A New Outlook on Fertility

I woke up Monday morning so excited to start a new week! I had a very special appointment scheduled for 10AM, and I could hardly wait. The appointment was fantastic, and I have soo much to share with you so lets get to it.

First, lets rewind to last week. I went with a dear friend to visit a fertility doctor in Nashville. I was more than happy to support her in this scary process while her hubbie is playing GI Joe is the sand. Now, I will not name this doctor, but I was a little disturbed by the things he told her. I didn't go to medical school, but I pretty sure it is common knowledge that taking a prenatal is a good thing if you are trying to get preggy and food seriously affects your overall health. I won't go any further, but I would not recommend this doctor to anyone. ***If you see a male, fertility specialist in Nashville you are free to email me with any concern.

This appointment caused me to make finding a better approach even more of a priority.  I had been given a link to a possible alternative some months back. At the time, I read all I could find on it, but there just isn't that much available. The reason being there are not that many physicians that practice this alternative. So I did one more internet search to find a physician who practiced it a little closer to home. Long story short, through the grace of God, there is a new office right here in Clarksville that just opened up. There is still only one doctor in all of Tennessee who practices, but he will be traveling to Nashville once a month to see patients. What an amazing blessing!

So what is it?

It is called NaProTechnology, and that stands for Natural Procreative Technology. It is comprised of the medical component, NaProTechnology (NaPRo), which is practiced by an OB/GYN and the educational component, NaProEducation, which is taught and supported by a Fertility Care Practitioner (FCP). It sounds NaProConfusing, but it really isn't.

I will see Mary Vozar for the educational portion right here in Clarksville. She also serves the Nashville/Middle TN area. The medical portion is provided by Dr. Gray. He is an OB/GYN who follows NaProTechnology as his main diagnosis/treatment process in Jackson, TN. Yeah little, bitty Jackson.

So Monday morning I had my first appointment to begin my education. I thoroughly enjoyed the information and discussion. I will be going back every two weeks over the next couple months to learn more and more. I will also be seen by Dr. Gray. I haven't scheduled that yet so I'm not sure when. I'll be sure to let you know.

I'm very excited about this new venture. I am, also, very excited that I can share it with you!!

A Ranger and His Love: Week 11

 After 4 tries, Mike finally passed Darby phase of Ranger school and moved onto Mountain phase. We also announced that we were going to adopt to start our family. Little celebrations and finally two-way communication.

5th Ranger Training Brigade, Attempt #1

August 11, 2012

The Ranger

Hey,

I'm on the bus now about 20 minutes out from mountains. It was only about 2-1/2 hour bus ride out, but it felt good to catch a nap. I hope you are doing good. I really wish I could have talked to you longer yesterday, but it was hard to get anything done. Outside it's starting to look like home, bigger and bigger rolling hills, thicker trees. It's nice, but will definitely suck to walk up.

cont. ,August 12, 2012

Well, today was fun. We repelled and tied knots all day so it really wasn't bad. Plus, we get 3 meals a day for the next couple days. Anyway, I'm trying to get this letter to you soon to tell you i'm in BCO 2PLT 2SQD Roster number "###" So you can make sure your wonderful letters get to me. Anyway I didn't have much to say this time, but next letter is sure to have more. I love you so much.

Mike

August 13, 2012

The Ranger

Hey Babe,

I hope you got my last letter so you can send me mail. It looks like when were not in the field its easier to send mail than at Darby. So if time permits, I can send more letters. It's still the beginning of the day. Temp is probably in the 70s. I don't like it. I'm used to hot so at night I'm freezing. So far, I just finished our know test. Passed it. Tomorrow is our hike up Mt. Yonah so that is going to suck bad from what I hear. So pray I keep up. I love you so much.

August 14, 2012

His Love

Hey Babe!

Do you like my new stationary? It's very chic! I hope you are doing well in the mountains of North GA! I miss you tons and have lots to tell you. First, I forgot to tell you the your cousin is preggos...again. Also ____ is going to be a daddy. You are officially going to be a daddy too! Our family knows. I'm taking video of everyone's reaction for you. I just have to tell MJ and your parents. I'm very anxious to tell your parents. They are going to be thrilled. P reacted funny. He got mad that I wasn't actually preggos. Not in a mean way, just in a "well you should be" way. I didn't blame him. I kinda agree. G is thrilled and my parents were more and more excited as I gave them more info. 

I also went to the ENT toady and I have to have a CT scan Friday. Apparently, there is actually an issue with my sinuses causing the pain in my nose and my headaches. I might need surgery-BOO! 

Anyway, I'm happy with the way God is blessing us with a child. It is the predestined and perfect way. I love you so much and you are already the best daddy. Our little girl's superhero. 

<3

SJ

For further reading:

A Ranger and His Love Series:

Week 1                Week 6

        Week 2                Week 7        
Week 3                Week 8
Week 4                Week 9

       Week 5                Week 10     

These letters are very candid, and through sharing them, you can take a deep look at our life in 2012. You can read about the behind the scenes emotions and discussions that we have had regarding our biggest revelations and announcements. These letters were our main communications, something not so common anymore. From this unique perspective, you will see how a love can grow deeper and lives can change despite the time spent apart.

 Just a warning, Mike's letters were, at times, written under extreme sleep and food deprivation. Some of the things he says are a little...off. He rambles, gets repetitive at times, and sometimes doesn't use eloquent word choices. Please forgive him and find the humor in his misery.

Skinny Fat Kid: A Little (grain free) Granola

It's been several weeks since I told you about my Skinny Fat Kid Challenge. I would like to first clarify a couple of matters that have been brought to my attention, and also share how the challenge is going.

First, I want to make sure that you all understand that I'm not at this to loose weight or achieve some sort of temporary goal. My short term goal is to see if I can heal my body of infertility with food. There is no real scientific proof that I can do this. I have researched on my own and found plenty of evidence that food 100% affects your health. I think this is commonly accepted thought. I have also seen research that suggest that some infertility issues may be the result of diet. This is not proven. I'm not going to share data on these matters because I am not a scientist nor a doctor. I do not want people to think that I am suggesting we can cure infertility, although that would be AWESOME. I'm just trying something different because I am dissatisfied with traditional medical opinion and trying to force my body to do something it should do naturally with things that are not natural. Plus traditional infertility remedies are known to increase risks of cancer and other unwelcome diagnoses.

My long term goal is to live longer than my genetics/blood work says I will. The one thing that I do know is that my genetic disorder is 100% affected by my food choices. If I want to live a long, healthy life, I have to take charge of my health today. I will not die from heart disease that can be prevented. No way! It would be ignorant of me not to make these changes knowing what I know.

So what am I eating?

I eat fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, grass fed/hormone free animal products and very little of anything else at the moment. I am gluten free, soy free, and almost dairy free. It's pretty extreme, but it has also been a slow transition. The only dairy is a grass fed butter, but I'm about over it. I just don't crave/need it for cooking much. I'm also beginning to limit my animal products all together because animal protein has an enzyme that my body doesn't break down well.

Right before Christmas I severely cut the carbs. I refused all sugar except for my Granny's thumbprint cookies that are my favorite and whatever was cooked for our Christmas dinner. I did not over indulge by any means, and to my surprise I actually lost a few pounds.

When I arrived home from Christmas I quickly cleared my pantry of nearly everything. It's crazy how much junk is in the food we consume. Chucking it all was the best way to prevent eating. Then, I started reading and collecting recipes to try. I spent a lot of money the first two weeks. There were so many staple items that I needed to buy. It was just like when you move and have to buy new everything.

To my amazement, everything I made was delicious. I have learned I'm a good cook. I'm not afraid to try new things or twist a recipe to work with the ingredients I have on hand. I've never had so much fun in the kitchen. And I can eat as much as I want, no portioning needed. Did I mention it tastes amazing?!

What results am I seeing?

WOW!

That would pretty much sum it up. I feel great all the time. I sleep better. I wake up easily. I do not feel drained in the middle of the day. My skin is clearer. My waist and hips are slimmer. I feel lighter. Not to be gross, but I'm never bloated. I feel whole and complete and healthy all over. I started working out regularly again, something I didn't do much last year.

This week I started feeling the normal symptoms of ovulation that I felt while on Clomid. That is the best result so far. Not only do I feel great, but I feel normal. This, of course, does not mean that I am/will ovulate or that my PCOS is gone. However, it is encouraging me to continue this lifestyle change so that I can test my blood work in the near future.

The challenges..

Hi, my name is Sarah and I'm a sugarholic.

Whether we choose to admit it or not, we are addicted to sugar. You too. Yes, you. It is in every single thing we eat. Don't believe me? Start looking at the ingredients listed on your food. Sometimes its hidden in other things or funny words, but its there. My Granny checked her applesauce today because I was telling her about the applesauce I made. The front said "NO SUGAR ADDED" and "All Natural", but the ingredients included Apple Cider. There is sugar in apple cider. We are all sugarholics! Food companies have made us this way.

So I'm breaking an addiction. I'm still getting sugar in some forms. Mike sent me chocolate covered strawberries for Valentine's day, and you better bet I ate some of them. I also shared with some friends. Mike wrote on the note ever so slyly that the strawberries canceled out the chocolate. It was sweet and a total lie, but I complied.

It is really hard to eat this way and maintain a social life. The problem is that our culture is so saturated in the unhealthy. I cannot eat out at restaurants unless I eat a simple salad with no dressing. That is lame and not worth the money, quite frankly. When I go to social events, I generally cannot partake in the food without violating the progress I've made. At the same time, I do not want to be rude to a host/hostess nor do I enjoy the explanation of why I can't eat something. It leaves me in a pickle. I'm learning to quickly answer any questioning with "oh, I have health reasons why I can't" and then change the subject real fast. I don't want to be questioned nor do I want to make others who are eating the unhealthy food feel awkward because they can't get enough of that cake. Sometimes, I just have one bite of whatever it is, compliment the cook, and move on. I'm not going to die from one bite, and it avoids the issue.

My other challenge is eating on the go. I'm cooking all this great food, but what do I eat when I forget to eat and need something asap. Well...its not Wendy's. I learned that the hard way. I left church at 9:30 one night a few weeks ago and felt my blood sugar drop. I had nothing at home, and I decided eating was better than passing out trying to cook. Wrong! I had migraines every morning for nearly a week after. Not worth it. I haven't had anything fast since. My only solution thus far is not forgetting to eat. I know keeping some easy fruit like an apple or some raw almonds on hand is good too.

A little (grain free) granola...

I'm still learning and researching everyday. I'm learning things about farming in our country, how much the FDA actually sucks (please excuse the harsh tone, but they do), and what foods have the best healing components. It is fascinating, challenging, and I love it. It's not for everyone, but it's hard to argue against God's creation. At the moment I'm trying to figure out where the best place is for me to live to have the most access to everything healthy. Apparently, I may be breaking laws going to Kentucky for my yum yums. So far, I'm thinking California or New Jerusalem with Jesus, but I know there has to be another option for the time being. I know it, unfortunately, isn't Georgia. Anyone think I can get Mike to move to Hippieville? Mmm...yeah I didn't think so. Maybe our own farm. Or The Farm??

These are the things I ponder as I get crunchier.

Our rePostable Home: Getting Started

Well I announced this new project, and I feel like I'm totally slacking already. Just to recap, I want to make our house organized so that moving is easy. The title of the project is Our rePostable Home because in the Army we move from post to post. It's a little difficult to get started with an organization project. An entire house can be very overwhelming. Where to start? How to budget? Cupboards, pantries, and closests, Oh My! Its more than enough to scare you away.

Budgeting is hard because each space is different. I don't exactly have that figured out well. I do know that I want to stay as cheap as possible, but rooms like the office are going to cost more if I want it done correctly. We'll figure that out together when I get there. You don't, however, have to buy everything from an organizational store. Shop sales and be on the lookout everywhere you go for something that can be functional (and cheap!) for your home. Also, remember that we aren't organizing the entire house at one time as seen on TV shows. We can spread out small purchases over time that don't empty our wallets. $10 here, $20 there can be very effective. I have several months to finish this project and some of my organizational dreams will have to be put on hold until I save up what I need. It's okay to be realistic. Maybe you organize a space as best as possible and make a list of items that would make it even better when you have the resources. Please don't run up your credit card in hopes to gain control over your home. Your house might look good, but you'll just have more chaos to manage.

Now, our starting point. Pick a spot in your home that is already decently organized and small. Focus on that little area, and hopefully, you can overcome that drowning feeling that we start to get when thinking of the whole house...or the garage or the attic. Ah! Back to that small, more calming space.

I chose our master bath. It has drawer space and a decent amount of storage so I already had it looking okay...well I thought I did. Now looking at the pictures, I'm not so impressed. I went to the Dollar Store to find cheap drawer organizers of some sort. I found little bins that can be hooked together to meet individual drawer needs. I also found some generic plastic baskets that I knew could replace the cute decorative baskets I had hidden under the sink. I know we'll find a use for the baskets elsewhere.

My goal was to place as much as possible into baskets/bins so that when its time to move, we just wrap the bins (that sticky plastic wrap works well), place bins in box, and go. Can it get easier? This will work with items that are nonbreakable/smooshable. So I set out the bins and started sorting. It wasn't too hard. The only problem was the drawers were not wide enough for two bins side-by-side. Total bummer. I should have been smart and measured everything before I went shopping. I'm sure I could have also shopped around more and found something different, but I'm happy with my Dollar Store find. I placed as much as possible in the bins and left the larger items loose in the drawer. The bins minimize the space left so larger items are not moving around much. I also added one more bin to this middle drawer (below) after I took these pictures.

These drawers are stacked on top of each other between the two sinks, a pretty common layout. The area under Mike's sink (not pictured) houses our bathroom linens and extra TP because we do not have a linen closet in our master. I know, huge flaw. With the limited space, I keep a limited number of linens here. With just the two of us, its plenty. Plus, I like doing laundry. Total Freak!

The area below my sink is picture above if you scroll up to before and after. Here's the deal ladies...and men that are not like my husband. I don't collect beauty products. We can be so easily guilty of hoarding everything from hair sprays to mascaras. I put a stop to that habit a few years ago. For one, I don't need 5 curling irons (my hair is naturally curly). Second, no one has space for 5 curling irons. Actually, I don't own a curling iron at all anymore. I went a little extreme that one time, and now I'm in the market for..just one.That's all that will fit in the basket. I know this can be hard, but just try to keep only what you use.

All joking aside, one is enough of each type of product. If I try something new, I do my testing and then pick the better one to keep. When things get old, I dispose of them. I have one basket that holds ALL my hair products and my makeup bag. My makeup bag holds ALL my make up. I have a small bag that also fits in the makeup bag that holds my brushes, a tip I learned from my sister to keep them clean. My makeup bag is not tiny nor is it huge. If you look to the far right image you can see my iPad sitting behind it. It's about that size and 4 inches wide. It holds everything I use daily and enough stuff to get glitzy for a ball.

In all, I spent $7 plus tax at the Dollar Store to completely organize this room. Not too bad. Duchess and Chloe supervised the project for the hour and a half it took to do. I'm going to go ahead and do the guest bath and upstairs linen closet. (watch Facebook for pics) Again less is more in these spaces. They should be simple. Now what to do next???

                                                                                                                  

A Ranger and His Love: Week 10

 
4th Ranger Training Brigade, Attempt #4

July 31, 2012

His Love

Hey Babe,

I hope you are well. I have had king of a rough couple days. The dogs have/had fleas. Hopefully they are gone now. The high grass caused that. I mowed the yard, treated the dogs, and washed them. I also have dealt with the security system, traded one annoyance (the garage door) for another (buzzing panel.) Boo! Hopefully they will have that fixed within 48 hours. And not to be a total downer, but we have a roof leak over the bay window :( I have three contractors lined up for estimates. One is our builder. He actually came by himself to check it out. The damage is minimal so don't freak. We just have to find the source. All in all, Monday was slightly stressful, but I have it all under control. We may have to delay some adoption stuff, but thats okay since really we have to wait for you to be home to get things oving. 

So I hope you are healthy and focused. I've been praying for you A LOT! I pray that you are focused and alert and positive. Don't let negative thoughts hold you captive in a tough situation. I also pray that God gives you His strength and that you accept it humbly. I'll keep praying! I can't wait to talk to you!!  I love you to the moon!!!

<3

SJ

"Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you,yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." -Isaiah 41:10

"Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ." -2 Corinthians 10:3-5

For further reading:

A Ranger and His Love Series:

Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4 

Week 5 

Week 6

Week 7

 Week 8

Week 9

These letters are very candid, and through sharing them, you can take a deep look at our life in 2012. You can read about the behind the scenes emotions and discussions that we have had regarding our biggest revelations and announcements. These letters were our main communications, something not so common anymore. From this unique perspective, you will see how a love can grow deeper and lives can change despite the time spent apart.

 Just a warning, Mike's letters were, at times, written under extreme sleep and food deprivation. Some of the things he says are a little...off. He rambles, gets repetitive at times, and sometimes doesn't use eloquent word choices. Please forgive him and find the humor in his misery.

My Deployment Project

Every deployment deserves some well defined goals. Setting goals and working toward them is a common way that many military spouses keep their routines, move forward each day, and well, simply destract themselves from the realities of seperation. I'm a big fan of this tactic. Not only is it good for keeping busy, but hopefully, goals are achieved and daily life improves. Many wives get fit, lose weight, learn to better manage their lives, or simply become more social with other spouses.

Last year, while dear hubbie was suffering in Ranger school, I set out to learn how to sew. It was fun, creative, and productive. And now I am able to make clothing to sell. I set a fun goal and now it is paying off. I was able to not only fill my days with something fun and pass the time while he was away, I learned a new skill that is continuing to better my life. Deployments can be a great time for self improvement.

Well, this deployment I've had a different goal in the back of my mind, and I'm glad to say it is time to get down to business. We are already a third of the way done. I better hurry up. My goal this year is to turn my house into the Container Store! Okay, that may be extreme. What I want to do is create easy efficient organization in as many areas of my home as possible. My dearest friends are thinking, "um...SJ your house is organized." I know, the lack of kids does have a small perk. Also, my personality type doesn't allow for disfunction, but there is a bigger picture that needs to be understood to really follow my logic.

Last week we received news that really intensifies the need for my deployment project. We're PCSing! (civi-talk: Permanent Change of Station - the Army is moving us.) Is that big enough?

Let's not get ahead of ourselves. One big important detail - We have 15 months left in our current home. I was really shocked that we found out the move date so far in advance. I new it was coming, and my timeframe estimate was pretty accurate. I must be learning the to think like the Army, but usually the Army isn't so forthcoming with details.

So May 2014 will send us to a new house to organize and make home for a short time. When I say short, I mean short. We will be in the next home for only 6 months before moving again.  Hopefully, you are starting to see the need for extreme organization.

The simple fact is that a military family moves....a lot. Mike and I are in our 5th home. We've been married 5 years, and we have actually lived here for 20 months. This is our longest stay yet. We need a home that is ready to move at all times. That is percisely what I'm setting out to achieve.  It will not be easy, but it will be on a budget and will be completed....before we move.

Please follow along as I create Our rePostable Home.

A Ranger and His Love: Week 9

 

 

On June 29th, I received a call from Mike. He had completed RAP week and done well. However, he had injured his back somewhere on one of the courses. Friday morning, June 29th, he made a wise decision to report the injury and go to sit call. He spent the day getting x-rays and speaking with the PAs and a doctor. He needed to heal before he could move forward with the course. He allowed some time to rest and then assigned small tasks each day while he waited for the next class to start. We were able to talk on the phone every day. He spent his 26th birthday alone at Ranger school. I also made a weekend trip to Fort Benning during this time so we could make a decision about adoption. He did not have to repeat RAP week so his 4th attempt at Ranger school began on July 26, 2012

 

  4th Training Brigade, Attempt #4

 

July 26, 2012

His Love

Hey Babe-

Well today was your first day back. I hope it went okay. I;m in the middle of mowing the yard. The grass is kicking the mowers butt. Its not acting right. I hope it keeps working. Today I also hung the new sheers in the kitchen (they look awesome), took our adoption pics, applied for 8 jobs, and will finish the yard before sunset...hopefully. I'm sure you did way more than me before I even woke up. I also have done more research and found an agency (largest in US) that I feel good about. 

The Olympics start tomorrow night. I'm going to try to watch while I babysit H & D. Oh, they had to start some events early and there was a bug screw up. Women's socccer...When N. Korea was about to play, they displayed S. Korea's flag and the team stormed off the field. oops!! I love you bunches.

<3SJ  

 

 

July 28, 2012

His Love

Hey Babe- 

I'm so exhausted from last night. I kept H & D by myself for 4 hours. We can't have kids that close in age. D had to be held the entire time, but refused the wrap. And, unfortunately, H isn't quite old enough to feed herself. Overall it went well, but man it was tough. I tried to catch the opening ceremonies of the Olympics, but that was hard. It kinda sucked. Everone on FB is saying Beijing was way better. The cool part was the torch at the end. You'll have to YouTube that. Oh and China's flag bearer was like 7 feet tall. Ha! In other news, Chik-fil-A "hates" gay thing is still everywhere. Aug. 1st is now Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day as per Mike Huckabee. If you love CFA you are suppose to eat it that day. I will comply. Crazy thing though...FB shut down their page for a while. Its getting ugly and so intolerant.

Well I have been praying for you lots. Today's prayers are focused on your mental health, but I always pray for you back. Just consider this a trial and trials are opportunities to show our faith and trust God. "Consider is a great joy"

I love you to the moon!

<3 SJ   

 

I also drew this picture on the back with the caption, "I miss babysitting together. It's much easier."

 

  

For further reading:

A Ranger and His Love Series:
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4 

Week 5 

Week 6

Week 7

 Week 8

These letters are very candid, and through sharing them, you can take a deep look at our life in 2012. You can read about the behind the scenes emotions and discussions that we have had regarding our biggest revelations and announcements. These letters were our main communications, something not so common anymore. From this unique perspective, you will see how a love can grow deeper and lives can change despite the time spent apart.

Just a warning, Mike's letters were, at times, written under extreme sleep and food deprivation. Some of the things he says are a little...off. He rambles, gets repetitive at times, and sometimes doesn't use eloquent word choices. Please forgive him and find the humor in his misery.

The Call

Something amazing happened in early January. I wanted so badly to share. You may remember me asking for prayer on Proulxville's Facebook page. Here is why....

January 7th, I was cooking breakfast and taking care of 3 dogs (my two and the Blue Heeler stray) when my phone announced "DROID." Everyone hated that I never changed that, but I looked forward to that sound in the morning...must be Mike saying hello.

Well, it wasn't Mike. I look at my phone and could not believe what I was reading. This was the message:

"Sarah Jo I just got this message....Baby boy to be born early Feb. Mom wants closed adoption. Would be direct private...take custody at hospital. Message or call asap for details!! (Going to be born in Calhoun County Alabama)"

My heart leaped into my throat. Anniston!?!! I can't really explain the emotion of a first call regarding a potential adoption. I wasn't ready for it. I had come to an understanding with God that this would take longer than we thought. And this baby was not through our agency. Could we really find an adoptable child without the assistance of an agency? And to be born in the same hospital as Mike?! And the same hospital that both of our moms (and basically half our family) was born in?!! Was this real? We could be surrounded by family instead of potentially on the other side of the country alone. Amazing!!

Of course, I immediately responded and the woman who had the information contacted me within about ten minutes. What a crazy and absolutely amazing moment!

Without giving details, I will have to say that now this potential adoption is very unlikely to move forward. The baby is due this week. It was, of course, disappointing, but I will never question a mom's desire to parent. I understand that emotion and need. I know all our Calhoun County family probably jumped for joy a couple paragraphs ago, but maybe there will be another opportunity.

Regardless, we know that God is faithful, and it is very clear that He is at work. To receive a call from a person I have never met, who thought of us first I might add, is beyond divine. Our story is spreading and those of you out there sharing it are joining us on this journey. Your love and prayers are more meaningful than we could possibly express.

I just wanted to share the update as I know many of you are anxious to see us become parents. This event placed us one step closer for a moment and is surely to happen again. We so look forward to the next call.

Fill Her Boots with Jewels Fundraiser

I am so insanely excited to announce that we have a new fundraiser starting today!!

We will be selling Premier Jewelry! And 100% of the profits will go to the Fill Her Boots adoption fund!!! Can you tell by all the "!" that I'm so excited?!?!

Do you love Premier Jewelry? Yeah, me too! I literally where it everyday. In fact, I have a special piece that I have been wearing everyday for the past year. It has become a daily reminder of the promise God has made us.

It is a small silver band that simply says "HOPE." I wear it on my right ring finger, and it is the one piece of Premier Jewelry that I do not remove. For me it is a reminder to pray, be thankful, and continue to hope for the future.

Not long after we announced we would be adopting, I was approached by a very special jeweler about interest in a fundraiser. She didn't know how incredibly much I love the jewelry that she sells. I had never purchased from her. She also didn't know about the ring that I wear. (I guess she knows now...) You can see why I feel this fundraiser is straight from God.

If you have never heard of Premier Jewelry you are in for a treat. God sure has been working great things in this company for many years. Premier Jewelry is high quality, fashion jewelry that looks great on everyone. I don't just wear that ring everyday, I always have something Premier complete my outfit. The jewelry makes me feel more confident and look more put together, even if I'm just grocery shopping.

Can we see it??  Of course, you can.
This is the jewelry featured in the new spring catalog.



How do we Fill Her Boots with Jewels??

Easy, just contact me to place an order. Just scroll to the top and use those little icons on the right. We can get together for coffee, or we can plan a party. I'd love the opportunity to share our story with other women.

Also, watch the facebook page for new looks and jewelry must haves that will be featured. If you see something you like, just comment or message me.

A Ranger and His Love: Week 8

Mike came home from his first attempts at Ranger school on March 21, 2012. He spent half of April at Fort Carson, Colorado training for deployment. May was business as usual, and we finally started getting back into a routine. In June we took a good two week vacation. On Saturday, June 23, 2012, Mike loaded up the jeep and headed back to Fort Benning, Georgia to have another go at Ranger school.

4th Training Brigade, Attempt #3

June 27, 2012

His Love

Hey Babe-

I hope you are doing well. I haven't heard from you so I assume you passed your run and just have the ruck march left to tackle. I'm on the back porch with Chloe. Its hot, but we've had a nice breeze the past couple days so I can let the dogs on the porch to play. They like it. I hope the weather is okay for you. I wonder if hurricane Debby is giving you rain. I'm getting ready to pack up and head to Pigeon Forge today...My dad called this morning with this list of activities he wants to do while I'm home. Hiking, lake, climbing center, hanging pictures, etc. He said he would also help research new wheels for the jeep. :) He likes to do that. I think he is excited I'm coming home. He cleaned my room up yesterday and everything. Well I just want you to know I love you to the moon and I miss you bunches already. I'm praying for you always. You are so strong and smart. Keep working hard for us babe. 

<3 SJ

June 28, 2012

His love

Hey Babe-

I wanted to write a quick note this morning before our activities today. I'm at my parents. i got in last night. Today Jacob, Dad, and I are hiking the chimneys! I'm really excited about it. They have been complaining of the heat. Its suppose to be 103 degrees in Pigeon Forge tomorrow. They just don't know what hot is. Its been over 100 after dark at home all week. How hot is Benning? I hope not too bad. In the news...Colorado is up in flames. The pics of the neighborhoods burning are insane. Pike's Peak is on fire! Also, Egypt has a new president. He is a member of the Muslim brotherhood, hates Israel naturally, and wants to join forces with Iran...Not cool. Also, today is the big day for the judgement on Obama-care. I'm praying its unconstitutional. Its a historic day, and I'll be sure to write you the results tomorrow. You should be doing classes today so I hope you are staying awake. Okay, got to go hike!! Love you!!!

<3 SJ

June 29, 2012

His Love

Hey Babe-

Oh the things to tell you today...First something nice...Mom prayed for you at breakfast this morning. For God to lend you his strength and wisdom. Be on the look out for it. :) We just saw on the calendar you jump tomorrow so we'll definitely be praying for that. Okay the bad news, Obama-care was approved by the Supreme Court 5 to 4. 3 of the 5 were women...stupid girls. The one black guy voted against. Its a mess now. Romney says he'll repeal it if voted to presidency. Since 70% of the country was against it maybe it will boost Romney's camp. We'll see.

Anyhow, Mom and I are playing mother duck to the four duck eggs that Tucker didn't kill. We crafted an incubator and found online how to tell if the egg is still viable. They look good and we saw one baby duck moving inside! You turn the lights out and shine a flashlight on the egg and see the shadow. Hopefully, they will hatch in the next week and then we have to rehabilitate them into the wild. It's not exactly legal because in TN you can't take home wild animals, but the mama probably got eaten by the huge bobcat that is running loose. We are under the instruction though of a wildlife rehabilitator that Mom found so hopefully we do it right. We are having fun nonetheless. 

I hope you are doing well. I've prayed for you to have good men in your squad and for your success. I love you so much and I'm so proud of you!

<3 SJ

On June 29th, I received a call from Mike. He had completed RAP week and done well. However, he had injured his back somewhere on one of the courses. Friday morning, June 29th, he made a wise decision to report the injury and go to sit call. He spent the day getting x-rays and speaking with the PAs and a doctor. He needed to heal before he could move forward with the course. He allowed some time to rest and then assigned small tasks each day while he waited for the next class to start. We were able to talk on the phone every day. He spent his 26th birthday alone at Ranger school. I also made a weekend trip to Fort Benning during this time so we could make a decision about adoption. 

He did not have to repeat RAP week so his 4th attempt at Ranger school began on July 26, 2012

For further reading:

A Ranger and His Love Series:
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4 

Week 5 

Week 6

Week 7

These letters are very candid, and through sharing them, you can take a deep look at our life in 2012. You can read about the behind the scenes emotions and discussions that we have had regarding our biggest revelations and announcements. These letters were our main communications, something not so common anymore. From this unique perspective, you will see how a love can grow deeper and lives can change despite the time spent apart.

Just a warning, Mike's letters were, at times, written under extreme sleep and food deprivation. Some of the things he says are a little...off. He rambles, gets repetitive at times, and sometimes doesn't use eloquent word choices. Please forgive him and find the humor in his misery.