A little inspiration.

If we don't change, we don't grow. If we don't grow, we aren't really living.
-Gail Sheehy 

I'm a big advocate of being a "creature of habit." I love the same ol' boring routine, with the slight changes in plans that are formulated far in advance. Uncle Sam never knows it, but I have my life always planned out at least 2 years. I can tell you Christmas this year will be in sunny California thanks to Christmas landing on a Wednesday and my work schedule being, "You're working Tuesday and Thursday, so enjoy!" And I can tell you Christmas for 2014, if we're back on the East Coast, will be with Mr. Wookie's side of the family (whom I love and adore, and don't see enough of) in either North Carolina or Ohio.

Ah, yes...and then there's Murphy who likes to take a big, steaming dump on my plans and throw a NASA-sized wrench into my pretty little day planner that's marker'd in my daily, monthly, and yearly plans. 

Murphy, you suck.

But then you have to think of that age-ol' adage that your mother constantly nagged at you in your childhood, "Everything happens for a reason."

Yes, Mother, like I neeeeeeeed another reason for a 4th vodka tonic in one evening.

So for the near future I'll play coy and mess with you, dear readers. I practice my anxiety-sparing breathing techniques, I enjoy a glass of wine after I crawl into bed and troll YouTube for Louis C.K. clips, and feed the ulcer that's developing on the right side of my stomach.

August 2010 in North Carolina

Mr. Wookie acts as an Illegal Alien at the local Home Depot and, "Me gusta trabajar."

Meow Monday: Nelson Mandela Kitty

It's been more of a habit than we'd like, but this Little Girl (<- her nickname since the name on her "birth certificate" by Mr. Wookie isn't my first choice) has become quite the carrier kitty. So maybe Nelson Mandela is a bad reference. Maybe more like Robert Downey, Jr. (you know....in and outta the slammer quite a bit). 

There have been some "life developments" that caused me to pretend I didn't own a cat, and thusly forcing this furry feline to take up residence in the garage of a wife of a fellow deployed aviator. I would sneak into the garage like a ninja, then sneak back out, then text, "The kitty has landed." She would then go into the garage and love up on this sweet little thing who barely tops the charts at 8lbs. Why the garage? Because she owns TWO cats that top 15LBS each - and. they. don't. like. her. So the garage it is so I don't pay for facial reconstruction surgery.

After work, I would make the extra drive past my own home to come get my "child." It was kinda like doggy day care...but feline...and free.

Then after I pick her up and closed all the doors, I open the crate so she can get comfortable again. One long cry denotes that she's had enough of the back-and-forth of homes. So she lays in my lap while I try my best to keep the thighs parallel while driving a manual transmission (easier said than done).

And yes, I took all these lovely photos while cruising around town. America's Next Top Mobile Photographer? Why yes please. You can't match this skill. But you can easily surpass it.

Mrs. Wookie's 1st shoe purchase of deployment.

Mommy McD, I know what you're thinking?? "You bought one pair of shoes for each month he was detached last year, why only 'just 1 pair' now?"

Well...see...last year I was a hot mess sleeping that slept in the guest room because my own bedroom was too painful to be in (the concept of sleeping in my own bed without a dog had me balling my eyes out at night), so the guest room was my escape. Oh, and last year I bought shoooooes galore to help fill me void of slobber and band-aid my feelings.

This year we're in a much better mindset to tackle life and Murphy's Laws bullshit.

So last Friday I dabbled my way over to the Naturalizer Outlet on my lunch break just to see what was there (Outlets: because who pays full price anymore?).

Hello red-with-white-polka-dots flats. How are you? You come here often?

It was barely over a year ago that my red leather flats took to a meeting with The Shoe Maker and went towards the Light. It was 4th of July, the squadron was gone and I was filling my weekends with family events that thankfully got me in the shower, presentable, and out of the house. It was late that night and it was cloudy, and I was being summoned into the beach tide by two sisters who may have nearly convinced me to procreate if it wasn't for their meltdowns (good Lord, girls have meltdowns - how my parents survived three of us, I don't know). So there my red flats died in the California surf. Drowning in a blaze of...glory...suds and frigid West Coast water.

Two deaths last year. Damn, 2012 f**king sucked.

But hey, it's a new year. And I turn...29...again. ;) And I've got red shoes on my side.

Military Monday: Mrs. Wookie talks career.

Today I'm joining in on the link-up fun with Eights on the Move and Ashley's inquiring about the militarily attached ladies (and few gents) and how we hustle for the dollars when Uncle Sam has a firm grasp on how life is lived, moved, deployed and such...

Ashley, thanks again for the invitation. I appreciate the looking out for me as Mr. Wookie is "bobbing up and down in the open ocean" (his words, not mine).

As a military spouse/significant other, how are you able to contribute to your family? Do you have a full or part time job? Are you in the military too? Stay at home mom? Stay at home wife? Student? 

It's no surprise that as a ball-bustin' redhead attached to a naval aviator, Idon't take 'no' for an answer when it comes to my employment. While I'm currently on Cloud 8 for work right now (Cloud 9 will never exist, because eventually I'll have to give notice and relocate), I've had low strides of temping in a call center, being paid far below what I'm worth, and sitting at home without any income (which just drives me crazy!).

We are both BIG advocates for DINKdom (dual income, no kids) and using your Bachelor's/Master's degrees if you got them. Nothing drives me MORE bonkers than (typically) women who have an education, no children, and SIT AT HOME ALL DAY. Listen sister, there's nothing for you to do when he's deployed minus swallow up his money. So why don't you pass the time a little faster, pad the wallet, and get a job? (Sorry, I know it's a little harsh - but SERIOUSLY!?!?). He's a grown man and can handle ironing his uniforms, making his lunch, and wiping his ass. And don't get me started on, "I have my Master's, but I couldn't find work after barely looking, so I decided to get pregnant instead." Because that's a good way to use the $__,000 invested in your education...by not using it.

While you don't need to "Lean in" and completely diss your family, we are in the modern age where women are graduating college at a larger rate, are holding higher positions, and are pretty much kicking ass and taking names on the homefront. Never before have there been this many "Mr. Moms" (which is awesome!). The days of 1950's gender roles are gone (see ya!), and the new era that's 'in' is one of 50/50 household division, smart women with real careers (being a secretary till you got married is just a joke), and ladies making conscious efforts against the "maternity gap." You can have your cake and eat it too.

In between, all of the above? Have you used any of the military programs designed to help spouses/significant others find jobs? Did you work before & decide otherwise because of moving/timing/orders? Do you wish you could work but can't because of your particular circumstances in the military? Are you totally living it up with your dream job?!

Regarding any military programs out there for spouses/significant others, I can say 'no' I've never used them and probably never will. This may just be my bias, but I feel that the military's resources are slightly outdated when it comes to assisting the families. (Obviously as not-a-spouse, these are only my opinions from the "outside"). When we first moved to California, I saw the ads for employment assistance through the Fleet & Family Service Center. They were full of classes like, "How to write a resume." or "How to navigate LinkedIn." No offense, but I'm on a different level than all of that. I've been to college. I've worked the entry-level positions. What is Fleet & Family really going to offer to me?

So instead I hustled all the employment agencies, networked with working spouses (which is rare in the Officer realm of the Navy), interned, temp'd, and didn't give up until I landed where I'm at now (which is a sales rep for an e-commerce/web division). My job is amazing and challenging - and Mr. Wookie loves hearing about my day(s). And if you would have told me I'd be working in sales in my late 20's, I would have slapped you across the face and made you take me out to dinner. Now, I can't imagine not working in sales.

And I will continue to make connections for any other working spouse (enlisted or Officer) who's wanting to do more/better because I feel that there's just not a lot of support for the educated spouse (which is fine - I don't need your support, I have a home bar). ;)

However, the sun will eventually set on sunny California and our extended timeframe with his squadron. And I'll be starting over again somewhere else, pursuing my next feature on the ol' resume, and dusting off the bank account that enjoys the bi-monthly deposits of green. And just like that, my drive kicks into gear and I accept the challenge of (Awesome) Employment or Bust.

I buy half of Oregon when I'm there.

Whenever I make a voyage back home, I always try to take advantage of the LACK OF SALES TAX that my great state offers. And I always leave a little room in the carry-on for these purchases. Yes, some people bitch about the concept of an income tax. But I don't. Sales tax just ruins my day when I have to pay an additional 8.25% to shitty California when they're the next Detroit. But I do it because I can grocery shop on my lunch break at work and enjoy my evenings of crafting and passing the deployment time.

But enough of my distaste for that and deployment survival. Let's move onto my purchases!!!

It was Sunday, July 7th, at 2pm, that we ventured out to the local outdoor gun range to test out some firearms that Dr. Stacey's step-dad was offloading in order to dwindle his personal militia stash. Knowing I was in the market for a small handgun for home defense, a few items were brought out to test. I've been doing extensive research in the handgun department, spent ample time at my local range testing and judging, and just not loving what I was firing. That and being an Oregon resident in California makes for an interesting purchasing set-up. So the Sheriff and I agreed that a sale in Oregon would be ideal while I was up for my vacation.

Mrs. Wookie, we didn't know you're Republican!

I'm not. We're Independents. :) We like guns and recycling. It's the best of both worlds.

So the email that was sent to Mr. Wookie on the boat a couple months ago, "Hey babe, just an FYI: I'm buying a gun while you're gone" finally came into fruition. He couldn't be more supportive. He can only imagine what it's like to be left on land while he's not home. He's my support. He's my burly man. He's my housemate that likes to clean the kitchen (seriously, it sucks without him!). And if I'm bringing in a new toy for him to play with, he's a 'yes.'

But back to the gun range which cost $5/shooter on the honor system. Oh, Oregon, so trustworthy!

Option #1: Great. Option #2: Nope. Turns out I hate revolvers. Option #3: same. Option #4: No Glocks.

So after waiting 3 days before any large-scale purchase (shoes are the only item that don't get this treatment), I gave the go-ahead to get it! EEEEEeeeeeeek! So excited. While 'she' still is in Oregon and yet to have a name, there's a new additional to the Wookie & Co. arsenal.

Now who's joining me at the gun range on Wednesdays?!?!? (It's Ladies Night then!)

And of course, any trip to Oregon couldn't be without some purchasing of Beaver Gear to add to my collection. Yes, I tried the shirt on in the aisle at Target because I was too lazy. Yes, I'm wearing a skirt like a Duggar. Yes, I went shooting in the skirt earlier that day. Yes, I need therapy. It's called 4 ice cubes, 1.5 ounces of Stoli vodka, and 2 ounces of tonic. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

It's true. I'd move back in a heartbeat.

If it weren't for this boy I can't get out of my head, I'd still be living in the greatest state North of California. Oregon has everything. It has mountains, rivers, oceans (notice I didn't say 'beaches'), fishing, hunting, hiking, lesbians, straights, urban Portland, Voodoo Donuts, Oregon State University, manners, great beer, awesome family, decent weather, and no sales tax for when you get shit-faced with her sisters at a wine event and require Advil and Gatorade.

The 4th of July this was lackluster compared to past, but still a blast. I enjoyed a delicious cup of "coffee" while Dr. Stacey and I waited for the free fireworks at the local county fair grounds. We watched redneck children light off spinny fireworks...in grass (which subsequently didn't spin. Shocker). We watched a home start to catch fire because people are morons who don't understand fire safety. And my neck wretched trying to eyeball any cute firefighters that may have transferred into town (I'm against any dating of people who also grew up in the town. There needs to be fresher water in the dating pool in Hometown, Oregon).

That Saturday was spent hiking another trail of beauty and mystic wonder.

And the ol' lesbian shoes got their second helping of Oregonian trail.

And that night was complete with the family killing a plethora of wine bottles at a local music/wine tasting event. I had my hair done by Baby Sister, I put on my finest Duggar dress, and enjoyed myself a slightly-early "deployment halfway" present of free wine (thanks Dad!) and a safe ride home (thanks Baby Sister!). And let's not mention my lack of a hangover.

So there I was....in the Motherland of Orygun.

If there's any question to the "bat shit crazy" status that may inhabit my heart about my homestate, it's confirmed when 2 days before I was to be home that WE'RE HIKING AT DAWN!!!! Okay, okay, dawn in Hometown, Oregon is 'round the crack of 5:00am. But still, we were at Dr. Stacey Kervorkian's house come 6:30am for some sweat, laughs, and ice cold refreshments atop Pilot Rock. While it's not a ball-busting endeavor, it made for a great start to my unofficial halfway party to myself.

So in celebration of the 4th of July, while Mr. Wookie was enduring Groundhog's Day aboard the USS Boat Food Sucks, I was breathing deeply in the smells of eco-friendly people, rocking a headband like Uncle Si from Duck Dynasty, and enjoying the company of a friend not seen in YEARS. Oh, and getting The Sheriff out for a mid-morning stroll with his FAVORITE daughter. I'm high on the trust fund ranking. Trust me. I have large eyes. That's winning. ;)

In parts, it did get a little treacherous. While the hike was considered "easy," the footing was not. There wasn't any blood, but there were a few curse words.

But the Sheriff did have refreshments waiting at the top. :)

The Sheriff's "selfie."

Do you like Flock of Seagulls??

And this is the most we made of the ascent. I'll be honest, I got scared. We're on the flattest part of the whole rock formation. It would (smartly) require technical gear to traverse the steep vertical of flat rock that made it to the top. And thaaaaat's something that didn't fit in my overhead compartment. Next time.

"Make it look like you're clinging for life, falling off the rocks??"

Oregon. You treat a girl right.

And the hike out. Apparently one beer, early in the morning, after the uphill of a hike isn't right. I get excited and need to take 'walking' pictures of our traverse out.

I miss you already, Oregon.

Vacation ruins even the best feministic work ethic.

The sludge to LAX.

Even before the boat shipped out and a Mr. Wookie joined the Navy's latest endeavor in "The Global Force for Good" (or whatever their sad marketing attempt is to sign up for uniforms, boat food, and sketchy port calls), I knew I had a calling for "the Motherland" for my unofficial "halfway" present to my sanity. And after checking the calendar at work for the July 4th closure, I noticed....hmm...July 5th, also closed. Hmm...kayak.com. Boom. PURCHASED!

Oh shucks. I have tickets to Oregon for 4 full days of awesomeness, no sales tax, family, beer and wine, and celebrating the (slightly short, but who cares) "halfway" of this deployment (and their already-been-pushed-back "homecoming" date). And with that, I made lodging arrangements for the little lady feline of the home to kick it at the fellow house of a Junior Officer's family.

So come July 3rd, in the afternoon...I started to panic. Where we live, is a slight drive to LAX. On a great day, you can bust it out in 1:15 on both the Pacific Coast Highway (if you want those beach views) or inland on the 405/101 (if you like views of The Getty, etc.). But on a holiday, I'm fearing the worst. Come 2pm, I start to panic. I start stalking Google for traffic updates on both paths. Eeeeek. Black and red stripes = MEGA TRAFFIC. My palms get sweaty. I reach for a Xanax (damn, no prescription). My stomach starts to eat itself into knots.

I'm at a loss. So I text my boss. :) "I'm getting super anxious about making the drive to LAX, can I skirt out early?" Aaaaaaaaand, the Rooster is Golden.

At 3:30pm, after I had changed my voicemail, out-of-office reply, and forwarded my emails since I was to be out on Monday also, I started my pilgrimage towards the nightmare that is SoCal living. And what I was fearing would take 3 hours, only took 2+ hours. I was able to leisurely park my car, shuttle in, and land myself at a sports bar for a couple hours indulging on vodka tonics and a Greek salad (opa!). There I was...on vacation. And damn, it felt good. Can I go back yet??

Mrs. Wookie: The welcome wagon for new girlfriends.

The Jack Johnson was setting the mood yesterday from Pandora, as I slipped the pasta, sausage, and cauliflower bake into the oven. One bag of shredded mozzarella was dumped on top. I was excited for it to start gurgling. In the oven it went as I waited for my guests to arrive after they barely arrive into the state 24 hours earlier.

"Hey, can you recommend a hotel in the area?"

The Navy Lodge was booked solid for Friday, and while I was about to offer up my guest room to complete strangers, I was able to rattle off the hotels in a "non-stabbing" area to welcome the newest check-in and his girlfriend into the squadron. So for Friday they did as recommended: Have the local pizza place bring by pizza and a 6-pack of beer. :)

I know what it's like to come into a new city, exhausted after being stuck in LA traffic (Friday nights are bad), and you want to do is lay down and not move. Pile on top of that, zero social circle makes for a not-fun first time in California. I plan on making their welcome far better than mine. He's had notice that as soon as you're in California, you check in, and you leave. She's had welcome email after email from me, since I know far too strong what it's like to not be considered a part of the welcome wagon. Even though she'll be heading back to live with her parents during the remainder of deployment, she knows she can count on me for anything. So while my welcome was lackluster, I've change the way the "Knives" group works - we welcome everyone. Who says the respect should be different between a girlfriend of 4 years and someone who shotgun married for the healthcare?

So just before 7pm, the doorbell rang. I was excited. I was excited for me. And I was excited for them. They're getting everything I wanted. They're getting a warm welcome to both service member and girlfriend. They're getting a home-cooked meal (something they wanted!). And they're getting the guide to the area on where are safe parts and where most others live. And like great guests, they brought beer. :)

I opened the door and I loved what I saw. I saw us in them. Two spry, young check-ins ready for an amazing time in California full of camaraderie and antics, full of travel, and full of excitement in a sea-going squadron. I say this like we've passed our prime in life. And in some circumstances, we have. The "JO tour" (aka the Junior Officer timeframe of O-2 (Lt. Junior Grade) and O-3 (Lt.) respectfully) is regarded in the same esteem for Officers as the college years to the civilian years. You make absolutely great friends. You experience things that most people don't get to (the bonding between the Junior Officers, their attaches, and the military separations that make for sleepovers, potlucks, and the occasion tears). If I could do the entire 2.75 years all over again (despite we're not leaving for awhile), I would do it again in a heartbeat. I've had an absolute blast here.

And this is all I can wish on our newest friends. We popped the beer, I gave a tour of our home, and showed off the back yard (hello, golf course!). We chatted, ate dinner, enjoy a 2nd round of beer, and talked about how life is in California. We talked homecoming (where as the newest of guys, he will unfortunately take the "new guy role" and be the last person off the boat for the squadron) and then how life will return to normal for everyone. And after they left, I sent an email to Mr. Wookie on the boat with my findings - he'll fit in just fine and she's awesome.

So while we'll only overlap a handful of months from when the boat returns and when we're due to transition (which is still TBD; Mr. Wookie is the next to "pop" on orders), I'm excited to leave a lasting mark on the community. And that's not counting my giant stack of wine corks that have established themselves since shove-off or ability to sneak mini vodka bottles into any beverage.

"Skyping" with the USS [Wait] Where's Your 'Stache??

I know, I know...you're thinking a multitude of things...

Mrs. Wookie, why do you keep ninja-smoking it? (aka disappearing)

Mrs. Wookie, where's his 'stache??

Mrs. Wookie, what the heck is this videoconference crap??

Someone doesn't like it when his picture is taken

I don't know how...minus I was told it was something to do with Hawaii and a videofeed with the boat, but the families of our squadron were invited to enjoy 10 minutes of 'face time' with their better halves. In the week leading up the event, I was sure we weren't going to just because we're kinda different than your average Navy couple (I didn't visit San Diego when the boat pulled in for 18 hours because we thought it was a GIANT waste of money, time, and energy). So when the texting/emailing occurred that morning that I needed to be on base (groan) to see his smiling, non-'stached, face I was...well...irritated.

Ummm, hello. This email about a video feed has been on the radar for weeks. Then with an hour left until I need to be on base of all places, I'm supposed to drop everything to spend 10 minutes talking to you via a 4-second delayed video feed?? You couldn't have told me you wanted to do this..you know...not the day-of??

See....like I said, we're not your average Navy couple. We're not enthralled in Navy swag, shopping solely at the Commissary, I don't wear the "wings" necklaces that so many spouses/girlfriends wear (I haven't earned any wings, so why would I wear them?), and we don't advertise his occupation.

But I went because I didn't want to seem like a bitch. :)

Yes, he's deployed. Yes, he sees the same faces every day without the relaxation of a 5 o'clock that's on land where your awesome Mrs. Wookie pours you a Bourbon and asks about your day (despite her day being equally awesome at her job). So yes, I went to give him a little 'pep in his step' since our gChat in Thailand sucked because that country's idea of "good wifi" is 1992 dial-up.

So there I sat for 11 minutes actually. We exchanged our most recent days' events (his sorties, my sales). He asked how the Sheriff was (since it was Father's Day) and that he needed to email his dad also. We also talked home life, responsibilities, post-deployment traveling plans, that move that keeps being pushed further away, and how I'll be expecting post cards from Thailand. :) (Yes!)

And why is the 'stache gone?? Sweat + 'stache apparently isn't appealing. Shucks.

Deployment Update #1?

I think technically that's correct since it's been good, ol' fashioned crickets on the blog since that boy took off for yonder seas and potentially swampier temperatures (all port calls are up-in-the-air).

29.7%

So I'll just leave you with our "Donut of Misery" (or as I like to call it, "Countdown Until I Have to Stop Living Like a Frat Guy"). It's not too bad for someone (me) who's gotten used sleeping diagonally, leaving a stack of cereal bowls on his desk (muhaha!), avoiding dishes until the weekend, and sitting on the back deck after a kick-ass day of work Cheers-ing myself with a glass of wine and a cigar.

Yes, I realize I should have been a lesbian.

Here's to Friday! My second one this week...after I woke up this morning, with an extra pep in my step, thinking, "Finally, Friday!"

Screech. And not the Saved by the Bell character. Well that sucks. It's only Thursday.

The house is quiet this Memorial Day.

When the squadron is home, and the "96" is issued from the Command, the weekend is spent with our fellow squadronmates and their better halves celebrating the history of the Navy, the tribulations of the fore fathers, and the coming schedule of deployment/detachment/training exercises.

But this summer is different. Mr. Wookie is amidst the deep, blue sea aboard a carrier that's rich in its own traditions. I assume (only), that they'll enjoy the camaraderie and reflection of a deployed squadron that's serving their country to the best of their ability. Yes, email goes down; yes, the twin bed grows old; but yes, it's your turn on the great open ocean while I hold down the homefront by working hard and playing harder.

I'll think of Mr. Wookie as I tackle the yardwork, deep clean the house, and enjoy the beautiful summer sun that's hit the California coastline. And then he'll think of me when he gets the random access to port calls and he hunts for a post card to mail home.

Happy Memorial Day from Wookie & Co. to you! 

Mr. Wookie + The Life Aquatic

This USS Awesome currently deployed.

So the past 3 weeks have been entertaining, to say the least. I did want to back away from the blog while I get everything together (mind, body, wallet) after I dropped off Mr. Wookie at the squadron for their departure. But things are hitting a stride and there are things to discuss, Murphy's Law incidents to recant, sunshine to bask in, a cat who has a knack for getting onto roofs (and then meowing incessantly until she's removed despite being able to get down), and April's RULES OF DEPLOYMENT when on land.

I'm going to go put the water on, grab my favorite tea, and wait for the whistle. It's been awhile since we sat down and chatted on how's life in the Wookie & Co. household. We need to catch up. :)

Umm...I fall off the blog-Earth, and I 'win' an award?

Apparently us aviation-attached bloggers gotta stick together. ;) Because seriously, who else understands the excuse of not coming home from a routine day of, "Babe, plane broke. I'm stuck in ____________ until we send a crew with parts to fix it." like the jet- and prop-ridden life of Naval aviation. :) Thanks NavyGirl!

Seriously, how does it jazz hands like that?

What’s a Liebster Award you ask?Liebster is a German word meaning dearest, and the award is given to up-and-coming bloggers with less than 200 followers who deserve some recognition and support to keep on blogging.  It’s also a great way to discover new blogs!

Here are the rules:

1. Thank your Liebster Blog Award presenter and link back to their blog. (See above!!)
2. Share 11 things about yourself and answer the questions given. (See below!!)
3. Nominate 5 blogs that you enjoy to receive the award who have less than 200 followers, and provide them with questions to answer about themselves. (Erm....can I pass on this one?? I'm a re-virgin'd blogger, remember?)
4. Inform them of their nomination by leaving a comment on their blog.

11 Things About Me

1. My feet are still a Size 8 - and it's been this way since 8th grade. So yes, I never get rid of shoes because they don't fit; it's because I wear the shit outta them. So yay for my bank account, I guess...
2. I have a Bachelor of Arts in English, with a Minor in Writing...and have NO desire to ever be a teacher. SO STOP ASKING ME! I don't like babysitting 2 kids, why would I want to be around 30 kids? Especially when there's no Pokey to throw the rotten kids into... :)
3. I once went anorexic for a week to see what it felt like. So after a week, my clothes fit the same, but I was just cranky for not eating. Then I knew I had no dreams of being a supermodel.
4. I didn't take any pictures of Mr. Wookie's "goodbye" because I didn't feel the need to commemorate his leaving - instead I have this deep memory of his last bearhug, my head buried into his shoulder, and his arms compressing my body. There were temporary tears in my eyes as I knew this was the worst part of it all. But then I headed to work and had my mind easily busied with my workload. And now we're on the (long) downhill to another bearhug that I will document.
5. I'm midst a bad habit of not eating breakfast until I get to work. :/
6. I'm midst the good habit of enjoying a glass of red wine on my patio after work as California is finally gracing us with "California weather."
7. And then after the one glass of wine on the patio, I enjoy one with dinner while my butt is parked on the sofa watching Jeopardy.
8. I had an impromptu spur of energy on Saturday night at 8pm. It involved Michael's, a 40%-off coupon, and picking up some quilting supplies. :)
9. So yes, it's official: I'm going to attempt quilting very basic projects.
10. I've made my first deployment goal: NO FRIVOLOUS SHOPPING since I can easily walk into Target when bored and drop $75 at the register because I was bored. Tsk tsk tsk Mrs. Wookie. So for April it's only the basics: food and wine (and quilting supplies!). No Gap.com, no tall clothes, no NOTHING!
11. I briefly flirted with the idea of "No adult beverages" for April, BUT WHO ARE KIDDING?? That ain't gonna happen.

Questions for my Nominees

1. What is your earliest memory from childhood?

I was maybe 3 and it was of the ugliest wallpaper known to man: magnolias (or  something) on a bright red. Sounds beautiful, eh?

2. How do you like to celebrate your birthday?

Umm....in style?? My 30th birthday will involve NYC, shopping, museums, and hopefully purchasing a fake Chanel bag from the trunk of a car. :)

3. What is the last movie you saw in the theater?

The last movie we saw was The Hobbit.

4. How do you like your eggs?

Unfertilized. Oh, you mean chicken eggs... ;) I like 'em over medium.

5. What would you do if the Internet disappeared?  What would you miss the most?

I'd miss the bullshit entertainment: The Chive, TheFrisky.com, etc.

6. Are you an introvert or an extrovert?

It depends - I can be the absolute life of the party or I can be a turtle.

7. What is your favorite family recipe?  Is there a story behind it?

No story, but it's amazing...and so very basic! It's my mom's chicken noodle casserole and my 'go-to' for MOM, MAKE ME THIS MEAL, DAMMIT!

8. What is your favorite quotation?

"Be the change you wish to see in the world." -Ghandi

Because anyone can bitch about changing things; but actions actually do.

9. If you were the President of the United States, what would be your first act in office?

I would order a cocktail and lounge on the South Lawn.

10. Do you know a second language?  If not, which one would you like to learn?

I can fumble through Spanish despues una margarita. :)

11. What is one household chore you actually enjoy doing?

Laundry. :) Which is something I need to do as I'm out of underwear now.

This boy left on a...well...not a jet plane.

Thank you SO MUCH for allowing some massive time away from the blog - but now that he's been gone enough time for me to get settled into, "So this is what deployment feels like?", I need to work on my LL Cool J skills...

That's right...MAKIN' A COMEBACK.

So hey, you, right there. How have you been? Have you enjoyed the lack of reading of shitty tales, drunken fables, and nights of eff-bombs? WELL I HOPE SO! Because this time we're trying to make a full-fledge'd comeback.

First off...

"Fuck!"

Phew. I got that outta the way. Nothing ever says happiness like Mrs. Wookie dropping bombs.

Oh, and that whole "This is what deployment feels like" shit....well it's just enough to keep me on edge with a semi-fervor butthole. Every couple days Murphy likes to rear her head and be like, "Bazinga!" but without the awkward giggle of Sheldon Cooper. Because that shit would never happen with Mr. Wookie around.

But let's get to re-know me better, since it's been awhile. I'm like a re-virgin'd blogger.

1. My childhood nickname was "Trashley." Yeah, then I changed schools. They barely graduated high school. I went to college...and finished. They have 3 kids, live in a trailer, and hate their life. I'm awesome. Boom.

Sucks to be them.

2. If you want to spoil me rotten, buy me a gold chain on deployment for my natural sapphire pendant that you got me for Christmas.

Mr. Wookie, ^^^ make it happpen! You read this blog on the boat. :)

3. The television character I most identify with is Robin from HIMYM with her career drive and love for suits, steaks, strippers, and rollin' with Barney, mixed with Lily since she's an actual Ginger and also met a boy in college who just wouldn't go away. ;)

4. If I had a whole day to go shopping and money to spend, I would go to (ready???)....

Gap.com

BananaRepublic.com

OldNavy.com

LongElegantLegs.com

Can you take a guess why? Oh right, I have an inseam that competes with an elephant's penis. That's why!!

5. The most wild and crazy thing I have ever done (that I can admit to publicly) is "acquired" a tiara and dozen roses that just happened to not have any owners in an establishment where beverages are served. Don't just leaaaave your shit lying around for hours. Someone will enjoy wearing it and being asked, "OMG, is this your bachelorette????????????????????" <multiple question marks necessary

No. Though if I say 'yes,' will you buy my friends a round of drinks??

Scheming new move while all the boys are deployed for free drinks. Hmmmm...

6. The one thing on my bucket list that I am most eager to do is 1.) Buy a house. 2.) Go to Scotland with Mr. Wookie. Both TBD in 2014/2015.

7. My family will always be loyal to fighting for the "trust fund." It's a bogus joke where all the kids try to out-hustle each other for top rank in the parents' saving account. Who doesn't want to be the "family favorite?"

8. If I could spend a day with a celebrity I would choose Zoey Deschanel.

9. In my opinion, the best invention in the history of the world is the tampon.

10. When life hands me lemons, I make a vodka tonic. Duhhh!

The Wookies Make-Shift POM Leave

POM Leave     noun \ˈpämˈlēv\

1.)  Acronym Definition: "Preparations for Overseas Movement"
2.)  Typical Duration: Two (2) Weeks
3.)  Not guaranteed

--------

So we're doing this...unofficially. Currently I have eye boogers, coffee breath, and the house permeates of blissful swine strips crisping to the perfect "bookmark" stiffness. And there may or may not be a feline lounging across the length of the bed since human legs have been removed and are no longer impeding her space.

And because no blog post is complete without a picture. Here's our cart from our latest mini-Costco trip. We've got the essentials for that day's meal. Margaritas (hers) and Bourbon (his), shrimp cocktail and salad (dinner), Swiffer refills, and apples. Oh, and an undocumented case of Moose Drool. Calories don't count when deployment is pending. It's just preparing for your deployment projects (i.e. working out).

Meow Monday: "Mom, seriously??"

You can't just be rescued by someone with respect for animals. No....you gotta get someone who has a pension for blogging, cocktails, and taking selfies with their hot rollers in. Someone who thinks rockin' t-shirts from college is so "in." And someone who could use some Kardashian-esque fake eyelashes...girl looks like a chemo patient. Welcome to the end of it, Mittens.

Sunday's Sweet Pea Throwback!!

 Would you believe I have to wait a whole year-plus to be the owner of another fabulous drool monster??

Don't get me wrong. Daaaaamn, I want to bring one home RIIIIIIGHT after deployment. Because reintegration would be a total blast with housebreaking another animal. And it's not like English Bulldogs create that much more laundry (bahaha!). But we're veeeeery rational, unfortunately. Our next love (canine love, that is) will be post-PCS to where ever Uncle Sam deems fit (the list is narrow though with his aircraft). So while a new English Bulldog would be the second best birthday gift ever (the first is an NYC trip with Mommy McD!), it'll be a post-settle'd in at our new zip code.

Pluuuus, the upside to leaving California - everything is cheaper. Cheaper to register her (<it'll be a girl again - we love da bitches), cheaper upkeep (food, treats, toys, vet appointments). Although there's still the need to mail Beaver gear to the new bitch, so that'll never change.

And for those who may be wondering: Will the Wookies rescue again?? This new lady is not up to me. I felllll for Miss Sweet Pea (hello, look at that face!!). This next one requires the heart strings of Mr. Wookie. And you better believe I'm going to be theeeeee most annoying housemate ever. "Can we get a dog?" "Have you researched local English Bulldog clubs yet?" "You know what's better than my meatloaf? A dog."

Seriously, most missed pet in my life!! She. was. the. shit. Cropdust? Check. Snort? Yup. And she's the reason I check #bulldogsofinstagram DAILY. I miss the short face. I miss the saggy neck-that-looks-like-a-vag. I miss the piles of drool. And I miss the Kongs. Seriously...Kongs for cats look like butt plugs. Not. so. cute. But yes, Mittens has a Kong too. That's how I know.

I feel like I should worried about this deployment.

I'm kinda at a loss for words...and not in the panic-stricken, oh my goodness, he's going into harm's way! Instead, it's the very rational thoughts that come to mind. "It's not like he's dying - he's just deploying." "This is his job." While yes, he does fly around in an aircraft that can malfunction, they do practice their "ditching" regularly (it's not like a jet where you just pull a cord and you're ejected into safety, they require the hatch to be pulled <think school bus roof exit), and there are issues that can claim his life. Buuuut that shit can easily happen on land as it can at sea. So why should I worry on deployment when he can easily push daisies when 30 minutes from home??

As a "member" of the "Knives Group," thankfully I'm privy to all sorts of information as we prepare for this fun time of sequestration meets deployment. How long will they actually be gone? *cue laughing* And thankfully, we have plenty of salty wives who have many boat stints under their belt who can help us n00bs get our shit together before they actually fly-out (probably at like 6:00am, because tears of goodbye are always better with crusty lashes and bad breath).

There's the HAVE YOUR POWER OF ATTORNEYS!, HAVE YOUR FELLOW LADIES ON SPEED DIAL!, HAVE A NOTE IN YOUR WALLET STATING YOU'RE A NAVAL OFFICER'S WIFE/GIRLFRIEND AND TO PLEASE CONTACT YOUR COMMANDING OFFICER'S WIFE! Okay, that's sound advice right there. If I'm maimed, calling an 850 number that's turned off and in the bunk of the USS Awesome won't get you anywhere.

And there's the "Let's make awesome care packages for the squadron!"

Screech....umm...what??

CARE PACKAGES!

Ohhhhh.....riiiiight. Care packages. Those things which explode scrapbooking paper, cake in jars (<the only cool thing I've seen), candy, cards, pictures, magazines, probably hidden dirty pictures, and a lot of USPS mailing boxes. I assume they're helpful for those in the sandpits of the Middle East where gunfire is the norm, showers are probably rare, and all I think about is The Hurtlocker. But that's not exactly our situation. He's in the Navy...on a boat. Yes, gunfire at the aircraft can and does happen. Yes, planes explode right on the flight deck! There are hazards even with a Naval deployment, but it's just not the same. Plus...my inner "male thinking" comes to mind. You're in the military...deployments are what you do. You want me to send you care packages when you're just doing your job? Insert reader comments about how non-caring I am. It's not that I don't care - I just can't get into the glitter, jazz hands, and undying need to send things.

And thankfully we've had the discussion about Do you want them once a month? What do you want them to contain? Do I even need to do them?

We've agreed - they'll be sent as needed. Should he run out of jerky, magazines for the toilet (although he has a damn tablet, so what else do you need?), deoderant, good underwear, and who knows what else.....I'll send out a non-decorated box to his need. Because why spend money on decoration when it's just going in the trash? And of course, there will be the obligatory ones: HAPPY BIRTHDAY, 'MERICA!! (4th of July), HAPPY 28TH BIRTHDAY ON THE BOAT! (2 years in a row), Happy Start of Oregon State Football Season 2013, and HOLY SHIT, NYC FOR MY 30TH WAS AMAZEBALLS. :)

And the potential deployment date (I say 'potential' because we are amidst sequestration) is on the calendar and now within reach. It used to be months away, and then before we were even close, was pushed back farther than an elephant's gestational period. Seriously...your time has come...DEPLOY ALREADY. I want my gift (*coughJadeearringscough*). Mr. Wookie has been in the Navy since 2007 and has yet to see an actual deployment - do you know what it's like compared to fellow aviators? Most have seen (on average) 2 real deployments (not detachments or surges, but the 6-7+ month kind). And here we are....over 2.5 years into a sea tour....without a tour of the sea. He's ready. The squadron is ready. Port calls, Lord have Mercy.

So maybe it's the green behind my ears, or maybe I'm just being my ol' ration self (seriously, welcome back Mrs. Wookie!), but this is not the end of the world. It may be for my liver...but you can always get a new one (hello, that Apple guy totally bought new body parts on the Black Market)! Life will be the same here. I'll wake up each morning, race out the door to work, over-stress in my department (sales and marketing), and then come home for my dinner-for-one and bottle-each-night of wine. Shower, rinse, repeat.

And yesssss, that whole 'fuck, I'm bored already' has been fixed. Two words: weekend projects. There's that chair to recover still (I'm telling you, I was in an absolute FUNK with our dog dying), I'm going to make a custom wreath for our front door so I can take off the Christmas one (redneck? yup!), there's a few Pinterest projects which will take some time and energy (shhhhh!!), I have family visiting for a long weekend in May, there are beach trips to be had, sunscreen to be lathered, Oregon to be visited in July, less sunscreen lathered then, and a shit-ton of library trips.

How did I find such a lucky match to my non-typical housemate thought process? I don't know.

Happy Pending Deployment, babe! Now remember: Non-nickel earrings....kthanksnowbye!

Throwback Thursday: Mittens, 4 Months

She was such a cute little girl, between her spams of energy to want to ping around the freakin' room and the instant-nap she'd take once the energy level was depleted. She'd nap everywhere. On my neck, in my lap, halfway on a chair, in the sunlight coming through the window, next to the turtle tank when she realized they weren't lunch, on a pillow on the bed, or in the hall bathroom's empty tub (curtain drawn). Kitten phase...not my favorite...sooo looking forward to cathood.