Saturday, December 27, 2008
Mini Break
Hi all. Today's post will be very short but I wanted to get something down. Last Friday I started to feel sick and by Saturday I was feeling pretty bad. Flash forward to Tuesday morning, with me sitting in my doctor's office. He said, sorry pal but you have came down with the flu and laryngitis.
Luckily my bosses understood and I was able to stay firmly planted on my couch at home for a few days. And yet, somehow my suitcase got packed (although the contents were a major disarray and nothing matched!) and I got on a plane to Tampa on Christmas Day. I'm here now with my family and even though it's been more than 7 days since the ickiness decended on me, I am still not 100 percent. My voice has started to come back gradually - I no longer sound like a squeaky chipmunk but still sound like a man!
This will proably be my last post for a few days as I'm still on the mend and with the crew here in FL. Hope your holiday was a blast and that you are with the ones you love the most.
A special note to our military members stationed around the world and far from home. We are so very thankful for you and your efforts.
Luckily my bosses understood and I was able to stay firmly planted on my couch at home for a few days. And yet, somehow my suitcase got packed (although the contents were a major disarray and nothing matched!) and I got on a plane to Tampa on Christmas Day. I'm here now with my family and even though it's been more than 7 days since the ickiness decended on me, I am still not 100 percent. My voice has started to come back gradually - I no longer sound like a squeaky chipmunk but still sound like a man!
This will proably be my last post for a few days as I'm still on the mend and with the crew here in FL. Hope your holiday was a blast and that you are with the ones you love the most.
A special note to our military members stationed around the world and far from home. We are so very thankful for you and your efforts.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Sears and Soldiers - Why I Heart Them
I want to start off by saying, oh my word there are just three days until Christmas. Three days! I've always taken time off before the big day and this is the first year that I haven't. I saved my days for next week, so I'll be working right up until Christmas this year.
I have to tell you about something I came across last night, and then this morning. I was watching Extreme Home Makeover last night when I saw a commercial that discussed the Heroes at Home program that Sears has created. The commerical didn't tell me much but a peak on their site this morning did.
Sears states that "Heroes at Home is a program Sears Holdings has created in partnership with Rebuilding Together in response to an urgent need to assist military families facing hardship. By providing necessary repairs or adaptations to homes, Sears Holdings strives to improve the lives of military families across America."
I encourage you to visit the site and read the stories of the many military families they have helped. There's a spot for donations, a spot where you can spread the word, and even a spot to post a message of support.
As if that didn't warm your heart, here's another reason why military families should support Sears. I came across the following segment on the Today Show:
As Today reported, as Sears struggles for survival, it is still spending millions of dollars it doesn’t have supporting American troops. Sears employes more than 550 men and women that are deployed on active duty. While the employee is away defending our nation, the company not only continues to provide full benefits for the employee and their family but also helps make up the difference between the pay that the military provides, and the pay the employee receives when they are working for Sears.
I sat in awe when I heard this. It's an amazing thing that the retailer is doing. So to Sears, thank you from the bottom of this military girl's heart. While my family is not involved in any of these programs it truly means so much to me that you are willing to show such incredible support of the men and women that serve our nation. I know where I'll be shopping this holiday season.
Do you know of any other big companies supporting our troops that deserve a shout out? Post them here and let me know your thoughts!
I have to tell you about something I came across last night, and then this morning. I was watching Extreme Home Makeover last night when I saw a commercial that discussed the Heroes at Home program that Sears has created. The commerical didn't tell me much but a peak on their site this morning did.
Sears states that "Heroes at Home is a program Sears Holdings has created in partnership with Rebuilding Together in response to an urgent need to assist military families facing hardship. By providing necessary repairs or adaptations to homes, Sears Holdings strives to improve the lives of military families across America."
I encourage you to visit the site and read the stories of the many military families they have helped. There's a spot for donations, a spot where you can spread the word, and even a spot to post a message of support.
As if that didn't warm your heart, here's another reason why military families should support Sears. I came across the following segment on the Today Show:
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
As Today reported, as Sears struggles for survival, it is still spending millions of dollars it doesn’t have supporting American troops. Sears employes more than 550 men and women that are deployed on active duty. While the employee is away defending our nation, the company not only continues to provide full benefits for the employee and their family but also helps make up the difference between the pay that the military provides, and the pay the employee receives when they are working for Sears.
I sat in awe when I heard this. It's an amazing thing that the retailer is doing. So to Sears, thank you from the bottom of this military girl's heart. While my family is not involved in any of these programs it truly means so much to me that you are willing to show such incredible support of the men and women that serve our nation. I know where I'll be shopping this holiday season.
Do you know of any other big companies supporting our troops that deserve a shout out? Post them here and let me know your thoughts!
Friday, December 19, 2008
Florida Bound Baby
As I type these very letters, the NJ sky has begun to drop fluffy and puffy snowflakes. A snow storm is slowly moving into the area and promises to drop anywhere between 8 to 12 inches of snow by my little casa. Ugh.
Despite the fact that the storm is sure to ruin the day, cause absolute chaos during rush hour and decrease attendance at the company's holiday party, I'm trying to be positive. In less than a week I will be in sunny FL. Where the temperature is currently 64 F degrees with a high of 78F.
Thank goodness I keep telling myself. My parents moved to Tampa more than a year ago and last Christmas was the first Christmas I spent in FL. My brother and sister tried to leave Oklahoma yesterday and never made it to my parents house. Winter weather caused them to wait in the airport for almost 10 hours only to be sent to Memphis. They are due out on a flight to Tampa today.
Last year, I spent Christmas morning by the pool with my mom and sister looking out onto the bay and staring happily at the abundance of palm trees. Dan and I fly to Tampa on Christmas Day this year (its really not that bad) and are staying in the warmth for just five days. We are crossing our fingers and hoping we don't encounter weather delays.
Even though I know that our five day FL vacay will feel like the shortest days of my life, I am so looking forward to seeing my family members and basking in the SUN. I plan on waking up early each day just to bank a few hours of solid sunshine. I need it - I think my skin is starting to become see-through.
So when I scrape the snow off of my car later today and shovel the many inches of snow out of my driveway, I will say to myself . . . relax Melissa. FL is just days away.
Here's a few shots from last year's Christmas holiday . . .
Despite the fact that the storm is sure to ruin the day, cause absolute chaos during rush hour and decrease attendance at the company's holiday party, I'm trying to be positive. In less than a week I will be in sunny FL. Where the temperature is currently 64 F degrees with a high of 78F.
Thank goodness I keep telling myself. My parents moved to Tampa more than a year ago and last Christmas was the first Christmas I spent in FL. My brother and sister tried to leave Oklahoma yesterday and never made it to my parents house. Winter weather caused them to wait in the airport for almost 10 hours only to be sent to Memphis. They are due out on a flight to Tampa today.
Last year, I spent Christmas morning by the pool with my mom and sister looking out onto the bay and staring happily at the abundance of palm trees. Dan and I fly to Tampa on Christmas Day this year (its really not that bad) and are staying in the warmth for just five days. We are crossing our fingers and hoping we don't encounter weather delays.
Even though I know that our five day FL vacay will feel like the shortest days of my life, I am so looking forward to seeing my family members and basking in the SUN. I plan on waking up early each day just to bank a few hours of solid sunshine. I need it - I think my skin is starting to become see-through.
So when I scrape the snow off of my car later today and shovel the many inches of snow out of my driveway, I will say to myself . . . relax Melissa. FL is just days away.
Here's a few shots from last year's Christmas holiday . . .
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Muppets Holiday Special Review
So last nite I raced home to curl up on the couch to watch the Muppets holiday special - A Muppets Christmas "Letters to Santa". Notable guest stars included Uma Thurman, Jane Krakowski, Nathan Lane, Jesse L. Martin, Michael Bloomberg, and Whoopi Goldberg.
As a HUGE Muppet fan I have to be honest. I thought it was good, but it wasn't their best. I have to say it felt a bit different. Some of the latest Muppet movies have a different feel. However, I did enjoy the singing and the adorable outfits. Um, Muppets in sweaters and winter apparel - a favorite of mine every time.
One character that stole the show was Pepe, the king prawn. I've like Pepe for quite some time and have always been a fan of his comedy. But last nite, as he stood in the security line at the airport and dumped out all of his electronic devices I roared in laughter. He unloads his pockets saying "Blackberry, Blueberry, Rasberry . . . Halle Berry." All were "electronics" except for the picture of Halle which he kissed before placing in his TSA security box.
In the end I'm always glad to see the crew anywhere. They are always awesome, and I can't help but feel like I'm four every time I see them. Dan will tell you, last night at 7:58pm I sprinted into the living room screaming "two minutes till the Muppets. M-U-P-P-E-T-S!!!" They always make me smile, and for that I am so grateful. Did you watch it? What did you think?
As a HUGE Muppet fan I have to be honest. I thought it was good, but it wasn't their best. I have to say it felt a bit different. Some of the latest Muppet movies have a different feel. However, I did enjoy the singing and the adorable outfits. Um, Muppets in sweaters and winter apparel - a favorite of mine every time.
One character that stole the show was Pepe, the king prawn. I've like Pepe for quite some time and have always been a fan of his comedy. But last nite, as he stood in the security line at the airport and dumped out all of his electronic devices I roared in laughter. He unloads his pockets saying "Blackberry, Blueberry, Rasberry . . . Halle Berry." All were "electronics" except for the picture of Halle which he kissed before placing in his TSA security box.
In the end I'm always glad to see the crew anywhere. They are always awesome, and I can't help but feel like I'm four every time I see them. Dan will tell you, last night at 7:58pm I sprinted into the living room screaming "two minutes till the Muppets. M-U-P-P-E-T-S!!!" They always make me smile, and for that I am so grateful. Did you watch it? What did you think?
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
I Heart Pose Prints
I always have a hard time picking out Christmas cards. I do, it's true. What do I want them to say? Do I want them to look grown up or do I go straight for the snowmen? So many options.
I was reading Celebrity Baby Blog, an oh so fav of mine, when I read a recommendation of theirs. Enter Pose Prints.
I've never been a huge fan of personalized holiday cards. I've only done the picture version once. I just never seem to find a photo that I like enough to send out to those I know. Maybe it will change when I get older and have kids.
But for now, I'd like to recommend Pose Prints. For the sassy and chic gal who's looking for something unique, these can be a great option. I love building my entire scene - myself, my boyfriend, whatever I decide to put on it. There's lots of options like bows, tiaras and what nots. This site is not just for the holidays. Engagement parties? Birthdays? You got it.
Check it out today and build your own character! Save it for your blog, Facebook page, and all other social media applications. Stay tuned for my holiday card. It will be making a special appearance on Christmas!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Holiday Gift Idea - For the Military Brat in Your Life
Can you believe that Christmas is just 9 days away? 9. Whew. Wasn't it just Thanksgiving? I haven't even had the chance to mail my holiday cards out. Eish.
Still shopping for holiday presents? Um, I am. And you're amazing if you've finished. Hats off to you. So for those still trying to find the perfect gift for the military brat in your life, I'd like to recommend a personal favorite . . .The Military Brat Challenge Coin.
Until a few years ago, I didn't know it existed. Challenge coins - yes. I mean, my father has kindly given me many throughout the year and I collect them proudly. And I'm a big fan of them and how they are used. (The story behind the origination of the coin is amazing, but that is for another post.) I have many. And to this day, I can still pick up my father's wallet and see a circular imprint. Ever new wallet gets one.
A few years back, one of my best friends Amanda Stangl, was kind enough to give me one for Christmas. We lived in Japan together, and she's the friend I've had longest in my life. I feel like I grew up with her, even though we met when we were 13 and only had 3 short years together.
She found it on the famous military brats website we love the most. I cried when she gave it to me. Too sentimental?
The words that appear on the front of the coin are so important: bold, adaptable, tolerant, and responsible. I've said it before and I'll say it again, military brats don't choose to become brats. It happens to them. But the best thing about being a brat, is learning to embrace each part of your military life. The moves. The foreign countries. The new languages. The constant change. The words on the coin are the code we live by.
Receiving that coin made me feel like I was finally like my father. And when he went to Iraq, I bought a coin for both my younger siblings Matt and Nicole. I wanted to remind them that they too deserve such an honor. Their dedication, support and respect to our father and our military family should be recognized and celebrated.
Until my father returned from Iraq, I carried my coin and his coin in my wallet. It helped me feel connected. And now, when I'm with my friends who are military brats, I never hesitate to call a challenge at a bar. After all, I now have my own duds.
If you have a military brat in your life and are looking for a stocking stuffer, or a special gift, I encourage you to give your loved one a military brat challenge coin.
Hugs to all brats around the world.
Still shopping for holiday presents? Um, I am. And you're amazing if you've finished. Hats off to you. So for those still trying to find the perfect gift for the military brat in your life, I'd like to recommend a personal favorite . . .The Military Brat Challenge Coin.
Until a few years ago, I didn't know it existed. Challenge coins - yes. I mean, my father has kindly given me many throughout the year and I collect them proudly. And I'm a big fan of them and how they are used. (The story behind the origination of the coin is amazing, but that is for another post.) I have many. And to this day, I can still pick up my father's wallet and see a circular imprint. Ever new wallet gets one.
A few years back, one of my best friends Amanda Stangl, was kind enough to give me one for Christmas. We lived in Japan together, and she's the friend I've had longest in my life. I feel like I grew up with her, even though we met when we were 13 and only had 3 short years together.
She found it on the famous military brats website we love the most. I cried when she gave it to me. Too sentimental?
The words that appear on the front of the coin are so important: bold, adaptable, tolerant, and responsible. I've said it before and I'll say it again, military brats don't choose to become brats. It happens to them. But the best thing about being a brat, is learning to embrace each part of your military life. The moves. The foreign countries. The new languages. The constant change. The words on the coin are the code we live by.
Receiving that coin made me feel like I was finally like my father. And when he went to Iraq, I bought a coin for both my younger siblings Matt and Nicole. I wanted to remind them that they too deserve such an honor. Their dedication, support and respect to our father and our military family should be recognized and celebrated.
Until my father returned from Iraq, I carried my coin and his coin in my wallet. It helped me feel connected. And now, when I'm with my friends who are military brats, I never hesitate to call a challenge at a bar. After all, I now have my own duds.
If you have a military brat in your life and are looking for a stocking stuffer, or a special gift, I encourage you to give your loved one a military brat challenge coin.
Hugs to all brats around the world.
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