7 Quick Takes - #12

--- 1 ---

I should totally be cleaning my house.  Seriously, wow!  But I've become an expert at putting off until another day.  I'm here another day.  Sitting here under a blanket while occasionally sipping on some tea is much more appealing than dealing with the tornado that is "kid area" of our living room or vacuuming up the cracker crumbs that have been lingering for a couple of day.  I'll get to it after I type this up for you wonderful people...maybe.

--- 2 ---

I'm making chili tonight.  It has been really, really cold.  Apparently Watertown made national new for being the coldest town in the U.S. or something.  Plus, Chris asks for it often, and I never make it.  Mainly because I'm not very good a making chili.  I am trying to use those dry beans and I never get them prepped all the way or something.  If I use cans it becomes mushy...and don't bet me started on the over all taste.  I think I'm an okay cook.  Not horrible, not wonderful.  I just go through phase where meal after meal is a disappointment.  I'm in one of those phases now.  If you have a chili recipe, please share.  I am trolling the interwebs to find one.

--- 3 ---

My kids are all in super fun stages right now *insert sarcasm*.  Well Owen's isn't new, but it's hit a new level of annoying.  Whining.  Must we use the whining voice whenever you speak to me?  Why does this seem like the logical way to get what you want?  I know kids are far from logical, but if anything whining makes me what to dig my heals into the ground and not give in...I might need to do some parental evaluation, because maybe I'm giving in more than I realize, and that is why he continues to whine.  I don't know.

Amelia had taken on the new task of changing her clothes a bajillion times a day.  I don't care too much except I'm not fully aware she is changing her clothes until she walks out in the living room or where ever I may be.  And she makes a pretty big mess during the wardrobe changes.  And I'm laxing on making her put away her last outfit since it's not dirty.  My fault, but she should realize that is what I want from her right?

And Simon...Oh Simon.  When he isn't screaming or clinging to my leg, then he is determine to piss his siblings off by changing the input on the television.  Owen now knows how to change it back, but as soon as it is changed back Simon waddles his way to change it yet again.  Which then begins the whining that was mentioned two paragraphs up.

--- 4 ---

It is taking me forever to do these takes...If I'm lucky I will have them up sometime today...Time will tell.  Anyway, Chris was given a half a day because he reenlisted today!  We are excited to see what the next three years hold.  I'm hopeful anyway.

--- 5 ---

I wish I could write the commentary between Amelia and...well with anyone.  Her delivery is priceless.  But I'll try anyway.

While driving home from school.
Brent (the kids' friend):  I want that. (points at Taco Bell)
Amelia: What?
Brent: I want that.  (still pointing at Taco Bell)
Amelia: Huh?
Brent: That. (Taco Bell)
Amelia:  I don't know what your problem is.

Driving up to the gate.
Soldier wearing neck gaiter:  Welcome to Fort Drum.
Chris: Thanks.
Soldier: Have a good evening.
Chris: You too.
Amelia: He looks like a "inja".

Talking about her "friend" from Carolina. (not sure who the friend is).
Amelia: Hers in bed.
Me: She's in bed.
Amelia: Right, hers in bed.
Me: Not her, she.
Amelia: Her-she's in bed.
Me: Yes, she.
Amelia: Hers in bed.
Me:  .......
Pronouns are hard.

--- 6 ---

And it is much, much later in the day.  I didn't make that chili, but I would still like a recipe if you have one.  I will probably make it on Saturday or Sunday.

Now I'm just searching for things to share.  I posted more this week than usual.  Or maybe I'm trying to finish up to watch Season 1 Disc 5 of Game of Thrones.

--- 7 ---

I finished these takes before midnight!  BOOM!!!

For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary!

Flight Packet Number 2

I mentioned in Friday's 7QT that Chris is resubmitting a flight packet. There really isn't too much to tell just beg and then beg some more for your prayers. So far everything is running rather smoothly. 

Once Chris decided to resubmit he looked at the website. There was a notice that certain MOSs (job titles) didn't have enough applicants. They were extending the packet deadline for the January board and selection is likely to be very high. Though we had missed that deadline we are hopeful that it will be a similar trend for the next board in May (packet deadline is March 14th). Last time it took a while, but meeting that deadline is doable.

OK Chris becoming a pilot has been our entire marriage. And we were very....disappointed (ok i was crushed) when things didn't go our way 2 years ago.  I'm neurotic and crazy and want to know every detail of how the process is going.  I know that can drive Chris a bit crazy, and he has been great at accepting my....quirks.

Well, he needs 3 letters of recommendation (LOR). Last time we waited on these for a while. They were redeploying.  So block leave/the holidays slowed him down, and the commander at the time waited for her computer. But the LORs were very good.

This time he has already had two interviews for the LORs with his new commander and squadron commander (SCO). The SCO seemed to be a little surprised that Chris was passed up last time, and has offered to look at his resume to make sure it sounds "Army". Chris is a really good writer (way better than the mess I have you guys read here) but "Army" writing doesn't come naturally. The SCO has had some practice at this, so I am sure anything he has to add will be helpful.  He still needs to interview a senior warrant officer. The one in his squadron just returned from Afghanistan so Chris isn't sure when a good time would be to knock on his door.

He has to update his DA Photo. That appointment is set for February 26.

He needs a flight physical. He has to do some labs first.

A PT test. He is going to the gym regularly during lunch and on the weekends. He has never failed a test...or even close to failing, but he isn't a PT rock star either. We will be very happy with a 260 PT score.

The last thing is the SIFT test. It replaced the AFAST. It is my personal opinion that this is what hurt him last time. He passed with a decent score, but some applicants we blowing the test out of the water because there was so much material out there. Chris also took the test while deployed which I think hurt his focus.  But this is all my speculation. He will be taking the SIFT test on February 20th. We are studying and praying for a 55 or better.

So if he gets all this done by March 14 then his packet will be review May 12-16....my birthday week. This the same week two years ago when his packet was reviewed.

Now I have to keep my "what ifs" and "I hopes" and "if this works out then" in check.  I do think not getting selected was humbling. And there has been lots of growth for both of us since.  My kids have been asking in their night time prayers for Dad to fly helicopter....well that and a new baby and birthday cake prayer time gets a little off course sometimes.

This is "the dream" for us Lockharts, but we know it may not be His will.  I just really want it to be His will. I have gotten to fly once with Chris in a little Cesena, and I will not forget how happy he was to be in the air. Not being able to make it happen for him is where my crazy...quirks...get even crazier. I want to know every detail and exhaust every option.  I know what I need to remain docile and open to His will.  That's the struggle.

The day we flew to Danville, VA in 2007. He looks a little different now :)

So, if you see me and I can't seem to shut up about this damn packet.  And you have had enough, feel free to smack me.  I'm sure you would like more that a one sided conversation. I want to be a better friend than that. Though I may fail miserably. 

Done for now interwebs!

7 Quick Takes - #11

--- 1 ---

I got with the program and started blogging again.  It's been fun this week.  As always, I make no promises to keep on the reg...but for now I'm enjoying the outlet.  I am not sure if blogging is working with or against my word of the year...or maybe it doesn't matter one way or the other.  For now, it doesn't seem to excessive. I also received an anonymous comment on my 7QT #10 that was shocking and made my stomach flip-flop.  I was shocked that someone even took the time to read my nonsense, not to mention...they kinda liked it.   I know some family and friends read it to keep tabs on us Lockharts, but beyond that I never really thought about anonymous commenters.  Self-conscientiously, I wanted to recoil, but I am going to fight against my natural instincts and keep doing what I have always done...posting when I feel like it so my family and friends can keep tabs.

--- 2 ---

And I'm sure you saw my post about my awesome husband and his accomplishments since joining the Army 5 years ago.  If not, check it out.  He's a pretty stellar guy in my opinion. 

--- 3 ---

CWOC (Catholic Women of the Chapel) started back this week since breaking for Christmas, and it was great.  Actually, I couldn't shut up.  I don't know what my problem was.  Some of the ladies must have been like "dammmmmn girl...let someone else speak".  Only, a lot more charitable, because they are much more awesome than yours truly. But really, it was great to wrap up Sex, Style and Substance (Jen, who runs this link up was one of the writers in the book actually!).  We will begin 4 Signs of a Dynamic Catholic by Matthew Kelly next.  I have heard he's great so I'm excited to get into that book. 

Sex, Style, and Substance

4 Signs of a Dyanmic Catholic

--- 4 ---

Owen's class had a "Parents' Day".  I had not  planned on staying because it is Simon's nap time, and it was Wednesday which are hectic with pick ups and drop offs, CWOC, speech, and dance.  We aren't home until 6:20 on Wednesdays.  His sweet plea for me to stay swayed me to stick it out.  He really wanted me to see him in action as "Snack Helper".  Sadly, they had a snack that he couldn't really help with so I never got to see his awesome skills.  He didn't seem too bothered.  Even though I didn't get to see him be "Snack Helper" I was so excited to watch him and help make three snowmen crafts and write his name.  Side note: Owen also attends occupational therapy to help his fine motor skills.  In the past he has never been too interested in crafting or writing, and he would quit before you'd even gotten all the materials out.  I was so proud to watch him make his wonky snowmen. :)  He was so glad to have me there.  It was worth Simon missing his nap completely that day.  I must say, Simon held it together okay considering. 

--- 5 ---

I really like Amelia's preschool.  Definitely her teachers. But they have moved some programs around, and it has made the parking situation really difficult.  I might start dropping her off late and picking her up early.  There isn't much parking at this building and two classes start and end at the same time.  Not to mention that the MPA (Multi Purpose Auditorium) is used for functions that would sometimes cause parking issues.  The first time that happens it's going to be a real mess, and I just might drive us all back home than try to deal with that. 

--- 6 ---

If you need any prayers please let me know!  Seriously and sincerely.  I want to pray for you.  We need to be prayer warriors, helping each other to get to Heaven, y'all.  Fo sho!  And if you have a minute offer up take #7...

--- 7 ---

Chris is submitting another flight packet.  I will elaborate on how that is taking shape (and how I'm trying to keep it cool but can't because I am completely neurotic, obsessive, and bat-shit crazy) soon.   I hope you had a great week!

For more Quick Takes, visit Conversion Diary!

Five years ago.

Again with the posting!!!  I guess I have a lot to bore you with, buuuuut today marks five years in the Army for Chris.  For me it has gone by very quickly.  I think Chris would have a different opinion.

Family Day at Ft Jackson after basic training. March 25, 2010

It's crazy to think about five years ago when he was swearing in at MEPS (I don't know what this acronym means).  He graduated AIT as distinguished honor grad, has been in charge of the arms room since arriving at Fort Drum, attended WLC (leadership course) and made commandant's list, one deployment, has been promoted from E3 to E6 in four in a half years (that is pretty quick), completed the Master Mountain Gunner course, and ran two ranges from beginning to end without major hiccups.  These are just a few of the big highlights.

E6 promotion ceremony June 2013

I didn't check with Chris about posting some of his accomplishments, and maybe I should have.  I really wanted to share.  I know he just does and then moves to the next thing without much thought, if that makes sense.  He's very humble.  Sometimes I think a little too humble...if that is even possible.  I'm just extremely proud of what he has accomplished.  I know all of his hard work has been for us, not for himself.  I believe that sincerely.  I wanted to share with my family and friends what he has been doing for the last five years. 

He began the paperwork for reenlistment last week.  Next month he will begin the online portion of ALC (another leadership course), and he will wait to get slotted for the portion that is held at Fort Eustis.  He will finish his bachelor's by January 2015.   He continues to work on his physical training.  All while being a rock star husband and father. 

Workin' hard.

I unsuccessfully try not to be that wife that complains the Army.  We knew what we were getting into.  I do have moments of weakness and indulge, but all in all the Army has been good to us.  I am proud of Chris' service (my brother's and our friends' service too for that matter).  Who knows what is in store for the next three years, but anything is possible (even with horrible cut backs).  I just want to say, Chris thank you for all that you do! The five years in the Army have been great, and the last eight years of marriage too!

Update:  I feel that a big thank you should be given to Tim and Melodie Lockhart for being the reason for his existence and his character. 

December 2013

 Photo props to Heartfelt Photography

8 incredible years, and other stuff

Let me begin by saying sorry for the month off.  As always, it was unintended.  I'm not sure how those pro bloggers do it.  Not that I'm aspiring to be a pro blogger, but it must be a true passion or the just have a lot to say.  Many of them really have a true gift in making the ordinary something worth talking about.  No here, yo.  I'm here to bore you to tears :)

Anyway, I will hit the highlights and then get to the meat of this post.

• I finished the 30 Day Challenge.  In 30 days I lost 18 pounds and 21.25 inches.  Since starting CrossFit I have lost 34.75 inches.  Of course these measurments were taken a week ago.  Since then I have been benge eating.  I admit I feel gross, and my digestive system does not thank me for it.  And I'm having a hard time stopping.  So, I'm working to get myself back on track.  I want to lose the weight I have put back on and about 30 more pounds.
  

  

  Left: First day of CF Right: 1 week of CF

  

  Day 1 of 30 Day Challenge

  
  

  

  18 pounds down (ignore my weird hands)

  
  

  

  21.25 inches gone

• This is my 100th post.  It only took 4 years.  Those professional bloggers out there likely write that many in a year.  Not that I'm looking to go pro, but it's cool that there are people out there with awesome things to share.  Or have the talent to make everyday things really interesting or at least funny.
•  Tomorrow is the kickoff for CWOC, formally known as MCCW, and I'm the appointed president.  I don't really feel like I'm doing anything because I have some awesome ladies who are doing a stellar job getting everything ready.  I'm not looking to remain the president, but a leader was needed.  We will see where God take me in this new role.  But more importantly where it takes this group and our parish.  
• Chris and I are making some light up lawn ghosts for Halloween.  I'm optimistic they will turn out pretty cute.  Hopefully I will post its awesomeness or its complete failure very soon.

Yesterday was our anniversary.  Chris and I have been married for 8 years.

October 7, 2005

 8 years, 3 kids, 1 deployment, nearly 5 years given to the Army, 7 vehicles,  9 moves, lots of laughs, a few tears, empty pockets, and full hearts.

I'm so happy we found each other so quickly.  I only wish we had gotten married sooner.

Chris is an incredible man, and I am so blessed he wanted me to share his life him.  He's funny, kind, hardworking, generous, short-tempered, and most importantly he make AWESOME brownies :)  Everything he does, he does for the kids and me.  As cliche as it may sound, I love him more everyday.   Our future will always be bright as long as we keep each other by our sides, our children at our feet, and our family's focus on God.