Our 1st brat, our 1st everything. Nicholas was always such a good baby and boy. Very easy to parent for most of his growing up. Teachers used to always say that Nicholas was the All American Kid.. Handsome, smart, charming, polite. He made us very proud, always. Nicholas like most brats did not like deployments. He used to have a hard time talking to Sal on the phone while Sal was deployed. He was overcome with emotion and just physically couldnt talk. He would just tearfully nod his head and run off-even as a teenager.Nicholas, joined the Army during his SR year, we were so proud of his decision. He would soon have a son of his own to take care of and he was ready to become a soldier. Not just ANY soldier, but an MP-Son of an MP. He was entering his fathers world in every aspect and God help him. Some of his Drill Sergeants have known him since he was a child so basic and ait were about to become a challenge. Sal was fortunate in being an instructor at the MP school house and was able to peek in on Nicholas and have a vantage point that MOST parents do not get. With that, we also endured saying goodbye to our 1st born when he deployed for the 1st time. Sal had a horrible time with saying goodbye. The tears just couldnt and wouldnt stop. I was asked every few hours by Sal, "When is he going to call?", "Where do you think he is?", "Do you think he is okay?" Sal also stated that being a soldier was EASY compared to being a spouse or child or parent of a soldier. He said it made his sick at the thought. It broke his heart that he wouldn't be there to protect him-something that we as his parents had done for 18 years. Nicholas came home safe and in 1 piece, only to have to deploy again soon after. UGH.. Nicholas is now a parent of his own and he and his wife Meagan are expecting their 2nd child. Nicholas will have 3 kiddos soon, Dominic, Nicholas and the new baby that is unamed at the moment. While Nicholas is not part of our daily lives any longer, he is missed and loved just the same. We are proud of his call to duty and his love of his country.<br />
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Nicholas, almost 23 years ago I was an 18 year old girl missing your dad while he was away at basic training. I had you by myself and he missed one of the most amazing things that would happen in our lives. No matter where you go in life or the choices you make, we will always love you very much. The last several years have been some of the hardest in our lives for so many reasons. Thank you for giving us 3 beautiful grandchildren. I hope you cherish EACH and every moment with them because its really a flash of time before they are gone. Good luck in all the things that you do and remember to ALWAYS be your best as a husband, father, brother and son.. Your family is something that should never be taken for granted.My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-5554514828811262072012-04-27T22:32:00.000-05:002012-04-27T22:40:50.909-05:00Our first baby girl..So, I've made it to our 2nd child and our 1st daughter. WOW, she is 21-ALMOST 22 and I cannot believe that! Im not sure where the time has gone but WOWZA! So, Ashlee was born at Ft Belvoir, Va in 1990. She arrived late (should have known from that moment that ANYTHING involving Ashlee, was going to be on HER time..) So, Ashlee was born on Fathers day that year and she was the 1st of our 6 kids that had daddy there to watch her enter the world. Ashlee was born looking like she wanted to cut someone and HOW DARE WE DISTURB HER! HMMPH! I kid-only slightly. While she was a VERY stubborn child, she was always very entertaining and loving. Ashlee was only 6 weeks old when daddy PCSd to Germany. We had originally thought we would arrive in Germany shortly thereafter... A crazy by the name of Saddam Hussein, would change that scenario. Desert Shield and Desert Storm began. Here I was in Az waiting to move to Germany, living out of my suitcases with family, going from home to home. It was a very stressful time for us, but the babies kept me solid. When Ashlee was almost a year old, she got to get to know her daddy when he returned home. Like most military brats, she was NOT sure about this new stranger who only wanted to love and hold her. Her expression was "Bitch please". Eventually daddy won her over and all was well in the world. Ashlee, as I said earlier was really a butthead-ALOT, she loved to test me. She eventually turned 17 and moved away to live on her own. She learned it wasn't as easy as she had thought but she made her way. She and her childhood sweetheart, Blake, got married and started THEIR military life together. She is now an Army wife, daughter and sister and a mom, college graduate and working woman. She has become such a great woman. You won't ever meet anyone more protective of her family than Ashlee. Its a beautiful trait. I do recall in one of her infamous fits, he quote of the fit was "weave my woan"-translated, it means leave me alone.. She said that ALOT, LOL We still use that saying around the house..<br />
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Ashlee, <br />
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WOW, you are a mother and wife now! Daddy and I are so very proud of the woman you have become. You put your husband and daughter first and always want to do right by them. Its a beautiful quality. Watching you become a mother has been amazing. The love you shower on Kaydence is so wonderful to watch. You and Blake lead her by example and that, you should be proud of. I love watching you become an amazing woman and I want you to know how much we love you and how much you mean to us... Always stay true...I'm so proud of the big sissy you have become. You always think about them and want to help them or protect them with passion. It says ALOT about who you are..My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-7618594561048495392012-04-25T22:07:00.001-05:002012-04-25T22:07:22.834-05:00Next up is...Our daughter Cassidy.. She had a rough start into this world, but like a true miltary brat, she came, she saw, she conquered. Cassidy was born in Germany and is our 3rd bebe. She was a very happy and easy going baby. She was also the only ginger baby we have, LOL.. Id have to say that while MOST of our children are very loyal, Cass has got to be the most loyal to the people she loves. Even when people arent so wonderful to her at times. She maintains that loyalty. Its something I am so proud of her about. She also, like Tony is one that defends the "little guy". Cassidy is a tough little witchy poo too, which is funny to see. We always worried about her because she was always soo tiny! People always wanted to pick her up and baby her, me included.. Its been hard to let her grow up. During deployments Cassidy makes sure I keep it real, and by real I mean she makes sure we do the normal and regular things that we would do even while Sal is not home. She also has a potty mouth like me, she is a good blend of Sal and I. <br />
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Cassidy is now on her own and going to college. Its weird to think that our little baby girl is making her own way in life. She has a wonderful girlfriend, Katy and they are very happy and work hard at everything they do. We are just very proud of who she is. Despite the struggles sometimes of life, she plugs along. I am quite sure part of who she has become is because of being an Army Brat.. Strong, loyal, independant, compassionate and brave. <br />
<br />
Cassidy,<br />
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Daddy and I are so proud of the woman you have become. You are such a bright light in our lives. The big sister to Tony, Dom and Rome is AMAZING! The love you give to your sister, Ashlee, is beautful. Its been fun watching you and ashlee have an adult relationship as sisters. Makes my heart pitty pat. This last few years have been emotionally taxing on ALL of us, for many reasons, but you keep us laughing and reminiding me that things will be okay. I know when I am no longer in this world that your siblings will have you as a rock and a reminder of how "we do" in this family. I love when you call to tell us the DUMBEST jokes and when you call me at work, the same time each day to ask me what I am doing, LOL.. You my sweet baby girl put a smile on my face. Stay true to yourself and never change. I love, Love, Love you!!!!!My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-38533820144114525952012-04-19T21:37:00.004-05:002012-04-19T22:54:57.548-05:00still waters run deep<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b68A3zjbGss/T5DeBkd0MpI/AAAAAAAAAjE/HbwwcIh0T9A/s1600/waiting.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733326444192608914" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b68A3zjbGss/T5DeBkd0MpI/AAAAAAAAAjE/HbwwcIh0T9A/s320/waiting.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9JCLxSh3sU8/T5DeBFlAytI/AAAAAAAAAi4/_3l6BndNUKU/s1600/dad.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733326435901295314" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9JCLxSh3sU8/T5DeBFlAytI/AAAAAAAAAi4/_3l6BndNUKU/s320/dad.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0w-L2vz5BCE/T5DeAgqOlwI/AAAAAAAAAis/NB31NocQjBc/s1600/cards.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733326425991059202" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0w-L2vz5BCE/T5DeAgqOlwI/AAAAAAAAAis/NB31NocQjBc/s320/cards.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JXLeg0XFsiM/T5DeAdiUmDI/AAAAAAAAAic/L_dZQ98k0TQ/s1600/baseballtony005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733326425152591922" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JXLeg0XFsiM/T5DeAdiUmDI/AAAAAAAAAic/L_dZQ98k0TQ/s320/baseballtony005.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lbz08sGI-g0/T5DeAGZ6rkI/AAAAAAAAAiU/PQBbqU1eZNk/s1600/amore.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 239px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733326418943323714" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lbz08sGI-g0/T5DeAGZ6rkI/AAAAAAAAAiU/PQBbqU1eZNk/s320/amore.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EOJOFoHZe8c/T5Dbr-jQOTI/AAAAAAAAAiI/N8OJrVHiyqE/s1600/237.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733323874214361394" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EOJOFoHZe8c/T5Dbr-jQOTI/AAAAAAAAAiI/N8OJrVHiyqE/s320/237.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xHeO842Ityk/T5DbrFyR1aI/AAAAAAAAAh4/VygpOXa8DUE/s1600/DSC01808.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733323858976560546" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xHeO842Ityk/T5DbrFyR1aI/AAAAAAAAAh4/VygpOXa8DUE/s320/DSC01808.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jXNZAkpXFM4/T5Dbq3AhoUI/AAAAAAAAAhs/C9KvOUCGG_s/s1600/1207333747_61694d6c06_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 193px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733323855009784130" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jXNZAkpXFM4/T5Dbq3AhoUI/AAAAAAAAAhs/C9KvOUCGG_s/s320/1207333747_61694d6c06_m.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wf2LIQn50dU/T5DbqnBpaUI/AAAAAAAAAhk/I9j9FYjLano/s1600/th_070.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 160px; height: 120px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733323850719521090" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wf2LIQn50dU/T5DbqnBpaUI/AAAAAAAAAhk/I9j9FYjLano/s320/th_070.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aiqhSp0oEQc/T5DbqalQZHI/AAAAAAAAAhY/1e3rUr9abkM/s1600/252832_2096770263056_1359349869_2426877_1513943_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733323847379215474" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aiqhSp0oEQc/T5DbqalQZHI/AAAAAAAAAhY/1e3rUr9abkM/s320/252832_2096770263056_1359349869_2426877_1513943_n.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Oy, I love this kid, but he has been quite a character in his short 18 years. So, Tony is our 4th child and 2nd son. He was born at Luke AFB in Arizona and was also the 2nd child I gave birth to without my soldier around-Its the norm in this lifestyle, but we do what we have to do. So Tony entered this world at 9lbs and dark olive skin and deep brown eyes. Tony could be a very difficult kiddo, but he is funny as all get out! He is also a very strong and silent young man. He is very much like his daddy. Always observing before jumping into a situation. Tony is also very loyal to the people in his life. He says more in actions than words, for instance, last night he read the bedtime stories to his baby brothers. This may not seem like such a big deal, but he is 18, has a life outside of this house and is a busy bee. But he took the time because he knows that even though his baby brothers get on his nerves and get into his things, they look up to him with such adoration that it wells my eyes with tears. He has also oddly turned into quite the romantic and its cute to see with the love of his life, Dana. So Tony has learned as a military child to adapt quickly and help others in this journey. Its been funny to hear him discuss ranks with "newbies" and its cute that he still thinks his dad runs the Army, LOL.. He is such a respectul and cool kid. He makes me proud everytime I look at him. During deployments, he definately "suffers in silence" I have seem him waiting around for letters from dad and brother Nick from down range, Ive als found these letters kept safely in his room. He is a very proud Army Brat and has NO desire to live this lifestyle as an adult-It's okay, we will still love him. I've watched him squeal with delight in seeing his dad get off that bus from a deployment when he was little and I have seen him wait with agony as a teenager, watching his dad safely walk off that airplane returning from Iraq. The relief on his face, says it all. He is of course above squealing with delight now, but you can see it in his eyes... So Tony, Always do your best.. Never settle.. Remember where you come from and when things don't seem to be going your way, you get up and dust yourself off and figure it out. I CANNOT wait to see the man you will become and what you will do with your life. You make me proud when I see you give your last cent to a homeless person, or that when you talk of making it big in the NBA, you always talk about helping everyone you can and not about what YOU will get out of that. So, whether you are an NBA star, or the gym teacher at your local high school, know that Mamma and Daddy love you. Thank you for the laughter and the journey....</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5505449731139342552.post-3413270606805842372012-04-09T01:02:00.004-05:002012-04-09T01:05:19.244-05:00<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Atgm0wcg1c0/T4J8E5MRm2I/AAAAAAAAAhI/-R_SORqQNxI/s1600/31986_1319993957979_1174687172_30763782_2797996_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729278099482319714" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Atgm0wcg1c0/T4J8E5MRm2I/AAAAAAAAAhI/-R_SORqQNxI/s320/31986_1319993957979_1174687172_30763782_2797996_n.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-laMcK1-Jr3M/T4J8EjNAZ-I/AAAAAAAAAhA/v5Gk5ePEqWU/s1600/260164_1855786152449_1174687172_31732306_6616090_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729278093579806690" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-laMcK1-Jr3M/T4J8EjNAZ-I/AAAAAAAAAhA/v5Gk5ePEqWU/s320/260164_1855786152449_1174687172_31732306_6616090_n.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4qRMYwF2PV4/T4J8DrvmSkI/AAAAAAAAAg4/QBh6x8fqI4g/s1600/229209_1780219343326_1174687172_31634342_1653898_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729278078692510274" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4qRMYwF2PV4/T4J8DrvmSkI/AAAAAAAAAg4/QBh6x8fqI4g/s320/229209_1780219343326_1174687172_31634342_1653898_n.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pbCICD0Ib-8/T4J74HiyfHI/AAAAAAAAAgo/YGyPNRsofu0/s1600/DSCF0057.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729277879996546162" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pbCICD0Ib-8/T4J74HiyfHI/AAAAAAAAAgo/YGyPNRsofu0/s320/DSCF0057.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6pEF4n0wuoc/T4J736bcWXI/AAAAAAAAAgY/f9SIdren2Is/s1600/DSC03959.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729277876476074354" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6pEF4n0wuoc/T4J736bcWXI/AAAAAAAAAgY/f9SIdren2Is/s320/DSC03959.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j65mNa2h3Uo/T4J73q1BTvI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/5SfLyc5eQnc/s1600/DSC03044.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 240px; height: 320px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729277872288386802" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j65mNa2h3Uo/T4J73q1BTvI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/5SfLyc5eQnc/s320/DSC03044.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EhZTfIqnhV8/T4J728lXoFI/AAAAAAAAAgE/FX0Yk49EcIs/s1600/DSC01758.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729277859874709586" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EhZTfIqnhV8/T4J728lXoFI/AAAAAAAAAgE/FX0Yk49EcIs/s320/DSC01758.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M3gWyv8bJvk/T4J72ymrvcI/AAAAAAAAAf4/H3bCYpeLd2w/s1600/DSC01035.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729277857195867586" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M3gWyv8bJvk/T4J72ymrvcI/AAAAAAAAAf4/H3bCYpeLd2w/s320/DSC01035.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XCecAarovQ4/T4J7mJJm7UI/AAAAAAAAAfs/eSX99ZOF2c4/s1600/DSC00716.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; height: 240px; text-align: center; display: block; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729277571190156610" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XCecAarovQ4/T4J7mJJm7UI/AAAAAAAAAfs/eSX99ZOF2c4/s320/DSC00716.jpg" /></a><br /><div>This is Dominic Gianluca.. Dominic is our 5th child, we tried for him for 3.5 years, so he was quite a surprise!!! Just when we had given up hope to have more children. We hadn't had a baby in 12 years so it was like starting all over again. He was born in Lich Germany in a German hospital(he was the ONLY one of our 6 kids to NOT be born in a military hospital, so it was a new experience for us in many ways. He is by FAR, my favorite child-Why you ask? Well, from my 1st contraction to his delivery was 1 hour and 13 minutes and he was born at 1:13pm LOL so a whopping 1 hour labor and delivery, HAHAH.. YAY ME! So he was 6 weeks old for his 1st PCS to Ft Leonard Wood Missouri. He has been the happiest kiddo I have ever known. He is very mellow and has a VERY OLD soul. Like old as in seen it all and has experienced 100 years of life in 7 years, LOL.. From a young infant it felt like he was totally intune to peoples moods, it was odd, but cute. He has a very deep soul. He has been through deployments, and everything else MOST military kids go through and has come out of it like a champ. He and Roman won't have the same Army Brat life that their older siblings have experienced. Sal retires in 2 years and for the rest of their childhood they will be "regulars". Dominic LOVEs being the big brother to Roman and if you ask him who his best friend is, he will say "RORO". Dominic thinks everyones daddy or mommy is a 1SG and he refers to everyone as 1SG, LOL.. When we go through the gates, he asks ALOT, "Are those daddy's workers?" He clearly has a HIGH opinion of his daddio! We have really enjoyed being in his life and can't wait to see what he becomes. Im guessing a politician... I am beyond happy that our children have grown up in this life, they have been around such diversity, which is such a wonderful thing. Military kids are lucky in that they are around just about EVERY culture and ethnicities and they have to make friends very quickly. This is their normal. </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>My Army Wife Life...http://www.blogger.com/profile/17882551869715107887noreply@blogger.com1