"Mom Of The Group"

In case you don't personally know me or perhaps haven't been around long...
this video is pretty much my life:

I swear, it's like they modeled it off my life all the way down to the fact that I refuse to do my taxes. Although, I pay someone to do them, because I ain't playin' when it comes to the IRS. {Hey Gretchen, Thanks for that big tax return this year!}

Here's another video for ya...this was the time I got thrown on the news to promote the Hollyday Bazaar, and the time I was attacked by a leaf that someone should have warned me about. It wasn't live, so uh...we would have done a retake.

It's funny, I was actually pregnant for that event, so it's no wonder I was sooooo tired after all that. At least they keep recognizing us for all the hard work, and here is my belly front and center at the last volunteer luncheon. Don't think you can miss it. But seriously, it was an honor to be up there with so many amazing people. Our president had over 1,000 volunteer hours, which blows my mind, and they said we worked the equivalent of seventeen full time employees. That is pretty badass when you think about it.

In completely unrelated news, it's Farmer's Market season! Our market is in a gorgeous new facility downtown, and although it may be small, it has everything you could hope for. Salsa, zucchini relish {no clue what that is, but I love zucchini}, baked breads, veggies galore, and fresh eggs! I really miss the amazing market that was within walking distance of my house in Colorado, but at least we have some options for local produce and goods.

And as if this post weren't all over the place already, remember that any day can be special. Tuesday I picked up some books about fatherhood for Will, picked up a new beer sampler he might like {super awkward buying booze while visibly pregnant}, and cooked him a steak dinner just 'cause. Sure, it all started because a loaded baked potato sounded reeeeaaaaally good, but either way I'm making good on my promise to focus on Will as much as I can pre-baby. He's kickin' butt in flight school, but the hard parts aren't over yet. There's still a ton of studying, route planning, and hectic schedules going on, so I do what I can.

Some Things...

TGI-M.Effin'-F! I'm so proud of myself that I turned down a volunteer meeting this morning, because I know I'm burnt out. No matter how bad I am at saying no, even I can't deny that sometimes it's just too much. Instead, I am kicking off our St. Patty's weekend by getting ready at a leisurely pace and I may even take the day off from working out. I'll be more rested for the 5K, and we've been eating so good this week, so I deserve it.

+ We have no clue when we are moving or if at all, since staying at Fort Rucker is now an option for us, but I've started packing anyways. I don't know how much is realistic to pack, but I've already packed two boxes of clothes I can't wear and that helped us break down the closet room. We are also purging along the way, so hopefully we will be able to fit everything in the truck when we move including an entire room of baby furniture we've never had before. Either way, I don't want to spend my life packing when I'd rather be playing with our newborn.

+ Check out those sweet new Ariat Boots I told you I ordered. I WON a free pair from Erika, a former high school classmate and now fashion blogger. I'm not gonna lie, it was super hard to narrow down which style I wanted and I had problems with finding the colors I wanted that actually fit me, but now that they are here it was worth the agony. I even think I want to have them monogrammed, hello, that's what we do in the South, but not sure what color I would do it. Milk chocolate, Ivory, Mustard, thoughts?

+ My hormones went hokey this week, so I'm now breaking out a bit. I know I can't complain in the grand scheme of things, and yet I am. I'm just thankful my dermatologist gave me topical Finacea, which is a more natural product to use during pregnancy. I can only imagine how bad it would be if I wasn't prepared.

Well, I hope you all have a lovely weekend. Our 5K may be in the rain, but I don't think that will stop us! At least it will be warm and rainy if anything, and the highlight of my weekend is the Brunch we are going to on Sunday. Bring on the all you can eat BUFFET, and I will be going full on 'eat for two' or three that day. No shame ;)

I'm A Card Carrying Member

To the Chick-Fil-A Calendar Club, that is!

No clue why, but I always wanted one.Well, not the actual calendar, but I want those freebies from being part of the 'club'. However, I could never bring myself to pay money to get free stuff, which is also why I won't pay for coupon inserts- it doesn't make sense to pay money to save {some} money to me. Luckily, we played Dirty Santa this year, and I stole this from my momma. {Sorry Mom, but I'm not sorry}.

Without getting to deep or morose, I got some bad news about a friend on Sunday, so we took it easy. I hung with the boys, we went out to lunch, and watched movies on the couch through our eyelids. It's always going to be hard when it comes to that, but being surrounded with love and laughter is the best medicine. I also watched my new favorite video multiple times, and I may or may not have cried through it. Twice.

Now, I'm getting yelled at to make dinner. Will wants one of my specialty Garlic Sourdough Smoked Turkey sandwiches, and it's still his birthday month, so I will happily oblige. Plus the kitchen is my happy place and can always clear my head. Then hopefully I can recap the brunch on Wednesday, because it was a doozie!

UPDATE: Has anyone ever had an infection in their Pancreas or Gallbladder? I'm having weird back pain that reminds me of when I had a Kidney infection, only the pain is higher up. It's been ongoing for over a week, so now I'm starting to question it. Thanks for any info!

"Touch Has A Memory"- Keats

The CUTEST thing just happened. Sure babies and puppies usually take the cutest award, but no babies or puppies here. Anywho, I got up to make my late night snack and as I turned around, I noticed Will moving in on my side of the bed. Selfishly, I thought "Oh great. He's going to steal my pillow again", but instead he only pawed at my empty side looking for me. It was heartwarming and sad at the same time. So sad that I almost hopped back in bed to cuddle, but like I said, I was REALLY hungry. I'll make up for it by making sure we snuggle extra tonight.

Did you see the birthday sign I made for Will?

He's my favorite person to celebrate! {sorry everyone else} I can't wait to spend a lifetime of Birthdays with you, old man ;)

A photo posted by Janna renee (@jrbogert) on Jan 22, 2015 at 7:52am PST

I saw something similar on Pinterest and ran with it. It worked to surprise him this morning, and I will be using it for his party Saturday. It's almost too classy for the White Trash Brunch we have planned, but decor is like fashion...it's better to be overdressed than under.

Speaking of brunch, has anyone made an Overnight Crockpot French Toast? Brunch starts early on Saturday, so I'm trying to get as much started Friday night as possible. I just don't want anything to end up tasting like leftovers or {heaven forbid} get dried out. I like the concept of French Toast in the Crock, but the last thing I want is crusty bread when I'm going for an ooeygooey Vanilla Bourbon Bananas Foster Pot'O Goodness.

Before I go, one more adorable thing- Will started to breath heavy in his sleep (like he was upset, get your mind out of the gutter), so I put my hand on his back, and his breath slowed immediately. I obviously had to test it, so I took my hand off- fast breathing, put it back- slow breathing. Don't worry, though, I eventually let it rest there until he calmed down. It's crazy the power that a simple touch can have, and Veronica says it best:

“We are not people who touch each other carelessly; every
point of contact between us feels important, a rush of energy
and relief.” ― Veronica Roth, Allegiant

Happy Turkey Day!

I know we are all thinking turkey, but really, let's take time this weekend to be thankful. Not for the settlers stealing the land from the Indians, but for the fact that if you are reading this...we make up 8% of the world. Let this soak in:

via

I really am thankful for a lot of things {Mapquest, coffee, my hunky hubby, family, friends that become family, all of YOU} but mostly because I will be spending Thanksgiving in paradise with the in-loves...Hello, white sandy beaches. I need you in my life.

But in all seriousness...I hope you all REALLY enjoy that turkey! I'll have mine in sandwich form smothered with stuffing and gravy laden potatoes, all followed by pumpkin pie. YUM.

Let's Play A Game

And let's call said game 'Blog Comment Love'. Although it should really be called "I've stretched myself too thin, and can't keep up with my life."

The rules are simple. You comment on this post, and I promise I will comment on your blog within a week. If you know me, you know that means I will catch up on your blog and comment at least a few times. I know this probably seems like a shameless request for comments, but I really just need an easy way to catch up on blog reading, and I'd rather read the blogs that I actually have relationships with. Those of you that read and don't comment, this could also be a chance to speak up too. Say hi, ask questions, tell me your favorite Christmas tradition, share a link to a post you want me to read- whatever your little heart desires.

Just don't forget to check if you are a 'no-reply commentor', so that I actually can reply/find you, and know that I will comment more if you don't have word verification on. Otherwise I get frustrated and click the red x. If you don't know what these things are, you are probably guilty. I will forgive you if you fix them ;) Ahem Carrie cough you are guilty of both.

You live and learn!

I'm Infected :(

I've been trying to write a blog post for over an hour, but I have some stupid viral advertisement flashing at me. I've managed to sleuth out the virus causing it, but for the LIFE OF ME I can't find whatever software it piggy backed on to my laptop. Thus far, Will uninstalled some nonsense software, I've done two system restores, and now I've gone through uninstalling even more software that I'm not entirely sure I should have deleted {whoops!}, which leaves praying I didn't do more harm than good. #firstworldprobs

Other than that, I'm stuffed from homemade Chicken'n Waffles {yeah, that totally happened tonight}, and happy to be sitting down. I have a loooot of catching up to do after working for three weeks, and that's even with my sweet hubby helping out. It was a short gig, but that's what made it perfect. Anymore than that, and I'd be hiring someone to come clean the house. You'd think I'd be too cheap for that, but I have higher standards now that I'm getting older. It was fine to have dust, dirty baseboards, and clutter when I was younger, but now it ain't cute.

Oh SNAP, it's past my bedtime. I'm turning comments off, because you shouldn't waste time commenting when I can't even get my laptop to create a good post. Plus that gives me more time to read your blogs! I've been missing my blog reading time somethin' fierce, so hopefully I can start catching up this weekend. T-G-I-M-EFFIN'-Friday!

Update: The last System Restore seems to have done the trick! Hallelujah. Now it's reeeeaaaaally past my bedtime. Nighty-night!

I Got Jipped

Recently, I entered two contests that involved writing and food, and I should have won both. I swear I'm not just being a sore loser, I just find the winners to be lacking in originality and oomph. To prove my point I'll give you the winners along with my entries and you guess which one won. Those of you that know...sssshhhh don't tell. Just pretend to be unbiased ;)

Six Word Short Story

A | He drowned; she was the ocean.

B | Burnished by humiliation, she was redeemed.

Landing Zone Sandwich Contest

1 | Vegetarian Stacker: Grilled Portobello Mushroom marinated in Italian dressing, topped with roasted red peppers, provolone, mayo, lettuce and tomato all served on a Kaiser Roll.

2 | Granny Brie Club: Deli Thin Turkey, julianne Granny Smith Apple, gooey- melted Brie cheese, Applewood smoked bacon, drizzled with BBQ sauce, on toasted Sour Dough.

3 | El Capitan Reuben Quesadilla: Traditional Reuben inside a Quesadilla, but use Grouper in place of Corned Beef for the ultimate twist.

+ So last week, I noticed my wrist looking all funky after I developed a pain while doing push ups. There was no particular trauma and it only hurt when I put pressure on it, so I decided to take it easy to see if it healed. Well, it still hasn't healed. Problem was, I've been to the doctor so much that I felt bad about going. Luckily, after she saw the picture of it, she told me to, and I'll have some answers today!

+  On the subject of going to the doctor too much, I've become a regular at the Lyster Lab. I realized last time they already knew me by name, but now they have begun referring to me as a regular. At least now I finally had my last round of Hormone testing, and my Thyroid re-checked because it came back a tidge bit low last round. Getting old sucks.

+ I've been searching for brown strappy heels for two MONTHS, and I finally found a pair I could deal with. Most are too strappy, too dark, too light, too high, too low, too cheap, etc., but these are close enough to what I was looking for. And then they were out of my size. #$%&.

Now please don't forget to vote, so I can prove I'm right about my contest entries! That would at least make me feel better about losing. Will says I definitely should have won both, but bless that sweet man...he has to say it. Hope everyone has a great rest of the week!

I Just Got Scolded Because I Forgot To Post This Morning.

This week wasn't near as bad as I expected. I made some bangin' food, got a LOT accomplished, and still got quality time with the hubs. I think I may even feel good in my bikini this weekend, and I'm not gonna lie...I was worried. Lately, I've been a lot more liberal with my eating habits because I don't have to squeeze into that tiny uniform. However, when I have to don a bikini, I rethink my eating habits. I know I don't look terrible, but I feel terrible...all bloated and meh. Oh the joys of a slowing metabolism. Have you seen the meme about getting pregnant as an excuse to get fat? It is tempting...

That picture has absolutely nothing to do with this post, but I'm flippin' excited to head back there soon! We can't wait to spend a wonderful weekend with our hubbies and enjoy some good ol' country music on the beach. BCE would = 'Best Combination EVER' if I were a tween, but I'm not...and yet it's still true. You know what's not a good combination? Money and the Internet. Baaaad combination. It's like a thieves paradise.

Unlike Taylor, I hate internet scammers. I related and LOVED her post, but sitting here typing my blood is boiling. I know so many people that have hacked emails, internet charges, and been phone swindled that it makes me sick to my stomach. The faceless evil is becoming worse than a face to face confrontation, and the victims never seem to get justice. In an effort to help whomever I can, I want to share some scenarios I've come across that could trick even the savviest computer user.

You see, they are getting so smart that they create graphics mimicking sites you use and tell you to click their link because you've been hacked and you need to change your password. Solution? Don't click ANY links from your email, and just open a new browser to type in the address. You click that url, and you are done-zo. If you are questioning it, you can always check the email. It may have the title of the site included, but it will be obvious that it's not official, especially if it says UK at the end.

It's crazy how much access the hackers and anyone can have via the interwebs. For example, I signed up for  a UPS membership deal they have, and to verify it was me, they INSTANTANEOUSLY came up with questions from my past that I had to think hard for the answers. Their site could determine my address ten years ago, what I drove, and where I went to college in less time than it took me to read the questions. Keep that in mind people, and that goes for Facebook and other Social Media too. I don't care if your account is private, there is someone somewhere using some software looking for keywords, and if you say those keywords, they will totally hack you and/or begin watching you.

We all think it can't happen to us, but I've had my credit card number stolen a few times. I wish we all didn't have to be so cautious, but we are the only ones that can really stop hackers from hacking us through diligence. It's scary that we must protect our children from online predators, refrain from clicking links in our email, aid the elderly that don't have experience with the internet, and spread the word about circulating hacks and hope it's enough. I'm sorry to disrupt our regular programming, but if I can help one person, it was worth it!

Comments off for Labor Day Weekend festivities. Happy Labor Day!

Friday Favorites, Let's Start With My Least Favorite

Least Favorite ||  Hey, least favorite is technically still a favorite.

 We always want to share the cute throwbacks, but we have no control over what others share. I wanted to scream EEK, delete, DELETE when I saw the following from back in Middle School, but that would be admitting the flaws. Instead, I commented: 'This was such a fun trip!', because that's what it really was. It's not about how any of us looked in Middle School, it's about the memories. #flashbackfriday

Favorite Quote || Via Jess

Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.

Favorite Product || Jane Iredale

I think maybe Kathy(?) told me about this brand when I was talking about going natural with my products, and boy am I glad I listened. So far, the mineral powder worked wonders, and I'm obsessed with this little kit, the all-natural ingredients, and their customer service. Technically I've only used it once since I don't wear foundation or anything, but the one time it was lovely.

Favorite Recipe || Olive Garden House Dressing
Anyone that recognizes the jar, you know you now want an Irish Wake ;)

Favorite Accessory || Firmoo Sunglasses

I've had a love affair with Firmoo for years, and now that they have sent me prescription sunglasses that allow me to see while driving, I'm head over heels! Firmoo, I thank you and the other drivers on the road thank you. I am always amazed at the endless options they offer.

I can't believe I spent years agonizing over which glasses to choose, dragging friends along to help me try on thousands of pairs, and ending up still disappointed. I'm now four pairs into Firmoo {three reading, one sunnies}, and I picked EVERY pair by myself without a single complaint. Thank you Virtual Try-On; you're my new BFF.

For future reference, I will probably not wear the glasses with that hat ever again, but I still like it. Other than that, thanks for the inspiration P!nky! I needed a lighthearted post for today, and now it's time to enjoy our last weekend together before Will starts his next course.

I May Never Make Calzones Again

Today, I am taking a leap of faith. I am getting my hair done by a stylist in the middle-of-nowhere, Alabama. I was going to wait until next time we go home, but it's gotten so ridiculous that I'm practically sitting on it.  1970 called, and they want their hair back. Not really sure what to do with it, or if I really trust a stylist in the middle of nowhere, but we shall see. 

Other than that...

+ Weiser still has something wrong with him. I knew that the medicine they gave him was just masking whatever issue was really happening, but I guess it was worth a try. It still could be the food or treats we give him being that he's not lethargic, and now I have to decide whether to take him to the vet again. I don't want to rush him in if it's the treats, so I'm going to monitor him for the next few hours. If only he could talk!

+ I had Loni and Joel over for dinner and a movie last night. I wanted to make Calzones to use up things in my fridge, and I sure as heck wasn't going to eat them all by myself. But I must tell you, all those pins on Pinterest that taut 'easy' Calzones are liars. There is no such thing. Delicious, yes. Easy, no. I planned on sharing a recipe for it today, and thought better of it. No one except for your Italian grandma wants to spend two days making these things like I did.

+ For anyone that has DirectTV, did you know you have access to Frozen for FREE?! Well, technically it's the Sing-A-Long version, but I love me a good Sing-A-Long and I love free. Look for it on OnDemand. If you don't have DirectTV, think about getting it, and we can both get money off of our bills. Do it!

I just need the next ten days to go by very quickly...If Weiser and I can make it ten days, all will be right with the world. I also need this hair appointment to go well, because I'm still gun shy from my last hair cut. I would say that's why I waited six months for a haircut, but we all know it's because I'm cheap. Hope you guys have a great weekend!

Let it go, Let it goooooooooo...

Boys Behind The Blog

How 'bout them Oscars? #HashtagSuckIt.

I don't know when the last time was that I actually watched them, but I knew I had to watch Ellen as the host again. I'm sure everyone and their mom will be recapping it, so I'll just say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. Red carpet and all. Will played video games during most of it, but he did watch part of the second half with me. He was such a dear to cuddle with me and to answer the following questions for us. He must really be trying to rack up those brownie points after cashing them all in for the new car. Seems legit.

The Boys Behind The Blog #9 QUESTIONS:
1. If you could live anywhere, where would you live?
Pensacola. I get along really well with my wife's family, and they have cheap beer.
2. Sand or snow?
Sand only makes me sad when it gets into certain crevices. Snow makes me sad all the time...like when we had to pack our moving truck during a snow storm.

What a throwback...I think this was the last time we frolicked in the sand together. Must have been 2011? Too long is all I know.

3. What Winter Olympic sport would you rock at?
Curling, it just sounds fun. I think it would make a much better drinking game, though.
4. You're cooking a romantic dinner- what is your go-to dish?
Peppercorn steak. I reserve it for special romantic occasions, because it's the first meal that I cooked for Janna six years ago.
5. Fill in the blank: This year, I gave (your wife/girlfriend/fiance's name) a ____________________ for Valentine's Day?
A romantic evening, roses, and Peppercorn steak, obviously.

In closing, Kevin Spacey is the shit. We've hopped on the House Of Cards train, and watching him do Johnny Carson on Kimmel last night just sealed the deal. Who was your fave? Not to rain on Lupita's parade, but she's not the 'came from nothing' that people are touting her as. Her dad is a politician and she went to Yale... Does that change anything? I'm curious.

Five For Friday

#1 It's negative-freakin-SIX-degrees right now.

#2 I'm so happy that a few have commented and emailed about a swap!

There is Christmas spirit left in the blogland! hehe

As of right now we be few, but I'll accept more until Sunday. Spread the word if you'd like. I know I was super sad that it would have been my first year not having a swap to do, so don't let anyone feel left out!

A few people have asked about Christmas card swappage, so I'll add that too. Since some people like to craft, I would partner crafters with crafters, buyers with buyers, and card swappers with card swappers. Just leave a comment like "crafter", "purchase a gift", "swap a card". I also like to card swaps for myself, and the beautiful Miss Rach is the first address I received this year!

#3 I wasn't going to decorate for the holidays with the impending move, but then I was because I thought I would be happier and more in the spirit, even so we ran out of time on Turkey day when I planned to do it, and now we are a mere three weeks away. Perhaps, that will be a good event for this weekend. Good thing I bought Egg Nog Protein Powder!

#4 If your man needs some sexy pants, go to Khol's and check out the Marc Anthony line. We ran in there before date night the other day {yes, we tend to shop for him on a need basis based on what I wear}, and I almost fainted over the sexiness when he tried them on. I bought him THREE pair I loved them so much. Just trust me. Go buy them.

#5 I have the next three days off, and I couldn't be more excited about it, for the specific reason that it will be so cold that I will be forced to stay in la casa. Poor Will won't be able to stay home, though :( He has a 24 hour duty AGAIN.  How is this possible? They do separate schedules for the week and weekend, but both start at the top of the alphabet. If I were in charge, I would start one at the top and one at the bottom, but what do I know? I'm just a dumb blonde. Yeesh.

I hope you all have a warmer weekend that I!

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things...

Raise your hand if you are excited about tonight's Sound Of Music Tribute?

Me, me, ME!

I know some people are freaking out and saying that you can't 'remake' SOM, but you are wasting your energy. The powers that be knew that no one wants or can imagine it remade, so this is going to be a fabulous tribute performance. Genius.

In honor of tonight, I figured I'd share a few of my favorite things.

+ Kashi berry cereal.


I don't like sweets in the morning, but it makes a great late night snack. I know, I know, everyone says you shouldn't eat that late, but I have Hypoglycemia and it helps me avoid waking up with the shakes. It also gives me extra fiber, which I'd rather take at night if you know what I'm sayin'.

+ New boots!


Yes, I only have two months left to wear snow boots, but I took that into consideration when I ordered them. I made sure to pick a lower profile that I would be willing to wear when we move. Plus, my last pair only cost $5 and I wore them slap out. ..totally deserved new ones.
+ Red Wine Risotto
I never say no to Risotto, and now that I can make it in the crockpot, I could eat it on the daily. I love crockpot season!

+ Having most of my Christmas shopping done.
I actually started the Christmas shopping six months ago because I always keep my eye out for great gifts. Sometimes I buy things off the Christmas lists that go around, but I try to think outside the box. I feel like it means more if I find a gift that they will love on my own.

Recently, I asked around about a Christmas Swap, and I haven't seen one. I feel like this is a sad indicator of the blogland Christmas spirit, so I'm going to host one of my own. It's last minute, so I know you may be apprehensive, but how much time do you really need? I feel like we all just drag them out, and it becomes more of a chore than anything.

So here's the deal, comment that you want to participate, choose "purchase a gift" or "craft a gift", and then I will partner us all up by Sunday. We will have about five days to mail, and then we will link up our gifts. I've participated and/or held a swap every year, so I would just feel cheated without it. Wouldn't you?

Now it's passed my bed times. Nighty-might!

Seven Minutes In Heaven

Hello Tuesday,

I haven't blogged on you in quite some time. Don't worry, it's not you, it's me...

We randomly decided to go to Breckenridge this weekend, and didn't get back until yesterday. I didn't feel like blogging have time to blog, but of course, Will chastised me for not posting yesterday. I told him that I would make up for it today if I had time, so now that I have a spare seven minutes before I leave for work, I'll say wasssssuuuuuupppp? How was everyone's weekend?

Why yes, I did put two number four's...That's what happens at 6AM.

1. We had our first real snow of the season!

We are going on four days of no sun, so hopefully the sun will come out and play today. We boast over 300 days of sun/year, so folks around here can't take more than 2-4 days of gloom. Like seriously...people get angry.

2.  Hubby made Crockpot Beeftips and it was AWESOME.

Super easy too. Just beef, veggies, low sodium gravy packet, and water.

4. I may have added to one of my tattoos this weekend ;)

Nothing major, but MAJOR meaning. I was going to share pictures today, but that would take more than seven minutes. If y'all even want to see...

4. One of the rare occasions you find us in a 'club'.

When in Rome Breckenridge...

Aight...Seven minutes is up, so hope you enjoyed. I must say it's quite invigorating to not spend an hour on a post. I am all about quality over quantity, but sometimes you just gotta run with it.

Let's Talk Emotions...Heavy Heart Today

While I was perusing one of my favorite blogs, I saw that Shanna was talking emotions on the blog and it inspired me. Thank goodness that we can find inspiration in each other, because the snow we are getting right now makes me want to snuggle under the covers, and then go make friends with Frosty The Snowman.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Astonished, that people keep asking me to take their Holiday photos, and they are actually offering me cold hard cash. What?! Not that I'm complaining, but definitely surprised.

Here's how the last conversation about a photo session went:

Her: Do you want to shoot ours???  I've seen pictures you've snapped, and they're great! I just want something simple and easy...

Me: Sure. I'm easy, and I have a camera.

Wait...that came out wrong!

Eager to get our own Christmas cards back! I ALWAYS wait until I find a good deal {because who the heck wants to pay full price for those things?}, and this year I saved $100 bucks. Go check out this deal and don't waste all your shopping money!

Overjoyed that it's my favorite time of year! I was debating about decorating with the impending move, but I have a feeling that I will be 'decking the halls' within the next week ;)

Nervous about the move. I've moved seven times in the last ten years, but it still doesn't get any easier! Other than deployments, moving is my least favorite part of military life.

Confused about what to do {career wise} for the rest of my life. Not like this is a new problem, but confusing all the same. I need to grow up!

Indecisive over when I should actually put in my two weeks at work. I would like to work through the holidays, I should work through January, but I would be ecstatic to walk out the next time someone pisses me off. I think you might say my give-a-damn is busted, and my new motto is "not my problem".
Mourning the loss of Lauren six months ago today.

Every time I click on a picture that she has commented on or scroll past her number in my phone, I am sick to my stomach. She's the only person I know that has been taken by Cancer far too young... We miss you Lolo, but you will NEVER be forgotten.
Grateful that Will is NOT going to be deploying again in January. Anytime that I can keep him home safe is a blessing to me. I'm not ready for another deployment.

One last question, does anyone have Shopkick? I just downloaded the free app because Dave Ramsey told me to, and want to hear what stores you have gotten paid to shop at! I really do think this will be awesome to have for the holiday season, but don't know what stores I need to be targeting.

Have a great weekend, all!

If You Want To See What Hyper Janna Looks Like

Confession: I went out drinking last night.

I know, it made no sense, and even less so now that I am barely avoiding this hangover.

See what had happened was...

I had to learn how to close the restaurant last night in preparation for my closing manger shift next weekend, and I was tricked into drinking a little too much after work. I honestly didn't drink that much, and even made the bartender cut me off, but miss-low-tolerance-over-here just can't hang like she used to!

Since it's already Monday afternoon, I will just share this little gem of a video that I recorded for y'all last week. You will have to watch it to get the full idea of my mental state at the time...If you want a sneak peak of  my Halloween costume, get a peek at a few Birthday presents, and find out my favorite sub shop, then you should probably check it out. I swear I only sound ditsy because I'm hyper. At least I'm pretty sure I don't sound like this all the time. Those of you that know me IRL, do I always sound like this?

This was my first time playing around with the transitions and jump cuts, so feel free to point me in the direction of a good tutorial, 'cuz I obviously need practice!

Lesson learned this round: 

No background music, and I should probably quit using the camera on my computer.

Anywhosit, Will and I usually chat it up about our day, work, and other goings on when we get home, and since he's not here, you guys are my stand in. Do you know how hard it is to have a million things to say to someone, and only the dog to listen? Six days left! I hope.

High Five For FRIDAY!

In all my three years of blogging, I have never participated in a 'High Five For Friday' or '5 On Friday' post. Realizing this has me wondering why it has taken me so long to figure out that sometimes you just need to rejoice that the week is over and in my case, try to find the positive in a bad week. So here goes...

One
I got to start my week by taking a Monday off with my soldier, and we spent it cuddled up on the couch watching PS. I Love You. Cried through the whole movie, of course.

Two
I have gotten to eat all kinds of goodies this week- chocolate covered bacon, pumpkin bread, and homemade coconut carrot cake that Will made for my 'birthday'. However, this is also a TERRIBLE thing, because I can't work it off until this leg heals, and I'm pretty sure I have to trump this up to stress eating. Yeah, that's a good excuse, we'll go with that.

Three
I had a coupon to Vanity AND they were having a big sale. Funny story, I thought that I bought this one jacket a few weeks ago, planned an outfit around it, and then realized that I passed it up. That seemed like a sign that I needed to go back for it, and low and behold, it was ANOTHER 50% off. Totally worth the wait.

Four
I contributed to Helene's 10 Things That Are More Important post on Thursday. She is flippin' funny, and I feel blessed that she featured me as one of the ten stories. I won't tell you what it is, so you will just have to go over and find out. Just be excited.
  Ding Ding Ding Da Da Ding Ding.

Five
I have all of YOU, and I mean it when I say that YOU helped me get through this week and the past three years! I appreciated every comment on the last post, and they definitely helped me make it through the past two days. As a matter of fact, I'm going to try to apply all the advice for the next four months, because if I candle this...I can handle anything.
I WILL persevere!

There is snow on the ground this morning, so I'm pretty sure that I will be in full on hibernation mode this weekend. Let's see if I can manage to not leave my house and heal this leg! What's the weather like in your neck of the woods?

Catfish Is Not Just My Favorite Fried Fish Anymore

Ooooooooh boy.

I'm back, the trip was amazing, and it just might be the best birthday I've ever had. Too bad the recap is going to have to wait; a few things have gotten in the way...

+ The incessant crying from Monday was a big problem.

You'd think that I would be good at saying goodbye at this point, but instead I get worse. The only thing I can figure is that I love him MORE with each passing day, so the goodbyes just get harder. He left Tuesday morning, and I've had nothing but anxiety since he left. I don't want to make this harder on him so I will hold myself together, but did the Army really have to take him "just to reach their training numbers"? Aren't we supposed to be spending less money these days?

+ My new iPhone came in a day early!

Not that I'm complaining, but I spent Tuesday night at Verizon trying to get everything transferred over and the new Lifeproof case installed. I still didn't get my pictures switched over, but this is why I back everything up on the computer, as well. I can't just count on iCloud. Actually, I don't trust iCloud at all. Oh well, I now have a fresh, clean phone with lots of memory available!

+ My childhood friend was on Catfish last night!
I honestly used to think the show was about fishing for catfish (I was raised on fried catfish), but upon further review, I just thought it was a bunch of weirdos. That is until I found out my dear friend Michael B. was going to be on the show! It aired last night and I was thoroughly impressed with how he handled the situation. He pulled off looking like a caring, concerned, sweetheart instead of a male ego with his head stuck up his rear. Obviously he's single, ladies! This was from the last wedding we were in together:

+ I have a pulled Hip Flexor. Well, I'm hoping that it's just pulled.

I haven't gone to the doctor, but it seems pretty clear cut that it is something to do with my hip flexor. Perhaps I shouldn't have run 4 miles on Friday or hiked on Sunday, but I really didn't realize how bad I had hurt it. Now instead of being healed in 2-4 days like it was supposed to do, I am having to take it easy for a good week. Especially since I slipped in the kitchen at work and tweaked it even worse. I barely take recovery days, so a week of no workouts is going to make me go nuts.

Other than that, I am trying to wrap my mind around working at my current job for the next four months. We all know that I love my job, but I don't always love every location that I work at. This current store has gone back and forth as my favorite and least favorite for many reasons (mean girls, bullies, corporate nonsense, and a rotating door for managers), and right now...it's hard to go to work sometimes. There is SUCH a negative vibe that I have nightmares about this place. I've even thought about moving to a location that is farther from my house, so that I could make it through this final time without having a mental breakdown. Let's just hope I don't cause too much ruckus in the near future. I tend to get myself in trouble while Will is gone, and this time I have a bunch of people egging me on. We are all at our wits end.

How do you guys deal with a tough work environment? Do you put up with crap because the money is worth it? How can I ignore the negativity and press on? I really don't want to quit before we move, so talk me off the ledge!

PS. What are your favorite apps? I am not in the know when it comes to the best apps.

Will And I Survived His First Bachelor Weekend

I've made it through the weekend with only a small amount of worry and zero close calls. My lovely husband is completely honest, so I knew all the shenanigans that were going down, and boy were they going down. To my surprise, he and the Bachelor removed themselves from some of the situations, because they didn't even want to be involved. You see, there were two Bachelors and one's intentions weren't so "honorable". I didn't ask any details, because all that matters to me is that I have the best hubby in the world!

Other than one dude going missing the first night Hangover style, and Will scratching his face while wrestling, the weekend went pretty smooth. The best part was that we got to text a lot. I tried to leave him alone, but since he initiated most of the texts I was happy to stay in contact. I just didn't want to be "that wife" that kept checking up on them.

Other than that, I looked up some new recipes, blogged, fulfilled some household duties, had a lunch meeting with some of my new trainers, and went to Costco with my Springs BFF, Anthony. My Monday is actually going to be more exciting than my weekend.

+Bar meeting this morning.
+Dentist Appointment. {I actually enjoy the Dentist}
+HAIR APPOINTMENT!

I received a coupon for Veda Salon, so I FINALLY had a reason to go in for a trim. I would love to actually get a "style", but I think my style is just long. It's the easiest to deal with, and everyone seems to get mad if I even mention cutting it.
I just wish I could get it to curl more than this:

Perhaps after the trim. I always have them thin it out, so hopefully that will help! If only I could have Courtney do my hair...I wonder if that would be a good enough reason to get the hubby to go on vacation to see her...hmmm. Oh, and in case y'all haven't heard, Bronde is the color for Fall, so I am totally 'in' this season. Get on my level.

But serious question:

Should I just get a trim or take it up to mid-back?

I'm so bad at these decisions!

Less than 48 hours until Will is home, and yes, I am totally counting the hours. Bachelor party is over, but Will still has one more leg of his trip. I'll fill y'all in on that soon, and I'll tell you about how I'm going BACK to Chicago this coming weekend. Craziness going on around here these days, but it will have to wait! Muhahaha ;)