I want a PRO! Not an Amateur!

Wow, I had no idea yesterday when I wrote about Toby Keith that it would draw such a strong response. I actually got a few e-mails from people about it. I do want to clarify a few things though. A. I did not hear those actual words from Toby Keith himself, those were words from his "camp". B. It's not like I want Toby to be a jerk. As a military spouse and fellow Oklahoman I hope he doesn't follow through on those things that were said. I will say though that this tour is USO sponsored, yet my boss says she doesn't know if she can even get in to see Toby. I find that a bit odd.

Like I said yesterday, I'll have to see for myself. The concert is slated for this evening, yet it appears it might rain. If it's pouring, then I don't know if I'm going to stand outside for a few hours for a concert.

So today I had to go to the doctor. To, ahem, that kind of doctor. I actually had a great discussion with him. Not to make this a TMI post, but I've had some problems with my birth control and I think we've found a way to fix that without doing anything drastic. The only downside of the visit is that he wanted some blood taken so he could check my Vitamin D levels. If you know me well, then you know how much I hate having my blood taken. It ranks right up there with going to the dentist. I get hot, dizzy and want to pass out. The first attempt didn't go so well. The guy who was trying to take the blood says, "Are you sure you're ok, there's nothing coming out." Seriously dude! Are you joking?! We just talked at length how getting my blood taken makes me sick. He goes to find someone else to do it and the girl who comes in gets it on the first try. THANK GOD! Please don't give me an amateur blood-taker when I have issues in the first place.

I've heard from Sean a couple of times this week. Usually they are 3AM texts that I don't find until the next morning that go something like this, "Love you Princess, just got in, get to sleep for a couple of hours and then out again." Ugh..and he wonders why I don't want to be in the Army?

Tomorrow I have the day off and Saturday I'm headed to Portofino for a day trip. I'm so excited!I just hope it doesn't rain this weekend and mess up the perfect opportunity for picture taking.

This, That and Toby Keith

I pulled a muscle in my shoulder, right between my neck and my shoulder. To say it hurts is an understatement.

You may be thinking...did Melissa do this at the gym, doing her heavy-duty weight routine? I would have to reply, "No, I did it reaching for a piece of paper underneath my windshield wiper." Then I'd watch you laugh, because it's so completely ridiculous that I pulled a muscle doing that.

The sky was green for awhile earlier and in fact, it still may be. Green as in stormy green, complete with lightning and thunder. Yeah...it's rained and stormed so much in the last few days that they have shut down bridges because of flooding. Here I thought spring wouldn't be as exciting in Italy. Boy was I wrong!

Tonight at the USO we are having baked potatoes complete with a ton of fixins', that's right I said fixins', guess it's my Oklahoma twang coming out. I cannot wait! Usually I run home right at 5:00, but today, I'm going to have to stay for this potato feast!

So, I don't think I've mentioned this yet, but Toby Keith is doing a free concert here on post tomorrow. I have mixed feelings about it. A lot of the soldiers are upset because his "camp" has sent out a statement telling people not to take pictures or videos of him, not to approach him before or after the concert and not to ask for autographs. I find that pretty crappy honestly. If you're doing a tour for the troops, then why all the restrictions? I can see the request for no video, but not to even approach him? Ridiculous!

Hey, It's Ok!

- To not think every baby is cute
- To have more than one glass of wine with dinner
- to work out and then take a really long nap...instead of doing the dishes piled up in your sink
- to prefer a Dr. Pepper to water
- to combat a bad day with Reeses Peanut Butter Cups
- to buy a cute pair of shoes instead of putting that money away for a rainy day
- to prefer reading bubblegum romance to the classics
- to make fun of people who wear their PJ's out in public
- to squeal like a schoogirl when you have a package in the mail
-to think eating two bowls of cereal for two meals isn't that weird
- to secretly think celebs who quote their weight in magazines are either lying or bragging
-to think being on Saturday Night Live would be super hella cool
- to find Paul Walker extremely attractive yet a horrible actor

How Much Fat?

Ok, to answer your questions about where in the heck I found those Nascar shoes, here's your answer. Sears. I have bought shoes from Sears off and on the last few years and have always been satisfied. I'm kind of disappointed that they are selling these Nascar shoes though. What are they thinking?!

It's still raining today. I wish it would stop. Rainy days are good every once in awhile, but everyday? Not my cup of tea.

I know this is random, but has anyone ever had your muscle mass and body fat tested? I'm thinking of having it done at our wellness center on post. One of our volunteers did it and she was raving it about it. Just wanted to know your experiences with it.

I made pumpkin muffins with cream cheese frosting today for the USO. They were amazing! I only had one, as I'm trying to watch what I eat, but they went so fast. It cracks me up how quickly guys snap up homemade food at the USO. I understand though, because who wants to eat at the chowhall everyday? Although I will admit that I could eat breakfast at the chowhall everyday. I freakin' love their breakfasts. If you've never had the chowhall breakfast experience I encourage you to go.

I have a fashion dilemma. I found these shoes the other day and I can't remember where I found them. I'm almost positive I found them on 6pm.com, but I searched and searched yesterday on the site and couldn't find them. Perhaps they are sold out? At any rate if you see these shoes, email me and tell me where they are at.



One more thing, you know how much I love Jen Lancaster right? Well her new book is coming out in May and I've already pre-ordered it on Amazon.



I admit that I thought Bitter Is the New Black was the funniest book and the two following it were good, but not as funny as Bitter, but I'm hoping Pretty in Plaid will redeem itself and make me laugh as hard as I did reading Bitter is the New Black. Don't let me down Jen Lancaster!

Nascar and Fashion?

Well, Sean left again today for three more weeks and he couldn't have picked a more prefect day. It's rainy, cool and kind of depressing. Perfect day for laying in bed and reading or watching TV.

Instead I'm at the USO watching a Paul Walker marathon (Fast and the Furious and Into the Blue) and making chocolate chip cookies.

So, while looking at shoes the other day I stumbled upon something, let's say.... unusual.

There is now a Nascar brand of shoes. Yep, you heard me right. The same cars at 200 mph, raching around a track millions of times is now making shoes. Women's shoes.

Although the shoes aren't terrible they aren't really great either.

Here's a couple of samples for you.





I ask you this, what made Nascar decide to get into women's shoes? I just have to wonder who was the brains behind that one.

Spilling My Guts Part 2

Here are the military and miscellaneous questions.

Cassie asked:

What's your most embarrassing moment? What's your favorite book?

Embarrassing moment...probably at Bowl for Kid's Sake in high school when I went to throw the ball and it flew backwards off my fingers. I wanted to DIE.

My favorite book is Summer Sisters by Judy Blume. I never get tired of reading it, it's that good.

Amanda over at The Kellys asked:

What is your favorite name for a boy and a girl?

If it were up to me to pick I'd call my little boy Logan and my little girl Vanessa. However, Sean has vetoed both those names, so I guess I'll have to find some new favorites.

Kebi asked:

Who's your dream actor, the one you'd marry in another life?

What's the worst thing you've ever done on a dare?

What's your favorite dish that you cook? (and what's the recipe?)

Dream actor is Eric Balfour without a doubt. He's smokin! And an excellent actor.

The worst thing I ever did on a dare? Well...it was back in my wild college days and it involved being down to my skivvies...let's just leave it at that.

My favorite dish that I cook is my potato casserole. You can find that recipe over at MRE's Not For Me. (Which I realize you already know Kebi. :))

Kiki asked: When are you planning on pursuing photography as your living?

Kiki you are so sweet! Thanks for that compliment. In some ways I'm pursuing it right now. Mainly by buying new lenses and trying to learn Photoshop. I need to add a few other things like some more staple lenses and lighting before I feel like I can really start pursuing it. Plus I need to find some customers that are interested in my work.

Full of Heart asked: What are three things you hope to achieve in the next year?

1. Start working on my Masters
2. Become a better photographer
3. See at least five countries

Crazy Shenanigans asked: Do you think you'll one day leave the military life (ie sean getting out) and move back to America?

Honestly I wish I could answer this, the short answer is I don't know. Sean changes his mind everyday on whether he wants to stay in the military or if he wants to get out. However, after this tour in Italy, Sean is thinking of not being Airborne anymore and we are wanting to be stationed someplace like Fort Carson. Only time will tell though.

Lola asked:
Growing up, what did you always think that you would be doing?

What brings you the most satisfaction during your day?

When I was younger I was convinced I was going to do public relations for an NFL team. Then I got to college and realized I hated my PR classes.

I am satisfied during the day if I make someone laugh. Seriously though, that's my goal everyday.

Casey asked:

If you had the opportunity to look ahead at your life 10 years from now, would you do so? Why or why not?

No, because I like the element of suprise. I was actually the kid who tried not to snoop during Christmas because under no circumstances did I want to know what I was getting.

SS asked: What prompted you to start blogging?

I used to blog frequently on MySpace and then didn't like lots of people that I knew in real life reading some of my posts, so..I decided to switch to Blogger and only let a few really close friends know I'd made the switch. I blog because I used to be a faithful journal writer and that's kind of fallen by the wayside. This way I still have a record of what I was doing day-to-day.

Indiana Girl asked:
Do you remember dreams and if so, what was your favorite dream?
When it's time to retire, where would you like to live and what would you like to be doing with your time?

I do remember dreams, quite frequently in fact. One of my favorite dreams is when I used to dream all the time about living near water, canals almost. Then we got told we were moving to Italy. Kind of prophetic in a way!

When I retire I'm selling my home and getting an awesome RV where I plan on touring the country with Sean and stopping at all the National Parks in America.

JLC asked:

What is your favorite band/ type of music?

What's the best place you've ever visited?

My favorite music is Classic 70's music. Rock, disco, easy listening from the 70's, I love it all!

Best place I ever visited is Grand Teton National Park. I fell in love with it and would love to go back someday. It's amazing there. Seriously.

Abbie asked:

What is your favorite season/favorite time of year and why?

Aside from photography, what is your favorite hobby?

If you could have to chance to spend the day with anyone you'd like, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

My favorite time of year is between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I LOVE the holidays and all the fun things that go with it. The songs, the shopping, the decorations, seeing my family. I get goosebumps just thinking about it.

Aside from photography my favorite hobby is reading. I LOVE to read and thankfully I have a lot more time since we moved here to read then I did while we were at Ft. Polk.

Hm...I'd spend the day with Reese Witherspoon, just to see what her normal day was like and get a taste of being a celeb. I think she's quite intelligent too, so it wouldn't be a wasted day.

Spilling My Guts Part 1

Thanks to everyone for the questions you asked, I've really enjoyed answering them.

I'm going to do the overseas questions first and then the miscellaneous questions after that.

Erin asked and Miss Adventure asked similar questions:
What's the thing you miss most about the States? What's the thing you prefer most about living in Italy/ What's the best thing about living in Europe and the worst?

I most miss the convience of things in the states. If the PX didn't have something, I'd go to Wal-Mart and pick it up. I miss fast food places like Taco Bueno. What I wouldn't give for some Taco Bueno right now! Oh..and closets. I miss closets a lot too!

What do I prefer about Italy? 3 things. Proximity to awesome things/places. Cheap wine. I mean four liters of wine for nine bucks? Unheard of in the states and I love the shutters they have here. I could literally sleep until the afternoon because the shutters keep the house so dark.

Best? The experience of everything from wine to the food to the culture. Worst? language barriers, craptastic drivers and no closets.

Kiki and JLC had similar questions:

Are you planning on staying in Italy during Sean's deployment/where do you wanna go / live when Sean's deployed?

I will be staying in Italy. Even before we moved here I planned on staying here. I h ave a job here and the opportunity to travel so many places so I'd prefer to stay here. Plus my parents have told me several times that they love me but they don't want me to move back in with them, which is fine, because that's not an option I'd even use.

TexasLauren77 asked:

What has been the funniest or strangest experience you've had since you've been living in Italy?

Hm...probably when we were in Verona and an older gentlemen came up to me and assume that Sean and I were in German and insisted he give us some sort of German mass brouchure. It was a nice gesture...just funny.

Steph asked:

What are some of the places you'd most like to visit while living in Europe?

Oh I have so many I don't know where to begin. So I'll do Top 5
1. Normandy and the D-Day beaches, along with some of the concentration camps
2. Paris (cliche..I know)
3. Spain (bullfights, Madrid, Seville, I am really interested in Spain)
4. I really want to take a Greek cruise. Santorini is high on my list
5. Russia...I know that's sort of kinda not Europe, but I really really want to see what it's like.

Casey asked:

When will you come see me?

Is there anywhere in Europe you DON'T want to see?

I plan on getting up to your area in August, Casey. Unfortunately I think Allison will be gone by then, but I hope to see the rest of you girls up there!

I'm not too jazzed about seeing London. In fact, it's really far down on my list, it's even underneath the Scandanavian countries. I probably will see London, it's just not a priority.

Time for a little retail therapy...

So, there's nothing really wrong, other than the fact that I'm bored...so I've designated today to be clean the house/retail therapy day.

Sean does get back this evening, woo-hoo! However, he'll probably be leaving on Sunday so our time together will be limited, but until he gets home I'm taking the time to get a few new items. I already did my Forever21 order last week and I cannot wait to get it. There were a few items on my list that they were out of (only reason why I sometimes hate Forever21) but I substituted a few cute things to make myself feel better.

Today's shopping will consist of American Eagle for some jeans and Old Navy for my summer supply of flip-flops. I really need a new swimsuit too, but I'm a little hesitant to order one online, if I find a to-die for suit though I might have to snap it up. Honestly I need some new shoes too...although I'm sure Sean would tell you otherwise.

Here's a few items I picked up in my Forever21 order.



Basic button-up plaid shirt.



For a date-night. I actually wanted it in red, but they were out. However, with a rockin' tan I think it would look good with my hair and complexion.



A dressier top



Casual summer dress. I love the colors in it!



Peacock bag. It was unusual and eyecatching. Perfect for a bag!

I'm getting ready to get my hair cute and colored again. Since summer is coming up I'm thinking about doing my hair lighter.



I like this, minus the bangs. I'd go for side-swept bangs, but I DO NOT want my bangs to look like hers in this picture.

One more day to get your questions in. Go two posts below to ask me anything!

Edited to add:

Photoshopped or not this makes me NOT want to appear in a swimsuit this season (or ever for that matter)

Back Where I Come From

First of all, if you haven't had the chance to ask me a question yet on the post below, then please do so! I have a few questions, but would love to have a few more to answer.

Yesterday I was talking with someone at the USO about where I was from. When I told them Oklahoma they said this, "Oklahoma? Is there even anything in that state?" They were mostly trying to give me a hard time, but it kind of rubbed me the wrong way. I'm a fiercely loyal Oklahoman and I don't take it well when people act like our state is barren of any sort of entertainment or culture.

So here are a few things about the great state of Oklahoma.

Ever heard of a little company called ConocoPhillips? They started in my hometown.



Did you know the only skyscraper that Frank Lloyd Wright designed also resides in my hometown?

It's called Price Tower



Ever heard of Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Troy Aikman, Kristen Chenowith, Vince Gill, Toby Keith or Carrie Underwood? All from Oklahoma.

And how about Ree Drummond of the infamous Pioneer Woman website? She lives in Oklahoma and her husband just happens to run one of the biggest ranches in Oklahoma, if not in the country.

What other state has its own musical?



Oklahoma has beautiful scenery. We have the prairies to the west, tons of lakes, the hills and forests in the southeast and watefalls in the Turner Falls areas.

We don't just do steaks and BBQ in our state either. There are many wonderful restaurants in the smaller towns like Bartlesville and McAlester and there are tons of options in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

A local favorite in my town is Murphy's Steak House, home of the infamous hot hamburger. Basically it's a hamburger, on bread, smothered with fries and gravy. I don't personally like gravy so I don't eat it, but rumor has it that Murphy's is going to be featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.



If you've never made it to Oklahoma, then you must! We are a great state with tons of things to offer. A ton of history, some faboulous museums and some excellent food!

Dang...I should be an Oklahoma spokeswoman! Too bad this gig is not a paying one.

As much as I love Italy, there are times I really miss Oklahoma. Sean and I have decided we want to settle around Tulsa one of these days. Until then, it's wherever the military takes us!

Ask Away!

So..I thought about waiting to do this, but decided my 313th post was as good as any to do this. Namely, because 13 is my lucky number, but I digress.

I've done this once before, but thought it would be fun to do again.

Ask me any question you want and I'll answer it. Please try to keep it somewhat clean though, not that I think you ladies are going to ask really raunchy questions, but hey..you never know!

So what do you want to know about New Girl? Now's your chance to find out! I'll give you ladies a few days to get your questions in and then I'll start spilling.

Movie Moments and Revenge

How many of you have one movie scene in particular that you get goosebumps whenever you watch it?

I have a couple.

First up?



The bus scene from Almost Famous where they all start singing Tiny Dancer. I LOVE that scene! Always gives me goosebumps. Something about it is so simple, but really speaks to me.

The second one is from Gone With the Wind.

Remember the swelling music when it shows Tara? I love that scene too!



I just had a bad movie moment though. Someone chose Hostel 2 to watch here at the USO and it made me so sick I actually had to put my head between my legs. I wasn't even watching it! That was just listening to it. Ugh..I hate gory movies.

So what are some of your favorite or least favorite movie moments?

Oh..and now for the revenge portion of my post. In case you are a new reader and didn't know I have a very smart, naughty and revengeful Miniature Pinscher named Boomer. He's particularly naughty when Sean is away. When I got home last night from work I took him outside and he refused to do anything. Fast forward to me going to bed and I notice the blankets and sheet are wet. From where Boomer revengefully PEED on them! It's not that he's not housetrained. He is and has been for about nine months. He lets you know when he needs to go out. This act was just him being mad that I went to work and left him at home. Needless to say he got in BIG trouble!

Argh! Little dogs can be so frustrating. I don't want to even imagine kids yet.

Pin-Ups

I'm not sure I've ever mentioned this before, but I and Sean are big fan's of pin-up photography. You've seen the 40's animated versions right?



Well, now there are photographers specializing in that type of photography.



Photo courtsey of Viva Van Story's website.

I really want to get some of these photos taken while Sean is deployed. I think it'd be a great gift for him, as they are sexy yet still classy enough that you wouldn't be embarrassed if other people saw them.

The tough part? Finding someone to do it that doesn't live on either coast. I was looking to possibly do this when I went home around Christmas, but so far I haven't found anyone close enough to my home to do it. I did look at a studio in Dallas, but I don't really like their style. I'm mainly looking in Kansas City or Dallas, so if you have heard of anyone who does good pin-up photos around there, than PLEASE let me know. The second tough factor? Those pictures are expensive! The cheapest package I've found is $750 and that's not even including the pictures.

I think it'd be worth it though. I mean, 30 years from now I'd look at the pictures and think..."geeze! I wish I still looked like that." Ha ha ha!

So...if you girls know of any places, please let me know!

Step Right Up and Vote

Ok...showtime ladies. I've gotten a few suggestions via email and so I've put them all in this poll.



I have to admit I'm leaning towards Red, White and Blonde Bride, but I want some votes from ya'll too.

I Need Names!

Ok...as you readers know when I need an opinion or suggestions I come to you girls.

So here's the situation today.

I have been asked to be a featured blogger on SheJustGotMarried.com, which I'm pretty pumped about considering I'll be joining awesome bloggers like Mrs.Newlywed, who also is a featured blogger there.

Anyway, before I start blogging over there (don't worry I'll still be blogging on this site all the time) I need a name.

I don't want to use New Girl on Post, so I'm trying to come up with something else.

So far I've come up with Mrs.Military and that's it. I'm having some sort of brain block for cute or witty names.

That's where you guys come in. I'd love to hear your suggestions and please throw out as many names as possible!

In other tech-related news, I've decided to board the Twitter bandwagon. I'm going to give it awhile and if I don't like it I might stop, but in the meantime you can find me at newgirlonpost on there.

I think all my blogging has rubbed off on Sean. He called me this morning and said he wants to start blogging. That he had lots of things that he wants to talk about and thinks blogging might be the answer. Honestly if you knew Sean's life he could probably write a book. He's been through a lot in his life, more than his share.

Awesomely Bad Etsy Finds

I was browsing on Etsy yesterday and found a few items that I found....let's say unusual.

Ready? Let's begin.



Nothing says artistic like a skull hairpiece. Looking for something unusual to spice up that spring outfit? Look no further!



Moving on to the living room....Do you need something extra to punch up that white leather couch? How about a peanut butter and jelly set of pillows?



How about some art for the hallway? This little number is entitled "Poker Face"



Ok..this one isn't really that bad, but it's amusing to me. Who doesn't love a Michael Jackson shirt?

*I do want to say that although I featured these items on this blog, it doesn't mean I think the artists that made them are untalented. These items are just things, I personally wouldn't buy.*

Mission Accomplished

I am happy to say my outing to Vicenza went well.

Well...except for offending one lady, but other than that....

In my defense, I thought she asked me if anyone was sitting on the bench with me and I said no. In reality she asked if she could sit down. When I said no, she asked me why (In Italian of course) Not having the skills to tell her, I apologized and tried to convey the fact I misunderstood her. She sat down on my bench for a millisecond and then moved as soon as a bench came free.

The only plus was she must have thought I was Italian. Score!



I mean..isn't this an Italian face? I think the dark glasses help.

I now have two, 2 liters of wine. Beautiful, gorgeous, red wine all to myself since Sean won't be around long enough to really enjoy it.



Yes, there is some gone out of the first bottle. I had a glass or two when I got home. Don't judge me too harshly.

The frosting on the cake? I found my way home without getting lost once. I gave myself a big pat on the back for that one.



To all those that were looking forward to pictures, I'm sorry, but I only took a couple and not of anything interesting. Lugging the wine back was hard enough without stopping to take pictures. Hopefully I can back soon and take a few more so you can enjoy. I should have taken pictures of all the people I saw making out. Those Italians are NOT shy about showing their affection. I even saw one girl straddle her boyfriend on a bench for some closer interaction.

Awkward....

Miss Independent

For most of my life I've prided myself on my independent nature. This especially came into play when I entered the dating world and didn't need a guy to hang around every minute to make myself feel good.

I think for the first time in my life I'm actually kind of scared to be independent.

As you know Sean is in Germany for the next week and so it's just me...and Boomer.

I'm scared to go out into Vicenza by myself. Not too scared that I won't go ahead and make myself do it, but I have to admit the thought is kind of intimidating.

My plan for Saturday is to ride the bus downtown and find the wine shop that we got our loose wine at last time and fill up a couple of bottles. Easier said than done I'm sure. Last time I think we luckily got lost enough that we found the shop and I'm not sure I have the skill to do that again!

Other than the wine my plan is just to sort of soak in being Italian. Maybe step into a cafe for the delish hot chocolate. (Is it any wonder I can't lose those pesky 10 lbs?!)

I know getting out without Sean is imperative. I didn't have a problem doing that in Louisiana. I gladly went out and about there, visiting other cities and what not. I think it's just the foreign country element that is throwing me. Like I said though, he's going to be gone a year, so it's something I need to get used to.

Oh..and can I tell you my embarrassing moment from yesterday? I took Boomer to post so I could do some errands and he could get some exercise. We were walking in front of the post office, carrying some packages I picked up and he picks that exact moment to poop! Right on the sidewalk in front of the post office. I wanted to melt into the ground, I was so embarrassed. Luckily I brought a bag in case of such an incident. Unluckily I got tangled in his leash and stepped in some of the poo.

I got my new lenses yesterday! That's why I love Beachcamera so much, they are so fast at delivering things. It hasn't even been a week and I've already got them. I practiced with them as soon as I got home and they are amazing. Expect lots of photos of unsuspecting people with my new telephoto lens. Kind of makes me feel like a paparazzi!

Have a fab weekend!

Be Careful What You Wish For

You all know the phrase, "Be careful what you wish for". I'm sure we've all heard it a million times, yet it always bites me in the butt.

Since we've been living in Italy I've wished for it to storm. Silly request I know, but being from Oklahoma I'm used to spring time storms that'll knock your socks off. The less severe ones I find comforting in some odd way.

Anyway, last night I got my wish and it couldn't have come at a worse time. I closed the USO last night, which means I don't get off until ten. It'd been raining all day, but it chose to pour last night on my way to my car. Then two volunteers (one with bike in tow) asked if I could give them a ride home. Not a problem, except my gas gauge is flashing low fuel and I easily get lost in Vicenza.

Ten euro of gas and an hour later I finally found my way home. Dropping the first one off was easy, it was finding the way to the second volunteer's home that was a mess. I bet we got lost in downtown Vicenza for nearly 20 minutes and while it's raining and storming to boot. Not fun, I assure you.

FINALLY I found his house and then two seconds later I was on the main road that takes me home. Talk about a trial! I am now convinced more than ever I need a GPS in my car and am willing even to take it out of my own paycheck to get it!

Thank goodness today is sunny, although a bit cooler than what we were getting used to. Boomer and I are headed to post to do a few errands and to get him a little bit of exericse. I'm waiting to do my free weights this evening when most of the soldiers will be drunk or at the strip club. I don't like having to wait on people to finish to do my weight routine as that kind of defeats the purpose of it.

Today I'm bringing back Fun Friday Questions! Todays edition is literary, so get ready to repost your answers on the comments or feel free to post on your own site.

1. What is one book you could read a million times and never get tired of it?
2. If you wrote a book about your life, what would the title of it be? Explain.
3. What literary character do you think most resembles you?
4. What is one book that you've always wanted to read, but have never got around to?

My answers:
1. Summer Sisters by Judy Blume. If you haven't read it, you must! I've re-read it every summer since I was 17.
2. Me and You and a Dog named Boomer. I'd explain, but I think it's pretty obvious why I would call it that. It's just Sean, I and a dog named Boomer. Ha!
3. Hmm...I'd say Scarlett O'Hara at times....because I'm pretty willfull and stubborn, but I like to think I'm not as spoiled and selfish as she is.
4. For some reason Anna Karanina comes to mind. I tried to start it back in middle school, but lost interest pretty quickly.

You're Kind of Hot

That was the random message I had in my Facebook inbox this morning from some random Canadian dude.

Here's my reply, "I'm kind of married and you're kind of rude. Don't contact me again."

Boo yah! Take that creepy Canadian man.

So, I'm ready to share my fab Chicken Salad recipe with you, which I did not make last night since Sean requested Pioneer Woman's amazing Marlboro Man sandwich (which we both love) so...it appears I might be making chicken salad tonight for those at the USO.

Chicken Salad

4 cups cubed, cooked chicken meat (my friend boiled the chicken and then cut it up)
1 cup mayo
1 teaspoon paprika
1 and a half cups dried cranberries
1 cup chopped celery
1 cubed apple
1 cup sliced grapes
2 green onions, chopped
1 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon seasoning salt
Black pepper to taste

In a medium bowl, mix together mayo with paprika and seasoned salt. Blend in dried cranberries, celery, onion, nuts, apple and grapes and chicken.
Now, I don't remember her adding black pepper, but this is fab. It's ten times better if you let it sit over night too. Trust me, this is one chicken salad you don't want to miss out on.

Sean left bright and early this morning for Germany and as soon as I got home it was back to bed for me. Wouldn't you know that there were two guys that decided to drill something in all the concrete barriers outside our apartments today. I'm pretty sure in my sleep induced anger I smacked the wall and yelled out, "Basta!" (which is Italian for enough) but I'm pretty sure they didn't hear that and even if they did that wasn't going to stop them.

Ciao!

Chicken Salad Convert

First things first. I was shocked by the amount of comments I got on the last post. I guess we all struggle at times with how we look. Thanks for all the suggestions, feedback and support, you ladies are the best!

I am sorry to say that Sean and I didn't get to go out and eat at the restaurant the other night, as it was closed, but we tentatively have it scheduled for tonight. I say tentatively because Sean has a lot of packing to do for his upcoming trip, so that might have to take precedence over dinner. If it does I won't be too sad though, as I have an amazing chicken salad recipe that I am eager to prepare. A friend of mine made it for me once and as a person who didn't like chicken salad, I was immediately converted. I'll try to get some pictures of it so I can share it and the recipe with you ladies.

Last night I attended my first FRG meeting here in Vicenza and it was a doozy. Mainly because it was a battalion wide FRG meeting followed by our company FRG meetings. With that many people you can bet it didn't start on time and the info was slow going, but we made it out of there in about an hour and ten minutes. I'm kind of sad though because our FRG leader is quite the sassy lady and she and her husband will be leaving soon.

I did receive an email from her today regarding our company FRG t-shirts and they are awesome! Probably the coolest FRG shirt I've ever seen.



At the FRG meeting last night I seriously felt like I was at some kind of maternity convention. There were pregnant ladies as far as the eye can see. It's just weird to see so many pregnant women, when you yourself aren't pregnant. Speaking of...I had a woman (who I don't' know that well) ask me when I was having kids. I told her Sean and I would probably wait until we got back to the States. She says, "Really?!" in a shocked tone. As if she could see my eggs dying right in front of her eyes. I'm usually not one to be rude, but if I have one more person ask me that and have that reaction I'm going to tell them it's none of their business. Even my own mother doesn't ask me when Sean and I are going to have children!

The nerve of people!

In exciting news, I found a sushi restaurant in Vicenza! It's called Zushi and it's near the train station. I have not had sushi since December, so I'm unbelievably excited to try it out.

Insecurities....

Before I begin this post I want to let everyone out there know that I am NOT looking for sympathy or even reassurance, this is just something on my mind today and well...almost everyday and today is the day I need to get it out.

Some of my longtime readers may remember me talking about my struggle with my weight. As I've said before I have NEVER been a skinny girl. I'm short, 5'4", but I am not what many people consider to be the typical short girl.

If you want a mental image of what my body is similiar to then think of Kim Kardashian, minus the large chest. I have a butt and wider hips, though I am small through my top and waist. This makes me look almost out of proportion sometimes, at least in my mind.

Right after I moved to Fort Polk I was overweight and a doctor called me on it. I had gained about twenty pounds since high school and knew something had to change. Motivated by that humiliation and the realization I needed to lose weight before it got out of control I lost 20 lbs. Ideally I'd like to lose about another 10, which would put me at about 132. I know each and every body is different, but sometimes I feel so bad when I see all these other girls my height or taller that weigh so much less than me.

Realistically I know I should concentrate on my weight and what's best for my body, but it's so hard not to compare yourself to others. At least it is for me.

I just wish for once I could be totally happy with the way I look and not compare myself constantly!

Just a Recap

I had a great Easter weekend and I hope everyone else did too.

Sean and I ended up going to church at the chapel on-post, which we had yet to attend, so I'm glad we finally got ourselves in gear and went. I liked the service, although it was much different than what I'm used to. I was raised Pentecostal, so a traditional Protestant service is a big change from normal. It was still good though and I enjoyed going.

Sean and I's Easter supper consisted of a steak for him and potato casserole for the both of us. I wasn't really that hungry so I was just fine with some potato casserole.

I got on the scale this morning and realized I weigh less now than I have since I was in high school. Talk about excited! I had to rush in the living room to tell Sean.

I'm sure that will be cancelled out tonight when we go to eat at Hotel Giada, a local place that's supposed to be heavenly. Of course I need to check to see if they are actually open since today is a holiday for Italians. Sean and I wanted to have a nice dinner together before he left for Germany. He's leaving on Thursday to get an MRI done and immediately afterwards he'll be joining everyone else for several weeks of training. Needless to say I'm trying to get in some couple time before that.

I checked my email this morning and it appears that Beachcamera has already shipped my lenses. That's why I LOVE doing business with them, they are so prompt and I've never had a complaint with them. I highly recommend you use them if you ever buy a camera or any equipment.

I think that's all that's new with me. Sorry this has been sort of a boring post.

I promise excitement and laughs soon.

I'm Soon to the Proud Owner of...

These:



Canon Wide Angle 10-22mm lens



Canon Telephoto 70-300mm lens

Sean was a dear and told me to take some of our leftover tax refund money and get myself some new lenses. I have to say he's very supportive of my photography and I do love him for that.

I've been researching lenses for quite some time and I knew these two were next on my list to buy. Hopefully this summer I can add a macro lens to my collection as well. Thankfully a macro lens will be the cheapest of the bunch.

I cannot wait to start shooting with these!

Smells Good!

Today has been a clean the house day. Sean is more of the cleaning guru in our house though. I'm more of the organizer.

We still need some more bookshelves and shelving, but that's nothing a trip to Ikea won't fix!

So a quick funny story for you guys. Both of my grandpas birthdays were yesterday. I called one of them and then decided to call my other grandpa when I got home from work. I called him three times and was puzzled why he didn't answer. This morning I talked to my mom and told her about trying to call and asked if grandpa had been home yesterday. She told me he had all day and then asked what number I dialed. Turns out I had one number wrong and that's why I didn't get ahold of him.

Talk about feeling stupid.....

I have a question for you out there. Do you guys feel like you have a strong sense of smell? I honestly think my sense of smell is stronger than other people. I walked down the aisle at the commissary that had coffee and I thought I was going to yak, it was that strong. This happens at other times, with other smells. No I am not pregnant, this is something that's been occuring for several years. However, it does make me wonder how smells will affect me when I actually am pregnant since I've heard that really increases your sense of smell.

So anyone else like me out there?

Oh..and I put this on my picture blog, but I wasn't sure how many of you check over there, so I thought I'd share it here too. Remember that infamous prengant stick figure sign I talked about awhile back? I got a picture of it today.



Ciao!