Saturday, May 15, 2010
8 year olds shaking their money makers? say what?
What is your opinion? Mine is..
I think that Mother has lost her mind. Taken out of context. NOTHING you do is private anymore blame it on technology. I don't give dirty old men the benefit in getting off on my daughter that way. Whether it be a Bikini at the beach or something like this. My daughter took dance and you don't need to be showing that much skin to show the techincal lines of your body. Umbrella from Rhianna can be a sensual song same as Single Ladies that doesnt make it relavant or not relievent. The moves of the girls were mimicing those of Beyonce. So it was okay but it could have been more original. What happened to CUTE little girls? Who would rather have their little girl grow up too fast like Jon Benet?
Friday, May 14, 2010
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Army TIme - Kleenex Alert
Monday, May 10, 2010
Army Time
Since this blog was such a hit with my dear friends, this is closer to the original version...enjoy!
So, there I was sitting in the waiting area of the portrait studio waiting for my kids turn for Christmas portraits (no family picture this year, as my husband had just crossed month four off of the Afghanistan countdown calendar), and I was staring at the sign all mom's have seen -- the one that says "This studio works on baby time" (completely false statment, by the way). All I could think was, "Well, this family works on Army time". While I sat there trying to gain control of the Cheerio circus that was overtaking my one-year-olds stroller tray, all the while trying to keep my 2 1/2 year old from making a break for the toy department (what kind of department store puts the toys next to the portraits?), I tried to articulate what Army time actually means. Here is what I came up with.
Army time is the alarm going off at 0400 every morning, and again at 0415, and 0430, and finally getting your husband to roll out of bed and into his PT's.
Army time is a paper chain 365 links long, so that a two year old has some sort of grasp on how long a year is.
It's the ten seconds it takes to count on your fingers when someone actually gives you a time in Army time...(12, 13, 14...2 o'clock)!
It's three hours and two bottles of wine with two of your best friends trying to figure out how the dang lawn mower works.
Army time is two weeks a year at home, two weeks a year somewhere you wish was home, and forty eight weeks a year somewhere you never thought you would call home.
It's standing over the washing machine at 2 a.m. washing black socks and brown t-shirts that haven't seen daylight since the beginning of a 30 day field problem.
Army time is the longest half hour of your life waiting for a formation to be released so you can hold your soldier for the first time in what feels like a hundred years.
It's the 30 minutes you spend on the phone trying to explain to a customer service representative who knows nothing about your life that you will, in fact, not be paying a penalty to cancel your cable (or internet, or satellite, or phone contract) early, because the Army is making you move.
Army time is six houses in nine years, and making each one more comfortable and easier to pack than the last.
It's the two minutes where you think your heart might actually pop out of your chest with pride while the National Anthem plays, and the ten minutes you spend ranting to whoever you are with about the people who didn't even have the respect to stop walking, or talking, or take off their hats.
Army time is getting in the car with your husband at three in the morning to drive downtown and pickup a soldier that (thankfully) called for a ride back to the barracks, because that is what we do.
It's phone calls at 3 a.m., flag call at 5 p.m., schools that are six weeks long and schools that are six months long, three years until the next duty station (oh wait, did we say you could stay for three years? Sorry, we meant one year, or six years, or sometimes 20 years).
It's three days in the car with a one year old, a three month old, and a grumpy infantry guy trying to get to your new home.
Army time is a 6 month lease versus a 12 month lease, and maybe we'll buy next year. It's the two hour, or twelve hour, time difference between you and your best friend.
Army time is two hours a week watching your kids and two sets of your friends kids wreak havoc on your playroom so that you can have four free hours a week -- hopefully to squeeze in a nap and a bath.
It's the three months you nag your husband to enroll for the correspondence courses he needs to get promoted, and the three weeks you spend cursing the person who thought up correspondence course, because, after all, we know who really does those ; )
It's the time spent trying to figure out how your ovulation cycle fits into your husbands deployment schedule, and aiming to make your due date coincide with his dwell time.
Army time is the two hours you spend on FB trying to catch up with the friends you have left at other duty stations, and the two hours you spend FB chatting with the friends at your current duty station.
It's twelve two hour trips to the airport before you find a shortcut..and then your family realizes there is an airport in the town where you actually live.
Army time is slow months waiting for promotion points, and promotion lists, and promotion boards.
Army time is twenty minutes that feels like two hours standing in line at the post office with two small kids and two big boxes addressed to Afghanistan (carrying at least one or two things that aren't supposed to be in there).
It's the five seconds that your heart is still every time the phone rings, or there is an unexpected knock on the door.
Army time is undoubtedly the craziest time of my life. It's a time that leaves you feeling helpless and lost, elite and proud, strong and broken, all at the same time. It's constantly living outside of your comfort zone, making family out of friends, and being blessed to be part of something bigger than yourself.
But, really, I think that when I'm old and my kids ask what the best time of my life was, I'm going to tell them that it was the Army time.
Here's Who I Play In Real Life: Army Time
thisiswhoiplayinreallife.blogspot.com
Army Time
Since this blog was such a hit with my dear friends, this is closer to the original version...enjoy!
So, there I was sitting in the waiting area of the portrait studio waiting for my kids turn for Christmas portraits (no family picture this year, as my husband had just crossed month four off of the Afghanistan countdown calendar), and I was staring at the sign all mom's have seen -- the one that says "This studio works on baby time" (completely false statment, by the way). All I could think was, "Well, this family works on Army time". While I sat there trying to gain control of the Cheerio circus that was overtaking my one-year-olds stroller tray, all the while trying to keep my 2 1/2 year old from making a break for the toy department (what kind of department store puts the toys next to the portraits?), I tried to articulate what Army time actually means. Here is what I came up with.
Army time is the alarm going off at 0400 every morning, and again at 0415, and 0430, and finally getting your husband to roll out of bed and into his PT's.
Army time is a paper chain 365 links long, so that a two year old has some sort of grasp on how long a year is.
It's the ten seconds it takes to count on your fingers when someone actually gives you a time in Army time...(12, 13, 14...2 o'clock)!
It's three hours and two bottles of wine with two of your best friends trying to figure out how the dang lawn mower works.
Army time is two weeks a year at home, two weeks a year somewhere you wish was home, and forty eight weeks a year somewhere you never thought you would call home.
It's standing over the washing machine at 2 a.m. washing black socks and brown t-shirts that haven't seen daylight since the beginning of a 30 day field problem.
Army time is the longest half hour of your life waiting for a formation to be released so you can hold your soldier for the first time in what feels like a hundred years.
It's the 30 minutes you spend on the phone trying to explain to a customer service representative who knows nothing about your life that you will, in fact, not be paying a penalty to cancel your cable (or internet, or satellite, or phone contract) early, because the Army is making you move.
Army time is six houses in nine years, and making each one more comfortable and easier to pack than the last.
It's the two minutes where you think your heart might actually pop out of your chest with pride while the National Anthem plays, and the ten minutes you spend ranting to whoever you are with about the people who didn't even have the respect to stop walking, or talking, or take off their hats.
Army time is getting in the car with your husband at three in the morning to drive downtown and pickup a soldier that (thankfully) called for a ride back to the barracks, because that is what we do.
It's phone calls at 3 a.m., flag call at 5 p.m., schools that are six weeks long and schools that are six months long, three years until the next duty station (oh wait, did we say you could stay for three years? Sorry, we meant one year, or six years, or sometimes 20 years).
It's three days in the car with a one year old, a three month old, and a grumpy infantry guy trying to get to your new home.
Army time is a 6 month lease versus a 12 month lease, and maybe we'll buy next year. It's the two hour, or twelve hour, time difference between you and your best friend.
Army time is two hours a week watching your kids and two sets of your friends kids wreak havoc on your playroom so that you can have four free hours a week -- hopefully to squeeze in a nap and a bath.
It's the three months you nag your husband to enroll for the correspondence courses he needs to get promoted, and the three weeks you spend cursing the person who thought up correspondence course, because, after all, we know who really does those ; )
It's the time spent trying to figure out how your ovulation cycle fits into your husbands deployment schedule, and aiming to make your due date coincide with his dwell time.
Army time is the two hours you spend on FB trying to catch up with the friends you have left at other duty stations, and the two hours you spend FB chatting with the friends at your current duty station.
It's twelve two hour trips to the airport before you find a shortcut..and then your family realizes there is an airport in the town where you actually live.
Army time is slow months waiting for promotion points, and promotion lists, and promotion boards.
Army time is twenty minutes that feels like two hours standing in line at the post office with two small kids and two big boxes addressed to Afghanistan (carrying at least one or two things that aren't supposed to be in there).
It's the five seconds that your heart is still every time the phone rings, or there is an unexpected knock on the door.
Army time is undoubtedly the craziest time of my life. It's a time that leaves you feeling helpless and lost, elite and proud, strong and broken, all at the same time. It's constantly living outside of your comfort zone, making family out of friends, and being blessed to be part of something bigger than yourself.
But, really, I think that when I'm old and my kids ask what the best time of my life was, I'm going to tell them that it was the Army time.
Here's Who I Play In Real Life: Army Time
thisiswhoiplayinreallife.blogspot.com
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Cute Portable High Chairs
Look at these too cute!
http://www.kidshighchairs.com/kids-highchairs/my-little-seat/my-little-seat-infant-travel-high-chair.html
http://www.tiechair.com/
http://www.kidshighchairs.com/kids-highchairs/my-little-seat/my-little-seat-infant-travel-high-chair.html
http://www.tiechair.com/
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Bailey Love
Bailey is my neighbors Collie. Our general observation is that Bailey has chosen me for his pack. He herds me and other crazy stories that I could tell you but alot of people don't believe me till they see him. Including Rick. So I spend time at the neighbors house (Brittany) because she has kids the same ages as mine. Our 7 year olds are "in love" lol perhaps puppy love? haha.
Anyways I told Brittany I was going to start blogging about Bailey's Devotion.
Here are a few ways he has proven his devotion.
I was sitting on the couch and he laid down with his head on my leg and he would nudge me and give me love bites (looking for fleas?) and come in between the baby and myself. I asked Brittany if he thought Bailey would be jealous of even Rick. So next time Rick & I went over and he did kinda growl at Rick but ended up pouting next to Brittany LOL. Just the other day he snuck out of his house and the kids found him in the back yard. Tonight he knew Brittany was coming over & he sprinted across his yard, the street, and through my yard to my house and strutted in my house. The moment I was going to walk with him and Brittany to go back home he started whining. I was trying to give him encouragement but he would come up to me and walk back into my living room. Repeating the process. I finally got him to walk with me and on the way out he had to mark my mailbox to let all the OTHER dogs to back off LOL.
We were going to buy a fence to get a dog but I really don't think Bailey could handle it lol.
Tempt My Tummy tuesdays
So my mom is the type of cook that doesn't use measurements. I remember when I was little my mom would make chicken in a bowl with rice and it had a bit of a kick. I have been craving this too lol. but when i ask her how to make it she's like its just a couple of boneless skinless chicken breasts in a pan with an inch or so of water with dried rice and cook in the oven. Okay but for how long What spices? she doesn't know lol But I WANT SOME!
Temp my tummy part 2.. So I could eat at Zaxbys, Buffalo Wild Wings, or Bumhauers Wings like every week. So I think I should learn to make lemon pepper wings and buffallo wings. If you have any tips please leave me a comment.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Not My Child... Puppy Love?
Mamarazzi Monday
William has a cute sweater made by a friend of Rick's Paternal Aunt
Skylar and Aidan making Mothers Day crafts in the office
and Aidan and Skylar playing Soccer. Its their first win 6 to 1... wow guys!
its Stories.... Its love says my seven year old
We were driving around and I am a bit facinated by Cemetery's. I guess its all the trips I went with my guardian to see her mom at the cemetery and our friends at the cemetery. My guardian's mother, step mother and evetually her husband and father's headstones were there in a mausoleum and in front of the garden there we rows of children most of them often unvisited. There were older cemetery's where the headstones are from the last century. So I have been facinated for some time with them. The other day we were just driving around kinda looking for Yard Sales. We passed a cemetery. So we circled through it. The first headstone that caught our eye was a baby. Then another one was a Navy Servicemember that died during Vietnam. Then one was a plot circled in stone with Angel's and John Deer Tractors. A plaque about Grandfathers was also there along with one about if Tears could build a stair way... I got out of the car to take a closer look and I said he must have been a farmer or something. Rick goes its all sad these Wives in Waiting, I said I am all interested in the unique stories. Skylar said its about LOVE. .... How true!
Friday, May 7, 2010
My Take on the Vaccine debate
I have been reading "movements" and information from all types of studies on both sides of the debate.
It all boils down to WE DON'T KNOW!
We don't know if in a decade or two decades they will find something wrong with the vaccines.
We don't know if we will suddenly find ourselves sick from a vaccine.
We don't really know what causes Autism we barely have an isolated gene to figure it out!
BUT what I do know is GOD DON'T MAKE JUNK!
He gave us an immune system and we are supposed to be able to fight diseases. If you get the Chicken Pox Vaccine or the various Influenza vaccines... YOU CAN STILL GET IT!
Not to mention the Chicken Pox one might give you shingles as an adult which is more deadly than it is to children. So would you rather your child have Chicken Pox? I have had it several times I am alive. Ok its not so bad! I swear.
I don't get and I don't give my kids the Infuenza Vaccine or the H1N1 vaccine because its okay to have the flu. Build your immune system. Take Vitamin C. Now for those who have weakened immune systems or Asthma then yes! I think it becomes a personal choice for that particular person and their family.
My personal choice to carefully Vaccinate my children. What do I mean? When William goes in for his 6 month shots, he is actually closer to 9 months. Why is this important? Because he's heavier and hopefully better able to tolerate 5 vaccines. We have a higher risk of Autism Spectrum Disorder in my house. I know they don't believe that Vaccines are to blame. But yet the US government has settled out of court with some people on the matter. Do we ReALLY know? They have barely isolated the gene that is responsible for Autism. They THINK it may be genetic, or could be genetic. Since we don't know the cause I basically say you know what we don't know! So why just assume to FDA knows best? Do your own research, make your own opinions. Don't let people bully you into vaccinating or not vaccinating. You can get waivers (I think it may be harder in the Military.)
Some vaccines do have harmful perservatives in it!
Speaking of the Military. I know when the H1N1 crap was so scary (when is the last time you heard of that?) someone said well if they say its okay it must be okay. Wake up and smell the coffee! The Military has been poisoning soldiers for years. Agent Orange? They think Gulf War Syndrome was caused by Chemicals in the air. But face it the Military doesn't like to own up to mistakes. They ignore any sign of bad PR.
My final point is this. Doctors are just well educated humans, Scientists can you guess it? Yes Well eduucated humans. Politicians... well LOL they are human too! As a parent or an adult you have to make your own educated decisions concerning your family and yourself. If doctor says this is the only treatment then I would be the one to research it till I could tell the doctor what my findings are. Second guess them! Question them! Don't just take their word. This goes with vaccines too. Do the research if the risks out weight the benefits then second guess it. Trust your instincts. Believe in your own body and its ability to fight off disease.
oh and yes feel free to open a discussion in my comments, but be respectful...
I am willing to see your side of the studies too.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Sometimes I forget how lucky we are
Rick has had such a hard time finding a job. I feel bad for the decision we made to retire (3 days retired now) and for not going Oconus as a contractor. Then I see reminders of how much luck we already pushed and how we don't need to tempt fate at all. Two tours to Iraq and many more deployments and hardships all over the world later. Rick hasn't had to face combat even when he was there just a year after we started the war. The worst thing that happened to him is a weapon landed on his hand and broke it in 2004. The PX where he was stationed in 2007 was bombed the month before he got there. For the next year Angels were in Taji Iraq keeping the peace and my husband lived with or near Iraqi soldiers. Then I run accross a message board that I use for Military Spouses and one woman cries OMG my husband is gone as she states in a matter of fact message that her husband has died. Please say a prayer for Sgt Ralph Mena's Family, Spouse, and Children. He died in a Non Combat Related incident. I have a friend of a friend that was shot in the back of the head at the age of 19 in Iraq, a friend of mine from high school died in 2007 in Iraq, A fellow soldier in my friends unit was attacked and betrayed in Afghanistan and they took his life. Yet my husband hasn't had a hair shed off his head. Alex is not far behind him as an OEF Veteran at the last legs of his tour. I feel incredibly lucky for the luck we have had as a Military Family. I feel incredibly indebt to those out there that have made a sacrafice and lost the lives of a son, daughter, husband or wife. Also Indebt to those who's husband came back with challenges such as TBI, loss of a limb or even something as small (Yet just as challenging) as Severe PTSD.
As Memorial Day comes close I will add Sgt Mena to my list of Soldiers who I honor this holiday coming at the end of the month.
As Memorial Day comes close I will add Sgt Mena to my list of Soldiers who I honor this holiday coming at the end of the month.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Friends don't let Friends who are Soldiers deploy alone
Friends Don't Let Friends who are Soldiers Deploy alone.
I have been an Army Wife for three years. Shortly after I became his wife he got orders to deploy. I knew I needed to fall into a group of ladies that were experienced in deployment. Lucky me I got an abundance of them. All were experienced not all were your "Claudia Joy"... some were just the ones rooted in drama. Then along came wives who messaged me on line after searching for the profile or found me in some way to help them because their husband deployed and they had no idea what to do with themselves. Some locked themselves in closets hoping that the world around them would disappear. Some didn't even know they had a housing allowance, POA, or Tricare available to them.
I was just sitting here thinking wow this is my first time and I have my boot straps on a little tighter than these other "newbies." I know that I have been to some FRG meetings. I know how they can be informative. I have been through FRG training too. Even though I have only been stationed on a TRADOC post. I have been learning as much as possible before the big event and these poor wives that contact me don't have a clue.
Is it the wife that doesn't live *IN* the Army Life that doesn't even KNOW where the closest Army Post is to her uneducated and inexperienced out of just distance? Therefore I know she's never even been introduced to her FRG (Family Readiness Group). Is the wife left unprepared because the Soldier doesn't educate her or educate himself? Is it due to that it being the soldier its their first deployment? Is it something else?
I see it happen way to much. Its no fault of the Military and not really the fault if the solider is unsuspecting. But you would think that there would be someone out there to tell the soldier about POA (Power of Attorney), House allowances, and other deployment preparations.
Yet again a good friend of mine contacts me as she is hit by the deployment chaos. You know the Murphy's Law of deployments hits. Everything breaks, the LES isn't right, They are still taking out your BAH at your old place. Your left to get by with Ramen Noodles till payday again! You have no idea what to do! Because Soldier and Military Spouse are left unprepared for the ultimate challenge.
I ask of you my fellow Military Wives and Moms. If you have survived your husband's ( or son's) deployment If you know someone who is deploying soon make them your "special case" make sure they have a POA for everything even the things you don't think about. Make sure all the allotments are lined up perfectly. Make sure she has chocolate and wine hidden in her cabinet and stocked up on Care package items with the best numbers to call with the questions. You would do it for the new mom in your life well this is sort of the same. Give her the instruction book of know how for surviving and THRIVING during a deployment. Do her a favor and save yourself an uninterrupted night of sleep because she won't be calling you at 1 am with an urgent question. Give her the gift of knowledge and lend her your battle buddy love from one Military Wife to another.
Bella (Armyknightslady) S
Army Wife to Rick retiring after 24 years of service veteran of OIF
Army "Mom" to Alex veteran of OEF/OIF
I have been an Army Wife for three years. Shortly after I became his wife he got orders to deploy. I knew I needed to fall into a group of ladies that were experienced in deployment. Lucky me I got an abundance of them. All were experienced not all were your "Claudia Joy"... some were just the ones rooted in drama. Then along came wives who messaged me on line after searching for the profile or found me in some way to help them because their husband deployed and they had no idea what to do with themselves. Some locked themselves in closets hoping that the world around them would disappear. Some didn't even know they had a housing allowance, POA, or Tricare available to them.
I was just sitting here thinking wow this is my first time and I have my boot straps on a little tighter than these other "newbies." I know that I have been to some FRG meetings. I know how they can be informative. I have been through FRG training too. Even though I have only been stationed on a TRADOC post. I have been learning as much as possible before the big event and these poor wives that contact me don't have a clue.
Is it the wife that doesn't live *IN* the Army Life that doesn't even KNOW where the closest Army Post is to her uneducated and inexperienced out of just distance? Therefore I know she's never even been introduced to her FRG (Family Readiness Group). Is the wife left unprepared because the Soldier doesn't educate her or educate himself? Is it due to that it being the soldier its their first deployment? Is it something else?
I see it happen way to much. Its no fault of the Military and not really the fault if the solider is unsuspecting. But you would think that there would be someone out there to tell the soldier about POA (Power of Attorney), House allowances, and other deployment preparations.
Yet again a good friend of mine contacts me as she is hit by the deployment chaos. You know the Murphy's Law of deployments hits. Everything breaks, the LES isn't right, They are still taking out your BAH at your old place. Your left to get by with Ramen Noodles till payday again! You have no idea what to do! Because Soldier and Military Spouse are left unprepared for the ultimate challenge.
I ask of you my fellow Military Wives and Moms. If you have survived your husband's ( or son's) deployment If you know someone who is deploying soon make them your "special case" make sure they have a POA for everything even the things you don't think about. Make sure all the allotments are lined up perfectly. Make sure she has chocolate and wine hidden in her cabinet and stocked up on Care package items with the best numbers to call with the questions. You would do it for the new mom in your life well this is sort of the same. Give her the instruction book of know how for surviving and THRIVING during a deployment. Do her a favor and save yourself an uninterrupted night of sleep because she won't be calling you at 1 am with an urgent question. Give her the gift of knowledge and lend her your battle buddy love from one Military Wife to another.
Bella (Armyknightslady) S
Army Wife to Rick retiring after 24 years of service veteran of OIF
Army "Mom" to Alex veteran of OEF/OIF
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Thank You Thursday
I am thankful for Bartow County Sheriff's Department for checking in on my sister making sure she is okay.
I am thankful for Brittany my neighbor. Its night to have someone similar to me.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Quote
"None of us has gotten where we are solely by pulling ourselves up from our own bootstraps. We got here because somebody bent down and helped us." Thurgood Marshall
Monday, April 19, 2010
No 8 on Forbes List
Huntsville metro area takes the No. 8 spot on Forbes list
By Marian Accardi
April 15, 2010, 4:48PM
HUNTSVILLE -- There's another top 10 ranking for Huntsville.
The metro area is ranked No. 8 among 200 metro areas in the country in Forbes magazine's Best Places for Business and Careers.
In the ranking, the Huntsville metro area - with a population of 406,000 - captured second place in job growth projected (based on three-year annualized figures) and ranked 37th among the 200 largest U.S. metros in educational attainment. It was No. 112 in the cost of doing business, an index based on the cost of labor, energy, taxes and office space.
"These national rankings and recognitions have benefited us so much in economic development efforts" in encouraging businesses to locate here and existing businesses to grow here, said Brian Hilson, the president and CEO of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce. "We found these rankings are equally helpful in attracting talent and growing our workforce.
"People who are candidates for jobs here are motivated when they see an independent ranking," said Hilson, especially when the ranking is made by a major publication like Forbes. "It just adds to the credibility of our location."
"We're very, very fortunate that our community is not feeling the effects (of the economic downturn) as much as other cities," said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, who's attending the Army Aviation Association of America's 2010 conference in Fort Worth. "This (ranking) validates that our community is moving forward."
Huntsville was ranked No. 15 in 2009.
Forbes' 12th annual ranking looked at the 200 largest metro areas, which range in size from the New York City metro with 11.7 million people to Merced, Calif., with 245,000 residents. It ranked areas on 12 factors, including costs (business and living), job growth (past and projected), income growth, educational attainment and projected economic growth. The study also considered quality-of-life issues like crime, cultural and recreational opportunities and net migration patterns and examined the percentage of subprime mortgages over a three-year stretch and the number of highly ranked four-year colleges in the area.
Other Alabama cities and their 2010 rankings are: Montgomery, 53; Mobile, 62; and Birmingham, 78.
Auburn is No. 6 on the top 25 Best Small Metros list.
The top of this year's list, according to Forbes.com, includes cities in "flyover" states, areas with reasonable business costs, strong economic outlooks and a solid quality of life.
The No. 1 spot goes to Des Moines, Iowa, which was in seventh place last year. Iowa's capital has 562,000 people in the metro area and features business costs 15 percent below the national average. It has an educated labor supply as 33 percent of adults have college degrees (ranking 46th among the 200 largest metros) and 92 percent have high school diplomas.
Last year's winner, Raleigh, N.C., dropped to third this year.
--
By Marian Accardi
April 15, 2010, 4:48PM
HUNTSVILLE -- There's another top 10 ranking for Huntsville.
The metro area is ranked No. 8 among 200 metro areas in the country in Forbes magazine's Best Places for Business and Careers.
In the ranking, the Huntsville metro area - with a population of 406,000 - captured second place in job growth projected (based on three-year annualized figures) and ranked 37th among the 200 largest U.S. metros in educational attainment. It was No. 112 in the cost of doing business, an index based on the cost of labor, energy, taxes and office space.
"These national rankings and recognitions have benefited us so much in economic development efforts" in encouraging businesses to locate here and existing businesses to grow here, said Brian Hilson, the president and CEO of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce. "We found these rankings are equally helpful in attracting talent and growing our workforce.
"People who are candidates for jobs here are motivated when they see an independent ranking," said Hilson, especially when the ranking is made by a major publication like Forbes. "It just adds to the credibility of our location."
"We're very, very fortunate that our community is not feeling the effects (of the economic downturn) as much as other cities," said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, who's attending the Army Aviation Association of America's 2010 conference in Fort Worth. "This (ranking) validates that our community is moving forward."
Huntsville was ranked No. 15 in 2009.
Forbes' 12th annual ranking looked at the 200 largest metro areas, which range in size from the New York City metro with 11.7 million people to Merced, Calif., with 245,000 residents. It ranked areas on 12 factors, including costs (business and living), job growth (past and projected), income growth, educational attainment and projected economic growth. The study also considered quality-of-life issues like crime, cultural and recreational opportunities and net migration patterns and examined the percentage of subprime mortgages over a three-year stretch and the number of highly ranked four-year colleges in the area.
Other Alabama cities and their 2010 rankings are: Montgomery, 53; Mobile, 62; and Birmingham, 78.
Auburn is No. 6 on the top 25 Best Small Metros list.
The top of this year's list, according to Forbes.com, includes cities in "flyover" states, areas with reasonable business costs, strong economic outlooks and a solid quality of life.
The No. 1 spot goes to Des Moines, Iowa, which was in seventh place last year. Iowa's capital has 562,000 people in the metro area and features business costs 15 percent below the national average. It has an educated labor supply as 33 percent of adults have college degrees (ranking 46th among the 200 largest metros) and 92 percent have high school diplomas.
Last year's winner, Raleigh, N.C., dropped to third this year.
--
Mamarazzi Monday
Anne Marie on Household 6 Diva: A Blog come up with Mamarazzi which she describes as a Momma's version of Papparazzi. Do you keep your camera within reach incase you catch your kid dressing the dog, with a milk mustache, or those precious milestones? I have two camera's and if I am lucky they both won't be dead at the same time LOL
Yesterday at the park we found a week ago. Skylar begged to go back because she had good church clothes on and I wouldn't let her play.
Misc pictures
My Children are Spoiled but not Spoiled Rotten
Do you think its rude to ask if your child is spoiled? What is your reply?
I was asked today if William is spoiled. Not that such a question phases me or bothers me. I don't care what others opinion of my parenting is. I realize we don't all parent the same. Some have strict bedtimes. Skylar goes to bed when she is tired and 99% of the time its before 9 o'clock. She also gets up every school morning at 5:30 and gets a shower or bath. We don't have scheduled dinner time. We usually eat about 5:30 - 6 unless we have plans. Its what time I ate growing up so it didn't kill me lol. I am not strict on scheduling things I can't live like that. But some people have to have a very strict structure. If I did and I ever went off my schedule all havoc and choas would be all over the place. I would rather not stress myself out unneccessarily.
I do consider my children spoiled. Skylar has way too many toys that she hardly plays with. her closet is busting at the seams just ask Betty (or Gymbo how much I spent this weekend lol), Up until I got pregnant with William I would carry Skylar if she wanted. She still sits in my lap and I still rub her head. With William is it... See More possible to spoil a child under the age of 1? Or do they just know what they need? If he needs to be held then he gets held. Sometimes I need to hold my children its a need **I** have. Does William get nursed to sleep? Yes! Does he share my ice cream YES! The doctor even okay'd it. Does he pretty much eat anything that won't kill him or that isn't ridiculously bad for him (ie candy) YES! Does he nurse first thing in the morning just to get an extra hour of sleep YES! Does he co-sleep SOMETIMES. Can these be bad habits of course! But Skylar is a healthy happy child and I haven't fubar'd her yet so I am doing pretty well LOL. I do not spank my children nor will anyone else. She doesn't need it. She doesn't even have a temper trantrum that often (by often I mean one every few months) So why would i spank her? I was beaten as a child I can't bring myself to let my anger control me that way in harming my child. There is a fine line between punishing your child and loosing your own temper. Do I wait on her hand and foot. NO She cleans up after herself, she can fix her own food, She helps me whenever asked. She probably has more chores than most children. So does she deserve a build a bear or a new dress. Well I think so. It doesn't matter what you think LMAO.
My kids are spoiled but not spoiled rotten. They don't scream at Walmart if they don't get to get a new toy. They don't break things in fury. I have dealt with the child that takes off running in a parking lot, or in a store. Skylar doesn't have this issue. What did I do differently if I SPOILED my child? I have known children that won't sit in a buggy properly while their parent shops but sat fine for me. Things that make you go hmmm. She gets disappointed sometimes and pouts and whines but she is a child and will act like a child. as many compliments I get on Skylar's behavior and eating habits I must be doing something right... She's not perfect but she is a Good Girl.
I was asked today if William is spoiled. Not that such a question phases me or bothers me. I don't care what others opinion of my parenting is. I realize we don't all parent the same. Some have strict bedtimes. Skylar goes to bed when she is tired and 99% of the time its before 9 o'clock. She also gets up every school morning at 5:30 and gets a shower or bath. We don't have scheduled dinner time. We usually eat about 5:30 - 6 unless we have plans. Its what time I ate growing up so it didn't kill me lol. I am not strict on scheduling things I can't live like that. But some people have to have a very strict structure. If I did and I ever went off my schedule all havoc and choas would be all over the place. I would rather not stress myself out unneccessarily.
I do consider my children spoiled. Skylar has way too many toys that she hardly plays with. her closet is busting at the seams just ask Betty (or Gymbo how much I spent this weekend lol), Up until I got pregnant with William I would carry Skylar if she wanted. She still sits in my lap and I still rub her head. With William is it... See More possible to spoil a child under the age of 1? Or do they just know what they need? If he needs to be held then he gets held. Sometimes I need to hold my children its a need **I** have. Does William get nursed to sleep? Yes! Does he share my ice cream YES! The doctor even okay'd it. Does he pretty much eat anything that won't kill him or that isn't ridiculously bad for him (ie candy) YES! Does he nurse first thing in the morning just to get an extra hour of sleep YES! Does he co-sleep SOMETIMES. Can these be bad habits of course! But Skylar is a healthy happy child and I haven't fubar'd her yet so I am doing pretty well LOL. I do not spank my children nor will anyone else. She doesn't need it. She doesn't even have a temper trantrum that often (by often I mean one every few months) So why would i spank her? I was beaten as a child I can't bring myself to let my anger control me that way in harming my child. There is a fine line between punishing your child and loosing your own temper. Do I wait on her hand and foot. NO She cleans up after herself, she can fix her own food, She helps me whenever asked. She probably has more chores than most children. So does she deserve a build a bear or a new dress. Well I think so. It doesn't matter what you think LMAO.
My kids are spoiled but not spoiled rotten. They don't scream at Walmart if they don't get to get a new toy. They don't break things in fury. I have dealt with the child that takes off running in a parking lot, or in a store. Skylar doesn't have this issue. What did I do differently if I SPOILED my child? I have known children that won't sit in a buggy properly while their parent shops but sat fine for me. Things that make you go hmmm. She gets disappointed sometimes and pouts and whines but she is a child and will act like a child. as many compliments I get on Skylar's behavior and eating habits I must be doing something right... She's not perfect but she is a Good Girl.
Mommy Guilt Monday
I have no mommy guilt. Well I did let Skylar eat chicken nuggets (Thank you Tyson and Jamie Oliver) and I didn't want to fuss with her about a veggie that she would eat without a fuss when I know she likes them all. But still she fusses. So yesterday her veggie was just ketchup lol.
Not Me Monday
It probably wasn't me that will probably change this a few several times today.
It wasn't me who started planning for William's 1st birthday 15 weeks before his birthday! I know I am not alone many moms in my August 2009 Babies Circle also started planning but they started two months ago! I have been saving info on the blog and making lists... I am a bit OCD and enjoy planning. It wasn't my child who is doing his best to walk at 8 months and growing up way to fast! I should have known but I am in denial.
It wasn't me who didn't go to Skylar's soccer practice on Friday because it wasn't the baby who just was indifferent. It wasn't my princess that came home disappointed because two boys from her soccer team were teasing her. One of which is her little boyfriend. He pleaded that she put her cleats on him and hit him because he took the ball from him. She denied such a story. So I grounded her and his mom grounded him. We both gave in early at 5 pm yesterday from a full weekend of no friends lol. They are much easier to deal with when they are together versus apart lol.
I would never buy Gymbobucks just so I could buy more Gymboree stuff.. Hey but it was half off! It wasn't me that was ready full cart ready to check out when I really just wanted ONE onesie... IE crashed and when I came back the onesie was gone so I replaced it with more stuff lmao.
Wanted Little Aviator Onesie 6-12 months lol
Meal Planning Monday
Tuesday -- Pizza
Wednesday -- Garlic Chicken
Thursday -- Sloppy Joes
Friday -- sandwhiches
Saturday --Chicken and Biscuits
I am being tight on the grocery money and trying to use up what's in the pantry this week. So its not very nutricious or adventurous but its there lol. What's on your menu this week? Want to share a recipe with me that we will love?
http://orgjunkie.com/menu-plan-monday
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Learning How to Bend
What song is stuck in your head this week?
Learning How to Bend by Gary Allan. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvfJb10oc0M
I have had some much worry over what could have been turned into regret. So much fear that I didn't make some of the right choices. Trying to remember to be thankful for what I DO have. I am asked, will you miss having a baby? No I won't miss having a baby. If I spend too much time missing a baby I won't enjoy the time I do have. Before I know it he will be seven with a sassy mouth that never wants to be home. Rick and I were overwhelmed just how fast its been lately. 17 months ago I found out I was pregnant. Over 6 months ago William was Christened and now I am planning his first birthday! Time to remind myself again to slow down and smell the roses a LITTLE longer. I know when to relax and just pay attention but maybe not enough?
I often wondered since we had to quick hurry and buy this house was it the right choice for our family due to Rick not having a job to pay for the mortgage next month... Then I am reminded it was in all God's master plans to introduce me to my neighbor because my life wouldn't be the same without them. Neither would be Skylar's (we are already deciding to get a plot of land with 4 houses so when Skylar and Aidan get married they will be a few steps away LOLOL)
My church is doing wonderful things in my life and there is a reason why I started going there a year ago. I could go on and on but I am learning how to bend and let Rick in. I can learn to pray. I can learn to let Rick try to do things and work with him. Team work makes dreams work :)
--------
I'm still learning how to pray
Trying hard not to stray
Try to see things your way
I'm still learning how to pray
I'm still learning how to trust
It's so hard to open up
And I'd do anything for us
I'm still learning how to trust
Chorus:
I'm still learning how to bend
How to let you in
In a world full of tears
We'll conquer all our fears
I'm still learning how to fly
I wanna take you higher
I'll be there till the end
I'll be your lover and your friend
I'm still learning how to bend
I'm just trying to understand
It's all in someone else's hands
There's always been a bigger plan
But I don't need to understand
Chorus:
I'm still learning how to bend
How to let you in
In a world full of tears
We'll conquer all our fears
I'm still learning how to fly
I wanna take you higher
I'll be there till the end
I'll be your lover and your friend
I'm still learning how to bend
I'll be there till the end
I'll be your lover and your friend
I'm still learning how to bend
I'm still learning how to bend
I'll be there till the end
I'm still learning how to bend
Learning How to Bend by Gary Allan. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvfJb10oc0M
I have had some much worry over what could have been turned into regret. So much fear that I didn't make some of the right choices. Trying to remember to be thankful for what I DO have. I am asked, will you miss having a baby? No I won't miss having a baby. If I spend too much time missing a baby I won't enjoy the time I do have. Before I know it he will be seven with a sassy mouth that never wants to be home. Rick and I were overwhelmed just how fast its been lately. 17 months ago I found out I was pregnant. Over 6 months ago William was Christened and now I am planning his first birthday! Time to remind myself again to slow down and smell the roses a LITTLE longer. I know when to relax and just pay attention but maybe not enough?
I often wondered since we had to quick hurry and buy this house was it the right choice for our family due to Rick not having a job to pay for the mortgage next month... Then I am reminded it was in all God's master plans to introduce me to my neighbor because my life wouldn't be the same without them. Neither would be Skylar's (we are already deciding to get a plot of land with 4 houses so when Skylar and Aidan get married they will be a few steps away LOLOL)
My church is doing wonderful things in my life and there is a reason why I started going there a year ago. I could go on and on but I am learning how to bend and let Rick in. I can learn to pray. I can learn to let Rick try to do things and work with him. Team work makes dreams work :)
--------
I'm still learning how to pray
Trying hard not to stray
Try to see things your way
I'm still learning how to pray
I'm still learning how to trust
It's so hard to open up
And I'd do anything for us
I'm still learning how to trust
Chorus:
I'm still learning how to bend
How to let you in
In a world full of tears
We'll conquer all our fears
I'm still learning how to fly
I wanna take you higher
I'll be there till the end
I'll be your lover and your friend
I'm still learning how to bend
I'm just trying to understand
It's all in someone else's hands
There's always been a bigger plan
But I don't need to understand
Chorus:
I'm still learning how to bend
How to let you in
In a world full of tears
We'll conquer all our fears
I'm still learning how to fly
I wanna take you higher
I'll be there till the end
I'll be your lover and your friend
I'm still learning how to bend
I'll be there till the end
I'll be your lover and your friend
I'm still learning how to bend
I'm still learning how to bend
I'll be there till the end
I'm still learning how to bend
Friday, April 16, 2010
Stamp GIve Away
Don't forget to tell her how you heard about it
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Another blog I am going to read as often as possible
Rants from Mommyland She's a mom with a husband who is deployed the comination couldn't be funnier! LOL
Thank You Thursday
1. I am Thankful for rent money lol
2. I am thankful for the lady down at 118 that had tons of stuff new in a box or with new with tags and most of it was with a dollar.
3. I am thankful for the Army wife who sold me a good set of Little People for a good price. Skylar and William's first Little Peoples!
4. I am thankful for a great birthday. Thoughtful gifts from my dear neighbor and friend, My step son drew me a picture, My husband brought me a new necklace to put my charm on. PLUS I got to eat at not one BUT TWO of my favorite resturants. I might even try to sneak in a Blondie from Applebee's tomorrow night LMAO. All my wonderful offline and online friends that sent birthday wishes.
5. I am thankful for the home warranty and USAA.
6. I am thankful for my son once changed and fed he cuddled next to me for an extra two hours of sleep this morning while my husband and daughter made due and got her off to school.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
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