The Daily Cain Mess

So as my boys continue to pour out every single toy they own on the living room floor, I thought it would be a good time to blog.
HAHA
I had an amazing visit with my mommy this past weekend (and brother too), and I even got to go on a date with the hubs! I was such a little girl, I even had my mom do my makeup. Ah how I miss those days!
It was really nice to have some alone time with hubby. We got to play pool (which he isn't very good at haha, and it was just so relaxing!!
I got to go shopping with my mommy, and I also made her a kingston cap before she got here.
She loved it.
I have been trying to think of my next project. I have many choices.  I just won a digital scrapbooking prize from mymemories.com worth $50!! I purchased the software to make a photo book!!! I am super excited because I have never been into scrapbooking because I know it is pricey LOL!!
If there is anyone out there with tips or tricks let me know!!
I guess I have done enough rambling for this blog.
Time to attempt to pick up the toys…for the fifth time today…. :)
Have a good day!!!!
~C

Time to Find a Balance!

So I have been slacking on the blogs for a while due to my hectic schedule.
I have finally got out of training at my job and have started a late afternoon/early evening shift. This is going to take some getting used to. Now I am the one getting up with the kids (which I love) but it will be hard getting time with the hubby.
When I get off work he is in bed, and when I wake up he is already gone to work.
Time with him is very important so I think it's time to evaluate how I balance things.
I am very thankful I get time with my kids, but is the shift I work worth the time away from the hubby?
This is going to be something I must think about long and hard.
Why is it so hard to get a job with the perfect fit? I like the work I do but this schedule may get the best of me. Is it me, or the Army that is throwing us loops in spending time together?
On another note, I am currently doing a "jeans challenge" with one of my best friends. I have decided that I must change the way I feel about myself, and that means it is time to lose weight. I am doing this the safe way by watching my numbers as far as carbs, fat, and protein go. Its been a rough couple of weeks but I think I am getting used to the way I need to eat to be healthy.
I went to Red Robin the other day to treat myself, and lets just say, my tummy is still hurting!!
So far I have lost 7.4 pounds, and I will definitely keep you all up to date on my progress!!
I guess that is all for now, hopefully it won't be too long before my next blog.
Until next time,
~C

It's Been Too Long!

I have been such a busy woman lately I have forgotten blogging!! (I also hit some writer's block as well).
So now I will attempt to catch everyone up!
I have been working full time and loving it so far! I take customer service calls for Verizon…sounds boring but it is very entertaining so far!
The paychecks are also a bonus.
I FINALLY got my college diploma in the mail the other day. Yes, I graduated in May but had to put my married name on it…
So it came in the mail a couple months later….
WITH MY MAIDEN NAME ON IT!
Gotta love online college ;)
Regardless of the name, it is still my expensive documentation that proves I went to college YAY!!
My husband is now a sponsored athlete!! I am so proud of him you really have no idea. If you haven't seen his youtube channel and series; The Pursuit, I strongly encourage it. He has been doing so well losing weight I cannot believe it. One of these days I will jump on his band wagon :)
That pretty much sums up my life nowadays. I have made some life decision changes that have turned out to be pretty awesome.  I was losing the priorities I needed to have to have a positive life, and have recently adjusted them so it has been a great couple of weeks.
OH I almost forgot to tell you all that my youngest is FINALLY off the bottle. That was a heck of a process. He was certainly addicted but no longer depends on it.
Now if only I can get my oldest to sleep in his room…. LOL.
I have so much more to say but I think I will save it for future blogs! I hope you all are having a great week!!!
Until next time,
~C

Last Minute Spokane Trip!

I had to make a last minute trip to Spokane to see my family this past few days and I had a TON of fun.  I didn't fit everything in that I wanted to, and there was way more construction that I did not anticipate, but other than that, I had a really good time.

This pic above was taken from my car as we went over the Columbia River….not my favorite part of the drive to say the least. (Yes, I have a little bridge fear!!) But it was a GORGEOUS day and the river just looked beautiful so I had to snap a pic!

One of the big highlights of my trip was all of the wonderful food I got to enjoy.  See, Tacoma has much to be desired when it comes to really good food.  I cannot find a good chinese restaurant over here for the life of me! 

I got to enjoy some yummy burgers and fries at Dick's Hamburgers (a Spokane staple).  For those of you who are not familiar with that joint, I must say it's dirt cheap food that is so delicious!!! 

I also enjoyed some fresh strawberries from Greenbluff. I wait for summer time to hit just for these strawberries because they are just THAT amazing.  

Now I just need some strawberry recipes LOL.

Best of all, I had my mom's cooking, and well, that just cannot be beat ;)

I hope you all have had a good last couple of days and are enjoying some nice weather! (It was high 80's in Spokane!!)

Until next time,

~C

Pet Peeves of Married Life...

Okay I know there will be people that assume I am going to be bashing men during this blog….well I may a little, but I will try to be nice.  :)

I know there are many married folk out there who will totally relate to my complaints!
Here we go.
If I had a dollar for every time I put the toilet seat down, I could probably fund a third world country school like Oprah.  SERIOUSLY! Men, if you are married, you KNOW you found that seat down when you entered the bathroom, so please for all humanity, just put it back.
In addition to this men in the bathroom complaint, how many times must I step in pee?? I know I live with three boys and two of which may not be able to aim as well, but come on husband, it's a GIANT bowl….how can you miss??
Can anyone relate to this???
Ok feeling a little better now.
:)
On a different note, I hope everyone had a good 4th! I haven't been blogging as much lately (probably because of the bathroom that needs constant cleaning LOL) due to my busy schedule.
Nothing really new on my end besides my little vent I had to release to my readers so I don't kill the husband!!
I am looking for any recipe websites that can give me healthy and quick dinners.  Having a family of four means there are usually multiple meals made at lunch time, but I would like dinner to be one good and healthy meal for everyone!  Any suggestions??
Speaking of my family, I am having bottle problems.  My TWO YEAR OLD….yes he's 2…is addicted to his bottle.  We have tried almost everything to get him off and it just does not work.  We will give him a sippy cup and the crying will not cease whatsoever for hours. I am starting to think he will go to college with a bottle in hand. We had a rough time with my oldest as well, but it seems like it was a little easier to get him off the bottles than it is for my youngest.  He acts like his bottle is his crack or something. LOL!!
Anyways.
Oh and I recently became addicted to two television shows.  Dexter and Weeds are two amazing shows that I think everyone should watch. Dexter is pretty easy on the eyes, and Weeds is just hilarious yet addicting all at once!  Now if only I had HBO to watch True Blood, I would be set!
I guess that is enough random ramblings for one blog! I have missed you all and I hope you will continue to follow me!
I promise the next blog will have zero man bashing :)
Until next time~
C

Happy Father's Day!

Today is a day where my hubby gets catered to.  I made him a breakfast of his request, I went to Starbucks for his venti coconut latte, and I will be making a salmon dinner for him.
Hopefully his father's day is what he was hoping for!
I don't know where my dad is, (don't worry this is a good thing for me LOL) but I want to give props to the moms out there that are playing both roles.
From single parents, to wives of deployed soldiers, THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO!
Parenting is a hard job and being both the mom and dad is not an easy feat.
Thanks Mommy ;)

Enjoy your Father's Day everyone! Use this day to love all the important father figures in your life, no matter who that may be!! :)

Until next time friends~
C

Weekend Wrap-up

Overall I have had a very enjoyable weekend! I cleaned a little, and had some quality time with my family yesterday, and I went church shopping today.
I went to a Life Center church here in Tacoma!
I must admit I have heard mixed reviews about this church before, and this led me to be skeptical about it. But I decided, the Cains need a home church!!
The service was very contemporary, which was super awesome. The people there seemed great too.
But I was hoping for one thing. I wanted the sermon to speak to ME.
And……IT DID.
That is what I have been waiting for in a church. YAY!!
My boys loved the nursery, and I did too until Logan escaped….
Yup he managed to get OUTSIDE…. This about gave me the BIGGEST heart attack ever!!!
Hopefully next time the volunteers watch the kids a little closer??
After going to church I decided to make a few changes in my life.  I need to stop nit picking about everything negative, and instead "pick my battles".
What do I mean by that??
Well, instead of living a negative life full of complaints and venting about everything wrong in my life, I think it is best to really think about why I get negative and give the effort to just stop.  So many people dwell on who's doing what, or who said what, or what crappy events have happened to them during the day.
I cannot live like that anymore.  I need the positive people in my life to help me too.  I can no longer be the stereotypical Army wife who seems to judge and complain more than she gives thanks and appreciates the good we all have.
Yeah, yeah, that sounds cliche but honestly I NEED to do this for MYSELF.
I challenge you all to do it as well.  I know we can't all be positive overnight or never complain, but let's try to drive all the negativity out as much as I can!
Can you try??

Until next time friends!
~C

Starting a New Chapter!

Ok friends, yesterday I spent two whole hours clipping coupons and making a couple week menu for my family.  This will be the first step to hopefully saving some money!!!
Seriously, with three men and I eating, the grocery bill is NOT CHEAP!
I haven't quite figured out how these extreme couponers go to the store for free, but maybe someday I will be at that level LOL!!

Anyways, on another subject, my youngest son just turned two recently.  Let me tell you, the terrible twos is not and understatement with this child! It's been plain crazy at my house some days.  I think a lot of my time today will be googling how to better discipline my son LOL!!

My goals for this week are just to stick to my budget and not buy that venti Starbucks coffee that I love so much.  I hope to stay positive when it comes to my son's behavior, and to crochet something amazing!!!

A little nerdy I know, but everyone should make goals!! :)
What are some of yours? And any ideas on what I should crochet??

Until next time,
~C

Goodbye Oprah!!

I sit here watching the last Oprah and its kind of a let down.  All she is doing is talking!! I mean, I know she is a talk show host, but it's a whole lotta preaching and thanking…
Maybe I thought I was going to get a little more entertainment…
Anyway, on another note, it is another rainy day in Washington, so what do you do when it rains?
You go to Micheals.
Yes, I have turned into the nerdy old lady at age 26 who loves everything about Micheals.
I could craft all day every day.  :)
I am looking for more crochet ideas.  I am presently making things for preemies in local hospitals, but I wonder what else I could make.
Any ideas????
Until next time friends…
~C

Marlee is Now MARLEY!!

Oh MAN. Literally.  LOL.
Yesterday I take my little puppy girl Marlee to the vet for her first shots.  It's going good as she gets on the table and she is really calm with the staff there.
Then I start answering their questions, referring to Marlee as a girl dog, and low and behold…..
SHE IS A BOY.
How did I not spot the penis???
I have never had a dog before in my life so I wasn't really sure what that area looked like, and thought maybe that area was what it looks like before they get fixed.
I was wrong.
Poor MARLEY was my little sassy girl boy dog with a pink harness until yesterday.
Thanks breeder, you are officially the worst breeder I have ever heard of. LOL
It's a good thing I could provide the office with a really great laugh, and this is for sure one of the funniest experiences I have ever gone through.
I still love him to pieces and am glad we picked a neutral name HAHAHAHAHAHA.
Until next time friends!
I hope this made you laugh!! :)
~C

Extreme Couponing!!!!

Okay so I wasn't going to become one of those crazy ladies who spend countless hours stalking grocery stores.
Or spend spend hours at a checkout.
Or has a mini store insider their house.
But after I saw last night's episode of extreme couponing, I cannot help but want to give it a try.  One lady had groceries that added up to $1800 and she only paid like 15 bucks or something CRAZY like that.

I cannot help but want to be like these women.

I have a family of four (3 of those male I might add) so our grocery bill is OUT OF CONTROL.
I probably spend like $500 on groceries a month at LEAST.

If I could get this down to a minimum I would be SOOOOO happy.
So I have signed up for a few online couponing sites, and I got an e-book telling me the basics on how to do this.  I also had a friend share a couple of her tips.

I must say, I am a little excited.
I will be sure to let you guys know how things are going.  I suspect to have my first real trip planned out in about a month.
We shall see.
Oh and if anyone has tips, feel free to share!!!

Until next time~
C

Life So Far With a Puppy...

No one told me having a puppy would be like having a baby…
HAHA
Well that is okay because for some reason I was having a baby itch. Like I needed to have my third and final baby…
I definitely wasn't thinking straight.
Right now I have a 4 year old, a 2 year old, school, work, a husband in the Army, and everything else on my plate, adding a baby would have been CHAOS!!!!
I'm not sure what I was thinking, but I have a feeling it was because I was watching "Pregnant in Heels" on Bravo…
Those ladies on that show are so stinkin cute and get to wear the cutest shoes while pregnant!!
Anyway…
That is where my itch came from, and I ignored it for a few weeks thinking it would just go away.
It didn't.
So I decided to start researching puppies and decided if I found the right puppy at the right price, then it was meant to be.

That's when I found Marlee.
She has been such a great addition to our family.  She is not a big barker, goes pee on the pad most of the time, and is working on pooping on places other than my carpet.
She eats great, and can listen most of the time, and sleeps all night if I didn't take her out to pee.
I'm in LOVE!!!
And by the way, the baby itch is gone for now ;)
Now, I don't know much about puppies, and I know that I need to start crate training her on Friday.  This will be tough I assume.  I still need to get her a puppy check up, and her first puppy hair cut.
Pics will come :)
On another note, I am on day 5 after my surgery, and it is going ok.  I wake up feeling horrible, then way better later in the day.  I would hope none of my children will have to go through this, it is very painful.
At least I get to see my mommy this weekend.  She is coming for a visit for a few days and I cannot wait.  I feel like I haven't seen her in sooooo long!!
I plan on nice long talks with her during the night, and plenty trips to the coffee shop! :)
Until next time!
~C

I'm Alive!!

Here I am blogging from my bed. I just wanted you all to know I did survive my tonsilectomy:)
Let's just say, it's been one of the worst surgeries I've had to recover from!
Ive never wanted to eat food more in my life lol.
So cherish that peanut butter and jelly sandwich because I would LOVE one right now.
On the plus side I've lost 4 lbs since Friday! Not too bad huh? I guess eating nothing but popsicles and gatorade is the winning diet ;)
I hope everyone is enjoying their mother's day!!
If anyone has any ideas on soft food I can eat other than pudding and applesauce let me know!!! I'm one hungry woman!!
Until next time~
C


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Finally Got a Puppy!!!!

Okay so I FINALLY got what I have been wanting.
NO, it's not a baby girl…
Its a PUPPY!!!!!
Her name is Marlee, and she is a shorkie!

I am beyond happy.  She gets along with the kids perfectly, and she has been behaving very well for being in her new environment.
So far, she has only pooped in the house once, but I have gotten her to successfully pee outside ;)
She is the perfect lap dog and I cannot wait to have her be my cuddle buddy!!
On another serious note, I found out I am getting my tonsils taken out next Thursday!!!! This is a long time coming, as my tonsils have been giving me trouble for years now.
I am just a little nervous because I have never had a surgery like this before so I have no idea what to expect!
Any suggestions??

Until next time…
~C

I Want a SHORKIE!!!!!

I have no idea why I am feeling the need for a dog right now, but the feeling is strong!

My husband is strongly against all animals, and to him I say BAHUMBUG!!

This is a pic of the dog I want:

SO STINKIN CUTE. 

It's a Yorkie shih tzu mix.  

I am so in love.

Now, I just need to make sure I am not allergic too terribly, and that it would get along with my crazy boys.

Any advice and comments are much appreciated :)

Until next time~

C

Ex Boyfriend DRAMA YEARS LATER!!!!

Bear with me, this is going to me a complain fest.

I mean, I am typing REALLY hard right now.

I swear, if I have to pay one more penny for something that I should not have to pay…I will WIG OUT.

Do we all know the ex boyfriend trouble??

Well I think that mine gives me flipping problems from hell.

First of all, I have moved on (OBVIOUSLY), and I have not asked for ONE DIME of child support from him.
Nice of me huh?

Well to pay me back he has not paid one cent on the credit cards HE maxed out on Ebay without my consent, and now I get this letter today saying I owe the apartments I lived in YEARS ago over $200!?!?!?!

WHAT THE HECK???

Ugh so frustrating.

Sometimes I wish I could just have one phone call with him where I could just CUSS him out.

Then I just need to take a deep breath and look at what I did get from the relationship.

My son Jackson.

Without all this BS I wouldn't have him, so for that I am thankful.

But this debt still pisses me offffff!!!!!!!!!!
LOL.
Thanks to you all for letting me get this out!!!!

Until next time…
~C

In Need of Change??

Sometimes we hit a spot in life where we just feel like we are stuck in a rut.

I think I am close to that in a couple different areas.  I need to re evaluate a couple things in my life that are causing unnecessary stress and worry that I really don't need to add to my already full plate.

How does one go about re evaluating things in their life? ??

I know for one thing I need to re do my workout and or diet because I have hit a plateau!

That I can easily work on.

But what about life's other trials and tribulations??

I know that I have to start within myself.  I am about to get a degree for the first time, I am busy every day with a two year old and a four year old…

I am an Army wife close to having a husband decide what his next career move is…

I just need to make sure I know how to handle these things.  I cannot make everyone happy, so I will now chose to focus on MY needs.

This is NEW to me.  I have always put everyone first, and now I am deciding to put myself first.

This is going to take some time, but I think I can do it.

I am just tired of feeling under appreciated for everything that I do, and I have been putting my own needs and wants on the back burner for some time.

I know I cannot control the needs of the Army career, but I can control how I react to the changes.  I can chose to be positive about things instead of negative.

Since I am a bit of a control freak, I probably will not get this idea down right away, but I need to continue to work on it until I find balance in my life.

Don't get me wrong, I am VERY blessed with what I have, I just need to fine tune my reactions to things and my priorities.

Well, that was enough of a rant I think :)

Until next time!

~C

Procrastinator….

Here I sit trying to write a paper for my FINAL class before my degree, and I cannot help but procrastinate.  Maybe it's the GAZILLION thoughts I have on my head, or the fact that my husband is making a video about growing his mustache out…

Yes folks, he's growing a mustache.

For what you say?

Well, I'm not exactly sure. LOL.  Gotta love men and their crazy ideas.

Anyway, my class is about the financial aspect of health care management and needless to say, I am not very good at that.  So writing this paper is like pulling my teeth.

Where can I find the motivation?? I have to work in the morning so I really should be going to bed soon, and I have Army Wives, Coming Home, and Sister Wives waiting on my DVR for me.

Plus I have a brownie with my name on it in my kitchen.

That all should be enough motivation right??

Nope.

LOL! I blame this plague of a cold I have had for a few days.  Let's just say, me and hubs have been camping out on the pull out couch bed because this cold has just knocked me on the ground most of the time.

But on a good note, I did get to go a few fun places this weekend!  I started off on Friday with a very good workout (which I am still feeling when I walk up my stairs).  I then had a yummy lunch date with a girlfriend which also consisted of getting cupcakes!!

Then on Saturday I enjoyed a happy hour at a place I have never been. Gotta love cheap beer and food!!

This may sound a little alcoholic of me, (which I am definitely not LOL) I then went to a different establishment for the late night happy hour and karaoke!!! (Someone had to be the DD!!!) It was super fun until the service started to SUCK.

Today has consisted of spending time with my hubby and awesome boys.  This is how Sunday's should be!

And now I am staring at this blog, wishing it was a finished paper for school.
Sigh.

Until next time!!

~C

Nobody is Perfect!

Today was my first rough day at work.  Have you ever been in an environment where you just aren't sure what exactly you should be doing?

That was me today.

I felt like I was getting in people's way and just did not quite know where I was supposed to be.  I also messed up on two orders and even forgot to put a filter in the pour over coffee….. SIGH!!

So of course I got talked to by my boss because she knows and I know that I can do better than that.  So Saturday I will be working harder at just going with the flow and believing I can do it!!! No one is perfect!!!

On another note, I am very happy that our government came to an agreement (even if it is temporary).  This means my hard working Army husband will get paid after all.
BIG RELIEF!!!  I was almost hyperventilating when the pay stub say less than half of what we normally get!! I hope that Congress can get their act together so our hard working soldiers get the pay that they deserve!

Now you must hear about my weekend!  I finally got to attend church here on the Army post, which actually turned out very nice.  I was a little weary of it because I was under the impression it would be super Army-like, and I wouldn't fit in.

This was not the case at all.

No one really said anything to me, (which is good because I like to stay to myself at church!).  Even though no one talked I got a sense of ease when I walked in.

I will continue to church shop though, just because I want to make sure I try all of the churches my friends have suggested.  One day I will have my home church!!

After church I went to this little hot dog and beer bar in Tacoma.  I went with a couple girlfriends not knowing if this place was going to be good or anything.
IT WAS!!!! First of all, the prices were AMAZING.  I spent $5 on a beer and nachos.
So delicious.
Plus, the environment was nice, casual, and friendly.
I will definitely go back there!

After that we went to this little cupcake shop also in Tacoma.  I chose a pink champagne cupcake.

It was pretty much the best cupcake I have ever eaten :)

The night then continued with cake with homemade ice cream and wine while we watched Army Wives and Coming Home.  

Pretty epic.

I hope you all had a good weekend, and I appreciate all of the comments I have been getting.  

It is good when I know people read my blog!! :)

Until next time…

~C

The Government Disappointment

All I have to say about this matter is that I am so disappointed. I thought having a spouse in the military means we always get paid. Fighting in wars for this country doesn't mean we should get paid I guess...
Shame on you congress for hurting all military and their families.
How did our government get this messed up? How can we be in such great debt that we cannot afford to pay our soldiers?
And now gas and everything else that is a necessity is is rising because of this mess too.
Instead of cutting pay for those willing to put their lives on the line for freedom, we stop having reality tv shows that give thousands of dollars for stupid talents??
Just saying.
Until next time....
~C



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Sometimes You Have to Find the Positive!!

Warning….this is going to be a cheesy sounding blog entry :)

I may not be doing a job that relates to my degree I am getting, but I am thankful I have a job.  I may not be able to be with my children 24/7, but they are growing up to be awesome little boys.  I may not weigh the number I would like, but I am healthier and have made a new lifestyle for myself.

Sometimes I need to remember for every negative thing in life, there is a positive.

I may not be able to afford a Coach bag or expensive furnishings for my house, but I am very blessed with what I do have financially.  I am better off than many people in the world, and that is very important to me.

I need to keep reminding myself to stop stressing about life's punches that get thrown at me and understand that everything happens for a reason.

I have the most amazing husband.  I have the best two little boys out there.  I have friends and family that love me…… I mean, what else do I need?

Fitting a size 0 is not ever going to be obtainable with my body shape, but I am thankful to be healthy and a lot more fit than I was when I first moved here.

I want everyone to take a minute to stop…..breathe…..and look at everything you are thankful for.

Until next time…

~C

Husband's Hair!!!

UGH.  I was under the impression that when you get married your spouse has a very big say in how your hair looks.  If my hubby says something nice about my hair, I make sure and keep it that way and make a mental note about him liking it.

I guess it is not the case for men ;)

My husband is growing the top of his hair like crazy.

It is borderline afro.

He is in the military and is allowed to have a fro up top, but it is not my favorite style.  I really want him to go back to the bald head I loved…. ::sigh::

So any of you who know my husband, please tell him to shave it as soon as possible.  THANKS :P

On another subject, I signed my paperwork to start working today.  I have an orientation tomorrow.  I am super excited. It will be so nice to be working again!! Hopefully I haven't forgotten how to make a caramel macchiato, or how to make frappucinos :)

I wil keep you posted on the hubby's hair poll!!

Until next time…
~C
(P.S…..the picture above is NOT my hubby. He's just getting close to that stage of hair growth LOL!!)

Success!

So I actually got to run today.  I had to do Day 1 of Week 1 on the Couch to 5k program, but that is better than nothing!  My knee injury has been keeping me walking for the past few days and I have been itching to run.

I LOVE running!!! I see the most results physically when I run, and I feel a lot better afterwards!

Husband is going to a body building show tonight, and he is in a great mood.  I don't know if I do this, but he seems to only be in a good mood when he is looking forward to something like this event, Fridays, etc. :) I guess the Army makes one kinda crabby at times LOL. I am happy he gets to have man time though, he needed it.

While he is gone, I plan on baking the rest of my cinnamon rolls, and hopefully see my girls.  I am excited to start a crocheting project which give the crocheted goods to premature babies at a couple different hospitals.  I haven't crocheted in a very long time so….

This will be interesting.

I will sure to post pics as soon as I start it!

Have a good weekend everyone, until next time…

~C

Another Rainy Day in Seattle

It seriously rains too much in this side of Washington.  I come from Spokane where it rains, but it has currently been raining ALL WEEK here. And it won't ever stop. I may have to invest in some rain boots eventually.

So what do I do with two little boys on a rainy day?

Until 11am I tried just playing with them and watching Nick Jr, but that quickly got boring.  So i decided to spend some time at the bestie's house, and let them run around there.

That should make them sleep good tonight ;)

I got to go to the gym again today but have decided to alter my workouts.  I have been having knee pains in my right knee so walking on the treadmill is all the cardio I can do.

Can we say BORING??

I am going to take a week off from running so I heal properly, then it is on!!!

Now I am home waiting to escape into the shower (the only time mommy can get away from the kids lol) and try to figure out what to make for dinner.

Tonight's activities will include time with a friend and brownies. It should be amazing! I guess a rainy day (or several) is not bad afterall :)

Until next time…
~C

The Good Ol Single Days

Can I just say I am very thankful I'm married??
Back in the day I remember having my own apartment, and partying with my friend at the airforce base.
My days would consist of getting up at noon and taking my sweet time to do everything.
That's no longer the case :)
Thankfully, I now have to wake up at 730 or 8, fix breakfast for two little monsters, and start on laundry. I am now in charge of my family and making sure my hubby is ready for work each day.
Although my single days were a lot simpler and less complicated, I wouldn't trade my life today for anything!!
I know I may complain about laundry or dishes, and heck some days I wanna change my name to anything but Mom Lol:)
I just think about some of my friends in the dating world, and that just gives me anxiety thinking of everything involving dating!!
Making sure you look perfect, thinking of conversation, and wondering if he will call the next day....I'm just over that :)
I am thankful for my little family, and everything that comes with it. I hope all my single lady friends find that man to put a ring on it (as Beyonce would say haha)!!!!
I wouldn't trade this for the world !!
Until next time...
~C


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Back in the Working World??

So I had an interview today.  This is big since I haven't been focusing on jobs lately.  I have been enjoying my time with the little guys, and focusing on my schoolwork.  This is how it happened.

I go online to see what is available on post, and notice there are 4 openings at the only Starbucks here.

HOLY CRAP YAY!!!

So I apply, thinking I won't even get a call back because there are probably many Army wives who have seen this and have applied so my chances will be slim.

That was YESTERDAY.

I get a call this morning for an interview today at 230!!! That was pretty quick!

I get there a little early, and we go in and the interview flies by.  I am unsure if I officially got the job, but she said she will call once the background check comes back.

So I guess I got it??

Well, either way I know I did my best, and what is meant to be will be!

Until next time….

~C

Sunday Television!!!

Tonight is probably the one night I look forward to in the world of television.  I don't mean to sound cliche, but Army Wives has to be one of the BEST shows out there.

And just for the record, I watched it before I became an Army wife LOL!!

I also like the show Sister Wives.  I mean, I am all against having multiple wives, but the show is like a bad accident, I just have to keep watching it!! It is really interesting to me to see how these people are living!

Finally, I am a lover of the show Coming Home.  It is the one where they show soldiers coming home after being deployed. UGH tear jerker every time.

But I really hate the host…just saying :)

Now, I also must report that I have ZERO homework tonight. This is BIG news.  I haven't had a Sunday without homework in I don't know how long.  It is so weird to be able to actually watch my shows when they come on, and sit here wondering what I will do with all my time tonight!!!

I guess this means I should bake some protein cookies with my girls!! Good excuse to use my lovely Kitchen Aid mixer!!!

Until next time!!!

~C

Facebook Taking Over the World??

Does anyone else see how much Facebook has taken over this place?  I don't know about you, but I have seen many people always checking it constantly, as though they are going to miss something super important in their newsfeed.
What ever happened to talking to people??
Nowadays, instead of people talking to people they simply say, "Facebook me".

REALLY?!?!

Gone are the days when we call people or actually sit down with people face to face to have conversations I guess.
I am all for technology, and I do enjoy my Facebook time. But I think people need to sit back and realize that there are ACTUAL people out there who want to have conversations that are not through IM :)

Other than that, and gas prices making me mad, I have had a really good few days.
I have been on a baking kick lately and it has been very fun to do with my girlfriends.

Last time we baked some peanut butter and jelly bars….they were a good concept, just not my favorite snack.

I am taking any suggestions on healthy baking recipes anyone has because I am still trying to loose a few pounds.

And I have a bodybuilder husband.. ;)
Until next time…
~C

Workout From HECK!!!

Today I had a workout from hell.  Can I just suggest that taking two days off from the couch to 5k program is not recommended??? I did my Nike Training Club just fine, then about halfway into my run I thought I was going to pass out!! 

Ugh,

So I had to stop, then get back on and just walk.  Lame!! I have never felt like that ever in my life, so it was a mystery to me!! Hopefully that never happens again!

On another note, I am soooooo stinkin happy that my classes for the last block are over.  I actually finished my finals EARLY, so now I just have ONE class until I graduate!!!

This is huge for me!!

I hope my friends and family plan a huge party for me….just sayin! 

I hope everyone had a great weekend.  I was lucky enough to enjoy these fabulous cake pops and blueberry crumb bars one of my girlfriends made.

Here is a vision of my amazing heaven I had:

Now I just need to plan something to bake that is a little healthier hehe ;)

Until next time…

~C

Needing a Start Over Button!!

Have you ever felt like going back to bed after waking up, just to start the day over? I am having one of those days!!
My life continues to get stressful, especially since my first degree is upon me and I feel like I'm not getting as much support as I deserve or need right now
An old friend called me childish and selfish, and I'm wondering if I am truly like that? I get easily irritable and I feel like right now I should be getting the care, support, and respect I'm giving to all of my family and friends.
So I woke up this morning and it has all festered inside me until now. Hence the wish to go back to bed to start things over ;)
Maybe precious friends and boyfriends were right. I am selfish.
But we all are right?
Keeping one's needs over others is not the answer, but finding that balance between needing support and being selfish is necessary.
And I will continue to work on that!
Until next time...
~C


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How The Cains Spend St Pattys Day!!!

Okay, so I have never really understood why we are supposed to kiss Irish people? Honestly, if you tell me you are Irish just to get a kiss, that will not work on me LOL.
My hubby didn't even know it was St. Patrick's day…and he's half Irish.  Sad.
So the Cain's decided to spend this holiday not drinking, but going shopping instead.  We took the boys to Cabelas…it was a major success.  I think Logan said, "WOW" about a thousand times, and Jackson had to look at every animal display over and over again.
Then the real fun started. I got a wild hair and decided to try a buffalo meat burger.
OH. MY. GOODNESS.
That was probably the BEST burger I have EVER eaten!!!  Also, did anyone know that Cabelas has the most amazing french fries?? I was in lunch heaven that is for sure.
Here is a picture of my amazing lunch experience:

After that delicious lunch, the hubby bought ANOTHER pocket knife, (How many of those does a man need anyway??) and then the part I was waiting for happened.

I found the "hot nuts" booth. Seriously, if you have not had these nuts, you don't know what you are missing.

Freshly made almonds, cashews or pecans bathed in this amazing sugar like crap that I am not sure what it is…..SIGH….so delicious!

So folks, that is how the Cain's spent St Patty's day 2011.  Not exactly the wild crazy drunk St. Patty's I have had in past years, but these family memories are things I will never pass up!!

Make sure you are wearing green!

Until next time…

~C

Random Thoughts!

So I have been doing the couch to 5k for about 4 weeks so far.  Each week I have been loosing about a pound.  Until this week! I am a day away from my weight watchers weigh in, and I have not lost an ounce. Weird!? Maybe it's muscle, or that taco I enjoyed the other day (wait, that was two chalupas LOL). Hopefully I can get back into the loss because I LOVE running!!!

On another subject, I want everyone to please keep Japan in their thoughts and prayers.  There are MANY Americans over there as well, and the devastation has been so heart wrenching to watch.

So here is another dillema I am in.  I am one class away from graduating, and I need to find a job before my potential nanny does LOL.  I swear, it is like no one is hiring here! No, I do not want to flip burgers or sell shoes, I want a bigs girls job that will pay good enough to afford my nanny and gas! Is that too much to ask? :)

I also wanted to start writing about a restaurant that I have visited every now and then.  Todays place is L&L Hawaiian Barbeque. AMAZING!!! I had Kaluha pork with cabbage, and the most delicious potatoe salad!!! It was also very well priced which is a bonus since we have a family of 4! The pic I have attached does not do it justice, it was pretty darn good!!

Well I guess I have chatted on and on now.

Wait, one more question! I need my readers to send me blogs they enjoy reading.  I am turning into a blog reader fan but I want to see what everyone else is reading! Email me or comment me with your ideas!!!

Ok I think I am done blabbing now… ;)

Until next time…
~C

Just Say No To Tequila

Hello hello! It's been a few days since I have posted so I want to give you an update on what I've been up to!
I'm entering my last week of these two classes, then it's only 9 weeks of one class until graduation!! I am so excited!!
I actually had a little fun with another couple thanks to my awesome friend who babysat. But I must say, I realized I am a mom and tequila is just too much. I definitely cannot drink like I used to!! ;)
On a more serious note, I want everyone to take a moment and pray for everyone in japan. The recent disasters there have devastated that country. It has been horrible to see the news posting videos of that area. My heart and prayers go out to everyone affected.
Lastly, I am thinking about baking something but it needs to be healthy. Do any of you have ideas? I can think of plenty of things to bake, but this girl needs a healthy alternative so her rear end stops growing!! :)
Until next time...feel free to leave your baking ideas and follow me!!!!
-C


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Location:Mann Ave,Fort Lewis-DuPont,United States

A Sweet Moment!!!

So I got the pleasure to witness my bestie reunite with her hubby last night! He has been gone since the middle of last year on a deployment, and this family time was much needed!  I was in charge of video tapping, and I just thought it was the cutest moment!

It was cute to see my bestie get all nervous an excited hours before he got here too. I remember getting ready to see my husband after a deployment, and I didn't get much sleep the night before, and getting dressed up gave me butterflies like our first date!
I will always cherish those moments of excitement during a homecoming, but I am secretly hoping for no more deployments!!

I also had fun slumber party with my other girlfriend! I had to babysit the bestie's baby overnight, so I called in for reinforcements.
Yes, I have had two kids, but I haven't had an infant overnight for a while! She was a HUGE help, and the night went by pretty fast.

Then I had a big moment this morning. Everyone around my area talks about this restaurant, Gerties, and I finally got to try it.  I must say, it was actually pretty good. HUGE portions, and reasonable prices!
But the only downside was I was inclined to take a two hour nap a little after eating!!
I also feel like I consumed about 4000 calories, which is probably not recommended by the Weight Watchers program... so a workout needs to happen later :)

Until next time…
C

Stay At Home Moms Deserve a Raise!

I worked with a company for 6 years and really enjoyed it. I was a manager at the end of my time there, making VERY good money for someone my age! Then I fell in love…got married…had another baby…and well now I get to be a stay at home mommy.

Does anyone really truly understand how much a mommy does?!? I almost always find myself in the kitchen either cooking or cleaning.  I sweep or vacuum a couple times a day.  I change endless diapers, and entertain two wonderful boys until they go to sleep.  How much does that pay a year? ZERO.

All week I cook, clean, and take care of this household 24/7 while hubby is at work.  What do I get for that? "Oh thanks the house looks nice", or "Hey I cleaned the bathroom (for the first time since we've lived here)"

WHAT?!?!

I just want people, including all husbands out there, to truly think about what stay at home mommies do.

Cooking, cleaning, enetertaining, paying bills, errands and everything else to run a household is a whole lot of work. I do not sit at home and watch soap oparas and eat bon-bons all day. I litterally do not sit down sometimes until it is dinner time.  Then after the kiddos are in bed, I am working on getting my degree in May.  I go crazy inside these 4 walls all week while I work around hubby's schedule…and I get…A "Thank You'.

I guess I just get overwhelmed sometimes, and feel uner appreciated.  But I honestly need a mommy day. No cell phone, no computer, no children, no husband. A day where I do not help ANYONE. A day where I don't have to run errands.  Does that even exist??

Wow that felt better to get out! :)

Until next time…..
C

Weekends Are the Best!

So I started off my weekend yesterday quite nicely.  I went to lunch and get nails done with my awesome girlfriends, and then I got to workout! On week 2 of Couch to 5K, and going strong.
I even ran for 5 minutes STRAIGHT. That is a HUGE accomplishment for me!!!

Then, it was off to a double date with my best friend from Spokane and her hubby. I was SUPER nervous because I knew that I am not his fave person in the world, so I was going to do my best to make a good impression. Let's face it, it is awkward having a friend that you love hanging out with if her husband isn't a fan of you.

But thankfully, I had a BLAST!!! We talked the entire time and it was so much fun! I think we are even going on a second date LOL :)
After that I got some nice time with my hubby (even though we were both on laptops!).
We even ended up falling asleep on the couch!

Today's plans are some of the same including a giant pile of laundry that I must tackle. Ugh, laundry never goes away!
Even though my husband can annoy me at times, I am thankful for my life.  My kids constantly keep me busy, and I love the friends I surround myself with! Here's to continuing a great weekend!!!

(Oh and don't forget to watch the premiere of Army Wives tomorrow night!!)
Until next time…

KARMA Has Bitten Me...

Okay, for those of you who follow me on Facebook as well you probably saw the pic I posted about wearing my reading glasses and how I looked smart….
Well, I went to the eye doctor today. Turns out I need to wear glasses all the time!! NERD ALERT!!
I have a stigmatism, (probably spelled wrong) which I am not exactly sure what that means, but now I can see.  My first eye exam was cool! I went through a series of tests, and they even dilated my eyes (which was super painful in the sun btw!)

After searching for the perfect frames, I found some suitable for my budget.  The ones I really wanted were almost $300!!! Yup, definately wasn't expecting JUST the frames to be that expensive!!!! I didn't even know they made Prada and Vogue glasses, but I'm sure I am not the only military spouse that cannot afford brands like that LOL!
I got the lenses ordered, and an hour later I had my glasses.

I LOVE them. They are purple, but dark enough to not be annoying purple, and they even have little gems on the side!! I can SEEEEE!!!!! It seriously was amazing when I put them on. Everything now looks sooo clear, it's crazy!!  Let me know what you think of them! :)
Aside from all that excitement, I got some quality shopping done with my bestie during our wait. Overall, a very productive/fun day!

Now it is time for hubby to get grilling!!
Until next time...

After recently hearing some horrible news about another unit, I have looked at my life and I am grateful.
Before yesterday I really was hoping my husband might reenlist, but the news of recent events in the war has changed my mind completely.
I am proud of my husband deploying, but I am beyond thankful he's home safe now.
Being in constant worry mode didn't suit me well. I'm sad and worried about the families that are going through this horrible time, and my prayers are with the troops still there.
Until next time....


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My Weight Loss Journey...

My weight journey has always been a struggle since high school. It started because I wasn't in a very healthy relationship. Can we say emotional eater?? I also went through an eating disorder, which is soooo not me. This was a path I knew I couldn't be on forever.
After I got out of that relationship I began running and sticking to a healthy diet. I felt sooo good! Then I met Keith...
Remember when you first start dating someone, and the common thing you do with them is go out to eat?? Yup, that was us!!! All of a sudden my muffin started expanding...
Then the marriage weight happened. The "I'm happy and comfortable" weight :) Now that I've been married for almost three years, it's time to shrink that muffin top.
So I've started the couch to 5k program. Hopefully I can run a few miles without dying soon. That's my hope anyway;)
I need to just focus on my diet and how much I exercise, and that will be my key to beating this weight loss. I cannot get caught up in everyone's opinion on it, or take people's comments to heart because ultimately this is all about ME!!
until next time...


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My Military Life!!

As I sit in my three bedrooom, 1.5 bath amazing house, I can't help but wonder what will come of this military life.
Some days my hubby loves his army job, and other days he cannot wait to get out. I can't blame him, 12 hour days just isn't fun!
But I am also so proud of everything he has done for our family. We are a young family of four and we have this beautiful big house, free medical, great dental coverage, plenty of food and clothing, and a guaranteed paycheck every two weeks. I also do not have to work. Who wouldn't like this lifestyle?
With this job comes the cons that are just not worth it sometimes. Right now I mostly sleep alone, and I've been through one deployment so far. That leaves little time with my hubby!
Overall I have learned to give some trust in my husband to provide for us outside of the military. I have accepted that I may not get to live in another country. These things I've learned to accept is part of being a military spouse.
Would I like to be an army wife forever? Sure, as long as my hubby is happy with his career. But if he is not that's okay, I'm with him no matter what!
I'm proud of everything my hubby has done, and I'm glad I will be able to look back on our military days. Until the date he is out I just need to stat positive and be 100% supportive.
Afterall, that's what Claudia Joy from Army Wives would do ;)
Until next time...


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Rough Day!!!

Today is a rough day. I am craving pizza, French fries, pasta, and basically all carbs! I feel like staying in my sweats and laying on the couch all day! Where did my motivation go?
Side note, I had an amazing girl date last night. Greys Anatomy and red wine was AMAZING!!!! I am thinking about venturing into wine tasting because I really enjoy a good glass of wine at night! I just have no idea where to do that, this isn't California afterall lol! If any of you have suggestions I will take them!
Time to make lunch for the little rascals!!!
Until next time... :)


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Update on Life :)

So I must say I am loving my life lately. I recently started seeing a counselor to talk about all of my stresses. I was very anxious about this at first because I'm a shy one, but I LOVED it. Just at the first session I learned so much about myself!! And I cannot wait to continue:) hopefully this will make my marriage alot better and I can become a better mother!!
On another note, I am entering the second month on my weight watchers program. So far, I've already lost 5% of my weight, (having my wisdom teeth helped with that lol) and I am hoping to continue losing it! I want this baby weight gone! I like the program because I'm learning a healthy way to live. I guess I have to keep up with my bodybuilding husband ;)
Until next time, have a good weekend all!! :)


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Oh the Dentist….

I went to the dentist the other day for the first time in about 3 years.  I knew going into it, that the news was probably not going to be what I wanted to hear.  So after an hour and a half I found out that I have 9 cavities and will be getting all 4 wisdom teeth pulled soon. OUCH!!
This was disturbing because I brush my teeth RELIGIOUSLY!!! I am constantly worried about my teeth.  I could swear, toothpaste is secretly made to cause cavities.  I think toothpaste makers and dentists have some sort of agreement going on. LOL!!
On another note, I am still working on the #2 potty training with my 4 year old.  At this rate he will be wearing a diaper on his first date! Feel free to give advice on this PLEASE!!! :)
Sometimes being a mommy can get overwhelming.  I have my two little boys, and a husband that is always either at work or sleeping.  I had a moment the other day where I just wanted to take a time out because the day was never-ending and full of screaming little boys!! I need to just remember to take a breath and try to relax during naptime (if naptime happens LOL).
I am thankful for all of the help I have here though.  Being a military family means you may not be close to your family, but I have made a family here.  I am thankful that my husband gets to help me whenever he can, and I have the best friends in the world.  Without my girls I would seriously be checking into the cuckoo house ;)
Wish me luck tomorrow as it is the day I have my oral surgery consultation!  I guess I will find out when I get these suckers out!
Have a good day everyone!!!

Can a Mommy Catch a BREAK?!?

Okay, so I have no clue when my four year old will do his number 2 duty on the potty.  I am at wits end with this!  He will literally hold it until I put a diaper on him at night….then one or two minutes later he goes. UGH!!!!
I have tried EVERYTHING everyone has told me so far. It is almost like he is afraid of sitting on the toilet. What am I doing wrong?? I need people's advice here because mommy is really tired of changing a four year old's diaper! LOL.
On a lighter note, I hope everyone is enjoying MLK day today.  I had a fabulous weekend that was PACKED full of fun activities.  I had finals to do, but I got them done in time…barely! :) I actually got to go on a date with my hubby, which never happens! So nice!
So I need all those mommy's out there to PLEASE give me advice on the #2 with my four year old. I am willing to try ANYTHING because at this rate he will be wearing a diaper to bed when he goes to college!

Rough Day!

So the past couple days I have just been grouchy. My poor family gets the brunt of it too! Maybe I am grouchy because I am dreading going to the dentist soon, or because I am stressed out about EVERYTHING on my plate! I am almost done with school, and that in itself is becoming a challenge.
My boys keep me busy all day every day, but lately it has just become a constant chore of mine. That may sound kind of harsh, but I think am cleaning mess after mess ALL day long.  Hopefully I can catch a break today!
I had a reality check earlier when I was watching a story about a handicapped individual.  I really need to just look at today and realize things can be worse.  I truly am blessed, and I just need to stop sometimes to realize that.  The handicapped individual did not chose his life, but that's what he was dealt. I, thankfully, have been given the gift of a fairly easy life when it comes down to it.
Thanks for listening to me rant about my rotten day :) I hope you all can realize that we have it pretty good, and there are always times when things can be worse than they really are. Here's to a better day!! :)

My Very First Post ;)

Okay, I guess I should start this thing off with a little introduction about myself.  First of all, I must say that I will not be grammatically correct, or use correct punctuation most of the time so bear with me.  
My name is Crystal and I am a stay at home mom to two wonderful boys, ages 4 and 19 months.  I have been married to the most amazing man and my best friend going on 3 years now.  He is active duty Army, and is a military police officer.  
I am a full-time online student (insert opinions about that here Lol), and I am about to graduate in April with a degree in Healthcare Administration.  The online schooling has worked great for me, since I have a lot on my plate. 
Which brings me to my blog title.  I picked the word "multifaceted" because that pretty much sums up who I am. I am a wife, a mommy, a student, a friend, and still an individual.  There are many things that I do on a daily basis, but at the end of the chaotic day, I am still Crystal. I believe in my goals and will pursue them as long as it takes me to accomplish them.  
Hopefully this blogging experience will give me a chance to just sit back and look at how much I am blessed. I am a very busy woman, but I wouldn't change that for anything.  
Thanks to everyone willing to follow my journey, and I look forward to your comments and thoughts!